Taking Church Seriously

What happens when worship loses its focus? When pride, tradition, or distraction take center stage, the very place meant to honor God can become cluttered with everything but Him. Jesus’ passion for His Father’s house reveals that worship is not about habit, convenience, or even community expectations—it’s about hearts consumed with zeal for God alone. The question is: what fills your heart when you gather to worship?

Group Discussion Questions:

1. Jesus was consumed with zeal for His Father’s house. What does “zeal” look like in your own life when it comes to worship? What do you think holds people back from having zeal for worship?

2. Many people come to church out of habit, tradition, or to please others. What are some of the wrong reasons we might show up to worship today? How do we know if our motivation is truly to meet with God?

3. The sermon pointed out how we sometimes “worship” celebrities, sports, or entertainment. What are the subtle idols in your own life that compete with God for your attention and affection?

4. Jesus’ anger showed that corruption in the temple affected the whole community’s ability to worship. In what ways can our personal heart posture—good or bad—impact the worship of the larger church family?

5. What is one thing in your life that you sense God may be asking you to surrender so you can worship Him more authentically? How can this group encourage and support you in that step?