Ice Breaker

What fears or phobias to you have, if any? Or as a child did you have a fear that you have since out grown?

This week’s sermon was focused on Gideon as an example of the Enneagram Type 6 – The Loyalist. The following questions are to help us understand The Loyalist, ourselves and God better. 

From Sermon Notes: The Loyalist wants to be safe and avoid risk. Being sure I made the right decision is almost impossible. 

  • Read Judges 6:1-23.  
    • What was the condition of the Israelites and why? (Judges 6:1-6) 
    • What was Gideon doing when he met the angel of the Lord? How did the angel of the Lord describe Gideon? (Judges 6:11-12) How did Gideon describe himself? (Judges 6:15) 
    • How did the angel of the Lord encourage Gideon? (Judges 6:14, 16, 20-23) 
  • Read Judges 6: 33-40: 
    • Even though Gideon had received God’s assurance that God would be with him (Judges 6:16), why do you think Gideon tested God with the fleece? 
    • In what ways does Gideon show the characteristics of the Loyalist? 

From Sermon Notes: The Loyalist reflects God’s faithfulness. How do you need to be real with God? Acknowledge God’s faithfulness and loyalty to you. 

  • Read Judges 6:24-35  
    • How did Gideon acknowledge God’s faithfulness? 
    • How did Gideon demonstrate his faithfulness to God? 
    • What did Gideon’s dad do to demonstrate his faithfulness to both Gideon and God? 
    • Was there a time that you had to stand up for your child’s action or a time when a parent or other adult stood up for you? 
  • Galatians 6:2 “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” What are ways this Circle group can support and demonstrate loyalty to each other in what Christ has called them to?  How can gossip or critical talk undermine that support?”
    • Describe the faithfulness of God. (Ex. 34:6; Deut. 4:31; Acts 13:32,33; Rom. 8:31-39, 1 Cor 1:7-9, 1 John 1:9) 
    • What is God’s response to those who are faithful? (Psalms 31:33, Matthew 10:22, Luke 16:10; Revelation 2:10) 

From Sermon Notes: When healthy, Loyalists: Able to determine character in people they encounter. Are reliable, loyal, trustworthy, compassionate and good planners. The Loyalist desires to see the world as a safer place. 

  • How does God test Gideon’s loyalty and trust? (Read Judges 7:1-8) 
  • Why are Loyalists important to the church and the Body of Christ?  

From Sermon Notes: When Unhealthy, Loyalists: See only potential risk and danger. Life is dictated by fear and anxiety. Don’t trust people causing them to avoid new experiences and sabotage relationships. 

  • How does God help Gideon overcome his fear? (Judges 7:9-15, Judges 6:22-24) 
  • Can you recall a time when you were distraught or fearful that God provided insight or peace to get you through? 
  • If you are a Six, what can you do to overcome paralyzing fear? If you are not a Six, how can you encourage those who are fearful of current or future events or circumstances? 

From Sermon Notes: The Loyalist’s core sin: Fear. With their time, their knowledge, their emotions and their money. The healthy Loyalist is always in pursuit of courage and trusting God, themselves and eventually others. Joshua 1:9 

  • Read Judges 7:16-25 How did Gideon overcome his fear and pursue courage? 
  • Imagine being one of the 300 left, would you follow the lead of Gideon? Why or why not? Can you recall a time you followed someone into a risky situation because you trusted their leadership? What made that person trustworthy? 
  • How did God use Gideon’s loyalty to restore His sovereignty over the Israelites? (Judges 8:22,28) 
  • Where in your life to you need to demonstrate courage this week? 

From the Sermon: How do I love a LOYALIST? 

  • Be secure and consistent – tell the truth. 
  • Thank them for their loyalty to you. 
  • Encourage them to be courageous. 
  • Fiercely support them when they are right. 
  • Lovingly correct them when they are paranoid. 

Praise God for Sixes because: You will stick with the body of Christ even in the most difficult times. We can count on you to provide consistency and support. At your best you provide courage and faithfulness to God when others may want to fall away or give up. Since you are committed to the long-term you will step up to provide planning, management and leadership.

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