Discussion question for September 25, 2009.

We are saved by grace, and not by works according to Paul.  We are commanded to do works to demonstrate our faith according to James.  How do we maintain a proper balance in doing works of service?  What signals can we observe to guide our actions?  What should motivate us to do ministry?

Discussion question for September 18, 2009.

What was the offense against God in the Garden of Eden?  We have a brief description of the temptation and the following action.  Why were Adam and Eve banished from the garden?  What are the ramifications of the sin?  How can we avoid such choices in our life, today?

Discussion question for September 11, 2009.

We are commanded to “pray without ceasing” and “at all times pray in the Spirit”.  How can we do this while still living in the “real” world?  Does it require multi-tasking to focus on work while praying in the spirit?  Are we sometimes released from paying attention to eternal things so we can work on daily life things?  What does it look like to be “in the world but not of it”?

Discussion question for September 4, 2009.

Much of our life is defined in the physical realm through the five senses.  God is a spirit, and we must worship Him in spirit.  What part of your life is focused on the spiritual realm?  How do you know something exists or happens if it isn’t experienced through touch, taste, smell, sight or hearing?  If you were to expand your ability to understand in the spiritual realm, where do you start?

Discussion question for August 28, 2009.

As  believers, it is our fond desire to grow in relationship with God.  There are certain things that get in the way of our hearing from Him.  What does the Bible say will get in the way?  What have you found in your own life that interrupts the message?  How do you stay on guard against such issues?

Discussion question for August 21, 2009.

We agree that Truth is a person – Jesus Christ – and that He guides us in all truth.  How do we hear from God?  What gives us confidence that the message is coming through, and ungarbled?  When are we at risk of being misled, and what can we do to prevent that?  What example can you give of a time when you clearly heard from God?

Discussion question for August 14, 2009.

There are many “facts” and “opinions” being used by people around us to form their world view.  Not all can be true because often one opinion or ‘fact’ conflicts with another.  How can we know what is true?  What makes it true?  Is there an absolute truth?  Just as important: How can we share the truth with others?

Discussion question for August 7, 2009.

We talked about the difference between individual freedom and community conformity last week.  Assuming there are benefits and advantages to living in community, what are they?  What should a community (government, church, family, group) take responsibility for?  How can this community stay clear from corruption?  How does America measure up to this ideal today?

Discussion question for July 31, 2009.

We are created in God’s image, but sin causes us to be a poor reflection of Him.  Our country has a strong culture of personal independence.  Is this a godly trait?  What is the balance point between me (individual) and community in my identity and motivations?  How can we define the differences between liberty and independence?

Discussion question for July 24, 2009

Last week we talked about God’s promise to provide for all of our needs.  How should we manage our income, assuming that He has provided accordingly?  When are we “striving” instead of “stewarding”, and what tell-tale signs should we watch for?  What emotions or situations put our blessedness at risk?  What impact does this have on our generosity, and how can we give with care?