"Faith Over Fear" - Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, we’re surrounded by fear in the media, on social media, and even the people around us. As Christians, we need to choose faith over fear! We rest in the unseen power of God, instead of being restlessly thinking about potential problems. Cultivating a climate of faith is one important step in choosing faith over fear. We must surround ourselves with people and media that point us back to God. We also need to do the opposite; limiting things that cause us to be fearful or anxious. We build faith further by internalizing the promises of God. God’s promises are active today and accessible by His children. Finally, we obey the call of God to “go” in faith - choosing prayer over panic and wisdom over worry as we do so.

Main Passages

35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” 36 Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” 37 He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.
- Mark 5:35-43

7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
- 2 Timothy 1:7

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night,nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
- Psalm 91:1-6

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the main thought?

2. What can we learn about God in the main passages?

3. Are you cultivating an environment of faith, or fear?

Apply

1. Find someone to encourage as COVID-19. Look for ways to help people.

"Pass the Salt" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus proclaimed that His followers would be the “salt of the earth.” What does that mean?First, there’s nothing that can duplicate salt’s flavor. It’s unique and it goes with almost anything. In a similar way, there’s nothing like the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Everyone needs it, and Christ’s followers are called to share it! There is no substitute. A second meaning communicated by Christ’s salt analogy lies in salt’s use as a preservative. For ages, salt was used to preserve meats and other foods. Christians are meant to be a preservative of the earth: in becoming and behaving like Christ, our lifestyles and values help to slow the moral and spiritual decay of the world. If we do not do these things, then we have lost our unique purpose in the world - just like salt that lost its flavor.

Main Passages

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.
- Matthew 5:13

Discussion Questions

1. Salt preserves things. Christians slow the moral and spiritual decay of the world around them through their words and lives. Have you ever impacted the situation around you because you walked out your faith? What happened?

2. Salt enhances flavor in a unique way. Christians bring the Gospel, which is unique in its message and its power to save those who hear it, to those around them. Who have you brought the Gospel to recently?

Apply

1. Be salt in the way you live, and by sharing the Gospel. If good things start to happen because you’re behaving as salt, then share with your group throughout the week!

“Absent or Abiding?” Discussion Guide

Main Thought

God wants to be present, active, and involved in our lives. God also invites us to abide, or remain, in Christ. Spiritual fruit like unconditional love, unwavering joy, and new disciples comes from our lives when we abide in Christ. Sometimes, we forget to abide in Christ because we’re busy. At other times, we’d rather remain occupied with other things. This can make us happy for a short time but we’ll eventually find ourselves spiritually drained. 

We abide in Christ when we read His Word, talk to Him in prayer, and obey Him consistently. Obeying Christ begins with the Great Commandments (to love God and other people), and with the Great Commission to “go and make disciples.” That’s when the spiritual fruit mentioned previously grows naturally out of our lives! We need to make the choice. If we’re absent, we’ll be empty. If we abide, then we’ll be fruitful.

Main Passages

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
- John 15:1-8

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. 36 Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.
- John 4:35-36

Discussion Questions

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

2. What keeps you from abiding in Christ? Busyness? Being occupied with other pursuits? Maybe both?

3. What can you do to abide in Christ?

Apply

1. Reading the Bible, talking to God in prayer, and obeying God help us to abide in Christ. Do what it takes to abide!

"Put a Ring on It" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Successful relationships require commitment. A relationship with God is no different. Sometimes, we don’t fully commit to following God because we’re afraid we’ll miss out on something. We might also be overcommitted to other things. But we’ll experience our best lives when we follow God wholeheartedly! This kind of commitment reflects God’s heart and character. Jesus was fully committed to saving us, even when He had to die on a Cross to do so. To follow Jesus wholeheartedly as disciples, we must exercise the “Three Fs”: Follow God, Fish for Men, and Fellowship with the Church.

Main Passages

1 Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? 2 The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; 4 who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind;
- Psalm 15:1-2, 4

19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
- Matthew 4:19

Discussion Questions

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

2. Does a fear of missing out on something or an “overcommitment” to other things keep you from following God? If so, what would those things be?

3. Do you practice the Three Fs (Following God, Fishing for Men, and Fellowshipping with the Church) regularly? Which one needs the most work in your life?

Apply

1. Build one of the Three Fs that need the most work in your life!

"Living Large" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

There are seasons in which we’ve struggled, only to discover that God wants to call us out of that and into a new season. God, in this season of Every Nation Church Las Vegas’ history, wants us to go beyond! This can begin today with whatever we already have. We don’t need to wait for new resources; rather, we should begin with whatever we have now. Don’t hold back either! We’re all anointed to make a difference in the world for God’s glory, the people around us, and even for ourselves to be blessed. If we are to live the life that God intends, then it’s time for us to go deeper and draw closer to God than ever before.

Main Passages

2 “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.3 For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.
- Isaiah 54:2-3

6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them.
- Joshua 1:6

Discussion Questions

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

2. We all have God-given dreams or goals, but different circumstances in life can hold us back. What’s one goal that you’d like to achieve for God in 2020? Is there anything holding you back?

3. What can you do to “go deeper” and draw closer to God than ever before?

Apply

1. Apply your answer to question 3!

"Inviting Grace" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

We invite our friends, family, and other acquaintances whenever we throw a party or celebration. If that were God’s criteria, then we would have lost our invitations into God’s presence because of our sin. Yet God extended His “inviting grace” to us through Jesus Christ! We’re invited to experience God’s presence, on earth and for eternity. Experiencing God’s grace transforms us. We should be able to look at ourselves and see a difference over time. God’s grace should also empower us to make a difference in the lives of others. God’s grace works in us, with us, and through us for God’s glory and the benefit of others.

Main Passages

9 For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.
- 1 Corinthians 15:9-10

19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
- Matthew 4:19

18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 
- 1 Corinthians 18-20

Discussion Questions

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

2. Think back at your life since becoming a Christian. Share one of the biggest changes in your life that came about because of God’s grace. What is it? (If you aren’t a Christian, what’s one positive change that happened in your life? What catalyzed that change?)

3. How does God’s grace flow through you to others on a regular basis?

Apply:

1. One of the “Three Fs” of Discipleship is “Fishing for people.” Who can you “fish for,” or invite to experience God’s grace in their lives? Pray for an opportunity and step out in faith!

"Enriching Grace" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

We all need things and want things. New opportunities present themselves all the time. In the face of these unlimited choices, we often find that our finances are limited. We’re forced to choose; God gave to us generously through Jesus, and invites us to choose to be generous. Being generous makes us more like Jesus and helps us grow in our relationship with Him. If we give generously, then we release God’s enriching grace into our lives. God’s enriching grace causes us to be content in every situation and every season, and to excel for God-given purpose. We’re able to both extend generosity to others, and experience God’s generosity for ourselves.

Main Passages

6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.
- 2 Corinthians 9:10-11

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. 24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
- Matthew 6:19-20, 24

Discussion Questions

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

2. The state of our hearts can be revealed by our “Giving Posture.” We might feel obligated to give (Got to Give), be looking for something in return (Give to Get), or perhaps we’re excited to give generously (Get to Give). Which Giving Posture best describes you right now? 

3. What do you think your Giving Posture reveals about you?

Apply

1. Think of one way to be generous, or of a way to improve your Giving Posture. Do that in faith this week.

"Sufficient Grace" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Pain and suffering come in different shapes and sizes. These things range from being inconvenient to being dangerous; from mildly frustrating to life-threatening. We’re all suffering through something. You might’ve wondered whether your suffering was caused by the Devil, or if God sent trouble your way to teach you. Both might be true to an extent. The Devil attacks us, but God allows it so that we can experience His “sufficient grace.” In God’s sufficient grace, He strikes a mysterious and grand balance. God provides us with supernatural help, and with opportunities to grow into the best versions of ourselves. These things give us hope and purpose in the midst of our pain. We respond by shifting our perspective, by praying, and by practicing actions and attitudes that honor God. 

Main Passages

7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 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. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Discussion Questions

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

2. How do you typically respond to difficulties in life?

3. What do you want God to do for you in a current trial? What might God want to do in your relationship with him, your knowledge or skills, or your character? 

Apply

1. Meditate on a new perspective or decide on a new course of action to support whatever God might be doing in your life. Pray for the strength to persevere.

"Sanctifying Grace"

Main Thought

In the Disney’s Iron Man film series, Tony Stark initially creates the “Arc Reactor” to save himself from deadly shrapnel. The Arc Reactor is then used to power the Iron Man suit. Tony becomes a superhero and lives differently from then on. God’s grace is similar for Christians. Grace is the undeserved favor we received through Jesus’ sacrifice. We’re saved from sin by grace and then sanctified by grace, or transformed to live a new life. God transforms our will, as we begin to desire things that please Him. It’s our job to respond by “working out” our salvation, and making decisions that honor God.

Main Passages

11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, 12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. - Titus 2:11-14

20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20

22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. - Ephesians 4:22-24

Discussion Questions

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

2. How does God, through grace and the process of sanctification, train us to live a new life?

3. How have you seen sanctification at work in your own life?

Apply

1. How might God be sanctifying you in this season of your life?

"Justifying Grace" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

Augmented Reality is an interesting technological tool. The user puts on goggles and headphones. Then, their experience of the world is transformed by the system. But nothing has really changed! The gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to change our lives, and the lives of others. We all begin distant from God and disillusioned by the world. Jesus appeared into the world to intervene in an amazing way. If we trust in Jesus, then He will truly transform our lives. Our futures can be very different from our past! This is more than a temporary, conditional transformation - because our ultimate inheritance from God becomes an eternity with Him.

Main Passages

3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
- Titus 3:3-7

Discussion Questions

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

2. We all know, deep down, that our world could be and should be better than it is? Why is that?

3. What has God brought you from? What do you think God might want to bring you into this year?

Apply

1. Act based on your answer to Question 3!

"I'm Forgiven So It Doesn't Matter How I Live" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How did you come to God for help over the past week? What happened?

Main Thought

The Bible is clear that Christians are saved by God’s love and grace when we place our faith in Jesus Christ, not by our good deeds or how we live. This is great news since none of us can live perfectly in order to earn our salvation. Christ earned it for us. However, this can lead to a common misconception that we can continue to sin since we are already forgiven. This is completely false. How we live matters for several reasons:

1. We were all created to do “good works” of love to make a difference in the lives of others rather than to live selfishly. Life will never be fulfilling until we do the “good works” that we were created for.

2. Sin has consequences in this life. It hurts us, others, and prevents us from fulfilling our purpose and experiencing true joy.

3. Sin damages our most important relationship, which is our relationship with God. If we continue to willfully sin, we are rejecting God’s love and the gospel that saves us.

We should be grateful for God’s unconditional grace that we don’t deserve. In response, we should strive to continually grow in “good works,” loving Him and others with our lives. We should also strive to rid ourselves of sin with His help and to become more like Jesus in every area of our lives.

Main Passages

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
- Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

“...each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."
- James 1:14-15 NIV

“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God.”
- Hebrews 10:26-27 NIV

Discussion Questions

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

2. What areas of sin in your life is God challenging you to be free from? What “good works” is God challenging you to grow in?

Apply

1. Growth happens as we walk with God by practicing spiritual disciplines (like prayer, reading the Bible, reflection, etc.). It also happens as we walk other believers in honesty and transparency, as well as by encouraging and challenging one another to obey God. What practical step can you take to continue to grow in your faith right now?

"God Helps Those Who Help Themselves" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. Have you recognized any of your own “planks,” or problems, over the past week? If so, then what steps did you take to grow as a person and become like Christ?

Main Thought

The popular saying “God helps those who help themselves” can be misleading. It might make us think that we need to use our God-given gifts to be “self made,” or to “pull ourselves up by our bootstraps.” We can try to do things in our own strengths] apart from God, but He’ll rarely help us when we’ve left Him out of the picture. Meanwhile, we often ignore or cover up our weaknesses. But God can give us the ability to excel in spite of our weaknesses. God helps those who help themselves, and God helps those who can’t help themselves! If we want God’s help in our strengths and weaknesses, then we need to come to Him in humility and faith for help.

Main Passages

...If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
- Philippians 3:4-7

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 about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
- Luke 15:22-24

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you ever done something in your own strength, only to realize that you ended up leaving Him out of the process? What happened? What did you learn?

3. Have you ever excelled or been successful in such a way that made you believe that God helped? What happened?

Apply:

1. Is there a specific, challenging area in your life right now? How can you come to Him in faith and humility for help?

“Only God Can Judge Me” Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How has gratitude to God for His mercy and grace impacted your life?

Main Thought

One of the most popular passages in the Bible, even among non-believers, is: “Judge not, or you too shall be judged.” Most of us want to escape judgement even while we judge others. We don’t want to be judged because acceptance, and we judge to make it easier to accept ourselves. Jesus brings a unique perspective to this problem. He has the right to judge because He set a perfect standard; however, He suspends His right to offer patient acceptance and a fresh start instead. Jesus even teaches us a good way to judge. We start by judging ourselves. We commit to the process of becoming more like Christ as we pull the “planks” out of our own eyes. Then, we take newfound perspective and use it to judge others’ “specks.” (The size difference between these things highlight our focus in judging ourselves and others). If we judge with love and grace at all times, then we’re more likely to receive that grace from others like we already do from God.

Main Passages

7 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
- Matthew 7:1-5

15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them...
- Matthew 7:15-16

12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you...
- Matthew 7:12

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why is it hard to address our own “planks” and problems?

3. Think about a recent moment in which you judged someone else. What specific “plank” - be it some selfish action or attitude - does that reveal about you?

Apply

1. How can you rid yourself of a “plank” and grow as a person, with the goal of becoming more like Jesus? Ask God to help you work on your own planks this week. If the opportunity arises after processing your own problems, then speak up about someone else’s “speck” with God’s love and grace.

"You Get What You Deserve" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

“What goes around comes back around.” “You reap what you sow.” Phrases like these communicate the idea that we’ll eventually “get what we deserve.” This is often true, and we dislike getting less than we deserve! Yet there’s at least one thing we deserve that we should be happy about not receiving. God, in His mercy, withholds the punishment we deserve for our sin. Jesus received that punishment on the Cross; He got what we deserved. Then, in His Grace, God offers the love and eternal life that Jesus deserved for His perfect obedience. We get what Jesus deserved. This exchange is the foundation of the Christian faith.

Main Passages

39 One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
- Luke 23:39-43

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…
- Ephesians 2:4-5

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you ever been happy about getting less than you deserve, perhaps by avoiding a consequence or punishment? On the other hand, have you ever found joy in receiving something good that you did not deserve? What happened?

3. Do you believe the Gospel - the news about Jesus receiving the punishment we deserved, and offering us the life that He deserved? If so, then how should it shape your attitudes and actions in response?

Apply

1. Take your response to question three and apply it to your life this week!

"What Do I Do?" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

A lot of things are incredibly clear in the Bible. Other things aren’t quite as clear. Are there movies or TV shows that Christians shouldn’t watch? What holidays can we celebrate, and what customs can we practice? These are great questions! In situations like these, the Word of God doesn’t make a universal decision for every believer. Instead, it teaches us to make decisions that honor God. Here are three questions we can ask ourselves when we’re confused about what we should, or shouldn’t, do as Christians:

• Am I willing to let God teach me in this area?

• Will this issue become an obstacle or distraction in my walk with God?

• Am I putting others first, and am I willing to sacrifice my “freedoms” for others?

Genuine, sacrificial love guides these questions. If we’re focused on loving God and other people, then it’s difficult to make the wrong choice when it comes to issues that we don’t understand. We can navigate unclear issues when we’re guided by the clear standard of love.

Main Passages

“Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge" puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.”
- ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭8:1-2‬ ‭ESV‬‬

6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.
- 1 Corinthians 8:6

9 But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.
- 1 Corinthians 8:9

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you ever wondered whether or not you should participate in something because of your beliefs? What did you wonder about, and what did you decide?

3. Have you ever judged someone else because of their beliefs regarding certain holidays or practices? How can you be more like Jesus and honor God?

Apply

1. Think through something you watch, celebrate, or practice using the three questions above. Are you honoring God with a clean heart and conscience?

"Don't Throw Away Your Confidence" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

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

Main Passages

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

Discussion Questions

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

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

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

Apply

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

"The Afterlife" Discussion Guide

Main Thought

What happens to us after our lives end on earth? Is there an afterlife? The Bible is clear: there is an afterlife, and there are only two options. We can either spend eternity with God or without Him. To spend eternity with God, the ultimate source of goodness, is to spend eternity surrounded by God’s goodness. There is an immediate destination for Christians when our lives end on earth: we will be with Christ in Heaven, but without our bodies. Christ will return to redeem this world one day. The earth will be repaired. Believers will receive new, glorified bodies. As Christians, the source of our confidence is unique because it comes from Christ. He came from eternity to earth, conquered sin and death, and rose again to prove we can trust Him!

Main Passages

6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
- 2 Timothy 4:6–8.

22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
- Philippians 1:21–24.

The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, 2 it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
- Isaiah 35:1-2

Discussion Questions

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

2. What influenced your thoughts and beliefs about the afterlife most growing up? What do you believe about the afterlife now?

3. How should your belief about the afterlife affect the way you live on earth now?

Apply

1. The only thing we can bring from earth into an eternity with God is people. Pray for someone you love who doesn’t know Christ. Consider reaching out to them to offer prayer, share Christ, or invite them to church.

"Angel and Demons" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How did you practically pursue God this past week?

Main Thought

The Bible tells us that two worlds exist: a realm that is visible, and the invisible realm. There are also two sources of spiritual power in the invisible realm. God is holy, all-powerful, and the source of light. Satan, a defeated foe, controls darkness and wants to keep us there in hopes that we’ll be separated from God for eternity. God has Angels and Satan has demons. Both have assignments and influence the natural realm by their actions in the invisible realm. God and His kingdom win in the end, but our experiences are personal and relevant as we experience them in the present. How can we get God’s agents, his angels, to act on our behalf? How can we defeat the demons that wish to torment and destroy us? Our greatest weapon is prayer! Angels are empowered by prayer and demons are empowered by prayer. We turn to our God, who turns His angels loose for us.

Main Passages

16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
- Colossians 1:16-17

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.
- Ephesians 6:12

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
- 2 Corinthians 10:4

Discussion Questions

1. Do you believe in the invisible realm, where God and his angels - and even Satan and his demons - are active and moving? Does your belief impact your life and daily decisions?

2. Do you pray and ask God to move for you behind the scenes? Why or why not?

Apply

1. Think about some of the biggest battles in your personal life. Bring them to God in prayer and ask Him to move in your favor.

"The Pursuit of Pleasure" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How did you look for ways to prioritize giving love and grace to those around you, or reach out to someone who needs comfort?

Main Thought

Almost everyone pursues pleasure: that feeling of happiness, satisfaction, or enjoyment. We’re surrounded by opportunities to pursue pleasure apart from God. Yet any source of pleasure that the world offers (apart from God) will be fleeting, or temporary. Parties, positions, substances, possessions - they’ll eventually end or run out. You might have also discovered that the world’s pleasures are misleading. They fail to meet expectations, and come with costs and consequences that we do not expect. The greatest pleasure we could ever experience is in God. The love and joy that we find in Him last forever, and they’re truly fulfilling. These things remain in every circumstance. Our desire for healthy habits like reading or exercise grow with time and effort; likewise, our desire for God will grow if we’ll start pursuing Him and continue consistently.

Main Passages

15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
- 1 John 2:15-17

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
- Psalm 16:11

Discussion Questions

1. Have one of your pursuits of pleasure ever proven to be fleeting (temporary) or misleading (failing to meet expectations)? What happened? How did you respond?

2. How could you practically pursue God? Why is it hard to maintain those habits?

Apply

1. Pick one habit that might help you experience God more, preferably something that you aren’t already doing. Try your best to do that consistently over the next week.

"In the Zone" Discussion Guide

Recap

1. How does remembering God’s unconditional approval free us?

Main Thought

Pursuing perfection and clinging to comfort. These two things are on opposite ends of a spectrum, and they’re ultimately spiritual problems. Both promise to fulfill us on a deep level - and both fail to deliver! Perfection causes us to strive physically and emotionally; sometimes, it’s motivated by some insecurity. Clinging to comfort can feel good, but it can also cause us to miss God-given opportunities and waste God-given talents. We should allow God to keep us centered. We need to give God our best, because our efforts glorify Him - and we need to rest and trust in His goodness.

Main Passages

20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.
- Romans 3:20

33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
- John 16:33

15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
- 1 John 2:15-17

Discussion Questions

1. There are three types of perfectionism: self-oriented (I need to be perfect), externally-oriented (things need to be perfect), and others-oriented (you need to be perfect). When was the last time you struggled with one of these kinds of perfectionism? How did the struggle make you feel?

2. Seeking comfort without God (counterfeit comfort) requires no faith and causes us to run from our problems; seeking comfort in God builds faith and helps us face our problems. How have you seen “counterfeit comfort” play out in your life?

Apply

1. Look for ways to prioritize giving love and grace to those around you, or reach out to someone who needs comfort.