Discussion Guides – Faith Promise Church

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Comfort in Corona Times – Discussion Guide

April 18, 2020/in Discussion Questions, Groups

Getting Started

Main Idea: Biblical prophecies may seem scary to some, but for Christ-followers they are encouraging.

Introduction: This week Pastor Chris outlined some key Biblical prophecies concerning Jesus’ return and pointed out that Christians should be comforted. We should find joy that we are not alone and comfort one another that He will draw us to Himself.

Discussion Starter: Considering the Scriptures that Pastor Chris referenced about the timing of Jesus’ return being unknowable and swift, what misconceptions do you have based on TV, movies, and other media?

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: Matthew 24:3-8, Luke 17: 20-37, Matthew 24:29-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, Luke 21:34-36, 2 Chronicles 7:12-14, Psalm 23:4

Discussion Questions:

Discuss ways you are encouraged and how you can encourage others?
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:8. Discuss ways you can be “clearheaded” during this time?
Read Luke 21:34 and Proverbs 4:23. How can you guard your heart and avoid it being dulled?
Has God revealed anything to you during this time? If so, share with the group. If not, pray for God to use the Holy Spirit to do the work of illumination and search your heart (like David prayed in Psalm 139:23-24).

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Philippians 4:6 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section.

Read 2 Chronicles 7:14. How can you work together to encourage and hold each other accountable to humble yourselves and seek God?

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: How are you engaging the people that you would see at your campus on a normal weekend? Think of at least 3 people that you haven’t spoken with in a couple weeks and reach out to them; video chat, call, or text.

Engaging in Community and the World: If you’re on social media, some good ways to engage your community are sharing the weekend messages through watch parties, joining the messages live and sharing when you’re watching and engaging with others in the chat.

Expand God’s Kingdom

Expanding God’s Kingdom, disciple-making, at a time like this may seem near impossible. However, all it takes is working with one person. Technology allows us many forms of communication, so pick one that works for both you and pour into one person during this time.

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

On the Line Week 1 – Discussion Guide

March 28, 2020/in Discussion Questions, Groups

Getting Started

Main Idea: Why don’t we share our faith? The enemy has drawn an invisible line that we won’t cross when it comes to sharing the Gospel. But there’s too much ON THE LINE for us not to share the story of Jesus. One of Faith Promise Church’s values is that We Tell Them of Him. We must put ourselves on the line because eternity is on the line.

Introduction: With COVID-19 and social distancing, now we have one the greatest opportunities to share the hope and good news of the real love of Jesus Christ. There are less distractions and more time to consider what truly matters.

Discussion Starter:

If there’s an invisible line that keeps us from sharing the Gospel, what is your line? And who has drawn your line? What keeps you from sharing the message of Jesus’ love with others?

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: Acts 2:47, Matthew 25:31-34, 1 Peter 3:15-16

Discussion Questions:

Sharing our faith is often something we see as “something about us.” We are nervous to share the Gospel because of the negative consequences that can affect us. Name some ways sharing the Gospel can negatively and positively affect our lives. Then discuss the effects on the person with whom you’re sharing.
Part of being comfortable with sharing the Gospel message is learning how to do it. We must equip ourselves to tell the people of the story of Jesus outside the four walls of our church. Tell your group if you’ve shared the Gospel with someone, and talk about the reaction. Or discuss the first time you heard the Gospel message and what your own response was.
Now for your story – Some people call this your testimony, but every follower of Jesus has a story to tell. There is power in your story; when you tell someone that Jesus has the power to restore a relationship with God, as He has done with you. Spend time with your group talking about how God has restored your relationship with Him since your salvation. What have you seen God do in your life and others’ around you? What would your life look like without Jesus?
The average person will have to share the Gospel with 15-30 people for just one person to surrender their life to Jesus. Read Romans 10:14. How does this motivate you to continue sharing Jesus’ message of love? Remind yourself that the difference between an eternal life in Heaven or Hell is on the line.

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read 1 Peter 3:15-16 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore how God’s revelation in the Bible doesn’t just tell us what to do, but why.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes (virtually) for this section.

Discuss how the enemy draws lines in our lives. Make a list of 2-3 people that you would like to tell YOUR salvation story. Practice in your group. Life On Mission is a great app you can use to share your story and the story of Jesus. You can also refer to Faith Promise’s Storytellers sermon series and alignment.

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: Pastor Zac challenged us to pray for an ALL iN burden for people apart from God in your life. Pray for an opportunity to share the Gospel of the real love of Jesus Christ. Cross the Line this week with someone in your life and share the gospel.

Engaging in Community/the World: There is a lot going on in our world today. Pray for the leaders of our country, the medical world, all educational systems, and the Church community. Pray for discernment, wisdom, and peace for these people, as they are making difficult decisions that will be criticized from all sides. Pray for a supernatural peace to overcome the population. Pray for all worry and concern to be handed over to God. And pray for the Holy Spirit to send a fresh breath to all that are worried about their future. True peace will only come knowing what the future of salvation brings.

Expand God’s Kingdom

One of our Faith Promise values is “We tell of Him.” This world is full of real people with real problems who need the real love of Jesus. Will you pray for opportunities to share the story of Jesus with someone this week? Don’t just invite them, but tell them why you go to church, and how God has affected your life. Invite them to watch online!

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

Note for Question #2: Remind your group that when it comes to planting seeds, a skilled farmer with years of experience has the exact same ability to make plants grow as a child who just throws seeds around. The power is in the seed (the Word of God), not the person planting the seed (Mark 4:14-20). Nobody should be scared of sharing the Gospel, because God makes promises about what will happen when His word is shared at all (Isaiah 55:11). The main thing is making sure that we ourselves have trusted in Christ, because if we do, we will be telling others the same Word that was planted in us (Mark 4:14-20).

Note for Question #3: Many people ‘come to Jesus’ not because they are brokenhearted over their own sin, but because they want health, wealth, or some other thing. When the question “How has Jesus changed your life” is asked, try to make it clear how Jesus has changed your mind — how you no longer desire sinful things like you once did. “Repentance” means “Change of mind,” and it was the core of Jesus’ message. Try to emphasize that our thought-life is the essential thing that changes when we trust in Jesus, and not our circumstances.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

Persecution Preparation Week 1 – Discussion Guide

March 21, 2020/in Discussion Questions, Groups, Misc

Getting Started

Main Idea: Large gatherings is not the vision of Faith Promise. Advancing the cause of Christ is what matters. This is not a time of persecution, but we will use it as an opportunity for persecution and tribulation preparation.

Introduction: In preparation for the real thing, schools have fire drills, the military has war games, and we will use this time to prepare. The PDF below provides some resources and ideas for your group to continue to meet virtually.

Online Options for fpGroup Meetings

Discussion Starter: What do you remember from emergency drills from school?

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: Romans 13:1-2, Matthew 13:15, Matthew 24:9 & 21, John 16:33, Romans 5:3-5, Revelation 2:10 & 7:14, Mark 4:17, Acts 8:1, Acts 11:19, Romans 8:35-39, 1 John 2:8, Romans 5:8, John 1:12,

Discussion Questions:

Read Romans 5:3-5 What other times in your life have you experienced suffering? How was God glorified during that time? How did you persevere, develop character, and remain or grow in hope during that time?
If you have “extra” time on your hands during this season, such as time saved from not having to commute to your office or cancelled plans; what are some ways you can use that time to draw closer to God?
Read John 16:33 Jesus is upfront in saying that we will have trouble in this world and if you’ve lived long enough, that’s no surprise. What are daily examples of ways you have the peace that Jesus’ brings?
Commit to some ways your group will stay engaged with one another throughout the next week.

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Esther 4:14 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore how God’s revelation in the Bible doesn’t just tell us what to do, but why.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes (virtually) for this section.

Getting to know you and them: Although embracing others typically requires being physically present with one another, discuss ways you and your group will be intentional to virtually meet or otherwise communicate.

Getting to know Him: Be intentional this week about tracking what God is teaching and showing you, then share it with the group.

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: Even though we can’t meet in person during this time, reach out to the people that you would normally see at the large gathering and see how you can be a blessing to them or let them know where you have a need.

Engaging in Community/the World: God has uniquely placed every Promisor in communities with the opportunity to be a light in the darkness and show those around us the peace and joy that only comes from a relationship with Him. Discuss ways that you could serve your community and the world during this unique time.

Expand God’s Kingdom

Christian leaders have never needed large or in-person gatherings to expand the Kingdom of God (especially considering that the majority of books in the New Testament are letters). Consider ways you can pour into someone over the next week and foreseeable future to disciple them. Send a text, email, phone or video call, use technology to glorify God.

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

Dark Materials Week 1 – Discussion Guide

February 15, 2020/in Discussion Questions, Groups, Misc

Getting Started

Main Idea: Joy is our weapon against the weakness we feel in tough times.

Introduction:

Click on the picture below to watch with your group:

Discussion Starter: Why do we not choose joy? Can you think of a time when joy has helped you get through a difficult circumstance? Discuss with your group.

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: ‭Nehemiah 8:10, 1 Thessalonians 1:6, Hebrews 12:2, John 16:19-22

Discussion Questions:

Joy is a focus, not a feeling. With all the social media in today’s world, we have a lot of pressure to be “happy.” Pleasure and joy are not the same. Happiness can give you good feelings but joy (biblical joy) is so much more than a feeling. Read Hebrews 12:2. What was Jesus’ focus? Or to ask in another way, what was set before Him that allowed Him to endure the suffering?
Joy is not a product of what people say about you. Read John 16:19-22 and 1 Thessalonians 1:6. Where do we get our joy?
Where should we focus to gain strength for endurance? Read Nehemiah 8:10.
Read Luke 15:7. What brings the Lord joy?

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Nehemiah 8:10, 1 Thessalonians 1:6, Hebrews 12:2, or John 16:19-22 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Break into groups of two or three and discuss how your understanding of joy has expanded and what this means for you. Read Acts 2:46 and pray with one another as you set out this week with a new focus.

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: Many groups are starting the Freedom curriculum. This material is amazing and will not always be easy. If you are in a Freedom group, discuss how you will focus on God and the outcomes which will bring you closer to Him as you go through the next few weeks. Who have you thought about inviting who might benefit from the Freedom curriculum? Invite them next week!

Engaging in Community and the World: Serving is one of the best ways to see God’s work in people. Have you volunteered with any of the community organizations that Faith Promise supports? Check out https://faithpromise.org/love-local for more information.

Expand God’s Kingdom

Think about all the places you exist – work, church, home, child’s school, etc. Whom have you seen who looks like they could use more godly joy? Pray that God opens your eyes and heart up to be able to speak into their life. Invite them to Faith Promise!

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

God’s Story – Discussion Guide

December 7, 2019/in Discussion Questions, Groups, Misc

Getting Started

Main Idea: Every moment of time has told and is telling God’s story. The whole Bible is His story and every one of us was always planned to be a part of it.

Discussion Starter: If you could visit any time and place in history when and where would you go?

Introduction: This week, Pastor Chris takes us through most of recorded, Biblical history to illuminate how God has revealed himself and compels us to step into God’s plan for us.

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: 2 Timothy 2:15, Galatians 4:4, Romans 6:23, Romans 10: 9-10

Discussion Questions:

What do you think is one of the most fascinating stories in the Bible? What does it tell you about God?
Pastor Chris mentioned that after the book of Malachi, God was silent for 400 years, and he pointed out that we should not mistake God’s silence as inactivity. Is there an area in your life where you are waiting to hear from God? If so, how can you be encouraged to know that His silence doesn’t mean He isn’t doing anything?
Read Galatians 4:4 This verse shows us a glimpse into God’s plans and timing. Discuss some of the obstacles to waiting on God’s timing and plans.
Pastor Chris said that Jesus’ birth and humble beginning was not poverty, but prophecy. The circumstances of Jesus’ birth were part of God’s plans from the beginning. Discuss how God can and is working in your current circumstances. Meditate on Romans 8:26-29.

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Romans 10:10 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section.

Getting to know each other: Discuss how you see your part in God’s story. Encourage someone in the group as to what you see as their part in His story.

Getting to know Him: What do you think is one of the most interesting stories from the Bible and how does it reveal God’s character? If you’re not sure of one, what do you think is one of the most interesting of God’s attributes? For example, 3 of God’s attributes are that He is infinite, transcendent, and personal.

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: The Christmas season always provides many opportunities to serve at Faith Promise. Visit the Information area at your campus if you aren’t sure of the opportunities.

Engaging in Community: This time of year there are also many opportunities in the community. Don’t forget about the group that we partnered with over the summer, Serve Day. Click here for some of their great ideas on how to engage your community.

Engaging the World: Visit the Missions Spot at your campus to get information on our international missionaries and find out how you can partner with them in their efforts abroad. Also consider sending them an encouraging Christmas card.

Expand God’s Kingdom

This season is one where many are naturally more drawn to the church. Find someone who needs help with their next step. Talk to a stranger in the lobby and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you and your conversations, seeking to encourage and grow them.

Mind Monsters Week 3 – Discussion Guide

August 17, 2019/in Discussion Questions, Groups, Misc

Getting Started

Main Idea: The Mind Monsters of emotion have moved from under our beds to inside our heads.

Discussion Starter: Have you known anyone to have some deep-seated fear, a fear that paralyzed them or prevented them from doing something? Have you experienced any of these: fear of heights, speaking in public, tight spaces, spiders, snakes, etc.?

Introduction: There is more than one type of fear and the Bible has a lot to say about fear. This week we will look at how fear impacts us and how we can handle fears more productively, as well as supporting others as they work through some of their personal fears. Wouldn’t it be nice if this mind monster lost some (or all!) its control in our lives?

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures:

2 Timothy 1:7, 1 John 4:18, Hebrews 2:14, Matthew 6:25-34

Discussion Questions:

What do the passages in 1 John and Hebrews point to as the source of our fear?
What does the passage in 2 Timothy say that God gives us?
In this series, Pastor talked about parking our minds on the thoughts found on the “P48 Train.” What similar thoughts/actions are we reminded of in 2 Timothy that God gives us to overcome Mind Monsters?
How does the passage from Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 6:25-34 tell us to behave?
What are some action items or thoughts we can take this week to help us with our fears?

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Matthew 6:25 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into dyads or triads for this section.

Getting to know you: As you go through the week and encounter the Mind Monster of fear, consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-34 then reach out to your group and share ways you are encouraged.

Getting to know them: As a group, search for other scriptures on prayers to help arm you and your loved ones against the fear Mind Monster.

Getting to know Him: Commit in your groups to reading/memorizing one or two of the scriptures you found and praying for your group during your quiet time.

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: Groups can be very intimidating to many. Pray for all the new groups starting and for the Promisers who have yet to sign up. Pray that they find their group and that the Mind Monster of fear doesn’t get in the way.

Engaging in Community: Pay attention this week as you are at work or with family and notice how fear is impacting the lives of those around you. Things you may not have noticed before will be more evident. Share some of what you are learning, Jesus’ love, and your relationship with Him, and how this helps overcome fears.

Engaging the World: This time of year, students are heading back to school, teachers are meeting their new pupils, and we are approaching fall. Let’s say special prayers for those leaders in schools and all the students, because we know there are a lot of emotions including fear during this time.

Expand God’s Kingdom

One of the biggest obstacles for people taking their next step in becoming a leader is fear. Who is someone who you know is afraid of moving forward and stepping up to their next level of leadership? Reach out to them this week, and help them take their next step.

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

Mind Monsters Week 1- Discussion Guide

August 3, 2019/in Discussion Questions, Groups

Getting Started

Main Idea: Emotions are the monsters under our beds that climbed into our heads!

Discussion Starter: Have you ever gone the wrong direction? Name a time (physically or mentally) where you thought you were headed the right direction but realized you were completely lost.

Introduction: Emotions are a funny thing. Have you ever felt something, yet didn’t know why? Have you ever watched a toddler throw a temper tantrum and thought, “I wonder how and why they’re so out of control?” And then, have you wished as an adult that you had the freedom to throw a tantrum? Emotions are a funny thing. The good ones are fantastic feelings, but the bad ones are not. Crying is sometimes seen as weak. Anger can get us in trouble. What if we thought about our emotions as passengers in our lives, not the drivers? What if we control our emotions and use every single one of them to glorify God, instead of letting the enemy use our emotions to access our lives and control our thoughts and behaviors?

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: Philippians 4:4-9, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, Proverbs 4:23, James 5:16, Malachi 3:10

Discussion Questions:

Philippians 4:4-9 starts off with, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice!” but do we really rejoice in EVERYTHING? ALWAYS? Or do we only rejoice in the things that are good? And wallow in pity and despair with in the bad moments? Why is that?
2 Corinthians 10 tells us to take every thought captive. How do we do that? Emotions can get the better of us, controlling our lives. How can we take captive our emotions and let God be the conductor of lives?
Pastor said in his message, “It’s impossible to live a positive life in a negative light.” The P48 train refers to Philippians 4:8, that says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” On what are your thoughts dwelling? How can you put your life on path with the P48 train?

Discovery Bible Method:
For an alternative to the questions above, read the scriptures Philippians 4:4-9 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into dyads or triads for this section.

Getting to know you: 2 Corinthians 10:3 says that for though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. With what or who are we in war?

Getting to know them: James 5:16 says to confess your sins to one another and pray for one another. Use this time in group to be transparent with what you need prayers in your life and what you need to confess.

Getting to know Him: God wants us to be like Him, because that’s the only way to have our emotions as passengers in our lives, not the conductors or controllers. He does not want us to get on the wrong train of pity, rage, worry, suspicion, doubt, or anxiety. How can we climb on the P48 train?

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: “We elevate those around us” is one of our values. Pastor talked about not boarding the emotion train without determining the destination. How can we help elevate those around us determine their destination? When we lift one another up, we help support their journey. Who are you elevating today?

Engaging in Community: Over the past three months, KARM stores received 943 donations of goods and time from people connected to Faith Promise. Did you know when you donated items or your service to ANY KARM store and attach Faith Promise to the donation, we receive KARM gift cards back to be used in our benevolence program? Donate to KARM – they not only help those in our community but they help Faith Promise help those who seek help directly at Faith Promise.

Engaging the World: If you want to reach beyond your local community, Faith Promise sponsors multiple missionary families. Stop by the Missions Spot at your campus next time you’re there to find out how you can help them and pray for them.

Expand God’s Kingdom

On what train are you riding? It’s important to recognize that one Mind Monster that many of us allow to become conductor of our lives and take us places we don’t want to go is Doubt. Today it’s getting harder and harder to trust, especially those in authority around us. If it’s hard to trust those around us, how hard is it to trust God and His authority? Accept the challenge this week to trust Him, because we believe that you will find that you can indeed trust Him in ALL things. And when you do, you will not only see God’s Kingdom around you, but you will begin to expand it to include others.

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

Easter 2019 – Discussion Guide

April 20, 2019/in Discussion Questions, Groups

Getting Started

Main Idea: Jesus passes the light from His life to us, so that we can have light and life again.

Discussion Starter: Discuss a big decision you’ve made that was easy because it was a clear “yes” or “no.”

Introduction: We were all born into a dark world, where pain and suffering are evident (even at an early age). Any one who has ever held the mirror up to their own lives, observed their own problems, AND looked around at the pain and suffering of so many in this world, has asked: “God where are you?” or “Does a good, loving God really exist?” This Easter we heard about God’s ultimate answer to the question of pain: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. God’s one and only son, God Himself in human form, taking on Himself the most painful thing in all existence, sin (discord and separation from God).

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: Romans 5:8, John 10:10, John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10

Discussion Questions:

What does it mean to you personally that Jesus died for you?
Read John 10:10 What has the enemy stolen (or tried to steal) from you? What has Jesus given you in abundance?
Jesus said he came to give us “life.” What did He mean by that? Read John 17:1-3
How can your daily life change by knowing that, if you are a Christ-follower, you have already begun that eternal, abundant life?
What is an area of pride or stubbornness in your life that keeps you from seeing and resting in Jesus’ light?

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read Romans 5:8 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into dyads or triads for this section.

Getting to know you: How has God used the shared interest of this Group to show you that you are not alone in your suffering?

Getting to know them: How can your group reach out to each other between group meetings to encourage each other?

Getting to know Him: God uses the shared interest of this group to show you His love and light. How can you and your group find others with this shared interest to show them the real love of God?

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise: How can you and your group suffer with those suffering at Faith Promise?

Engaging in Community: How can you and your group be a light in the dark places in your community?

Engaging the World: Find an area of the world that needs the light of Jesus. Or find a group that is already taking the light of Jesus to dark places. Discuss how your group can partner with people or organizations around the world.

Expand God’s Kingdom

Come follow me as I follow Jesus. This could be a terrifying statement to us. However, it is one of the most effective, sincere ways to disciple others. Find someone that God wants you to encourage, teach, and lead this way.

Leader’s Notes

ALL groups at Faith Promise should follow Jesus Christ and lead others to do the same. Below are the marks of a growing follower and disciple of Jesus.

– A follower of Jesus desires to encounter God through the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– A follower of Jesus embraces people and values relationships on a deeper level so everyone can grow together.

– A follower of Jesus engages and serves the world around them and in their community, through local partners or God-directed opportunities.

– A follower of Jesus expands God’s Kingdom through development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

Real People, Real Problems, Real Love Week 2 – Discussion Guide

October 29, 2017/in Discussion Questions, Misc

Getting Started

Main Idea:
This weekend Pastor Chris challenged us to abide in the vine and remain wrapped up and wrapped in His love. He encouraged Promisors to consider how much God gave through His Son Jesus Christ with how much we are willing to give to others.

Discussion Starter:
Share a recent struggle you experienced and who God used to help you through it. Even knowing how important a role others play in our lives and how God can use them, why is it still so hard to become involved in the problems of people around us?

Introduction:
This week we will discuss how being real people, people of authentic faith, requires we step into the real problems of the world and the people all around us through the giving of ourselves through God’s sustaining power and grace.

Encounter God

Primary Scriptures: John 15:1-17

Discussion Questions:
1. In verses 1-2, what is the difference between being a cut off vine and one which is being pruned? How does being cut off affect our desire and capacity to give?

2. In verse 5, Jesus tells us we are the branches and can bear much fruit by remaining in Him. How have you experienced this? Share this experience.

3. When Jesus tells us in verse 13 to lay down our lives for friends, what is He really saying? How can we sacrifice for people in our everyday lives?

4. Pastor Chris listed three expenses of loving people: time, tears, and trouble. Which of these is hardest for you? Why? How do you handle it?

Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read John 15:1-17 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore how to be authentic in our relationships and our faith.

Embrace Others

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into dyads or triads during this time.

Getting together better:
In your dyad or triad commit to connect with each other this week through a common interest or shared hobby. Commit to pray for each other or with each other about a specific real problem this week.

Getting to know Him better together:
Use the above opportunity to challenge and encourage one another with what was discussed in group this week and share any stories of progress or “God at work” (perhaps look up other Scripture that tell us how to “remain” in Him).

Engage the World Around Us

Engaging at Faith Promise:
Choose a fpStaff member or fpVolunteer leader to encourage in their ministry as an act of service and thanks.

Engaging in Community:
Commit to connect and serve the community in solving a real problem (this does not have to be elaborate, choose something simple – i.e. buy the teachers at a local public school donuts for breakfast, etc.) this week or month.

Engaging the World:
Begin now to consider how you and your group, dyad, or triad will sponsor a Compassion International child (for more details, check out https://cts.compassion.com/events/807)

Expand God’s Kingdom

In your dyad or triad discuss the possibilities of leading or hosting your own Group. What are some obstacles in your path? Pray for God to remove those and begin to ask Him to show what is your next step towards making room for more people to find God’s real love through the loving community of an fpGroup.

Leader’s Notes

For the Discussion Starter, be careful that the discussion does not descend into gossip. We can share negative experiences and learn from them without sharing names.

Be familiar with John 15:1-17 or watch the message online again prior to group.

E-Groups
– Encounter Groups: the primary focus of Encounter Groups is the deeper study and application of God’s Word.

– Embrace Groups: the primary focus of Embrace Groups is making friends and being friends on a deeper level.

– Engage Groups: the primary focus of Engage Groups is serving the people of our area through our local partners and through God-directed opportunities.

– Expand Groups: the primary focus of Expand Groups is the development and multiplication of disciple-makers to lead more groups at Faith Promise.

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