Faithful Instructions: In Everything Give Thanks

Faithful Instructions: In Everything Give Thanks  

Ice Breaker: What was the difference between what you were most thankful for as a child and now? 

 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 

 

Note: Pastor Dave begins this sermon with the story of Thanksgiving. The story of God bringing the New World Settlers through a tough winter and the gratitude they expressed for His provision and His blessing even though they experienced the death of almost half of their group. They were thankful, even when many of their group died.  

  1. Have you experienced a similar supernatural gratitude in the middle of great loss?  Please explain. 
  2. What in your life made you able to thank God, even through loss? 

 

  • TO DO ITS JOB, THANKSGIVING MUST BE COMMUNICATED. 

 

  1. What ways can thanksgiving be expressed? 
  2. How do you express thanks to God, other than verbally, in prayer? 
  3. What keeps us from being able to express thanksgiving to God? 

 

  • 5 REASONS FOR GIVING THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES.   

  1. GIVING THANKS HONORS GOD’S CONTROL AND GOODNESS. 

 

Psalm 107:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. 

  • How can we see God as good in a bad situation? 
  • How does knowing God is good help us to give thanks? 

 

Jeremiah 29:11-13 “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart”. 

 

  • How can we see the plans of God for our prosperity and hope in the middle of suffering? 
  • What do you think is the future that God has in mind for us, and how do difficult situations work into this future? 

 

       2. FAILING TO GIVE THANKS IS A SIN. 

 

  • What are some reasons why we do not give God thanks? 
  • How can we overcome these reasons? 

   

        3. GIVING THANKS MAKES YOU JOYFUL.  

Psalm 107:21-22 Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind.  Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of His works with songs of joy. 

 

  • Whom is really helped by our giving thanks? 
  • What did the Psalmist focus on that caused him to remain thankful? 
  • What blessings do we have in our lives that we can focus on, and thank God for, while suffering? 

 

       4. GIVING THANKS ENERGIZES PRAYER.  

Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 

 

  • How does giving thanks in your prayers bring you joy? 
  • Have you chosen to be thankful in your prayers?  If yes, what is your biggest challenge to being thankful? 
  • If not, what keeps you from being thankful? 

 

      5. GIVING THANKS CROWDS OUT SIN IN MY LIFE. RESENTMENT CANNOT GROW IN A GARDEN PLANTED WITH THANKFULNESS.  

Ephesians 5:18-20 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.  Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

  • Can you share a time in your life when gratitude kept you from sinning? 
  • Pastor Dave mentioned the role of singing/worship in our expression of thankfulness.  Do you experience thankfulness in community singing/worship? 
  • Can you think of Hymns or Praise music that deal with our giving thanks to God? 
  • How does rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks help us to overcome hopelessness in difficult times?

The reason you need this sermon: giving thanks in all circumstances honors God, makes you joyful, energizes your prayer, and crowds out sin in your life! 

by Candace Hampton

Faithful Instructions: Pray Continually - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

 

FAITHFUL INSTRUCTIONS:  PRAY CONTINUALLY 

   1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 

 

Icebreaker:  

 Ask each person in the group to share 1 good thing and 1 challenging thing that has happened to them in the last week. 

 

Scripture Passage: 

 I Thessalonians 5:16-18  Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 

  

Notes: 

  • These verses contain God’s commands for all Christians “…. for this is God's will for you.”  
  • Notice that there are no exceptions for persons, circumstances or events.  
  • The guidelines are prefaced with: 
    • “Always” (definition: at all times; on all occasions) 
    • “Continually” (definition: repeated frequently in the same way; regularly)  
    • “all Circumstances” (good, bad, unexceptional, mundane, routine) 

 

Definitions: 

  1. Q1.  How does Matthew 6:5-8 describe how we should and should not approach prayer? 

 

Matthew 6:5-8 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 

 

      2. Praying Continually: 

  • The word “continually” does not refer to uninterrupted prayer, but constantly recurring prayer. 
  • Note: If we are honest, many of us find prayer challenging. It can often be difficult to maintain a regularity of prayer amidst the various pressures of life. 

     

     Q2.  If regular prayer is a part of God’s will, then why do we treat it as a non-essential part of our daily activities? Did your prayer activities this past week reflect a “constantly recurring” event? What keeps us from praying with more consistency and regularity? 

      Q3.  Describe some things we could change in our daily routine to make daily prayer a more regular occurrence.  

 

      3. Components of Prayer:  

Pray is more than making requests. There is no one way to approach prayer, it can be having a relationship and conversation with God. Some share their personal soul struggles, while others have a desire for personal intimacy with God, while still others are wanting to pursue a deeper knowledge of God.   

      Q4.  How could we improve the components of your prayer life? What could we add to improve our relationship to God? 

 

      4. Answers to Prayer Can Be Found: 

           a.  Through His Word (Bible) 

  • II Timothy 3:16-17 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 

 

       Q5. Do you believe that God can provide answers to your prayer request(s) by providing words, passages, and thoughts from the Bible? If yes, describe an instance in which you prayed and believed that God provided an answer from the Bible.  

          b. Through His Son, Jesus Christ   

  • Hebrews 1:1-3  In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, ….  
  • John 10:27 “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”  

 

       Q6. The more we know about Jesus, his pleasures, pains, and struggles we will become “like” Him and hear Him speaking to our hearts. From your understanding of Jesus, what seemed to cause Him the most pain? Do those things cause you pain? If yes, describe some actions you can take to address the pain or relief of the pain.  

 

       Q7. During your prayer times, do some of your requests mirror the heart of Jesus? How have you received some answers to your prayers as a result of knowing Jesus deeper? If so, maybe you would like to share an example. What are some things you could do to get better acquainted with Jesus? 

           c. Through His Spirit  

  • We are made in the image of God, and when we confess Jesus and follow Him as our Lord and Savior, His Spirit comes to live in us. 
  • John 14:16-18 “16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.”  
  • 1 Corinthians 3:16 “Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?”.  

 

        Q8. God’s Spirit speaks to us through our conscience, helping to make the right decision. When we’re tempted, that same Spirit warns and nudges us to do the right thing. Describe an incident in your life where you knew the Holy Spirit was providing you with a clear decision. Did you listen to the Holy Spirit’s direction? If yes, how did you react to the result? If no, and you ignored or rejected the Holy Spirit’s direction, describe how you felt afterwards?  

 

        Q9. What steps or activities could you take in the following weeks to help you become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance?  

 

        d. Through Meditation and Thought 

  • Psalms 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. 
  • Isaiah 26.3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. 
  • Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. 
  • Romans 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer 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. 

 

       Q10.  What are some ways we can keep our minds and thoughts more like God’s? 

 

        e. Through the Words, Counsel, and Actions of Other Believers  

 

        Q11. How do you go about seeking out advice, words of wisdom, etc. from other believers? 

 

Reminder:  Regardless of the way or method God chooses to reveal Himself or “speak” to us today, remember one truth. He will never contradict His Word, and the message He gives will always bring glory to God.  

 

Summary Thoughts: 

  • Prayer works, if it didn’t, we wouldn’t do it. God hears and He will answer. Sometimes with yes, or no or not yet. But He will definitely hear and answer, and He will use it to change you to be more like Him.  
  • Here’s why you need this sermon: You might agree that prayer is powerful, but you need to change your approach to praying continually. 

by Candace Hampton

Faithful Instructions: Rejoice Always

Faithful Instructions: Rejoice Always

 

Ice Breaker: What was the happiest moment of your childhood? What made you happy?

 

Note: Pastor Dave begins this sermon with 2 sets of facts: Fewer Americans today than ever before identify themselves as Christians or even religious, and Suicide has replaced homicide as the leading cause of deaths among teens and young adults over the past decade.

 

  1. Do you think the two are related? Why or why not?
  2. According to Romans 5:1-5 How does faith and suffering bring peace and hope to the believer?

 

Romans 5:1–5 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

 

  1. How does rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks help us to overcome hopelessness in difficult times?

 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

 

4. What does this passage say is the will of God for you?

 

The focus of this lesson is verse 16: Rejoice always.

  1. Is it possible to have happiness without joy or vice versa? Explain.
  2. What brings us happiness? What brings us joy?
  3. What is the source of our joy as Christians? (Romans 5:11, Philippians 3:3, Luke 10:20, John 15:10–11)

 

Rom 5:11 And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.

Luke 10:20 20 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.

John 15:10–11 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. 11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”

 

  1. How does understanding that God is using your life story to fit into God’s big story enable you to rejoice always even when you are unhappy?

Pastor Dave taught that for the believer there is triumph over tragedy through the choice of joy.

  1. What is the significance of having the ability to choose joy, over letting circumstances dictate our feelings, mean to you?
  2. How does choosing joy bring triumph over tragedy? (James 1:2-4, Philippians 4:4, Matthew 5:11-12, Romans 12:12)

 

James 1:2–4 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always.

Matthew 5:11–12 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Romans 12:12 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

 

  1. What keeps us from choosing joy? Practically, how do you choose joy in difficult times?
  2. Given that joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), are you participating with His work in you by choosing joy? If you’re not living with joy, ask yourself why not?

 

Galatians 5:22–23 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

 

  1. How is it possible to suffer, be sad, or grieve and still be joyful? (2 Corinthians 6:10; John 16:22-24; Romans 8:35-39)

 

2 Corinthians 6:10 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

John 16:22–24 22 So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. 23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

Romans 8:34–39 34 Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  

 

  1. What is keeping you from choosing to rejoice always? What can you do this week to encourage yourself and others to rejoice always?

 

by Candace Hampton

Jesus Stories: The Squatters Luke 20:9-19

JESUS STORIES: THE  SQUATTERS    LUKE  20:9-19  

 

Ice Breaker:  Do you have a favorite family story from your youth that you would like to share.   (3 minutes or shorter.)  

 

Jesus has just  been  questioned by the chief priests, teachers of the law and the elders asking by what authority are you doing these things:  What things? Good question. Jesus was doing miracles, loving people compassionately and healing them. He had just chased  merchants  out of the temple courts, effectively shutting down the temple commerce for hours.  Jesus did not answer the question directly but told a parable instead.  

 

     The Tenants Rebel 

 

Luke 20:9-12  He went on to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard, rented it to some farmers and went away for a long time. 10 At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants so they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 11 He sent another servant, but that one also they beat and treated shamefully and sent away empty-handed. 12 He sent still a third, and they wounded him and threw him out.  

  

  • The tenants are the Jewish religious leaders. The servants are the prophets God had sent over the centuries to turn his people back to himself.

 

1. Who does the owner of the vineyard represent? What does the vineyard represent? What do you think the “fruit” stands for in this parable? 

2. Based on your knowledge of the Old Testament, how do you think this story condemns the Jewish leaders of the past and how they responded to God’s prophets? 

 

     Decision to Send the Son  

 

Luke 20:13-15a “Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What shall I do? I will send my son, whom I love; perhaps they will respect him.’  14 “But when the tenants saw him, they talked the matter over. ‘This is the heir,’ they said. ‘Let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 15 So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.  

 

1. Why did the farmer send his son? 

2. What do you think that the religious leaders understood about Jesus’ story? (Luke 19:47, 20:19) 

3. What are ways we use Christianity to serve us and keep the fruit as our own? 

4. In what ways could we treat our blessings as on loan to benefit God and share with others? 

5. How does our culture act as if they are the owners of the vineyard rather than the renter of the vineyard? How does our culture still kill the Son of God? 

6. What are the ways that culture is killing the purpose of God, in your life?  

7. Are there some aspects of God’s purpose in your life that need to be realigned with God? 

 

In the sermon, Pastor Dave said that culture still kills the Son of God, God’s peace, God’s morals, God’s salvation, God as our provider, and God’s worship. 

 

     The Result of Rebellion 

  

Luke 20:15b-16  “What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? 16 He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others.” When the people heard this, they said, “God forbid!”  

   

1. In the story, the tenants kill the son, and the father comes and kills the tenants and the vineyard given to others.  What message was Jesus conveying to the religious leaders?

2. What is God’s purpose in telling this story to us?

     The Authority of the Son – Be Broken not Crushed 

  

Luke 20:17-19  Jesus looked directly at them and asked, “Then what is the meaning of that which is written: “‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? 18 Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”  19 The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people.  

 

1. What does this passage reveal about God’s expectations of us? 

2. What does this passage reveal about God’s values?  

3. What does this story reveal about the authority of Jesus? (Isaiah 46:9-10, Matthew 28:17) 

4. How have you acknowledged the authority (Lordship) of Jesus in your life? 

5. In what ways is the Lordship of Jesus revealed in your life?  (Luke 9:23) 

 

In the beginning of the sermon, Pastor Dave talked said,  “Jesus told stories so that people would understand how their story might fit within God’s story and God’s expectations for His followers and to describe God’s values.” 

 

You want to consider your religious beliefs as yours, but Jesus Christ has every authority to speak into your life, because he is the giver of your life and the rescuer of your life. 

 

by Candace Hampton

Jesus Stories: The Good Samaritan

JESUS STORIES: THE GOOD SAMARITAN

Icebreaker:

  •  Can you list at least four ways people have been neighborly to you?

 

Scripture Passage:

Luke 10:25-37

25. On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to
inherit eternal life?" 26. "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?" 27. 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.'" 28. "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do
this and you will live." 29. But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"
30. In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of
robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31. A priest
happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.
32. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33. But a
Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34. He
went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey,
took him to an inn and took care of him. 35. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to
the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense
you may have.' 36. "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands
of robbers?" 37. The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and
do likewise."

Students, Questions, Motives

Note:

It is important to note that not every question asked by a questioner is innocent or harmless.
Some questions are sincere while others may be posed to create confusion and/or distrust
among those listening, while others are asked to cover and/or hide an individual’s true nature.

In this story we have a man who appears to be sincere and willing to learn from Jesus (aka
rabbi), and he asks a personal question.

1. What was the man’s question? (vs. 25)

2. Why do you think this question was asked? (was it for informational purposes, self-promotion,
misdirection, a hidden agenda, etc.?)

3. What does Jesus’ response to the man’s question seem to indicate about the man’s
understanding of the Scriptures? (vs. 27)

4. Why do you think the man was not satisfied with Jesus’ answer and followed up with an
additional question regarding the identity of his neighbor? (vs. 25, 29

 

Today’s Students, Questions, Motives

1. If you were given an opportunity to ask any question of a teacher/preacher today, what would
you like to ask?

2. Thought/Reflection: … no verbal response is being solicited or required … just a personal
introspection ….. motivations ……

Do you really want an answer to the above question? or could you be asking the question to
validate some of your thoughts, prejudices, and or behaviors? Or do you want to direct others
into contrary opinions so you can see the “fireworks” etc.?

3. Have you completed any initial research on the subject of the question you would like to ask? If
so, please describe some the people, things, and or resources you have consulted.

4. If the Bible has provided answers to your question, what additional explanations or
clarifications would you need answered before moving forward?

 

 Who is my “Neighbor?”

Historical Note: The Samaritans embraced a religion that was a combination of Judaism
and idolatry. Because the Israelite inhabitants of Samaria had intermarried with the
foreigners and adopted their idolatrous religion, Samaritans were generally considered
“half-breeds” and were universally despised by the Jews.

Pastor Dave, provided us with a clear contrast between various classes of people and the one who performed neighborly like activities (vs. 30-37)

 

Compassion with Action:
• Robbers take money, the Samaritan gave of his own money.
• The Priest saw and did nothing, the Samaritan helped transport the wounded.
• Levite fails to bind up his wounds, Samaritan binds up the man’s wounds and puts
oil on them.
            The Samaritan has compassion and follows-through with action.

1. What do you think Jesus wanted his audience to do in response to this story?

2. Have you ever helped a complete stranger? If so, how did you help? If not, why not?

3. Why is it easier to love the world and give to a needed cause than it is to actually love, serve
and get to know our real next-door neighbor?

4. Describe the obstacles you would have to personally overcome in becoming a neighbor to those you know, verses a stranger.

5. What steps can you take today to start the journey of becoming the neighbor God wants you
be?

Although the lawyer asked the question regarding how to inherit eternal life, Jesus redirected the discussion to the real issue: How can we love our neighbor, the 2nd of the great commandments.

by Candace Hampton

Jesus Stories: The Rich Fool

JESUS STORIES: THE RICH FOOL    LUKE 12:13-21  

  

Icebreaker: What do you like to collect and how does it make you happy? 

 

Parable: Luke 12:13-21  

13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” 

16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’  

18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’  

20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’  

21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”  

 

  1. What did the man in the crowd want Jesus to do? (12:13) 

      2. What opportunity did Jesus seize when the man threw out a self-centered question?  (12:14) 

      3. What did Jesus address when he gave the warning? (12:15) 

      4. How do you feel about what Jesus said, “...life does not consist in an abundance of things”? 

      5. When does abundance become greed? 

      6. What was the man’s good fortune? (12:16) 

      7. What were the man’s dilemma and solution? (12:17-18) 

      8. How do you handle abundance? 

      9. What did the rich man have his eye on? (12:19) 

      10. How are we very much like this man? 

      11. What is God’s verdict on the rich man’s decisions? (12:20)  

      12. What do you think would be God’s perspective on our decisions? (12:20) 

      13. What is the relationship between the warning in 12:15 and God’s reprimand in 12:21? 

      14. What does God demand of us? 

      15. Consider Pastor Dave’s point in the sermon, “Your life is on loan from God, just like your stuff.”  What should be our life priority? 

      16. What is it that you would specifically change in your priorities to keep God first?  

 

You’re accountable to God for all you own 

by Candace Hampton

Jesus Stories: The Rich Man and Lazarus

JESUS STORIES: THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS  

I. Icebreaker:  

What did you believe about heaven as a child? What are you looking forward to the most about heaven today? 

 

II. What you do with the gifts of life and the pain of life matters.  

Luke 16:19–21  19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day.  20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores  21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.” 

 

  1. What are the differences in circumstances between the rich man and Lazarus? 

 

Luke 16:22–26  22“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’  25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony.   26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’ “ 

 

      2. What are the changes in circumstances after they died between the rich man and Lazarus?  

      3. How should knowing that God sees how we use our wealth motivate us to use it wisely? What does use wealth wisely mean to you? 

 

Pastor Dave stated that Lazarus was comforted and not just healed.  Jesus is giving a picture of future comfort to those who have endured the deepest emotional hurts, the most brutal health challenges, the gnawing hunger for food, and affirms there is future comfort for those who have had to endure those experiences in this temporary life.  

 

      4. How does knowing that God sees the conditions of our lives and his comfort awaits, help us to persevere during difficult circumstances? 

 

Note: Scholars do not agree whether this story is a true account or a parable to make a point, but it is likely Jesus would give a true view of what happens after death in his illustration.  

 

      5. What can be said about life after death from this passage up to this point? How does knowing there are consequences after death make how we live today more important? 

 

III. There is no opportunity for repentance after this life. 

Luke 16:27-31  27“He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house,  28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’  29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’  30“ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’  31“He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”  

 

      6. Notice that the rich man continues to expect Lazarus to help him (Luke 16:24, 27). What is the rich man’s attitude and behavior and how does it demonstrate his lack of repentance?  

      7. How has God warned us to avoid the place of torment?  

      8. What would you say Jesus is implying was the reason Lazarus was with God? What is Jesus stating that could keep the rich man’s brothers from ending up in the place of torment?  

      9. How do we avoid the place of torment? (John 3:16-17) On what basis are you confident that you will be with God? (1 John 5:11-12) 

 

IV. How are you handling the wealth of your life? Because it matters. 

Context: This story is the last in a series of parables regarding money and a not so subtle condemnation of the arrogance of the Pharisees and their disdain for those who do not have money. (See Luke 16:13-15)  

Luke 16:13–15 13 “No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”  14 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. 15 He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God’s sight.  

 

      10. How does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus continue the condemnation of the Pharisees?  

      11. What is highly valued among men and detestable in God’s sight? Are there any areas of your life where you need to stop justifying yourself among others instead of God? 

      12. What is the heart of God? What are ways we can seek to stay in line with God’s heart in our lives? 

 

 God will judge how you handle your wealth and how you handle your painful experiences. 

by Candace Hampton

India- Reflections

INDIA -REFLECTIONS 

 

I. Icebreaker:

What countries other than the United States have you been to and why were you there? 

II.  Introduction:   

Review and introduction from Pastor Dave’s sermon  

The culture of India is one of poverty, spiritual depravity and lack of love.  The caste system of India de-values life and justifies the mistreatment of others, as a punishment from God.  The Indian belief in re-incarnation allows the higher castes to abuse the lower castes with the justification that God put them into the lower caste as a punishment for how they lived in prior lives.  (Who are they to argue with God?) Fear of AIDS causes people to think that children are safer, less likely to spread AIDS.  Severe poverty means that many mothers have no other way to provide for their families than Child Sex Trafficking.  Child Sex Trafficking is done under the title of dancing.  Parents can buy babies from the hospital for $50, raising them so as to not traffic their biological children. 

  1. How has the Indian religious beliefs influenced their culture?  
  2. How has the American religious beliefs influenced our culture? How has our culture influenced our religious beliefs (both positive/negative)? 
  3. Pastor Dave talked about his needing to get out of America to get America out of him.  What parts of American culture do you need to get out of you?  
  4. How do you think a change of scenery can be a way of opening our souls to reflection, clarity and new thinking.? 

III. We are to Rescue- Through the Gospel and Practical Assistance 

Proverbs 24:11-12 Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter.  If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,” does not He who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not He who guards your life know it?  Will He not repay everyone according to what they have done? 

  1. In what ways, has God/Christianity blessed America so that we may be able to share the blessings with India? 

      2. How have we as Christians been rescued from being led away to death, or staggering toward slaughter?  

      3. How have you ever rescued someone being led away to death, or staggering toward slaughter? (I.e. drug abuse, alcoholism, homelessness, and bad decision-making) 

Ephesians 2:10   For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  

      4. What ministry opportunities do we have to rescue people from staggering toward slaughter? 

      5. What could you do to support the ministries of our Church as it regards India missions? 

 

IV. Become Transformational Agents 

John 17:14-18. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.  They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.  Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.  As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 

      1. Jesus sends us into the world. Have you ever asked yourself what God wants to accomplish through you? Or asked God what He wants to accomplish through you? 

      2. Have you considered supporting an Indian child through our Church’s ministries? 

      3. Would you consider being a part of a short- term mission trip to India? 

      4. What ways can we be transformational agents at home? 

V. Prayer 

  1. Pray for our Nation and the Church in America. 

  2. Pray for the Nation of India and the Church in India. 

  3. Pray for the children of India. 

  4. Pray about supporting a child in India. 

 

by Candace Hampton

Creating A Family Rhythm

Creating a Family Rhythm

 

Icebreaker:  It’s Saturday Morning.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up? Do you think it’s possible to change the Saturday morning routine? 

 

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon 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.   

 

Note (Historical Perspective): 

Moses and the Israelites are in the territory of Moab in the area where the Jordan flows into the Dead Sea (1:5). As his final act at this important time of transferring leadership to Joshua, Moses delivered his farewell addresses to prepare the people for their entrance into Canaan. In them, Moses emphasized the laws that were especially needed at such a time, and he presented them in a way appropriate to the situation. For example, he spoke regarding the giving of the Ten Commandments, the significance of the Covenant relationship with the Lord, the importance of leaving a heritage in which future generations could learn and follow in their daily lives, etc. 

 

Rhythm: (definition) - An interval during which a recurring sequence of events occurs, or a regular pattern in nature or in life. The concept of rhythms can be seen or has been detected in nearly every field of study man has embarked upon. 

 

Note:  Our personal/family “Rhythms” should be reflective of our love, priorities, and obedience toward God. (Deuteronomy 6:5) 

 

  1. When you “WAKE UP”  

  

    • Describe some of the first thoughts you have upon waking up in the morning. (For example: turning off the alarm clock, brushing teeth, activities planned for the day, clothes to wear, what’s for lunch, etc.) 

 

    • Describe how you bless or stress your family members upon waking up in the morning? 

 

    • When is the best time for you to begin thinking about God or spiritual matters?  

 

    • What do you perceive as some benefits of starting off with God upon waking up in the morning? 

 

    • If you were wanting to make God a priority in your life, what would you need to change in your morning routine? Or what have you changed in your morning routine to make God a priority in your life? 

 

      2. When you “EAT”  

 

    •  Describe what you believe to be the value of eating meals together as a family. What do you do that makes that time valuable?  

  

    • How do you involve God during your mealtime? 

 

    • What kind of things get in the way of making mealtime and God time a priority in your routine? 

 

    • How would your regular giving of thanks to God for His provisions of food, etc. be beneficial to yourself, your family, and anyone else visiting you during a mealtime? What can we do to keep it fresh and meaningful (i.e. heartfelt thanks)? 

 

     3. When you “TRAVEL”  

 

    • Describe what occupies your time while traveling with family members in your daily routine. Does this help you to focus on God?  

 

    • What are some things you could add to your routine to help strengthen your relationship for a more positive influence?  

 

     4. When you “SLEEP”  

 

    • How do you decide when it’s time to go to sleep? (planned, abrupt, bored, etc.)  

 

    • Do you pray together as a family before going to bed?  

 

    • What can we do to help make family prayer a routine in the lives of our family members? 

 

    • Describe what you can do to bring God into the family discussions before going to bed? 

 

      5. Concluding Thoughts: 

 

    • How do we keep our prayers, discussions and routines from losing their meanings and becoming ritualistic?  

 

    • What is one thing you plan to change in your routine to help in the development of a better “Family Rhythm”?  

 

Pastor Dave said at the end of his message that “God is saying if you are going to impress these truths in your heart or the hearts of your children, you will have to be more deliberate about ‘creating a rhythm’ within your home.”

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Armed and Dangerous - Ephesians 6:10-6:24

SPIRITUAL WARFARE: ARMED AND DANGEROUS Ephesians 6:10 – 6:24 

 

I. Icebreaker:  

What was your favorite costume you have worn as a child or adult? Or Share a costume story. 

 

II. Introduction:   

View The Bible Project video, 7:57-8:56 minutes. 

Review and introduction from Pastor Dave’s sermon: We have seen that God in his Big plan has recruited you, brought you back from the dead, given you allies as part of his forever family. He has dreams and lasting work in His kingdom for you, given you new weapons to overcome your old flesh, the ability to see the darkness and avoid it. He has urged you to guard the headquarters of your marriage, your parenting and your workplace…And finally, he is calling you into the fight by being strong in the Lord and his mighty power (Ephesian 6:10), by putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-17), praying (Ephesians 6:18-20), and being encouraged through the body of Christ (Ephesians 6:21-24).  

 

III. Putting on the Full Armor of God 

Ephesians 6:10–17 (10)Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. (11) Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. (12) For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (13) Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (14) Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, (15) and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. (16) In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (17) Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  

 

  1. For what dangers are we to put on the full armor of God? (Ephesians 6:10-13) 

 

      2. What does each part of the armor represent metaphorically? (Ephesians 6:14-17) 

 

      3. How do you think each of these parts help us to overcome these dangers? 

 

      4. Which piece or pieces of armor do you feel you are wearing properly? Which piece or pieces do you feel need a readjustment or to put on in the first place?  

 

 

IV. Prayer 

Ephesians 6:18–20 (18) And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. (19) Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, (20) for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.  

 

      5. Although prayer is not part of the armor of the soldier, it is added as an additional weapon of God – a Spirit-led weapon. Why do you think prayer is an important weapon given the nature of the                     battle? (Ephesians 6:12) 

 

      6. When, how and for whom should we be praying? What practical ways are you triggered to pray? 

 

      7. In verse 19, Paul is asking for prayer for what God has called him to do and for success in that ministry. What ministry or work of God are you doing that you would like others to pray for? (Note:                     Ministry can be church related or can be what God is having you do in your life such as parenting, supporting your family, sharing your faith with friends or family, etc.) 

 

      8. From Pastor Dave’s sermon: We need to pray because we have three enemies; Self, Satan and Society. 

    • Self (flesh or sin nature) – In what area are you your own worst enemy? Why is it important to pray for our personal journey? (Matthew 26:41, Romans 8:6) 

 

                   Matthew 26:41 "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."   

 

                   Romans 8:6 “The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace;” 

 

    • Satan – How should knowing that Satan and spiritual forces of evil are real affect our prayers? (1 Peter 5:8) 

 

                   1 Peter 5:8 “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. “ 

 

    • Society – What ways should we pray for our society, culture and the world? (Ephesians 6:18-19) 

 

                   Note: Our society, culture, and the world, are enemies to the Christian. 

                   John 15:19 “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.“  

 

 

V. Encourage One Another 

Ephesians 6:21–24 (21) Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing. (22) I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you.  (23) Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (24) Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. 

  

  1. Take time to share how you are, what you are doing, and how your circle can encourage you this week. 

 

There’s nothing more powerful than a body of believers supporting one another through tragedy or toward a mighty opportunity. So, let me ask you …How are you? And what are you doing? Are you becoming more and more alert, ready to put to death the deeds of darkness and walk as a child of light? If so then when the day of evil comes, will you be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand?  

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Headquarters - Ephesians 5:21 – 6:9

Icebreaker

Which TV families do you consider the most dysfunctional or most inspirational?  Why?

Introduction:  View The Bible Project video (7:11-7:56)

Stability at Headquarters (Home, church, work place, etc.) means having strong leadership grown through strong followership. So Paul addresses three areas of our lives where sacrificial love is key for the warrior in passages Ephesians 5:21 – 6:9:

  1. In Marriage or pro-actively leading in your dating relationship.
  2. In Parenting and in obedience to your parents.
  3. In your workplace as an employee or in your leadership of employees.

Submission is the two-way sacrificial path of love

1. Submissions in Married Couples (Ephesians 5:21-33)

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Ephesians 5:21-33

 

From the sermon: Submission is the two-way sacrificial path of love. The Greek word is to submit to the orders or directives of someone— ‘to obey, to submit to, obedience, submission.’

  1. How does love and submission complement each other in marriage and in the church?
  2. From Ephesian 5:21-33, why is marriage a great illustration of Christ with the church?
  3. How is the husband’s need for respect and the wife’s need for love complementary?
  4. Where does the husband get his examples to love his wife?
  5. How have you learned to either love or submit to your spouse?

 

2. Submission in Children (Ephesians 6:1-4)

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:1-4

  1. Why is it important for children to obey parents?
  2. What are some ways to train up a rebellious or challenging child who does not want to honor the parents?
  3. How can parents unknowingly exasperate (infuriate, frustrate) their children? How does one undo it, if it has taken place?
  4. As the parents take the lead to train up their children in the Lord, what kinds of training have you done, experienced or observed that have worked?

 

3. Submission in the Work Place (Ephesians 6:5-9)

Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.

And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

Ephesians 6:5-9

  1. Though the scriptures refer to slaves, why is the text still relevant for today?
  2. Why might Paul address the slaves first before the masters?
  3. Why should the Christian slaves/employees follow Paul’s instructions?
  4. How should Christian employers treat their employees according to Scriptures? What are the benefits to treating your employees according scriptures?
  5. What can you do to implement these principles in your work situation?

 

Father, I choose to love by sacrificing my right to be right or equal, and I choose to love and respect from my position of influence.

by Sun Grove Church

Spiritual Warfare- Ephesians 5:1-20 - Night Vision

Spiritual Warfare: Ephesians 5:1-20 - NIGHT VISION 

 

Ice Breaker: (Choose a question). What are the things that you loved as a child? As an adult, (other than people)? Are the things you loved as a child still the things that you love as an adult?  

 

The Bible Project:  6:41-7:10 

 

Note: Pastor Dave spoke about the three Greek words that describe love. The passage deals with Agape in Ephesians 5:1-2 and discusses the concept of Eros in Ephesians 5:3. Paul later deals with the idea of Phileo love in Ephesian 5:19.  

 

Three Types of Love: 

  1. Phileo – Brotherly love.  
  2. Eros – Passionate, or Erotic love.  
  3. Agape – Sacrificial love.  

 

Ephesians 5:1-2 

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 

 

  • Agape- Sacrificial love. 

 

    • Can you remember a time when you were shown sacrificial love? 
    • When have you shown sacrificial love to others? 
    • What would help us to love more sacrificially? 

 

 Ephesians 5:3  But among you, there must not be a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people.

 

  • Eros- Passionate or Erotic love.

    Note: From Pastor Dave’s sermon: The world’s definition of sex is any genital contact at all, whether by hand, mouth, or genital.  That’s the world’s definition of sex. God says you are set apart to be holy and he created sex to be within the safety of the bonds of marriage. If it’s taken outside of that, it’s pornea. Outside of marriage means before marriage (when you’re single). It means if you were previously married but are not currently married now (single again).  

 

    • What constitutes sexual immorality?  (Hebrews 13:4, Matthew 5:27-28) What other activities would you include, i.e. sexting, pornography and romance novels? 
    • What would you tell a Christian who said that they are engaged in above activities? 
    • What would you tell a Christian who said that they are engaged and think that they should begin having sex with their fiancee?  
    • What can we do, to keep from compromising our values? 

 

 Ephesian 5:4  Nor should there be any obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.

 

  • Pastor Dave spent some time talking about our heart condition.  He said, “Our words are simply a reflection of what’s in our hearts.” 
    • What does swearing, cursing, foolish talking, gossip or coarse joking reveal about our hearts? 
    • What does thanksgiving reveal about our hearts? Consider the time your group has been meeting together. Share the blessings you have seen as a group, giving thanks to God. 

 

 Ephesians 5:5-7  For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person - such a person is an idolater- has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.  Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.  Therefore, do not be partners with them. 

 

    • Please explain how immorality, impurity and greed is idolatry? 
    • What are some of the common idols in our lives? 
    • How should we respond to these types of idolatry in our society? Church? Relationships? 

 

 From the sermon, We are to break the power of the dark side in your life and expose the deeds of darkness and embrace avoiding them. 

 

Ephesians 5:8-16  For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)  and find out what pleases the Lord.  Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.   For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.  But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible.  This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”   Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 

 

    • What is Paul talking about, when he says, “fruitless deeds of darkness”?  What is the fruit of the light? 

 

    • Wise people make the most of every opportunity to give love that requires sacrifice.  What does love require of me? 

 

Ephesians 5:17–20.   Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.  Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.  Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,  always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.   

 

From the sermon notes, you must lay down a few things: 

  • Sexual immorality and pick up purity. 
  • Greed and pick up generosity. 
  • Nasty talk and pick up gratitude and thanksgiving.
  • Any substance that removes Holy Spirit led self-control. 

 

    • Are there any things that you identify with and need to put down?  
    • Are there any activities that love would cause you to add to your life? 

 

Having Night Vision in a dark world means identifying the wrong, exposing it in yourself, or when someone else exposes it for you; and living to please God as a soldier on mission.

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Re-Center

“Re-Center” Sermon By: Pastor Matt Lingo 

  

Icebreaker:  

 As we come to the end of summer, what have you done to refocus yourself and your family toward going back to school?  

 

Part of fighting the spiritual battle requires us to re-center and refocus on remembering to “Love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and soul.” 

   

1. Loving God is worship 

 

  • Matthew 22:36-37 
    • "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"  Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”   

 

  • This is a definition of Worship 
    • One may always consult Webster's Dictionary for the precise meaning of worship (adore, idolize, esteem worthy, reverence, homage, etc.). Yet truly defining worship proves more difficult because it is both an attitude and an act.  

 

  • Why would following someone else’s commands cause you to feel and exhibit conflicted emotions and take you off center? 

 

  • During the walk of life we are regularly confronted with competing priorities. The competition of these priorities can be overwhelming and bring us to the realization that we need to be personally “re-centered.” What do you do to make worship a priority in your life? 

 

  • Why is it that we do not have to achieve happiness or be in agreement with everything around us to worship God? 

 

2. Living for God is worship 

  • Romans 12:1 
    • Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. 

 

  • This is a definition of Holy (holiness) 
    • Moral and ethical wholeness or perfection; freedom from moral evil. Holiness is one of the essential elements of God's nature required of His people. Holiness may also be rendered "sanctification" or "godliness." The word holy denotes that which is "sanctified" or "set apart" for divine service. (From the Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary) Being Holy is a general term used to indicate sanctity or separation from all that is sinful, impure, or morally imperfect; i.e., it is moral wholeness. The term is used with reference to persons, places, and things. (From the New Unger's Bible Dictionary) 

 

  • The spiritual act of worship is dependent upon (1) knowing God as your personal savior, and (2) striving not to participate in attitudes and activities that offend God’s Holy nature. 

 

  • When your attitudes and actions run contrary to what you know about God’s holiness, how do you feel about any activities related to “worship?” 

 

  • What do you do to re-center? Romans 12:2 

 

3. God’s not finished with you 

  •   Colossians 2:6-7 (KJV) 
    • As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:  Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 

 

  • The Bible is comparing our life to a walk. What are some of the indicators in your life you would like to see that indicate you are rooted and growing? 

 

4. We are better in community. 

  • Proverbs 28:26, Proverbs 11:14, and Hebrews 10:24-25 
    • He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe. And in another passage: Proverbs 11:14 “…….. but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. Heb 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  

 

  • How do you make friends and build Godly relationships so that you do not have to walk through life alone or as a loner?  

 

  • How are the following ideas (getting along, cooperation, compromise, giving up control, etc.) related to making Godly friendships? 

 

  • Where are some of the easiest places to meet, make friends and build Godly relationships? 

  

Part of fighting the spiritual battle requires us to re-center and refocus on remembering to “Love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and soul.” 

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Lies We Believe - Part 1

Icebreaker

When it is your turn, tell the group one thing about yourself that is true and one thing that is untrue (this is your lie). Give each a chance to guess the lie.

Introduction

The Devil attacks us with lies. Pastor Mike identified 6 common lies we face in our daily lives with God’s responses to them. Pastor Mike is using the principle in Ephesians 4:11-15 to equip God’s people for works of service by challenging the lies in our culture that we may not be “infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 4:14) So that we may become mature.

Apostle Paul said in Ephesians 4:11-15 “Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. by Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.  Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Emphasis is bolded. Let’s discuss and discern God’s truths to these lies.

LIE:  American  Dream (we know we should build a comfortable life and don't think about the supernatural)

TRUTH: God  Exists (Romans 1:18-23)

  • What is your view of the American Dream?

“For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.”

Romans 1:21

  • How has our culture moved away from God’s wisdom and plan and created its own gods?
  • How can we put God back into the culture?

LIE: Faith  Journal (we know that what you believe is ok for you and the Bible is irrelevant)

TRUTH: Holy  Bible (2 Timothy 3:12-17)

  • What is the difference between absolute (2 Timothy 3:12-17) versus relative truths?
  • Why is relative truth so detrimental to our faith?
  • How can we live by absolute truth?

LIE:  Warm  Future (we know babies get to heaven and Jesus was just a good teacher)

TRUTH: One  Way (John 14:1-6)

  • Why does society believe that there are many ways to heaven?
  • What did Jesus declare in John 14:1-6?
  • How did you decide that Jesus is the only way?

LIE:  Church  Hypocrites (we know those church people are phony and you don't really need church)

TRUTH: Circle  Up (Hebrews 10:23-25)

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.  And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Hebrews 10:23–25

  • Why is a true Christ-centered community (Hebrews 10:23-25) authentic rather than “phony” as the critics claim?
  • What are the critical ingredients in a Christ-centered community aka circle groups (Acts 2:42)?
  • How can we help everyone else connect into a circle group?

LIE:  Religious  Crutch (we know religion is for the weak and you shouldn't talk about your beliefs)

TRUTH: Resurrection  Power (Philippians 3:10-12)

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.  Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. “

Philippians 3:10–12 

  • Why is it that our reliance on the power of His resurrection is no crutch?
  • How do you deal with sharing your faith in your daily life when others may feel uncomfortable with it?

In the context of spiritual warfare, the enemy attacks us with lies. But God has provided His Word to equip us so that we are not deceived.

 

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Dreams - Ephesians 4

Ice Breaker

What is the best piece of clothing you have had for years, but can’t seem to discard? Or what item do you have trouble discarding even though it is no longer useful?

Watch The Bible Project video: 4:48-6:40

God is calling you to lay down your old ineffective weapons. He is calling you to pick up new weapons, enlist the all-powerful help of the Holy Spirit, and arm yourself for the battle that frees you.

Part One: Read Ephesians 4:1-6    

  1. What does “live a life worthy of our calling” look like? (Ephesians 4:1-3)  
  2. How does Ephesians 4:4-6 provide the theological basis for the unity of the Spirit?  
  3. What is the result if we do not live the life that leads to unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace?

Part Two: Read Ephesians 4:7-16 

  1. For what purposes does God give leaders to the church? (Ephesians 4:11-13) 
  2. What is the result of such leadership? (Ephesians 4:14-16) 
  3. What would be the witness of the church if we as a church body seek to grow and build ourselves up in love, as each part does its’ work?

Part Three: Read Ephesians 4:17-24 

  1. How does Paul describe the way the Gentiles live and the reasons for living that way? (Ephesians 4:17-19) 
  2. How is the “new self” different than the “old self” and why was the “new self” created? (Ephesians 4:20-24) 
  3. In what ways do you/we struggle to not live as the Gentiles do? What sabotages you?

Part Four: Read Ephesians 4:25-32 

  1. Paul makes a distinction between the old self and the new self in Ephesians 4:25-5:20. What is the difference between each pair and the reason for the change according to the corresponding verses?  
Passage Old Self New Self What is the reason or result of the change? 
Ephesians 4:25    
Ephesians 4:26-27    
Ephesians 4:28    
Ephesians 4:29    
Ephesians 4:30-32    

 2. Why is it important for Christians to live in accordance with the new self? 

 3. Which of these “old selfs” do you struggle with and what do you do, or can you do, to put on the “new self”? 

 

Part Five: From the Sermon: You can be correct, and still not be right. When your beliefs cause you to mistreat people, there’s something wrong with your beliefs. 

  1. Ephesians 4:15 says to speak the truth in love. What are ways to speak truth not in love? And similarly, what are ways to withhold truth not in love? 
  2. What is the difference between anger without sin and anger mixed with sin? (Ephesians 4:26) 

In Pastor Dave’s sermon, he provides 3 Greek words for anger in the Bible. These may help in the discussion for #2. 

Anger: there are three words for it in the New Testament and they mean: 

  • Τηυμοσ - Boiling, passionate uncontrolled anger…wrath.
  • Παοργισμοσ - Embittered grudging anger. Slow burn. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, v.26.
  • Οργε - Reasoned anger with self-control. “In your anger do not sin”: v 26 (the first part)  What happens when we mix appropriate anger with sin? It morphs into angry sin.

What happens when we mix appropriate anger with sin? It morphs into angry sin. 

      3. What strategies do you use to avoid sinning in your anger?

From the Sermon: When is the Holy Spirit grieved?  

  • When saved people use the weapons of lost people.  
  • When there is ongoing resistance to his work in you.  
  • When you have been forgiven but refuse to forgive...it’s not optional.  

God’s Holy Spirit GRIEVES!

Sermon Action Point: (Personal):   

  1. Where do I start with forgiveness? Create a “You owe me” list. Take time to make a list of the people that owe you or have wronged you.
  2. Decision and prayer point: I choose to forgive                                     for                                      .

 

SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Dreams- Ephesians 4 – Leaders Guide

Leaders Note: Leader notes and scriptures are provided so that you as the leader will be able to help lead discussion. Leader notes and scripture are not included with the standard questions.

Ice Breaker

What is the best piece of clothing you have had for years, but can’t seem to discard? Or what item do you have trouble discarding even though it is no longer useful?

Watch The Bible Project video: 4:48-6:40

God is calling you to lay down your old ineffective weapons. He is calling you to pick up new weapons, enlist the all-powerful help of the Holy Spirit, and arm yourself for the battle that frees you.

Part One: Read Ephesians 4:1-6  

1As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Ephesians 4:1–6

  1. What does “live a life worthy of our calling” look like? (Ephesians 4:1-3)
  2. How does Ephesians 4:4-6 provide the theological basis for the unity of the Spirit?
  3. What is the result if we do not live the life that leads to unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace?

Part Two: Read Ephesians 4:7-16

7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says:

“When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men.”

9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? 10 He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Ephesians 4:7–16

Leader’s Note: Ephesians 4:7-10 can be a little confusing and the exact source of the quote is not known, although it is generally believed to be a restatement and summary of Psalm 68. However, its main point is that it established Christ’s authority to bestow grace.

  1. For what purposes does God give leaders to the church? (Ephesians 4:11-13)

Leaders note: For our purposes, the term leader combines the ideas of apostle, prophets, evangelists, and pastors and teachers. These terms were better understood in the first century church and may be confusing to the 21st Century Christian depending on their background in the church.

  1. What is the result of such leadership? (Ephesians 4:14-16)
  2. What would be the witness of the church if we as a church body seek to grow and build ourselves up in love, as each part does its’ work?

Part Three: Read Ephesians 4:17-24

17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.

20 You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21 Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Ephesians 4:17–24

  1. How does Paul describe the way the Gentiles live and the reasons for living that way? (Ephesians 4:17-19)
  2. How is the “new self” different than the “old self” and why was the “new self” created? (Ephesians 4:20-24)
  3. In what ways do you/we struggle to not live as the Gentiles do? What sabotages you?

Part Four: Read Ephesians 4:25-32

25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:25–32

  1. Paul makes a distinction between the old self and the new self in Ephesians 4:25-5:20. What is the difference between each pair and the reason for the change according to the corresponding verses?
PassageOld SelfNew SelfWhat is the reason or result of the change?
Ephesians 4:25
Ephesians 4:26-27
Ephesians 4:28
Ephesians 4:29
Ephesians 4:30-32

 

  1. Why is it important for Christians to live in accordance with the new self?
  2. Which of these “old selfs” do you struggle with and what do you do, or can you do, to put on the “new self”?

Part Five: From the Sermon: You can be correct, and still not be right. When your beliefs cause you to mistreat people, there’s something wrong with your beliefs.

  1. Ephesians 4:15 says to speak the truth in love. What are ways to speak truth not in love? And similarly, what are ways to withhold truth not in love?

Leaders Note: In this passage the world “truth” can have two understandings. It can be the truth of the Gospel (Ephesians 4:20) and it can be more generally truthfulness (Ephesian 4:25)

  1. What is the difference between anger without sin and anger mixed with sin? (Ephesians 4:26)

In Pastor Dave’s sermon, he provides 3 Greek words for anger in the Bible. These may help in the discussion for #2.

Anger: there are three words for it in the New Testament and they mean:

  • Τηυμοσ - Boiling, passionate uncontrolled anger…wrath.
  • Παοργισμοσ - Embittered grudging anger. Slow burn. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, v.26.
  • Οργε - Reasoned anger with self-control. “In your anger do not sin”: v 26 (the first part)  What happens when we mix appropriate anger with sin? It morphs into angry sin.
  1. What strategies do you use to avoid sinning in your anger?

From the Sermon: When is the Holy Spirit grieved?

  • When saved people use the weapons of lost people.
  • When there is ongoing resistance to his work in you.
  • When you have been forgiven but refuse to forgive...it’s not optional.

God’s Holy Spirit GRIEVES!

Sermon Action Point: (Personal): 

  1. Where do I start with forgiveness? Create a “You owe me” list. Take time to make a list of the people that owe you or have wronged you.
  2. Decision and prayer point: I choose to forgive                                     for                                      

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Dreams - Ephesians 3

Ice Breaker

What childhood dreams (Goal or Vision) do you remember. Did any of them come to fruition? Are there any dreams you still have?

Watch the Bible Project video: 4:21-4:47

God’s dream (plan) was always to receive imperfect people through sacrificial love and invite them to enter into His multi-ethnic forever family.

Part One: Read Ephesians 3:1-7

Jews and Gentiles are equal before God and together in heaven.
1. Paul begins this chapter with, “For this reason.” What reason is Paul referring to?
2. What is the mystery Paul is referring to in the text?
3. In verse 6, the word “Together” appears three times. What are the things that the Jews and Gentiles share together?

Part Two: Read Ephesians 3:8-13

Paul addresses himself as being “least of God’s people” because of his past. (1 Cor 15:9)

  1. How does humility unleash God’s power to work in us?
  2. What are the issues (relationships, known sin, Fears -unknown/uncontrollable, hate brother) that keep us from serving God?
  3. What does Paul say are the reasons he has been given this message?

Part Three:

God will not bless churches that take a different direction than to preach the “unsearchable riches of Christ”. (Ephesians 3:10)

  1. What are the things that pull churches away from preaching Christ?
  2. What are the unnecessary things in your life that distract you from Christ?
  3. How can we keep balance in our lives, so that we keep from being distracted?

Part Four:

God wants us to approach Him with Freedom and Confidence. (Ephesian 3:12)
1. What keeps us from feeling freedom and confidence before God? (a) lack of knowledge, (b) allowance of disruptors (weak) commitments, (3) looking for a way to disengage, (4) known sin/evil/badness, (5) contentment with our current situation, (6) limited prayer life.
2. What are ways we can approach God with freedom and confidence?

Part Five: Read Ephesians 3:14-21

Prayer for the Ephesians

  1. What are the glorious riches God provides? (Ephesians 3:16-19)
  2. Why do you think Paul prays for what God already has for his people? (John 15:7)
  3. Why do you think Paul ends his prayer with praise?

In the context of “Spiritual Warfare” We have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family. Paul prays that we grasp God’s love, to know this love through Personal experience, be filled with His power, knowing that we have a cross to bear, before receiving a crown.

Leaders Note

Leader notes and scriptures are provided so that you as the leader will be able to help lead discussion. Leader notes and scripture are not included with the standard questions.

Ice Breaker

What childhood dreams (Goal or Vision) do you remember. Did any of them come to fruition? Are there any dreams you still have?

Watch the Bible Project video: 4:21-4:47

 

God’s dream (plan) was always to receive imperfect people through sacrificial love and invite them to enter into His multi-ethnic forever family.

Part One: Read Ephesians 3:1-7

For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power.

Ephesians 3:1–7 (NIV84)

Jews and Gentiles are equal before God and together in heaven.

  1. Paul begins this chapter with, “For this reason.” What reason is Paul referring to?

Leaders Note: “For this reason” refers to Paul’s argument in Chapter 2 that Jew and Gentile have been made one in Christ. Paul uses two metaphors to describe this unity: 1. We are fellow citizens of the same household and we are built together as God’s Temple with Christ as the Chief Cornerstone for the dwelling of the Holy Spirit.

2. What is the mystery Paul is referring to in the text?
3. In verse 6, the word “Together” appears three times. What are the things that the Jews and Gentiles share together?

Part Two: Read Ephesians 3:8-13

Paul addresses himself as being “least of God’s people” because of his past. (1 Cor 15:9)

For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.

1 Corinthians 15:9 (NIV84)

 

  1. How does humility unleash God’s power to work in us?
  2. What are the issues (relationships, known sin, Fears -unknown/uncontrollable, hate brother) that keep us from serving God?
  3. What does Paul say are the reasons he has been given this message?

Part Three:

God will not bless churches that take a different direction than to preach the “unsearchable riches of Christ”. (Ephesians 3:10)
1. What are the things that pull churches away from preaching Christ?
2. What are the unnecessary things in your life that distract you from Christ?
3. How can we keep balance in our lives, so that we keep from being distracted?

Part Four:

God wants us to approach Him with Freedom and Confidence. (Ephesian 3:12)
1. What keeps us from feeling freedom and confidence before God? (a) lack of knowledge, (b) allowance of disruptors (weak) commitments, (3) looking for a way to disengage, (4) known sin/evil/badness, (5) contentment with our current situation, (6) limited prayer life.
2. What are ways we can approach God with freedom and confidence?

Part Five: Read Ephesians 3:14-21

Prayer for the Ephesians
1. What are the glorious riches God provides? (Ephesians 3:16-19)

Leaders Note: 1. Strengthens us with power through his Spirit 2. Christ may dwell in our heart 3. We will be rooted and established in love 4. We may have power with all the Saints 5. We may grasp the immensity of the love of Christ 6. We will know the love that surpasses knowledge 7. We may be filled with the fullness of God.

2. Why do you think Paul prays for what God already has for his people? (John 15:7)

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

John 15:7 (NIV84) 

3. Why do you think Paul ends his prayer with praise?

Leaders Note: If time permits have the group pray Ephesians 3:16-21 for each other.

In the context of “Spiritual Warfare” We have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family. Paul prays that we grasp God’s love, to know this love through Personal experience, be filled with His power, knowing that we have a cross to bear, before receiving a crown.

by Sun Grove Church

Spiritual Warfare - Allies

Ice Breaker: (15 min)

Paul starts this section with a call to remember their former lives before Christ: Please share a fond memory that you greatly value.

Watch “The Bible Project’s “Book of Ephesians” (timestamp: 2:25 to 4:22).

In the previous study “We Came Back from the Dead” – Ephesians 2:1-10

 

In Ephesians 2:11-22, Paul used three common, but pivotal transitional words to develop his instructions. They are “therefore”, “but” and “so”.

Part 1

Read Ephesians 2:11-12 (20 min)

"Therefore" (dió) – looking backward ("because") to properly look forward ("therefore").

  1. What does "therefore" refer to (Review verses 2:1-10)?
  2. What former condition did Paul want them to remember in verses 11-12?
  3. Why is it significant to remember?
  4. What do we need to remember in our own former lives?

Part 2

Read Ephesians 2:13-18 (20 min)

"But" (dé, a conjunction) – moreover, indeed now

  1. What's the good news of peace?
  2. How is this good news made possible?
  3. What does Satan want to destroy? Hint: In what Christ has done (verses 13,16).
  4. How does he divide us? How does he affect our witness?
  5. How can we be safeguarded from these lies?

Part 3

Read Ephesians 2:19-22 (20 min)

"Consequently” or “So” or “Therefore" (airo) through the idea of drawing a conclusion

  1. What new identity do we possess (verse 19)?
  2. What work is God doing in and through us? (Ephesian 2:20-22; 4:11-16)
  3. What then does it mean for me to be a holy temple of the Lord?
  4. What daily actions are consistent with being a holy temple of God?

“We were once dead … Now, we are a holy temple in which Christ lives”

In the context of the “Spiritual Warfare” - You have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family.

 

LEADERS GUIDE 

Ice Breaker: (15 min)

Paul starts this section with a call to remember their former lives before Christ: Please share a fond memory that you greatly value.

Watch “The Bible Project’s “Book of Ephesians” (timestamp: 2:25 to 4:22).

 

In the previous study “We Came Back from the Dead” – Ephesians 2:1-10

 

In Ephesians 2:11-22, Paul used three common, but pivotal transitional words to develop his instructions. They are “therefore”, “but” and “so”.

Part 1

Read Ephesians 2:11-12 (20 min)

"Therefore" (dió) – looking backward ("because") to properly look forward ("therefore").

  1. What does "therefore" refer to (Review verses 2:1-10)?

(For Study Leader: Summary of 2:1-10 to 2:1-3 – Previously dead in sins and followed Satan. 2:4-9 – We alive in Christ and saved by grace. 2:10 – Created to do good works.)

2. What former condition did Paul want them to remember in verses 11-12?

3. Why is it significant to remember?

4. What do we need to remember in our own former lives?

Part 2

Read Ephesians 2:13-18 (20 min)

"But" (dé, a conjunction) – moreover, indeed now

  1. What's the good news of peace?
  2. How is this good news made possible?
  3. What does Satan want to destroy? Hint: In what Christ has done (verses 13, 16).

(Leaders Notes: Verses 13, 16 deal with the unity of the Body of Christ)

4. How does he divide us? How does he affect our witness?

5. How can we be safeguarded from these lies?

(Leaders Note: Examples include being involved in Circles and fellowship with sound doctrine, discipleship, reading God’s Word ….)

 Part 3

Read Ephesians 2:19-22 (20 min)

"Consequently” or “So” or “Therefore" (airo) through the idea of drawing a conclusion

  1. What new identity do we possess (verse 19)?
  2. What work is God doing in and through us? (Ephesian 2:20-22: 4:11-16)

(Leaders Note: Chapter 2:20-22 covers God’s work in the church and Chapter 4 speaks to our responsibility as the household of Christ.)

  1. What then does it mean for me to be a holy temple of the Lord?

(Leaders Note: We do not need to go anywhere else to worship.)

  1. What daily actions are consistent with being a holy temple of God?

 

“We were once dead … Now, we are a holy temple in which Christ lives”

 

In the context of the “Spiritual Warfare” - You have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family.

 

 

by Candace Hampton

Sprirtual Warfare - Back from the Dead

SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Back from the Dead

Ice Breaker: What special gift have you received recently?

Video: If practical in your setting, watch “The Bible Project’s ‘Book of Ephesians’ “ (video timestamp: 2:55 to 4:20). (5 min)

Introduction:

From Ephesians Chapter 1 we learned that:

  • 1) We (I) have been RECRUITED as part of God’s love and work into His big eternal plan.
  • 2) We were reminded of the importance of being thankful for fellow Christians in our life, the church and the world.

Sermon Emphasis - God’s big story is to “bring those who are spiritually dead and make them alive in Christ Jesus.”

I. Born “Dead” (2:1-3, also in v.5) - (30 min)

Questions:

1. What do you think Paul means by being dead in transgressions?

2. What are the lies people tell themselves about their mortality and spiritual condition?

  • I can save myself.
  • My good work will get me to heaven.
  • If I am spiritual and religious, then God will be pleased.
  • I am a good person or at least better in comparison to others.
  • I have been a Christian my whole life.

3. When is the proper time or conditions to introduce others to what the Bible says regarding their spiritual condition?

II. Made “Alive” (2:4-9) - (30 min)

4. What do you think Paul means by being made alive in Christ through Grace? (2:4-9)

5. What does Paul say are the conditions to being saved?

Grace is a “gift” from God and that truth should be reflected in how we live.

From the sermon:

“We can do nothing to earn salvation, All we can do is receive the gift, and accept what God has done through Jesus Christ. It is whom you believe that saves you not the act of believing it. The object of our faith is Jesus, not the ability to merely have faith in something.
“You just gotta have faith”. No. You need Jesus Christ.” Pastor Dave

3 Parts to Saving Faith

  •   I must hear – Romans 10:17
  •   I must accept – Acts 16:30-31, I Corinthians 15
  •   I must commit - Matthew 3:2; 4:17; Luke 13:3-5; Acts 2:38

Questions continued:

6. In what ways have you experienced or worked through the above-mentioned points?

Grace is a “gift” from God and that truth should be reflected in how we live.

III. Salvation “Demonstrated” (2:10) - (20 min)

Questions:

7. Describe an incident where you had to rely on God’s provision, direction, and/or care through “Faith” (i.e., the integration and action taken related to hearing, accepting, and committing to what God’s Word has spoken to your life).

8. What are some ways, practices, and/or habits that you can use to put God’s Word into your life for the purpose of sharing it with others?

In the context of the “Spiritual Warfare” - You have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family.

LEADERS VERSION

SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Back from the Dead
Leader Notes & Scriptures

The following scripture passages are taken from the NIV. They have been arranged in the order presented in the student handout.

Ice Breaker(s): (15 min)
Leader Note: It is recommended that you provide a time limit for each individual. You can use a sand timer, stop watch, computer count down timer, etc., otherwise there is a good possibility that you will not be able to cover the following materials in the total time allotted for your meeting. For extra-large groups, consider breaking into subgroups.

Ice Breaker: What special gift have you received recently?

Video: If practical in your setting, watch “The Bible Project’s “Book of Ephesians” (video timestamp: 2:25 to 4:20). (5 min)

Introduction:

From Ephesians Chapter 1 we learned that:

  • 1) We (I) have been RECRUITED as part of God’s love and work into His big eternal plan.
  • 2) We were reminded of the importance of being thankful for fellow Christians in our life, the church and the world.

Sermon Emphasis - God’s big story is to “bring those who are spiritually dead and make them alive in Christ Jesus.

I. Born “Dead” (2:1-3, also in v.5)

Ephesians: 2:1-3, 5 - 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath…. 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved.

Death: is introduced in Gen 2:17. God created man to live forever, both physically and spiritually. By man's disobedience, however, death became his lot (Rom 5:12). The day Adam ate the forbidden fruit, he did not die physically but lived on and reached the age of 930 years (Gen 5:5). However, with that act of disobedience he died spiritually and was separated from God's fellowship (Gen 3:24) …. (from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Copyright © 1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)

Genesis 2:17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.

Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned—

Genesis 5:5 Altogether, Adam lived 930 years, and then he died.

Genesis 3:24 After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.

Statement: You and I and every other person on this earth were born spiritually dead. Ephesians 2:1-5, Romans 5:12, 6:23. Eternity awaits every individual after the death (extinguishment) of their human body. The death of our body can occur at any time and for nearly any reason. We are not guaranteed a tomorrow. James 4:13-14, Proverbs 16:9, 27:1, Hebrews 9:27

Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned—

Romans 6:23  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

James 4:13-14 (13) Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." (14) Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

Proverbs 16:9  In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.

Proverbs 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.

Hebrews 9:27  Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment,

Questions:

1. What do you think Paul means by being dead in transgressions

2. What are the lies people tell themselves about their mortality and spiritual condition?

  • A. I can save myself.
  • B. My good work will get me to heaven.
  • C. If I am spiritual and religious, then God will be pleased.
  • D. I am a good person or at least better in comparison to others.
  • E. I have been a Christian my whole life.

3. When is the proper time or conditions to introduce others to what the Bible says regarding their spiritual condition?

II. Made “Alive” (2:4-9)

Ephesians 2:4-9 (4) But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,(5) made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved. (6) And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (7) in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. (8) For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— (9) not by works, so that no one can boast.

4. What do you think Paul means by being made alive in Christ through Grace? (2:4-9)

5. What does Paul say are the conditions to being saved?

Grace is a “gift” from God and that truth should be reflected in how we live.

Leaders Note: The passage refers to both mercy (2:4) and grace (2:5 & 2:8). Even though, they can appear synonymous, they are different. Mercy refers to God not giving us what we deserve, namely the consequence of our sin which is death. Whereas Grace is getting what we don’t deserve, namely God giving us salvation and an eternal relationship with Him as a free gift purchased by Jesus on the cross. As verse 8 clearly states, it is by this act of grace that we have been saved. Therefore, there is nothing we can do to earn salvation. We need only to accept the gift of grace that God offers through our belief in Jesus.

From the sermon:

“We can do nothing to earn salvation, All we can do is receive the gift, and accept what God has done through Jesus Christ. It is whom you believe that saves you not the act of believing it. The object of our faith is Jesus, not the ability to merely have faith in something.
‘You just gotta have faith’. No. You need Jesus Christ.” Pastor Dave

3 Parts to Saving Faith

  •   I must hear

Romans 10:17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.

  •   I must accept

Acts 16:30-31 (30) He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (31) They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household."

I Corinthians 15:1-4 (1) Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. (2) By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. (3) For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, (4) that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,

  •   I must commit

Matthew 3:2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

Matthew 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

Luke 13:3-5 (3) ”I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. (4) Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them — do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? (5) I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."

Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins….”

6. In what ways have you experienced or worked through the above-mentioned points?

III. Salvation “Demonstrated” (2:10)

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Questions:

7. Describe an incident where you had to rely on God’s provision, direction, and or care through “Faith” (i.e., the integration and action taken related to hearing, accepting, and committing to what God’s Word has spoken to your life).

8. What are some ways, practices, and or habits that you can use to put God’s Word into your life for the purpose of sharing it with others?

In the context of the “Spiritual Warfare” - You have been BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEAD as part of God’s love and work in His big eternal plan of building a multi-ethnic forever family.

by Candace Hampton

Spiritual Warfare - Recruited

Ice Breaker: (5 min)

When you count your blessings, what are the things at the top of your list?

Context and Series Emphasis: (10 min)

(Note to Leaders: If practical in your setting, watch The Bible Project – "Overview Ephesians" from 0:00 to 2:54 and/or consider these passages to answer the questions below.)

Introduction to Ephesians: (Read Ephesians 1:1-2)

Paul has heard of the faith and love of the Ephesians. He spent two year Ephesus and was responsible for establishing the Ephesian Church. Therefore, he was naturally concerned for their condition.

Paul experienced spiritual warfare in Ephesus when he built the church. (Stories found in Acts 19:11-20 and Acts 19:23-40.)

Question: What are gods or objects of worship to which we are drawn without being aware? 

Sermon Emphasis: (30 min)

Opening Poem (Read Ephesians 1:3-14)

God’s big story is to recruit you into his forever family by his death on the cross. 

  • Verse 3 tells us that we have been blessed by God in Christ with every spiritual blessing. What blessings does Paul include in Ephesians 1:4-14?  
  • What should be the result of these blessings? (Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14)  
  • How can these blessings lead to worshiping and glorifying God’s name?  

 

God doesn’t just make the plan. He makes the plan work out in you. (Ephesians 1:11-12) Satan is working to oppose God’s will.

  • From the sermon: What three satanic messages of shame does the enemy use to convince you that God won’t work it out in you?

 The satanic message of shame can be described in three words:

  • Incompetent – You can’t do it right. 
  • Insignificant – You won’t amount to anything. 
  • Unimportant – You don’t really matter. 
  • What messages of shame do you see in your life?  
  • How does our hope in Christ protect us from these negative messages? 
  • In Ephesian 1:13-14 what are the truths in the message of Christ that counter the lies of the enemy?  

 

Spiritual warfare is countering the devil’s schemes by acting in the power of the Holy Spirit (the seal of God) with security, authenticity, a completed transaction and with His authority. 

Opening Prayer: (30 min)

(Read Ephesians 1:15-23)

  • What reasons does Paul give for thanking God for the Ephesians? (Ephesians 1:15-16) 
  •  In what ways can we thank God for fellow Christians in our life, the church and the world?  
  • How could such a prayer be beneficial?  
  • For what are you thankful within the church, your Circle, and Christian relationships? 
  • What did Paul pray for the Ephesians? (Ephesians 1:17-18)  
  • Why is it important to know these things? (Psalms 34:8, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Psalm 119:18, Colossians 1:4-6, 9)  
  • Which of the things Paul prayed could you use in your life right now?  

Praying Through the Scriptures

Either during Circle time or during your personal devotion, use this prayer to pray for people in your group. If you are speaking directly to the person, it is useful to use the pronoun "you", when in your prayer time you might omit the pronoun.

  • (Having) heard about your faith,        name       , in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, (feel free to add other Christ honoring attributes that come to mind). I give thanks for you,        name       , I ask that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you        name        the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you        name        may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your        name's        heart may be enlightened in order that you,        name       ,  may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. (Ephesian 1:15-19 was slightly altered to fit the exercise.)
  • How did God in Christ use his power toward those who believe? (Ephesians 1:19b-22)
  • How does knowing that God has given this power in Christ to all who believe (including you) empower you to face the evil one and your own trials and temptations? (2 Cor 12:9, Psalm 55:22)
  • What does the passage say about the church in light of His authority? (Ephesians 1:22-23)
  •  How does this truth express the importance of the church and the collective influence of Christians?
  • Think about it. 99% of what most people pray for is trivial for God. What really big things could you pray for? (Eph 4:12-13, 15-16)

You have been RECRUITED as part of God’s love and work into his big eternal plan.

Pastor Dave stated, “Our job is to tell people that through Jesus Christ there is freedom from becoming a casualty to the primary spiritual warfare…missing out on Heaven.”

by Candace Hampton

The Story of You

The Story of You - Type Nine - The Peacemaker

THE STORY OF YOU – TYPE NINE - THE PEACEMAKER 

 

Ice Breaker:  When you were a kid and wanted something from your parents, how did you try to persuade them? Or, What was the best deal you negotiated? 

This week’s sermon was focused on Abraham as an example of the Enneagram Type 9 – The Peacemaker. The following questions are to help us understand The Peacemaker, ourselves and God better. 

  • Read Genesis 18:16-33  

  • Why do you think the Lord told Abraham what he was going to do? (Genesis 18:17-20, also consider Gen 11:27; 13:1,12-13; 19:1)  

 

  • Did Abraham realize to whom he was speaking? How do you know? 

 

  • What was the condition of Sodom? (Gen 19:1-11; Ezekiel 49-50; Jude 7)  

 

  • Did Abraham know the condition of Sodom and Gomorrah? (Gen 13:13; 14:14-17, 21-24) 

 

  • Why do you think Abraham felt compelled to intercede? (Genesis 18:19, 25)

      

 

From Sermon Notes: The Peacemaker reflects God’s Peace. The Peacemaker’s motivation: To be at peace and create healthy spaces for people to thrive. Peacemakers see multiple sides to any given decision or scenario. How to be real with yourself and God? The healthy peacemaker is always in pursuit of embracing conflict and declaring their wants. Pursue faith with action. They are inclusive, patient and accepting of others. Good listeners and great mediators. Considerate of the perspective of others. They desire to see the world as a more peaceful place. 

  • The Hebrew word used for peace, “shalowme”, has deep meaning in the Jewish culture.  It means more than prosperity; it also has the ideas of peace, rest, happiness, health, safety, and favor of others. What is the difference between “peace” and “conflict avoidance”?  

 

  • What is the peace of God? (Numbers 6:24-26. Psalms 4:8; Isaiah 26:3, 53:5; Luke 2:13-14. John 14:25-27; 16:33. Philippians 4:4-7; Colossians 1:19-20; Galatians 5:22; Romans 8:6) 

 

  • How does the intercession passage above (Genesis 18:16-33) reveal the healthy traits of a Peacemaker?

  •  How is Jesus Christ our mediator? (Isaiah 53:11-1; Luke 22:31-32; John 14:6, 16; 17:9; Romans 8:34; 1 Timothy 2:5-6) 

 

  • For whom is God calling you to intercede? (Genesis 20:17-18; Eph 6:18; Hebrews 13:18; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; James 5:14-20) 

 

From Sermon Notes: The Peacemaker’s core sin is laziness. The Peacemaker is indecisive, inactive or prone to procrastination. When Unhealthy, Peacemakers: Avoid conflict at all costs. Don’t declare their own needs.  Become passive aggressive. Can be stubborn. A nine lies not because they're a liar. They lie because they don't want conflict. 

  • Read the passage or answer from the summaries provided. How do these passages show unhealthy traits of the Peacemaker? 

  • (Genesis 13:5-13) Abraham and Lot were living in the same region. Quarreling broke out between the herdsman of Abraham and Lot. Abraham proposed a solution that Lot choose his portion of the land and Abraham will remain in the unchosen portion. Lot chose the Jordan Valley where the vegetation was lush and water plentiful. Lot settled near the wicked city of Sodom. 

 

  • (Genesis 16:1-6) Abraham’s wife, Sarah wanted Abraham to have a child, but she was barren. She told Abraham to be with Hagar and when Hagar became pregnant, Sarah blamed Abraham. Abraham, wanting to please his wife told her to do what she saw fit to do. Sarah treated Hagar poorly and fled.  

 

  • (Genesis 12:10-20 and 20:1-17) Twice Abraham deceives the leaders of the territory he travelled in by saying that Sarah was his sister since she was so beautiful instead of disclosing that she was his wife. He was afraid that they would kill him to get to her. Both times the Lord inflicted those leaders and their households until they released Sarah and blessed Abraham. 

 

  • How can laziness and procrastination be sinful? (Proverbs 10:4-5; Matthew 25:26-27; 1 Timothy 5:13; 2 Thessalonians 3:10-13) 

 

  • How did this series help you in your relationship with God, others and self? (Matthew 22:37-40) 

How do I love a PEACEMAKER? 

  • Create an environment where their voice is heard and matters.  

  • Don't shield them from all conflict; but encourage them to actively engage.  

  • Celebrate with them when they finish projects.  

  • Thank them for their gift to see the other side of things. 

Praise God for Nines because: You create healthy spaces for people to thrive.  You seek to resolve conflict and find common ground when others do not see it. You will listen, value the views of others. You help us to see all sides to issues and disputes and peacefully find ways toward reconciliation. When healthy you are inclusive, patient and accepting of others. You help to bring unity in a divided world and heal division when it arises in the church. You make the church, our families and our world a more peaceful place. 

The story of you only makes sense within the big story of God. 

  • Note to Leaders: The scripture references in (parenthesis) are intended to support and inform the questions. However, you do not need to look up every verse, use them as best fits you and your circle. 

     

by Candace Hampton