How to Love People Who Hurt You

Main Thought

To be hurt, whether by a complete stranger or by someone we love, is a part of the human experience. Jesus knew what it was like to be hurt too. Most of His own disciples abandoned Him, denied Him, or betrayed Him around the time of His Crucifixion. Yet Jesus loved those who hurt Him with incredible grace, truth, and service. It’s exciting to be a recipient of such love - but it can be intimidating to rise up to such a lofty standard. As followers of Jesus, we can work our way toward loving those who hurt us by taking steps of grace (which withholds judgement and chooses to desire good or bless); steps of truth (which presents the truth without malice and builds boundaries if necessary); and, steps of service (to meet the felt needs of others in different ways or degrees). The next, right step is often an uncomfortable one. But taking these steps will eventually bring us closer to God and form us to be more like Christ, all while we learn to rest assured in God.

Main Passages

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

- John 1:14

3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him… 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”

- John 13:3-5, 10-11

14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. 

- John 13:14

Discussion Questions

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

2. Think about a time you received grace, truth, or service, either from God or someone else. What happened? What did it feel like to receive these things?

3. Are there any situations in which you can take a step toward grace, truth, or service while choosing to love someone who hurt you? What might that step look like practically?

How to Love Difficult People

Main Thought

It can be hard to love others. It can be especially difficult to love “difficult people,” whether it be because of their personalities, differing beliefs, the things they’ve done to hurt us, or more. Yet the second-greatest commandment still applies: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” So how are we supposed to love difficult people? We can begin by looking inward. Our own moods, perspectives, biases, or even sin can get in the way of our ability to love others. Then, we can make the difficult choice to extend outward. To forgive and love begins with a choice to desire good for others, rather than harm. This decision may help us see the hurt in the other person’s life. Ultimately, our ability to love difficult people finds unmatched strength and inspiration when we look upward. God loved us when we were “difficult people.” Experiencing God’s love makes it possible to extend God’s love.

Main Passages

6 The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, 7 keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.”

- Exodus 34:6-7

2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

- Matthew 7:2-3

31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

- Ephesians 4:31-32

Discussion Questions

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

2. The Word of God (and Pastor Roland’s sermon) exhort us to look inward toward things that may hinder our ability to love, and to extend outward with a choice to love. Which of those two things do you find more difficult? Why?

3. Is there a difficult person in your life or sphere of influence that God may be calling you to extend love to? How might that look?

How to Love When You're Drained

Main Thought

Most of us know what it’s like to feel drained, or emotionally exhausted. Great or prolonged stress can cause us to feel trapped, powerless, or hopeless. We may become frustrated with the people around us more easily. That makes it hard for us to love. But Jesus can teach us how to love well, even when we’re drained. If we find ourselves surrounded by those who need us, it can help to shift our focus from our needs to their needs for a time. This can help us escape a downward spiral of negativity. Taking moments to pause and “look up to heaven” - even if those moments need to be brief - can allow our hearts to recalibrate and find relief in God before we return to the tasks-at-hand. We may also need to make a conscious decision to bless, not curse, people around us. We bless people when we adopt an attitude of love, pray for them, or desire good for them. Finally, as soon as we’re able, we should rush to find rest in our God. Jesus prioritized personal, quiet time with the Father and went to great lengths to experience it. We can learn from His example. If we do these things, then we’ll eventually discover that God meets our needs and multiplies our abilities.

Main Passages

13 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. 14 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

- Matthew 14:13-14

17 “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered. 18 “Bring them here to me,” he said. 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…

- Matthew 14:17-19

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.

- John 15:4-5

Discussion Questions

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

2. Has anything caused you to feel emotionally exhausted recently? (Please share as much as your comfort and privacy allows.)

3. The four things we can learn from Jesus about loving well when we’re feeling drained are listed below.

   1. We can shift our focus from our needs to the needs of others.

   2. We can pause and look up.

   3. We can choose to bless.

   4. We can rush to rest in God.

   Which do you feel would be most helpful to you, and why? How can you implement it?

Luke 15: Bible Study

Read Luke 15

Reflect on these questions

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible?

• Through the Parable of the Prodigal Son (along with places like John 13:9, John 15:5, James 4:6-8 and more), we can reach the following conclusion: “God’s love is offered unconditionally yet experienced conditionally.”

  • Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why or why not?

• The Younger (Prodigal) Son’s actions can be broadly categorized as rebellious. He visibly rejected the Father’s will while living in immorality. Meanwhile, the Older Son’s actions and attitudes can be called self-righteous. He appeared to obey the Father within the confines of traditional morality, yet his motives were selfish and his attitude was prideful and judgmental. Both sons dishonored their Father.

  • Can you see yourself in either one of these two brothers? Do you identify with one brother’s sin more than the other, or both equally? If so, why?

Respond with faith in action

• The hero of the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15 is the Loving Father. (Jesus used this character to portray God.) He initiated and invited both his younger, rebellious son and his older, self-righteous son to repent of their ways and enter into a closer relationship with Him.

  • Is there anything you need to change in order to enjoy a closer relationship with God on a personal level? If so, what?

  • Bonus: As we approach Easter on March 31, who can you invite into a relationship with God?

My Christian Calling

Main Thought

A lot of people want to discover their “calling” from God. While the specific details of our lives differ, the call of God for every Christian is the same. God calls us to know Christ. He wants us to believe in Him as the Son of God, to develop a personal relationship with Him, and to walk in His power through the presence of His Holy Spirit. God wants more than a one-time encounter with us; He calls us to grow in Him. We’re meant to love Him more and become more like Him over time. When we grow in Christ, we glow for Christ. People should be able to see Jesus through the way we live. Finally, every Christian is called to go for Christ. We are meant to engage individuals, families, and communities with God’s love.

Main Passages

“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.”

- John 15:5 ESV

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”

- Acts 4:13 ESV

”And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover…And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.”

- Mark 16:15-20 ESV

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you think people around you can see a good representation of Jesus through your life? Why or why not?

3. God calls every believer to do the following four things. Which of these four things best reflect your knowlede of God, or your relationship with Him, at the current moment? What might help you take the next step?

   1. Know Christ.

   2. Grow in Christ.

   3. Glow for Christ.

   4. Go for Christ.

Acing Your Serve

Main Thought

How does a tennis match start? It starts with a “serve” - a shot delivered to start the action. One study estimated that an average professional tennis match typically sees between 100-150 serves. But what does this have to do with the Mission of God? Often, things start when we “serve.” God’s Mission began when He decided to serve humanity by sending His Son, Jesus. Jesus served by living a perfect life, yet choosing to go to the Cross for our sins. He served so that we could belong to His family, believe in Him, and become the people that we were made to be. We can create opportunities for people to belong, believe, and become the people that God made them to be when we serve them too.

Main Passages

25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 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 20:25-28

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace…

- 1 Peter 4:10

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why do you think God calls us to serve people, both in His Church and outside it?

3. Can you think of anyone who is a) in your sphere of influence; b) far from God, and; c) in need of help or service in some way? How can serving that person (or people) around you create opportunities to engage them on behalf of Jesus Christ?

Where Our Mission Begins

Main Thought

God is on a mission to rescue Mankind and restore Creation. This is sometimes referred to as “Missio Dei,” or the Mission of God. God included us in His mission, giving us the opportunity to make a difference that lasts forever. So where do we begin? The process of making disciples begins when we engage others and share the good news about Jesus. That task can seem daunting at times. But engaging others doesn’t have to begin with boldness. The first people to ever declare that Jesus rose again were the women who went to visit His tomb. They didn’t necessarily feel “bold” when they started. Engaging others doesn’t need to begin with bulletproof arguments or evidence either. Even the strongest evidence imaginable - seeing the resurrected Jesus - failed to fully convince some people. Engaging others begins when we share our experiences in God with other people. We “brag about what we’ve beheld” in the hopes that others may come to behold God too.

Main Passages

2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”

- Matthew 28:2-10

18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:18-20

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

- Matthew 4:19

Discussion Questions

1. Is there anything that keeps you from engaging others, building relationships, or sharing the good news about Jesus?

2. Share one good thing that God has done for you with your Life Group.

3. What’s something you (or your group) could try to engage people who don’t know God in your spheres of influence?

The Highway of Holiness

Main Thought

Most people prefer to take faster, more efficient roads as opposed to slower ones filled with obstacles. We like highways. Did you know that holiness is like a highway? God’s highway of holiness provides blessing and fulfillment. We experience joy when we journey on it. It’s a highway that provides clarity and safety too. God guides us when we follow Him. If the highway of holiness is so great, then why don’t we all take it? The highway of holiness is exclusive. Only those who know God through Jesus, and follow Jesus into greater personal holiness, can access this incredible path to life. God wants everyone to take His highway. Jesus made the way. Will you hop on the highway to holiness?

Main Passages

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; 2 it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God.

- Isaiah 35:1-2

8 And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it. It shall belong to those who walk on the way; even if they are fools, they shall not go astray. 9 No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. 10 And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

- Isaiah 35:8-10

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

- Proverbs 3:5-6

Discussion Questions

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

2. What do you think it means to be on the “highway of holiness?” How is life different for those who travel it?

3. Are there any obstacles, questions, or hesitations that make it hard for you to travel on the highway to holiness? How might God want to help you address that challenge?

The Possibility of Holiness: Bible Study

Read Hebrews 7

Reflect on these questions

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible?

• Hebrews 7 has a lot to say about a mysterious man named Melchizadek. Melchizadek, whose name means “King of Righteousness,” appears to bless Abraham in Genesis 14 - and then is never seen or heard from again. It has been proposed by theologians that Melchizadek was actually Jesus, appearing in a “Christophany” - a bodily appearance of Christ prior to His birth. He may have also simply been a mysterious man who was used and annointed by God. Who do you think Melchizadek was, and why?

• Hebrews 7:22 summarizes the scriptures that precede it, and calls Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. In what way is the New Covenant that we have in Jesus better than the Old Covenant, given through Moses?

Respond with faith in action

• Hebrews 7:25 invites us to draw near to God through Jesus Christ. Given the incredible grace we’ve received through Jesus, and the unprecedented access we have to God, how will you draw near to God this week?

Holiness - God’s Character, Our Calling

Main Thought

Holiness is a quality that describes the very character of God. How does His holiness impact us? We’re meant to become holy, like Him. Our mindset toward holiness must be intentional. We are meant to think about it as a goal, and endure in our efforts to grow towards holiness. Of course, that’s easier said than done. As God’s children, we can be motivated toward holiness because it brings us closer to our Heavenly Father. The character and conduct that Jesus displayed on His way to the serves as an incredible model for us to emulate. We are called to mirror God’s holy character in us, so that we can be a light to the world.

Main Passages

13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, 15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior;

- 1 Peter 1:13-16

13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

- 1 Peter 3:13-16

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

- 1 Peter 4:12-13

Discussion Questions

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

2. What, if anything, motivates you to be holy?

3. What do you think it means to “grow in holiness”? How might that look in your life?

What Makes God Holy?

Main Thought

We’re all familiar with the word holy, but how would we describe it or define it? The idea of being “set apart” can help us understand what it means to be holy. Yet holiness doesn’t start with us; it all begins with God. Personal holiness is grounded in the holiness of God. So what makes God holy? God is holy because He is completely set apart (or unique) in His power, as our Source of Life, and in His goodness. Psalm 96 exhorts us to worship God in the beauty of His holiness. We can do that when we sing, declare His goodness to others, and ascribe (or credit) glory and honor to Him. These things allow us to perceive and understanding God’s holiness more clearly. Then, we’re inspired to grow in personal holiness as we come to know God’s holiness in a greater way.

Main Passage

Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! 2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. 3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples 4 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens.

- Psalm 96:1-5

6 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength! 8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts! 9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness; tremble before him, all the earth!

- Psalm 96:6-9

10 Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns! Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity.” 11 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; 12 let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy 13 before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness.

- Psalm 96:10-13

Discussion Questions

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

2. What stands out to you most regarding the three things that make God holy, and why?

3. Psalm 96 gives us three things we can do to worship God. Which one(s) will you try to do this week?

Hope for the New Year

Main Thought

We often approach a New Year with resolutions, excitement, and hope. Yet these things can fade almost as quickly as the fireworks do. How can we have real, lasting hope for the new year? It all begins when we do our best to love the people in front of us. We also need to confront the reality that things sometimes get worse before they get better. In spite of this, we should determine to have patient endurance. It’s much easier to endure when we remember God’s faithfulness and promises. We can go to His Word, seek Him in prayer, and we can keep track of the things He has done before. Once we remember God’s promises, we should refuse to give up on them. With God, we can remain hopeful that He has “plans for our welfare, not disaster, and will give us a future and a hope.”

Main Passage

4 This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: 5 “Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. 6 Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! 7 And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”

8 This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let your prophets and fortune-tellers who are with you in the land of Babylon trick you. Do not listen to their dreams, 9 because they are telling you lies in my name. I have not sent them,” says the Lord.

10 This is what the Lord says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 14 I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land.”

- Jerimiah 29:4-14

Discussion Questions

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

2. What was one major victory or difficulty in 2023 that may affect you in 2024?

3. Based on the Main Thought or Pastor Bret Holman’s sermon, what’s one thing that can help you have hope in the New Year?

Do You See What I See?

Main Thought

From the perspective of most people in the first century, shepherds weren’t people that you wanted to associate with. Yet God saw it fit to invite these men to the birth of His Son. So He sent an angel to them. We then begin to see the shepherds’ perspective in response to the angels’ announcement. They had faith, and their faith was accompanied by practical action. They made pursuing Jesus their priority. They knew that they wanted to see, know, and experience Jesus for themselves. Then, they shared their experience with others. God values us highly, just as He did these shepherds. If we’re willing to respond as they did, then we will also share the joy that they had.

Main Passages

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

- Luke 2:8-12

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

- Luke 2:13-15

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

- Luke 2:16-20

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you think genuine faith must be accompanied by appropriate action? Why or why not?

3. What can you learn from the shepherds’ response to Jesus?

Meet Maher-shalal-hash-baz

Main Thought

Mary, Elizabeth, and Joseph are among the people included most often when we think of our favorite individuals associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. But who was Maher-shalal-hash-baz? He was the son of Isaiah, the Old Testament prophet, born approximately 700 years before Jesus. The name "Maher-shalal-hash-baz” meant “speed to the spoil, hurry to the plunder.” It was a reminder of the distress that was near to the people of Judah, with the empire of Assyria lurking nearby. Distress may be near to us too, and it can make the world seem dark. Yet light shines brightest against a backdrop of darkness. Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah, God’s Son, as a part of the same prophecy in which Maher-shalal-hash-baz was named. The Son of God came to be the light that we need: whether that be as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, or Prince of Peace. If we want to experience Jesus in these ways, then His leadership must increase in our lives.

Main Passages

3 And I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son. Then the Lord said to me, “Call his name Maher-shalal-hash-baz; 4 for before the boy knows how to cry ‘My father’ or ‘My mother,’ the wealth of Damascus and the spoil of Samaria will be carried away before the king of Assyria.”

-  Isaiah 8:3-4

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.

- Isaiah 9:2

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

- Isaiah 9:6-7

Discussion Questions

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

2. Which of the four names (which represents roles and/or attributes) of the Messiah stands out most to you: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, or Prince of Peace? Why?

3. What might it look like for the government, or leadership, of Jesus to increase in your life? In other words, how can you follow His Word or His will?

Mary’s Christmas Choral

Main Thought

Mary’s experience in conceiving Christ as a virgin, by the power of God’s Holy Spirit, is often romanticized in the Christmas season. But have you ever thought about what that might have been like for her? People would have gossiped and assumed things about her. She could have lost her betrothed; in fact, we’re told in Matthew 1 that Joseph was planning to divorce her quietly. Mary’s future would have been very uncertain. In spite of this, Mary didn’t magnify the wrong things. She chose to magnify God by focusing on Him, and allowing her awareness and perception of Him to grow. We can learn from Mary’s example when we magnify Jesus. He’s near to us, and He satisfies our souls.

Main Passages

28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

- Luke 1:28-33

46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed. 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

- Luke 1:46-49

8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.

- James 4:8

Discussion Questions

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

2. What kind of things do you have a tendency to “magnify,” focus on, or prioritize?

3. What do you think it means or feels like to magnify God? How can you do that this week?

How to Walk Out of Doubt

Main Thought

Almost everyone would claim that they try to be a good person. Christians try their best to be godly. Yet bad things happen to all of us in spite of this. We all face disappointment. Our disappointment can cause us to doubt God’s goodness. But doubt has consequences. It may help us deal with disappointment, but it keeps us from experiencing hope, God’s goodness, and deep connection. How do we leave this hopeless place behind, and walk out of doubt? We can take one step of faith at a time. We can trust God, pursue Him, or attempt to know Him a little more: moment-by-moment, day-by-day. If we continue to do this, then we’ll eventually find that we’ve journeyed out of our doubts. We’ll stand confidently in God’s goodness, regardless of what’s happening around us.

Main Passages

11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. 13 But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. 16 He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 18 Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.”

- Luke 1:8-18

23 When his time of service was completed, he returned home. 24 After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five months remained in seclusion.

- Luke 1:23-24

57 When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy. 59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him after his father Zechariah, 60 but his mother spoke up and said, “No! He is to be called John.” 61 They said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who has that name.” 62 Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child. 63 He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone’s astonishment he wrote, “His name is John.” 64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God..

- Luke 1:57-64

Discussion Guide

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

2. Have you ever seen doubt have consequences, either in your life or in someone around you? 

3. What’s one step of faith you can take to know God more this week?

HELPING YOURSELF BY SERVING OTHERS

Main Thought

Many Christians believe that our appropriate response to God’s love and grace towards us should be to worship Him. That’s true - but worship is more than music. True worship involves our entire lives, which includes the things that we do to serve God. Worship is always eventually accompanied by service. That’s because we’re followers of Christ, who came to serve God and others. The Book of Ephesians declares that we’ve been made new in Christ with good works in mind. This minds that serving isn’t just something we do; if we are in Christ, then it’s who we are. We find purpose and fulfillment when we act in alignment with our new identity in Christ.

Main Passages

34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

- Matthew 25:34-40

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

- Mark 10:45

For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.

- James 2:26

10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for a life of good works that God had prepared for us to do.

- Ephesians 2:10

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you currently serve others as a part of the local church? (Or have you done so in the past?) If so, how has serving others been a blessing to you?

3. Do you feel that you’re currently worshipping God through service in the way He has called you to? If so, great! If not, then what’s one practical step you can take in that direction?

Thankful Every Day

Main Thought

On days like Thanksgiving, and on many other occasions, we’re prompted to be thankful or grateful. Yet there are plenty of days when that’s difficult. Is it really possible to be thankful every day? It is - and it’s because of Jesus. Jesus can be the cornerstone on which we build our lives and place our hope. He’s a firm and trustworthy foundation. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves of that fact. We can do that through song, in prayer, and in His Word. We can also remind each other of our hope in Jesus. Remembering that Jesus is our rock fills us with gratitude. That gratitude can carry us through difficult days with new perspective. It’s possible to be thankful every day, as long as we have Jesus Christ as our cornerstone.

Main Passages

22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. 23 This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

- Psalm 118:22-24

14 The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. 15 Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous…

- Psalm 118:14-15

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.”

- Matthew 7:24-25

Discussion Questions

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

2. What’s one thing you’re thankful for that comes from God?

3. How can you remind yourself of God’s love, faithfulness, and promises when times are tough?

Journey of Generosity

Main Thought

Many things in life are a journey of progression and growth. Generosity is no exception to this idea. As we walk with Jesus, we’re meant to become generous like Him. God’s Word (the Bible) has the power to adjust our perspective. Proper perspective brings contentment when we remember what matters most. Confidence and trust grows within us as we follow the proven principles of God’s Word. Our priorities and convictions grow alongside our trust in God as we walk with Him by faith. If we’ll commit to continuing in this journey, then we’ll eventually grow into a life of generosity on earth that is felt in eternity.

Main Passages

13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” 16 And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

- Luke 12:13-21

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

7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

- 2 Corinthians 9:7

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you ever felt blessed by Christ-centered generosity - either as someone who received, or as someone who gave? What happened?

3. What kinds of blessing and benefits await those who develop generous hearts?

Bonus: in your personal time with God (outside the Life Group meeting), review the categories of givers listed at the end of Pastor Roland’s notes for the “Journey of Generosity” sermon from November 12, 2023. (You can find this in the “Sermons” section of our website.) What kind of giver are you right now? How can you partner with God, and journey onward toward the next step? Pray for God’s grace, joy, and provision as you walk with Him by faith!

(Un)afraid

Main Thought

2 Timothy 1:7 says that God didn’t give us a “spirit of fear.” A spirit of fear is marked by consistent, negative reactions to bad things that might happen. This fear keeps us from moving forward with God. But God offers power, love, and a sound mind as a solution to our fear. We can trust and rely on God’s power before turning to anyone or anything else. Fear bends our hearts inward toward self-preservation, but love turns our hearts outward toward service. Fear creates panic, but God wants to give us a sound mind filled with peace. These three things make us unafraid of sharing in God’s mission. Standing with God will cause us to suffer loss in some way. However, sharing in God’s mission also means that we’ll share in God’s victory. His victory will outlast anything that might cause us to be afraid.

Main Passages

for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

- 2 Timothy 1:7

8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel...

- 2 Timothy 1:8-10

3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. 5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. 7 Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. 8 Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, 9 for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

- 2 Timothy 2:3-10

Discussion Questions

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

2. What’s one step you’re afraid of taking in your walk with God? How might God’s power, love, and/or a sound mind help you move in that direction?

3. Disciples of Jesus are called to become fishers of men (Matthew 4:19), and God wants to make us unafraid as we do so. Is there anyone you can share God’s love with as the Christmas season approaches? How can you do that?