Small Group Discussion Guide
Sermon Series: Strange
Sermon Title: Shepherd
BREAK THE ICE:
Why do you think God choose the picture of a shepherd and sheep to demonstrate
Christ and the church?
Transition: Today we continue our series today with “Strange Shepherd”, as we learn more about our life in Christ, so let’s Dig In !
DIG IN:
Read 1 Peter 5:1-3
What three distinct words that describe spiritual leadership are given in vv. 1-3?
1.
2.
3.
How are the spiritual leaders to shepherd in vv. 2-3
Not out of compulsion, but __________
Not lording it over them, but __________
Read Acts 20:28
What commands are overseer/shepherds given in this verse regarding the
flock (church of God?
1.
2.
3.
Two points that Pastor Andy made about Elder/Pastor/Overseers in their role . . .
A. Feed by _____________
Why is this significant in the church?
Read 2 Timothy 2:15
What three things does Paul admonish young Timothy to do . . .
1.
2.
3.
Read Ephesians 4:11
Why do you think the words “shepherds and teachers” are listed together?
Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Scripture that is taught by pastor/teachers is profitable towards what three outcomes?
1.
2.
3.
B. Lead by _____________
Why is this significant in the church?
Read 1 Timothy 3:1-2
What 7 facets of exampling do we find in these verses?
________________, _________________, _______________, ________________
________________, _________________, _______________, ________________
Transition – So we’ve seen that elder/shepherd/overseers balance between feeding and leading God’s flock entrusted to them
Also, there is a balance between gentleness/nurture and firmness/reproof
What two offices did Pastor Andy mention from the Old Testament to illustrate this?
Gentleness and nurture = ___________
Firmness and reproof = _____________
Summation: The Holy Spirit has appointed elder/shepherd/pastor/overseers, they have a great responsibility. So . . .
DIG DEEPER:
Two Points of Personal Application:
- Keep praying for your Elder/Shepherd-Pastor/Overseers
Let’s read some possible prayers . . .
1 Corinthians 15:58
Ephesians 6:10-11
Romans 15:13
Romans 8:28
Galatians 6:9
- Keep Pursuing the Chief Shepherd-Pastor
Read Colossians 3:1-3
Where should our focus be according to this scripture?
Read Hebrews 12:1-2
What admonitions do we have in these verses?
How do we accomplish this?
BRING IT HOME:
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