Discussion Questions

Share a time that you agonized over a major decision. How did you finally make your decision?

What did you learn this week about how the Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus?

Read Matthew 27:11–26 and Isaiah 53:6–12. Why did Jesus have to go to the Cross? Why is this important for the world today?

In your own words, how does what was shared this week about Jesus lead to a more fulfilling life for us?

Discussion Questions

As a kid, what were mealtimes like in your family? What behavior was not allowed?

Reflecting on the sermon, what were your “ah-ha” moments (did you feel convicted, compelled, or inspired during the sermon)?

Read Matthew 26:20–30. Why was it necessary for Christ’s blood to be shed in order that we receive forgiveness for our sins?

What does communion mean to you personally?

A meal is our body’s physical way of receiving the nutrition it needs. What rhythm with God might you consider implementing this week to bring you the spiritual nourishment you need?

Confession

Dear God, thank you for all that you have given us. And we acknowledge that our resources, education, technology, and jobs can give us a false sense of security. Forgive us for the ways we depend on ourselves for joy and provision rather than you and you alone. Help us know what our next step of dependence on you looks like and give us the strength to do it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Discussion Questions

In Jesus’ time, when a young couple got married they moved into the husband’s parent’s home. Would, or could, this work out for you? Why or why not?

What did you learn this week about how the Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus?

Read Matthew 8:14–17. What healing did Jesus do in this passage? Why do you think Matthew recorded these miracles?

Have any of you personally experienced healing or seen someone get healed? Please share about the experience.

What do you think is the general feeling today regarding Jesus and healing? What tensions exist when we address the subject of healing in the church?

Discussion Questions

When you need a break from people where do you go?

What did you learn this week about how the Old Testament prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus?

If you heard somebody say, “I’m so blessed,” but didn’t know any other information, what would you assume they had recently experienced? The Beatitudes run counter to what we’d typically think of as “blessing.” Discuss how our culture defines “blessed” versus what Jesus taught.

As the first major address of Jesus’ public ministry, what makes His opening (the Beatitudes) so compelling to the poor?

Discussion Questions

When you were a child, what did you like best about your grandparents? What is your most vivid memory of them?

Review Matthew 1. What observations do you have about Jesus’ lineage? What questions do you have? What is interesting about it?

Read Matthew 5: 1–18. What are some ways people typically try to find fulfillment in life?

In Matthew 5:17, what is the importance of Jesus’ response to His disciples? What did Jesus say was His goal with regard to the Law and the Prophets?

Discussion Questions

Make a list of 5–7 traits you look for in a strong leader.

Read 1 Samuel 8. What do these verses reveal about God’s character?

Read Deuteronomy 17:14–20. Compare and contrast this description of a king with the king found in 1 Samuel 8. How do they compare to the list of traits you identified in a strong leader?

The Israelites want a king even after God’s warning. Why do you think the Israelites make that choice? When are you tempted to do the same?

Discussion Questions

Describe a time in your life when you felt unsure.

Read Judges 6. What do you notice about the reluctant judge, Gideon?

How does God respond to Gideon’s tests? Describe a time in your life you have wanted to “put a fleece out” for God.

Read Judges 7:1–22. When has God done more with less in your life? What did you learn?

Discussion Questions

Describe a time when you felt like you were “wandering in the wilderness.”

Read Numbers 14:1–9. What do you notice about the posture of the different characters in the story?

When have you been like Caleb and Joshua? Moses? The ten other spies? The people?

Read Deuteronomy 2:7. How has God been with you in the wandering seasons of your life?

Confession

Gracious God, you promise to be with us in all seasons of life. In times of celebration, struggle, and sorrow, you invite us to live out of the courage that comes from trusting you. We confess that at times our fear, hurt, and sinfulness keep us from moving forward in faith. Instead of living out of who you’ve called us to be we turn back to old patterns and what is comfortable. Forgive us and fill us with faith that helps us to take one step at a time toward your vision for our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Discussion Questions

Share a highlight from a wedding you attended recently or one you remember clearly.

What thoughts, feelings, images come to mind when you think of the Ten Commandments?

Read Exodus 20:1–17. How might you view “the ten” differently when seeing them as vows of love between God and people?

What do you notice in the language Jesus uses when talking about “the ten” in Matthew 22:34–40.

Commit to one of “the ten” being an expression of love and devotion to God this week.

Discussion Questions

When have you felt God prompt you to step out in faith and trust Him with something big? What happened?

Read Genesis 12:1–20. God is the main character in the story of the Bible and people are in supporting roles. What is God's role in the covenant making with Abraham? What is Abraham's? Who is faithful? What happens in verses 4–9? In verses 10–20?

If God asked you to make a major change like picking up your family and moving far away, what would help or hold you back from obeying?

In Genesis 12:2 Abraham is told all the people on earth will be blessed through him. In Acts 1:6–8, before going to Heaven, Jesus reminds the apostles that they are to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth. How are you at living this out? What examples of faithfulness and blessing others do you hope your descendants will remember about you?

God is faithful to His promises! In what area of life do you most need this reminder and assurance?