Jonah’s Psalm – A Prayer of Repentance

By Phud Chambers

3-30-25

*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. As “Who’s Your One?” comes to a close, has anything changed about your one’s relationship with you or with Christ? How can you continue to show concern for your one’s soul and live on mission beyond this month?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Jonah 2 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text and sermon.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. The sermon mentions that God is often more interested in doing things in us than through us. How have you experienced this in your own life?

 

  1. How might viewing repentance as the ‘vomit of the soul’ change our approach to confession and seeking forgiveness?

 

  1. Phud mentioned John Calvin’s comment that our hearts are “perpetual idol factories.” What are some common idols in our culture today, and how can we identify them in our own lives?

 

  1. How does Jesus’ reference to ‘the sign of Jonah’ (Matthew 12:40) deepen our understanding of Christ’s death and resurrection?

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. Jonah’s prayer outlines at least five aspects of repentance. Which aspect do you find most challenging in your own life, and why?

 

  1. Have you ever considered that—like Jonah—a lack of passion to live on mission might be an area of your life that needs repentance? How should you respond?

Running from God’s Will or Becoming Fishers of Men?

By Phud Chambers

3-23-25

*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 of how God is working in your prayers for your ONE? Don’t get tired of sharing these stories and prayer requests!

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Jonah 1 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text and sermon.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. What is the significance for the sailors of Jonah’s sleeping during the storm? Is there any connection to today’s Christians who have a casual attitude toward telling a non-Christian relative about the love of God in Christ?

 

  1. What does God’s calling of Jonah to Ninevah and treatment of Jonah’s disobedience reveal about God’s character and heart for the nations?

 

  1. What do you think of Jonah’s “I fear the LORD, the God of Heaven” declaration in verse 9, in light of his current behavior? How do you see yourself in this aspect of Jonah’s character?

 

  1. Contrast the many points of differences between Jonah and Jesus and discuss why Jesus is far greater. Consider having a group member stop and say a prayer of gratitude for the qualities of Jesus your group pointed out.

 

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. Evaluate your own willingness/resistance to practically join in the mission God is calling every Christian into. What is one tangible step of obedience you can take?

 

YHWH as Shepherd and Host

By Phud Chambers

3-16-25

*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 of how God is working in your prayers for your ONE?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Psalm 23 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text and sermon.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. How do the metaphors of shepherd and host shape you view of God’s relationship with his people?

 

  1. Discuss Phud’s observation that “the valley of the shadow of death” is still “the path of righteousness” for those who are in Christ.

 

  1. Verse 3 introduces the idea that God does ALL things primarily for His own glory. How is this reality a good thing for us as His people?

 

  1. Read John 10:11 as a group. How does Jesus fulfill the role of Shepherd in the life of the believer?

 

 

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. Phud listed 8 characteristics of God’s provision as shepherd and host (i.e. intimate and personal, totally sufficient, etc.) in the sermon. Recap as many as your group can remember and acknowledge which truth is most challenging for you to practically embrace.

 

  1. As you consider the ONE you have been praying for, what encouragement from the Good Shepherd can you offer them this week? Remember, they don’t get to experience the 8 benefits you just finished discussing. Let’s invite them into the pasture!

 

 

Pray Like Epaphras

By Richard Smith

3-9-25

*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 of how God worked in your prayers for your ONE?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Colossians 4:12 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text and sermon.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

  1. How does the concept of being a ‘slave of Christ’ differ from negative connotations of slavery, and what implications does this have for our understanding of Christian discipleship?

 

  1. What does it mean to ‘stand firm in all the will of God,’ and why is this such a crucial aspect of Christian maturity? How can we discern and align ourselves with God’s will in our daily lives?

 

  1. In what ways does Epaphras’ example of ‘wrestling in prayer’ challenge our own prayer lives? How might we cultivate a similar intensity and dedication in our intercession for others?

 

  1. How does the image of lowering a paralyzed man through the roof to Jesus illustrate the power and importance of intercessory prayer? In what ways can we ‘carry’ others to Christ through our prayers?

 

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. What are some practical ways we can combat Satan’s attempts to derail us from God’s will, as mentioned in the sermon? How can prayer play a role in this spiritual warfare?

 

  1. Who is someone in your life that needs intercessory prayer for endurance and encouragement in the midst of a battle they are facing? Will you commit to praying for them daily this week?

 

 

There’s Room at the Table

By Caleb Crittendon

3-2-25

*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 of how God worked in your prayers this past week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Luke 14:16-24 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. Why was the master justified in his anger at the guests who made excuses?

 

  1. What does this parable teach us about God’s generosity and willingness to invite us into His kingdom?

 

 

  1. What steps can we take to ensure we are not too preoccupied with worldly things to accept God’s invitation?

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. How would you rate your brokenness and boldness as an evangelist? Spend some time praying for God’s grace in this area.

 

  1. Who is YOUR One? Spend some time as a group sharing who your Ones are and praying fervently with one another for their salvation and your boldness.

 

 

Prayer for Open Doors and Open Mouths

By Richard Smith

2-23-25

*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 of how last week’s WORD and discussion strengthened your praying this week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Colossians 4:3-4 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text and reflections of the sermon.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. How can we reconcile the idea of the gospel as a ‘mystery’ with its seemingly straightforward message?

 

  1. How might our understanding of prayer change if we viewed it as ‘boring holes’ into spiritual rock, as described by O. Hallensby?

 

  1. Pastor Richard mentioned that “prayer becomes meaningful when you understand the purpose of prayer is to engage in the impossible.” How does this perspective change the way you think about prayer?

 

  1. Paul asks for prayer to proclaim the gospel clearly, despite being a gifted communicator. What does this teach us about humility and dependence on God in our own ministries?

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. What specific ‘open doors’ might God be calling us to pray for in our own lives, communities, or on a global scale?

 

  1. Examine your own participation in praying with and for the ministries of our church to have open doors and open mouths. What is one way you can get more involved?

 

 

Praying with a Watchful and Grateful Heart

By Richard Smith

2-16-2025

*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 of how they made an effort to receive lost people as Christ did in the last week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Colossians 4:2 as a group and highlight the 3 points Richard presented for how we are to pray.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. Richard mentioned that our first impulse is often to work harder rather than to pray. Why do you think this is and how can we shift our mindset to prioritize prayer?

 

  1. How might a Christian practically be “devoted” to prayer in daily life? Consider examples from Scripture to support your response.

 

  1. Reflect on Peter’s failure and success at being watchful in prayer (Matt. 26:36-41 and 1 Peter 5:7-9).

 

  1. How does understanding the concept of ‘unnumbered foes’ change our perspective on spiritual warfare and the importance of prayer?

 

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. How can we cultivate a habit of persistent prayer in our daily lives, even when we don’t see immediate results?

 

  1. In what ways can we support and encourage one another in maintaining a strong prayer life within our group?

 

 

The Lost Trilogy

By Phud Chambers

2-9-24

*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 of how last week’s WORD and discussion reshaped your work week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Luke 15 as a group and discuss your initial observations.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. Phud contrasted the meaning of the lost son parable to that of the lost sheep and coin. Examine and discuss those differences.

 

  1. How does the parable of the lost son challenge our understanding of God’s love and forgiveness? How might this impact how we view ourselves and others?

 

  1. What does it mean to ‘come to yourself’ as the prodigal son did, and how might this apply to our own spiritual journeys?

 

  1. What does it mean to ‘live at the foot of the cross’ as Luther did? How might this perspective shape our daily lives?

 

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. In what ways might we, like the Pharisees, struggle to rejoice when sinners come to Christ? How can we overcome this?

 

  1. Are lost people drawn to you and being “received” by you as they were with Christ? If not, what adjustments can be made to your life?

 

 

Work and Lead Like a Slave to Christ

By Richard Smith

2-2-24

*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 of ways you were able to teach your children to obey in this past week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Colossians 3:22-4:1 as a group and discuss your initial observations.

 

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

 

  1. Pastor Richard spent significant time laying the context of slavery from a Biblical perspective. Reflect on your observations of his explanation.

 

  1. How does the concept of ‘working for the Lord, not for human masters’ challenge our perspective on our daily work and career choices?

 

  1. How do the instructions to both servants and masters reflect the social dynamics of the early church?

 

  1. How does the knowledge that God is always watching impact your attitude and performance at work?

 

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

 

  1. What are some specific ways you can treat those in authority over you, or those who work for you, with respect and fairness as this passage suggests?

 

  1. Discuss with your group, an individual in the group, or your spouse 3 ways you can display “sincerity of heart” in the workplace in the next week.

 

 

The Call and Challenge of Parenting

By Richard Smith

1-26-24

*NOTICE (Leaders, please read this to your group): While this week’s message dealt primarily with parenting, we know that not everyone going through these questions is currently walking through that season of life. If that’s you this week please don’t disengage from discussion. Consider ways that you can come alongside parents in your group to help them in the cooperative effort of raising godly children and consider how these principles apply to the discipling relationships you have with younger Christians.

 

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

  1. Does anyone have a testimony to share of ways you were able to teach your children to obey in this past week?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

  1. Read Colossians 3:20-21 and discuss what surprised you or stood out about the text and/or sermon.

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

  1. What lessons can we learn from God’s perfect fatherhood, especially when dealing with rebellious children?

  2. Richard said, “We have to parent from the gospel.” How do we practically do that every day?

  3. What role does prayer play in parenting and how can we cultivate a habit of “parenting on our knees”?

  4. How can we avoid the pitfalls of discouragement mentioned in the sermon (like nagging, angry speech, belittling, etc.) in our interactions with children or others?

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

  1. In what ways can we apply the concept of “no screen time before Scripture” to our own spiritual lives?

  2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of habits and routines. What are some positive habits you’d like to implement in your family life?

 

 

Parenting Resources Richard Mentioned

 

“Habits of the Household” – by Justin Earley

Habits of the Household –  teaching at Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO6lHII6WbU

Justin Earley also has an Instagram page with many short reels that offer good advice.  His Instagram page is @Justinwhitmelearley

There are countless good articles on the Desiring God website as well.  So go to:

DesiringGod.org – this link takes you to Parenting Articles

There you will find articles like this

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/every-good-parent-will-have-regrets

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/your-best-parenting-may-not-work

I also recommend that parents watch a You Tube testimony entitled:

“Luke Hahn’s Testimony: God had to strip me of everything.”

The video is helpful in two ways.  First, Luke clearly and graciously removes all blame of his parents for the years that he ran from God.  Second, the video might be something you could “casually” send your older/adult straying child.  Because Luke humbly talks about the path God used to bring him back to the Lord.  It might be one of those videos that you could send to your child by saying that your pastor recommended that families watch it.