Grow Group Questions - March 3, 2024

February 29, 2024 2:21 PM
Announcement:  (Please read as a group before discussion)
Our challenge to you this week is to answer the questions with a willingness to examine the power of your tongue in relationship with others.
Icebreaker:  What is one of your most memorable verbal "bloopers?"
Sermon Discussion - James 3:1-12
  • What do the three illustrations here (horse's bit, ship's rudder, fire's spark) each reveal about the tongue's power?
  • Why do you think he emphasizes the negative example of the fire so much more than the positive examples of the horse’s bit or ship’s rudder?
    • (Matthew 15:11, 18-19)
    •  How does what we say reveal what is in our hearts?
  • In verse 11 James says that cursing others and blessing God “Should not be!”
    • Why do you think James says this in such an absolute way?
    • In what ways do we justify our “cursing of others”?
    • What might it say about our hearts or faith if it does exist?
Going Deeper
  • James emphasizes the importance of consistency in speech for Christ-followers. 
    • Why is it significant that our words align with our beliefs about God?
    • How can our speech reflect our faith positively or negatively?
  • What are some potential reasons why people hurt others with their words?
    • How can understanding these reasons help us approach situations with empathy and compassion rather than judgment?
  • Consider the analogy of the broken sewer pipe and sump pump. 
    • How does this illustration relate to the idea of addressing the source of our speech problems rather than just treating the symptoms?
    • What practical steps can we take to address the root causes of harmful speech?
Pray   
Reminder for next week: Read James 3:13-18
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
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