Hope - Week 11: The Good Shepherd
Small Group Discussion Guide
For the week of Nov. 10th, 2019
Connecting
Upcoming Grace Calendar (Aim for 3 minutes)
• Men’s Flag Football (Nov 23rd at 12:30pm, United Middle School Softball Field)
• Regalos De Amor Gifts (Last Sunday Nov 24th)
Breaking the Ice/Think Time (Aim for 12 minutes)
Describe a time in your life when you were humbled.
• Quick Review… Looking back at your notes from this Sunday’s sermon, what caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Understanding the Truth (Aim for 30-40 minutes)
Read 1 Peter 5:1-4
According to 1 Peter 5:1-4, what are some of the characteristics of a good Elder?
Verse 2 reminds the leaders in the churches that all the people (the flock) are God’s, not theirs. What would be some of the implications if Christian leaders viewed their congregations as “theirs” not God’s and neglect the characterstics listed? Can you give examples of churches doing this?
If leaders are supposed to lead willingly and eagerly (v.2), how does this principle apply to those who are serving in other ways (beside leadership)? How does this truth impact you as it pertains to serving in the church?
Verse 3 concludes with a promise of a crown of glory when Jesus returns to those who serve faithfully in the church. How does knowing that there is a future reward motivate you to serve in Christ’s Church today?
Read 1 Peter 5:5-7
Peter begins vere 5 with the word “likewise.” In what ways are younger people to be “like” the elders?
What does Peter tell his readers to clothe themselves with in verse 5? Why is it important for Christians to rid themselves of pride?
Who does Peter say (verse 6) is the one who will exalt the person who voluntarily humbles themselves?
When will God exalt the humble? When will the proper time come?
In verse 7, Peter commands his readers to cast all their anxieties on God. How hard is it for us to be completely dependent on God and give him all our cares and worries? Why?
Seeing Our Savior
Read: James 4:6, 10; Luke 14:11; Prov. 11:2; Psalm 149:4; Romans 12:3
God wants us to live completely for him and trust him with every area of our life. So often we are tempted to trust in ourselves when it comes to certain areas of our life. This week, strive to give every area of your life to God. Submit to others in your life. Humble yourself and trust God to exalt you. Cast your cares completely on God and depend on Him.
Living the Truth (Aim for 20 minutes)
1. What are some ways you can clothe yourselves with humility this week? Are there certain situations where humility will be hard for you? If so, why?
Why do we continue to carry burdens that we know God wants us to give over to him? What are some anxieties that you have kept, or are keeping from God?
Why does God want us to cast our cares on Him? What are some ways you can trust more fully in God and his plan for your life?
God not only hears but loves to answer prayers that are “according to His will.” (1 John 5:14-15). We can pray confidently when we pray obediently to this truth. You have just spent time discovering God’s will for you. Now, ask God for what you need to fulfill His will in your life, your friends & family, neighbors, church & community. Don’t be afraid to ask forgiveness where you have blown it, strength where you are weak, courage where you are afraid.
Prayer Requests (Aim for minimum of 10 minutes)
Pray that God reveals to you who He truly is