Truthers Week 3 – Discussion Guide
Getting Started
Main Idea: Living not just informed but TRANSFORMED!!!
Discussion Starter: Have you ever completed a class, read a book, started a new workout routine only to finish (or maybe even not), and two weeks later you can’t remember much about the topic?
Introduction: In today’s modern world, we are extremely educated. The internet where Google, Wikipedia, and the oh so wise Facebook reside is literally at our fingertips. However, the validity of our knowledge and its sources is debatable. We can find information about any topic. The question is not in the ability to access the truth; instead, will we allow the facts to alter who we are?
Encounter God
Primary Scriptures: James 1:19-25, 1 Corinthians 2:14, John 8:32
Discussion Questions:
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- Read James 1:19-25 When you read, humbly accept the word planted in you (vs. 21 NIV). What kind of actions come to mind? Think amongst yourselves, what are some ways you can be better doers of the Word? If you feel comfortable sharing with others an example, please do.
- James starts by reminding us we should be quick to listen and slow to speak and slow to anger in the same passage. How can following these directives help us be better doers of the Word?
- Read John 8:32 and compare it to James 1:25. What do John and James mean by “setting you free?” What does James 1:25 say God will do for those who listen, learn, and effectively apply the Word?
- Read 1 Corinthians 2:14. Paul is warning the reader of the type of individual who doesn’t get what the Bible says: the hearers only or the people who forget what their faces look like in the mirror. What does the attitude of this person look like? What does it mean in the NASB version of the text when it describes the individual as natural?
Discovery Bible Method:
For deeper study, as an alternative to the questions above, read James 1:19-27 and use the Discovery Bible Method to explore the passage.
Embrace Others
Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section.
Discuss in groups of two or three ways that you know you could work on being a better doer of the Word. Maybe you are quick to speak or anger and would like prayer and accountability this week with being quick to listen. Discuss ways to pray for each other and how to follow up.
Engage the World Around Us
Engaging at Faith Promise: One lesson that Jesus taught repeatedly was the importance of serving your brothers and sisters in Christ. If you are not currently serving at FP, seek out areas that need help or areas that people in your group have served and enjoyed.
Engaging in Community and the World: Right now, in the world, we see an abundance of worldly wisdom being utilized and argued over. How can we be God’s light and apply biblical principles to help those around us?
Expand God’s Kingdom
Can you think of friends or family who are dismissive of what the Word says? Perhaps they face an internal struggle or anger that they can’t quite put their finger on. They lack a type of freedom you see in others who are actively living out the Word in their lives. Invite them to FP (in person OR online) and share with them the difference a community of believers has made in applying biblical principles to your life.
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 the development and multiplication of disciple-makers, possibly to lead more groups at Faith Promise.
