"Life Change" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Every living thing changes. Our spirits come to life when we place our faith in Jesus. Experiencing “life change,” then, is a natural result that flows from our new life in Him. Our mindsets begin to change when we learn God’s word, and when we restrain (or limit) both evil and distracting thoughts. Life change also happens when we obey God. God is a loving, perfect Father - and obeying Him is to our great benefit. Holiness then comes from walking with God and allowing Him to renew and transform us. The word “holiness” really describes God’s power and utter uniqueness. We gain a greater sense of our own uniqueness, and are empowered by God at a greater level, when we connect to Him.

Main Passage

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” 1 Peter 1:3-4

“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16

Discussion Questions

1. For Christians: do you feel that your life has changed since you decided to follow Jesus? How?
2. Do you feel that you have any negative mindsets or perspectives that you should change? How can learning God’s Word, restricting evil thoughts, or limiting distractions help?
3. How does the call to holiness challenge you at home, work, school, church, or the community you live in?
    

"Essential Doctrine" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Our faith rests on the basic fact of Jesus’ empty tomb. Jesus’ resurrection is not just a metaphor, nor a story or an event to be celebrated during Easter once a year. It is a historical fact that displays God’s plan, power, and promise for our salvation. The resurrection, itself, distinguishes Jesus apart from all other religious teachers in the world. He is more than just a good teacher; He is our Lord and Savior.

Main Passages

22“Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know—23 this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 
- Acts 2:22-24

20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
- 1 Corinthians 15:20-22

56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

Discussion Questions

1. Do you believe that Jesus died and rose again to save us? How does the truth of the resurrection strengthen your faith?
2. It guarantees our hope of life after death, and is the basis of our eternal life now. Knowing that this is God’s promise, how are we supposed to view death?
3. How can you go deeper in your understanding and appreciation of the resurrection this week? What’s one thing you will do this week to go deeper in the Word?
    

"Got Milk?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

When Peter talked about growing up into salvation, he used pure spiritual milk as a metaphor for the Word of God. Craving for milk is a natural instinct for any baby, as he or she would depend on milk for nourishment. Peter encouraged people to long for spiritual milk. When we are born again, so we should desire God’s Word instinctively, as this helps us grow strong and healthy. Our desire will eventually develop into both delighting in God’s Word and doing God’s Word.

Main Passage

“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation — if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
- 1 Peter 2:2-3

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
- James 1:22

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever struggled with a lack of desire for the Word? How did you overcome it? What are some of the action steps you will take in order to grow your desire to read and meditate on His Word?
2. What is one area in your life that keeps you from obeying God’s Word? What does the Bible say about it? What will you do about it?
3. What are some ways you can encourage others to read and apply God’s Word? Think of one specific thing you can do for a family member or a friend this week.

"Looking Beyond Our Lives" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Joseph was at the end of his life when he gave the directions to the Israelites about bringing his bones with them. This act of Joseph displayed his great faith: faith that the promises of God to the Israelites would be fulfilled, even beyond his lifetime. The author of Hebrews considered this act to be the one that defined Joseph’s legacy. In a similar way, our greatest contributions often come as we invest in others. God-given vision is so big that it requires the next generation. As we impact them, our own legacies are established by them.

Main Passages

By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave directions concerning his bones. 
- Hebrews 11:22

And the Lord answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it.” 
- Hosea 2:2

Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 
- John 12:24-25

Discussion Questions

1. Does your faith in God’s promises go beyond your lifetime? As you seek God daily, write down and commit to pray for the promises of God that you want to claim not just for yourself, but for the next generation as well.
2. Do you trust the next generation to carry on the visions and promises that God has given to you? What are some ways that you can relay the visions and the promises of God to the next generation?
3. Think about the “Next Generation” in your context: your children, family members, younger people in church, upcoming leaders, etc. How would you want them to remember you?
    

"Blessing Beyond Circumstances" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God wants to bless people from every generation! One author defined a blessing as being empowered to prosper. God empowers us to prosper, through knowing Him, on many levels. He also calls us to bless the next generation. Different circumstances can make this difficult; however, we must look beyond our circumstances and serve in faith. We see this demonstrated by Isaac, whose faith to bless the next generation moved him past sickness and blindness. Both of Isaac’s sons were blessed indeed - and the impact of Isaac’s life lived on with them (and on believers around the world today).

Main Passages

By faith Isaac invoked future blessings on Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, bowing in worship over the head of his staff.
- Hebrews 11:20-21

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.
- Galatians 3:13-14

Discussion Questions

Has anyone from an older generation blessed you - or empowered you to prosper? How? Who has had the greatest impact on your relationship with God?
What’s one thing you would like to see the “next generation” learn, know, or experience?
Most Christians want to impact the next generation, but are unable because of present circumstances. What would help you move beyond opposing circumstances to bless the next generation?
 

"The Task Remaining" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God has a heart for the lost! Jesus came to earth on a mission to redeem us. He then commissioned us to continue His mission as He ascended to Heaven. It’s a call that carries great honor and a great cost. We’re all called to respond in different ways, at different times. We’re all called to pray, go personally, and help send others. Engaging those around us is a task that begins wherever we are and continues until we are in eternity.

Main Passages 

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 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, 20 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

11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” 14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
- Romans 10:11-15

Discussion Questions

1. God has a heart to reach people who are far from Him. Why do you think He has such a passion for engaging unreached people?
2. What costs do you think you may need to pay to engage unreached people around you? (Time, effort, learning to witness, money, etc.) Does anything keep you from being a witness?
3. Pair up and pray for ENLV’s mission team being sent out to Rocky Point, Mexico!
    

“Winning Away Games” Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Jesus gave us a mission to make disciples! If we’re going to succeed, then we need to reach people who seem different from us. It can be intimidating to approach people with whom we share no observable commonalities. But we need to look beyond the surface, into the deepest needs of their souls. Everyone shares deep needs for things like love and fulfillment that only Jesus can meet completely. If we remember this, then compassion can overcome our needs for comfort or convenience. Building bridges with people who seem different from us begins when we relate to them. These relationships provide a context for us to discover peoples’ needs. We can be effective witnesses when we share ways Jesus can meet their needs.

Main Passages

7 A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” 8 (For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
- John 4:7-9

29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion.
- Luke 10:29-33

“…I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.”
- 1 Corinthians 9:22

Discussion

1. Have you ever befriended someone who you consider to be, or thought would be, different from you? How did become friends? 
2. Legitimate needs often get in the way of our ability to help meet other peoples’ need for Jesus. What gets in your way when trying to live as a witness?
3. It can be awkward to introduce a spiritual idea into a conversation. We can do so by being direct (typically by asking a question or making a statement), being indirect (use the topic of conversation as a bridge to a spiritual topic), or by using an invitation (by inviting someone to a Christian event related to the topic of your conversation). Which do you feel would be most helpful for you? Give it a try this week!

“Called to the Witness Stand” Discussion Guide

Main Thought

A witness is someone who testifies about what they have seen or heard. God calls us to be witnesses; people who share what Jesus did for us. “Witness” is not merely an activity. It is an important part of our God-given identity. Living as a witness will give our lives on earth a lasting, eternal impact. We become effective witnesses, in part, as people close by see a change in our lives. Unchurched people need more than principles explained - they need a person to experience. We can invite these people to experience Jesus in church, in a Community Group, and through us. It can be difficult to invite someone to experience Jesus. One effective way to look for opportunities is to listen for the “Three ‘Not’ Cues.” They are:

1. Things are not going well.
2. I was not prepared for something to happen.
3. I am not attending a church.

Main Passages

8 “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.”
- Acts 1:8

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
- 1 Peter 2:9-10

35 Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.
- John 4:38

Discussion

1. Every Christian is called to be a witness. What’s one thing you have “witnessed” God do in your life recently? How does that reveal God’s goodness?
2. What is the biggest obstacle you face in regards to inviting someone to experience Jesus? How might you partner with God, and even your Community Group, to overcome that obstacle and live out your identity as a witness?
3. Think about people close to you (relationally, geographically, situationally, etc.). Who might one of the “Three ‘Not’ Cues” apply to? Pray for opportunities to make an invitation this week.

"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.

"Faith Produces Works. Works Serves Others." Discussion Guide

Main Thought

We receive salvation through our faith in Christ. However, James reminded the Jewish Christians that salvation is just the starting point for a life in Christ. Genuine faith causes positive change inside us, which then overflows to affect the people and things around us. Conversely, faith that does not lead to good works is useless and dead. James wrote that our good works, especially those which serve others, are a powerful proof of our faith in Christ. 

Main Passages

14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!
- James 2:14-19

8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
- Ephesians 2:8-10

Discussion Questions

1. When was the last time you acted on your faith in God? What happened? How did it affect you and those around you?
2. Is there a step of faith you want to take in your personal life? What it is, and how will that act of faith cause change in and through you?
3. Do you currently pray for, give to, or participate in an organization that serves others? How can you become more actively involved in these starting today? 

Prayer

Pray for God to show you a way you can actively serve others on a regular basis. Pray that your life of faith will be a way for others to meet God through your faith. 

"No Partiality in the Kingdom" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

James was speaking to the Christian Jews scattered because of persecution. While his letter started with encouragement during trials, it was also a reminder of how to act as followers of Christ. Here, we see how he reminded them to show no partiality and to love their neighbors as themselves. For those of us who hold to the gospel proclaimed (James 2:1), we must demonstrate the gospel by showing no partiality to others in what we see, what we say, or what we think.

Main Passages

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?... 8 If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.
- James 2:1-4, 8

28 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

2 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 12:2

Discussion Questions

1. Sometimes, we rank others as better or worse than one another based on these. Have you ever made a wrong judgment about people based on how they looked? What happened? 
2. When we see others as better or worse than one another, it comes out in how we speak to them and treat them. What does Galatians 3:28 say about who we all are in Christ? 
3. The gospel must be demonstrated, even in our thought life. What does Romans 12:2 say about the way we should think?

"True Religion" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

James wrote this letter to the believers in his time to challenge them to live out their faith: to not just hear the Word, but do it. The goal of Bible-reading and study is application, not information. We can be hearers who forget or doers who act, but the Bible promises the doers will be blessed (James 1:25). Because Christians are saved by grace through faith, we know that “doing” can not lead or add to our salvation. However, as Christians, we can now put our faith into action and practice true religion: serve the poor and afflicted, and guard against impurity. 

Main Passages

27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
- James 1:27

Questions

1. Recall an instance in which you helped a stranger, and share it with us.
2. Who are the poor and afflicted in your community? How can you serve them?
3. What is one thing you need to do starting this week to keep yourself unstained from the world?

"The Testing of Faith" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Bible promises that believers will face many trials of different kinds. But when trials come, we are to count it as joy—not because we like being tested or being given a hard time, but because of the effect it has on our lives. If we, as believers, persevere in a trial, we will become steadfast—which means to be fixed in place, dependable, and not easily moved. So although tests are difficult and we all face different trials, we mature as we go through them. 

Main Passages

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
- James 1:2-4, 12 ESV

Discussion Questions

1. How is a test, trouble, or trial an opportunity for growth and maturity?
2. How can you count the testing of your faith as joy? How can you encourage others to do the same and trust God?
3. Pray for a family member or friend whose faith is being tested. How can you be a channel of and remind him or her of God's goodness and faithfulness at this time?

"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?

"Guilty to Forgiven" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God’s plan for our salvation is not just for us to go to heaven; it involves us experiencing His forgiveness and redemption because of His great love, mercy, and grace. This gospel was according to His plan—the Son of God, Jesus, taking our sin and shame upon Himself so we could be redeemed, be forgiven, and know His will.

Main Passage

7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
- Ephesians 1:7-10

Discussion Questions

1. God forgives us in His grace because Jesus paid the penalty for our sins. Do you truly believe you’re forgiven? If so, is there anyone you need to forgive?
2. Jesus bought our freedom at the cost of His own life. How should the way God values you affect the way you live your life this week?
3. God’s plan for our personal lives is always connected to His bigger purpose: saving mankind. How can you grow in your own purpose, while participating in God’s plan by making disciples?
    

"Death to Life" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Bible says that without Christ and His saving work, we are dead in our sins. We are not bad or in need of a little help; we are dead. But God’s mercy, love, and grace cause dead people to come alive. Our salvation is God’s work and gift. We could never do anything to deserve it. Jesus Christ took our place and paid the price for our sin through His death, burial, and resurrection. This is the gospel. And the only appropriate response is to believe in Him and gratefully live a life that glorifies Him.

Main Passage

1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
- Ephesians 2:1-7

8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
- Ephesians 2:8-10

Questions

1. Have you received by faith the new life that Christ offers? If not, would you like to put your faith in Christ’s finished work for your salvation?
2. Can you explain what happened on the cross for you to be saved? To whom can you share it this week?
3. What good works do you believe you can do this week, which God has prepared in advance for you to do?