Small Group Guide for "Seeking the Lost: Our Non-Negotiable Mission"

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Seeking the Lost: Our Non-Negotiable Mission

Sunday, March 23rd 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 119:167-176

Second Scripture: Luke 15:1-32

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

Welcome, everyone, to our small group gathering. Today, we’ll explore passages that reveal the depth of God's love through the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. These stories challenge us to transcend our natural instincts and embrace God's boundless compassion. Let's dive in, take some time to reflect, and share our thoughts with one another.

Section 1: The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Reading

Let’s begin with the parable of the lost sheep.

Read aloud Luke 15:1-7

Takeaway

In this story, Jesus illustrates the shepherd's relentless pursuit of the one lost sheep. It challenges our sense of logic and poses the question: What kind of love cares so deeply for one who's lost, even if it means leaving the 99 behind? God's love is radical, beyond our understanding.

Reflection Questions

  • What emotions arise in you when you hear about the shepherd's actions?
  • How do you relate to the idea of seeking out the "one" lost, even if it seems irrational?
  • In what ways can we embody this kind of love in our daily lives?

Section 2: The Parable of the Lost Coin

Reading

Next, let's read about the lost coin.

Read aloud Luke 15:8-10

Takeaway

The woman's determination to find her lost coin shows how God values each of us deeply. Her celebration upon finding it seems extravagant, yet it mirrors God’s joy when one of us is found.

Reflection Questions

  • Have you ever experienced a moment where something seemingly small brought great joy?
  • What can this parable teach us about God's perspective on worth and value?
  • How might this change the way we view ourselves and others?

Section 3: The Parable of the Prodigal Son

Reading

Finally, let us read the parable of the prodigal son.

Read aloud Luke 15:11-32

Takeaway

Unlike the previous stories, the father's response includes both radical patience and joyous welcome, illustrating God's unending love for us, regardless of our past mistakes.

Reflection Questions

  • What are your thoughts on the father's response to the return of his son?
  • How do patience and understanding play a role in our own relationships?
  • What can this parable teach us about forgiveness and acceptance?

Conclusion

These stories paint a picture of God's reckless love and challenge us to reflect on our own willingness to seek out, welcome, and celebrate the lost and found among us. Let's embrace this opportunity to be part of God's mission in our lives.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for this time together to explore your profound love. Help us to see the lost through your eyes and to joyously celebrate when they are found. Grant us the courage and compassion to embody your love each day. Amen.

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