Small Group Guide for "You Bear an Image"

You Bear an Image

Sunday, March 3rd 2024

First Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4-12

Second Scripture: Mark 12:1-17

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

  1. Reflect on the idea that we are all created in God's image as stated in Genesis 1:27. How does understanding that we are made in God's likeness influence the way we view ourselves and others?
  2. In the sermon, sin is discussed as something that obscures our ability to see God's image in ourselves and others. How does this align with Romans 3:23, and what steps can we take to overcome this obstacle?
  3. Considering Jesus' teaching to "give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's" (Mark 12:17), how do we discern what belongs to God in our own lives?
  4. The sermon speaks to the intrinsic value we have in God's eyes, which is highlighted by Christ's sacrifice. How does this perspective change the way we approach our self-worth and our interactions with others?
  5. Forgiveness and restoration are key themes in the sermon. Discuss how the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) relates to our journey of restoring the divine likeness within us.
  6. In what practical ways can we embody the characteristics of God such as patience, kindness, and humility, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, to reflect His image more clearly in our daily lives?
  7. The sermon invites us to help others recognize their sacred value. Share a time when you were able to help someone see their worth through God's eyes, and discuss how this experience impacted both of you.
  8. Reflecting God's image includes showing love and dignity to everyone. How does the commandment in Matthew 22:39, "Love your neighbor as yourself," guide us to live out this principle?
  9. As we aim to be image bearers of God, the sermon suggests we should live our lives as offerings to Him. How does Romans 12:1 encourage us to do so, and what might that look like in practical terms?
  10. Discuss how the idea of being "little Christs," as suggested in the sermon, resonates with Ephesians 5:1-2, which calls us to imitate God. How can we apply this call to our personal spiritual journey?

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