Small Group Guide for "God Promises a New Covenant"

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God Promises a New Covenant

Sunday, November 24th 2024

First Scripture:

Second Scripture: Jeremiah 36:1-8, 21-23, 27-28; 31:31-34

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

Description:

This small group study explores the themes of prophecy, repentance, and hope found in the book of Jeremiah. We will discuss the responsibilities of leadership and the promises of God written on our hearts, reflecting on our own relationships with God and the new covenant made through Jesus Christ.

Section 1: The Scroll and the King's Reaction

Read Jeremiah 36:1-8

Takeaway:
Jeremiah was instructed by God to write down all the prophecies he received over decades. These words of warning and hope were meant to lead the people to repentance. Instead of welcoming this chance, the king chose to destroy the scroll, showing rejection of God’s message.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Why do you think Jeremiah's words were important enough to be written down?
  2. What does the king’s reaction to the scroll tell us about his leadership and priorities?
  3. Reflect on a time when you received guidance or warning. How did you respond?

Read Jeremiah 36:21-23

Takeaway:
The king's dismissal of God's message highlights how easily we can reject difficult truths. The use of the scribe’s knife to cut away the parts he didn’t want signifies how people often ignore or deny parts of God’s word that challenge them.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How have you seen people today metaphorically take a 'scribe’s knife' to scripture or truth?
  2. Why is it sometimes easier to disregard challenging messages than to confront them?
  3. Consider what parts of your life reflect a willingness to accept God’s guidance, and what parts resist it.

Section 2: God's Unstoppable Word

Read Jeremiah 36:27-28

Takeaway:
Despite the king’s actions, God commands Jeremiah to write the scroll again. This demonstrates that God’s word and promises cannot be extinguished by human actions. God's persistence shows His unwavering commitment to His people.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How does this passage encourage you about the reliability and endurance of God's word?
  2. Discuss a situation where you felt discouraged, but God’s promises remained relevant.
  3. What steps can you take to ensure that God’s word remains central in your life despite challenges?

Section 3: The Promise of a New Covenant

Read Jeremiah 31:31-34

Takeaway:
God promises a new covenant, not written on stone or paper but on the hearts of His people. This new covenant foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, offering hope and a personal, transformative relationship with God.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What does it mean for God’s law to be written on our hearts?
  2. How does this promise of a new covenant through Jesus impact your daily life and faith?
  3. In what ways can you cultivate a heart that is receptive to God’s covenant and guidance?

Closing Reflection

Group Activity:
Share with the group one area of your life where you feel God is writing something new on your heart. How can others support you in this journey?

Prayer:
Invite the group to pray together, asking God to help each person embrace the new covenant with wholehearted devotion, and to seek wisdom and strength as they strive to reflect God’s love and truth in their lives.

This small group script is intended to foster open discussion, personal reflection, and spiritual growth, encouraging participants to deepen their understanding and live out the promises of God in their daily lives.

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