"Christ Centered Vision" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. Did you do anything to boldly represent Jesus Christ as a witness last week? If so, what?

Main Thought

Our individual lives, which include our faith, are journeys that have a destination. We can expect to encounter good, bad, and unknown situations along any long journey. The key to arriving at the right destination is to focus on the right direction. We do this by following Christ, and ignoring any distractions along the way. Following Jesus is like having GPS navigation. He sees the ultimate destination He has planned for us, and He knows how to get us there. We’ll discover purpose and perform good exploits when we walk with Christ and live to honor Him.

Main Passages

9 But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”
- 1 Corinthians 2:9

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
- Matthew 6:33-34

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
- Hebrews 11:1

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
- Jeremiah 29:11

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel like there are any past events, mistakes, or selfish ambitions that caused you to drift off course in life or from God’s plan for you? What was it, and how did you realize you were off track?

2. Think about a decision you need to make, or a step of faith you may need to take. How can living for God’s glory and obeying His Word bring clarity or confidence to your situation?

Application

1. Choose to honor God when faced with any critical decisions or situations in your life!

"We Live For More" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How did you did you demonstrate God’s love by serving someone else over the past week?

Main Thought

After Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples all hid in the fear that they too would suffer the same fate. Yet, soon after, they were found boldly preaching in Jerusalem that Jesus was the risen Savior. On one occasion, the disciples Peter and John were arrested by the Jewish authorities and threatened not to preach about Jesus anymore. Their reply was, “we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” They were not afraid to risk their lives because they were convinced that Jesus was alive and that through Him, they had the promise of eternal life. Like them, when we trust in Jesus, He gives us the power to live a transformed life in order to make an eternal difference in the lives of others.

Main Passages

“After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit… 8 you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’ 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.”
- Acts 1:3-5, 8-9 NIV

20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
- Ephesians 3:20

Discussion Questions

1. The disciples were transformed from cowards who hid for their lives into bold preachers. How has the resurrection of Christ changed your life?

2. How is God challenging you to live confidently for Him? What challenges do you face in doing so?

Application

1. Take a step of faith and do something to live confidently for God as a witness to someone who doesn’t know Him this week.

"Serving God by Serving Others" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How did you think, act, or become more like Jesus over the past week?

Main Thought

God commands His followers to love Him and others. One of the most powerful and effective ways to demonstrate love is through acts of service. Jesus took on the role of a lowly servant by washing His disciples’ feet. He set the ultimate example for us. If we want to follow Jesus, then we must also practically serve as He did. God uses things like our gifts, personalities, passions, and experiences to shape us for service. Many use their God-given talents and opportunities to serve themselves, but that’s a fool’s venture. Actions driven by selfishness don’t last forever. Only our service to God - and other people with God’s love - can have an eternal impact.

Main Passages

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
- Philippians 2:3-7

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
- Ephesians 2:10

13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15 If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.
- 1 Corinthians 3:13-15

Discussion Questions

1. What holds you back from serving God? Why?

2. How can you practically and passionately serve God? Is there anything that you enjoy that you’d be able to use to serve others?

Application:

1. Do something outside your ordinary routine to demonstrate God’s love and serve someone else this week.

"The Plan, The Promise, The Power" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. Who did you connect with over the past week to help them feel like they belong?

Main Thought

We were created to be like Christ! We can see that people were uniquely made in God’s image because we’re morally conscious, relational, intelligent, and able to think critically about ourselves and the world around us. But sin distorted our ability to develop Christlike character on our own. We need a spiritual transformation that brings our values, attitudes, habits in line with those displayed by Jesus. We begin to develop a Christlike character by actively choosing to be like Him. Then, we trust the Holy Spirit to give us God’s love, wisdom, and other character traits as we act in faith and obedience. God cares more about who we’re becoming than He does about what we’re doing.

Main Passages

For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.
- Romans 8:29, NIV

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
- Galatians 5:22-24

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
- 2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV

Discussion Questions

1. What’s one Christlike character trait that you demonstrate right now? How did that trait develop inside you?

2. Have the people, circumstances, and/or situations around you revealed a way in which you can become more like Christ in the future?

Application

1. Identify one way in which you can become more like Jesus Christ. Memorize a scripture about it, and pray that God would you help you develop Christlike character.

"Born to Belong" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. What common, daily activity did you do to bring God pleasure or happiness over the past week?

Main Thought

People long to belong. God designed us to need others physically and spiritually. Yet we’ll eventually find that our desires for belonging are unfulfilled on some level. We may build bad bridges in our desperation to belong, or put up walls to insulate ourselves from pain. God’s perfect love is the solution to both of these problems. We were born to belong to Him! If we belong to God’s Family, then the family benefits (like access to God, purpose, and eternal life) belong to us. God’s family, the Church, gives us a perfect opportunity to learn how to love. Choosing to love others, in spite of their flaws, teaches us to love like Jesus and causes us to appreciate His love even more.

Main Passages

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.
- 1 John 3:1

16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.
- 1 John 3:16

Discussion Questions

1. Has God’s love ever helped you heal from relational wounds? How?

2. Have you ever shared God’s love with someone who offended you? What happened?

Application

1. Connect with someone in God’s Family this week, and help them feel like they belong.

"Made for God's Pleasure" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God deserves our worship! Worship is anything we do that brings God pleasure or happiness. These things “glorify” God. We were made for God’s glory. In turn, we experience our greatest joy when we bring God joy. The Westminster Shorter Catechism famously declares, “Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” This means that God’s glory and our greatest happiness go hand-in-hand. Common ways to worship God include loving Him and other people, living our lives in obedience to His Word, and praising Him with music at church. A lifestyle of worship allows us to enjoy God’s presence continually.

Main Passage

3 Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp. 4 For the Lord delights in his people; he crowns the humble with victory.
- Psalm 149:3-4, NLT

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.
- Romans 12:1

14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
- Colossians 3:14-17

Discussion Questions

1. What habits, activities, or mindsets please God in your life?

2. What common task could you start doing as if you were doing it directly for Jesus?

3. Are there any areas in your life that you’re holding back from God? How can you practically take a step of faith, and surrender that part of your life to Him?

"Living Proof" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The resurrection of Jesus is the linchpin of Christianity. If He was not raised from the dead, then our faith and all that we believe has no foundation. Just like in the court of law, the testimony of witnesses carry a lot of weight and many times determines the outcome of a verdict. The firsthand accounts of these many witnesses in the Bible, including his closest friends and family, tells us that Jesus indeed rose from the dead. This validates his authority to forgive sins. It also proves once and for all that he was God. But If we are to be followers of Christ, then it’s not enough to simply believe. We must do as He did. We must love others as he loved. It’s our proof that we are citizens of His kingdom.

Main Passage

When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. 2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3 And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large.
- Mark 16:1-4

19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews,[a] Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
- John 20:19-20

3 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, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,
- 1 Peter 1:3-4

Discussion Questions

1. Jesus perfectly represented God’s character, and lets us know what God is like. What are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings about God that are corrected through Jesus?

2. The testimony of the disciples and other followers of Christ carried the Christian message around the world. Share your testimony, or the testimony of another Christian that inspires you. (If sharing someone else’s story: why does is stand out?)

3. Jesus changes the lives of those who follow Him. If you’re a Christian, or thinking about becoming one, how has your life changed?

"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?

"Life is No Accident" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God is the Author of Life! All life finds its origin with Him. Living things do not arise from non-living matter. Features of different organisms throughout nature, including parts of our own bodies, are far too complex to have occurred randomly over time. They also would have to arrive fully-formed in order to be function. (An issue known as irreducible complexity that makes Darwinian Evolution impossible.) Dr. Ming Wang, a Harvard-trained physician and world-renowned eye surgeon, turned from Atheism to Christianity. He says: “As a medical doctor and a scientist I can firmly attest to the fact that it is impossible for natural selection to explain the amazing intricacies of the eye.”

Our belief in the cause of life has massive implications for the way we live today. If we believe that life is random, and ultimately without reason, then we can only conclude that our lives are random and without objective reason as well. But God’s Word reveals that He made life for a reason. If we believe that God made life for a purpose, then it’s fair to conclude that there is an objective purpose for our lives. We can be confident in knowing that our lives are meaningful now and in eternity.

Main Passage

In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.
- Psalm 102:5

14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
- Psalm 139:14-15

1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. 3 They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. 4 Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.
- Psalm 19:1-4

Discussion Questions

1. Which of the main passages stand out to you the most? Why?

2. “Subjective” purpose is something that we assign to ourselves; it doesn’t carry any weight beyond our own opinion. “Objective” purpose transcends our circumstances and opinions, because it comes from a transcendent Source. Do you believe objective purpose exists for us as humans?

3. Do you feel that you have a sense of purpose? Try to summarize it.

"In the Beginning" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The universe had a beginning! Most people take this fact for granted, but many prominent thinkers - from Aristotle to Einstein - believed that the universe had existed forever. The Bible revealed that the universe had a beginning thousands of years before science could see it. Time, space, matter, and energy began to exist when the Big Bang happened. This means that the universe was caused by something, or Someone, who wasn’t limited by those four things. The Bible was ahead of the curve once more: God revealed that He met those specific requirements before science realized they were necessary. It’s also increasingly apparent that the universe needed to be fine-tuned for life to exist. If things like gravity or the strong nuclear force (which holds an atom’s nucleus together) were different by even a slight margin, our universe wouldn’t be able to sustain life.

These incredible facts can do more than intrigue our minds. They impact our faith. If we believe that God can make the universe from nothing, and create beauty from the chaos of the cosmos, then we should be confident that He can do incredible things with our lives as well. It all comes down to trusting Jesus.

Main Passage

1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
- Genesis 1:1

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
- John 1:1-3

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
- 2 Corinthians 5:17

Discussion Questions

1. What do you believe about the origin of the universe? Why is there something rather than nothing?

2. If you were to share one idea from the Main Thought or passages above with a skeptic, what would it be? How would you share it?

3. Are there unknown or chaotic elements in your life? If so, then what are they? How can you practically trust God and act in faith with respect to those things?

"Answer for Evil" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

“If God is so good and powerful, then why is there so much evil in the world?” It’s a daunting question that often touches people on a deeply personal level. But the recognition of good and evil in our world actually points to the existence of God. We can only say that a line is crooked or curved because we know what a straight line looks like. In a similar manner, we can recognize evil because we were made in the image of a good God. He wrote His standards for goodness on our hearts. Evil entered the world because man rejected God through sin. Evil increases on a societal level when the knowledge of God decreases. Almost everyone longs for an answer to evil, regardless of their beliefs. Yet atheism fails to give provide answers. It only succeeds in taking away hope. God sent Jesus Christ to eliminate the evil inside us; when this process reaches its conclusion, God will destroy all evil for all of eternity.

Main Passage

And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness…
- Romans 1:28-29

For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
- Romans 8:20-21

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
- 1 Peter 2:24

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
- Revelation 22:3-4

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever struggled with doubts about God’s goodness? How have you dealt with those doubts?

2. What areas in your life can be steered more toward God and away from evil? How might that benefit you or others around you?

3. Are you participating in God’s mission to rid the world of evil? If you aren’t, then how can you do so?

"Journey Of The Heart" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The condition of our hearts largely determines the course of our lives. Everything we do will be affected at some level by our spiritual heart health. How do we maintain a healthy heart? If we find ourselves harboring anger in our heart, then God calls us to forgive. The answer to persistent guilt within our hearts is repentance. If we’re becoming greedy, then God’s antidote comes through giving. Finally, our hearts may be fearful. God’s perfect love casts out all fear. If we walk with God on a journey toward a pure heart, then we’ll find that we are also moving toward God’s perfect will.

Main Passage

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life”
- Proverbs 4:23, NLT

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
- Matthew 6:14-15

"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."
- Acts 3:19

“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.” ‭‭
- II Corinthians‬ ‭9:6-8‬ ‭NKJV

“Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.”
- ‭‭I John‬ ‭4:17-18‬ ‭

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”
- ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139:23-24‬

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever experienced a negative result in life that was related to a negative habit, emotion, or attitude that you held onto within your heart? What happened?

2. We need to check our hearts for anger, guilt, greed, and fear. Which is most relevant to you right now, and how might you respond with God’s Word?

3. How might an unhealthy heart be keeping you from God’s perfect will? Do you think developing your heart will help you along the path toward God’s Will?

"Heart Health" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

The Bible has a lot to say about maintaining healthy relationships, especially in regards to romance. The Book of Proverbs tells us to “guard our hearts.” We’re familiar with the concept of “heart health” in our physical bodies. The spiritual and emotional health of our heart is just as important! It’s more difficult to diagnose spiritual heart problems. Everything can look good on the outside; if our spirit isn’t healthy, then it’s often only a matter of time before something goes terribly wrong. This is especially true when it comes to romance. Good habits can lead to a healthy physical heart. If we build good habits, like working toward covenant relationship and allowing passion to fill its purpose, then our spiritual hearts will be healthy too.

Main Passage

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
- Proverbs 4:23

“…and the two will become one flesh.”
- Ephesians 5:31

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
- Matthew 6:33

Discussion Questions

1. How does God’s Word differ from mainstream ideas about romance and dating? How does God’s Word impact your opinion on the subject?

2. Do you think that you have a healthy heart in a spiritual and emotional sense? What about in the area of romance specifically?

3. Think about the concept of guarding your heart in the context of your “relationship status,” and talk about what that means for you personally. Here are some sample questions:

   • Single: How might you be able to keep a healthy spiritual heart, whether you’re called to be single or in a relationship in the next season(s) of your life? How can you honor God with your intentions?

   • In a Relationship: Are you guarding your heart with your intentions and actions? Who helps you honor God as your journey?

   • Married: Are you protecting your covenant with God and your spouse in the way you guard your heart?

"What is Love?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God designed our hearts to look for perfect love. What should love look like, and where can we find it? We’ve all tried and failed to find perfect love in people. We know what it means to be disappointed by our spouses, family, friends, and even ourselves. This is because imperfect people can only give imperfect love. Perfect love can only come from a perfect God! God’s love is unlimited and unconditional. We can stay in God’s love by abstaining from lesser forms or expressions of love outside it. We’ll become increasingly satisfied by God’s love as we understand it more. God’s love also serves as the best standard for all of our relationships; therefore, we need to share God’s love as much as possible.

Main Passage

“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
- 1 John 4:10

“9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.”
- John 15:9

“1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy… 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
- Philippians 2:1, 4

Discussion Questions

1. The Bible mentions different kinds of love, including romantic love, sensual love, friendly love, and family love. These forms of love can be great - but they eventually disappoint us. Have you been disappointed by love from any of these sources recently? Have you recently disappointed any of your loved ones?

2. God’s love is unlimited because He is, by nature, without limit. How do you think you might be able to grow in your experience or understanding of God’s love?

3. Jesus sacrificed Himself for us, and set the ultimate example of love in the process. How would you describe God’s love? How might you be able to share God’s love, personally and practically?

"Whose team are you on?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Americans love “the Big Game.” Christians also find themselves in a contest. We’re locked in spiritual battle against an unseen enemy who wants to “steal, kill, and destroy.” How do we emerge from our battles victoriously? We need to be mindful of our defensive and offensive strategies, just like a competitive team. God gives us “spiritual armor” to defend against the enemy’s attacks. We’re able to fight back, and go on the offense, when we employ our weapons: God’s Word and prayer for one another. Ultimately, we remember that God retains authority and control like a referee. He sets us up for ultimate victory!

Main Passage

10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints…”
- Ephesians 6:10-18

12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
- Hebrews 4:12

18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
- Matthew 28:18

Discussion Questions

1. Are you aware that we fight an unseen spiritual battle? Do you wear every article of the “armor of God” in Ephesians 6?

2. What kind of “battle” are you facing? Are you using God’s Word by reminding yourself of its relevant promises, and declaring them in prayer? Who prays with you in the face of adversity?

3. God is on our side! He makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him, which should fill us with faith. Is there any way you can approach a personal battle with renewed faith this week? How might this affect your attitude or approach?

"Striving for Excellence" Discussion Guide

Main Point

God loves excellence. We see it in the way He created the world, arranged the arrival of Christ, and even in the way He made us as individuals. Throughout history, God’s people have stood out as they represented the Lord in excellence. People like Daniel were often given special provision and promotion, as well as the promise of eternal reward, as a result. It’s God’s Will that we live and serve with excellence too. Above all else, serving God with excellence is a response to the excellent grace and favor He pours out on us.

Main Passages

“Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.”
- Daniel 6:3 ESV

 “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”
- Proverbs 22:29 ESV

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
- Colossians 3:23-24 ESV

 Discussion Questions

1. In what areas of your life do you tend to do things with excellence? In what areas do you fall short of excellence?

2. What hinders you from consistently giving your best effort , particularly in life’s most important areas? Why?

3. What will you do practically to grow in excellence this week? How can you be accountable to doing it?

"Relational Unity" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God loves diversity! We see this in His creation, and especially with people. In Heaven, God’s desire is for every nation, every people, and every language to be represented! We must accomplish the mission of diversity on earth in order for that to happen. But greater diversity leads to greater challenges to relate to one another. The Bible has much to say about how we, as followers of Christ, glorify God through relational unity. We need to love, forgive, and welcome others from inside and outside our spiritual family - because that’s how God treated us in Christ.

Main Passage

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
- 1 Peter 3:8-9

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...
- 1 Peter 4:8-10

34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
- John 13:34-35

Discussion Questions

1. Do you find yourself interacting with a diverse group of people at work, or in your circle of friends? Is this easy or challenging? How might you be able to present Jesus to those who seem different from you?

2. We’re commanded to bless people, even if they treat us poorly. Why is it hard to practice this command? How can we grow in our ability to bless those who mistreat us?

3. Would people know that you’re a Christian by observing the way you love and treat others? Why or why not? How can you be more like Jesus in the way you love others?

"Spiritual Fervor" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Our God is amazing! People who have a thriving relationship with Him, or “spiritual fervor,” testify of this fact. King David did that when he declared, “Taste and see that the Lord is good!” God promises that if we would abide in Him, then He’d cause us to be so full of His Spirit that we would overflow. Still, some believers seem to grow in hunger for God while others do not. How do we stay hungry for the things of God? We must first receive good things from Him, then give out good things out by engaging the unreached and serving others. Then, we’ll have room in our souls to receive from God and restart the process. Hunger for God occurs over and over again this way.

Main Passage

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.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.”
- John 4:7-10

13 Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again,14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
- John 4:13-14

8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
- Psalm 34:8

Discussion Questions

1. How would you characterize your relationship with God at this moment? Is it strong, average, or weak, and why?

2. What stops you from experiencing God’s presence and receiving good things from Him? How can you begin to remove that obstacle to encountering God?

3. Christians are called to engage the unreached, outside the walls of the Church. We’re also called to serve God’s people within the church. Which one of these things do you gravitate toward naturally? How can you grow in the other, and take a step of faith there this week?

"Missional Passion"

Main Thought

Jesus Christ is our Chief Cornerstone! It’s impossible to build our Christian lives, either corporately or individually, apart from Him and the things He cherishes. Jesus was passionate about people, so we should be passionate about people too. The core of God’s plan to grow His Church hasn’t changed since Christ and the Apostles walked the earth. He uses us, the “living stones,” to reach other people and build ourselves into a “spiritual house” together. It’s like playing with Legos: we build by connecting to God and connecting to other people. One life at a time. Brick by brick.

Main Passage

Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?
- Matthew 21:42

4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
- 1 Peter 2:4-6 (ESV)

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 (NIV)

“If you love me you will obey me…”
- John 14:15

Discussion Questions

1. We all come to God because God passionately pursued us. What made you realize that God passionately loves you?

2. One of the church’s responsibilities is to proclaim the Gospel, or tell people about Jesus. Did you take a step of faith to proclaim the Gospel in 2018? How might you take another step in faith to start 2019?

3. Christians are also called to demonstrate the Gospel. We can do as we pray, and God responds with things like healing, prophecy, and words of knowledge. We can also demonstrate the Gospel through the way we live. Who demonstrated the Gospel for you? Who can you demonstrate the Gospel to this week?

“Reverse the Curse” Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Our lives, or parts of our lives like our health or our finances, can feel “cursed.” We can be cursed through hurt: a condition in which elements of our lives are actively decaying or moving backward. We can also be cursed through hindrances: instead of moving backward, parts of our lives may be stagnant and lack any signs of growth. Yet the Bible points to God’s power to reverse every curse! God moves for the betterment of His people, even when we can’t see it. We prepare to experience God’s divine reversals by living out a process of worship and warfare. Worship is more than just music; it’s living for God’s glory at all times, with nothing hidden from Him. We also prepare to experience God’s curse-reversing power through spiritual warfare. Spiritual warfare includes fellowship with others, fasting and prayer, and finishing our fights. Doing these three things will position us for victory: in our circumstances, and in our souls.

Main Passage

14 The Lord God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life… 17 And to Adam he said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, ‘You shall not eat of it,’ cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; 18 thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field.
- Genesis 3:14, 17-18

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
- Romans 8:28

15 Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, 16 “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.” 17 Mordecai then went away and did everything as Esther had ordered him.
- Esther 4:15-17

for by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.
- Proverbs 24:6

29 And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”
- Mark 9:29

Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.”
- Esther 4:16

Discussion Questions

1. Elements of our lives can feel curse when they’re hurt or hindered. Do you feel that way? Why?

2. God asks us to worship Him by glorifying Him in all things, with nothing in our lives hidden from Him. What’s one thing you can do to glorify God in your daily life?

3. In Esther, we see three elements in spiritual warfare: living in fellowship, fasting and prayer, and finishing the fight. Which one of those three things stick out to you? How can you apply it in your life to start 2019?