Bethel YTH: Recent Episodes
Bethel YTH
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever thought about the fact that you are made in God's image & likeness? What do you think about this?
- How do we allow the Holy Spirit to transform us to be more like Jesus?
- Who are people in your life who are Christ-like? Why is it important that you surround yourself with them?
Speaker: Rolland Day
Discussion Questions:
- What has happened at school recently that makes you think Jesus could use you to help someone
- What would be a group or program that you would like to start to help people know Jesus?
- What are some of your past experiences that you think God can use as a gift to help others?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Do you have a hobby or something that you enjoy doing? If so, share with the group!
- How can we live a life that is “worthy of the calling you have received”?
- Why is it important for believers in Christ to be united? What would happen if they were divided?
- What are some practical ways that we can build up (encourage) those around us?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Text: Ephesians 3:1-13
Discussion Questions:
- When was a time when it was difficult for you to feel like you were included?
- Why is sharing the Gospel with the lost important? Why is it necessary that we all share the Gospel?
- What are some things we may need to sacrifice to be able to share the Gospel? (EX: Comfort, pride, reputation, lifestyle)
- Share who God is calling you to share the Gospel with.
Speaker: Jordyn Huot
Text: Ephesians 3v14-21
Discussion Questions:
- How are we adopted into God’s family? What does that mean for us today?
- Read Ephesians 3:17b-19 again. How does it feel to know that God’s love for you is so great?
- How can fully grasping God’s love change the way you view God, yourself & others?
Speaker: Jonathan Schroer
Discussion Questions:
- What does it look like to be a part of a new spiritual family?
- How can I take steps to live in peace with others and God? Are there things I find to substitute God’s peace in my life?
- If I am a spiritual temple of God- What things belong in that temple and what things don't?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Why can it be hard for us to understand that salvation is a gift and not something that needs to be earned?
- What does it mean to be made alive in Christ?
Speakers: Jaedon and Ally
Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to be adopted into God's family?
- In what ways has God shown you grace?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- How can we be peaceable, considerate, and gentle (v2) to people who are unkind to us?
- Why is it damaging to live in a way that does not reflect Christ?
- What is one step you can take towards living more like Christ?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever asked for something and not received it?
- Has this affected the way you view prayer? Explain
- Can you think of a time when prayer helped you through a difficult situation? Explain.
- Discuss the role of community in the passage.
- How can being part of a community of believers provide support, encouragement, and accountability?
- What are some ways we can strengthen our relationships with others in our church or faith community?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think about the reality that Jesus will come back again?
- Why is it challenging to have patience and endurance in hard times?
- What does it mean to have integrity?
- How does our hope of Jesus one day restoring all things change how we live today?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How does culture influence us to be selfish? Why do you think this is?
- What are some areas of your life you can be a better steward of? How?
- What is something that God is asking you to surrender to Him? What is your next step?
Speaker : Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How does selfishness prevent you from truly loving others?
- What does it mean to be friends with non-Christians but not be “friends with the world” that James describes in v4-5?
- How do you be a light in the darkness?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Where do you usually go to find wisdom?
- According to v13, how does a believer show they have Godly wisdom?
- Why is wisdom measured by deeds and not words? If this is so, why do most people think wisdom is measured by the advice you give or what you know?
- Read v17. Of all these characteristics of true wisdom, which one do you need most? Why?
- What is your next step to pursue Godly wisdom?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Why might it be challenging to control what we say?
- How can our words affect others?
- Why is it important for a believer not to speak both words of love and of hate?
- How can we allow God to help us have control over our words?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why does James address this issue of showing favoritism based on looks or wealth? Can you think of any examples of favoritism or discrimination in your experiences or the world around you?
- How can we promote inclusivity and acceptance in our own lives and communities?
- How can the principles discussed in this passage apply to your interactions with classmates, friends, and family?
- What practical ways can we combat prejudice and treat everyone with kindness and respect?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read v19-20. What do you think James means by “human anger?” Why do you think human anger does not please God?
- According to v21-25, why is hearing God’s word not enough? What is the next step?
- Read v26-27. What does having a “tight rein on your tongue mean?” How does this help you be more like Jesus?
- What is your next step after hearing this sermon?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read v9-11. What do you think he is trying to convey about wealth and status? How might the perspective on wealth in this passage differ from how society views wealth?
- In what ways can our desires or temptations distract us from following God?
- What is your next step in surrendering your identity/desires/temptations to Jesus?
- Pray together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think God allows people to go through difficulties? Does that mean he is unloving? Why or Why not?
- Where do people usually go to ask for advice or gain wisdom about a difficult situation? Why?
- Why is asking for wisdom important when facing challenges? What keeps us from asking for wisdom/help?
- How do trials make us stronger?
- In what ways can we support one another in difficult times?
- Pray together
Resources:
Bible Project Book Overview of James
https://youtu.be/qn-hLHWwRYY?si=dej0P9MS-RSvPEf_
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What kind of fruit is Jesus referring to in v4 when He says “…if you abide in me you will bear much fruit.”?
- How does the relationship between a child and a parent help illustrate this idea that God knows what we need as humans and prunes what we don’t need? What are some things that have been “pruned” from your life that you saw as good but actually weren’t?
- What do you think Jesus meant in v7 when he says, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”?
- What does it look like to “abide in Jesus” and for your life to produce fruit?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read v5. What are modern examples of having our “minds set on fleshly desires?” How does our culture feed into that?
- Read v6. How have you seen this to be true in your own life or someone you know?
- Read Galatians 5v19-23. What do you feel are the differences between living according to the flesh and according to the Spirit? How do these passages impact your life?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsivg
Discussion Questions:
- Look up the word “condemnation.” What does it mean to be free from condemnation with Jesus?
- Read v3. Why is it important that Jesus was fully man and fully God?
- Read v4. How do you think living according to the Spirit is different from living according to our own desires? How does that impact your daily life?
- Pray Together
Resources:
“Jesus is Fully Human” Sermon
- https://open.spotify.com/episode/2QtVXDHYawOkBgFlk6eR1E?si=428f901d4d2743af
How can Jesus be both God and Man at the same time?
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-God-man.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why do we feel the need to prove ourselves to people? How do we do that same thing with God?
- Read John 15v4-11. What does that mean to “abide?” How do you feel that would help you grow closer to Jesus?
- What new habits do you need to start in 2024 to help you grow in your relationship with Jesus?
- Pray Together.
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read v7. What does the passage say about how we learn what is right and wrong?
- According to the passage, even if we know what is right, we sometimes do the opposite. Why do you think that happens? How can reading the Bible help us understand what is right and wrong in our lives?
- How can we support and encourage each other to make good choices, especially when it's hard?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What do you feel is the difference between happiness and joy?
- Have you ever felt deep joy even in the middle of hard times? How was that possible?
- How does knowing that Jesus came and died for your sins bring you joy?
- How can you bring joy to someone in this Christmas season?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How has someone shown you unconditional love? How did that make you feel?
- Where did I experience God’s love this last week?
- How can I display God’s love this week?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What does peace mean to you?
- We have access to God's peace amid our fear through Jesus’ incarnation and the Holy Spirit’s indwelling. Where have you encountered this peace? Where do you need it?
- Where are you still experiencing fear, and where do you need to experience greater peace through God’s presence?
- Where are you feeling the absence of something and needing the presence of someone?
- Where have you seen peace come to earth this year?
- Pray together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why is it essential for a person to have hope? How does the arrival of Jesus bring hope to you?
- Genesis 3v15 & Isaiah 9v6-7 promise that things won’t always be this broken. How do you still have hope when it’s been broken for so long?
- What hard things are you experiencing right now? What would it look like to hope in God for those situations?
- Pray Together
Bible Project Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WYNBjJSYvE
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- The Christian life is about becoming more like the character of Jesus. Where do you find it challenging to do that?
- What are “good deeds for God” that Paul is talking about in v4? What’s the difference between doing those good things “for God” and not for ourselves? (Fruit of the Spirit?)
- Who will you most likely give “law” to instead of grace? Why? How can that relationship be improved?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- When you are a slave to something, what comes to mind when you hear that?
- What does it mean to be a slave to sin? Slave to righteousness?
- What does it mean to do something with your whole heart? What does it mean NOT to do something with your whole heart?
- What is your next step in living for Jesus wholeheartedly?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What’s one habit that you’ve gotten rid of? Or one that you’d like to get rid of?
- If I’ve been given a new identity in Christ, why do we still struggle with the same temptations and patterns?
- Take a small piece of paper and respond individually to this last question. Think of one sin you really struggle with. Write out some steps you should take to deal with the sin and kill it in your life. Write out how to serve God in this area of your life.
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Talk about a time when you received a punishment you didn’t deserve.
- How do we know that everyone has sinned?
- How do you live for Jesus while sin is still part of our lives?
- What can you do this week for unsaved friends who are suffering the consequences of sin? How do you show them Jesus?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Question:
- What are ways sin affects our relationship with God?
- What are the benefits of being made right with God? (EX: peace with God, eternal life, restored relationship)
- Jesus’ sacrifice is good news, why is this important to share with others?
- Pray
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Are you more of a “planner” or a “wing it” type person?
- Do you find it difficult to trust God when you don’t understand what’s going on? Why or Why Not?
- Why is earning something so important in our culture? How does that impact our view of following Jesus?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Has someone ever taken a punishment that you deserved? How did that feel?
- How have you seen people seek to be righteous by religious works that make them arrogant and judgmental of others? Why do we try to earn our way to heaven rather than accept the free gift of salvation?
- When do you find your faith at its strongest? Weakest? Why?
- Our text says that if you have Jesus, you are right with God. How does this encourage you?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think most people believe they are going to heaven? Do you think that is correct?
- Based on the text, how do you think someone receives salvation?
- In what ways is it helpful to know your sin? What is your response when you recognize your sin?
- How does this help you love and follow Jesus more?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why should your words match your actions? In what ways do you see hypocrisy in the life of Christians? Does that impact a person’s view of God? How so?
- Even though Christians are sinful, how can we still represent Jesus well to unbelievers?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why is it easy for us to point out the sin in others? Why is it hard to see/admit the sin in our life?
- In v1, what does Paul mean that you “condemn yourself when you judge others?”
- Why is it important to not only claim to follow Jesus but also for your life to reflect that?
- How does “hearing and doing” transform a person’s life?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read v18-19. What does it mean that God has wrath? Is his wrath like ours when we are angry? What is the difference? What is the focus of his wrath?
- How has God been revealed in creation?
- What does it mean to worship something? Give an example.
- How have we worshipped “creation” rather than the Creator?
- How does the Gospel give us hope?
- Pray Together
Resources:
“Is it a sin to be gay?” Sermon
- https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YCTE9P8PiRLU2ksQQbVAe?si=cb83dca3bc13448d
“People to be Loved” by Preston Sprinkle
- https://www.amazon.com/People-Be-Loved-Homosexuality-Issue/dp/0310519659/ref=sr_1_3?crid=BS1F9LLKWN3X&keywords=preston+sprinkle&qid=1689789195&sprefix=preston+sprinkl%2Caps%2C194&sr=8-3
Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?” By Preston Sprinkle
- https://www.amazon.com/Does-Bible-Support-Same-Sex-Marriage/dp/0830785671/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BS1F9LLKWN3X&keywords=preston+sprinkle&qid=1689789143&sprefix=preston+sprinkl%2Caps%2C194&sr=8-1
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Are we also called to proclaim the Gospel as Paul did? Why or Why Not?
- How should the Gospel affect the way we interact with people?
- Why would someone feel “ashamed” of their belief in Jesus? How do you work through that?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/romans-1-4/
Speaker: Faith Haptonstall
Discussion Questions:
- How would you describe the feeling of anxiety? What are some ways you deal with anxiety?
- Read Matthew 6:25-34. How does the text encourage you?
- Does turning to God help with anxiety? Why or why not?
- What are some practical ways you can seek God when you feel anxious?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Thoughts on this topic?
- How do you cope with the stresses and anxieties of life? What role does your faith play in coping with life's stress and anxieties?
- Who are the trusted adults in your life that you can talk to when things are hard?
- Pray Together
Resources:
-
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988
-
Cascade Mental Health 24/7 Mobile Crisis Team - 360-807-2440 / 800-803-8833
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What's the most difficult part of this conversation for you to process? Can we trust God to decide what's best for us in our sexuality and relationships? Why or why not?
- What comes to mind when you think of how the Church as a whole has handled the LGBTQ conversation?
- If Jesus himself was tempted, we know that temptation itself is not sin. How would you describe the difference between temptation and sin?
- As we learn and grow, sometimes we may only understand parts of why God has designated certain things as sinful. How can we wrestle with those questions in a way that helps us lean in to God instead of pull away?
- Pray
Resources:
“Is God Anti-Gay?” By Sam Allberry
https://www.amazon.com/Anti-Gay-Questions-Same-Sex-Sexuality-Christian/dp/1784988294/ref=sr_1_1?crid=16OK38HW1H9IF&keywords=is+god+anti-gay+2023&qid=1686175146&sprefix=is+God+anti%2Caps%2C173&sr=8-1
“People to be Loved” by Preston Sprinkle
https://www.amazon.com/People-Be-Loved-Homosexuality-Issue/dp/0310519659/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1M5SJBEH4HXXR&keywords=people+to+be+loved+by+preston+sprinkle&qid=1686175165&sprefix=people+to+be+loved%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1
“Finding your best Identity” by Andrew Bunt
https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Your-Best-Identity-introduction/dp/1789744202/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1V3Y4ZL0YUCIZ&keywords=finding+your+best+identity&qid=1686175192&sprefix=Finding+your+best+identity%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What are your thoughts after this sermon?
- What are boundaries? How have you seen boundaries be helpful in a relationship?
- How can crossing boundaries be harmful to you and another person?
- What are some practical things you can do to set yourself up for success in upholding your boundaries in dating?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- What are some things you look for in a relationship? (Or friendship)
- How have you experienced a relationship letting you down?
- What are healthy boundaries in a relationship?
- Pray
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What stood out to you about tonight's sermon?
- How are you susceptible to the “I Decide” approach to identity?
- What problems have you observed from forming one's identity by who “I Decide” I am?
- How does allowing God to decide your identity bring freedom?
- Pray Together
Book Resource:
“Finding Your Best Identity” by Andrew Bunt
- https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Your-Best-Identity-introduction/dp/1789744202/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3MVBMA1MXXGDR&keywords=finding+your+best+identity&qid=1683664400&sprefix=finding+your+best+id%2Caps%2C206&sr=8-1
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What stood out to you about tonight's sermon?
- In what areas have you been susceptible to letting others decide who you are?
- What problems have you observed from forming one's identity by what “others decide” they are?
- What makes the “God Decides” approach to forming your identity good?
- Who does God say you are?
- Pray Together
Resource:
“Finding Your Best Identity” by Andrew Bunt
- https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Your-Best-Identity-introduction/dp/1789744202/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3MVBMA1MXXGDR&keywords=finding+your+best+identity&qid=1683664400&sprefix=finding+your+best+id%2Caps%2C206&sr=8-1
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What are ways that people show their devotion to someone or something?
- How does a person show their devotion to Jesus?
- Read v15-17. How does this give us hope? Peter denied Jesus, but Jesus still restored him and sent him.
- Read Matthew 28v19-20. What does it mean to “make disciples?”
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What has been a time in your life when Jesus was your provider?
- How do we “hear God’s voice?” What does it mean to “hear God’s voice?”
- What might it look like for you to “be in fellowship with Jesus” on a daily basis?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- What might be some obstacles to believing in Jesus?
- Have you seen any evidence of God in your life? If so, how?
- What would it take for you to believe in Jesus?
- Pray
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What has Jesus done in your life? How has he given you hope?
- How have you told others about that?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What stood out to you about the text we studied? How does that change the way you live your life?
- What’s the difference between doing good works to earn God’s forgiveness vs doing good works in response to Jesus’ forgiveness?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Turn to your neighbor and share what you wrote and why!
- Does anyone want to share with the whole group?
- These things are good to be a part of our life, but why might they not be good to make the foundation of our life?
- What does it look like to make Jesus our foundation?
Partial Sermon
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- In what ways do people claim to be something they are not? For example, what is the issue with someone claiming to be a Christian but not living like one?
- Read 2 Peter 3v18. What doe is it mean to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?”
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- How have you seen sin affect the people around you?
- What does the weight of sin feel like?
- How can we allow Jesus’ sinless life to bring freedom into our own lives?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What positive/negative directions do we see society moving in?
- Why is “being good” not enough to escape the penalty of sin?
- What is the difference between conviction and shame? How have you felt those at work in your own life?
- How has Jesus brought freedom in your life?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important for us to feel understood, connected, and known?
- Share a way you feel misunderstood.
- Do you think Jesus understands? Why or why not.
- What could it look like to open up to Jesus in the areas you feel least understood?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why would the foundation you build your life on be important?
- What do you rely on for fulfillment? How can you choose to look to Jesus to find your completion?
- How do you stay rooted in the fullness of Jesus?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How does selfishness hinder someone from loving and serving others?
- Read v19-21. What area do you feel that God is working in you to transform?
- Read v22-26. What area do you feel needs to grow?
- How have you seen “desires of the flesh” and “desires of the Spirit” impact you or a relationship?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How do we know the goodness and mercy of God follow us? What does the goodness and mercy of God look like in our lives?
- What do you think it means to dwell in the house of the Lord forever?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What does this text tell you about God and his character? What stood out to you?
- How does the local church play a role in a Christians walking through valleys?
- How could this change how you interact with people experiencing darkness and feeling alone?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean that your “soul is at peace?”
- In what areas do you find it difficult to trust God or even believe He is real?
- What does it look like to rest and find peace when life is crazy and seems desolate and hopeless?
- How can you help other people experience peace in their desolate circumstances?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- What are you currently putting your trust in?
- Why can’t we fully trust in humans?
- What area of your life do you need to trust God in?
- Is there anything keeping you from trusting God?
- Pray Together.
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What do teenagers typically fear most? How do they combat those fears?
- How is that similar or contrary to what David does in Psalm 27v1-6?
- What does it mean to find refuge with God? Is this part of your life? Why or Why not.
- What is your next step in finding refuge in God’s presence amid fear or hard times?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What comes to mind when you reflect on 2022? What things did you feel or experience?
- How did remembering God’s faithfulness help you through this past year?
- According to v2, what does the Psalmist do in his distress? What does he not do?
- Read Romans 8v28-39. How does this bring encouragement to the believer in distress?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why is it important for a person to have hope? How does the arrival of Jesus bring hope to you?
- Genesis 3v15 & Isaiah 9v6-7 promise that things won’t always be this broken. It’s been thousands of years since Jesus; how do we have hope in waiting for Jesus’ second coming, where He will restore all things?
- What hard things are you experiencing right now? What would it look like to hope in God for those situations?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How does a person know they are a Christian? Is there a difference between being a Christian and being a good person? Are they connected?
- What three words describe “us” in Romans 5v6, 8, 10?
- What does powerless mean in 5v6? Describe a time when you felt powerless.
- How has God shown his love for us? (Romans 5v6-8)
- How does this change the way you live your life?
- Pray Together
Speakers: Kayleigh Smith, Maizy Samuelson, Kyan Porter
Discussion Questions:
- Read v19-20. How can I practically apply this in my life?
- How can I live out the Word of God in my daily life?
- Read v26. What does it mean to keep a tight rein on your tongue?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think generosity builds your character as a Christian? Why or why not.
- Do you feel like the fear of not having enough keeps people from being generous? Why or Why not.
- How can you begin to live more generously?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Would you consider yourself to be a content person? Why or Why not?
- How do you live in the tension of being content and having a healthy desire for things?
- How have you experienced the destructiveness of discontentment?
- What do you think feeds our consumerism, and how do you fight against that?
- Pray Together
Speaker: taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- When you feel anxious or depressed, what do you do to feel better?
- Do you believe your thoughts influence your actions? Why or Why not.
- What things occupy your mind, and how does that affect your relationships with others?
- What would it look like to use prayer and your thought life to fight for joy and peace, as Paul describes?
- What are the concerns you need prayer for?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Write out a prayer to God, asking Him for what you need and thanking Him for who He is.
- Reflect together on written prayers (optional)
- How do you best relate to God? As a friend, parent, sibling, etc.
- What is the easiest way for you to communicate with God in prayer? Writing, speaking, singing?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- In your experience, in what ways do people often solve their differences? Are those helpful or hurtful ways?
- How are Christians supposed to work through disagreements? What does that look like? (Phil 2v2-4, Eph. 4v1-3)
- Why is unity so essential in the church? Does unity mean we all think the same about everything? Why or Why not?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Read Philippians 3v7 and 1 Corinthians 11v1. What does Paul mean when he says, “follow my example….”? What does that mean for us today?
- When do I allow my selfish desires to drive my decisions? How do we allow the Holy Spirit to transform us into the image of God?
- What does it mean to view yourself as a citizen of Heaven?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What causes you to stop wanting to get better at something?
- Have you ever felt stagnant in your growth as a Christian? How did that feel, and why do you think you were in that place?
- What does continual growth look like in a Christian’s life? Does it ever look different in different seasons?
- How/Why do we need to resist the temptation to believe we have “arrived” in our relationship with God?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Reflections:
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Front side of paper: Negative things I have been focusing on.
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Back side of paper: Things I am grateful for
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Talk through this in your small group
Speaker: Rebekah Thurman
Small Group questions:
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What does it mean to be humble?
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How can you deepen the relationships with the people around you?
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Why is it hard to serve others?
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Small group Questions:
1.What is something you can sacrifice for the sake of the gospel?
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what does it mean that the gospel is "Eternity changing"?
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Who is someone you can share the gospel with?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What reasons do you think why people don't attend a local church? What about you personally?
- What is the purpose of the gathered church? How do those members of that church grow together?
- Who in your life can you talk about hard stuff with? Share an example if you feel comfortable.
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why do we have a hard time admitting we have wronged someone? What emotions do we feel?
- Why is it necessary for the believer to confess our sin to God if he has already forgiven our sins?
- How can you grow in your quickness to confess sin to God and others?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://www.gotquestions.org/confess-our-sins-to-one-another.html
- https://youngdisciples.org/confess-and-renounce-proverbs-2813/
- https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/why-do-we-confess-if-our-sins-are-already-forgiven
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What causes a person to dislike or feel uncomfortable with silence?
- What is the source of the loudest “noise” in your life? How do you feel noise affects your ability to focus on Jesus, study God’s word, and pray?
- What would it look like for you to practice Silence and Solitude? (Start with 5 minutes per day?)
Resources:
"Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer
https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090/ref=sr_1_1?crid=E5TR0BHGR6FE&keywords=ruthless+elimination+of+hurry+book&qid=1655749815&sprefix=ruthless%2Caps%2C233&sr=8-1
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- Who are the people in your life who are discipling you? How are they doing this?
- Who are the people that you are actively discipling? If not, who might that person be? What are the obstacles that keep you from discipling others?
- Why is discipling important? Why is leading by example an important aspect of discipleship?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How have you experienced hospitality in your life? How did it make you feel?
- Why do you think Peter had to add “without grumbling” in v9?
- How do you feel pride gets in the way of serving others?
- How will you put 1 Peter 4v7-11 into practice?
Resources:
- https://www.desiringgod.org/labs/how-to-be-more-hospitable
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Book-of-1-Peter.html
- https://kairos.edu/2015/05/11/stewardship-and-spiritual-gifts/
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What has been your definition of worship in the past? How have these passages helped shape your view of worship?
- In what ways are you offering yourself as a living sacrifice to God? What are other ways you can worship God by the way you live your life?
- What does it mean to “Not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind?” How is our mind renewed? (Read Colossians 3v8-14)
Resources:
- https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/29316-bibleproject-how-to-read-the-bible
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bibleproject/id1523687027
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bibleproject&hl=en_US&gl=US
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Who are the people/things that influence you the most?
- Who are the “faithful servants of Jesus” that you follow? Why do you follow them?
- When you hear someone teaching the Bible, how do you determine if what they’re saying is true?
Resources:
- https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/2-timothy/
- https://www.amazon.com/How-Not-to-Read-the-Bible/dp/0310254183/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3M8COPHIYL4XL&keywords=how+not+to+read+the+bible+dan+kimball&qid=1652891725&sprefix=How+not+to+reafd%2Caps%2C294&sr=8-1
- https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/29316-bibleproject-how-to-read-the-bible
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bibleproject/id1523687027
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bibleproject&hl=en_US≷=US
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/step-bible/id1476903313
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tyndale.stepbible&hl=en_US≷=US
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible-hub/id1090228108
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.biblehub.biblehubapp&hl=en_US≷=US
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.enduringword.commentary&hl=en_US≷=US
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/enduring-word-commentary/id1436262209
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/got-questions/id366553550
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gotquestions.gqandapp&hl=en_US≷=US
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How do you know when your body and your soul need rest?
- Why did God command us to Sabbath?
- What rejuvenates and brings life to your soul?
- How will you begin to institute an intentional Sabbath? What will you do on that day?
Resources:
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-Sabbath.html
- https://www.gotquestions.org/yoke-easy-burden-light.html
- https://applygodsword.com/the-biblical-difference-between-restfulness-and-laziness/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFJyGWzTNFA
Speaker: Kayleigh Smith
Discussion Questions:
- How does our culture measure a person's value or significance?
- Why is every person (every part of the body) needed? Why is no one more or less important than another?
- How can we use the giftings God gives us to love and encourage one another?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What does it mean to invest in eternal things?
- Why would Jesus ask us to focus and invest in things that are eternal and not on what is temporary?
- Can a person be wealthy and still honor God? Why or why not?
- How does your focus need to shift to live the life Jesus asks you to live?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/step-bible/id1476903313
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tyndale.stepbible&hl=en_US&gl=US
- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible-hub/id1090228108
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.biblehub.biblehubapp&hl=en_US&gl=US
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion questions:
- What does it mean to v3 “…not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing…”?
- What do you find yourself doing as a Christian to receive the praise and recognition of people?
- How can you do good deeds without being driven by people knowing about it?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Work through Psalm 23 as a group using the method we learned about.
- What has been your biggest takeaway from this teaching series on Prayer?
- Pray together
Speakers: Taylor Knudsvig & Kayleigh Smith
Small-Group Questions:
- What is your experience with fasting?
- What is our motivation behind seeking the attention of others?
- We talked about idols in our lives, what do you feel is something that draws you away from your relationship with God? Is that something you would consider fasting from? Why or Why not?
- If yes, how can I put that into action in the next few weeks?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/fasting-for-beginners
- https://www.gotquestions.org/fasting-Christian.html
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/why-do-christians-fast
- https://bible.org/seriespage/27-how-fast-properly-matthew-616-18
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- When you feel anxious or stressed, what do you typically do to relieve those feelings?
- Do you pray for the things you are anxious about? Why or Why not? Do you feel like you are inconveniencing God when you do pray?
- Do you have any hesitations or questions about prayer?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What do people typically do to process their grief or sadness? What do you do?
- Think back to a time when you experienced great loss. Did you feel pressure to “get over,” or “get past” the emotions you were feeling?
- Do you think Prayers of Lament will help in your processing of future grief? Why or Why not?
- Was the exercise of writing out a prayer of lament helpful? Why or Why not?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/dare-to-hope-in-god
- https://www.9marks.org/article/why-we-added-a-prayer-of-lament-to-our-sunday-gathering/
- https://bibleproject.com/blog/lamentations-voice-of-grief/
- https://bibleproject.com/bible-studies/reflections/learning-how-to-grieve-from-lamentations/
- https://www.franciscanmedia.org/franciscan-spirit-blog/biblical-laments-prayer-out-of-pain
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Why does it matter whether or not Jesus rose from the dead?
- Based upon what Jesus told His disciples earlier in Mark 8v31-33, Mark 9v30-32, & Mark 10v32-34, where would we expect to find the disciples after Jesus died? What are the disciples found doing according to Mark 16v10, and why is this significant?
- Why is Mark 16:7 significant, and more specifically, why is Peter mentioned by name?
- How does this passage help you to love, trust, and worship Jesus more fully?
Resources:
- https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/was-mark-16-9-20-originally-mark-gospel/
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Mark-16-9-20.html
- https://www.compellingtruth.org/Mark-16-9-20.html
- https://www.gty.org/library/sermons-library/41-84
- https://www.gotquestions.org/resurrection-Christ-important.html
- https://bible.org/article/significance-resurrection
- https://www.gotquestions.org/life-Peter.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- Has someone ever taken a punishment that you deserved?
- Why is it difficult to trust God not knowing if He will answer your prayer how you want Him to? Explain.
- Why do we seek signs and wonders to prove the existence of God? Explain.
- What hope/comfort does this text bring you?
- Pray Together
Resources:
- https://www.gotquestions.org/signs-and-wonders.html
- https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/are-signs-and-wonders-for-today
- https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/my-god-my-god-why-have-you-forsaken-me-didnt-jesus-already-know
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/why-have-you-forsaken-me
- https://www.gotquestions.org/temple-veil-torn.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What was the best gift you’ve ever received, and why was it special?
- Read v6-13. What is a Jesus alternative, and why do we often choose it?
- What does this passage show you about God?
Resources:
- https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/why-did-the-people-chose-barabbas-over-jesus.html
- https://www.gotquestions.org/Barabbas-in-the-Bible.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- How do you respond to failure? How do you process and work through that failure?
- How does one stay close and not crumble under shame when it comes to failing God?
- Read John 21v15-19 (NIV). Jesus forgives Peter for his denial. How does this test encourage you?
- Pray Together
Resources:
https://apologeticspress.org/he-opened-not-his-mouth-1437/
https://digitalcommons.law.utulsa.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3211&context=tlr#:~:text=he%20remained%20silent%20during%20various,they%20have%20nothing%20to%20hide.
https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/does-sinning-bring-us-closer-to-god.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What do you do when you are under stress and are anxious? Does that reflect what Jesus did under those same circumstances? Why or why not?
- What would cause someone to betray a friend?
- If we were honest, what are my motivations for following Jesus?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What would your last meal be?
- What is the significance of the bread and the wine (juice)?What does it symbolize?
- In what other ways do we remember what Jesus has done for us?
- Pray Together
Resources:
https://www.gotquestions.org/ten-plagues-Egypt.html
https://bible.org/seriespage/q-was-god-cruel-egyptians-exodus
https://www.gotquestions.org/Last-Supper.html
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Discussion Questions:
- What makes something valuable to you?
- What do you think it means to “love extravagantly?” How was this woman loving Jesus extravagantly?
- What does it look like for us to give God our affection and devotion?
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Small Group Questions:
- Any questions/thoughts come to mind after walking through this text? How does Mark 13 make you feel?
- What does it look like to do what Jesus said in Mark 13:33?
- How do you not be consumed with fear, but still live with urgency that Jesus will be coming back?
- Pray Together
Speaker: Taylor Knudsvig
Small Group Questions:
- What typically motivates you to do something? What might be someones motive for trying to be perceived or recognized as a spiritual person?
- What does it look like to live a life of humility and meekness? (Matt. 5v5)
Speaker: Zach Wiley
Small Group Questions:
- What’s the difference between God’s love and the world’s love?
- What is currently competing for your love for God? What do you need to repent of?
- How can you share God’s love with others?
- Have you tried in your own efforts to be a good person and be worthy of God’s love?
- What’s the error in that and what is the solution?
Small Group Questions:
- In our culture, what does it mean to “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s?
- Read Romans 13v1-7 (NIV), 1 Peter 2v13-17 (NIV). Google a commentary of those passages, read an article in the YouVersion app and discuss your thoughts.
- Pray Together
Article
https://www.gotquestions.org/civil-disobedience.html
https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/romans-13/
https://bible.org/seriespage/11-submission-civil-authorities-1-peter-213-17
https://www.gotquestions.org/laws-land.html
https://www.gotquestions.org/American-Revolution-Romans-13.html
Sermons
Tim Mackie “Recognizing Authority”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPbaHmvNunE
Mike Winger “When Should A Christian Rebel Against The Government?” 1 Peter 2:13-17
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0eX1P2f8Nc&t=14s
Small Group Questions:
- What stood out to you in this passage?
- Does the authority and sovereignty of God bring you comfort? Why or Why not?
Small Group Questions:
- What is the difference between having lots of leaves (appearance of fruit) and bearing fruit? What are examples of leaves and fruit?
- Do our actions hinder others from worshipping God?
- How important is prayer to faith? What attitude should we have in prayer about the requests we make of God?
- Why is forgiveness so important?
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Tonight we talk about if men are superior to women in the context of marriage.
Text: Ephesians 5v21-33 (NIV)
Small Group Questions:
- What kind of feelings and actions are attached to the word “submit” in our modern culture? How does that differ from the biblical definition?
- Can you think of a time that someone served/loved/submitted to you even though it didn’t benefit them? How did that effect your relationship with them?
- How would mutual submission change the way our friendships and relationships functioned?
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Tonight we talk about if men are superior to women in the context of the gathered church. Can they preach? Can they hold positions of leadership?
Text: 1 Timothy 2:11-14, 1 Corinthians 14:33-35 (NIV)
Small Group Questions:
- What are your thoughts on these passages and this topic?
- Do you feel like equality is exercised within the church? Why or Why not?
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Tonight we talk about what to do when we gather information and knowledge about the character of God. What happens next?
Small Group Questions:
- In what ways has information about God changed the way you live?
- How do you keep yourself from being driven by the wrong motivation to DO what God instructs the Christian to do?
- What does it look like to do what v27 says?
- Pray Together
Bible Reading Plan:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/18037-james-wisdom-for-practical-life
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Here we dive into the question of "Can a suicidal person go to Heaven?"
Small Group Questions:
- Thoughts on this topic?
- Have you, or someone you know, ever felt so much pain, exhaustion, anxiety or being at the end of themselves that you/they wanted to die? What was going on and what was that like? Where did you find support or help?
- How do cope with the stresses and anxieties of life?
- What role does your faith play in picking you up when life knocks you down?
Here are some resources to help you further process the topic of suicide, but also ways to reach out to people and get help.
Podcast Episode: https://podcast.gotquestions.org/episode-29.html
Articles:
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2017/november/suicide-americans-taking-their-own-lives-church-al-hsu.html
https://www.gotquestions.org/why-not-commit-suicide.html
National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK
To Write Love on Her Arms: http://twloha.com/find-help
https://copenotes.com/
Bible Reading Plan:
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/685-i-dont-want-to-live-anymore
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Here we dive into the question of "How do you know Christianity is true?"
*We had some technical difficulties and the first few minutes did not get recorded.
Small Group Questions:
- Thoughts regarding this question?
- What do you think is the strongest evidence for God's existence? Against His existence?
- What are the practical implications of a naturalistic, pantheistic or an atheistic worldview?
- What is the difference between absolute truth and relative truth? Does this play a role in wether or not God exists?
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Here we dive into the question of Is it a sin to use profanity.
Text: Exodus 20:7, Matthew 5:33-37 (NIV)
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Here we dive into the question of Is it a sin to use profanity.
Text: Ephesians 4:25-32
"Can I Ask That?" is a series where we address questions that have been submitted by our students from the basis of scripture. Here we dive into the question of Is premarital sex a sin?
Text: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20