Announcement: Discuss as a group how you can join the church family in supporting the Foster Care Ministry's backpack drive. Icebreaker: How do you relate to the character Vizzini from "The Princess Bride" misusing the word "inconceivable"? Have you ever used a word or phrase incorrectly? Sermon Discussion - Read Matthew 7:1-5
What are some common misconceptions about the phrase "Do not judge"
How have you seen this phrase used in ways that might miss its true meaning?
How do you distinguish between condemning someone versus judging, discerning between right and wrong actions? Can you provide examples?
(The podcast talked a lot more about this)
Why do you think it's easier to notice others' faults rather than our own?
What steps can we take to fight against this type of hypocrisy?
Going Deeper
How do you react when someone points out a sin in your life? What can you do to be more open to receiving constructive criticism?
What is the difference between confessing you have a beam and actually dealing with the beam in your life?
Why is confessing not enough?
What are some loving and compassionate ways to help a brother or sister in Christ with their "splinter"?
How does the command to carry each other burdens also guide us for how to help each other with sin?
Next Steps
How can we, as a church community, support each other in recognizing and overcoming our sins? What role does our Grow Group play in this?
Prayer Time: Take some time in reflection, asking the Lord to reveal any "beams" in your eye that are hindering your ability to help others with their "splinters." Reminder for next week - Read Luke 10:25-37
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Our offices are closed from December 23 to January 1.