"Mighty God" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Christmas is the season to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who Isaiah referred to as our Mighty God. Jesus is God who became man, possessing all the power of God. When God gave us the gift of His only Son, Jesus, He demonstrated His unlimited power to solve man’s greatest problem: sin. Left on our own, we cannot overcome sin; it is only through Jesus that we can be saved. We can have confidence in God’s power to help us through every other situation because He already saved us from our greatest dilemma.

Main Passage

6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
- Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9

57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 15:57

Discussion Questions

1. What does sufficient mean to you? Recall a time when you saw God’s grace and power help you in your weakness.

2. What’s one situation in which you need God’s strength right now?

3. If we understand that our ultimate victory in Christ is guaranteed, then we can live from a place of gratitude and confidence. How might a new perspective on a current challenge change the way you address the situation?

"Wonderful Counselor" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The greatest gift ever given to mankind was Jesus Christ! When the prophet Isaiah foretold the birth of Jesus, one of the names he used to identify Him was “Wonderful Counselor.” Isaiah spoke these words during a dark time for the people of Israel: they were about to be attacked, and were desperate for guidance in the midst of the doom and gloom. In revealing the Messiah as a Wonderful Counselor, God’s people were reminded that God had a divine plan for hope and deliverance. The Wonderful Counselor would arrive to guide them them through their worst. He would lead them as their Perfect King. Jesus fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy; as our Wonderful Counselor, He gives us hope regardless of our troubles and leads us to victory.

Main Passage

6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
- Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.
- Jeremiah 29:12

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.
- Hebrews 4:15

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
- Isaiah 55:9

Discussion Questions

1. Tell us about one situation where you need God’s wisdom. Ask God for understanding, clarity, and peace today.

2. What’s one area in your life where you’re having a hard time trusting God? How can you grow in your understanding of who God is this week? How can you know Him more, so you can trust Him more?

3. To whom can you share what you’ve just learned about Jesus being our Wonderful Counselor? How can you encourage that person this week?

"Thanksgiving and Gratitude" Discussion Guide

Main Idea:

Thanksgiving and gratitude go “hand in hand.” Gratitude is not something that you go out and get. Gratitude is more of a virtue that is waiting on you and wanting to work in your life. Gratitude is more caught than taught and gratitude is something that you make room for and allow to work in your life. Whether we realize it or not, God gives us more than enough reason to be grateful.

Main Passages:

11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
- Luke 17:11-19 (NIV)

4 Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat!5 We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. 6 But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” 7 Now the manna was like coriander seed, and its appearance like that of bdellium. 8 The people went about and gathered it and ground it in handmills or beat it in mortars and boiled it in pots and made cakes of it. And the taste of it was like the taste of cakes baked with oil. 9 When the dew fell upon the camp in the night, the manna fell with it.
- Numbers 11:4-7 (ESV)

14 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. 15 Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” 16 But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” 17 They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” 18 And he said, “Bring them here to me.” 19 Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.20 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. 21 And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.
- Matthew 14:13-21 (ESV)

Discussion Questions:

1. In Luke chapter 17, a total of ten lepers were healed but only one returned to show his gratitude and worship Jesus. Why do you suppose the other nine did not? How did his gratitude affect the way he worshipped?

2. A ingratitude blocked the Israelites ability to see God’s miraculous blessings right before their eyes. Their lack of gratitude caused dissatisfaction and they grumbled against God. What blessings in your life have you not recognized? Is it because of a lack of gratitude?

3. Gratitude towards God affects our outlook towards life. In what ways can we proactively practice gratitude moving forward. In what ways do you think it will positively affect you?

“How Do I Get Closer to God?” Discussion Guide

Main Thought

People often feel distant from God, regardless of their spiritual standing. These people ask, in their own way, this all-important question: ““How do we get closer to God?” Jesus gave us ideas on how to do just that in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. In it, we see that drawing near to God begins with acknowledging our discontent without Him. We must act on our discontent by distancing ourselves from sin and idolatry, which separate us from God. Desperation for God motivates us; from this internal posture of desperation, we become willing to do whatever it takes to draw near to God again. (God, like the Loving Father in the parable, desperately wants us to turn toward Him.) We should respond by drawing near to God daily in His Word, through prayer, and offering our best to serve Him.

Main Passages

11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to[a] one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything.

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.’[b] 22 But the father said to his servants,[c] ‘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 15:11-24

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel like you’re close to God? Why or why not?

2. Some of us feel distant from God overall; others may need God to move in specific areas of their lives. How might you be able to get closer to God?

3. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the Father demonstrates unconditional love and amazing grace. How does that grace make you feel? Do you know anyone that may need to experience the same love and grace?

"When Should We 'Let Go and Let God?'" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

A common word of advice shared among Christians, especially when things are hard, is that we should “let Go and let God.” The phrase alludes to the general idea that we should surrender our cares to God. But should we always approach life that way? We should definitely “let go and let God” in regards to salvation. Only Jesus can save us from our sin and its consequences! Yet in almost every other situation, God requires our best effort. God uses life’s challenges and opportunities to strengthen us. Once we’re giving Him our best; then, we can surrender and trust Him with the results.

Main Passages

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.
- Ephesians 2:8-9

24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed?
- Matthew 25:24-26

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
- 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

3 Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
- Proverbs 16:3

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever trusted God with an issue, without giving it your best effort? What happened?

2. Is there an area in your life in which you feel you’re trying your best and trusting God, but still haven’t seen breakthrough? What might he be developing in you?

3. Think about some way in which you’re serving God now, or a way in which you would like to serve Him. What do you want to see God do? How can you either start or continue to give Him your best effort?

"Do We All Worship the Same God?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Does every religion worship the same God? Many people would say “yes,” for a wide variety of reasons. They may be motivated by a desire for tolerance or political correctness. They might be afraid of the conflict that a conversation like this one could create. Others still may simply be ignorant. Regardless of the reason, the idea that all religions worship the same God is incorrect. There are too many contradictions between religions to reconcile them.

Jesus Christ claimed that He was the only way for us to be saved. The Christian Gospel is very unique: it asserts that Jesus was the only Man to have lived a perfect life, to die in our place, and to rise again - thereby proving His claim to be true. These things shouldn’t cause Christians to be filled with pride; instead, it should cause us to pursue others with the same loving grace that Jesus pursued us with. If we reveal the truth in love, then other may come to know Jesus too.

Main Passages

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
- John 14:1-6

What do I imply then? That food offered to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything? No, I imply that what pagans sacrifice they offer to demons and not to God. I do not want you to be participants with demons.
- 1 Corinthians 10:19-20

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.
- 2 Peter 3:9

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you ever been grateful to someone for sharing something with you that was hard to hear? Why is it important for us to tell people about Jesus?

3. If we believe in Jesus as “the Way” to God, then having a relationship with Him should fill us with great confidence. Is there any area in your life in which you might need God’s Word to create more confidence in you?

4. Bonus: How can you practically be a witness to one person this week?

"More Than We Can Handle" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

A lot of people have heard, shared, or believed the following statement: “God will never give you more than you can handle.” There’s some truth in that cliche - but we need to clarify it with God’s Word! The Bible promises that we will never be tempted with sin beyond our ability to resist it. We can choose whether or not to sin; however, we cannot choose our situations, or whether or not we’ll suffer. Therefore, God DOES allow us to experience situations and suffering that we cannot handle - at least on our own. God has a purpose for our pain when the going gets tough in our lives. He may be trying to grow our strength, grow our faith, or grow our relationship with Him. It’s in Christ that we find the strength to overcome in spite of our circumstances. God never gives us more than we can handle when we find our strength in Him.

Main Passage

13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
- 1 Corinthians 10:13

8 For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.
- 2 Corinthians 1:8-9

12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
- Philippians 4:12-13

9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9

Discussion Questions

1. Are you facing any situations or circumstances right now that are overwhelming? What is it?

2. Our “strength,” on a spiritual level, can be broken up into character (who we are as people), our competencies (the things we do well), and our capacity (how much we’re able to handle). Do you think God may be developing your strength in any of these three areas? How?

3. God wants to grow our faith and our relationship with Him. How have past trials, or even a current one, helped you grow in those two things?

"Doesn't God Want Me to be Happy?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Everyone wants to be happy! America was, in part, founded on the truth that people are entitled to “the preservation of life, and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” However, most people have discovered that pursuing happiness can end in disappointment and heartbreak. That’s because pursuing happiness in temporary things can only produce temporary happiness. For this reason, God wants us to pursue happiness in eternal things instead. If we do, then we’ll be able to stay happy regardless of what our lives look like here on earth.

Main Passage

12 May all who are godly be happy in the Lord and crown him, our holy God.
- Psalm 97:12 (TLB)

36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
- Mark 8:36-38 (KJV)

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
- Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV)

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever been heartbroken or disappointed after trying to find happiness in something temporary, or earthly? What happened and why did it disappoint you?

2. Think about the main things you’re pursuing right now. (Career achievements, comfort for your family, a relationship, a degree or diploma, etc.) Are they temporary, earthly things or permanent, eternal things?

3. How might pursuing something with an eternal reward affect your life? How can pursuing happiness in something eternal impact the lives of others around you?

"Welcome Home!" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God wants His people to possess His promises. Every child of God has an inheritance from God, made up of His promises and a personal calling. Likewise, every church has a set of promises that it’s called to inherit. The Israelites had a home called the Promised Land waiting for them, but God needed to prepare them up to receive their inheritance. His agenda is to build people, not structures. God’s promises often come with a premise, or a condition: we must act in faith to seize them ourselves. As we take practical steps of faith, we unleash God’s promises for ourselves and for other people.

Main Passage

7 Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land that the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall put them in possession of it. 8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
- Deuteronomy 31:7-10

Then the whole congregation of the people of Israel assembled at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The land lay subdued before them. 2 There remained among the people of Israel seven tribes whose inheritance had not yet been apportioned. 3 So Joshua said to the people of Israel, “How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the Lord, the God of your fathers, has given you?
- Joshua 18:1-3

20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.
- 2 Corinthians 1:20

Discussion Questions

1. What’s one thing that stops us from inheriting, or receiving, the promises of God? Listen to your group members, and think about the things that stop you.

2. What’s one “promise” that you feel God has for your life? It may be something from God’s Word, a desire that you feel He birthed in your heart, or a prophetic word spoken over you. How are you practically acting in faith to receive God’s promise?

3. God’s promises aren’t just for us; we’re called to use our breakthrough as a blessing for others too. How might receiving your promise bless the people around you?

"Shared Life" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Jesus called his disciples to follow God, fish for people, and fellowship with the church. We can think of fellowship as “sharing life” with one another. Sharing life goes deeper than friendship. It begins as we share love with one another, cover each other’s sins, and live in unity. Genuine love eventually expresses itself through sharing hospitality and generosity - even toward strangers. We also share life with one another by sharing our God-given gifts. Busyness, unwillingness, or inconvenience can keep us from sharing our gifts. But choosing to serve in spite of those things makes us more like Jesus, who loved and served us first.

Main Passage

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
- 1 Peter 4:8-10

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
- 1 John 1:9

28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
- Matthew 20:28

Discussion Questions

1. We need to “cover sin” and forgive, instead of “counting sin” and becoming bitter. Have you ever felt as if someone counted your sins against you? Is there anyone whose sin you should cover and forgive?

2. Recall a time where a stranger, or someone you didn’t know well, shared hospitality or generosity with you. How did it affect you?

3. Do you feel that you have any God-given gifts that are unutilized? How might you use them to serve God in your home, at work, or at church?

"Church Community" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The apostles and followers of Jesus preached the gospel for the first time on the Day of Pentecost to Jews gathered in Jerusalem. On that day, 3,000 Jews were added to the disciples (around 120 in number), creating the very first church community. The new believers began to share expressions of faith, such as the Lord’s Supper, or communion. This gave them a unique common ground. This shared faith eventually led to shared life. They shared and even sold possessions and belongings to provide for those in need. They went to the temple and ate together. This is what our church community should be like today. God used this first church community to change the hearts of those who saw them, adding to their number day by day those who were being saved, and giving the community a shared mission.

Main Passage

40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
- Acts 2:40-47 (ESV)

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to “devote” yourself to something? How have you learned to devote yourself to the Word?

2. We should share life together by being generous, having compassion, and actively being with those in our church community. How did you learn to value the church and share life with others?

3. Church communities share a common mission to tell others about Jesus, and lead more people to Him. What’s the mission of our church? What’s your role in it?

"Power of the Gospel" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The work of Jesus Christ, revealed to us in the Gospel message, brings our spirits to life. But the Gospel doesn’t just work in us. It works through us! We’re commanded by God to engage the unreached, preach the Gospel, and make disciples. Everyone has a primary evangelism “style” that reflects their personality. They are as follows:

1. A Direct Approach

2. An Intellectual Approach

3. Testimonial Approach

4. Interpersonal Approach

5. Invitational Approach

6. Service Approach

We might excel in one style above others, but can (and should) use whatever we need to win people to Christ.

Main Passage

18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,
- 1 Peter 3:18 (ESV)

34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism
- Acts 10:34

42 And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.
- Acts 10:42

Discussion Questions

1. Peter says we’ve been made “alive in Christ,” which should inspire us to share the Gospel with those who don’t know God. What grows your motivation to share the Gospel?

2. Which one of the six evangelism styles describe you the best? Do you think you could use any of the other six styles?

3. Think about someone around you who doesn’t know God. Create a plan to engage that person using the style (or styles) you identified. The goal is to share the gospel, your testimony, or an invite to Every Nation Church Las Vegas.

"Taking the Gospel Turn" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Gospel is the “good news” that God became a man in Jesus Christ. He lived the life we should have lived, and died the death we should have died. He rose from the dead three days later, proving He is the Son of God. He offers the gift of salvation and forgiveness to all those who repent and believe in His name. If we believe in this good news, then it turns us to Jesus as both Lord and Savior. Trusting Jesus as Lord means we let Him call the shots. Believing that He’s our Savior gives us hope on earth and throughout eternity. The Gospel also turns us toward people who don’t know God, so they can receive the good news too.

Main Passage

36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” 37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Acts 2:36-39

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?
- Romans 10:14

Discussion Questions

1. Does anything make it hard for you to trust God’s Word, and allow Jesus to be Lord in your life?

2. Think about the implications of the Gospel - that we are God’s children in Christ, that we are unconditionally loved, that we are eternally secure, etc. How might the Gospel affect the perspective from which you live on a daily basis?

Prayer (Find a partner, or pray in groups of three if necessary.)

1. Pray for one another to understand the Gospel at a deeper, more personal level.

2. Pray for one person that you might be able to invite to service or share the Gospel with.

"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!