Small Group Discussion Guide
Sermon Series: Guest Joe Costa – Missionary – Beirut, Lebanon
Sermon Title: 2 Peter 1:3-15
BREAK THE ICE:
Why do we need to be reminded about spiritual things?
Humankind has a short memory! A recent Harvard study suggests now that “our neurons are endowed with a completely separate set of mechanisms … that are dedicated to active forgetting.”
Transition: I Peter 1:12 says, I always remind you about these things . . .”
DIG IN:
Four Main Reasons to Remind and Remember
A. To Trust in God’s Power
Read 1 Peter 1:3
What are the promises of this verse?
Read vv. 5-7. What qualities are we invited to put on?
Read verse 8, What will these qualities keep us from?
B. God’s Word Changes Lives
Read vv. 8b
Do you think God wants us to be fruitful in our New Life? Indeed, this verse mentions “unfruitful”
Let’s read John 15:1-5
What are six important things we learn from these verses?
- Branches purpose are to bear _________.
- Branches are connected to the vine as life-_______.
- Branches cannot bear fruit by _________.
- Each believer is a _______, Jesus is the _______.
- The branch(person)that remains in Jesus(the Vine)bears much _____.
- The Father is glorified by you and me bearing ______.
So . . . Big ?
How do you and I remain in Jesus?
C. Our life in this World is Short
Read vv. 13-14
What is the truth of these verses?
What do you think the words “wake you up with a reminder” mean in v. 13
D. To Live and Leave Legacy
Read v. 15, What does this say about living and leaving a legacy?
How do you think Peter made “every effort” . . . so they could recall after his departure?
Do these words connote – intentionality, purpose and focus?
Summation of the lesson:
Reminders are important for us. We tend to forget. Important reminders are: We have everything in God, God’s word changes lives, our lives are short, therefore we must live and leave a spiritual legacy.
BRING IT HOME:
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