Small Group Guide for "Jesus Brings Good News"

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Jesus Brings Good News

Sunday, January 26th 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 146

Second Scripture: Luke 4:14-30

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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Introduction

Welcome everyone to today's small group session. Our focus today is on understanding the role of the church and how we can be active participants in God's mission. We'll reflect on two passages, Psalm 146 and Luke 4:14-30, and consider how these scriptures inspire us to go beyond comfort and dive deeper into our faith.

Section 1: Understanding Our Role

Scripture Reading: Psalm 146

Psalm 146 encourages us to praise God and puts emphasis on trusting God rather than human leaders. It speaks about God’s care for the oppressed, hungry, prisoners, and blind, aligning with the church’s calling to serve and bring justice.

  • Takeaway: Our role as believers and as a church is to mirror God’s priorities, showing concern for the marginalized and proclaiming God’s justice and peace.
Reflection Questions:
  • What stands out to you in this Psalm about God’s character and priorities?
  • How can we as a church align more closely with these priorities?
  • What are practical ways we can embody this Psalm in our community?

Section 2: Jesus and His Mission

Scripture Reading: Luke 4:14-30

In this passage, Jesus begins His ministry by proclaiming His mission: to bring good news to the poor, freedom for prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind, and to set the oppressed free. His message challenges the status quo and calls for transformation.

  • Takeaway: Jesus’ mission is our mission. The church is not just a place for comfort but a beacon of transformative love and justice.
Reflection Questions:
  • How do you feel hearing Jesus’ mission statement in Luke 4?
  • Have you ever experienced or witnessed resistance when trying to bring good news?
  • In what ways can we, as a community, proclaim and embody this mission?

Section 3: Disturbing the Waters

Reflect on the sermon analogy of calm waters reflecting our comfort and the fear of deeper waters.

  • Takeaway: We are challenged to look beyond our comfort zones and fears to embrace God's deeper calling for us.
Reflection Questions:
  • What fears or uncertainties might hold us back from going deeper in our faith?
  • How have you overcome comfort in the past to grow spiritually?
  • What steps can we take as a group to support each other in moving beyond surface-level faith?

Section 4: Practical Growth and Going Deeper

Discussion on Upcoming Initiatives

Discuss the goals for upcoming gatherings focused on spiritual disciplines such as prayer and Bible study.

  • Takeaway: Committing to deeper engagement through prayer, study, and service will help us live out our mission.
Reflection Questions:
  • Are there specific spiritual disciplines you feel called to practice more deeply?
  • How can we create more opportunities for everyone to engage and develop their spiritual lives?
  • What would help or encourage you to participate in these gatherings?

Conclusion

Let's close by considering what it means to grow deeper in our faith and mission together as a church. Reflect on the courage required to step into the unknown, trusting that God is with us. Let's pray for boldness, wisdom, and strength to be the church we are called to be.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word and for calling us to be part of Your mission. Give us the courage to dive deeper into our faith and to embody Your love and justice in our community. Help us to support one another as we step out of our comfort zones and trust in Your guiding hand. Amen.

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