Sisters: The Pursuit with Amy Groeschel - Week 1

God Is Pursuing You—Will You Pursue Him?

Scripture References

• Matthew 4:18
• Luke 5:4

Overview

God’s story is one long pursuit of people, and Jesus’ call to “Come, follow Me” proves it. As this four-week Pursuit study begins, we are invited to respond to the One who first chased after us. Looking at the call of the first disciples in Matthew 4 and the miraculous catch in Luke 5, the lesson presses a simple but searching question: Will we leave everything and follow, not once but daily?

Context

The message launches a small-group study called “The Pursuit.” Participants are urged to commit to every session, treat it as a relationship-building journey rather than a spiritual chore, and expect it to draw them closer to the Father.

Main Points

1. God’s relentless initiative

• From Genesis forward, Scripture shows God pursuing humanity even as human hearts drift.
• The clearest picture is the incarnation—God became one of us in Jesus, the ultimate act of pursuit.

2. The invitation: “Come, follow Me” (Matthew 4:18)

• Jesus approaches working fishermen and offers relationship before they ask for it.
• Image of Jesus as Bridegroom: like a proposal, He extends His hand, saying in effect, “Take all of Me, and be all Mine.”
  • Illustration: A wedding proposal captures that first, intentional pursuit—offering life together in exchange for a wholehearted “yes.”
• Following is not a box to check but a response of love to the One who loves first.

3. Counting the cost (Luke 5:4)

• Jesus asks Peter to push into deeper water and drop nets again after a night of failure. Obedience seems small but proves costly.
• The resulting haul is so huge that nets tear, boats nearly sink, and partners rush to help.
  • Story: Overwhelmed, Peter falls at Jesus’ knees and pleads, “Go away from me; I’m a sinful man,” recognizing holy power.
• Jesus redefines their future: “From now on you will catch men.”

4. Leaving everything

• The disciples drag the loaded boats ashore, then walk away from the biggest payday of their careers.
• True pursuit may mean surrendering security, livelihood, or anything that competes with wholehearted devotion.
• Following is a daily choice; hearts can drift, so the cross must be taken up again and again.

5. Pursuit that breaks and remakes us

• Seeing Christ’s glory “sinks” us—undoes pride and self-reliance.
• Prayer for this study: that participants would be overwhelmed by His love, captivated so fully that nothing holds them back from finishing the race strong.

Key Truths

• God always moves toward people first; our pursuit is a response to His.
• Jesus’ call is relational—an invitation, not a religious task.
• Obedience, even in small steps, positions us to witness God’s overwhelming provision and power.
• Following Jesus involves real cost; anything that rivals Him must be laid down.
• Ongoing intimacy requires daily, wholehearted recommitment.

Response

• Decide today to accept Jesus’ invitation anew.
• Examine what security or comfort you still cling to and release it to Him.
• Practice daily obedience in seemingly ordinary instructions.
• Allow moments of awe to humble you rather than push Him away.
• Re-engage this study and your small group with full commitment and expectancy.

Closing

The Bridegroom’s hand is extended. His pursuit is relentless; the only question is our answer. Will we say “yes,” leave everything, and go after Him, or will we ask Him to pass by? The cost is great, but so is the glory of knowing Him.

Prayer

Father God, thank You that You pursue us so passionately and never give up. Open our eyes to Your massive love. We say yes, Lord—we leave everything that holds us back and follow You. Break every chain, overwhelm us with Your presence, and draw us deeper into knowing who You are. All praise and glory to You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Resources

• “The Pursuit” four-week small-group study (no additional titles mentioned)