Sermon Study Guide

Living the Truth - part 1: Transformed by Truth

Small Group Guide: Living the Truth - Transformed by Truth

Sermon Summary:
In our exploration of Titus 1:1-4, we discover the transformative power of God's truth in our lives. The passage reminds us that as servants of Christ, we're called to build up one another's faith and grow in our knowledge of the truth. This truth isn't just information; it's embodied in Jesus Himself, who cleanses and sanctifies us. As we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we're washed clean and our lives reshaped to reflect His character. The message challenges us to consider: Are there areas in our lives where we're lacking transformation? Could a deeper engagement with Scripture be the key to overcoming our struggles? Let's embrace the life-changing power of God's truth, allowing it to anchor us in hope and propel us towards godliness in an increasingly chaotic world.

Key Takeaways:
1. Truth transforms us - God's Word is meant to change us, not just inform us.
2. Hope anchors us - Our hope is grounded in God's unchanging character and promises.
3. We are called to preach the truth - All believers are responsible for sharing the Gospel.

Discussion Questions:

1. The pastor mentioned that God wants to change everything about us, not just accept us as we are. How does this perspective challenge or affirm your understanding of God's love?

2. In what areas of your life do you feel you need more transformation through God's truth? How might increased knowledge of Scripture help in these areas?

3. The sermon emphasized that hope is not wishful thinking, but confidence in God's faithfulness. How does this definition of hope impact your faith, especially during difficult times?

4. Discuss a time when God's Word acted as an "anchor for your soul" during a storm in your life. What specific truths helped you?

5. The pastor stated that all believers are called to be preachers of the Gospel. What fears or hesitations do you have about sharing your faith? How can we overcome these?

6. How has God's truth transformed your life so far? Share a specific example of how studying Scripture has changed your behavior or perspective.

Practical Applications:

1. Scripture Memory: Choose a verse from the sermon (e.g., Titus 1:1-3, John 8:31-32, or 1 Peter 2:9) to memorize this week.

2. Truth Journal: Start a journal where you write down truths from God's Word that you're learning and how they're impacting your life.

3. Hope Sharing: Identify one person in your life who needs to hear about the hope you have in Christ. Pray for an opportunity to share with them this week.

4. Word Washing: Set aside 15 minutes each day this week to read God's Word, focusing on how it cleanses and transforms you. Take advantage of the Transformed by Truth Bible reading plan and devotional offered below to help you along in your transformation.

5. Preaching Practice: In pairs, take turns sharing a 2-minute testimony of how God has worked in your life. Offer feedback and encouragement to each other.

6. Truth Application: Choose one area of your life where you need transformation. Find and meditate on specific Bible verses related to that area throughout the week.

Closing Prayer:
Close the group by praying for God's truth to transform each member, for His hope to anchor their souls, and for boldness to share the Gospel with others.

Transformed by Truth
5 Day Bible Reading & Devotional 

  • Day 1: Transformed by Truth
Reading: John 8:31-32, Ephesians 5:25-27

Devotional: Truth has the power to transform us from the inside out. As we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we allow His truth to wash over us, cleansing us from sin and reshaping our hearts and minds. Jesus said that knowing the truth will set us free - free from the bondage of sin, free from the lies we've believed about ourselves and others, and free to live as God intended. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you need God's truth to bring transformation. Are there lies you've believed that need to be replaced with God's truth? Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate God's Word as you read it, allowing its cleansing power to renew your mind and purify your heart.

  • Day 2: Anchored in Hope
Reading: Hebrews 6:13-20, Romans 5:1-5

Devotional: In a world of uncertainty, our hope in Christ serves as an anchor for our souls. This hope isn't wishful thinking, but a confident expectation based on God's unchanging character and faithful promises. When storms of life threaten to overwhelm us, our hope in Christ keeps us steady and secure. Today, consider the areas in your life where you need to be anchored more firmly in hope. Are there circumstances causing you to waver? Remember that God, who cannot lie, has promised us eternal life in Christ. Let this truth renew your hope and strengthen your faith, even in the midst of trials.

  • Day 3: Called to Serve
Reading: Mark 10:42-45, 1 Peter 4:10-11

Devotional: Jesus set the ultimate example of servanthood, coming not to be served but to serve and give His life for us. As His followers, we're called to emulate this servant heart. True greatness in God's kingdom is measured not by titles or positions, but by our willingness to serve others in love. Today, reflect on your attitude towards serving. Are there areas where pride or self-interest hinder your service? Ask God to cultivate a servant's heart within you, showing you practical ways to serve those around you. Remember, every act of service, no matter how small, can be a powerful testimony of Christ's love.

  • Day 4: Sharing the Good News
Reading: Romans 10:13-15, 2 Timothy 4:1-5

Devotional: As believers, we've been entrusted with the greatest news in history - the gospel of Jesus Christ. This good news isn't meant to be kept to ourselves, but shared with a world in desperate need of hope. Paul reminds us that people can't believe in Jesus if they haven't heard about Him, and they can't hear without someone telling them. Today, consider your readiness to share the gospel. Are there fears or hesitations holding you back? Ask God to give you boldness and opportunities to share His love with others. Remember, you don't need to have all the answers - simply share what Christ has done in your life.

  • Day 5: Growing in Spiritual Maturity
Reading: Ephesians 4:11-16, 2 Peter 3:17-18

Devotional: God's desire for us is not to remain spiritual infants, but to grow into mature believers, steadfast in our faith and reflecting Christ's character. This growth doesn't happen overnight, but through consistent engagement with God's Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. As we mature, we become less easily swayed by false teachings or life's challenges. Today, assess your spiritual growth. Are there areas where you've become stagnant? Ask God to reveal aspects of your character that need development. Commit to taking practical steps towards growth, whether it's deeper Bible study, more intentional prayer, or seeking accountability from fellow believers. Remember, spiritual maturity is a lifelong journey, but one that brings increasing joy and fruitfulness in our walk with Christ.

*From the sermon series: "Living the Truth: Living Godly in an Ungodly World"

Unexpected Part 5 - "David - The Unexpected Choice"

Small Group Guide:
From the series—“Unexpected - A Twist of Faith”

Sermon Title: The Unexpected Choice - David's Anointing

Summary:

In this powerful exploration of God's unexpected choices, we delve into the story of David's anointing as king. The central message reminds us that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. Just as David was overlooked by his family but chosen by God, we too may feel forgotten or rejected, yet God sees our potential. This lesson from 1 Samuel challenges us to reconsider our own judgments and to recognize God's ability to use the least likely candidates for His greatest purposes. The parallels between David's journey and our own spiritual lives are striking - we may face rejection, make mistakes, but like David, we're called to be people after God's own heart. This means persevering, repenting when we fall, and continually turning back to God. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to embrace our own 'new beginnings' - knowing that God's grace can transform our weaknesses into strengths for His glory.

Key Takeaways:

1. God looks at the heart, not appearances.
2. Disobedience has consequences, while obedience brings blessing.
3. God often chooses the unexpected and empowers the unlikely.
4. Repentance and getting back up after failure are crucial in our walk with God.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think God chose David over his older brothers? What does this reveal about God's priorities?

2. The sermon mentioned that "partial obedience is still disobedience." Can you think of areas in your life where you might be partially obeying God? What makes full obedience challenging?

3. How does David's story of being the "unexpected choice" encourage you in your own life and relationship with God?

4. Discuss the statement: "If God has called you, God is going to anoint you and empower you." How have you seen this play out in your life or the lives of others?

5. The pastor emphasized David's ability to repent and get back up after failure. Why is this quality so important in our spiritual lives? How can we cultivate it?

6. Reflect on 1 Corinthians 1:27. How does God's choice of the "foolish" and "weak" challenge our worldly perspectives?

Practical Applications:

1. This week, intentionally look for ways God might be working through unexpected people or situations in your life.

2. Identify an area where you've been hesitant to fully obey God. Take one concrete step towards full obedience.

3. If you've been feeling discouraged by past failures, spend time in prayer, repenting and asking God for a fresh start. Journal about God's forgiveness and new beginnings.

4. Practice seeing others (and yourself) through God's eyes this week. Look beyond outward appearances and try to discern the heart.

Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His unexpected choices and empowerment in our lives. Ask for help in cultivating a heart that seeks after Him, the courage to fully obey, and the strength to get back up after failures.

Unexpected Part 4 - "Gideon-Strength in Weakness"

Small Group Guide:
From the series—“Unexpected - A Twist of Faith”

Open in prayer.

Summary:
In this powerful exploration of God's 'unexpected' ways, we dive into the remarkable story of Gideon from the book of Judges. This narrative challenges us to reconsider our understanding of strength and readiness in God's eyes. We learn that our weaknesses are not setbacks, but rather opportunities for God's power to shine through. The message emphasizes that God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. This insight invites us to step out in faith, even when we feel inadequate or unprepared. The symbolism of broken pots with flames inside beautifully illustrates how God can use our brokenness to showcase His light. As we reflect on Gideon's journey from doubt to victory, we're encouraged to trust God's unexpected methods in our own lives, remembering that with Him, all things are possible.

Opening Question:
Can you share of a time when God used you in an unexpected way or when you felt unqualified for a task but God came through.

Key Takeaways:
1. God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
2. Your weakness is not a setback, but a setup for God to work.
3. True worship begins with repentance and leads to victory.
4. God's path to victory often looks different than we expect.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions that "God doesn't just see what we are in that moment, but he sees what we can be when he's in our lives." How does this perspective change the way you view yourself and others?

2. Discuss the concept of "boasting in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). Why is this difficult for us, and how can we practically apply this in our lives?

3. How does the story of Gideon challenge our assumptions about what it means to be "ready" for God's calling?

4. The sermon states, "Worship makes warriors." How have you experienced the connection between worship and spiritual strength in your own life?

5. Reflect on the image of believers as "broken pots with the flame of Jesus inside." What does this mean to you personally?

6. How does Gideon's story encourage you to step out in faith despite feelings of inadequacy or fear?

Practical Applications:

1. Identify an area of weakness in your life. Spend time in prayer this week, asking God to use that weakness for His glory.

2. Practice "boasting in weakness" by sharing a struggle with a trusted friend or group member, focusing on how God's strength is made perfect in that weakness.

3. Choose one "idol" in your life (something you prioritize over God) and take a concrete step to "tear down that altar" this week.

4. Set aside time for intentional worship each day this week, even if it's just for a few minutes. Notice how it affects your spiritual strength.

5. Look for an opportunity to serve or step out in faith in an area where you feel unqualified. Trust God to equip you.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank you for using unlikely people to accomplish your purposes. Help us to trust in your strength rather than our own abilities. Give us the courage to step out in faith, even when we feel weak or unqualified. Use our brokenness to shine your light to the world around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Unexpected Part 3 - "Rahab-From Shame to Fame"

Small Group Guide:
Open in Prayer

Summary:
In this powerful message, we explore the unexpected ways God works through the story of Rahab in Joshua 2. We're reminded that God often chooses the lowly and unexpected to accomplish His purposes. Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, demonstrates extraordinary faith despite her circumstances. Her belief in the God of Israel, based solely on what she had heard, challenges us to examine our own faith. Are we trusting God even when we can't see His work firsthand? The scarlet cord Rahab hangs from her window symbolizes the blood of Christ, foreshadowing our own salvation. This story encourages us to look beyond people's past or current status, recognizing that God's grace can transform anyone. It prompts us to consider: are we letting our past disqualify us from God's future for us? Let's embrace the truth that no one is too far gone for God's redemption and that our faith journey isn't about where we start, but who we trust.

Key Takeaways:
  1. God often chooses unexpected and lowly people for His purposes.
  2. Faith comes from hearing and believing God's word, even without seeing miracles.
  3. Salvation requires turning away from the world and surrendering to Jesus.
  4. Our past doesn't disqualify us from God's future plans.
  5. Faith must be accompanied by action to be alive.

Discussion Questions:
  1. The sermon mentions that "God chooses lowly things." How does this challenge our perceptions of who God can use?
  2. Rahab believed in God based on what she had heard. How can we strengthen our faith through hearing God's word?
  3. The scarlet cord symbolized protection for Rahab's family. How does this relate to the blood of Jesus in our lives?
  4. The pastor says, "Faith isn't about where you start. It's about who you trust." How does this statement encourage you?
  5. Rahab's story went from "shame to fame." Can you share a time when God redeemed a difficult part of your past?
  6. How does Rahab's inclusion in Jesus' lineage demonstrate God's grace and redemption?

Practical Applications:
  1. This week, look for opportunities to share your faith story with someone, especially focusing on how God has worked in unexpected ways in your life.
  2. Spend time reading God's word daily to strengthen your faith, just as Rahab's faith came from hearing about God's deeds.
  3. Identify an area in your life where you might be "dabbling in the world" and commit to fully surrendering it to God.
  4. Pray for family members or friends who don't know Jesus, asking God for opportunities to invite them into His "house" of safety.
  5. Write down any perceived disqualifications you feel you have and pray over them, asking God to show you how He can use even these areas for His glory.

Closing Prayer: Thank God for His unexpected choices and His ability to use anyone for His purposes. Ask for the courage to act on your faith and to trust in His redemptive power.



From the Pit to the Palace

Small Group Guide: "Unexpected - A Twist of Faith" part 2

Sermon Title: Joseph’s Journey from the Pit to the Palace

Summary:
Joseph’s story powerfully illustrates how God can use unexpected, painful, and even unjust circumstances to fulfill His greater purpose. Joseph began as a favored son and a dreamer, but was betrayed by his brothers, thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, and unjustly imprisoned. Despite these severe setbacks, God was with Joseph at every step — shaping his character and preparing him for a future far beyond what he could imagine.

In time, Joseph rose from the prison to the palace, becoming second-in-command in Egypt. When famine struck, God used Joseph to save countless lives, including his own family — the very brothers who betrayed him. Joseph’s powerful words, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good,” highlight the heart of this message: God turns what was meant for evil into something redemptive and good.

Through Joseph’s journey, we are encouraged to trust God even when we can’t see the outcome. The “pits” and “prisons” in our lives are not the end — they are often preparations for something greater. God’s timing is perfect, and He can make everything beautiful in its time.

Open in prayer.

4 Key Takeaways
1.  God is with us in every season — even the darkest ones.
Joseph’s story reminds us that God’s presence never leaves us, whether in the pit, prison, or palace.
2.  What others mean for evil, God can use for good.
God is sovereign and can redeem betrayal, pain, and setbacks for His greater purposes (Genesis 50:20).
3.  Painful seasons are often preparation for future purpose.
Joseph’s trials built his character and positioned him to save many lives later.
4.  God’s timing is perfect and His plans are good.
Even when we can’t see it, God is at work behind the scenes, making everything beautiful in His time (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Small Group Discussion Questions:
Have you ever felt like you were in a “pit” season? How did you see God at work during that time (or looking back, can you see Him now)?

What does it mean to you that “God was with Joseph” in every circumstance? How can we hold onto this truth in our own lives?

Joseph chose to forgive his brothers. What might it look like for you to forgive someone who has hurt you deeply?

How does Joseph’s perspective in Genesis 50:20 challenge how you view your own struggles or setbacks?

In what ways has God used your past pain to help or encourage others?

How can you better trust God’s timing in an area of your life where you feel stuck or disappointed right now?

Practical Application:
Choose to trust God daily, especially when circumstances don’t make sense — remind yourself He is still writing your story.

Can you think of opportunities to serve or encourage others, even in your waiting or “prison” seasons, just as Joseph did?

What will it take to practice forgiveness, releasing past hurts to God so He can use your story for His glory.

Reflect on moments where God turned something difficult into something good, to strengthen your faith for future challenges.

Closing Thought:
Just as Joseph’s journey took unexpected twists and turns, our lives may not go as we planned. But God is always working behind the scenes, turning every pit and prison into preparation for His greater purpose. If it’s not beautiful yet, God is not done.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You that You are always with us, even in the darkest and most confusing times. Help us to trust that You can take what was meant for evil and turn it for good. Give us the strength to wait on Your timing and to see the greater purpose in our pain. Help us to forgive, to serve, and to keep my eyes fixed on You. We believe that You will make everything beautiful in Your perfect time. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Unexpected Journey

Small Group Guide: "Unexpected - A Twist of Faith" part 1 - "The Unexpected Journey"

Summary:
In this powerful exploration of faith, we delve into the unexpected journeys God calls us to take. Centered on the story of Abraham in Genesis 12, we're reminded that faith often begins with stepping into the unknown. God's call to Abraham to leave his homeland echoes in our lives today - are we ready to leave our comfort zones when God calls? The message emphasizes that faith isn't about having all the answers, but about trusting the One who does. We're challenged to consider: what 'country' or comfort zone is God asking us to leave behind? What new path is He inviting us to walk? This sermon beautifully illustrates how our willingness to obey often unlocks God's blessings, even when we don't fully understand the 'why' behind His call. It's a stirring reminder that God's plans for us are greater than we can imagine, and that true worship is about offering our entire lives to Him, not just our Sunday mornings.

Opening Prayer

Key Takeaways:
1. God often calls us to step out in faith before revealing the full picture.
2. Faith begins with going, not knowing.
3. God's blessings often come through our obedience.
4. We're never too old to be used by God.
5. True worship is offering our entire lives to God.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions that "faith begins with going, not knowing." How does this challenge your understanding of faith? Share an experience where you had to step out in faith without knowing the full outcome.

2. Abram was called by God at 75 years old. How does this challenge our assumptions about age and usefulness in God's kingdom? Have you ever felt too old or too young for God to use you?

3. The pastor said, "Faith moves." What's the difference between having faith and acting on faith? Are there areas in your life where you need to move from belief to action?

4. How does the concept of worship as "offering your bodies as a living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1) differ from common ideas about worship? What might this look like in daily life?

5. The sermon emphasizes trusting God's plan without knowing all the details. How do you balance planning for the future and trusting God's guidance?

6. Reflect on the statement: "Faith is not about having the whole map. It's about trusting the one who draws the map." How can we cultivate this kind of trust in our lives?

Practical Applications:

1. Identify one area in your life where God might be calling you to step out in faith. What's one small step you can take this week?

2. Practice daily surrender by starting each morning with a prayer offering your day to God as an act of worship.

3. Look for opportunities to be a blessing to others this week, remembering that God blesses us so we can bless others.

4. If you've been hesitating to follow God's leading in some area, commit to taking action. Share your commitment with the group for accountability.

5. Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal any "comfort zones" He might be calling you to leave.

Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His guidance and ask for the courage to follow His unexpected calls in our lives.

2 Kings 16

Here’s a small group study guide and outline based on the sermon from June 29, 2025, based on 2 Kings 16:1–20 and its connections to Isaiah 7, Leviticus 20, Romans 1, and Matthew 10:



📖 Small Group Study Guide

Title: Compromise Comes at a Cost
Text: 2 Kings 16:1–20
Focus: The danger of compromise, the call to fear God over man, and trusting God’s way over our own.



🧭 Study Outline

I. The Fall of a King (2 Kings 16:1–4)
•Background Context: Israel is divided — Ahaz rules Judah (South), Pekah rules Israel (North).
•Spiritual Condition: Ahaz follows the evil ways of the northern kings.
•Sin Highlight: Sacrifices his own son to Molek (Leviticus 20 warning).
•Key Truth: When we turn from God, we inevitably turn toward idols.



II. Fear Opens the Door to Compromise (2 Kings 16:5–6; Isaiah 7:1–17)
•Crisis Hits: Judah is attacked. Fear overwhelms Ahaz.
•God’s Mercy: He offers help through Isaiah — “Stand firm in your faith” (Isaiah 7:9).
•Ahaz’s Choice: Refuses God’s offer, pretends to be “pious.”
•Key Truth: Fear of people often outweighs our fear of God when we forget His faithfulness.



III. Misplaced Trust (2 Kings 16:7–9)
•Ahaz’s Move: Turns to Assyria for help instead of trusting God.
•Cost of Help: Pays off Assyria with the temple treasures.
•Key Truth: Trusting in man-made solutions often leads to spiritual bankruptcy.



IV. Altering the Altar (2 Kings 16:10–16)
•What He Does: Ahaz builds a pagan altar, pushes God’s altar to the side.
•Romans 1 Connection: Replaces God’s truth for a lie.
•Worship Shift: Uses God’s altar only for “guidance,” not worship.
•Key Truth: Compromise redefines worship — God becomes a backup plan instead of the focus.



V. The Long-Term Consequences (2 Kings 16:17–20)
•Desecrating the Temple: Removes sacred items to please Assyria.
•Loses Honor: Ahaz dies without dignity; his son, Hezekiah, has to undo the damage.
•Romans 12:2 Connection: Do not conform… be transformed.
•Key Truth: Compromise always leads to deeper bondage and spiritual decay.



💬 Discussion Questions

1. Icebreaker:

What’s a funny example of a time you thought your shortcut was smarter than the instructions?

2. Dig In:
•In what ways did Ahaz compromise his faith?
•Why do you think he sacrificed his son, even though he was a king of Judah?
•What does Isaiah 7:9 mean by “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all”?
•What’s the difference between fear of man and fear of God?
•What happens when we try to blend worship of God with the values of the world?

3. Apply It:
•Where are you tempted to compromise because of fear, pressure, or comfort?
•Have you ever put God “off to the side” while doing things your way?
•What does compromise look like in your generation? In school, relationships, or entertainment?
•What “altars” (habits, beliefs, influences) in your life might need to be torn down?

4. Commit:
•What’s one change you can make this week to choose truth over trend?
•How can your group encourage each other to stay faithful when fear and pressure rise?



🙏 Prayer Prompt

“Lord, help us recognize the altars we’ve built that are not from You. Teach us to stand firm in our faith, to fear You above all else, and to tear down any compromise in our lives. Be our only source of guidance, worship, and hope.”



🧠 Memory Verse

Isaiah 7:9b (NIV) – “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.”

Colossians 3:12-25; 4:1

Living the Resurrected Life: Small Group Guide

Opening Prayer: 
Begin by asking a group member to lead in prayer, focusing on applying the truths from Colossians 3:12-25 and 4:1 to our daily lives.

Sermon Outline:
1. Get Your Clothes On / Dress the Part (3:12–14)
  - New identity fuels new behavior
  - Clothed in Christ
      - Characteristics: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience
      - Forgiveness as a command
  - Love holds it all together

2. Let Christ Rule Your Hearts (3:15–17)
  - Peace as the referee
  - Word-drenched community
      - In the Word
      - In our worship
  - New motivation for all of life

3. Reflect Christ in Relationships (3:18–21)
  - Gospel-centered households
      - Marriage: submission and love
      - Parenting: discipline with gentleness
      - Children: obedience as worship

4. Reflect Christ in Your Work (3:22–25)
  - Work as worship
  - Sincerity, wholeheartedness, and reverence
  - God sees and rewards
  - Christian leadership

Closing – Live Everyday Transformed
  - Christ touches every aspect of life

Key Takeaways:
1. As believers, we are called to "put on" Christ-like characteristics in our daily lives.
2. The peace of Christ should rule in our hearts and guide our decisions.
3. Our words, actions, and relationships should reflect Christ's lordship.
4. We are to work as if working for the Lord, regardless of our earthly position.


Discussion Questions:

1. Identity and Behavior (Colossians 3:12-14)
   - How does understanding our identity as "God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved" impact how we live?
   - Which of the characteristics mentioned (compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience) do you find most challenging to "put on"? Why?

2. Peace and Gratitude (Colossians 3:15-17)
   - What does it mean practically to let the peace of Christ "rule in your hearts"?
   - How can we cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in our daily lives?

3. Relationships (Colossians 3:18-21)
   - How do these instructions for family relationships differ from cultural norms?
   - In what ways can we better reflect Christ in our closest relationships?

4. Work and Service (Colossians 3:22-25, 4:1)
   - How does viewing our work as "serving the Lord" change our approach to daily tasks?
   - For those in leadership positions, how can you apply the principle in Colossians 4:1 to your role?

5. Personal Reflection
   - Which area of your life (character, relationships, or work) needs the most transformation to align with living a "resurrected life"?
   - What's one practical step you can take this week to live out the teachings in this passage?

Practical Applications:

1. Character Challenge: Choose one characteristic from Colossians 3:12 to focus on developing this week. Share with the group next time how it went.

2. Gratitude Journal: Start a daily gratitude journal, writing down three things you're thankful for each day.

3. Relationship Audit: Evaluate one key relationship in light of this passage. What's one way you can better reflect Christ in that relationship?

4. Work as Worship: Identify one aspect of your work or daily responsibilities that you struggle with. How can you approach it differently, viewing it as service to Christ?

5. Scripture Memorization: Commit to memorizing Colossians 3:17 this week as a reminder to do everything in the name of Jesus.

Closing Prayer:
Close the session by praying for each other, specifically in areas where group members expressed a desire for growth or transformation.

Colossians 1:1-14 - Live Worthy

Colossians

Small Group Guide: Colossians 1:1-14 - Living a Life Pleasing to God

In this profound exploration of Colossians 1, we're reminded of our true identity in Christ. As believers, we're called 'saints' and 'God's holy people' - not because of our perfection, but because of Christ's work in us. This challenges us to live up to our calling, even when we feel far from holy. The message emphasizes that our faith should be evident through our love for others, springing from the hope we have in heaven. It's a powerful reminder that our actions and relationships reflect our spiritual condition. As we delve deeper into God's Word, we're encouraged to bear fruit, grow in knowledge, develop spiritual strength - particularly in patience and endurance, and be thankful. This journey isn't about achieving perfection, but about continual growth and transformation through Christ's power. Let's embrace our identity in Christ and allow it to shape our daily lives and interactions.

Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:
Explicitly Mentioned:
  1. Philippians 1:6
  2. 1 John 4:20
  3. Philippians 3:14
  4. Romans 12 (likely referring to Romans 12:2)
  5. Psalm 119:105
  6. Colossians 1:1-14 (main text being discussed)
  7. Ephesians 2:1-4
  8. John 14:6
Alluded to or Implied:
  1. Proverbs 20:24 (steps of a righteous man are ordered)
  2. Ephesians 2:8-9 (saved by grace, not works)
  3. Ephesians 2:10 (created for good works)

Key Takeaways:
1. All believers are saints and holy people in Christ, regardless of our struggles.
2. True faith in Christ is evidenced by love for God's people.
3. Our hope in Christ sustains us through difficulties.
4. The true message of the gospel is the foundation for our faith.
5. God's will for our lives is revealed through His Word.
6. A life pleasing to God involves bearing fruit, growing in knowledge, being strengthened spiritually, and giving thanks.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon mentions that all believers are called "saints" and "holy people." How does this impact your view of yourself and other Christians? Why might we struggle to see ourselves this way?

2. Pastor emphasized the connection between faith in Christ and love for God's people. How have you seen this play out in your own life or in the lives of others?

3. What role does hope play in your faith journey? How does focusing on our eternal destination affect how we live our daily lives?

4. The sermon warns against "secret teachings" and emphasizes the importance of Scripture. Have you encountered teachings that seemed to go beyond Scripture? How can we discern truth from error?

5. Pastor stressed the importance of knowing God's will through His Word. What practical steps can we take to better understand and apply God's Word in our lives?

6. The sermon outlines four aspects of a life pleasing to God (bearing fruit, growing in knowledge, being strengthened, and giving thanks). Which of these areas do you feel strongest in? Which area needs the most growth?

7. How does understanding the two kingdoms (dominion of darkness vs. kingdom of the Son) impact how we view evangelism and our responsibility to share the gospel?

Practical Applications:

1. Commit to a daily Bible reading plan to grow in your knowledge of God's Word.

2. Identify one way you can show love to a fellow believer this week, especially someone you might find difficult to love.

3. Write down three things you're thankful for each day this week, focusing on spiritual blessings.

4. Choose one area of spiritual fruit (e.g., patience, kindness, self-control) to intentionally work on this week, asking God for strength.

5. Share your testimony of how Christ has transformed your life with at least one person this week.

6. Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal areas where you need to repent and realign with His will for your life.

7. Memorize Colossians 1:10 as a reminder of what a life pleasing to God looks like.