Love Your Spouse | Ephesians 5:21-33

The month of February is a time when love is in the air! "I love you" might be the most sentence in the English language... in any language. For the month of February we're focusing in on love. We're doing a sermon series titled: "I love you". In this series we'll look at four unique relationships: Loving God, loving others, loving our spouse, and loving our kids. It seemed like a great idea to share the small group questions here incase you'd like to study one of these topics more. 

Small Group Questions | Love Your Spouse | Ephesians 5:21-33

This month, we’re dedicating our time to exploring Biblical love. On Sunday, we focused on the marriage relationship, which requires submission, sacrifice, and communication—exactly what Paul teaches in Ephesians 5:21-33. This passage can sometimes make people uncomfortable because of its discussion on submission, but when we view it through the lens of Christ’s love, we see that submission isn’t about power, it’s about serving one another with humility and love. Since our church is comprised of people in various stages of life and relationships, some questions may resonate more than others. As you discuss, please be mindful and sensitive to each person’s experiences.

1) The sermon started with a viral story about Otou Katayama who acted extremely childish in his marriage. What are some childish things you’ve seen couples do in their relationship that leaves you shaking your head?  

2) Read Ephesians 5:21. Paul commands married couples to submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. The word submit can get a bad reputation in marriage. How can married couples show a profound respect for each other? 

3) To fully understand the marriage relationship we need to look back to creation. Read Genesis 1:26-27 and 2:20-25. Focusing on these two verses, what do we learn about the way God created mankind in His imagine and the role of marriage?  

4) In Acts we learned about the couple Priscilla and Aquila. Read Acts 18:1-3 and 18-19. What lessons can we draw from this married couple about supporting each other in the gifting God has given to husbands and wives? 

5) Scripture provides us some cautionary tales of marriage. David and Michal’s marriage is one that lacked spiritual unity. Read 1 Samuel 19:10-17 and 2 Samuel 6:16-23. What can we learn from this couple about having a healthy marriage? 

6) Read Ephesians 5:22-33. Paul teaches married couples how to interact with each other in a Godly way. As a group, pull out several examples of what a healthy marriage looks like and discuss how you could move in that relational direction. 

7) For those who are married, come up with a list of several ways you can love and respect your spouse this week. Examples can range from praying for each other, reading Scripture together, or planning a date. 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Love God | Mark 12:28-30

The month of February is a time when love is in the air! "I love you" might be the most sentence in the English language... in any language. For the month of February we're focusing in on love. We're doing a sermon series titled: "I love you". In this series we'll look at four unique relationships: Loving God, loving others, loving our spouse, and loving our kids. It seemed like a great idea to share the small group questions here incase you'd like to study one of these topics more. 

Small Group Questions | Love God | Mark 12:28-30 

On Sunday we kicked off a brand-new sermon series called “I Love You.” These three simple words carry incredible power; they can heal wounds, bring comfort, and soften even the hardest hearts. Today we begin this series by looking at the most important relationship in our entire life, our relationship with God. The Bible is filled with reminders of God’s deep love for us, but what about our love for Him? In Mark 12, Jesus has a conversation about the greatest commandment, and it all starts with making sure our love is directed toward the right place. As we dive into today’s discussion, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it truly means to love God with our entire being 

1) We live in a world longing for love. Share a time when you felt fully loved by family, friends, or God. Take some time to describe the details of that situation, experience, or time with your group. What made it so special?  

2) Read Mark 12:13 and 18. While Jesus is teaching in the Temple courts two groups try to trap Him with their questions. How can we approach Jesus more like the teacher of the law looking to learn from Jesus? 

3) Read Mark 12:28-30. Jesus invites us to love God with our entire heart. Read Matthew 6:19-24. What are some things that compete for your heart’s devotion? What steps can you take to realign your heart to love God fully?

4) Jesus taught us to love God with all our soul. Read Psalm 19:7, 42:2, and 119:8. In today’s fast-paced world, what are some challenges that keep us from caring for our soul, and how can we overcome them?

5) Read Mark 12:30 once more. Jesus teaches us to love God with all our mind. Read 2 Corinthians 10:5 and Romans 12:1-2. What are some distractions or thought patterns that pull us away from this? What are three practical ways you can love God with your mind this week?

6) Read Deuteronomy 6:4-5. Loving God with all our strength means using our time, energy, and abilities for His glory. What does this look like in everyday life? How can you love God with all your strength this week?

7) As you look back on the passages we studied this week, what is God speaking to you about loving Him with your entire being?  

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Lessons on Humility | 1 Kings 21

This Fall our church is preaching through the life of Elijah. We had some great guests start the series out as I was on sabbatical but now that I'm back I want to share these small group questions with you. The life of Elijah is a story of encouragement to life for God when others around you might be living an ungodly life. Elijah learns to deeply depend on God to meet all his needs. His life is a life lived by faith; no retirement plan, no 401K, and no vacation policy. Elijah stands up to point God's people back to their true King during a dark time in the life of Israel. Study these questions by yourself or with others to grow in your faith! 

Small Group Questions | Lessons on Humility | 1 Kings 21

Elijah lived a life dedicated to God while others in Israel were following the idolatrous reign of Ahab and Jezebel. In 1 Kings 21 we read the story of King Ahab’s desire to acquire a vineyard owned by Naboth, a faithful Israelite who refused to sell his ancestral inheritance. Ahab, upset by the refusal, returns to his palace dejected while his wife goes to work at getting the land for her whining husband. With Naboth dead, God sends Elijah to confront the king on his murderous ways. In response, Ahab humbles himself and sees the error of his wicked ways. This chapter highlights themes of injustice, misuse of power, and God’s righteousness in holding wrongdoers accountable.

1) We all experienced a time in our life when we didn’t get our way or things didn’t go as planned. Share a story about a time in your life when things didn’t go your way and share how you responded to this. 

2)Read 1 Kings 21:1-7. Ahab has an extremely immature response to not getting his ways. In what ways do we sometimes act similarly to Ahab and how can we create more contentment in our lives? (read Prov. 11:25, Phil. 4:11-13, and James 3:16)

3) Read 1 Kings 21:7-17. Jezebel's actions to acquire the vineyard were deceptive and manipulative. What are some subtle or overt ways we see manipulation and injustice in our culture? How can we, as followers of Christ, stand against such actions and pursue justice? (see Isaiah 1:17, Amos 5:24, and Micah 6:8)

4) Read 1 Kings 21:17-19. Elijah confronts Ahab with a message from God. What role does boldness play in speaking truth to power, and how can we apply this in our own lives? How does Galatians 6:1 help us navigate difficult conversations with others?

5) Ahab's response to Elijah's prophecy includes repentance ( read 1 Kings 21:27-29). How do we discern genuine repentance in ourselves and others? What does Psalm 51 teach us about the nature of true repentance when we sin?

6) The injustices in this story can resonate with real-life injustices in our community. Read Proverbs 31:8-9, Mark 2:17, and Luke 10:25-37. How can we, as a small group, seek to promote to those who we come in contact with? 

7) In what ways does this passage challenge us to examine our own hearts for areas of greed, envy, or discontent? How can we practice gratitude and trust in God's provision? (See Jeremiah 17:9, Proverbs 4:23, and 1 Timothy 6:6-10)

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Defined by Prayer | James 5:13-20

This Fall our church is preaching through the life of Elijah. We had some great guests start the series out as I was on sabbatical but now that I'm back I want to share these small group questions with you. The life of Elijah is a story of encouragement to life for God when others around you might be living an ungodly life. Elijah learns to deeply depend on God to meet all his needs. His life is a life lived by faith; no retirement plan, no 401K, and no vacation policy. Elijah stands up to point God's people back to their true King during a dark time in the life of Israel. Study these questions by yourself or with others to grow in your faith! 

Small Group Questions | Defined by Prayer | James 5:13-20

This Fall we’re studying the life of Elijah in the Old Testament. Elijah is known as one of the primary prophets who confronted idol worship in Israel. This Sunday we looked into the New Testament to bring the mission and vision back in front of us. The mission of our church is quite powerful and simple— Helping people find and follow Jesus. Our vision is— Coastline is united in reaching and discipling 1% of our community for Jesus. We have a big vision, a big vision to see life change in our community; marriages healed, kids growing up in Godly homes, people saved from addiction, and so much more. Study these questions to see how we can become a praying church. 

1) Think of a time in your life when you needed to make a big decision. This decision was so big that you really didn’t have the margin to mess it up. Share with your group about that decision and the role prayer played in helping you make the choice. 

2) Read James 5:17. James teaches us that Elijah is a human being just like us. So often in the Christian life we put the heroes of the Bible of a pedestal. How does James teaching help you see yourself differently? 

3) Thinking more about our humanity, share some stories with your group about when you’ve seen God use ordinary people to do extraordinary things for the Kingdom? This might be helping others out, emotional support, or times of prayer. 

4) Read James 5:17. We read that Elijah’s life was defined by earnest prayer. What are some things that you are earnestly praying for God to do right now? What are the things that distract you from earnestly praying? 

5) Throughout the Scriptures we find several examples of regular and faithful prayer. Read Mark 1:35, Psalm 5:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and Daniel 6:10. When looking at these examples of prayer when is the best time for you to commit to praying? 

6) Read James 5:17-18. We read that God answered Elijah’s prayer. God is a God who hears the prayers of His people. Read Jeremiah 33:3, Mark 11:24, and Matthew 7:7-8. What are some prayers that you are longing for God to answer right now? 

7) At the end of his letter James instructs the early church to bring people back from their wandering sin (read James 5:19-20). When you think about sharing your faith what comes to mind? Does it scare you, thrill you, or somewhere in the middle? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Look up, Look down, Look to God | Matthew 6:25-34

We just started a brand new sermon series called: Real Talk. The Bible teaches us that we’re body, mind, and soul. In this new series we’re going to look at what Scripture teaches about: anxiety, fear, and worry. I need you to know that as much counseling I’ve done, I’m not a therapist. I’m not a mental health professional. I'm a pastor and a theologian. During this sermon series we’re going to look at what is happening in our culture surrounding fear, worry, and anxiety. We’re going to see what Scripture teaches us on those subjects. It seemed helpful to share these small group questions for others to view/use. 

Small Group | Look up, Look down, Look to God | Matthew 6:25-34

According to recent data, about 19% of adults were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder this past year and 31% will deal with it sometime in their lifetime. The Bible offers us solutions to deal with our fear, worry, and anxiety. That is why we’re looking at what God’s word says when we are struggling with these things. In this new series we’re going to look at what Scripture teaches about: anxiety, fear, and worry. I’m praying for God to show up in a powerful way in this series. This series isn’t just for us but for those who we are connected with. Today we’re going to look up to the birds, look down to the flowers, and then look to God.

1) According to recent data, about 19% of adults were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder this past year and 31% will deal with it sometime in their lifetime. Share a time in your life when you struggled with anxiety or worry. What/who helped you? 

2) Read Matthew 6:25-27. Jesus begins this section of teaching by instructing us to look at the birds and how God provides for them. Jesus teaches that we are more valuable than the birds, do you believe that? Why or why not? (see Genesis 1:26-27) 

3) Jesus asks us if we can add a single hour of our life by worrying? What are some of things that you find yourself worrying about the most in life and what triggers that worry? Read Matthew 11:28-30, Colossians 3:15, and Psalm 55:22. 

4) Read Matthew 6:28-32. Jesus makes the correlation that our worry reveals a lack of faith in our life. Read Hebrews 11:1, 6, and Romans 10:17. What are some practical steps we can take to reduce our worry and increase our faith in God? 

5) Jesus reminds us that God will provide our most basic needs in life: food and clothing but sometimes that is hard to see given the consumerism taking place around us. Share with your group a personal story of when you saw God provide.

6) Read Matthew 6:33-34. Instead of focusing on what we don’t have or the selfish desires of our heart, we are invited to seek the Kingdom of God first. What are some ways we can seek God’s Kingdom and righteousness on a daily basis? 

7) In the sermon we learned four ways to seek God’s Kingdom First: We live within our means, We focus on what we need and not what we want, We let go of the things of this world, We honor the Sabbath. What one of those would you like to work on the most this week? What one is most difficult for you to apply when you’re worried? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Loving others | John 21:15-25

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Loving others | John 21:15-25

John 18-21 primarily focus on the arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. In John 21 we read that the disciples went back to fishing. This a common thing for people to return to what is achievable when a perceived failure has occurred. After a horrible night of fishing Jesus appears to the disciples and makes them a meal. John is stressing the point that Jesus resurrected and is giving examples of his encounters with the resurrected Jesus. A primary focus of the second half of John 21 is the restoration of Peter back to the ministry. Jesus has a personal conversation with him that reconfirms his love for Jesus. This conversation is what brings Peter back to ministry. 

1) Think of a time where you wanted to throw in the towel on something (could be work, family, a sport, or ministry). What kept you engaged in that activity? Share details with your group about what kept you from quitting. It could be a Bible verse, a friend, or your spouse. If you did quit, what ultimately led to that decision? 

2) Read John 21:10-14. The disciples had just encountered the most stressful and traumatic week of their life. Their response is to return to fishing. How do you think this meal with Jesus refreshed them on the shoreline of the Sea of Galilee? 

3) While Jesus and Peter are walking down the shoreline Jesus asks Peter three times if Peter loves Him (read John 21:15-17). Even though Peter was hurt by this, how do you think this conversation impacted Peter’s future in ministry? 

4) Jesus told Peter to feed or take care of His sheep. If people are like sheep, how can we show the love of Jesus to those in our circle of influence? Come up with three practical ways your group can love others this week. (see Matthew 22:37-40) 

5) Immediately after Peter is restored to his role as a disciple, Jesus tells him about the kind of death Peter will experience (read John 21:18-23). How can a person glorify God in their life and in their death? What does that practically look like? 

6) Throughout our passage there is line that Jesus repeats: “Follow Me”. This is the same line Jesus said to the disciples in John 1:43. Where are some places you do great at following Jesus and what are some areas you’d like to improve in this area?

7) John concludes the gospel by saying that “Jesus did many other things…” Think about the last year of our time in the Gospel of John. What are some of the things that stand out the most to you? What has shaped your faith the most? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Deny Everything | John 18:1-27

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Deny Everything | John 18:1-27

John 18 begins a new section in the Gospel of John. This section starts the path to the cross for Jesus, the resurrection, and the reinstatement of Peter. In our text today we will see that Peter denied Jesus three times on the night of His arrest. It must have been a frightening night for the disciples to witness the arrest of Jesus. In John 13 we read that Judas left the Passover meal to hand Jesus over to the Religious Leaders. During the arrest we see Jesus intentionally protect the disciples to keep them safe. While Jesus is in an unfair, unjust, midnight courtroom is when Peter denies Jesus. He leaves the situation broken and in tears. 

1) In the sermon it was said that Peter was taught to deny anything the Roman empire asked him about. What is something that your parents taught you, good or bad, that you still fall back on to this day? 

2) Read John 18:1-7. Judas knew exactly where Jesus would be and choose to intentionally betray Jesus. Think about a time in your life when you were betrayed. How it feel? What emotions did you experience? How did you get through it? 

3) During His arrest Jesus stood up to protect the disciples (had John 18:8-9). Using your voice to protect others can be bold and scary. Share a time when you spoke up to protect others or when you did not speak up but kept quiet. 

4) Peter acts rashly and almost kills a man (read John 18:10-12). What do you think made Peter act in this manner to try to behead one of the soldiers? How do you think you would act if you were in the garden that night? 

5) Read John 18:15-18). It’s late at night and Peter denies Jesus. In what situations are you tempted to hide your faith to protect yourself? Do you feel adequately prepared to share your faith when the right time presents itself? (see 1 Peter 3:15-16). 

6) Read John 18:19-24. While Jesus was being falsely accused He was slapped in the face for His reply to the High Priest. What does this slap say about our culture? Where in culture do you see people trying to push Jesus out of things? 

7) Peter ends up denying Jesus two more times (read John 18:27-27). Peter made a mistake but it seems to be out of self-preservation. What can learn about Peter’s situation and the words that come out of our mouth? 

8) Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

United | John 17

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone. 

Small Group Questions | United  | John 17

Life can sometimes feel like the game of Jenga. Pieces are moving, things are unstable, and who knows what will happen next! In John 13-17, Jesus teaches the disciples in a famous part of Scripture known as the Upper Room Discourse. Today we come to John 17 and finish the Upper Room Discourse. For the last several chapters Jesus has taught on love, serving others, and the Kingdom of God. Today we come to a beautiful passage in Scripture where Jesus prays for the disciples and prays for us. Jesus prays for you. As we study John 17 we will see how Jesus longs for us to be united in this world that so easily causes division.

1) The sermon started with an example from the game of Jenga. Thinking about this example, share about what are some of the most vital parts of your spiritual life. How do you see the unity of the game of Jenga as an example of your spiritual growth? 

2) Read John 16:1-5. Jesus main desire was to bring glory to the Father (Read John 1:1-5). How does the relationship between God and Jesus encourage you to have a healthy relationship with your heavenly Father? 

3) Neal said: “If God answered all your prayers from the last week, would the world be a better place?” How did this make you think of your prayer life? Read these verses to help the discussion: Matthew 5:44, Ephesians 6:18, and Colossians 1:9. 

4) Read John 17:6-19. Jesus prays for the disciples to be protected after He departs back to the Father. What are some of the troubles that the disciples would encounter after Jesus’ ascended back to Heaven? (see Acts 12:2, 14:19-20, and 1 Peter 1:1-2).

5) While on earth Jesus was intentional to invest Himself into the disciples. Who are some of the people who’ve invested in your spiritual life? What did they teach you and how can you follow their lead to invest into others? (see Matthew 28:18-20). 

6) Read John 17:20-26. Jesus prayed for you to stay strong in a hostile world and for unity in the local church. In your group come up with five practical ways that you can help promote unity in the local church. 

7) Thinking of the entirety of John 17, how does this chapter impact your prayer life? Share with your group a handful of ways you want to grow in your prayer life and what will need to change for that to take place. 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Evidence of The Spirit | John 15:26-16:15

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Evidence of The Spirit  | John 15:26-16:15

All of us have been in a place in our life where we needed help from someone. In our passage today Jesus continues to explain to the disciples His departure and the sending of the Holy Spirit. The upper room discourse is the final teaching of Jesus that we have before He went to the cross. Much of the teaching is focused on loving others and spreading the Gospel. Jesus teaches the disciples about the coming of the Holy Spirit and what that means for their lives. We’re going to see how The Spirit is the spirit of truth, that it’s actually good for us for Jesus to return to heaven, and how we can walk in the truth of God.

1) Thinking about the last couple of months, when have you needed help with something in your life? It might help with a project around the house, something at work, or your taxes. Share how you asked for help in this situation. 

2) Read John 15:26-27. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit and that the Spirit would guide us in all truth. Share with your group at least one truth that you have learned from following Jesus that you didn’t live in before trusting Jesus. 

3) Neal took some time to teach us about: Relative and Absolute truth. What is the downside of a culture that continues to push relative truth? How can we, as believers, help people to see the Absolute truth of Jesus? 

4)Read John 16:1-5. Jesus has been extremely repetitive in His teaching. Look back in the previous couple of chapters of John and share with your group what you see in this repetition. Why is this repetition important for our Christian walk? 

5) Jesus promised that His departure would bring the presence of the Holy Spirit (read John 16:7). How do you walk daily in the presence of the Holy Spirit? If you struggle with this, share how you’d like to walk more in the presence of the Holy Spirit for life change. 

6) Jesus said the Holy Spirit would: convict us of sin, teach us about righteous living, and be the rational for judgement. Talk about how this progression leads to life change as you follow Jesus. 

7) Read Acts 2:36-41. After Jesus has ascended back into heaven we read this powerful account of the Holy Spirit at work. Where do you want to see the Holy Spirit move in a powerful way in your life and our church family? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Dropping Stones | John 8:1-11

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Dropping Stones | John 8:1-11

Relationships can be difficult and challenging. Sometimes they have the ‘happily ever after’ ending and other times they end like a train wreck. Today we’re going to see a story of a woman who made a bad choice. She might have made this choice once, several times, or for several years, we don’t know all the details of the story. Her bad choice puts her in a place that she never imagined she would be. Our story involves the religious leaders treating an adulterous woman with no compassion. In John 8 we read about a woman who was caught making a bad choice and finds herself standing next to Jesus. Study these questions to learn more about the mercy of Jesus. 

1) Relationships can be amazing, challenging, fulfilling, and difficult. When we add romantic feelings things can get complicated at times. Share about a time when you had to navigate a unique situation in any type of relationship you’re involved in. 

2) Read John 8:1-2. Jesus was in the habit of teaching the people about the truth of God in a way they understand (Matthew 4:23, Mark 6:6, and Luke 13:10). What have you learned from the teaching of Jesus and how has it changed you? 

3) One of the things the Pharisees tried to do in this situation was to trap Jesus with this question (read John 8:3-6). The Law required that two or three people witness a sin like this. What would motivate the Pharisees to treat a woman in such a manner? 

4) If Jesus condemns the woman He is not viewed as compassionate. If Jesus frees the woman, He negates the Law. Is there a way for us, in our current culture, to keep a balance between compassion and following the commands of God? 

5) It appears that Jesus gives the crowd the freedom to throw stones as long as they know they are also condemned in their sin (read John 8:7-8). Read Matthew 7:1-6 and talk about how to be better at removing sin from your own life. 

6) As people saw the words of Jesus written in the sand, they began to leave (read John 8:9-11). Romans 3:23 says that we have all sinned. Following the Law of Moses, Jesus didn’t condemn this woman but invited her to leave her life of sin. Share with you group when you trusted Jesus and how that changed your life. 

7) For Jesus to offer the mercy that He offered to this woman it meant He would have to climb on the cross to pay for our sins (see Luke 23:26-49). How can we share this great love of Jesus with people in our lives who are in need of mercy?  

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

When I’m not feeling it | Psalm 13

This summer our church is taking nine weeks to focus our heart, soul, and mind on worship. For the summer we’re going to focus our attention on worshipping God. We’re going to submit ourselves to the creator of the universe and see what Scripture teaches us about worship. For this series we’ll look at a variety of passages that teach us about worship. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | When I’m not feeling it | Psalm 13

It’s hard to worship when we’re not feeling God in our daily life. The Bible teaches us how to deal with distressing situations in our life and turn them into worship. The struggle in our lives happen when we want to praise God but we just can’t. We can be grateful for the honesty of the Psalmists who experienced difficult times and wrote about them. We’re going to look at how to worship God when it seems like God has hidden His face from us. We’ll figure out how to ask God to look on us and how to respond in praise. There are times in our lives when it feels like God has hidden Himself from us. 

1) Neal shared a story about losing his dad, his stepdad, and his mom having a traumatic brain injury in the span of seven months. Can you think of a time in your life when it seemed like your world was falling apart?  

2) Read Psalm 13:1-2. You can see David’s struggle in the fact he writes, “How long…” four different times. Read Numbers 6:22-27, Psalm 11:7, Psalm 17:15 and Psalm 27:4. Describe what it feels like for God to hide His face from our daily life. 

3) In our dark moments we tend to wrestle with the thoughts in our mind. One struggle we have can be listening to God’s word but not applying it (read James 1:22-25). How do you manage your emotions during dark times? 

4) Read Psalm 13:3-4. David asks God to look on him and answer. There is a powerful aspect of our human life when people actually see us (read Genesis 16:13, Psalm 80:14, and Matthew 8:5-13). Talk about the power of God seeing us. 

5) David’s fear was that his enemies would gain the victory if he were to pass away. This is not a selfish request but a request for the mighty power of God to be known. Think of ways that God can be, and is, glorified when He acts on our behalf. 

6) No matter the situation, David will trust in God. David has known God’s faithfulness for generations. Read Psalm 13:5-6. Share about how you’ve seen God's faithfulness in your life and how you can trust Him moving forward. 

7) The final invitation, or application, of this Psalm is to praise God. What is your favorite worship song? How does that song invoke a lifestyle of praise for you? Where would you like to praise Jesus more in your life? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

John 2:1-12 | Small Group Questions

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | The Unforgettable Wedding | John 2:1-12

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. This Sunday Pastor Neal taught a first-person narrative from the viewpoint of the father of the bride at the wedding of Cana. Use these questions to discuss how we can apply this passage to our lives. 

1) John teaches us that it was the third day when Jesus preformed this miracle at the wedding of Cana. We’ve talked about John’s literary skill, do you think he wrote this passage in this way to remind us of Jesus’ burial and resurrection on the third day? 

2) When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother came to share this truth with Him. The reason Mary involves Jesus is to avoid family shame. Share about a time when Jesus took away your shame and saved your name in the community. 

3) Read John 2:5-8. We see the servants readily obey all that Jesus asked them to do. Read Luke 17:10. Jesus teaches us that we should live with the attitude of serving others. Do you struggle with obeying God or does that come easily to you? 

4) The master of the banquet remarks that the best wine was saved for last. What does this say about the nature of Jesus' miracles and his ministry as a whole? What do you think Jesus still has planned for your life that is better than right now? 

5) In the Old Testament there is a connection that makes wine and joy synonymous (see Psalm 4:7, Isaiah 16:10, and Ecclesiastes 9:7). We’re not suggesting to drink wine for joy. Where have you seen Jesus fill your emptiness with joy? 

6) In John 2:11 we read that this was a sign and not a miracle. Most people think of this as a miracle and not a sign. Take some time, as a group, to discuss the difference in the two words. What makes this a sign and not a miracle? 

7) In this sermon Neal preached a first-person narrative. Do you think/feel like you were able to connect better to this style of preaching? What was helpful to you in your walk with Jesus to learn this way? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

A healthy marriage focuses on comforting each other

Last month Charity and I had the privilege of sharing on marriage at Coastline. It was a super fun morning to teach with Charity. This year we hit 18 years of marriage. We're the first to share that we're not perfect but we're also not quitters. We intentionally invest in our marriage. One of those ways is to comfort each other.

Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

    But how can one keep warm alone?

Ecclesiastes 4:11

When Solomon wrote this he was specifically thinking about the cold desert nights in Israel. He was thinking that if two people lie down together they can share their body heat and survive the cold desert nights. There is an aspect in this verse of the comfort that a marriage provides to people. 

Now, most guys read this verse and think that Solomon is talking about sex. I can assure you he is not talking about sex. Guys, almost anything can be sexual for you. Last night your wife said: “Can you help me load the dishwasher?” In your mind you thought: “You bet! I’ll help you load the dishwasher.” Your mind immediately went to sex and she just needed help in the kitchen. 

This passage is about comfort. I’ve found marriage provides an amazing comfort in a confusing world. Earlier I shared that marriage was God’s idea. God knew that we would face daily challenges and need someone to share the load of those challenges with. 

Some of you stay home with the kids all day long. When your spouse comes home you simply want to talk with someone about something else than Paw Patrol and dirty diapers. You want adult conversation. Marriage provides that comfort. Some of you work outside the home all day. You want to come home and ask your spouse for ideas on how to manage your team. You’re having an issue with your boss. He wants you to work on a project and it's all you’ve ever dreamed up but you want to discuss this with your spouse. We converse with our spouse because it provides us comfort in a confusing world. 

I appreciate what the Apostle Paul wrote to the early church in Ephesus (read Ephesians 5:33). I don’t think it’s my role to tell anyone’s wife that she must respect her husband. The Bible has clearly told you. But I do feel it’s my passion to help men to love their wife. I long to see more healthy marriages in our church and in our community. I’ve used this illustration for years in pre-marital counseling. When a husband attempts to move closer to his wife, he doesn’t get closer to God. But when he applies this passage and focuses on loving God and loving his wife, he gets closer to God. Hopefully she is focused on loving God and respecting her husband. The end result is a closer relationship to God and your spouse. I love this quote: "A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." —Mignon McLaughlin

Can we have some real talk here? Some of you are feeling beat up by the world right now. You’re struggling with rising food costs, kids tearing through shoes, your gas bill, your boss, and much more. You are exhausted with all the responsibilities you have. Some of you single parents are really struggling in this season of life. You might even want to quit. 

Instead of running away from your spouse, getting your head, or being silent, will you please let your spouse comfort you? She can’t fix your problems, you need to get on your knees and beg God for that, but she can comfort you in this time. This is for everyone. Here is a simple question that Charity and I ask in our home: “Do you want me to fix that or just listen?” There are times that guys go into solve mode when we simply need to listen. We show comfort in our relationships when we listen to each other. 

A healthy marriage focuses on teamwork

Earlier this month Charity and I taught on marriage. It was super fun because we've been married for eighteen years now! We have three children and have lived in a couple different cities together. We've traveled from California to Arizona, from Las Vegas to Africa, from Washington to Italy (and more). And in all that we still love each other! 

For our talk we looked at the words of Salomon in Ecclesiastes: 

9 Two are better than one,

    because they have a good return for their labor:

10 If either of them falls down,

    one can help the other up.

But pity anyone who falls

    and has no one to help them up.

11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

    But how can one keep warm alone?

12 Though one may be overpowered,

    two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV

When I think about married, the first thing that a healthy marriage focuses on is teamwork. The author starts out with a basic truth in life: two are better than one. If I asked you if you would rather have one dollar or two, you would take two. If I asked you if you would rather have one scoop of ice cream or two, you would most likely take two. The author is referring to people. The only thing that we don’t want two of is rattlesnakes on a hike. When two people are working together they have a better return. Two people can bring in more income, they can dream together, they can work better in their gifting and have a better return for the company they are working for. We all know that two are better than one, but we need to be reminded or this truth for a healthy marriage. 

For those who are married, you know that for your marriage to be healthy you have to work together. When a couple walks down the aisle they are madly in love. They stare into each others eyes. They see their future flash in front of them. This is the person they want to have babies with, buy a home with, travel with, and grow old with. 

When each person walks down the aisle they have an invisible team jersey on. That team jersey has their own name on the back. For twenty minutes they will stand in front of their family, friends, a pastor and God, and commit their lives to each other. When they walk away that day they have changed their team allegiance to work with the other for the rest of their lives. 

Most of us know what it’s like to work with others on a team. We played soccer when we were five years old. We worked with a group on a high school math project. Or in our office we’ve worked on a team project to develop a new initiative. Sometimes there is a person on the team that doesn’t pull their weight and does less than the rest of the team. This leaves the others on the team doing more work and carrying the other person’s slack. Most often this ends in bitterness. 

On a team, everyone needs to play their role plus some. When everyone on the team gives 100%, that is what makes the team function. 

When I think of teamwork, I’m drawn to what God spoke in creation (read Genesis 2:18). It is not good for man to be alone. Guys, can I get an: “Amen!” on that one! If you’re married but haven’t been focused on teamwork with your spouse, will you make a change today? 

I want to present the: Be something different principle to you. I find that when I’m home I can easily drift to being on my phone and neglect my kids. Charity saw this too but she didn’t shame me for it. Instead, Charity has modeled to our family that she is present. She doesn’t bring her phone to the dinner table and she isn’t constantly glued to a screen. Instead, she is engaged and focused on our family. She has modeled to me that there is a different way. What I want you to do is think about how you can be different in your marriage. Not how your spouse can be different but how you can be different. What you can do in your marriage that will focus on teamwork and involvement. 

Luke 12 | Small Group Questions

For the month of November we’re going to talk about Absurd Generosity from the gospel of Luke. This isn’t the only place Jesus talked about money in the Bible. Jesus talked about money a lot in the Gospels. Of His thirty-eight parables, about half of them deal with money and possessions. Jesus frequently used money as a way to grab people’s attention for a deeper issue. In the Gospels, one in every ten verses deal with money. Why so much talk about money? Because our attitude to money reveals a lot about us. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | The Game of Monopoly | Luke 12

The month of November tends to spark a heart of generosity in people. November is a month to be thankful for all we have. We begin to think about Thanksgiving, inviting family and friends to the house, and later in the month we will start thinking about Christmas plans. For the month of November we’re going to talk about Absurd Generosity from the gospel of Luke. Our passage in Luke 12 is not a parable about Monopoly; it's a parable about greed. In this parable Jesus exposes the tendency we all have to fall into greed and away from generous living. Jesus makes a compelling case for how destructive the love of money can be in our lives. He exposes the pull that greed has on our lives and teaches us how to live in the exact opposite of greed.

1) The point of the game of Monopoly is to buy property, improve that property, gain wealth, and have the money financial resources at the end of the game. How many of you love the game of Monopoly but have treated life with the same rules? 

2) We talked about four areas Christians are confused on money: Money is evil, I have to tithe, More Money = God’s Blessing, and It’s mine. What one of these four areas do you struggle with the most and why? 

3) Read Luke 12:13-15. In this interaction we see the heart of a greedy man exposed before Jesus. Read Deuteronomy 21:15–17, Numbers 27:1–11, and Psalm 133:1. Does it seem like this bother cared more about wealth or relationship? 

4) Read Luke 12:16-21. This man had a huge bumper crop and his first inclination was to build a bigger barn. Read Matthew 6:19-21, 2 Corinthians 9:7 & 1 Timothy 6:10. How does Scripture teach us to handle the financial resources we have? 

5) Jesus used a parable to expose the greed of this brother. Read Luke 21:1-4. This woman put in all she had to live on (it equates to about $2 in our economy). What would it take for you to leave a life of greed and move to generosity? 

6) Jesus has a private teaching moment with the disciples to help them understand their relationship to money (Read Luke 12:22-34). Jesus is teaching them to trust God in with their money (Proverbs 3:5-6). What would it take for you to fully trust God with your finances? 

7) Jesus chose to trust God with every area of His life (read Luke 23:44-49). Jesus trusted His life to God for our salvation. How does that impact your life? 

Close your time in prayer.

James 5:1-12 | Small Group Questions

James was a leader of the first Christian community ever. He was in a leadership role for 20 years and during this time the church fell on hard times; famine, persecution, and poverty. James lived with wisdom and courage during this difficult time. The book of James is really a letter of wisdom. Instead of writing to one church community, like Paul did, James wrote to all of the Christians to encourage them to live out their faith. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | How to Treat People | James 5:1-12

As James nears the end of his letter there is a palatable shift in his writing style. James begins chapter 5 with a stern warning to those who are increasing in wealth by oppressing the poor. It seems that many of these verses are written directly to people who aren’t connect to the local church. There are people who are increasing their wealth by taking advantage of others and James calls out that behavior. Then there is a shift, James writes again to the Christians in the church. He gives them a double reminder to be patient. The characteristic of patience is a fruit of the Spirit that all believers need to actively grow in. 

1) Neal started the sermon with a story about the President of North Macedonia. There was a girl in his country who was being bullied and the President stepped in to show her value. Share about a time when you treated an oppressed person with dignity. 

2) Read James 5:1-6. James condemns the people who are oppressing the poor and not paying the wages of the works. Read Deuteronomy, 24:14-15, Leviticus 19:13, Jeremiah 22:13. Talk about how you can honor people in all walks of life. 

3) It appears that the wealthy people were taking advantage of day labors and not paying them their wages. Read what Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19-24. Do you have an area in your life where you hoard material possessions that you can give away? 

4) James isn’t condemning material wealth, he is condemning wealth by unjust gains. Read Matthew 20:1-6. How can you have a balance in your life of saving for: retirement, college, and your future while being generous to those around you? See 2 Corinthians 12:14, 1 Timothy 5:8, and Matthew 25:27. 

5) James shifts his attention back to the early church (Read James 5:7-9). James uses the illustration of farming to exhort the church to be patient. Read Galatians 5:22-23, 6:9, Mark 4:28-29, and Luke 8:11. Where is God inviting you to be patient? 

6) James furthers the example of patience (Read James 5:10-12). Read Acts 14:22, John 16:33, and 2 Timothy 3:12. Share about how the faith of the saints who’ve gone before you is an encouragement to stand strong in your faith. 

7) What three examples of patience does write that resonate most with you? Why do these resonate with your current stage of life today? 

Close your time in prayer.

James 2:14-26 | Small Group Questions

James was a leader of the first Christian community ever. He was in a leadership role for 20 years and during this time the church fell on hard times; famine, persecution, and poverty. James lived with wisdom and courage during this difficult time. The book of James is really a letter of wisdom. Instead of writing to one church community, like Paul did, James wrote to all of the Christians to encourage them to live out their faith. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Faith Works | James 2:14-26

James was a leader in the early church. He was known as a pillar and peacemaker in the early church. His goal isn’t to teach new theological information but to get in our business and change how we live our lives. In our passage today James is going to teach us about genuine faith and how genuine faith is alive and active in every aspect of our lives. For us to realize what genuine faith is, we need to see some other examples. James teaches us about faith that is solely intellectually based; it has no substance. Then we learn about faith that is emotion driven with no action. Finally we learn from two examples in the Old Testament about having a dynamic faith. 

1) Neal opened the sermon with three examples of people who’s words didn’t match their actions. Think about a time in your life where someone’s words didn’t make their actions. Now share about a time when your words didn’t match your actions. 

2) Read James 2:14-17. James gives a very practical example of helping someone in the church who is in need. Jesus spoke about helping others (read Matthew 25:37-40). How can you be prepared to live out your faith by helping others? 

3) James teaches us that faith without action is dead. Read Hebrews 11:1, 6, and Romans 10:17. James is condemning a faith that is solely intellectual without action. What can you do this week to proactively live out your faith? 

4) Read James 2:18-19. The contrast of intellectual faith is emotional faith. Read Mark 9:14-29. Thinking about faith that has deeds, this father brought his son to Jesus for healing but he struggled in his faith. Where do you struggle in your faith walk? 

5) James makes an interesting point the demons shutter (an emotional response) but also have a solid doctrine. Read Mark 3:11-12, Luke 8:31, and Mark 5:1-13. What do these passages teach us about the demonic world and their understanding of God? 

6) Read James 2:20-24. James gives us Abraham as an example of a balanced faith. Read Genesis 12:1-3,15:5-6, and 22:8. Thinking of these three examples in Abraham’s life, what do we learn about his faith combined with action? 

7) Read James 2:25-26. James also teaches us about the life of Rahab. Her story is much different (read Joshua 2:1-11 and 6:17. What must it have been like for Rahab to act in faith based on her knowledge of God? How can we live out our faith daily?  

Close your time in prayer.

James 2:1-13 | Small Group Questions

James was a leader of the first Christian community ever. He was in a leadership role for 20 years and during this time the church fell on hard times; famine, persecution, and poverty. James lived with wisdom and courage during this difficult time. The book of James is really a letter of wisdom. Instead of writing to one church community, like Paul did, James wrote to all of the Christians to encourage them to live out their faith. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Favoritism Forbidden | James 2:1-13

James, the half-brother of Jesus, was a leader in the early church. He was known for his compassion, leadership, and influence over the early church. In this letter he writes to the entire church about the persecution they are enduring. He also gives them very practical ways to live out their faith. In James 2 we have a long example of why we are to treat everyone the same in Christ. Another way to say it is that we are not invited to show favoritism to anyone. In this time period, Jewish people coveted recognition and honor from others. It was typical to give a better seat to the wealthy people in the church. James wasn’t going to allow culture to influence the teaching of Jesus.

1) Neal grabbed our attention with the Disney story of Cinderella but turned it upside down with a real life example of a young girl was treated poorly in her family. Share about a time that you received special attention or favoritism. 

2) Read James 2:1, 5. Look at how James address the early church. You can see that he has a deep love for these people and a desire for them to grow in their faith. What can we learn from James about the way he thinks about people? 

3) Read Genesis 37:3-4. James gives a command to the church  not to show favoritism in verse 1 but Jacob showed favorites to his son. Read Matthew 22:16, Luke 21:1-4, Romans 2:11, and Ephesians 6:9. How do we not show favoritism in the church? 

4) Read James 2:5-7. James teaches us that faith that works doesn’t show favoritism. Discuss in your group what a church who doesn’t favoritism would look like. How can your group implement that to help reach our city for Jesus? 

5) James drives the point home by teaching on loving your neighbor (read James 2:8-11). James quotes Moses and Jesus here (Leviticus 19:18 and Matthew 22:38). Also read Luke 10:25-37. How can we love those in need? 

6) James mentioned two of the Ten Commandants in connection of not showing favoritism. It seems that human people have a great ability to justify their choices. Talk about ways that you can justify certain actions over other actions and in doing so break the truth of God. 

7) The message in this section is obvious, our beliefs should control our behavior (read James 2:12-13). James connects favoritism to God’s mercy on us. Read Matthew 18:23-35. How can we show mercy because we’ve been shown mercy? 

Close your time in prayer.

Exodus 2 | Small Group Questions

About twelve years ago is when I first remember hearing the term: Spiritual Formation. It was a class I took during my masters work with Tozer Seminary. For ten-weeks this summer Coastline will be looking at Spiritual Formations in a sermon series titled: Formed. We live in a culture that longs for immediate change but being formed spiritually takes time. Spiritual formation takes years, even decades, to become the person God is calling you to be.  For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Formed in Solitude | Exodus 2

The story of Moses is fairly familiar in the Christian church. We know about his childhood, him sending forty years in the desert, and then leading the Nation of Israel to the edge of the Promised Land. Sometimes we miss his preparation process. Moses was born to a Hebrew family in Egypt. During the time period that Moses was born it was dangerous for a Hebrew family to have children. There was a law in Egypt that all baby boys were to be put to death at birth. Moses survived and was destined to be a leader. He was raised in the palace in Egypt and groomed his entire life for leadership. Study these questions and look at how solitude shaped Moses’ life. 

1) We live in a time where we are bombarded with content. There are billions of hours of YouTube consumed on a regular basis. You could watch Netflix for years. What is your biggest barrier to getting solitude with the Lord? 

2) Read Exodus 2:11-15. Moses had a lot to sort through in his life. He was a murdered who was chased out of Egypt by his stepfather. How do you think Moses began to process his childhood in solitude? What do you think he learned about himself? 

3) Something change in Moses during that 300 mile walk from Egypt to Midian (read Exodus 2:15-17). Moses still had a strong sense of justice but learned to control his actions. How has sitting still before the Lord helped shaped you? (See Psalm 46:10). 

4) When Moses arrived in Midian it was clear that he was unclear about his identity (read Exodus 2:18-25). But something changed in him as he sat with the Lord, gave up his dreams, and got involved in community. Share about a time in your life when you sat with the Lord and it shaped you. 

5) The Bible is full of people who have been shaped by times of solitude with the Lord (read 1 Kings 19:1-9, Psalm 118:6,  and Matthew 4:1-11). Looking at Moses, Elijah, and Jesus what are some similarities that you see in their time of solitude? 

6) Neal defined solitude as intentional time in quiet to be with the Lord. He invited us to read 1 Samuel 3:10, Psalm 46:10, and Psalm 139:23-24. When you look at these verses what one are you going to bring with you in your next time of solitude? 

7) To make solitude a spiritual disciple it will require planning ahead. Solitude won’t happen on accident. Solitude can feel boring and we need to be prepared for that. Do you have any desire to be in solitude with the Lord? Why or why not?

Close your time in prayer.

Ephesians 4 | Small Group Questions

About twelve years ago is when I first remember hearing the term: Spiritual Formation. It was a class I took during my masters work with Tozer Seminary. For ten-weeks this summer Coastline will be looking at Spiritual Formations in a sermon series titled: Formed. We live in a culture that longs for immediate change but being formed spiritually takes time. Spiritual formation takes years, even decades, to become the person God is calling you to be.  For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Be Made New | Ephesians 4

For the ten-weeks of summer we’re going to talk about Spiritual Formation. There are a variety of words used to describe our process of spiritual growth. We are all being formed into something. We are all pointing our lives in a direction, we need to slow down and think of what that direction might be. In Ephesians 4 Paul teaches the early church about leaving their life of sin to be formed in Christ. Paul painted this church about five years prior and knows they are not continuing in their formation. He doesn’t use the word Sanctification but teaches about the process of how sinful humans are made holy for God. Think about how God is shaping your life this summer. 

1) On stage there were a variety of items from a stroller to a motorcycle. Pastor Neal taught us about the physical maturity of a human and then about the spiritual growth on a person. Where are you in the Spiritual Growth process? 

2) Read Ephesians 4:17-19. Paul reminds the early church that they have walked away from growing spiritually. Read Colossians 2:6-7, John 15:1-8, and Romans 12:1-2. What happens when we stay connected to Jesus and keep growing spiritually? 

3) Looking at the same passages, talk about what happens when we choose to slowly drift away from the Lord? Read Genesis 4:7, Psalm 51:5, Mark 2:5, & 1 Corinthians 5:17-21. How does sin hurt our relationship with Jesus? 

4) Paul teaches us about what he taught the local church (read Ephesians 4:20-21). When you think about the truth of Jesus Christ, what verses come to mind? What is the true message of Jesus that we need to share (see John 8:32)? 

5) Read Ephesians 4:22-24. Paul lays out the three stages of our spiritual life. First, we trust Jesus. Then our life is transformed. Finally we live out that hope in Jesus as our lives continue to be transformed. Share where you’re currently growing. 

6) Read Ephesians 4:25-32. Paul teaches the early church about how to leave their life of sin. He even goes the extra mile in teaching them to not only get a job but to be generous with others. Looking at this list of sins and struggles, what sin are you struggling with most in life right now? 

7) When we think about spiritual growth we have to make sure we’re not simply working on behavior modification. Talk with your group about how you make sure that you are partnering with the Holy Spirit in this work and not only yourself. 

Close your time in prayer.