The Purpose of the Holy Spirit

Main Thought

It feels great when one solution can solve multiple problems and meet many needs. What if there was a Person who could do that? Well, there is! The Holy Spirit can meet virtually every need in our lives - especially the immaterial needs of our inner being. Love, approval, comfort, peace and more can be found in the Holy Spirit. There are also specific, spiritual needs that the Holy Spirit came to fulfill. We need someone to lead us closer to Jesus. The Holy Spirit reveals the truth about Jesus to us. He brings our faith in God to life and raises it to new levels. We need someone to help us grow in God. The Holy Spirit inspires us to pursue God in faith. When we do, He causes us to grow and become like Christ. We also need a purpose and the power to accomplish it. The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome obstacles when we make Jesus known. Why not seek the Holy Spirit’s presence? We have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! Every time we make a decision that honors God (like reading our Bibles, praying,  rejecting temptation, etc.), we sow a seed toward our relationship with God. The Holy Spirit wants to show us that He can be everything we need.

Main Passages

13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

- John 16:13-14

16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. -

Galatians 5:16-17

8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

- Galatians 6:8

Discussion Questions

1. What kinds of immaterial (mental, emotional, and spiritual) needs do we have as human beings?

2. Why do you think we turn to earthly or temporary things to meet the needs of our inner beings instead of turning to the Holy Spirit?

3. What’s one decision you can make on a regular basis to invite the Holy Spirit into your life?

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

Main Thought

The Book of Joel was written during a dark time in Judah’s history. Locusts ravaged the land and created a famine. It was against this dark backdrop that God made a promise of light and hope. God promised that He’d eventually pour His Holy Spirit out to His people. God kept this promise when the Holy Spirit arrived on the Day of Pentecost (50 days after Jesus Christ rose from the dead). Today, God’s Holy Spirit is available and accessible - but that doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ll experience Him. If we want to experience God’s promises, then we need to fulfill God’s premises. A premise is a condition that we need to meet. If we want to feel close to God, then we need to draw near to Him in faith. God wants to save, shape, and satisfy everyone who draws near to Him.

Main Passages

16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: 17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; 18 even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. 21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

- Acts 2:16-18, 21

6 Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” 7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.

- Galatians 4:6-7

‘On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.'

- John 7:37-39

Discussion Questions

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

2. God made a lot of promises in the Bible. Which one is your favorite? Try to find it in the Bible and share it if you can.

3. Is there a promise of God that you’d like to see fulfilled in, or through, your life? If so, then is there a premise (condition) that you are responsible for meeting?

Rediscovering the Holy Spirit

Main Thought

Most Christians have heard of the Holy Spirit. A lot of people who don’t follow God or go to church might have heard of Him too. But how many people know who the Holy Spirit is, and what He came to do? How many people experience His presence? We need to rediscover the Holy Spirit! He’s not a something; He’s a Someone. We can know God through the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. But God won’t force us to do this. The Holy Spirit isn’t forceful; He’s faithful. He’s accessible - and we can experience Him when we’re ready to pursue Him intentionally. When we do, we discover that the Holy Spirit isn’t distant; He’s intimate. We can discern the love, comfort, strength, joy, and leading of God as we draw closer and closer to Him. The Holy Spirit wants to be present in our lives - and, He wants to be transformational in our lives.

Main Passages

16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

- John 14:16-18

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God…

- Romans 8:15-16
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord,[a] are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

- 2 Corinthians 3:18

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you feel like you’ve ever experienced the Holy Spirit’s presence? If so, how would you personally describe what that’s like?

3. What barriers might prevent you from experiencing the Holy Spirit’s presence? (Examples might include busyness, anger, doubt, unforgiveness, sin, etc.) What can you do to remove those barriers and seek the Holy Spirit in faith?

Butter than Anger

Main Thought

Everyone knows what it feels like to be angry. We get angry when something we hold dear is threatened. It’s a natural response, but we need to be careful. Anger can build until it breaks. It can cause damage to property, to people, to us and our relationships, and more. God can be angry too, but anger isn’t God’s preferred response. God’s anger is outweighed by God’s love. God told us this Himself, then showed us through Jesus Christ. When Jesus was on the Cross, He looked down at those who were crucifying and mocking Him and said: “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they’re doing.” Jesus responded with love, setting an example for us in the process. We can let go of our anger and “look with love.” We can look to God; we can look within us to figure out why we’re angry; and, we can look at others with empathy. When we choose love first, we choose a response that’s better than anger alone.

Main Passages

33 For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife.

- Proverbs 30:33

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… -

Exodus 34:6

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

- Hebrews 4:15-16

Discussion Questions

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

2. The Greek Philosopher Aristotle suggested that anger can be useful if someone can be “angry with the right person, and to the right degree, and at the right time, and for the right purpose, and in the right way.” Do you think God might be able to help us accomplish that difficult task? Why or why not?

3. Do you think any of these three things might be able to help you let go of anger and “look with love”? If so, which one(s) and why?

   1. Look to God, remembering that we’ve been forgiven and that He offers us help.

   2. Look to ourselves, to figure out what’s happening inside us when we’re angry.

   3. Look at others with empathy, in an effort to understand and forgive.

Life Group H.E.A.R. Journal: Proverbs 22-28

Life Group H.E.A.R. Journal

Weekly Reading: Proverbs 22-28

17Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. - Proverbs 27:17

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the H.E.A.R. journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from the Book of Proverbs. (Our church is scheduled to read one chapter per day. We’re covering chapters 22 through 28 this week.) Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the H.E.A.R. Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, you can share something from your own reading. If you need to read, you can start with the chapter in Proverbs that matches today’s date. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you journal some other way, feel free to do that!) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! 

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

Life Group H.E.A.R. Journal: Proverbs 15-21

Life Group H.E.A.R. Journal

Weekly Reading: Proverbs 15-21

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

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the H.E.A.R. journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from the Book of Proverbs. (Our church is scheduled to read one chapter per day. We’re covering chapters 15 through 21 this week.) Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the H.E.A.R. Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, you can share something from your own reading. If you need to read, you can start with the chapter in Proverbs that matches today’s date. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you journal some other way, feel free to do that!) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! 

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

I Want More!

Main Thought

It’s easy to be enticed by everything the world has to offer. Some things might make us feel good or look good. We may want to have things or do things that cause people (including ourselves) to see us in a better light. Interacting with the world’s temporary, fleeting pleasures inappropriately creates problems. Sometimes, we overspend on things that end. We might also try to rely on temporary things and experiences to bring us fulfillment. But temporary things can only bring temporary happiness.

God created us to be satisfied by more. There’s a hole the size of eternity in our hearts, and only God can fill it. If we want Him to do that, then we need to turn our focus from the temporary to the timeless. We should seek God first, and store up treasures in Heaven. If we do those things, then we’ll eventually discover that living for things that last will produce a satisfaction that lasts.

Main Passages

Better to be lowly and have a servant than to play the great man and lack bread.

- Proverbs 12:9

One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

- Proverbs 13:7

11He has made everything beautiful and appropriate in its time. He has also planted eternity [a sense of divine purpose] in the human heart [a mysterious longing which nothing under the sun can satisfy, except God]—yet man cannot find out (comprehend, grasp) what God has done (His overall plan) from the beginning to the end.

- Ecclesiastes 3:11, AMP

19  “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where  moth and rust  destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20but 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

Discussion Questions

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

2. Think about a deeply satisfying experience that you’ve had. What made the experience satisfying? What can that moment teach us about living for eternity?

3. What’s one thing you can do to “turn your attention from the temporary to the timeless,” and live with eternity in mind?

Trust in the Lord: More than a Motto

Main Thought

“Trusting God” should be more than just a motto or a cliché. Trusting God is a defining characteristic of the Christian life. God’s absolute power and love should give us the assurance we need to trust Him absolutely. Wisdom outside of God is limited, but God knows what’s around each corner. He sees the future that we can’t see. We should trust Him by moving forward through life as He leads us. Trusting God doesn’t result in us sitting around, doing nothing. Trusting God moves us to passionately and proactively walk by faith. Clarity and assurance come when we do.

Main Passages

1 My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

- Proverbs 3:1-4

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. 8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

- Proverbs 3:5-10

The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.

- Psalm 28:7

Discussion Questions

1. What are some common misconceptions people have about what it means to trust in God?

2. Name one or two things that inspire you to trust in God.

3. What’s one thing you can do to trust God and walk by faith this week?

The Miracle of We

Main Thought

There are only two miracles included by all four gospel writers: the Resurrection of Christ and the feeding of the 5,000. What can we learn from the miracle of Jesus feeding the great multitude? Here’s one thing: we can learn about the environment and the events that produce a miracle. So many people want a miracle, whether it be a small one or a big one. But miracles can only take place when there is a need for one. Then, if a miracle is going to happen, we often need to prepare for it. We must prepare ourselves and our situation to properly steward anything God gives us. Next, something unexpected happens: Jesus takes. Jesus took the boy’s lunch. In a similar way, Jesus may want to take something from us. This might include our pride, our sin, our energy, our time, finances, our ideal future, our finances, and so much more. Though it might be hard to let go of these things, we can trust in God’s wisdom, power, and love when we do. It’s only after we hand over “our loaf” to Jesus that He does a miracle. Jesus does miracles while we sit at His feet. We need to rest in Him. Resting in God (or waiting on Him) means that we actively steward the things we’re responsible for to the best of our ability - then, trust God with everything else. We do our best and then trust God with the rest. If we’re willing to take these difficult steps, we help create an environment where miracles can happen in our midst.

Main Passages

5 When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do. 7 Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!” 8 Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, 9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”

- John 6:5-9

10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. 12 When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” 13 So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.

- John 6:10-13

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

- Lamentations 3:22-23

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why does Jesus “take our loaves”? Why does He often require us to lay down things that are near and dear to us? (See also: Luke 19:23; Luke 14:27; Matthew 4:19-20; Hebrews 12:1-2, etc.)

3. What “loaf” do you need to give God before sitting at His feet?

Being “We” in Digital Babylon

Main Thought

The two greatest commandments are to love God and to love other people. If the Church is categorized by love - by relationship - then the Enemy will do everything in his power to oppose meaningful connection. This is why Pastor John Mark Comer said, “If the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy.” How should God’s people behave differently than a culture that has become a “digital Babylon?” We can start by being set apart: fully Human, and fully His. We shouldn’t outsource our humanity by relying on devices to replace our thoughts, feelings, and the excitement that comes from connecting authentically. We can also be useful to God and His Kingdom by serving Him together. This process allows us to bond while building together. An attitude of readiness keeps our eyes outward, looking for opportunities to bring people further into the family of God. These things can help us fight the cultural current and fulfill God’s greatest commandments.

Main Passages

"Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.”

- 2 Timothy 2:20-21

So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

- 2 Timothy 2:22

“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will."

- 2 Timothy 2:23-26

Discussion Questions

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

2. Pastor Neli Atiga presented three keys to “being ‘we’” in a highly digital culture. Which one of them stood out most to you? As a reminder, they were:

   1. Set apart: fully Human, fully His.

   2. Useful: vessels for the Master of the household.

   3. Ready: for every good work.

3. What’s one thing you can do, outside of your normal circles and routines, to connect with someone authentically for God’s Kingdom this week?

The Stewardship of We

Main Thought

God has given us so much. He’s given us life, time, relationships, talent, finances, and more. What will we do with the things God has given us? That question lies at the heart of stewardship. We become good stewards when we remember that everything comes from, and belongs to, God. If we see God’s sovereignty and ownership in all things, then we’ll see that it’s important to embrace our responsibility. We’ll live knowing that we’ll eventually give an account to God for the way we stewarded His gifts and opportunities. This shouldn’t be a reason for believers to live in fear. It should be a reason for believers to live in faith. We can expect God’s reward for faithful stewardship. He often rewards us on the earth; and, even when He doesn’t, He will recognize us and reward us in eternity.

Main Passages

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

- Psalm 24:1

14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

- Matthew 25:14-19

20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’

- Matthew 25:20-23

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why do you think God entrusts us with our lives, opportunities, talents, finances, and more?

3. What’s one thing you can steward better (more intentionally, more consistently, more sacrificially, etc.) with honoring God in mind?

The Vision of We

Main Thought

We may have seasons during which moving forward can feel like a chore. The list of potential reasons for these seasons may be endless - yet there’s one thing that has the power to help a lot of people. We need vision! Vision gives us clarity, direction, and purpose. Living with vision has been proven to decrease stress, make us more resilient, and lower levels of anxiety and depression. But we need a God-sized vision that’s big enough to remain constant through all of life’s ups and downs. God gives that to us by inviting us to be a part of His mission. God’s mission gives vision to every Christian. Every aspect of our lives can become a part of God’s mission to restore the world and rescue its people. We can search for opportunities to advance God’s mission; then, when we see them, we should seize them. If we’ll commit to that, God’s presence and purpose can become incredible constants in our lives.

Main Passages

Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.

- Proverbs 29:18

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

- Habakkuk 2:1-2

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

- Luke 19:10

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

Discussion Questions

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

2. To what extent does God’s mission fit into your day-to-day life?

3. Search for one or two opportunities to advance God’s mission in the context of your life. How can you seize just one of those opportunities this week?

The Work of We

Main Thought

The Bible uses different analogies to describe who we’re meant to be and what we’re called to do as God’s people. The Bible calls us a Body. In this analogy, people within God’s body are likened to different body parts. We each bring unique value, and we need the unique value and perspective of others. This is a powerful example that emphasizes individual uniqueness. The Bible also refers to us as a Building. In this analogy, we’re compared to stones that make up a strong building. The stones essentially serve the same purpose and function. In a similar way, God calls us to do some things that every Christian is supposed to do. This includes prayer, reading His Word, evangelism, serving others, giving, and more. The emphasis here is placed on unity and uniformity. These powerful images compliment each other. They communicate that there’s a place and a purpose for us among the people of God. We can become aware of what we’re able to bring to God and His people when we consider the unique things we can do, and the uniform things we can do that are common to all of God’s people.

Main Passages

14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.

- 1 Corinthians 12:14-19

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. 6 For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

- 1 Peter 2:4-6

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

- 1 Peter 2:9

Discussion Questions

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

2. Have you been blessed by another believer’s actions recently? If so, how?

3. Consider the unique and uniform contributions we can make to God and other people.

1. What can you do that’s unique to you?

2. What can you do that every Christian is supposed to do?

The Faith of We

Main Thought

James made an important statement on faith in his letter to early Jewish Christians. “Faith without works is dead.” Does this mean that we need to add our own good works to the work that Jesus completed on the Cross in order to be saved? No! Rather, James is essentially saying this: “Genuine faith is always accompanied by good works.” Faith should cause good works. So, if we believe in God, we should behave like it. When we do, our faith and good works can grow in strength and impact over time. 

Main Passages

14 Can that [kind of] faith save him? [No, a mere claim of faith is not sufficient—genuine faith produces good works.] 

- James 2:14, Amplified

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

- Ephesians 2:8-10

18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 

- James 2:18

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you feel that your actions adequately reflect your faith in God? Why or why not?

3. What’s one challenging thing you can do in order to better behave in alignment with your belief in God?

1. If you are someone who is still investigating or exploring belief in God, who is someone you can talk to in order to find out more?

The Me of We

Main Thought

Virtually everyone wants to live with purpose, and to become the best version of themselves. When we envision these ideals, we often think of ourselves attaining them as individuals. God designed us to do those things - but we can only do them together! We are created to be masterpieces in Christ; however, God’s masterpiece takes its true form when we gather in community like pieces of a puzzle. He displays His best work through His people collectively. If we really want to be living masterpieces, filled with purpose, then we should find our place among God’s people.

Main Passages

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

- 2 Corinthians 5:17

Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. 2 You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. 3 All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else.

- Ephesians 2:1-3 (NLT)

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

- Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why do you think we’re made by God to become a part of the greater, collective whole that is His Church?

3. We can we do to find our place among God’s people?

The Need of We

Main Thought

God decided to give people purpose. That’s true for us as individuals; and, it’s true for us as a collective whole. We - as a group of people - can discover new ways to make a difference. How can we prepare ourselves to make a difference together? It begins with making ourselves available to God, His purposes, and His people. If we commit to this, then we’ll need to continually choose the right attitude along the way. This might include choosing to focus on good things that amaze us, rather than fixating on things that frustrate us. We may want to come before God with a renewed commitment to be “all in.” When we’ve made ourselves available and prepared our attitudes, we’re ready to partner with God. We do what we can in our natural efforts. Then, we trust God to provide the supernatural. Together, we’ll accomplish His mission and fulfill our purpose.

Main Passages

20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

- 2 Corinthians 5:20

26 For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being[b] might boast in the presence of God. 30 And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”

- 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

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

- Colossians 3:23

Discussion Questions

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

2. Do you feel that you’re available for God and His people, ready to serve with a good attitude?

3. What can you do to partner with God, and add your best “natural” efforts to the advancement of His Kingdom?

Divine Detours

Main Thought

God brought the people of Israel on a journey. He rescued them from slavery in Egypt, and wanted to bring them into His Promised Land. Yet many of the Israelites failed to enter the Promised Land. They died in the wilderness instead. Why? Their location might have changed, but they didn’t change.

If we want to inherit the good plans and purposes that God has for us, then we need to recognize our need for transformation. God often uses “divine detours” - unexpected changes or interruptions - to expose our flaws. This happens because God cares more about our development than our destination. We should therefore embrace the process of sanctification as God helps us grow to become more like Jesus. 

Main Passages

When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.” 2 Aaron answered them, “Take off the gold earrings that your wives, your sons and your daughters are wearing, and bring them to me.” 3 So all the people took off their earrings and brought them to Aaron. 4 He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, “These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.”

- Exodus 32:1-4 NIV

7 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, ‘These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.’ 9 “I have seen these people,” the Lord said to Moses, “and they are a stiff-necked people.

- Exodus 32:7-9 NIV

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why is it important for God change us, or sanctify us, before we move forward into His promises and plans?

3. How is God helping you become more like Jesus in this season of your life?

The Journey to Faith

Main Thought

Two of Jesus’ disciples went on a short, seven-mile journey from Jerusalem to Emmaus. Jesus appeared to them on this journey and kept them from recognizing Him. He then began to explain the gospel through the Old Testament. We learn an important truth in this moment: we can encounter Jesus throughout scripture. The Old Testament conceals truths about Christ that the New Testament eventually reveals. Here are a few examples of that. Jesus is the ultimate ark who saves humanity from God’s wrath, like Noah’s ark saved him from the flood. He is the perfect lamb who was qualified to pay the price for humanity’s sins. He is the greater David, who slayed the giants of Sin and Death.

Our faith in God grows when we encounter Jesus throughout scripture. These encounters fill us with hope, even when we walk through difficult parts of life’s journey. Then, our encounters with Jesus can become testimonies to others. Let’s pursue the person of Christ in scripture. If we do, then we will be filled with passion for Him.

Main Passages

"And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself."

- Luke 24:27

"They asked each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'"

- Luke 24:32

"Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread."

- Luke 24:35

Discussion Questions

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

2. Think about your favorite Old Testament story or scripture. How might the people, places, or events in that story remind you of the gospel of Jesus Christ?

3. How has something you’ve learned about Jesus - His life, His character, His gospel, etc. - helped you through a difficult moment in life’s journey?

Wrestling with God

Main Thought

Jacob went on a journey from brokenness to betterment. His family of origin was marked by a mix of good things like seeking God, along with bad things like deception, manipulation, bitterness, conditional love, and more. Jacob’s actions heavily contributed to brokenness in his family. But God called Jacob to experience His goodness and blessing anyway. This was a demonstration of God’s grace, expressed in this moment as God’s undeserved favor toward us. Still, Jacob needed to grow before he could fully inherit God’s good promises. How did God help him grow? By wrestling with him. God appeared to Jacob in the midst of his struggle, and engaged him in a way that gave Jacob an opportunity to grow. God often does the same with us. He allows us to struggle, to wrestle, so that we can grow. If we’ll try our best (even in the worst circumstances), cry out to Him, and hold on, then we’ll become better versions of ourselves. We’ll develop a deeper trust in God and we’ll be prepared for destiny in Him.

Main Passages

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time…”

- ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭1:9

13 …“I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. 14 Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. 15 I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”

- Genesis 28:13-15

24 So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. 26 Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”

- Genesis 32:24-26

Discussion Questions

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

2. What’s one good habit or mindset you learned from your family? What’s one bad habit or mindset you learned from your family?

3. Is there a situation in your life right now in which God might be allowing you to “wrestle?” How might you be able to grow through that situation?

I'd Walk 1,000 Miles

Main Thought

Everyone knows that Christians are supposed to trust God. Trusting God means that we rely on Him and live with the assumption that God is good. Still, it can be hard to trust God. We can’t see Him. There will be moments in which we don’t personally perceive God’s presence or goodness. We might not understand what He’s doing, or why He’s allowing certain things. How are we supposed to trust God in spite of all of this? We can trust in a God that we can’t see because we’ve seen His goodness before! Many of us have had our prayers answered and our lives touched. All of us can look to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the ultimate proof of God’s goodness. When we’re reminded of God’s goodness and inspired to trust Him, we can respond in faith by “saying yes to the next step.” We can take one practical step of faith and obedience at a time. If we’ll continue to walk with God, then we’ll eventually see more and more of God’s goodness along the way.

Main Passages

Abraham was now very old, and the Lord had blessed him in every way. 2 He said to the senior servant in his household, the one in charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh. 3 I want you to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I am living, 4 but will go to my country and my own relatives and get a wife for my son Isaac.” 5 The servant asked him, “What if the woman is unwilling to come back with me to this land? Shall I then take your son back to the country you came from?”

- Genesis 24:1-5

58 So they called Rebekah and asked her, “Will you go with this man?” “I will go,” she said.

- Genesis 24:58

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

- Proverbs 3:5-6

Discussion Questions

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

2. Why is the life, death, and resurrection (or the gospel/good news) of Jesus Christ the ultimate proof of God’s goodness?

3. What’s one practical step of trust and obedience you can take toward something God might be calling you to do? (It can be in your faith, your relationships, your career, your family, etc.)