SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDES
July 4, 2020
Text:
Judges 13
Discussion Questions:
1. What are some of the ways you feel less than super?
2. What does Judges 13 teach us about the people God calls and works with?
3. How might God be calling you in your imperfection?
4. How is Christ stepping graciously into your life?
June 27, 2020
Text:
Exodus 20:17, Luke 12:13-34, Philippians 4:10-13
Discussion Questions:
1. What’s the difference between a healthy desire/want and coveting?
2. What signals should we look for when we begin to covet something?
3. How is the 10th Commandment similar to the 1st Commandment?
4. What was Paul’s secret to contentment and satisfaction?
Memorization Challenge:
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.. ~ Philippians 4:13
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for providing for all your needs.
2. Confess to God your dissatisfaction and distrust of His provision.
3. Confess to God the things that have wrongly captured your heart.
4. Ask God to center your heart on Christ who alone can satisfy.
JUNE 20, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:16, John 1:14
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you think of a time when not telling the truth was the right thing to do?
2. When do you find it hardest to tell the truth?
3. What does it mean to “be full of grace and truth?”
4. Can you think of a situation where you applied both grace and truth in your words?
5. How do the words and actions of Jesus in John 8 guide our desire to speak with grace and truth?
Memorization Challenge:
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. ~ John 1:14
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for his saving grace.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you resist speaking the truth.
3. Confess to God the ways in which you use words to do harm.
4. Ask God to fill you with the grace and truth of Jesus so you can speak the truth in love.
June 13, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:15, Genesis 1: 27-30, Matthew 25:14-30
Discussion Questions:
1. What does Genesis 1:27-30 teach us about stewardship?
2. How does this passage shed new light on stealing?
3. What does Matthew 25:14-30 say about stealing?
4. How does grateful contentment of what’s been entrusted to us guard our hearts?
Memorization Challenge:
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” ~ Hebrews 13:5
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His faithfulness.
2. Praise God for His providential care.
3. Confess the ways in which we take what doesn’t belong to us.
4. Ask God to fill you with gratitude and contentment.
JUNE 6, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:14
Discussion Questions:
1. What is behind the shift in our society’s understanding of morality?
2. How does this shift find expression in its understanding of marriage?
3. What are the two sides to, “Marriage is the right place for sexual intimacy?”
4. How does marriage mirror the relationship between Christ and His church?
5. How does the knowledge of God’s grace weaken the power of temptation and sin?
Memorization Challenge:
"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good." ~ Titus 2:11–14
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of marriage and sexual intimacy.
2. Confess to God your failures in keeping the 7th commandment.
3. Ask God to protect your marriage and/or the marriages of loved ones.
4. Praise God for His unfailing commitment to keep covenant with His people.
May 23, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:8-11
Discussion Questions:
1. If you were raised in the church, describe what your Sundays were like growing up.
2. How are Sundays different for you now? Is the difference good? Bad?
3. What has this past year taught you about sabbath rest?
4. What 3 practices can we put into place to experience real sabbath rest?
Memorization Challenge:
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." ~ Matthew 11:28
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of sabbath rest.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you resist entering into sabbath rest.
3. Ask God to change your heart so you can practice sabbath rest.
4. Praise God for the promise of eternal rest we have in Jesus.
May 16, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:7
Discussion Questions:
1. What three lessons do the 10 commandments teach us?
2. What does the third commandment teach us about God?
3. Why must God’s name be treated with reverence?
4. What do we most often think the third commandment prohibits?
5. What is also being taught at a deeper level?
Memorization Challenge:
Exalt the Lord our God
and worship at his holy mountain,
for the Lord our God is holy.. ~ Psalm 99:9
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God’s holy name.
2. Confess to God how you have misused His name.
3. Ask God to reveal to your mind the hidden hypocrisies of your heart.
4. Thank God for freeing you from condemnation through Christ.
May 9, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:12
Discussion Questions:
1. How are parents commonly portrayed in movies and television programs?
2. How does the Bible call us to treat our parenats?
3. How is this radically different from what we see in our culture?
4. Can you name two ways in which you can show special honor to your mother today?
5. Has this message informed the way you think about your relationship with your parents?
Memorization Challenge:
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." ~ Proverbs 31:28–29
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the people he has put in your life who have blessed you. Name them one by one.
2. Praise God for the positive influences your parents have had on you.
3. Confess to God the way in which you have dishonored your parents.
4. Ask God to show you new ways to show special honor to your mother.
May 2, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:4-6
Discussion Questions:
1. What are the deep longings of our souls? How does God satisfy them?
2. If an idol is something we look to in hopes of receiving that which only God can give, what are some of our culture’s favorite idols?
3. What are some of the signals indicating the presence of idols in our lives?
4. What is meant by, “Removal is not enough. Idols must be replaced.”
5. How does affirming our identity in Christ facilitate genuine repentance?
Memorization Challenge:
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." ~ Colossians 3:1-3
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for delivering us from the guilt and bondage of our sins.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you look elsewhere for identity, worth and purpose that only He can give.
3. Ask God to help you identify idols in your life.
4. Ask God to direct your heart back toward Him each day.
5. Praise God for His patience and faithfulness.
APRIL 25, 2021
Text:
Exodus 20:1-3
Discussion Questions:
1. Why is it important for us to remember “Deliverance Before Obedience?”
2. What’s the relationship between trusting God and obeying God?
3. In what areas do you most struggle to trust God?
4. How does this last lack of trust lead to problems?
5. How does Christ’s obedience inspire and motivate us to trust and obey God?
Memorization Challenge:
“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me. " ~ Exodus 20:2-3
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for delivering you from the guilt of your sin through faith in Jesus Christ.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you place your desires ahead of His.
3. Ask God to help you trust in Him completely.
4. Praise God for His patience, kindness, and mercy.
APRIL 18, 2021
Text:
John 20:24-29
Discussion Questions:
1. When you hear the word “doubt” what comes to mind? When have you doubted?
2. Has there been a time when you or someone you know had to work through doubts or questions of faith? What happened? What helped you or the person you know?
3. What questions do you still have about the Christian faith? What do you do with those questions?
4. When has your faith been deepened by a journey of learning or discovery or testimony?
Memorization Challenge:
Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Pray for God to strengthen your faith. He wants you to trust Him!
2. Confess the challenge that doubts do bring and ask God to help you face those doubts and questions.
3. Ask for God to bless you with confidence in faith through the work of the Holy Spirit.
4. Pray for those you know who are still wrestling with doubts and questions and pray for God to use you and others to help them come to faith or stronger faith in Jesus.
April 11, 2021
Text:
Luke 24:13-35
Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever looked back and seen Jesus in your life? Share example(s) with someone.
2. What has kept you from seeing Jesus more in your life? (i.e. Pace of life? Hurts? Tough times?)
3. How could you get more “Bible time” in your life?
4. Are there “hopes” about Jesus that you need to leave behind so that Jesus can be truly present?
Memorization Challenge:
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Luke 24:27
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Pray for God to reveal those areas of your life where your focus has hindered seeing Jesus.
2. Confess the hopes that you have had that are not centered on Jesus or His mission.
3. Ask for God to open up your schedule and show you where “more” time with Him and His Word is possible.
4. Praise Jesus for the times that he has “interrupted” your life and made Himself more present – even in pain and times of trouble.
april 4, 2021
Text:
John 20:19-31
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think there is so much hopelessness in our world today?
2. How does the resurrection of Jesus give us hope when we face the reality of death?
3. How does Jesus engage the confused and skeptical in our passage?
4. What can this engagement keep us from doing?
5. How can the resurrection of Jesus transform our experience of suffering and pain?
Memorization Challenge:
Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
~ John 20:30–31
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of forgiveness and life in Jesus.
2. Confess to God your ingratitude for this gift.
3. Ask God to help you understand the depths of Christ’s suffering.
4. Praise God that the guilt of your sin was paid for in full by the Innocent One.
April 2, 2021
Text:
Luke 23:13-25
Discussion Questions:
1. Describe one of the most challenging seasons of your life? What made it so?
2. Have you ever felt rejection or betrayal? Describe what that was like?
3. How did Jesus experience rejection and betrayal?
4. Jesus died “innocent and alone.” How was this so?
5. Why was this type of suffering important for believers?
Memorization Challenge:
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
~ 2 Corinthians 5:21
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of forgiveness and life in Jesus.
2. Confess to God your ingratitude for this gift.
3. Ask God to help you understand the depths of Christ’s suffering.
4. Praise God that the guilt of your sin was paid for in full by the Innocent One.
MARCH 28, 2021
Text:
Romans 5:1-5
Discussion Questions:
1. How is the good news better than most of us realize?
2. What does God accomplish through our trials and sufferings?
3. Can you think of a time when God worked in your life through a trial? Explain.
4. How do trials and suffering teach us about the condition of our hearts?
5. What “hard thing” is God calling you to take up?
Memorization Challenge:
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
~ Romans 5:3-5 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for sending Christ to suffer for the complete forgiveness of our sins.
2. Confess to God the ways you avoid trials that keep you from maturing in Christ.
3. Ask God to give you the faith and courage to endure trials.
4. Praise God that no “hard thing” is ever meaningless and fruitless.
March 21, 2021
Text:
Genesis 12:1-5
Discussion Questions:
1. How do the promises of God create security and hope?
2. What promises of God are most meaningful to you?
3. How do the promises you make and keep create security and hope?
4. Why are we hesitant to make promises?
5. Right now, what promises are most challenging to keep?
6. How does cross of Christ inspire us to remain faithful to our commitments?
Memorization Challenge:
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
~ Hebrews 10:23 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His faithfulness.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you resist making promises.
3. Confess to God the ways in which you fail to keep your promises.
4. Ask God to equip you to make and keep promises.
March 14, 2021
Text:
John 13:1-17
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you remember a time someone served you in a very special way?
2. Can you remember a time when you served someone in a special way?
3. What keeps us from serving others?
4. How does Christ’s example in John 13 challenge us?
5. How do our acts of service point to the cross of Jesus?
Memorization Challenge:
Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
~ John 13:16-17 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for sending Jesus Christ, our Suffering Servant.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you resist serving others.
3. Ask God to give you a humble heart that seeks to serve others.
4. Ask God to open your eyes for ways in which you can serve others.
MARCH 7, 2021
Text:
James 4:1-10
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you think of any “Christian conflicts” you’ve been part of recently?
2. Can you think of any examples in which selfishness led to conflict in your life?
3. Why is it hard for us to say, “I’m sorry”?
4. How does an understanding of the gospel make us more willing to apologize?
Memorization Challenge:
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
~ James 4:10 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise Jesus for rescuing you from the guilt of your sin.
2. Confess your stubborn pride.
3. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the will to forgive the wrongs done against you.
4. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the desire to apologize when you do wrong to others.
FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Text:
Colossians 3:12-14
Discussion Questions:
1. When is it hardest for you to forgive someone?
2. How has this season challenged you to forgive?
3. How do you know when you’ve forgiven someone?
4. How does Christ’s forgiveness equip you to forgive others?
Memorization Challenge:
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
~ Colossians 3:13 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the forgiveness of all of your sins.
2. Confess to God your resistance to forgive. Think of specific examples.
3. Ask God to give you the grace to forgive the wrongs done to you.
4 Ask God to give you a grace filled attitude to the wrong doing of others.
February 21, 2021
Text:
Matthew 28:16-20
Discussion Questions:
1. What have you learned about yourself during this challenging season?
2. Do you resist thinking of yourself as a “disciple of Christ?” If so, why?
3. Who has been most influential in your formation as a disciple of Christ? Why?
4. Who has God put in your life to disciple?
Memorization Challenge:
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
~ Matthew 28:17–20 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for moving in your direction through the power of the Holy Spirit.
2. Confess to God the ways you resist the work of the Holy Spirit.
3. Thank God for the people He has put in your life who help you understand what it means to follow Jesus.
4. Ask God to give you what you need to show and tell others what it means to follow Jesus.
February 14, 2021
Text:
Acts 2:42-47
Discussion Questions:
1. Think of five ways COVID-19 has impacted your ability to connect with others.
2. What has this challenging season taught you about Christian fellowship?
3. When all restrictions are lifted, how will you demonstrate a renewed commitment to fellowship?
4. How does attentive listening strengthen fellowship?
5. What is the ultimate basis for Christian fellowship?
Memorization Challenge:
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."
~ Romans 15:7 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the fellowship you enjoy with Him.
2. Praise God for the fellowship you enjoy with other Christians.
3. Confess your selfishness and self-centeredness.
4. Ask God to move you to love others as He has loved you.
JANUARY 31, 2021
Text:
1 John 1:1 - 2:2
Discussion Questions:
1. What is your response to the idea that we are tempted to live in the "shadows?"
2. When and in what area do you find yourself more drawn to the "shadows?"
3. How does the joy of forgiveness show up in your life?
4. What areas of life do you want more "light" living to be present?
Memorization Challenge:
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
~ 1 John 1:8-9 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Pray for God to reveal those areas of your life that are "in the shadows."
2. Confess the sins that God reveals to you as you review this past week.
3. Read or recite the memorization challenge above.
4. Ask for God's forgiveness to fully enter into your life.
5. Praise God for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
JANUARY 24, 2021
Text:
Psalm 95
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you think of a time in your life when you were especially generous? What prompted that generosity?
2. Why should Christians be known as especially generous?
3. How is hospitality tied to generosity?
4. Think of a way in which you can be especially generous this week. Make a plan and then go for it!
Memorization Challenge:
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’"
~ Matthew 25:34–36 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for his lovingkindness.
2. Confess to God the ways in which you have been merciless towards others.
3. Confess to God the ways in which you have lacked generosity.
4. Ask God to soften your heart for those in need.
JANUARY 17, 2021
Text:
Psalm 95
Discussion Questions:
1. What has this past year taught you about corporate worship?
2. When you engage with online worship, what do you miss the most about in-person worship?
3. How does worship help us identify what is ultimate in our lives?
4. How does worship help free us from besetting sins?
5. Why must worship be accurate?
6. How does the gospel draw us into worship?
Memorization Challenge:
Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.
~ Psalm 95:1-2 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God as your Sovereign King and Loving Shepherd.
2. Confess trying to create for yourself things that only God can give (peace, purpose, identity…).
3. Thank God for being your one and only source of forgiveness and freedom from besetting sins.
JANUARY 10, 2021
Text:
Matthew 18:21-35
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you think of a time when you paid off a big debt? How did it make you feel?
2. Why are the actions of the first servant towards his fellow servant so troubling?
3. How does the gospel of grace transform our relationships with others?
4. Who in your circle of friends and family needs an extra measure of grace?
Memorization Challenge:
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
~ Colossians 3:12–14 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His saving grace and mercy.
2. Confess to God the ways your heart is proud and resistant.
3. Ask God to fill you with a knowledge of His grace and love.
4. Ask God to make you an instrument of His grace to those around you.
January 3, 2021
Text:
John 1:1-14
Discussion Questions:
1. What is sin and why does it separate us from God?
2. How is Jesus able to close the gap between humans and God?
3. Why is "Am I Christian Enough?" the wrong question?
4. What does it mean to be restored?
5. How does transformation through the Spirit happen?
6. How did the story of the Ragman shape the way you view Jesus?
Memorization Challenge:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.
~ Romans 12:2 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for his Triune nature.
2. Praise God for the transformation that is possible through the Spirit.
3. Surrender to God the pain of sin that you are dealing with (your dirty rags).
4. Ask God to forgive your sins and transform you.
5. Praise God for the new life found through Jesus.
DECEMBER 27, 2020
Text:
Luke 2:22-35
Discussion Questions:
1. What Christmas carol do you love the most? Why?
2. How did the coming of Jesus create division between people?
3. Share an example of this from the gospels. Share an example from your life.
4. How does the lack of trust in God show itself in other sins?
5. How is Christ our peace?
Memorization Challenge:
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.
~ Romans 5:1-2 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for gift of His Son.
2. Praise God for the peace and hope that are ours in Christ.
3. Ask God to show you the ”sins beneath the sins.”
4. Ask God to forgive your sins and purify your heart.
5. Praise God for His mercy, kindness, and love.
DECEMBER 20, 2020
Text:
Luke 2:1-7
Discussion Questions:
1. Describe those situations you find yourself saying, “I just don’t know”?
2. Give three words that describe your feelings of uncertainty.
3. How does the historical setting of the birth of Jesus comfort you?
4. How does the knowledge of God’s sovereignty give you peace and purpose?
Memorization Challenge:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
~ Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of His Son.
2. Praise God for His sovereignty.
3. Confess to God how you doubt His Lordship.
4. Ask God to increase your trust in Him.
DECEMBER 13, 2020
Text:
Luke 1:26-56
Discussion Questions:
1. Compare and contrast Zechariah and Mary. How are they different? How are they similar?
2. Why might the coming of Christ be insulting to some?
3. Why should we view the coming of Christ as necessary?
4. In what ways does God personally move in our direction?
5. How can you sacrificially move in the direction of others this week to show them the love of Christ? Brainstorm some practical ideas and make plans to put these ideas in action.
Memorization Challenge:
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
~ Luke 1:38 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the gift of His Son.
2. Praise God for His faithfulness, mercy, and kindness.
3. Ask God to bring to mind those areas where you resist doing his will. Confess all of these to God.
4. Praise God for His saving grace.
5. Ask God to give you a courageous kind of faith that obeys, no matter what the cost.
December 6, 2020
Text:
Luke 1:5-25, 57-66
Discussion Questions:
1. What has God taught you through this challenging season?
2. What is your first response to James 1:2-4?
3. How was Zechariah’s limited perspective limiting his trust?
4. What ways can you show active trust in this season?
5. How did God demonstrate His grace to Zechariah?
6. What examples of God’s grace do you see in your life?
Memorization Challenge:
The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news.”
~ Luke 1:19 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for specific ways He has shown you His perfect faithfulness.
2. Confess to God your lack of trust in His goodness and His plan for your life.
3. Ask God to increase your faith and trust in Him.
4. Praise God for His grace when you fail and fall short.
November 29, 2020
Text:
Luke 1:1-4
Discussion Questions:
1. What is your favorite family Christmas story?
2. What makes that story so memorable?
3. Does the way in which Luke compiled material for his gospel challenge you? Comfort you? If so, how?
4. Can you think of times when you were wrong because you only wanted to see what YOU wanted to see?
5. How can we find great comfort in the story of Jesus?
Memorization Challenge:
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
~ John 20:31 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for this season of expectation.
2. Praise God for the gift of family and friends with whom we can celebrate this season.
3. Praise God for giving us a reliable and trustworthy witness to the life of Christ.
4. Ask God to increase your faith in Him through this Advent season.
5. Praise God for the gracious gift of salvation in Jesus Christ.
Nov. 20, 2020 Thanksgiving
Text:
Mark 6:30-44
Discussion Questions:
1. What lesson was Jesus teaching His disciples when He told them, “You give them something to eat.”
2. What lessons have you learned over the past 8 months?
3. What blessings are you especially thankful for this year?
4. Share one of your best memories of 2020 thus far.
Memorization Challenge:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.
~ Romans 8:28 (NIV84)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His faithfulness and providence.
2. Confess to God your lack of trust, and rest in His unconditional love.
3. Ask God to reveal to you the lessons He’s been teaching you this year.
4. Thank God for using every circumstance in your life for His purposes.
Nov. 22, 2020
Text:
Matthew 18:15-17, Romans 12:18
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you share a time when you let a petty offense turn into something major? What was behind this escalation?
2. What kind of conflicts are easiest to resolve? What kind of conflicts are most challenging to resolve?
3. When you avoid conflict, what do you do instead?
4. Think about someone you know who knows how to tactfully confront conflicts. What makes them good at it?
Memorization Challenge:
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
~ Romans 12:18
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His faithfulness and loving kindness.
2. Ask God to show you how you avoid or mishandle conflict. Confess these to God.
3. Ask God for the grace and wisdom to deal with the conflicts in your life.
Nov. 15, 2020
Text:
Philippians 4:4-9
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you know when you’re a “hot mess?”
2. What about this COVID season is most upsetting to you?
3. What thoughts do you especially need to “take captive?”
4 Can you think of an opportunity for you to show “gentleness to all?”
5. How does the knowledge of Christ’s Lordship help you?
Memorization Challenge:
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
~ Philippians 4:8–9
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for his unwavering love.
3. Confess to God the ways you have mishandled your fears, frustrations and anger.
4. Ask God to help you “take every thought captive.”
5. Praise God for his peace, which “passes all understanding.”
Nov. 1, 2020
Text:
Matthew 20:20-28
Discussion Questions:
1. Describe one of the proudest moments of your life. What made it so good?
2. When is pride a good thing? When is it a bad thing?
3. What strikes you about the request made by the mother of James and John?
4. How is the need for praise and recognition a serious blind spot?
5. What does it mean to find your greatest worth in Jesus?
Memorization Challenge:
Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
~ Matthew 20:26-28 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for saving you and giving you a new identity in Jesus.
2. Ask God to show you the ways you still seek the praise of others.
3. Confess to God the ways you try to find your greatest worth in the things you do.
4. Thank God for His grace, mercy and patience.
Oct. 25, 2020
Text:
Philippians 3:1-14
Discussion Questions:
1. What is one of your most vivid childhood memories? Why?
2. What do you find especially striking from the Apostle Paul’s past? Why?
3. Do you remember something said to you in your past (good or ill) that you regularly recall?
4. Do you think that message has shaped you? If so how?
5. What experiences in your past have influenced your faith (strengthened or weakened)?
6. How does your identity in Christ shape your understanding of your past?
7. What part(s) of your past or present– even things that make no sense at all – do you need to trust God with?
Memorization Challenge:
Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 3:1–14 (NIV84)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for complete forgiveness of sins.
2. Ask God to help heal painful memories.
3. Ask God to use the painful past for your good and His glory.
4. Ask God to help you trust Him when the past makes no sense.
5. Praise God for the hope of the new heavens and the new earth.
Oct. 18, 2020
Text:
Hebrews 12:1-3
Discussion Questions:
1. How would you explain blind spots to a new driver?
2. How would you explain spiritual blind spots?
3. Which three common blind spots were mentioned in the message?
4. We can sometimes adjust our car mirrors to fix our blind spots... but how do we fix spiritual blind spots?
Memorization Challenge:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
~ Hebrews 12:1–2 (NIV84)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for the full acceptance we have through Jesus.
2. Confess to God the sins that have you’ve learned to accept.
3. Ask God to reveal to your hidden blind spots.
4. Ask the Holy Spirit to equip you to resist temptation.
5. Praise God for His faithfulness and mercy.
Oct. 11, 2020
Text:
Acts 1:6-11
Discussion Questions:
1. Why don’t we celebrate the Ascension of Jesus more?
2. Why doesn’t Jesus answer the disciple directly about his earthly rule?
3. What is the gift that Jesus gives the disciples in order to share the gospel?
4. What can we do to make the Ascension more of a reality in our daily lives?
Memorization Challenge:
He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
~ Acts 1:7-8 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His birth, death, resurrection, and ascension
2. Ask God to show you ways you can remember his kingdom
3. Confess to God the ways in which we have forgotten the depth of his gospel
4. Thank God for the complete forgiveness of your sins
SEPT. 27, 2020
Text:
2 Kings 5:20-27
Discussion Questions:
1. If Elisha had told Naaman to do something difficult in order to be healed, would his heart have changed? Why?
2. Why does “following the rules” fail to win God’s favor?
3. How does God’s saving grace bring about character change?
4. On what had Gehazi set his heart?
5. How can we be more like the slave girl?
Memorization Challenge:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast.
~ Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His loving mercy
2. Ask God to show you ways you resist His will
3. Confess to God the things that come to mind
4. Thank God for the complete forgiveness of your sins
SEPT. 20, 2020
Text:
2 Kings 5:1-19
Discussion Questions:
1. What was Naaman’s chief problem?
2. Why did Naaman find Elisha’s words so offensive?
3. Why is the gospel (the message of Jesus) offensive?
4. What evidence did Naaman show of a real heart change?
Memorization Challenge:
The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
~ Matthew 23:11–12 (NIV84)
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for His loving mercy
2. Ask God to show you ways you resist His will
3. Confess to God the things that come to mind
4. Thank God for the complete forgiveness of your sins
SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDE ARCHIVE
September 6, 2020
Text:
Genesis 1:27-28, 2:15
Discussion Questions:
1. When are you most satisfied with your work? Why is that?
2. What frustrates you most about work? Why is that?
3. Why do you think God delights in any lawful, honest job that is well done?
4. Respond to this quote by Martin Luther:
"…the works of monks and priests, however holy and arduous they may be, do not differ one whit in the sight of God from the works of the rustic laborer in the field or the woman going about her household tasks… all works are measured before God by faith alone."
Memorization Challenge:
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
~ Genesis 2:15
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Thank God for the work He has given you.
2. Pray for those who are out of work.
3. Ask for God to show you new ways to honor Him in your work.
AUGUST 30, 2020
Text:
Mark 4:7-8, 18-20
Discussion Questions:
1. What is especially challenging about weeding a garden?
2. What happens if you leave a flower or vegetable garden unattended?
3. What is especially challenging about “weeding” our souls?
4. What happens to us if we leave our souls unattended?
5. How does the gospel allow us to dig deep and uproot our sin and brokenness?
Memorization Challenge:
Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.
~ Mark 4:18–20
Prayer Suggestion:
1. Praise God for complete forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ
2. Ask God to show you those things which need to be cut back in your life so you can be more fruitful.
3. Ask God to show you those things which need to be cut out of your life so you can be more fruitful.
4. Ask God to give you the strength to take action on what the Spirit has brought to mind.
AUGUST 23, 2020
Text:
Mark 4:1-6, 13-17
Discussion Questions:
1. Have you ever worked to clear rocks from a field? If so what was that like? If not, why would the work of clearing rocks be so challenging?
2. Can you name some “rocks” in your soul that are making you weak as a Christian?
3. What will be required of you to rid yourself of these “rocks?”
Memorization Challenge:
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
~ Psalm 139:23–24
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise God for loving you no matter how crowded your soul may seem.
2. Ask God to show you those things which are keeping you from growing stronger in your faith.
3. Ask God for forgiveness when you don’t want to do the hard work of searching your soul.
4. Ask God to give you the strength to search your soul for all those things that keep you from growing deeper and stronger.
August 16, 2020
Text:
Mark 4:1-20
Discussion Questions:
1. When can you tell that it is “well with your soul?”
2. When can you tell that it is not?
3. Pride, self-pity, and an unwillingness to forgive can harden our souls. Can you think of another?
4. Name two things you do almost every day that are good for your soul.
Memorization Challenge:
My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore
~ Psalm 131:1–3
Prayer Suggestions
1. Praise God for the assurance of complete salvation in Christ.
2. Ask God to bring to mind the ways in which you harden your soul against the work of God.
3. Confess those things to God; ask God to soften your soul so you are willing to make the right changes in your life.
4. Thank God for His unfailing grace.
AUGUST 9, 2020
Text:
Psalm 42
Discussion Questions:
1. Think of a person in your life who is a consistent channel of grace and goodness. How would you describe their soul?
2. What are some of best indicators that our souls are not centered on Christ?
3. What’s behind much of our anger? What do we fear?
4. What steps can you take each day to center your soul on Christ?
Memorization Challenge:
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
~ Psalm 42:11
Prayer Suggestions
1. Confess to God the things that you seem to love more than God.
2. Ask God’s Spirit to show you things you need to turn from.
3. Ask God to fill you with a knowledge of His nearness, power, and love.
4. Praise God for the sure hope and victory we have in Him.
August 2, 2020
Text:
1 Peter 1:3-9
Discussion Questions:
1. Based on this message, do you have a soul or are you a soul?
2. What mysterious thing was happening in the lives of Peter’s original audience?
3. Do you see this same mysterious thing happening in your life?
4. What is the difference between “self talk” and “soul talk”?
Memorization Challenge:
These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
~ 1 Peter 1:7-9
Prayer Suggestion:
Before you pray, spend a few minutes quieting your soul.
Repeat these words from Psalm 103:1 (NIV):
Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Listen to your soul. What praises do you want to lift to God?
Allow your soul to rest in the knowledge of God’s saving grace.
JUNE 28, 2020
Text:
Romans 12:1-2
Discussion Questions:
1. What unwritten spiritual disciplines do you currently practice?
2. What disciplines are most meaningful to you?
3. Does the idea of writing out a Rule of Life appeal to you? Why or why not?
4. Take time today to write out a daily rule, a weekly rule, a monthly rule, and a yearly rule.
Memorization Challenge:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
~ Romans 12:1
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise God for securing for us complete forgiveness of sins through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
2. Praise God for giving us a new identity in Jesus.
3. Praise God for His invitation to have an intimate relationship with us.
4. Ask the Holy Spirit to direct us to spiritual disciplines that will transform our hearts and minds.
JUNE 21, 2020
Text:
Mark 1:9-13
Discussion Questions:
1. Can you remember something someone specifically said to you that really blessed your soul? How did it bless you?
2. Can you remember a message of that was spoken to you that felt like a curse? Explain.
3. How does the Father’s blessing to Jesus in Mark 1:11 help us?
4. Reflect on how you can use these blessings to bless others: Romans 15:5-6, 13, Philippians 1:9-11, Hebrews 13:20-21
Memorization Challenge:
And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
~ Mark 1:11 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Confess to God words you have spoken that have harmed others.
2. Praise God for accepting us fully because of Jesus.
3. Ask God to help you see those around you who need a word of encouragement and blessing.
June 14, 2020
Text:
Luke 17:11-19
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think gratitude is hard for us, even though we have so much?
2. How does making comparisons undermine gratitude?
3. What other virtues seem to cluster around a grateful heart?
4. What has this pandemic taught you about gratitude?
Memorization Challenge:
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise God for the specific blessings of your day.
2. Confess to God your ungrateful spirit.
3. Ask God to bring to mind the ideas and thoughts that undermine gratitude (envy, jealousy, entitlement…).
4. Ask God to equip you with hopeful gratitude that transcends your challenges and disappointments.
June 7, 2020
Text:
Mark 8:24 - 9:1
Discussion Questions:
1. What is your reaction to the word "submission"? Why?
2. Why do you think we are called to submit to one another?
3. Can you think of a time when submission helped you grow in Christ?
4. How does the submission of Jesus inspire you to submit to God and others?
5. Think of a character flaw you would like to be free from. Prayerfully consider a spiritual discipline you think will help you change in this area. Ask a trusted friend to keep you accountable.
Memorization Challenge:
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise Jesus for His willingness to surrender, submit, and suffer for your sake.
2. Ask God to show you one of the primary ways you refuse to submit to Him. Confess this to God.
3. Thank God for the freedom that comes from living according to His word and will.
4. Ask God to lead you to someone who can help you grow in submission.
May 31, 2020
Text:
John 4:27-38
Discussion Questions:
1. Given the overwhelming biblical evidence for the practice, why do you think there is so much resistance and skepticism towards fasting?
2. When you feel frustrated, restless, or empty, how do you most often respond?
3. In our text, what food does Jesus find so satisfying?
4. Name one way you can practice fasting or any kind of self-denial for spiritual purposes?
Memorization Challenge:
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
~ Matt. 4:4
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise God for His nearness and faithfulness to us.
2. Praise God that He invites us into a personal relationship with Him.
3. Confess to God the ways you try to find satisfaction and peace apart from Him.
4. Ask God to show you ways you can practice self-denial to deepen your relationship with Him.
May 24, 2020
Text:
Matthew 6:5-6
Discussion Questions:
1. Is it hard for you to keep secrets? Why?
2. The world we live in makes the discipline of secrecy challenging. Can you think of some examples where you've seen this to be true?
3. What’s the connection between the gospel and the discipline of secrecy?
4. Think of a way you can secretly bless someone this week.
Memorization Challenge:
But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
~ Matt. 6:6
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Confess to God your failures at keeping confidential matters.
2. Ask God to show you how these failures are rooted in pride.
3. Ask God to show you what you can do for Him without anyone knowing about it. Then do it!
4. Ask God to remind you that you are fully loved, accepted, and approved of in Jesus.
May 17, 2020
Text:
Jonah 4
Discussion Questions:
1. What happened this past week that made you especially grateful and happy?
2. What happened this past week that made you especially angry?
3. Why do you think Jonah was so angry?
4. Do you see any similarities between Jonah’s anger and your own? If so, how?
Memorization Challenge:
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
~ Colossians 3:12
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Ask God to show you the root sins beneath any anger you experience.
2. Confess to God any evidence of fear, self-righteousness, or self-pity.
3. Ask God to fill you with faith, hope, and courage.
4. Spend some time praising God for the blessings of this past week.
May 10, 2020
Text:
Jonah 3
Discussion Questions:
1. What is mercy? Name two ways God was merciful to Jonah.
2. How have you experienced God’s mercy in your life?
3. In what area of your inner life (i.e. your character) do you see God most at work?
4. What sin do you find most often at the root of others sins in your life?
5. Ask God to reveal to you both your sin and the assurance of His saving mercy.
Memorization Challenge:
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
~ 2 Corinthians 7:10
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Praise God for how you have personally experienced His faithfulness, mercy and forgiveness.
2. Ask God to reveal to you the those areas in your life where you need to change.
3. Spend some time asking God to reveal the sins that often fuel other sins in your life.
4. Thank God for the complete forgiveness that is ours in Jesus Christ.
May 3, 2020
Text:
Jonah 2
Discussion Questions:
1. What is grace?
2. Why is God’s grace so amazing?
3. What did it take for Jonah to experience God’s grace?
4. What three things do we need to remember in order to grow in grace?
5. What practical ways can you channel your experience of God’s grace into the lives of those around you?
Memorization Challenge:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.
~ Ephesians 2:8–9 (NIV)
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Thank God for his grace.
2. Ask God to help you grow in grace in your relationships.
3. Pray that families and marriages would be protected and strengthened during this challenging time.
4. Pray for those struggling with addiction and mental illness.
5. Pray for our church council as they seek to lead our church in a changing environment.
APRIL 26, 2020
Text:
Jonah 1
Discussion Questions:
1. Jonah ran from God. Is that even possible? Why?
2. Some people run from God by living a “good life.” What does that look like? Why doesn’t it work?
3. What does your storm (challenge, heartache, disappointment) look like?
4. What do you think God is teaching you through this storm?
5. What is one storm the person trusting in Jesus will never have to face? Why?
Memorization Challenge:
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.
~ Psalm 23:6
Prayer Suggestions:
1. Thank God for relentlessly pursuing you.
2. Ask God to help you to learn more about Him, about yourself, and about your relationship with Him in the midst of the storm.
3. Ask God to calm your heart the way Jesus calmed the raging waters. Thank God for providing the peace that only He can provide.
4. Pray for those who are close to you and yet far from God, that they would come to know Jesus.
5. Ask God for wisdom and courage as you reach out to those who don't know Jesus.
April 19, 2020
Discussion Questions:
1. If you were in the boat with those first disciples, how do you think you would have responded to a voice from shore telling you, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat…?
2. What do you think Jesus was teaching His disciples in that moment?
3. How did Jesus demonstrate His love for His disciples in this story?
4. What do you think was going through Peter’s mind when Jesus asked him, “Do you love me more than these?” three times in a row?
5. How does this story of Peter and Jesus give us great hope?
Memorization Challenge:
He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.”
When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
~ John 21:6
April 12, 2020 - Easter Sunday
Discussion Questions:
First, please read all of John 20.
1. What do you think Mary (and the other women) were thinking on the way to the tomb?
2. The first witnesses to the resurrection were all women, given the cultural prejudices of the day, what’s the significance of this?
3. The first words to Jesus’ disciples each time was, “Peace be with you.” How does this speak of the grace of Jesus?
4. Why is this such a great story for those who struggle with doubts?
Memorization Challenge:
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah,
the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
~ John 20:31
Suggestions for Prayers:
- Express gratitude for Jesus' victory over sin and death, a victory that we share in and that brings us hope and salvation!
- Thank Jesus for graciously moving in our direction. Thank Him for being patient when we lack faith, when we are skeptical of his mercy, and unwilling to fully trust in Him.
- Pray the promises of John 16:33:
““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
- Pray for those who are sick, and their families, that the Lord would heal and comfort them.
- Pray for protection for those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
- Pray for those on the front lines treating those who are sick, that the Lord would protect and
strengthen them.
- Pray for national and local leaders, that they would have wisdom to do what is best for all.
- Pray for those who have lost work, that God would provide through their families and communities.
- Pray for God's guidance regarding who you can reach out to and support through these difficult times.
- Pray patience and perseverance for parents, students, and teachers.
- Pray for those who are experiencing loneliness or anxiety due to separation from family and friends.
April 10, 2020 - Good Friday
Discussion Questions:
1. Why did Jesus allow himself to endure the excruciating torture of crucifixion?
2. What did the crucifixion of Jesus accomplish?
3. What emotion(s) or response(s) do you experience when you consider what Jesus did for you on the cross?
4. How can we express gratitude for what Jesus has done for us?
5. Read Numbers 21:4-9 & John 3:14-17. Discuss.
Memorization Challenge:
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed.
~ Isaiah 53:5
Suggestions for Prayers:
- Express gratitude to Jesus for bearing pain and death on the cross to pay the debt for your sin.
- Pray the promises of Isaiah 41:10, both for you and for all who are experiencing fear and anxiety:
“So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged,
For I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
- Pray for those who are sick, and their families, that the Lord would heal and comfort them.
- Pray for protection for those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
- Pray for those on the front lines treating those who are sick, that the Lord would protect and
strengthen them.
- Pray for national and local leaders, that they would have wisdom to do what is best for all.
- Pray for those who have lost work, that God would provide through their families and communities.
- Pray for God's guidance regarding who you can reach out to and support through these difficult times.
- Pray patience and perseverance for parents, students, and teachers.
- Pray for those who are experiencing loneliness or anxiety due to separation from family and friends.
April 5, 2020 - PALM SUNDAY
Discussion Questions:
1. What is something in your life that makes you feel "surrounded?" Why?
2. Read Psalm 118. Discuss any quotes or parallels you find with our Passage in Luke 19.
3. Why do you think Jesus wept when he saw the city? What emotions was he feeling?
4. Look at Luke 19:28-36 right before our passage. How did the disciples demonstrate trust?
5. What can we do today to actively put our trust in God instead of humans?
Memorization Challenge:
They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,
“Hosanna!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Blessed is the king of Israel!”
John 12:13
Suggestions for Prayers:
- Pray for the peace promised by Jesus in John 14:27, " Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
- Pray for those who are sick, and their families, that the Lord would heal and comfort them.
- Pray for protection for those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
- Pray for those on the front lines treating those who are sick, that the Lord would protect and
strengthen them.
-Thank God for our city, state, and national leaders. Pray they be given wisdom and sound judgment
in leading our nation.
- Pray that the measures being taken to slow the spread of the virus will have a positive impact.
- Pray for those who have lost work, that God would provide through their families and communities.
- Pray for God's guidance regarding who you can reach out to and support through these difficult times.
- Pray patience and perseverance for parents, students, and teachers.
- Pray for national and local leaders, that they would have wisdom to do what is best for all.
March 29, 2020
Discussion Questions:
1. When have you felt most connected to the church? Talk about that experience.
2. In our passage, Jesus is about to be deserted by his disciples? Who else will desert Him? Why?
3. According to our passage (John 17:20-23), what is the basis and source for Christian unity?
4. How does the message of the gospel foster fellowship within the church?
5. What are you doing now to stay connected to our church family?
Memorization Challenge:
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
John 17:20–21
Suggestions for Prayers:
- Pray for the peace promised by Jesus in John 14:27, " Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
- Pray for those who are sick, and their families, that the Lord would heal and comfort them.
- Pray for protection for those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
- Pray for those on the front lines treating those who are sick, that the Lord would protect and
strengthen them.
-Thank God for our city, state, and national leaders. Pray they be given wisdom and sound judgment
in leading our nation.
- Pray that the measures being taken to slow the spread of the virus will have a positive impact.
- Pray for those who have lost work, that God would provide through their families and communities.
- Pray for God's guidance regarding who you can reach out to and support through these difficult times.
- Pray patience and perseverance for parents, students, and teachers.
March 22, 2020
Discussion Questions:
1. In your own words, what does Jesus promise in John 15:5 (below)?
2. How do we know when we are “bearing fruit?”
3. Why do you think we resist personal change?
4. How do we “remain” or “abide” in Jesus?
Memorization Challenge:
“I am the vine; you are the branches.If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:5
Suggestions for Prayers:
-Pray for those who are ill or who are dealing with the coronavirus firsthand.
-Pray for protection for those who are most vulnerable to the virus, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions.
-Pray for peace in the midst of fear and uncertainty, especially for those facing quarantine and preventive isolation from loved ones.
-Pray that the measures being taken to slow the spread of the virus will have a positive impact.
-Thank God for doctors, nurses, and scientists who are working on the frontlines of care and healing. Pray for their protection.
-Thank God for our city, state, and national leaders. Pray they be given wisdom and sound judgment in leading our nation.
-Pray for those already feeling the financial effects of the situation.
-Pray for parents, students, and teachers as they venture into online learning and the various challenges and stresses involved.
March 15, 2020
Discussion Questions:
Memorization Challenge :
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.”
John 14:1
Suggestions for Prayers:
