Matthew 1:18–25
Background:
Luke prominently features Mary in his writings of Jesus' birth (Luke 1-2), but Matthew tells the story through Joseph's perspective. Joseph is important to Matthew's Gospel because Jesus becomes part of David's lineage through Joseph (1:1-17).
Joseph was living a normal, responsible and righteous life (vs 19) when he's all of the sudden given the news that Mary is pregnant and it's not from him.
Joseph's life plan just got flipped upside down! Now what?
Group Discussion Guide:
Who has a crazy story of when your life plan got interrupted?
Joseph responded pretty good in verse 19. Who can honestly say they're pretty good at dealing with major interruptions? What character trait do you have that you could advise the rest of the group to implement?
Not all interruptions are crazy and life altering. Most are actually more life inconveniences, frustrations, and unexpected events. Why are these kinds of things SO annoying though?
What's the danger in letting little things bother you?
Can you imagine how the story would've changed if Joseph got angry and didn't want to listen to God?! We've all done it, but would someone be willing to give an example of when they had an adult temper tantrum?
Why do we love to throw our own pity-parties? What do you think you're trying to accomplish when you do this?
Verse 20 reveals that even though Joseph was actually afraid, the Lord made this happen and it was part of His plan. While interruptions and unexpected things (minor or major) catch us off guard, they do not catch God off guard. Why does God allow these interruptions to happen? (God always has a plan and uses these interruptions to change us to be more like Christ.)
Slow traffic, a sick child, or a costly home repair may not seem like important tools in our sanctification, but they are. How? (We are given opportunities to rely on God, to obey him, and bring him glory.)
We won't be asked to be the earthly father of Jesus, build an ark, part the red sea, or sacrifice our only son, but we will certainly have a few major events in our life that cause us to trust God and obey him in some deeply profound way. Are any of you currently going through one of these major events? How are you being tested to trust God?
Joseph obviously had no control over Mary getting pregnant, but his response proved something. What is revealed when we are not in control? (When things don't go our way, our faith is stretched and it will be revealed whether we are standing on rock or sand.)
Can someone share a testimony of why they believe God is in control of all the details in their life?
Can someone make a case for why God's grace is actually sufficient to get us through the day?
How does the Gospel apply to life's interruptions?
How can Christ be enough to satisfy all the deepest needs of our heart?
Christmas reminds us that everything we need is provided by God through Jesus. (Close by sharing your story of how God's grace, Jesus, is everything you've ever needed.)
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Monday, December 12, 2016
Best Christmas Ever: The Power of Silence
Luke 1 Summary:
A priest Zacharias, whose wife, Elizabeth, has not been able to get pregnant, has a visitation from an angel. The angel tells Zacharias that he will have a son, and to name him John. Zacharias doubts this and tells the angel he is too old. The angel tells him he will not be able to speak until the day of his son's birth. Elizabeth got pregnant, just like the angel said. When it came time to name the baby, Zacharias wrote down that his name will be John, and then his voice returned.
Why do you think the angel chose the method of silence for Zacharias?
Do you see it as a punishment, or a way to increase Zacharias' faith?
Practical Questions:
Why are coffee breaks so great?
Why are nice, long walks on the beach so relaxing?
Who is currently very overwhelmed by your to-do list?
How many of you are so easily distracted?
What's the importance of having quality time with someone you love?
Why does our culture feel the need to be productive all the time?
Why do most of us struggle to spend devoted time alone with God?
Why do we so easily give people our undivided attention, but not God?
What's the difference between prioritizing solitude and silence in our lives versus doing another Christian or spiritual activity? (It's about running into God's arms and knowing His love.)
Read Psalm 46:10
Let's be a group Thesaurus for a few moments.
What are some other words or phrases for "Be still"? (Brainstorm at least 5 answers.)
What is the importance and benefits of "being still" or (whatever other words/phrases you listed)?
Why do you think God likes us to be in silence?
What are some other words or phrases for "Know"? (Brainstorm at least 5 answers.)
What are the benefits of knowing?
What are some other names or words to describe God? (Brainstorm at least 10 answers.)
How does who God is help you realize that He is all you need?
When you're stressed, burned out, overwhelmed, discouraged, worried, lacking, sinning, etc., how does this verse's application help you?
5 Tips for Finding Solitude
1. Pick a Time
Think about the time that you can start taking today to listen for God's voice in silence. Maybe you could turn off your car radio during your daily commute to work, turn off your phone, use your lunch break, get up a little earlier, or use the time right before you go to bed.
2. Find a Location
If you only have a few minutes or a couple hours, think of a place that is nearby where you can disconnect from your "everyday life," and not be interrupted.
3. Let it Go
Accept the fact that you are not indispensable and allow the world to go on without you for these few moments.
4. Let God be God
Humble yourself, listen, pay attention, and be open to what God might be trying to show you.
5. Stick to the Basics
Space. Prayer. God's Word.
Who's ready to get started on this tomorrow? Make your plans and stick to it!
A priest Zacharias, whose wife, Elizabeth, has not been able to get pregnant, has a visitation from an angel. The angel tells Zacharias that he will have a son, and to name him John. Zacharias doubts this and tells the angel he is too old. The angel tells him he will not be able to speak until the day of his son's birth. Elizabeth got pregnant, just like the angel said. When it came time to name the baby, Zacharias wrote down that his name will be John, and then his voice returned.
Why do you think the angel chose the method of silence for Zacharias?
Do you see it as a punishment, or a way to increase Zacharias' faith?
Practical Questions:
Why are coffee breaks so great?
Why are nice, long walks on the beach so relaxing?
Who is currently very overwhelmed by your to-do list?
How many of you are so easily distracted?
What's the importance of having quality time with someone you love?
Why does our culture feel the need to be productive all the time?
Why do most of us struggle to spend devoted time alone with God?
Why do we so easily give people our undivided attention, but not God?
What's the difference between prioritizing solitude and silence in our lives versus doing another Christian or spiritual activity? (It's about running into God's arms and knowing His love.)
Read Psalm 46:10
Let's be a group Thesaurus for a few moments.
What are some other words or phrases for "Be still"? (Brainstorm at least 5 answers.)
What is the importance and benefits of "being still" or (whatever other words/phrases you listed)?
Why do you think God likes us to be in silence?
What are some other words or phrases for "Know"? (Brainstorm at least 5 answers.)
What are the benefits of knowing?
What are some other names or words to describe God? (Brainstorm at least 10 answers.)
How does who God is help you realize that He is all you need?
When you're stressed, burned out, overwhelmed, discouraged, worried, lacking, sinning, etc., how does this verse's application help you?
5 Tips for Finding Solitude
1. Pick a Time
Think about the time that you can start taking today to listen for God's voice in silence. Maybe you could turn off your car radio during your daily commute to work, turn off your phone, use your lunch break, get up a little earlier, or use the time right before you go to bed.
2. Find a Location
If you only have a few minutes or a couple hours, think of a place that is nearby where you can disconnect from your "everyday life," and not be interrupted.
3. Let it Go
Accept the fact that you are not indispensable and allow the world to go on without you for these few moments.
4. Let God be God
Humble yourself, listen, pay attention, and be open to what God might be trying to show you.
5. Stick to the Basics
Space. Prayer. God's Word.
Who's ready to get started on this tomorrow? Make your plans and stick to it!
Monday, December 5, 2016
Best Christmas Ever: Simple
Read Luke 10:38-42
Ask someone to briefly summarize the story from these verses.
Group Discussion Questions:
Who do you identify more with, Mary or Martha?
What are the strengths of being a "Martha" in life and ministry? What are the weaknesses?
Was what Martha doing wrong?
Sometimes our choice is between the good and the bad. Other times it is between the better and best. Give examples of better vs best decisions you face.
What was it about Mary that impressed Jesus so much?
How much of your time is spent with church activity vs time with Jesus? (i.e. 50/50, 70/30, etc.)
What's wrong with never spending time sitting before, adoring and listening to Jesus?
Could someone tell us about a time when you became so caught up in the work of the kingdom you forgot to have a relationship with the king?
Jesus stated "that only one thing is really needed." What was it?
Martha didn't realize what she was doing was the wrong choice. She just had her priorities mixed up. She was "worried about many things." Worry elevates minor things to the highest priority. What minor things have the wrong priority in your life?
Is busyness attractive to you? Why?
Why do we find it difficult to slow down and "be still and know that I am God"?
When have you found yourself recently in a Martha-like frenzy? What was your source of worry?
What are the advantages to spending time regularly "at the feet of Jesus"?
Verse 42 mentions that Jesus is to be our portion. What does that mean? Hint: think about what food is intended for.
What happens when busyness and worry are our portion? Discuss how this daily portion can effect you each day, and especially over time.
What are the common results you experience when you lose your focus on God?
Who, or what, do you blame when your life becomes chaotic?
Can "the Mary thing" be overdone? Explain.
How can we slow down our lives so that we take time for the greatest things?
How has this discussion on this story in scripture invite you to read your Bible differently?
What time of day have you found to be best for you to be able to really sit, listen, and hear from the Lord?
What things do you do in your times of prayer and Bible study to focus your mind and thoughts on the Lord?
Let's close by taking time – five minutes or more – to spend in adoring the Lord in prayer. Tell the Lord why you love him, how you appreciate him, and then let him speak to you.
Ask someone to briefly summarize the story from these verses.
Group Discussion Questions:
Who do you identify more with, Mary or Martha?
What are the strengths of being a "Martha" in life and ministry? What are the weaknesses?
Was what Martha doing wrong?
Sometimes our choice is between the good and the bad. Other times it is between the better and best. Give examples of better vs best decisions you face.
What was it about Mary that impressed Jesus so much?
How much of your time is spent with church activity vs time with Jesus? (i.e. 50/50, 70/30, etc.)
What's wrong with never spending time sitting before, adoring and listening to Jesus?
Could someone tell us about a time when you became so caught up in the work of the kingdom you forgot to have a relationship with the king?
Jesus stated "that only one thing is really needed." What was it?
Martha didn't realize what she was doing was the wrong choice. She just had her priorities mixed up. She was "worried about many things." Worry elevates minor things to the highest priority. What minor things have the wrong priority in your life?
Is busyness attractive to you? Why?
Why do we find it difficult to slow down and "be still and know that I am God"?
When have you found yourself recently in a Martha-like frenzy? What was your source of worry?
What are the advantages to spending time regularly "at the feet of Jesus"?
Verse 42 mentions that Jesus is to be our portion. What does that mean? Hint: think about what food is intended for.
What happens when busyness and worry are our portion? Discuss how this daily portion can effect you each day, and especially over time.
What are the common results you experience when you lose your focus on God?
Who, or what, do you blame when your life becomes chaotic?
Can "the Mary thing" be overdone? Explain.
How can we slow down our lives so that we take time for the greatest things?
How has this discussion on this story in scripture invite you to read your Bible differently?
What time of day have you found to be best for you to be able to really sit, listen, and hear from the Lord?
What things do you do in your times of prayer and Bible study to focus your mind and thoughts on the Lord?
Let's close by taking time – five minutes or more – to spend in adoring the Lord in prayer. Tell the Lord why you love him, how you appreciate him, and then let him speak to you.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Never Forget
Introduction / Background:
In Joshua 3, the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground by means of a miracle from God. God had the priests take the Ark of the Covenant into the water first. When the soles of the feet of the priests carrying the ark entered the water, the Lord caused the flow of the Jordan to stop and rise up. The people then crossed the river on dry ground.
In chapter 4, Joshua has the priests make a memorial to the event that had just happened. Read Joshua 4:1-9.
Group Discussion Questions:
Raise your hand if you love traditions and are sentimental. Ask someone why they love traditions. Ask someone why they hate traditions.
What's one item that you have that is super sentimental?
What is the reason for a memorial? For example, Memorial Day, a memorial service, a memorial museum, etc.
What do you do on that day or at those places?
Why did the Israelites make a pile of 12 stones?
What lessons can we learn from what they did?
What memorial has made a huge impact on your life?
What memorials or traditions do you have that cause you to remember God's hand in your life?
What memorials or traditions could you make or start to cause you and your family to remember God's work in your lives?
Whose responsibility is it to teach children about God and His work? How can someone do that?
What was Jesus doing when he instituted the practice of the Lord's Supper?
What does the bread signify? Why?
What does the cup of wine signify? Why?
Why is the Roman Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation (the bread and wine become the physical body of Jesus) against the teaching of the Bible and therefore wrong?
How can we be careful not to fall into the trap of meaningless tradition or a perverted ritual?
What can you do to keep the Lord's Supper meaningful to you?
Are there any stories you'd like people to remember about what God's done in your life?
How will you share these stories?
Why is it important to remember what God has done in your life?
In Joshua 3, the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground by means of a miracle from God. God had the priests take the Ark of the Covenant into the water first. When the soles of the feet of the priests carrying the ark entered the water, the Lord caused the flow of the Jordan to stop and rise up. The people then crossed the river on dry ground.
In chapter 4, Joshua has the priests make a memorial to the event that had just happened. Read Joshua 4:1-9.
Group Discussion Questions:
Raise your hand if you love traditions and are sentimental. Ask someone why they love traditions. Ask someone why they hate traditions.
What's one item that you have that is super sentimental?
What is the reason for a memorial? For example, Memorial Day, a memorial service, a memorial museum, etc.
What do you do on that day or at those places?
Why did the Israelites make a pile of 12 stones?
What lessons can we learn from what they did?
What memorial has made a huge impact on your life?
What memorials or traditions do you have that cause you to remember God's hand in your life?
What memorials or traditions could you make or start to cause you and your family to remember God's work in your lives?
Whose responsibility is it to teach children about God and His work? How can someone do that?
What was Jesus doing when he instituted the practice of the Lord's Supper?
What does the bread signify? Why?
What does the cup of wine signify? Why?
Why is the Roman Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation (the bread and wine become the physical body of Jesus) against the teaching of the Bible and therefore wrong?
How can we be careful not to fall into the trap of meaningless tradition or a perverted ritual?
What can you do to keep the Lord's Supper meaningful to you?
Are there any stories you'd like people to remember about what God's done in your life?
How will you share these stories?
Why is it important to remember what God has done in your life?
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Famous Last Words
Read Joshua 24:14–16
Scripture Summary:
God has demonstrated His power and faithfulness throughout the book of Joshua. He's fulfilled EVERY promise he made, and has won EVERY battle He has fought. Now at the conclusion of the book (chapter 24), He asks Israel and us to reaffirm the most important decision of our lives: "Choose for yourselves whom you will serve today" (v. 15).
Group Discussion:
Part 1: Remembering Who God Is and What He's Done
As we've gone through the book of Joshua, what was your favorite story/detail/situation of how God demonstrated His power?
Who can share a great example of how God showed His faithfulness to the Israelites from the book of Joshua?
(If your group struggles to remember examples of God's power and faithfulness in Joshua, use this opportunity to ask them why they've forgotten.)
Why do you think God recites Israel's history from beginning to end in verses 1–13?
Would anyone like to share a story of how you saw God demonstrate His power in your life in 2016?
How has God proven His faithfulness to you this year?
Part 2: Responding to Who God Is and What He's Done
Notice that God said "choose" in verse 15. God has given us the ability to make choices. What are some dangers this freedom to choose could present?
Why does God let us choose?
Whether we realize it or not, we make the choice of who we will serve every day. Who is usually your choice, and why?
If someone else that knows you very well listed your top 3 to 5 priorities (based on your actions) in order, what would that list be? Are you happy with that order?
Joshua and the Israelites repeat the word serve 13 times in verses 14–27. Why is this a good word to describe our duty to God?
How does remembering who God is and what He's done help with your decision of whom to serve?
Why might serving the Lord seem undesirable to the Israelites (v. 15)?
In what ways is serving the Lord difficult for you?
What makes serving God worthwhile?
Conclusion:
Serve Hard is one of our five Core Values at Revo Church. Serving makes the list because we aren't anything like Jesus if we aren't serving. The word "hard" follows it because even Jesus knew it was hard to serve, yet he did it to the fullest.
Serving God and others should be a Core Value to all Christians. Meaning, no matter what, serving is something you'll always hold true to and will build your foundation upon. However, this isn't easy to do.
Pray that God will give you the courage to rise to the daily challenge of serving Him. Ask other people to hold you accountable.
Scripture Summary:
God has demonstrated His power and faithfulness throughout the book of Joshua. He's fulfilled EVERY promise he made, and has won EVERY battle He has fought. Now at the conclusion of the book (chapter 24), He asks Israel and us to reaffirm the most important decision of our lives: "Choose for yourselves whom you will serve today" (v. 15).
Group Discussion:
Part 1: Remembering Who God Is and What He's Done
As we've gone through the book of Joshua, what was your favorite story/detail/situation of how God demonstrated His power?
Who can share a great example of how God showed His faithfulness to the Israelites from the book of Joshua?
(If your group struggles to remember examples of God's power and faithfulness in Joshua, use this opportunity to ask them why they've forgotten.)
Why do you think God recites Israel's history from beginning to end in verses 1–13?
Would anyone like to share a story of how you saw God demonstrate His power in your life in 2016?
How has God proven His faithfulness to you this year?
Part 2: Responding to Who God Is and What He's Done
Notice that God said "choose" in verse 15. God has given us the ability to make choices. What are some dangers this freedom to choose could present?
Why does God let us choose?
Whether we realize it or not, we make the choice of who we will serve every day. Who is usually your choice, and why?
If someone else that knows you very well listed your top 3 to 5 priorities (based on your actions) in order, what would that list be? Are you happy with that order?
Joshua and the Israelites repeat the word serve 13 times in verses 14–27. Why is this a good word to describe our duty to God?
How does remembering who God is and what He's done help with your decision of whom to serve?
Why might serving the Lord seem undesirable to the Israelites (v. 15)?
In what ways is serving the Lord difficult for you?
What makes serving God worthwhile?
Conclusion:
Serve Hard is one of our five Core Values at Revo Church. Serving makes the list because we aren't anything like Jesus if we aren't serving. The word "hard" follows it because even Jesus knew it was hard to serve, yet he did it to the fullest.
Serving God and others should be a Core Value to all Christians. Meaning, no matter what, serving is something you'll always hold true to and will build your foundation upon. However, this isn't easy to do.
Pray that God will give you the courage to rise to the daily challenge of serving Him. Ask other people to hold you accountable.
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Don't Stop Now
Read Joshua 17:13–18
Summary of Scripture:
The Israelites complain to Joshua that they don't have enough land. Seriously?! Joshua isn't hearing it, though, and tells them to man up and take some more land by invading the forest. The people complain again (What is up with these people?!) that there are Canaanites on this land, to which Joshua basically responds by repeating his initial response to "stop complaining and making excuses, and move forward!"
How This Scripture Applies to Us:
1. Sometimes we act like the Israelites, complaining about how little God has given us when we have not fully used what we have.
Group Discussion Questions:
What is something that you constantly complain about?
Why do we complain?
What is wrong with complaining?
Why do you think God doesn't want complaining?
Name a few things you are uncertain about in your life right now.
How does complaining and negativity affect people's relationship with Jesus Christ?
How about our relationships with the people around us?
Do you ever feel like you don't have a choice? That your circumstances dictate your current reality?
Do you ever find yourself complaining to those who have no ability to change the situation?
What about God? Do you take your complaints to God? If not, why?
What if you had a "No Complaining" rule? What do you think about that?
What roadblocks might you experience as you being the "No Complaining" rule?
2. We encounter open doors (opportunities provided by God, to act with Him and for Him), but our fears keep us from crossing the threshold with our whole heart.
Think about a time when you felt yourself at a crossroads in the decision making process. What feeling surfaced?
Why do we hold on to our fears and problems so much?
Why is it so difficult to step outside of our comfort zones?
What can we do to make the process of moving forward a better experience?
What is it that holds you back the most? (fear, uncertainty, guilt, not-caring, laziness, etc.)
Do you feel like God is calling you to move towards something great, but you find yourself hesitant to respond? Why?
Discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people and environments.
Why does God still choose to help us when our faith is not strong?
God will take you places that will shock you. True or False? Why?
What door has God opened that you've not yet entered?
What's stopping you? What do you need to do about it?
What reward is there in going through the doors that God has called you to?
Summary of Scripture:
The Israelites complain to Joshua that they don't have enough land. Seriously?! Joshua isn't hearing it, though, and tells them to man up and take some more land by invading the forest. The people complain again (What is up with these people?!) that there are Canaanites on this land, to which Joshua basically responds by repeating his initial response to "stop complaining and making excuses, and move forward!"
How This Scripture Applies to Us:
1. Sometimes we act like the Israelites, complaining about how little God has given us when we have not fully used what we have.
Group Discussion Questions:
What is something that you constantly complain about?
Why do we complain?
What is wrong with complaining?
Why do you think God doesn't want complaining?
Name a few things you are uncertain about in your life right now.
How does complaining and negativity affect people's relationship with Jesus Christ?
How about our relationships with the people around us?
Do you ever feel like you don't have a choice? That your circumstances dictate your current reality?
Do you ever find yourself complaining to those who have no ability to change the situation?
What about God? Do you take your complaints to God? If not, why?
What if you had a "No Complaining" rule? What do you think about that?
What roadblocks might you experience as you being the "No Complaining" rule?
2. We encounter open doors (opportunities provided by God, to act with Him and for Him), but our fears keep us from crossing the threshold with our whole heart.
Think about a time when you felt yourself at a crossroads in the decision making process. What feeling surfaced?
Why do we hold on to our fears and problems so much?
Why is it so difficult to step outside of our comfort zones?
What can we do to make the process of moving forward a better experience?
What is it that holds you back the most? (fear, uncertainty, guilt, not-caring, laziness, etc.)
Do you feel like God is calling you to move towards something great, but you find yourself hesitant to respond? Why?
Discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people and environments.
Why does God still choose to help us when our faith is not strong?
God will take you places that will shock you. True or False? Why?
What door has God opened that you've not yet entered?
What's stopping you? What do you need to do about it?
What reward is there in going through the doors that God has called you to?
Sunday, November 6, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Beat Up By an Old Man
Read Joshua 14:6–15
"The Message" (MSG) is good storytelling version
Summary:
Caleb was an 85-year-old man who was ALL IN with God the same as he was when he was 40-years-old. That's lifelong faithfulness right there! Even in his old age, he kept the faith. Even when he faced Giants, he wholeheartedly trusted God. Even at 85, he said he was ready to fight the battle as long as God was on his side. God is looking for more people like Caleb!
Group Discussion Questions:
What do you think is the biggest difference between someone who is ALL IN vs someone who is HALWAY IN? This could apply to anything (work, relationships, spirituality, hobbies, sports, etc.).
Caleb stood out as a hero. He had what the Bible calls "a different spirit" or attitude (14:24). Why did he stand out? What was different about how he followed God?
What does it mean to follow God wholeheartedly?
Who likes to weigh the pros vs cons when making a big decision? How does this help you?
What happens when the cons outweigh the pros on something that you know God wants you to do? What do you do?
When circumstances in life are bad, most people will doubt, complain and make excuses. This is exactly what the Israelites were doing. However, Caleb trusted God despite evidence to the contrary, and he stood out to God. Give an example of when you trusted God when it didn't make sense, and then share what happened next.
What's the difference between faith and feelings?
Faithfulness to God is hard because we tend to make decisions based on emotions. We usually do what feel like doing. How do you overcome your emotions when God wants you to do something that you don't feel like doing?
Following Jesus is not supposed to be a one-time decision, but lifelong faithfulness...a daily habit. How have you had to keep deciding to follow Jesus throughout your life?
What's the latest example of when you had to live by faith and decide to follow Jesus?
What daily habits of faithfulness to God do you have?
We've all struggled with faith in God's timing. His timing is rarely our preference. What advice would you give to someone else about God's timing?
When everyone else was ready to give up and retreat from God's promise, Caleb refused to rebel against God. What kind of things has God called you to or promised to you that you're running away from?
Caleb didn't just talk the talk, but he was ready to walk the walk when God gave Him the green light. If God decided to deliver His promise to you right now, are you ready?
What are some things that God has promised to you? Which things do you doubt?
How does God test someone's faith?
How does someone prove their faith?
What kind of long-lasting rewards or impact can there be because of your faithfulness?
"The Message" (MSG) is good storytelling version
Summary:
Caleb was an 85-year-old man who was ALL IN with God the same as he was when he was 40-years-old. That's lifelong faithfulness right there! Even in his old age, he kept the faith. Even when he faced Giants, he wholeheartedly trusted God. Even at 85, he said he was ready to fight the battle as long as God was on his side. God is looking for more people like Caleb!
Group Discussion Questions:
What do you think is the biggest difference between someone who is ALL IN vs someone who is HALWAY IN? This could apply to anything (work, relationships, spirituality, hobbies, sports, etc.).
Caleb stood out as a hero. He had what the Bible calls "a different spirit" or attitude (14:24). Why did he stand out? What was different about how he followed God?
What does it mean to follow God wholeheartedly?
Who likes to weigh the pros vs cons when making a big decision? How does this help you?
What happens when the cons outweigh the pros on something that you know God wants you to do? What do you do?
When circumstances in life are bad, most people will doubt, complain and make excuses. This is exactly what the Israelites were doing. However, Caleb trusted God despite evidence to the contrary, and he stood out to God. Give an example of when you trusted God when it didn't make sense, and then share what happened next.
What's the difference between faith and feelings?
Faithfulness to God is hard because we tend to make decisions based on emotions. We usually do what feel like doing. How do you overcome your emotions when God wants you to do something that you don't feel like doing?
Following Jesus is not supposed to be a one-time decision, but lifelong faithfulness...a daily habit. How have you had to keep deciding to follow Jesus throughout your life?
What's the latest example of when you had to live by faith and decide to follow Jesus?
What daily habits of faithfulness to God do you have?
We've all struggled with faith in God's timing. His timing is rarely our preference. What advice would you give to someone else about God's timing?
When everyone else was ready to give up and retreat from God's promise, Caleb refused to rebel against God. What kind of things has God called you to or promised to you that you're running away from?
Caleb didn't just talk the talk, but he was ready to walk the walk when God gave Him the green light. If God decided to deliver His promise to you right now, are you ready?
What are some things that God has promised to you? Which things do you doubt?
How does God test someone's faith?
How does someone prove their faith?
What kind of long-lasting rewards or impact can there be because of your faithfulness?
Monday, October 31, 2016
What's Your Story?
On Sunday, we celebrated life change through Jesus. We witnessed people publicly professing their faith in Christ and taking their next step by being baptized. Baptism is a symbol of Jesus' death, burial and resurrection. New life is possible because of Jesus!
Group Discussion Questions:
How has the experience of Sunday and witnessing people being baptized affected the way you look at God?
What did you think of it?
Did it make sense to you?
Have you made the wonderful discovery of knowing God personally?
(Don't assume everyone is a follower of Jesus. Be prepared to lead someone to Jesus right now!!!)
Have you been baptized?
Where would you say you are in your spiritual pilgrimage?
(Tell your personal testimony of how you became a Christian. Keep it to three minutes, using the following outline):
BEFORE - What characterized my life before I trusted Christ.
DURING - How I came to trust Christ.
AFTER - How I am different now.
Have you ever shared your story before? Who would like the opportunity to briefly share their "before, during, and after" knowing Jesus story?
(Let people share their stories. Make sure they don't get off track.)
So, what's your next step?
(Go around the room and ask each person to share what they think their next step of faith is. Whether it's a small or huge step, write it down so you can pray, encourage and help them follow through with it. To be an effective leader/discipler, you need to know what each person's next step is, and take it with them.)
Group Discussion Questions:
How has the experience of Sunday and witnessing people being baptized affected the way you look at God?
What did you think of it?
Did it make sense to you?
Have you made the wonderful discovery of knowing God personally?
(Don't assume everyone is a follower of Jesus. Be prepared to lead someone to Jesus right now!!!)
Have you been baptized?
Where would you say you are in your spiritual pilgrimage?
(Tell your personal testimony of how you became a Christian. Keep it to three minutes, using the following outline):
BEFORE - What characterized my life before I trusted Christ.
DURING - How I came to trust Christ.
AFTER - How I am different now.
Have you ever shared your story before? Who would like the opportunity to briefly share their "before, during, and after" knowing Jesus story?
(Let people share their stories. Make sure they don't get off track.)
So, what's your next step?
(Go around the room and ask each person to share what they think their next step of faith is. Whether it's a small or huge step, write it down so you can pray, encourage and help them follow through with it. To be an effective leader/discipler, you need to know what each person's next step is, and take it with them.)
Sunday, October 23, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Admit It, You Failed
Joshua 6:18 – 8:1
Scripture Summary:
In Joshua 6, the Israelites obeyed God's instructions to a "T" on how to take the land of Jericho. God made a promise to them and came through. This was a HUGE victory for the Israelites, and God had obviously helped them.
God also gave them specific instructions on what to do (and what NOT to do) when they take over the city.
Group Discussion Questions:
Read Joshua 6:18-19. What were the specific instructions?
Now read Joshua 7:1. (#FAIL) What was Achan thinking?! Why, Achan? WHYYYY???!!!
There were consequences for Achan's sin. What happened to him? What happened to others because of him?
When God promises us something good, we always hold Him accountable. But what about when He promises us something bad (consequences of sin)? Why do we then expect God to NOT keep His promise?
Let's not be so quick to point at Achan. We've all failed. There are many causes for failure. Some are the products of specific acts of sin, but some are not. What are some of the significant failures you have experienced in your life?
How did you process these failures with God?
What lessons did you learn through your experience and processing these failures?
How do/did these failures prepare you to be a better follower of Jesus?
How have you grown spiritually as a result of your response to failure?
What successes have you experienced because of the lessons you learned during your times of failure?
What is it that allows a mature believer to succeed in spite of failure?
How should a follower of Jesus use failure as lessons for growth and change?
Why is acknowledging your failure(s) a crucial step to move forward?
Why is it important to confess your sins to God?
Why should we take time to study or examine what happened when we failed/sinned?
Should you carry your failure with you or leave it behind you as you move forward? Any scripture to support your answer? (1 John 1:9, Philippians 3:13)
Are we less accepted by God when we fail? Why or why not? (Grace vs Performance)
If we've decided to follow Jesus, then how come we still sin and fail?
Let's say we have failed BIG TIME. Or maybe SO MANY TIMES. Is God done with you now?
What measurement of success and failure do you use in the following areas?
• Your home life
• Your areas of ministry
• Your workplace
To whom do you compare yourself as you succeed or fail in the following areas?
• Your home
• Your spiritual growth
• Your career development
• Your position in your community
How do you evaluate yourself when you see someone who:
• Makes more money than you
• Drives a nicer car than yours
• Lives in a bigger house than yours
• Has higher career achievements than you
• Takes more expensive vacations than you
How are the materialistic temptations and expectations of our culture luring you away from measuring your success biblically?
As a child of God, what standard should you use in any area of your life to measure your growth and success?
What daily disciplines do you need to practice so that you can use your failures as preparation for biblical success?
Scripture Summary:
In Joshua 6, the Israelites obeyed God's instructions to a "T" on how to take the land of Jericho. God made a promise to them and came through. This was a HUGE victory for the Israelites, and God had obviously helped them.
God also gave them specific instructions on what to do (and what NOT to do) when they take over the city.
Group Discussion Questions:
Read Joshua 6:18-19. What were the specific instructions?
Now read Joshua 7:1. (#FAIL) What was Achan thinking?! Why, Achan? WHYYYY???!!!
There were consequences for Achan's sin. What happened to him? What happened to others because of him?
When God promises us something good, we always hold Him accountable. But what about when He promises us something bad (consequences of sin)? Why do we then expect God to NOT keep His promise?
Let's not be so quick to point at Achan. We've all failed. There are many causes for failure. Some are the products of specific acts of sin, but some are not. What are some of the significant failures you have experienced in your life?
How did you process these failures with God?
What lessons did you learn through your experience and processing these failures?
How do/did these failures prepare you to be a better follower of Jesus?
How have you grown spiritually as a result of your response to failure?
What successes have you experienced because of the lessons you learned during your times of failure?
What is it that allows a mature believer to succeed in spite of failure?
How should a follower of Jesus use failure as lessons for growth and change?
Why is acknowledging your failure(s) a crucial step to move forward?
Why is it important to confess your sins to God?
Why should we take time to study or examine what happened when we failed/sinned?
Should you carry your failure with you or leave it behind you as you move forward? Any scripture to support your answer? (1 John 1:9, Philippians 3:13)
Are we less accepted by God when we fail? Why or why not? (Grace vs Performance)
If we've decided to follow Jesus, then how come we still sin and fail?
Let's say we have failed BIG TIME. Or maybe SO MANY TIMES. Is God done with you now?
What measurement of success and failure do you use in the following areas?
• Your home life
• Your areas of ministry
• Your workplace
To whom do you compare yourself as you succeed or fail in the following areas?
• Your home
• Your spiritual growth
• Your career development
• Your position in your community
How do you evaluate yourself when you see someone who:
• Makes more money than you
• Drives a nicer car than yours
• Lives in a bigger house than yours
• Has higher career achievements than you
• Takes more expensive vacations than you
How are the materialistic temptations and expectations of our culture luring you away from measuring your success biblically?
As a child of God, what standard should you use in any area of your life to measure your growth and success?
What daily disciplines do you need to practice so that you can use your failures as preparation for biblical success?
Sunday, October 16, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Roadmap to Success
Opening question: Who is growing spiritually because of being a part of this rGroup?
Remind people of what an rGroup is - "People who regularly meet and participate in activities together with the goal of experiencing spiritual growth (transformation, life change)."
Remind people that the vision of rGroups is "communities that change lives."
Remind people what "community" is - Christian community is simply sharing a common life in Christ, and committing ourselves to life together as the people of God.
----
Summary of Joshua 5:13–15, 6:1-21
Conquering the Promised Land was an enormous task. The first major obstacle is to conquer the Canaanite powerhouse–Jericho. As the Israelites approach this "battle," the Lord teaches them and us how to be victorious.
----
Group Discussion Questions:
We fight many battles in life– financial, physical, emotional and spiritual. How can we be victorious in these struggles, especially when the odds against us seem overwhelming?
When have you felt that God was fighting your battles for you? How did you feel?
5:13–15 - How do you think the visit by the commander of the army of the Lord affected Joshua?
6:1–5 - In what ways do the Lord's instructions for the conquest of Jericho seem strange? Can you relate to any of God's instructions for your life?
6:6–15 - How do you think the Israelites felt during this 7-day spectacle? Why do you think God gave them this direction? I bet some of us would rather fight and risk dying than walk in circles and let God fight our battle and win. Why is God's plan better than ours?
What lessons was God teaching the Israelites during their 7 days of marching?
This 7-day march became a test of whether or not the Israelites would follow and obey the Lord because they loved Him and had a desire to please Him. Has God ever given you a similar test?
6:17–25 - What did it mean for this city and its contents to be devoted to the Lord?
How would you apply this to your life? What can you devote to the Lord?
6:19, 24 - Why didn't God allow the Israelites to keep any of the spoils of war?
How is our spiritual warfare today similar to and different from Israel's conquest of Jericho? (see 2 Corinthians 10:3–5)
Spiritual growth is always a result of obedience to God. What spiritual battles are you currently fighting?
Pray for victory for yourself and others you know who are fighting spiritual battles.
----
Social Media: Ask someone to give a closing statement in a sentence or two that is "retweet" or "share" worthy. Ask them to post it, and then have others in your group share/retweet it.
Remind people of what an rGroup is - "People who regularly meet and participate in activities together with the goal of experiencing spiritual growth (transformation, life change)."
Remind people that the vision of rGroups is "communities that change lives."
Remind people what "community" is - Christian community is simply sharing a common life in Christ, and committing ourselves to life together as the people of God.
----
Summary of Joshua 5:13–15, 6:1-21
Conquering the Promised Land was an enormous task. The first major obstacle is to conquer the Canaanite powerhouse–Jericho. As the Israelites approach this "battle," the Lord teaches them and us how to be victorious.
----
Group Discussion Questions:
We fight many battles in life– financial, physical, emotional and spiritual. How can we be victorious in these struggles, especially when the odds against us seem overwhelming?
When have you felt that God was fighting your battles for you? How did you feel?
5:13–15 - How do you think the visit by the commander of the army of the Lord affected Joshua?
6:1–5 - In what ways do the Lord's instructions for the conquest of Jericho seem strange? Can you relate to any of God's instructions for your life?
6:6–15 - How do you think the Israelites felt during this 7-day spectacle? Why do you think God gave them this direction? I bet some of us would rather fight and risk dying than walk in circles and let God fight our battle and win. Why is God's plan better than ours?
What lessons was God teaching the Israelites during their 7 days of marching?
This 7-day march became a test of whether or not the Israelites would follow and obey the Lord because they loved Him and had a desire to please Him. Has God ever given you a similar test?
6:17–25 - What did it mean for this city and its contents to be devoted to the Lord?
How would you apply this to your life? What can you devote to the Lord?
6:19, 24 - Why didn't God allow the Israelites to keep any of the spoils of war?
How is our spiritual warfare today similar to and different from Israel's conquest of Jericho? (see 2 Corinthians 10:3–5)
Spiritual growth is always a result of obedience to God. What spiritual battles are you currently fighting?
Pray for victory for yourself and others you know who are fighting spiritual battles.
----
Social Media: Ask someone to give a closing statement in a sentence or two that is "retweet" or "share" worthy. Ask them to post it, and then have others in your group share/retweet it.
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: Crossing in Faith
Read Joshua 3.
How many of you were familiar with this story before this week? (Encourage people to read Joshua 1-3 this week.)
Summary of Joshua 3:
Joshua and the Israelites pack up their gear and head toward the Jordan River as they prepare for their big water crossing. They set up camp for the night, and Joshua tells Israel that they must sanctify themselves. Also, heads up Israelites–you are to follow the Ark of the Covenant at a distance of 2,000 cubits. God says to Joshua, "This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, so that they may know that I will be with you as I was with Moses." (v 7) It's clear that Joshua is the new Moses. As Israel is preparing to cross the Jordan, one man from each tribe is selected to carry the Ark into the water. The Jordan River is in flood season at this time, too. When the feet of the Ark bearers enter the water, the Jordan begins to flow like a wall to their right and to their left, just like the Red Sea in Exodus. Once all of Israel made it to dry land, the priests bearing the Ark step out of the Jordan and the water returns to normal. Very cool miracle!
Questions based on the Scripture passage:
What barrier stood between Israel and the land?
What sign would be given to the people to tell when they should go forward?
How closely should the people follow? Why?
How was the ark carried? Why?
What did Joshua say was about to happen in verse 5? What was the purpose of it? (vs 7, 10)
What were the priests carrying the ark to do at the river?
What did Joshua specifically predict was going to happen (v 13)?
Describe the crossing of the river.
Application questions:
Joshua is pretty new to the position of leading the Israelites, and now he's asking them to trust God for a miracle. If you were in the crowd, would you find it easy or hard to follow Joshua's leadership? Why?
What role do you think your leader/Pastor has for your life?
When you are in a situation that requires great faith, what helps you to be bold?
What daily or weekly things do you do in order to make sure your "faith tank" is full for when you're going to need it? What kind of prep work do you do for when you're required to act in faith?
Share an example of when you displayed radical obedience.
Share a story of when you saw someone else have radical faith. How did that impact you?
Share an example of when God made the impossible possible for you.
As the people started to obey, it wasn't quickly evident that a miracle was actually happening. Have you ever obeyed God's commands, but then felt like He wasn't even noticing? What did you do next? What does scripture say about God that would encourage/help you?
Every step in this story of Joshua 3 seems just absolutely weird, stupid, crazy or pointless. Are you downplaying any of your steps like that?
Why is your next step that God asks you to take SO important? What could possibly be at stake?
Why is it SO important to not just know what your next step in faith is, but to actually take it NOW?
Give a good reason why you should wait to take the step God has asked you to take. What excuses do you make?
Do you think your next step could ever impact someone else?
Do you think God even has a next step for you? What is it? How will you listen to God and do what He says?
Nothing worth doing is ever easy. What can you do to help yourself when the going gets tough?
Write down the next step you think God wants you to take. If you're not sure, commit to praying about it this week.
How many of you were familiar with this story before this week? (Encourage people to read Joshua 1-3 this week.)
Summary of Joshua 3:
Joshua and the Israelites pack up their gear and head toward the Jordan River as they prepare for their big water crossing. They set up camp for the night, and Joshua tells Israel that they must sanctify themselves. Also, heads up Israelites–you are to follow the Ark of the Covenant at a distance of 2,000 cubits. God says to Joshua, "This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, so that they may know that I will be with you as I was with Moses." (v 7) It's clear that Joshua is the new Moses. As Israel is preparing to cross the Jordan, one man from each tribe is selected to carry the Ark into the water. The Jordan River is in flood season at this time, too. When the feet of the Ark bearers enter the water, the Jordan begins to flow like a wall to their right and to their left, just like the Red Sea in Exodus. Once all of Israel made it to dry land, the priests bearing the Ark step out of the Jordan and the water returns to normal. Very cool miracle!
Questions based on the Scripture passage:
What barrier stood between Israel and the land?
What sign would be given to the people to tell when they should go forward?
How closely should the people follow? Why?
How was the ark carried? Why?
What did Joshua say was about to happen in verse 5? What was the purpose of it? (vs 7, 10)
What were the priests carrying the ark to do at the river?
What did Joshua specifically predict was going to happen (v 13)?
Describe the crossing of the river.
Application questions:
Joshua is pretty new to the position of leading the Israelites, and now he's asking them to trust God for a miracle. If you were in the crowd, would you find it easy or hard to follow Joshua's leadership? Why?
What role do you think your leader/Pastor has for your life?
When you are in a situation that requires great faith, what helps you to be bold?
What daily or weekly things do you do in order to make sure your "faith tank" is full for when you're going to need it? What kind of prep work do you do for when you're required to act in faith?
Share an example of when you displayed radical obedience.
Share a story of when you saw someone else have radical faith. How did that impact you?
Share an example of when God made the impossible possible for you.
As the people started to obey, it wasn't quickly evident that a miracle was actually happening. Have you ever obeyed God's commands, but then felt like He wasn't even noticing? What did you do next? What does scripture say about God that would encourage/help you?
Every step in this story of Joshua 3 seems just absolutely weird, stupid, crazy or pointless. Are you downplaying any of your steps like that?
Why is your next step that God asks you to take SO important? What could possibly be at stake?
Why is it SO important to not just know what your next step in faith is, but to actually take it NOW?
Give a good reason why you should wait to take the step God has asked you to take. What excuses do you make?
Do you think your next step could ever impact someone else?
Do you think God even has a next step for you? What is it? How will you listen to God and do what He says?
Nothing worth doing is ever easy. What can you do to help yourself when the going gets tough?
Write down the next step you think God wants you to take. If you're not sure, commit to praying about it this week.
Sunday, October 2, 2016
Whole 'Nother Level: No Mo FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)
Read Joshua 1:1–9, 16
Scripture Summary:
The Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan, which the Lord is giving to them.
The book of Joshua begins where the book of Deuteronomy ends, with the death of Moses. After the incredible career of Moses, "the servant of the LORD" (1:1), Joshua is to take over leadership of the Israelites and finally lead them into Canaan, the land God has promised to them.
The task of leading the people at this time would be overwhelming to anyone. Perhaps this is why Joshua is told by God three times (1:6, 7, 9) and by the people once (1:18) to "be strong and courageous." The Lord also commands Joshua to obey the book of the law of Moses (1:7–8), referring to Deuteronomy.
So, God is ready to take Joshua's life to a whole 'nother level! Let's use this part of scripture to look at our own lives and see if we're ready to seize the life God's planned for us, or blow it and miss out.
Group Discussion Guide:
At this time in the story, Joshua and the people had been roaming aimlessly (homeless) in the wilderness for 40 years. Moses just died, and God's talking about taking them to a whole 'nother level. Put yourself in Joshua or the people's shoes. What kind of reaction do you think you'd have? Excited or still upset at God? Ready to move forward, or let the past hold you back?
What's something in your past that you're so proud of? How can this hold you back from what God has next for you?
What's a struggle from your past that you've never been able to leave behind? How can this hold you back from what God has next for you?
Why is it dangerous to let our past (whether good or bad) define us?
What does the "perfect life" look like to you?
If you had all the things and money you ever wanted, but weren't living your purpose, would you be ok with that?
What do you think God's purpose for your life is? Be specific. What was the last thing that God called you to do? Have you done it? Are you doing it?
What do you think God's plans for your future are? How can you know?
When you don't know what God's next step for you is, do you think it would help to think about the last thing God called you to do, and make sure you're doing it?
Are you scared of what God's plans are for you? Wait for answers, then read Jeremiah 29:11.
The Israelites were roaming the wilderness of 40 years. I'm sure they weren't too happy that this what part of God's plan. Maybe they didn't even believe it was God's plan. What's it like for you when you think about your past or present and wonder how this could be God's plan? Does Matthew 11:29 help you? What about Isaiah 40:29–31?
What role do you have for God's plan? Read Joshua 1:3–6.
How can you ruin/waste God's plan for you? Read Joshua 1:7–9, 16.
God's promise you so many things, even just in these few verses we've read! What promise or commitment do you need to make to Him?
Why is it important to share what God's called you to with your rGroup?
What do you need to do to ensure you follow through with your commitments to God?
How can you help others with the plans God has for them?
Scripture Summary:
The Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the land of Canaan, which the Lord is giving to them.
The book of Joshua begins where the book of Deuteronomy ends, with the death of Moses. After the incredible career of Moses, "the servant of the LORD" (1:1), Joshua is to take over leadership of the Israelites and finally lead them into Canaan, the land God has promised to them.
The task of leading the people at this time would be overwhelming to anyone. Perhaps this is why Joshua is told by God three times (1:6, 7, 9) and by the people once (1:18) to "be strong and courageous." The Lord also commands Joshua to obey the book of the law of Moses (1:7–8), referring to Deuteronomy.
So, God is ready to take Joshua's life to a whole 'nother level! Let's use this part of scripture to look at our own lives and see if we're ready to seize the life God's planned for us, or blow it and miss out.
Group Discussion Guide:
At this time in the story, Joshua and the people had been roaming aimlessly (homeless) in the wilderness for 40 years. Moses just died, and God's talking about taking them to a whole 'nother level. Put yourself in Joshua or the people's shoes. What kind of reaction do you think you'd have? Excited or still upset at God? Ready to move forward, or let the past hold you back?
What's something in your past that you're so proud of? How can this hold you back from what God has next for you?
What's a struggle from your past that you've never been able to leave behind? How can this hold you back from what God has next for you?
Why is it dangerous to let our past (whether good or bad) define us?
What does the "perfect life" look like to you?
If you had all the things and money you ever wanted, but weren't living your purpose, would you be ok with that?
What do you think God's purpose for your life is? Be specific. What was the last thing that God called you to do? Have you done it? Are you doing it?
What do you think God's plans for your future are? How can you know?
When you don't know what God's next step for you is, do you think it would help to think about the last thing God called you to do, and make sure you're doing it?
Are you scared of what God's plans are for you? Wait for answers, then read Jeremiah 29:11.
The Israelites were roaming the wilderness of 40 years. I'm sure they weren't too happy that this what part of God's plan. Maybe they didn't even believe it was God's plan. What's it like for you when you think about your past or present and wonder how this could be God's plan? Does Matthew 11:29 help you? What about Isaiah 40:29–31?
What role do you have for God's plan? Read Joshua 1:3–6.
How can you ruin/waste God's plan for you? Read Joshua 1:7–9, 16.
God's promise you so many things, even just in these few verses we've read! What promise or commitment do you need to make to Him?
Why is it important to share what God's called you to with your rGroup?
What do you need to do to ensure you follow through with your commitments to God?
How can you help others with the plans God has for them?
Sunday, September 25, 2016
The Struggle Bus: The Funeral Bus
Read Job 9:32–35
Summary of Job 9:32–35
Job recognized that sinners need a reconciler with a holy God. He wished that God was a man like himself. He believed that only a mortal could help God understand his human error. God seemed distant and indifferent to his suffering. If God were like man, Job would take God to court on this case. He would argue his innocence in the court of justice, man to man.
Job desired an impartial mediator to plead his case before God. An umpire, arbitrator, lawyer or reconciler between them could quickly settle this dispute successfully.
Job wished that facing God was not so fearful. He knew he could not meet God on fair terms as long as God was omnipotent. Who could argue with His infinite, raw power? Who would hear his case?
Use these questions as a guide to help facilitate a group discussion:
What causes you to be ashamed or scared to approach God (in prayer)?
What do you do when you feel like God just doesn't understand what you're going through?
What has helped you humble yourself and submit to God when you didn't feel like doing so?
If you were Job's friend, what would you say to him after he goes off on this rant?
How can a holy God actually understand what a mortal human being goes through?
Why does sin separate us from God?
Does being good or not sinning bring us closer to God? Why or why not?
How do you know when you and God see eye to eye?
Why could it be harder for a person who has gone to church their entire life and is not a follower of Jesus to repent and turn to Jesus than a person who has never gone to church?
How can being "religious" be so dangerous?
How can a loving God (who is also the judge) send well-meaning, sincere, religious people to hell?
What verses would you point to if a friend asked you how to have a relationship with God or how to get to heaven?
Concerning the question above, did you tend to think of verses about things YOU need to do or things that JESUS has done?
Why do we so easily drift from the idea that Jesus is the savior, and not us?
Why do we need Jesus?
What's your story about when you turned to Jesus to save you?
Would anyone like to put their faith in Jesus right now? Would anyone like to turn back to Jesus right now?
Summary of Job 9:32–35
Job recognized that sinners need a reconciler with a holy God. He wished that God was a man like himself. He believed that only a mortal could help God understand his human error. God seemed distant and indifferent to his suffering. If God were like man, Job would take God to court on this case. He would argue his innocence in the court of justice, man to man.
Job desired an impartial mediator to plead his case before God. An umpire, arbitrator, lawyer or reconciler between them could quickly settle this dispute successfully.
Job wished that facing God was not so fearful. He knew he could not meet God on fair terms as long as God was omnipotent. Who could argue with His infinite, raw power? Who would hear his case?
Use these questions as a guide to help facilitate a group discussion:
What causes you to be ashamed or scared to approach God (in prayer)?
What do you do when you feel like God just doesn't understand what you're going through?
What has helped you humble yourself and submit to God when you didn't feel like doing so?
If you were Job's friend, what would you say to him after he goes off on this rant?
How can a holy God actually understand what a mortal human being goes through?
Why does sin separate us from God?
Does being good or not sinning bring us closer to God? Why or why not?
How do you know when you and God see eye to eye?
Why could it be harder for a person who has gone to church their entire life and is not a follower of Jesus to repent and turn to Jesus than a person who has never gone to church?
How can being "religious" be so dangerous?
How can a loving God (who is also the judge) send well-meaning, sincere, religious people to hell?
What verses would you point to if a friend asked you how to have a relationship with God or how to get to heaven?
Concerning the question above, did you tend to think of verses about things YOU need to do or things that JESUS has done?
Why do we so easily drift from the idea that Jesus is the savior, and not us?
Why do we need Jesus?
What's your story about when you turned to Jesus to save you?
Would anyone like to put their faith in Jesus right now? Would anyone like to turn back to Jesus right now?
Sunday, September 18, 2016
The Sorry Bus: Freedom vs Slavery
Read Job 42:7–9
Summary: God tells Job's three friends they are theologically wrong (v 7) and to seek forgiveness. God doesn't let them just say a simple prayer for forgiveness and be done with it. They must go to Job with their sacrifices and ask him to pray for them. This must have been a deeply humiliating thing. They accused Job of being far from God, and now God places Job as the priest to bring them near to God. In other words, God is seeing to it that the only way the three friends can experience reconciliation with god is through experiencing reconciliation with Job. They must humble themselves before Job, not simply before God.
Use these questions as a guide to help facilitate a group discussion about forgiveness.
Why is it so difficult to forgive those who hurt you?
Why doesn't forgiveness make sense to our human nature?
What do you do instead of forgiving?
What do you gain when you don't forgive? What do you lose?
Why does forgiveness matter to God? Why should forgiveness matter to you?
Read Matthew 5:24. What urgency and priority does Jesus put on forgiveness?
Are there people that you need to forgive in order to worship God?
Read Matthew 6:14-15. What's the reward if we forgive others? What's the consequence if we don't forgive others?
Read Romans 12:17-19. Who does judgement belong to? Why don't you want God to handle judgement? Why is it hypocritical to want to be the judge?
Are we supposed to forgive someone if they don't ask for forgiveness? (Colossians 3:12-13)
What scares you about freely forgiving? What could happen?
How could extending forgiveness heal a relationship? How might it heal the other person? How might it heal you?
Do you ever abuse the grace, mercy and forgiveness God has given you?
Do you agree that we must forgive others in order to be like Jesus?
If you need to forgive someone, how would you go about it?
Summary: God tells Job's three friends they are theologically wrong (v 7) and to seek forgiveness. God doesn't let them just say a simple prayer for forgiveness and be done with it. They must go to Job with their sacrifices and ask him to pray for them. This must have been a deeply humiliating thing. They accused Job of being far from God, and now God places Job as the priest to bring them near to God. In other words, God is seeing to it that the only way the three friends can experience reconciliation with god is through experiencing reconciliation with Job. They must humble themselves before Job, not simply before God.
Use these questions as a guide to help facilitate a group discussion about forgiveness.
Why is it so difficult to forgive those who hurt you?
Why doesn't forgiveness make sense to our human nature?
What do you do instead of forgiving?
What do you gain when you don't forgive? What do you lose?
Why does forgiveness matter to God? Why should forgiveness matter to you?
Read Matthew 5:24. What urgency and priority does Jesus put on forgiveness?
Are there people that you need to forgive in order to worship God?
Read Matthew 6:14-15. What's the reward if we forgive others? What's the consequence if we don't forgive others?
Read Romans 12:17-19. Who does judgement belong to? Why don't you want God to handle judgement? Why is it hypocritical to want to be the judge?
Are we supposed to forgive someone if they don't ask for forgiveness? (Colossians 3:12-13)
What scares you about freely forgiving? What could happen?
How could extending forgiveness heal a relationship? How might it heal the other person? How might it heal you?
Do you ever abuse the grace, mercy and forgiveness God has given you?
Do you agree that we must forgive others in order to be like Jesus?
If you need to forgive someone, how would you go about it?
Sunday, September 11, 2016
The School Bus: When God Takes You to School
Job 38–42
Summary of Job 38–40:5
Job had been confident that he knew the workings and the ways of God (27:11)... now God calls on him to prove that claim and demands that Job answer His questions (38:1–3). God then asks Job a series of rhetorical questions.
38:1 - God finally answers Job from the whirlwind (eye of the violent storm). Why do you think God chose this specific time to reply to Job?
Fill in the blank: When you hear from God in the midst of great struggle, it reassures you that God ___________.
(...is here, cares, is ultimately in control, etc.)
38:2–40:2 - God takes Job to school and blasts him with tons of questions. Don't you hate when someone answers a question with a question?! That's what God did to Job. Why is this God's method of reply? What is it that He's trying to communicate to Job?
(He's reminding Job of who is God, majestic, sovereign, all-powerful, all-knowing, etc.)
Why does God appear to Job and say this? Is God defending Himself?
(God does not offer vindication of His dealings with us, nor does He need to justify his providence towards Job. He does not lower Himself in order to elevate us into judges of His conduct. The righteousness of His providence does not depend on how we perceive it or admit it. God is never defensive... He is the sovereign Lord of all, accountable to no being but Himself. He does not appear to vindicate Himself, but to rescue Job.)
Why does God speak to us (through His Word, others, circumstances, or the Holy Spirit)? What's the motive behind His words?
(to rescue us, save us from our sin, guide us towards Him, etc.)
40:3–5 - Job is ready to shut up and listen. Job needed to be rescued from his own thoughts. He began to make the wrong conclusions about God. We often need to be rescued from our own thoughts or the persuasion of others' thoughts. Powerful thoughts and words do not equal wisdom. Where does wisdom come from?
(Job 28:20-28, Proverbs 2:6, James 1:5)
Why should an unbeliever repent? Why should Christians repent?
(Repentance is not about relationship, but it is about restoring fellowship. Repentance is for everyone. To enjoy ongoing fellowship with God, we need to live a life of daily repentance.)
How does God's revelation lead to a life of repentance?
(It causes us to consider on a regular basis His glory and our inadequacies, and that His mind and thoughts are truly higher than ours. Isaiah 55:8–9)
42:7–17 - God never told Job why he suffered or what the purpose was. Would you still be demanding an explanation, or would you hear and understand what God said?
What has God showed you through these chapters?
What does God want to rescue you from right now? What do you need to repent from?
Summary of Job 38–40:5
Job had been confident that he knew the workings and the ways of God (27:11)... now God calls on him to prove that claim and demands that Job answer His questions (38:1–3). God then asks Job a series of rhetorical questions.
38:1 - God finally answers Job from the whirlwind (eye of the violent storm). Why do you think God chose this specific time to reply to Job?
Fill in the blank: When you hear from God in the midst of great struggle, it reassures you that God ___________.
(...is here, cares, is ultimately in control, etc.)
38:2–40:2 - God takes Job to school and blasts him with tons of questions. Don't you hate when someone answers a question with a question?! That's what God did to Job. Why is this God's method of reply? What is it that He's trying to communicate to Job?
(He's reminding Job of who is God, majestic, sovereign, all-powerful, all-knowing, etc.)
Why does God appear to Job and say this? Is God defending Himself?
(God does not offer vindication of His dealings with us, nor does He need to justify his providence towards Job. He does not lower Himself in order to elevate us into judges of His conduct. The righteousness of His providence does not depend on how we perceive it or admit it. God is never defensive... He is the sovereign Lord of all, accountable to no being but Himself. He does not appear to vindicate Himself, but to rescue Job.)
Why does God speak to us (through His Word, others, circumstances, or the Holy Spirit)? What's the motive behind His words?
(to rescue us, save us from our sin, guide us towards Him, etc.)
40:3–5 - Job is ready to shut up and listen. Job needed to be rescued from his own thoughts. He began to make the wrong conclusions about God. We often need to be rescued from our own thoughts or the persuasion of others' thoughts. Powerful thoughts and words do not equal wisdom. Where does wisdom come from?
(Job 28:20-28, Proverbs 2:6, James 1:5)
Why should an unbeliever repent? Why should Christians repent?
(Repentance is not about relationship, but it is about restoring fellowship. Repentance is for everyone. To enjoy ongoing fellowship with God, we need to live a life of daily repentance.)
How does God's revelation lead to a life of repentance?
(It causes us to consider on a regular basis His glory and our inadequacies, and that His mind and thoughts are truly higher than ours. Isaiah 55:8–9)
42:7–17 - God never told Job why he suffered or what the purpose was. Would you still be demanding an explanation, or would you hear and understand what God said?
What has God showed you through these chapters?
What does God want to rescue you from right now? What do you need to repent from?
Sunday, August 28, 2016
The Empty Bus: When God Doesn't Show Up
Job 23:1-12
Summary of verses 1-9: Job has been struggling with the burden of his afflictions. He can't understand the meaning of God's providence with him. He cries out to God, but it seems God is not there to hear his case. He can't seem to find God anywhere (ahead, backwards, on the left or right). Although he knows that God is present everywhere, his mind becomes so confused, so consumed with his troubles, that he seems to be a man in fright and at his wits' end. And because he's so confused, nothing is clear. He is at a loss to know what God's purpose is with him. We see Job's faith wavering a bit.
Have you ever called out to God in a time of need, but it didn't seem like He even heard you?
• What were some of the thoughts going through your head?
• Why do you think you didn't hear from God? What do you think God was doing?
• Would you have done anything differently?
• What did you believe about God at that time?
• Why is it so scary when God doesn't seem apparent during times in the valley? Do you desire for His presence the same when you're on the mountain?
Why does it seem like the devil is always in the details? When trials come, we think this must be Satan. Why?
• Read Psalm 37:23. Who is always in every detail? Who directs every single step?
• Do you think you're a weak person if you need to depend on God? Are you strong if you can get through the hard times on your own?
• How does it help you to know that God is always aware of every detail in every step of your life?
Summary of verses 10-12: Job finds a way to still trust God. The steadfastness of his faith continues. God is a witness to his integrity. And even though he does not know the way which he goes, God knows that way. And Job's confidence is that God's way is good and produces gold.
• Are trials golden opportunities (pun intended) for God to do the work He desires in your life? Do you believe that statement? Can you testify to it? What personal stories can you share about this?
• How do you know if the affliction you're facing is a consequence for your sin or for God to do something powerful in your life?
(Embrace and learn from trials. Repent and turn from consequences.)
• How do you know when purification and sanctification are complete in your life? (When Jesus is seen perfectly in you.)
What should we focus on during our afflictions and trials?
(Our response and attitude towards these should be to pursue the will of God in/for our lives. Read vs 11.)
• What do you think the will of God for you today is? Are you in it, close to it, or far from it?
Continue to develop a thirst for His Word. Continue to seek Him in prayer.
Summary of verses 1-9: Job has been struggling with the burden of his afflictions. He can't understand the meaning of God's providence with him. He cries out to God, but it seems God is not there to hear his case. He can't seem to find God anywhere (ahead, backwards, on the left or right). Although he knows that God is present everywhere, his mind becomes so confused, so consumed with his troubles, that he seems to be a man in fright and at his wits' end. And because he's so confused, nothing is clear. He is at a loss to know what God's purpose is with him. We see Job's faith wavering a bit.
Have you ever called out to God in a time of need, but it didn't seem like He even heard you?
• What were some of the thoughts going through your head?
• Why do you think you didn't hear from God? What do you think God was doing?
• Would you have done anything differently?
• What did you believe about God at that time?
• Why is it so scary when God doesn't seem apparent during times in the valley? Do you desire for His presence the same when you're on the mountain?
Why does it seem like the devil is always in the details? When trials come, we think this must be Satan. Why?
• Read Psalm 37:23. Who is always in every detail? Who directs every single step?
• Do you think you're a weak person if you need to depend on God? Are you strong if you can get through the hard times on your own?
• How does it help you to know that God is always aware of every detail in every step of your life?
Summary of verses 10-12: Job finds a way to still trust God. The steadfastness of his faith continues. God is a witness to his integrity. And even though he does not know the way which he goes, God knows that way. And Job's confidence is that God's way is good and produces gold.
• Are trials golden opportunities (pun intended) for God to do the work He desires in your life? Do you believe that statement? Can you testify to it? What personal stories can you share about this?
• How do you know if the affliction you're facing is a consequence for your sin or for God to do something powerful in your life?
(Embrace and learn from trials. Repent and turn from consequences.)
• How do you know when purification and sanctification are complete in your life? (When Jesus is seen perfectly in you.)
What should we focus on during our afflictions and trials?
(Our response and attitude towards these should be to pursue the will of God in/for our lives. Read vs 11.)
• What do you think the will of God for you today is? Are you in it, close to it, or far from it?
Continue to develop a thirst for His Word. Continue to seek Him in prayer.
Sunday, August 21, 2016
The Beat-Up Bus: Grief, Anger, and the Blame Game
Job 3, Ephesians 4:26-32
Think of a time during the past week when you felt your emotions changing in the direction of anger. Which of the following statements characterized your response?
a. I ignored it.
b. I overreacted to it.
c. I worked to address it.
What was the result? What did you reap?
Anger shows itself in a variety of forms. Which form are you most likely to struggle with?
a. Irritability or bitterness?
b. Yelling or screaming?
c. Explosions?
d. Acts of fury to defend yourself (or others)?
e. Acts of self-injury (cutting yourself, misusing food, sex, alcohol, drugs, exercise, etc.)?
f. Dwelling on dark things that others have done?
g. Revenge, destroying others
h. Stewing and brewing
Anger is a heart issue. Understand how your heart leads to anger: A desire for even a good thing becomes a bad thing when that desire becomes a ruling thing.
"I want _______." (Desire)
"I must have _______." (Demand)
"I will have _______." (Need)
"You should _______." (Expectation)
"You didn't _______." (Disappointment)
Therefore, "I will _______." (Punishment)
What is your typical mode of punishment when you do not get your way?
(Silence, withdrawal, angry words, violence?)
Where do you tend to get irritated, frustrated, discouraged, or experience flashes of anger? Do you recognize any themes or patterns?
We can't control everything that happens to or around us. But, what can you control?
(Changes inside of yourself.)
Why does my heart towards others have to do with my heart towards God?
(1 John 4:19-21)
What is God revealing to you that he wants you to own, because He loves you and wants to change you, so that you can experience the freedom and joy of His rule in your heart? Be specific and ask those in your rGroup to pray for you and hold you accountable. Change is a community project.
So, you have an anger issue. What do you do?
(Anger must be surrendered. The only way out is to surrender your anger to God. Do not control or mange it in your flesh. Let the Spirit move you to action or bring you to brokenness.)
Are you ready to humble yourself in your broken state and surrender your sinful anger to God? Know that He will give you grace in your time of need.
(James 4:6)
Outbursts of anger can feel good for a moment (to our flesh), but how does it feel to surrender your anger to God? (Frees our spirit, removes weight of sin, mends relationship with God and others, allows you to focus on what's Holy, enables you to move forward, etc.)
Think of a time during the past week when you felt your emotions changing in the direction of anger. Which of the following statements characterized your response?
a. I ignored it.
b. I overreacted to it.
c. I worked to address it.
What was the result? What did you reap?
Anger shows itself in a variety of forms. Which form are you most likely to struggle with?
a. Irritability or bitterness?
b. Yelling or screaming?
c. Explosions?
d. Acts of fury to defend yourself (or others)?
e. Acts of self-injury (cutting yourself, misusing food, sex, alcohol, drugs, exercise, etc.)?
f. Dwelling on dark things that others have done?
g. Revenge, destroying others
h. Stewing and brewing
Anger is a heart issue. Understand how your heart leads to anger: A desire for even a good thing becomes a bad thing when that desire becomes a ruling thing.
"I want _______." (Desire)
"I must have _______." (Demand)
"I will have _______." (Need)
"You should _______." (Expectation)
"You didn't _______." (Disappointment)
Therefore, "I will _______." (Punishment)
What is your typical mode of punishment when you do not get your way?
(Silence, withdrawal, angry words, violence?)
Where do you tend to get irritated, frustrated, discouraged, or experience flashes of anger? Do you recognize any themes or patterns?
We can't control everything that happens to or around us. But, what can you control?
(Changes inside of yourself.)
Why does my heart towards others have to do with my heart towards God?
(1 John 4:19-21)
What is God revealing to you that he wants you to own, because He loves you and wants to change you, so that you can experience the freedom and joy of His rule in your heart? Be specific and ask those in your rGroup to pray for you and hold you accountable. Change is a community project.
So, you have an anger issue. What do you do?
(Anger must be surrendered. The only way out is to surrender your anger to God. Do not control or mange it in your flesh. Let the Spirit move you to action or bring you to brokenness.)
Are you ready to humble yourself in your broken state and surrender your sinful anger to God? Know that He will give you grace in your time of need.
(James 4:6)
Outbursts of anger can feel good for a moment (to our flesh), but how does it feel to surrender your anger to God? (Frees our spirit, removes weight of sin, mends relationship with God and others, allows you to focus on what's Holy, enables you to move forward, etc.)
Sunday, August 14, 2016
THE WORK BUS
What is the best or worst job you've ever had, and why?
Let each person quickly share either the best or worst. Don't take too long. :-)
Do you think God cares about your job/work?
God redeemed us through the sacrifice of Jesus. So, He cares immensely about what we do as redeemed people. Our jobs are one of the primary ways God intends to make us more like Christ. Read Colossians 3:22-24.
Who do you work for? (Trick question, haha!)
Colossians 3:23 - "Work heartily, as FOR THE LORD and NOT FOR MEN.
How does your work life change when you work for the Lord instead of the man?
Because we work for King Jesus, our work has meaning, purpose and value. WHO you work for is more important than WHAT you do.
What sin occurs when we work for work/us/career/man instead of God?
Idolatry. Work becomes an IDOL when it is elevated to the most important or primary part of our life. It's the thing our life is organized around and what we care most about.
Why do we so easily let our work define us and become a source of pride and self-confidence?
It's one thing to desire to do a good job. It's entirely another thing to allow your job to be the means by which you convince yourself that you have worth.
How do we identify if work has become an idol?
• When we can't be happy in life unless our work "fulfills" us.
• When our perception of ourselves rises and falls, from day to day, based on our perceived effectiveness in the workplace.
• When we perform well on the job and a lack of praise from others crushes our spirit because we need esteem from our work.
• When we work to pursue materialism and are willing to neglect relationships, family, church, etc.
What difference does it make that you're a Christian in the workplace? (or) What does it look like to be a Christian at work?
Colossians 3:23 - "WORK HEARTILY (whole heartedly, with all your heart)..." We don't become IDLE in our work because our work has meaning, purpose and value.
How does knowing WHO you work for change HOW you work?
If you truly worked for the King, you would never slack in your work. Your job is an assignment from the King.
What are some motivations for working whole heartedly for the Lord?
• We have a new identity. We're not just employees, but exist for a reason and purpose.
• We have a new pursuit for our lives. We work for the glory of our King.
• We have a mission to love and serve others.
• We work for the eternal rewards from our King.
• We know that everything is under God's control and that frees us to work with joy and not worry.
What's the main obstacle keeping you from working whole heartedly for the Lord?
Pray and ask God to help you overcome that sin.
What do you need to change, starting now?
Confess and turn to God for help. Ask others to keep you accountable.
What is the best or worst job you've ever had, and why?
Let each person quickly share either the best or worst. Don't take too long. :-)
Do you think God cares about your job/work?
God redeemed us through the sacrifice of Jesus. So, He cares immensely about what we do as redeemed people. Our jobs are one of the primary ways God intends to make us more like Christ. Read Colossians 3:22-24.
Who do you work for? (Trick question, haha!)
Colossians 3:23 - "Work heartily, as FOR THE LORD and NOT FOR MEN.
How does your work life change when you work for the Lord instead of the man?
Because we work for King Jesus, our work has meaning, purpose and value. WHO you work for is more important than WHAT you do.
What sin occurs when we work for work/us/career/man instead of God?
Idolatry. Work becomes an IDOL when it is elevated to the most important or primary part of our life. It's the thing our life is organized around and what we care most about.
Why do we so easily let our work define us and become a source of pride and self-confidence?
It's one thing to desire to do a good job. It's entirely another thing to allow your job to be the means by which you convince yourself that you have worth.
How do we identify if work has become an idol?
• When we can't be happy in life unless our work "fulfills" us.
• When our perception of ourselves rises and falls, from day to day, based on our perceived effectiveness in the workplace.
• When we perform well on the job and a lack of praise from others crushes our spirit because we need esteem from our work.
• When we work to pursue materialism and are willing to neglect relationships, family, church, etc.
What difference does it make that you're a Christian in the workplace? (or) What does it look like to be a Christian at work?
Colossians 3:23 - "WORK HEARTILY (whole heartedly, with all your heart)..." We don't become IDLE in our work because our work has meaning, purpose and value.
How does knowing WHO you work for change HOW you work?
If you truly worked for the King, you would never slack in your work. Your job is an assignment from the King.
What are some motivations for working whole heartedly for the Lord?
• We have a new identity. We're not just employees, but exist for a reason and purpose.
• We have a new pursuit for our lives. We work for the glory of our King.
• We have a mission to love and serve others.
• We work for the eternal rewards from our King.
• We know that everything is under God's control and that frees us to work with joy and not worry.
What's the main obstacle keeping you from working whole heartedly for the Lord?
Pray and ask God to help you overcome that sin.
What do you need to change, starting now?
Confess and turn to God for help. Ask others to keep you accountable.
Monday, August 8, 2016
IDENTITY
1 Peter 2:9-10
Group discussion questions:
In your own words, what is "identity"? ... Who are you?
What are some of the "false" identities that people around you cling to?
What stereotypes do you most identify with?
What are some ways that you get your identity mixed up and confused?
Why is it important to know what your identity is?
Why does your sense of who you are need to come from a proper sense of who God is?
What is dangerous about finding your identity in something that can change or be taken away?
How can you remind yourself of your identity in the Lord despite the overwhelming messages of our culture?
What does it personally mean to you that you are accepted, valuable, loved, forgiven, and called by God?
Knowing that, how do you respond?
(Take time to confess sin, repent, worship, and pray.)
Sunday, July 31, 2016
CHANGED
This Sunday, we heard another story of life change through Jesus. Have you ever shared your story? Today/night, let's discover what Jesus has done in our life and share how He's changed us.
We're supposed to be different once we commit our lives to Jesus, but what does this mean exactly?
If you were never really a "bad" person before you decided to follow Jesus, what would change if you became a Christian? Do you think you'd probably be about the same? What did Jesus change for you?
Do you want to experience life change through Jesus? Are you willing to do whatever that may take?
(Read Romans 12:1-2) What is a living sacrifice?
(Now read Matthew 16:24-28.) What does Jesus ask people to do with their lives?
Change can only come after surrender. This is exactly what Jesus meant when He said, "Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (v. 25)
Why does life change come after losing your life?
We might look at that statement and think it doesn't make any sense. But it makes perfect sense. To lose your life simply means that you come to the understanding at some point in your life that God's plan is better than the plan you have for yourself.
Are you ready to walk in God's ways? Are you really ready to change?
(Take this time to present the gospel and make sure everyone understands it clearly.)
What has Jesus done for you? What do you need to do right now?
(Ask people what their next step to follow Jesus is. Give people an opportunity to share their story of life change.)
This Sunday, we heard another story of life change through Jesus. Have you ever shared your story? Today/night, let's discover what Jesus has done in our life and share how He's changed us.
We're supposed to be different once we commit our lives to Jesus, but what does this mean exactly?
If you were never really a "bad" person before you decided to follow Jesus, what would change if you became a Christian? Do you think you'd probably be about the same? What did Jesus change for you?
Do you want to experience life change through Jesus? Are you willing to do whatever that may take?
(Read Romans 12:1-2) What is a living sacrifice?
(Now read Matthew 16:24-28.) What does Jesus ask people to do with their lives?
Change can only come after surrender. This is exactly what Jesus meant when He said, "Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." (v. 25)
Why does life change come after losing your life?
We might look at that statement and think it doesn't make any sense. But it makes perfect sense. To lose your life simply means that you come to the understanding at some point in your life that God's plan is better than the plan you have for yourself.
Are you ready to walk in God's ways? Are you really ready to change?
(Take this time to present the gospel and make sure everyone understands it clearly.)
What has Jesus done for you? What do you need to do right now?
(Ask people what their next step to follow Jesus is. Give people an opportunity to share their story of life change.)
Monday, July 25, 2016
Struggle Bus: The Fair Bus
Recap:
Job's story includes a massive shift in disposition. He moves from an agitated assessment of God as unfair (for having made him suffer) to a contrite and humble repentance for/from his previous assessment. "The Fair Bus" message explored the cause of this shift.
Questions:
1-Do you struggle with feeling like God has been unfair to you or to others you know?
2-What do our feelings that God owes us something reveal about us?
-We don't understand who God is in relation to who we are.
-We think far too highly of ourselves than we ought.
3-Review some of Sunday's texts (Gen. 6:5, Ps. 14:2-3, Ps. 51:5, Ps. 130:3, Jer. 17:9). Do you agree that we are as bad as the Bible says we are or does this assessment strike you as harsh? If so, why?
4-We noted the shift that occurred in Job from 6:24, 6:30, 7:20 to 42:5-6. To what do you attribute this shift?
-Job saw God! When He finally saw and experienced God he no longer viewed himself as worthy of anything. Seeing God brings us low and gives us a more accurate conception of our rights.
5-In thinking about the unfairness of God for us, we noted that we should be the last ones demanding fairness from others. We should extend grace as we've received grace. This is difficult in practice. What are some examples of success and failure in extending grace in your life?
Wrap up:
1-What did this message teach you about God?
2-What did this message teach you about yourself?
3-What do you need to do about it?
Job's story includes a massive shift in disposition. He moves from an agitated assessment of God as unfair (for having made him suffer) to a contrite and humble repentance for/from his previous assessment. "The Fair Bus" message explored the cause of this shift.
Questions:
1-Do you struggle with feeling like God has been unfair to you or to others you know?
2-What do our feelings that God owes us something reveal about us?
-We don't understand who God is in relation to who we are.
-We think far too highly of ourselves than we ought.
3-Review some of Sunday's texts (Gen. 6:5, Ps. 14:2-3, Ps. 51:5, Ps. 130:3, Jer. 17:9). Do you agree that we are as bad as the Bible says we are or does this assessment strike you as harsh? If so, why?
4-We noted the shift that occurred in Job from 6:24, 6:30, 7:20 to 42:5-6. To what do you attribute this shift?
-Job saw God! When He finally saw and experienced God he no longer viewed himself as worthy of anything. Seeing God brings us low and gives us a more accurate conception of our rights.
5-In thinking about the unfairness of God for us, we noted that we should be the last ones demanding fairness from others. We should extend grace as we've received grace. This is difficult in practice. What are some examples of success and failure in extending grace in your life?
Wrap up:
1-What did this message teach you about God?
2-What did this message teach you about yourself?
3-What do you need to do about it?
Sunday, July 17, 2016
The "Do More" Bus
Briefly summarize the passage. What does Paul confront Peter about?
Understanding God's Word
We have been justified by faith and are no longer under the law. We have been accepted by God. How does God's acceptance help you feel good about who you are?
How were Peter and the other Jews not acting in line with the truth of the gospel?
Why is it wrong to make such customs a basis for fellowship? (vs. 15-17)
Since our faith is in God's grace, does that mean God is cool with sin? How does Paul explain this? (vs 17-19)
How has Christ enabled us to die to the law and to live for God? (v. 20)
Applying God's Word
What is legalism? - Legalism is an attempt to gain favor with God or to impress people by doing certain things (or avoiding other things), without regard to the condition of our hearts before God.
What nonessential customs do Christians sometimes force on each other? (For example, reading your Bible, certain ways of praying, church attendance, lifestyle habits, etc.)
Which of these are you most likely to judge others about? Which of these are you most concerned about keeping up with?
Why does Jesus hate legalism? - Jesus hates legalism because it does not deal with the condition of our hearts before God.
Why is legalism a sin?
What warning signs tell us if we're drifting onto the "performance track" (legalism)?
Is it hypocrisy or legalism to obey God when we don't feel like it? Why?
What does it look like to follow Jesus instead of the performance track?
Turn to God
Confess to God about the areas in which you've put your faith in yourself instead of Him.
Decide to follow Jesus instead of the rules. How does this change everything?
Sunday, July 10, 2016
THE SCARY BUS
Understanding God's Word
Read 1 Samuel 17:4-54
Briefly summarize the passage. Why is this story so popular?
Living and Applying God's Word
Goliath proposes a battle of champions–one will represent the Philistines and one the Israelites. The loser's side will become servants to the winners. The Israelites were too afraid to take his challenge.
Why is discouragement so effective? What are you discouraged about? Is discouragement a thought (fear) or reality? Why is encouragement so important? Why does who we hang out with matter so much?
Goliath repeated this challenge for 40 days. He wasn't going to go away until someone finally faced him.
What fear are you avoiding in hopes that it will just go away? Why do you think God won't take it away? What happens when you ignore God's timing and abandon His plan? What prayer has God answered, but you're afraid to be obedient to?
David hears of the challenge and wants to accept it, but is immediately met with discouragement from his brothers and King Saul because of their own fears. Can you imagine how this story would've ended differently if David was concerned about the approval of others?!
If we're honest, we're all approval addicts. Why is this so dangerous? How can this keep you from God's will? Why do we so desperately seek approval of our peers? Is there any conflict between God's plan and others' plans for your own life?
Here's the thing...David's brothers and King Saul were not wrong in doubting David. They were absolutely right about his inability to defeat Goliath. Even David knew this. However, David's courage was not in his own self, but in the Lord. This is how David punched fear in the face!
Turn to God
Do you doubt God can help you with what you're afraid of?
Stop and think about what God has already done for you. Overcome your fears of the future by remembering God's faithfulness in the past. Have faith.
Who/what do you need to remove yourself from in order to be able to listen to the Lord?
Ignore the haters and critics. Find discouragement from the Lord (His goodness, power, promises, faithfulness, character, etc.) Surround yourself with godly community and counsel.
What does God want you to attack today?
David ran at Goliath? He wasn't just a trash talker.
Sunday, July 3, 2016
How could a good God allow bad things to happen?
Understanding God’s Word
In Job 1 and 2, we see that acts of terrorism (1:13-15,17), natural disasters (1:16,19) and diseases (2:7-8) are allowed by God. Not only do they happen, but they’re allowed to happen to Job - an honest man of his word, who was totally devoted to God and hated evil with a passion (1:1-2).
Living and Applying God’s Word
Should Christians expect trials? (1 Peter 4:12-13)
How can we know if a trial is from the Lord, from Satan, or from our own making?
Job didn’t know the conversation God and Satan had about him (Job 1:6-12). So how could Job still see God in this when God was silent?
Life can be hard, even if you’re doing everything right. If you’re a Christian, your faith must be tested and refined through trials. Most of us flatter ourselves into thinking that we’re doing reasonably well in our Christian life and that we don’t need any intense trials to test our faith. But we don’t know ourselves–the depth of our sin, the habit of self-trust, the shallowness of our joy. So God sends trials to test our faith.
Pain and suffering can either make you BITTER or make you BETTER.
Read Job 2:9 to see how Job’s wife became bitter.
Read Job 2:10 to see how Job became better.
What is the secret to Job’s response of becoming better?
Job remained faithful. He kept trusting God. Job’s relationship with God was the same whether God was blessing him or not.
Read Job 2:11,13
Notice how community is important during suffering. What did Job’s friends do? What did they NOT do?
A person who has gone through a horrible trial angrily asks, “How can a good God allow bad things to happen?” Your response?
Suffering in the hands of a loving God can bear great things.
James 5:11 “You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about.”
Turn to God
Find God’s purpose in your pain and don’t let bitterness, unbelief or discouragement rob you of the treasure God is refining in you.
Pray about the hard times you face in your life, and pray for those around you who are struggling.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Father's Day: Marks of a godly Man
Recap:
We looked at the principle of male leadership (Genesis 2:18-23), examples of male leadership (Phil. 2:20-30), and an explanation of how we arrive at that kind of male leadership (Phil.2:21).
Questions:
1-Read Gen 2:18-23 and discuss the implication this has on gender roles and male headship specifically.
*Woman is made for man and from man. Woman is brought to man, and woman is named by man. These are clear marks of God's design for male headship (leadership).
2-Discuss some of the negative effects of men failing to lead. What toll does it take on mom and kids when dad is disengaged spiritually?
*Kids become underdeveloped when dad is willing to throw a ball with them, but is unwilling to dial into their hearts. When dad doesn't engage spiritual it send a message to the rest of the family it isn't really that important.
3-When have you seen spiritual leadership done well?
4-Let's rehearse the qualities associated with spiritual leadership. Read verse 20. How is being genuinely concerned more helpful than being incredibly qualified?
*People who are genuinely concerned work hard and get results. People who fancy themselves knowledgeable just regurgitate their knowledge with little concern as to whether or not it is helpful to you. Their goal is to sound smart, not be edifying.
5-Read verse 22. Why is spiritual consistency so important for our children (or those over whom we have influence)?
*More often than not, our consistencies become our children's consistencies. If you have a consistent relationship with Jesus it will be a gift to your children.
6-Read verse 25. How does a competitive nature derail spiritual leadership?
*Our natural competition is borne out of selfish ambition. Self-ambition is antithetically to good leadership because good leadership is not about you rising to the top, it is about you helping others rise.
7-Read 26-30. What does it communicate to our families when we elevate Jesus' mission over personal comfort and gain?
*It is saying with our lives, "Jesus is really worth it!" Mom and Dad gave up that?! This Jesus must really be something to be desired....You never communicate the worth of Christ more clearly than when you sacrifice for Him.
Application:
What conclusion did we reach regarding the how of becoming these kinds of men?
*If you're struggling to be concerned for other, or elevate Jesus' mission, etc...you don't become those things by trying to become those things, rather you become invested in those because you love Jesus and He is invested in those things.
Monday, June 13, 2016
The Short Bus
Understanding God’s Word
Read
Job 1:1-22
• In a sentence or two, how would you describe the
message of this scripture?
Example: Everything I have comes from God. So whether
He gives or takes away, I will always praise and worship Him.
• What does this passage tell us about who God is?
• What does this passage reveal to us about ourselves?
Living and Applying God’s Word
Job
1:1-5 (summary) Job was
generous in giving to God while God was generous to Him.
Would it be easy or hard for you to be more generous
if God gave you more? Studies show that the wealthiest Americans donate 1.3% of
their income, and the poorest donate 3.2%. Why do you think that is?
Job
1:6-12 (summary) God brags on
Job’s faithfulness and gives Satan permission to test Him.
God knew Job’s faithful generosity came from his
heart, not from his wealth. Is generosity determined by how much you give? (No.
Generosity is determined by your heart’s condition. God was not bragging on how
much Job gave, but on his heart in giving.)
How has God been generous to you? How have you been
generous to God?
Job
1:13-19 (summary)
God allows Satan to take everything from Job.
Has there been times in your life when you feel like
God allowed you to struggle financially? What do you think God’s purpose was?
Discuss whether or not you think God cares if you’re
poor or rich (materialistically/financially). Does He want you to be one or the
other? Use scripture to back up your point.
Job
1:20-22 (summary)
Job still worships God, even when he lost EVERYTHING.
Discuss whether or not God is the one who gives you
everything (money, jobs, talents, spouses, kids, friends, success, etc.) Who
owns those things? Do your responses/actions to those things reflect your
beliefs about who owns them?
Why is it so hard to give money away? (Notice how
people answer in a perspective that it’s THEIR money.)
Why is it easy to give God’s money away? (Notice how a
change in perspective of ownership makes people more generous.)
Read verse 22 from your perspective: “Everything I
have comes from God. So whether He gives or takes away, I will always praise
and worship Him.”
Turn to God
To learn to give when giving is costly, we must first
look to Jesus. The loving generosity of our Savior will inspire our imitation.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only son…”
(John 3:16)
“The Son of God…loved me and gave himself for me.”
(Galatians 2:20)
“He (Jesus) laid down his life for us, and we ought to
lay down our lives for the brothers.” (1 John 3:16)
Ask the Holy Spirit to help the love and generosity
you’ve received from Christ overflow to others more and more. (Philippians
1:9-11)
What’s in the way of your obedience? Confess and turn
to God for delivery of that sin.
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