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Message Discussion Questions

From June 1, 2025

Getting Started

Describe both a positive and negative example of leadership? Why was it positive or negative? What are the consequences of good or bad leadership?

Quick Reactions from the message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words? What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Respond to the quote…

Leadership is the capacity to inspire and motivate; to persuade people willingly to endure hardships, usually prolonged, and incur dangers, usually acute, that if left to themselves they would do their utmost to avoid.

How have you seen this displayed in Nehemiah’s leadership throughout the book?

In Nehemiah 7, Dave identified principles of spiritual leadership in Nehemiah…spiritual leaders: 1. Empower others to serve, 2. Make room for others to experience God’s provision, 3. Are motivated by seeing and serving people, and mobilize generosity.

  1. Of these principles, which area do you excel and which area do you need growth? Why?

  2. In verses 1-2, Nehemiah appoints and gives responsibility to people. What has God appointed you to lead, protect, and take responsibility for?

  3. How is the principle applicable to the church? To our church?

  4. How is this principle related to 1 Peter 2:9-10 and the priesthood of all believers, specifically considering the appoint of the Levite priests in the Old Testament?

  5. How can a church have a building, but not make room for others? How does God call us to make room for others as ambassadors of the good news of Jesus?

  6. Look over verses 8-60 and take note of the names and numbers of people included to invite…
    What do you notice? Why does Nehemiah take great pains to make this list?
    How does good leadership in your life notice people. What does this list say about Nehemiah’s concerns and heart? How can we sometimes make programs, procedures, plans, organization more important than people we serve?

  7. Read Matthews 11:18-30… Why was Jesus responding to? Why did he judge the towns where He was ministering too? How is this connected with seeing and serving people? Why were people weary and heaven laden?

  8. Why is generosity such an important theme in Nehemiah? Why is it important for a church?

  9. What is God calling you lead, to change, to re-build?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in this passage?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage? How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From May 25, 2025

Getting Started

What was the biggest distraction you have experienced recently?

Quick Reactions from the message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Explore the Passage (Nehemiah 6)

What do you think drove Nehemiah to not quit?
Nehemiah had several people coming against him at one time although he had done no wrong. Have you ever found yourself being attacked by several different sources simultaneously for a “crime” you didn’t commit? How did you handle it?

Nehemiah’s opposition came as a result of him doing something for God. Was yours? When do you seem to experience the most distractions?
Where do your worst distractions come from?

In Nehemiah 6:9, what was his primary line of defense?
Typically, what is your first line of defense (who is the first person you reach out to)?
Nehemiah finished the wall despite rather significant distractions! Do you tend to overcome your distractions or cave under the weight?

Do you find value in reaching out to a close friend or church member to help you deal with and overcome the distraction? Or do you choose to just try and plough through on your own? Why?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From May 18, 2025

Getting Started

Start today by sharing some examples of great leaders you have worked with or for… what were some of their better characteristics?

Quick Reactions from the message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Last week, Dave shared the following:
“Anytime God calls you to change, fix or re-build something that needs repair, you will face opposition.”

In chapter 5, the rebuilding of the wall faced a new type of opposition. Where did this chapter’s disruption or opposition come from?

Churches are far from immune to criticism or complaints from within. Why, in your opinion or experience, is it so common for churches to have internal battles?

In Nehemiah 5, we observe Nehemiah having to handle a situation that involved some of his own countrymen mistreating his own people.

Explore the Passage (Nehemiah 5:1-19)

What problems were the Jews facing in this passage? List off all that you see or find. (5:1-5)
Nehemiah describes himself as ‘very angry’ in verse 6. Is anger ever ok for a spiritual leader? Share your thoughts around your answer (5:6)
What was the cause of these problems? (5:7)
Exodus 22:25 was likely on Nehemiah’s mind when he was thinking things over. Read it out loud from a couple of different bible translations that your group members have.
What did Nehemiah reference when calling his fellow Jews to change their behavior? (5:8)
What else did Nehemiah reference when calling them to change? (5:9)
What specifically did Nehemiah call the people to do? (5:10-11)
How did the Jews respond to his call to action? (5:12-13)
Mention the actions Nehemiah took that benefitted the Jews during the rebuild (5:14-18)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

What, in your own words, does it mean to “fear the Lord?”
If you read through this passage again, what do you notice NOT taking place as they deal with this internal opposition/obstacle? (allow some time for answers, eventually share: There is NO mention of any progress on the wall. Even during the previous chapter’s external opposition, they made progress with a sword in one hand and a trowel in the other)
Why is internal opposition to God’s work so destructive?
How do you imagine God’s heart is impacted when believers fight amongst themselves?
Does this mean believers should never voice disagreement? Please elaborate on your answer.
If it is ok for believers to disagree, what methods and advice can help them settle matters and keep God’s work going?
Which of the positive actions taken by Nehemiah were you most impressed by? Which ones leave you with some questions? Share those questions if you feel comfortable doing so.

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in this passage?
As you consider your disagreements with your church/other believers, how can you seek to let Scripture be your guide in how you treat each other?
There was a request to take one hour to evaluate your current approach to giving to God’s work. How does that sit with you? Did you feel it came from a ‘grace-filled’ place? Why or why not? How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From May 11, 2025

Getting Started

Has there been a time where either you, or someone else got upset when they saw others succeed? Describe what happened… How or why can success, change or even potential success play on our fears?

Quick Reactions from the message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

When you hear the invitation to “trust God,” what do you think of? What does “trust in God” look like? Feel like?

Questions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words? What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

“Anytime God calls you to change, fix or re-build something that needs repair, you will face opposition.”

Take time to discuss and/or reflect on how you have seen this be true in your life, in a church, in your work, spiritual life or family?

If you could speak to your younger self, what would you tell him or her about facing opposition when you needed to change or fix something in your life that God was calling you to change? How have you learned to do this well in your life, or is it still a struggle?

In Nehemiah 4, Dave said there were three things we are to expect when trying to change, fix, or re- build when things that are in disrepair. (Expect criticism, anger, and that God will ask you to become part of the solution).

  1. Which of these are most difficult for you to face?
  2. How does unfounded criticism (as opposed to constructive criticism) undermine your confidence and challenge your insecurities when it comes to fixing what needs fixing?
  3. How is change, fixing what needs fixing in a church family difficult? What ought good leaders do for us?
  4. Why are both prayer and planning essential for us when God calls us to repair what is broken?
  5. What is surprising about Nehemiah’s prayer?
  6. What do Nehemiah’s opponents hope to accomplish with their criticism, threats and anger?
  7. What does Nehemiah do to call the people to focus on what is most important? What can we learn from this?
  8. How do complaints, anger from others throw you off track on God’s mission and purposes? What can you do to stay focused on what God is calling you and His church to do?
  9. In what way is confusion the enemy of doing what God calls all of us to?

Explore the Passage (Nehemiah 4)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Why did Sanballat become angry with the Jews? (4:1)
How did Sanballat treat the Jews? (4:1-2)
What did Sanballat and Tobiah do to discourage the Jews from rebuilding the city walls? (4:1-3)
What role did Nehemiah play in these events? (4:1-23)
How did Nehemiah respond to the taunts of his enemies? (4:4-5)
According to Nehemiah, why were the Jews so successful in their work? (4:6)
In what specific ways did Nehemiah and the Israelites show commitment to this project? (4:6-23)
What did Israel’s enemies do when they heard of Israel’s success in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls? (4:7-8)
How did Nehemiah and the Jews respond to the evil plotting of their enemies? (4:9)
What did Nehemiah do to encourage the Israelites and protect them from their enemies? (4:10-14)
How did Nehemiah describe the people of Israel in his prayer? (1:10)
What specific request did Nehemiah ask God to grant him? (1:11)
How were the Jews able to return to their work of rebuilding the city walls? (4:15)
Who frustrated the plotting of Israel’s enemies? (4:15)
What sacrifices did the people have to make because of the threats of their enemies? (4:16-18)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

What do you admire about the Israelites in this incident?
To what area of life today do Nehemiah’s words speak?
What kinds of events, opposition, or setbacks most discourage you?
How does God want us to deal with discouragement?
How should we respond to negative events or criticism from others?
When have you ever felt opposition from other people when you have done what you thought was right?
What practical steps could you take the next time you feel opposition from others for doing what is right?
To what do you need to renew, rebuild, change your commitment and priorites?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in this passage?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From May 4, 2025

Getting Started

What did you already know about the book of Nehemiah? Did you gain any new knowledge about it this week?

Have you participated in any major building projects? If so, when? What do you remember about it?

Quick Reactions

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

When you hear the invitation to “trust God,” what do you think of? What does “trust in God” look like? Feel like?

Questions from the Message

Which verse stuck out most to you? Why?

Have you had a time where you felt overwhelmed with fear (or another emotion) but felt like obedience to God meant moving through it? If you don’t mind, please share it.

In what way can we actively “prepare the horse for battle, but entrust victory to the Lord?”

Have you ever seen a time when God moved in a miraculous way? In a way in which there was no other explanation but the providence of God? If you feel comfortable, please share.

What do you think of the quote by Eugene Peterson: “The church you want becomes enemy of the church you have?” In what ways? Have you ever seen this happen at church – or elsewhere? Family, school, life, etc.?

Explore the Passages (Nehemiah 2 & 3)

What stuck out to you about Nehemiah’s story in chapter 2?

Why do you think Nehemiah 3 begins with the High Priest and his work on the wall? Is it significant that the lead religious leader might be involved in the manual labor?

See the variety of the workers’ jobs in Chapter 3, verses 1, 8, 9, 12, 17, 25, and 32. Has the Lord ever called you to do something out of obedience (and willingness!) and not out of your gifting or skill?

Apply the Passage

In light of Westwood’s vision, what does “transformational relationships” mean to you? How do you know when you have found one?

What does “significant empowerment” mean to you? How about “engagement in the community?”

How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From April 27, 2025

Getting Started

What is your initial/gut reaction to bad news? Why?
Why is change difficult for us, especially when it involves something within us?
If you were going through a difficult time, what would you want others to do for you? Why?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
What is significant about Nehemiah not being a prophet, priest or king?
Dave gave us 3 steps to re-build what needs fixing from Nehemiah 1…

  1. You will never re-build what you won’t acknowledge needs fixing. How can denial be our biggest downfall or biggest enemy to change?
    In what way is it difficult to face the things that God is asking us to change? How does Nehemiah deal with bad news?
  2. Re-building starts with compassion, not courage
    What was Nehemiah’s reaction to bad news?
    In what way can we overlook how compassion moves us to re-build or change what needs fixing in our lives or in the places we live? (home, work, church)
    In what area of your life have you grown callous and need God’s compassion?
    READ Mark 6:34; Matthew 9:36 and John 10:35 – what moved Jesus to compassion? How does this inform us?
  3. Change Begins in Prayer
    How did Nehemiah pray? What can we learn about his prayer that could help us pray for change or re-build what needs fixing rather than just complaining about what needs fixing?
    How have you seen prayer change you?

Explore the Passage (Nehemiah 1:1-11)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.
When did the events of this passage take place? (1:1)
Why did Nehemiah question his brother? (1:1-2)
What report did Hanani and his men give to Nehemiah? (1:3)
How did Nehemiah react to the news about Jerusalem and the exiles? (1:4)
How did Nehemiah describe God in his prayer? (1:5)
According to Nehemiah, with whom does God keep His covenant of love? (1:5)
What made Nehemiah more aware of his own sinfulness? (1:5-6)
What is the major theme of Nehemiah’s prayer? (1:5-11)
On whose behalf did Nehemiah pray and fast? (1:6)
Of what sins were the Israelites guilty? (1:7)
What instruction did the Lord give to Moses? (1:8)
What promise of the Lord could the Israelites claim, according to Nehemiah? (1:9)
How did Nehemiah describe the people of Israel in his prayer? (1:10)
What specific request did Nehemiah ask God to grant him? (1:11)

Questions that help us understand the signficance of the text

What admirable traits do you see demonstrated by Nehemiah?
What did Nehemiah’s prayer accomplish?
What are the benefits of focusing on the attributes of God?
What role does prayer play in your life?
How do you think you need to change your prayer habits?
Why does God want Christians to pray?
In what circumstances do you think it would be wise to fast and pray?
What can we learn from Nehemiah’s example about how to deal with despair?
With what disappointment or challenge are you struggling?
In light of this story, how can we overcome the problems we face?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From April 13, 2025

Getting Started

Describe a time when someone defended you when you could not defend yourself? (or the opposite)
What happened?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Why do you think that God makes the issue of justice such an important issue not only in Proverbs, but all over Scripture?
In what way is it easier to see the need for justice when we are unfairly treated, but harder to see it when others are treated unjustly?

Proverbs addresses three areas God calls us to act justly in our world…

-For those that are most vulnerable Read Proverbs 22:22-23; 21:13; 31:8-9 again.

  • Who would you describe as the “most vulnerable” in our world today? Why
  • How do you respond to 22:13 when it says, “God will ruin anyone who ruins them?”
  • What could you do in the small corner of the world that you live in to “speak up for the poor and the helpless?”
  • In what way has Christ had mercy on us when we deserved His justice?

-For those facing danger or suffering unjustly? Read Proverbs 24:11-12 again…

  • Who does this Proverb ask for us to intervene for? In what other areas may God be calling us to intervene?
  • What “excuses” does God not give us to intervene? In what way is this Proverb related to Matthew 25:37-40? What excuses do I typically give not to intervene when God may be calling me too? Physically, Spiritually (see James 5:19-20)
  • What way does the “world” let us “off the hook” for not getting involved in “other people’s business”?
  • Who in your life is heading down a dangerous path? What is holding you back from intervening?

-For those we interact with in the marketplace Read Proverbs 16:11-12; 21:12

  • How is our personal integrity and honesty in the workplace often challenged today?
  • Why is our honesty and personal integrity so important to God in the marketplace?
  • How is our honesty and personal integrity honored by God? (Read Proverbs 21:21 and Proverbs 11:17)
  • What simple way could you live out the wisdom of Proverbs to act more justly in your world today?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From April 6, 2025

Getting Started

How do you define happiness?
What is your most treasured possession? Why?
Why do most people want more than what they already have?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words? What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Why should any conversation about money start with a simple question:
“Have I what is enough?”

  1. What is at the heart of this question for us as Christians?
  2. What would answering this question do in the area of my budget, spending, saving and giving?

In the message Dave addressed three principles of the “truly wealthy” in Proverbs…
• They Choose Character Before Wealth

Read Proverbs 22:1; 19:7; 8:10-11 again.

  1. In what way is character more valuable than wealth? Why?
  2. What does the Proverb mean when it say, “nothing you desire can compare to it?” What do we desire that doesn’t compare?

• They Become Wealthy the Hard Way?

Read Proverbs 10:4; 22:7; 13:11; 12:11; 11:18; 22:16 again…

  1. Have you ever known someone who tried a quick rich scheme and failed?
  2. Why do you think God’s provision comes to us through hard work, patience, discipline, doing the right thing over time rather than just fast and expediently?
  3. What can you learn and apply from this principle?

• They Know that Money Given is Never Lost

Read Proverbs 11:24-28
How do you tend to think about giving?
What does this Proverb teach us about what happens when we give?
How can trusting in money bring us down with it?

Explore the Passages (Ecclesiastes 5:10-20)

What unflattering truths hold for the person who loves money? (5:10-12)
What grievous evil did Solomon notice? (5:13-17)
What is good and proper for a person to do? (5:18)
What sort of experience did Solomon describe as a gift from God? (5:19)
What happens to the person who has wealth and possessions? (5:20)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

Why is money unable to bring happiness or contentment?
If we cannot take anything with us when we die, why do we work so hard to acquire things?
How should we go about finding satisfaction in our work?
What does it mean to accept one’s lot in life?
What is the connection between accepting one’s lot in life and finding happiness?
Why is it so hard for us to accept our lot in life?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From March 30, 2025

Getting Started

Describe someone who has been a good friend? What made them a good friend?
Describe a time a friendship did not turn out well? What happened? Why did it dissolve?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Explore the Passages (Proverbs 22:6)

Proverbs describe three principles to experiencing great friendships or relationships.
1. Choose your friends wisely.
Read: Proverbs 12:26 and 13:20
What would you tell your “younger self” about choosing friends wisely?
How does a “companion of fools” suffer harm?
How can this still apply to us as “adults”?

2. True Friends are candid
What does it mean to be “candid” in friendship or a relationship? Why is this important?
Read: Proverbs 27:5-6; Proverbs 18:1; Proverbs 27:9
What is the difference between open rebuke and hidden love? Why would we rather have hidden love than open rebuke, or kisses from an enemy than wounds from a friend? Would you say you invite honest, candid conversations in your friendships? Why or why not?
Proverbs 18:1
How is isolation a growing problem in our culture today? Why is it against sound judgement? In what way are starting, keeping and maintaining friendships difficult today?
Proverbs 27:9
What connection is there between oil and perfume and a friends earnest counsel?

3. True Friends are confidants
Read Proverbs 16:28
Why does honesty and our words matter in our relationships? How have you experienced this?

Proverbs 17:9
How can overlooking an offense or forgiving an offense create closer bonds in friendship? How can we choose to build or tear down relationships?

Proverbs 15:22 and 28:13
How are these two Proverbs connected in thought regarding friendship and relationships?
How could listening to these Proverbs strengthen your friendships/relationships and experience success?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From March 23, 2025

Getting Started

When you think of “leadership,” what comes to mind?

If you’re willing, share a positive story about leadership in your life.

If you’re willing, share a negative story about leadership in your life.

Quick Reactions

Have you ever been led by someone who didn’t have a position of leadership above you, but still led you?

Where are your circles of influence? What makes serving in these places a joy? What makes it hard?

Questions from the Message

What do you recall from the message? Why did that stick out to you?

Which verse do you recall the most?


Katie shared four things that people of influence need: 1. To know that they are needy. 2. To value honesty from wise people. 3. To seek integrity. 4. To pay attention to those around them.
What other qualities do you think the Bible speaks to about those in leadership? Are there things you might add?
Is there one of the four that are difficult for you? Are there any you would rank as the most important?
Which one has blessed you while you were under someone’s leadership?

 

Explore the Passages (Proverbs 15:22, 27:23-27)

Proverbs 15:22 – Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Have you seen this in your life?

In what ways is honesty hard and costly?

Proverbs 15:23 – A person finds joy in giving an apt reply – and how good is a timely word! Where have you seen this in your life?

Proverbs 27:23-27. What do you think the Bible means when it invites people to “know well the condition of your flock”? What does this look like in your life?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From March 16, 2025

Getting Started

Who has spoken the most [positive] thing(s) into your life?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

 

Explore the Passage (Proverbs 25:11-13)

What was the best you ever received and who gave it to you?
At the time did you appreciate it, or did it make you angry?

Do you generally receive criticism well? Do you receive criticism better from certain people? If so, why?

Look at Proverbs 12:18 and 25:11-13. Generally speaking, is it easier for you to make cutting remarks or offer words of healing?? Are there times when you deliberately reach out to those you know are hurting or suffering to offer a word of comfort, even when it’s totally inconvenient for you?

Are you your worst critic? Do you tend to put yourself down even before others have an opportunity to? Look at Jeremiah 29:11 and Ephesians 2:10 and Romans 5:1; 8:1-2. If God isn’t condemning you, why are you? Do you realize you are playing into the hands of the enemy by doing so?

Look at Proverbs 25:6-7. Have you ever promoted yourself too soon and then gotten embarrassed? Do you anyone who loves to brag on themselves, or puff themselves up at the expense of putting others down? How do you feel after being in their presence for even a short time? Using words in this way is never good.

What type of response from God do you think you’re setting yourself up for when grumbling – especially God and His blessings? Does grumbling look good on a true disciple of Christ? Do you realize you could be digging your own grave through incessant grumbling?

When was the last time you found yourself intentionally praising God in the midst of a very trying or difficult situation? Is praise your initial response typically or grumbling? I Thessalonians 5:18 James 1:2-3

Have your current relationships lately been enhanced or hindered by your words?
Do you take a second to consider what you’re about to say (and your tone of voice) before you say it, or do you just go for it?
Was there a time or a moment in your life when your praise broke the chains of discouragement and defeat and brought down the walls of opposition?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From March 9, 2025

Getting Started

How would you describe how your parent(s) or parent-figure “raised” you? What did they most value?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

 

Explore the Passage (Proverbs 22:6)

In what way would you say that your parent(s) directed you…or trained you up? What was lacking? What do you wish they would have done in the area of discipleship and discipline?

What “Path” did your parents value the most (either overtly or subtly)? What Path do you believe the Proverbs would say is the one most valuable? Why?

What messages do parent(s) receive today about what are the most important things parent(s) should do?

What was your relationship to the “church” as a young person? In what way is it crucial to have both a parent and the church working in concert together to shape young people? How can you support that mission at Westwood?

Why is it crucial for a parent(s) to have the right goal/vision for parenting? What would aiming for Christlikeness do to our parenting or grandparenting?

What can we learn from Luke 2:52 about how Jesus grew and how children ought to grow?

How does the Rueben Hill parenting study affirm the wisdom of Proverbs 22?
(Authoritative Parents best combine love and discipline and produce children with high self-esteem and high coping skills as opposed to permissive, neglectful or authoritarian)

In what way could Proverbs 22 better inform your parenting or grandparenting?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From March 2, 2025

Getting Started

How would you describe someone who is virtuous or someone who is not virtuous?
What is the wisest decision you ever made…what is the most foolish decision you ever made?
How does knowing Jesus is the only “virtuous one” help us better read and apply Proverbs?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
How can we “suffer” from moral overconfidence? How is this connected (or corrected) to understanding that wisdom is based in the “Fear of the Lord?
Dave mentioned three (of which there are many in Proverbs) virtues of the wise… Honesty, Prudence and Honor…
How are these three virtues underappreciated today?
How can developing these virtues in our lives be beneficial to: our relationship with others, our relationship with God and our relationship to those who are in authority?
Which virtue is most difficult? Why?
Agree/Disagree: “Trust is built on truthfulness rather than truth”. How does dishonesty or untruthfulness undermine trust?
What can you learn from how we ought to respond to a fool or foolishness? (Proverbs 26:4-11)

 

Explore the Passage (Proverbs 14:1-16)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What themes did Solomon develop throughout the proverbs in this chapter? (14:1-35)
How did Solomon illustrate the differences between the wise person and the foolish person? (14:1- 35)
On what general areas of life do these verses touch? (14:1-35)
How does the fool’s talk contrast with that of the wise? (14:3)
*What is the difference between a truthful witness and a false witness? (14:5, 25)
What does the mocker seek but not find? (14:6)
What is the wisdom of the prudent? (14:8)
Where is goodwill found? (14:9)
What does each heart know? (14:10)
Where does the way that seems right lead? (14:12)
What are the rewards of the good person and the faithless? (14:14)
To what does the prudent person give thought? (14:15)
What does the wise person do? (14:16)
What does a quick-tempered person do? (14:17)
How should a person treat those in need? (14:21, 31)
What do those who plan what is good find? (14:22)
What are the results of hard work? mere talk? (14:23)
What did Solomon say about the fear of the Lord? (14:26-27)
What do a heart at peace and envy do? (14:30)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

How might a person’s speech protect him or her?
When have loose lips gotten you into trouble?
Why would a mocker be unable to find wisdom?
What does it mean to give thought to one’s steps?
Why is it that many people seem to live their life without giving much thought to what they are doing with their life?
How can we reflect on our steps in life?
Why is it hard to understand genuinely another person’s heartache?
How might the way that leads to death seem like the right way to some people?
What are some of the “wrong ways” in life or “false philosophies” that people you know are following?
When is it hard for you to exercise prudence?
What sort of relationship do these verses suggest there is between mental and physical health?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From February 23, 2025

Getting Started

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? What is the worst advice? What was the difference?
What makes someone foolish or wise?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
What kind of book is Proverbs?
Dave mentioned there are three assumptions we must make about the book to interpret the message of Proverbs accurately:
1. That wisdom comes from God and is woven into the world around us
2. Wisdom has been accumulated by wise people in past generations
3. Proverbs are not promises, but general truths

Why is this vital if we are to interpret and apply the meaning of Proverbs to our lives?
What does the writer in Proverbs 1:2-4 say the purpose of Proverbs are?
What is our role and response to in reading Proverbs (1:5-6 & 2:1-4)
Why is the “fear of the Lord” the beginning (foundation) of knowledge/wisdom?
“Fear” can be both Reverence/Awe that draws us to God and also healthy Respect (terryifing) that restrains us? How have you seen both aspects of fear be important to making wise, godly decisions?
What would it look like for you seek God’s wisdom in your life? What benefits would there be?

 

Explore the Passage (Proverbs 1)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Who wrote this section of Proverbs? (1:1)
Why did Solomon write Proverbs? (1:1-7)
What three types of individuals are mentioned by Solomon? (1:1-7)
Where does wisdom come from? (1:7)
About what sort of enticements did Solomon warn us? (1:8-19)
What happens to those who pursue ill-gotten gain? (1:19)
How did Solomon describe wisdom? (1:20-21)
How did Solomon describe the simple person, the mocker, and the fool? (1:22)
How does wisdom treat those who reject her? (1:24-27)
What is the result of not accepting wisdom? (1:28-32)
What is the result of accepting wisdom? (1:33)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

How is the fear of the Lord the beginning of knowledge?
What does it mean to fear the Lord?
What type of knowledge and discipline do fools despise?
What are the benefits of living wisely?
What are the consequences of living foolishly?
How does your life-style reflect your acceptance or rejection of wisdom?
Why and how do people reject wisdom?
When and why have you been tempted to pursue ill-gotten gain?
Why do you agree or disagree with the principle that both the wise and the fool reap what they sow?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From February 16, 2025

Getting Started

How open are you to new ideas? How have you learned to discern what a good idea is from a bad one?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Read both Proverbs 14:12 and Jeremiah 17:9 together. How do these “warnings” inform how we are to be discerning about God’s voice? How we are to evaluate what we hear or what others say about God?

Of the three points Dave mentioned about better discerning God’s voice
(Is it consistent with Scripture, Is it consistent with how God made you, and Is it consistent with cross- shaped love)

  • Which area do I need to grow in, or train myself better
  • How would each help you better discern if God is speaking, or evaluate what others are saying?

  • What would I need to change or do differently to begin to act on God’s leadings through the Spirit?

    From Acts 17, Dave said we can learn to apply listening and discerning God’s voice in 3 ways: (Eagerly receive what God may be saying, Evaluate its truthfulness by Examining Scripture, and evaluate it in a community of believers)

  • How can you open yourself up (eagerly receive what God may be saying)?
  • How have you grown cynical in “hearing from God? Why?
  • What can you do to become more discerning?
  • How can you more bravely act on what God may be saying?

 

Explore the Passage (Acts 17:10-15)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

When did Paul and Silas leave Thessalonica? (17:10)
Why did Paul and Silas leave at night? (17:10)
What town did the missionaries visit? (17:10)
*On arriving in Berea, where did Paul and Silas go? (17:10)
How were the Bereans different from the Thessalonians? (17:11)
How did the Bereans interact with Paul’s message? (17:11)
How did the people respond to the gospel? (17:12)
Who responded to the gospel? (17:12)
What did the Jewish unbelievers from Thessalonica do? (17:13)
Why did Paul leave Berea? (17:14)
Why did Silas and Timothy remain in Berea? (17:14)
Who went with Paul to Athens? (17:15)
What instructions did Paul leave for Silas and Timothy? (17:15)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

If your church offered daily Bible studies, why might people go or not go to them?
What does it mean to welcome the message of Christ?
Why is it important to think about what we are taught?
How should all Christians interact with what they are taught about the Bible?
When might a Christian viewpoint stir up controversy?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From February 9, 2025

Getting Started

In what way have you seen others “abused” a phrase like God says? And/or… how have you learned to listen to God’s voice?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
In what way can we grow reluctant to embrace the notion that we can hear from God?
What can be both similar or dissimilar to an ability to hear from God and how we communicate with each other?
What advantage does God have to speak to us that normal human communication does not?
What can we learn from Samuel about how God speaks?
In what way is your first instinct in life to reach for a “natural” explanation? How may this sometimes interfere with God communicating to us.
One way we can become more discerning about if we know God is speaking is to ask, “Is what I’m hearing consistent with God’s character”? Why is this vital and necessary? Of the attributes of God that Dave listed, what would you like to know more about and why? (God is all-Just, all-Holy, all-Good, all-Wise)

Explore the Passage (1 Samuel 3:2-21)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

How is Eli described in this passage? (3:2)
Why was Samuel lying down in the temple of the Lord? (3:3)
How would you characterize Samuel’s relationship to Eli? (3:4-5)
What did Samuel assume about the voice he heard in the night? (3:5)
How many times did Samuel come to Eli before Eli realized what was happening? (3:8-9)
How did Eli instruct Samuel to react to the voice he heard? (3:9)
What future events did God reveal to Samuel that night? (3:11-12)
What decision regarding the priesthood of Israel did God reveal? (3:12)
What reasons did God give for judging Eli so harshly? (3:13)
How did Samuel react to what he heard God speak? (3:15)
What question did Eli ask of Samuel the morning after Samuel met with God? (3:17)
How did Samuel respond to Eli’s inquiry about what God had said the night before? (3:18)
What was Eli’s reaction to the prophecy concerning himself and his descendants? (3:18)
What was unique about Samuel’s words as contrasted to those of the other priests? (3:19)
What was Samuel’s relationship with God after God first spoke to him? (3:19-21)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

What dilemma faced Samuel when Eli questioned him about God’s message?
What was Israel’s relationship to God at the time of this story?
How would you characterize our day and age with regard to people hearing from God?
What characteristics of the boy Samuel made him a suitable person to hear from God?
What was good or bad about Eli’s reaction to the gloomy prophecy about his descendants?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From February 2, 2025

Text

Galatians 1

Topic

The Gospel, Truth, Legalism, Pleasing God

Big Idea of the Message

Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone

Application Point

You are FREE from sin. Live like it.

Discussion Questions

  1. What is one thing that stood out to you from this week’s message?
  2. Have you ever been a victim of false teaching? How did you recognize it?
  3. Why do you think it’s easier to revert back to works-based living, rather than living in liberty? Why do we have a tendency to want to earn our salvation?
  4. Why do you think it was difficult for the Galatians to accept the true gospel message they’d heard?
  5. How can Scripture memorization keep us from accepting false messages?
  6. How can we pray for each other in accepting this grace?
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Message Discussion Questions

From January 26, 2025

Click here if you are interested in discovering your spiritual pathway

Book: Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas

Getting Started

Is there a time of year that you reevaluate things or activities in your life? Have you committed to any changes in January? If yes, which ones and how is it going?

Have you heard the story of Mary and Martha at their home before? What were the lessons you remembered?

Quick Reactions

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Had you heard the concept of spiritual pathways before? If so, where have you heard it? If not, what was your first impression upon hearing about it?

Questions from the Message

Have you built a picture of what a “good Christian” is supposed to do? Have these pictures helped you in your life, or have they made following Him more difficult?

How were Mary and Martha shaped differently? Do you know some people who connect with God through service? Do you know people who connect with God more like Mary?

Was there a pathway that you believe is truer for you? How do you see that play out in your life?

Explore the Passages (Luke 10:38-42; John 17-37)

Between these two stories, how did Mary respond in faith? How did Martha?
What do you think Jesus was referring to when he said, “only one thing is needed” in Luke 10:42?
What did Mary choose? What did Martha choose? How do you see these choices in your own life?

Apply the Passage

How might our connections with God look differently than those around us?

What is a way you can (or have) practiced your spiritual pathway?

How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From January 17, 2025

Getting Started

When you think of devotion, or being devoted to someone or something what comes to mind? Who has been a great example of devotion? Why?

Read and Explore the Passage (Acts 2:42-47)

What were the activities of the early church? (2:42)
How did the new believers approach what they did? (2:42)
What unusual deeds did the apostles do? (2:43)
How did people respond to what was going on? (2:43)
What life-style did the early believers adopt? (2:44-45)
Why might the early Christians have had “everything in common”? (2:44)
How were the goods distributed among the early believers? (2:45)
How often did the believers meet? (2:46)
Where did the early believers meet? (2:46)
How did the early Christians meet together? (2:46-47)
What did the Christians do when they met together in homes? (2:46-47)
What was the spirit of the believers in all they did? (2:46-47)
What was the growth of the early church like? (2:47)

Discussion Questions from the Message

1. Which one of these areas are you strong or lacking in? All four of these areas were critical parts of the early church so why would they be important or necessary today?
2. What you be willing to open your heart and home and have one of these focused on?
3. In your heart, what do truly think Jesus would like to see you do as a result of hearing this message?
4. Which areas have you already personally seen the Holy Spirit do the most work in?
5. Why do you think these areas are so necessary for discipleship and church growth?
6. What were the lasting, undeniable results of the actions in vs 42?
7. Do you think such powerful results can occur at Westwood if we apply all four areas on a regular basis? In which area could help lead, or participate in regularly?
8. Do any of the ministries you currently serve in offer opportunities for you to regularly participate in the 4 areas mentioned in vs 42?
9. Even though you may be already serving in some related capacity, is there more that you can and should be doing to help move the Kingdom forward, and evangelize the lost?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From January 12, 2025

Getting Started

What training is necessary for a person in your workplace, a past workplace, school, or sport?, Why is training necessary?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
What did the Pharisees get “wrong” about God and living a spiritually devout life? (Read Mark 2:27 again for an example).
How can we mistake God’s good “tools” for growing in Him and begin to make them into rules that do not bring spiritual vitality and growth?
How does God’s word transform us according to Hebrews 4:12?
In what way have you tried to grow or change something just by trying harder? In what way can you start training better as the apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 9?
What does it mean that God is interested in ALL of your life, not just some sense of your spiritual life? How would that change how you train yourself for godliness this year? (1 Timothy 4:7-8)

Explore the Passage (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Why is it necessary to live with purpose and discipline? (9:25-27)
Why did Paul lead a disciplined life? (9:27)
What was Paul most fearful of?

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

In what way is Paul’s metaphor of athletes training for a sporting even inform us how we are to grow?
What kinds of “disciplines or training” could be useful for you this new year in helping you grow as a follower of Jesus?
Share with each other different spiritual practices that have been helpful to you growing as a Christian?
What could disqualify someone in the race of faith? What is Paul’s goal?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From January 5, 2025

Getting Started

Describe a discipline or sport, learning to play an instrument, getting a degree that you did in your past or currently do.
What was most difficult? What was most rewarding? Why? What was the goal?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
In what way can we confuse spiritual growth as a project and not a process? What difference does it make?
What is the goal of spiritual growth? How is it different than just trying to be a better person, accomplishing a goal, or learning more?
In what way can you begin to invite Christ to live and walk with you in your everyday life? How can you begin to shape your 24 hour day into a process of learning to live in Jesus’ name? In whatever you do and say?

Explore the Passage (Philippians 3:15-21)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What was Paul aware of when it came to maturing in Christ? (3:12-14)
In what ways did Paul’s spiritual life resemble the discipline of a runner? (3:12-14)
What was Paul’s view of the past? (3:13)
What was Paul’s goal? (3:14) How did Paul call the Philippians to share his view? (3:15)
What did Paul hope for those who disagreed with him?
What was Paul’s plea to the Philippians? (3:16)
How did Paul want believers to imitate him? (3:17)
How did Paul describe God’s enemies? (3:18-19)
Where did the Philippian Christians have their citizenship? (3:20)
Whom did the Philippian believers eagerly await? (3:20)
What characterizes citizens of heaven? (3:21)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

In what way is running a race an important metaphor for growing in Christ?
What prize awaits us? How ought this motivate us to grow in Christ and to live out our faith everyday?
What kind of opposition do you face in your struggle to walk with God?
How can you imitate Paul’s life (or others) and example?
How can you re-orient your every and ordinary 24 hour day to invite Christ into every part of it? What would need to shift or change?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From December 29, 2024

Getting Started

Have you ever traveled to a culture other than the one you were raised in?
What were some of the norms in those places that you had to get used to?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Is the concept of living between two homes something that you’ve heard of before, or is the concept rather new to you?

Explore the Passage (Philippians 3:15-21)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What are the challenges of growing to maturity in Christ as referenced in v 15?
What are some of thing things that Paul might be referring to, in telling us ‘to live up to what we have already attained”? v 16
Who are some of the people that you look to as examples of Christian maturity? v 17
What is it that brings Paul to tears? v 18-19
Those of us in Christ have our citizenship in heaven. v 20-21
-What are the privileges of this citizenship?
-What are the responsibilities of this citizenship?

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

Can you share a viewpoint that you once held, that has been changed as you have grown in Christ?
-How did God bring you to the new belief or understanding?
What are practical ways to set our minds on heavenly or eternal things, as opposed to earthly things?
-What are the benefits of doing so?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
Is there a part, or parts, of your life that you’ve not brought into line with God’s kingdom and His way of living or thinking?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From December 22, 2024

Getting Started

Describe a time that you got lost as a kid, or as a parent you lost a child? How did you feel?
What were you like at 12 years old?
How would you describe the “teenage/adolescence” years?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Why are our homes so monumental in shaping who we are? Good ways? Not so good ways?
In what way is Jesus already at 12 separating himself from “home”? Where is he most comfortable?
How do you struggle with separating yourself from your family of origin? What would it mean, as a follower of Jesus to find yourself more at home with God? How would this shape your attitudes, beliefs, decision-making, boundaries, prayer-life?
In what way does Jesus actions at age 12 affirm that He was aware of Himself as fully God and fully human?
How does your home address need to shift to seeing yourself as a citizen of heaven? (Philippians 3:20)
Why is the parable of the prodigal son so vital in understanding how we find our way home to God?

Explore the Passage (Luke 2:41-52)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Why did Jesus’ parents go to Jerusalem every year? (2:41)
How did Jesus get left behind in Jerusalem? (2:43-44)
Why did three days pass before Mary and Joseph found Jesus? (2:46)
What was Jesus doing during the three days that He was on His own? (2:46)
What were the effects of Jesus’ questions and answers on the teachers in Jerusalem? (2:46-47)
How did Mary respond when she and Joseph finally found Jesus? (2:48)
What was Jesus’ response to His parents’ frantic arrival? (2:49)
How did Jesus answer His parents’ concern for Him? (2:49)
After replying to His parents, what did Jesus do? (2:51)
What do we learn about Mary through this incident? (2:41, 48, 50-51)
What happened to Jesus as He grew? (2:52)

Questions that help us understand the significance of the text

What would you have wanted to ask Jesus had you been around during those three days in the temple?
How often do children carry on the habits and beliefs from their parents?
What is the significance of Jesus separating himself from his family?
In what way can we struggle to find our identity apart from our “home”? Why is this necessary to become a fully devoted follower of Jesus?
How does this story illustrate the tension Jesus may have felt between obedience to His Father and obedience to His earthly parents?
In what way should we strive to grow in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and others?
How did Jesus demonstrate His uniqueness as fully God and fully human already at age 12?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From December 15, 2024

Getting Started

How has your Christmas season been going so far? Are there any difficulties that you need prayer around?

Do you have a nativity set? Does it have any special memories? (It’s okay if not, but sometimes it’s fun to hear – where you got it from? Who gave it to you? Etc.)

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

When you hear the word “unlikely,” what does it mean to you?

Does the word “home” have good memories attached to it for you? Or difficult?

Questions from the Message

What does it mean to you (and to all of us) that God selected shepherds to first see Jesus?
What would be categories of “unlikely” people today? Who are the “shepherds” of our day?

Explore the Passages (Luke 2:8-20; Isaiah 61:1-2)

Read Luke 2:8-20. What sticks out to you from the passage? How would you summarize this story? What was the “good news”?

How is the “good news” for “all people”? What about “peace on earth to people He favors”? What is the difference?

To whom did the shepherds report this experience? What was the response? What did they do next?

In Isaiah 61 and Luke 4, why is it significant that Jesus stopped where He did? Look at the differences in time periods (year of the Lord’s favor; day of our God’s vengeance)… what could this mean?

 

Apply the Passage

Why is it important to remind ourselves of our “calling” – our own unlikeliness?

Who can we pray for right now that you know? Someone that needs to “come and see” the goodness of God?

How can we pray for each other, especially in this Christmas season?

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Message Discussion Questions

From December 8, 2024

Getting Started

What is the most unique “birth announcement” you have ever heard?
What experience have you had that involved uncomfortable travel?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
What are common reasons people love the Christmas season? Why are these good, but also misleading when we read the account of the birth of Jesus?
What significance is there to the reality that Christ was born into a time of division, under a military dictatorship, and into a world of poverty and hardship? In what way would His birth reveal what Christ came to accomplish?
Read Isaiah 9:6-7…
What does it mean for you that a child is born to us, a son is given? That His name is wonderful counselor?
Mighty God?
Everlasting Father?
Prince of Peace?

In what way can you celebrate who Christ is this Christmas? New tradition? New focus?

Explore the Passage (Luke 2:1-7)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Who decreed that a census be taken of the entire Roman world? (2:1)
What did the Roman census require of everyone? (2:3)
What reason did Luke give for Joseph having to travel to Bethlehem for the census? (2:4)
What was Joseph and Mary’s marital status at the time of Jesus’ birth? (2:5)
Why was travel especially difficult for Mary? (2:5)
What details about the birth of Jesus do we know or can we infer from Luke’s description? (2:5-7)
What were the conditions in Bethlehem the night Jesus was born? (2:7)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

How well have Christmas carols, cards, pictures captured the significance of the birth Luke described?
What significance is there that Joseph and Mary could find nowhere to stay?
What can we learn about responding to unexpected difficulties from the examples of Mary and Joseph?
In what ways did God “manage” the events of history to get Joseph and Mary where He wanted them at the appropriate time?
In what way was Christ’s birth a statement about how He will live, teach, die and rise again? How do you celebrate Christ’s birth?

 

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From December 1, 2024

Getting Started

What does “home” mean to you? In what way does the reality that Christ has made for us an “eternal” home inform your attachments to this world, or should it impact how you live now? What do you consider the greatest example of faith you have ever seen? Why?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
In what way does our longing for “home” reveal that we were made for another world (ie heaven)? How does Hebrews 8:5-6 speak to the truth that even the things that God intended for our good (in the OT), the priestly system and worship in the temple only a shadow of what is real?
In what way is this true in terms of our relationship with God? What can we mistake as permanent? How does knowing that in Christ we are made for another “country”, satisfy our disappointments in this life?
What would it look like for us to live as if we are travelers? A traveler that has not yet reached your destination, a traveler what has decided to never return “home” and that Heaven is your homeland? How would it inform how you live? How you love? What truly satisfies?
What does it mean for you this Christmas to know that Home is not just a place, but it is a Person?

Explore the Passage (Hebrews 11:1-6)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What is faith? (11:1)
What does faith help us to comprehend about the creation of the world? (11:3)
How did Abel demonstrate faith? (11:4)
What was unusual about Enoch? (11:5)
What role does faith play in approaching and pleasing God? (11:6)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

According to this passage, what is the only way we can please God with our lives?
What prompts committed followers of Christ to continue to exercise faith even when you don’t reach “the promised land?”
Why do you think the author said that “the world was not worthy of” the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11?
How do you think the individuals praised in Hebrews 11 were looked upon by those of their day?
How would seeing yourself as a “foreigner”, “alien”, a traveler in this world transform what is important?
What does it mean for you that those mentioned in this chapter refused to long for a country that they knew they could never go back to? That they were looking for a better place…a heavenly homeland?
React to this old saying, “There are some people that are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good, and there are those that are so earthly minded they are no heavenly good? What is the difference? How do we live in the tension?

 

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From November 24, 2024

Getting Started

1. Do you automatically start getting stressed as the holidays approach?
2. What is it about the holidays that make you feel stressed? Purchasing the food, having to prepare a feast, the large crowd that’s coming, the money you’re spending that you can’t afford?
3. Are you trying to impress people with a fancy meal, nice gifts and awesome decorations that you really don’t like?

Explore the Text (Philippians 4:4-9)

What did Paul encourage his readers to do? (4:4)
How did Paul tell the Philippian Christians to treat others? (4:5)
How should an awareness of Christ’s imminent return affect a person’s attitude? (4:5-7)
What did Paul say about anxiety? (4:6-7)
What were the Philippians to do instead of worrying? (4:6-7)
How can a believer enjoy the peace of God? (4:6-7)
What are the qualities of wholesome thoughts? (4:8)
What were the Philippians to put into practice? (4:9)
How can believers enjoy the presence of the God of peace? (4:9)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

As we get ready for Thanksgiving Day, have you taken a moment to sit down and discuss or write out what you are particularly thankful for this year? If not, please consider doing so.
If Christ had to grade you on a scale of one to ten on how grateful you typically are (with ten being the highest) where would you rank?
How do you think it makes God feel, when all we really focus on are the material things that we want to have and to give, rather than just being thankful for His goodness in our lives?
Do you get in such an uproar over the world, politics and other things you can’t control, that you work yourself up into a frenzy, never acknowledging that God is still in full control of the very world He created?
Worry is the antithesis of faith, and it kills our praise, not allowing a heart of Thanksgiving. Hebrews 11:6 clearly says that you cannot please God without faith. As we observe this Thanksgiving week, where are you emotionally? Are you in a state of emergency, panic, and anxiety, or are you sincerely Thankful to God for your life and His many, many blessings?
Do you find yourself murmuring more than meditating on His word???
What are some good things that you can think about and focus on and meditate on during this Thanksgiving holiday that will honor God?
Do the people around you the most hear more thanksgiving or complaining from You? Do they hear more doubt, uncertainty, and unbelief, or praises to God?
Are you willing to make a necessary shift in your life toward Thanksgiving as a way of life? If so, stop and pray about it right now. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you in this new commitment.

 

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From November 17, 2024

Getting Started

In what way do you see how worry negatively affects your life (thoughts, fears etc…)?
How can we separate worry from what is also our “responsibilities” (things we rightly should be concerned about)? What is the difference?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Considering that 8% of our worries are “legitimate” and 92% are things that will never happen or are out of your control…take time to describe what are “legitimate” worries.
Why does Peter tell a legitimately worried church to accept the authority of the elders and live humbly under the mighty power of God?
How could our worry and anxiety be connected to not accepting authority of those wiser than us and accepting God’s authority over us?
Who in your life is a trusted and wise elder, placed in your life for your care?
What type of character and in what time frame will God lift you up in honor? What would this mean to a suffering and persecuted church? To someone who struggles with worry, fear and anxiety?
What would it mean for you to cast all your cares?
What would it mean for you to Seek the Kingdom of God above all other “kingdoms”?
What would it mean for you to meditate on God’s truth?
How are these things connected with our worries?

Explore the Passage (1 Peter 5:5-14)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What were the young men encouraged to do? (5:5)
Why were all the readers encouraged to clothe themselves with humility? (5:5)
Why were these believers encouraged to humble themselves? (5:6)
What did Peter tell his readers to do with their anxieties? (5:7)
What did Peter say the devil was doing? (5:8)
How were these believers instructed to respond to the devil? (5:9)
To what did Peter say these believers had been called? (5:10)
What did Peter assure his readers God would do after they had suffered a little while? (5:10)
What did Silas help Peter do? (5:12)
Who sent greetings along with Peter? (5:13)
How did Peter tell these believers to greet one another? (5:14)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

What attitude do the young people and others in your church have toward the leaders of the church?
What leadership positions have you held? What was most difficult? Why?
What changes do you need to make in the way you lead? (whether that’s in your family or work?)
How do you need to change your attitude toward those who are in positions of authority over you?
Why do we sometimes find it difficult to be submissive to those in authority over us?
Why is being humble so difficult?
What worries tend to plague you?
What does it mean to cast your anxieties on the Lord?
How can we cast our anxieties on the Lord?
What means does the devil use to “devour” people?
How should we resist the devil?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From November 10, 2024

Getting Started

How do people today respond to shame? How do we confuse shame with guilt or embarrassment?
What is worse for this woman; her physical condition or the shame it brought her?
Can you think of any modern parallel to the shame this woman felt?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
In what way was this woman’s shame no fault of her own?
Dave mentioned that shame only survives in silence and secrecy. In what way did this woman refuse to live in shame?
This woman had been to every “doctor” and then turns to Jesus…how can we make the same mistake in our own spiritual lives?
In what way can we “cover up” our shame? In what way does Jesus heal us, bring us peace (shalom)?
Why does Jesus refuse to allow her to stay hidden, or slowly back out of the crowd after she has been healed?
Why do you think it is important for her to tell Jesus and others what had happened? For us to as well?
What is the significance of Jesus calling her a “Daughter”? That her faith has made her well? And to go in peace?
How has Christ become your peace and in what way do you have a new name and new identity in Christ?

Explore the Passage (Luke 8:42-48)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What role do crowds play in this passage? (8:40, 42, 45, 47, 52-53)
What do we know about the sick woman? (8:43-44)
How did Jesus know that someone had been healed? (8:45-46)
What was the woman’s reaction to being discovered? (8:47)
To what did Jesus attribute the woman’s healing? (8:48)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

Now read both healings in Luke 8:40-56…
What is similar about the two healings?
What is the difference between the two healings?

What emotional effect can shame, and physical distress have on someone?
How must Jesus’ words have sounded to the woman?
In what ways do you imagine the woman’s life changed from that day on?
How did Jesus’ manner and words stand in sharp contrast to the mood outside and inside Jairus’s house?
How did Jesus show His care for the whole person in both situations? What can we learn from the boldness of both the woman and Jairus?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From November 3, 2024

Getting Started

What has brought you peace and joy this week, despite the constant news cycle?

What are some practices that bring you closer to God?

Who is the most hopeful person you know? What actions or words do they use to express hope?

Quick Reactions

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

How has grief appeared in your life? Who has helped you through your grief? What did they do that was helpful?

How did your family of origin express grief?

Questions from the Message

“The prophetic tasks of the church are to tell the truth in a society that lives in illusion, grieve in a society that practices denial, and express hope in a society that lives in despair.” – Walter Brueggemann

Do you see these as needs in our society today?

“We become aware of hope when the outcome is at risk.” – Curt Thompson

What do you think of this quote?

Explore the Passages (Romans 5:3-5, 15:13; 1 Peter 3:13-15)

Read Romans 5:3-5. What sticks out to you in this passage? What is the journey from affliction to hope? Have you or someone you know taken this path before?

Read Roman 15:13. Who is God described as? What are we filled with? What is our work in this process? What is the outcome and what overflows from us? By whose power is this accomplished?

Read 1 Peter 3:13-15. What sticks out to you in this passage? What is the connection between “regard Christ as holy” and being known as a hopeful Christian?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From October 27, 2024

Getting Started

If you could ask God any question about life, what would it be? Why?
As a child, what decisions or actions did your parents make or did that you questioned? How does this relate to Job and God?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Explore the Passage (Job 38)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What do the Lord’s questions reveal about Him?
What do the Lord’s questions reveal about Job and human nature?
For what did the Lord tell Job to brace himself? (38:3)
What is the focus of the Lord’s first round of questions to Job? (38:4-41)

 

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

How would you summarize the Lord’s answer to Job?
What point did God want Job to understand through this series of questions?
In what way did Job find God’s answers to his questions satisfying or dissatisfying?
Why was Job unable to defend himself?
If you were Job, how do you think you would have responded to the opportunity to present your case to God?
If you were Job, what questions would you have asked God?
What questions did God’s reply to Job leave unanswered or unresolved? What does this mean for our unresolved questions?

Read Job 42:1-6

What did Job say about God? (42:1-2)
What did Job say about what he had previously said? (42:3)
Why did Job say he would repent? (42:4-6)
How did God’s reply change Job’s attitude?
In what way did Job speak about things that he did not understand?
What would God say to us regarding how little we understand?
What would I need to repent of in response to God’s questions? 

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From October 13, 2024

Getting Started

Can you recount a moment where, like Elijah, you felt alone, discouraged, exhausted or burned out? What similarities resonated with you from Elijah’s story?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
What surprised you most from the story of Elijah in Chapter 19? Why?
In what way did God demonstrate his compassion for Elijah?
What can we learn from how God desires us to care for ourselves when we face similar challenges?
What does Elijah reveal about his attitude, how he views his situation in response to God’s question, “What are you doing here, Elijah? How can we lose sight of ourselves and God when we are overwhelmed?
How can we fall into a trap that says, no one cares like I care?
What do you believe was the “whisper” of God? What does it mean for us?
How can we mistake being “with” God and being busy, or busy for God? How can this lead to being overwhelmed?
What does it mean, that regardless of being overwhelmed, that God is not done with you yet?
How can being overwhelmed become God’s invitation to begins to see Him and your life differently?

Explore the Passage (1 Kings 19:1-21)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Why was Queen Jezebel determined to kill Elijah the prophet? (19:1-2)
What did Elijah pray when he had fled to a lonely place? (19:3-5)
How did God miraculously care for Elijah in the desert? (19:6-9)
What did God say to Elijah when the prophet had taken refuge in a cave? (19:9)
How did Elijah express his despair about his circumstances? (19:10)
What did God command Elijah to do? (19:11)
What disturbances of nature did Elijah witness from inside the cave? (19:11-13)
In which of the manifestations that Elijah saw was God present? (19:11-13)
What question did God repeat in the “gentle whisper”? (19:13)
What was Elijah’s reply after seeing the demonstrations of God’s power? (19:14)
What directive did Elijah receive from God? (19:15-17)
How many faithful worshipers did God report to be in Israel? (19:18)
Where was Elisha when Elijah found him? (19:19)
What symbolic action did Elijah perform when he found Elisha? (19:19)
What did Elisha call his family together to do before he left to follow Elijah? (19:20-21)

 

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

To what extent do you think Elijah was justified in being discouraged by his circumstances?
Why did God reveal Himself to Elijah when the prophet was discouraged?
What strikes you as unusual about God’s question to Elijah in the cave?
In what settings have you felt that you were the only believer?
Of all of the manifestations of God’s power, which might have Elijah wished God would show to his enemies?
What important lesson did Elijah learn about how God chooses to speak to people?
How did Elisha make a dramatic break with his past before he followed Elijah?
What would be difficult about making a sudden break with your present life-style if God were to ask you to do it?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From October 6, 2024

Getting Started

What similar social “stigma” (if any) do you think we attach in a similar way to being a “woman without a child” in the OT?
What “constant” reminder do you or someone you know struggles with but wish they didn’t? (e.g. broken dream of what could’ve, should’ve been, but isn’t? How does this relate to Hannah’s struggle?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
How have you heard that people (or “the churches) poor responses to people’s hurt, disappointments, etc…impacted their lives?
What do you make of Peninnah’s actions, Elkanah and Eli’s words to Hannah?
In what way did Hannah have every right to be angry, resentful, vengeful and bitter in how others responded to her?
In what way does her response look like Jesus?
In what way, when you are overwhelmed, would it look like for you to take to heart that “People won’t always understand you, but God never forgets you? How could this change your attitude, expectations and behavior?

Explore the Passage (1 Samuel 1:1-20)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What was a primary difference between the two wives of Elkanah? (1:2)
Where did the family go yearly to worship God? (1:3)
Who were the priests at this time? (1:3)
How did the husband treat Hannah on the occasion of feasts? Why? (1:5, 8)
How was Hannah treated? (1:6)
Who observed Hannah in the temple? (1:9, 13)
What was Hannah’s emotional state when the feasting ended? (1:10)
What was Hannah’s vow before the Lord? (1:11)
What did Eli assume about Hannah? (1:13-14)
How did Hannah explain her behavior? (1:15-16)
What was Eli’s response to Hannah’s situation? (1:17)
How did Hannah’s mood change after she had prayed? (1:18)
How was Hannah’s prayer answered? (1:19-20)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

What reactions, good and bad, can we have to cruel taunts?
Why did Hannah’s demeanor change so dramatically after she prayed?
What other responses to her predicament could Hannah have chosen?
Why is it important to take our requests to God?
In what ways do we try to ease the pain of someone’s obvious loss or lack?
Why does the account in 1 Samuel say that God “remembered” Hannah?
What does it mean for you that God does not forget you?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From September 29, 2024

Getting Started

How do we typically explain feeling overwhelmed? What are things we tell ourselves when we feel overwhelmed, exhausted, stressed and anxious?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

Describe what you know of how Paul has encountered overwhelming obstacles in his life and ministry?
How can we minimize pride as something that God desires to deal with us?
In what way did Paul become ruthlessly honest with what was the reason for the thorn in his flesh?
What can we learn about Paul praying that God would remove this thorn?
How can we learn to accept God’s NO? Has this happened to you? What may happen when we refuse to move towards acceptance?
How did Paul “reinterpret” the meaning of the thorn in his flesh?
What may God be asking us to reinterpret in our lives (that hurts), but God may be doing for our good?

Explore the Passage (2 Corinthians 12:1-10)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Who was the man in Christ whom Paul described? (12:2)
Why did Paul tell the Corinthians about his vision, despite his misgivings? (12:2-4)
Why was Paul reluctant to speak about his vision? (12:3-6)
What happened during the revelation Paul described? (12:4)
Why did Paul refrain from boasting? (12:6)
For what reason might Paul have become prideful? (12:7)
What prevented Paul from developing a proud spirit? (12:7)
Why did Paul have a “thorn”? (12:7)
Who was responsible for giving Paul a “thorn in the flesh”? (12:7)
What was Paul’s response to his “thorn”? (12:8, 10)
What purpose can a thorn have in our lives? (12:9)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

What are some weaknesses that you find difficult to live with?
What can we learn from Paul’s example about dealing with things we would rather not have?
How can you allow the Lord’s power to take over where you are weak?
How does the Christian perspective on power and weakness differ from that of the world?
In what ways can you imagine that our weaknesses become an opportunity for God’s power and grace to shine?
What does it mean that God’s grace is sufficient? How would that make a difference?
What new perspective may God be offering you that you consider is an obstacle?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From September 22, 2024

Getting Started

How can a sense of being overwhelmed relate to what is in our control and what is not? What we are responsible for and what we are not?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
In what ways can you imagine David would have been justified in taking Saul’s life?
How would this action have alleviated being overwhelmed by being on the run?
What kinds of things are we tempted to do, believe or say to ourselves when we are overwhelmed by circumstances?
What was David’s “crisis of conscience” in the cave?
How would you define our God-given conscience? How can that help inform us when we are overwhelmed?
How can we separate what is in our hands (what we should carry) and what is in God’s hands?

Explore the Text (1 Samuel 24:1-22)

What activity did Saul resume as soon as the Philistine threat abated? (24:1-2)
How did Saul come to be alone for a short time? (24:3)
What did David’s men tell him when they discovered Saul alone in the cave? (24:4)
What action did David take while Saul was unaware? (24:5)
Why did David have second thoughts about what he had just done? (24:6)
How did Saul learn that David had just had him at his mercy? (24:8)
What arguments did David give to prove that he was not conspiring against the king? (24:9-11)
In what context did David invoke the name of the Lord? (24:12)
For David, what was the authoritative proof that he was not an evil man? (24:13)
Besides judging between him and Saul, what did David ask of God? (24:15)
What emotion overcame Saul when he heard David’s voice? (24:16)
What confession did Saul make regarding his own behavior? (24:17)
Why did Saul ask God to reward David? (24:18-19)
What did Saul admit that he knew about the future? (24:20)
What did Saul ask David to swear he would do when he became king? (24:21)
On what terms did Saul and David part after their meeting in the cave? (24:22)

Questions that Help us Understand the Significance of the Text

How do you think Saul would have behaved toward David if their situations had been reversed?
What was the single most important reason David had for not harming Saul?
When does restraint speak more loudly than action?
In what way does God call us to do the “right thing” over what is the “expedient thing”?
In what ways might God vindicate someone who does not use force to vindicate himself or herself?
How did David both leave the outcome of his circumstances in God’s hands, while also not leave himself vulnerable to Saul?
Why did David and Saul go their separate ways after Saul learned that his life had been spared?
Why did Saul not make any promises to David after David swore to preserve Saul’s descendants when he became king?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From September 15, 2024

Getting Started

Is there a season of your life where you felt overwhelmed? What made it so? What did it feel like to you?

Does your family have a story of perseverance? Or do you know one that you would like to share?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you?  Why?

Do you see any ways in which our culture and our faith are at odds? In what ways do we praise the same things Jesus does? In what ways do we not?

What do you think of the idea that Dallas Willard described Jesus as “relaxed”? In what ways do you see this in His ministry? Who do you know that models this way of Jesus?

Explore the Message

From the three points:
We endure with God’s delight. We endure together. We endure towards a better kingdom.

Which most resonated with you? Why?

Is there a verse you recall? What made it stick out to you?

Explore the Passages (Hebrews 10-12)

In what ways are “we those who have faith and are saved?” Do you find this easy to believe and press into or do you spend time worrying that you are drawing back? What does this look like in your life? (Hebrews 10:37-38)

In Hebrews 11, which member of the “Hall of Faith” sticks out to you the  most? How did perseverence play into their story? How does this inform our own experience of feeling overwhelmed? 

What does it mean to be surrounded by a “great cloud of witnesses”? (Hebrews 12:1) How do you picture this great cloud? Who is in it? What would they tell us?

Read Romans 5:3-5. What words stick out to you in this verse? 

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
How does this help us or others we know that in seasons of feeling overwhelmed?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From September 8, 2024

Getting Started

Discuss ways you feel that people today are overwhelmed? Why are we overwhelmed? In what way or area of your life can you typically feel overwhelmed?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

In what way does the medical condition of the lepers become not just a catastrophic medical problem, but also a spiritual and relational problem?
In what way does a health or medical diagnosis become uniquely “overwhelming” to people?

From the encounter of the 10 lepers with Jesus, Dave said three things happen…
1. They found that being in the right Presence/place matters
2. Being in the Right Presence changes your perspective
3. The right perspective can transform your priorities

As you consider what overwhelms you…what would it mean for you to live in the “Presence” of Jesus? How could this change your perspective around your circumstances? What could be re- prioritized as a result?

Explore the Passage (Luke 17:11-13)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Where did the events of this story take place? (17:11)
Who met Jesus as He entered the village? (17:12)
What did the ten men want from Jesus? (17:13)
How did the men refer to Jesus? (17:13)
How did Jesus respond to the ten men? (17:14)
What happened to the men as they went to show themselves to the priest? (17:14)
What did one of the ten do that the others did not? (17:15)
How did one man express his thankfulness to Jesus? (17:15-16)
What difference did it make that the man who thanked Jesus was a Samaritan? (17:16,18)
How did Jesus respond to the one man who returned? (17:17-19)
What did Jesus tell the man about his faith? (17:19)

Questions that Help us Understand the Signficance of the Text

In what way can we all relate to these 10 men, who in verse 13 are “crying out” to Jesus? What, at a minimum did they understand about Jesus that caused them to “cry out”?
Is there anyone in your life that may be at this point in their life?
In verse 14, Jesus tells them essentially to “go to church” (go to the priest)…why?
Why is verse 14-17 the “climax” of the story? 10 men get healed and only one (the Samaritan) comes back?
How would living in God’s undeserved grace change your perspective and priorities?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From September 1, 2024

Getting Started

What “kinds” of neighbors make you feel most uncomfortable? Why?
What do you think motivates most people to “do good”? Does motivation matter? If so, why?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
Dave mentioned that we love God with everything we have and love our neighbor as ourselves when we love God from a place of approval rather than for approval.
1. What do you think he means by that? How is it connected with Jesus’ interaction with the expert in the law in Luke 10? In what way have you seen this to be true in your own life?
2. In what way is the hatred, resentment and prejudice between Jew and Samaritan similar to what we see happening today? How do these things impact how we love our “uncomfortable neighbor”?
3. Dave said, the religious experts question exposed a deeper question that he was asking J esus: “What are the limits, boundaries or extent of loving my neighbor?” Or what are the limits or restrictions of who should receive my compassion?
– Why would this be a ridiculous question considering who Jesus is and what He came to do for us? What would it mean for us:

To “go over” (make the first move) to someone, like the Samaritan did for the wounded man? (Lk. 10:34)
To “do for one what you’d like to do for everyone”?
To go and do the same?

How is this story grounded in the gospel of Jesus? In what way is Jesus the only “good” Samarian? How does this motivate us to love even our uncomfortable neighbor?
How can we love our uncomfortable neighbor while also preserving our “theological” convictions?

Explore the Passage (Luke 10:25-37)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

What did the legal expert ask Jesus? (10:25)
Why did the legal expert ask a question about eternal life? (10:25)
How did Jesus turn the question back on the legal expert? (10:26)
How did the legal expert summarize the demands of the Law? (10:27)
What did the expert ask about loving one’s neighbor? (10:29)
What did the legal expert want to do? (10:29)
How did Jesus reply to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” (10:30-35)
What did the priest and the Levite do to help the man who was robbed and beaten? (10:31-32)
What was the Samaritan’s response to what he saw? (10:33-35)
Why did the Samaritan help the beaten man? (10:33)
What relationship did Jesus use to characterize the Samaritan’s behavior? (10:36)
How did the legal expert define the neighbor in the parable? (10:37)
What did Jesus command the expert to do in response to the parable? (10:37)

Questions that Help us Understand the Signficance of the Text

What different motivations do people have for asking questions about God and of God?
How effective is this parable in communicating love for one’s neighbor?
What natural inclinations make it easier for you to act like the priest and the Levite than like the Samaritan?
How practical was the Samaritan’s approach to the man in need?
How does it feel when someone has mercy on you?
In what ways can we as individuals and as groups of Christians be more like the Samaritan?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

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Message Discussion Questions

From August 25, 2024

Getting Started

Who has been your best and your worst neighbor in your life? Why?
What responsibility do you feel towards your “church family” neighbor?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
How can we often dismiss loving our neighbor only as something we do to those farthest from us rather than those closest to us?
According to Jesus, what is at stake if we fail to love our church family well? (John 17:20)
What connection is there to loving our brothers and sisters in Christ (unity in the body) with the unity of God in three persons?
What are ways we misunderstand “love”? (dave mentioned three: love is a feeling, love can’t be controlled, we like the idea of it without the sacrifices required) Why is it important to understand, that biblically, love is a choice?
In what way is loving our neighbor connected more to taking action, rather than feeling something? (James 1:22; 1 John 4:11-12)
In what way can you and I take responsibility to love our church family (neighbors) well? (encourage each other, give generously, serve cheerfully and get together)

Explore the Passage (Mark 12:28-34)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

Why did the teacher of the law come over to speak to Jesus? (12:28)
What significant question did the teacher of the law pose to Jesus? (12:28)
How did Jesus respond to the man’s question? (12:29-31)
How did Jesus use Scripture in answering the question put to Him? (12:29-31)
What did Jesus say was the second most important commandment? (12:31)
How did the teacher of the law respond to Jesus’ answer? (12:32)
How did the man speaking with Jesus show that He understood God’s heart? (12:32-34)
What does God value more highly than sacrifices and offerings? (12:33)
How did Jesus evaluate the teacher’s response to Him? (12:34)
What did Jesus mean when He said to the teacher, “You are not far from the kingdom of God”? (12- 34)
How did the surrounding crowd react to this conversation? (12:34)

Questions that Help us Understand the Signficance of the Text

What do you think motivated the teacher of the law to question Jesus?
Why do you think Jesus quoted Scripture to answer the question instead of replying with His own words?
How familiar do you think this passage Jesus quoted was to the teacher of the law?
Why do you think the teacher added a note about offerings and sacrifices to what Jesus had said?
What does Jesus’ treatment of this teacher of the law tell you about His own character and view of people?
What do you think it means to “love your neighbor as yourself”?
How can we practice the greatest commandment in everyday life?
What modern-day religious practices would be like the burnt offerings and sacrifices to which the teacher of the law referred?
Why is wholehearted love for the Lord more important than outward actions that Christians practice today?
How does a person’s love for God manifest itself in everyday life?

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From August 4, 2024

Getting Started

What traditions do you have in the summer, if any?

Where in your life has it been easy to see growth and where has it felt slower?

Quick Reactions

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words and what point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

When you hear the invitation to love God with all of your heart, what does that look like in your opinion? How would you differentiate loving God with your mind vs. loving God with your heart?

Did you know fifty percent of people believe they are proven right until they are proven wrong, whereas the other 50% believe they are wrong until proven right? Which one do you believe you are? Do you find it hard to “trust your gut”? Why or why not?

Questions from the Message

Which verse stuck out most to you? Why?

Do you find it harder to extend grace to yourself or to other people?

Based on your upbringing, are there specific emotions that are hard for you to express?

What made David a “man after God’s own heart” in your opinion? (Based on whatever you know about David’s life.)

Explore the Passages (Mark 14:1-9)

What do you see in this story?

In what way could “loving God with all of your heart” be costly towards us? Cause us humiliation or misunderstanding?

Is there any other Biblical persons that you would say demonstrated “loving God with all their heart?”

Apply the Passage

To what brave thing do you believe God has called you or someone you know recently?

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?

How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

Message Discussion Questions

From July 14, 2024

Getting Started

In what ways can we, as Christians, minimize the importance of our minds/intellect/reason in how we follow Christ?

Quick Reactions from the Message

How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?
What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?
As you consider what Jesus means by loving God with ALL of your mind…what have you always thought Jesus meant?
Dave said that Loving God with all your mind starts in humility, (Is. 55:8-9) involves continually unlearning and learning (Romans 12:1-2) new patterns and takes an active role in engaging your mind in the world (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). Which of these points is something you’d like to apply most? Why?
In what way is our mind connected to our spiritual life?
How can arguments and pretensions set itself against the knowledge of God?
What does it mean for you to “take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ?

Explore the Passages (Romans 12:1-2)

(Yes, these questions can seem silly, however, good discussion and interpretation of the Bible begins with having a proper understanding of the basic facts; who, what, when, and where in the text.) Work through this quickly, the answers are fairly obvious.

How do people properly worship God? (12:1)
What is the most reasonable response to God’s great mercy? (12:1-2)
How is the Christian to be different from unbelieving people? (12:2)
How should the mind of a Christian be changed? (12:2)
What must happen in order for a person to discern and agree with the will of God? (12:2)

Questions that help us understand the signficance of the text

What right does God have to ask us for a full-life commitment to Him?
What makes offering our bodies as living sacrifices an act of worship? Why does Paul say this is your rational or reasonable act of worship?
In what ways are our minds susceptible to just copying and conforming to the “world”?
What customs, or behaviors are difficult for us to root out of our lives? Why?
What are the patterns can we unlearn?
What would it look like (as you think through Scripture) to let God transform you into a new person? What does Paul mean when he says “new person”?
How can a Christian renew his or her mind by changing what you think? What needs replacing? (eg habit, practice, pattern)

Apply the Passage

What do we learn about God and about ourselves in these passages?
What do you need to stop, start or do differently as a result of reading this passage?
How can we pray for each other?

Download Discussion Questions

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