Personalizing Christmas
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Luke 1:26-38 Advent #2 – Peace 12/4/11
1. Why can we not pat ourselves on the back for making the good decision to accept Jesus as our savior?
2. How does knowing that God makes decisions based on eternity affect how we think about our lives?
3. Why do you think Mary’s first response was “Who Me?”
What other Biblical characters responded this way?
4. Why does God choose to use us as His tools to get His will done?
5. How is God glorified through us doing His will?
6. What are some of God’s Promises to us? How might it be hard to believe those promises?
7. Could it have seemed to Mary that all the pieces are not coming together the way I thought they would with God in control? What might she have questioned?
8. This Christmas how can we keep an eternal perspective in mind?
Friday, December 02, 2011
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Cat and Dog Theology Reflection Questions
Cat and Dog Theology: Reflections 11/20/11
Small Group Discussion Questions
1. How has going through Cat and Dog Theology changed your perspective on God?
2. How has it changed your perspective on your relationship to God?
3. Is God a Jealous God? Why?
4. How has this study affected your prayers?
5. How has this study affected how you view suffering and hardships?
6. Has it changed how you see God’s blessings on your life?
7. What is the difference between a cat view on the purpose of life and the dog view on the purpose of life?
8. Where do you go from here with this knowledge?
Small Group Discussion Questions
1. How has going through Cat and Dog Theology changed your perspective on God?
2. How has it changed your perspective on your relationship to God?
3. Is God a Jealous God? Why?
4. How has this study affected your prayers?
5. How has this study affected how you view suffering and hardships?
6. Has it changed how you see God’s blessings on your life?
7. What is the difference between a cat view on the purpose of life and the dog view on the purpose of life?
8. Where do you go from here with this knowledge?
Cat and Dog Theology Week 6 Questions
Cat and Dog Theology: Week Six (Revamped)
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: 1 Peter 4:10-11
1. Read James 4:2-3 – What should be the criteria for when we ask for things from God?
2. Read Ezekiel 36:26-28 – What is a “cause me” prayer? What does a “cause me” ask for?
3. What is the difference between a “cause me” prayer and a regular prayer?
4. God wants us to be completely dependent on Him. How does that make you feel?
5. What does the Story of Gideon teach us about God and His purposes?
6. 1 Cor. 12:7-9 – How did Paul view his weakness? What did God teach him about his weakness?
7. Why don’t we take everything to God in prayer? Why do we only bring the big things usually?
8. How should we look at our challenges or problems? Psalm 50:15
9. Does the Holy Spirit give us power for just the big things in life? Acts 1:8
10. How best can we repay the Lord for all He has done for us?
Psalm 116:12-13
11. Why doesn’t God just do everything Himself? Why does he use us? What’s the point? He could do it better anyway.
1 Peter 4:10-11
12. What is the attitude difference between a person who listens to a missionary report and the missionary themselves?
13. What is holding you back from completely loving God and opening yourself up to what He wants for you on a daily basis?
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: 1 Peter 4:10-11
1. Read James 4:2-3 – What should be the criteria for when we ask for things from God?
2. Read Ezekiel 36:26-28 – What is a “cause me” prayer? What does a “cause me” ask for?
3. What is the difference between a “cause me” prayer and a regular prayer?
4. God wants us to be completely dependent on Him. How does that make you feel?
5. What does the Story of Gideon teach us about God and His purposes?
6. 1 Cor. 12:7-9 – How did Paul view his weakness? What did God teach him about his weakness?
7. Why don’t we take everything to God in prayer? Why do we only bring the big things usually?
8. How should we look at our challenges or problems? Psalm 50:15
9. Does the Holy Spirit give us power for just the big things in life? Acts 1:8
10. How best can we repay the Lord for all He has done for us?
Psalm 116:12-13
11. Why doesn’t God just do everything Himself? Why does he use us? What’s the point? He could do it better anyway.
1 Peter 4:10-11
12. What is the attitude difference between a person who listens to a missionary report and the missionary themselves?
13. What is holding you back from completely loving God and opening yourself up to what He wants for you on a daily basis?
Dog and Cat Theology Small Group Questions Week 5
Cat and Dog Theology: Week Five (Revamped Questions)
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Jeremiah 2:13-14
1. What is the best way for believers to point to God’s infinite glory and value?
2. Read Matt. 6:9-13 – Looking at the Lord’s Prayer from a dog perspective, what do you see? What would a Cat see in this prayer?
3. When you pray, what is predominantly the reason you pray?
4. What does God want in our prayers?
5. How can some of the things we ask for from the Lord really lead us away from the Lord not closer to the Lord?
6. Why are there so many believers that are not Joyful in their life?
Read Jer. 2:2-3, 11-13 how do these verses answer that question?
7. Does God want us to be joyful in this life? How do you know? What does it take for you to be joyful in this life? Read Psalm 100 after answering the questions. Does this change how we view joy?
8. Read Matthew 10:38 – What does God mean that we “will find our life”?
9. How can our desire for Joy in this life be too weak? Do we make compromises for temporary joy? Why? Can this be a cycle leading us away from true joy in the Lord?
10. Read Jer. 29:13-14; Prov. 2:3-4; Ps. 130:5-6; Ps. 63:1 – From these verses how would you describe the search to know God and experience the Joy in Him? Why did God make this a search not an instant gratification?
11. Why does God often get forgotten in our joyfulness? How can you magnify God in your joy in the Lord this week?
KIDS QUESTIONS:
1. How Does God Bring Joy to Your Life?
2. How Can you Bring Joy to Other Peoples Life?
3. Does God like to have you pray to Him? Why?
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Jeremiah 2:13-14
1. What is the best way for believers to point to God’s infinite glory and value?
2. Read Matt. 6:9-13 – Looking at the Lord’s Prayer from a dog perspective, what do you see? What would a Cat see in this prayer?
3. When you pray, what is predominantly the reason you pray?
4. What does God want in our prayers?
5. How can some of the things we ask for from the Lord really lead us away from the Lord not closer to the Lord?
6. Why are there so many believers that are not Joyful in their life?
Read Jer. 2:2-3, 11-13 how do these verses answer that question?
7. Does God want us to be joyful in this life? How do you know? What does it take for you to be joyful in this life? Read Psalm 100 after answering the questions. Does this change how we view joy?
8. Read Matthew 10:38 – What does God mean that we “will find our life”?
9. How can our desire for Joy in this life be too weak? Do we make compromises for temporary joy? Why? Can this be a cycle leading us away from true joy in the Lord?
10. Read Jer. 29:13-14; Prov. 2:3-4; Ps. 130:5-6; Ps. 63:1 – From these verses how would you describe the search to know God and experience the Joy in Him? Why did God make this a search not an instant gratification?
11. Why does God often get forgotten in our joyfulness? How can you magnify God in your joy in the Lord this week?
KIDS QUESTIONS:
1. How Does God Bring Joy to Your Life?
2. How Can you Bring Joy to Other Peoples Life?
3. Does God like to have you pray to Him? Why?
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Cat and Dog Theology Week 4 Questions
Cat and Dog Theology : Week 4 – Updated Questions
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 34:14
1. Define Jealousy.
2. When we think of jealousy what do we think of?
3. Why does jealousy have such a negative connotation?
4. Read Exodus 34:14 . What does God mean when He says “I am a Jealous God”?
5. Why does it bother us that God is jealous?
6. What is the difference in Bible Stories between the “upper story” and the “lower story”? How does this change our perspective of the story? See Psalm 106:7-9 and Ezekiel 36:21-27.
7. What does it mean that “God lives for Himself”?
8. To say: “God lives for Himself” sounds almost as arrogant as hearing God say He is jealous. How do you explain that this is not only OK, but it is good, right and necessary?
9. How does God “Live for His Namesake”? What has He done to make a name for Himself?
10. How is God glorified through His love for you?
11. How can we match God’s Eternal Upper story to our Lower story as we live here on earth?
12. Why is it so hard to keep an eternal perspective? What helps us keep that perspective?
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 34:14
1. Define Jealousy.
2. When we think of jealousy what do we think of?
3. Why does jealousy have such a negative connotation?
4. Read Exodus 34:14 . What does God mean when He says “I am a Jealous God”?
5. Why does it bother us that God is jealous?
6. What is the difference in Bible Stories between the “upper story” and the “lower story”? How does this change our perspective of the story? See Psalm 106:7-9 and Ezekiel 36:21-27.
7. What does it mean that “God lives for Himself”?
8. To say: “God lives for Himself” sounds almost as arrogant as hearing God say He is jealous. How do you explain that this is not only OK, but it is good, right and necessary?
9. How does God “Live for His Namesake”? What has He done to make a name for Himself?
10. How is God glorified through His love for you?
11. How can we match God’s Eternal Upper story to our Lower story as we live here on earth?
12. Why is it so hard to keep an eternal perspective? What helps us keep that perspective?
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Dog and Cat Theology Small Group Questions
Cat and Dog Theology : Lesson One
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Psalm 30:9; Romans 15:8-9; John 12:28
1. Nearly all Christians readily say, “It’s all about God,” but most don’t live it out. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:
“Most of us live our lives trying to get from birth to death in the safest, softest, easiest, most comfortable fashion possible.”
Why do you agree or disagree?
2. How do Cats and Dogs mirror our relationship to our Master (God)? List five Cat ways and five Dog ways.
3. When it comes to praying what do you think the difference would be between a cat prayer and a dog prayer? Give examples.
4. Colossians 1:16 says “All things were created by Him and For Him…” What are the implications of that?
Why were animals created?
Why were galaxies created?
Why were angels created?
Why were you created?
5.How should it affect your attitude, and faith, knowing that the cross of Jesus Christ is first about bringing Glory to God.?
6. What are the Cat and Dog motivations for getting into heaven?
7. What would be the motivations or distinctives in worship between a Cat and Dog?
8. To what extent are Cats and Dogs subject to His Lordship?
9. What attributes of God do you think Cats might focus on? What about Dogs?
10. What would a Cat quiet time be like? What about a dogs?
11. What do you think you have to do to move from being a cat to a dog?
Cat and Dog Theology : Lesson Two
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Phil. 3:10; John 15:5; Hab. 3:17-18
1. Read Phil. 3:10. What do you think of this passage? How does it hit you? Do you sympathize with Paul’s statement?
How would a Cat respond? How about a Dog?
2. Read John 15:5-6. What does it mean to remain in Christ?
What is the fruit we can bear? How would a cat relate to this verse? How would a dog?
3. Why does God desire to bless you?
4. What does it mean to bring glory to God? What is a definition of God’s Glory?
5. How am I making God famous to my spouse? To my children? To my coworkers? To my classmates?
6. How do I radiate God’s glory to those who don’t know me?
7. What are the dangers of having a Cat mentality when it comes to our theology?
8. Can you think of any personal examples when you held an incomplete theology even it if wasn’t entirely incorrect? What part of your belief is incomplete and how could you make it complete?
9. What kind of verses would a Cat memorize? How would a Cat interpret Habakkuk 3:17-18? How would a Cat apply it?
10. Since Cats have a “feel good” theology, what questions would you ask before buying a new house, taking a new job or buying modern “toys” to determine if your focus is on God’s Glory instead of your own pleasure and benefit?
11. How might God be glorified if you were called upon to suffer for Him?
12. What interests and desires in your life keep you from focusing primarily on God’s Glory?
10 – 14-11 ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS:
How can we keep the focus in a world that it is all about me that it is all about God?
Why is a Me-olgy incomplete?
Read Col. 1:16 - Who was everything made for? Why? How does that make you feel?
What does a me-mentality(cat) want out of life? What does a God first mentality want out of life?
How do created things bring glory to God?
Why does thinking it is all about us rob God of Glory?
Why did God save us?
How many lives were touched by the Sacrifice of Jim Elliot and the missionaries?
Read Luke 12:33 – How does this apply to us today?
What can we give up to bring glory to God?
Cat & Dog Theology: 10/23/11 REPLACEMENT QUESTIONS
1. For some people in this world what is their “True North”? What is it they base their life and direction on? If it is not Jesus, what is the result?
2. In what ways does Jesus provide a “True North” a foundation for our lives?
3. Cat Theology tends to focus on the “Winners Circle”.
What false expectations can that foster for this life?
In the book of Job what would a cat focus on? What would a dog focus on? Why?
4. How can our suffering and even our death bring Glory to God?
5. What is the real “Winners Circle” about?
6. Read John 21:18-21 - What if this was God’s will for the end of your life? How would you feel about that?
7. 1 Peter 1:3-9 – How has your faith been tested by fire? What was the result in your life?
8. What are the “more precious than gold” (v7) treasures from God in our life?
9. In the Safety and Security area how have I ever risked for the Glory of God? This can be emotional, physical, mental, financial risks.
10. What is the difference between thinking about how God is glorified before an event as opposed to after the event has happened? What would this look like?
11. What is the chief end of Christianity:
A) The happiness of man while he is alive.
B) To make man happy after he dies.
C) To glorify God and delight in Him forever.
Why is your answer correct and the others are not?
12. How can we worship God in everything? Give examples.
How do you like this prayer? Can you pray this prayer?
"Lord, I do not live just for myself; I seek to live for Your glory.
I offer myself to you to do what it takes to make your name great
through me. Bless me with all things, or give me nothing. Honor me
before others, or bring me low. Give me unlimited energy for great
tasks, or appoint me to silent suffering. Send me over¬seas, or keep
me home. Shatter any dream that is not yours. I freely and
wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
Cat and Dog Theology : Lesson Four 1/2 (For the Week of 10/30/11)
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 34:14
1. Define Jealousy.
2. When we think of jealousy what do we think of? Why do we think that way?
3. Why does jealousy have such a negative connotation?
4. Read Exodus 34:14 . What does God mean when He says “I am a Jealous God”?
5. What is He jealous of?
6. Is it bad for God to be jealous?
7. To say: “God lives for Himself” sounds almost as arrogant as hearing God say He is jealous. How do you explain that this is not only OK, but it is good, right and necessary?
8. How is God glorified through His love for you?
9. This week how have you reflected God’s Love and given Him glory?
Cat and Dog Theology: Lesson Four
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 9:16; 36:22; Matt. 6:9-13
1. Read Ex. 9:16-18 - How does God’s name get proclaimed in all the Earth today? Is that a positive proclamation or a negative one?
2. Read Matt. 6:9-13 – Looking at the Lord’s prayer from a Dog perspective, what do you see? What would a Cat see in this prayer?
3. What is one of your favorite Bible verses? What does it mean to you? Is it a Cat or Dog reason?
4. Does God want us to be happy in this life? What does it mean for you to be happy?
5. What brings more glory to God’s name typically in a person’s life: their happiness or their suffering? Give an explanation for your answer.
6. When you pray, what is predominantly the reason you pray?
7. What does God want in your prayers?
8. What would be the difference between a Cat prayer and a Dog prayer?
9. When it comes to church, what would a Cat’s priorities be? What about a Dog’s?
10. Think of a tragic situation in your life. How was God manifested in your experience? Was He glorified?
11. Why does God often get forgotten in our happiness? How can you magnify God in your happiness this week?
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Psalm 30:9; Romans 15:8-9; John 12:28
1. Nearly all Christians readily say, “It’s all about God,” but most don’t live it out. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:
“Most of us live our lives trying to get from birth to death in the safest, softest, easiest, most comfortable fashion possible.”
Why do you agree or disagree?
2. How do Cats and Dogs mirror our relationship to our Master (God)? List five Cat ways and five Dog ways.
3. When it comes to praying what do you think the difference would be between a cat prayer and a dog prayer? Give examples.
4. Colossians 1:16 says “All things were created by Him and For Him…” What are the implications of that?
Why were animals created?
Why were galaxies created?
Why were angels created?
Why were you created?
5.How should it affect your attitude, and faith, knowing that the cross of Jesus Christ is first about bringing Glory to God.?
6. What are the Cat and Dog motivations for getting into heaven?
7. What would be the motivations or distinctives in worship between a Cat and Dog?
8. To what extent are Cats and Dogs subject to His Lordship?
9. What attributes of God do you think Cats might focus on? What about Dogs?
10. What would a Cat quiet time be like? What about a dogs?
11. What do you think you have to do to move from being a cat to a dog?
Cat and Dog Theology : Lesson Two
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Phil. 3:10; John 15:5; Hab. 3:17-18
1. Read Phil. 3:10. What do you think of this passage? How does it hit you? Do you sympathize with Paul’s statement?
How would a Cat respond? How about a Dog?
2. Read John 15:5-6. What does it mean to remain in Christ?
What is the fruit we can bear? How would a cat relate to this verse? How would a dog?
3. Why does God desire to bless you?
4. What does it mean to bring glory to God? What is a definition of God’s Glory?
5. How am I making God famous to my spouse? To my children? To my coworkers? To my classmates?
6. How do I radiate God’s glory to those who don’t know me?
7. What are the dangers of having a Cat mentality when it comes to our theology?
8. Can you think of any personal examples when you held an incomplete theology even it if wasn’t entirely incorrect? What part of your belief is incomplete and how could you make it complete?
9. What kind of verses would a Cat memorize? How would a Cat interpret Habakkuk 3:17-18? How would a Cat apply it?
10. Since Cats have a “feel good” theology, what questions would you ask before buying a new house, taking a new job or buying modern “toys” to determine if your focus is on God’s Glory instead of your own pleasure and benefit?
11. How might God be glorified if you were called upon to suffer for Him?
12. What interests and desires in your life keep you from focusing primarily on God’s Glory?
10 – 14-11 ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS:
How can we keep the focus in a world that it is all about me that it is all about God?
Why is a Me-olgy incomplete?
Read Col. 1:16 - Who was everything made for? Why? How does that make you feel?
What does a me-mentality(cat) want out of life? What does a God first mentality want out of life?
How do created things bring glory to God?
Why does thinking it is all about us rob God of Glory?
Why did God save us?
How many lives were touched by the Sacrifice of Jim Elliot and the missionaries?
Read Luke 12:33 – How does this apply to us today?
What can we give up to bring glory to God?
Cat & Dog Theology: 10/23/11 REPLACEMENT QUESTIONS
1. For some people in this world what is their “True North”? What is it they base their life and direction on? If it is not Jesus, what is the result?
2. In what ways does Jesus provide a “True North” a foundation for our lives?
3. Cat Theology tends to focus on the “Winners Circle”.
What false expectations can that foster for this life?
In the book of Job what would a cat focus on? What would a dog focus on? Why?
4. How can our suffering and even our death bring Glory to God?
5. What is the real “Winners Circle” about?
6. Read John 21:18-21 - What if this was God’s will for the end of your life? How would you feel about that?
7. 1 Peter 1:3-9 – How has your faith been tested by fire? What was the result in your life?
8. What are the “more precious than gold” (v7) treasures from God in our life?
9. In the Safety and Security area how have I ever risked for the Glory of God? This can be emotional, physical, mental, financial risks.
10. What is the difference between thinking about how God is glorified before an event as opposed to after the event has happened? What would this look like?
11. What is the chief end of Christianity:
A) The happiness of man while he is alive.
B) To make man happy after he dies.
C) To glorify God and delight in Him forever.
Why is your answer correct and the others are not?
12. How can we worship God in everything? Give examples.
How do you like this prayer? Can you pray this prayer?
"Lord, I do not live just for myself; I seek to live for Your glory.
I offer myself to you to do what it takes to make your name great
through me. Bless me with all things, or give me nothing. Honor me
before others, or bring me low. Give me unlimited energy for great
tasks, or appoint me to silent suffering. Send me over¬seas, or keep
me home. Shatter any dream that is not yours. I freely and
wholeheartedly yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
Cat and Dog Theology : Lesson Four 1/2 (For the Week of 10/30/11)
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 34:14
1. Define Jealousy.
2. When we think of jealousy what do we think of? Why do we think that way?
3. Why does jealousy have such a negative connotation?
4. Read Exodus 34:14 . What does God mean when He says “I am a Jealous God”?
5. What is He jealous of?
6. Is it bad for God to be jealous?
7. To say: “God lives for Himself” sounds almost as arrogant as hearing God say He is jealous. How do you explain that this is not only OK, but it is good, right and necessary?
8. How is God glorified through His love for you?
9. This week how have you reflected God’s Love and given Him glory?
Cat and Dog Theology: Lesson Four
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Exodus 9:16; 36:22; Matt. 6:9-13
1. Read Ex. 9:16-18 - How does God’s name get proclaimed in all the Earth today? Is that a positive proclamation or a negative one?
2. Read Matt. 6:9-13 – Looking at the Lord’s prayer from a Dog perspective, what do you see? What would a Cat see in this prayer?
3. What is one of your favorite Bible verses? What does it mean to you? Is it a Cat or Dog reason?
4. Does God want us to be happy in this life? What does it mean for you to be happy?
5. What brings more glory to God’s name typically in a person’s life: their happiness or their suffering? Give an explanation for your answer.
6. When you pray, what is predominantly the reason you pray?
7. What does God want in your prayers?
8. What would be the difference between a Cat prayer and a Dog prayer?
9. When it comes to church, what would a Cat’s priorities be? What about a Dog’s?
10. Think of a tragic situation in your life. How was God manifested in your experience? Was He glorified?
11. Why does God often get forgotten in our happiness? How can you magnify God in your happiness this week?
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Measuring the Family Unit – Pastor Perry Kallis – 8/28/2011
Text Eph. 6:1-4 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. In a “Christian” home what is the key to spiritual regeneration in a family? (See Eph 5:18, 21)
2. What works against children in their struggle to obey parents?
3. What does it mean to honor our parents? Does this ever stop?
4. Why is honoring parents so important to God?
5. Why is teaching children to obey and honor their parents foundational to society and a persons walk with God?
6. How does a child learn to obey?
7. As adults how important is it for us to model what we tell our children to do?
8. Why would a person that has honored and obeyed their parents have a long life and a good life?
9. What about honoring parents who were not honorable?
10. What are some ways that parents can frustrate their children?
(Eph. 6:4)
11. What are some ways as adults we can be positive Godly influence with children?
Text Eph. 6:1-4 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. In a “Christian” home what is the key to spiritual regeneration in a family? (See Eph 5:18, 21)
2. What works against children in their struggle to obey parents?
3. What does it mean to honor our parents? Does this ever stop?
4. Why is honoring parents so important to God?
5. Why is teaching children to obey and honor their parents foundational to society and a persons walk with God?
6. How does a child learn to obey?
7. As adults how important is it for us to model what we tell our children to do?
8. Why would a person that has honored and obeyed their parents have a long life and a good life?
9. What about honoring parents who were not honorable?
10. What are some ways that parents can frustrate their children?
(Eph. 6:4)
11. What are some ways as adults we can be positive Godly influence with children?
Monday, August 22, 2011
The Romance of a Marriage Mission– Pastor Perry Kallis 8/21/2011
Text Eph. 5:22-33 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Other than marriage, what is this passage about?
2. Why would making a practice of serving God together make a marriage stronger?
3. Is marriage about being happy? If not, what is it about?
4. What does it mean to submit to each other and the Lord?
5. What is the measure of our love in marriage? What does that look like?
6. What is the intention for the Family? What is a family’s main purpose?
7. How does Christ love the church and how does that relate you a husband’s love for his wife?
8. With a man being purpose driven and a woman being relational, how does that work as a team on a mission?
9. How is the world’s view of marriage different from a Christian view of marriage?
10. What is your mission in your marriage? What are you working toward? How does Jesus factor into that mission?
11. Pastor Perry said “The reason for a couple to get married is that they can serve God better together than separately.” How do you feel about that statement?
Text Eph. 5:22-33 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Other than marriage, what is this passage about?
2. Why would making a practice of serving God together make a marriage stronger?
3. Is marriage about being happy? If not, what is it about?
4. What does it mean to submit to each other and the Lord?
5. What is the measure of our love in marriage? What does that look like?
6. What is the intention for the Family? What is a family’s main purpose?
7. How does Christ love the church and how does that relate you a husband’s love for his wife?
8. With a man being purpose driven and a woman being relational, how does that work as a team on a mission?
9. How is the world’s view of marriage different from a Christian view of marriage?
10. What is your mission in your marriage? What are you working toward? How does Jesus factor into that mission?
11. Pastor Perry said “The reason for a couple to get married is that they can serve God better together than separately.” How do you feel about that statement?
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Sermon Questions from 8/14/11
Imitating Christ in Our Marriages– Pastor Gene Napier 8/14/2011
Text Eph. 5:21-33 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Why is it important to study the culture and context when interpreting a passage?
2. What are the cultural differences between N.T. attitudes in marriage and now?
3. What is Biblical Headship? Give an example.
4. How should a husband use his authority?
5. Why was this view radical in N.T. Times?
6. What did Pastor Gene suggest men need to do more of at home?
7. What does it mean to submit?
8. How does the Trinity factor in to all this?
9. How do husbands and wives imitate Christ in their relationship? (1 Cor. 11:3, Mark 10:45)
10. How are we to lead our homes?
11. What areas of headship or submission do you need to work on?
Text Eph. 5:21-33 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Why is it important to study the culture and context when interpreting a passage?
2. What are the cultural differences between N.T. attitudes in marriage and now?
3. What is Biblical Headship? Give an example.
4. How should a husband use his authority?
5. Why was this view radical in N.T. Times?
6. What did Pastor Gene suggest men need to do more of at home?
7. What does it mean to submit?
8. How does the Trinity factor in to all this?
9. How do husbands and wives imitate Christ in their relationship? (1 Cor. 11:3, Mark 10:45)
10. How are we to lead our homes?
11. What areas of headship or submission do you need to work on?
Monday, May 23, 2011
5/22/11 Sermon Discussion Questions
Can You “Walk a Straight Line”? – Pastor Perry Kallis
Text Eph. 4:1-3
1. What is the difference between the blessings of the “wealth” of the Christian and the “walk” of the Christian?
2. What were some of the “blessings” that Paul experienced in his walk with God?
3. How can we show the value of walking with God in every day life circumstances?
4. As Believers what is our job while we are here on earth?
5. How are we like the Moon as believers? What characteristics of God do we reflect? How can you reflect God more brightly? (see 2 Cor. 3.18)
6. How is our relationship with other believers a gauge of our relationship with God?
7. Who do you need to forgive or reconcile with in order to have a closer walk with Jesus?
8. Ephesians 4.2 lists humility, gentleness, and patience as important qualities to build unity. Define each of these words. Which one is the biggest struggle for you personally?
9. What does it mean that “hurt people hurt people”? How does that change how we respond to people?
10. What is your “next step” toward reflecting God’s glory in your relationship with others?
Text Eph. 4:1-3
1. What is the difference between the blessings of the “wealth” of the Christian and the “walk” of the Christian?
2. What were some of the “blessings” that Paul experienced in his walk with God?
3. How can we show the value of walking with God in every day life circumstances?
4. As Believers what is our job while we are here on earth?
5. How are we like the Moon as believers? What characteristics of God do we reflect? How can you reflect God more brightly? (see 2 Cor. 3.18)
6. How is our relationship with other believers a gauge of our relationship with God?
7. Who do you need to forgive or reconcile with in order to have a closer walk with Jesus?
8. Ephesians 4.2 lists humility, gentleness, and patience as important qualities to build unity. Define each of these words. Which one is the biggest struggle for you personally?
9. What does it mean that “hurt people hurt people”? How does that change how we respond to people?
10. What is your “next step” toward reflecting God’s glory in your relationship with others?
Monday, May 16, 2011
Proclaiming or Possessing– Pastor Perry Kallis – 5/15/2011
Text Eph. 3:16-21 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. How can we make our lives smell good to those around us? How can we smell more like Jesus? (referring to house aromas, check out 2 Cor. 2:15-16)
2. How are you feeling about your Christian Race? What is the motivation to run the race well?
3. What is the difference between a renter and an owner? What does it mean to be owned by Jesus?
4. What kinds of things do you tend to ask for in prayer?
5. What are some things you ought to start praying about that you currently don’t?
6. What are some examples of “help me” prayers and “cause me” prayers?
7. How can you be more filled with God? What are some steps you could take to “fill your bucket” with more of him?
8. What are some symptoms of “longing for a bigger bucket” rather than being content with the bucket you have?
9. What kinds of ways are you tempted to look for satisfaction outside of God’s unconditional love? How can we re-focus on finding our satisfaction in God’s love instead of other places?
10. What are some ways in which God can be lifted up (glorified) through your work? Through your family life? Through your participation in the Body of Christ?
11. What are some areas of your life where you’d like to see God’s power brought to bear? Keep a list of these for your prayer time.
Text Eph. 3:16-21 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. How can we make our lives smell good to those around us? How can we smell more like Jesus? (referring to house aromas, check out 2 Cor. 2:15-16)
2. How are you feeling about your Christian Race? What is the motivation to run the race well?
3. What is the difference between a renter and an owner? What does it mean to be owned by Jesus?
4. What kinds of things do you tend to ask for in prayer?
5. What are some things you ought to start praying about that you currently don’t?
6. What are some examples of “help me” prayers and “cause me” prayers?
7. How can you be more filled with God? What are some steps you could take to “fill your bucket” with more of him?
8. What are some symptoms of “longing for a bigger bucket” rather than being content with the bucket you have?
9. What kinds of ways are you tempted to look for satisfaction outside of God’s unconditional love? How can we re-focus on finding our satisfaction in God’s love instead of other places?
10. What are some ways in which God can be lifted up (glorified) through your work? Through your family life? Through your participation in the Body of Christ?
11. What are some areas of your life where you’d like to see God’s power brought to bear? Keep a list of these for your prayer time.
Monday, May 09, 2011
"Filled or Flavored?" – Discussion Questions
Pastor Perry Kallis – 5/8/2011
Text Eph. 3:14-16
1. What is the difference between being filled with God or just flavored by His presence?
2. Is God’s presence in your life the “main ingredient” or is He just another flavor in your life?
3. How are you using God’s power in your life to bring glory to Him?
4. Instead of praying for external issues in our lives what would prayers for internal issues be like? What kinds of things can we pray for but don’t?
5. Read Eph. 3:14-16 What stands out for you in Paul’s prayer?
6. Why can we approach God’s throne with confidence and present our requests? (see Hebrews 4:14-16)
7. What are some of the benefits you’ve seen in your relationship with Christ as you’ve walked with him longer? Are there ways in which you depend on him now more than when you first trusted Christ?
8. What are some ways that we can make Christ more at home in our hearts? To make room for him to “settle down” in our lives? Are there rooms within the home of your heart where Christ is not welcome? Places that are off-limits to God?
9. What are some specific ways we can increasingly make God the “main ingredient” in our lives?
Text Eph. 3:14-16
1. What is the difference between being filled with God or just flavored by His presence?
2. Is God’s presence in your life the “main ingredient” or is He just another flavor in your life?
3. How are you using God’s power in your life to bring glory to Him?
4. Instead of praying for external issues in our lives what would prayers for internal issues be like? What kinds of things can we pray for but don’t?
5. Read Eph. 3:14-16 What stands out for you in Paul’s prayer?
6. Why can we approach God’s throne with confidence and present our requests? (see Hebrews 4:14-16)
7. What are some of the benefits you’ve seen in your relationship with Christ as you’ve walked with him longer? Are there ways in which you depend on him now more than when you first trusted Christ?
8. What are some ways that we can make Christ more at home in our hearts? To make room for him to “settle down” in our lives? Are there rooms within the home of your heart where Christ is not welcome? Places that are off-limits to God?
9. What are some specific ways we can increasingly make God the “main ingredient” in our lives?
Monday, May 02, 2011
The Ark – Ken Bayer – 5/1/2011
Small Group Discussion Questions
Text: Hebrews 9:4
1. How does God relate to us?
2. How do you relate to God?
3. What were the 3 things inside of the Ark of the Covenant?
4. The 10 Commandments – God’s Standard for His people
How do the 10 Commandments relate to us today or do they?
What is God’s Standard for us to follow?
How is our relationship to God different compared to an Old Testament Jewish person? How is it the same?
5. The Manna (Hebrew for “What is it”) - God’s Provision
See Exodus 16:16-23
What were the limits of using the manna?
Why do think God made limits on the manna?
How does that relate to our provision by the Lord?
What are something’s you do not trust the Lord for or worry about?
Read Phil. 4:6-7
6. Aaron’s Staff – God’s Leadership
What was God’s Leadership like in the Old Testament?
How did that Change in the New Testament?
How does God lead you today?
Are there areas in your life that you have a hard time letting God lead in?
What is God’s Leadership Style?
How do we lead others to Christ or away from Christ in our lives?
Who is or was the Spiritual Leader in your life, and Jesus does not count? What made that person such a good spiritual leader?
Text: Hebrews 9:4
1. How does God relate to us?
2. How do you relate to God?
3. What were the 3 things inside of the Ark of the Covenant?
4. The 10 Commandments – God’s Standard for His people
How do the 10 Commandments relate to us today or do they?
What is God’s Standard for us to follow?
How is our relationship to God different compared to an Old Testament Jewish person? How is it the same?
5. The Manna (Hebrew for “What is it”) - God’s Provision
See Exodus 16:16-23
What were the limits of using the manna?
Why do think God made limits on the manna?
How does that relate to our provision by the Lord?
What are something’s you do not trust the Lord for or worry about?
Read Phil. 4:6-7
6. Aaron’s Staff – God’s Leadership
What was God’s Leadership like in the Old Testament?
How did that Change in the New Testament?
How does God lead you today?
Are there areas in your life that you have a hard time letting God lead in?
What is God’s Leadership Style?
How do we lead others to Christ or away from Christ in our lives?
Who is or was the Spiritual Leader in your life, and Jesus does not count? What made that person such a good spiritual leader?
Monday, April 11, 2011
Small Group Discussion Questions for April 10 Sermon
"You are God’s Masterpiece" preached on 4-10-11 by Alex Bluhm
Read Ephesians 2:10
1. What is your favorite kind of art? Music? Sculpture? Painting? Dance?
2. How is it hard to see yourself as God’s masterpiece?
3. Why do we compare ourselves to others? Aside from Christ who is your role model?
4. How could your life more clearly reflect Jesus this week? What are a few things you could start doing?
Reflect on the drama “God’s Chisel.”
5. When we ask God to work on our lives, are there things we hold back and don’t want him to touch? What areas are “off limits” to you? (e.g. money, retirement plans, pride, speech, TV watching?)
6. If we become more like Jesus how would people react to us? Is there concern in becoming more like Jesus? What would becoming more like Jesus look like?
7. Is there any area this group can keep your accountable in?
8. What things are distracting you from fully following God?
Read 2 Pet 1.3-8
9. What are some of the things God has given us in order to live a godly life?
10. Which of the following traits listed in verses 5 and 6 is most needed in your life now? Faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, love
Read Ephesians 2:10
1. What is your favorite kind of art? Music? Sculpture? Painting? Dance?
2. How is it hard to see yourself as God’s masterpiece?
3. Why do we compare ourselves to others? Aside from Christ who is your role model?
4. How could your life more clearly reflect Jesus this week? What are a few things you could start doing?
Reflect on the drama “God’s Chisel.”
5. When we ask God to work on our lives, are there things we hold back and don’t want him to touch? What areas are “off limits” to you? (e.g. money, retirement plans, pride, speech, TV watching?)
6. If we become more like Jesus how would people react to us? Is there concern in becoming more like Jesus? What would becoming more like Jesus look like?
7. Is there any area this group can keep your accountable in?
8. What things are distracting you from fully following God?
Read 2 Pet 1.3-8
9. What are some of the things God has given us in order to live a godly life?
10. Which of the following traits listed in verses 5 and 6 is most needed in your life now? Faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, love
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Small Group Questions for April 3 Sermon
God’s Resume For Success – Pastor Perry Kallis
Text: Eph. 3:7-13
1. How have I really challenged my faith in Christ this year?
2. Read 1 Cor. 1:26-31. In your experience, what are some specific foolish/weak things God has used, and how have they shamed the wise/strong?
3. How is serving God a gift? (see verse 8)
4. If you really had the attitude of a servant, how would your relationships at work/home/church be different?
5. Is telling others about Christ a privilege? What is your feeling about evangelism?
6. What are the treasures we have in Christ? (see ) What prevents you from telling others about those treasures?
7. Who could you tell about the riches you have in Christ before Easter? Be specific, and pray for those people with your group before the meeting is over.
8. Share one specific place in which you are feeling called to serve God more faithfully. Perhaps it’s a current ministry to which you could be more fully committed, or perhaps a new area of service for you.
Bonus activity!
Do some role-playing in your group, letting group members practice conversing with a pre-Christian friend, neighbor, or relative. One of the hardest things to do can be starting a conversation. Brainstorm some creative conversation-starters that could help take things to a spiritual level.
Text: Eph. 3:7-13
1. How have I really challenged my faith in Christ this year?
2. Read 1 Cor. 1:26-31. In your experience, what are some specific foolish/weak things God has used, and how have they shamed the wise/strong?
3. How is serving God a gift? (see verse 8)
4. If you really had the attitude of a servant, how would your relationships at work/home/church be different?
5. Is telling others about Christ a privilege? What is your feeling about evangelism?
6. What are the treasures we have in Christ? (see ) What prevents you from telling others about those treasures?
7. Who could you tell about the riches you have in Christ before Easter? Be specific, and pray for those people with your group before the meeting is over.
8. Share one specific place in which you are feeling called to serve God more faithfully. Perhaps it’s a current ministry to which you could be more fully committed, or perhaps a new area of service for you.
Bonus activity!
Do some role-playing in your group, letting group members practice conversing with a pre-Christian friend, neighbor, or relative. One of the hardest things to do can be starting a conversation. Brainstorm some creative conversation-starters that could help take things to a spiritual level.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Small Group Questions for March 27 Sermon
Ephesians 3:1-6 “Solving the Mystery”
Have you ever been part of a good team? Maybe a team that won a lot, or where everyone worked together well? I.e. sports, clubs, work.
Read Ephesians 3:1-6.
1. Paul was entrusted as a “steward” with the Gospel for the Gentiles. Tell us about a time someone has entrusted you with something valuable.
2. Have you ever been able to be the bearer of good news for someone? Perhaps the Good News of the Gospel, or another bit of good news? How did it feel?
3. Paul considered it an honor to suffer for Jesus. Is there a time you experienced suffering for doing what was right? Have you ever suffered directly because of your relationship with Jesus? (Note that there is a difference between suffering because of our bad choices or because of the broken world we live in, and suffering for Jesus.)
4. What truth(s) would you be willing to go to jail for? To die for?
5. The mystery Paul refers to is that the Gentiles, previously considered outsiders, were now included into the family of God. What prejudices do you have about different types of people that would make it hard for you to accept them into your family?
6. What kind of person seems so different from you that you would struggle to be excited to share Christ’s inheritance with them? Who would make you wrinkle your nose and question, “Do I really have to share this with them?” (Perhaps someone different than you, or someone who has hurt you?)
7. What preferences and differences do you have from others at TBC that you are willing to lay aside for the sake of harmony?
8. Christianity is unique in that we receive God’s grace as a gift, not something earned. Pastor Perry mentioned that we can’t earn an inheritance. Why, in your opinion, is it so common for people to want to earn right standing with God?
9. What are some of God’s promises that you are particularly grateful for? List off as many as you can think of. (Need help? Try Ps. 145.8; Ac. 2.38; Isa. 40.28-31; Phil. 4.12-13; Heb. 13.5; James 1.5; 2 Pet. 3.9; Ps. 46.1; Lk. 6.38; Jn. 15.5; Prov. 16.9)
Prayer: be sure to ask for God’s help in accepting Christians who are different from us, and to thank him for his promises.
Have you ever been part of a good team? Maybe a team that won a lot, or where everyone worked together well? I.e. sports, clubs, work.
Read Ephesians 3:1-6.
1. Paul was entrusted as a “steward” with the Gospel for the Gentiles. Tell us about a time someone has entrusted you with something valuable.
2. Have you ever been able to be the bearer of good news for someone? Perhaps the Good News of the Gospel, or another bit of good news? How did it feel?
3. Paul considered it an honor to suffer for Jesus. Is there a time you experienced suffering for doing what was right? Have you ever suffered directly because of your relationship with Jesus? (Note that there is a difference between suffering because of our bad choices or because of the broken world we live in, and suffering for Jesus.)
4. What truth(s) would you be willing to go to jail for? To die for?
5. The mystery Paul refers to is that the Gentiles, previously considered outsiders, were now included into the family of God. What prejudices do you have about different types of people that would make it hard for you to accept them into your family?
6. What kind of person seems so different from you that you would struggle to be excited to share Christ’s inheritance with them? Who would make you wrinkle your nose and question, “Do I really have to share this with them?” (Perhaps someone different than you, or someone who has hurt you?)
7. What preferences and differences do you have from others at TBC that you are willing to lay aside for the sake of harmony?
8. Christianity is unique in that we receive God’s grace as a gift, not something earned. Pastor Perry mentioned that we can’t earn an inheritance. Why, in your opinion, is it so common for people to want to earn right standing with God?
9. What are some of God’s promises that you are particularly grateful for? List off as many as you can think of. (Need help? Try Ps. 145.8; Ac. 2.38; Isa. 40.28-31; Phil. 4.12-13; Heb. 13.5; James 1.5; 2 Pet. 3.9; Ps. 46.1; Lk. 6.38; Jn. 15.5; Prov. 16.9)
Prayer: be sure to ask for God’s help in accepting Christians who are different from us, and to thank him for his promises.
Monday, March 21, 2011
3/20/2011 sermon discussion questions
What’s the Point? - Pastor Perry Kallis
Text: Eph. 2:19-22
1. Now that we are on God’s team, what is our purpose or goal? (see Eph. 1:12-14)
2. How would you define Christian unity?
3. What distracts you from your purpose in Christ?
4. In what role in the body of Christ are you serving? How do you feel you fit into the body?
5. What is the difference between being a citizen and being part of a family?
6. Perry mentioned that some ways to become more of a family include: tenacious (or persisting) love, time spent together, being true (or authentic), and serving others in the family. Which of these do you need to grow in most? Which comes the most easily for you?
7. How has your small group helped the church become more of a family?
8. How does God build us into a “Temple”? What is our part in becoming a “Temple”?
9. Can you share a time when you were part of a team, body, or family to accomplish something for God’s glory? How did it feel to be on that team?
Are you part of a team now?
10. As a “stone” in the building of the “temple,” have you ever felt chipped, broken, misshaped, forgotten, or overlooked? How did you overcome that feeling, or have you?
11. How can we help those that feel this way?
12. What can you do this week to bring greater unity to our church family?
Text: Eph. 2:19-22
1. Now that we are on God’s team, what is our purpose or goal? (see Eph. 1:12-14)
2. How would you define Christian unity?
3. What distracts you from your purpose in Christ?
4. In what role in the body of Christ are you serving? How do you feel you fit into the body?
5. What is the difference between being a citizen and being part of a family?
6. Perry mentioned that some ways to become more of a family include: tenacious (or persisting) love, time spent together, being true (or authentic), and serving others in the family. Which of these do you need to grow in most? Which comes the most easily for you?
7. How has your small group helped the church become more of a family?
8. How does God build us into a “Temple”? What is our part in becoming a “Temple”?
9. Can you share a time when you were part of a team, body, or family to accomplish something for God’s glory? How did it feel to be on that team?
Are you part of a team now?
10. As a “stone” in the building of the “temple,” have you ever felt chipped, broken, misshaped, forgotten, or overlooked? How did you overcome that feeling, or have you?
11. How can we help those that feel this way?
12. What can you do this week to bring greater unity to our church family?
3/13/2011 Sermon Questions
Going from Far to Near (Part 2) - Pastor Perry Kallis
Text: Eph. 2:13-18
1. Why do you think there was such a divide between Jews and Gentiles?
2. What are some possible divisive issues in the Body of Christ? Why do you think these things are divisive?
3. Is the unity of the Body of Christ more important that the individual? Why or why not?
4. Divisive issues tend to be along individual likes or dislikes, how does this fit into our identity in Christ? (see 2 Cor. 5:14-15, Gal. 2:20)
5. How many times is the word “peace” used in this passage?
What does this say about its importance in Jesus ministry and for us?
6. How do we sow peace as Christians in the World and with other Christians?
7. Have you ever been in a gathering where there were different cultures and languages but could feel the unity of the Holy Spirit in the Body of Christ? Where and when?
8. Why is our human tendency to divide?
9. What makes Christianity “a new creation or a different thing” compared with other religions?
10. What are some ways for us to foster unity in the Body of Christ?
11. How can our diversity in the Body of Christ be a strength?
12. How does Pastor Perry’s statement “God values our holiness more than our happiness” strike you?
13. If everyone in the Body of Christ was the same, would that be a good thing or a bad thing?
Check out The Practical Steps to Unity from Pastor Perry’s Sermon:
Some practical “what if” barrier breakers for us:
What if...you went up to someone not in your age group and asked them ... their name and how you could pray for them this next week?
What if... some Sunday you sat in a whole new place just so you could worship with someone else in this “new” Kainos – kind of God given family?
What if... instead of just sitting and waiting for church to start... you briefly bowed your head and prayed for the person beside you that God would speak to both of you at this family time together?
What if... we had a paper out in the Information center with all the words of the songs we sang that day? If and you younger believers heard a hymn you didn’t know, and read some of those words as part of your quiet time... and if some of you who feel challenged with some of the newer songs did the same thing in your personal quiet time?
What if... those of us who are part of this family began to “on purpose” look around at people to greet, to talk to, and to get to know; people who, look new to us- both before and after church?
What if... the most important “offering” we brought to every worship time was a heart asking: "What sacrifice am I making for the “Bride” this morning?" Rather than "What am I entitled to in this service?"
Text: Eph. 2:13-18
1. Why do you think there was such a divide between Jews and Gentiles?
2. What are some possible divisive issues in the Body of Christ? Why do you think these things are divisive?
3. Is the unity of the Body of Christ more important that the individual? Why or why not?
4. Divisive issues tend to be along individual likes or dislikes, how does this fit into our identity in Christ? (see 2 Cor. 5:14-15, Gal. 2:20)
5. How many times is the word “peace” used in this passage?
What does this say about its importance in Jesus ministry and for us?
6. How do we sow peace as Christians in the World and with other Christians?
7. Have you ever been in a gathering where there were different cultures and languages but could feel the unity of the Holy Spirit in the Body of Christ? Where and when?
8. Why is our human tendency to divide?
9. What makes Christianity “a new creation or a different thing” compared with other religions?
10. What are some ways for us to foster unity in the Body of Christ?
11. How can our diversity in the Body of Christ be a strength?
12. How does Pastor Perry’s statement “God values our holiness more than our happiness” strike you?
13. If everyone in the Body of Christ was the same, would that be a good thing or a bad thing?
Check out The Practical Steps to Unity from Pastor Perry’s Sermon:
Some practical “what if” barrier breakers for us:
What if...you went up to someone not in your age group and asked them ... their name and how you could pray for them this next week?
What if... some Sunday you sat in a whole new place just so you could worship with someone else in this “new” Kainos – kind of God given family?
What if... instead of just sitting and waiting for church to start... you briefly bowed your head and prayed for the person beside you that God would speak to both of you at this family time together?
What if... we had a paper out in the Information center with all the words of the songs we sang that day? If and you younger believers heard a hymn you didn’t know, and read some of those words as part of your quiet time... and if some of you who feel challenged with some of the newer songs did the same thing in your personal quiet time?
What if... those of us who are part of this family began to “on purpose” look around at people to greet, to talk to, and to get to know; people who, look new to us- both before and after church?
What if... the most important “offering” we brought to every worship time was a heart asking: "What sacrifice am I making for the “Bride” this morning?" Rather than "What am I entitled to in this service?"
Monday, March 07, 2011
"Going from Far to Near" sermon questions
On March 6 Pastor Perry preached from Ephesians 2:11-13. Here are some questions for personal application.
1. Read Ephesians 2:12. Why do we find it so easy to isolate ourselves? Why do we find it easy to exclude others?
2. Read 1 Cor. 9:19-23 – How does this translate into today’s world? How can we break down the walls in our neighborhoods, work, families?
3. What are some tall barriers to reaching our friends and neighbors for Christ?
4. Israel was to be a light to the world sharing God’s love and pointing the way to Him. What happened? What is the warning from Romans 11:17-20?
5.Pastor Perry mentioned that we ought to be “funnels” for God’s blessing and not “buckets” that hoard blessing for ourselves. When is it tempting to behave like a “bucket?” What are some ways in which we can become more like funnels?
6. Pastor Perry cited two ways that we can become ineffective for Christ: an attitude of legalism and an attitude of license. He defined “legalism” as thinking that “my choices, preferences and life actions make me a better Christian than others.” In what ways have you struggled with legalism? What would you say to a legalist? (Read Eph. 1.7-8, 2.6-9, and Rom. 2.1-4)
7. “License” could be defined as living too “feely” since you know that you’ve been forgiven. In what ways have you struggled with license in your life? What would you say to someone who struggles with this? (Read 1 Cor. 6.20; Rm. 6.1-7)
1. Read Ephesians 2:12. Why do we find it so easy to isolate ourselves? Why do we find it easy to exclude others?
2. Read 1 Cor. 9:19-23 – How does this translate into today’s world? How can we break down the walls in our neighborhoods, work, families?
3. What are some tall barriers to reaching our friends and neighbors for Christ?
4. Israel was to be a light to the world sharing God’s love and pointing the way to Him. What happened? What is the warning from Romans 11:17-20?
5.Pastor Perry mentioned that we ought to be “funnels” for God’s blessing and not “buckets” that hoard blessing for ourselves. When is it tempting to behave like a “bucket?” What are some ways in which we can become more like funnels?
6. Pastor Perry cited two ways that we can become ineffective for Christ: an attitude of legalism and an attitude of license. He defined “legalism” as thinking that “my choices, preferences and life actions make me a better Christian than others.” In what ways have you struggled with legalism? What would you say to a legalist? (Read Eph. 1.7-8, 2.6-9, and Rom. 2.1-4)
7. “License” could be defined as living too “feely” since you know that you’ve been forgiven. In what ways have you struggled with license in your life? What would you say to someone who struggles with this? (Read 1 Cor. 6.20; Rm. 6.1-7)
Monday, February 28, 2011
Diagnosis? Hope: 2/27/2011 sermon questions
Text Eph. 2:1-10 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. What part of the “before” is hardest for you to associate with? (Do we really understand how bad we were?)
2. Why is it important to remember where we came from (Eph. 2:12)?
3. Why is the word “wrath” in relation to God a problem for people? Why do most people gravitate towards the word “love” when talking about God? (Eph. 2:3)
4. How does sin affect the value of a person in God’s eyes?
5. When is comes right down to it why did God save us? What does he see in us?
6. What part of the “after” is hardest for you to apply to yourself?
7. Ephesians 2:10 says that we are God’s workmanship/masterpiece/work of art. In what ways do you find it hard to apply these words to yourself?
8. On the reverse of that how does knowing that God made you special and has particular good works, that only you can do, make you feel?
9. How can an understanding that we were shaped to serve God, and not to serve ourselves or our passions, change the way we live?
10. Read Col. 3.5-17. What sins do you need to “put off,” and what virtues do you need to “put on?”
1. What part of the “before” is hardest for you to associate with? (Do we really understand how bad we were?)
2. Why is it important to remember where we came from (Eph. 2:12)?
3. Why is the word “wrath” in relation to God a problem for people? Why do most people gravitate towards the word “love” when talking about God? (Eph. 2:3)
4. How does sin affect the value of a person in God’s eyes?
5. When is comes right down to it why did God save us? What does he see in us?
6. What part of the “after” is hardest for you to apply to yourself?
7. Ephesians 2:10 says that we are God’s workmanship/masterpiece/work of art. In what ways do you find it hard to apply these words to yourself?
8. On the reverse of that how does knowing that God made you special and has particular good works, that only you can do, make you feel?
9. How can an understanding that we were shaped to serve God, and not to serve ourselves or our passions, change the way we live?
10. Read Col. 3.5-17. What sins do you need to “put off,” and what virtues do you need to “put on?”
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Sermon Discussion Questions from 2/6/2011
God’s Power Always Makes A Point – Pastor Perry Kallis
Text: Eph. 1:19-23
1. When you think of God’s power, what do you think of?
2. We have the power through the Holy Spirit to Share God’s love, Suffer for Him, and Serve Him. For you, which of these is the hardest and why?
3. In what ways have you seen God’s power at work in your life to bring glory to Jesus?
4. Based on Eph. 3:20, Pastor Perry said that “we’ve got so much power from the Lord that we can risk living dangerously for God.” What kinds of risks do you think God might want you to take right now?
5. Since Jesus is seated at the right hand of God and has all authority and power, how should we think about life? About trials? About our obedience?
6. Read Eph. 1:22-23 – What is the significance of this for the Church?
7. What would a church empowered by the Holy Spirit look like? What would be different? How can you help towards moving in that direction?
8. How can God’s transforming power most freely be at work in my life? What things do we need to change in order to bring the most glory to God? Are there ways in which I’m hindering God’s power?
Text: Eph. 1:19-23
1. When you think of God’s power, what do you think of?
2. We have the power through the Holy Spirit to Share God’s love, Suffer for Him, and Serve Him. For you, which of these is the hardest and why?
3. In what ways have you seen God’s power at work in your life to bring glory to Jesus?
4. Based on Eph. 3:20, Pastor Perry said that “we’ve got so much power from the Lord that we can risk living dangerously for God.” What kinds of risks do you think God might want you to take right now?
5. Since Jesus is seated at the right hand of God and has all authority and power, how should we think about life? About trials? About our obedience?
6. Read Eph. 1:22-23 – What is the significance of this for the Church?
7. What would a church empowered by the Holy Spirit look like? What would be different? How can you help towards moving in that direction?
8. How can God’s transforming power most freely be at work in my life? What things do we need to change in order to bring the most glory to God? Are there ways in which I’m hindering God’s power?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Love is in the Air – Small Group Discussion Questions
Sermon by Pastor Joe Broesamle 2/13/11
Psalm 121
1. Read Psalm 121 – What speaks to you from this psalm? How does this psalm apply to
twenty- first century life?
2. Read 1 Peter 2:9 – What does it mean to be a royal priesthood? A Chosen people?
Based on this how can we “show others the goodness of God”?
3. Read Luke 12:6-7 Is there anything, object, model, craft, that you have built that you know every detail of it? How much do you value something like that? What is our value to God? One more question…why does he say “do not be afraid”? check out verses 4-5
4. How valuable do you feel to God? What gives us worth in God’s eyes?
5. Read Eph. 2:10 – When a painter, novelist, sculptor, makes what others consider a masterpiece what makes it so? What does it mean to you to be a “masterpiece”?
6. Got to take a look at Psalm 139:13-16 because it is a classic “masterpiece” of God’s workmanship in us. What moves you the most from this passage? Why?
7. Read John 10:10 What does it mean to have an abundant life? Are you having an abundant life? What do we need to do in order to have this abundant life that Jesus promises us?
8. How can our valuing ourselves, because of who we are in Christ, effect those around us?
9. What is our mission as believers in Christ? How does how I view myself affect that mission?
Sermon by Pastor Joe Broesamle 2/13/11
Psalm 121
1. Read Psalm 121 – What speaks to you from this psalm? How does this psalm apply to
twenty- first century life?
2. Read 1 Peter 2:9 – What does it mean to be a royal priesthood? A Chosen people?
Based on this how can we “show others the goodness of God”?
3. Read Luke 12:6-7 Is there anything, object, model, craft, that you have built that you know every detail of it? How much do you value something like that? What is our value to God? One more question…why does he say “do not be afraid”? check out verses 4-5
4. How valuable do you feel to God? What gives us worth in God’s eyes?
5. Read Eph. 2:10 – When a painter, novelist, sculptor, makes what others consider a masterpiece what makes it so? What does it mean to you to be a “masterpiece”?
6. Got to take a look at Psalm 139:13-16 because it is a classic “masterpiece” of God’s workmanship in us. What moves you the most from this passage? Why?
7. Read John 10:10 What does it mean to have an abundant life? Are you having an abundant life? What do we need to do in order to have this abundant life that Jesus promises us?
8. How can our valuing ourselves, because of who we are in Christ, effect those around us?
9. What is our mission as believers in Christ? How does how I view myself affect that mission?
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Praying Prayers on Purpose – Pastor Perry Kallis – 2/6/2011
Text Eph. 1:15-19 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Read Ephesians 1:15-19. Why do we find it easier to list our needs and wants in prayer than to ask for the kinds of things Paul does here??
2. What should we pray for? What does God want for us?
See: 2 Thess. 3:1, Luke 11:13; 18:7; Romans 10:1, 15:30-31,
Eph 6:18-19, James 1:5, Matt. 9:38, John 17:20-21,
(These are just a sampling there are many more references to prayer see attached list.)
3. The Ephesians were known for their “faith and love for all the saints” what do you think you known for as far as your walk with God? What would you like to be known for?
4. How do we really get to know God? Where does theology and doctrine play into knowing God? Is knowing doctrine important?
5. See Eph. 1:18 - What is our Hope? What is our Calling? How would a better understanding of these change our everyday lives?
6. Read Eph. 1:19-20. What do you know about God’s power? How does that power get transmitted into our lives? What kinds of things does God want to give us the power to do? (see 2 Pet. 1:3; 1 Thess. 4:3-7;
Acts 4:29-31; Rom. 15:13; 2 Cor. 12:9; Eph. 6:10-13)
7. What are some specific things you feel challenged to start praying for?
With your small group you may want to spend some additional time in prayer this week and use the A.C.T.S. method of prayer:
Adoration of the Lord – Who He is and praising His character traits.
Confession – What do I need to confess (maybe silently)
Thankfulness – What can I thank the Lord for?
Supplication – What do I need to ask Him For?
Text Eph. 1:15-19 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Read Ephesians 1:15-19. Why do we find it easier to list our needs and wants in prayer than to ask for the kinds of things Paul does here??
2. What should we pray for? What does God want for us?
See: 2 Thess. 3:1, Luke 11:13; 18:7; Romans 10:1, 15:30-31,
Eph 6:18-19, James 1:5, Matt. 9:38, John 17:20-21,
(These are just a sampling there are many more references to prayer see attached list.)
3. The Ephesians were known for their “faith and love for all the saints” what do you think you known for as far as your walk with God? What would you like to be known for?
4. How do we really get to know God? Where does theology and doctrine play into knowing God? Is knowing doctrine important?
5. See Eph. 1:18 - What is our Hope? What is our Calling? How would a better understanding of these change our everyday lives?
6. Read Eph. 1:19-20. What do you know about God’s power? How does that power get transmitted into our lives? What kinds of things does God want to give us the power to do? (see 2 Pet. 1:3; 1 Thess. 4:3-7;
Acts 4:29-31; Rom. 15:13; 2 Cor. 12:9; Eph. 6:10-13)
7. What are some specific things you feel challenged to start praying for?
With your small group you may want to spend some additional time in prayer this week and use the A.C.T.S. method of prayer:
Adoration of the Lord – Who He is and praising His character traits.
Confession – What do I need to confess (maybe silently)
Thankfulness – What can I thank the Lord for?
Supplication – What do I need to ask Him For?
Monday, January 31, 2011
A Guaranteed Inheritance – Pastor Perry Kallis - 1/30/2011
Text Eph. 1:11-14 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Pastor Perry mentioned that Christians both get a spiritual inheritance from the Lord but also are a spiritual inheritance to the Lord. What does it mean to be a Spiritual inheritance to the Lord? In what ways are we Jesus’ inheritance?
2. What is our spiritual inheritance? How should knowing that I have this spiritual inheritance change how I live?
3. What are some of the promises of God?
Check these verses out: 2 Peter 1:3-4, Romans 5:1, 8:28, 1 Cor. 10:13, Phil. 1:6, James 1:5, 4:10, Luke 12:31, 1 John 1:9, 5:14-15, Matt. 11:28, Luke 6:35, John 10:27-28, John 14:3
4. With this inheritance what are you looking forward to the most? What do you think God is looking forward to?
5. How does our inheritance give us significance? How does it change your view of yourself in God’s eyes?
6. If we were to live knowing the power that God has in us what would that look like and how would we be different?
7. How close do you feel to Jesus at this period in your life? What specific things could you do to get closer?
8. Read 2 Cor. 5:16-20. We heard that reconciliation, bringing people right with God, right with each other, and right with creation, is the central theme of the New Testament. What can you do to join God on his mission to reconcile people to God, each other, and this world?
Text Eph. 1:11-14 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Pastor Perry mentioned that Christians both get a spiritual inheritance from the Lord but also are a spiritual inheritance to the Lord. What does it mean to be a Spiritual inheritance to the Lord? In what ways are we Jesus’ inheritance?
2. What is our spiritual inheritance? How should knowing that I have this spiritual inheritance change how I live?
3. What are some of the promises of God?
Check these verses out: 2 Peter 1:3-4, Romans 5:1, 8:28, 1 Cor. 10:13, Phil. 1:6, James 1:5, 4:10, Luke 12:31, 1 John 1:9, 5:14-15, Matt. 11:28, Luke 6:35, John 10:27-28, John 14:3
4. With this inheritance what are you looking forward to the most? What do you think God is looking forward to?
5. How does our inheritance give us significance? How does it change your view of yourself in God’s eyes?
6. If we were to live knowing the power that God has in us what would that look like and how would we be different?
7. How close do you feel to Jesus at this period in your life? What specific things could you do to get closer?
8. Read 2 Cor. 5:16-20. We heard that reconciliation, bringing people right with God, right with each other, and right with creation, is the central theme of the New Testament. What can you do to join God on his mission to reconcile people to God, each other, and this world?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Your Remarkable Redemption – Pastor Perry Kallis - 1/23/2011
Text Eph. 1:7-14 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. What is the value of having a daily quiet time? Is there something that is keeping you from meeting with God? What gets in the way and why?
2. What about God makes you in awe of Him or are you seldom amazed by Him?
For some ideas read Psalm 145
3. Read Phil 2:5-11. Really think about what Jesus actually had to give up, live without, endure, on a daily basis to give you the opportunity to be redeemed and talk with Him. Don’t just say He died on the cross and rose again.
4. How does the fact that God redeemed us give us worth? Is there anything else that gives us worth?
5. What does it mean to you to be: Justified?
Forgiven?
Adopted?
Reconciled?
Redeemed?
6. Sometimes talk about meeting God and looking forward to that time makes people feel uneasy. Have you ever felt that way? Why?
7. “The Forgiveness He has lavished on us in His Grace” (reference) Is there enough forgiveness to go around? Are there things in your life that you believe are too big or bad for God to forgive you? If there are, consider getting together with someone you trust and talk this through because, if you have accepted His grace, you are forgiven.
8. In what ways does our refusing to accept God’s forgiveness keep us from a vital, exciting, wonderful relationship with the Lord?
9. How should someone who has been redeemed look different from others?
What difference should it make in your everyday life?
Text Eph. 1:7-14 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. What is the value of having a daily quiet time? Is there something that is keeping you from meeting with God? What gets in the way and why?
2. What about God makes you in awe of Him or are you seldom amazed by Him?
For some ideas read Psalm 145
3. Read Phil 2:5-11. Really think about what Jesus actually had to give up, live without, endure, on a daily basis to give you the opportunity to be redeemed and talk with Him. Don’t just say He died on the cross and rose again.
4. How does the fact that God redeemed us give us worth? Is there anything else that gives us worth?
5. What does it mean to you to be: Justified?
Forgiven?
Adopted?
Reconciled?
Redeemed?
6. Sometimes talk about meeting God and looking forward to that time makes people feel uneasy. Have you ever felt that way? Why?
7. “The Forgiveness He has lavished on us in His Grace” (reference) Is there enough forgiveness to go around? Are there things in your life that you believe are too big or bad for God to forgive you? If there are, consider getting together with someone you trust and talk this through because, if you have accepted His grace, you are forgiven.
8. In what ways does our refusing to accept God’s forgiveness keep us from a vital, exciting, wonderful relationship with the Lord?
9. How should someone who has been redeemed look different from others?
What difference should it make in your everyday life?
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Secured for Success – Pastor Perry Kallis - 1/16/2011
Text Eph. 1:3-6 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. What are some of the Spiritual Blessings we receive from God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit? Eph. 1:3
2. How can we “bless” the Lord by our words and actions everyday?
3. Read James 1:17 and Romans 8:28 – What does it mean when every gift from God is good? What about hard times, illness and even death that are all allowed or come from God? Are those good?
4. Given that we are citizens of Heaven how should that affect our worldview on: people, things, and circumstances?
5. Read Eph. 1:4-5, Eph. 2:8-10, and Romans 3:11-12 –When it comes to Salvation you had nothing to bring to the table, you were not smarter, better looking, more likable, more spiritual, or graced with such talent God just had to pick you. God’s choice to save you was not based on anything you did. How does that make you feel?
6. Why does God save us?
7. What makes you uncomfortable with the doctrine of predestination?
8. What is the difference between “knowing about the love of Christ” and “Living out that Love”? What does that look like?
9. Read Eph 1:5-6 – How does God’s gracious choice affect how we worship, worry, witness, and our walk with God?
Bonus Question: What is the difference between Election and predestination?
Text Eph. 1:3-6 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. What are some of the Spiritual Blessings we receive from God the Father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit? Eph. 1:3
2. How can we “bless” the Lord by our words and actions everyday?
3. Read James 1:17 and Romans 8:28 – What does it mean when every gift from God is good? What about hard times, illness and even death that are all allowed or come from God? Are those good?
4. Given that we are citizens of Heaven how should that affect our worldview on: people, things, and circumstances?
5. Read Eph. 1:4-5, Eph. 2:8-10, and Romans 3:11-12 –When it comes to Salvation you had nothing to bring to the table, you were not smarter, better looking, more likable, more spiritual, or graced with such talent God just had to pick you. God’s choice to save you was not based on anything you did. How does that make you feel?
6. Why does God save us?
7. What makes you uncomfortable with the doctrine of predestination?
8. What is the difference between “knowing about the love of Christ” and “Living out that Love”? What does that look like?
9. Read Eph 1:5-6 – How does God’s gracious choice affect how we worship, worry, witness, and our walk with God?
Bonus Question: What is the difference between Election and predestination?
Monday, January 10, 2011
All For One and One For All discussion Questions
All For One-One for All - Sermon 1/9/2011
Text Eph. 1:1-2 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Read Ephesians 1:1: When you think about the fact that you too are a disciple “by the will of God,” how does that make you feel and what responsibilities does that place on you?
See also Romans 8:28-30 and Eph. 2:10: How does this factor in?
2. If you were in prison, what would your priorities be? What would you be thinking about? What were Paul’s priorities? In what circumstances do you fell justified in dismissing God’s priorities?
3. Does God only call us to do things that “feel” good? What are some things that God put the Apostles through that did not “feel” good? What are some things you have gone through that did not “feel” good but built your faith? See James 1: 2-3, 2 Timothy 3:12
4. When someone sets out to run a marathon is it best to just go to the marathon and run, or to train and practice first? If we know that we will experience trials that test our faith, how best can we prepare for them?
5. Paul refers to the Christians in Ephesus as “saints” and other biblical authors refer to Christians as “priests,” what does this imply for the everyday believer?
6. What does it mean to be “in Christ” and “with Christ” in our daily living?
See also Rom. 8:1, 8:39, 2 Cor. 5:17, Gal. 3:26-28, Eph. 2:13
7. Why is the city and book of Ephesus relevant to us today?
8. Read Ephesians 4:17-20: What activities, causes, or entertainment do we need to reconsider in our life that might be futile in our walk with Christ?
What things are bringing us closer to Christ and what things are dragging us away from Christ? Our most valuable commodity in this culture is time. How do we waste time on things not important to eternity? How might our reprioritizing our lives change the world for Christ?
9. How can I find joy in “living righteously” without becoming annoyingly legalistic?
Text Eph. 1:1-2 - Small Group Discussion Questions
1. Read Ephesians 1:1: When you think about the fact that you too are a disciple “by the will of God,” how does that make you feel and what responsibilities does that place on you?
See also Romans 8:28-30 and Eph. 2:10: How does this factor in?
2. If you were in prison, what would your priorities be? What would you be thinking about? What were Paul’s priorities? In what circumstances do you fell justified in dismissing God’s priorities?
3. Does God only call us to do things that “feel” good? What are some things that God put the Apostles through that did not “feel” good? What are some things you have gone through that did not “feel” good but built your faith? See James 1: 2-3, 2 Timothy 3:12
4. When someone sets out to run a marathon is it best to just go to the marathon and run, or to train and practice first? If we know that we will experience trials that test our faith, how best can we prepare for them?
5. Paul refers to the Christians in Ephesus as “saints” and other biblical authors refer to Christians as “priests,” what does this imply for the everyday believer?
6. What does it mean to be “in Christ” and “with Christ” in our daily living?
See also Rom. 8:1, 8:39, 2 Cor. 5:17, Gal. 3:26-28, Eph. 2:13
7. Why is the city and book of Ephesus relevant to us today?
8. Read Ephesians 4:17-20: What activities, causes, or entertainment do we need to reconsider in our life that might be futile in our walk with Christ?
What things are bringing us closer to Christ and what things are dragging us away from Christ? Our most valuable commodity in this culture is time. How do we waste time on things not important to eternity? How might our reprioritizing our lives change the world for Christ?
9. How can I find joy in “living righteously” without becoming annoyingly legalistic?
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