CrossWay Community Church (Bristol, WI)

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview: 

Respond to God's greatness with joy and submission from a trusting heart.

Digging Deeper:    

Read Psalm 95

1. Psalm 95:1-5 calls God's people to rejoice in him as our sovereign Savior. What does that look like? What are some of the concrete pieces of evidence we might point to in our lives that would reveal a joy in God (or lack thereof)?  

2. How do you find the world around you calling for your attention and affection?

3. What are some of the ways we can be aware of and fight against the allurements of the world, the flesh, and the devil?  What strategies have you found effective in your own fight for joy in God? 

4. What is the (grammatical) relationship between verses 1-2 and verses 3-5?  (Note well the first word of v. 3.)  What is our take-away?

5. Pastor Brett helped us see from vv. 6-7a that God calls us to submit ourselves to our attentive Shepherd.  How does a keen awareness of God’s tender care for us help us humbly submit our lives to him? 

6. Are there areas of your life that you are perhaps not fully submitting to God? What would it look like for you to (more fully) submit every aspect of your life to God?

7. In Psalm 95:7b-11 God calls us to trust him, the Faithful One, who always keeps his promises to his people.  Why is it hard to trust God and his promises?

8. This final Section of Psalm 95 is a warning to us. It is a call for us to guard against hardening our hearts.  Why should we see this warning as God's kindness to us? Are there ways you have seen God use his warnings as a means of grace in your life or in the lives of those around you? Please share. 

9. In 1 Corinthians 10:11, we read "Now these things happened to (the people of Israel) as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. (See also 1 Cor. 10:6). It is clear that God wants us to learn (receive instruction) from the example of the people of Israel as recorded for us in the Old Testament. How does this passage help us apply the message of Psalm 95:7b-11?

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Sermon Overview: 

When we’ve been wronged, God avenges and acts for our good.

Digging Deeper:    

Read Psalm 94

1. If God is the “God of vengeance” and “the judge of the earth,” what does that say about the injustice we face and our need for justice?

2. In what ways does this text help us wait for God's intervention?

3. How have you been struggling with injustice and wrongdoers in the past weeks? Where do you need help?

4. How should you pray when I've been wronged? 

5. How can I tell the difference between rightly seeking justice and sinfully seeking revenge? 

6. Have you ever experienced God's discipline and instruction when you've been wronged? How? 

7. How has Christ's bearing of humanity’s injustice on the cross shown me God’s mercy? How does it help me with my own injustice?

8. How can you help other believers when they've been wronged? 

9. What Biblical passages does God use to cheer your soul?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview: 

When the world is out of control, trust in God, our supreme king.

1. What authority does God have? God permanently governs over his world. 

2. How strong is God's authority? God is stronger than all he has made—he is greater than the things that are greater than us. 

3. How has God used his authority for our good? God has come near and spoken for us to enjoy the never-ending goodness of his rule.

Digging Deeper:    

Read Psalm 93

1. From the passage, what did you pick up about God’s ruling authority over the world?

2. Kyle explained that God permanently governs over his world. What is going really bad, out of control, crazy in this world and how can you personally apply this truth? 

3. What difference does it make that God is greater than the things that are greater than us in this world?

4. What in our lives makes us “forget God” and the truth that He is stronger than all He has made?

5. What uncertainties, fears, and anxieties do you experience when you forget God’s ruling authority?

6. How has God used his authority for our good?

Clue: Think of a nation without any ruling authority. 

7. How does the depiction of God’s authority in this Psalm connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus’ kingship?

8. What are the hard things you are experiencing now in your life? If it’s about someone else’s situation, how does this situation affect you? What is hard for you?

9. Who around you is struggling with fear and anxiety? How can we help you articulate encouragement from this passage for that person?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview 

God shows us his greatness, that the hearts of his people might overflow with joy-filled praise.

1. God shows us his greatness by his works. 

2. God shows us his greatness in his righteous judgment of the wicked.

3. God shows us his greatness in his care for the righteous.

Digging Deeper    

Read Psalm 92

1. Look at vv. 1-5. What of God’s work does the writer notice that leads him to worship?

2. How is your worship of God similar or different from the Psalm writer?

3. What does it mean to "declare Your steadfast love in the morning and Your faithfulness by night" (verse 2)? How can you apply this in your life?

4. Given that the writer wrote this before the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, how much more should these events lead us to worship and adoration? 

5. Why do we need a righteous judge and God in our wicked world? 

6. Share an injustice you are facing in your life and how you are dealing with it. How does knowing that God is a just judge inform the way you deal with that injustice?

7. How does the contrast between the wicked and the righteous apply to our lives today?

8. Share and pray for one or two persons you know who are under God's judgment because they don’t believe in Christ. 

9. Read vv12-14. How does the description of the righteous flourishing, like palm trees and cedars, reflect their relationship with God?

10. Chad explained that God cares for the righteous. How are you experiencing/struggling with this?

11. Why do we desire to have strength to the end of our days? How do our desires line up with God’s way?

Prayer

Sermon Overview:

God protects those who trust in him.

1. Who protects? God

2. Who is protected? Those who trust in him

3. What are those who trust protected from? All sorts of earthly trouble and anything that could eternally harm.

4. How does God protect? He tenderly and strongly gives himself and his angels.

Digging Deeper:    

Read Psalm 91

1. What troubles you? What keeps you up at night?

2. What else do we look to for protection? Our ability (e.g., I'm smart, so I can navigate my way through danger), money (e.g., I'm wealthy, so nothing can touch me), network (e.g., I know good people, so I'll always be taken care of), health (e.g., I'm fit, so I won't have the struggles others do). What is good about these avenues of protection? What is harmful?

3. How are all other avenues of protection deficient compared to God's protection?

4. How have you experienced God's protection?

5. What would you say to someone who reads this passage and concludes that anyone who trusts in God won't have trouble? 

6. How does embracing God's protection reorient our perspective when we go through hard times?

7. God's protection is both meek (vs. 4: like a bird using her wings to protect her chicks) and mighty (vs. 4: like a sturdy shield). How does knowing God is both caring and powerful in his protection help you?

8. How can we help one another trust in God's protection as we go through life's ups and downs?

9. If you are a parent, how does understanding God's protection influence your sense of responsibility in protecting your children? In what specific areas do you find it challenging to trust God more with their safety and well-being? How can you grow in your trust in God in these areas?

10. How can you articulate your need for God's security to others in a way that encourages them to join you in prayer?

11. How can you help your neighbors to find their protection in God?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview:

1. Because God is the Everlasting God, we should turn to Him for refuge in our human weakness, sin, and troubles.

2. God is Eternal: We turn to him because he's eternal, and we are not. 

God gives Widsom Because as we see our sin and the troubles of a fallen world, we need wisdom from him. 

3. God is abundant in Mercy: And because in him is found an abundance of mercy to fill our days.

Digging Deeper:    

Read Psalm 90

1. What kinds of things quickly change our moods and emotions? What does this tell us about ourselves?

2. Why is it good news that God is perfect and the same from everlasting to everlasting?

3. Reflect on the past weeks. Why is it important to constantly remind ourselves of God's greatness, perfection, and vastness regardless of our circumstances? How can we apply this?

4. In what ways do we sometimes act or think as if we have unlimited time in this life?

​​5. What does vv 1-4 teach us about the relationship between God's eternity and human time-bound existence?

6. In verse 12,  Moses says, “teach us to number our days.” Why is this important? How can we count our days and be much more thoughtful of our time? 

a. Family: Why do you think God wants us to appreciate the time we have together as a family? 

b. Gospel Community: Why do you think God wants us to appreciate the time we have with our church family? 

7. Read v. 8 “You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence.” How are we tempted to hide ourselves before God? How does this verse inform the way we should relate to our sins before God?

8. Last Sunday, we sang 'I Will Wait For You'. Can you share a current challenge in your life where you're finding it hard to wait and trust God?

9. How can you cultivate an attitude of thankfulness, even in difficult times?

10. Share something for which you want to thank God.

Prayer

Sermon Overview:

God desires for us an increasing experience of what we have in Christ.  

1. Peace

2. Love with Faith

3. Grace

4. Love for the Lord Jesus

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 6:21-24

1. In verse 23, Paul prays for "peace". How have you experienced this peace in the context of the people of CrossWay?

2. How does the Gospel bring this peace? 

3. Though imprisoned, the Apostle Paul can still pray for peace. How can we experience a similar peace in our own lives, regardless of our circumstances?

4. How did Brett explain the love for one another out of faith in Christ? 

5. How does the Apostle express his love for the Ephesians in 21-22?

6. In what areas of my life do you struggle to show genuine love to others? 

7. How can I allow my faith in Christ to transform those areas to reflect His love more fully?

8. We often talk about the saving grace of God. Brett taught that grace assures and empowers us. How does understanding grace in this way affect your daily life and interactions with others?

9. Let's take a bird's-eye view of the book of Ephesians. Which verses from Ephesians have been life-changing for you? Which ones would you be willing to memorize and share with the group?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview: 

Stand against our spiritual enemies in the protection God has provided in the gospel.

1. Why we need God's armor: we have spiritual enemies we must stand against. (vv. 10-13)

2. How to put on God's armor: we must live out what he has given us in the gospel (vv. 14-17)

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 6:10-17

1. Why do we need God’s armor according to vv 10-13?  

2. Why is it important to understand who our true enemy is according to verse 12?  

3. It’s easy to make too little of the devil (as Western society tends to do), or to make too much of him. Which do you find it tempting to do? What about our church? What are the dangers of making this mistake?

4. Brett explained, “We have enemies who are spiritual, strong, evil, and scheming.” What does this mean? How aware are we of this, and to what extent are we ignoring it?  

5. How did Brett relate God's strength to his armor?   

6. How can we put on God's armor (vv 14-17) ?

7. Think about a time when you faced a temptation. How could each piece of armor have helped you in that situation?

8. Which piece of the armor do you find most challenging to apply right now ? Why?   

9. How can you practically put on each piece of the armor of God in our daily lives?

10. How does this passage relate to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness (Matt 4:1-11)?  

11. How can we as a Gospel Community support each other in "putting on the whole armor of God"? 

Prayer

Sermon Overview: 

1. In your work, exercise and respond to authority as a servant of Christ. 

2. Obey those in authority over you as one serving Christ. (vv. 5-8)

3. Do good to those under your authority as one accountable to Christ. (v. 9)

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 6:5-9

1. What is challenging about obeying those in authority over us? Where do you need help?

2. How does working for Christ challenge the tendency to overwork to please others?

3. How does working for Christ challenge the tendency to view work as undervalued?

4. The text encourages us to do good to those under our authority as one who is accountable to Christ. How does this look in verses 8-9?

5. In your work, whose authority are you under? And who is under your authority?

6. Do you see work as merely a necessary evil or as something that defines your meaning, worth, and identity? Why?

7. How does viewing work as a way to serve the Lord change your perspective?

8. How would you work for a boss who could see your work and the motives behind it at any time from anywhere, a boss who knows everything about you?

9. How does your specific job do good to others, both inside and outside your organization? 

10. How can you do your job to accomplish the most good?

11. How can we encourage the members of our Gospel Community and our church from this text? Think kids, students, unemployed people, and spouses whose primary work is in the home?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview: 

Families, live wisely by fulfilling your God-given roles. 

1. Children, honor your parents (6:1-3)

2. Fathers (and mothers, too), bring up your kids (6:4)

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 6:1-4

1. What does it mean for children to obey their parents “in the Lord” (v. 1)?

2. Kids, what makes it hard for you to obey your parents?

3. Kids, how does it affect you to know that obeying your parents pleases God?

4. Kids, how is it motivating to know that there's a goodness God intends for your life as a result of your obedience?

5. How might these verses apply to adults who have difficult relationships with their parents?

6. Parents, especially dads, in what ways are you tempted to neglect your family? 

7. By just looking at how time is used in your family, what would it communicate about what your family values and thinks is important?

8. Spouses and friends in Gospel Community, how have you noticed the dads in your group leading their families well? Speak encouragement to one another.

9. Parents, what are steps you can take to prioritize the spiritual nourishment of your kids? What have you done well? Where can you grow?

10. What does it mean to “provoke”(v4) children, and what might that look like?

11. How can children and parents seek forgiveness and healing when these instructions have not been followed in the past?

12. How can our church community support families in living out these instructions?

Prayer

Sermon Overview:

Married Christians, in your use of and response to authority, imitate Christ and the church.

1. Wives must respect their husbands' authority. (5:22-24)

2. Husbands must love their wives sacrificially and for their spiritual good (5:25-33)

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 5:22-33

1. Verses 22-24 and 33 refer to the respect for the Husband’s authority.  How did the sermon help us understand this?

2. Brett said, “Jesus modeled the headship, and headship conveys authority.” What did he mean by this?

3. How is the Biblical view of submission different from the secular view?

Consider Jesus’s submission to the Father (his own identity and purpose didn’t change as He submitted to the Father) versus one-sided dominance, individual autonomy, downplayed leadership, and loss of the wife’s dignity.

4. Discuss what is implied and not implied in a wife’s’ submission to her husband

5. According to verse 25, for what purpose did God give authority to Husbands?  

6. What are the limits of a husband's authority? How can a husband sin or fail in exercising his authority?

7. How does the way Christ loves the church (v. 25) inform how husbands should love their wives? 

8. What can a husband do for the spiritual good of his wife? 

9. What are some practical ways a husband can show sacrificial love to his wife and a wife can show respect and support to her husband?

10. Reflect on a relationship in your life where you can apply the principles of sacrificial love and respect. How might this change the dynamic of that relationship?

11. How can marriage build in us a servant’s heart today? 

12. Marriage can be challenging. Will you be willing to seek help, and if so, where can the spouses go for help/counseling?

Hints: Elders, godly women and men 

13. How/What do singles and those aspiring to marry prepare themselves to be good spouses within the church now?

For example, by visiting or inviting a married family's home, learning from their struggles, and understanding the lessons from their marriage.

14. How can we encourage/pray for husbands and wives of Crossway?

Prayer

Sermon Overview 

Be careful to live in a way marked by wisdom and the work of the Spirit.

1. Wisely use time according to Christ's will. (5:15-17)

2. Welcome the work of the Spirit. (5:18-21)

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 5:15-21

1. Verse 16 says, "Because the days are evil".  How did the sermon help us understand this?  How does it inform our use of time?  

2. Verse 17 calls us to understand the will of Christ. In this context, how can we identify Christ's priorities for our lives? And how do those priorities influence how we spend our time?

3. Discuss wise and unwise ways of making the best use of your time for Christ.

4. Consider your own use of time. How well does it line up with honoring and glorifying God? How are you using your time well? Where would you like to grow?

5. When it comes to your time, where could you use encouragement, advice, or accountability?

6. Verse 18 says, "be filled with the Spirit."  How is being filled with the Holy Spirit different from being under the influence of alcohol?

7. How has Brett helped us understand the fullness of the Spirit in our lives?

8. The verses 19-21 describe a life filled with the Spirit. What should we pursue together? 

9. How is singing together beneficial for one another and glorifies God?

10. Think about a member of our Gospel Community. Share a way they’ve been encouraging to you in your spiritual life. 

11. What is challenging/encouraging in your submission to one another (marriage, parenting, servitude, Gospel Community, accountability)?  

12. How does Christ’s Submission to God fuel our submission to one another?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview:

Pursue God-pleasing purity together

Because you are light in the Lord…

Flee impurity of body, heart, and mouth (vv 3-7, 11a)

Give thanks (v 4c)

Bear fruit (vv 8-10)

Expose evil in the world and one another (vv 11b-14)

Digging Deeper:    

Read Ephesians 5:3-14

The passage describes two lifestyles, one that God’s people should pursue and another that God’s people should avoid. What are some of the descriptors used for each group?  

There are at least three ways to approach a lifestyle of following God: (1) try really hard to obey, (2) ignore the commands or (3) allow the gospel to motivate you to obedience. What difference does it make which approach you take? What are the consequences? (for example, if one tries to follow these commands by trying really hard, it could lead to pride if they are achieved or self-hatred if they are not. If one ignores these commands, there’s a grave warning at the end of verse 5.)

We are light (vs. 8). Therefore we are called to flee impurity of body, heart & mouth (vv. 3-7, 11a).  From the aspects of impurity mentioned in this passage, by which can you find yourself most tempted?  

Discuss what sexual purity and sexual immorality look like now. What are things the culture advocates as good and permissible that God would say is immoral? What are things that God would say is good that the culture would say is not good?

As children of light, we are called to give thanks (v. 4c).  How is a thankful heart an antidote to covetousness / greed / idolatry?  Have you seen this reality play itself out in your own heart?  Please share. 

As children of light we are called to bear fruit (vv. 8-10).  In sharp contrast to the world, we are to live lives marked by what is "good and right and true.” (v. 9). What’s the difference between living a life that merely seeks to avoid certain (bad) things, versus pursuing a life that proactively seeks to do certain (good) things (“bear fruit”)?  

Bible-believing Christians often have a reputation for what we deny and reject, but not a matching reputation for gracious generosity towards others. Could that ever be true of you? How can you live in such a way that people realize that you love them as well as realizing that you live distinctively (even when that is unpopular)?

Because we are light in the Lord, we are called to expose evil in the world and in one another (vv. 11b-14).  How did Pastor Brett help us think through what that might look like practically?  Given where he has you, how might God be calling you to live this out?  What might it look like to do this poorly?  What might it look like to do this well?  How can we encourage one another to do this well (in a way that is pleasing to God)?  

Pursuing God-pleasing lives of purity and holiness is not something we can do well on our own. We need each other. What might it look like for your GC to be more intentional about pursuing holiness / purity together?  What might be a good next step toward that? 

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview:

Relate to one another in the church according to God's sacrificial love for you.

1. General principle: Imitate God's sacrificial love in your every day relating to one another (5:1-2)

2. Specific application: When sinned against, imitate God's kindness and forgiveness (4:31-32)

Digging Deeper:    

1. The main point of this passage was that we should relate to one another according to God’s sacrificial love for you. What other things tend to guide us as we relate to one another? Examples include treating people based on how they treat you, what their status is, what you can get from them, etc.

2. What problems emerge when we deal with people based on the answers in the first question? For example, what are the downsides of treating people based on how they treat you?

3. Why is treating people based on God’s sacrificial love a much better way to live?

4. f you were sinned against, what would imitating God’s kindness and forgiveness look like?

5. What are the greatest challenges you face to consistently love other people at CrossWay?

6. Look again at the list of items in verse 31 that should be put away. Do any of them resonate as something to be addressed in your life?

Bitterness

Wrath: an outburst of rage

Anger: steady festering of anger; lingering animosity

Clamor: quarreling, shouting back and forth

Slander: defaming or speaking poorly of others

Malice: a general ill-will towards others

7 If you are a follower of Jesus, how have you experienced being a loved son or daughter of God (5:1)?  

For some inspiration, consider: God pursued us when we were still sinners, he graciously sent Jesus for rebels, he was kind to us when we were unkind to him, he first forgave us, he adopted us when we orphaned ourselves because of our sin, he promises us a future with him, not based on our performance but based on Jesus’.

8. How should the answers from question #7 help us pursue what God calls us in 4:32? In other words, how should the gospel help us be kind, tenderhearted, and forgive one another?

9. What problems are created if the gospel doesn’t motivate being kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving one another?

Prayer

Discussion Questions

Sermon Overview 

Live out your new nature by doing purposeful good to one another.

1. Be truthful with one another (v. 25)

2. Do not sin in anger against one another (vv. 26-27)

3. Work hard to share with one another (v. 28)

4. Speak to build up one another (vv. 29-30)

Ice Breaker

What are some ways your life has changed from before you were a Christian to after you became one? If you’re not a Chrisitan, what are some changes you hope would happen in your life?

Digging Deeper    

This week’s questions are divided up based on the four commands Paul gives in the passage. Each command has a handful of questions. You likely won’t have time to get through all the questions, so it may be helpful at the beginning to see if there are one or two commands that the group would like to discuss. The commands and corresponding question numbers are as follows:

Command #1: Be Truthful = Questions 1-4

Command #2: Be angry and do not sin = Questions 5-8

Command #3: Work and be generous = Questions 9-11

Command #4: Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit = Questions 12-13 

It’s critical to remember the larger context of the letter as we work through Ephesians chapters 4-6 which are filled with specific commands and instructions. We are to receive these commands in light of all that God in Christ has already done for us and for our salvation. What might be the consequences of not remembering Christ’s work for us as we consider the commands of 4:25-30? How can we best guard against these consequences?

The gospel changes us; it transforms our lives. It does so in very concrete ways, like our speech (v. 25). What are some of the ways gospel-transformed speech among us honors God?  

In what contexts are you most tempted to speak something other than the truth?  What are some of the subtle ways we can manipulate words such that we haven’t told a bald-faced lie, and yet (if we are honest!) we haven’t been truthful either?

Why should being members with one another (Eph. 4:25b) be a motivation to speak the truth with one another?

Verses 26-27 describe a way to be angry without sinning. What is the difference between righteous anger and sinful anger?

Have you ever experienced anger without sin (either in yourself or someone else)? If so, what was it like? 

What sort of “opportunity” are we giving the devil, by clinging to our anger and thus failing to resolve it in a timely manner?

In what context(s) do you find yourself most tempted toward sinful anger? How can this community help with this?

Work is God’s idea. He calls us to “labor” so that, instead of stealing what belongs to others, we might be in a position to show generosity (v. 28). What are ways we can (perhaps subtly) be tempted to take that which does not belong to us?  

What does it look like (in the year 2024), to do “honest work with (our) own hands”? 

 What are some practical ways we can show generosity to those around us and those in need? 

What might it look like practically to speak life-giving words to one another on a regular basis?  How can we help one another grow in this? 

Does your heart ache at the thought of grieving the Holy Spirit (v. 30)? Why or why not?  How might being on guard against grieving the Holy Spirit, help us resist sin and temptation in times of testing?    

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Sermon Overview: 

Those who are new creations can and should live as new creations.

1. No longer be who you were (vv. 17-19)

A. The lifestyle of non-Christians is the product of a futile mind (v. 17)

B. Their hard hearts have led to dark minds, separation from God, and a surrender to impurity. (vv. 18-19)

2. How to become who you are (vv. 20-24)

A. Remember how you learned (and learned from) Christ (vv. 20-21)

B. Keep putting off your corrupt old self, being renewed in mind by truth, and putting on the godly new self (vv. 22-24)

Digging Deeper:    

1. Chameleons are an Amazon species of lizard that can adapt their appearance to match their surroundings in order to stay camouflaged and safe. How might Christians live like spiritual chameleons?

2. Why might Christians live like spiritual chameleons?

3. How can we tell if we are living like spiritual chameleons?

4. Pastor Brett helped us see that this passage is a call no longer to “be who we were” but instead “be who we are."  What is meant by this?  

5. Pastor Brett said that we who are new creations can and should live like new creations. Where in this text do we see that we can live as new creations? Where in this text do we see that we should live like new creations?

6. How might God want to use the description of the condition of unbelievers in vv. 17-19 to grow deeper compassion for unbelievers in our hearts?  What might be the fruit of that in our interactions with unbelievers?  

7. In vv. 18-19, hardness of heart lies at the bottom of the other realities mentioned. Why is this significant to see?

8. How does remembering how we learned Christ (and from Christ) (vv. 20-21), enable us to “be who we are”?  What might that look like, practically speaking? 

9. Our lives (how we “walk”) are profoundly shaped by our thinking. What are you bringing into your mind and heart that are helping you think rightly about God and who he has recreated you to be in Christ? 

10. Are there inputs into your mind and heart that tempt you to think in ways that do not align with God’s truth? If so, what are those things? How are they not helpful?

11. If you’re a follower of Jesus, how is your life different now compared to before you knew Jesus?

12. In what ways is your life now countercultural to the rest of society because you are a Christian? 

13. How does the gospel motivate you to live distinctly?

14.How is the old life without Christ different from a new life with Christ according to verses 22-24?

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Sermon Overview: 

Jesus gives what we need to build his body to maturity.

1. Jesus has given gifts to every Christian (vv. 7-10)

2. He has given leaders to equip us to build one another up (vv. 11-12)

3. The goal of building is unity and maturity (vv. 13-14)

4. The way we build is speaking truth in love (vv. 15-16)

Digging Deeper:    

1. According to Eph. 4:7, who is the giver of the gifts?  Who (all) is on the receiving end of what is given?  

2. Encourage one another by sharing gifts from Christ you see present in other members of your Gospel Community.

3. How does this passage address a possible false humility (“I have nothing to offer.”), which can exist among us?  

4. How should knowing that each of us has received a gift(s) for the building up of the body motivate us when we gather together in Gospel Community, Sundays, and informally?  

5. As we saw last week, Ephesians 4 starts out with an emphasis on the unity we have in Christ. Within that unity, there is a diversity of gifts.  According to this text, what is the goal of using our varying gifts?

6. Among God’s people, there can at times be a misconception about who is called to “do ministry” and who isn’t. How does this passage address that?  

7. According to this passage, leaders are “gifts” to the church. What is their role (4:11-12)?  Do you see this happening at CrossWay?  How so?  

8. How does this undermine the idea that the full-time, paid pastors are there to do “ministry” for the rest of the church to “receive”?

9. According to vs. 12, who does the work of ministry?

10. If you’re a follower of Jesus, do you see yourself as a minister? Why or why not? 

11. As Christ uses us and the gifts he’s given us to build up his body, the result will be that we will no longer be “children” who are “tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine.”  Are you now or have you ever experienced being tossed around by ideas or beliefs that were contrary to God’s way?

12. We are called to “speak the truth in love”.  What might that look like among us?  Have you been on the receiving end of a brother or sister in Christ “speaking the truth in love” to you?  Did God use it in your life? How so?  Please share.

13. We are not meant to be consumers of our church, but contributors to our church. Why is it so easy to have a “consumer” mindset? In what ways do you see this in your attitude towards CrossWay?

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Week of: April 28, 2024 // Sermon Text: Ephesians 4:1-6 

Sermon Overview 

Guard the unity God has given through love.

1. We have unity in and from God (vv. 4-6)

2. We are responsible to guard our unity through love (vv. 1-3)

Digging Deeper:    

1. What is the “therefore” in Ephesians 4:1 there for? How is Paul now transitioning to a new section in this letter? 

2. As you look at your own attitudes and actions towards your church, how are you encouraged to see humility, gentleness and patience (vs. 2)? How could you grow in these areas?

3. If someone experienced our Gospel Community, what kinds of observations do you think they’d make positively? Would they sense humility, gentleness, and patience? 

4. If we’re being honest, what observations could someone make critically? Would they pick up on traits like being:

a. Exclusive: it’s hard to meet and make friends here

b. Religious Show: people seem to have their lives figured out.

c. Snobbery: people here thinks they’re better than me.

d. Other: ___________________

5. What is the difference between seeking to “create” unity, and seeking to maintain the unity (4:3) that already exists among us? 

6. What are some reasons division could occur among individual believers within a church?  What are some reasons whole groups within a church could divide from other groups within a church?  What do such divisions communicate to a watching world? 

7. How can you, individually, contribute to “maintaining the unity” in our church? How can we do that as a Gospel Community?

8. There is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.  How should these realities breed unity among God’s people?  

9. Have you experienced the goodness of dwelling in unity with God’s people (see Psalm 133)? How so? Please share.  What observations can you make from what God was up to in the midst of that situation?  

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Sermon Overview: 

The main idea of this week’s sermon was: We need God’s power to understand God’s love so that we might glorify God by being fully mature 

Digging Deeper:   

1. As part of Paul’s ministry to the church in Ephesus, he prays for them. Prayer for others is ministry. Do you agree or disagree?  Please explain / support your answer. Why do you think we can sometimes feel as though the “real work” of ministry is something other than praying for people?  

2. We know that we can boldly go to God with confidence (cf. 3:12). Paul models this boldness and confidence in his prayer. For us, what might approaching the throne of grace with “boldness” look like?  What sort of “bold” prayers might your Father in heaven delight to hear from you (that you are not bringing to him at this time)?  

3. One of Paul’s requests to God for these believers is that they would be "strengthened with power through his Spirit in (their) inner being”  (See Rom 7:22 and 2 Cor. 4:16 for just a couple of reasons why we need to be strengthened daily with God’s power in our inner being.). What might this look like?  Is this something you pray for yourself and for those around you?  Why or why not?  What might be the effect of making this prayer a regular habit? 

4. Paul’s desire is for Christ’s (continual, ongoing) presence in the hearts of these believers, through faith (3:17a). How should we understand the relationship between trusting Christ and his presence in our lives?    

5. Paul’s prayer to God is that he would enable the Ephesian believers to grasp the love of Christ for them. Look back over Ephesians 1:1-3:13.  Where / how is God’s love for us revealed?   

6. How is the love of God for us most clearly revealed in and through the Gospel (cf. Rom. 5:8, Jn 3:16)? 

7. One of the effects, according to 3:19b, of grasping the love of Christ is that we will be “filled with all the fullness of God.”  How did the sermon help us understand what is meant here?  Have you seen this connection in your own life (or in the lives of those around you), between grasping / internalizing God’s love and growing in maturity?   Please share. 

8. In v. 20, we are reminded that our God (the one to whom we pray), is "able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think.”  How might keeping this in mind (and believing it with all our hearts), affect the way we pray? 

9. Is there something in your life currently that feels (if you are honest), too big for God?  What might it look like for you to pray more earnestly and more regularly about this issue (and invite others to do the same)?  

Prayer:

Sermon Text: Ephesians 3:1-13 

Sermon Overview: 

The main idea of this week’s sermon was: The cause of spreading the gospel and strengthening the church is worth suffering for.

1. A mystery: God brings the nations into his people through the gospel (vv. 1-6)

2. A means: God gives his people the gift of spreading the gospel (vv. 7-9)

3. A goal: God displays his wisdom through the church (vv. 10-12)

4. A glory: Suffering in this cause is worthwhile (v. 13)

Digging Deeper:    

1. Name things people pursue and the sacrifices they’re willing to endure to go after them. (e.g., pursue more money so sacrifice time; excel in fitness/academics, so willingly give up hanging out with friends, etc.)

2. As followers of Christ, the things we are called to live for (and if necessary suffer for) are very different than those things for which the world lives. What, according to this passage, does God want us to see as worthy of living for, and if necessary suffering for? 

3. What are some of the costs Christians bear in spreading the gospel and strengthening the church?  Why do these costs sometimes feel as though they’re not worth it? 

4. How does this passage change how we view the prospect of suffering in order to share the gospel message?

5. There are many parts of the world today where living for Christ is costly.  What might it look like for us to be more aware of the sufferings of our brothers and sisters around the world?  What might it look like for us to support them (cf. Gal. 6:10)? 

6. 2 Timothy 3:12 says "Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”  To what extent do you see the reality of this verse in our midst?  If this reality is not happening to the degree that perhaps it should be, why do you think that is?  What might need to change? 

7. Historically, here in America, living for Christ has not been all that costly. That may be changing.  In light of the changing landscape here, what might be some of the costs that come to those who live for the spread of the gospel and the strengthening of the church in the years to come?  

8. What would it look like for us to prepare ourselves to suffer well (i.e. in a way that honors and pleases God)? 

9. It is a wonder of wonders that God would be so gracious to us, his people, that he would allow us to participate in his global purpose to gather worshipers from all the peoples of the earth through the proclamation of the Gospel (see 3:7-9). How are we at CrossWay Community Church living out our calling to spread the Gospel? How can we grow in this?  What is your part in this? 

Prayer

Discussion Questions 

Week of: April 7, 2024 // Sermon Text: Ephesians 2:11-22 

SERMON OVERVIEW 

The main idea of this week’s sermon was: we who trust in Christ have been reconciled to God and to one another through his death. The three main points were:

1. Without Christ, we are separated from God and his people (vv. 11-12)

2. Through his death, Christ has reconciled those who believe to one another and to God (vv. 13-18)

3. We who believe now fully belong to God and his kingdom, family, and temple (vv. 19-22)

DIGGING DEEPER   

1. Our culture is becoming increasingly divided between “us” and “them.”  What are some ways this sort of thinking can (and has) crept into the church?  

2. As you interact with others, especially other Christians at CrossWay, what kinds of things could you be tempted to make more important than the unity you have in Christ? (e.g., political affiliation, ethnicity, opinion on a social issue, an approach to parenting or schooling, etc).

3. How can this passage help us guard against this sort of “us” and “them” mentality?  

4. Sadly we can be prone to forget things, even really important things.  Eph. 2:11-12 encourages us to “remember.”  What does God (through Paul) want us to remember? Why is it good to remember these things?  What effect might regular obedience to this instruction (to "remember") have on our hearts?

5. In verse 12, Paul highlights five different aspects of what was true of us before we were “brought near by the blood of Christ.”  What are they?  How do these realities strike you?

6. Christ is our peace (v. 14).  How is this true in both an objective and subjective sense? How is objective peace (between us and God), a prerequisite to a deep, abiding subjective peace? 

7. Eph. 2:14-15 tells us that Christ "has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace.”  How did Pastor Brett help us understand what Paul is speaking of here? Why is it important to grasp this idea? What is the practical takeaway (s) of this truth for us?

8. The Jews used to be able to meet God in the Jerusalem Temple. The Gentiles were excluded. Where does God now dwell (vv. 21-22)? What is this new temple constructed on (v. 20)?

9. According to Eph. 2:19-22, what is now true of us who are in Christ by faith? What might it look like for us to treasure these realities as we ought? What are some ways that we can remind ourselves and one another of these things?  What might be the effect of doing so more regularly? 

10. Is there anyone who Christ died to reconcile you to, who you are not living in unity with? How will the gospel challenge and enable you to seek peace and friendship with them?

11. In what ways is a church service a foretaste of the life we will enjoy when Jesus returns? If you went to church thinking of it that way, how might it change your attitude or actions there?

Discussion Questions

Week of: March 31, 2024 // Sermon Text: John 20:1-18

SERMON OVERVIEW

The main idea of this week's sermon was that Jesus is persuasively, victoriously & reassuringly alive.

1. Jesus' resurrection is persuasive, finally helping the disciples know that he is truly alive.

2. Jesus' resurrection is victorious, one big step to his ultimate ascension, showing that he was well on his way to completing the work he was sent to do.

3. Jesus' resurrection is reassuring, that the disciples are secured in their adoption through his death.

DIGGING DEEPER

Read John 20:1-18

1. How is Jesus' resurrection from the dead different from when Lazarus was raised from the dead (John 11:38-44)? Why is this significant?

Lazarus was brought back to his old life. He died again. Jesus was raised to new life and then ascended into heaven, never dying again. This distinction is significant because it means that there really is life after death, a new creation, a new body, a new everything.

2. It might be tempting for us to look down on the disciples who had a hard time believing that Jesus had been raised from the dead. Why was their unbelief understandable? How do we see Jesus gently work to persuade them that he is in fact alive?

3. Our society makes a big deal of Christmas but not so much Easter. As Christians, why should Easter be a far bigger deal?

Without Easter (Jesus rising from the dead), Christmas (his birth) would be of little to no significance. Easter is the moment when a new creation breaks through.

4. What are ways to heighten Easter in your own life? As a small group? In our church?

5. If God is powerful enough to raise Jesus from the dead, what does that mean for the biggest struggle or worry in your life?

6. The sermon helped us see from John 20 that Jesus' resurrection is reassuring. How is Jesus' resurrection reassuring for you personally? How should his resurrection give us hope and peace?

Discussion Questions 

Week of: March 17, 2024 // Sermon Text: Ephesians 2:8-10 

Scripture Memory 

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.  

Sermon Overview: 

The main idea of this week’s sermon reminded us that God saves by grace, through faith, for good works.    

Digging Deeper:    

Read Ephesians 2:8-10 

How are people saved? How are people not saved? (vv. 8-9)1 

Grace is God’s powerful favor for the undeserved. Why is it good to recognize that we are undeserving before God?  

Eph. 2:10 teaches us that we have been saved "for good works.”  Why is it crucial to understand the difference between doing good works because we have been saved, and doing good works so that we might be saved?    

How has God’s grace changed your life on a practical level (e.g., think of your marriage, parenting, work, relationships, school, etc)?  

How do you hope it will change your life more? 

Think about your good works. Why do you do them? Are you tempted to do them out of guilt, shame, pride, or fear? What difference does it make if and when you do them out of love?2 

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”  As we “walk” in the good works God has prepared for us, and others see it, they may be tempted to praise us.  If / when that happens, what are some ways we can help them instead "give glory to (our) Father who is in heaven" for these evidences of his grace in our lives?   

Is there anyone you hope will be changed by God’s grace through faith? If so, pray for them and ask God to open a door to share with them the good news of Jesus Christ. 

Prayer Requests: 

Discussion Questions:

Scripture Memory 

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.  

Sermon Overview 

The main idea of this week’s sermon reminded us that God makes the spiritually dead alive. The passage describes God’s method (vv. 5-6), God’s motivation (vv. 4, 7), and God’s masterpiece (v. 7) in making the spiritually dead alive.       

Digging Deeper    

Read Ephesians 2:4-7 

The first two words of verse 4 (“But God….”), are perhaps among the most precious words in all the Bible. We were dead. We were utterly incapable of making ourselves alive. But God!  But God made us alive!  

How might it change our perspective on the challenges of life if we were to wake up each morning utterly shocked that God has made us alive in Christ?   

What habits might we want to put in place to remind us often of this precious truth?     

According to verses 4 and 7, what aspects of God’s character were the driving force in his making us spiritually alive?  Why do you think God wants us to know this?  How should this affect us?  

In your own words, what does it mean to be “united with Christ”?  

We all define our lives by something. We all create an identity. What are common ways you observe people defining their lives by? 

In this passage, Paul unpacks an identity people can have when united to Jesus of being made alive, raised, and seated.  

Why is this way of defining our lives far better than any other way? What makes it distinct from any other way of finding our identity?  

[there’s a wide range of answers here, but could include that: it’s given to us, not  

earned; it’s dependent on what Jesus did, not what we can do, etc.] 

Anyone who is a follower of Jesus has been raised up and seated with Jesus in the heavenly places now. How does that change your life now? 

Part of being united with Jesus means being raised and seated with him. The implication is that we have power, through Jesus, over our own desires, over the influences of the world, and even over the devil.   

How does Christ’s power in you help you live for him this week? What is an area of your life you want to increasingly tap into that power? 

Verse 7 tells us that God has made us alive so that he might display the immeasurable riches of his grace toward us in Christ.  Is it selfish or loving for God to want to display to us and the world the riches of his grace? How so?   

Prayer Requests 

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

The main idea of this week’s sermon was that because of our spiritual powerlessness, we needed to be saved by grace.    

Digging Deeper:    

Read Ephesians 2:1-3 

It can be humbling to think of ourselves as having been spiritually dead before God made us alive in Christ. How did the sermon help you see the significance of the truth that you were spiritually dead? 

Eph. 2:3 says “among whom we all once lived.” For some of us, it is very clear that at one time we were “following the course of this world.” Regardless of our testimony, and of when we trusted in Christ for salvation, why is it important for all of us who are in Christ to believe that what is written in these verses (Eph. 2:1-3) is true for each and every one of us?  What difference should this make in our lives?   

In our spiritual deadness, we were held captive as we followed in the ways of the world (2:2a), the flesh (2:3a), and the devil (2:2b). Although we are now alive in Christ, we still find ourselves needing to fight the good fight of faith against the world, the flesh and the devil.  How are things different now?   How should this encourage us in the battle?   

Because of the unmerited grace of God, we are no longer “children of wrath.”  Our destination is no longer one of eternal judgment, but of “pleasures forevermore” at God’s right hand. What effect ought reflection on the contrast between our former destination and our current destination have on our hearts?    

When we see unbelievers following “the course of this world,” how might calling to mind our own previous condition lead to greater compassion and urgency in our interactions with them? 

Prayer Requests 

Discussion Questions:

Scripture Memory

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.

Sermon Overview

The main idea of this week’s sermon was: knowing God is a work of God, so growing in knowing God requires praying to God.

Ice Breaker

·       When you pray for Christian friends or family members, what kind of things do you tend to pray about?[1]

Digging Deeper  

Read Ephesians 1:15-23.

·       This passage teaches us that those who know God are marked by faith and love. What are some of the specific evidences of faith and love you see in your brothers and sisters in your Gospel Community?  Take this opportunity to “encourage one another,” by pointing out specific evidences of faith and love you see in their lives.  Take this opportunity to thank God for these evidences of his grace.

·       To know God better, who will need to be at work in us? (see vs. 17)[2]

·       Most of this section is Paul praying. What does Paul pray for? How are his prayer requests similar or different from the prayers you normally hear?[3]

·       Paul already knows that his readers know Jesus and love him. Why would he keep praying for them to know even more about all that they have in Jesus? Think of several possible reasons.[4]     

·             At the end of verse 18, we might expect Paul to say: “the riches of our glorious inheritance in heaven.” What does Paul say, and why is this surprising?[5] 

·       In verse 18, Paul (who is in prison, see 3:1) is teaching us to pray not for our circumstances to be altered but for our hearts’ view of our circumstances to be altered. Why do we find this hard? What would be great to see life this way?[6]

·       How should verse 20 excite us about the kind of power that is at work in and for us?[7]

The following truths are found in this passage. Spend a minute reviewing them quietly. Then, use them as inspiration to pray for one another.[8]

·       Jesus is my resurrected savior, proof of God’s immeasurable power toward us who believe (vv. 19-20)

·       Jesus is my ascended Advocate, representing me from his seat at God’s right hand in heaven (v. 20)

·       Jesus is ruler of all things, controlling all other authorities, powers, and people of great name (v. 21)

·       Jesus is King of the ages, controlling everything about my future both in this life and the age to come (v. 21)

·       Jesus is the victor over evil, able to trample beneath his feet any evil that threatens me (v. 22)

·       Jesus is the head of the church, which he cares for as his body (vv. 22-23)

·       Jesus is the filler of all things, so that when I am filled by him I can be a blessing throughout the world (v. 23)

Prayer Requests

➔       

➔       

 [1] Ephesians: Your Place in God’s Plan, Richard Coekin, 13.

[2] Ephesians: Your Place in God’s Plan, Richard Coekin, 14.

[3] Ephesians: The Love We Long For by Scotty Smith, 15.

Discussion Questions:

Scripture Memory

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.

Sermon Overview

The main idea of this week’s sermon is to praise the God who sovereignly works and seals. God has worked in a way that secures our future perfect union with him by working out things according to his will and by giving us a down payment in the Holy Spirit.   

Digging Deeper   

·       God wants us, his children, to know and rejoice in the truth that in Christ we have a glorious inheritance. What effect do you think this truth should have on us in our day-to-day lives?

·       We can be confident that this future inheritance is going to come through because (1) God has predestined us for it and (2) God sovereignly works all things according to his will. How do these reasons for confidence strike you?  Do they strengthen your faith in what God will do for you in the future? How so?

·       How is the Holy Spirit described in verses 13-14? What do these terms mean?[1]

·       Are there things that make you wonder if God is going to come through on his promise of inheritance? If so, what are they?

·       Even if you believe that there is a great inheritance from God in the future, it can be easy to forget about it week in and week out. How can we as a Gospel Community remind each other of this monumental truth?

·       God tells us about our inheritance so that we trust, love, and praise him with all we have. Why do you think enjoying and praising God is so important to God? What’s in it for God? What’s in it for you?

Take It Home

·       What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests

➔       

➔       

➔       

Discussion Questions:

Scripture Memory

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.

Sermon Overview

The main idea of this week’s sermon was to praise God for the finished redemption of His people and the future reunion of all things.

Digging Deeper   

1.    According to vs 7, what do we have in Christ?[1]

2.    How did we get it?[2]

3.    The Bible describes a way to look at what you’ve done wrong and deal with it by being forgiven through Jesus’ blood. Without Christ, how does the world address wrongs that have been done?

4.    Why is Jesus’ forgiveness through his blood better than any solution the world provides?

5.    How can you grow in enjoying the forgiveness you have in Christ?

6.    According to vs 10, God will restore all things to their intended perfection. Why is this exciting for someone who has been forgiven? Why is it terrifying for anyone who isn’t forgiven?[3]

7.    Read Colossians 1:15-20 aloud. How does this parallel passage clarify or add to Ephesians 1:10?

Take It Home

1.    Are there circumstances in your life that can tempt you to lose hope / be discouraged. How might a greater awareness of (and reflection on) the future that awaits us (because of what Christ has done), help you fight the good fight of faith in this area of your life?

2.    What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests

[1] Ephesians: Your Place in God’s Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 10.

[2] Ephesians: Your Place in God’s Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 10.

[3] Ephesians: Your Place in God’s Plan by Richard Coekin, pg. 11.

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Updates from around the world with Mission and Ministry Partners.

Discussion Questions:

Scripture Memory:

Our church-wide scripture memory this year will be selected passages from Ephesians. This is a great opportunity to dive deep into the goodness God has for us from Paul’s letter.

Sermon Overview:

The main idea of this week’s sermon was to praise God because of His complete blessing and unconditional choice of His people.

Digging Deeper:   

Brett highlighted three themes in Ephesians 1:1-2 that show up throughout the letter. What are they? How would you describe them?

Verse 3 says that those who are in Christ have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. What does this mean?

Verses 4-6 unpack how God has chosen unconditionally and purposefully. According to these verses:

When did God choose his people?

Why did God choose his people?

What purpose did God choose his people?

Verse 5 describes being “adopted as sons.” If you’re a follower of Jesus, how does it land on you that you’re a child of God? If you’re not a follower of Jesus, what do you think of this concept?

Take It Home: 

What might it look like practically for us to grow in praising God in our day-to-day lives for his blessings to us and for the fact that he has chosen us in Christ? 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

In this week’s sermon, Pastor Mike gave a charge to Brett & to us, the congregation.

Digging Deeper:   

1.     In his charge to Pastor Brett to “be a pastor", Pastor Mike encouraged him to focus on two things. What were they?  In what ways do we see the goodness and wisdom of God’s design for the church, that those who are called to roles of leadership in the church should be called to give the bulk of their time and energy to these two tasks?

2.     In 1 Peter 5:2, Peter exhorts elders “the elders among you” to “shepherd the flock of God that is among you.”  What are some of the things God is likely wanting to communicate to us through this metaphor of shepherding a flock? How does this metaphor strike you?

3.     One of the chief tasks of a shepherd is to ensure the sheep are well fed (John 21:15-17). The (spiritual) food we need is God’s Word, and the way we will receive it (as a gathered people) is through the preaching of God’s Word. In what ways are you eagerly anticipating how God is going to feed you (and us as a flock) through Pastor Brett?  How can we be more intentional about preparing our hearts to receive the food of the Word through Pastor Brett in the weeks and (Lord willing) years ahead?  

4.     Pastor Mike gave us a charge as well - to be the church. What are the 4 things he called us to from Heb. 10:24-25?  In which of these areas do you feel you (or your GC) is the strongest? In which of these areas do you feel you (and/or your GC) has the most room for growth?  How can we help each other grow in these areas?

Take It Home:

What does it look like for you to be a fully engaged, faithful member of a local body of believers like CrossWay?  Are there ways you want to grow in your participation and contribution to this body?  What would be a good next step in moving toward that?

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon highlighted 3 things: 

·      The fact that God did not spare his own son

·      The logic of how will he not also...

·      The promise that God will graciously give us all things.

Digging Deeper: 

1.    Genesis 22 is a moving story of a precious son being spared from death. How does Genesis 22 help us understand and appreciate more deeply the truth of Rom. 8:32?

2.    Is the gospel truth of Rom. 8:32 that God "gave up" his Son for your sake, precious to you? What “cares of this life” distract you or dilute your joy in this core gospel truth?

3.    Rom. 8:32 is calling us to trust God in the future because of the rock-solid foundation of what he has already done for us in the past. How does this logic help you? How can this be helpful in situations where emotions run high?

4.    The promise of Rom. 8:32 is no small promise. God is promising to supply for you all you need to live a life pleasing to him. In what area of your life can you struggle to believe this promise?

5.    As Rom. 8:32 is the text for Pastor Mike’s final sermon for us as our senior pastor, how does its promise give us confidence for the future of CrossWay moving forward?

Take It Home: 

In what area of your life do you feel you most need the strengthening power of a promise like Rom. 8:32? Practically speaking, how can you put this promise to work in your heart and mind, to sustain and strengthen you through this challenge?  

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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With a word of encouragement also spoken to CrossWay by D.A. Carson - Professor Emeritus, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

Brief history by Mike Bullmore, message by Mark Rogers, testimony by Vince and Brittany Lang, CrossWay Kids participation in Psalm 23 worship song

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon focused on God’s unfailing, unceasing faithfulness to us, his people.     

Digging Deeper:   

1.    What are some of the ways God has shown his unfailing, unceasing love, mercy and covenant faithfulness to you personally? To us as a church?  

2.    We can at times wrongly think that we have experienced good from God (or have been kept from trouble by God), because of something we have or haven’t done. How does this passage (and Pastor Mike’s message on it), help correct such thinking?

3.    We are told in Lam. 3:22 that “the steadfast love of the LORD never ceases.”  Have there been moments in your life when you have seriously questioned God’s love or faithfulness towards you? What did God use to help you work through that?  

4.    How has the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ displayed the faithfulness of our God?  

Take It Home: 

1.    How can we, as God’s people, show the world what God is like in this area of his faithfulness? What would that look like for you, in your specific context?  

2.    What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon reminded us of God’s great compassion, namely that he (1) knows, (2) remembers, and (3) shows compassion.  

Digging Deeper:   

1.     Pastor Mike mentioned that joy and peace don’t come from a perfect life but come from believing in God. What do you think? How could this be true?

2.     As our culture stresses self (self-made, self-defined, self-expressed), why is good for us to confess our need for God’s compassion? 

3.     Pastor Mike spoke of the connection between God’s compassion toward us and the fact that he “knows our frame” (v. 14).  What is the connection here and how was this helpful to you?

4.     God’s compassion leads him to forgive our sin. But it doesn’t mean our suffering comes to an end. If you had to choose between having your sin forgiven or some other suffering in your life taken away, what would you choose? How come?

5.     Why is it better that God’s deals with our sin once and for all and not necessarily taking away our suffering?

6.     God’s great heart of compassion toward is us mostly clearly revealed in the cross of Christ. How does considering the gospel through the lens of compassion, shine further light on the glory of what God in Christ has done for sinners like you and me?

7.     How should reflecting on the compassion God has shown us, stir within us greater compassion toward those around us?  Have you seen this happen in your own heart?  If so, please share.

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

A light bulb: What shines out in the passage and draws attention? 

A question mark: Is there anything that is hard to understand, or you would like to ask the author?

An arrow: What about this passage can you apply to your own life?  

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

A light bulb: What shines out in the passage and draws attention? 

A question mark: Is there anything that is hard to understand, or you would like to ask the author?

An arrow: What about this passage can you apply to your own life?  

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview: 

This past week’s sermon was highlighted three reasons why we can be filled with wonder: 

(1) God’s miraculous power 

(2) God’s Coming Justice and  

(3) God’s Committed love for his people 

Digging Deeper:    

God miraculously used Mary, an ordinary person, to be a part of his grand plan to send his son into the world. How does God’s work, often through ordinary people, help you consider the meaning of your own life? 

Read Luke 1:46-55.  

What sticks out for you about Mary’s response to God’s plan for her?  

God’s mercy is not dependent on what you can bring to the table. What is it dependent on (see Luke 1:50 for guidance)? How does this reality effect how you think about God? 

Jesus coming into the world is another example of God following through on promises he’s made (see Isaiah 7:14 or Micah 5:2). Are there promises God has made that you are waiting for him to fulfill? 

Is there someone in your life that hasn’t heard the good news of Jesus that you’d want to share it with this Christmas season? If so, share about it. 

How can we, as a community, be thrilled by Jesus this Christmas season? 

What about the Christmas season can distract you/us from being thrilled by Jesus? 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon was highlighted three reasons why we can be filled with wonder  

God’s miraculous power 

God’s Coming Justice and  

God’s Committed love for his people 

Digging Deeper:    

God miraculously used Mary, an ordinary person, to be a part of his grand plan to send his son into the world. How does God’s work, often through ordinary people, help you consider the meaning of your own life? 

Read Luke 1:46-55.  

What sticks out for you about Mary’s response to God’s plan for her?  

God’s mercy is not dependent on what you can bring to the table. What is it dependent on (see Luke 1:50 for guidance)? How does this reality effect how you think about God? 

Jesus coming into the world is another example of God following through on promises he’s made (see Isaiah 7:14 or Micah 5:2). Are there promises God has made that you are waiting for him to fulfill? 

Is there someone in your life that hasn’t heard the good news of Jesus that you’d want to share it with this Christmas season? If so, share about it. 

How can we, as a community, be thrilled by Jesus this Christmas season? 

What about the Christmas season can distract you/us from being thrilled by Jesus? 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion? 

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon was focused on three encouragements to pursue a life pleasing to God in dependence on God:

(1)  God makes perfect peace (v. 20a)

(2)  We have a living, almighty shepherd (v. 20b)

(3)  God works in us to do his will. (b. 21)

Digging Deeper:   

·      In your own words, what does a life of pleasing God look like?

·      What aspects of your life are pleasing to God?

·      What have you noticed in one another’s lives that is pleasing to God?

·      What aspects of your life are displeasing to God?

·      God knows we need encouragement to live a life pleasing to him. What from this passage encourages you to live a life pleasing to him?

·      Verse 20 describes God as a “God of peace.” How have you in the past experienced God’s peace? How would you like to experience God’s peace in the future?

·      From verse 21, Pastor Brett described how God actually works in us to do his will. How does this free you from feeling weighed down by the call to live a God-pleasing life?

·      How could you even more cooperate with the Holy Spirit as helps us live a life pleasing to God?

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon was focused on how we respond to Jesus’ sacrificial death for us by pleasing God with sacrificial lives. We please God in at least three ways:

With our love for one another (vv. 1-6)

With our loyalty to what we’ve received (vv. 7-17)

When we look to him to keep us faithful (vv. 18-21)

Digging Deeper:  

Read Hebrews 13:1-19. Put a star next to one or two encouragements that stick out to you. Then, discuss what you’ve starred. 

One of the ways we can please God is by our love for one another (see verses 1-6). How have you experienced God’s love for you through other followers of Jesus?

Being generous is a way of showing love to one another (vv. 2-3). What are some practical ways you could show generosity to people in your life who are in need? 

Being sexually pure is a way of showing love to one another (vs. 4). Why does sexual purity impact the wider community?

Being content is a way of showing love for one another (vv. 5-6). In what areas of your life are you most tempted to be less than content with what you have?

How does contentment with what we have impact the wider community?

Who is a past faithful leader you respect? What would it look like for you to imitate their faith (v. 7)?

Are there ways you find it hard to “obey” and “submit” to your church leaders (v. 17)? How come? How does the verse help is do what it is calling us to do?

Of all the encouragements mentioned in Hebrews 13, what is one that you want to think more about and grow in? Why? How can the Gospel Community be a part of helping you in this area?

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview: 

This past week’s sermon was focused on enduring in faith through laying aside sin and looking to Jesus.  

Digging Deeper:    

1. Hebrews 12:1 calls us to “run with endurance the race that is set before us.”  How is what we saw in Hebrews chapter 11 meant to motivate us to do this?  (Note how Heb. 12:1 begins.)   

2. In what ways are you tempted to stop “running the race set before you”?   

3. Pastor Brett helped us see from the passage that one of the ways we will "run with endurance” (persevere in the faith firm to the end), is by laying aside sin. How can we grow in our ability to recognize “weights” and sins that trip us up or hinder our endurance?   

4. What weights and/or sins are slowing you down / hindering you?  What would it look like for you to lay them aside?  Who in your life can help you do that?  

5. Hebrews 12:12-17 speaks of pursuing peace and holiness together. Do you strive for peace?  What does that look like for you?   

6. Do you strive for holiness?  What does that look like for you?   

7. Pastor Brett helped us see from the passage that another way we will "run with endurance” (persevere in the faith firm to the end), is by "looking to Jesus.”  How can we grow in “looking to Jesus”?   

8. How does looking to Jesus motivate you to run with endurance?   

Take It Home 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion? 

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Discussion Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon was focused on the idea that followers of Jesus should endure because of their confidence by faith in a promise-keeping God.

• What faith is: certainty of unseen realities (vv. 1-3)

• What faith receives: God's commendation (vv. 4-7)

• What faith sees: the fulfillment of God's promises (vv. 8-22)

• What faith enables: costly obedience (vv. 23-28)

• What faith delivers from: death (vv. 29-31)

• What faith endures: opposition (vv. 32-38)

• What we have that they didn't: perfection through Christ (vv. 39-40)

Digging Deeper:

• How did Pastor Brett define faith from Hebrews 11:1-3?

• Why is it impossible to please God without faith, as verse 6 says?

• Why would having faith in God please him and receive his commendation?

• What are some promises of God that you have seen fulfilled? What are some promises that you still are waiting to be fulfilled?

• Share a story of a time when it’s been costly to obey Jesus. How did your faith help you obey?

• What kind of opposition are you currently facing because of your faith?

• What kind of opposition do you anticipate facing because of your faith?

• How does it impact you that other Christians have suffered for their faith?

• There's a long list of heroes in chapter 11. Did one of them stick out to you? If so, how come?

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Request:

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past week’s sermon was focused on the idea that followers of Jesus endure in the confidence Christ has provided, knowing your reward is sure.  

The author has established that because of Christ’s priesthood (ch. 5-7) and sacrifice (ch. 8-10), we have confidence to enter God’s presence, both now in prayer and ultimately in eternal life. Chapter 10 verses 19-21 recap this idea.  

From here, there are two paths we could choose to either reject it (vv. 26-31) or endure (vv. 19-25).  

Digging Deeper: 

The passage begins with the statement in verse 19 that a follower of Jesus should be “confident to enter the holy places.” What are the two reasons why a follower of Jesus should be confident to be close with Jesus? (see verses 19-21) 

In light of this confidence, the writer repeats the phrase “let us” three times in verses 22-24. What are the three things he calls the readers to? 

Verse 22 calls followers of Jesus to draw near to Jesus. Do you regularly do this? If so, what does it look like practically?  

Verse 23 calls followers of Jesus to hold fast to their hope in Jesus. What about your life makes it challenging to keep trusting Jesus? How does what is stated in the second half of verse 23 help us hold fast? 

Verse 24 calls followers of Jesus to “stir up one another to love and good works.” What are ways described in verse 25 to do what’s called in verse 24? 

Have you experienced someone stirring you up in this way? If so, what did it look like? 

How could you stir up someone in the way of verses 24-25 this coming week or month? Does anyone in particular come to mind?1 

The writer, again, describes a stark warning for not following Jesus. Read 10:26-31. What is a takeaway for you from these verses? 

Read 10:32-24. Imagine what the readers went through. How does it strike you that the original readers “joyfully accepted the plundering of their property?” 

What truth enabled the readers to do this? See verse 34b. 

What is the better and abiding possession in verse 34b? 

How might this truth help us toward radical, practical, and costly love?  

Take It Home: 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview:

The main point of this week’s sermon was: Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice to take our sins away, so stay loyal to him. The passage progresses through four reasons why Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice: 

Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice because every other way fails 

Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice because he’s the long-awaited, once-for-all all replacement 

Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice because he sat down. 

Jesus alone is the perfect sacrifice because he begins a new era. 

Digging Deeper: 

Hebrews 10:3 tells us, “But in these sacrifices, there is a reminder of sin every year.” The old covenant sacrificial system provided people stark visual reminders of the reality and gravity of sin and the resulting need for atoning sacrifice. The author of Hebrews has repeatedly told us that the covenant we are under (i.e. the new covenant) is “better.” Does the new covenant do a “better” job of showing us the reality of sin, the gravity of sin, and the need for atoning sacrifice? If so, how? 

Hebrews 10:4 tells us, "For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” If the blood of bulls and goats did not “take away” the sins of the people under the old covenant, then were any of them saved? If so, how? [see Genesis 15:6 for help]. 

You're likely not tempted to look to animal sacrifices to take away your sins like the original readers. However, when you do sin, what are you tempted to look to for cleansing and fulfillment?  

Hebrews 10:14 tells us, "For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.” Is the idea that, in one sense, we have already been perfected (or have already “been sanctified” cf. v.10), yet in another sense we are not yet perfect a new concept for you? How might these categories help seek to cooperate with the Holy Spirit in the process of your ongoing sanctification? 

How can we as a Gospel Community help one another heighten our awareness of Jesus’ greatness? 

 If you’re loyal to Jesus and trust that his death took away your sins, then this passage says that you are forgiven (vs. 18). How does being fully forgiven change your life? What does it do for you personally? How does it change the way you interact with others? 

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion? 

Prayer Requests:

Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 8:1-9:28 with the main idea being: Hold fast to Jesus, who has secured our eternal relationship with God through his sacrifice of himself. There were two parts to the passage:  

Jesus has secured our relationship with God built on beautiful promises (8:1-13) 

Jesus has secured this relationship through his self-sacrifice (9:1-28) 

Digging Deeper: 

In Hebrews 8:6, the author says the covenant that Christ mediates is better than the old covenant, “since it is enacted on better promises.” What “better promises” do we see in 8:10-12? 

How are these promises better than the old covenant? Why are they better?  

Why should we be thankful that we are members of this new covenant that God, in Christ, has made with his people? 

Hebrews 8:13 says “in speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. What does it mean that the old covenant is obsolete? What are the implications of this?  

There’s lots of talk about blood in chapter 9 (see verses 7, 12, 13, 14). Now, read Leviticus 19:11. What does atonement mean?1 Why was animal blood used to atone for sin?2 

What is Hebrews 9:11-12 describing? What is the significance? 

Blood can seem like an odd or ugly theme, especially to people who don’t follow Jesus. What would you say to an unbelieving friend about the need for Christ’s blood?3 

In Hebrews 9:14 we read that Christ offered himself to God “through the eternal Spirit.” How might we understand the role of the Holy Spirit in Christ’s work of redemption on our behalf?   

How might this encourage you if you’re a follower of Jesus with the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of you? 

We are told in 9:24 that Christ has entered heaven, “now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf.” What is he doing there “on our behalf”? How might this encourage us?  

The passage mentions that we can now “serve the living God” and be “eagerly waiting” for Jesus’ return (vs. 14, 28). What does it look like today to pursue these things?4 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing you want to take away, remember, do, or change in light of this week’s sermon and discussion?

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Listen in as Christy Moore, Jen Boucher, and Tiffany Staples teach us about Making Room: Welcoming Like Jesus at our one-day large group event for women.

Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 5:11-6:12, a famous warning passage that progresses through three sections: 

1. Admonition to a set of Christians (5:11-6:3)

2. Warning to all who claim to be Christians – true and false believers (6:4-6:8)

3. Reassurance for those who are faithful and patient (6:9-12)

Digging Deeper:

⦁ In 5:11-14 the author makes a comparison between two groups of people: those he refers to as needing milk and those he refers to as able to eat solid food. What are the marks that characterize those in each group?

⦁ How does the writer characterize someone mature in the faith? [someone who discerns good from evil (5:14), and lives the right way (5:13)]

⦁ Hebrews 5:14 states that we can practice our ability to discern good and evil. Is this something you desire? If so, how can we practice our ability to discern good and evil? How can we do this individually? As a community?

⦁ Hebrews 6:1-3 is an exhortation for us to press on toward maturity. In what aspect of your Christian life do you most sense your need to press on toward maturity?  

⦁ Hebrews 6:3 makes it clear that God is sovereign over our sanctification, our pursuit of maturity. How does that land on you? What effect do you think the author desired it would have on his readers?

Other Scripture clearly states that it is impossible to lose your salvation (see John 10:28, Ephesians 1:13-14). So, Hebrews 6:4-6 must describe someone who once seemed to be a Christian but never really was.

Read Matthew 7:21-22.

⦁ In this passage, how could you appear to be a true follower of Christ without really being one?

⦁ What are the similarities between the person described in Matthew 7:21-22 and the person described in Hebrews 6:4-6?

⦁ How can we make sure we are not this kind of person?

⦁ The author mentions good crops in Hebrews 6:7 and describes some of those crops in verses 9-12. What “good crops” do you see in your own life?

Take It Home:

What is one thing you want to take away from this passage, sermon, and/or the discussion tonight?

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview: 

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 5:11-6:12, a famous warning passage that progresses through three sections:  

Admonition to a set of Christians (5:11-6:3) 

Warning to all who claim to be Christians – true and false believers  (6:4-6:8) 

Reassurance for those who are faithful and patient (6:9-12) 

Digging Deeper: 

In 5:11-14 the author makes a comparison between two groups of people: those he refers to as needing milk and those he refers to as able to eat solid food. What are the marks that characterize those in each group? 

How does the writer characterize someone mature in the faith? [someone who discerns good from evil (5:14), and lives the right way (5:13)] 

Hebrews 5:14 states that we can practice our ability to discern good and evil. Is this something you desire? If so, how can we practice our ability to discern good and evil? How can we do this individually? As a community? 

Hebrews 6:1-3 is an exhortation for us to press on toward maturity. In what aspect of your Christian life do you most sense your need to press on toward maturity?   

Hebrews 6:3 makes it clear that God is sovereign over our sanctification, our pursuit of maturity. How does that land on you? What effect do you think the author desired it would have on his readers? 

Other Scripture clearly states that it is impossible to lose your salvation (see John 10:28, Ephesians 1:13-14). So, Hebrews 6:4-6 must describe someone who once seemed to be a Christian but never really was.1 

Read Matthew 7:21-22. 

In this passage, how could you appear to be a true follower of Christ without really being one? 

What are the similarities between the person described in Matthew 7:21-22 and the person described in Hebrews 6:4-6? 

How can we make sure we are not this kind of person? 

The author mentions good crops in Hebrews 6:7 and describes some of those crops in verses 9-12. What “good crops” do you see in your own life? 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing you want to take away from this passage, sermon, and/or the discussion tonight? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview:

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 4:14-5:10 with the main idea being: hold fast to Jesus, who saves eternally and helps sympathetically.  

Digging Deeper :

Read Hebrews 4:14-5:10 

Why do we need Jesus as a high priest?  

Jesus is a high priest that was: (1) appointed by God, (2) chosen among men and (3) able to offer sacrifices for sin. Why are each of these elements signifcant? 

In this passage, the author of Hebrews is calling his readers to do two things (or to keep doing two things). What are they? (see vv. 4:14b, 4:16) 

The passage calls for us to hold fast our confession. What does holding fast to Jesus and his good news look like for you? 

What makes it hard to hold fast to Jesus?  

The passage calls for us to draw near with confidence to God. Despite our sin, why can we confidently go to God? 

What makes us nervous to go to God? How can knowing Jesus as our high priest help us in our times of anxiety?  

What do the things that tempt us seem to promise us? How do they leave us wanting more? 

In this passage, the author compares and contrasts Jesus, our great high priest, to the priests of the Old Testament.  

How does this passage provide for us an example of the benefits of knowing / understanding the Old Testament? 

Through this passage, we are invited to come to Christ for the help we need. Jesus offers help when we are tempted. Jesus offers help when we are suffering. Jesus offers help when we have sinned.  

 Is there a time when you have experienced Jesus’ help in one of these areas? Please share.  

In which of these areas do you most feel your need for Jesus’ help now?  

Practically speaking, what would it look like for you to go to him for the help you need? 

Take It Home:

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Sermon Application Questions:

Sermon Overview: 

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 3:7-4:13 with the main idea being: those who enter God’s rest are those who respond to his voice from the heart. 

Digging Deeper: 

The passage begins with a quote from Psalm 95. Can you identify the three time periods represented between vv. 7-14? 

What is “God’s rest” that this passage keeps talking about? How is what’s referred to in Hebrews 3:11 similar and different from what’s referred to in Hebrews 4:8-10. 

What did the people of Israel do after being brought out of Egypt? (see Hebrews 3:9, 4:16-18).[1] 

What is an area of your life that is hard to trust God with and follow in obedience? Why is it hard? 

What makes the things that pull us away from God and his way feel so compelling?  

The passage describes one way God helps us fight against sin and unbelief in Hebrews 3:12-13. What is it describing? 

Share a time where God used community to help you overcome sin and continue to trust in Jesus. 

Gospel Communities are an ideal place to “exhort one another.” Do you see this happening in our Gospel Community? Why or why not? 

How could our group grow more in exhorting one another?  

This passage guards us from two dangerous misunderstandings: on the one hand we might be tempted to think we can earn “God’s rest,” on the other hand we might be tempted to think nothing is required of us in order to enter God’s rest.  Which of these misunderstandings are you more inclined to believe?  How does this passage confront both of these errors? (Hebrews 4:3, 4:11).  

Is there an unbeliever in your life who is clearly weighed down by the cares of this world and the burdensome effects of sin?  How might you present to this person the truth from this passage that God in Christ offers eternal rest to all who would put their hope in Christ? 

[1] Hebrews: An Anchor for the Soul by Michael J. Kruger, page 17. 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

Music and Lyrics Used by Permission CCLI# 1595532

Sermon Overview: 

The main idea from this past week’s sermon was to stay focused on Jesus, because those who hold their trust in him are his people forever. We were called to consider Jesus’ faithful work (vv. 1-2), Jesus’ greater worth (vv. 3-6a) and the promise of being his people forever if we hold fast to him (v. 6b).  

Ice Breaker: 

If you could build your dream home, what feature would be non-negotiable?   

Digging Deeper:  

Read Hebrews 3:1-6 together. 

Considering Jesus, as 3:1 states, is one of the main things this passage advocates.  

What challenges your ability to give regular time and attention to thinking about his greatness and all he’s done for you? In other words, what tends to occupy your attention more than Jesus? 

We are all going to consider something. How can we be sure Jesus is what we’re considering most? What would it look like to take action this week? 

Part of considering Jesus is considering the goodness of the identity he’s given to those who follow him. For example:  

We’re holy: we’re acceptable to God and can come to him in confidence. (3:1) 

We have a sure hope: God’s invited us to join him in perfect eternity. (3:1) 

We belong to a people: as part of God’s house, we have brothers and sisters that love us, care for us, accept us, and are along with us as we follow Jesus. (3:6) 

Which of these do you find yourself easily considering and rejoicing in?  

Which of these would you like to grow in experiencing the goodness of? How might you take a good next step in pursuing it? 

A house analogy is used in verses 3-6.1  

What is the comparison in verse 3? 

What does that tell us about who Jesus is (verse 4)? 

The imagery changes in verses 5-6. How does Moses and Jesus relate to the house now? 

The passage assures us that those who hold fast to faith in Jesus are his house (3:6b).  

Share a time when it was hard to hold fast to faith in Jesus. 

How can put your confidence and courage in Christ this week?  

Do you know someone who feels cast off by God? How would you talk about this passage with that person?  

Take It Home:  

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests:

 _____________________________

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Main Point:

Last week we saw that Jesus is the divine Son of God, full in power, majesty, and authority. This week’s passage helps us see that Jesus covers our sins and identifies with us. He is our savior and brother. He both fully rescues us from our sin (savior) and identifies with us in our weakness (brother).  

Ice Breaker: 

Who is one of your heroes? Why do you admire them? 

In vs 10, it mentions Jesus bringing “many sons to glory.”  Who have you admired who has “gone to glory?” Why did you admire him/her? 

Digging Deeper:  

Would someone be willing to read Hebrews 2:5-18? 

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 2:5-18 that unpacked how Jesus is both our savior who covers our sins and our brother who sympathizes with us.  

Why is it crucially important to understand and accept that we are sinners destined for eternal death?  

Section 1: Jesus as Savior 

Heroes come to the rescue. The biggest sacrifice a hero can make is giving up their life. The passage argues that one of the reasons Jesus became human was to die and free people trapped under the penalty of death because of their sins (see Hebrews 2:14-15). Do you think of Jesus as a hero? Why or why not?  

What character traits of Jesus as Savior do you see in our passage?  

Do you fear death? Why or why not? (Hebrews 2:15) 

Section 2: Jesus as Brother 

Hebrews 2:6-8 is a quote from Psalm 8:4-6. Would someone be willing to read Psalm 8:4-6? 

Psalm 8 is talking about all humans. In Hebrews, the writer applies the passage specifically to Jesus (see Hebrews 2:9). 

In what ways are all humans and Jesus alike according to this passage? 

In what ways is Jesus distinct from all other humans? 

Read Hebrews 2:17-18 again.   

In verse 17, it says that Jesus was “made like his brothers in every respect”. Why is it important to know that Jesus has walked in your shoes?  

Consider that Jesus suffered when he was tempted (v 18) and his purpose was to help you when you are tempted.  How does this encourage you when you are tempted? 

Take It Home: 

What would it look like to turn to Jesus when you’re tempted?  

How can our community be a help to each other when we are tempted? 

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Main Point:

The main point of this past Sunday’s sermon was that Jesus is God’s very own son, which means he is the supreme, mighty God. Jesus is far grander, far mightier, far superior, far more powerful than our minds can comprehend. While it’s good to see Jesus as approachable and gracious and gentle, he’s also much more.  

Ice Breaker: 

In just a moment, I’ll say a word. When you hear it, I want you to quickly share the first word or thing that comes to mind. First a practice round. Ready?  

What immediately comes to mind when you hear the word “angel”? 

That was practice. Now for a second word.  

What immediately comes to mind when you hear the word “Jesus”? (make a list of the words people share. This will come in handy later).  

Digging Deeper:   

This past Sunday we looked at Hebrews 1:1-2:4 that highlighted how Jesus is God’s Son, which means he’s grand and majestic and divine royalty. Often our initial sense of who Jesus sometimes is much too simplistic or narrow.  

Reread Hebrews 1:1-2:4 and make note of characteristics about Jesus. 

What characteristics about Jesus do you notice from reading the passage? Share the verse number of where you get that answer from. (add them to the list you made earlier) 

Given all the ways Jesus has been described, both in our conversation and in the passage: 

Which one or two of these words are usually in your mind when you think of Jesus? 

Which one or two of these words are rarely in your mind when you think about Jesus? 

For the terms that come rarely to mind, how would it change your life to think about them more? 

Hebrews 1:8 quotes Psalm 45:6-7. Would someone be willing to read Psalm 45:6-7? 

Even in the Old Testament, there is an awareness that Jesus is royalty (vs. 6a: “your throne, O God…”)  and that this royal Son was anointed by God (v. 7b: “Therefore God, your God, has anointed you…).  

 What difference does it make that the Old Testament was referencing Jesus hundreds of years before he came to earth? How does it make you appreciate the Old Testament itself? 

Would someone be willing to read Hebrews 2:1? 

How can we individually purpose to pay close attention to Jesus as God’s royal Son? How can we, as a community, purpose to pay attention to Jesus? 

How can we individually drift away from paying close attention to Jesus as God’s royal Son? How can we, as a community, purpose to pay attention to Jesus? 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Main Point: 

The main point of text is: that even though you cannot see Jesus, receive his blessing by believing in him.  

The passage contrasts Thomas who had his doubts, but was able to see Jesus and believe. For everyone after Jesus ascended into heaven, they wouldn’t be able to see Jesus. Jesus anticipates this period of history (post his ascension where his good news would spread and people would believe in him) and blesses those who believe without seeing. 

Ice Breaker: 

What is something you’ve changed your mind on? It could be an opinion on something significant or really mundane (e.g., I used to hate Chinese food but now love it). What led you to change your mind? 

Digging Deeper:  

[1] Have you ever had doubts about faith? If so, would you be willing to share? 

[2]  Thomas is full of doubt. But Jesus makes a special visit for him. Jesus talks to him, invites him to touch him, and to believe in him. What does all this tell you about how Jesus approaches those with doubt? How is that similar or different to what you expected? 

[3] Read 2 Corinthians 5:7. So much of becoming and being a Christian is based on things we cannot see. We cannot see Jesus (as John 20:29 references). And we cannot see our future resurrected body (as 2 Corinthians 5:7 states). If Jesus or the future can’t be seen, how can someone base their entire life around those realities? 

[4] In the sermon, belief in Jesus at the very least means a personal life-altering allegiance that Jesus is God that came to save sinners. Do you believe in Jesus? Why or why not? 

[5] Jesus commends those who can’t see him but believe. If you do believe in Jesus, how does that encourage you? 

[6] Jesus’ blessing on those who can’t see him but believe can be:  

(1) an invitation to believe him for the first time,  

(2) an encouragement to keep believing, and/or  

(3) an inspiration to share this good news with others.  

      As you reflect, which of those three sticks out to you? How come? 

Take It Home:

What is one thing from this week's discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Main Point: 

The main point of this past Sunday’s sermon was: Prioritize listening to Jesus over serving Jesus, for his pleasure and your peace. 

The passage contrasts how Mary and Martha approach Jesus differently. Martha wants to do good things for Jesus but is distracted, anxious, and troubled. Mary makes it her highest priority to listen to Jesus. Jesus commends Mary for choosing the good portion. 

Ice Breaker: 

What’s something you have to do that can often leave you frazzled? (it could be a task, chore, or responsibility at work or home).  

What’s something you get to do that often leaves you refreshed and energized? 

Digging Deeper:  

[1] Humans are limited. You are a human. You are limited. How does knowing that you can’t do everything you want land on you? Is it discouraging? Is it freeing? Something else? How come? 

[2] If you had to choose, would you rather complete tasks or hang out with people? In other words, which is the higher priority: productivity or relationships? 

[3] When it comes to Jesus, how can doing things for him actually crowd out knowing and listening to him? How might this tension show up in your life? 

[4] Why does Jesus commend Mary’s choice to listen to his teaching over Martha’s choice to serve him? (see verse 42). 

[5] What is the highest priority of your life? Why?  

[6] What would your life look like if you gave increasing space to listen to God? What benefits do you think it would produce? What would have to be regulated or given up? 

Take It Home: 

What is one thing from this week's discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests:

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Main Point:

The main point of this past Sunday’s sermon was: Jesus welcomes the broken and forgives those with humble faith. 

The passage contrasts how two people approach Jesus. One powerful leader has Jesus over but isn’t generous towards him. The other person has a shady reputation, but approaches Jesus with gratitude and lavish generosity.  

Re-read Luke 7:36-50 

Ice Breaker:

Share a story of a time when someone was really lavish towards you. Maybe it was a super nice gift, or a cool experience, or being really generous with their time.  

Digging Deeper:  

[1] Looking back at your notes from the sermon, was there anything that stood out to you, challenged your thinking, or was confusing?   

[2] Why do you think the woman was so lavish towards Jesus? And, in contrast, why do you guess the host was so restrained? 

[3] How is the woman in the passage humble and contrite? What can she teach us about humility? 

[4] The Pharisee saw the woman for what she had done (Luke 7:39). Jesus saw the woman’s changed heart and what she would be (Luke 7:47-50). How does this affirm or change your default thoughts about how God sees you? 

Read Isaiah 57:15 together.   

[5] Often when we’re around really important/rich/whatever people, we want to do our best to appear important/rich/whatever. In this passage, the opposite is the case. God is more important than any human ever, yet he wants to be with people who are low and humble. What does this reality tell you about God? How does this truth help you live honestly about your sin? How does this truth help you to live with freedom and peace? 

[6] How can you grow in humility before God? Why is it important to spend more time looking at God than ourselves to truly grow in humility? 

[7] How does the way Jesus is described in this passage help you live honestly about your brokenness without either being devastated by your sin or having to dismiss your sin? 

[8] Have you ever experienced Jesus’ forgiveness? If so, what did it feel like? How has it affected your life?  

Take It Home: 

What is one thing from this week’s discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

Prayer Requests: 

_____________________________

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Sermon Application Questions:

Main Point:

The main point of this past Sunday’s sermon was: outsiders become insiders through faith in Jesus' authority--so trust in him.

Ice Breaker: 

Share a time when you’ve been surprised. It may be a party or someone sharing a thought and being floored by it, or something else.

Digging Deeper:

This past Sunday we looked at a passage that highlighted how people that seem far away from God become one of God’s own people by trusting in him. 

Other passages that highlights this idea are Isaiah 19:23-25, 42:6, and 49:6. Read these passages together. 

[1] What do these passages tell me about God? 

[2] Israel was God’s people (though they really struggled to follow him). On the other hand, Egypt and Assyria were enemies. How would it land on you to hear that enemies would receive God’s favor? 

[3] Have you ever felt far away from God? Perhaps you feel that now. What was/is that time like? 

[4] When you feel far away from God, what lies about God do you believe? (e.g., you have to be good for God to like you). 

[5] Jesus dictates entrance into God’s family, not leaders or yourself. How is this a reassuring truth? How is this unsettling? 

Take It Home 

What is one thing from this weeks’ discussion or sermon that is important for you to remember? 

_____________________________

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This week has audio only.

Audio only this week.

Audio only this week.

Sermon Application Questions:

1. Reread Matthew 12:9-22. What about Jesus from this passage makes you most drawn to him?

2. Do you see yourself as a “bruised reed”? And do you see yourself that way not as a matter of self-pity but as a matter of objective reality?

3. It’s one thing for Jesus to perform a relatively small miracle. It’s another thing for him to set all things right in the world, which he has promised to do. Do you feel like your focus is more on small things you’d like Jesus to do for you or the grand thing that Jesus is doing in the world and in your life?

_____________________________

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