Small Group Guide for "Feeding the Beggar at Our Gate – When We Feel Overwhelmed by Need"

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Feeding the Beggar at Our Gate – When We Feel Overwhelmed by Need

Sunday, March 30th 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 41:1-3

Second Scripture: Luke 16:19-31

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.

View the Sermon this Guide was Created For

Opening Prayer: "Dear God, as we come together, open our eyes and hearts to Your Word. Help us learn from Your teachings and inspire us to act with compassion. Bless our discussions today. Amen."

Introduction: "We will explore a parable from Luke 16:19-31 that challenges us to see and respond to those in need. This story provides lessons on awareness, action, and compassion."

Section 1: The Lives of the Rich Man and Lazarus

Read: Luke 16:19-21 "19 There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores."

Takeaway: "This section sets the scene, showing the stark contrast between the rich man's luxury and Lazarus's suffering. It's a powerful depiction of ignored needs."

Reflection Questions:

  1. What stands out to you about the lives of the rich man and Lazarus?
  2. Have you witnessed or experienced a similar contrast in your own surroundings?

Section 2: The Afterlife Consequences

Read: Luke 16:22-24 "22 The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’"

Takeaway: "The rich man finds himself in torment after death, and notices Lazarus, but even in his plea, he fails to address Lazarus directly, highlighting his continued indifference."

Reflection Questions:

  1. What does this part of the story suggest about the consequences of indifference?
  2. How might this parable change the way we think about addressing needs around us?

Section 3: Abraham's Response

Read: Luke 16:25-26 "25 But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’"

Takeaway: "Abraham's words highlight the reversal of fortunes and introduce the idea of irreversible consequences due to the rich man's lifetime choices."

Reflection Questions:

  1. What do you think the 'great chasm' symbolizes in this story?
  2. How does this change your perspective on action and inaction in your daily life?

Section 4: The Rich Man's Plea

Read: Luke 16:27-31 "27 He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ 29 Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’ 30 ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’"

Takeaway: "The rich man's concern for his brothers reveals his desperation, but Abraham's response underscores the sufficiency of the existing guidance and the hardness of heart that ignores it."

Reflection Questions:

  1. How do Abraham's words about Moses and the Prophets speak to us today about listening and acting on what we already know?
  2. What steps can you take to ensure you’re responsive to the needs you see around you?

Closing Reflection: "Let's consider one action we can commit to this week in response to what we've discussed today, focusing on acknowledging and helping those in need."

Closing Prayer: "Lord, thank You for this time together and for teaching us through Your Word. Help us to see those in need and respond with Your love and compassion. Guide us to be Your hands and feet in our community. Amen."

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