Small Group Guide for "Compassion is Messy: A Call to Radical Love"

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Compassion is Messy: A Call to Radical Love

Sunday, March 9th 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 15

Second Scripture: Luke 10:25-52

Use the Two Passages: Focus on the primary and secondary passages used in this sermon.

Pray for Understanding: Before diving into the text, take a moment to pray for guidance and illumination from the Holy Spirit. Ask for wisdom and insight as you study.

Read the Scriptures: Begin by reading the selected Scriptures thoughtfully and prayerfully. Read the passages more than once to familiarize yourself with the content.

Observation Questions: After reading the text, go through the "Observation Questions" section. These questions will help you notice and record specific details about the text. Look for key words, phrases, repeated ideas, and any observations that stand out to you.

Interpretation Questions: Once you've observed the text, proceed to the "Interpretation Questions" section. These questions will guide you in understanding the meaning and context of the passage. Consider the historical and cultural background, the author's intent, and how the passage fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.

Application Questions: Finally, explore the "Application Questions." These questions will help you apply the lessons and insights from the Scriptures to your own life. Reflect on how the text speaks to your faith, relationships, and daily choices.

Journal Your Insights: Write down your observations, interpretations, and applications in a journal or notebook. This will serve as a valuable record of your spiritual growth and understanding of the Word of God.

Discussion and Sharing: If you are studying in a group, take time to discuss your findings with others. Share your insights, listen to their perspectives, and learn from one another.

Pray for Transformation: As you conclude your study, pray for the transformation of your heart and mind. Ask God to help you live out the truths you've discovered in the Scriptures.

Consistency is Key: Make a habit of using this inductive Bible study method regularly. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become in studying and understanding the Bible.

Remember that the goal of this inductive study method is not just to gain knowledge but to deepen your relationship with God and apply His Word to your life. Approach your study with an open heart, a curious mind, and a desire to grow in your faith.

May your study be richly blessed, and may God's Word transform your life as you engage with it through the inductive method.

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Small Group Discussion Script

Introduction

Welcome everyone! Today, we're going to explore a sermon that focuses on compassion and love, inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan and the story of Martha and Mary. We'll read sections of the passage, discuss key takeaways, and reflect on some questions. Let's begin with a word of prayer.

Section 1: The Good Samaritan

Passage Summary:

Jesus tells the parable of a traveler who was beaten, robbed, and left for dead. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping, but a Samaritan, who would have been considered an enemy, stops to care for the injured man, showing remarkable compassion.

Takeaway:

Compassion is not about convenience or selective care. It's a costly love that values every person, breaking down barriers and expectations.

Reflection Questions:

  • Why do you think Jesus chose a Samaritan as the hero of this story?
  • Can you remember a time when you made an excuse not to help someone in need? What were your reasons?
  • Who are the "neighbors" in your life that might be easy to overlook?

Section 2: Martha and Mary

Passage Summary:

In this story, Martha is busy serving and preparing for guests, while Mary sits at Jesus' feet to listen. Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help with the work, but Jesus gently reminds Martha that Mary has chosen what is truly important.

Takeaway:

While service and tasks have their place, being fully present with Jesus and others is crucial. Compassion is about quality of presence, not just tasks accomplished.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you balance being busy with being present? Are there times you feel like Martha or Mary?
  • What distractions often pull you away from being present with others?
  • In what ways can you slow down this week to be more present with God and those around you?

Section 3: Connecting the Stories

Combined Takeaway:

True compassion interrupts our routines, calls us to action despite the cost, and requires us to be present with those we serve. It's not a checklist but a way of life, transforming us and those around us.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you apply the lessons of the Good Samaritan and Mary to your life this week?
  • Have you ever seen compassion impact someone or a situation significantly? Share your experience.
  • What is one specific way you can show costly, compassionate love this week?

Challenge for the Week:

Identify a moment this week when you might feel too busy or uninterested in helping someone. Take a moment to reflect on it, and if possible, choose the compassionate path, even if it's inconvenient.

Closing

Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and reflections. Let’s close in prayer, asking God to help us recognize opportunities to show love and compassion in our daily lives.

Feel free to adjust the questions or takeaways to best suit your group's needs and discussion style. Enjoy your time together, and may your discussions inspire compassionate actions!

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