Small Group Guide for "Creation and Fall"

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Creation and Fall

Sunday, September 15th 2024

First Scripture: Genesis 2:4b-7, 15-17; 3:1-8

Second Scripture: Mark 3:20-35

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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Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer asking for God's guidance and wisdom as you discuss the sermon and its implications for your lives.

Key Takeaways:

  1. The first sin in the Garden of Eden was not just eating the fruit, but the breakdown of trust and communication with God.
  2. Sin has led to broken relationships between humans, with creation, and with God.
  3. God continually seeks to restore these broken relationships, ultimately through Jesus Christ.
  4. We are called to participate in restoring relationships and living out God's will.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does viewing the first sin as a breakdown in communication with God change your perspective on the Genesis story?

  2. Can you think of a time when you relied on your own wisdom instead of seeking God's guidance? What was the outcome?

  3. The sermon mentions broken relationships between humans, with creation, and with God. Which of these do you struggle with most in your own life?

  4. How does Jesus' teaching about "who is my family" (Mark 3:31-35) challenge our traditional views of relationships?

  5. Discuss the parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25). How does this passage inform our understanding of how we should treat others?

  6. The pastor mentions debates in the church about "what did Jesus mean?" How can we better seek God's guidance when interpreting Scripture?

  7. How can we practically apply Jesus' command to "love thy neighbor" in our current social and political climate?

Practical Applications:

  1. Identify a broken relationship in your life. Commit to praying about it daily this week, asking God for guidance on how to seek reconciliation.

  2. Choose one way you can better care for God's creation this week (e.g., reducing waste, planting something, volunteering for a local environmental cause).

  3. Practice seeking God's guidance in decision-making. Before making any significant choices this week, pause to pray and ask for God's wisdom.

  4. Identify a marginalized group in your community. Research ways you can practically show love and support to this group.

  5. Commit to reading a passage of Scripture each day this week, asking the Holy Spirit for guidance in understanding and applying it to your life.

Closing Prayer: Close the session by praying for the strength and courage to restore broken relationships in your lives and to seek God's guidance in all things.

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