Strange – Suffering

Small Group Discussion Guide

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Sermon Series: Strange
Sermon Title: Suffering

BREAK THE ICE:

Why do you think God allows suffering in your and my life?

How readily do you and I embrace suffering? LOW 1 . . 2 . . 3 . . 4 . . 5 HIGH

Transition: Today we continue our series today with “Strange Suffering”, as we learn more about our life in Christ, so let’s Dig In !

DIG IN:

Read John 15:19

What two big truths do we find revealed in this verse, spoken by Jesus?

1.

2

Read 1 Peter 3:13-17

Read verse 14 – The focus is on suffering for righteousness, what is the result of such?

Life Principle: Suffering isn’t a Curse to live under, but it’s a Blessing to stand upon!

Big ? Given the option would you choose Easy LIFE or Hard LIFE

Read verse 17 – What truth is in this verse?

Transition – So our study today is on suffering in this life for Christ . . . therefore let’s look at

Four Points of Application to Consider in Our Suffering

A. Don’t Be Defeated

Read 3:18 – Why did Christ suffer?

What was the result of Jesus’ Suffering?

B. Don’t Be Discouraged

Read 4:1-2

What are we to do with suffering according to this scripture?

We are to live how?

C. Don’t be Surprised

Read 4:12-14

Why do we consider suffering a surprise?

What should our response be ? Read v. 13 again

Read v. 14 – If we suffer (ridicule) for Christ, what is the result?

Summation: So when we suffer for Christ we . . .

1. Shouldn’t be Defeated
2. Shouldn’t be Discouraged
3. Shouldn’t be Surprised . . . and finally

D. Don’t be Ashamed

Read 4:16

If we are not to be ashamed in suffering, then how are we to live?

DIG DEEPER:

Summation of our lesson today:

Life Principle – Suffering isn’t a Curse to live under, but a Blessing to stand upon!

1. In suffering we shouldn’t be defeated
2. In suffering we shouldn’t be discouraged
3. In suffering we shouldn’t be surprised
4. In suffering we shouldn’t be ashamed

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