Grow Group Questions - August 29, 2021

Announcements for your Group:  There is no podcast this week.

Remember that next week, September 5, is our Launch Sunday. After services we will have a BBQ lunch and games and tons of fun for the whole family. If you have people in the group who want to volunteer to help on that day, go to our website to sign up.

Conversation Starter/Questions (10 minutes)

Since this is the last week of this series, let’s look back at some of the things we have learned over the summer. Thinking back over this series, which of the heart attitudes made the biggest impression on your life. Poor in Spirit, mourn, meek, merciful, pure in heart, or peacemakers.

What did you learn about God and who he is from this teaching of Jesus?

How did your study of prayer from the Lord’s Prayer change the way you approach prayer in your daily life?

How did your study of meekness and judgment in Jesus’ teaching change your approach to those who have wronged you?

Sermon Based Questions (15-20 minutes)

Read Matt 5:41. When was the last time that someone went the "extra mile" for you or you went the extra mile for someone else? Share what that was. Is there an opportunity out there where you are considering going the extra mile? How will you do this?

Read Matt 5:39. Our culture struggles mightily to "turn the other cheek".

• When was the last time that you were insulted or had your pride pricked? How did they insult you or prick your pride? 
• Did you respond biblically or out of your "first instinct"? 
• Why is it so hard to "turn the other cheek", to take the high road and to let God defend your dignity? 
• Is there a way to "turn the other cheek" and still seek to defend your reputation?

Digging Deeper (20-25 minutes)

Have each member read quietly Matthew 7:13-27. Jesus' teachings on the sermon on the mount are so spiritually and practically demanding. Then, towards the end of these teachings Jesus essentially emphasizes that we must:  watch out for false prophets, do His will and build our houses on the Rock (Himself). If our fruit is "a" indicator of the degree we follow Jesus in the narrow way, or if we are following Him at all, how are you doing at following these teachings?

Challenge and Prayer (10-15 minutes)

Based on your discussion this week, share with the group about an area where you need to improve in your desire to follow Jesus in the ‘narrow way’ and then pray for each other about that area.

Spend time as a group praying for our church as we get ready to ‘launch’ into all our fall programs.