Morning Star Las Cruces

2026 Discussion Questions

November 15, 2026

Series: On Earth: Your Kin-dom Come

Title: Allegiance

Primary Text: Matthew 22:15-22

1. What is something to which you are fiercely loyal: an idea, tradition, team, place, person, or even a particular way of doing things? Why does it matter so much to you?

2. Have you ever found yourself caught between two things or people you care about, feeling as though supporting one meant letting the other down? What made that situation difficult? How did you navigate it?

3. What stood out to you from the sermon, "On Earth: Allegiance?" What story, idea, or image did you want to discuss?

4. Read Matthew 22:15-22. Who approaches Jesus, and what are they asking him? What does Jesus point out about their question? What specific details stand out to you?

5. Why do you think Jesus asks the Pharisees to show him a coin? What do you make of his response, "Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's?" Is he talking about more than money?

6. What does Jesus' response suggest about the difference between participating in the systems and responsibilities of this world and giving our deepest allegiance to God?

7. Read 1 Samuel 8:4-20. What reasons do the people give for wanting a king? What does Samuel warn them about? What do you notice about what the people are seeking?

8. Read Philippians 3:20-21. What does Paul mean when he says, "our citizenship is in heaven?" How might this shape the way Christians understand where their ultimate allegiance lies? How might it also orient our care of Creation?

9. What is one place this week where you might need to ask yourself, "What does my allegiance to God look like here?"

10. Where do you need prayer for wisdom, courage, or faithfulness as you navigate competing loyalties or demands?