In John 17, Jesus prayed that His Church would be "one". In this study, we'll talk about one of the practical areas of church life that has to be addressed if a congregation is going to walk in unity - conflict resolution.

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

- Was there an aspect of this study you felt specifically challenged by?

- How do you normally decide whether you respond to an offense or overlook it?

- How can we reconcile the biblical call to judge those within the church (1 Corinthians 5:12-13) with Jesus' command not to judge (Matthew 7:1)?

- How might our approach to conflict resolution change if we consistently asked, 'What is best for the other person?' rather than focusing on our own feelings?

- When we’re offended or sinned against, how can we be led by the Holy Spirit rather than our emotions?

This sermon explores the power of the small word “but” in Scripture. As we look at 1 Timothy 4:1–5, we’ll examine what it means to fall away from the faith, the enemy’s tactics to lead believers astray, and the importance of a clear conscience and gratitude. Ultimately, this message calls us to align with God’s Word, listen to the Spirit, and stay devoted to Him on the path of godliness.

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

- The first word of this passage sets us up for a contrast. What contrast is Paul making?

- What is the significance of the definite article in the phrase “the faith”? What is “the faith”?

- How could someone fall away from “the faith”? How is that different than falling away from “their faith”?

- List (from the sermon summarizing of them) the five factors of falling away. Which have you seen or experienced?

- Have you had interaction, either personally or with someone you are connected to, with a cult? Care to share?

- What attitude does Paul reveal as an antidote to falling away (verses 4-5)? How can you personally cultivate that attitude? Take some time as a group and express some specifics.

In this sermon, we dive into 1 Timothy to uncover what godliness really means and how it’s centered on Jesus. We’ll look at how the church can stand up for the truth and shine a light for others. Plus, we’ll explore the unseen forces that guide us toward living a godly life and how our everyday actions can reflect God's character.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- If expository preaching is "making the main idea of the passage the main idea of the sermon" what might be the main idea of one of the following passages? (Pick one:Matt. 7:24-27; Eph. 6:10-20; Luke 9:23-26; ll Cor. 5:1-10;Romans 3:9-18)- As the Bible uses it, what is a "mystery"? Can you, as a group, name some?- What is "godliness"? (Give a definition or two.)- What metaphor does this text employ as a description of the church? What other metaphors can you recall? What is the Lord's expectation of each of those?- It godliness requires learning, what are some of the teachings Paul has identified so far in I Timothy? What are some other things you know need to be learned for someone to become godly?- How does godliness in the church fulfill the Lord's purposes and influence the world?- What mystery is the opposite of the mystery of godliness?What is the source of that? What is the source of godliness (as shown in our passage)?

As Noah and his family step foot off the Ark to see a world destroyed by the wrath of God, they are overcome by gratitude toward God for His unmerited mercy and grace toward them. This leads Noah to offer a lavish, generous sacrice to the Lord and reminds us that we should live our lives from a place of thankfulness for our equally undeserved salvation.

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

- Does anyone in your group have a testimony about God’s perfect timing being displayed in their life?

- How does understanding that apart from Christ, we are “children under wrath” impact the way you live as a Christian?

- Do you have any unanswered questions about the Flood?

- What has caused your trust in God to grow over the course of your Christian life (e.g., a verse, a sermon, an experience)?

- As you prepare to pray, ask your group if anyone is trusting God in a situation where things don’t look good right now. Pray specifically for faith and hope and thank the Lord in advance for His faithfulness.

In this study, the catastrophic global flood of Noah's day overtakes the earth. We'll learn more about what actually happened and gain insights into our salvation, how God grows our trust in Him, and the importance of setting an example of faith for our children.

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

- Share about a time when you had to exercise faith while waiting patiently in hope for God to do something.

- Christians are called to live in the world while not becoming part of the world. Share any lessons you’ve learned that have helped you to walk this out in your own life.

- What are some practical ways fathers and mothers can model faith in God for their children (of any age)?

- What do you do when you’re asking God for direction, but it seems like He’s silent?

- If someone shared with you that they were struggling with doubting their salvation, how would you respond?

In this study, the Lord reveals His plans to flood the earth but save Noah and his family by having them find safety in an ark, along with at least two of every land animal and bird. We'll learn how this follows a pattern found throughout Scripture - God protects and preserves His people when He pours out His wrath in judgment.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Do you have any theories on what the mark of the beast will be?- If we’re going to walk with God, we must become comfortable living in a way that may seem strange to non-believers – like Noah building the Ark for over a hundred years. What aspects of Christian living do you think seem strangest to non-believers?- If there’s anyone in your group who hasn’t shared their unique salvation story with the group, ask them to share it.- Which of God’s commands have you found most challenging to obey over the course of your life as a Christian?- Do you believe the Church will be raptured before the Tribulation? Why or why not?

In 1 Timothy 3:13, Paul reminds us that those who serve well gain honor before others and boldness in their faith in Christ. This message explores what it means to lead and serve with excellence, not for our own recognition, but for the glory of God. Together we’ll consider how to give honor where it is due, how to serve with our eyes fixed on Jesus, and how the Lord Himself rewards those who are faithful in His service.

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:

- Discuss the wrong reasons why people serve in the church. Share positive examples of serving that you have observed.

- Share New Testament examples of Christ acting like a servant in how he responded to situations and people.

- What does it mean to be "full of the Spirit"? (Eph. 5:18) What daily steps would be taken to be assured that we are full of the Spirit?

- The deacons that serve well are "confident" with the Lord. Have you known this confidence? What has kept you from knowing Him in this way?

- Review the three steps of faith that are mentioned. Pray for one another to fully connect with Christ and His will this week.