Small Group Discussion Guide
Sermon Series: Family Mess
Sermon Title: Prodigal Son
BREAK THE ICE:
Why do humans, even Christians, become enticed and greedy for pleasure and things? What does it say about one’s focus and worship?
Truth : When you or I are pulled away and enticed by things, we are on the downward slope towards sin, we basically are saying God is not enough.
Transition: We are in the series Family Mess, let’s look at Prodigal behavior, and see if we are a prodigal today . . .
DIG IN:
Read James 1:14
Where does sin start according to this verse?
What is the connection between desire and enticement?
FOCUS TODAY:
Three things to Focus on today, first . . .
A. A Prodigal is wastefully or recklessly extravagant!
Read Luke 15:11-16
What focus does the younger son have, where is his heart?
Read verse 13 – What do you think squandering in foolish living means?
In verse 14, how much of his inheritance did he waste?
Two points to consider today, the first with the younger son . . .
1. The Younger Son can’t experience the goodness of the Father, because he’s Self–focused!
Where was the younger son’s focus? How do we know that?
Truth – Self-focus away from the Father is wasteful and empty.
Read Luke 15:17-20a
How did the younger son’s focus change in these verses?
What things did he do to re-focus his reality? What is his revelation of the Father?
Truth – the Father is actively waiting on his son
Read Luke 15:20b-24a
Where is the Father’s Focus in these verses?
What was the foundation of HIs focus?
Truth – The Father responds by giving his son . . .
a robe= place, a ring= power, sandals= position, fattened calf= party/celebration
Gem: This is a supreme example of forgiveness and reconciliation
CONTEXT of this Parable-Story
Read Luke 15:2
According to this verse, what is this parable-story about?
Truth is that mankind’s sin emanates from a self-focus, however, Jesus welcomes sinners!
Read Romans 3:23
Who has sinned, according to this verse?
Transition – So we have seen the focus of the younger son . . . how about the older son?
Read Luke 15:25-30
2. The Older son can’t experience the goodness of the Father, because he’s self-focused!
How is the older son self-focused? How do we know that?
Is he any better than the younger son’s initial focus?
Truth is the heart is the seat of idolatry, deceit and selfishness!!
Read Matthew 6:21
Read Proverbs 3:5
Read Proverbs 23:26
What do these verses say about the heart?
BRING IT HOME:
Questions to ponder: Do you whose child are you? Is that more important than outward empty toys or possessions?
Summation of the sermon: This story is deeply rooted in the Father’s unconditional love and
forgiveness. It serves as a profound reminder of the depths of God’s love
and mercy towards mankind.
What was your one compelling take-a-way today?
Your homework assignment:
What is God’s spirit highlighting for you today?
Give time this week and address that growth edge.
Let’s Pray