A2 Going Deeper
Advent 2024
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
HOPE
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
This is a prophecy from the book of Isaiah about the birth of Jesus! Prophecy is often given to people who need hope in difficult and dark circumstances. How do these different prophetic names for Christ bring hope to you this Christmas season? Have everyone in your group examine these names and share with one another why they bring you hope.
Wonderful counselor?
Mighty God?
Everlasting father?
Prince of Peace?
Week 2
PEACE
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
Luke 2:8-15
Imagine you are one of the shepherds living with sheep through the dark of the night. As a group, described to one another why this would be such a terrifying encounter with the angels.
In verse 14, the angels sing about God's glory in heaven and God's peace on earth. Why is it important for them to highlight those two things in the announcement?
Again, imagine you were one of the shepherds. How would you feel after hearing this announcement? How would you respond to one another? What would your disposition be as you go to Bethlehem?
How does this angelic encounter with earthly reality speak peace to us today?
Week 3
LOVE
She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel,’ which means, God with us.
Matthew 1:21-23
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
1 John 4:9-11
Read and discuss the relationship between these two verses as a group. Then have each member of your group spend a few moments to come up with three "non-churchy" words to describe the love of God at Christmas. Everyone record their answers and share with the group. How did you get those answers? How do they speak to the Christmas season?
Week 4
JOY
Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
1 Peter 1:8-9
Joy to the world! the Lord is come;
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.
Read the above verse from scripture and the verse from one of our favorite Christmas carols aloud together.
Have everyone in your group pick one line from either the scripture or chorus that is particularly meaningful this season. Share with one another which of these thoughts resonates with you and why.
Close your time together with popcorn prayers of gratitude this Christmas. (Popcorn prayer is when people spontaneously offer a sentence or two of prayer until the group winds down and everyone has shared.)
Love Math
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
In this passage, we see the transition of focus from John the Baptist to Jesus. Jesus is baptized as an example of obedience and a new framework for the kingdom of God.
How does John's baptism point the way to Jesus?
Why is Jesus baptized himself?
How do you see the Trinity in this passage?
What does this say to you and I about the importance of baptism?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
How does Jesus exhibit friendship to his disciples in this passage?
What is the identifying mark of his disciples?
What, then, is the mark of Christian maturity? What are 5 practical ways we can grow?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
Why does God make mankind, according to this chapter?
What do you think? "in His image" means?
What is God's mandate to the man and woman?
How does this impact your view of marriage?
How are humans to be in relationship with creation? What does that look like for us today?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
The apostle Paul has some strong things to say about marriage and singleness in this chapter. What are some reasons why one might remain single?
What are some reasons why one should seek marriage?
Should a person who is a believer date someone who is not a believer? Why or why not?
What is Paul saying about the complexity of marriage and the way one lives towards Christ?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
In relationships, single or married, what are the patterns of this world Paul might be referring to? How do we renew our minds towards a Christ-honoring pattern?
What are we to do differently when it comes to single and married relationships compared to the patterns of the world?
What are five characteristics from this chapter that describe Christ-honoring relationships?
Why do Christians need one another? How is that important?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
The Joy Challenge
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
This is the beginning of Paul's treatise on joy. Ironically, he is writing this while he himself is in prison. After reading the chapter, identify five other words that are tethered to Paul's "Joy."
Why does Paul have this confidence and joy despite being behind bars?
When you are in a challenging season where joy is difficult, how do you pursue it based on what Paul has modeled for us in this chapter? At the beginning of this letter, how is he encouraging us all?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
Paul begins chapter 2 with a "therefore." This connects chapter 1 and two, in a logical sequence. How would you describe the relationship of these two chapters?
Why is he encouraging us to rejoice in verses 17 and 18?
How are we to treat one another in such a way that it produces joy in all of us? What are some practical ways we can do this in our A2 group? What could or should change?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
Paul starts this chapter with another encouragement to rejoice in the Lord. But he follows it with some warnings. What's the nature of the warnings in this chapter?
How does confidence in our status or earthly accomplishments impede our joy?
What are some things that you and I tend to put our confidence in, short-changing our joy?
How do you think you could re-orient your confidence that word make your joy greater?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
What strategies does Paul give us in this final chapter to reclaim our joy?
How is contentment and joy related
In the context of this chapter and Paul's imprisonment, what does he mean by "I am able to do all things?"
How does this chapter change your view of daily struggles? What do you think God is teaching you through the last weeks of this study? Is God asking you to do something different?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
MORE
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
How would you describe what the law accomplishes from this first four verses?
Contrast that with what Christ accomplishes here?
How should we then live? What should be our posture?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
Describe the two mindsets in these verses. What are some differences?
What is the difference between someone who has the “Spirit of Christ” and someone who doesn't?
How does this understanding inform the way you live today? What should our postures as Christ follower be?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
According to these verses, how is your core identity in Christ changed?
How does one live according to the Spirit?
How should we remember this identity when going through hardship? Why is that so difficult?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
What is the relationship between the Christ follower and the rest of creation?
How does this section of scripture change the way we pray?
Why should we didn't have confidence when going through trials?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
Where does the Christians confidence come from? Give three reasons.
Why is that so hard to remember?
How would you describe this love in Christ to someone who is not a believer?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Gospel of Matthew | ONE
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together.
Week 1
What is the main theme of Matthew 6:1-8? What is Jesus saying about giving to the needy, prayer, and fasting? Why is that important?
In Matthew 6:19-34, Jesus teaches about treasures and worries. How does he contrast earthly treasures with heavenly treasures? What does that tell us about anxiety and trust in God?
What does Jesus mean by "Judge not, that you be not judged" in Matthew 7:1-5? How does this relate to humility and self-awareness?
What does 7:7-12 say about God’s character? Is this a model for our own behavior? How so?
Week 2
In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus presents the imagery of the narrow and wide gates. What do these gates represent, and why does Jesus describe the way to life as narrow and the way to destruction as broad? How does this challenge you?
Jesus talks about false prophets in Matthew 7:15-20. What are the "fruits" by which we recognize them? How can we apply this principle of spiritual discernment today?
In the parable of the wise and foolish builders, how do the foundations on which each builder constructs their house reflect their response to Jesus' teachings? How do we go about building our lives wisely and intelligently based on this principle? What would be different for you if you did?
In Matthew 8:5-13, Jesus heals the centurion's servant from a distance. What about the centurion's faith impressed Jesus? Why is it significant that this man was a Roman and not a Jew?
Reflect on the storm on the Sea of Galilee in Matthew 8:23-27. What does this event reveal about the disciples' faith and Jesus' power over nature? At this point, what did the disciples believe about Jesus’ identity? Why does Jesus rebuke them?
Week 3
In Matthew 10:1-4, Jesus names the twelve disciples and gives them authority. What is the significance of this act? How does it demonstrate his preparation for his followers?
From verses 10:5-15, why does Jesus tell them to focus on the "lost sheep of Israel"? What do his instructions about traveling light and relying on hospitality teach us about priorities and trust in God's faithfulness?
Matthew 10:16-31 contains warnings and encouragements for the disciples. What does Jesus mean by asking them to be "shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves"? How do his assurances about God's care alleviate their fears? How can this apply to our lives today?
Explore Jesus' words about taking up one's cross in Matthew 10:32-39. What does it mean to acknowledge Jesus before others, even in the face of opposition? How does Jesus challenge our ideas about family and loyalty?
What is the overall message of Matthew 10? What are the challenges that followers of Jesus might face? How is Jesus instructing us to live out our faith today?
Week 4
In Matthew 12:1-8, Jesus and his disciples are accused of breaking the Sabbath by picking grain. How does Jesus respond? What does this say about the Sabbath and its purpose?
Discuss the healing of the man with the withered hand in Matthew 12:9-14. How do the Pharisees' react? What does Jesus' statement about doing good on the Sabbath reveal about religious rules and compassion? Why do the Pharisees begin to plot to kill Jesus?
Jesus' casting out of a demon leads to accusations by the Pharisees in Matthew 12:22-32. According to Jesus, what is the "unforgivable sin?” The Holy Spirit is also known as “the Spirit of Truth,” that is, the one who reveals the truth. So, if one rejects the Holy Spirit, how is that unforgivable? Why is Jesus so strong on this point?
In Matthew 12:46-50, Jesus challenges family ties. What is the spiritual bond between his followers and himself? How does is this challenge the way we view our own families and our church families?
What are the main themes of this chapter? How does it illustrate Jesus' authority, his teachings on the heart, and the nature of his relationship with his followers?
Week 5
In the parable of the wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43), what does Jesus teach us about the coexistence of good and evil in the world? How does Jesus clarify the meaning of the story?
Explore the parables of the mustard seed and the yeast (Matthew 13:31-35). What do these parables illustrate about the growth and impact of the Kingdom of God? How would you describe that impact in human history? How does that impact you?
Consider the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value (Matthew 13:44-46). What messages do these parables convey about the worth and value of the Kingdom of God? Why is it so valuable? How can we pursue this treasure in our lives? What would be the outcome if we did this?
In Matthew 13:51-52, how do these verses emphasize the role of both the old and new in the Kingdom of God? What is Jesus referring to? How does this impact the way you read scripture?
Summarize the main teachings and lessons from Matthew 13:24-58. How do these parables illustrate different aspects of the Kingdom of God and the responses of people to Jesus' message?
Week 6
Matthew 18:1, the disciples ask, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" How does Jesus respond, and what does his teaching reveal about the values of the Kingdom of God?
Explore the concept of causing others to stumble in Matthew 18:6-9. How does Jesus emphasize the seriousness of this? Who are the “little ones?” Why is this so serious
Discuss the process of addressing offenses and seeking reconciliation outlined in Matthew 18:15-20. How does this instruct our approach to conflict resolution within the community of believers?
Peter asks a question about forgiveness in Matthew 18:21-22. How does the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23-35) underscore the importance of forgiveness in the Kingdom of God? What is ironic about the man refusing to forgive the debt? According to Jesus, why is this so important?
From Matthew 18, how do these teachings about humility, forgiveness, and community shape our understanding of the Kingdom of God? How does it inform our relationships with one another? What needs to change?
Masterpiece
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
From verses 1 through 10 how has God saved you and prepared you?
How do these verses describe life before and after salvation?
What is Paul describing in verses 19 through 22?
How should we adjust our lives based on these passages?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
What is Peter encouraging us to do with our gifts?
What kind of urgency in us is he encouraging?
How are we to respond if we experience oppression for our faith?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
What is the source of our unity as Christ followers?
What is the analogy Paul uses for the church in this chapter? Why is that important?
Knowing this? How are Christians encouraged to behave in the latter part of the chapter? How does this challenge you?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
How does Jesus encourage us to imitate him?
Contrast this with the attitude prevailing in the world.
Towards the latter part of the chapter, what does Jesus say is the distinguishing characteristic of his disciples? How do we live that out today?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
How does Abraham show his faith in God?
What is God’s promise to him?
How do you think “all peoples on earth will be blessed” through Abraham? What is this promise pointing to?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Christmas at the Movies
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
Colossians chapter 3 says so much about interpersonal dynamics between Christ followers in the world, each other, and even within the family. What one verse in this chapter summarizes the heart behind the whole?
How does Paul characterize life before Christ with life in Christ?
What are some ways this chapter instructs us to, "set your minds on things above, not an earthly things?"
What are three words you would used to describe the interpersonal dynamics in verses 18 through 22?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
Luke chapter 2 gives us the original, history-changing Christmas story. What is the overall emotion of this chapter? What is the author, Dr. Luke, primarily trying to tell us?
Why do you think it is important that some of the first witnesses to Jesus’ birth are shepherds?
What is Simeon's main message to us?
What is Anna's message to us?
What is the connection between Jesus and the temple in this chapter?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
Let's look at this chapter through the lens of how we speak to one another. How many references to speech do you see?
What are three characteristics of the speech Paul is encouraging in this chapter?
What are the old patterns of speech to those in the world? How are we to replace those patterns?
If we speak to one another the way, this chapter describes, what will be the outcome? How would people outside of our faith community describe us?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Solid Rock
Week 1
GRACE
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Philippians 4:14-20
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passage above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
In our weekend message, we learned that the impoverished churches in Macedonia were extremely generous towards Paul and the believers in Jerusalem. In today’s scripture, Paul is thanking the church at Philippi for their generosity.
What is the best gift you ever received? Best gift you ever gave? Why were they so good?
What does Paul desire even more than their financial gifts? What kind of heart attitude is Paul celebrating? Why is living generously so challenging?
Why is their gift “pleasing to God”? When you give personally, what attitude do you have? In what ways would you like to grow?
What do you think of the idea that God will meet your needs? Your needs are met according to what? How does this truth change the way you live?
What is this passage saying to you personally? What is challenging to you? What do we learn from the Philippians that translates to our Unshakeable initiative? What might happen if we all leaned into these ideas?
Prayer
As we refresh our Unshakeable vision, pray that God will reveal where we can grow—individually and as a church family. Pray for open hearts to learn and follow. Pray for provision for every Westside family and for an outpouring of fresh blessings from God to emerge from this season.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Week 2
DESIRE
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,…
Philippians 1:9
...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Philippians 2:13
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19
If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
1 John 3:17-18
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight...he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure...to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us…
Ephesians 1:3-8
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passages above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
In last week’s discussion, we discovered how the church in Philippi so generously supported Paul’s work and the Christians in Jerusalem. This week, we are talking about desire. What motivates us to be generous?
What motivates you to want to give someone a gift? Is it something about them or something about you that makes that easier?
Was there a time when you felt like God really worked through you to bless someone financially or otherwise? What was that like? What was your motivation?
In the two verses from Philippians, what does Paul say is the foundation of generosity?
From Psalm 37, what is the connection between delight in God and the fulfillment of our desires? Do you think this verse means that a) God gives us what we desire, or b) that He gives us better, Godly desires?
In the passages from 1 John and Ephesians, what is the relationship between gratitude and generosity? In what ways could you use your gratitude as a motivator for your generosity?
Prayer
Ask God to continue growing you in your discipleship journey in the area of generosity. Ask God to continue to draw Westside together as a loving community that is following Him on a mission in the world.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Week 3
INTEGRITY
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
1 Peter 3:15-16
The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1 Timothy 1:5
May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 19:14
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psalm 139:1-2
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23-24
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passages above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
Who is someone in your life that you admire for their integrity? How would you describe that integrity? How did they impact you?
How would you define integrity? This week’s teaching discussed how we can compartmentalize parts of our lives—how is your life compartmentalized? What are ways you could better integrate these parts?
From the verses above, what are the benefits of integrity in our lives? What happens if we don’t act with integrity?
Review pages 16-17 of your Unshakeable Guide: "The Generosity Climb." Where would you ideally like to be on your generosity climb? In what ways could you grow in integrating your faith in God with your giving?
At this point on your journey, what does growing in generosity look like for you personally? How is God calling you to contribute?
Prayer
As we refresh our Unshakeable vision, pray that the Spirit of God will reveal the gaps between our beliefs and behavior. Pray that God will grow us to be pleasing to Him on the inside and outside. And pray that our church will be a place that exhibits the love of Jesus to the world around us in undeniable ways.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Week 4
JOY
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."
John 15:5-12
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passages above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
From the weekend message, we learned about joy and generosity. We learned of how God loves a cheerful giver. Today, we will explore how Jesus brings joy to us that overflows in a fruitful life.
Joy is not pleasure, a mere sensation, but a pervasive and constant sense of well-being. Hope in the goodness of God is joy’s indispensable support.”
Dallas Willard
What is Jesus teaching about the source of fruitfulness and joy? What does he say we must do to experience joy? What specifically does this mean to how we relate to God?
What stands in the way of your fruitfulness and joy? From this week’s teaching, have you struggled with any of the following mindsets: Scarcity – Skepticism – Entitlement? What effect do these have on your joy?
This is key: How does Jesus connect obedience, love, and joy? What does Jesus teach about what is necessary for a fruitful life? How can dependence on God, desire for God, and declaration of God’s blessings make us more joyful?
What do you think is the relationship between your joy and your generosity? What change would be needed to make you a more “cheerful giver”?
Prayer
As we refresh our Unshakeable vision, pray that God will exponentially expand our joy with a pervasive sense of His love, goodness, and provision. Pray for a deeper oneness with Christ that makes us more fruitful and joyful. May God give us a greater vision of His loving generosity pouring out of us in cheerful hearts as we serve our community. And pray that we grow in spiritual maturity, trusting Jesus with the entirety of our lives.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Week 5
GENEROSITY
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
The rain and snow come down from the heavens
and stay on the ground to water the earth.
They cause the grain to grow,
producing seed for the farmer
and bread for the hungry.
Isaiah 55:10 NLT
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights
James 1:17
But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…
Deuteronomy 8:18
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
Psalm 139:13-14 NLT
…for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Philippians 2:13
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passage above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
What are some abilities or talents that God has given you? Encourage and acknowledge those abilities in one another.
What thoughts surface for you from the verses in today’s reading? Specifically how do these verses describe God's character?
What is the relationship between gratitude and generosity? Is that a connection you naturally make? Why or why not?
What would you need to do in order to live more generously?
Be specific.As a group or family, are you willing to be accountable to one another in living more generously? What would that look like? How can you encourage one another to embrace the generous heart of God and live it out as a community?
Prayer
As we refresh our Unshakeable vision, ask God to expand your heart so you may recognize all He has done in and for you. Pray that you would grow in maturity and gratitude. Pray that God would lead us as a church family “to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Week 6
GOSPEL
Pray to open your time together.
Then play the week one video, and each share something that stood out to you.
Play this video.
Today’s Scripture
Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.
1 Thessalonians 2:7-8
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’“
Matthew 25:37-40
Discussion and Personal Application
Applying the scripture passage above, discuss the following questions as a group. Journaling can help make your learnings stick.
In this weekend’s message, we learned how we bring the gospel to reality when we care for both physical and spiritual needs.
Which is easier for you, meeting someone’s practical/financial need or sharing your faith with them? Why?
How did you become a believer? Who influenced you the most? Was it over a prolonged period or something that happened more suddenly?
First Thessalonians describes Paul’s ministry to that church.
What is his posture toward them? How does this verse instruct us?In the Matthew parable of the sheep and goats, how does Jesus tie our relationship with Him to the way we treat those in need?
Why does Jesus make this connection? Why is that important? How is this both a physical and spiritual interaction?Our heart, as a church, is to share the love of Jesus with our community. What are some specific ways you believe God has equipped you to share His love? Through this series, what has He refreshed or ignited in you? How can you continue to take steps to build your faith to become more Unshakeable?
Prayer
As we refresh our Unshakeable vision, ask God to open our eyes to the practical and spiritual poverty all around us. Pray for the courage to step into the needs of others with good news. Ask God to continue growing us in love and character.
If you haven’t yet made your Unshakeable generosity commitment, learn more.
Daily Readings | Monday-Sunday
Q+A
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
According to this chapter, what are the marks of the Christ follower?
Where does the Christians confidence come from?
Towards the end of this chapter, how does John contrast your identity in Christ with the world? Why does that matter?
How do you think this informs your relationship with other Christians? With non-Christians?
Why does John end with verse 21? Why is it important to the rest of the chapter?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
What is Gods mandate to humanity in this passage?
What does it mean to be made in gods image?
What does it tell us about creation as a whole?
What is it telling us about sex and marriage?
How does this help in addressing conflicts regarding sex today?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
What was the condition of humanity before the flood?
How does it describe God's feelings about mankind?
What is the solution?
Look ahead to Deuteronomy 9:1-6. Why does God drive out the nations before Israel?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
What was Gods one commandment for Adam and eve?
What lie did the serpent tell?
How is that lie surfacing today?
What choice did Eve make? What choice did Adam make?
What were the consequences for them? What are the consequences for us?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
What is one word you would use to describe God in this chapter?
What emotions accompany Gods actions? How does God feel about it?
God creates a space and then fills it. Name each space and what fills that space.
God makes men and women in his image. What do we do that reflects that image based on this passage?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 6
Paul is giving Christians guidance on how to live in a world dominated by Roman values and culture. What is his first bit of advice in your own words?
How should we view ourselves in this context?
How does he encourage us to interact with the prevailing culture?
Why is this so challenging? What is God calling you to change in your own life and interactions with the world?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Battle for Our Kids
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
As you read this psalm think of God as your “Heavenly Father.” How does that impact the way you read these verses?
How does the truth that nothing is hidden from your Heavenly Father make you feel? Explain
How does this song describe God's love for you? Choose three verses to illustrate.
How does this understanding change your every day life? What do you think God is calling you to do?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
Describe the progression of the three parables in this chapter, concluding with the Prodigal Son.
How would you articulate the fathers character towards his sons in verses 11 through 31? How does the instruct us as parents?
There are two sons in this parable. They both have attitude problems. How are they similar? How are they different?
Do you see yourself or your family in this parable? How so?
What big idea do you think Jesus is teaching through this story?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
What is this chapter say about identity?
How many times do you read familial language in this chapter? Does that change the way you view the church?
How does this chapter impact the way we interact with the world? How does it make us more compassionate towards those who don't know Jesus?
If you are in a group, have each person, make an “I am…” statement. Based on what we've learned here. As a guideline, do not repeat one another.
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
What is the mystery of Christ?
Why can we approach God with freedom and confidence?
How do verses 14 through 19 inspire you? Practically, how do we act as if we believe it? Please describe.
Reading verses, 20 and 21, how do we pass our faith on to our children? Apart from bringing our children to church, what can we do?
In what ways would you like to grow? What might happen if we all leaned into these truths?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Anger: Calming the Storm Within
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
The book of James is considered by many to be the New Testament version of Proverbs. It is practical advice given to us by Jesus’ own brother. We will focus primarily on verses 19 through 27.
What association is JAMES making? Between human anger and morality? How do we “humbly accept the word” that saves?
Can you imagine looking in the mirror after you wake up in the morning and doing nothing about what you see? Why is someone blessed by obeying what they have heard from the word? Why is that challenging for us?
In this section of scripture, how is control of your speech related to dealing with your own anger? How do we learn to control our tongues? What are some practical steps?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
What are the buttons in your own life that cause you to be angry and argumentative? Are there some particular areas that trigger you when stepped on?
How would you relate those sensitive areas to the first three verses in this chapter? Is it descriptive of your experience? How?
Verses 4 to 10 speak to humility before God. According to these verses, how does one pursue humility? Why is that important? What happens if we don't?
In verses 13 through 17, how does James encourage us to view our ambitions and plans? What is the perspective he wants us to embrace? Give an example in your own life of a goal or ambition, that could benefit from this perspective.
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Good Question
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
In verses 1 through 18, what is the author trying to establish about John the Baptist and Jesus?
In the next section through verse 34, how is John defining his role? What is his posture towards Jesus?
Having all of this as a precursor, how does that change the way you read Jesus’ question for the two disciples following him in verse 38? How do you think they received that question?
In the final section of this chapter, Jesus starts calling disciples to follow him. What did they acknowledge in following him? What did they say about him? How should that inform you and I as we follow Jesus today?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
How does Jesus set up the feeding of the 5000? What question does he ask?
Verses 16 through 25 the crowds are in search of Jesus. After having experienced the miraculous feeding, what do you suppose is motivating them? If you had been there what would you be thinking about Jesus?
Describe the parallel between manna in the desert and Jesus as the bread of life. What are the commonalities? What are the differences?
In the last section, verses 60 through 71, Jesus asks a question. What is the question? Why does he ask it? What is the response?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
What do we learn from children as Jesus teaches us at the beginning of this passage?
What question does Jesus ask the rich young men in the next section? Why that question? What point is Jesus trying to make?
And verses 35 through 45, what are the two questions Jesus asks? What conclusion is he leading them to?
In the final section of this chapter what is the pivotal question that Jesus asked? Why does Jesus ask that question? Is he asking that question of you and I today?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Summer at the Movies
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
Paul is speaking about perseverance in the new life in Christ and our ministry to those who don't yet know Jesus. How does Paul connect just perseverance with Jesus in the first paragraph ending in verse 6? How does that apply to us today?
In verses seven through 12, what is the big idea PAUL is trying to get across? How should we view ourselves in light of this?
What is the Hope Hull is pointing to in verses 13 through 15? How does that make you feel?
What perspective is he trying to encourage us within verses 16 through 18?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
What is the tent that Paul is referring to versus one through five?
What perspective on life is Paul encouraging us to adopt in verses six through 10?
The apostle Paul is writing to believers in the city of Corinth in this letter. What is motivating him in verses 11 through 14? How does that motivate you and I?
In verses 16 through 21 what are the big ideas that stand out to you? What is the “ministry of reconciliation?”
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
Based on 1 John 4:16, God is love. So, what does 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 show you about God?
How does understanding this provides insight into what you believe about God?
How does the picture of love give us hope in our own valleys?
Between faith, hope, and love, why is love the greatest of these characteristics of the kingdom of God?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
This middle chapter of Jesus longest sermon, the sermon on the mount, he's telling us about the availability and conditions of the kingdom of God to all of us. In verses 5 through 14 what is the clue that he's talking about us in terms of family? How should we see ourselves? How do we treat family members?
In verses 16 through 18 why does Jesus say you should keep fasting between you and God? How should that impact you?
In the versus 19 through 24, what is the difference between earthly treasure and heavenly treasure? How do we treat each respectively?
In the final section versus 25 to 34 Jesus speaks to the topic of worry. What is his perspective on worry? How does he see us? What should our' regarding our physical needs?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
What unifies Christ followers? Talk about the different elements in verses one through six.
Why is unity important? What happens if Christ followers are unified and equipped in verses nine through 16.
What are some characteristics of the old self? The new self?
Why does this chapter conclude is an encourager to forgiveness? How is forgiveness related to unity?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Through the Valley
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon is painting a picture of life without the purpose and meaning that comes from relationship with God. With that in mind, how would you paraphrase his summary of life without God?
What does he say about work? What does he say about the pursuit of wealth?
What is Solomon saying about life in community?
How does he contrast youth, age, and power?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 2
What is the author, Paul, mean by, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power?”
Why do we seek strength in other places besides God?
How do you resolve the issue that our battle is not with flesh and blood? Especially when a person is standing right in front of you?
As a group, look at the three lies that Satan tells us. Then, share about a time that you believed one or all of the lies. The three lies are:
My life is meaningless and worthless, so what’s the point?
Satan lies about the consequences of our behavior.
Satan lies about the nature of who we are.
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 3
Based on 1 John 4:16, God is love. So, what does 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 show you about God?
How does understanding this provides insight into what you believe about God?
How does the picture of love give us hope in our own valleys?
Between faith, hope, and love, why is love the greatest of these characteristics of the kingdom of God?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 4
What does this passage of scripture say about who we are in Jesus?
Where does our confidence come from? How would you describe that?
How does Christ's love compel us?
What is the ministry of reconciliation? Do you share your faith easily? Why or why not?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 5
Why does Jesus encourage us to meet people's needs without any fanfare? How could that help the person with the need?
Have you ever prayed the Lord's prayer with another person in mind? What does it mean to pray “Your kingdom come, Your will be done," on behalf of someone else?
What is Jesus saying about treasure?
What is his cure for anxiety? What perspective does he give us?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 6
In this perhaps most famous of all the psalms, the author David gives us a poem of our journey with God. What are the benefits of God as your shepherd?
Do you see a progression in the way God walks with you throughout this psalm? If so, how would you describe that progression?
When you are walking through your own valleys, how could this psalm be a reference point for you?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Week 6
The apostle Paul is writing a letter of encouragement to the church in Corinth. How does he see his own suffering?
For what purpose does he see the difficulties he and his companions are going through?
What is he encouraging us to do in this regard? How do you think we can do this?
What is the role of prayer in this passage?
Daily Readings | Monday-Saturday
Gospel of Luke | ONE
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together.
Week 1
After Jesus asks him to come and follow, Matthew the tax collector hosts dinner in honor of Jesus with other tax collectors.
Matthew throws a party for Jesus and invites all of his friends. It appears that the Pharisees thought Jesus was guilty by association with these people they consider to be sinners. What is Jesus’ response? Why is that important?
The Pharisees point out that other followers of Judaism as well as John the Baptist’s disciples fasted and prayed. What perspective does Jesus offer in response?
Jesus then tells the parable of the wine skins. What is the new wine he is speaking of? What is the old wine?
The new wine needs to be stored in new wineskins. What point is he trying to make with the religious leaders? Would they find that offensive? Why?
Week 2
Luke 7:36 - 8:18
Jesus eats with pharisees and is anointed by a sinful woman.
In this scene Jesus is at dinner again. This time it is with a religious leader, a Pharisee. It is at this meal that a woman with a checkered reputation enters. She goes to Jesus, washes his feet with her hair, and anoints him with the perfumed oil.
In last week’s lesson, Jesus is having a meal with people who would have been considered sinners and rejects in their culture. This week he is having a meal with someone who would've been considered “holy” and a community leader. Why is this significant?
This woman, known to be a sinful person, treats Jesus very differently than the Pharisee did in his home. How would you articulate the difference? What is she doing for Jesus?
Why did the Pharisees grumble when Jesus said that her sins were forgiven?
Jesus makes a comparison between a person’s understanding of their sinfulness and the love they have for Jesus. Does the Pharisee need forgiveness? Does he think he needs forgiveness? Does he need forgiveness as much as this woman? Why is this important?
Week 3
Luke 10:25-10:42, Luke 11:37-11:54
In Luke chapter 11, Jesus is again invited to dine at a Pharisee’s house.
In the passage of Luke chapter 10, what is Jesus saying about priorities to Mary and Martha? What does that say to us today? How is that personal for you?
They were mad that Jesus did not wash for the meal. This is a practice that would’ve been extremely familiar to Jesus. Do you think Jesus did this on purpose? Why or why not?
What is Jesus referring to with the analogy of the inside and outside of the cup? What is the inside or outside of the cup?
In verses 42-44, Jesus proclaims three “woes” to the Pharisees. Why is Jesus so confrontational in the situation? What is the heart attitude he has addressing?
Week 4
The banquet invitations and three lost treasures.
Starting at Luke 14:15, Jesus tells us a parable about a great banquet. Who is Jesus referring to as those first invited to the banquet?
They give three different excuses for not attending the banquet. What do these three excuses have in common?
What is the man's response? Who does he then go and invite to the party? Who do you think they represent in this parable?
In Luke chapter 15, Jesus talks about three more treasures. This time they are lost to their various owners or relationships. What are the three treasures?
What did these parables say about the priority of these lost treasures? How valuable are they?
What do you see if you compare the treasures from chapter 14 to chapter 15? Are there any parallels? Are they speaking to the same sense of priorities in God's kingdom?
Week 5
Luke 17:1-19, Luke 18:1-30. Servants coming in from the field and two men in the temple.
In Luke 17:7, Jesus tells a difficult parable about servants coming in from the field. He had just gotten through talking to them about people who cause others to sin, repentance, and forgiveness. Who do you think the servants coming in from the field are?
What does this parable have to say about authority and gratitude?
The Pharisees and religious leaders acted as if their good works obligated God to bless them. How would you contrast that attitude with the one Jesus is illustrating here?
Luke 18:9-14 again illustrates the difference in attitude between Pharisees and those who please God. Why do the Pharisees have contempt for these other people they refer to as “sinners?”
Jesus clearly tells us what attitude he prefers. What parallels do you see between this parable and the one we discussed from Luke chapter 17? What attitude is Jesus condemning? What attitude is Jesus applauding?
Week 6
Luke 22:1-62, Luke 23:26-56, Luke 24. The Last Supper, Crucifixion, and Resurrection
Jesus gathered with his disciples to observe the Passover meal as they had done many times before. Passover was always to observe and remember how God rescued Israel from Egypt. But this time, it was significantly different. How does Jesus reframe the Passover meal? What does it mean to his disciples and future Christ followers?
In Luke 22: 24- 27, Jesus gives a lesson on leadership. In his kingdom, what does leadership look like as opposed to authority in the rest of the world?
In Luke 22:66-71 the religious leaders ask Jesus if he is the Christ prophesied in the Scriptures. He has an interesting answer for them. What was his response? What did these religious leaders believe he said?
In Luke 23:34, after all their slander, lies, and brutality, Jesus prays over those who are in the process of murdering him. What does Jesus ask of his heavenly Father? What do you think his motive is?
From Luke 24. After the crucifixion, Jesus was buried. Some women saw him entombed on Friday. On Sunday, they returned to the tomb. What were they expecting to see? What were they anticipating they would do? How did the disciples respond to what they found? Why is that significant?
Starting in verse 36, Jesus appears to the disciples as they are speaking about him. He invites them to touch him, and he actually shares a meal with them. What does this say about resurrection? Why is it important that he physically appeared to them? What does it say about our own bodies?
At the end of this chapter, Jesus explains how the Old Testament scriptures are fulfilled in him. He then tells them to wait in Jerusalem as the witnesses of everything he had done. He then ascends back to his Father in heaven. Why did he ask them to wait in Jerusalem? What was their cause for celebration? How does that inform how you and I celebrate the resurrection of Jesus today?
Explore Impact
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
This week in parallel with our Sunday impact series we will be focusing on God's heart for the orphan. How does James describe that heart at the end of this chapter?
Is there a natural progression of ideas leading to these last couple of verses? If so, how does it frame the way we view orphans and widows?
The book of James is thought of as a New Testament book of proverbs. How are some other proverbial sayings in this chapter connected to verse 27?
Week 2
Jesus tells three parables in this chapter. How are they connected?
What does they say about the Kingdom of Heaven? What should our posture be?
How do they inform the way we see people in need today? What are we to do?
God's Word, We Live and Die by It
Use these scripture passages and discussion questions to engage God’s Word together!
Week 1
What relationship do you see between the first three days of creation and the last three days?
In the first chapter, how many times do you see the phrase, "it was good?" What is the significance of that? What does that say about God's personality?
On the sixth day, God creates mankind. What is different about mankind from everything else God created?
What is God's mandate to humankind? Describe it in your own words.
What happens on the seventh day? What does that say to you and me?
Week 2
What are the parallels between John 1:1-5 and Genesis 1:1-5? What does that say about Jesus?
What is John, the gospel's author, saying about his experience with Jesus?
What is John the Baptist's relationship with Jesus?
Who are the "children of God" from this chapter?
From this chapter, how does Jesus start gathering his first disciples?
Week 3
In 28:38-43, what are the markers challenging Jesus to do? Why doesn't he? What would've happened if he did?
If you have a reference Bible, what is Jesus quoting in verse 46?
In verse 54, why does John record what the Roman Centurion says? Why is that significant?
What do the angel and Jesus say to the women after the resurrection? Why?
From 28:17, we find that some worshiped him, and some doubted. What does that say about you and me? What does Jesus proclaim to that group of people?
Week 4
How do the conditions for humanity change? To whom is this available?
What does this passage say about "the nations?"
Who is the lamb? How is the lamb described? Who is the bride? How is the bride described?
What is your biggest takeaway from this passage? How does it make you feel? How does it make you view your life right now?
What does this passage say about God beyond what we have already discussed?