Read John 4:23-24. Jesus said that true worshipers would worship “in Spirit and truth.” What does it specifically look like to worship God with sincerity and biblical truth? Which is easier/ harder for you: to worship God with your head and knowledge (knowing who He is)... OR worshiping God with your heart and emotions (a passionate response to who He is)?

How do we “hunger” for God? Have each person in the group share a way or two of how we can hunger for God in our every day life. Also, share one habit you can do to increase your desire for God’s presence this week?

According to Psalm 100:4, we are to enter our worship time with thanksgiving and praise. Why do you think these 2 things are so necessary as a starting point in prayer and worship? How can gratitude change your attitude?

Read Mark 1:35. What stands out to you about Jesus’ example of making time to pray? No matter what your prayer life looks like right now, if you could add just five minutes a day more to pray, when would those 5 minutes a day be? And where would they be? (Describe your exact time and setting you would choose)

Read Romans 12:1. What are some everyday ways we can “offer ourselves” to God in worship? And which area of your life is the hardest to fully surrender to God in this season?

Close the group by going around and sharing how each of you would like to encounter God MORE through worship and prayer.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Text: Ps. 119:9-16, Jer. 15:16, Is. 55:11, Ps. 1:1-3, Rom. 8:31-39, Col. 3:15-17

- God’s Word:

1. Reveals KNOWLEDGE and WISDOM.

2. Reveals GOD’S WILL for our lives.

3. Is PRACTICAL and full of POWER.

- How to Encounter God through the Word:

1. Set aside TIME and READ it.

2. MEDITATE on it and PRAY through it.

3. Ask: What does it SAY? What are the FACTS?

4. Ask: What are the spiritual PRINCIPLES I can learn from this?

5. Ask the Spirit to REVEAL the truth you need from the Word.

- 20 Ways to Encounter God through the Word:

Survey the Word, Listen to the Word, Read the Word Silently, Read the Word Aloud (Privately), Read the Word Publicly, Discuss the Word, Hand-copy the Word, Study the Word, Cross-reference the Word, Stress the Word, Highlight the Word, Paraphrase the Word, Sketch the Word, Memorize the Word, Personalize the Word, Sing the Word, Display the Word, Share the Word, Teach (or Preach) the Word, Do the Word!

- Encountering God Through the Word Prayer:

Lord, make us a people who are endlessly hungry for your words of life. Make us a people that have so tasted and seen your goodness poured out in the pages of Scripture that we make time to feast on the bread of your Word. Fill us with a longing for deeper, more consistent encounters with you that we would search the pages of Scripture for truths that will open our hearts to you more fully. May our lives be marked today by the fruit grown from the seed of your Word.

Read Acts 2:14-41. What stands out to you in this passage?

Peter, a common uneducated man, stood up and addressed thousands of people with the message of the Gospel. He did this by the power of God’s Spirit. In what area of your life (or what person or group) could you be more bold in sharing the good news of Jesus?

In Peter’s speech to the crowd, he makes it very clear that Jesus is central to everything. In your everyday conversations (friends, family, work), what topics take center stage instead of Jesus? What is one practical way you can intentionally point someone toward Jesus this week?

Read Psalm 110:1 and Acts 2:36. What does it mean that Jesus is both “Lord” and “Christ?” What is one area of your life that you struggle to fully “submit” to the Lord, putting yourself under His authority? How can you practically take a step toward surrender?

When people heard Peter’s sermon, they were “cut to the heart.” How does conviction by the Holy Spirit work with you? When was the last time you were convicted? Describe the process for you.

Repentance means turning away or turning from, not just being sorry for something. What is a specific attitude, habit, or pattern in your life that the Holy Spirit is calling you to turn from? What action would show that you “turned” away from sin and toward God?

Close by praying for each other in these things.

Read Luke 24:33-49. What is God’s heart for His people?

In the passage above, Jesus encourages His disciples in 8 different ways about all the benefits and blessings we have since the resurrection. As you read those verses again, which of those promises stand out to you, and how does it give you hope and encouragement?

In verses 44-49, Jesus tells them to 1). Remember who He is, 2). Remember what He’s done, 3). Remember what they’ve seen, and 4). To remember His promises. Go around the group and have each person share 1 or 2 things (from this list of 4) that they know about Jesus today.

One of the great things about the resurrection was how God’s light broke through all the darkness and evil of this world. What is one way you can let your light shine in the darkness?

How does the resurrection of Jesus impact your personal faith? And how do you personally experience Jesus’ transformative resurrecting power in your everyday life?

We know that the resurrection signifies life after death and eternal life, but it also shows us the possibilities of new life, beginnings, and transformation in our lives right now! What is a specific area of your life that you are seeking resurrection power for, and how can your Together Group support you in this journey?

Joshua 1:8-9

Ps. 46:1-3

Ps. 141:3

Prov. 3:5-6

Prov. 18:10

Is. 26:3 

Is. 40:31

Is. 41:10

Is. 43:1-2

Jer. 17:7-8

Matt. 6:33

Luke 9:23

John 3:16-18

John 16:33

Acts 1:8

Acts 4:12

Rom. 5:8

Rom. 8- All of it!

Rom. 12- All of it!

1 Cor. 13:4-7

2 Cor. 1:3-4

2 Cor. 5:17

Eph. 2:8-9 

Eph. 2:19-22

Eph. 4:20-24

Eph. 5:15-16

Eph. 6:10-18

Phil. 4:6-7

Phil. 4:11-13

Col. 2:6-7

Col. 3:1-3

Col. 3:15-17

Col. 4:2

1 Thes. 5:11

2 Tim. 1:7

1 Pet. 5:7

(THANKSGIVING EDITION)

Going Deeper: Read the following Scriptures. How does God’s Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.

Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.”

Phil. 4:6 “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”

1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."

1 Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God’s will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”

Ps. 50:14 “What I want…is your true thanks to God.”

Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say…do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”

Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.”

Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them.

Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness?

Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness?

What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise?

Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone?

How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they’ve done for you?

Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific?

Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He’s done, and PRAISE Him for who He is!

Read 1 Cor. 11:17-34

Division was a serious issue in the Corinthian church- even during communion! Why do you think it was such a problem? What similar divisions appear in our church today?

Read John 17:20-21 and James 2:1-4. What steps can we as believers take to pursue genuine unity in the body of Christ?

Jesus took the bread and the cup, and both times He emphasized, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Have each person in your group share at least one thing that we should remember about Jesus and what He’s done.

Read Ps. 139:23-24. How should a believer examine themselves? What kinds of actions or attitudes might need to be confessed or changed? Why is this important to do before we take communion?

In what practical ways can we show consideration for others in the church family, especially during times of worship and fellowship?

Read Phil. 2:3-4. How does humility and other-centeredness reflect the heart of Jesus and honor Him at the communion table?

Close by sharing in communion together.

Read Psalm 103. What is your favorite statement from this Psalm & why? What aspect of Sunday’s message spoke to you? Do you feel “in tune” with God in this season?

How would you “grade” (A-F) your current levels of being grateful, and expressing gratitude, to God & others? What is your biggest challenge right now to cultivating or having an attitude of gratitude?  

What are some of the qualities of both God and man from this Psalm? What does this make you appreciate the most about the relationship God wants to have with you?

Relating to Point #1, if you were to conduct a “blessings inventory,” which areas would be your strongest & weakest (relational, emotional, physical, financial, or spiritual)? How might these dynamics draw you closer to the Lord? 

Read v.10-14. Relating to Point #2, what are some things (spiritually/practically) that God has withheld from you for which you are grateful? What can you do to replace complaining/criticism, or entitlement? How might you reframe “hard things” to be able to praise & thank God?  

How does the person of Jesus and the Gospel make an attitude of gratitude possible for you? What are some practical things you can do to step into Point #3 this week? Be specific, make a plan, pray, & do it by God’s grace!

Read 1 Cor. 9:24-27. In what areas of your spiritual life do you feel like you're coasting instead of running with purpose? What’s one specific step you can take this week to pursue God more intentionally?

Which area of your life- time, thoughts, actions, or speech- needs more spiritual discipline? (Pick just one to share) What has made that area hard to surrender to God?

What is one thing in your life currently distracting you from pursuing Christ wholeheartedly? How can you replace that distraction with something that draws you closer to God?

Integrity is about who you are when no one is watching. What practices help you guard your character? Are there any blind spots God might be calling you to address?

Read Hebrews 12:1-2. How does keeping your eyes on Jesus- the “author and perfecter of our faith”- help you endure spiritual fatigue or discouragement? What helps you stay motivated when the race feels long?

If your spiritual life were a race today, what kind of runner would you be- disciplined and focused, distracted and tired, or somewhere in between? How can this group support you in your spiritual race this week?

What fears or concerns keep you from sharing the Good News?

If you knew for certain Christ was coming back tomorrow. How would you respond?

Would you be willing to share how the Gospel has impacted your life with the group?

Stop and think who should be on your prayer list. If comfortable share these names with the group and ask God for boldness, opportunities and Holy Spirit leading. 

Read 1 Cor. 8:1-13. What stands out to you in this passage? What is the Word of God saying to us?

"Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." How does this idea challenge our understanding of spiritual growth? How can our pursuit of knowledge lead to pride, and to balance this, how can love change your entire approach?

Reflect on a time when your knowledge or opinions caused someone to stumble. How did love influence your response or behavior in that situation? How can we practice humility and love in disagreements or differences of opinion?

What does it mean to "practice love over personal rights"? Can you think of a specific example where choosing love meant giving up a personal right or preference?

How do our opinions or actions sometimes unintentionally cause harm to fellow believers? What steps can we take to ensure our words and choices reflect grace and care rather than judgment or insensitivity?

Discuss this statement: "Sinning against others is sinning against Christ." How does this influence how we treat fellow believers? How might this truth impact our approach to disagreements or differences in the body of Christ?

Considering the main point, that love for Christ and others should guide our knowledge and actions... how can we practically ensure that love remains our primary focus in daily life? What specific steps or attitudes can we adopt to reflect God's love more consistently?

Read 1 Cor. 8:1-13. What stands out to you in this passage? What is the Word of God saying to us?

"Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." How does this idea challenge our understanding of spiritual growth? How can our pursuit of knowledge lead to pride, and to balance this, how can love change your entire approach?

Reflect on a time when your knowledge or opinions caused someone to stumble. How did love influence your response or behavior in that situation? How can we practice humility and love in disagreements or differences of opinion?

What does it mean to "practice love over personal rights"? Can you think of a specific example where choosing love meant giving up a personal right or preference?

How do our opinions or actions sometimes unintentionally cause harm to fellow believers? What steps can we take to ensure our words and choices reflect grace and care rather than judgment or insensitivity?

Discuss this statement: "Sinning against others is sinning against Christ." How does this influence how we treat fellow believers? How might this truth impact our approach to disagreements or differences in the body of Christ?

Considering the main point, that love for Christ and others should guide our knowledge and actions... how can we practically ensure that love remains our primary focus in daily life? What specific steps or attitudes can we adopt to reflect God's love more consistently?

1. The Body and God's Design 

• Genesis 1:27, 31 

• Psalm 139:13–14 

• Romans 12:1 

2. The Danger and Power of Sexual Sin 

• Proverbs 5:1–23

• 1 Thessalonians 4:3–8

• Matthew 5:27–30 

3. Union With Christ

• John 15:4–5

• Ephesians 5:25–32

• Galatians 2:20 

Choose one day this week to “fast” from something that feeds your flesh (e.g., social media, Netflix, certain music, a relationship that fuels temptation) — and replace it with prayer, Scripture, or journaling about your body’s purpose. 

***GODLY CHARACTERISTICS EDITION

Read 2 Peter 1:3-9. Share one thing that stands out in this passage that shapes your view of how a Godly person grows in their discipleship.

What does “walking with God” practically look like in your daily life? How do we cultivate a close relationship with Jesus?

Read John 13:34-35. Jesus told us that people would know His disciples be their love. How can you go out of your way this week, and intentionally show genuine love and care for people in our lives... especially those who are difficult to love?

Two of the hardest fruits of the Spirit for us to implement in our relationships these days are patience and kindness. Where in life do you specifically struggle with these 2 things, and what steps can you take to grow in these areas?

Read Prov. 10:9. What does it mean to walk in integrity? What areas of your life are you tempted to compromise on truth and integrity? How can you safeguard your actions and words with better honesty and transparency?

A Godly person is also characterized by self-control. In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more self-control? (i.e. Time management, spending habits, phone usage, idleness, purity, eating habits, anger, complaining, attitude, thought life, etc)

Pray for these things for each other!

Read Luke 24:1-7. What is God’s Word saying to you in this passage? What is God’s heart for His people?

In the passage above, the 2 women find an empty tomb and are met by angels proclaiming that Jesus is risen from the dead. What do you think their reactions were? What would you imagine their responses and actions might be after this encounter with the empty tomb and the angels?

In verses 6-7, the angels remind the women of Jesus’ prophecy regarding the resurrection. Why is it important for us to remember and focus on the promises of God when we go through life’s uncertainties or hard times?

Over Easter weekend, we talked about the dawn of eternal life and how God’s light broke through all the darkness and evil of this world. What is one way you can let your light shine in the darkness?

How does the resurrection of Jesus impact your personal faith? And how do you personally experience Jesus’ transformative resurrecting power in your everyday life?

We know that the resurrection signifies life after death and eternal life, but it also shows us the possibilities of new life, beginnings, and transformation in our lives right now! What is a specific area of your life that you are seeking resurrection power for, and how can your Together Group support you in this journey?

Day 1 – The Foundation: Christ Alone - Read 1 Cor 3:11

Reflect: There is no other foundation strong enough to carry the weight of your soul, your purpose, or your future. Everything else—success, relationships, performance—can shift and shake. But Christ is unchanging.

Apply: Spend 5 minutes today asking: “Am I really building my life on Jesus, or just including Him in the blueprint?” Surrender anything you’ve built on another foundation.

Day 2 – The Materials: Truth That Lasts - Read: 2 Tim 3:16–17

Reflect: Gold, silver, and costly stones represent the lasting truths of Scripture. Cheap materials like wood and straw may be convenient, but they won’t survive testing. God’s Word builds lives that endure.

Apply: Choose one Scripture to memorize this week. Let it shape how you speak, decide, and respond to life’s challenges.

Day 3 – The Plans: God’s Wisdom Over the World’s – Read: James 1:5 & Proverbs 3:5–6

Reflect: God invites us to build by His wisdom, not the world’s. The world says “be first.” God says “serve.” The world says “protect yourself.” God says “lay down your life.” His plans always lead to lasting fruit.

Apply: Before making a decision today—big or small—pause and ask, “God, what’s Your wisdom here?”

Day 4 – The Motive: For God’s Glory - Read: Col 3:23–24

Reflect: It’s not just what we build—it’s why. Even good deeds, if done for applause or control, will not stand. But God sees what’s done in love and humility, and He rewards it.

Apply: Ask yourself: “Am I doing this to be seen, or to serve?” Let today’s work be worship.

Day 5 – The Test: What Will Remain? - Read: 1 Cor 3:13-14

Reflect: One day, our work will be tested—not for success, but for sincerity and eternal value. This isn't a threat—it's an invitation. God wants us to build something beautiful, something that lasts.

Apply: Reflect and journal: What am I building that will matter 100 years from now? Ask God to help you invest your time, energy, and heart into what matters most.

Read 1 Cor. 3:1-9. What is God’s Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage?

Paul was concerned that these believers in Corinth were staying on a diet of spiritual milk instead of meat (v. 1-3). What are some specific examples of Christians today, that seem to stay (or get stuck) in the “milk” stage of their spiritual development?

On that same note, what are some specific things we can/ should be doing to move onto the “meat” stage (or “solid food”) of our discipleship? Or in other words, what are the deepest, most mature things we are called to in our pursuit of Jesus?

Another thing Paul was trying to teach and correct the Corinthian church about was how much they were comparing and competing with each other. What is one area of your life that you struggle with comparison? What is one area you feel you are competing with someone? How do you feel God would want you to act in these situations?

One of the big traps we can fall into when we are spreading God’s love, is becoming prideful or taking credit. How can we resist the urge to make spiritual things about ourselves? How can we discipline ourselves to point and focus all the glory to God!

Close by having each person in the group give ALL the glory to God for something specific that He has done, or is doing, in their life.

Read Colossians 1:15-22. What is God’s Word saying to you in this passage? What is God’s heart for His people?

How would you describe Jesus?... Who was He? Why did He come? What did He do? What did He teach? What was the toughest claim He made?

What are some practical ways that we can make Jesus the focus of our lives? To make Him central, our top priority, and truly the Lord of our lives?

Celebrating 10 years of God’s faithfulness at Encounter... What do you love most about our church? What areas are we strongest in? Weakest in?

What would you love to see God do with us as a church in the next 10 years?

Who is one person that you’d love to see come to Encounter?

Close in prayer- asking God to open up doors to bring those specific people to church... and praising God for His faithfulness for the first decade of Encounter.

//Find Your Identity in Christ, Not the World

The world measures worth by success, wealth, and influence, but God chooses the weak and lowly. This week, take time to reflect on where you find your sense of worth. Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 and Jeremiah 9:23-24, and ask God to help you boast only in Him.

//Trust in God’s Wisdom Over Human Wisdom

The cross seems foolish to the world, but it is the power of salvation. When facing decisions, struggles, or cultural pressures, lean on God’s wisdom through Scripture and prayer instead of relying solely on popular opinion or personal reasoning (Proverbs 3:5-6).

//Rely on the Holy Spirit, Not Personal Strength

Paul didn’t depend on polished speeches but on the Spirit’s power. This week, as you share your faith, serve in ministry, or face challenges, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you rather than trusting in your own abilities (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

Read 1 Cor. 1:10-17. What is God’s Word saying to you? What stands out to you in this passage?

From the passage above, what was the issue that they were fighting over? Have you seen that same issue in the church over the last few decades? Or anything close to it? Explain.

Read Eph. 4:1-6. “You’re on the same team,” was a big point in the sermon. Why is it so difficult to remember this in moments of conflict? Who is your real enemy? Is it your friends and family? Is it fellow believers? If not, how can you transfer your anger and indifference away from them, and onto your real enemy?

What is your common identity and purpose with other disciples of Jesus?

Read James 4:1. What would you specifically say makes you quarrel the most? (What triggers you or makes you most mad so that you fight?)

In John 17, when Jesus was praying in the garden just before he went to the cross, his #1 prayer for His followers was that they would be one. That they would be unified. Clearly... this is VERY important to Jesus. What are a few practical ways you can pursue unity with other believers?

Close in prayer asking that God would unify your Together group, our church, our marriages, our families, and our friends. And that God would use each of us in doing this!

How have you seen God work over the last few months in your life?

Of the various kinds of grace which one spoke to you and impacted you most?

In your story when or where did the grace of God see you?

Share a time when you recognize it had to be God’s grace that worked in your life or your situation.

Personally, how did God’s grace change your heart? 

Of the action steps to grow in grace which one can you commit to and how?

DIG DEEPER

Common Grace is given indiscriminately to all people.

Psa 145:9; Mat 5:45

Prevenient Grace - the grace that goes before salvation

Joh 6:45

Saving Grace - the grace that saves us

Eph 2:8

Justifying Grace - “Just as if I never sinned.”

Rom 3:23-24

Sanctifying Grace - the grace that transforms us/makes us holy.

Tit 2:11-12

Sufficient Grace - the grace that meets all our needs.

1 Cor 9:8; Heb 4:16

Sustaining Grace - the grace to keep on going.

1 Pet 5:10

Places to serve at Encounter (pretty immediately):

Encounter Crew (Sunday Setup/Teardown)

Contact: Oliver Delacruz

delacruz.mailbox@gmail.com

Encounter Kids

Contact: Jenni Quitugua

jenni@encountermv.com

Encounter Production (Audio/Visual)

Contact: Matt Sonnenberg

matt@encountermv.com

Encounter Hospitality

Contact: Dayna Pattison

dayna@caofb.com

Encounter Worship

Contact: Steven Stark

starkbound@hotmail.com

Encounter Youth Group (EYG)

Contact: Billy Archie

billy@encountermv.com

The Holy Spirit is God’s Spirit, a member of the Trinity, who works alongside the Father and the Son to make disciples’ lives pleasing to God. He works by pointing us to Christ and empowering our lives. The Spirit of Truth draws and leads you to righteousness, and dwells within you to produce the fullness of Christ in our lives.

2 Cor. 3:17 The Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

Ez. 36:27 I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.

Rom. 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

1 Cor. 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? 

Rom. 5:5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Luke 11:13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you

Ps. 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!

Acts 2:38 Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

John 3:5-6 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

John 4:23-24 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.

Eph. 5:18 Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit

1 Cor. 12:3 I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.

Rom. 8:11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.

Joshua 1:8-9

Ps. 46:1-3

Ps. 141:3

Prov. 3:5-6

Prov. 18:10

Is. 26:3

Is. 40:31

Is. 41:10

Is. 43:1-2

Jer. 17:7-8

Matt. 6:33

Luke 9:23

John 3:16-18

John 16:33

Acts 1:8

Acts 4:12

Rom. 5:8

Rom. 8- All of it!

Rom. 12- All of it!

1 Cor. 13:4-7

2 Cor. 1:3-4

2 Cor. 5:17

Eph. 2:8-9

Eph. 2:19-22

Eph. 4:20-24

Eph. 5:15-16

Eph. 6:10-18

Phil. 4:6-7

Phil. 4:11-13

Col. 2:6-7

Col. 3:1-3

Col. 3:15-17

Col. 4:2

1 Thes. 5:11

2 Tim. 1:7

1 Pet. 5:7

Hark! the herald angels sing:

"Glory to the newborn King!

Peace on earth and mercy mild

God and sinners reconciled"

Joyful, all ye nations rise

Join the triumph of the skies

With angelic hosts proclaim:

"Christ is born in Bethlehem"

Hark! the herald angels sing:

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Verse 2

Christ by highest Heav'n adored

Christ the everlasting Lord!

Late in time behold Him come

Offspring of a Virgin’s womb

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;

Hail the incarnate Deity

Pleased as man with man to dwell

Jesus, our Emmanuel

Hark! the herald angels sing:

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Verse 3

Hail the Heav'n-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all He brings

Ris'n with healing in His wings

Mild He lays His glory by

Born that man no more may die

Born to raise the sons of earth

Born to give them second birth

Hark! the herald angels sing:

"Glory to the newborn King!"

While we often take note of Isaiah’s prophecy around this time of year (think Isa 7:14 & 9:6-7) we most likely do so apart from Isaiah’s “Easter Time” Prophecy. This week, as you reflect on living in the anticipation of Christ’s present and coming reign, enjoying the pageants of angels and shepherds, take time to explore Isa 53 as well as 7:14 & 9:6-7. What does reading the Christmas story (Mat 1:18-2:12; Luk 1:26-38, 2:1-20) in light of Isa 53 reveal to you about who God is and how He works? And how does that influence your worship this Christmas season?

Verse 1

O come, O come, Emmanuel,

And ransom captive Israel,

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear

Verse 3

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free

Thine own from satan’s tyranny

From depths of hell Thy people save

And give them victory o’er the grave

Verse 4

O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer

Our spirits by Thine advent here

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night

And deaths dark shadows put to flight

(Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to you, O Israel)

SPECIAL THANKSGIVING EDITION... Going Deeper: How does God’s Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.

Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.”

Phil. 4:6 “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”

1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."

1 Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God’s will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”

Ps. 50:14 “What I want…is your true thanks to God.”

Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say…do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”

Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.”

Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them.

Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness?

Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness?

What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise?

Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone?

How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they’ve done for you?

Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific?

Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He’s done, and PRAISE Him for who He is!

Going Deeper: Read the following Scriptures. How does God’s Word affect your outlook on life this week? Pick one or two verses to memorize or carry around with you this week on an index card.

Ps. 69:30 “I will magnify (God) with thanksgiving.”

Phil. 4:6 “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”

1 Cor. 15:57 “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

2 Cor. 9:15 “Thanks be to Christ for His indescribable gift."

Thes. 5:18 “No matter what happens be thankful for everything for this is God’s will for who belong to Christ Jesus.”

Ps. 50:14 “What I want...is your true thanks to God.”

Col. 3:17 “Whatever you do or say...do it all while giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

Ps. 35:18 “I will give you thanks in the great assembly among many people.”

Ps. 106:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.”

Make a list of 20 things you are thankful for and praise God for them.

Why does God want us to have a constant spirit of thankfulness? Why would satan want us to stay away from thankfulness? What is one area in your life of ingratitude, that is holding you back from entering into praise?

Why do you enjoy being thanked for something you did for someone? How do you think it makes people feel to be noticed and appreciated for things they’ve done for you?

Who are 3 people you can reach out to in life and thank them for something specific?

Practice thanking God for everything, all day long. Spend time in prayer right now and THANK Him for what He’s done, and PRAISE Him for who He is! 

The word honor occurs 142X’s in the ESV. What are some of the groups of people God’s Word says to honor? (see 1 Tim 5:3, 1 Pet 3:7, Rom 12:10, 1 Tim 6:1, 1 Tim 5:17, Lev 19:32, Exo 20:12 for examples)

What areas of your life do you find it the most difficult to show honor (God, Others, Self)? What are some practical steps you can take toward improving showing honor in these areas this week?

Isaiah 29:13 says that some people honor God with their lips but their hearts are far from him. What is the difference between honoring with our lips and honoring with our actions?

We just came out of a tumultuous political season. What are practical ways you can honor those with whom you disagree politically?

Think of two or three people who are in a position of authority in your life. How are you honoring those people? How could you honor those people in a way that would be meaningful to them?

As your group closes, spend some time reflecting on this: Is there a situation or relationship which you need to restore your expression of honor in? Pray and ask God to give you the strength, courage, and opportunity to begin that restoration. 

Read Matt. 25:14-30. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture?

What is the difference between tithing and giving, and what are the godly benefits from doing both?

Read Malachi 3:6-12. The Lord tells us to test Him in tithing. Why do you think the Lord put such a strong emphasis on this?

According to the sermon, in what specific ways does giving make you more like God? What kinds of things will change and produced in you when you give?

Why should we be generous? List as many ways as possible that God has been generous to you.

What actions or attitudes would be bad while giving? What actions or attitudes would be good while giving?

What things can I do this week to make generous lives a lifestyle?

Further Scriptures for study: Mark 12:41-44, Deut. 14:22-23, John 3:16, Matt. 6:21, Phil. 2:3-4, Prov. 3:5, Prov. 3:9-10, 1 Tim. 6:18-19, 2 Cor. 9:7

What is one of the best trips you have ever been on?

What stands out to you about Jesus in this narrative and how does that challenge or affirm your beliefs about Him?

Have you ever felt God was delaying something? How did you respond? What kinds of things helped you? What kind of things hindered you?

This isn’t the only time someone has felt God delaying in their life. In both the narrative of Jesus raising Lazarus (John 11:1-44) and the Life of King David (1 Sam 16:1-13 & 2 Sam 5:1-4: approx 15 yrs) there were delays. Read these passages and discuss; What insights can we draw from these other examples of God’s delay and how do these apply to our lives?

Luke 8:40-56 ends a section of Scripture (Luke 8:22-56) which highlights Jesus’ power over nature, demons, sickness, and death. What is the value of seeing Jesus’ power over both the physical and the spiritual world? How does this demonstration of his all-encompassing power strengthen our trust in him?

Close in Prayer by going around your group and answering the question: What are some areas in your life where you feel God is delaying and how can we pray for you in those areas for our good and His glory?

Bondage

Uncovered and naked

Isolated

Lives among death / tombs          

Enslaved

Hopeless

Helpless

// What Jesus does

Breaks chains

Clothed in righteousness

Family and community

Dwell with God

Sets captives free

Hope

Salvation

Read Luke 23:32-42. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture?

What differences do you see between the 2 criminals on the cross? What kinds of attitudes did they display and where were their hearts at? (verses 39-42)

In this Bible passage, while Jesus is being crucified, we see a crowd standing around watching, the religious and political leaders scoffing, and the soldiers mocking. And after this we see one of the criminals join in with judging and mocking. Like that criminal, do you think that Christians do this kind of thing still today? Why or why not?

In what areas of your life are you currently displaying a “skeptical mockery,” or find yourself being a “reactive fool?”

Why is it so hard for us to admit, confess, own, and repent of our sin?

Talk about how Jesus acted towards both of the criminals on the cross? What did Jesus’ words and heart display?

Close in prayer by having everyone go around in a circle thanking and praising Jesus for what He’s done for us on the cross.

(Spend some time before your group going over these!)

The Big Question: What insight, principle, or observation from this week’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

Read Acts 2:42-47 slowly. Share a list of things you notice about this group of disciples. What would it take for your group to look like this?

What do you think is God’s main desire for us in our relationships? Why did He place people in our lives? And why did He place difficult people in our lives?

Read Philippians 2:1-5. Why is it so hard to be other-centered? What should the basis of our love be?

What is the hardest thing for you in relationships? What area could the Holy Spirit work so that you knew how to love and live with people in a more Godly way?

What are the benefits of doing life together in a small group?

***Bonus individual study material:

Read the following “New Testament-One-Another” Scriptures. Next to each one on separate paper, name a person or group, and one practical way, that you can live each of these out:

John 13:34-35, Romans 12:10, 12:16, 14:13, 15:7, 15:14, 1 Cor. 1:10, 12:25, Galatians 5:13, 5:26, 6:2, Ephesians 4:2, 4:32, 5:21, Colossians 3:9, 1 Thes. 5:11, 5:15, Heb. 10:24-25, James 4:11, 5:9, 5:16, 1 Pet. 4:9, 1 John 4:7, 4:11-12

Read John 6:1-15. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture? 

Growing up, were you more of a brown bag or cafeteria lunch kind of kid? What did your school lunches consist of? What was your favorite lunch to get?

Why is it important to keep our eyes open to see what Jesus is doing around us? What are some things you see Jesus doing around you right now?

Where in your life do you have a “scarcity mindset”? Finances? Time Management? Emotional Energy? The Future? Somewhere else?  What is a truth from God’s Word to help combat that feeling?

How have you seen God multiply a gift or an offering in an amazing way?

When have you felt or been told what you had to offer was unnecessary? How have you overcome that? How can you use your gift/offering this week partnering with Jesus?

Read John 20:24-29. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture?

What are the things in your life or your past that cause you to be negative or pessimistic? Have you always been this way? Is it getting better or worse recently?

When are you most skeptical? And specifically, what has been the toughest parts of your faith journey that stirs the skeptic in you?

In what ways have you seen Jesus overcome your doubts?

Of these 5 encouragements when we’re doubting, which is the most difficult for you, and which one would you like to focus on this week?

Seek Jesus

Stay faithful

Keep trusting

Keep following

Keep praying

After Thomas’ encounter with Jesus, he was significantly changed, having a strong vibrant faith. Moving on from this discussion and study, how would you like this encounter with Jesus to change you?

Read Mark 5:24-34. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture?

According to the Law, the woman in our passage was “unclean.” This meant that she couldn’t touch anyone, she was ostracized in society, couldn’t attend church, and had to announce to everyone that she was unclean before entering any kind of space. What types of people might feel that way in our society today, and what should we do about it?

The 12 year issue of bleeding robbed her of her energy, joy, and opportunities. Is there anything in your life that is robbing you of those things?

What is false hope? And what can we put false hope in?

Like the woman fighting her was through a massive crowd to get to Jesus so she could touch Him… How can we be desperate to get to Jesus? What daily actions could we do to show our desperate need for Him?

In the sermon, we talked about making your faith all about Jesus. How are we NOT doing this (for example: what worldly things are we adding to our faith)? And lastly, what are a few ways in which we CAN make our faith all about Jesus?

Who are you most like in the narrative right now (Man on the mat/One of the friends/Pharisee/A face in the crowd)? Why?

What kind of obstacles try to prevent you from getting in front of Jesus? How can you creatively overcome those obstacles?

Who are the people in your life that will carry you to Jesus (keep you accountable, lift you up in prayer, rejoice with you, etc.)? If you don’t have anyone, why not? What is holding you back?

What event in your life brought you closest to God? 

Read Luke 10:25-37. What stands out in this passage? What is God’s heart wanting to communicate to us through this Scripture?

We refer to the “expert in the law” in this passage… someone who was a know-it-all and had all the spiritual answers. What was he asking, testing, and seeking from Jesus… and why?

Before talking with Jesus, what would your guess be about “The Expert’s” definition of a neighbor? And after Jesus’ story, what was Jesus’ definition of loving your neighbor?

Look at the characters in the story: a priest, a Levite, a Samaritan, and the man who was beaten. How can you relate with all four characters?

Why do you think the Priest and the Levite walked away?

Would it change the likelihood of you stopping and helping someone on the side of the road based on their gender, age, or ethnicity? 

Why is it important for us to be willing to help others? How does God see each of us? How can we work to see each other the way God sees us?

Share with the group one person that you know is in need right now. How can you go out of your way and help them this week?

Read Ecclesiastes 10:1-20. Solomon lists off many proverbs in this chapter and moves around all over the place between topics, observations, and experience. Have each group member share one verse or idea in chapter 10 that sticks out to them and why.

Verse one talks about the idea of a fool being compared to a bad stench. What are some ways that Christians can give off a bad aroma to this world? (In other words, how can we be off putting to the people around us?)

One mark of a fool is that they don’t see clearly in regards to how God wants us to see things in this world. Spiritually, how does our vision get clouded with the world’s ways?

In what ways can we be foolish with our family? At work? With neighbors? At church?

What does it mean to be…

Foolishly indulgent?

Foolishly lazy?

Foolishly indifferent?

Foolishly blunt?

Read Ephesians 5:15-17. How can we pursue wisdom instead of foolishness?

Where are you “on the lake” right now and why (clear sailing, headed into the storm, in the midst of the storm, bailing water like crazy, headed out of the storm)?

The disciples asked Jesus, “do you not care that we are perishing?” When have you wondered if God cared about you?

Read 2 Cor 1:1-11. 

What is God’s Word saying to you in these verses?

Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-15. What is God’s Word saying to you? What stands out?

There is a time and a season for everything. Go around the group and have each person share what kind of season they are in. The highs, the lows, the rhythms of life, the best things, the hardest things, etc.

Why is change so hard? What is one of the hardest changes you’ve had to face in life? And in addition, since the pandemic, what is a recent change in our society over the past 3 years that has been really hard for you?

How are you responding to inflation with groceries and gas? And how would God want His disciples to respond to these changes? What is a practical step we could take to work towards this? (Please note: this principle can be applied to any change in life!)

(verse 12-13) When I think of the gifts God has given me, who or what immediately come to mind? How often do I express my gratitude to God for all His gifts? And how often WILL I seek to thank Him this week?

(verse 14-15) Do I honestly fear and honor God? What are some practical ways my life can show this on a daily basis? What things should I be doing, and what things should I not be doing?

Read Ecclesiastes 2:1-11. In Solomon’s search for the meaning of life, he first explores pleasure. What is the difference between pleasure outside of God vs. the pleasure that God created us to know and experience? What are some of the downfalls of pleasure from this world?

Solomon had done it all, made it all, had it all, and earned it all, and yet he still said that it was all “hevel” (a meaningless vapor that is here for a second and gone), and that nothing was new under the sun. How should this wisdom and realization change our thoughts, perspective, and life styles?

Read Ecclesiastes 2:12-17. Next, Solomon explores wisdom and we find in this passage that life isn’t fair. Obtaining wisdom can’t change our fate, destiny, or legacy. But… what are the benefits of living a life with Godly wisdom?

Read Ecclesiastes 2:18-26. And finally, In Solomon’s search for the meaning of life, he explores work. And once again, he’s frustrated that no matter how hard you work or how successful you become, it also is hevel. What is the hardest or most frustrating thing about your work?

What are the best ways you can glorify God in your work? (Or instead of “work”, insert anything you do: parent, grandparent, school, hobby, etc.)

Close: What is ONE thing that you are holding onto and need to let go of? How can you live in grace in that thing or situation?

Read Ecclesiastes 1:1-18. What stands out to you in this passage? What is God’s heart to us?

What does the word “hevel” mean? How does Solomon come to this conclusion about everything in life?

If you had to pick one… In your life, which of the following do you place the most amount of stock in (in other words, which of these do you pursue the most, in hopes of happiness)? Possessions, Proficiency, Power, or Pleasure. Share how that subject has affected your life and walk with God.

“Nothing we want to keep lasts,” and “Nothing we want to get rid of disappears.” Discuss how these 2 phrases can build and grow our faith.

How can “Work” be futile and frustrating? What is the most rewarding thing about your work? And what is the most frustrating?

“Adding wisdom and knowledge can add pain and sorrow.” How is this statement true? What would God want us to do with that pain and sorrow?

Read 1 Cor. 1:26-29 and Col. 3:15-17. How can we be saturated in the grace of Christ this week? Have everyone share one specific way to pursue this.

Read Prov. 14:16 and Matthew 7:24-27. 

What is Jesus communicating to His disciples in this passage? What is the “house” you are building? What is the sand? What is the rock? What is the rain, floods, and wind?

Tell a story of when you did something foolish in life and how it affected you. (And don’t act like you’ve never done something foolish in life… That’s prideful!)

How would you define wisdom?

What is a wise person? Have each person go around and share one thing that describes a wise person. Also, who is someone you consider to be wise and why?

What is a foolish person? Have each person go around and share one thing that describes a foolish person. Also, who is someone you consider to be foolish and why?

Why is foolishness (pride, selfishness, anger, presumption, etc.) so tempting to follow after?

How can we obtain more wisdom in our life? How do we get it and where can we go to find it?

How can we help each other walk in the wisdom of God?

Read 2 Cor. 12:7-10. What stands out to you in this passage? What is God’s heart to us?

According to that passage, what is a “thorn in the flesh?” What is its purpose? Its intention? Its result?

Have everyone in the group share one thing (one area of life, one struggle, one hindrance, one disability, one shortcoming, one relationship, one hardship etc.)… that you would love to ask the Lord to remove (or make better) from your life. Do you feel your spiritual life would be better if you didn’t have that in your life? Why or why not?

Read Eph. 2:8-9. Describe what the grace of God is, and what His grace means for your life. List several things that you have been saved from.

God’s Word tells us that in our weaknesses, He is strong. And yet most of us hide our weaknesses while promoting our strengths. What are some tangible ways we can combat this?

Share one thing you are going through in life right now that you need to proclaim that “His grace is sufficient.”

Close in prayer be declaring that His grace is sufficient and praise Him that He will see you through!

What kinds of quarrels and arguments do Christians get into these days? Or to put it another way, what are some reasons that believers war against each other? And why are these reasons such a sad commentary on Christians today (see John 13:34-35)?

In James 4:2-4, it shows us that the essence of our sin is selfishness. How can you relate to this personally?

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (v. 6). We all have pride. If God is in opposition to our pride, what are some practical ways we can kill our pride? And what are some ways we can “press into” humility?

Perhaps the most pivotal verse in James (and maybe the Bible) is verse 7, that tells us therefore... to “submit yourselves to God.” What are some of the most effective ways you have done that, or experienced drawing near to God?

Close in prayer by everyone sharing one specific way the group can pray for you to draw near to God this week.