Small Group Guide for "Who Am I?"

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Who Am I?

Sunday, June 23rd 2024

First Scripture:

Second Scripture: John 21:15-19

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:

God of grace, you know us inside and out. As we read and study your Word today, help us to see ourselves and each other more clearly, so we can grow in faith and purpose. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Quote: “The day misspent, the love misplaced, has inside it the seed of redemption. Nothing is exempt from resurrection.” – Kay Ryan

BREAKING THE ICE:

What is a saying, style, or activity that you are “known for”? If other people had to give you a “trademark,” what would it be? (Feel free to be silly and fun with this!)

WRESTLING WITH THE WORD:

Read Acts 9:1-19 and John 21:15-19

  1. In the Acts passage, Saul was blind for three days. Given what had just happened and his history, what are some of the things Saul may have spent those days thinking about and feeling?
  2. The passage from John comes after Jesus’ resurrection. During his time of trial, Simon Peter had denied Jesus three times. Given this background, how do you think Simon Peter may have felt when Jesus asked Simon Peter if he loved him three times? What may Simon Peter have been thinking in this moment?
  3. What does Jesus’ choice of Saul as “an instrument whom I have chosen” (Acts 9:15) and Jesus’ instruction to Simon Peter, “Feed my sheep,” (John 21:15-17) tell us about how Jesus brings purpose to people’s lives? Who does Jesus choose and what role does forgiveness play?
  4. Jesus gives both Simon Peter and Saul major roles in the future of the church. Who else is involved in helping them discover their new purpose and fulfil it (whether stated in the passages or not)? Why does this matter?

NEXT STEPS:

  1. When you think about what your purpose is (present or future), how much do you think about the past? What have you learned from your past experiences about God’s purpose for you? If you’ve never thought about this or it’s been a while, consider spending some time in reflection this week.
  2. Do past failures or mistakes make you think you are unable or unworthy to pursue/explore a given role, activity, or purpose? In what ways does Jesus’ forgiveness and redemption in the lives of Simon Peter and Saul speak into your life? What is one small step you could take to embrace forgiveness/redemption and explore that role, activity, or purpose?
  3. Who are some of the people you trust to be both honest and supportive as you explore or grow in a role, activity, or purpose?

CLOSING PRAYER:

Forgiving God, we thank you for second, third, and fourth chances. We thank you for creating beauty and purpose from our imperfect and sometimes painful pasts. Help us to hear and accept the call that you place on each of our lives and to support one another to fully embrace the purposes that you give us. Amen.

OPTIONAL SPIRITUAL PRACTICE FOR THE WEEK:

Take some dedicated time this week to think about 2-3 positive life events you have had, and 2-3 negative life events. How have they impacted you? What did you learn about yourself or the world around you? Did they make you passionate for or against anything? Did they make you want to spend your time differently? What are they teaching you about the importance of living with purpose?

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