Hope Point Church
Why We Love the Church
August 24, 2025

Why We Love the Church

August 24, 2025

Why We Love the Church

By Richard Smith

August 24, 2025

*NOTICE: The emphasis of our discussion is to see how the Written Word (Bible) and the Spoken Word (Preaching) work together to build up the believer, so when you see WORD in the questions, know it refers to the Scripture and the Sermon.

 

Recap: Look back for evidence of God’s word reshaping your heart and life.

  1. Does anyone have a testimony to share with the group of how you applied last week’s “Respond” section?

EngageLook into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read the passage from Matthew 16:13-18 as a group and discuss Richard’s comment that while Acts might display the formation of the church, Jesus laid the foundation in the Gospels.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

  1. How does understanding Jesus’ sacrifice for the church affect our commitment to and love for the local church community?

 

  1. Discuss the concept of “ecclesial ontology” – the idea that there’s a special manifestation of Christ’s power when believers gather together. How have you experienced this in your own church attendance?

 

  1. What are the implications of the church being described as ‘the pillar and foundation of the truth’ in a world that often rejects absolute truth?

 

  1. Reflect on the challenges of speaking God’s truth with authority in an “anti-authority age.” How can we balance boldness with love and compassion?

 

Respond: Choose one or two of the following applications of Sunday’s message and commit to it/them this next week.

 

  1. Commit to regular church attendance, recognizing the unique blessings of gathering with other believers.

  2. Identify one area where you can sacrifice more deeply for the church or fellow believers this week.

  3. Choose a biblical truth that challenges you and practice sharing it with others in a loving, authoritative manner.

  4. Spend time in prayer, thanking God for His love for the church and asking for a renewed passion for His truth.

  5. Consider ways you can support your church leaders as they seek to proclaim God’s truth boldly.

 

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