Deeper by Dane Ortlund
Week 2: Chapter 1 — Jesus
Read Chapter 1 of Deeper by Dane Ortlund. Key passages: Matthew 11:28–30; John 15:1–11.
Previewing Week 2 of Deeper
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 11-week guide when you’re ready.
Ortlund begins where everything must begin — with the person of Jesus himself — arguing that growth starts not with our effort but with a clearer vision of who Jesus actually is.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Ortlund argues that the engine of all genuine Christian growth is an ever-deepening knowledge of Jesus Christ himself — not principles, methods, or even disciplines. Why do you think this needs to be argued? What would tempt a Christian to seek growth elsewhere?
2.Ortlund emphasizes that Jesus is not merely our example or our teacher but our life — the one in whom we live and move and have our spiritual being. What is the practical difference between following Jesus as a model versus being united to Jesus as a source of life?
3.One of Ortlund's central moves is pointing to the *heart* of Jesus — gentle and lowly (drawing from his earlier book) — as the foundation for growth. How does knowing that Jesus is not disappointed or disgusted by your weakness change how you come to him in your struggle to grow?