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Opening Prayer
Begin with a prayer that sets the tone for the study, asking for openness and understanding as participants delve into the themes of light, darkness, and the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Sample Prayer:
Heavenly God, thank You for bringing us together to learn from Your Word. Open our hearts and minds as we explore how faith, humility, and perseverance can shape our walk with You. Help us to grow in our ability to love, serve, and trust as Bojji exemplifies. Amen.
Prep Questions
Have you ever felt underestimated or doubted by others? How did you handle it?
What does it mean to live a life of humble service?
How do you respond to betrayal or disappointment?
Link to Video
Shortened Transcript
Ranking of Kings introduces Bojji, a small and deaf prince who is constantly doubted and betrayed. Despite overwhelming obstacles, he remains steadfast, kind, and full of self-belief. His humility and trust in others, even after betrayal, mirror the qualities Paul describes in Romans 12:14-19.
Paul calls believers to a life of living sacrifice—one marked by service, humility, and peace with all. Bojji exemplifies this by refusing to seek revenge and continuing to trust and serve others. As Christians, we are called to move beyond hurt, leave our burdens with God, and live out a radical love for others.
Guided Questions
Read Romans 12:14-19. How does this passage challenge the way we naturally respond to difficulties?
Bojji refuses to let betrayal harden his heart. How does that compare to Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness?
In what ways can we be a “living sacrifice” in our daily lives?
Who in your life has shown you radical grace and love, even when you didn’t deserve it?
What would it look like for you to let go of past hurts and move forward in faith?
Activity
The Burden Drop
Give each person a piece of paper.
Ask them to write down a past hurt, betrayal, or grudge they’ve been holding onto.
Pray over the papers, asking God to help release these burdens.
Tear or crumple them up and toss them into a bin, symbolizing letting go and trusting God
After Questions
How did it feel to symbolically let go of past burdens?
What are some ways you can actively choose forgiveness and peace in your life?
How can we encourage one another to walk in humble service like Bojji and Jesus?
Spiritual Practice
Praying for Our Enemies
This week, commit to praying for someone who has wronged you.
Ask God to soften your heart and help you extend grace.
Reflect on Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Closing Prayer
Conclude with a prayer that acknowledges the Holy Spirit's presence and asks for continued guidance and protection in the journey of faith.
Sample Prayer:
Lord, help us to trust You with our pain and our struggles. Teach us to live as a living sacrifice, showing grace, love, and humility even in the face of hardship. May we follow Christ’s example and walk in the kind of faithfulness and perseverance that Bojji reminds us of. Thank You for Your never-ending love and mercy. Amen.
Notes From The Nerd Pastor:
This is an exceptional anime. Not only does it have quality animation, story, and characters, but it’s also deeply thematic. In this nerdy sermon, we focus on Bojji, who is a unique protagonist worthy of noting. He is deaf, mute, and small—far from the bombastic one we might expect. He is also humble and kind, but fearless. A worthy Christlike figure that we would do well to espouse.
Resource Notes:
Find basic information about Ranking of Kings on their wiki.
Helpful Nerd Terms:
Studio Ghibli: An animation studio known for adorable renderings of their characters
Game of Thrones: A gritty and brutal story centered around those vying for royalty
Theological Themes:
Holy Living, Christlike, Christian, Belief, Tenacity, Perseverance, Sacrifice, Community, Service, Humility, Romans 12:14, Romans 12:15, Romans 12:16, Romans 12:17, Romans 12:18, Romans 12:19
Other questions? Ask in the comments below!