Week 1: Introduction — The Invitation

1.Comer opens by describing a growing hunger he observed — people who were spiritually restless, attending church, even believing the right things, but not actually being transformed. Does that description resonate with your own experience? What drew you to pick up this book?

2.The book is organized around three goals: to be *with* Jesus, to *become like* Jesus, and to *do what Jesus did*. In your own words, what is the difference between those three things? Which of the three feels most distant from your life right now?

3.Comer suggests that many of us have reduced Christianity to a set of beliefs to hold rather than a life to live. Where do you think that reduction came from — culturally, historically, or personally?

4.The word *disciple* in the ancient world meant something very specific: an apprentice who lived alongside a master to become like them. How does that definition differ from how the word is typically used in your church context? What does the difference suggest about what we might be missing?

5.Comer introduces the concept of a *Rule of Life* — not a set of rules *about* life, but a rhythm of practices that create space for God. What is your first emotional reaction to that phrase? Does it sound freeing, legalistic, or something else?

6.Comer is honest about his own story of burnout and disillusionment that led him to these questions. How does his personal vulnerability in the introduction affect how you receive his arguments? What does it tell you about the kind of teacher he is trying to be?

7.The introduction sets up a tension between the *speed* and *noise* of modern life and the *slow, quiet* work of spiritual formation. Where do you feel that tension most acutely in your own daily life?

8.If the goal of this entire book is to help you become more like Jesus, what does "more like Jesus" actually look like to you? Try to be specific — what emotions, habits, relationships, or responses would be different?