Small Group Discussion Guide
Sermon Series: God’s Church
Sermon Title: Stands Strong
BREAK THE ICE:
Have you ever considered the “strength of Christ’s church”? How is the church strong?
Transition: Today we continue our series, God’s Church, today we look at “Stands Strong”
DIG IN:
Read Matthew 16:13-18
According to Pastor Stephen, why did Jesus bring the disciples to Caesarea Phillippi?
Focus – Jesus led his disciples into the place of evil and pagan worship for a reason
Why do you think Jesus his disciples the question in v. 15?
What did Peter’s confession in v. 16, evoke from Jesus?
What did the “Gates of Hell” (Hades) represent in v. 18?
Who builds the church according to v.18?
Truth # 1
Good Promised His Church would Endure !
Read Acts 5:33-42
According to Gamaliel’s wisdom in vv. 38-39 what truth is found?
How committed were the apostles? Read v. 40-42
In order to be willing to endure flogging (whipping), what do you think Christ followers had to have internally?
Read Acts 5:29 – The answer to the previous question is?
Truth # 2
The Capital “C” church will endure, but not every local church will
Read Rev. 3:7-8
Who is it that has the power to open and to shut in v. 7?
Why did Jesus place an open door for this church in v. 8?
What does this tell us about Jesus the foundation of the church?
BRING IT HOME:
Four Points of Application to Consider:
- This week remember that you are a member of Christ’s church, and the church is and will always be victorious over evil !
- Read Matthew 16:15, Who is Jesus to you?
- Reflect on your present situation and your trials and sufferings and appropriate an overcoming faith and belief as a member of Christ’s church.
- Choose a brother or sister in Christ this week to encourage, to pray, to share their burden.
Transition: What was your one compelling take-a-way today?
Your homework assignment:
What is God’s spirit focusing on today, give time this week and address that growth edge.
Let’s Pray