Quest Flipbook

direction from god’s questions

Questions for Relationship Questions for Courage Questions for Love Questions for Direction

Bill serves as the lead minster at Okolona Christian Church in Louisville, Ky. In the course of his ministry he has served in a new church, a small town church and a large metropolitan church. He has found that, regardless of the setting, people are seeking answers to some of the same questions. He has also discovered that people find the direction they need when they first wrestle with the questions that God asks of us.

Okolona Christian Church 10801 Faithful Way Louisville, KY 40229

DIRECTION FROM GOD’S QUESTIONS

Questions for Perspective

|

The Questions

QUEST FOR LIFE

QUEST FOR LIFE

QUEST FOR LIFE direction from god’s questions

by BILL GEIGER

Copyright © 2015 by Bill Geiger and OC Create Publishing.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published by OC Create Publishing.

Copyright and use of the curriculum template is retained by Brett Eastman.

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quotes are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 and 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

ISBN: 978-1-940077-60-4 Printed in the United States of America

table of contents Foreword by Bob Russell Introduction by Bill Geiger Using This Workbook (Read This First) Outline for Each Session

6 8 10 12

Session One: The Questions Session Two: Questions for Perspective Session Three: Questions for Relationship Session Four: Questions for Courage Session Five: Questions for Love Session Six: Questions for Direction

14 30 48 62 76 92

APPENDICES Frequently Asked Questions Life Group Agreement Life Group Calendar Spiritual Partners Memory Verse Cards (Clip and Review)

108 111 112 113 114

LIFE GROUP LEADERS Prayer and Praise Report Life Group Roster Hosting an Open House Leading for the First Time Leadership Training

114 115 116 118 120

Notes

122

foreword Have you ever heard someone say, “When I get to heaven I’ve got some tough questions for God!”? The explanation that follows usually includes some heavy theological questions about unjust suffering or unanswered prayer. “We fasted and prayed for healing, why weren’t our prayers answered?” “Why didn’t the Lord intervene when the grade school children in Connecticut were gunned down in their classroom?” “Why didn’t He prevent my dad’s suicide?” “Why?” We’ve all got those kinds of unanswered questions on our minds. I’m confident when we stand before God one day His perfect will is going to be revealed and we’ll, “understand it all by and by.” Until then, He asks us to trust His ultimate goodness and wait for His perfect timing.

However, in this study Bill Geiger deals with even more important questions – not the ones we ask God, but the questions God asks us. After all, this is God’s universe, not ours, we are His creation and we are not our own, “for we have been bought with a price.”

“Quest for Life” deals with the all-important questions the Lord asks of us.

They are questions that, when answered correctly, give life an ultimate purpose and a daily sense of direction. When answered correctly, they give us a divine perspective on some of the tougher, personal questions we ask as well.

Bill is very capable of dealing with these questions. For the past ten years, he has been the much-loved preaching minister of Okolona Christian Church, a large church in Louisville, Kentucky. His weekly messages are packed with Biblical teaching and practical application. Prior to coming to Louisville, Bill served as the minister of my home church in Conneautville, Pa. where he was the consummate pastor, shepherding a small flock and faithfully feeding them the milk and meat of God’s Word.

Bill was so loved by my parents that they kept saying, “We’re scared to death that some big church will discover how good a preacher and person he is and take him away from us.” When Bill did leave, after 15 years as their minister, my mother wept. She was so disappointed. I don’t remember her weeping when I left for college but, oh how she loved Bill Geiger! Lots of people do – and rightfully so.

He is a gentle soul who week by week cares for his people and faithfully preaches the unsearchable riches of Christ. I know you’ll be blessed as he leads you in this, “Quest for Life.”

Bob Russell Bobrussell.org

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introduction I like to view life as an adventure… a quest. It doesn’t always feel that way, but that’s when we need a reminder that life was intended to have direction, purpose, progress and ultimately a destination. A quest implies a search, a pursuit, exploring new territory, going where we haven’t been before. As a result the journey can range from exhilarating to terrifying.

A quest also doesn’t come with a detailed itinerary. Instead, it requires ongoing direction. One bit of direction leads to another, often in the form of new information, a clue, or a question. In fact, the words quest and question have the same root. The right questions give focus and direction to our quest. The wrong questions can muddy the waters or even send us in the wrong direction. This study challenges us to focus on the most important questions as we pursue our quest for life.

There is one other thing about a quest… it is best pursued together. There are times when it seems more convenient to travel alone, but when taken as a whole our success and fulfillment increase when the journey is shared. Get to know the members of your group and let them get to know you. Doing this study in a group may increase your discomfort at times, but it can also multiply the benefits.

Thanks for committing to these six sessions. This study may have come during a difficult time in your life or an exciting time. You may be stuck in the sameness of a routine or it may be a season of considerable change that has you a little disoriented. But regardless of where you are at the start of this study, it is my prayer that by the end you will find yourself further along in the adventure.

Bill

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Using This Workbook

Tools to Help You Have a Great Small Group Experience!

1. Notice in the Table of Contents

there are three sections: (1) Sessions; (2) Appendices; and (3) Life Group Leaders. Familiarize yourself with the Appendices. Some of them will be used in the sessions themselves.

2. If you are facilitating/leading or co-

leading a small group, the section Life Group Leaders will give you some hard-learned experiences of others that will encourage you and help you avoid many common obstacles to effective life group leadership.

3. Use this workbook as a guide, not a

straightjacket. If the group responds to the lesson in an unexpected but honest way, go with that. If you think of a better question than the next one in the lesson, ask it. Take to heart the insights included in the Frequently Asked Questions pages and the Life Group Leaders section.

4. Enjoy your small group experience.

5. Pray before each sessionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for your group members, for your time together, or wisdom and insights.

6. Read the Outline for Each Session on the next pages so that you understand how the sessions will flow.

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Outline of Each Session A typical group session for the Questions for Life study will include the following sections. Read through this to get a clear idea of how each group meeting will be structured.

WEEKLY MEMORY VERSES. Each session opens with a Memory Verse that emphasizes an important truth from the session. This is an optional exercise, but we believe that memorizing scripture can be a vital part of filling our minds with God’s will for our lives. We encourage you to give this important habit a try. The verses for our six sessions are also listed in the appendix.

INTRODUCTION. Each lesson opens with a brief thought that will help you prepare for the session and get you thinking about the particular subject you will explore with your group. Make it a practice to read these before the session.

SHARE YOUR STORY. The foundation for spiritual growth is an intimate connection with God and His family. You build that connection by sharing your story with a few people who really know you and who earn your trust. This section includes some simple questions to get you talking—letting you share as much or as little of your story as you feel comfortable doing. Each session typically offers you two options. You can get to know your whole group by using the icebreaker question(s), or you can check in with one or two group members, your spiritual partner(s), for a deeper connection and encouragement in your spiritual journey.

LISTEN FOR HIS QUESTIONS. In this section, you’ll read the Bible and listen to teaching in order to hear God’s Questions—and begin to see how answering His questions helps you align with Him. When the study directs you to, pop in the DVD and watch a short teaching segment. You’ll then have an opportunity to read a passage of scripture and discuss both the teaching and the text. You won’t focus on accumulating information but on how you should live in light of the Word of God. We want to help you apply the insights from scripture practically and creatively, from your heart as well as your head. At the end of the day, allowing the timeless truths from God’s Word to transform our lives in Christ should be your greatest aim.

STUDY NOTES. This brief section provides additional commentary, background or insights on the passage you’ll study in the Listen for His Questions

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section. If you are looking for more detail, use one of the many free apps or websites to find additional study notes online.

RESPOND TO HIS QUESTIONS God wants you to be a part of His Kingdom—to benefit from His direction. That requires more than simply answering His questions. It requires a response to them and that will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. This is where the Bible’s instructions to “be doers of the Word, not just hearers” (James 1:22) come into play. Many people skip over this aspect of the Christian life because it’s scary, relationally awkward, or simply too much work for their busy schedules.

But Jesus wanted all of His disciples to know Him personally, carry out His commands, and help outsiders connect with Him. This doesn’t necessarily mean preaching on street corners. It could mean welcoming newcomers, hosting a short-term group in your home, or walking through this study with a friend. In this study, you’ll have an opportunity to go beyond Bible study to biblical living.

This section will also have a question or two that will challenge you to live out your faith by serving others, sharing your faith, and worshiping God. FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY. If you have time and want to dig deeper into more Bible passages about the topic at hand, we’ve provided additional passages and questions. Your group may choose to read and prepare ahead of each meeting in order to cover more biblical material. If you prefer not to do study homework, this section will provide you with plenty to discuss within the group. These options allow individuals or the whole group to expand their study while still accommodating those who can’t do homework or are new to your group.

DAILY DEVOTIONS. Each week on the Daily Devotions pages we provide scriptures to read and reflect on between sessions—a month’s worth of reflections to keep God’s Word near your heart. This provides you with a chance to slow down, read just a small portion of scripture each day, and reflect and pray through it. You’ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God’s direction. reflect and pray through it. You’ll then have a chance to journal your response to what you’ve read. Use this section to seek God on your own throughout the week. This time at home should begin and end with prayer. Don’t get in a hurry; take enough time to hear God’s direction.

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Session 1

Y

S ession 2

the questions

ou’ve probably heard the phrase “there are no dumb questions.” This is true in that every question can help us learn something. We want you to feel comfortable asking your questions both in this group and in church.

S ession 3

But in choosing the material for our study we recognized it is also true that some questions can be more beneficial than others. In fact, some of the most beneficial questions are not the ones we ask, but the ones we are asked to answer.

By directing us to the right question, someone with insight can save us from investing in the trivial, pursuing the unproductive, or getting distracted by the petty. In this first session we will not only affirm the value of questions, but will set the direction for the questions we will study in the rest of the sessions.

S ession 5

As we work our way through our first session consider these two progressive thoughts:

1) The most important Questions for Life are the ones asked by God.

2) The most catalytic Questions for Life are the ones asked by God that we take the time to answer.

S ession 4

S ession 6

Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.

Psalm 147:5

Share Your Story Each of us has a story. The events of our life—good, bad, wonderful or challenging—have shaped who we are. God knows your story, and He intends to redeem it—to use every struggle and every joy to ultimately bring you to Himself. When we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work.

When we share our stories, we also realize we are not alone—that we have common experiences and thoughts, and that others can understand what we are going through. Your story can encourage someone else. And telling it can lead to a path of freedom for you and for those you share it with.

Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to give you insight as you study. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

Before you start this first meeting, get contact information for every participant.

Take time to pass around a copy of the Life Group Roster on page __, a sheet of paper, or one of you can pass your Study Guide, opened to the Life Group Roster. Ask someone to make copies or type up a list with everyone’s information and email it to the group during the week.

Then, begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

•

What brought you here? What do you hope to get out of this group?

• Share the most outrageous question you’ve ever been asked—the funniest, the most personal, or the strangest. Who asked? How did you respond?

• Whether your group is new or ongoing, it’s always important to reflect on and review your values together. On page ___ is a Life Group Agreement with the values we’ve found most useful in sustaining healthy, balanced groups. We recommend that you choose one or two values—ones you haven’t previously focused on or have room to grow in—to emphasize during this study. Choose ones that will take your group to the next stage of intimacy and spiritual health.

• If your group is new, welcome newcomers. Introduce everyone—you may even want to have nametags for your first meeting.

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• We recommend you rotate host homes on a regular basis and let the hosts lead the meeting. Studies show that healthy groups rotate leadership. This helps to develop every member’s ability to shepherd a few people in a safe environment. Even Jesus gave others the opportunity to serve alongside Him (Mark 6:30-44). Look at the FAQs in the Appendix for additional information about hosting or leading the group.

• The Life Group Calendar on page __ is a tool for planning who will host and lead each meeting. Take a few minutes to plan hosts and leaders for your remaining

Watch the DVD Use the Notes space provided on pages __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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listen for his questions Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching and stories you just experienced and the Bible passage below.

Read 2 Kings 5:9-15.

So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and stopped at the door of Elisha’s house. Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” But Naaman went away angry and said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than any of the waters of Israel? Couldn’t I wash in them and be cleansed?”

So he turned and went off in a rage.

Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy.

Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. Please accept now a gift from your servant.”

• What aspects of Elisha’s instructions anger Naaman? How do they hurt his pride? Has pride ever gotten in the way of your progress?

• Why didn’t Elisha come to the door and talk to Naaman himself?

• How does the question of Naaman’s servants show both his understanding of Naaman and his concern for him?

• What role did the servant’s question play in changing Naaman’s mind?

• How does Naaman’s speech at the end of this passage signify a change of heart?

•

How does the following question from Jesus help us see things differently? “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self ? Luke 9:25

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Study Notes When people asked Jesus questions or accused Him of doing something wrong, he often responded by asking them a question in return. Below are a few examples. Read each passage and consider why Jesus might have responded the way He did. Why did He ask the question He asked? How did it change the conversation or communicate His message?

Matthew 12:1-8 Matthew 15:1-9 Matthew 21:23-27 Mark 2:18-22 Mark 10:46-52 Mark 12:13-17 Luke 2:41-50 Luke 10:25-27 John 18:33-36

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respond to his questions God wants you to be part of His kingdom—to weave your story into His. That will mean change—to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By starting with small, simple choices, we begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way—giving us gifts to serve the body, offering us insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

• Have you ever been asked a question that’s changed your life? Who asked, and why was it significant?

• How can asking the wrong questions bring confusion instead of clarity?

• Why do the questions that God asks us carry more weight than others?

• How can questions push us into spiritual growth?

• This week, how will you interact with the Bible? Can you commit to spending time in daily prayer or study of God’s Word (use the Daily Devotions section to guide you)? Tell the group how you plan to follow Jesus this week, and then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

• To close your time together, spend some time worshipping God together—praying, reading scripture or listening to a worship song.

• Choose a Psalm or other favorite verse and read it aloud together. Make it a time of praise and worship, as the words remind you of all God has done for you.

• Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page __.

• Close your meeting with prayer.

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Take a look at the Circles of Life diagram below and write the names of two or three people you know who need to know Christ. Commit to praying for God’s guidance and an opportunity to share with each of them. Share your lists with the group you can all be praying for the people you’ve identified.

FAMILY

(immediate or extended)

FAMILIAR

FRIENDS

(neighbors, kids’ sports teams, school, and so forth)

FUN

(gym, hobbies, hangouts)

FIRM

(work)

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for additional study If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time before the next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own and jot your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. A great way to gain insight on a passage is to read it in several different translations. You may want to use a Bible app or website to compare translations.

Read Matthew 16:13-17.

• Why might Jesus have led off the conversation with this question?

• How does the second question Jesus asks challenge the disciples in a different way?

• Why is this exchange between Jesus and Peter so significant?

Read Luke 24:13-27.

•

Why did Jesus ask the men what they were talking about when He already knew the answer?

•

Why does Jesus respond to their explanation the way He does?

•

How does the questioning of the disciples and their answer prepare their hearts to hear Jesus’ teaching?

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Psalm 42:9.

I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me?

Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?”

Read: John 6:67-68.

“You do not want to leave too, do you?”

Jesus asked the Twelve.

Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:12.

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

Respond: Perhaps today you are able to relate to the author of this Psalm—perhaps you have questions for God about the way he’s working in your life. Take a few minutes to honestly share your questions and your emotions with God.

Respond: This is a pivotal moment in Peter’s faith journey—he is beginning to learn that Jesus is the Savior and the Son of God. Are you struggling to follow Jesus today?

How do you relate to Peter’s words?

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Respond: We will not have answers to every question in this life. Ask God for the faith to trust Him now and thank Him for the promise of the life to come.

DAY 4

Read: Psalm 119:66 Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.

Respond: How can growing in our knowledge and judgment help us to trust God when we have questions? Ask God to teach you and help you trust Him more.

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: 1 Corinthians 2:16. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?â&#x20AC;?

But we have the mind of Christ.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? How does that affect our approach to asking questions and making choices?

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Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.

Psalm 147:5

Session 1

S ession 2

questions for perspective

S ession 3

S ession 5

E

Even people who don’t know much about God have often heard of Job. He went through such significant suffering—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually—that his name has become linked to the experience of having trials and troubles.

S ession 4

The story of Job is noteworthy not only because of the intensity of the suffering Job experienced but because many of his questions about why God allowed it to happen are never fully answered. Like many of us, Job asks questions like “Why me?” and “Why now?” But God doesn’t answer the way Job expects or hopes. Let’s discover what we can learn from their conversation, and what that might mean for our own troubled times.

S ession 6

Share Your Story As we said last week, when we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. Your story is being shaped, even in this moment, by being part of this group. In fact, few things can shape us more than community.

When we share our stories, we can encourage someone else, and learn. We experience the presence of God, as He helps us be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings.

Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: •

What’s one thing you really want to ask God when you get to heaven?

•

If you feel comfortable sharing it, briefly tell the group about a difficult experience in your life.

•

Pair up with someone in your group. (We suggest that men partner with men and women with women.) This person will be your spiritual partner for the rest of this study. He or she doesn’t have to be your best friend. Instead, this person will simply encourage you to complete the goals you set for yourself during this study. Following through on a resolution is tough when you’re on your own; it makes all the difference to have a partner to cheer you on.

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Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on page __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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Listen for his questions Read Job 30:20-26 and 38:1-7.

“I cry out to you, O God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me. You turn on me ruthlessly; with the might of your hand you attack me.

You snatch me up and drive me before the wind; you toss me about in the storm.

I know you will bring me down to death, to the place appointed for all the living.

Surely no one lays a hand on a broken man when he cries for help in his distress.

Have I not wept for those in trouble? Has not my soul grieved for the poor?

Yet when I hoped for good, evil came; when I looked for light, then came darkness.”

Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. He said: “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.

Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone-while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?”

• How does Job describe God? What do his accusations imply about God’s character?

• What reasons does Job give for why he should have been treated better?

• How would you describe God’s response to Job? •

How do Job’s words “darken God’s counsel”?

•

Why doesn’t God ever directly answer Job’s question? Do you think Job “deserves” that? How does it make you feel that God answers differently?

•

How does Job respond in 42:1-6 after he listens to God’s questions?

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Study Notes In the passages we studied this week, God did not ask Job those dozens of questions because God himself didn’t know the answers. His questions are rhetorical and are not meant to be answered systematically but rather to cause Job to think more deeply.

The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is well-known for doing this. His “Socratic Method” used questions to prompt his students to examine their own assumptions, think about their beliefs, discover contradictions in their thinking, and understand new ideas.

God uses a similar approach with Job. Instead of simply answering all his questions, He responds with questions of His own that require much more effort and thought to understand. In a way, God is demonstrating the “Socratic method” with Job thousands of years before Socrates walked the earth.

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respond to his questions In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

•

Do you have questions for God that He hasn’t answered? How has that affected your spiritual journey?

•

How does your perspective on life change when you consider the much bigger “God perspective”?

• How can spiritual disciplines like serving others, praying, worshipping, and spending time in God’s word change our perspective?

• Is it wrong to question God? Why or why not?

•

What’s one thing you want to do differently as a result of this discussion?

•

In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page __ to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a regular basis, people who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider the following ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week.

•

This is a wonderful time to welcome a few friends into your group. Which of the people listed could you invite? It’s possible that you may need to help your friend overcome obstacles to coming to a place where he or she can encounter Jesus. Does your friend need a ride to the group? Help with childcare?

•

Consider inviting a friend to attend a weekend service with you and possibly plan to enjoy a meal together afterward. This can provide a great opportunity to talk with someone about your faith in Jesus.

•

Is there someone you wouldn’t invite to your group but who still needs a connection? Would you be willing to have lunch or coffee with that person, catch up on life, and share something you’ve learned from this study? Jesus doesn’t call all of us to lead life groups, but He does call every disciple to spiritually multiply his or her life over time.

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•

We have found groups that connect outside the regular meeting time build stronger bonds and feel a greater sense of purpose. Why not plan a social outing with group members? During this session, brainstorm about ways you could so something fun together—enjoy a meal or a night out.

•

Developing our ability to serve according to the leading of the Holy Spirit takes time and persistence in getting to know our Lord. So the first step toward serving others is, paradoxically, spending time alone with God— praying and studying and reflecting on God’s Word. Here are some simple ways to connect with God. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

•

Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal.

•

Daily Devotions. The Daily Devotions provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of this study. In our hurry-up world, we often move too quickly through everything—even reading God’s Word! Slow down. Don’t

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just skim, but take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage.

Write down your insights on what you read each day. Copy a portion of scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week.

•

To close your time together, spend some time worshipping God together—praying, reading scripture or listening to a worship song.

•

Choose a Psalm or other favorite verse and read it aloud together. Make it a time of praise and worship, as the words remind you of all God has done for you.

•

Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page __.

•

Close your meeting with prayer.

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For Additional Study If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try paraphrasing them: writing them in your own words. If you like, share them with the group next time you meet.

Read Isaiah 45:9-12.

•

What is the difference between “quarrelling” with God and asking sincere questions?

•

Isaiah compares questioning God to a pot questioning the potter. React to this analogy. What does it teach you about how we should relate to God?

•

How does our trust in God as the creator of everything reduce our need to question him?

Read Romans 8:26-28.

•

What do verses 26 and 27 teach us about how we can relate to God?

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Verse 27 says the Spirit prays for us in a specific way, for specific things— what are they?

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Does verse 28 mean that only good things will happen to us?

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Psalm 10:12, 17-18 Arise, LORD! Lift up y our hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.

You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Read: Habbakuk 1:2-3.

How long, LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen?

Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save?

Why do you make me look at injustice?

Why do you tolerate wrongdoing?

Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds.

Read: Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.

Respond: The Psalms are full of assurances like this that God is close to us when we’re hurting and feeling helpless. Thank God for His comfort and encouragement and for listening to you—even when you ask a million questions like Job!

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Respond: Injustice is one of the hardest things to endure, but the presence of unfairness does not mean God is absent. If you are experiencing these feelings today, take comfort in knowing it is okay to express them to God.

Respond: What a great reassurance as we finish out this week—no matter what we say to God, He understands everything about us and about the situations we face.

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: 1 Corinthians 2:11.

For who knows a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.

Read: Psalm 111:10.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.

To him belongs eternal praise.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: God has revealed a great deal about himself in the Bible, but only the Holy Spirit knows the mind of God. Ask the Spirit to work in your life and in your heart to teach you more of who God is.

Respond: Fearing God does not mean living in terror, but respecting and honoring who He is and what He says. When we choose to interact with God this way, He can help us grow in our understanding of him.

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Come near to God and he will come near to you.

James 4:8

Session 1

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S ession 3

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questions for relationships

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S ession 5

he story of “The Fall”—of Adam and Eve disobeying God and their encounter with God afterward—is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. It’s tempting to read through it quickly or to think there’s nothing new to learn. But this story is rich with meaning when we look at the questions God asks of Adam and Eve after their sin and what that tells us about being in relationship with him. This story is about more than eating a piece of forbidden fruit; it’s about how we orient our lives around truth and who we listen to in the process. Let’s dive in and rediscover this familiar story in a new way.

S essio

Share Your Story As we said last week, when we share our stories with others, we give them the opportunity to see God at work. Your story is being shaped, even in this moment, by being part of this group. In fact, few things can shape us more than community.

When we share our stories, we can encourage someone else, and learn. We experience the presence of God, as He helps us be brave enough to reveal our thoughts and feelings.

Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking: •

What’s one thing you really want to ask God when you get to heaven?

•

If you feel comfortable sharing it, briefly tell the group about a difficult experience in your life.

•

Pair up with someone in your group. (We suggest that men partner with men and women with women.) This person will be your spiritual partner for the rest of this study. He or she doesn’t have to be your best friend.

Instead, this person will simply encourage you to complete the goals you set for yourself during this study. Following through on a resolution is tough when you’re on your own; it makes all the difference to have a partner to cheer you on.

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Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on page __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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Listen for His Questions Read Job 30:20-26 and 38:1-7.

“I cry out to you, O God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me. You turn on me ruthlessly; with the might of your hand you attack me.

You snatch me up and drive me before the wind; you toss me about in the storm.

I know you will bring me down to death, to the place appointed for all the living.

Surely no one lays a hand on a broken man when he cries for help in his distress.

Have I not wept for those in trouble? Has not my soul grieved for the poor?

Yet when I hoped for good, evil came; when I looked for light, then came darkness.”

Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. He said: “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.

Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone-while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?”

•

How does Job describe God? What do his accusations imply about God’s character?

• What reasons does Job give for why he should have been treated better?

• How would you describe God’s response to Job? •

How do Job’s words “darken God’s counsel”?

•

Why doesn’t God ever directly answer Job’s question? Do you think Job “deserves” that? How does it make you feel that God answers differently?

• How does Job respond in 42:1-6 after he listens to God’s questions?

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Study Notes In the passages we studied this week, God did not ask Job those dozens of questions because God himself didn’t know the answers. His questions are rhetorical and are not meant to be answered systematically but rather to cause Job to think more deeply.

The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is well-known for doing this. His “Socratic Method” used questions to prompt his students to examine their own assumptions, think about their beliefs, discover contradictions in their thinking, and understand new ideas.

God uses a similar approach with Job. Instead of simply answering all his questions, He responds with questions of His own that require much more effort and thought to understand. In a way, God is demonstrating the “Socratic method” with Job thousands of years before Socrates walked the earth.

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Respond to His Questions In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned from the teaching and Bible study. Then think about practical steps you can take in the coming week to live out what you’ve learned.

•

Do you have questions for God that He hasn’t answered? How has that affected your spiritual journey?

•

How does your perspective on life change when you consider the much bigger “God perspective”?

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How can spiritual disciplines like serving others, praying, worshipping, and spending time in God’s word change our perspective?

•

Is it wrong to question God? Why or why not?

•

What’s one thing you want to do differently as a result of this discussion?

•

In the last session we asked you to write some names in the Circles of Life diagram. Who did you identify as the people in your life who need to meet Jesus? Go back to the Circles of Life diagram on page __ to help you think of various people you come in contact with on a regular basis, people who need to know Jesus more deeply. Consider the following ideas for action and make a plan to follow through on one of them this week.

•

This is a wonderful time to welcome a few friends into your group. Which of the people listed could you invite? It’s possible that you may need to help your friend overcome obstacles to coming to a place where he or she can encounter Jesus. Does your friend need a ride to the group? Help with childcare?

•

Consider inviting a friend to attend a weekend service with you and possibly plan to enjoy a meal together afterward. This can provide a great opportunity to talk with someone about your faith in Jesus.

•

Is there someone you wouldn’t invite to your group but who still needs a connection? Would you be willing to have lunch or coffee with that person, catch up on life, and share something you’ve learned from this study? Jesus doesn’t call all of us to lead life groups, but He does call every disciple to spiritually multiply his or her life over time.

•

We have found groups that connect outside the regular meeting time

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build stronger bonds and feel a greater sense of purpose. Why not plan a social outing with group members? During this session, brainstorm about ways you could so something fun together—enjoy a meal or a night out.

•

Developing our ability to serve according to the leading of the Holy Spirit takes time and persistence in getting to know our Lord. So the first step toward serving others is, paradoxically, spending time alone with God— praying and studying and reflecting on God’s Word. Here are some simple ways to connect with God. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week, and talk about your progress and challenges when you meet next time.

•

Prayer. Commit to personal prayer and daily connection with God. You may find it helpful to write your prayers in a journal.

•

Daily Devotions. The Daily Devotions provided in each session offer an opportunity to read a short Bible passage five days a week during the course of this study. In our hurry-up world, we often move too quickly through everything—even reading God’s Word! Slow down. Don’t just skim, but take time to read carefully and reflect on the passage.

Write down your insights on what you read each day. Copy a portion of scripture on a card and tape it somewhere in your line of sight, such as your car’s dashboard or the bathroom mirror. Or text it to yourself! Think about it when you sit at red lights or while you’re eating a meal. Reflect on what God is saying to you through these words. On the sixth day summarize what God has shown you throughout the week.

•

To close your time together, spend some time worshipping God together—praying, reading scripture or listening to a worship song.

•

Choose a Psalm or other favorite verse and read it aloud together. Make it a time of praise and worship, as the words remind you of all God has done for you.

•

Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page __.

•

Close your meeting with prayer.

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For Additional Study If you feel God nudging you to go deeper, take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into His Word. Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. Want to go deeper? Select a few verses and try paraphrasing them: writing them in your own words. If you like, share them with the group next time you meet.

Read Isaiah 45:9-12.

•

What is the difference between “quarrelling” with God and asking sincere questions?

•

Isaiah compares questioning God to a pot questioning the potter. React to this analogy. What does it teach you about how we should relate to God?

•

How does our trust in God as the creator of everything reduce our need to question him?

Read Romans 8:26-28.

•

What do verses 26 and 27 teach us about how we can relate to God?

•

Verse 27 says the Spirit prays for us in a specific way, for specific things— what are they?

•

Does verse 28 mean that only good things will happen to us?

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Psalm 10:12, 17-18.

Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.

You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Read: Habbakuk 1:2-3.

How long, LORD, must I call for help, but you do not listen?

Or cry out to you, “Violence!” but you do not save?

Why do you make me look at injustice?

Why do you tolerate wrongdoing?

Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife, and conflict abounds.

Read: Psalm 147:5.

Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.

Respond: The Psalms are full of assurances like this that God is close to us when we’re hurting and feeling helpless. Thank God for His comfort and encouragement and for listening to you—even when you ask a million questions like Job!

Respond: Injustice is one of the hardest things to endure, but the presence of unfairness does not mean God is absent. If you are experiencing these feelings today, take comfort in knowing it is okay to express them to God.

Respond: What a great reassurance as we finish out this week—no matter what we say to God, He understands everything about us and about the situations we face.

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: 1 Corinthians 2:11..

For who knows a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.

Read: Psalm 111:10.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.

To him belongs eternal praise.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: God has revealed a great deal about himself in the Bible, but only the Holy Spirit knows the mind of God. Ask the Spirit to work in your life and in your heart to teach you more of who God is.

Respond: Fearing God does not mean living in terror, but respecting and honoring who He is and what He says. When we choose to interact with God this way, He can help us grow in our understanding of him.

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

Acts 4:13

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questions for courage S ession 5

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S ession 6

very single one of us has been sick at some point in our life, and at some point we’ve probably been so sick that we’d give anything to make the illness go away. Whether you’ve struggled with a life-threatening disease or just the usual round of viruses and flu, chances are you can remember a time when you would do whatever it took to get better.

Yet when Jesus approached a man who had been sick and unable to walk for most of his life, Jesus doesn’t assume the man is desperate to get better.

Perhaps the man was begging and being healed would cut off his income.

Perhaps the man was angry and bitter about his problems, or apathetic and hopeless. For whatever reason, Jesus asks him, “Do you want to get well?”

Many times throughout the Bible God asks some variation of this question.

He requires people to take part in their own turnaround and take responsibility for their own recovery. This week we’ll face this tough question ourselves, and learn why it’s so important in our quest to follow Jesus.

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Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear to encourage or strengthen them. And your listening to others’ stories is an act of love and kindness to them—and could very well help them to grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

• What’s the worst physical illness you’ve ever had?

• Share one thing you know you should do—but you just haven’t gotten around to yet.

• Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who doesn’t yet have a partner. If you haven’t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. Share one prayer request and one thing you want to thank God for.

Spend some time praying about what you’ve shared. (See Share Your Story in Session Two on page __).

• Take some time for each person to share about how they’re doing on the challenge of inviting the people on the Circles of Life to church or your life group. What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come?

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Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on page __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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Listen for His Questions Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching from the video and the Bible passage below.

Read John 5:1-9.

Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie--the blind, the lame, the paralyzed.

One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”

“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.”

Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

• Why might Jesus have chosen a festival time to do this healing?

• How does verse 6 demonstrate Jesus’ compassion?

• How do you interpret the invalid’s response to Jesus’s question (verse 7)?

• What is the first responsibility the man must undertake as part of his healing?

• How does it take courage to want to get well?

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Study Notes There is a tradition surrounding the pool of Bethesda which will help you better understand the manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answer in verse 7. Bethesda is often used as a name for hospitals today because it was known as a place of healing. Because the pool was fed by an underground stream which occasionally bubbled up and disturbed the waters, some scholars believe this gave rise to a story that an angel stirred the water and the first person in the pool after the water was stirred would be healed. Regardless of how the tradition originated, the man was saying that because he was not mobile he would never be the first person in the pool.

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Respond to His Questions • The man at the pool of Bethesda had hope, or he wouldn’t have gone there for healing. At the same time, he seems to have lost hope of ever receiving the healing he wants. Can you relate? Are there areas of your own life in which you hope for something and yet struggle with discouragement?

• Bill reminds us of Moses’ hesitation to obey God’s call and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. What excuse does Moses give? What excuses do we give for not obeying God? • Why does God so often ask us to participate in our own healing?

• What sin, addiction, or hurt are you struggling with? Do you want to get well?

• Each of you in the group has different gifts and abilities. And every life group has tasks and roles that need to be done. How could you serve this group—perhaps with hospitality or prayer, by organizing an event, by researching or studying a topic, or by inviting new people? Invite each person to share what their gift or passion is and how they could use it to strengthen and build up the group.

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• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your life group, or even to just have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for.

• Groups grow closer when they serve together. How could your group serve someone in need? You may want to visit a shut-in from your church, provide a meal for a family who is going through difficulty, or give some other practical help to someone in need. If nothing comes to mind, spend some group time praying and asking God to show you who needs your help. Have two or three group members organize a serving project for the group, and then do it!

•

To close your time together, spend some time worshipping God together—praying, reading scripture or listening to a worship song.

•

Choose a Psalm or other favorite verse and read it aloud together. Make it a time of praise and worship, as the words remind you of all God has done for you.

•

Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page __.

•

Close your meeting with prayer.

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For additional study Read Exodus 8:1-11.

• Why would the magicians make MORE frogs??? (Verse 7)

• Why might Moses have required Pharoah to set the time for the prayer (verse 8)?

• What are some reasons Pharoah might have chosen the next day instead of right away?

• Egyptians worshipped frogs; they considered them sacred and could not kill them. How does that enhance your understanding of this story?

Read Luke 9:57-62 • Why do you think Jesus answered the first man the way he does in verse 58?

• It is not consistent with other teaching in the Bible to disrespect or neglect our families. So why did Jesus respond so negatively to the second man’s request?

• What does it mean to “look back” after choosing to follow Jesus?

• How does this passage connect to the story in John 5?

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

Read: Deuteronomy 5:33.

Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.

Respond: What are the blessings promised in this verse to those who obey?

DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Romans 12:2 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.

Read: Galatians 6:7-8.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

Respond: The way we think influences the choices we make, including the choice to take action and take responsibility. Ask God to reveal to you how your mind needs to be transformed so you can follow Him more closely.

Respond: How can we sow to please the Spirit?

What do these verses tell us about our role and what do they say about God’s role? closely.

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: Romans 12:11.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

Read: Luke 9:23.

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: What does it mean to have “zeal” or “fervor”? How are these important aspects of taking part in the work God wants to do in us?

Respond: The Christian life involves endurance and hard work, but also great joy. Take some time to thank God for the ways He is moving in your life and ask for His help in your next steps.

If you love me, keep my commands.

John 14:15

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questions for love

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s we’ve learned already in this study, God specializes in tough questions. Whether it’s putting Job in his place or calling out the very first sin of Adam and Eve, God doesn’t shy away from confrontation when it means the people He loves will grow spiritually.

In today’s study we see that Jesus demonstrates love the same way, forcing Peter into a difficult— and ultimately blessing-filled— conversation that requires Peter to face his own choices. As we’ll learn, what we do is a huge part of what we claim to believe, and it all starts with Jesus’ question: Do you love me?

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

Telling our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members.

Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking. Sharing our stories requires us to be honest. We can help one another to be honest and open by creating a safe place; be sure that your group is one where confidentiality is respected, where there is no such thing as “stupid questions,” where you listen without criticizing one another.

• Tell your group about someone whose example of displaying love to someone else has made an impact on you, and why.

• What’s your favorite song about love? What is its core message?

• Sit with your spiritual partner. If your partner is absent or if you are new to the group, join with another pair or someone who doesn’t yet have a partner. If you haven’t established your spiritual partnership yet, do it now. Answer this question: how has being in this group impacted your personal relationship with God? (See Share Your Story in Session Two on page __.)

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Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on page __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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listen for his questions Read John 21:15-22.

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you truly love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?”

Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?

You must follow me.”

• How does Peter answer the question in verse 15? How is this different from the question Jesus asked him?

• Who are the lambs and the sheep Jesus is referring to?

• Why did Jesus end this conversation by predicting Peter’s death?

• What kind of death is foreshadowed here?

• Jesus called Peter to follow Him at the beginning of His

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Study Notes You may be familiar with the four different words for love in the biblical Greek. There is eros, which is sexual and romantic love. There is storge, the affectionate love for family and community. There is phileo, the love between good friends, and agape, the self-sacrificing and indestructible love we are called to as Christians.

In the passage from John 21 that we studied today, a look at the words for love leads to interesting insights. The first time Jesus asks Peter if he loves him, He uses agape. Jesus is saying, “Do you love me in the deepest, most profound way? Do you love me the way I love you?”

But Peter answers with phileo. He’s saying, “Jesus, I love you as a dear friend.”

Jesus repeats the question, again using agape and asking Peter if his love is mature and sacrificial. And again Peter responds with phileo.

The third time, Jesus changes His question, and uses phileo. We read that Peter is hurt at this third question, and assume it’s because Jesus kept repeating it.

But perhaps Peter’s sadness is because he’s realized he can’t honestly give Jesus the agape love he’s asking for, and so Jesus has lowered His expectations.

However, Jesus goes on to give Peter an insight into his future, which might seem negative to us—after all, He is predicting Peter’s martyrdom. Yet these words also tell Peter that someday he will, in fact, be capable of loving Jesus with a sacrificial agape love that will include giving up his own life. While these verses seem dark, Peter may have heard hope in them—and find the encouragement to restart his relationship with Jesus and follow Him with joy.

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Respond to His Questions God wants you to be part of His kingdom—to weave your story into His. That will mean change. It will require you to go His way rather than your own. This won’t happen overnight, but it should happen steadily. By making small, simple choices, we can begin to change our direction. The Holy Spirit helps us along the way—giving us gifts to serve the body, offering insights into scripture, and challenging us to love not only those around us but those far from God. In this section, talk about how you will apply the wisdom you’ve learned in this session.

• If Jesus were to ask, “Do you love me as I love you?” how would you answer?

What is the next step you need to take to live out your love for Him? • Do you truly believe that God loves you? What barriers get in the way of holding on to that truth?

• Why is it so dangerous to compare our own spiritual journey with someone else’s?

• Bill points out that love is really a “symphony” of many different things.

What aspects of God’s love are especially meaningful or important to you?

• Why does loving someone require action?

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• Spend some time praying about those you know who might respond to a simple invitation: to come to a church service, to join your life group, or even just to have coffee and talk about spiritual matters. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind people you can pray for.

• A strong group is made of people who are all being filled up by God, so that they are empowered to love one another. What specific steps will you take this week to connect with God privately, so He can “fill you up”?

If you’ve focused on prayer in past weeks, maybe you’ll want to direct your attention to scripture this week. If you’ve been reading God’s Word consistently, perhaps you’ll want to take it deeper and try memorizing a verse. Tell the group which one you plan to try this week. Then, at your next meeting, talk about your progress and challenges.

•

To close your time together, spend some time worshipping God together—praying, reading scripture or listening to a worship song.

•

Choose a Psalm or other favorite verse and read it aloud together. Make it a time of praise and worship, as the words remind you of all God has done for you.

•

Ask, “How can we pray for you this week?” Invite everyone to share, but don’t force the issue. Be sure to write prayer requests on your Prayer and Praise Report on page __.

•

Close your meeting with prayer.

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for additional study Take some time between now and our next meeting to dig into God’s word.

Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own. Jot down your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages. If you like, share what you learn with the group the next time you meet.

Read 1 John 2:3-6 and 3:16-18.

• Why is keeping Jesus’ commands the best way to determine if we know Him?

• How does obeying His word make God’s love complete?

• What does it mean to lay down our life for others?

• Why is generosity so closely linked to love?

Read 1 Corinthians 13.

• The word used for love in this passage is “agape,” which means a selfsacrificing love like God has for us. Why would the apostle Paul have chosen this word when writing? Does it affect the meaning of these verses for you?

• We admire people who give all their money away or die for their faith.

Some traditions even call those people saints! How can they “gain nothing” if they do this without love?

• What does it mean to delight in evil? Why is that contrasted with rejoicing with the truth?

• How is love greater than faith and hope?

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

Read: 1 John 1:5-6..

But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him.

This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.

Respond: It’s one thing to claim allegiance to Christ, it’s another to actually follow him. Is your life and your treatment of other people showing that you love God?

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DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Romans 5:8.

God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Read: 1 John 3:1.

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!

Respond: God definitely treats love as an action verb. Take a few minutes to thank God for demonstrating His love for us in such a radical way.

Respond: e are not just friends of God, or connected to God— we are adopted into His inner circle, into His family as His own children. We should never feel insecure about whether God loves us!

DAY 4

Read: Proverbs 3:3.

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.

Respond: What is the significance of love and faithfulness being connected so strongly here? Can you have one without the other?

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: Romans 8:35, 37.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: This is the ultimate example of unconditional loveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; nothing can separate us from the love Jesus has for us! Take some time today to think about the situations in your life that are causing you fear or worry, and thank Him for being with you in the midst of these struggles.

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I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.

Psalm 119:10

S ession 5

S ession 6

questions FOR DIRECTIONS

S

ome people are great at directions—they can glance at a map, even the kind you draw on a piece of scrap paper, and instantly know where they are and how to get where they want to be. Others are more “directionally challenged”— they couldn’t decipher a map of their own neighborhood and regularly get lost going to new places. Thank goodness for GPS! As we close this study, we’re looking at questions of direction—God, where are you leading? How do I get there? What do I need to do? Whether you’ve been a Christian for a long time or you’re brand-new to faith, all of us sometimes struggle with figuring out the next steps in walking with God. Fortunately, God has given us some clear directions for how we can grow closer to Him and make progress in our spiritual journey. This week as we wrap up this study we’ll look at how we can continue to find the answers we need to the tough questions of life—no GPS required.

Share Your Story Open your group with prayer. This should be a brief, simple prayer, in which you invite God to be with you as you meet. You can pray for specific requests at the end of the meeting, or stop momentarily to pray if a particular situation comes up during your discussion.

As we have said in previous lessons, sharing our personal stories builds deeper connections among group members. Your story may be exactly what another person needs to hear to encourage or strengthen them. And your listening to others’ stories is an act of love and kindness to them—and could very well help them to grow spiritually. Begin your time together by using the following questions and activities to get people talking.

• What has surprised you most about this group? Where did God meet you over the last six weeks?

• Who do you go to when you need advice?

• What do you find easiest or most enjoyable about reading the Bible? What is most challenging?

• Take time in this final session to connect with your spiritual partner. What has God been showing you through these sessions? What positive changes has your partner noticed in you? Check in with each other about the progress you have made in your spiritual growth during this study. Make plans about whether you will continue your relationship after the group has concluded.

• Take some time for each person to share about how they’ve done with inviting the people on the Circles of Life to church or your life group.

What specific conversations are you praying about for the weeks to come?

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Watch the DVD Watch the DVD for this session now. Use the Notes space provided on page __ to record key thoughts, questions, and things you want to remember or follow up on. After you finish watching the video, have someone read the discussion questions in the Listen for His Questions section and direct the discussion among the group. As you go through each of the subsequent sections, ask someone else to read the questions and direct the discussion.

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Listen for his questions Use the following questions to guide your discussion of the teaching you just experienced in the video, and the Bible passage below.

Read Luke 10:25-28.

On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

“What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”

He answered: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ “ “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”

• What is significant about these questions coming from an “expert in the law”?

• The word for “tested” in the Greek doesn’t necessarily mean that the expert was being confrontational or argumentative. He might have been asking a sincere question. Does this change your understanding of the passage?

• Why did Jesus answer with a question? How did that reframe the conversation?

• What does Jesus’ response tell us about His confidence in the scriptures to provide direction and guidance?

• What does His question tell us about the effort He expects from us in seeking guidance and direction?

• What does it mean to love the Lord with your heart? Your soul? Your strength? Your mind?

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Study Notes The passage immediately following the one we studied today, beginning in Luke 10:29, is one of the most famous stories in the New Testament—the story of the Good Samaritan.

As Bill mentioned in the video, the original command to “love your neighbor as yourself” comes from Leviticus 9:18, which says, “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.” Note that the command specifically mentions how the Israelites are to behave toward each other. But in the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus expands this teaching by using an illustration in which the priests and Levites—the Israelites—in the story do not help the man in need, but a Samaritan—a foreigner and an outsider—does. Jesus’ message is that true obedience to Him is not only fulfilling the letter of the law that this “expert” would have known, but showing love to everyone.

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respond to his questions How has God changed your story during this six-week study? What new things is He asking you to do? What truth has transformed your heart?

Think about specific steps you want to take to live a new story and to walk more closely with God so you can be part of His story, engaged in His kingdom.

• As you move forward in your relationship with God, what will you do differently as a result of what you’ve experienced in this group?

• What did you learn from the parable of Simon and the treasure? How does that relate to you and to God’s word?

• How does obedience increase our understanding of God? • What would it look like for you to spend more time in God’s word? What is a practical next step that you can commit to going forward?

• As this is the last meeting in this study, take some time to celebrate the work God has done in the lives of group members. Have each person in the group share some step of growth they have noticed in another member. (In other words, no one will talk about themselves. Instead, affirm others in the group.) Make sure each person gets affirmed and noticed and celebrated—whether the steps they’ve made are large or small.

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• If your group still needs to make decisions about continuing to meet after this session, have that discussion now. Talk about what you will study, who will lead, and where and when you will meet.

• Review your Life Group Agreement on page ___ and evaluate how well you met your goals. Discuss any changes you want to make as you move forward. If you plan to continue meeting, and your group starts a new study, this is a great time to take on a new role or change roles of service in your group. What new role will you take on? If you are uncertain, maybe your group members have some ideas for you.

Remember you aren’t making a lifetime commitment to the new role; it will only be for a few weeks. Maybe someone would like to share a role with you if you don’t feel ready to serve solo.

• Close by praying for your prayer requests and take a couple of minutes to review the praises you have recorded over the past five weeks on the Prayer and Praise Report on page 122. Spend some time just worshipping God and thanking Him for all He’s done in your group during this study.

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for additional study Explore the Bible passages related to this session’s theme on your own, jotting your reflections in a journal or in this study guide. You may even want to use a Bible website or app to look up commentary on these passages.

Read Psalm 119: 9-16.

• What do you think the Psalmist means by “the path to purity”? Why is this the path to pursue?

• We have a responsibility to seek God; what is God’s responsibility to us?

(Verse 10)

• How do we hide God’s word in our hearts?

• List the verbs the Psalmist uses to describe his interaction with God’s word in verses 13-16. Do any of these describe the way you relate to scripture?

Which one would you like to describe your relationship to the Bible?

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Read Proverbs 2:1-9.

• How can we “store up” God’s word?

• It’s not enough to passively listen to God’s commands; what else should we do? (Verse 2-4)

• What is the connection between fearing God and growing in knowledge of him?

• What blessings are promised to those who diligently seek after God? (Verses 6-9)

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Daily Devotions

DAY 1

Read: 2 Timothy 3:16.

All scripture is Godbreathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Respond: How has time in God’s word affected you over the last six weeks— have you been corrected?

Taught? Equipped?

DAY 2

DAY 3

Read: Psalm 19:7.

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.

The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.

Read: Deuteronomy 6:6-7.

These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children.

Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Respond: God’s word is designed to not only direct and teach you, but to refresh you and give you wisdom. Thank God for the many ways He speaks to us and ask Him for wisdom in your life.

Respond: If you have children, ask God for help in “impressing” the commands and blessings of scripture onto their hearts—and ask that they would shape your heart, too!

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

Read: Hebrews 4:12.

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Read: Romans 15:4.

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

Use the following space to write any thoughts God has put in your heart and mind about the things we have looked at in this session and during your Daily Devotions time this week.

Respond: God’s word is not an ancient document covered in dust—it’s a powerful tool that continues to confront and change people today!

What’s one way God’s word has affected your thoughts and attitudes during this study?

Respond: How is reading the Bible teaching you endurance or encouraging you? Thank God for the gift of His word and the hope it gives us.

Appendices

Group resources to make your life group experience even better!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What do we do on the first night of our group?

Like all fun things in life—have a party! A “get to know you” coffee, dinner, or dessert is a great way to launch a new study. You may want to review the Group Agreement (pages ???-???) and share the names of a few friends you can invite to join you. But most importantly, have fun before your study time begins.

Where do we find new members for our group?

This can be troubling, especially for new groups that have only a few people or for existing groups that lose a few people along the way.

We encourage you to pray with your group and then brainstorm a list of people from work, church, your neighborhood, your children’s school, family, the gym, and so forth.

Then have each group member invite several of the people on his

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or her list. Another good strategy is to ask church leaders to make an announcement or allow a bulletin insert.

No matter how you find members, it’s vital that you stay on the lookout for new people to join your group. All groups tend to go through healthy attrition—the result of moves, releasing new leaders, ministry opportunities, and so forth—and if the group gets too small, it could be at risk of shutting down. If you and your group stay open, you’ll be amazed at the people God sends your way. The next person just might become a friend for life. You never know!

How long will this group meet?

Most groups meet weekly for at least their first 6 weeks, but every other week can work as well. We strongly recommend that the group meet

for the first six months on a weekly basis if at all possible. This allows for continuity, and if people miss a meeting they aren’t gone for a whole month.

At the end of this study, each group member may decide if he or she wants to continue on for another study. Some groups launch relationships for years to come, and others are stepping-stones into another group experience. Either way, enjoy the journey.

Can we do this study on our own?

Absolutely! This may sound crazy, but one of the best ways to do this study is not with a full house but with a few friends. You may choose to gather with another couple who would enjoy some relational time (perhaps going to the movies or having a quiet dinner) and then walking through this study. Jesus will be with you even if there are only two of you (Matthew 18:20).

What if this group is not working for us?

You’re not alone! This could be the result of a personality conflict, life stage difference, geographical distance, level of spiritual maturity, or any number of things. Relax. Pray for God’s direction, and at the end of this 6-week study, decide whether to continue with this group or find another. You don’t typically buy the first car you look at or marry the first person you date, and the same goes with a group. However, don’t bail out before the 6 weeks are up—God might have something to teach you. Also, don’t run from conflict or prejudge people before you have given them a chance. God is still working in your life, too!

Who is the leader?

Most groups have an official leader.

But ideally, the group will mature and members will rotate the leadership of meetings. We have discovered that healthy groups rotate hosts/leaders and homes on a regular basis. This model ensures that all members grow,

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SMALL GROUP LEADERS give their unique contribution, and develop their gifts. This study guide and the Holy Spirit can keep things on track even when you rotate leaders.

Christ has promised to be in your midst as you gather. Ultimately, God is your leader each step of the way.

How do we handle the childcare needs in our group?

Very carefully. Seriously, this can be a sensitive issue. We suggest that you empower the group to openly brainstorm solutions. You may try one option that works for a while and then adjust over time. Our favorite approach is for adults to meet in the living room or dining room and to share the cost of a babysitter (or two) who can watch the kids in a different part of the house. This way,

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parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be away from their children all evening when their children are too young to be left at home. A second option is to use one home for the kids and a second home (close by or a phone call away) for the adults. A third idea is to rotate the responsibility of providing a lesson or care for the children either in the same home or in another home nearby. This can be an incredible blessing for kids. Finally, the most common solution is to decide that you need to have a night to invest in your spiritual lives individually or as a couple and to make your own arrangements for childcare. No matter what decision the group makes, the best approach is to dialogue openly about both the problem and the solution.

SMALL GROUP AGREEMENT OUR PURPOSE To provide a predictable environment where participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth.

OUR VALUES Group Attendance

To give priority to the group meeting. We will call or email if we will be late or absent. (Completing the Group Calendar on page ??? will minimize this issue.)

Safe Environment

To help create a safe place where people can be heard and feel loved. (Please, no quick answers, snap judgments, or simple fixes.)

Respect differences

To be gentle and gracious to people with different spiritual maturity, personal opinions, temperaments, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;imperfectionsâ&#x20AC;? in fellow group members. We are all works in progress.

Confidentiality

To keep anything that is shared strictly confidential and within the group, and to avoid sharing improper information about those outside the group.

Encouragement for Growth To be not just takers, but givers of life. We want to spiritually multiply our life by serving others with our God-given gifts.

Shared Ownership

Rotating Hosts/ Leaders and Homes

To remember that every member is a minister and to ensure that each attendee will share a small team role or responsibility over time.

To encourage different people to host the group in their homes and to rotate the responsibility of facilitating each meeting. (See the Group Calendar on page ???.)

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SMALL GROUP LEADERS

OUR EXPECTATIONS • • • • • •

• • •

Refreshments/mealtimes ___________________________________________ Childcare ______________________________________________________ When we will meet (day of week)______________________________________ Where we will meet (place) _______________________________________ We will begin at (time) ______________ and end at ______________________ We will do our best to have some or all of us attend a worship service together. Our primary worship service time will be __________________________________________________________ Date of this agreement ___________________________________________ Date we will review this agreement again _______________________________ Who (other than the leader) will review this agreement at the end of this study _______ __________________________________________________________ _

GROUP CALENDAR Planning and calendaring can help ensure the greatest participation at every meeting. At the end of each meeting, review this calendar. Be sure to include a regular rotation of host homes and leaders, and don’t forget birthdays, socials, church events, holidays, and mission/ ministry projects.

Date Ex. Monday, Jan. 11

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Lesson

Host Home Dessert/Meal

1 Steve and Laura’s

Leader

Joe Bill

SPIRITUAL PARTNERS’ CHECK-IN Briefly check in each week and write down your personal plans and progress targets for the next week (or even for the next few weeks). This could be done before or after the meeting, on the phone, through an e-mail, or even in person from time to time.

Our Plans for Spiritual Growth My Name: Spiritual Partner’s Name: Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Our Progress:

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

Memory Verse Cards SESSION ONE

SESSION FOUR

You will seek me and find me when you seek with all your heart.Jeremiah 29:13

When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13

SESSION TWO Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. Psalm 147:5

SESSION FIVE

SESSION THREE

SESSION SIX

Come near to God and he will come near to you. James 4:8

I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. Psalm 119:10

If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15

PRAYER AND PRAISE REPORT

Session One

Session Two

Session Three

Praise Requests Prayer Requests

Session Four Session Five Session Six Praise Requests Prayer Requests

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NAME

PHONE #

ADDRESS

EMAIL

Life Group Roster

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small group Leaders Key resources to help your leadership experience be the best it can be.

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hosting an open house If you’re starting a new group, try planning an “open house” before your first formal group meeting. Even if you have only two to four core members, it’s a great way to break the ice and to consider prayerfully who else might be open to joining you over the next few weeks. You can also use this kick-off meeting to hand out study guides, spend some time getting to know each other, discuss each person’s expectations for the group and briefly pray for each other.

A simple meal or good desserts always make a kick-off meeting more fun.

After people introduce themselves and share how they ended up being at the meeting, have everyone respond to a few icebreaker questions:

A. What is your favorite family vacation?

B. What is one thing you love about your church/our community?

C. What are three things about your life growing up that most people here don’t know?

Next, ask everyone to tell what he or she hopes to get out of the study. You might want to review the Small Group Agreement and talk about each person’s expectations and priorities.

Finally, set an open chair (maybe two) in the center of your group and explain that it represents someone who would enjoy or benefit from this group but who isn’t here yet. Ask people to pray about inviting someone to join the group over the next few weeks. Hand out postcards and have everyone write an invitation or two. Don’t worry about ending up with too many people; you can always have one discussion circle in the living room and another in the dining room after you watch the lesson. Each group could then report prayer requests and progress at the end of the session.

You can skip this kick-off meeting if your time is limited, but you’ll experience a huge benefit if you take the time to connect with each other in this way.

SMALL GROUP LEADERS

LEADING FOR THE FIRST TIME Sweaty palms are a healthy sign.

The Bible says God is gracious to the humble. Remember who is in control; the time to worry is when you’re not worried. Those who are soft in heart (and sweaty palmed) are those whom God is sure to speak through.

Seek support.

Ask your leader, co-leader, or close friend to pray for you and prepare with you before the session. Walking through the study will help you anticipate potentially difficult questions and discussion topics.

for what God wants to do. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare.

Ask for feedback so you can grow.

Perhaps in an email or on cards handed out at the study, have everyone write down three things you did well and one thing you could improve on.

Don’t get defensive. Instead, show an openness to learn and grow.

Bring your uniqueness to the study.

Lean into who you are and how God wants you to uniquely lead the study.

Prayerfully consider launching a new group.

This doesn’t need to happen overnight, but God’s heart is for this to take place over time. Not all Christians are called to be leaders or teachers, but we are all called to be “shepherds” of a few someday.

Prepare. Prepare. Prepare.

Go through the session several times.

If you are using the DVD, listen to the teaching segment and Leadership Lifter. Consider writing in a journal or fasting for a day to prepare yourself

Share with your group what God is doing in your heart.

God is searching for those whose hearts are fully His. Share your trials and victories. We promise that people will relate.

Prayerfully consider whom you would like to pass the baton to next week.

It’s only fair. God is ready for the next member of your group to go on the faith journey you just traveled. Make it fun, and expect God to do the rest.

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LEADERSHIP TRAINING 101

Congratulations! You have responded to the call to help shepherd Jesus’ flock.

There are few other tasks in the family of God that surpass the contribution you will be making. As you prepare to lead, whether it is one session or the entire series, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind. We encourage you to read these and review them with each new discussion leader before he or she leads.

Remember that you are not alone.

God knows everything about you, and He knew that you would be asked to lead your group. Remember that it is common for all good leaders to feel that they are not ready to lead. Moses, Solomon, Jeremiah and Timothy were all reluctant to lead. God promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Whether you are leading for one evening, for several weeks, or for a lifetime, you will be blessed as you serve.

temperament. Don’t try to do things exactly like another leader; do them in a way that fits you! Just admit it when you don’t have an answer, and apologize when you make a mistake.

Your group will love you for it, and you’ll sleep better at night!

Prepare for your meeting ahead of time.

Review the session and the leader’s notes, and write down your responses to each question. Pay special attention to exercises that ask group members to do something other than engage in discussion. These exercises will help your group live what the Bible teaches, not just talk about it. Be sure you understand how an exercise works, and bring any necessary supplies (such as paper and pens) to your meeting. If the exercise employs one of the items in the appendix, be sure to look over that item so you’ll know how it works.

Finally, review “Outline for Each Session” so you’ll remember the purpose of each section in the study.

Don’t try to do it alone.

Pray right now for God to help you build a healthy leadership team. If you can enlist a co-leader to help you lead the group, you will find your experience to be much richer.

This is your chance to involve as many people as you can in building a healthy group. All you have to do is call and ask people to help. You’ll probably be surprised at the response.

Pray for your group members by name.

Before you begin your session, go around the room in your mind and pray for each member by name. You may want to review the prayer list at least once a week. Ask God to use your time together to touch the heart of every person uniquely. Expect God to lead you to whomever He wants you to encourage or challenge in a special way. If you listen, God will surely lead!

Just be yourself.

If you won’t be you, who will? God wants you to use your unique gifts and

When you ask a question, be patient.

Someone will eventually respond.

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Sometimes people need a moment or two of silence to think about the question. Keep in mind, if silence doesn’t bother you, it won’t bother anyone else. After someone responds, affirm the response with a simple “thanks” or “good job.” Then ask, “How about somebody else?” or “Would someone who hasn’t shared like to add anything?” Be sensitive to new people or reluctant members who aren’t ready to say, pray or do anything. If you give them a safe setting, they will blossom over time.

Provide transitions between questions.

When guiding the discussion, always read aloud the transitional paragraphs and the questions. Ask the group if anyone would like to read the paragraph or Bible passage. Don’t call on anyone, but ask for a volunteer, and then be patient until someone begins. Be sure to thank the person who reads aloud.

Break up into small groups each week or they won’t stay.

If your group has more than seven people, we strongly encourage you to have the group gather sometimes in discussion circles of three or four people during the Hear God’s Story or Create a New Story sections of the study.

With a greater opportunity to talk in a small circle, people will connect more with the study, apply more quickly what they’re learning and ultimately get more out of it. A small circle also encourages a quiet person to participate and tends to minimize the effects of a more vocal or dominant member. It can also help people feel more loved in your group. When you gather again

at the end of the section, you can have one person summarize the highlights from each circle. Small circles are also helpful during prayer time. People who are unaccustomed to praying aloud will feel more comfortable trying it with just two or three others. Also, prayer requests won’t take as much time, so circles will have more time to actually pray. When you gather back with the whole group, you can have one person from each circle briefly update everyone on the prayer requests. People are more willing to pray in small circles if they know that the whole group will hear all the prayer requests.

Rotate facilitators weekly.

At the end of each meeting, ask the group who should lead the following week. Let the group help select your weekly facilitator. You may be perfectly capable of leading each time, but you will help others grow in their faith and gifts if you give them opportunities to lead. You can use the Small Group Calendar to fill in the names of all meeting leaders at once if you prefer.

One final challenge (for new or first time leaders).

Before your first opportunity to lead, look up each of the five passages listed below. Read each one as a devotional exercise to help you develop a shepherd’s heart. Trust us on this one.

If you do this, you will be more than ready for your first meeting.

A. B. C. D. E.

Matthew 9:36 1 Peter 5:2-4 Psalm 23 Ezekiel 34:11-16 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 11-12

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NOTES

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NOTES

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