The Basis of Our Unity

The Basis of Our Unity (Eph. 4:5)

1.    What did the Holy Spirit impress on your heart during this sermon?

2.    Can you share a personal experience of division within your own family, community, or church?

3.    How has your church or family been affected by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and political division since 2020?

4.    Why are the three “ones" important for unity among Christians?

5.    How does recognizing Jesus as the one Lord impact your faith and the way you interact with other believers?

6.    What is the core message of the Gospel, and why is it essential for Christian unity?

7.    Reflect on your own testimony of salvation. How is your experience similar or different from others in your faith community?

8.    What can you do to actively pursue unity with other Christians, especially those with whom you may have differences in secondary beliefs or practices?

9.    Share an example of how you have personally seen unity achieved in your church or community. What can you learn from this experience?

What We Share

What We Share

Ephesians 4:4

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling; 

Application questions:

1.    What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this passage?

2.    What are some examples from your life where sharing was difficult, and how might that relate to the concept of unity in the church?

3.    What have you seen Christians tend to base their unity on: Ethnic or racial identity? Denominational identity? Minor doctrines? A pastor? The morality of the members?

4.    What’s a common denominator between your salvation story and every other true believer?

5.    In what ways can Christians from diverse backgrounds and denominations find common ground and unity despite their differences?

6.    Why is it important for a body to be unified under the Head?

7.    How does the presence of the Holy Spirit in the church contribute to unity, and why is this unity so vital?

8.    How can we overcome the human tendency to focus on differences and divisions within the church and instead emphasize the unifying work of the Holy Spirit?

9.    In what specific ways can we actively demonstrate and promote unity within our church, both in our interactions with fellow believers and in our engagement with the broader community?

The Bond of Peace

The Bond of Peace

Ephesians 4:3

Outline:

I. Unity is a Gift from God's Spirit

A. Unity is not something we create but is given by the Holy Spirit

B. Unity is something believers are called to keep and preserve

C. Unity is given to us through spiritual realities (see Ephesians 4:4-6)

II. Unity is Kept by the Bond of Peace

A. We're surrounded by broken people who need the wholeness of peace

B. Peace with God and how it relates to peace with others

C. Peace is a bond that unites, as opposed to enmity that divides

III. Unity is Kept on a Relational Level by Hard Work

A. The need to strive like a gladiator to keep unity in relationships

B. Your actions should match your identity (see Ephesians 4:1)

C. Your spiritual unity should turn into relational unity

Application Questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    Do you recognize the division in our world, our homes, our relationships, and the church today? How does it affect you personally?

3.    How can you specifically apply the concept of unity being a gift from God's Spirit in your relationships with fellow believers? Are there any relationships that require healing or restoration?

4.    Reflect on your recent actions and choices. Were there moments where you chose to be a slave to sin rather than righteousness?

5.    Can you think of examples in your life where your actions did not align with your identity as a child of God? How can you make a conscious effort to match your actions with your Christian identity?

6.    In what specific circumstances can you act as a peacemaker in your family, workplace, or church community?

7.    Reflect on times when you've been hesitant to exert effort in striving for unity. What steps can you take to actively pursue unity and peace in those situations?

8.    How can you encourage and support others in your community to actively seek unity and peace, both within the Church and in their interactions with the world? What role can you play in promoting unity on a broader scale?

9.    Are there specific individuals in your life with whom you need to pursue reconciliation or unity?

Meek and Lowly

Meek and Lowly

Ephesians 4:1-2

Introduction

A. The Need for Christ in a Broken World

B. The Role of Unity in Reflecting God's Nature

I. The Four Character Traits You Need to Maintain Unity

A. Humility (Lowliness)

1. The Honesty of Humility

2. Comparing Ourselves to Christ

B. Meekness

1. Strength Under Control

2. The Example of Moses and Jesus

C. Longsuffering (Patience)

1. Suffering Long with Annoying People 

2. The Growth of Patience through Trials

D. Bearing with One Another in Love

1. Graciousness towards Annoying and Irritating People

2. Reflecting Christ's Love to a Divided World

II. The Importance of Unity

A. Unity as a Reflection of God's Nature

B. Unity's Impact on a Lonely World

C. The Connection between Unity and God's Love

Conclusion

A. The Call to Maintain Unity for God's Sake

B. Encouragement to Apply these Character Traits in Daily Life

Application Questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    Can you identify areas in your life where you may be lacking humility, meekness, longsuffering, and bearing with others in love?

3.    In what ways can you apply humility in your interactions with others, both in your church and daily life?

4.    What does meekness mean to you, and how can you work on controlling your strength in relationships and interactions?

5.    How do you typically handle patience when dealing with people who annoy or irritate you?

6.    Have you experienced growth in patience through challenging circumstances or trials in your life?

7.    How can you reflect Christ's love by bearing with others, even when they may be difficult to deal with?

8.    How can you show God's love and unity to a world that often feels lonely and divided?

9.    In what practical ways can you work on applying humility, meekness, longsuffering, and bearing with others in your daily life and relationships?

Walking in the Light

Walking in the Light                               

Romans 13:13-14

Introduction

A. Augustine's conversion

B. Awakening to the spiritual battle

C. Living for eternity

I. Walking in the Light

A. The call to walk honestly, as in the day

B. The need to cast off the works of darkness

C. Making no provision for sinful desires

II. Putting Off Sinful Desires

A. Substance abuse

B. Sexual immorality

C. Strife and envy

III. Putting On Christ

A. Clothed with Christ at conversion

B. The ongoing choice to put on Christ daily

C. The armor of light as a reflection of our union with Christ

IV. Love and Unity

A. Recognizing God's design for unity in relationships

B. The destructive nature of sin in tearing apart what God has joined together

Application Questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    What does it mean to "walk in the light" in today's culture, and why is it important?

3.    How do worldly distractions lull us into spiritual sleep and keep us from experiencing the fullness of life in Christ?

4.    In what ways can you guard against making provision for sinful desires and instead choose to live in obedience to God?

5.    How can you identify and cast off the works of darkness in your own life, particularly in the areas of substance abuse, sexual immorality, and envy?

6.    How does sin tear apart relationships and unity, and why is it essential to recognize God's design for unity in our interactions with others?

7.    Have you been living like a "subway thief," seeking happiness in worldly pleasures that ultimately lead to death and darkness?

8.    What steps can you take to run from the deeds of darkness and intentionally clothe yourself in the Lord Jesus Christ?

9.    Can you share personal examples of times when you've experienced the transient nature of earthly pleasures and the lasting joy of walking in the light?

Our Identity in Christ (Brent Sivnksty)

Text - I Cor. 6:9-11
Theme - Our Identity in Christ

What do many people find their identity in?
Why is understanding our identity in Christ so important?

What does it mean that in Christ we are “washed”? How does that affect my personal sin struggles?

What does it mean that in Christ we are “sanctified”? What am I set apart to? How does this help me view how I live my daily life?

What does it mean that in Christ we are “justified”? How does this new standing before God change how I view who I am?

Awake and Armored

Awake and Armored                   

Rom. 13:11-13

I. You Need to Awake out of Spiritual Sleep (Romans 13:11)

A. The Consequences of Spiritual Slumber

·       Illustration of spiritual slumber in the context of daily life

·       Paul's exhortation in 1 Corinthians 15:54 to wake from spiritual stupor

·       The shame of Christians living in a spiritual fog and the impact on those who don't know God

B. Awakening to Our Sinfulness and Need for God

·       The experience of heightened awareness of sin and God's grace when spiritually awakened

·       Personal reflection on moments of awakening in one's spiritual journey

·       Encouragement to recognize our sinfulness and our dependency on God

II. You Need to Armor Yourself in Spiritual Darkness (Romans 13:12)

A. Living in the Light (Ephesians 5:8)

·       The contrast between light and darkness in the Christian life

·       The call to abstain from participating in the works of darkness

·       Emphasis on living righteously, pursuing holiness, and sharing the Gospel as a radiant light

B. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:16-17)

·       The belt of truth, vest of living righteously, and Gospel footwear

·       The shield of faith as a vital defense against Satan's attacks

·       The helmet of salvation as assurance of yoru identity in Christ

·       The Sword of the Spirit as specific scriptural statements

C. Radiating in the Armor of Light (Romans 13:12)

·       The transformation and radiance of believers who put on the armor of light

·       The contrast between spiritual awakening and spiritual blindness

·       Invitation to respond to Christ's call and experience new life in His light

Application questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    Have you ever experienced a spiritual awakening? If so, what led to it, and how did it change your life?

3.    How does being spiritually asleep affect your witness to those who don't know God?

4.    In what areas of your life do you need a spiritual awakening right now?

5.    What are some practical steps you can take to put on the armor of light in your daily life?

6.    How can you strengthen your shield of faith to block Satan's darts of doubt and accusation?

7.    Are you confident in your salvation, and how does this confidence impact your spiritual life?

8.    Do you actively use the Sword of the Spirit (God's Word) in your daily spiritual battles? If so, how?

9.    What changes do you notice in individuals who have put on the armor of light and awakened spiritually?

The Debt of Love I Owe

The Debt of Love I Owe   

Romans 13:8-10

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    Do you feel overwhelmed by the multitude of rules and laws in the Bible? How can you see them through the simple lens of loving others—even if it means limiting your liberty?

3.    In a world filled with sexual temptation and distractions, how do you work to obey God's commands, such as avoiding lustful thoughts and actions?

4.    Are you ever unthankful or discontent? How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and contentment in your daily life?

5.    How frequently do you catch yourself complaining throughout the day, and what steps can you take to become more mindful of your words and attitudes?

6.    Do impatience, frustration, or anxiety often affect your behavior and relationships? What strategies can help you respond to these emotions in a more godly way?

7.    Are you prone to being judgmental or sinning with your words? How can you work on improving your speech and practicing kindness and love instead?

8.    Are there times when you prioritize personal interests or distractions over spending quality time with your family? How can you balance your commitments and prioritize your loved ones?

9. How do you handle financial obligations and debt in your life? Are there ways you can improve your financial stewardship and fulfill your responsibilities more effectively?

Ministers of God

Ministers of God

Romans 13:3-5; Romans 2:14-15

I. Submission to Civil Leaders (Romans 13:1-2; 6-7)

A. The biblical call to submit to government authorities

B. Paying taxes and honoring civil leaders

C. Recognizing our duties as citizens

II. Civil Leaders' Duty to God (Romans 13:3-4)

A. Rewarding good and punishing evil (Romans 13:3)

1. The role of civil leaders in maintaining order

2. The examples of traffic tickets or TSA agents

B. Civil leaders as God's servants (Romans 13:4)

1. Viewing civil leaders as God's deacons

2. The dual role of civil leaders in serving and avenging

 III. The Role of Conscience (Romans 2:14-15)

A. The significance of conscience as our internal moral code

1. How conscience informs our actions and responses

2. The importance of calibrating our conscience to God's Word

B. The erosion of our national conscience

1. The historical alignment of the national conscience with God's Word

2. The shift away from acknowledging God's role in our nation

3. The implications of Romans 1:21 and the warning of calling evil good

 IV. The Solution: The Gospel

A. The need for personal humility and repentance

B. The call to seek God's face in prayer and humility

C. Trusting in the power of the Gospel to transform hearts and nations

1. The cleansing power of Christ's blood for your conscience (Hebrews 9:14) 

2. The ultimate hope found in Jesus Christ

3. The importance of sharing the message of the Gospel

Application:

1.    What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this passage?

2.    How does your personal conscience align with God's Word, and are there areas in your life where you need to seek forgiveness and cleansing?

3.    How does the blood of Christ cleanse your conscience when you’ve sinned (Hebrews 9:14)?

4.    In what ways can you actively engage in politics and civic life while maintaining a humble and repentant heart before God?

5.    How can you balance the responsibility to submit, pay taxes, and honor civil leaders with the need to hold them accountable for rewarding good and punishing evil?

6.    Where does revival start?

7.    Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and turn away from sinful behaviors or attitudes that have become acceptable in society?

8.    Are you actively sharing the message of the Gospel as the ultimate hope for transformation and revival?

9.    In what ways can you demonstrate that your trust is ultimately in God rather than in human institutions or achievements?

God-Ordained Authority

Title: God-ordained Authority

Text: Romans 13:1-2, 6-7; Mark 12:13-17

Outline:

I. Your Duty to Civil Leaders (Romans 13:1-2, 6-7)

• A. Submission (Romans 13:1-2)

• The command to submit to governing authorities.

• The foundational reason for submission, which is ordained by God.

• The challenge of submitting to both good and bad leaders.

• Resistance is not encouraged unless it contradicts conscience or God's Word.

• B. Paying Taxes (Romans 13:6-7a)

• The command to pay taxes and its connection to God's ministers.

• The benefits and services provided by government, making it reasonable to pay taxes.

• Various types of taxes in ancient Rome.

• C. Giving Honor (Romans 13:7b)

• The importance of giving honor to civil leaders for the Lord's sake.

• Respect for leaders is not based on their greatness, but because God ordained their authority.

II. Obedience to God over Government

• A. The Trap of the Pharisees and Herodians (Mark 12:13-17)

• The story of the Pharisees and Herodians attempting to trap Jesus with questions about taxes.

• The cunning nature of the trap.

• B. Jesus' Response (Mark 12:15-17)

• Jesus' clever response to the question about paying taxes.

• The distinction between rendering to Caesar what is his and to God what is God's.

• The ultimate ownership of individuals by God due to the Imago Dei.

• C. The Primacy of Obedience to God

• The demands of God always take precedence over government commands.

• Biblical examples (Exodus, Daniel, Acts) of individuals who chose to obey God rather than man.

• We owe God everything, as His image is stamped on us.

 Application Questions:

 1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    How do you personally view your duty to submit to civil leaders, even if you don't always agree with their actions or policies?

3.    What is the difference between resisting government authority and using lawful means to challenge unjust laws? How can Christians effectively engage in advocacy for change while still respecting authorities?

4.    Have you ever been in a situation where you felt compelled to resist government authority because it conflicted with your conscience or God's Word? What was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience?

5.    If God’s image is stamped on your life, you’re made in His image, then how much of your life belongs to Him? What areas are you tempted to hold back from Him (your entertainment, your phone, your relationships, your sexual boundaries)?

6.    How can we maintain a balance between respecting government authority and standing up for our faith and convictions when they clash with government mandates?

7.    Paul emphasizes the importance of paying taxes as a duty to government. How do you personally view taxation and its role in society, particularly in supporting essential services? What are some specific government services or benefits that you are thankful for, and how do they enhance your daily life or the community as a whole?

8.    In what ways does the concept of "rendering to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" apply to your life and your priorities?

9.    Can you think of any situations where you may need to choose between obeying government authority and obeying God's commands in the future? How do you plan to navigate such situations based on your faith?

Blessing Enemies

Blessing Enemies 

Romans 12:14-21

Outline:

You can overcome evil with good by…

1. Blessing your enemies (14-15, 20)

2. Not seeking your own revenge  (17, 19)

3. Making peace with everyone (18)

4. Having Gospel humility (16)

Questions:

1.     How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.     The Christians in the early church faced persecution from various groups. How does this historical context make Paul's instructions in Romans 12:14-21 more impactful? Can you think of modern-day examples where Christians face persecution?

3.     The first point in overcoming evil with good is to "bless your enemies." Why is blessing your enemies such a radical concept? How does it go against our natural instincts? How can the example of Jesus inspire us to bless those who persecute us?

4.     "Blessing" is compared to giving a eulogy, a tribute usually reserved for loved ones. How does this comparison challenge our understanding of blessing others? What does it mean to bless someone who wishes harm upon us?

5.     The idea of rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep is mentioned. How can these actions help build empathy and compassion in our relationships, especially with those who might be considered our enemies?

6.     The concept of "heap coals of fire on his head" is discussed. What does this phrase mean in the context of the passage? How does this action align with the overall message of blessing enemies?

7.     The second point is to "not seek your own vengeance." Why is seeking vengeance a natural human response? How does this desire for revenge affect us emotionally and spiritually? How can trusting in God's sovereignty impact our approach to justice?

8.     The third point emphasizes making peace with everyone. What challenges might arise when trying to live peaceably with all people? How do you balance the desire for peace with the recognition that some situations might be beyond reconciliation?

9.     The final point is to have Gospel humility, focusing on embracing humility and recognizing God's mercy. How can understanding the depth of God's mercy and love lead us to respond with humility and grace? How does this perspective change the way we view others, even those who mistreat us?

Engraved Hands

Engraved Hands

Isaiah 49:13-16

Outline:

Do you ever feel forgotten or forsaken, like Israel (14)?

God compares Himself to a...

Mother (15)

Servant (16)

These Servant Songs culminate with Jesus as the ultimate Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53)

Questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    Pastor Crockett mentioned the feeling of being abandoned by God, especially during times of hardship. Have you ever felt that way? Can you share a personal experience?

3.    In what ways do societal pressures affect how we perceive our worth and beauty? How does this tie into the feeling of being forgotten or abandoned?

4.    How does the image of God as a nursing mother's love impact your understanding of His care for you?

5.    How does the idea of God having your name engraved on His palms make you feel? What does it mean for your relationship with Him?

6.    The sermon discussed the contrast between God's unconditional love and our imperfect attempts at serving Him. How does this resonate with your own experiences?

7.    Isaiah shows Jesus as the ultimate Servant, who suffered for our sake. How does this perspective on Christ's sacrifice affect your understanding of His love for you?

8.    Pastor Crockett mentioned that our sin often stems from doubting God's presence in our lives. How can remembering that God's love and attention are unwavering impact the choices we make on a daily basis?

9.    The sermon highlighted that our salvation cannot be earned through our actions but is rather a result of God's grace. How does this perspective influence your approach to striving for righteousness and living a godly life?

The Savior's Touch (Pastor Ontoy)

The Savior’s Touch (Pastor Ontoy)

Mark 1:40-45

Our problem: We are unclean people suffering from the devastating effects of sin.
The solution: We must exhibit true faith in Jesus to be cleansed and restored.
Outline:
 
I.         The Leper’s Request (40)
A.   The Leper’s Need – “full of leprosy” (Luke’s account)
B.   The Leper’s Heart

i.     Humility – “beseeching him, and kneeling down” (Luke’s account) “fell on his face”

ii.     Faith – “If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean”

II.         The Lord’s Response (41-44)
A.   Jesus’ Compassion – “moved with compassion…touched him…I will”
B.   Jesus’ Power – “immediately the leprosy departed from him”
C.   Jesus’ Command – “say nothing…shew thyself to the priest”

i.     Priest’s Perspective: Bold Identification

ii.     Leper’s Perspective: Radical Transformation
1.    A Picture of Salvation
2.    A Picture of Sanctification

 III.         The People’s Reaction (45a)

 IV.         The Lord’s Retreat (45b)
 
Discussion questions:

1. How did the Holy Spirit illuminate your mind or convict you this morning?

2. Have you personally come to Jesus in faith and repentance to be cleansed from sin? If so, briefly share your salvation testimony with your group.

3. In what ways is leprosy the perfect picture of sin?

4. Why do we need to approach Jesus with a heart of humility and faith?

5. How does Jesus’ heart of compassion encourage you today?

6. Does it matter that Jesus is a God of power in addition to being a God of compassion?

7. Once Jesus cleanses us, we are called to be holy. What are some specific reasons why it is difficult to live a pure life? How can you live righteously?

8. Jesus commands those whom He has cleansed to be His witnesses. Why is it difficult to be a disciple-maker? How will you disciple others this week?

9. Crowds of people “followed” Jesus during His earthly ministry because He was able to give them something. Does this contradict other passages that teach that following Jesus is the unpopular, narrow way (Read Matthew 7:13-14)? How do you reconcile those 2 passages of Scripture? Personally Reflect: Why do you follow Jesus?

Generous Hospitality

Generous Hospitality

Romans 12:13

Why be generous & hospitable?

1. You should share with believers in need (13a)

2. You should be eager to show hospitality (13b)

Application questions:

1.    How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2.    What is the central message of Romans 12, and how does it relate to the concept of living as a Christian?

3.    In the sermon, Pastor mentioned the importance of sharing with believers in need. How does the mercies of God serve as a motivation for such sharing?

4.    The sermon highlighted the significance of generosity and giving in the life of a Christian. How does Jesus' teachings on money and possessions impact your understanding of stewardship and giving?

5.    According to the sermon, why is hospitality an essential aspect of Christian living? How does biblical hospitality differ from simply having family or close friends over?

6.    Pastor noted that Americans tend to value their privacy, leading to a decline in socialization and community living. How can the church address this challenge and encourage a culture of hospitality within its members?

7.    How can we practically apply the concepts of sharing with believers in need and showing hospitality in our daily lives?

8.    Pastor mentioned the use of the Rule of 3 and the Circle of 10 to help visitors feel welcomed in the church. What other practical steps can we take to make newcomers feel at home and part of the church family?

9.    What are some potential challenges or obstacles to practicing generosity and hospitality? How can we overcome these challenges and cultivate a spirit of giving and openness in our lives?

Enduring Trials

Enduring Trials

Romans 12:12

Outline:

3 Ways We Endure Trials:

1. Rejoice in hope (12a)

2. Persevere in tribulation (12b)

3. Be devoted to prayer (12c)

Questions:

1. How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?

2. According to the sermon, what is the leading cause of disability for Americans ages 15-44? How can having hope counteract this issue?

3. In the sermon, Pastor Crockett mentioned three ways to endure trials. What are they, and how can you apply them in your life?

4. How does the helmet of salvation play a role in protecting our minds from Satan's temptations? How can you apply this concept in your daily life?

5. According to the sermon, where should true happiness be found? Why is finding happiness in God essential for enduring trials?

6. How does the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18 relate to the idea of being devoted to prayer? How can you develop a more persistent prayer life?

7. Share a specific promise from the Bible that you can claim in prayer for yourself, your family, or your community. How does this promise give you hope and perseverance?

8. The sermon mentioned that being devoted to prayer can make you optimistic even in challenging times. How can you maintain optimism in your life through a consistent prayer life?

9. Describe the story of the Christian man who had an ongoing conversation with Christ through an empty chair. What can you learn from his example, and how can you apply it to your prayer life?

The Author of Missions (Paul Schlehlein)

The Author of Missions
Romans 15:14-21

Application Questions:

1. What are some of the greatest missions texts in Scripture?

2. Why could Romans 15 be considered Paul’s Missionary Manifesto?

3. What is grace? 

4. Who is the author of missions?

5. Why are humble missionaries the best missionaries?

6. What is the meaning of sola gratia and why does it matter?

7. How is Paul’s view of missions different than our own today?

8. What are the biggest obstacles to missions today?

Serving the Lord

Serving the Lord

Romans 12:11

I. Intensity of our love (11a)

A. Negatively: "Not slothful in business" 

B. Positively: "Fervent in spirit"

II. Focus of our love (11b)

"Serving the Lord

Questions:

1. How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon? 

2. How often do you treat your walk with Christ as mere work, checking off religious duties without experiencing true love and delight?

3. How fervent is your spirit when it comes to your spiritual life?Do you equate spirituality with being sad or somber? How can you embrace a zealous and joyful love for God?

4. In what areas of your life do you find joy and delight in loving and serving others, even when it involves hard work?

5. Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 15:58, how does the hope of the resurrection motivate you to be steadfast and unmovable in your work for the Lord?

6. How do you approach the tasks and responsibilities God has given you? Are you serving Him with all your might and finding joy in doing His will?

7. Are you passionate about serving the Lord and embracing the privilege of being His child? If not, what spiritual blind spots or lies are hindering your passion?

8. Do you read the Bible out of duty or delight? How can you cultivate a heart that reads for delight and finds joy in God's Word?

9. Imagine a church full of members whose love is intense and focused on Christ. What impact would that have on guests and the community? How can you contribute to creating this kind of environment?

Showing Honor

Showing Honor (Rom. 12:10)

1. What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this text?

2. What does it mean to honor someone?

3. Whom does our culture like to honor?

4. How does being made in God's image give you value? 

5. What are other reasons we have value? highest price, Spirit, ruling with Christ

6. Do you genuinely rejoice when others receive honor and you don’t?

7. Why is preferring one another not false humility? see v. 3

8. What are groups that are overlooked in our culture that we should show great honor?

9. Why is being pro-life an important issue to Christians?

Family Love

Family Love (Rom. 12:10)

1. What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this passage?

2. Why does family love mean devoted love (v. 10)?

3. Even when this family love doesn't feel natural, where do we get help (1 Thess. 4:9)?

4. Why is it difficult to show devoted family love without making that love official through church membership (analogies: marriage or adoption)? 

5. How does this devoted family love require tangible, in-person serving, not just remote well wishes (see 1 John 3:17-19 or Heb. 10:24-25)?

6. What are ways you can show this "one another" love to your church family this week?

7.  If healthy families don't give up on each other, how does that apply to a church family?

8. How can an individual communion packet undermine the significance and symbolism of the original Lord's Supper?

9. Homework: Look up the 100 "one another" references in the NT; or at least, the 59 positive "one another" commands.

Lessons from a Father to His Son

Lessons From a Father to His Son (1 Chron. 28:1-10)

1. What did the Holy Spirit teach you from this passage?

2. Are you leading your children (or people younger than you) into a personal, intimate knowledge of God?

3. Can you know God even if you've failed God and done things you wish you could take back? Give biblical examples

4. How does bowing your heart and mind to God's will send a powerful message to those who are watching you?

5. What are the consequences of seeking the Lord with your whole heart?

6. What are the consequences of forsaking the Lord?

7. Why do we not have to weep and worry about the elections or fret and fear if our candidate is defeated?

8. How is it comforting to know that even when you don't know what you're supposed to do with your life, God does?

9. Are you thankful that even though you’re not perfect (like David or Solomon), if you belong to Christ—then God’s grace is greater than your sin?