“In Christ Also…”

Colossians 2:11-15

1. Pastor Josh mentioned near the beginning of his sermon that When we read our Bible we will encounter terms and concepts that are unfamiliar. So one of our tasks as Christians is to familiarize ourselves with the language and concepts within Scripture because it shapes our worldview about God, people, and salvation. Among the more prominent terms and concepts in Scripture is circumcision. Coming into our study, how familiar would you say you are with the theological/biblical significance of it? What did you learn about it from Pastor Josh's sermon on Sunday?

2. Paul tells the Colossians that Christ circumcised their entire body of flesh (sinful nature) and that we were buried with Christ. How does Christ's work of spiritual circumcision on you relate to you being buried and resurrected with Him?

3. Name some of the truths/benefits of God making you alive in verses 13-15. Discuss these as they relate to your identity in Christ, how they can guard you against false teachers, and how they should change how we speak and relate to one another as believers.

“Being Knit Together”

Colossians 2:1-5

Ice Breakers: 

1. If you could learn one new professional skill, what would it be?

2. If you could learn one new personal skill, what would it be?

Read Colossians 2:1-5 twice individually and once as a group. 

• In the sermon on Sunday, Pastor Josh talked about the meaning and significance of the statement: "being joined together in love." What do you remember about this? 

• Have you thought about how Christians demonstrating love for one another is linked to their individual spiritual growth and relationship with God? Share your thoughts. 

• Read John 13;35 and 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. How does this add to your discussion? From these verses what is a way you are loving well? Not so well? How does God's love for you inform your future love for fellow believers, and how and why you will love? 

 Ephesians 2:4-5 “God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.”

 1 John 3:16 “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.

 John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him shall never die but have eternal life. 

John 17:3 And this is eternal life: That they know you the only true God and Jesus Christ whom you sent. 

1 John 3:1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 

1 John 4:8 God is love. In this, the love of God was made manifest in us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved if God so loved us we also ought to love one another. 

Read Colossians 2:4-5. What do you think are some common "plausible arguments" today that are deluding believers? What is one thing according to verse 5 that will guard believers from delusion?

“Laboring for Loved Ones”

(Colossians 1:28-2:5)

Ice Breaker: What is your favorite season? Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer. Why? What is your least favorite? (10 Minutes). 

Spend a few minutes in prayer together that God would give you wisdom and insight into the text that you're about to study together. It is okay if there is a bit of silence between you praying. 

Read Colossians 1:24-2-5 silently to yourself, individually. Then read it again out loud as a group. One person can read or you may share in the reading. 

• Take a minute or two and find any words related to hardship noting the verses you find them. 

• Who is experiencing hardship/stuggle and for whom? 

• What is the goal or hope in the hardship/struggle? 

• Talk a bit about what this tells us about the ministry of the gospel, about being servants of the gospel? 

• What might be one or two things that could cause you to rethink your commitment to this labor of love for others? 

• Paul mentions in verse 1:28-2:3 that he proclaims Christ alone, warning and teaching everyone. In doing so, he hopes to present everyone mature in Christ. How does proclaiming Christ alone (and no one else) relate to helping someone mature in Christ? 

• Take a look at 1:3 & 9. Practically speaking do you think prayer is a labor of love? How so? What does it look like in the 9-5 to not cease to pray for the church, for Anchor Point and all believers like Paul does?

• In 2:1-3, Paul say he wants the Colossian to know his heart and struggle for the Colossians. Based on your conversation so far, how would you describe his heart and his struggle for them? How does this relate to our laboring for others within our church family. 

Close your time together by praying  in accordance with this text. 

“All Things and Everything”

(Colossians 1:15-18)

Getting to know you: What is the best piece of advice you've ever received? (10 minutes)

Getting into the text:  Read Colossians 2:8, 18-19, & 23. Discuss some way the church and individual believers today could be deceived into believing what the Colossians were being taught How might it be showing up in our world today? 

Read Colossians 1:15-18 

• Take note of how many times in these few verses Paul mentions all things and everything." Underline. 

• Take note of the prepositions in reference to Christ and all things and everything. Underline. 

•  Prepositions are one of the most important parts of a sentence. They say something about the noun of a sentence. They usually convey concepts such as time, place, or direction. They are "the little words" like by, for, in, before, and under. These little words are critical for understanding the meaning and implication of a sentence and verse.

• What is Paul trying to convey in these verses for the Colossians?

• Is this new information for you or more of a healthy reminder? Explain.

• Paul concludes at the end of verse 18, "that in everything [Christ] might be preeminent." Preeminent means "first in rank, first place." Knowing that "everything" includes me and you in what way does this influence our everyday lives, practically? What are some ways people would know that Christ is first in rank in your life?

“What Child is this?”

(Colossians 1:13-16)

1. What have you been delivered from?

2. How does Colossians 1:15-16 inform your understanding of the baby in the manger?

3. What are some lies you have heard about Christ? How does Colossians bring truth to who Christ really is?

"Filled with the Right Stuff"

(Colossians 1:9-12)

• Opening Question: What are some ways you have heard about how a person connects with God, loves God, and loves their neighbor? What do they need to be filled with?

• Read Colossians 1:9-12 three times outline. Discuss what you see from the text and some highlights for you from Pastor Josh's sermon on Sunday. Read through the outline below if that helps.

Introduction: To love God, to connect with God love your neighbor our minds and thinking must be filled with the right stuff, the right information, and the truth about Jesus Christ.

-When Paul heard the good report from Ephaphas about the Colossian's faith, love, and hope he...

(1) He continually thanks God for them in prayer (v3-8).

(2) He continually requests that they may be filled with the right knowledge, wisdom, and understanding (v9). -The purpose of his request: so that they can live a life worthy of Christ and fully pleasing to Him (v10).
The Point: To live the Christian life need only be filled with the very life of Christ.
-What this looks like in practice and how we can know (v10-12)

• Bearing fruit in every good work (v10). One of the clearest evidence of fruit-bearing we have among the Colossians because of the connection to God through Christ alone is their love for one another. We know this because back in verse 4, that’s what they are commended for– love for all the saints. Loving one another is worthy of Christ because he loved us and gave his life for us. For God and one another is the fruit-bearing work of this.

• Increasing in the knowledge of God (v10). At Anchor Point we believe increasing the knowledge of God comes by learning the Scriptures. The Scriptures shape all we do, from preaching to groups to kids ministry to youth ministry, everything. That’s because in the Scriptures we learn Christ, we learn for example that he is the fullness of God and we have come into the fullness of God through Christ. Study the word to grow in your knowledge of Christ and to connect with God.

• Being strengthened with God’s strength (v11). In firm opposition to those teaching the Colossians that strength and power come by extra “special knowledge” outside of Christ, Paul says NO! It is according the Christ’s glorious might. Strength for endurance and patience with continual joy comes by relying on one who you already possess. To whom will you go? To whom will we turn? On whom will Anchor Point rely on? Not on any special spiritual vision or dream but only on Christ.

• ●  Giving thanks to God who qualified them (v12). This qualification to share in the inheritance of the saints in light means that all the conditions have been met which entitle a person to claim his full standing as an enlightened member of God’s people. Christ has brought you into the brightest light possible.

  Final questions to consider:

  What instruction or who might you be listening to these days that might be overtly and loudly, or with sneaky subtitles that Christ is insufficient to connect you to God, to fill you you to love God, to love one another, and to have hope? Who might you be giving your mind over to? Give your mind over to no one, except Christ alone. Keep scrolling past and stop and remain at Christ. And listen not to anyone who would point you anyplace or person except Christ. And then never call it quits to pray for others to keep scrolling until they come to Christ. That they learn from him about faith, hope, and love.

“Epaphras: Who in the world is that?!”

(Colossians 3:7-8; 4:12-13; Philemon 1:23)  

3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit (Colossians 1:3-8). 

What stood out to you from the sermon on Sunday and why?

Share with your group about 2 people who really invested in you, discipled you, to grow and become who you are today.

Discuss the following implications from Sunday's message.

Implications/principle:

1. Every disciple and every leader is the fruit of another disciple's investment. Epaphras was the fruit of a series of investments and hand-offs.

2. 50 years from now you may be mentioned but in a few short sentences. The question will be is did you make much of Christ with the time given you and with the people God gave to you?

3. A church needs an Epaphras and everyone to be involved. And a church that set out to make disciples are made is a church that will see people involved.

we will be providing weekly videos for you to watch and discuss in your groups. These videos will help lead you in Biblical conversation and will focus on our current sermon series. Have fun!

"Getting acquainted with the Colossians and why it matters."

(Colossians 1:1-6)

For the first 20 minutes... NOTE: Try to keep it to 20 minutes so you can get to the group discussion questions. 

1. Read Colossians 1:1-6 three times together as a group.

2. Next, go through the sermon outline together from Sunday's message.

3. Discuss anything that left an impression on you from it or from the sermon itself, and why.

Sermon outline...  

Introduction to the letter to the Colossians:

• The letter was written around A.D. 62 by the apostle Paul while in prison in Rome. 

• Paul did not plant the Colossian church, so his letter is to believers he never met. 

• The Colossian church was an outgrowth of Paul’s church planting work in Ephesus. 

• Paul’s heart is for them not to be taken captive by teaching that denies Christ's deity.

Into the letter:

• The letter is written to the saints, or holy ones–believers, but why? (v1-2). 

• Paul and Timothy always thank God when they pray for the Colossians, but why? (v3-4). 

• The Colossians were known for their faith in Christ and love for all believers everywhere, but why? (v5-6). 

For 40-60 minutes discuss and make a plan of action from the groups questions:

• Is your hope public? Have others heard from you about where your hope is? Imagine an entire church overjoyed about the hope they have in Christ.

• What would it mean to you to know that when you came to Anchor Point, you would experience love? What will you do this Sunday to demonstrate love (1 Cor. 13)

• When you pray for Anchor Point do you regularly begin with gratitude to God or complaint?

• Do you consider your first and fundamental identity as a sinner and an unfaithful one or as a saint and faithful one? What will you say to one another and to yourself that "changes the narrative?

The Parables of Jesus: Review & Application (Matthew 13)

This week we conclude our mini-series on Matthew 13 which contains a string of seven parables by Jesus. We look back at these parables by reviewing Jesus’ main purpose for speaking in parables and the main subject of the parables, why the parables of Jesus are important for us today, and finally, discuss some practical implications of the parables for the everyday ordinary stuff of our lives.

Question #1: Pastor Josh is encouraging all the groups to continue meeting together as we start the book of Colossians next week. What does your group think about this? Take a few minutes to discuss if it is something you would.

Question #2: Review the sermon outline below and discuss which of the parables has left the biggest impression on you and why.

Question #3. Review the sermon outline below and discuss which of the practical implications of the parables has left the biggest impression on you and why.

The Parables of Jesus: Review & Application 

(Matthew 13)

The main purpose of the parables: to rebuke Jesus' fair weather followers and to bless his faithful followers.

The main subject of the parables:The Kingdom of heaven.The kingdom of heaven has several aspects. The kingdom of heaven is the sovereign rule of God over all things. With Jesus arrival as the Messiah King this sovereign rule was displayed in his command over creation, demons and every sickness and disease and even has the power to forgive sin.

• The sower describes the response of those who hear the word of the kingdom of heaven.

• The wheat and the weeds describe the reality of living in the kingdom of heaven while living in the world.

• The mustard seed and the leaven describe the growth and influence of the kingdom of heaven.

• The hidden treasure and pearl of great price describe the infinite worth of the kingdom of heaven.

• The net describes the end of the age, Christ's return to install the fullness of the kingdom of heaven.

Why are the parables important for us as Christians today? They are intended to be a blessing to us because they tell us about what the kingdom of heaven is like.

What are some practical implications of the parables for everyday stuff of life? What difference do they make in everyday life?

1. Read and/or listen to them and be blessed. Jesus gave us more than 30 parables in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.

2. When you speak the gospel to someone some don’t be surprised by the response to it.

3. When someone receives Christ and His Kingdom as the treasure and joy, everything changes.

4. Live with hope and joyful expectancy that the Kingdom of heaven will grow and influence the entire world.

5. Come to terms with the sobering reality that eternal separation of the wheat from the tares, the good from the bad fish, is coming at the end of the age.

The Parables of Jesus
Groups Video - Week 6
The Parables of the Net and the Treasures
Matt. 13: 47-52

Introduction: Jesus’ parable of the net is among a number of other parables that illustrate the truth about and the event of the final judgement. These parables about the final judgement could easily be skipped due to their serious and sobering tone. These parables are not exactly “grow your church parables.” If not, they are almost certainly guaranteed to cause most to wrestle with the truth about the final judgement Nevertheless, here at Anchor Point we do not walk around or jump over the hard stuff of Jesus. Instead we walk through it and jump into it because we believe Jesus is right and that everything he tells us is for our benefit and not for our harm. We believe all of Scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness so that we be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17). So the parable of the net is to teach, reprove, correct and train us as it pertains to the final judgment so that we will be more complete as disciples of Christ for every good work in the world.

**Read the Parable of the net, then read the parable of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13), the parable of the wedding feast and the talents (Matthew 22), and finally Jesus’s words about the final judgement in Matthew 25:31-34, 41 & 46. 

Question #1: What do each of these parable have in common and how does this shape or reshape your understanding of Jesus? If Jesus said these things today how might he be recieved? 

Question #2: Read Matthew 24:44-47. What does Jesus say must be done to get ready for His return?  

Question #3: What must we do to help others get ready? If your group were the only believers in the entire northland, if it just was up to you, to tell others about Jesus and the final judgment what would you do? What wouldn’t you do? What sense of urgency would you feel if you really believed Jesus is telling you the truth? 

Question #4: Is there something your group could do to serve and unbelieving family in need? What is stopping you from making a plan? 

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 5
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Matt. 13:44-46

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 5
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Matt. 13:44-46

IceBreaker: Take some time to catch up. How have you seen God at work in your life lately? What has he been teaching you? How have you been growing in your walk with God this week?

Pray

Read: Matthew 13:44-46

Watch Video:

Discussion Questions:

1. Take time to talk about what stood out to you from Pastor Josh’s Sermon. Was there something you learned? Something that challenged you? A highlight?

2. What is the most valuable thing you have ever found? What was it? How valuable would a treasure have to be for you to sell everything you had to get it?

3. If someone asked you your top five priorities in life, what would you say? If that person looked at your calendar, your bank account, and your screen time, what would they say your priorities are? Would there be a difference between the lists? Why?

4. Read Matthew 6:25-33. What is Jesus saying here? What does it mean to seek God’s kingdom first? Can you give an example of how you’ve sought the kingdom first?

5. How do you feel led to respond to this week’s message and text? Are there steps of obedience you feel the Spirit asking you to take? How can we pray for you as a group?

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 4
The Parable of the Seed and the Leaven
Matt. 13:31-35

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 4
The Parable of the Seed and the Leaven
Matt. 13:31-35

IceBreaker: What small or seemingly insignificant possession is worth a great deal to you? Why?

Pray

Read: Matthew 13:31-35

Watch Video:

Discussion Questions:

1. To what kind of seed did Christ compare the kingdom of heaven? Why? (13:31-32)

2. How does the mustard seed compare to others in size, and what is a mustard seed like when it is fully grown? (13:32)

3. Besides bearing fruit, how is a mustard plant useful? (13:32)

4. In the Parable of the Yeast, to what did Christ liken the kingdom of heaven? (13:33) How does yeast work?

5. In what small or seemingly insignificant ways has God worked in your life?

6. What are some little things we can do to make a big impact for Christ?

7. What is one way you could quietly help the gospel permeate your family, workplace, or circle of friends?

8. What does this passage say to those who don’t feel talented, gifted, or brilliant?

9. In what ways has your Christian life grown to bless others (like the mustard seed becoming a big tree)?

ANSWER AND PRAY- What prayer can you begin praying this week to cause the gospel to spread?

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 3
The Parable of the Weeds
Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 3
The Parable of the Weeds
Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43

IceBreaker: Go around the group and answer this question - “If you really knew me, you would know that…”

Pray

Read: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

Watch Video:

Discussion Questions:

1. How does someone know if they are wheat or a weed?

2. What does it look like for weeds and wheat to grow in the same soil together? What can the wheat expect from the weeds?

3. Why does Jesus instruct us not to pull out the weeds? How does it hurt the kingdom when we do?

4. In what ways have you been tempted, or even tried, to pluck out weeds yourself? What perspective has this parable given you on that practice?

5. Everyone started as a weed, and God is in the business of making them into wheat. What comfort do you receive knowing that the Sower is watching over the soil and is aware of both the wheat and the weeds?

6. What has this parable encouraged you to do about the weeds around you during this growing season? What does it look like, practically, to live alongside but not to compromise?

“There is indeed grave danger in judging other people. It is the easiest thing in the world to judge completely wrongly. ... The result is that we cannot do other than leave the judgments to God. Dr. Samuel Johnson said, ‘God Himself does not propose to judge a man until his life is over. So why should you and I?’ To God only are known all the facts and God only can be the judge.”

William Barclay

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 2
The Soil
Matt. 13:1-9, 18-23

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 2
The Soil
Matt. 13:1-9, 18-23

IceBreaker: If you had 6 free hours to go and do whatever you wanted, what would you do with those 6 hours?

Pray

Read: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

Watch Video:

Discussion Questions:

1. SEED THAT FALLS ON THE PATH: Jesus often speaks about the power of “the evil one,” Satan, demonic powers, and evil spiritual beings. In this case, when a person wants nothing to do with the message of Jesus, it is a result of ​the evil one​ exercising his power over this individual.

   1. Do you believe that Satan exists, and that he has this kind of power over people?

   2. This is not a desirable response to the message of Jesus, so what might we do to reach

      people in this deadly predicament?

2. SEED THAT FALLS ON THE ROCKY SOIL: Jesus uses this kind of soil to illustrate an individual who desires the good things of God’s Kingdom without the self-sacrifice it requires. “When persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.” In our cultural context, what are some common forms of persecution Christians face, and how might we prepare ourselves to remain faithful when we experience them?

3. SEED THAT FALLS AMONG THORNS: The meaning of thorns are two-fold, including the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth.

   1. How can our current culture of fear choke out your faith?

   2. How does selfishness in regard to our personal finances choke out your faith?

4. SEED THAT FALLS ON GOOD SOIL: As you close your group in prayer this evening, pray that the members of your group would experience the exponential blessings promised to those who understand the message of Jesus and apply it to their lives.

5. What part of our small group discussion today stands out to you the most?

Take prayer requests and close in prayer. Allow time for small group members to pray aloud.

The Parables of Jesus
Week 1 - Group Questions
The Purpose of the Parables

The Parables of Jesus
Group Questions - Week 1
The Purpose of the Parables

IceBreaker: Being that this is the first meeting for many of our groups: Please share your name, how long you have been a part of Anchor Point Church, and share one fact about you that might surprise us…

Pray

Watch Video:

Discussion Questions:

A parable is, literally, something “cast alongside” something else. Jesus’ parables were stories that were “cast alongside” a truth in order to illustrate that truth. His parables were teaching aids and can be thought of as extended analogies or inspired comparisons. A common description of a parable is that it is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.

1) Why do you think Jesus began to teach in parables?

For a time in His ministry, Jesus relied heavily on parables. He told many of them; in fact, according to Mark 4:34a, “He did not say anything to them without using a parable.” There are about 35 of Jesus’ parables recorded in the Gospels.

2) Out of the 35 Parables of Jesus can you think of one that stands out to you, and what about it stands out?

In the early part of His ministry, Jesus had not used parables. Suddenly, He begins telling parables exclusively, much to the surprise of His disciples, who asked Him, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”

3) Check out Matthew 13:10, what is the reason Jesus started to speak in parables? What was going on one chapter before Matthew 13 to make Jesus start speaking in parables?

Jesus explained that His use of parables had a two-fold purpose: to reveal the truth to those who wanted to know it and to conceal the truth from those who were indifferent. In the previous chapter (Matthew 12), the Pharisees had publicly rejected their Messiah and blasphemed the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:22–32). They fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy of a hardhearted, spiritually blind people (Isaiah 6:9–10). Jesus’ response was to begin teaching in parables. Those who, like the Pharisees, had a preconceived bias against the Lord’s teaching would dismiss the parables as irrelevant nonsense. However, those who truly sought the truth would understand.

4) How might we use parables in our culture to teach about the deep kingdom truths of Jesus?

After telling some of His parables, Jesus said, “Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear” (Mark 4:9, 23). This was a call to listen to the parables, not just as one would listen to an ordinary story but as one who is seeking the truth of God. May God grant us all ears to truly “hear.”

PRAY: Pray for one anothers needs, and ask that God would grant your group the ears to truly hear his deep truths throughout the next 7 weeks of this study in The Parables of Jesus.

Ephesians Group Questions
May 8th, 2022
Ephesians 6:18-20

Icebreaker: Share a time when you have seen prayer work in a powerful or miraculous way in your life or the life of another.

Read: Ephesians 6:18-20

Pray

Discussion Questions: 

1. What does it mean to pray “at all times” or “without ceasing”? How are you doing in this regard?

2. What does it mean to pray in the Spirit?

3. Discuss the different kinds of prayer. Discuss the different ways in which we can pray. Is your prayer life diversified?

4. What does it mean to pray with alertness and perseverance? How might you grow in these areas?

5. Discuss some practical steps that you can take to pray regularly for all the saints and the success of the gospel.

6. In verse 19, Paul is wise enough to know his own need for strength, and his ability to open his mouth and boldly share the gospel. What might happen if we committed to pray this way for one another, everyday?
   
   Pray: Pray for one another, that they “may declare the gospel boldly, as it ought be spoken” with the people in their lives.

Ephesians Group Questions
May 1st, 2022
Ephesians 6:14-17

Icebreaker: Pastor Josh shared a quote from a book called The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, which discussed how people can be either hyper aware, or in denial of the spiritual relm. Both are a bad place to be. How have you found a balance of being aware of the spiritual battle that is all around us?

Read: Ephesians 6:14-17

Pray

Discussion Questions: 

1. Paul compares the warrior’s belt to truth. Take a look at a few other references to truth in Ephesians (vv. 1:13; 4:15, 21; 5:9). Jesus, speaking of Satan, said, “he is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44).” What are some ways that we can fail to stand in the truth?

2. We are not only to live lives characterized by truth, but also righteousness (pictured here as a breastplate). Read Ephesians 4:29–5:12 What are a few ways that impurity can discredit a believer?

3. The breastplate protected the heart. How has your heart been wounded by any of these things? What tactics has Satan used to try to exploit this weakness and get a foothold in your life?

4. Read Isaiah 52:7. How does this help us to better understand what is meant by “feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace?”

5. In what ways is faith a shield?

6. What might be some of Satan’s flaming arrows that would cause us to doubt what Paul taught in chapters one and two?

7. In what ways is the Word of God like a sword?

8. How should the reality of the spiritual battle affect the way a Christian prays?
   
   Pray: In what areas of your life have you dropped your guard? Share, then prayer for one anothers weaknesses to be able to stand.

Ephesians Group Questions
April 24th, 2022
Ephesians 6:10-13

Icebreaker: When was a time recently where you became more aware of the spiritual war that is going on behind the scenes? 

Read: Ephesians 6:10-13

Pray

Discussion Questions: 

1. What does Paul want us to understand about the battle we face as Christians?

2. Throughout the letter, Paul has stressed that we must rely on God’s strength in and through us (See 3:14-19). What’s the difference between using our own strength and being strong in God’s might?

3. What does it mean to rely on Christ’s strength and not our own?

4. If Christ has defeated Satan and all evil forces, why do we still struggle with sin? 

5. In vv. 11-12, what reasons does Paul give for the command “Put on the full armor of God”?

7. In this battle how is victory defined?

8. All of us have a few chinks in our armor. What’s an area you would like to grow in? Where do you most need God’s power in your life?

Holy Week / Group Meeting
April 10th, 2022
Matthew 21:1-11

Holy Week or Passion week is the week between Palm Sunday and Easter. This is the most important time of the year for Christians. It is a time to remember and celebrate the passion and love of Jesus for the world in dying for our sins. My encouragement for you and your group today is to do something different to make this week special.

Here is my suggestion:

Spend your time this week remembering Jesus’s time on the earth by simply gathering with your group to:

1 - Remember: I would suggest sitting in a circle and spend your time sharing your favorite Jesus memory. Ask the question what is your favorite story about Jesus in the Gospels? And why does this stand out to you? And how has this spoken to your life?

2 - Share a Meal: This could look like bringing something to eat, or simply taking communion together. Bring some bread and juice to share. Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. Thank God for his broken body and shed blood for your sins.

3 - Pray : Pray for one anothers needs, or just take time thanking him for what he has taught you through the stories that you just shared.

Ephesians Group Questions
April 3rd, 2022
Ephesians 6:5-9

Would someone be willing to catch us up on what we talked about last week in (Eph. 6:1-4) and what Paul has been explaining in Ephesians 5:21-6:4?

Answer: The foundation for the last few weeks is the command to be filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18), which enables us to submit to one another in the fear of God (Eph. 5:21).

Read: Ephesians 6:5-9

(Scripture Context: Slaves, bondservants, and hired servants were common in ancient times. The best modern-day application whenever the Bible speaks of “servants” or “slaves” is to substitute the word employees. The best modern-day application for the word “masters” is employers, bosses, or supervisors)

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you think “fear and trembling” means? (Answer: reverence and respect)

2. What do you think “singleness of heart” means? (Answer: giving single-minded devotion and attention to doing a good job?

3. What do you think “as unto Christ” means? (Answer: serve your employer just as you would serve the Lord Jesus Christ)

4. What other truths about our attitudes do you see in verses 5-8 in this text that we are supposed to possess?

5. Are you this kind of employee?

6. Are Christian employees only required to be obedient and respectful if their boss is good to them? (Answer: No, the Bible requires that they serve both good and bad employers in the same way).

7. Can you share a time when you disliked your job or employer and how that challenged your faith? 

8. Why should Christian ‘masters’ treat their workers well? (Answer: Because they have a Heavenly boss who is watching over them and will reward them for doing what is right) 

(Truth to share: Since slavery was common and accepted in the First Century, it is amazing to consider that this command was written to Christian slave owners. They were required to treat their slaves fairly and justly – even though those slaves were their property. Christianity brought an unprecedented change to the social order of the First Century world!)

9. What advice would you give someone really struggling with their boss or place of employment?

10. How can this apply to someone who has staff under them?

Pray: Take time to pray for one person at your job with your group. Share their name and why you would like to pray for them.

Ephesians Group Questions
March 20th, 2022
Ephesians 5:21-33

Icebreaker: If you are married (or widowed), share how you met, what attracted you to your spouse? What is one quality that is most needed to sustain a good marriage?

If single, either share something you like about your parent’s marriage or a difficulty. What is one quality that is most needed to sustain a good marriage?

Read: Ephesians 5:21-33

Pray

Discussion Questions:

1.     How would you summarize/paraphrase the message in your own words?

2.     What point/idea resonated most with you? Why?

3.     What responsibility do we have to one another? (5:21)

4.     What responsibility does the wife have to her husband before the Lord? (5:22)

5.     How would you define submission? Can someone share one good example that you have seen of this, and another share a bad example.

6.     What responsibility does the husband have to use his influence in a marriage? (5:23)

7.     How is the relationship of the church to Christ an example to wives? (5:24)

8.     How are husbands commanded to love their wives? (5:25)

9.     What was the result of Christ’s submission and sacrifice for the church? (5:26-27)

10.  What is the result for a man’s wife when he loves his wife the same way Christ loved the church? (5:28-30) How is the bond between husband and wife greater than the bond between parent and child? (5:31)

11.  How does the bond between Christ and the church illustrate the love of a husband for his wife? (5:32)

12.  In sum, what are the responsibilities of the husband and wife toward each other? (5:33)

13. In what way would imitating Christ in marriage lead to oneness, unity, love and respect with one another? In what way does Paul’s vision of Christ and the church from Ephesians 4:15-16 inform his view of marriage?

Live it out: What do we learn about God and about ourselves in this passage?

What may God be asking you to change, do differently, repent of, pray about as a result of engaging with this passage? How can we pray for each other?

Ephesians Group Questions
March 13th, 2022
Ephesians 5:15-21

Icebreaker: When was a time in your life when you felt you were wasting your your time but found out later that God was using it to accomplish good things?

Pray: Open in Prayer

Read: Ephesians 5:15-21

Discussion Questions:

1. What contrasts do you see in these verses?

2. Paul exhorts us to “walk wisely.” What would it look like for you to walk wisely?

3. Foolishness is contrasted with understanding the will of the Lord. Why?

4. The last contrast in these verses is the command “do not get drunk with wine but be filled with the Spirit.” Why do you think Paul uses the drunkenness contrast here with being filled by the Spirit?

5. Describe what it feels like to try to be an imitator of God without being Spirit-filled. What thoughts have you had when you found yourself trying to live this way?

6. Read Eph 2:18-22. What role does the Spirit play in the Chris- tian life?

7. Read Eph 4:30. How does this passage relate to the com- mand in 5:18?

8. In verses 9-21 Paul describes 4 results of being filled with the Spirit. Try to identify them as a group. Where do you presently see the greatest need to experience God’s empowering presence in your life?

9. Based on our study of Ephesians thus far, what should we do to be Spirit-filled?

Ephesians Group Questions
March 6th, 2022
Ephesians 5:3-14

Attention: Last week’s video was the final sermon summary video of the Winter Groups Launch. There will be no more sermon recap video’s until our next Groups Launch in the fall. Some groups have decided to stop for this season, and others have decided to continue. Pastor Erick will continue to provide group questions for whatever section of scripture we are studying on Sunday’s for your group to go through if you so choose.

Icebreaker: How do you usually wake up?

Do you hear a buzzing or beeping from your alarm clock? Or does the radio come on with music or news? How often do you hit the snooze button? Does the morning light gently filter into your room, or do your toddlers run in and jump on the bed?

In many ways, today’s Bible study is a wake-up call.

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 5:3-14

Discussion Questions:

1. As Paul warns against sexual impurity in the opening verses of this passage, what different ways of participating in impurity does he address (5:3–5)?

2. At the end of verse 4, Paul says "but instead let there be thanksgiving". Why should thanksgiving be the opposite reaction to the list of negative things that should not be named among us?  

3. According to Ephesians 5:6–7, what roles do friendships, partnerships, and words play in a Christian’s attempts to maintain purity? 

4. Why might Paul see a need to warn believers in the context of this Ephesian church about certain relationships and partnerships? What does it look like to not become partners with those in darkness?

5. Paul also asks us to “live as children of light” (v. 8). What does that mean for the way you live your life?

6. How are Christians called to respond to the works and words of “darkness” that they see around them (5:11–14)? Why is it so important for followers of Jesus to use discernment as they seek to “expose” sinful ways of thinking, living, and speaking? 

Verse 14 looks like it’s quoting something from the Old Testament, but it’s not. Scholars think that “wake up, sleeper” might be a hymn written by someone in the early church, possibly for a baptismal service, but there is no clear evidence.

7. Why do you think Paul used this hymn here? How did it help his case?

8. What sort of “sleep” do we need to “wake up” from?

Pray: Pray for the group, our church, the Church, and for our lost friends this song “Awake, O sleeper and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

Winter Group Launch - Week 6

Group Video and Questions
February 27th, 2022
Ephesians 4:25-32

Week 6 Group Questions - February 27th, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 4:25-32

Icebreaker: What are some of the attitudes or habits that seem to result in the most destruction to a group of friends? To a team or club? To a local church? Why do these attitudes or habits have such a damaging effect?

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 4:25-32

Discussion Questions:

1. What four area of behavior do you see in verses 25–29? 

2. What should we do instead of speaking falsehood and why? How does being “one body” affect the way we should treat each other?

3. The verse on anger might be paraphrased as, “Anger will happen, but don’t let it lead you into sinful outbursts.” But what else does it tell us about anger?

4. What are we supposed to do instead of stealing?

5. What are we supposed to use instead of “unwholesome language”?

6. What do you think it means to “grieve” the Holy Spirit? What does it mean to be “sealed for the day of redemption”?

7. Why should the forgiveness that God has shown to us through Jesus Christ shape our response to others when we are wronged (4:32)? 

8. How can the tenderhearted forgiveness that we show to others bear witness to the saving work of Jesus? How can a refusal to forgive others damage our gospel witness? 

9. When have you seen forgiveness serve as a “witness of grace” in your life—or in the life of someone who is close to you?

Live it out: In what situations might God be calling you to fully, freely, and joyfully extend forgiveness today?

Winter Group Launch - Week 5

Group Video and Questions
February 20th, 2022
Ephesians 4:17-24

Week 5 Group Questions - February 20th, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 4:17-24

Icebreaker: Describe something you picked up from a parent, or teacher, or influential adult that’s become a part of you or your life.

It could be some silly gesture you make, or a phrase you say. It could be a sports team you root for or the way you do math or how you comb your hair. Anything you learned as a kid from a grown-up that you’ve now copied into your life.

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 4:17-24

Discussion Questions:

1. How have you heard the idea that all religions are the same expressed? Why do you think people say that?

2. What’s similar about different religions? Do you think people who believe all religions are the same have a good understanding of Christianity?

3. What sets our faith apart? How are we different?
   Answer: Every other religion in the world tells you to change...and if you change, if you become good, God will accept you. Paul says . that the gospel is the announcement that God has already accepted you as a free gift, and in response to that, you should change. In Christianity, good works don’t lead to salvation, as they do in other religions; they flow from it.

4. Why is Paul talking poorly of the Gentiles in Ephesians 4:17–19 when, earlier, he was talking about their inclusion in the church? How does he describe the “Gentile” way of life?

5. Take a look at verses 20–22. What “way of life” have we learned from Christ?

6. Look for the words “old” and “new” in these verses. What do you find?

7. So if you are “being made new” or “renewed” in your attitude, who is doing the renewing?

8. In verse 24, who has “created” the “new self” to be “like God”? Who puts off the old self? Who puts on the new self?

9. Stepping back to look at verses 17–24, how does this “way of Christ” compare with the way of “the Gentiles”—that is, those who don’t know God?

Winter Group Launch - Week 4

Group Video and Questions
February 13th, 2022
Ephesians 4:7-16

Week 4 Group Questions - February 13th, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 4:7-16

Icebreaker: How are you gifted? What are things that other people have said that you are good at?

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 4:7-16

Discussion Questions:

1. What does 4:7 tell us about the foundation of the gifts we see in the church as well as the variety of those gifts? Where do these gifts come from, ultimately, and how does the work of Christ relate to this (4:8–12)?

2. What must we conclude about the diversity that characterizes both the gifts and the people that we see in the church of God?

3. What do 4:13–14 teach us about the goal behind the growth we experience as the people of God? How, according to these verses, can growing in maturity guard us—and against what can it guard us?

4. In what way does 4:15 function as a call for the local church to focus explicitly on Christ? What is the goal of the church, and of every believer, according to this verse?

5. What does 4:16 say about our dependency not only on Christ but also on one another who are in the body of Christ? Why is it so important for every part of a “body” to be working properly—as well as working together? What does this metaphor imply about the way we should think about the church?

6. One of the chief ideas of the Protestant Reformation was the concept of the “priesthood of all believers”—the idea that all Christians have equal access to God through the great High Priest, Jesus Christ. How do you see Ephesians 4:11–12 supporting that concept—specifically in the way it explains the purpose of pastors and teachers and their role in relation to the people of the church?

7. In what way has God called you to use your gifts in the church?

LIVE IT OUT: This week invite the group to take a Spiritaul Gifts Assesment: HERE’S THE LINK - Come back next week and share these with your group.

Winter Group Launch - Week 3

Group Video and Questions
February 6th, 2022
Ephesians 4:1-6

Week 3 Group Questions - February 6th, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 4:1-6

Icebreaker: This weeks “Icebreaker” in question #1 in the “Discussion Questions” below.

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 4:1-6

Discussion Questions:

1. Describe a time when you were part of a group, team, or staff that had a particularly strong sense of unity and purpose. What factors about that group led to this unity?

2. What is it that makes people tend toward belonging to likeminded groups and spending time with people who are exactly like them? Why is it important for us, as Christians, to pursue relationships with people who are different from us—and especially so within the body of Christ?

3. What, according to this passage, are some of the important ways in which believers are called to relate to one another, and to view each other, within the body of Christ?

4. What attitudes and actions are supposed to characterize relationships among the people of God (4:2–6)? What foundational truths are believers to keep in mind as they relate to one another in the context of the body of Christ?

5. Why is it important for us to remember the fundamental sameness that characterizes all of us who are in the body of Christ? What can you do to actively remind yourself and others of the common call, identity, and witness that all Christians share through their faith in Jesus?

6. What can serve to remind you of the vastly different gifts—and people—that Jesus Christ has given to his church? How can you challenge yourself to spend more time with Christians who are different from you in order to celebrate the fullness and diversity of the body of Christ?

7. What kinds of gifts tend to be celebrated the most in the church today? How could Anchor Point, as well as you individually, work to celebrate all kinds of the gifts that God has given to his people in the body of Christ?

Winter Group Launch - Week 2

Group Video and Questions
January 30th, 2022
Ephesians 3:14-21

Week 2 Group Questions - January 30th, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 3:14-21

Icebreaker: What’s something you did as a child that you still really enjoy?

Maybe it’s a food you liked as a kid, or a game you played, or a family tradition. Something you enjoyed as a child—and you still do once in a while.

Pray: Open in Prayer

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 3:14-21

Discussion Questions:

1. When people pray for power from God, what do they often mean—and what are they often hoping to accomplish with this power?

2. What kinds of things do people in today’s culture tend to think that God wants from them—and for them?

3. In what way is God personally active in the lives and hearts of believers, according to 3:16? What makes this so encouraging?

4. How is Ephesians 3:20 meant to shape our expectations of and hopes for what God will do in our lives and hearts? To what end is he working in his people—both on an individual basis and in the context of the church (3:21)?

5. Paul’s doxological conclusion to this section of Ephesians, in verses 20–21, articulates a desire for God to be glorified through the church, and through Christ Jesus, for all generations. Why is the central theme and goal of God’s glory so important for us to remember, value, and pray about?

6. In what ways can this passage help you to push back against faulty understandings of what God’s power should look like in the lives of believers? How can it help to shape your understanding of how God’s power is at work in the lives of his people—even when they appear weak in the eyes of the world?

7. In what way can this passage shape your prayers—for yourself, for your church, and for believers in Jesus around the world? What about your prayers seems short-sighted, and too small-minded, when you compare them to Paul’s prayer from this passage?

8. How should these verses that we have studied encourage you—especially during times of spiritual dryness, doubt, and discouragement?

Winter Group Launch - Week 1

Group Video and Questions
January 23rd, 2022
Ephesians 3:1-13

Week 1 Group Questions - January 23rd, 2022

Group Questions

Ephesians 3:1-13

Icebreaker: (If this is your first time meeting, answer this question by first having everyone introduce themselves) What is one dream that you have had that has come to fruition?

Pray: Open in Prayer (youngest person in the group has to pray)

Watch: Sermon Recap Video (Above)

Read: Ephesians 3:1-13

Discussion Questions:

What was God’s “secret/mysterious” plan? How did he reveal His plan? (v2-5)

What three great privileges did the Gentiles, along with the Jews attain in this plan? (v6)

How did God accomplish His plan? (v7)

What does this plan of God’s – the plan itself, the fact that He kept it hidden and then revealed it, the way He accomplished it – reveal about the character of God?

What task did God give to Paul? (v8-9)

The heart of this passage is verse 10, which one of the New Testaments most powerful statements for the reason for the church’s existence; “the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places” must be confronted with God’s wisdom, in all it’s rich variety, and this is to happen through the church. Not as much through what the church says but through what the church is, namely, the community in which men, women and children of every race, color, social and cultural background come together in worship of the one true God; a celebration of unity in diversity.

God’s wisdom like the church is like a many facetted jewel, which sparkles with all the colors of the rainbow. The church is to be an announcement to the world that there is a different way to be human.

How can we as, a community of faith explore the riches of Christ as described by Paul?

What does it mean to approach God with confidence and assurance? (v11-12)

How can these to characteristics change the prayer life of an individual and a community?

Why does Paul describe his sufferings as his reader’s glory? (v13)

The fact that Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter is a sign that he and Christianity posed a threat to the rule of evil in the world. In what ways can we, as God’s people challenge the power of evil today in a way that provokes a reaction?

Pray: Take into this final question as a group.

Ephesians 2:17-22

Group Questions
January 16th, 2022

Icebreaker: Do you believe that you can be a very good Christian without ever attending a church?Do you believe that you can be a very good Christian without ever attending a church?

Read: Ephesians 2:17-22

Discussion:

What do verses 14–18, say that Jesus has done, or is doing?

What specifically has He “put to death” (v. 16), and how did He do it?

When Paul says, “You are no longer strangers and aliens (vs 19),” or “in whom the whole structure, being joined together (vs21),” whom is he talking to? 

It would seem that he’s still talking to the Gentiles in the Ephesian church, but of course the Jewish believers are reading this, too. He’s saying, “You Gentiles are just as much a part of this new construction as the Jews are. Welcome to the family!” 

What is this new family that God has created throught the shed blood of Jesus? (The Church Today)

As you hear these last few verses of the chapter, try to visualize the word-picture. What do you see? 

Leader: Read Ephesians 2:19–22 slowly. 

What is the architecture of this new temple? What is it made of? What is it built on? 

According to what we learned in Ephesians 2:11-22 how would you answer the following questions?

How involved should we be in the church?

Granted, we live in a world of freelance spirituality. People are hesitant to commit their time and energy to an imperfect body of believers. But this isn’t a social club. It’s a temple. It’s God’s temple. We are the bricks in the construction God is building for His glory. So how involved do you want to be in God’s building project?

What does a healthy church look like?

One of the main ideas we get from Ephesians is that a healthy church is made up of different kinds of people. What social groups should we be welcoming today? If everyone looks the same, talks the same, dresses the same—that could mean we’ve been building walls. Through His death, Jesus has broken down those social walls that make enemies of different groups. A healthy church reaches across the barriers and makes new friends.

What does a healthy church do?

We are God’s hands and feet in this community. We do the work of Jesus here, reaching out to the broken, the needy—all those who need the love of God. 

Live it out: All too often we assume that people know they can come to any church service they like. Maybe they don’t know this. And maybe they’re waiting for an invitation.

Ephesians 2:11-16

Group Questions
January 9th, 2022

Icebreaker: Think of a group that you’re a part of: a professional organization, a sports team, or a hobbyist community. Or maybe just some people you hang out with.

What group are you thinking of? Why do you belong to it?

How does you group feel about “outsiders”? What does it take for someone to become part of your group?

In this session, we’re going to look at the way the gospel tore down the walls that separated different groups of people from each other. In Jesus, His people are all one. 

Read: Ephesians 2:11-16

Pray:

Discussion:

Who is Paul addressing in Ephesians 2:11–13?

Why does he specifically address the Gentiles in 11–13?

Do we have any divisions in our society that are anything like the division between Jews and Gentiles?

How would you describe the human tendency to divide ourselves into groups?

What is Jesus called in Ephesians 2:14? In what way is that true?

What do verses 14–18, say that Jesus has done, or is doing?

What specifically has He “put to death” (v. 16), and how did He do it?

Prayer: Ask God to show you how you can reach out to someone on the other side of a social “wall.” Begin praying specifically for individuals in your life who might not share your culture, circumstances, or beliefs.

Ephesians 2:1-10

Group Questions
January 2nd, 2022

Icebreaker: What were you like before you knew Jesus? Values? Beliefs? Hopes and ambitions? What how are you different now that you know Jesus?

Read: Ephesians 2:1-10

Discussion Questions:

In verse 1, we read, “You were dead in transgressions and sins.” What does that mean? How does that make you feel?

What’s “wrath”? Why would we be “deserving of wrath”?

There’s a distinction in verses 1–3 between “us” and “them.” Do you see it? What’s the difference?

What changed when we moved from death to life? What do verses 4–5 tell us? What are things God has done for us?

What is mercy? Is that different from grace?

According to verses 8–10, what has happened in the past, what’s going on now, and what can we expect to happen in the future?

Why is the timing of each thing Paul described in 8–10 important? Why do we need to know that our good works come after our salvation and not before it?

How does that make you feel—that your new life through Jesus is God’s divine creation?

Live it out: Ephesians 2:8–10 is an essential expression of the Christian faith. Try to put this verse to memory this week.

Ephesians 1:15-23

Group Questions
December 19th, 2021

Ice Breaker: Have you ever struggled to breathe? Suffered an asthma attack? Been stuck under water? Had the breath knocked out of you? When you finally were able to fill your lungs with air again, what did you feel? Did your perspective of breathing—the regular in-and-out of everyday respiration—change? Why?

Without the ability to breathe we can’t live. Oxygen is a power source for our bodies. In the same way, our study today will look at prayer as a power source for the Christian life. The Apostle Paul describes his prayer for the people in Ephesus, and asks God specifically to empower the believers there to live the Christian life well. 

Read: Ephesians 1:15-23

Discussion:

He summarized Paul’s prayer in four parts. What four things did Paul want the Ephesians to see?

What specific actions have happened, or are happening—just in Ephesians 1:15–16? Can you put them in order?

What does Paul mean in Ephesians 1:17? How do we “know God”?

How does God’s Spirit make us know God?

How would you define hope?

How is “the hope to which He has called you” different from hoping that your team wins the big game or hoping you get a raise?

What’s the best thing you can do for someone else to help them have this kind of hope?

Are there times when you feel that you aren’t loved by God? Why or why not? Do you think other people feel that way, too? Why or why not?

How can verse 18 change your mind about hope?

In verses 19–20, we find the next main point of Paul’s prayer. What is it?

How does Paul describe God’s power?

Think of that part of your life that needs a touch of God’s power. Your attitude? Your health? Your struggle with temptation? Your relationships? How could God use His resurrection power to transform that?

Is there one phrase that stands out for you in verses 20-23? What does that mean to you?

Live it out: How is God calling you to live out this prayer this week?

The Coolest Thing about Christmas
John 1:1-14
(Lakeside Campus)

Group Questions
December 12th, 2021

Icebreaker: What do you think is the coolest thing about the Christmas (other than “the Word becoming flesh”)?

Pray for one anothers needs before you start.

Read: John 1:1-14

Discussion Questions:

1.How is John 1:1-5 like Genesis 1:1-5?

2. What do we use words for?  Why do you think John chose to call Jesus “the Word?” What did God want to tell us by sending Jesus to the world?

3. What three things can we learn about Jesus from the first two verses ( vs. 1-2)?

4. How do verses 4 and 5 describe the Word? How does Jesus give us light? (If you’re not sure, think about all the things you might use a flashlight for).

5. What was the purpose of John the Baptist? (1:6-8, 15) How is that like John the Apostle’s role? (see John 21:24)

6. How did most of the people respond to Jesus? Some people responded by accepting Jesus as the Word and believing in Him. What happened to them (1:12)? What happens to us when we accept and believe in Jesus?  How have you responded to Jesus?

7. According to verses 1:14, God became a man, and that man was Jesus. Why do you think God decided to become a man? Why is it a big deal that God decided to do this?

Ephesians 1:11-14

Group Questions
November 28th, 2021

Read: Ephesians 1:1-14 (Even though we already studied verses 1-10 last week, read 1-14 to bring in the context of today’s section)

Discussion Questions:

(Ephesians 1:11-12): 11 In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, 12 that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory.

1. What are some of the spiritual things that we inherit as a child of God?

2. How does having a purpose alter someone’s life, and why is it better for us to trust that the Lord will work out everything in our life according to His will?

(Ephesians 1:13-14): 13 In Him you also [trusted], after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.

1. How does trusting something to be true, and believing something to be true differ one from another?

2. What does the Holy Spirit protect us from, and how does the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer act as a guarantee of God’s promises?

Pray: Take some time as a group praying through this verse, specifically praising God for your inheritance and all that God has done in you and given to you.

Live it out: If you know a fellow Christian who is going through tough times, offer a word of hope. God has plans for us.

Ephesians 1:1-10

Group Questions
November 28th, 2021

ICEBREACKER: Can you think of something that’s a regular part of your life, but you really don’t understand how it works?

Leader: This is, of course, a fun question to get people talking—but it also leads into a theme of this lesson. If you need to get the discussion going, consider the following: cars, planes, your credit rating, the electoral college, cell phones. 

Does it bother you that you don’t understand it? Does that keep you from using it?

Today we’re going to talk about some even more mysterious things from the Bible. We may have some trouble understanding them, but they’re just as real and even more important. 

Read: Ephesians 1:1-10

Discussion Quetions:

1. According to Ephesians 1:3–10, what has God done, what is He doing, or what will He do?

2. According to 1:3-10, what do we “have”? What blessings has He blessed us with?

3. What does adoption mean when God is doing it?

4. How would you define grace?

5. What “riches” has God lavished on us?

6. What’s mysterious about God’s will?

7. According verse 10, what is the mystery?

Group Challenge: Prayer at least four days in the coming week, thank God that He has included you in His great plan.

Group Video and Questions
November 21th, 2021

THERE ARE NO GROUP QUESTIONS FOR THANKSGIVING WEEK. JOIN US NEXT WEEK FOR OUR NEW SERIES IN THE BOOK OF EPHESIANS

Group Launch - Week 7

Group Video and Questions
November 14th, 2021
Matthew 9:35-10:42 - Groups Recap

Week 7 Group Questions - November 14th, 2021

Group Study REcap

Matthew 9:35-10:42

Being that this is the last week of the Group Study in Matthew 10, it is important for us to spend sometime processing what stood out to us most as a group, pray together for one another, plan what is next for your group, and spend most the time tonight enjoying each others company for the majority of the night.

Process the Groups Study: What is one thing that stood out to you from our group study in Matthew 9:35-10:42? Is there an area of your life that Jesus is encouraging you to grow more in, or to live out in your day to day life? How has God spoken to you through this study?

Pray Together: Jesus taught us in Matthew 9:38 that the first step when God moves in our hearts is to pray. We learned that apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). Take turns praying for one another about the things that you each of you just mentioned.

Plan: What is next for your group now that we are done with our Matthew study?

Here are the options:

1. Stop - For some of you this is your first time a part of a group. You signed up to just seven weeks. That is what you committed to, and that is what you can do in this season. That is perfectly fine. Thank you for stepping out to join a group! I hope that you have found it to be extremely valuable in bringing deeper community into your life!

2. Wait - Some of you are going to wait until our next Group Launch at the end of January. If you didn't know, Anchor Point strongly encourage our groups to have times when you start and stop your group. This allows others to step off the bus, this allows for more opportunities for new people to lead new groups, and gives those of us hosting groups an opportunity to breathe, and adjust.

If you are waiting to relaunch at the end of January, we will be doing another 7 week study in the book of Ephesians. Paul's letter to the Ephesians is to Christians who had been through a lot and were on the verge of losing heart and hope. In a culture that was marred by injustice, oppression, division, and without any sense of identity, this letter reveals that in Christ is where true identity and real transformation takes place, both personally and collectively. It's going to be great!

3. Continue - For some, you have found your people! You do not want to stop meeting, there is momentum, and you feel a call to continue. That is fantastic! I would encourage you to transition into the Ephesians Series starting November 21st (group questions will be provided on our website to help you).

4. Something New - While it is Anchor Point’s favorite when all our groups are studying the same section of scripture together, growing together, and going together to reach a lost world. We do understand that there are times when it is important to address specific issues that your group is going through. One resource that is available to you is RightNow Media. RightNow Media is a streaming library of more than 20,000 Bible study videos for leaders to share with their people. There are studies on marriage, raising kids, prayer, men and women's issues, and different books of the bible. If you do not have access to RightNow Media, please reach out to me and I would love to give you access right now.

Which one of these options do you think is best for us as a group right now?

Play: For the remainder of your time as a group spend sometime hanging out, and having fun.

Group Launch - Week 6

Group Video and Questions
November 7th, 2021
Matthew 10:40-42

Week 6 Group Questions - November 7th, 2021

Hopitality in a hostile world

Matthew 10:40-42

Icebreaker: Now that we are entering into the holiday season, what is your favorite holiday and why?

Pray

Read: Matthew 10:40-42

1. Verse 40 is talking about the good done to Jesus' disciples is as if it were done to Jesus Himself. This is because they are His representatives, carrying on His ministry. If we viewed other Christians as if they were Jesus how would that affect how we care for our fellow believers?

2. Verse 41-42 Is about how we can share in the reward of God's servants by supporting them in their work. Even seemingly insignificant works of kindness (a cup of cold water) performed for God's people are meaningful in God's eyes. Have you received any "rewards" when inviting other Christians into your life?

3. Do you think that hospitality for our brothers and sisters in Christ is as great of a value today as it was in the early church? Why or why not?

4. What kind of impact could it make in our community if we cared for one another as if they were Jesus?

5. Jesus tells us that caring for other believers is as simple as giving them a cup of cold water. What are some simple ways that you can help a fellow disciple of Jesus feel loved/welcomed/received/befriended this week?

6. Is there someone that Jesus is putting on your heart?

Group Challenge: Pray for an opportunity to show hospitality to a Christian this week? Pray that God will help you view other believers as if they were Jesus himself.

Group Launch - Week 5

Group Video and Questions
October 31st, 2021
Matthew 10:34-39

Week 5 Group Questions - October 31st, 2021

No Peace, but a sword

Matthew 10:34-39

Icebreaker: What do you think that Jesus came to bring into the world? Share a little about your story. What has Jesus brought into your life that was missing before you put your faith in Him?

Pray

Read: Matthew 10:34-39

Watch: Sermon Recap Video

Discussion Questions:

1. Why did Jesus say He came to bring a sword and not peace? What does He want us to be ready for?

2. Why should you love God more than your own family?

3. Have we excepted that loyalty to Christ might cause division in our families?

4. How does following Jesus cause strife with the world? What personal examples are there in your Group? How can we be sure the offense we are causing is because we are following Jesus, and not because we are being sinfully indignant and prideful?

5. What does it mean to take up your cross?

6. Define “find your life.” Define “loses their life.”

Group Challenge: Pray as a Group for the courage to share the Gospel with your family members who don’t know Christ.

Group Launch - Week 4

Group Video and Questions
October 24th, 2021
Matthew 10:26-33

Week 4 Group Questions - October 24th, 2021

Have no Fear!

Matthew 10:26-33

Icebreaker: What is your biggest fear? Do you have any weird phobias? 

Pray

Watch: Sermon Recap Video of Matthew 10:26-33

1. Verse 26 starts out "So have no fear of them". Who are the "them" that Jesus is talking about? Think of last week’s section about persecution. Feel free to read verses 16-25 to refresh yourselves and answer this question.

2. Jesus tells the disciples 3 times in this passage to not fear (Matt. 10:26,28, 31). Why do you think that Jesus tells his disciples to not be afraid so many times? 

3. Are there times when you are afraid of sharing your faith? Who are the hardest people to share your faith with?

4. Can someone share a time when you had the courage to share your faith, how did that go? What were your fears, and what gave you the courage to do it?

5. Look at this whole passage and find some reasons why Jesus tells the disciples to not be afraid. There is up to five reasons why the disciples should not be afraid. Can you try to identify some of them and put them in your own words?

6. Which one of these reasons to not be afraid give you the most courage to share your faith?

7. How would you advise someone in how to share the gospel?

Group Challenge: Who is someone that you would like the courage to share your faith with this week. Ask God to give you an opportunity, and the courage to share your testimony with them. If this relationship is not at this level, ask God to just open the door for an opportunity to deepen that relationship.

Group Launch - Week 3

Group Video and Questions
October 17th, 2021
Matthew 10:16-25

Week 3 Group Questions - October 17th, 2021

Persecution will come

Matthew 10:16-25 

Icebreaker: Share a time in your life when you, or someone you know had to give a pep-talk to instill courage in a group to do something great. What stands out to you about that pep-talk?

Read: Matthew 10:16-25 

Watch: Sermon Recap Video

Discussion Questions:

1. In verse 16, what does it mean “I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves?”

2. What does the statement mean “be wise as serpents and innocent as doves?” How can we apply that in real situations we face? Examples?

3. What warning do we see in verses 17-18? Who will this happen to? Why? Does it still happen today in the 21st century?

4. Does verse 19 mean you should prepare ahead what you will say to the authorities if they should call you in? Why or why not? 

5. What is the underlying principle of verse 19-20?

6. What principle can we learn from the statement “the one who endures to the end will be saved?” Does this verse teach that one can lose his salvation if he does not endure to the end?

7. When will these severe persecutions take place (vs. 22b)? Has it happened yet?

8. What does it mean when Jesus says "It is enough" in verse 25? Read verse 24-25 to bring in the context.

9. Can anyone share any persecutions they have faced for the sake of Christ?

Group Challenge: Honestly answer the question to one another "Would you be willing to be persecuted and "hated by all" for the mission of Jesus Christ? Whatever the answer, take some time to pray for the courage to stand for Jesus if that hour ever comes, and pray for the persecuted church around the world.

Group Launch - Week 2

Group Video and Questions
October 10th, 2021
Matthew 10:5-15

Week 2 Group Questions - October 10th, 2021

The first Mission

Matthew 10:5-15 

Icebreaker: Have you ever been on a short-term mission’s trip? If you were to go on a short-term mission’s trip, what fears would/did you have?

Read: Matthew 10:5-15

Watch Sermon Recap Video

Pray

1. Jesus sent out His twelve apostles. Where did He send them (v.6)? Where did He not want them to go (v.5)? Why were they not to go to these places? (See also Isaiah 53:6, Jeremiah 50:6, and Matthew 15:24.)

2. Jesus lists the mission statements for His apostles (vv. 7-8). What are their two missions? How is their mission similar to Jesus’ mission listed in Matthew 4:23? How is it different?

3. In Matthew 10:8, Jesus said to His twelve apostles, “You received without paying; give without pay.” What did they freely receive that they were to freely give?

4. Jesus instructs His apostles not to take money (v. 9) or extra supplies (v. 10). Why? (See also Leviticus 19:13, Deuteronomy 24:15, Luke 10:7)

5. Jesus instructed His apostles to find a place to stay when they entered a town by inquiring who was worthy (v.11). How would they know if a household was worthy? (See Luke 10:5-6.)

6. In Matthew 10:14, Jesus instructs His disciples on how to discern whether or not to remain in a city, preaching and healing. What two indicators determined whether the apostles remained in a city or town? Why is this so critical? (See also Matthew 7:6 and 10:40.) 

7. In Matthew 10:14, Jesus instructed His apostles to “shake off the dust from your feet” if a town or city wouldn’t receive them and their message. Shaking off the dust was a symbolic act practiced by the Pharisees when they left an “unclean” Gentile area. Here, Jesus uses this act as a warning to those who reject His apostles’ message. How are we to shake off the dust today? (See Matthew 7:6 and Acts 13:51.)

8. When Jesus refers to Sodom and Gomorrah, what do you think He is saying about a city that rejects His apostles (Matthew 10:15)? 

Group Challenge: Jesus commanded his disciples to reach a specific people group in their region, is there a certain people group that you feel called to? If so, share and take time praying for one another’s specific people group.

Group Launch - Week 1

Group Video and Questions
October 3rd, 2021
Matthew 9:35-10:4

Week 1 Group Questions - October 3rd, 2021

The Harvest is Plentiful, the Laborers Few

Matthew 9:35-10:4 

IceBreaker: Being that this is the first meeting for many of our groups: Please share your name, how long you have been a part of Anchor Point Church, and share one fact about you that might surprise us…

Read: Matthew 9:35-10:4 

Watch Sermon Recap Video

Pray

1. What does it mean to live on mission?

2. Matt. 9:35 summarizes Jesus’ ministry on earth. How is the kingdom of Heaven connected with healing every disease and every affliction? What does healing every disease and every affliction say that Jesus is?

3. Read Matt. 9:36-38; Luke 7:11-17; 10:25-37. The word “compassion” is a strong word for an emotional response which always results in caring action. We see this with Jesus and the crowds, Jesus and the widow, and the Good Samaritan and the man half dead. What do these stories teach you about the harassed and helpless, sheep without a shepherd? What can you do to have compassion for the harassed and helpless?

4. In verse 37-38, Jesus says that "the harvest is plentiful, but the labors are few." What do you think this means?

5. Because "the harvest is plentiful, and the laborers are few" what is the role the disciples are commanded to play in the harvest? Why do you think Jesus would ask them to pray to the Lord of the Harvest?
6. How would you define what it means to prayer earnestly?

7. The twelve disciples were told to pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers. And in 10:1, they were sent by the Lord of the harvest. Should you always get involved with everything you pray for? Why or why not?

Group Challenge: Spend the remaining time to share and pray. If comfortable, please shares 1-2 people in your life who don't know Jesus, then take turns in your group praying that God move in their lives.

Matthew 5/30/21 Groups VIdeo

Matthew 5/30/21 Group Questions

 Retaliation

 Matthew 5:38-42

Icebreaker: Today's text has a commonly used term that many we use in the world today - "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." Was this phrase commonly used in the household you grew up in?

Watch Groups Video

Read Matthew 5:38-42

1. Carefully read Deuteronomy 19:16-21. To whom was the instruction “eye for an eye” given? How were the teachers wrongly applying this principle? 

2. What do you think was the positive intent of this law as given in this passage? How could it protect the accused as well as the accuser?

3. Why do believers struggle to follow the instruction Jesus gives about turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, giving to the one who begs from you, and not refusing the one who would borrow from you?

4. What is accomplished by doing these actions? What is risked?

5. Have you ever wronged someone that did not retaliate and seek vengeance but loved you instead? If so, how did this impact you?

6. Is there someone toward whom you are afraid or unwilling to practice non-retaliation? How would Jesus instruct you to respond to the person’s insults or persecution? 

7. Is there someone toward you are reluctant to practice giving or lending? How would Jesus instruct you to loosen your grip on your stuff?

Group Challenge:  Just like last week, break up the guys and the girls and examine questions number 6 and 7. Confess, repent, pray for the relationships mentioned. 

Matthew 5/23/21 Groups VIdeo

Matthew 5/23/21 Groups Questions

Divorce

Matthew 5:31-32

Icebreaker: Now that everything seems to be opening up after COVID, what was the best things that happened to you during this last year? What are you going to miss about COVID?

Watch the Groups Video

Read: Deuteronomy 24:1-4 and Matthew 5:31-32.

1. What had the people heard? Had they been taught wrongly? Does He contradict what they had heard?

2. Read Matthew 19:3-9. How does Jesus’ teaching on divorce stand in contrast to the way people view marriage and divorce today? What popular non-biblical sources serve as an authority in our culture to affirm divorce?

3. If divorce has impacted your life directly, in what way are Jesus’ words painful to hear? How are His words comforting?

4. If you are married, in what way(s) can you foster and protect unity with your spouse? If you are unmarried and might be married one day, how can you help foster and protect unity with a future spouse?

Matthew Week 19 Groups Questions

Lust

Matthew 5:27-30

Icebreaker: What is one thing about yourself that very few people know about you? Answer the question - "If you really knew me you would know that...."

Read: Matthew 5:27-30

Watch the Groups Video

(This is a lesson that you might want to break up the guys and girls, especially for the Group Challenge)

1. Like the Pharisees, so many try to find the line of sin so they can get as close to it as possible without crossing it.  Why is this not ok with Jesus?

 2. Vs. 28 can literally be translated “anyone looking at a woman in order to lust...” This translation suggests that the initial glance at an attractive person is not a sin rather Jesus is condemning the prolonged intentional stare to incite lustful feelings. Does this distinction make sense to you? How do you know when a glance of recognition and appreciation turns into something else?

3. What do you think Jesus would say about viewing pornography? 

4. According to a 2013 study 50% of Christian men and 20% of Christian women say they are addicted to pornography. Are you surprised by these statistics? If even remotely accurate, how might pornography addiction be affecting the church?

5. Discuss the hyperbolic statements of Jesus about removing eyes and hands. How serious is Jesus about meeting the righteous requirements of His Father, both outwardly and inwardly?

6. What are ways we can fight against lust as we depend on Jesus for our righteousness?

Group Challenge: Ask one another how are you doing with this area of lust in your life? Pray for one another’s struggles.

Matthew Week 18 Groups Questions

Matthew Week 18 Group Questions

Anger

Matthew 5:21-26

Icebreaker: What are you looking forward to the most about this summer? Is there anything that you are not looking forward to?

Watch: There is video recap of this last weeks sermon.

Read: Matthew 5:17-20; 21-26

As you have read the Sermon on the Mount in the past, how have you understood Jesus teaching? How might looking at these six examples in Matthew 5 (Anger, Lust, Divvorce, Oaths, Retaliation, Love your Enemies) help us understand Matthew 5:17–20?

1. Is Jesus loosening the Law? Tightening the law? Or clarifying the original intent of the Law? Why does getting this right matter?

2. What do we learn about the Law from seeing how Jesus applies the sixth commandment? How does pride relate to anger, and anger to pride?

3. Look at the commands in this passage (“Leave . . . Go . . . Be reconciled . . .”). What do we learn about what Jesus is commanding us to do? Does he say “Don’t be angry?” And if not, why not? What hope does this give us who struggle with anger?

4. What is the source of our anger? Cf. Genesis 4:1–16; James 4:1–4. Why does knowing the universal origin of anger help us? Why does seeing the source of anger in our hearts help us?

5. How does the new covenant and the cross of Christ help us with our anger? When you struggle with anger, what actions steps do you take to seek reconciliation?

6. What is the most difficult aspect of reconciliation for you?

7. In studying Matthew 5:21–26, what have you learned? What is one step you can take to grow as a peace-maker (see Matthew 5:9)?

Matthew Week 17 Groups Questions

Christ Came to Fullfill the Law

Matthew 5:17-20

Icebreaker: This question is for fun. When it comes to board games or sports, are you more of a rule follower or a rule bender/stretcher? How do family and friends in the “other camp” relate to you? How do you relate to them?

Watch: There is no Sermon Recap Video this week

Read: Matthew 5:17-20

1. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus addresses the silent conclusion of His disciples, based on what He told them in Matthew 5:1-16; the conclusion that Jesus means to do away with the Law and the Prophets. Why would the disciples come to this conclusion? Do you come to the same conclusion? Explain.

2. Read Exodus 20:12-17, Romans 13:8-10, and Romans 3:19-20. According to these texts, what three reasons was the law given?

3. What works righteousness do you need to turn away from? In other words, how are you tempted to fill in the following blank: “I must/canpursue in order ‘be good’ or right with God.” (i.e., family involvement, politics, spiritual disciplines, church or community service, a pure sexual ethic, competenceat work, ethical integrity at school, the giving of money generously, etc.)?

4. How does your pursuit fall short of God’s standard for meriting favor and fellowship with Him?

5. How did Jesus fully fulfill (in a way that doesn't fall short) this specific righteousness you pursue? How will trusting in His work help you turn away from trusting in your work?

6. What will repentance from this works righteousness look like in your life?

Matthew Week 16 for groups

Matthew Week 16 - groups Questions

Salt and Light

Matthew 5:13-16 

Icebreaker: What is your favorite salty treat of all time?

Watch Groups Video

Read: Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus explains in Matthew 5:13-16 the role Christians have in the world today. That role/purpose is to be salt and light. The purpose for salt in Jesus's day was to flavor food, and to preserve food from decay and rot.

1) In what ways do you see the world missing flavor? In what ways do you see the world decaying and rotting?

2) Can you think of any examples in human history where the church has flavored and preserved society?

3) Jesus talks about salt losing its flavor. How do you think Christians can lose their ability to flavor or preserve the world today?

4) What ways could you or your small group flavor and preserve the community that you are a part of?

5) In Matthew 5:14 Jesus says that We are the light of the world. What do you think that means? Where does this light come from? Check out John 8:12 to find the answer.

6) If we are the light what does it tell us about the world that we live in?

7)Jesus says in verse 15 that "no one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket". What is Jesus telling us about the purpose of the light?

8) What are some things that keep us shining in the world around us?

9) Where are some dark places in our community that the church should be shining bright? Where is God calling you to be salt and light in the world today?

Pray: Ask for courage and strength to be salt and light in these places that he is calling you this week.

Matthew Week 15 for groups

Matthew Week 15 for groups Questions

Blessed are the Persecuted

Matthew 5:10-12

Icebreaker: Have you ever been persecuted because of your faith? Explain the situation to the group. How did you respond?

Have someone pray for your time together as a group. Pray that you would learn to have God’s perspective on persecution.

Watch the Groups Video

Read Matthew 5:10-12 and answer the following questions:

1. Pastor Josh points out that this is the only Beatitude in which Jesus adds additional commentary (vs 11-12). How do these verses expand on the reasons we might expect to be persecuted?

2.What kind of mistreatment did Jesus tell us we could expect when we are persecuted because of righteousness (vs 11)?

3. Jesus tells us we are “blessed” when we are persecuted for His sake and to “rejoice and be glad.” This isn’t what we might expect Him to say. What promises does He offer as to why we can be happy in the midst of persecution?

The book of Acts describes the persecution that occurred at the very beginning of the church. One story in particular provides a powerful examples of people who lived out this Beatitude as Jesus described. One story is of Peter and the apostles found in Acts 5:17-42. Read this passage and answer the following questions:

4. Why were the apostles arrested and jailed initially? 

5. After God provided an escape from jail, what did they do? Why do you think they continued the very practice that got them arrested in the first place?

6. After they barely escaped the death sentence and were flogged and released, what was their reaction? Why do you think they reacted that way?

7. Do you think you would be able to be joyful in the midst of persecution such as the apostles endured? Why or why not?

In the third century, Tertullian wrote, “The more ye mow us down, the more we grow. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Do you think that is true? Why or why not?

Matthew Week 14 for groups

Matthew Week 14 for groups

The Beatitudes Pure in Heart / Peacemaker

Matthew 5:8-9

Read Matthew 5:1-9. Today’s discussion will focus on vs. 8.

1. When you see this verse at first glance, how does it make you feel? Does it bring you hope or despair? Why?

2. What is the difference between inward purity and outward purity? How do I bring the two together?

3. If God can see into my heart can I ever really be inwardly pure before him?

a. Read 1 John 1:8-9. How can our hearts be inwardly pure? Focus especially on v. 9b. In the Greek that John uses, there is the implication that as we continually confess our sins, Jesus continually purifies us, in a transforming way.

1. Pastor Josh largely defined the purity of heart that Jesus speaks of as singleness of heart—singleness in our love of and pursuit of God.

   1. What would “singleness of heart” in your love for God look like?

   2. In contrast, what does a divided heart look like in real life?

   3. For you, what things keep you from having a singleness of heart in your love for God and pursuit of him?

2. Pastor Josh argued that Jesus was telling us, not only will we have the privilege of literally seeing God in the glorious future, when Jesus returns, but in the here and now, if we pursue God with singleness of heart, we will see him more and more clearly now. We will understand more and more of who he is and what he wants for us.

   1. Have you experienced this reality playing out in your life, as you have sought God?

   2. What are the kinds of things that the Lord loves – things that the Spirit of God is specifically telling you, that he wants you to love?

Prayer: Spend some time sharing about your current prayer needs, and also, how you want to grow in your singleness of heart before God. 

Easter Discussion for groups

Group questions not available for Easter week.

Matthew Week 13 for groups

Matthew Week 13 for groups

The Beatitudes

Matthew 5:6-7

Icebreaker:

Can you think of a story that you have heard on the news, read in a book, or in the movies about someone extending mercy to another person who didn't deserve mercy at all? 

Read: Matthew 5:6-7 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

The first beatitude that we will discuss today is in verse 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Pastor Josh defined this as "someone who's aim in life is to live in accordance with the will of God."

 If our aim in life is towards God's will, how can we know what Gods will is for our life?

Consider a time when you were extremely thirsty. What emotions and desires did that stir within you? What could that experience of thirst tell us about what it means to hunger and thirst for righteousness?

What would it look like for you to be a person who hungers and thirst for righteousness? 

What is this satisfaction that will one day come to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness at the end of verse 6?

In Matthew 5:7 Pastor Josh defines mercy as "an act of kindness towards someone who deserves punishment, but in return receives kindness."

Why should we extend mercy towards others when they don't deserve it?

Focus on the word mercy in Matthew 5:7. In what ways has mercy been given to you by God? By others? How can you be a conduit of mercy as well?

Is there someone in your life today that you need to extend mercy? Confess it to someone today and pray that God would bless you with this kind of merciful attitude.

Weekly Challenge:

Make a list of the descriptions of the blessed in Matthew 5:6–12. Which do you find the most challenging? Which seem to be the most needed for our day?

Matthew Week 12 for groups

Discussion questions week 12

Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes

(Matthew 5:1-5)

Icebreaker: Share a memory of a sermon or speech that had a profound impact on you. What do you remember about it? How did it make you feel? What was the lasting impact (if any) on your life?

Read: Matthew 5:1-5

Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Have you ever been in a financially bankrupt condition? Or have you ever been completely dependent upon someone else to cover your obligations? Have you ever needed someone else’s resources or connections to get you into an event? Discuss how these current scenarios could be similar to being “poor in spirit”.

Poor in spirit: a recognition of spiritual poverty, your need for God.

Based on this definition, why is there a natural inclination to think we have some standing before God, rather than to acknowledge our spiritually bankrupt condition? What things do we try to include in our spiritual net worth balance sheet?

One example of a person who is poor in spirit is found in Luke 18:9-14. Take a moment to read this passage and answer the following questions:

Who was in Jesus’ original audience when He told this parable? 

Which person in this passage meets the definition of “poor in spirit?” What about his posture and his words exhibit this?

What was wrong with the Pharisee’s “prayer”?

Jesus closes this passage with another paradox: “Those who exalt themselves will be humbled...” Does this tie into the Beatitude we’re discussing? Why or why not?

Today we will only discuss this passage due to time, and the realization that if we don't see our poverty before God, we won't mourn for our sin (vs 4) then we won't see the fruit of meekness (vs 5) produced in our life.

Pray: Take some time with your group to have focused pray on the holiness of God, and your spiritual needs. Ask God to provide you with the spiritual needs in your life (salvation, forgiveness, healing, restoration). Picture yourself as a beggar on the street, in complete need of the generosity of God to provide for your spiritual needs today.

Matthew Week 11 for groups

Discussion questions week 11

“Introduction to the Beatitudes”

(Matthew 5:1-12)

What does it mean for you to be blessed? What does it mean for the rest of the world?

Read Matthew 5:1-12

The beginning of this sermon contains 9 sentences, each of which start with the word “blessed”. These blessings are called the Beatitudes. The word beatitude in the latin means: happiness or well off. How does Jesus define what it means to be “well off” or “happy” or “blessed”?

How is that different than how the world would define what it means to be blessed?

Is it possible to be blessed by the world’s standards, but be actually cursed by Jesus’ standard?

Read Matthew 16:26

What does this verse tell us about where true blessing comes from?

After hearing what it means to be blessed, how do you think you have defined this wrong in your life? What could be some of the consequences for getting this word “blessed” wrong in our lives?

Action Steps for the Week (Pick one):

1. Read Matthew 5:1-12 verses repeatedly this week, write them down, try to memorise them.
2. Find some time this week to shut down your devices and soak them into your soul.
3. Try to count what it means to be blessed according to the beatitudes, not just against your externals. See what happens.
4. Pray for your Anchor Point family and those around you who are lost.

Matthew Week 10 for groups

Discussion Questions Week 10

“Follow Me, and I will make you Fishers of Men"

(Matthew 4:18-22)

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

Special Reminder: Make sure to keep moving through all the questions so you leave time for the "Believing" and "Living Out" sections.

Read Matthew 4:18-22

When Jesus called Peter and Andrew, James and John, he used a fishing metaphor. He no doubt did that because they were fishermen. To better understand his metaphor it is important to understand what fishing was like Jesus' day. In the sermon Josh explained this in some detail.

Read the list below and discuss how it relates to the work of sharing the gospel? Share a personal experience

• The primary way of fishing was by throwing large nets into the waters. Around the nets stones would be tied which would drop the net around a school of fish, hopefully.

• Fishing was hard work.

• It was year-round work.

• It was not a leisure activity or a hobby.

• Sometimes many fish were caught, other times none were.

• It required a great deal of patience, thought and planning.

• It was all consuming working.

Jesus' words "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men" contain a number of important truths and implications for believers. 

1. Jesus promises to make them fishers of men. "I will make you fishers of men." What assurance does that give you as you follow Jesus? 

2. Jesus alone will do it. "I will make your fishers of men." What does this say about dependence on Jesus? 

3. We must follow him for that to happen. "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." One of the clearest indicators that we are following Jesus is if we reach the lost, "fish for the lost." Has there been something that has been distracting you for this in the past month? Explain. 

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

Perhaps there is not a more familiar saying of Jesus "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." The implication is if we say we follow Jesus one key indicator we will be a desire to reach the lost with the gospel. 

How does it challenge our faith to know that following Jesus means, by definition, reaching lost people?

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

Take some time now to discuss with your group what you will do and are doing to reach the lost? Who do you know who either has not heard the gospel or has heard it but might need followed up? What are you going to do about it?

Matthew Week 9 for groups

Discussion Questions Week 9

"Jesus Begins Preaching"

(Matthew 4:12-17)

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

Special Reminder: Make sure to keep moving through all the questions so you leave time for the "Believing" and "Living Out" sections.

45 Minutes:

In the sermon on Sunday Pastor Josh had us step back and bring to mind where Matthew has taken us in his gospel leading up to the start of Jesus' ministry.

As a group, beginning in chapter 1 discuss together the main narrative movements such as the ancestry, birth, etc, of Jesus.

• What is particularly interesting to you and why?

• What two reasons was Jesus given his name?

• Who are the ones who knew where the Messiah was to be born?

• How many OT prophets does Matthew quote and who are they?

• What two reasons did Joseph take his wife Mary and Jesus to Egypt?

• How did Jesus end up in Nazareth in Galilee and why is this important?

• On what were the Pharisees and Sadducees presuming to have as the salvation?

• Describe in your own words the scene when Jesus was baptized.

• Briefly describe the three kinds of tests/temptations the devil used against Jesus?

As a group, beginning in chapter 1, trace the main geographical movements of Jesus (i.e. bethlehem).Use your maps in the back of your bible to help. 

• Now in chapter 4:12-17 where does Jesus start his ministry and why? What do remember being said in the sermon about Zebulun and Naphtali? 

• What does it suggest or imply that Jesus began his ministry where he did?

• What was the clear message of Jesus and what method did he use to deliver his message? 

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

20 minutes

"Repent" is a radical call to change and live completely different–values, hopes, expectations, attitude, actions, etc. In what way does Jesus command to repent challenge you?

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

20 minutes

What will it like this week for you and your group to obey Jesus' command to repent?

Matthew Week 8 for groups

1. Read Matthew 4:8-11

2. Watch the summery video with your Group.

3. Discuss these questions:

• What was the third temptation?

• In what way does this temptation fit Jesus’ own goals and purpose?

• Why was the devil’s offer tempting to Jesus? What is at the heart of this temptation?

• How does this temptation come to us?

• How did Jesus answer?

• How does this temptation parallel the order of temptation that Israel faced in the wilderness in Ex. 16;17; 32?

• What does Jesus overcoming these 3 temptations mean for us today? Check out - Romans 5:12-21

4. Pray and thank God for what this has taught you about Jesus, and the temptation in your life today.

Matthew Week 7 for groups

Matthew week 6 for groups

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - WEEK 6

"THE 1st temptation of jesus

(Matthew 4:1-4)

1.When identifying the enemy – the devil – how dangerous is it to either over-believe or under- believe in his existence?

2. How is temptation a struggle for us all? Have you had specific times during which temptation was more of a problem? Without necessarily sharing the details, why was this the case and how did you respond to it?

3. Do you ever find yourself being tempted in the same way over and over again? Why do you think this is the case?

Read: Matthew 4:1-4

4. How do you see the baptism of Jesus (especially the declaration of his sonship in Matt. 3:17) and his temptation in the wilderness linked? In what way is the Holy Spirit involved in both?

5. What is temptation? How would you describe it simply to a child or someone who isn’t a Christian?

6. How does Jesus’ time of testing compare to that of Israel in the wilderness (you may wish to have a look at Deuteronomy 8:2-3)?

7. Why do you think it is important to see the similarities between Israel and the Jesus in their testing in the wilderness?

8. In what way was the temptation in the wilderness a test of Jesus’ mission? How is it a test of our mission as Christians?

9. What is at the heart of the first temptation in Matt. 4:3 to ’command these stones to turn to loaves of bread?”

10. How do we see the same type of temptations manifest in our lives?

11. Identify and discuss the Scripture (Deut. 8:3) that he quotes to the devil. What is Jesus telling the devil, what is this telling us about the person of Jesus?

12. How can we confront temptation?

13. How might we better equip ourselves with the Word of God so that we are ready to respond in the face of temptation.

Finally, please spend some time specifically praying for spiritual protection. (edited)

Matthew week 5 for groups

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - WEEK 5

"The Baptism of Jesus"

(Matthew 3:13-17)

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

45 Minutes:

Matthew 3:13-17, the baptism of Jesus, is not an easy text to understand. If John's baptism was a baptism of repentance and of people confessing their sins, why did Jesus submit himself to it? John knew that Jesus was the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). John knew Jesus was without sin. This is one reason he had no doubt tried to prevent Jesus from being baptized (vs 14).

• John does not fully understand Jesus' request, or is at least a bit troubled by it. What evidence do we have of this from what John tells Jesus in verse 14? Put into your own words, how would you explain John's response?

• Read Isaiah 53:12. Notice God, through Isaiah, says the Messiah will be numbered with the transgressors. Baptism was the way a person in Jesus days would identify himself or herself as a member of God's people. The baptism of Jesus was to identify himself, not as a sinner but rather "the one who bore the sins of many and will make intercession for the transgressor." Because that is true, what would you expect to read about in the rest of Matthew's gospel?

• When the heavens opened up after Jesus came out of the water, describe in your own words what happens? What does Jesus see? Who is present after Jesus' baptism and when the heavens open up? And why do you think this matters?

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

10-20 minutes

• Is there anything from your study of God's Word and of the baptism of Jesus that remains a mystery to you? In what ways does the baptism of Jesus affirm your faith in Jesus as the One, the One who identifies with sinners and saves them from their sins?

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

20 minutes

• Take some time now as a family, a group, or individual, to consider how what you learn will be lived out, what your response will be. What did you come up with?

Matthew week 4 for groups

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - WEEK 4

Question #1: How do you feel about repentance? Why do you think a lot of people think it’s a ‘bad word’ or unpleasant topic?

Read Matthew 3:1-12

Question #2: As you look over the first two chapters of Matthew, what are the various clues that indicate something big is about to happen? If you have time, you especially might like to look at Matthew 1:24; 2:2; 2:6; 2:15: 2:18; and 2:23.

Question #3: Why is repentance so much a matter of the heart? Can you give an example from your own life?

Questions #4: What does it actually mean for John to be preparing the way for the Lord, making straight paths for him? What is the significance of this prophecy (Isaiah 40:3)

Question #5: How do we prepare the way for the Lord today?

Question #6: If you had to explain repentance to someone who had no experience of Christianity, what would you say?

Questions #7: John was quite gruff with the Sadducees and Pharisees. Why was this the case?

Questions #8: How does this passage show us what repentance is really about? (You might like to discuss the difference between ‘confession’ and ‘repentance’.)

Questions #9: Is repentance still relevant to us today? How about to you? (You might like to think personally – not necessarily sharing – of areas in your own life that require repentance.)

Matthew week 3 for groups

Discussion questions - Week 3

"Out of Egypt I Called my Son"

(Matthew 2:13-18)

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

45-60 Minutes:

Introduction: You will remember that Matthew is writing to Jews who had either placed faith in Jesus as the Messiah or who were not yet convinced he was the Messiah. For those who had placed faith in Jesus, Matthew’s gospel serves to establish them further in their faith and encourage them to proclaim the good news everywhere and make disciples of the nations. Matthew’s gospel, however, also serves to build the case for not yet convinced. Matthew wants all to know that Jesus is the one! He is the one who the Old Testament points to, the one who fulfilled the law and the one who about whom the prophets foretold. More than any other gospel writer Matthew, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, cites the Old Testament prophets to prove that Jesus is the Messiah King.

Read Matthew 2:13-18

Question #1: Summarize in your own words what happened. What did you see in the text? Who are the people mentioned? What did they do?
Question #2: In this text Matthew quotes two more Old Testament prophets, Hosea and Jeremiah. From the sermon on Sunday, what do you remember about these prophets and the circumstances facing them and God's people when they preached? 

Hosea? 

Jeremiah? 

Question #3: Hosea–Hosea was a contemporary of both Micah and Isaiah. He preached during the days when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings in Judah. However unlike Micah who lived in the southern kingdom of Judah, Hosea lived in the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the time of one of Israel’s most wicked of their Kings. Under this king things had become so bad that God sent Hosea to speak on his behalf and not just to speak to them but to be a living illustration of their sin. Read Hosea 1. What did God tell him to do and why?

• Read Hosea 8:12. What does this say about God's people when Hosea preached to them?

• Read Hosea 11:1-4. What does God say of Israel, his Son who he called out of Egypt?

• Read Matthew 2:13-15. Notice the parallels between Jesus and Israel. Matthew will show in his gospel that Jesus is the true Israel, the true Son who came up out of Egypt. In what way does this create a desire to read on in Matthew's gospel?

Question #4: Jeremiah–Jeremiah was a prophet to the northern kingdom of Israel during the final years before Israel would be overrun by the Assyrian empire. Even though Israel had been warned over and over by the prophets, Jeremiah was the last to warn them. They never listened. Appropriately, he has been named the weeping prophet. God's people had turned their loyalty and their worship from God and to foreign gods as they lived their lives in the world but would also come to the temple and worship God at the same time. They were hypocrites. They worshipped and adopted the sinful practices of the foreign God’s which had brought about the oppression of other members of God’s people. The widow and orphan and the poor had been taken advantage of and for all this idolatry, God in effect says "times up." His judgement on his people has finally arrived. Jeremiah is witness to all of it. 

• Read Jeremiah 30& 31. What does God say about his people and what he will do to them? What does he also promise them in the coming future days?

• Matthew quotes Jeremiah 31:15 in reference to the judgement coming upon God's people during Jeremiah's day. Read it.

  • Ramah was a small town along the border of the Northern and southern kingdom. It would be the precise location from where God’s people would be dragged off into captivity by the Assyrians. Here there will be weeping and loud lamentation, which there was.

  • Rachel gave birth to Ephriam and Manasseh, which became the northern and southern tribes of Israel. She died giving birth near Bethlehem while he and Jacob were on their way to Ramah. She was buried near Ramah.

  • In what ways do the events of Jeremiah's day and the events surrounding the events Jesus' birth parallel one another? How do you think Matthew's gospel will point to Jesus as the one who will turn weeping and loud lamentation into joy and gladness?

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

10-20 minutes

• In what way has the study of Matthew 2:13-18 affected your faith in Jesus Christ?

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

20 minutes

• Take some time now as a family, a group, or individual, to pray together and then consider how what you learn will be lived out, what your response will be? Share what you are processing and what action steps you plan to take?

Matthew week 2 for groups

Discussion Questions - Week 2

“Where the Christ was to be Born"

(Matthew 2:1-12)

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

45-60 Minutes:

Introduction: You will remember that Matthew is writing to Jews who had either placed faith in Jesus as the Messiah or who were not yet convinced he was the Messiah. For those who had placed faith in Jesus, Matthew’s gospel serves to establish them further in their faith and encourage them to proclaim the good news everywhere and make disciples of the nations. Matthew’s gospel, however, also serves to build the case for not yet convinced. Matthew wants all to know that Jesus is the one! He is the one who the Old Testament points to, the one who fulfilled the law and the one who about whom the prophets foretold. More than any other gospel writer Matthew, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, cites the Old Testament prophets to prove that Jesus is the Messiah King.

Read Matthew 2:1-12. 

Question #1: Summarize in your own words what happened in chapter 2:1-12, taking special notice of who informed Herod about where Christ was to be born. Take time to share with your group members your summary.

Question #2: The chief priest and scribes of the people knew the right answer, that Christ was to be born in Bethlehem according to the Old Testament prophet Micah. Take some time as a group to read the entire book of Micah, 7 chapters. As you read it, keep your eye open to see what God's people were guilty of before Him (i.e. 1:7), and the negative effect this had on their treatment of one another (i.e. chapter 2-3). What did you discover? 

Question #3: As with all the Old Testament prophet, Micah offers a message of God's coming judgement but also a future hope for deliverance. Where do you see the hope of future deliverance in the book of Micah? 

Question #4: Micah 5:2-5 is one of clearest pictures of the future hope and deliverance for God's people. Circle or underline all the descriptions of what the one "from Bethlehem" will do and who he will be. 

Question #5: Now read again Matthew 2:1-12. Knowing better the book of Micah, how have you been brought closer to understand what Matthew is doing for his readers? 

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

10-20 minutes

• In what way has the study of Matthew 2:1-12 and the book of Micah strengthened your faith in Jesus Christ as the Messiah.

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

20 minutes

• Take some time now as a family, a group, or individual, to pray together and then consider how what you learn will be lived out, what your response will be? Share what you are processing and what action steps you plan to take?

Matthew Week 1 for Groups

Discussion Questions - Week 1

"The Genealogy of Jesus"

Matthew 1:1-17

Reading/Studying God's Word.... As a church, reading and studying God's Word is a central part of our life together. It is the foundation for properly believing what it says and properly living out what it says.

45 Minutes:

Take some time to read the genealogy of Jesus (1:1-17). Even though some of the names will be difficult to pronounce, don't skip them. Instead do your best to read them.

Introduction: The genealogy of Jesus is vitally important for understanding the rest of Matthew's gospel. His original readers had been primarily Jews who had either just come to faith or who had been on the verge of it. For the most part, Jews would have been well acquainted with the names in Jesus' genealogy. Matthew labors to record the lineage of Jesus in order to bring his reader’s attention back to the promise of God’s rescue plan for his people from among all the nations. He wants them and us today to see that Jesus is the long-awaited son of Abraham who will bring God’s blessing to his lost sheep among all the nations. And, he wants to show that Jesus is the royal son of David that all God's people had been waiting for. 

Even though most of these names might be unknown to us, they most certainly were not to Matthew or to his original readers. For them, these names would have been known like you know the names of your grandparents. Therefore this list of names might seem boring to us as modern readers and Christians, it was not to them.

So we might tend to just skip right past this list of names and “get to the good stuff” of the life and teaching and miracles of Jesus. To do that would miss entirely the intent of Matthew’s gospel. In Matthew's mind the good stuff IS the genealogy of Jesus. In Matthew's mind, without seeing the genealogy of Jesus his readers would miss the significance of Jesus–that he is the long expected KING of Jews, God people.

Question #1:  Look through the genealogy again. Identify the names you recognize and those you do not. Of the names that you do recognize, what do you know about them? Do you know where you can find them in the Old Testament? Choose two names you don’t recognize and look them up in a study Bible, Bible dictionary or concordance. Read about them this week and come ready to share what you learned about them next week with your group. 

Question #2: Next to Jesus, the two most important figures in the genealogy are Abraham and David. Matthew begins and organizes Jesus' geneology around these men from the Old Testament: Abraham to David (v2-6) and David to Jesus (v7-16).  Verse 17 is the one sentence summary of the genealogy of Jesus. Read Genesis 12:1-3,  17:1-7 and 22:15-18. Read also 2 Samuel 7:16-17. What does God promise to Abraham and to David? 

Question #3: By linking Jesus to Abraham and to David, Matthew attempts to point out two main truths. First, Jesus is the fulfillment of God's covenant promises made to Abraham and to David and thus to all God's OT people (we'll see this unfold in the rest of Matthew's gospel). Second, Jesus comes from a lineage of sinful people who did not completely obey God or fulfill His righteous law. One example of this is King David. He had committed adultery and premeditated murder (2 Samuel 11). Every single person in the genealogy is a sinner. What does this tell us about God and why Jesus was sent into the world (See Galatians 1:3-5)

Question #4: Five women are included in Jesus’s genealogy (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba , and Mary. This was unusual in genealogies of the day. Two of the women listed (Rahab and Ruth) are also Gentiles. What does their inclusion teach us who are and will be among God's people? (See Galatians 3:28 and Matthew 28:18-20).

Believing what it says....As a church, reading and studying God's Word can at times challenge or affirm what we currently think or believe about God and/or ourselves. 

10-20 minutes

• Is there anything from your study of God's Word from the genealogy of Jesus that challenged or affirmed your beliefs as a Christian? What were they and why?

Living it out..... Living out God's Word is usually the first thing we want to know when we read the Bible, but proper living begins with proper reading, studying and believing. Only then can we properly live out God's Word. Now that you have read, studied and believed what it says, consider the following questions.

20 minutes

• Take some time now as a family, a group, or individual, to consider how what you learn will be lived out, what your response will be. What did you come up with?