MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 6

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 6

 Exodus 20:13 

“You shall not murder.”

Introduction

Joseph had led his family to Egypt in the safety and protection of the Pharaoh. Years later, however, the new king of Egypt mandated that all midwives would, upon seeing the birth of a Hebrew son, kill him. When the midwives refused to comply, he commanded, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you show cast into the Nile.” (Exodus 1:22). God spared Moses from this fate, and he also saved his people's lives through Moses as he led them to the promised land.

God wanted his people to live in freedom. He doesn't just protect our lives; he gives us our life when he created us and breathed his life into us (Genesis 1:27, 2:7, Psalm 139:13-16) Because God treasures life, the sixth commandment “You shall not murder”  is not just about what not to do; it also implies what to do – be life-giving to the people around you.

God not only gives us life; he gives us new life through redemption. Because of what God has done, we’re able to love him and each other, sharing his joy with others through our thoughts, words, and actions.

Observation

While you may not have physically murdered someone, we are all implicated by this command when we take into context the entirety of Scripture.

• In Matthew 5:21-22, we see Jesus teaching on Exodus 20:13 and explaining how murder is not just a physical act. What do emotions, thoughts and words reveal about the human heart?

•  Read James 4:1-3. What is the root of war and murderous desires? Who are we thinking about when we focus on our passions, desires, and envy? 

Interpretation 

Because of the richness of God's grace and mercy, we can draw near to him and be filled with the Spirit rather than the murderous intent of our hearts. As God's people, we can be powered by his Spirit to bless others with life.

• Many of the Commandments are summarized in the command to love. Read Romans 13:8-10. How does love overcomes murderous intents? How does love put anger at our brothers in perspective?

•  Who in Luke 10:29-37 shows love, and how does it give life to the man who was robbed?

Application

• God gave life and embedded His Image in each person. What are we doing to God's image and ultimately God himself when we hate another person?

•  It's not always sinful to be angry. But consider the last time you experienced anger. Why were you angry? What does the above-mentioned passage and James 4:1-3 reveal about your words, facial expressions, gestures, or other actions?

•  Why is it dangerous to allow anger, envy, or hatred to fester into bitterness?

•  While many of us may never physically kill another, we may tolerate certain political policies that do. What kinds of things do we tolerate from the government or via social norms that the Bible might tdefind as murderer? What should our response be?

•  Read proverbs 10:11 and 12:18 What does it mean to give life or healing through your words? Think of an example of when someone's words have blessed you, and share it with the group. Have you ever blessed anyone with life or healing through your words? Who in your life would benefit from your words of kindness, mercy or healing?

•  Rather than inaction or negative action, Christ calls us to love others through our actions. See proverbs 31:8-9 Psalms 82:3-4 Matthew 25:31-40) Ask God to give you eyes to see the suffering around you and open your eyes to another’s heartache. What life-giving actions do you need to take?

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 5

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 5 

Exodus 20:12 

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”

Introduction 

Parents are one of the strongest influences in a person's life – for good or for ill. It is no wonder that they can occupy the place of God in children's Hearts – whether seeking their approval or pushing them away in bitterness and pain. Children are privy to their parents' sins, bearing their scars for a lifetime. They may either idolize their parents, allowing their influence to become an identity, or demonize them, based on a history of sorrow and hurt. Or they may selfishly dismiss the important contributions parents make, minimizing even their role in bringing children in the world.

The Ten Commandments, summed up by Jesus and Matthew 22:37-40, speak of loving God with all our heart and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Our parents are our “neighbors,” and we cannot say we love our neighbor if we do not honor our parents. 

God commands all to honor their parents in the fifth commandment. What is honor, and how does one obey this command, knowing that parents and those in authority aren't perfect? 

Observation

Read Colossians 3:18-4:1 

• This passage encourages submission to authorities in different contexts. What are they?

• What is the motivation for children to honor their parents?

• How is the slave-master relationship, mentioned in 3:22-4:1, similar to the fifth commandment in their ultimate goal?

Interpretation 

Honor, as it pertains to honoring those in authority, comes from the Hebrew word kabbad, which means to be weighty or heavy. Honor is to treat others with respect, regardless of whether or not they deserve it, understanding the weight their position demands. The opposite of Honor in Hebrew is nabil, which means to make light of or to curse.

Let's examine how Jesus carried out the “weight” of this command. 

• Jesus honored his father in Heaven. In his darkest hour, what was his response to the Father's will? (See Luke 22:41-42). How did Jesus seek to please the Father?

•  How did Jesus honor his earthly parents? (See Luke 2:41-52). Why did he do it?

• In Philippians 2:5-11, we see that Jesus, though fully God, lived a life of humility. What is humility, and how does it relate to honoring God and others? 

Application 

Jesus lived a perfect life of obedience and honor. He fulfilled the ultimate requirement of the Ten Commandments in our place, and he incurred God's Wrath for our failure to do so. Because Jesus took our sins of dishonor, selfishness, and pride upon himself (2 Corinthians 5:21), we are now free to walk in grace, understanding our new identity, or who we are apart from our earthly parents, as those deeply loved by Our Father in heaven. 

In Christ, we are entrusting ourselves to the most trustworthy authority in the universe. With Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can learn to honor our parents, loving our first neighbors as ourselves. Through Christ, we can honor our parents, not so that God will love us and approve of us – he already does- but because we are free to love and forgive them as he has loved and forgiven us. And because of Christ, our lives are testimonies of his faithfulness, of turning darkness into light and rescuing his own from the power of Satan to God. We are now living in the gospel, lavished with grace.

• As Sinners, honoring and obeying is inevitably difficult. It is even more so if you believe it is devoid of purpose. What is the truth about the Father's hand in your life? Amid any pain, what helps you to trust that God is good and will work all things for good as he has promised, (Romans 8:28)? What keeps you from having that trust?

• The Gospel of Jesus Christ enables parents to love their children well and to live worthy of their child's honor. When have you seen the gospel change the way you respond to your children? What are some things that we can do to allow the gospel to penetrate deeper and let it improve the way that we treat them? 

• How does honoring imperfect parents reflect the love God has for us? If your parents were absent or have sinned grievously against you, how does God say that he will meet you? (See Psalm 68:5; 27:10.) When have you seen the body of Christ help meet that need? 

Take some time this week to seek the Holy Spirit for his leading in your relationship with your parents, remembering that, above all, our lives are lived for the glory of God. What would give him the most glory in your response to your parents? Do you need to forgive, repenting of anger and bitterness? How should you express your gratitude to them for their sacrifice? Do you need to pray for them? Do you need to seek counseling for the wrong they've done which you haven't been able to face? By the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus will work in and through you as you submit your will to the will of your Father in Heaven.

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 4

**REMINDER** If you’d like to give testimony about your time of prayer and fasting, please let us know.

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Week 4

Exodus 20:8

Introduction

The Sabbath rebels against slavery. It opposes tyrant rule and endless labor. We see this in the book of Exodus, where God's chosen people are bound as slaves in Egypt and set free by his power. Subsequently, they are led to Mount Sinai where the law and the Ten Commandments are given to them by God to provide boundaries and guidelines for life in community with him and with one another. 

Why are these rules considered good news? It was after wandering in the desert, desperate for clarity and direction, that the law was given to God's people. It showed them what it meant to belong to and follow him. This is why the Sabbath commandment was particularly important for God's people: they were no longer slaves but free to worship their Creator in rest. It wasn't a burden but a blessing.

Now the believers Sabbath is found in Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. We can now rest from trying to earn salvation because Jesus has finished his redemptive work on the cross on our behalf (Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 4:5; Colossians 2:16-17). By setting aside a day, we are showing that we are a people who are set apart for Jesus. 

Observation 

• Imagine the feeling of being set free as a slave in Egypt. What would have been some of the sights, sounds, and emotions? 

• According to Exodus 20:8-10, to whom does the Sabbath apply? 

• To cease from work for a whole day would have had implications for agriculture, business, etc. What would those implications be?

Interpretation 

• What description is used in reference to the Sabbath? Why is this significant? 

• Observing the Sabbath is not simply a suggestion for how to live a better life; it's a clear imperative from God. Why do you think this is so important? 

• What are the consequences of rejecting this command? 

• What is the parallel between the creation story and the creation of the Sabbath?

•  Read Matthew 12:1-8. Why do the Pharisees challenge Jesus about the Sabbath? What does it mean that “ the Son of man is Lord of the Sabbath”?

Application

In our culture, busyness serves to fill a void. When life is filled to the brim, every hour booked, we feel in demand and somehow more worthy. Busyness creates a way to earn status and reassure value, and can reflect a belief that God isn't enough. 

And yet, God's command to rest in Jesus' work confronts the idols hidden behind such belief. The idol of self-sufficiency cannot fulfill you; it will never be enough. 

God's call is to not only rest physically but to rest in deep relationship with him. 

• Do you feel at rest in times of Bible study, praise, or prayer? Why or why not?

•  In looking at your own life, what is it that makes it hard to slow down and spend time with God?

•  It is not a sin to work hard. There are seasons in life that have a heightened demand for us to work harder both physically and emotionally. However, God's command for us to rest in him is not conditional. Where do you turn in moments of exhaustion or fatigue? 

• Read Jesus's words in Matthew 11:28-30. What does Jesus offer, and what does he ask of us? 

• What does rest look like in your relationships (e.g., with spouse, family, friendships.etc.)? What happens when Sabbath is not practiced? 

• What are some rhythms that you could set up to practice Sabbath in your life? What does that look like weekly? Quarterly? Annually? Discuss some ways that you could incorporate intentional rest in your life and that of your family.

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 3

**REMINDER** If you’d like to give testimony about your time of prayer and fasting, please let us know.

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

WEEK 3

Exodus 20:7

7 “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.”

Introduction 

It is not uncommon in our culture to hear God's name spoken regularly. On television shows, in songs played on the radio, and in our day-to-day interactions. We often hear his name used flippantly to convey awe, irritation, and even a curse. As Christians, many of us flinch when we hear friends, neighbors, or coworkers using God's name in this way. Why does this bother us? And is this what it means to "take the Lord's name in vain ''?

God cares a great deal about his reputation. Verbalizing his name in the ways mentioned above is one way of misusing it. But we do this in other ways as well: making false or weak claims about him or his word, abusing the authority he has given us through our words and actions, etc. In doing these, we mar the truth and give others a wrong and often a unfavorable view of God. We misrepresent the character of the God who created us, pursued us, died for us, and invites us into his family. These are greater implications than most of us think about when reading this commandment.

Observation

Read Deuteronomy 18:20, Leviticus 24:10-17, and Matthew 7:21-23.

• What are the specific ways God's name is used in vain in these verses?

•  How seriously does God take misusing his name? What are the consequences he has set for those who do?

•  According to these verses, who is expected to keep  this command?

Interpretation 

Speaking untruthfully or flippantly about God is a form of using his name in vain, but it is only the beginning. We have the power to malign how others see him by claiming his name and acting in a way that is inconsistent with his character and his work in our lives.

• In addition to the ways mentioned above, how else do we misuse the name of the Lord through our words? Our actions?

•  What are the implications of God's name being misrepresented? What happens when false statements about God and his character are heard and believed?

•  Why does God care so much about the protection of his reputation? (See Acts 4:7-12) 

• In light of this commandment, why is it so important to know God intimately, learning as much as we can about his character and ways?

Application 

It's easy to read these passages and think of  “those people” who are guilty of misusing God's name. Maybe you've been a member of a church where the pastor misuses God's word to manipulate his congregation. Perhaps a friend has justified habitual sin by telling you that God told them it was his will for their life. While we often see this happen in big and obvious ways in and around us, we need to humbly search our own hearts for the ways that we are offenders. 

• What are some ways that you have not protecting the reputation of God in word and deed?

•  Have you seen the consequences of someone getting a wrong impression of God's character? What happened?

•  According to these verses above, we should be put to death for misusing God's name and maligning his character. Exodus 20:7 is very clear that we will not be held “guiltless.” If you are in Christ, what does this mean for you? ( See Romans 3:23-26 and 10:1-4) How does Christ's work on your behalf enable you to obey this commandment?

• Through this great love of Christ we have the ability to not only obey this command by not taking his name in vain, but also honoring him with our words. Read Romans 10:5-13. What does this section say about the positive effects our words about God can have on us?

• Continue in the passage and read Romans 10:14-17. In what ways does honoring God by speaking the truth about him have an effect on others?

Reflection 

Ask God to bring to mind anyone who may have been given a wrong impression of God's character through your words and/or actions. Putting Romans 10 into action, knowing that you are not defined by this (remember, “Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes”), how can you help correct the misconceptions and share with them the grace which you have been given?

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 2

**REMINDER** Prayer Night This Wednesday @ 7PM

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

The 10 Commandments Week 2

Exodus 20:4-6

 

4 “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5 You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing steadfast love to thousands[a] of those who love me and keep my commandments.

 

Introduction 

Some 400 years before the Commandments were given to Moses, Joseph welcomed the Israelites into Egypt to escape famine. After many generations of living as slaves under Egyptian rule and custom, they were assimilated to the worship of many gods.

God sent Moses to deliver his people out of this environment and led them to the Promised Land. In Exodus 32, we find them waiting in their camp for Moses to return from Mount Sinai. Their hearts become increasingly unsettled during the wait, and they decide to craft a god of their own. Keep in mind, this was almost immediately after one of the greatest examples of God's mercy and deliverance ever recorded and as he was faithfully providing sweet water and manna to sustain them. 

Yet, their hearts still grumbled. They didn't trust him to provide for their needs. God himself was just not enough and their eyes, and they wanted something other than the freedom God had provided.

Though this is an ancient text, not much has changed. We still seek comfort in things created, instead of Creator God.

Observation 

Read Exodus 32:1-14 

• As Moses was on Mount Sinai for 40 days receiving the Ten Commandments from God, what did the people ask Aaron to do, and what was their reasoning?

• Compare God's response to idol-making in these verses to the original commandment in Exodus 20:4-6. What differences do you see?

• Moses implores God to restrain his wrath from Israel's abandonment of their promise. How does Moses react when he descends the mountain and sees with his own eyes what they had done?

Interpretation 

Some 700 years later, the prophet Isaiah writes of how the children of Israel again forget the infinite greatness of God and his desire to work for their good. 

Read Isaiah 40:12-26 

List the specific abilities of God noted in this text.

• What does this teach us about the great, infinite reach of God?

• How does this compare to any crafted idol?

• Why is God so specific with us about his eternal power?

• How does the description of God's character in these vs. discourage the idea of trusting in any created thing? 

In Romans 1, Paul describes how God has given every man the evidence of himself through what he created.

Read Romans 1: 18-25

• What truth do we learn about God in verses 18-20?

•  To whom does Paul say these truths are revealed?

•  What choices are made in verses 21-23?

•  What idols are exchanged for the glory of God?

•  What was the lie that they exchanged for the truth?

We have hope. God's commands are for us, not against us, and they show us his deep, enduring love and desire for us to live in freedom, to worship him alone. He knows that we are going to sin against him and against others. He gave his own Son to pay the penalty for our disobedience; Jesus bore the wrath for our sin on the cross once and for all. His last words were "It is finished."

Application 

• Has there ever been a time in your life when you thought God was not good?

•  How in the past have you taken matters into your own hands?

•  Which people or things did you most seek comfort in?

•  In what areas are you not satisfied? In light of your answer, how can you trust God in the unknowns of life going forward? 

If you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, saved by his grace, you are given an opportunity to confess your worship of lesser gods. Because of his ransoming blood, our wayward hearts are redeemed so that we may stand spotless before the throne of God.

MC Discussion Questions 10 Commandments Part 1

**REMINDER** Prayer Night This Wednesday @ 7PM

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

"I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me." 

-Exodus 20:1-3

Introduction

In a culture awash with a do-it-yourself spirituality, diversity is in and rules are out, and to make an exclusive religious claim is to be unloving. In such a culture, telling the average person on the street that there is only one God and that there are rules for life is like spraying a cat with water – it is not received well.

Moreover, pop-culture references to God are becoming increasingly more ambiguous. There is no talk of the God of the Bible. Instead, there is a sort of cosmic entity out there called "the universe” or "love." In this context, The Ten Commandments are viewed as merely moral laws – primitive, judgmental, and irrelevant at best.

What this mindset misses is this: guard rails are not antithetical to love, but rather they help promote an environment where love and freedom can flourish.

This is what God intended all along. In giving his people The Ten Commandments, he lovingly reminded them that he was the Lord their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. The first commandment thus reflects both God's perfect character and his love. The Commandments as a whole are a gift to his beloved in order to show them that life works best in right relationship to God and to neighbor.

"You shall have no other gods before me” is given first because this commandment is the very first, highest and best, from which all the others proceed. In other words, when God's people are enamored with the one true God, the one who saves, all aspects of life are affected, leaving every other object of worship exposed as false and unable to save. The Creator knows what's best for his people.

Observation

Read 1 Corinthians 10:5-14.

The Israelites experienced God's miraculous deliverance, and they enjoyed his lavish love time and again. Yet they did not love, worship, or prefer him to other gods as they had been commanded to. The Israelites serve as an example for us of the danger and destruction that results from worshipping other gods and straying from the safeguard embedded in the first commandment.

• According to vs 7-10, why did God let the first generation of Israelites die in the wilderness without having reached the Promised Land? (See Numbers 14:22-29)

• What Idols did they worship before God? What were the consequences? (See Numbers 25:1-9)

• What will happen if one does not recognize his/her idolatry? 

Interpretation 

In 1st Corinthians, the Israelites are an example as a warning to the believers in Corinth to flee from idolatry, indicating that worshipping other gods is a general human tendency.

• What made their desires evil?

•  What do these harsh punishments for idolatry reveal?

•  What do grumbling and complaining stem from?

Application 

In this passage we see that listening to God's word is of utmost importance in the life of the believer. And in the 1st Corinthians passage, we see an extreme example of what happens when God's people fail to listen to and abide by his word. Just like the Israelites, we too experience the struggle of not listening to God's words of instruction. 

Read Matthew 22:37

• When you're not busy with daily tasks (e.g., Work, chores at home etc.), what do you think about most? What is your imagination captured by?

•  When was the last time you were truly happy, angry, or sad?

•  What do your answers reveal about what your heart is devoted to? 

God's laws are good, perfect, righteous and holy. God Is so committed to our good that anything other than living in right relationship to him and keeping his Commandments is utter death. When we prayerfully ponder this commandment, we all inevitably realize things in our lives to confess. But know that, as  1st John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  When we are honest about our sin of placing other people or things before him, as this verse says, God is faithful to cleanse and forgive us so we can walk away free to worship as he has intended.

MC Discussion Questions Advent PT. 3

**REMINDER** Prayer Night This Wednesday @ 7PM

Don’t forget to ask these 4 questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

This week we want to encourage your group to take some time to thing through and discuss the Advent Scriptures we discussed during Sunday’s sermon.

John 3:16

Genesis 22

As you read these verses take time to ask the following Study Questions and allow these to lead your discussion. There is a ton to be discovered, so dig deep. Keep in mind the 3 layers se talked about when studying the OT 1. Personal History (in this case, Abraham and Isaac) 2. National History (the people of God, Israel) and 3. Redemptive History. (for all people)

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

You are Loved!

MC Discussion Questions Advent PT. 2

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

This week we want to encourage your group to take some time to thing through and discuss the Advent Scriptures we discussed during Sunday’s sermon.

John 3:16

Hosea Ch. 1-3

As you read these verses take time to ask the following Study Questions and allow these to lead your discussion. There is a ton to be discovered, so dig deep.

PS If you have not heard this weeks message, use your MC time to watch it, you’ll be glad you did.

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

If you’d like to listen to the Message you can find it here:

You are Loved!

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 5

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 PETER 5:1-14 

Scripture: 

1So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness  of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is  going to be revealed: 2shepherd the flock of God that is among  you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3not  domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the  flock. 4And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the  unfading crown of glory. 5Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”  6Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7casting all your anxieties  on him, because he cares for you. 8Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking  someone to devour. 9Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood  throughout the world. 10And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will  himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I  regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my  son. 14Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.  

HEAD:   

1. Read John 21:15-17 where Jesus commissions Peter as a shepherd to feed the sheep as the backdrop for Peter’s teaching on shepherding the flock of God in 1 Peter 5.  

2. Make note of the things Peter says should not be part of Christ-like leadership. 

3. Make a note of the things that Peter says should be part of Christ-like leadership. 

4. In verses 12-13 Peter mentions by name the godly wonderful people he was grateful for. Who would be on your list?  

5. What is the connection between pride and the demonic realm with Satan, who is the first leader to ever become proud, in verses 5-10? 

6. List out the things God promises to faithful leaders in verse 10?  

7. Peter ends by speaking of a special “peace” that only comes to those “who are in Christ”. How have you experienced this peace?  

HEART:  

1. Who sees you as a spiritual leader (e.g. spouse, child, employee, etc.) and would benefit most from you learning these leadership lessons from Peter?  

2. Which spiritual leader in your life has most exemplified the Christ-like character that Peter lists?  

3. How is pride the leadership model of Satan and humility the leadership model of Jesus?  

4. What are practical ways you can be “casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you”?  

5. Peter mentions the people he is grateful for. Who would make your list and why?  

HANDS:   

1. Who do you shepherd, and who shepherds you (verses 1-4)?  2. Since Jesus is the “chief Shepherd”, what are His values and culture that you need to be cultivating and creating (verse 4)?  

3. What are some practical ways that when you clothe your body each morning you can also remember to clothe your soul in humility (verse 5)?  

4. How big of a struggle are pride and anxiety for you (verses 6-7)?  

5. What precisely does being “sober minded” and “watchful” regarding Satan’s work in your life look like (verse 8)?  

6. What does resisting Satan look like in practical areas of your life (e.g. temptation, unforgiveness, lies, etc.) (verse 9)?  

7. After Satan has beat you up, how has God come to build you up just as He did Jesus following the temptation from Satan (verse 10)? (cf. Mathew 4:1-11 emphasis on verse 11).  

8. Peter wrote a letter to lovingly encourage Christians. Who should you write a letter to for the same purpose?  

Pray: Ways for group members to pray together 

1. What are some specific ways that Jesus has been a Good Shepherd to you that we can thank God for?  

2. What areas of your life can we pray for you to stand firm in the grace of God and not give up or give in?  

3. Peter named people that he wanted to publicly encourage and thank. Who should you do that for?  

4. Peter wrote a letter to love and encourage people he cared for. Who should we pray for you to do the same for?  

5. After studying 1 Peter, if you had to summarize all you’ve learned in one word, what would that word be?  

6. As we finish 1 Peter, what would your final takeaway, lesson learned, or life change experience be that we could join you in thanking God for?  

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 4:12-19

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 PETER 4:12-19 

Scripture: 

12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes  upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening  to you. 13But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you  may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14If you are  insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit  of glory and of God rests upon you. 15But let none of you suffer as  a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16Yet if anyone  suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God  in that name. 17For it is time for judgment to begin at the household  of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those  who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And “If the righteous is scarcely  saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19Therefore  let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a  faithful Creator while doing good.  

HEAD:
1. Why is it so important to start everything with believing we are loved by God and “beloved” (verse 12)? 

2. What fiery trials have you faced in your life that feel like hell was unleashed (verse 12)? 

3. Why is it oddly a good thing if we are treated like Jesus and suffer for doing what is right in the eyes of God (verses 13-16)?  

4. How does God use fiery trials and tests to purify us by burning sin and folly out of our lives (verses 17-18)?  

5. In verse 18, Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31. That chapter compares and contrasts a godly versus an ungodly lifestyle. Read all of Proverbs 11 to get the heart of what Peter is communicating.  

6. How is it an act of deep faith for a suffering Christian to keep trusting God and doing good (verse 19)?  

HEART :

1. How does it feel to hear God call you “beloved”?  

2. What fiery trials have felt like hell was unleashed in your life?  

3. How is suffering for God part of our worshipping God?  

4. How have you experienced the Holy Spirit coming in greater power to help you in seasons when you are under the most stress and struggle?  

5. How has God used fiery trials and tests to purify your faith, burning sin and folly out of your life?  

6. Who have you seen suffer trials that has responded so much like Jesus that it inspired you?  

HANDS:

1. What is your current fiery trial (verse 12)? 

2. When tough times come, do you act surprised or accept it as part of the Christian life (verse 12)? 

3. How can you “rejoice and be glad” in your current life circumstances (verse 13)? 

4. Why should a Christian expect some people to slander and insult them for standing with Jesus (verse 14)? 

5. How have you suffered both for doing good and evil (verses 15-16)?  

6. Why should we have higher expectations for Christian conduct than that of non-Christians (verses 17-18)?  

7. How has God used suffering to increase your faith and love for God, bending even something bad for His glory and your good? (verse 19)?  

PRAYER:

1. Do you have a current fiery trial that is testing your faith?  

2. Are you currently suffering? If so, how? Is your suffering for righteousness, unrighteousness or a bit of both?  

3. What things can you rejoice and be glad for in this season of your life?  

4. How are you seeing the Holy Spirit rest on you in greater power to empower you through this season of life as the greater pressure you face brings the greater presence and power He gives?  

5. How can we support you in prayer to entrust your soul to your faithful God?  

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 4:1-11

DUE TO THE FACT THAT WE COVERED THE SAME VERSES THIS WEEK, PLEASE USE THESE SAME QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION IN LIGHT OF THE SERMON. YOU ARE LOVED!

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 PETER 4:1-11 

Scripture: 

1Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with  the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has  ceased from sin, 2so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh  no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3For the time  that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in  sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless  idolatry. 4With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join  them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5but  they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the  dead. 6For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who  are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they  might live in the spirit the way God does. 7The end of all things is at  hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of  your prayers. 8Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love  covers a multitude of sins. 9Show hospitality to one another without  grumbling. 10As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another,  as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11whoever speaks, as one  who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the  strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be  glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion  forever and ever. Amen.  

Overview: 

There is an incredibly important concept in this section of  Scripture for every Christian to learn in every area of their life. There  is a massive difference between ownership, and “stewardship”. Since God is the maker of everyone and everything, technically He is the owner of all. Since God entrusts some of what He owns for us to  manage, we are His stewards who will give an account to Him for how  we treated the people, things, and opportunities in this life that He  entrusted to us. Our body, our mind, our wealth, our relationships, our  family, and our spiritual gifts are all from God and to be used by us in  the ways that the Owner wants. 

HEAD:  

1. How did Christ live as a steward of His life doing what the Father  wanted and setting an example for Christians (verses 1-2)? 

2. Once you become a Christian, why does God have the right to tell you what you can and cannot do with your body – especially in terms of things like food, drink, sex and the like (verse 3)?  

3. Why do non-Christians not even understand the reason that Christians behave differently and that a new Christian has a deep change of lifestyle to make (verses 4-6)? 

4. What is the list of things that God your owner commands for the stewardship of your life (verses 7-11)?  

5. Which non-Christians do you need to invite into your home and life so they understand that God has also invited them into a relationship with them (verse 9)?  

6. What gifts and abilities has God given you, and how can you use those for meaningful ministry starting in your church   (verses 10-11)?  

HEART 

1. In your own words, how would you explain God as the owner of your life, and yourself as the steward? 

2. What people and things has God given you to steward?  

3. What changes happened in your life once you met Jesus? What motivated those changes? 

4. How do non-Christian family and friends who see themselves as the owner of their life not even understand who you are or why you live the way you do?  

5. What spiritual gifts and abilities has God given you to use for meaningful ministry? How does it feel in your soul when you do the things God has made you to do?  

HANDS  

1. How does walking with Jesus require walking away from your old life (verses 1-6)?  

2. Paul mentions living in “sin” in verse 1 versus living in the “spirit”   in verse 6. Go through this section of Scripture and mark what fits in each category.  

3. What does living “self-controlled” look like for you in very specific areas and ways (verse 7)?  

4. What people are hardest for you to “keep on loving...earnestly”   (verse 8)? How can you get from God the Spirit the love you need  to share with them?  

5. What sins do you simply need to forgive, flush, and consider  finished so you can “keep loving one another” (verse 8)?  

6 . Whose love, in addition to Jesus, has covered your sins (verse 8)?  

7. Which Christians first practiced hospitality to you and invited  you into their life to see Jesus (verse 9)?  

8. What are the various ways that Peter is teaching that the quality of our relationships truly reveals the sincerity of our Christian faith?  

PRAY 1. Is there any area of your life that you need prayer and support to improve your stewardship in (e.g. physical health, financial generosity, service to others, etc.)? 

2. What are the big changes that came in your life once God got a hold of you that you are most thankful for that we can praise God for?  

3. Who has God put in your life that does not know Jesus but if  you befriend them and do life with them, they might come to know Him?  

4. Are there any areas in your life that the “grumbling” needs to simply stop?  

5. What are the areas of ministry service that God has burdened you for that we can help pray into reality with you?  

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 4:1-11

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 PETER 4:1-11 

Scripture: 

1Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with  the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has  ceased from sin, 2so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh  no longer for human passions but for the will of God. 3For the time  that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in  sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless  idolatry. 4With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join  them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5but  they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the  dead. 6For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who  are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they  might live in the spirit the way God does. 7The end of all things is at  hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of  your prayers. 8Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love  covers a multitude of sins. 9Show hospitality to one another without  grumbling. 10As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another,  as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11whoever speaks, as one  who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the  strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be  glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion  forever and ever. Amen.  

Overview: 

There is an incredibly important concept in this section of  Scripture for every Christian to learn in every area of their life. There  is a massive difference between ownership, and “stewardship”. Since God is the maker of everyone and everything, technically He is the owner of all. Since God entrusts some of what He owns for us to  manage, we are His stewards who will give an account to Him for how  we treated the people, things, and opportunities in this life that He  entrusted to us. Our body, our mind, our wealth, our relationships, our  family, and our spiritual gifts are all from God and to be used by us in  the ways that the Owner wants. 

HEAD:  

1. How did Christ live as a steward of His life doing what the Father  wanted and setting an example for Christians (verses 1-2)? 

2. Once you become a Christian, why does God have the right to tell you what you can and cannot do with your body – especially in terms of things like food, drink, sex and the like (verse 3)?  

3. Why do non-Christians not even understand the reason that Christians behave differently and that a new Christian has a deep change of lifestyle to make (verses 4-6)? 

4. What is the list of things that God your owner commands for the stewardship of your life (verses 7-11)?  

5. Which non-Christians do you need to invite into your home and life so they understand that God has also invited them into a relationship with them (verse 9)?  

6. What gifts and abilities has God given you, and how can you use those for meaningful ministry starting in your church   (verses 10-11)?  

HEART 

1. In your own words, how would you explain God as the owner of your life, and yourself as the steward? 

2. What people and things has God given you to steward?  

3. What changes happened in your life once you met Jesus? What motivated those changes? 

4. How do non-Christian family and friends who see themselves as the owner of their life not even understand who you are or why you live the way you do?  

5. What spiritual gifts and abilities has God given you to use for meaningful ministry? How does it feel in your soul when you do the things God has made you to do?  

HANDS  

1. How does walking with Jesus require walking away from your old life (verses 1-6)?  

2. Paul mentions living in “sin” in verse 1 versus living in the “spirit”   in verse 6. Go through this section of Scripture and mark what fits in each category.  

3. What does living “self-controlled” look like for you in very specific areas and ways (verse 7)?  

4. What people are hardest for you to “keep on loving...earnestly”   (verse 8)? How can you get from God the Spirit the love you need  to share with them?  

5. What sins do you simply need to forgive, flush, and consider  finished so you can “keep loving one another” (verse 8)?  

6 . Whose love, in addition to Jesus, has covered your sins (verse 8)?  

7. Which Christians first practiced hospitality to you and invited  you into their life to see Jesus (verse 9)?  

8. What are the various ways that Peter is teaching that the quality of our relationships truly reveals the sincerity of our Christian faith?  

PRAY 1. Is there any area of your life that you need prayer and support to improve your stewardship in (e.g. physical health, financial generosity, service to others, etc.)? 

2. What are the big changes that came in your life once God got a hold of you that you are most thankful for that we can praise God for?  

3. Who has God put in your life that does not know Jesus but if  you befriend them and do life with them, they might come to know Him?  

4. Are there any areas in your life that the “grumbling” needs to simply stop?  

5. What are the areas of ministry service that God has burdened you for that we can help pray into reality with you?  

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 3:8-12

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 Peter 3:8-12

Suffering for Righteousness' Sake

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For

“Whoever desires to love life
    and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
    and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
    let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1. Unity around God’s word begins with a surrender to the Spirit of God and a personal  commitment to consistent Bible study. How has your time in the word of God been in  recent weeks? What, if any, passages have you meditated on or clung to amid all that’s  happening in your life and the world? This week, what steps would you like to take to  grow in your commitment to studying the word? 

2. Have you ever experienced the deep sympathy of another person in the midst of a  crisis or a particularly challenging circumstance? If so, what about that experience  made you feel valued, supported and cared for? In what ways did their sincere  compassion reflect the character, life, and heart of the Lord (Psalm 23:4; John 11:34- 36, 17:20-23; Romans 12:15; 1 Corinthians 12:24-27; Galatians 6:2)? In what ways did it impact you, either during or after the circumstance?

3. Read Romans 12:9-21, which describes God’s instructions for life and interactions in  the family of faith. If our sense of family (which transcends biology) is to look like this,  what personal preferences or inclinations must we be willing to set aside? Have you  witnessed these characteristics in other members of your group? Which of these  commands do you feel you need to grow in? 

4. Based on Galatians 6:2 and Romans 12:9-21, what (if any) burdens can your group members help you or your family bear in the days ahead? How can your group  members practically extend love toward you and your family as you navigate your specific challenge? 

5. Read Luke 6:43-45. What might tenderness toward one another look like in our speech  (e.g., in conversations; online posts; when people are absent)? On a scale of 1-10 (1  meaning “Not at all”, 10 meaning “Perfectly”), how well did your words/thoughts toward or about others reflect tenderness, humility, and compassion over the past month? 

6. When you discover ways in which you differ from another person, what is your  instinctive reaction? What thoughts begin to form in you about the other person? About  yourself? Are these thoughts more reflective of the world’s mindset or of the Spirit of  God within you (Romans 8:6-16)? If they are more reflective of the world’s thoughts,  what change of mind is needed in order for you to reflect the Spirit and will of God  (Romans 12:1-2)? 

7. Read Philippians 2:1-13. What truths should motivate our humility towards others? With whom do you find it difficult to carry out this command? How might you look at that  person/people through a different lens? 

8. The world universally promotes a focus on loving, serving, and preferring oneself. In what Biblically countercultural ways might you radically reflect the opposite bearing,  especially toward those who have intentionally offended you (Psalm 34:12-20; Matthew 16:24-26; Acts 7:55-60; Philippians 2:3; 1 Peter 3:8-11)? 

9. How well do the people closest to you (e.g., family members, friends, neighbors, co workers) see biblical love, tenderness, and sympathy in you? Rate yourself on a scale  of 1-10 (1 meaning “Not at all”, 10 meaning “Perfectly”). How might you grow in this  area? 

10. How well do people in the church see biblical love in you, particularly those who are not like you? Rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 (1 meaning “Not at all”, 10 meaning  “Perfectly”). What are some creative ways you can show this kind of love to  others in our church family and in your MC? 

11. What are 1-2 practical ways that you can show biblical love to those in and around your life this week? To become more aware of ways you can grow along these lines, ask the  following question to a trusted accountability partner in the family of faith: “How can I grow in sympathy, or tenderness, or humility?”

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 3:1-7

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

1 PETER 3:1-7: 1 Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, 2when they see your respectful and pure conduct. 3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— 4but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. 5 For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, 6as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. 7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered. 

Introduction and overview: 

The Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant created by God for one man and one woman to illustrate the loving relationship between Jesus Christ and the Church that He loves and serves like a husband loves and serves his wife. For this reason, a Christian marriage is part of worship of God, as well as being a witness to the world, as well as the world in which we raise our children to learn about God. Continuing the theme of humble, godly servant leadership that Peter began in the previous section, he speaks specifically to husbands and wives, including the difficult situation that some wives who have gotten saved after marrying experience when their husband has not yet met Jesus Christ. 

HEAD: 

Questions for personal study For Women 

1. Make a list of the words and concepts Peter uses to describe godly character for women (e.g. respectful, pure, character, self- control, inward beauty, etc.). 

2. How are Abraham and Sarah far from perfect people, but hopeful examples that God can make a good marriage and family from two very dysfunctional people? 

3. Why is it important for the health of the marriage and family for the husband to be the spiritual leader, loving and leading like Jesus, so that the wife and children are blessed? 

4. How can a Christian woman who is married to a non-Christian man seek to bring him to Jesus in the most effective ways? 

5. Unlike the culture, since God sees the heart, why does He place so much emphasis on prioritizing not just having a beautiful body, but more importantly a beautiful soul? 

For Men 

1. What does it mean in very practical ways to live in an understanding way with your wife that looks at things from her perspective and considers her needs above your own? 

2. How are you doing at honoring your wife? 

3. Why is it important to consider your wife God’s daughter and understand that her Father won’t bless you if you don’t bless her? 

4. What happens to the prayers of a man who does not listen to and love his wife? Why is it fair for God the Father to treat a husband the way he treats his wife if he’s being a bad husband? 

HEART: Questions for group discussion 

1. What is the best marriage you have ever seen? What made it great? 

2. Women, who is the best example of a wife you have seen? Why? 

3. Men, who is the best example of a husband you have seen? Why? 

4. How is the example of Abraham and Sarah’s messed up marriage and encouragement that God can make a great marriage and family through very flawed people helpful? 

5. Women, how can a husband learn to better live with a wife in an understanding way? 

6. Men, how can a wife understand the things that make her husband feel respected and disrespected? 

HANDS: 

Questions for personal action For Women 

1. If married, how can you ask your husband the ways he finds you respectful and disrespectful? 

2. What are the ways you have tried to change your husband that did not work? Have you honestly tried to influence them with Peter’s principles over an extended period of time? 

3. What does the Holy Spirit most convict you of as you read these Bible verses? 

4. Do you want your sons to marry a woman just like you? If not, what needs to change? 

5. If a woman treated your son the way you have treated your husband, how would you feel about them? 

6. What do you need to apologize to your husband for, and ask him to forgive you for, so that healing can come to your marriage? 

For Men 

1. If married, how can you humbly ask your wife ways she feels honored/considered by you, as well as ways she feels dishonored/ignored by you? 

2. Have you made it your life assignment to be the expert student of your wife, knowing more about her and knowing her more than anyone else? If not, what needs to change? 

3. What does the Holy Spirit most convict you of as you read these Bible verses? 

4. Do you want your daughter to marry a man just like you? If not, what needs to change? 

5. If a man treated your daughter the way you treat His daughter (your wife), how would you feel about them? 

6. What do you need to apologize to your wife for, and ask her to forgive you for, so that healing can come to your marriage? 

PRAYER: 

Ways for group members to pray together (Break into male and female groups for prayer this week) 

1. Are there any Christians you know who are married to non-Christians that you can be praying for? 

2. How can the men in the group be praying for and encouraging each other to be better men and husbands? 

3. How can the women in the group be praying for and encouraging each other to be better women and wives? 

4. Are there any singles in the group you can be praying for to be godly and if married one day to have a holy, healthy, happy marriage? 

5. For the married, on a scale of 1-10 (1 being we are in crisis, 10 being we are in the best marital season of our life), how would you score your marriage today?

Make sure to pray for everyone’s marriage to improve, and covenant to share your score with your spouse on the way home and discuss how to improve things without arguing, defending, or fighting but uniting, serving, and praying! 

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 2:13-25

1 Peter 2:13-25

1. In verse 13, what is the first reason given for our submission?

2. How does this principle influence your understanding of submission?

3. Who should we submit to? In what ways can we do this?

4. Why should we submit?

5. How do we differentiate submitting to God and submitting to people? In other words, when does submitting to God take precedence over submitting to people?

6. What are some examples of this?

7. What did God reveal to you in this passage?

8. Is there anything that applies directly to you or to someone you know? How can you take aim at changing a negative behavior in a biblical way?

9. How does this passage apply to believers?

1 Peter 2:18-21

1. What type of servants/laborers should we be?

2. What should be our motivation for having a Christlike attitude toward our vocation (see vv. 20-21)?

3. What did God reveal to you in this passage?

4. Is there anything that applies directly to you or to someone you know? How can you take aim at changing a negative behavior in a biblical way?

1 Peter 2:21-25

1. What attributes of Christ are revealed in 1 Peter 2:21-25?

2. Why should we have those same attributes in our lives?

3. How is that possible?

4. How does the fact that Jesus embodies all of these attributes affect your relationship with Him?

5. What did God reveal to you in this passage?

6. How does this passage apply to believers?

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 2:1-12

Missional Community Discussion Questions

1 Peter 2:1-12

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

HEAD:

1. What is Peter’s big idea when he says that we can get rid of the things that make us sick and unhealthy (malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, slander) and have a change in our spiritual diet that makes us healthy in God’s goodness in verse 1?

2. Verse 6 quotes Isaiah 28:16. Read Isaiah 28 to learn about God’s judgment upon those who reject Jesus no matter what nation or family they are from.

3. Verse 7 quotes Psalm 118:22. Read Psalm 118, which is one of the most hopeful chapters in the Bible about all the good things our loving God has in store for those who receive Jesus.

4. Verse 8 quotes Isaiah 8:14 and mentions Jesus as offensive to some people who trip over him and fall into harm. Read Isaiah 8:11-22 and look for the ways that people who reject Jesus try to control their life apart from God and fail.

5. Make a list of all the things God says you are in verses 9-11. How amazing is that list!

6. What is the heart of Peter’s passionate plea for our behavior choices in verses 11-12? What are the good things God has for those who seek holiness?

HEART:

1. Since verse 7 quotes Psalm 118:22, have someone in the group read all of Psalm 118 aloud and sense the environment the Holy Spirit creates in your midst as faith rises up in the hearing of the Word of God.

2. What does it mean to practically have Jesus be the cornerstone of every area of your life (e.g. physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, marital, parental, vocational, etc.)?

3. What are ways that you have seen people stumble over and be offended by Jesus like verse 8 says? How were you offended by and tripping over Jesus before you became a Christian?

4. What is your favorite thing that God says you are in verses 9-11? Why?

5. What are some very specific ways God has given you mercy in life like in verse 10? 6. What people are watching your life (child, spouse, family, friend, neighbor, coworker) and learning about your Jesus like verses 11-12 says?

HANDS:

1. What do you need to “put away” in your life once and for all?

2. In a very practical way, come up with examples that related to the comparison and contrast between things that fit into the categories that make you healthy versus make you sick in verses 1-2? What makes your soul sick (e.g. who are you unforgiving of, where are you being a hypocrite, who are you slandering, who do you envy)? What makes your soul healthy (e.g. Bible study, prayer, worship, service, evangelism, tithing, etc.)?

3. Is there any area of your life that is not fully founded on Jesus Christ as the beginning and cornerstone? What changes need to be made to remedy that liability?

4. What darkness is God calling you out of, and what light is God calling you into?

5. What specific passions of your flesh feel like a genuine war against your soul?

6. Where has Zion showed up in your life?

7. Is there any non-Christian you have sinned with or against that you need to apologize to so that they see God’s love and forgiveness through your example?

8. When Peter talks about the Kingdom of God as Zion, which is Heaven and Earth coming together forever with the Second Coming of King Jesus, what things are you most looking forward to in Zion?

PRAYER:

1. What things that make your soul sick can we pray for and help you “put away” once and for all?

2. How can we join you in thanking God for ways He has allowed you to taste His goodness like a great meal?

3. Is there any area of your life that is not founded on Jesus Christ as the first priority and cornerstone that we can help you with by starting with prayer?

4. What things can we help you “abstain from” because they “war against your soul” with prayer and loving support?

5. Who in your life does not know Jesus but knows you that we can be praying for that they see Jesus in you? 6. What good things is God teaching you, doing in you, and doing through you that we can thank God for?

MC Discussion Questions Peter 1:13-25

Missional Community Discussion Questions

1 Peter 1:13-25

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we live as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Head: 

1. Reread verses 1-12 since the “therefore” in these Scriptures complete and apply the thoughts of the Scriptures that preceded it. 

2. How does God’s call to holiness rescue us from foolish and self- destructive patterns we inherit from our family according to verses 14-18? 

3. In verse 19 there is a quote from Exodus 12:5 in reference to the Passover where God’s people demonstrated faith in Jesus coming by sacrificing an unblemished lamb for their sins so that death and wrath would pass over them. Read Exodus 12 to better understand Jesus’ death on the cross for you. 

4. Make a list of all the things these verses teach about what Jesus Christ did to save sinners. 

5. Make a list of all the things these verses teach about the perfection and power of Scripture. 

6. Verses 24-25 are a quotation from Isaiah 40 that prophecy hundreds of years in advance that John the Baptizer would come to prepare the way for Jesus Christ to fulfill the Scriptures. Read Isaiah 40 to get a sense of the greatness of God. 

Heart: 

1. What are the practical ways you can “prepare your minds for action” like in verse 13? 

2. What are some self-destructive and foolish ways from prior generations of your family that God has ransomed and rescued you from? 

3. What does holiness, or practical changes in your life, look like for you? 

4. What is your favorite thing that Peter teaches about Jesus in this section of Scripture? Why? 

5. According to verse 22, our loving relationship with Jesus should cause us to love other Christians like family – which Christians have loved you well? 

6. Peter makes some big statements about the Bible being trustworthy. Do you have any struggles accepting all of God’s Word as trustworthy and true? If so, what parts or why? 

Hands: 

1. Are your entertainment, news, and social media choices helping you prepare your mind for godly or ungodly action? 

2. What patterns have you inherited from prior generations of your family that need to change for you to be healthy, holy, and happy? 

3. Peter talks about God as our Father, and us as His beloved children. Is it easy or hard for you to relate to God as Father? Why? How can this relationship be improved? 

4. Peter says your relationship with God is more valuable than anything – including your wealth (silver and gold) – do you really believe this, and do you show it by giving your wealth back to God generously? 

5. How is your time in God’s Word and is there any need or way for improvement in learning the Bible? 

6. Peter says that the Bible is like a seed that gets planted and brings life. Who do you know that you need to give a Bible, or invite to church, so that the seed of God’s Word can get planted in their soul? 

7. When Peter uses words like “obedience”, “holy”, and “judges” is there any reason that something in you wants to bristle or push back that needs to be addressed? 

8. Is there any Christian you need to do a better job of extending “a sincere brotherly love” and “love...earnestly from a pure heart”? 

9. Since Jesus forgave you so that you could have a relationship with Him, is there any other person you need to forgive so that you can have a relationship with them? 

Pray: 

1. How can we pray that your relationship with God the Father improves? 

2. How can we pray that your relationship with Jesus Christ improves? 

3. How can we pray that your relationship with your family (forefathers) improves? 

4. How can we pray that your relationship with fellow Christians improves? 

5. How can we pray that your relationship with a non-Christian improves so you can help plant the seed of God’s Word in their life? 

6. How can we pray for your relationship with God’s Word to improve?

MC Discussion Questions 1 Peter 1:1-12

1 Peter chapter 1: 1-12

Missional Community Discussion Questions.

Don’t forget to ask these four questions when reading the text:

Who is God?

What has He done?

Who are we?

What are we to do?

Feel free to pick any of the following questions to lead your discovery and discussion. Don’t feel like you have to get through them all, allow the Holy Spirit to lead you during your time together. 

Remember, as we open our hearts, our Bibles, and our lives, let’s be sure that our discovery and discussions lead us to the Bible, personal honesty and actual action in the ways we lives as we are led and lead one another to Jesus. 

Reflection:

1. How is it humbling to know that Peter was often a mess and failed but ultimately was greatly used by God?

2. What does it mean to practically be citizens of the Kingdom of God while we are residents of a nation?  

3. How does knowing that our life only improves after this life ends change our view of struggles, suffering, and sadness in this life?  

4. Where have you become too “at home” in this world? 

Head: 

1. Like a parent adopting a child, individual choosing their spouse, or person choosing their best friend, how special is it that God has chosen, you for a loving relationship that never ends?

2. Verse 1 calls the elect “exiles” (sometimes translated “strangers” or “aliens”). What does it mean to be an exile or an alien in your culture?

3. What does verse 2 say about the purpose of our election? 

4. What does verse 3 mean by saying that a person is not born a Christian but must be born again to be a Christian? (You may want to also look up John 3:1-16 to learn more about this). 

5. How do the persons of the Trinity participate in this purpose? Look for the Father, Son, and Spirit in these verses.

6. Read Exodus 24:1–8. What is the significance of sprinkling with blood?

Heart: 

1. Since the letter was written to numerous churches scattered across a wide geographic area, what does Peter model for us about the importance of unity and love across all Bible- believing, Jesus-loving Christian churches?

2. What does it mean practically to be citizens of the Kingdom of God while we are residents of a nation?

3. Peter brought the gospel to the people he writes to. Who brought the gospel to you?

4. How did God cause you to be born again?

5. How does the fire of trial purify the quality of our faith and inheritance like the smelter process does gold?

6. How does knowing that our life only improves after this life ends change our view of struggles, suffering, and sadness in this life?

Hands:

1. How does the idea of being an alien—a citizen of a different kingdom—resonate? How does it feel unfamiliar, or actually make sense of how you feel, in this world?

2. Where have you become too “at home” in this world?

3. What is the living hope into which we are born? Why is the resurrection so significant with regard to our hope in Jesus? 

4. How does Peter describe our inheritance? What is the significance of the words “imperishable, “undefiled,” and “unfading”?

5. To what does Peter attribute the purpose of trials in our life? 

6. How does our tested faith result in glory and honor?

7. What does it look like for hope to transform the way you live? 

8. How have you seen your faith tested and Christ glorified through trials in your life?

9. How is the love for Jesus and joy of Jesus mentioned in verse 8 manifested in your life?

10. Describe a time when you have gone to Scripture for comfort in the middle of a trial and found peace in God?

Prayer:

1. What other churches can we be praying for so that there is unity across the Church in the local churches?

2. What non-Christian family or friends need to be born again that we can be praying for?

3. What tempting things in this world are hard for you to walk away from and you could use prayer and help for?

4. Is there any trial of note in your life right now (e.g. health issues, relational strain, job loss, stress, etc.)?

5. Peter was a spiritual leader trying to lead and feed God’s people. Which spiritual leaders can you be praying for in support of them?

MC Discussion Questions Galatians 2:20

Why do many Christians have no idea how to live the Christian life between conversion and glorification?

In what ways have you found yourself trying to live the Christian life without realizing that Christ is in you?

How have Christians participated in Christ’s crucifixion?

What are the implications of Christ living in the Christian?

According to Scripture, how is the Christian life a wonderfully restful life?

MC Discussion Questions Baptism

Discussion Questions 

Read Acts 2:38, Acts 8:16, Acts 10:48, and Acts 19:5. What is the phrase that is repeated in these four verses? 

What does that phrase mean? 

What does this phrase indicate about baptism? 

What is the primary reason that we should be baptized? 

Why is identifying with Christ through baptism a difficult action for many to take? 

Read Matthew 3:13-17. Remind learners that John the Baptist had  been preaching a message of repentance to the Jewish people and that the baptism  they experienced was an illustration of their repentance. 

Because baptism with John was about repentance, why would Jesus seek to be  baptized by John? How did Jesus’ baptism help to identify Him with humankind? • Read Matthew 28:18-19. What did Jesus command His followers to do? 

Why was baptism included in Jesus’ command to His followers? How would baptism  help accomplish Jesus mission to the world? 

Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-13. How does baptism signify the unity of  Christ’s body? 

According to this passage, why was the Church intended to function as a body  instead of individuals?  

How does Jesus’ baptism provide an example for believers? 

How can we incorporate baptism in our idea of God’s mission? 

Why do people often not want to associate with “organized church” but do want to  associate with Christ? How does this idea contradict the idea of the church as the  body and bride of Christ? 

How does the individualistic society of North America often decrease the value of  unity and community? 

Read Romans 6:1-7, 10. 

Looking specifically at Verse 10, how did Christ’s death provide a substitution for us? 

How does this passage clearly indicate that baptism illustrates and celebrates the  Gospel of Christ? 

How does baptism proclaim Christ to unbelievers who witnessed these events? 

What emotions do we often associate with baptism? Why? 

Do you view baptism as a witnessing opportunity for unbelievers or just a celebration  for believers? How is it both? 

If baptism identifies us with Christ, what is the significance of us identifying with His  death and resurrection? 

Explain that the word used for baptism in the New Testament literally meant to  submerge or dunk.  

Looking back in Matthew 3 when Jesus was baptized by John and in Romans 6  when Paul describes the picture of baptism, how does immersion best describe  those events? 

Read Acts 8:36-39. What are the words used to describe how  Philip baptized the Eunuch? 

What mode of baptism appears to be primary in the New Testament? 

Why do we often negate the importance of baptism for believers? 

Have you been baptized? Do you need to be baptized?  

What would keep you from being baptized and identifying with Christ? Is that more  important than obeying Him?