BIG IDEA: Time is short and eternity is real.
Get To Know Your Group: What is something you love doing? Why?
Sermon Questions:
- Why do you think people are so fascinated by predictions and “signs” concerning the end times?
- The sermon emphasizes that Paul focuses less on when Jesus will return and more on how Christians should live until He does. Why is that distinction important?
- Paul says Christians grieve, but not without hope. How does belief in Jesus' resurrection change the way Christians understand death?
Scripture Discussion Questions:
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
- What does Paul say God's will is for His people?
- How is sanctification different from simply following a list of religious rules?
- What area of your life might God currently be asking you to surrender to His transforming work?
Read Romans 12:1-2
- What does this passage teach us about becoming different from the world around us?
- What role does the renewing of our minds play in spiritual transformation?
- Where are you most tempted to allow culture rather than Christ to shape your thinking?
Read Galatians 5:16-25
- What contrast does Paul make between living by the flesh and living by the Spirit?
- Which fruit of the Spirit do you most want God to develop in you?
- How does dependence upon the Holy Spirit help us pursue holiness?
Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your saving grace and eternal hope. Sanctify our lives, strengthen our faith, and keep us spiritually awake, faithfully following Jesus as we await His return. Amen.