Sermon Questions 3/31/2024

Here are some additional passages to consider along with our study this week;

Genesis 1-3; John 19:38-20:18; Romans 5:12-21; Colossians 1:21-23;

Romans 8:1; 1 Corinthians 15:51-58; 2 Corinthians 5:17; John 3:16-18; John 14:6.

What percentage of people have sinned?

Which “reversal” are you most thankful for and why? Life, Reconciliation, Approval, Truth

What are the implications of God’s reversal of “winter” for us?

Have you placed your confidence in Jesus Christ alone?

What does it mean to put your confidence in Jesus Christ alone?

What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this morning’s study?

Sermon Questions 3/24/2024

Here are some additional passages to consider along with this week’s study;

 Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-40; John 12:12-19; Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 12:15-16;

Matthew 16:20; 2 Kings 9:13; Luke 23:20-21; Philippians 2; Hebrews 12;

Mark 2:1-12.

Compare the four accounts of Jesus “triumphal entry” into Jerusalem.

Which of the accounts resonates with you most and why?

What are some things we can learn about Jesus from his “triumphal entry?”

Select one of the gospels and read from Jesus’ “triumphal entry” to the end of t

hat gospel account.

Hebrews 12 tells us, “…who for the joy that set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” 

How do you think it possible for Jesus to have joy during the last week of his earthly life?

Define joy.

How can you have joy in the midst of terrible life circumstances?

Why did Jesus heal the paralytic in Mark 2:1-12?

What did Jesus demonstrate when he healed the paralytic?

Why do you think there were and are, such a missed expectations by some when it comes to Jesus?

Have you experienced missed expectations in your relationship with God? What were they and what have you learned?

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon Questions: 3/17/24

Here are some additional passages to consider as part of this week’s study: 

Matthew 5-7; Psalm 37; Galatians 5 ; Read Matthew 5:1-12. 

Sometimes, the Upside-Down Kingdom's characteristics (beatitudes) go against the cultural expectations of our own preconceived notions.

How does Jesus' description of his kingdom challenge our understanding of power, success, and righteousness?

In what ways have you experienced or observed the Upside-Down nature of Jesus' kingdom? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in bringing these characteristics to bear in your life? How can you commit to living according to his values?

Mourning refers to feeling deep sadness over our own brokenness. This awareness leads to recognizing our need for God's grace and forgiveness.

What areas of your life have you experienced brokenness, and how have you seen God at work in those situations?

Being 'poor in spirit' means understanding our spiritual bankruptcy. It is our helplessness and inability to save ourselves. Our salvation is all the work of God. Are there areas in your life where you feel spiritually helpless? How can you rely on God in those situations?

Read Psalm 37:11. Meekness refers to trusting God, so you don’t have to worry, fret, or get angry at the actions of other people. How are the fruit of the spirt manifest in a person? How could the fruits of being meek (gentle, courteous, considerate, and slow to anger) help us love others more? How might this approach help change our families, societies, schools, etc?

We talked about the difference between being a peacemaker and a peacekeeper. A peacemaker brings wholeness to relationships and is willing to step into difficult situations. A peacekeeper avoids conflict rather than addressing issues. Are you more of a peacemaker or peacekeeper? What could you do to become more of a peacemaker in your relationships?

Which previously discussed beatitude do you feel God is asking you to grow in this week?

What is one thing you think God is speaking to you about from this week’s study?,

Sermon Questions 3//10/24

Sermon Questions 3/3/24

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with our study;

Matthew 4:1-11; James 1:13-15; 1 Corinthians 2:8; 10:12-13; 2 Corinthians 10:4-6; Psalm 91:3-6; Isaiah 7:12; Deuteronomy 6:13, 32:8

What is your most tempting guilty pleasure?

What is the goal of temptation?

What is the goal of a trial?

What is the difference between a trial and temptation?

Why is this important and how does it help us in our spiritual lives?

When have you’ve faced a trial in your life, and how did it strengthen your faith?

The Bible says that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability. How does this truth impact our responsibility in resisting temptation?

Why is it important to take responsibility when we give into temptation and not blame God? How does taking responsibility help us resist future temptation?

What are some ways you can hold onto God's truth when faced with temptations in your own life?

Like Jesus, in what ways might the world offer us its 'kingdoms' today, and how can we stand firm in serving and worshiping God alone?

How does having the Holy Spirit living in us change our ability to face and overcome temptations?

How have you experienced the Holy Spirit's guidance or empowerment during moments of temptation or spiritual struggle?

What is one thing you believe God is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon Questions 2/25/24

Here are some additional passages to consider along with this week’s study;

Matthew 3; Mark 1:9-11, 14-15; Hebrews 1; Isaiah 66:1-2; Colossians 1:15-23.

*How would you have felt to see John baptizing people?

*Why do you think Jesus was baptized?

*Is there a part of Jesus baptism that stands out to you most?

*Compare and contrast the coronation of Jesus in Matthew 3 and Hebrews 1. How are they different, how are they similar?

*Of the groups who were aware of Jesus baptism, is there one that you identify with more than the others?

*Tell someone about your own baptism this week.

*What was significant about your own baptism?

*Who do you remember most being aware of your own baptism?

*What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon Questions 1/28/24

What is your favorite account in the Bible when the Lord spoke to someone about doing something and the person did it?

What are some of the ways you hear from the Lord?

What are some things you have seen God do?

What are some things you are asking the Lord to do in your life?

What are some things in your life that the Lord has been doing recently?

Can you think of a time when you clearly heard the Lord speaking to you, and you acted in obedience to Him?

Can you think of a time when you clearly heard the Lord speaking to you, and you acted in disobedience to Him?

Are there currently some things the Lord has been speaking to you about doing? How are you responding to Him?

Sermon Questions 1/21/24

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with our study this week: Ecclesiastes; Psalm 19:7-10; Proverbs 9:10; Isaiah 5:20; Philippians 1:21

 What is your view now of the book of Ecclesiastes? Has it been altered now that you have reached the end of this book?

 What are some ways that you have seen Christianity become complicated?

 What are some ways that you have made Christianity complicated?

 Are there things that you need to change to uncomplicate your relationship with Jesus?

 Pleasure, pain, perspective, preparation-which of these have made the biggest impression as you have read Ecclesiastes?

 Do you approach the Bible expecting to be surprised?

 When was the last time you submitted to what the Bible says even when you did not find it palatable?

 What difference could it make to your life to realize that every duty you have toward someone else, you have toward God first?

 What is one thing you think the Lord has been speaking to you about from our study in Ecclesiastes?

Sermon Questions 1/14/24

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study: Ecclesiastes 11-12:8; Ephesians 2:1-10; Colossians 3:1-4; Matthew 6:25-34.

 What year were you born and what are some of the changes and inventions that have come along since you were born?

 How much of your time bank have you used up so far?

 Based on the “average” of 77 years, how much is left?

 Reflect on your life and attitude toward getting older. In what ways does Ecclesiastes challenge you?

 What do you think it means to “remember your Creator”?

 Why do you think the author calls growing older, “the evil days”?

 Is your future shaping your present? How do you know?

 Is it a new idea to you that God has commanded enjoyment of the things he has given us?

 What changes could you make to your life to in how you spend the remaining time in your “time bank”?

 If you are older, how can you rejoice in God’s gifts and be thankful for gifts past?

 What is one thing you believe the Lord has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon questions 1/7/24

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study:

Ecclesiastes 10 & 11; Job 37:14-40:2; Job 40:3-5; Colossians 3:1-4;

What parts of creation are you most fascinated by or curious about?

What about God are you most curious about?

Can you related to Job’s response to the Lord after the Lord had questioned him in Job 38 & 39?

Rewrite Colossians 3:2 in your own words, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”

What are the influences that have an effect on your primary vantage point for looking at life?

How much of your life is shaped by confident predictions about the future?

Why do you think some people have a preoccupation with what is to come?

Do you think you live with ambiguity well?

Do you shelter yourself from the fear of failure by having space only for the predictable in your life? Could you change this?

When was the last time you responded to someone close to you in a way that recognized that person as God’s gift to you?

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon questions 12/31/23

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study: Ecclesiastes 1-9.

         Have you made resolutions before? If so, what New Year’s Resolutions have you made that lasted the longest?

         Why do you think it lasted, or didn’t last that long?

         What are some of the things Ecclesiastes has taught us so far about how to live life?

         Do you think you have a realistic perspective on life?

         What has been the role of prayer, study, fasting, meditation, and service in your life?

         In what ways would you like to grow in those habits?

         What is one thing you believe God has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon Questions 12/24/23

Here are some additional passages to consider as part of this week’s study:

Luke 1:1-4; Luke 2; John 2:1-12; 1 John 4:10; John 15:13; Romans 5:8; John 3:16-17;    1 John 4:7-12; Luke 12:48; John 19:26-27; Luke 24

 Why do you think God has chosen to use angels at certain times to be His messengers to man?

 Do you believe God still uses angels as messengers today?

 How did God demonstrate love in the story of Jesus’ birth?

 Were the angels the authors of their messages to people?

 Which of the people in the story of Jesus’ birth can you identify with most? Why?

 What is most amazing to you about the story of Jesus’ birth?

 What is one way you could help communicate God’s love to people around you at this time of year?

 What are some ways that you want to change when it comes to celebrating Christmas?

 Of the four key words of Advent (hope, peace, joy, love) which is your favorite and why?

 Why is Advent so important?

 What is something new you have learned from the Christmas story?

 What is one thing you think God has been speaking to you about this Advent season?

Sermon Questions 12/17/23

Try to imagine yourself in the fields with the shepherds in Luke 2. How does good news replace fear?

When was a time when you experienced uncontrollable joy?

Have you found that joy is an underlying current in your life that pops up when you see the work of God?

What other parts of the Christmas story depict joy?

Why do you think God has given us the gift of joy?

How is joy as an antidote to fear?

Is it possible to stifle joy?

What is one think you believe God has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sermon Questions 12/10/23

1. What did you long for when you were a kid at Christmas time? What are your favorite Christmas memories and/or traditions?

2. Advent—derived from Latin-“adventus” = coming/arrival. Advent season is a time of preparation to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in his first coming (advent). How can you prepare your heart to celebrate and worship this Christmas season?

3. Read Romans 15:12-13. What does Paul say can be true of you? What is required for you to experience this reality?

4. Do you ever fight against depending on the Holy Spirit? Why? What typically happens when you fight against the Spirit and depending on Him? 

5. What are some different Old Testament prophecies that Jesus fulfilled? Which ones amaze and encourage your faith the most and why?

6. What is peace? What is a biblical definition of peace?

7. When was a time in your life when the Lord flooded you with peace?

8. Is peace a promise for believers? Read Romans 5:1

9. Read Isaiah 9:6. What are the 4 descriptions of the prophesied Messiah? How do each one play themselves out in your day to day relationship with Jesus? Are you living with the awareness each day that He is each of these to you? If not, what needs to change?

10. Read Philippians 4:4-7. What is Paul's formula for experiencing the peace of God? 

11. Read Matthew 11:28-30. What burden is heavy on your heart and mind? Will you give it to God? Who will you ask to pray with and for you?

Sunday, October 29, 2023 Sermon Questions:

1. What about David's psalm stood out to you this week? Key is to observe the text. What do you see from Psalm 62 that is confusing? Encouraging? Discuss these things.

2.  What is David's intention with writing this psalm? Did Justin's sermon align well with what David's intentions were?

3. What current trial was David facing?

4. How does David face these trials?

5. What aspect of who God is and what God does did David repeat to himself?

6. What current trials, persecution, or discouragement are you facing currently?

7. What aspect of who God is and what God does did you need to be reminded of this week from this psalm?

8. What other person, place, thing, or idea do you run to instead of the Lord as your confidence/trust? Is it money? Status/Achievements?

9. David was confident that the Lord would deliver him from his enemies. What are you confident that the Lord will do for you? 

10. What does Jesus' birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension accomplish for us ultimately? Are you confident that this is true and trustworthy? How does this change the way you live today?

11. As a refresher from Justin's benediction, "What is your only comfort in life and in death?" (Read the answer to Question #1 of the Heidelberg Catechism from 1583 AD)

Sunday, October 22, 2023 Sermon Questions:

A great companion read this week would be, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Chapter 6. Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study; Ecclesiastes 3:16-22; 4:16; Mark 12:29-31, Philippians 2:1-11; Mark 7:31-37; Romans 8:18-30; 1 Timothy 6:10; Amos 4:1; Zechariah 7:9-10;

In what ways have you experience Jesus’ transformational power in your life?

Do you think it’s true that we spend most of our time thinking about ourselves?

What are the things that, in your worst moments, you envy in others?

Work out how much time you spend working last week and how much time you spent relaxing with others. Could you spend more or less time on each of those?

Who are the “we’s” whom you could start to think about more? Take time to list the practical differences this might make to those relationships.

How would you describe the value of being part of a church community?

What practical steps can you take to help prevent laziness or being overly busy? What might it look like for you to take the middle road?

What is one thing you believe the Lord has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, October 15, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study;

Ecclesiastes 3; Ecclesiastes 12; 2 Timothy 1:9; Titus 1:2; Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:20; John 4:24; 2 Peter 3:1-12; Isaiah 57:15; Psalm 90:2, 10; Psalm 93:2; Mark 11:12-14,20-21; Luke 19:45; Matthew 16:15-18; John 11:35, 38; Luke 19:41-44; Matthew 9:36; Luke 10:21; Matthew 27:14; Acts 8:32; Isaiah 53:7; 1 Peter 2:21-23; Psalm 46:9; Romans 8:20-21; Psalm 34:1; Psalm 31:14,15; Hebrews 9:27; Ephesians 5:16; Romans 5:6.

What has been your perspective when it comes to time?

Describe how God views time.

What are some of the ways we can see God’s perfect timing?

Have you ever been frustrated by God’s timing? Why?

Are there ways that you “waste time”?

Are you willing to put your time in God’s hands?

What things do you seek to control? What might it look like to surrender control?

How could you have a wiser perspective on your time?

In what ways has God put eternity in your heart?

Rewrite Ecclesiastes 3:22 in your own words.

What are some of the conclusions that Ecclesiastes 3 comes to?

Sunday, October 1, 2023 Questions

Read the entire book of Ecclesiastes this week.

What are your overall impressions of the book of Ecclesiastes?

Does Ecclesiastes encourage you or discourage you and why?

Explain the meaning of “vanity” in Ecclesiastes in your own words.

What are some other passages of scripture that line up with the wisdom of Ecclesiastes?

What are some of Jesus’ teaching that line up with Ecclesiastes?

What is it about the author of Ecclesiastes that gives him credibility?

Are there things in the book of Ecclesiastes that you have personally seen to be true in your life?

Why do you think God gave us the book of Ecclesiastes?

Do you agree or disagree with the statement, “Preach the gospel. Die. Be forgotten?”  Explain your answer. 

List three things you would like to change about your life and three things you would like to stay the same.

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, September 24, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages to consider along with this week’s study;

Psalm 86:15; Lamentations 3:22-23; John 11:33-35; Matthew 14:14; Mark 1:40-41; Matthew 22:34-40; 1 John 3:17; 1 John 4:20; Matthew 9:35-38; Mark 6:30-44; Mark 9:14-29; Luke 10:25-37; John 4.

What are some of the stories when Jesus demonstrated compassion?

What are some of the Old Testament stories that demonstrate God’s compassion?

Which story of Jesus demonstrating compassion can you identify with most and why?

Can you think of a time when you were moved by a wave of compassion? What did you do?

Have you ever received compassion from another person? How did it feel?

How can we understand the truth of God’s judgement and compassion at the same time?

Which person in the story of the Good Samaritan can you identify with most and why?

Do you think Jesus demonstrate compassion to the Samaritan woman? How?

Is it possible to be ready for “waves of compassion?”

How should we respond to “waves of compassion” that we experience?

What is one thing you believe God has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2023 QUESTIONS

Here are some additional passages to consider along with this week’s study;

Matthew 24; Revelation 19:11-16; Titus 2:13; Zechariah 12:10; Revelation 1:7; Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6-7; Zechariah 14:4; Acts 1:11; I John 2:22; Mark 13:22; 1 John 4:1-3; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13; Daniel 7:8; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Revelation 20:2-5; Luke 12:40; Mark 13.

Are you looking forward to the return of Christ?

How should we respond to Jesus’ words, “this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come?

How should Christians respond to coming tribulation?

How should Christians respond to “antichrists” and “the Antichrist”?

Why do you think it’s so easy to speculate about the timing of the return of Christ?

What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not know”?

How can we be ready for the return of Christ?

What does knowing about Christ’s return motivate you to do?

How does knowing about the return of Christ create a sense of urgency for Christians?

What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2023 QUESTIONS

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study:

John 20:28; Acts 2:14-41; Acts 10:34-43; Romans 10:9-10; Matthew 8:1-13; Matthew 28:18; Luke 6:5; Jude 1:4; Revelation 17:14; Luke 19:28-40; John 13:13; Psalm 34:8; 1 Peter 2:1-3; Isaiah 8:13; 1 Peter 3:13-17; John 13:12-20; Luke 6:46-49; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Acts 16:25-40; Philippians 2:9-11.

What did Jesus say someone is like who hears his words and obeys them?

What did Jesus say someone is like who hears his words and does not obey them?

Why do you think Jesus used this word picture to describe those who obey and those who choose not to obey him?

Have you seen this word picture manifest in anyone’s life?

What are the benefits of submitting to the Lordship of Jesus?

What is the disadvantage of submitting to the Lordship of Jesus?

What is an area of your life that Jesus has spoken to you about that you have chosen not to obey him?

What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

SUNDAY, AUGUST 27, 2023 QUESTIONS

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study:

John 5:20-23; John 3:16; John 9:39; John 12:31-33; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; 2 Corinthians 5:1-10; Ephesians 1:13-14; Luke 19:12-27; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Matthew 25:31-46.

What are some descriptive passages in the Bible?

What are some prescriptive passages in the Bible?

How does a person become a Christian?

Who does the Bible say is the ultimate judge?

When you contrast Jesus as our shepherd and judge, which do you appreciate more and why?

How should Christians feel about the Bema Seat of Christ?

How can non-Christians feel about the Bema Seat of Christ?

What can we learn from the “Great White Throne of Judgement” for Christians and for non-Christians?

Why do you think that even though we know Jesus is judge, many people still choose not to follow Him?

How does the “Sheep & Goats judgement” impact your thinking?

What happens in the heart of a Christian when they come to know Jesus?

What are we ultimately judged for?

What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, August 13, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study;

John 15; Matthew 20:1-7; 21:28; Mark 12:1-11; Luke 13:6-7; Galatians 3:26-28; 1 Peter 5:14; Philippians 1:1; Romans 8:1; Colossians 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17.

What did we say was the context of the narrative in John 15?

What does Jesus call Himself and what does He call God the Father in John 15?

What is the significance of using those names?

What are some other passages of scripture that refer to the vine, or vineyards in the Bible?

What do you think it means to be connected to the vine?

In John 15, Jesus uses the words “in me” five times in seven verses. What do you think is the significance of these words?

How would you describe “abiding in Christ”?

What are some things that we can do without Christ?

What are some things that we can do when we are in Christ?

How do we prove that we are Jesus’ disciples?

Describe the joy that Jesus has said he has given to you.

How would you tell someone how to become a Christian?

What did Jesus say would be the world’s response to Christians? Have you seen that?

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, August 6, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study:

-John 13; John 14; Hebrews 11: 13-16; Hebrews 13:14; Colossians 3; Ephesians 2; Acts 17:22-31

What was the setting when Jesus spoke the words of John 14?

Describe a time when your heart was “troubled.” What caused it and how did you get through it?

If you could live anywhere, where would you like to live and why?

How do you think we can we be “seated with Christ in heavenly places” now, while we are still alive on this earth?

What kind of place did Jesus say he was preparing for us?

What do you think heaven will be like?

What are you looking forward to most about heaven?

What are you looking forward to most about being with Christ?

How do we set our mind on things above, not on earth?

What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “I am the way?”

What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “I am the truth?”

What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “I am the life?”

What is the connection between Jesus and the Father?

What do you think Jesus meant when he said, “If you have seen me, you have seen the Father?”

What can we learn about the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, from John 14?

What is the way to know God the Father?

What is one thing you think the Lord has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, July 30, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider along with this week’s study:

John 10, Psalm 23

Compare and contrast Psalm 23 & John 10.

What can we learn about David from Psalm 23?

What are your favorite things about the Good Shepherd from Psalm 23 & John 10?

What can we learn about ourselves from Psalm 23 & John 10?

Why do you think there was division about Jesus’ words (John 10:19)?

How severe was this division?

Do you think Jesus’ words today create division?

Who did Jesus say do not believe him?

What is significant about Jesus’ statement that no one takes his life from him, but he lays it down?

What did Jesus say he gives to his sheep?

How do you hear the voice of the Good Shepherd?

Why is significant about Jesus’s statement that “I and the Father are one”?

What can we learn about the relationship between the Father and Jesus from John 10?

What do you think is the difference between John 10:26 & John 10:42?

Why do you think one group believed and one group did not?

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, July 9, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider for this week’s study:

Here are some additional passages to consider with this week’s study;

John 1:5; John 3:16-20; John 6:37; John 8:12; 1 John 1:5-7; Matthew 5:14-16; 1 Peter 3:15-16; Colossians 1:15-20

Why do you think God chose to use “light” and “dark” as an illustration for us?

Where are the places in the Bible that talk about light and dark?

What is the significance of Jesus saying, “I am the light of the world”?

What are the implications of Jesus saying, “I am the light of the world”?

What is significant about Jesus saying, “You are the light of the world”?

What are the implications of Jesus saying, “You are the light of the world”?

What realities and promises did we talk about that Jesus made about His followers and walking in the light?

How is it possible for us to reflect the Light of Life?

What is the contrast between believers and unbelievers when it comes to the light?

Describe someone who is walking in darkness.

Who do you know who is walking in darkness?

How can you bring light to someone who is walking in darkness?

As a follower of Christ, how do you maintain a credible and obvious witness to the world?

Memorize Colossians 1:15-20.

What is one thing you think the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, June 25, 2023 Questions

Who has been a model to you of an unashamed evangelist who passionately shares the Good News?

 What is the Good News? How would you communicate the Gospel to someone who has never heard?

 Is the Gospel reliable? How can we trust that it is true?

 What are some things that hold believers back from telling others about this Great News?

 Who in your life needs to hear the Good News? Will you share it with them?

 Does the Good News of Christ produce joy in your life? What other fleeting competitors seek to be the foundation of your joy?

 How can you exalt the Lord with your life this week?

Sunday, June 18, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages to consider from this week’s study:

John 17; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Psalm 19:7; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12; Genesis 1:26-27; John 10:30; John 8:58; John 10:30; John 1:14; John 4:6; John 11:43; Matthew 14:18-21; Luke 1:35; John 1; Hebrews 2:17; Philippians 2:5-11; Luke 1:27; Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:14-19; Luke 2; Luke 4:22; John 1:45; John 6:42; Luke 3:23; Matthew 13:55; John 19:26-27.

What does infallible mean?

Is God’s Word perfect?

How many genders did God create? Is that changeable over time?

Why does God refer to Himself as Male? Why is that important?

What happens when we listen to culture, politics or preference over God’s Word?

What is the hypostatic union and why is it important?

Do you think Jesus was less God and more man, or more God and less man?

What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God?

Why is the virgin birth of Jesus Christ so important?

What are some things we know about Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph? Why that important?

What are some things you appreciate about your own earthly father?

How does having a Heavenly Father help bring healing to hurts you may have from your earthly father?

What are some things we can learn about the relationship between God the Father and the Son from John 17?

What is one thing you believe God is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, June 4, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages to consider from this week’s study:

Hosea 4:6; Joel 2:12; 2:32; Amos 5:21; Obadiah 1:4; Jonah 3:6-10; Micah 6:8; Nahum 1:2-3; Habakkuk 3:2; Zephaniah 3:17; Haggai 1:5-6; Zechariah 9:9; Malachi 3:7

Memorize the order of the Minor Prophets

Read through the minor prophets and identify a major theme in each of them, then write it on the top of the title page of each book.

What do the Minor Prophets teach us about justice?

What do the Minor Prophets teach us about joy?

What do the Minor Prophets teach us about sovereignty?

What do the Minor Prophets teach us about hope?

Which of the Minor Prophets do you identify with the most and why?

Which of the Minor Prophets do you have the most questions about? How do you plan to get answers to your questions?

How would you tell someone who doesn’t know the Lord about the Minor Prophets?

What New Testament passages do you know that carry the same message of each of the Minor Prophets?

Define Christology in your own words.

What is one thing you believe the Lord has been speaking to you about from our study in the Minor prophets?

Sunday, May 28, 2023 Questions

1. Read through the Pentecost Story (Acts 2) and reflect on what it means that the Spirit of God is in you. What is his role in your life?

2. The Spirit of God in the early church caused them to devote themselves to the apostles' teaching, to fellowship, to breaking of bread, and to prayer. He also caused them to stand in awe of God. Where is your heart currently when it comes to the Lord? Are you in awe of the Lord?

3. The key verse of Malachi that Pastor Justin chose was Malachi 1:11. Does God seem selfish to you when he talks of his name being magnified so often? Why is it for our good that God is glorified?

4. Why does God use the story of Jacob and Esau to explain to his people that he loves them?

5. What does the story of Jacob and Esau teach you about God's sovereign reign?

6. Is the verse, "he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills" hard for you to believe? Why? (Romans 9:18)

7. Pastor Justin said time is one of the most valuable resources that we have and it is so hard for us to sacrifice at times. What, for you, is an expensive resource that is hard for you to sacrifice for the Lord?

8. Discuss a leader that has really blessed you in your walk with Jesus and a leader who has hurt your walk with Jesus. Don't use names, but describe.

9. Hebrews 13 says that marriage ought to be held in honor among all. How have your thoughts, words, or actions shown your high regard for marriage? How can you teach the next generation to hold marriage in honor?

10. How does the use of your financial resources show your fear of the Lord?

Homework: Watch the Bible Project Malachi video and read the entire book

Sunday, May 21, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider for this week’s study:

2 Corinthians 5-6:1; Psalm 34:17-20; Psalm 42:5-7; Psalm 62:5-8; Psalm 40:1-5; 1 Corinthians 15:19; Joshua 1; Romans 5:12-21.

Why was Zechariah’s audience discouraged?

How did we define discouragement?

How could Zechariah’s prophesy have been an encouragement to the people?

When were some other times that God’s chosen people were discouraged?

Which decade in American history do you think has been the most discouraging?

What does the Bible say about how to handle discouragement?

What did Paul say about discouragement and hope?

What can we learn from the Lord’s charge against the people in chapter 7:8-12?

What can we learn about Christ’s seconding coming from chapters 9-14?

Does “the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5) fit into the book of Zechariah?

How would you explain, “Return to me says the LORD of hosts, and I will return to you says the Lord of hosts,” to a friend or someone who knows the Lord, but has wandered, or run away from their faith?

How can the book of Zechariah bring someone hope?

How do you see the book of Zechariah fitting in with the other minor prophets? With the rest of the Bible?

What’s one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Homework: Read Malachi

Sunday, May 14, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider for this week’s study:

John 15:1-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; James 1:5; Psalm 104; Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 18:2; Matthew 4:1-11; Daniel 3; Philippians 4:6; Acts 17:10-15; Psalm 85:8-9; Exodus 2:1-10; Daniel 6; 1 Sam. 17; Rom. 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 12:7-10; Matt. 6; 1 Pet. 5:6-11; Matt. 18:1-6.

Of the six disciplines we talked about, which do you find most difficult to model for your kids, or others, and why? Prayer/Honoring the Bible/Doing right/Being a living sacrifice/Abiding in Christ/Refusing to worry.

What are some ways you can model those to your kids and others?

How has your prayer life grown since you came to know Jesus?

What are some memorable answers to prayer you have seen?

What are some unanswered prayers you are living with?

In what ways do you honor God’s Word?

What role does time meditating on God’s Word play in your life?

What is your “life verse”?

Are you growing in your understanding of the overall theme of the Bible?

Do you find yourself walking with certainty to doing the “right thing,” or do you question yourself?

What does it means to be a living sacrifice before the Lord and among those around you?

How does Jesus’ words about the vine and the branches help us understand what it means to be “in Christ”?

Can you see fruit in your life that Jesus is producing?

How much power does worry have in your daily life? Why is that?

What can you do to change the patterns of worry in your life?

Homework: Read Zechariah

Sunday, May 7, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider for this week’s study:

Haggai; Ephesians 4:17-6:24; Matthew 6:25-34; Exodus 20; Ezra 4-5:5; 1 Cor. 3:10-17

Which part of Haggai’s prophesy do you relate to most closely?

How does Haggai’s prophesy fit in with the other prophets we have studied so far?

What can we learn from Haggai’s prophesy?

What is the value of worry?

Where do you land on the worry scale? Where would a close friend put you on the scale?

1             2             3             4            5              6            7           8             9            10

“Constant up all night Worrier”                                                                  “Free as a Bird”

What did Jesus say about God’s daily provision for you?

What are some ways that you “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness?”

What are some ways that selfishness shows up in your life?

How do you think you build on the foundation of Jesus Christ?

Have you ever felt that you have missed God’s blessing because of your actions?

Why do some people seem to wait until they face difficulty before they “consider their ways”?

How do you best “consider your ways”?

Are there priorities in your life that need to be rearranged? If so, what are they & what do you need to change?

What is one thing you think God may be speaking to you about from this week’s study?

 Homework:

- Read Zephaniah

Sunday, April 30, 2023 Questions

-What part of this prophecy stood out to you?

-What did you learn from the prophecy of Zephaniah?

-What questions do you still have when it comes to this prophecy?

-What does this prophecy teach you about the Lord?

-How does this prophecy help you love the Lord better?

-What does this prophecy teach you about humanity?

-How does this prophecy help you love people better?

-Reflect on a time when your pride was humiliated, and you were brought to the feet of Jesus in prayer and worship? How did God’s grace meet you there?

Homework:

- Read Haggai

Sunday, April 23, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages to consider this week:

Habakkuk; John 1:14-34; Acts 4:23-30; Romans 8:26-30; Job 1&2; Job 21:7; Job 38-40:2; Job 42; Jeremiah 12:1-2; Psalm 73:3, 13; Psalm 37:1-7; Isaiah 44:28; John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 2 Peter 3:9-15; Matthew 5:45; Genesis 50:15-21; John 3:36; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Galatians 2:16; Romans 5:19

-What can we learn from Luke’s & Paul’s words in Acts & Romans about evil in the world?

-What can we learn about evil in the world from Joseph’s response to his brothers in Genesis?

-What can we learn from Habakkuk’s resume?

-What can we learn about evil from Job’s life?

-State the “problem of evil” in your own words.

-In what ways are the messages of the prophets and psalmists an encouragement to you?

-When it comes to evil around us, have you ever expressed the same sentiments to God that Habakkuk had?

-What are some things, both good and bad, that we can learn from Habakkuk’s relationship to the Lord?

-What can Nahum & Habakkuk’s prophesies teach us about the “problem of evil”?

-How does the crucifixion of Christ help us understand the “problem of evil”?

-How can you talk to someone who doesn’t know Jesus about the “problem of evil”?

-What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Sunday, April 16, 2023 Questions

Here are some additional passages to consider this week:

Nahum; Exodus 34:6-7; Isaiah 10, 14 & 52; Colossians 1:16; Psalm 115; Romans 11:33-36; Isaiah 25; Ephesian 1:4-6; Jeremiah 32:17; Psalm 121; Matthew 19:26; Proverbs 19:21; Acts 5:33-42; James 4:13-17; 1 Chronicles 16:28-36; Revelation 4.

What are your impressions of God from the book of Nahum?

Was God caught off guard by the Assyrians and their actions?

What do you think God thinks about as man’s actions unfold?

Israel had a terrible pattern of unbelief, did not trust God, did not love God and did not follow God. Does this pattern seem to be sequential or random, and have you ever experienced a similar pattern in your life? What happened?

What was the cause for Israel’s unbelief?

Why do you think as humans we have such a strong “need to know”?

When you listen to the news, are there times when you doubt that God is in control?

How could you talk to an unbeliever about God’s sovereignty in light of evil?

Is it easy or hard for you to believe that God is in control of all things yet at the same time Nineveh being responsible for their actions?

Why do proud and arrogant people not like it when God is control?

What does that say about how God feels about pride and arrogance?

In what ways does the sovereignty of God bring comfort to you?

In what ways is the sovereignty of God unsettling to you?
What is one thing you think God has been speaking to you about from this week’s study?

Homework:

Read Habakkuk

Sunday, April 9, 2023 Questions (Easter)

Here are some additional passages of scripture to consider this week:

Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20 & 21;

Compare the Old Testament prophesies and New Testament fulfillment of Jesus as Messiah in the following passages; Isaiah 8:14 & I Peter 2:7-8; Isaiah 53:3 & Luke 4:28-29; Exodus 12:21-27 & 1 Corinthians 5:7; Exodus 12:46 & John 19:31-36; Leviticus 17:11& Matthew 26:28; Numbers 21:9 & John 3:14-18; Job 19:23-27 & John 5:24-29; Psalm 22:15 & John 19:28; Psalm 22:18 & John 19:23-24; Psalm 31:5 & Luke 23:46; Isaiah 25:7-8 & 1 Corinthians 15:54

Compare and contrast the four gospel accounts of Jesus’ resurrection.

Which of the gospel accounts do you like most? Why?

Try to imagine yourself at the resurrection of Jesus. What emotions do you think you would have felt? Why those emotions?

Why is the resurrection of Jesus so important?

Why is celebrating the resurrection so important?

Have there been things about Jesus that you once believed, then later discovered they were not true? What were they and what changed your mind about them?

What do you appreciate most about Jesus’ resurrection?

What is one thing you believe the Lord is speaking to you about this Easter Sunday?

Homework:

Read Nahum

Sunday, April 2, 2023 Questions