"Don't Throw Away Your Confidence" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Sometimes, we think that following God should make life easier. That simply isn’t true. We’ll encounter trouble whether or not we’re following God. The difference in suffering for believers is that we have an eternal cause for confidence, and God’s precious promises. The key to experiencing these things is perseverance. God does His will in us, for us, and through us when keep our confidence in Him.

Main Passages

32 Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you endured in a great conflict full of suffering. 33 Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. 34 You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. 35 So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.
36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. 37 For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.”
- Hebrews 10:32-37

Discussion Questions

1. What can we learn about God based on the main passages above?

2. What trial or difficulty have you faced recently? What might God be trying to teach you through your trial?

3. What are you believing God to do for you in the midst of your trial? Can you find that thing as a promise in the Bible?

Apply

Pray together (in groups of two or three) for God to do His will in you, for you, and through you.

"Breakthrough" Discussion Guide

Main Point

The term breakthrough was a word that was first used a military term to signify an offensive thrust which successfully broke past an enemy’s resistance. Breakthroughs in any endeavor requires perseverance strategy. Victory is attainable but usually comes only after many failed attempts. This is especially the case in our own lives. Our God is the God of breakthroughs! No matter what the situation is or was, we can have confidence in knowing that a faithful and powerful God can bring breakthrough in our lives. And He can do it in ways that we would least expect it.

Main Passages

26 Then Judah identified them and said, “She is more righteous than I, since I did not give her to my son Shelah.” And he did not know her again.

27 When the time of her labor came, there were twins in her womb. 28 And when she was in labor, one put out a hand, and the midwife took and tied a scarlet thread on his hand, saying, “This one came out first.” 29 But as he drew back his hand, behold, his brother came out. And she said, “What a breach you have made for yourself!” Therefore his name was called Perez.30 Afterward his brother came out with the scarlet thread on his hand, and his name was called Zerah.

- Genesis 38:26-30

Questions

1. Have you ever been in a situation that seemed hopeless yet God miraculously came though? How did you feel?

2. Have you found yourself in tough situations due to not acknowledging God? How should we handle such situations?

3. What advice would you give a brother or sister in Christ who is facing a situation in need of a breakthrough from God? Would you happen to be in need of following your own advice?

"Honoring Mothers" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Mothers are a gift from God! Every woman who becomes a mother makes physical and emotional sacrifices. Most mothers continue on to make countless sacrifices for their children in love. It is God’s desire that a mother’s love point us back to His own unconditional, and sacrificial, love. We are to honor our mothers (and even mother figures), just as Christ honored Mary on the cross by ensuring her well-being and care. We should also respond to being loved unconditionally by loving those around us.

Main Passages

13 As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.
- Isaiah 66:13

12 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.
- Exodus 20:12

25 But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
- John 19:25-27

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.
- 1 Peter 4:8

Discussion

1. Share a story of a sacrifice that your mother, or that a mother figure, made for you. What happened, and how did that shape who you have become?
2. We can experience God’s unconditional love, regardless of our relational standing with our earthly mothers. How does God’s love impact you?
3. Think of a practical way in which you can demonstrate unconditional, sacrificial love to those around you. Please share.

"Who Do You Say that I Am?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Jesus asked a question with implications for life on earth and throughout eternity: “Who do you say that I am?” People can reveal their spiritual condition through their response. If we can find out how someone perceive Jesus, then we can begin to discern ways in which to minister to him or her effectively. Yet we must first ensure that we, as Christians, view Jesus appropriately. Many of us know the “correct answer” - but our lives need to back up the things we believe! The revelation of Jesus Christ as both Lord and Savior is essential for a fruitful life and effective ministry.

Main Passages

13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
- Matthew 16:13-18

Discussion Questions

1. Think of someone who you may be able to invite to service, Community Group, or even share either the gospel with. What do you think they would say if asked: “Who do you think Jesus is?” How can you respond?
2. Do your beliefs, behaviors, speech, and character reflect Jesus? Why or why not? How can you reflect Christ a little better this week?
3. What are some of the benefits you’ve experienced since beginning a relationship with Jesus?