The Greatness Code
The Greatness Code
Key Verse:
John 13:4-5
... so [Jesus] got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
Jesus’ Seven Acts of Service
He saw to meet the need others ignored.
He got up.
He got ready.
He got down.
Start talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.
Share some of your favorite things—food, movies, restaurants, songs, books.
Start thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.
Which part of this message was most impactful for you and why? What do you want to learn more about?
Read Mark 10:43, 45.
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant … For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
How does Jesus’ definition of “greatness” compare to the world’s definition? What are some things the world values as special, important, or “great”?
Read John 13:1, 3-5
It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.
Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
God doesn’t just care about what you do, but the way you do it. When you want to do the “right” thing, what do you think about before you act?
Start sharing. Choose a question to create openness.
Has there ever been a moment when you almost missed an opportunity to serve because of pride? What was the outcome of that experience?
What need is God calling you to meet right now? How can you take a step toward meeting that need this week?
Start praying. Be bold and pray with power.
Father, we’re grateful for Your endless love. We want to be known for the way we serve and love others. Please show us the needs around us, so we can work to meet those needs together. We’re ready to serve You and Your people. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.
Ask God to show you one way to meet someone else’s need this week. Then, share about your experience with your LifeGroup.
Start the Bible Plan, The Good Work, using Plans With Friends: www.go2.lc/goodwork
Consider how you could love others by serving on the weekend or with a Local Mission Partner.
AVOIDING THE ELECTION INFECTION
AVOIDING THE ELECTION INFECTION
INTRODUCTION:
We aren’t just beginning a new year. We’re beginning an election year. Politics isn’t an emotionally neutral topic. It has the power to divide us instead of bringing us together. Politics can so color the way we see the world that we’re left wondering if someone could hold political beliefs different from our own and still follow Jesus. How would our outlooks change if we filtered our politics through our faith rather than filtering our faith through our politics?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Do politics play a role in your family’s mealtime conversations during Thanksgiving and Christmas?
If so, do you tend to join the debate or withdraw?
Why do you respond the way you do?
During the message, the Pastor said, “No matter where you stand politically, you can find something in the Bible to support your stand.”
Do you agree? Why or why not?
Think of a political belief you oppose so strongly that you can’t imagine how someone else could hold it.
What questions would you ask a person who holds that belief?
What value might there be in asking questions?
During the message, Pastor said, “Jesus followers should be the most confident, curious, composed, compassionate people in the room.”
How do you think a confident, curious, composed, and compassionate person would respond to people who disagree with him or her?
Talk about a time when you sacrificed influence with someone to make a point.
Did you change that person’s opinion?
Read Matthew 22:37–40
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
6. What is one practical step you can take this week to put people first and your politics second?
How can this group help you follow through?
MOVING FORWARD
Republican, Democrat, left or right, we’re all precious in his sight. This political season is an opportunity for us to highlight our political diversity in a way that honors the God who made us so diverse. If we get this right, we’ll learn something. We’ll become more generous and loving people. If we get it wrong, we’ll be an average church.
PAPER WALLS | WEEK 4
Week 4 Paper Walls
The Way Through
Read Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
How does knowing you were created on purpose and with a purpose motivate you to break through your paper walls?
Let’s look at the five steps to punching through your paper walls.
What To Do With Your Excuses:
2. Identify them.
3. Interrogate them.
Why do I make that particular excuse?
What am I afraid of?
Who am I afraid of?
Am I just being lazy?
Am I just being selfish?
Am I just feeling insecure?
4. Re-label them.
That’s not a reason; that’s an excuse!
Ask, “What do I lose if I continue to excuse?”
5. Tell somebody.
Who can you tell?
6. Which of these steps seems most difficult and why?
7. To what area do you need to apply these five steps?
What has not admitting you’ve been hiding behind an excuse cost you so far?
What can you gain if you stopped doing that?
PAPER WALLS | WEEK 3
Week 3 Paper Walls
Free To See
If you won’t admit you’re wrong, you’ll be wrong your entire life.
Discussion Questions
1. Do you easily admit you’re wrong? If so, what makes you say that? Would the people closest to you say you readily admit it when you’re wrong?
2. Have you ever caught yourself lying to yourself? What enabled or forced you to see the lie for what it was?
3. Did either of your parents excuse a habit or character defect? If so, how did it impact the family dynamic?
4. Are you currently holding on to an excuse that is keeping you from one or more of these? If so, what’s the excuse?
• Having a necessary conversation with someone
• Showing someone kindness
• Finishing an important task
• Spending intentional time with a family member
5. Would you commit John 8:12 to memory?
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
(John 8:12)
PAPER WALLS | WEEK 2
Week 2 Paper Walls
Not Buying It
It’s true that God loves you just the way you are, but he loves you too much to leave you that way.
Discussion Questions
What common excuses come to mind in these scenarios?
They could be excuses you’ve used or heard, or maybe you have some humorous excuses that would finish these sentences well.
I was running late because…
I didn’t do my homework because…
I would have applied for that job, but…
I meant to clean that, but…
I was going to say something in the meeting, but…
I don’t exercise much because…
My spouse and I haven’t done a date night in a while because…
Do you know anyone who excuses behaviors that hurt the people they claim to care most about?
When is the last time someone accused you of making excuses?
Your response?
Read Jesus’s parable Matthew 25:14–30
14 “Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.
19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’
21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’
23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’
26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.
28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
Why would Jesus use such harsh consequences as the illustration for the third servant in verses 26–30.
Any paper walls come to mind during the message?
If so, what fear is at the root of that paper wall?
How would someone who truly loves you respond to your “reasons”?
PAPER WALLS | WEEK 1
Week 1 Paper Walls:
Because
Whether fueled by fear, insecurity, or a past event, many of us construct a paper wall of excuses that holds us back.
Discussion Questions
How would you characterize yourself in terms of overcoming obstacles?
Would you say you press through them?
Or do you procrastinate or run when obstacles come up?
In light of this message, do you feel most of those obstacles are reasons or excuses? Explain.
Have you ever exposed and discarded a personal excuse?
If so, what did that process entail?
During the message, were you reminded of something you tell yourself as a way of avoiding responsibility or opportunity?
Read Hebrews 12:1–2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Are there excuses you’ve made that have kept you from living out your faith?
Are there excuses that have kept you from growing? If so, what are they?
Have you been lying to yourself?
Do you owe you an apology?
KNOWN FOR IT
Known for It
We all want to be known for something. What we really need is to be known by someone.
To Discuss
1. Give two things you want to be known for: one fun and one serious. When you consider your “serious”
one, who do you currently know that inspires you in that area?
2. Read Hebrews 10:23–25 aloud. In this passage, the author encourages Jesus followers to be involved
in each others’ lives. What stands out to you?
3. Read Galatians 6:1–3 aloud. In these verses, Paul is instructing Jesus followers on how to help
someone wrestling with sin. What stands out to you in this passage?
4. In what area are you pretending to have it together, especially around people of faith?
5. If you’re not in a group that meets regularly, what’s keeping you from joining one? If you are in a group,
what do you see as a next step in terms of letting the group know the real you?
6. While not everybody needs to know everything about you, what specifically can you do to be more
known by someone?
THE WEIGHT OF YOUR WORDS | WEEK 3
Week 3: Intent Doesn’t Remove the Dent
Even when our words are accidental, they can still hurt someone.
Discussion Questions
1. Can you remember a story (funny or otherwise) when you said one thing and meant something entirely different?
What happened?
2. Why do we rush to explain ourselves rather than simply owning our guilt? Explaining feels urgent and appropriate in
the moment. Why?
3. Read James 3:5–6.
Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
What stands out to you?
What are some ways our words compare to a fire?
4. Generally speaking, are you a fire container/explainer or an extinguisher? What makes you say that? Would those
closest to you, agree?
5. What can you do to remind yourself to opt for humility and sensitivity rather than an explanation next time you start
a word fire?
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to
their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
THE WEIGHT OF YOUR WORDS | WEEK 2
Week 2: Look Who’s Talking
The source of words determines their weight. Remember who you are and what you represent to the person on the
other side of you.
Discussion Questions
1. The relationship you have with them is not the same relationship they have with you. Who does that statement bring
to mind?
2. Good or bad, what has someone said to you that made an impact on your life? Do any of these remind you of words
that have been spoken to you?
• “You’re a really good parent.”
• “I’m so proud of you.”
• “You embarrassed me tonight.”
• “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
• “You’re not needed here anymore.”
3. In which environments or relationships do your words carry the most weight?
4. Read Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
What observations do you have about this passage?
5. Where do you need to begin throwing your weighty words around in order to encourage, inspire, and build?
Source determines weight. • Weight determines impact. • Impact determines outcome.
The Weight of Your Words | Week 1
Week 1: Way More
We’ve all heard the adage that actions speak louder than words. But the words we’ve heard have
shaped us, and the words we speak have the power to shape others. And some words weigh more
than others.
Discussion Questions
1. Whose words have shaped you the most? Why?
2. Which comes easier to you: criticism or encouragement? Does it depend on the relationship?
Why?
3. Read Ephesians 4:29.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building
others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
• What are your observations about this passage? What keywords stand out?
• What’s an example of helpful words?
• How can we evaluate our words in light of the recipient’s needs?
4. In the message, Pastor suggested that the ratio of our affirmation to our criticism influences how
even constructive criticism is received. How have you seen that play out in your relationships?
5. Where do you have work to do with your words? Who hopes you’ll get to work soon?
6. What is one step you can take to ensure that your words are helpful and beneficial?
DANGEROUS PRAYERS | WEEK 3
Week 3 Dangerous Prayers
Break My Heart
Key Scriptures
Jeremiah 8:18, 21 NLT
My grief is beyond healing; my heart is broken. ... I hurt with the hurt of my people. I mourn and am overcome with grief.
Romans 9:1-3 NLT
With Christ as my witness, I speak with utter truthfulness. My conscience and the Holy Spirit confirm it. My heart is filled with bitter sorrow and unending grief for my people, my Jewish brothers and sisters. I would be willing to be forever cursed—cut off from Christ!—if that would save them.
What are some of your pet peeves? What things annoy you the most?
What are some things you often pray about?
What do you think about asking God to “break your heart”? What feelings does that stir up?
Have you ever experienced God’s blessings as a result of suffering? What happened?
Read Romans 9:1-3.
With Christ as my witness, I speak with utter truthfulness. My conscience and the Holy Spirit confirm it. My heart is filled with bitter sorrow and unending grief for my people, my Jewish brothers and sisters. I would be willing to be forever cursed—cut off from Christ!—if that would save them.
Have you ever experienced this sort of brokenness for someone or something else? Describe your experience.
What truly breaks your heart on behalf of God?
What are you going to do about what breaks your heart?
If God hasn’t broken your heart over something, take the step of asking Him to do so this week.
If God has broken your heart over something, ask God to show you your next steps. Then do them!
Dangerous Prayers | Week 2
Week 2: Dangerous Prayers
Speak to Me
Key Scriptures
1 Samuel 3:10
And the Lord came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.”
Psalm 46:10
“Be still and know that I am God! …”
Proverbs 3:6
Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Read 1 Samuel 3:1-21
The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.
2 One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. 3 The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the house of the Lord, where the ark of God was. 4 Then the Lord called Samuel.
Samuel answered, “Here I am.” 5 And he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”
But Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.” So he went and lay down.
6 Again the Lord called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”
“My son,” Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.”
7 Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord: The word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.
8 A third time the Lord called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”
Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. 9 So Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10 The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!”
Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
11 And the Lord said to Samuel: “See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears about it tingle. 12 At that time I will carry out against Eli everything I spoke against his family—from beginning to end. 13 For I told him that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons blasphemed God,[a] and he failed to restrain them. 14 Therefore I swore to the house of Eli, ‘The guilt of Eli’s house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’”
15 Samuel lay down until morning and then opened the doors of the house of the Lord. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, 16 but Eli called him and said, “Samuel, my son.”
Samuel answered, “Here I am.”
17 “What was it he said to you?” Eli asked. “Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you.” 18 So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, “He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes.”
19 The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground. 20 And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba recognized that Samuel was attested as a prophet of the Lord. 21 The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word.
What is your definition of prayer?
Communication involves both speaking and listening.
When was the last time you were completely still before God, listening for His voice?
How does God most often speak to you?
In order to hear God’s voice, we need to be still, be willing, and be ready. Which of those three things do you think you struggle with the most? Why?
What is God showing you right now?
What are you going to do about what God is showing you?
This week, set aside time to listen for the voice of God.
DANGEROUS PRAYERS | WEEK 1
Week 1 Dangerous Prayers
Make Me Bold
Key Scriptures
Acts 4:10
“Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead.”
Acts 4:13
The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. …
Acts 4:29-31
“And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness.
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere …”
Acts 5:18-21
They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. But an angel of the Lord came at night, opened the gates of the jail, and brought them out. Then he told them, “Go to the Temple and give the people this message of life!” So at daybreak the apostles entered the Temple, as they were told, and immediately began teaching. …
Acts 5:28-29
“We gave you strict orders never again to teach in this man’s name!” he said. “Instead, you have filled all Jerusalem with your teaching about him, and you want to make us responsible for his death!” But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.”
How comfortable are you with prayer?
If uncomfortable, what makes it uncomfortable for you?
What does it mean to have bold faith?
Read Acts 4:1-31
The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. 3 They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. 4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand.
5 The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6 Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest’s family. 7 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?”
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, 10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. 11 Jesus is
“‘the stone you builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone.’[a]
12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. 14 But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say. 15 So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together. 16 “What are we going to do with these men?” they asked. “Everyone living in Jerusalem knows they have performed a notable sign, and we cannot deny it. 17 But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this name.”
18 Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! 20 As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
21 After further threats they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old.
The Believers Pray
23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David:
“‘Why do the nations rage
and the peoples plot in vain?
26 The kings of the earth rise up
and the rulers band together
against the Lord
and against his anointed one.[b]’[c]
27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”
31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
3. Would you consider yourself to be bold? Have you ever been complimented or confronted for your boldness?
4. What would living boldly look like for you?
5. Has there ever been a time that you have been bold?
6. Think about the people you interact with. What opportunities do you have to be bold in your faith this coming week?
7. How is God calling you to live boldly? Consider this question this week, and then commit to pursuing whatever God sets in front of you.
WINNING THE WAR IN YOUR MIND | WEEK 4
Week 4 Winning the War of Your Mind
Key Scriptures
Philippians 4:6-9
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. … And the God of peace will be with you.
Romans 8:5-6
Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So, letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
Big Idea: We can panic or pray when anxiety comes.
Did you have any worries as a kid that seem silly now?
If so, what were they?
Which part of the message was most impactful for you and why?
How often would you say you experience worry now?
What do you do when you’re feeling worried?
Read Philippians 4:6-9
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. … And the God of peace will be with you.
4. What does this verse say to you?
5. Share about a time when you decided to trust God instead of worrying.
What prompted that decision? What kind of impact did it have on you?
6. What’s something you’re worried about now that you have a tough time trusting God with?
Why do you think it’s so hard to trust God with it?
7. Did your thinking about prayer change at all while listening to this message? If so, how? (12 minutes of Prayer a day can physically change your mind.)
Read Hebrews 4:16
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
8. Is it easy or hard for you to go to God confidently with your prayers and worries?
Why do you think that is?
9. Share about a time when you felt like the Holy Spirit prompted you. What happened?
How can you start paying more attention to those promptings?
Closing Thoughts:
Take this week to implement the 12-minute-a-day prayer challenge. Allow God to guide you through your worry and anxiety, and learn to trust him in every situation.
WINNING THE WAR IN YOUR MIND | WEEK 3
Week 3 Winning the War of Your Mind
Key Scripture:
Philippians 1:12-14.
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Big Idea:
Read 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Do you use filters on your photos on social media? If so, which one is your favorite? If not, why not?
Which part of this message was most impactful for you and why?
Would you say you tend to have a more positive mindset or a negative one?
How could you start training your mind to look for God in every situation?
Read Philippians 1:12-14
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
What are some ways you could start reframing your circumstances?
Share about a time when you saw Jesus bring meaning and purpose to your pain.
Everyone has a personal struggle they’re facing. What’s yours? How can you look for God in it?
Start doing. Commit to a step and live it out this week.
Spend time praying over the struggles everyone’s facing. Ask God not only for comfort but also for eyes to see His goodness, even in the middle of pain.
WINNING THE WAR IN YOUR MIND | WEEK 2
Week 2 Winning the War of Your Mind
Discussion Guide: The Rewire Principles
Big Idea:
We must focus our thoughts on truth and eject any lies we believe from our minds.
Pastor Said," You Move in the direction of your most powerful thought."
As honest as possible, What do you think about most?
Why do you think about that topic so much?
Do you suppose those who don't have a personal relationship with Jesus think about those same things?
Read Romans 12:2a
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Our thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits.
Of the thoughts you have, how many of them are actually accurate or truthful?
How have your experiences shaped your thoughts?
How do bad thoughts create bad direction?
What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts, unable to escape negative and unhealthy thinking?
Read 2 Corinthians 10:5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
Just because you have a thought does not mean that thought is correct or even rational.
Do you believe everything you hear?
Do you believe everything you think?
How can we capture our thoughts before we release them into the reality of our minds?
Mediation is defined as focused thinking.
Look again at the first question. What do you think about or focus your thoughts on most?
Whatever you consume your mind with will be what you become. Positive or negative.
Read Matthew 6:22-23,
Jesus says, "The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness."
According to what Jesus says, "How do we guard against or rewire our thinking?"
Closing Thoughts:
Read Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
How do we practically focus our thinking on the kingdom of God?
What is one negative thought or lie you need to take captive?
What is the positive thought or truth you need to replace it with?
Winning The War In Your Mind | Week 1
Week 1: Winning the War in Your Mind
Key Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do. We use God's mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.
Big Idea: You cannot have a positive life and a negative mind.
Read Romans 7:21-23
So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me.
Think about a time when you struggled with anxiety or toxic thoughts.
What did you learn through that experience?
Is there anything you would like to change about your destination?
What struggle holds you back?
Read Proverbs 23:7
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.
2. Our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts.
What negative statement do you say about yourself, and how does it affect you?
Who you are today is a result of your thoughts in the past.
Who you become in the future will reflect what you think about today.
3. Based on each bullet point, answer these two questions:
What thoughts from your past have determined who you are today?
What are two new ways you need to start thinking about yourself?
Read 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do. 4 We use God's mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments.
4. According to this verse, what is a 'stronghold'? (false/ lie)
5. "You cannot defeat what you cannot define."
What lie is holding you hostage?
What fear keeps you from taking a step of faith?
What wrong thought pattern robs you of living a life of freedom and joy?
6. Describe one instance in which you know or have known that you were a prisoner of a lie. (For example, you crave close relationships but are paralyzed by fear of rejection).
7. If you are having trouble identifying the lies in your life, Pastor gives a 3-step process to realize the lie.
Fill in the blanks below and identify which step is the most challenging for you:
Identify the ____________________
Ask probing ____________________
Pinpoint the ____________________
8. Targeting Jesus when he was hungry, thirsty, and weary, the devil crafted temptations aimed explicitly at these vulnerabilities.
When are you especially vulnerable to listen to the enemy's lies and give in to temptation?
Read Romans 12:2
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
9. The Replacement Principle was given in the message to help us rewire or renew the way we think.
Remove: Identify the lie to be removed.
Rewire the lie with Truth. Renew your brain.
Reframe: Considering the Truth changes your perspective of how you look at the past, present, and future.
Rejoice: Revive your soul and reclaim your life.
Declare God's goodness through worship and prayer.
Read 2 Peter 1:3
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life ...
10. What Truth demolishes that stronghold? How can you replace that negative statement with Truth from Scripture?
Closing Thoughts:
11. What's one practical way you can learn to think and act more like Jesus this week?
What is one change you could make this week to secure your mind more?
What part of this message resonated with you?
What can we do this week to put this message into practice?
OWN IT | WEEK 6
Week Six, Own It: Growing People Change
Big Idea: We can temporarily alter our behavior, but Jesus can permanently change our hearts.
Key Verse: John 15: 5
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Why do healthy things grow?
What is the difference between religion and a relationship with God?
How can self-help be detrimental to our lasting change?
Read Ephesians 2:8-9
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.
2. The pastor said, “Many of us have a relationship with Jesus it just isn’t a healthy one.”
3. If you were God and you were in a relationship with you, would you say it is a healthy relationship?
What determines whether our relationship with God is healthy or not?
Do you find yourself asking from God for your own benefit more than asking him to use you as he wishes?
A relationship based only on what you get is not a healthy one.
Where we focus, be it God’s hand or his heart, determines if we will grow in a healthy way.
Read 1 John 14:15
If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.
4. According to this verse, what is the foundation of our relationship with God?
Why is being rooted in God’s love so important to looking and sounding more like Jesus?
Read John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
5. Remembering that our relationship with God is just like any other relationship, what are the things we can do to stay connected to God in a healthy way?
Read John 15:9
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
6. What pops out to you in this verse that helps us grow?
Closing Thoughts:
We can temporarily alter our behavior, but Jesus can permanently change our hearts. Growth is not how well we behave but how well we stay connected to God in a healthy relationship. Change doesn’t come from us but how close we hold to Jesus, who loves us most. He loves us the way we are but loves us enough not to keep us there. Growing people Change to look and sound like Jesus.
OWN IT | WEEK 5
Week 5 Own It
Big Idea: Everything you have is not for you, but it is for you to be generous with.
Key Verse:
Proverbs 3:9-10
Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over the new wine
Following Jesus should look and sound like Jesus.
- How’s that working out for you?
What is your first reaction when you hear the church teach on money?
- What do you believe causes that reaction?
Read Matthew 6:19-21
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
What do you hear Jesus teaching us in this verse?
Read John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Read James 1:17
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
What do these verses say to you about God’s generosity to us?
What are some gifts from God that are easily taken for granted?
How can we be generous to others with those gifts?
Malachi 3:10
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.
Why is giving back to God by giving to the church important?
Why would TFF offer the 90-day giving challenge?
Application:
God has been generous to us because he loves us. He doesn’t need our money. He only wants our hearts and to be Lord over every area of our lives. When God captures our hearts, generosity should flow from it, not just for the church but for those around us. Generosity is a hallmark of who God is, so it should be a hallmark of those who follow him.
Own It | Week 4
Week 4 Own It: Life Group Discussion
Saved People Serve People
Big Idea:
Jesus came to serve, so should we.
Key Verse: Matthew 20:28
... just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
In the last 4 weeks, you have heard," Following Jesus should look and sound like Jesus."
Has this idea positively or negatively impacted how you think about living out your faith?
Read John 10:10
I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.
2. How do you define a full life?
Does your definition bring fulfillment to other's life or just your own?
3. Is or has your spiritual life ever become a burden?
What do you believe caused it to become that way?
Have you ever considered that you may be living out your spiritual life partially and missing some key components?
Read Matthew 20:25
Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them.
4. Without naming names, who was the worst boss you ever had?
What were the characteristics of this boss that made them a bad boss?
Read Matthew 20:26-27
Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—
5. What is your initial reaction to the words servant and slave?
In the Greek language, in which the original New Testament scripture was written, a servant is defined as one who "executes the commands of another." The word slave is defined as a servant without hope of ever becoming free.
Why do you think Jesus used both of these words to define the path to greatness for His followers?
Read Matthew 20:26-28
Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
6. Following Jesus should look and sound like Jesus.
How did Jesus exemplify being a servant and a slave to the world and us individually?
What would followers of Jesus need to do or change to meet this level of servanthood and become a slave to others?
Read Ephesians 2:10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
7. Clearly, any good works we do are not done to gain access to heaven but rather a byproduct of the fact that we have already, through Jesus, become a member of God's family.
Also, this would mean we are all doing different exact good works.
Read these portions of 1 Corinthians 12:4-12
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them...There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God …Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ."
You heard the pastor say, "Everyone is a 10 at something!" "Everyone has a position to play!" "There are no places of honor in the church, only places of service."
What gifts have you been given to bolster God's work?
How are you serving now, either on the weekend or in the community?
If not, what excuse are you making for yourself not to serve?
Start where you are! Use what you have. Do what you can.
8. During the Last Supper, Jesus was washing the feet of disciples, and here is Peter's reaction.
Read John 13:6-8
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet? Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." "No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
Why did Peter object to Jesus doing slave work?
Why did Jesus answer the way he did?
Closing Thoughts
Following Jesus should look and sound like Jesus.
If you want the full life Jesus promised, you have to follow Jesus' example and do what he did.
It is impossible to follow Jesus and not think about others first.
How can you serve others and the body of Christ, the church?