Freedom from Rebellion Sermon Guide

Download the sermon guide to print here.

The sermon by Zach Daniel explores the contrast between our culture’s vision of freedom and Jesus’ true vision of freedom. This guide will help you dive deeper into the message, reflect on key Scriptures, and apply these truths to your daily life as we journey together towards freedom in Christ.

This sermon emphasizes:

• Our culture’s version of freedom often involves breaking free from external constraints to pursue life on our own terms.
• True freedom is found in following Jesus as our Good Shepherd, leading us to a life without lack.
• Rebellion involves turning to our own way, trusting ourselves and relying on our own wisdom over God’s.
• God often uses relationships and community to shepherd and restore us.
• Even in difficult seasons, we can trust the Shepherd and His story for our lives.
• Submission to Jesus and His leadership — not rebellion — is the path to true freedom.

Key Scriptures:

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” Psalm 23:1

“All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all To fall on Him” Isaiah 53:6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight” Proverbs 3:5-6

Table Questions:

These are questions based on the Scriptures and sermon to help you put the teaching into practice. They can be used in discipleship, Lifegroup, as a family, or with whoever is around your table this week.

1. How does our culture’s definition of freedom differ from the freedom Jesus offers? Have you experienced the limitations of pursuing freedom on your own terms?
2. Zach shared his personal journey from rebellion to following Jesus. Can you relate to any part of his story? How has your understanding of freedom changed over time?
3. The sermon emphasizes Jesus as our Good Shepherd. How does this image impact your view of God and His role in your life?
4. Reflect on a time when you felt “tipped upside down” like a sheep. How did God use people or circumstances to restore you?
5. How can we cultivate a willingness to submit to godly counsel and correction from others? Why is this sometimes challenging?
6. The sermon mentions “feeding on green grass” through God’s Word. What practices help you consistently engage with Scripture in a life-giving way?
7. How does trusting “the Shepherd and the story” change our perspective when going through difficult seasons or valleys?
8. Zach emphasized that true freedom is found in submission to Jesus. In what areas of your life do you find it hardest to submit to God’s leadership?
9. How can we as a community support one another in pursuing freedom in Christ rather than rebellion against Him?
10. The sermon concludes with the image of God’s goodness and mercy following us. How have you seen evidence of God’s faithfulness in your own journey — even in unexpected places?