Worthy is the Lamb

Main Thought

The Book of Revelation gives us a breathtaking glimpse into the throne room of heaven. God is seated on the throne. He is holy, beautiful, sovereign, and worthy of our worship. Seeing God rightly inspires us to worship Him fully. True worship is all-encompassing: it includes music, art, the study of scripture, intentional rest, and the way that we live. Worshipping God fully, in turn, means seeing everything else rightly. Worship changes our perspective. We can see our lives - and the rest of the world - with God’s eternal victory in mind. This anchors our hope to the unchanging promise of eternity, even in the midst of a changing world.

Main Passages

At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald.

- Revelation 4:2-3

'And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”'

- Revelation 4:8-11

And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”

- Revelation 5:6-10

Discussion Questions

1. The Main Passages included sayings and songs of praise that are offered to God in Heaven. What words are used to describe God? Why?

2. What holds you back from worshiping God freely and fully, both at a worship service and in your daily life?

3. What can you do to worship God freely and fully this week?

Revelations 2-3: Bible Study

Opening Statement

Life Group Leaders, please read the following Statement to set expectations for your Life Group.

“Welcome to Life Group! Our goal is to be a place where anyone can belong, believe, and become the people God created us to be.

As we discuss, let’s focus on what God is teaching us through His Word and how it applies to our personal lives. Sharing is encouraged, but you may pass on a question if you’d like. Please be mindful of time so everyone has a chance to share. I’ll do my best to guide the conversation.

Let’s open in prayer and ask God to be with us .”

Read Revelation 2-3

Reflect on these questions

• Revelation 2-3 contains seven different descriptions of Jesus accompanying the address to each church. These descriptions reveal His power, victory, nature, and more. For example, they include: “the words of the first and the last, who died and came to life,” or “the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.”

1. Which one of these descriptions of Jesus is your favorite?

2. What do you think it means, or what does it reveal about Jesus?

• Laodicea was located near two other cities - Hierapolis, known for its hot, healing springs, and Colossae, known for its cold, refreshing mountain water. Laodicea had to pipe in water from miles away through an aqueduct. By the time their water arrived, it was lukewarm and mineral-heavy. It was famously unpleasant to drink.
  
  In Revelation 3:15–16, Jesus told the Laodicean church, “You are neither cold nor hot… because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth.” He was using their water supply as an analogy for their spiritual condition - not spiritually refreshing or healing, but complacent, compromised, and ineffective.

1. What do you think spiritual lukewarmness is? What might cause a believer to drift into that kind of condition?

2. Why is being spiritually lukewarm harmful or dangerous?

Respond with faith in action

• The seven churches as a whole received commendation, correction, and comfort from Christ. Jesus’s words still speak to His followers today.

  1. Which word of commendation or correction feels most relevant to your walk with God? How can you apply it to your life?

  2. Which word of comfort is the greatest blessing to you?

Spoiler Alert!

Main Thought

When we hear the word “apocalypse,” we often think of disaster movies or end-of-the-world events. In Greek, apokalypsis means unveiling: pulling back the curtain so we can see reality clearly. It is a revealing - and that’s how we get the Book of Revelation. For the early church, Revelation was never meant to stir fear. It was meant to inspire confidence and hope. The center of the vision isn’t chaos but Christ.

The Book of Revelation begins with a spoiler: Jesus wins! His victory has been revealed, secured, and shared with His people. Because of this, we don’t struggle with uncertainty toward victory but we live from victory. Our present struggles - in our lives and in our world - cannot undo His finished work. Hardship and confusion will not have the last word. The Alpha and Omega has already spoken, and His word is victory.

Main Passages

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. 4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth…

- Revelation 1:1-5a, ESV

…To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood 6 and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail[b] on account of him. Even so. Amen. 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

- Revelation 1:5b-8 ESV

He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names.

- Philippians 2:8–9, NLT

Discussion Questions

1. When you think about the word “Revelation,” do you usually connect it with hope or with fear? How does this passage challenge or reshape your perspective?

2. Jesus is called the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of kings. Which of these titles gives you the most encouragement right now?

3. The spoiler of the gospel is that Jesus already wins. How would your response to today’s challenges change if you lived more fully in that reality?

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It...

Main Thought

Jesus’ final words on earth were not just a blessing; they were a mission briefing. He sent His followers to make disciples of all nations, to baptize, to teach, and to be witnesses empowered by the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-18; Acts 1:8-9). The worldwide Every Nation family has contextualized the last words of Christ in a statement that defines who we are and what we do. If you’re a member of the Every Nation family, then your mission - should you choose to accept it - is this:

“Every Nation exists to honor God by establishing Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered, and socially responsible churches and campus ministries in every nation.”

This short, simple mission reminds us of powerful truths:

• Why do we do what we do? To honor God.

• Who are we called to be? Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered, and socially responsible.

• What do we do as a movement? Establish churches and campus ministries.

We live this out by praying for, sending, and becoming laborers in God’s mission. Everyone in the Every Nation family has an important part to play.

Main Passages

'And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” '

- Mark 16:15-18

'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. '

- Acts 1:8-9

'Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”'

- Matthew 9:37-38

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Every Nation mission statement? Why?

2. Why is honoring God the foundation of our mission? How does this “why” give clarity and motivation for what we do?

3. We participate in mission by praying for, sending, and becoming laborers. Which of these is God stirring in your heart right now?

A Bible and a Passport

Main Thought

Jesus sends all of His followers out beyond their comfort zones to announce the kingdom of God. This call might even take us around the world. People in the Every Nation family are often challenged to ensure that they have “a Bible and a passport” handy. We need to be ready to go where God calls us when He calls us. When we step out, serve, and extend His love, we don’t just impact others - we’re also changed. Our faith “flexes.” We find opportunities to exercise our faith and strengthen it. This results in growth that we can’t find in our comfort zones. We bring joy back with us when we return from participating in the Mission of God. Is your Bible ready? Is your passport ready? Are you ready?

Main Passages

17 When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!” 18 “Yes,” he told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! 19 Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. 20 But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.” 21 At that same time Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and he said, “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way.

- Luke 10:17–21, NLT

9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.

- 2 Corinthians 12:9, NLT

13 The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus.

- Acts 4:13, NLT

Discussion Questions

1. Why does stepping into uncomfortable places, unfamiliar spaces, or even cross-cultural missions grow our dependence on God?

2. How have you grown spiritually when you’ve shared the gospel, supported missionaries, or served beyond your normal context?

3. Is there anyone around you who you can bless by praying for them, giving to them, or sharing the love of God with them? Is there a way for you to bless those beyond your ordinary reach?

M.O.G.S.

Main Thought

People often look to “Men of God” or “Women of God” for guidance. That can be very good. However, if we begin to rely on them for things that only God can do - like feeding our souls, meeting our need for approval, or carrying our faith - then we put our spiritual health at risk. We might develop the dangerous Man of God Syndrome (M.O.G.S.). This spiritual illness shifts our foundation, changes our focus, and threatens the fruit of our lives and our communities of faith.

The good news is that Jesus gives us the cure for the Man of God Syndrome. He saved us, He served us, and He empowers us to make a difference. Every follower of Christ is called to be part of the people of God. We resist M.O.G.S. when we point others back to Jesus. Still, living for God can be exhausting. We need to learn a new rhythm of grace. Think of it like breathing: we inhale by pausing in God’s presence, and we exhale by pushing forward in God’s mission. When we live in this rhythm, we can endure the race God has set before us and leave a lasting impact on those around us.

Main Passages

Who do you think Paul is, anyway? Or Apollos, for that matter? Servants, both of us—servants who waited on you as you gradually learned to entrust your lives to our mutual Master. We each carried out our servant assignment. I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plants, but God made you grow. 

- 1 Corinthians 3:5-7, MSG

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
- Mark 10:45, ESV

“…what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”
- 2 Timothy 2:2, ESV

Discussion Questions

1. Who or what do you rely on most as a source of strength, confidence, and even as a foundation of faith? Do you think relying on those things helps you, or distracts you from what matters most? 

2. Think about the things you do to make disciples (help people know and follow Jesus), along with the ministries you’re a part of at church. How can you make sure you (and the teams you’re a part of) are producing fruit that will last?

3. The Christian life is like breathing - inhale by pausing in God’s presence, exhale by pushing forward in His mission. Which side of the rhythm do you more naturally? Which side of the rhythm do you need more of right now, and why?

The Recipe for Ministry

Main Thought

Advancing God’s Kingdom through the fulfillment of the Great Commission is a noble cause - but it will take a lot of work. Who is responsible for completing this great task? One might assume that it should be the “professional” Christians - the pastors, prophets, and other leaders - who are primarily responsible for ministry. The Apostle Paul clarifies this in Ephesians 4. Christian leaders are responsible for equipping other Christians to minister. 

Every member is a minister! Everyone can pray with someone else. Everyone can share Jesus through an invitation, a scripture, or their testimony. Everyone can bring Jesus into their daily lives. If you’re a member of the body of Christ, then God empowers you to do all of these things right now. Maturity comes more quickly through participation than it does through observation alone. God can help us make a difference, and He can help us grow as we go.  

Main Passages

11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 

- Ephesians 4:11–13 NLT

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 

- 1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV

9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 

- 1 Peter 2:9 NIV

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or the Main Passages above?

2. What does it mean to you that every believer is called to ministry? How does this perspective change your view of your role in the church?

3. Think about your connections, your story (or testimony), and your spiritual gifts. How can you use these things to serve people outside the church? How can you use those things to serve people inside the church? (Thank you to everyone who is already serving so well!)

Discipleship is Relationship

Main Thought:

When you hear the word discipleship, what picture comes to mind? Maybe a class, a workbook, or a teacher lecturing students? Those tools can help, but when Jesus said, “Go and make disciples,” He wasn’t thinking of a program—He was thinking of people walking together. Discipleship is not about stuffing our heads with Bible facts. It’s about letting Jesus change our hearts and walking alongside others as He does the same in them. Discipleship happens when life is shared in Christ-centered relationships.

Life Groups, let’s remember:

• Discipleship begins with your relationship with Jesus. 

• Discipleship grows as we share life with others. 

• Discipleship multiplies when we invest in relationships that last beyond us.

Discipleship is not a class to finish; it’s a life to share. Jesus came not to give us a religion, but to bring us into relationship—with God, and with one another. So let’s live this truth: “Discipleship is relationship.”

Main Passages:

'“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”’ (Note: the Greek for ‘you’ here is plural, meaning that Jesus called the disciples as a community - not only as individuals.) 

- Matthew 4:19 NIV

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

- Mathew 28:18-20 NIV

“so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”

- 1 Thessalonians 2:8 NIV

Questions:

1. What do you think it means to “get closer to God “ or “walk with Jesus”?

2. Are you walking closely with Jesus? Who is helping and encouraging you to achieve that?

3. What relationship is God calling you to start investing in today? Is there an opportunity for you to disciple someone, or help them grow closer to Jesus?

One Move That Changes Everything

Main Thought

There is a story of a young man who won a judo tournament after mastering one unstoppable move. In his book WikiChurch, Every Nation president and pastor Steve Murrell writes that the one move we should try to master - as individual Christians and as churches - is making disciples in small groups. Small groups, which ENLV refers to as Life Groups, give us the opportunity to connect authentically. Entering into safe, caring, and genuine community with others unlocks incredible benefits that God intended for us to experience. We can process God’s Word together, and strive to apply it to our lives. We can pray for one another. We can learn from each other. Over time, as trust is built, we can experience healing and growth when we’re open and honest with one another. We can lovingly hold one another accountable to God and His Word. All of these benefits and blessings can grow as people are added and when Life Groups are multiplied.

Main Passages

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:18–20, NIV

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem… to the ends of the earth.”

- Acts 1:8

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness..“

- 2 Corinthians 12:9

Discussion Questions

1. What is your favorite part of Life Group and why? (If you’re new to Life Group, then which one of the benefits listed above intrigues you most?)

2. Why do you think vulnerability is so crucial for building genuine relationships, and what are some barriers that prevent us from being vulnerable?

3. Is there anyone you know in Las Vegas who would benefit from a Life Group? Try to think of at least one person. Pray for them, then look for ways to help them connect to one.

Famous Last Words

Main Thought

So many of us have busy lives. There’s a lot we have to do as individuals, as families, and even as a church. What should we do first, and who gets to decide? As Christians, we follow the lead of Christ. Jesus used His last moments on earth to make our mission clear. He sent His people out to “make disciples,” or to help people know and follow Him. The last words of Christ should be our first priority. It’s the best way to love God and love people at the same time. It’s the only thing we can do for God on earth that we can’t do in eternity. But is there a way to balance the last command of Christ - the Great Commission - with everything else we have to do? Absolutely. We can bring the Great Commission into every other mission. The Great Commission involves helping other people know and follow Jesus. Almost everything we do involves other people. We can pray for and pursue opportunities to connect, with peoples’ need for Christ in mind. Doing this helps us make a difference that lasts forever. Everything becomes meaningful when we live for eternity.

Main Passages

'After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands…'

- Revelation 7:9

'And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”'

- Matthew 28:18-20

'For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

- Luke 19:10

Discussion Questions

1. A lot of people are searching for purpose or meaning. Why is it important to find purpose in a cause or a calling that lasts?

2. Why do you think Jesus used His last moment on earth to send His disciples out on mission?

3. How can you “bring the Great Commission into every other mission,” and make a difference as a part of your day-to-day life? (Examples: is there a person or a group of people you can pray for or connect with? Are you in the process of knowing God more, and/or making God known?)

In God We Trust

Main Thought

“In God we trust.” We see it on American currency but do we see it in our lives? Those who choose to trust God consistently do good, becoming a light along the way. Trust doesn’t just wait for the perfect opportunity; trust believes that God can use every opportunity. Trusting in God also involves offering Him tender, moldable hearts. He can shape our souls and our circumstances at the same time. Doing good, being a light, and allowing God to shape us positions us while we wait on Him. God will move in His way and timing. It’s our job to be ready to move with Him.

Main Passages

“Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him...but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.”

- Psalm 37:3-7, 9 ESV

'And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord , have not forsaken those who seek you. '

- Psalm 9:10

“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

- Matthew 6:31-33 ESV

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel that your trust in God has grown over time? Why or why not?

2. Living with trust in God should help us to become us a light to others. Why do you think that is?

3. Trust in God isn’t passive. It’s active. Based on the Main Thought or the Main Passages, what can you do to actively trust in God?

The Sound of the Free

Main Thought

What does freedom sound like? Jesus wants us to experience freedom, which means that the “sound of freedom” should come from each of us. Freedom sounds like praise. We praise God because of who He is and what He’s done. Freedom also sounds like surrender. We offer our lives - our love, our minds, our pride, our bodies, our worship, and more - to God in gratitude for all He’s done. The posture with which we live our lives should be marked by surrender and gratitude. Freedom sounds like wholeness too. The bitter wounds and patterns of our past should emerge from us less frequently. Instead, the fruit of the Spirit should become increasingly evident in our words, prayers, and songs. People stop to hear the sound of beautiful music. The world will stop to listen when the “sound of freedom” emerges from our church and from our lives.

Main Passages

11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” 14 When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. 

- Luke 17:11-14

15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” 

- Luke 17:15-19

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess His name.

- Hebrews 13:15

' I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. '

- Romans 12:1-2

Discussion Questions

1. What does Hebrews 13:15 mean by “a sacrifice of praise?” Why might praise feel like a sacrifice at times?

2. Do you think unchurched people hear “the sound of freedom” coming from your life? Why or why not?

3. What can you do to offer sacrifices of praise and worship from your life more consistently?

Set Free for a Purpose

Main Thought

God wants us to be free. He can set us free from our past, harmful habits and mindsets, sin, spiritual bondage, and more. This freedom is marked by power. Christ commissioned His followers with authority to overcome. He gives us new desires to honor Him. He transforms us over time. God also gives us a purpose in our freedom. We can participate in His mission to set others free. People gain freedom when we engage them (with an invitation, our testimonies, the gospel, etc.), and they respond to the Good News with faith. Then, people grow in freedom when they’re established with basic, biblical doctrines; in the habits of reading the Word and prayer; and, in Christian community. The Lord wants us to become freed people who free people.

Main Passages

As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. 17 She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” 18 And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.

- Acts 16:16-18

27 When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.”

- Acts 16:27–28

29 And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.

- Acts 16:29-33

Discussion Questions

1. What does “freedom in Christ” (Galatians 5:1; John 8:36; etc.) mean to you personally? How might this Christian freedom differ from the world’s idea of freedom?  

2. What might be one step God is inviting you to take toward experiencing greater freedom this week?

3. How can we use our freedom in Christ to serve people who don’t know God, like Paul and Silas did?

Freedom from Church Hurt

Main Thought

Church hurt exists. It can be defined as the mental, emotional, spiritual, or even physical damage people experience in a church context. Church hurt can be caused by misunderstandings, disagreements, abuse of authority, personal sin, or many different things. Yet the common thread that ties all Church hurt together is people. People cause hurt. This makes Church hurt (and every other kind of relational hurt) practically unavoidable. What are we supposed to do when we’re hurt, including in a church setting?

We can bring all of our hurts to Jesus, who is the head of the Church. In a sense, Jesus experienced Church hurt too. We’ve all contributed to His Church hurt through sin. Jesus forgives us. He also wants to heal us, and teach us how to love like Him. Church hurt can become an opportunity for us to learn how to love like Jesus. He lovingly commands us to extend the same grace we’ve received from Him to other people. Learning to love like Jesus - by forgiving those who offended us - is the key to being free from church hurt. Hurt doesn't have to hinder us from loving God, loving people, and making a difference.

Main Passages

'And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.'

- Acts 15:36-41

'The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound…'

- Isaiah 61:1

'A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.'

- John 13:34

Discussion Questions

1. How do you typically respond to hurt - withdrawal, silence, confrontation, prayer, etc.?

2. What role does grace play in both giving and receiving forgiveness?

3. Have you ever had the opportunity to become more like Christ by extending love, grace, and forgiveness? If so, how?

A Mystery, a Mirror, and Marriage

Main Thought

In Ephesians 5, the Apostle Paul refers to a “mystery” hidden in marriage. This mystery is that God made marriage to mirror the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the gospel, we see God faithfully kept His covenant promises - even though we aren’t always faithful to Him. Jesus kept Himself from sin and temptation in order to remain faithful in His love for God and His people. It’s because of God’s grace that we can have a personal relationship with Him - in spite of the differences between creation and Creator. 

Each of these truths are reflected in marriage. God intended for the marriage covenant to be honored for a lifetime. Each spouse agrees to forsake all others and keep themselves unto each other. The differences between a Husband and a Wife are designed for deep union. Marriages grow in beauty and strength when they mirror the gospel more and more. The world can catch a glimpse of the gospel through godly marriages, and through other godly relationships.

Main Passages

'So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.” Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.'

- Genesis 2:21-25

“But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

- Mark 10:6-9 ESV

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.” 

- Ephesians 5:31-32 ESV

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passages above?

2. Have you ever seen qualities of God’s love reflected in a marriage? If so, how?

3. How can you better mirror the love of God in a relationship that matters to you? What can you do to become more like Jesus in that relationship?

The Sinner and the Sinless

Main Thought

What do you think of when you hear about God’s love and grace towards us?  We can find a clear, compelling example in John 8. The Pharisees brought forth a woman who should have been stoned by the standard of Old Testament Law. Yet Jesus pointed out that all have sinned; thus, no one in the crowd was qualified to cast a stone. Jesus was sinless (2 Cor. 5:21, 1 Pet. 2:22, 1 John 3:5). He could have cast the first stone. Instead, He offered love and forgiveness - knowing that He would soon pay for everyone’s sin on the Cross.

It is through Jesus - the things He did, and the things He said - that we can know God’s love. Jesus revealed the truth about God to us too. The truth is that we’re accepted, secure, and significant in Christ. This love from God is an incredible gift. We shouldn’t keep such a great gift to ourselves. We should pass it on, especially to the unchurched people around us.

Main Passages

“…..And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

- Ephesians 3:17-19

“Therefore, there is now no more condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Jesus, the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”

- Romans 8:1

“Freely you have received, freely give.”

- Matthew 10:8

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passages above?

2. What’s one thing you find amazing about God’s love and grace toward us?

3. An unchurched person can be defined as someone who does not attended church regularly with the goal of seeking God. Are there any unchurched people in your life? How can you “fish for men,” and bring them one step closer to Jesus?

Who Let You In?

Main Thought

Have you ever observed something great, maybe a club, a team, a church, or even started a new job, and felt intimidated to step in? Maybe you didn’t know where to start, didn’t know the rules, or weren’t sure if you’d be truly welcomed?

That’s how a lot of people feel when it comes to faith, church, and community especially across cultures. Sometimes it’s not a locked door keeping people out, it’s invisible walls. Walls that are cultural, economic, generational, or even relational things that separate us and make belonging feel difficult or delayed.

But Jesus doesn’t just open the door, He breaks down the walls that keep people from feeling separated. Through Him, we don’t just attend a church, we become part of a house that reflects Heaven, where every tribe, tongue, and story belongs. And in this house, you don’t earn your way in, you’re brought in by grace and built in with purpose.

Main Passages

12 …remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility…
- Ephesians 2:12-14

18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
- Ephesians 2:18-19

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
- Galatians 3:28

9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” 11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”
- Revelation 7:9-12

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the main idea or the main verses?

2. Can you think of a time when you felt like an outsider—maybe in a new job, church, or group—and what helped you feel included?

3. What is one intentional step you can take to break down a wall or open a door for someone trying to belong but is not quite there?

No Room for Shame

Opening Statement

The following Introduction will be included in our Discussion Guides periodically. It should help set expectations for the Life Group gathering. The statement should be read by a Life Group Leader. Leaders may also refer back to it and read it again when someone joins the Group for the first time.

“Welcome to Life Group! Our goal is to be a small group where anyone can belong, believe, and become the people that God made us to be. We want to grow as followers of Jesus together.

With these goals in mind, we’d like to keep our conversation focused on our personal lives, our discussion material, and on how God is teaching us to follow Him. Sharing is encouraged. We want to hear from everyone; however, you can choose to pass on answering a question if you’d like. Please be mindful of the time, so that everyone has equal opportunities to share, listen, and learn. As a Life Group Leader, I will do my best to guide the conversation.

Let’s open our Life Group in prayer, and ask God to be with us tonight.”

Main Thought

Like the prodigal son, we’ve all had moments in life we’ve wanted to keep hidden—parts of our story, our struggles, or our shame. Maybe it was a failure, a bad decision, or something we felt too embarrassed to talk about. Shame makes us isolate, perform, or pretend. But the good news is that God doesn’t wait for us to get it all together. He meets us right where we are. In Jesus’ story, the son totally wrecked his life and came home expecting judgment, but instead, the father ran to him, wrapped him in love and grace, and threw a celebration. He didn’t shame him, instead he restored him. The story of the prodigal son reminds us that our Heavenly Father is always ready to run toward us with compassion, not condemnation. His house, spiritually and relationally, is meant to be a safe place where we can stop hiding, be fully loved and be completely free.

Main Passages

17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. - Luke 15:17-24

13 Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.
- Proverbs 28:13

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
- Matthew 11:28–30

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
- Romans 8:1

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you from the main thought or the main scriptures?

2. Why do you think people (ourselves included) often believe hiding things will protect us or help us? What does God’s word say we will actually find when we bring things into the light instead?

3. What can we do to help make our homes, friendships, or this group feel like a safe place for honesty, healing, and grace?

What Should a Dad Do?

Opening Statement

The following Introduction will be included in our Discussion Guides periodically. It should help set expectations for the Life Group gathering. The statement should be read by a Life Group Leader. Leaders may also refer back to it and read it again when someone joins the Group for the first time.

“Welcome to Life Group! Our goal is to be a small group where anyone can belong, believe, and become the people that God made us to be. We want to grow as followers of Jesus together.

With these goals in mind, we’d like to keep our conversation focused on our personal lives, our discussion material, and on how God is teaching us to follow Him. Sharing is encouraged. We want to hear from everyone; however, you can choose to pass on answering a question if you’d like. Please be mindful of the time, so that everyone has equal opportunities to share, listen, and learn. As a Life Group Leader, I will do my best to guide the conversation.

Let’s open our Life Group in prayer, and ask God to be with us tonight.”

Main Thought

What’s a dad supposed to do? Fathers are often thought of as providers. Provision includes meeting the basic financial or material needs for one’s self and/or family. This is a good, noble thing. But there are other things that need to be provided as well. We need love. In our efforts to provide love, we should capitalize on our strengths while considering how those around us best receive love. We need God’s love too. We should do our best to provide spiritual guidance. A prayer, an invitation to a Life Group or a Worship Service, and an encouraging word can all point people to God. Anyone can contribute to the provision of basic material needs, love, and spiritual guidance. But God will (generally) hold husbands and dads accountable to a greater degree, as He did with Adam. Fathers should be responsible for their families. God wants to help us all do our parts to guide and provide. He provided what we needed most through Jesus; and, He’s ready to help us through the presence of His Holy Spirit. 

Main Passages

'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.'

- Deuteronomy 6:5-7

'Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. '

- Matthew 6:31-33

'but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. And the free gift is not like the result of that one man’s sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification. For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. '

- Romans 5:8,15-17

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passages above?

2. Has anyone in your life provided spiritual guidance by “talking the talk and walking the walk” - essentially, by living a life that was in line with their faith? How so?

3. What can you provide to your family? What can you add to your spiritual family?

1 Corinthians 7: Bible Study

Read 1 Corinthians 7

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible? 

Reflect on these questions

• The words “call” and “called” are repeated often in this chapter. The Greek word for call means “to call aloud, to bid, or to invite.” Two of the verses that feature the word called are verses 17 and 24.
  
  Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
  - 1 Corinthians 7:17
  
  So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called...
  - 1 Corinthians 7:24a
  
  Do you feel that you're currently living a life that God has called you to live? Is there anything that can confirm your answer in the Bible, in prayer, and/or through fellowship with other believers?

• Another emphasis in this chapter is the idea of “remaining with God,” and staying focused on Him. Verses 24 and 35 highlight this idea.
  
  So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
  - 1 Corinthians 7:24
  
  I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.
  - 1 Corinthians 7:35
  
  How does your current season in life make it easier to focus on God and live for Him? Does your season in life create any obstacles to focusing on God and living for Him? 

Respond with faith in action

• Paul’s intent is not to forbid the pursuit of marriage; rather, it is to offer advice while promoting a focus on eternity (1 Cor. 7:29-31). Our time on earth is short.
  
  What can you do to live for eternity as an individual? What can you do with those around you (your family, Life Group, etc.) to live for eternity as a team?