2025 Sunday School Discussion Guide

Together we will read through the New Testament in 2025!

Here are some helpful discussion questions for your Sunday School class or small group!

Download Discussion Questions through the New Testament

SEPTEMBER

WEEK 35 (9/7)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

Tell us a funny (but appropriate) joke.

New Testament

Ephesians 3 ~ Ephesians 4 ~ Ephesians 5 ~ Ephesians 6 ~ Philippians 1

1. Who would you go to jail for? Why would you go to jail for them? What does Paul mean when he says he is a “a prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles” (Ephesians 3:1)?

2. What would it be like to inherit unimaginable wealth? What if someone outside of your family was adopted into the will and shared the inheritance? How would you feel about that? Why would the Jews have such a hard time sharing their beliefs and God with the Gentiles?

3. Paul references the joy of preaching “the unsearchable riches of Christ and to bring to light to everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God” (Ephesians 3:9). How do we get the same privilege? Who shared the Gospel with you? What if they had given up on you?

4. What guides your prayer life? Who do you pray the most for? Why? How do you pray them? How do we see Paul praying in Ephesians 3:14-21? What can we learn from his example?

5. Have you ever had the job or responsibility of representing someone else, a business, a school, or an organization? How did that situation affect how you acted and spoke? Why is it so important to live our lives “in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called?” (Ephesians 4:1) What does that look like for us as Christians?

6. What was the best gift you got for Christmas, a birthday, or an anniversary? How did you enjoy and use that gift? How has God gifted you (Ephesians 4:8)? How are you using those gifts? How do you want to improve in using your giftings?

7. According to Ephesians 4:12-15, what are some of the goals and purposes for our church? Why are these purposes so important? Why is truth without love so unhelpful? Why is love without truth so unhelpful? Why do we need both truth and love?

8. What would you say is the purpose, priorities, and motivations of the world around us? How do they live? Why does God call us to live differently? (Ephesians 4:17-24)

9. Is it possible to be angry and righteous at the same time? (Ephesians 4:26). Why does God say to “not let the sun go down on your anger”? What can we do to ensure that we obey this command in our relationships? How can we better protect ourselves, our families, coworkers, etc. from Satan’s schemes?

10. Why do most people work hard at their job? What does Ephesians 4:28 say is a good motivation for Christians to work hard?

11. What does it feel like to disappoint someone? How do we “grieve” the Holy Spirit? (Ephesians 4:30)?

12. Read Ephesians 4:31-32. Why is forgiveness so hard? So important? Who has forgiven you when you didn’t deserve it? Who has been the hardest for you to forgive? Why?

13. Read Ephesians 5:1-6. How should the church look different than the world? How can we do better in these areas? What do you think of verse 5 and 6? How is this playing out in the church today? Why do so many churches and pastors avoid these topics?

14. How can we best “discern what is pleasing to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:10)?

15. In what places and situations do you watch your step? Why do you walk more carefully there? In a similar way, why do we need to “look carefully how we walk” (Ephesians 5:15) in the world around us today? What consequences are there if Christians live in “unwise” ways or don’t make “the best use of the time” (Ephesians 5:16)?

16. Why do so many churches divide or fight over worship songs? Should they? What is the key emphasis of Ephesians 5:19? (see also: https://www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-worship-through-singing )

17. Ephesians 5:22-33 is all about marriage. Why do you think marriage can be so difficult? So magnificent? Do you think verse 33 is the best summary of this passage?

18. What have been the hardest parts of parenting for you? What were the hardest parts of being a child for you? How does Ephesians 6:1-3 help you understand parenting better?

19. What are some of your toughest challenges or greatest joys in your workplace? What is one piece of godly wisdom that stands out to you in Ephesians 6:5-9?

20. Ephesians 6:10-20 talks about our warfare with Satan and his demons. Why do we need the regular reminder that we “do not wrestle against flesh and blood”? (Ephesians 6:12). What one piece of the “armor of God” do you need to refocus better on?

21. Paul starts out with a prayer of thankfulness in Philippians 1:1-11? Who or what have you taken for granted lately? How can you work on being more grateful for that blessing? Why is Philippians 1:9 such a great way to pray for someone?

22. Paul talks about some people and churches being envious, competitive, selfishly ambitious, and not sincere, yet Paul still rejoices that “whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice” (Philippians 1:15-18)? Do you agree with Paul or struggle with this statement? Why?

23. Why is Philippians 1:21 such a great verse to memorize (other than it being short )?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 36 (9/14)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your favorite Fall activity or childhood memory?

New Testament

Philippians 2 ~ Philippians 3 ~ Philippians 4 ~ Colossians 1 ~ Colossians 2

1. When a parent considers the outcome of their children’s life to date, what would bring them joy? What would bring them grief? What sort of characteristics in Christians brings joy according to Philippians 2:2? What sort of characteristics would bring about grief?

2. Consider the statement: “Pride is the root of all sin.” Agree or disagree? Why?

3. Read Philippians 2:3-4. How would you define or describe the following terms: “selfish ambition,” “conceit”, & “humility”? Why is looking at Jesus’ incarnation (coming to earth as a human) and death the key to Christian humility and unity?

4. Why is doing “all things without grumbling or disputing” a counter-cultural way to “shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:14-15)? Why is this so hard?

5. Paul aims to send Timothy to the church at Philippi, describing him as “genuinely concerned for your welfare”? (Philippians 2:20) Who has God sent into your life as a similar blessing? Who do you think God is sending you to be a blessing to?

6. What kind of warnings did your parents give you growing up? Why? What sort of people did they caution you about? Why do you think Paul gave such a firm command to “look out for the dogs…evildoers” who were teaching a works-based salvation? (Philippians 3:2). What sort of false teachings should the modern-day church be on the watch for?

7. How easy is it to drive forward while looking in the rear-view mirror? Why is it dangerous? Why does Satan try to distract us with our past? What does God tell us to focus on in Philippians 3:13-14? What helps you to focus forward when Satan attacks you with past failures, hurts, and sins?

8. Why is peacemaking hard? Should it be? When Paul urges Euodia and Syntyche to “agree in the Lord”, why is the fact that their “names are in the book of life” (Philippians 4:2-3) such a helpful reminder?

9. Read Philippians 4:6. Why is this such a popular verse? In what ways do you find yourself becoming anxious, stressed, or depressed? Why? What does this verse say is the next step when faced with worry? How have you encountered the “peace of God which surpasses all understanding” in past situations of stress?

10.Read Philippians 4:8. How does filling our minds with such things protect us? Change us? Guide us?

11.Paul says he has learned in “whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11-13), affirming that “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” What is an area in which you struggle for contentment? How can we better trust in God’s power & plans to find contentment?

12.The church at Philippi is described as sharing in Paul’s trouble and being generous in their support of his missions (Philippians 4:14-19). Their offerings are described as a “a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). How does this encourage you to be more generous in Christian giving?

13.Read Colossians 1:9-12. What do you like about this way of praying for someone? Who is someone in your life you could pray for more consistently in this manner?

14.Every been without electricity or stuck in a scary, dark place? What was that like? How does it make you more grateful to know that, as a Christian, you have been delivered “from the domain of darkness” and transferred “to the kingdom of hie beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13)? How does that motivate you to share the gospel more lovingly and courageously with others?

15.Colossians 1:15-19 describes Jesus in some amazing ways. What is your favorite description of Him here?

16.If someone claims to be a Christian, prays a prayer, walks an aisle, and gets baptized, does that make them a true believer? What is Colossians 1:23 warning us about? How is this connected with the warnings of Colossians 2 of being deluded by “plausible arguments” (v.4) and being taken captive by “philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition” (v.8)? How can we best avoid false belief today?

17.What would it feel like (if you have a house mortgage, student loan, business loan, vehicle loan, or credit card balance) to have all of your financial debt erased immediately? How would you respond to the one who paid off your debt? Read Colossians 2:13-15. If you are a Christian, what has Jesus done for you? How should this reminder encourage us on our down day? Motivate and change us into the future?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 37 (9/21)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What phone emoji do you use the most?

New Testament

Colossians 3 ~ Colossians 4 ~ 1 Thessalonians 1 ~ 1 Thessalonians 2 ~ 1 Thessalonians 3

1. Do you find it easier to focus on the past, present, or future? Why?

2. In what ways can focusing on the past be helpful? In what ways can focusing on the past be distracting, destructive to others, and dangerous to yourself?

3. How can we practically “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth" (Colossians 3:2)?

4. Do we tend towards putting sin “on a shelf for later” or putting it “to death” (Colossians 3:5)? Why are “earthly things” warned against so severely? What are some of the examples that stand out to you? (See Colossians 3:5-11)

5. What sorts of things does God tell us to “put on”? (See Colossians 3:12-17). If you had to pick just one area to grow in the next week, which area would you pick?

6. Why does Satan attack marriages, families, and workplaces so hard? Why does God give such specific instructions for these environments in Colossians 3:18-4:1?

7. What does it mean to “walk in wisdom towards outsiders”? How can we do that better? For what purposes? (Colossians 4:2-6)

8. Why do you think 1 Thessalonians starts with such gratitude (1 Thessalonians 1:2-10)? What spiritual blessings do we often take for granted? How can we intentionally more thankful?

9. What are some ways you have sought to “please God” (1 Thessalonians 2:4) in your lifetime?

10. How has God shown you that the Bible is not “the word of men” but is really the “word of God” (1 Thess 2:13)? How have you improved in your study of God’s Word over the years? How to you aim to continue to grow?

11. What were COVID lockdowns like for you? Was it hard to not see people “face to face”? What did you miss about church gatherings? Why is it so important for Christian discipleship to be “in person” through our local churches and not merely online-only? Why would Satan “hinder” people from gathering together in church? (1 Thessalonians 2:17-18) (see also: www.trustworthyword.com/online-church )

12. Who has God sent you at times in your life to “establish and exhort you in your faith” (1 Thessalonians 3:2) like Timothy was sent? Who might God be sending you to?

13. Why is it so encouraging to see friends and family grow in “faith and love” (1 Thessalonians 3:6)? How does such growth best happen? How has God grown you in faith and love in the past year? How has He helped you to stand fast in the midst of affliction?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 38 (9/28)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What was your favorite toy growing up?

New Testament

1 Thessalonians 4 ~ 1 Thessalonians 5 ~ 2 Thessalonians 1 ~ 2 Thessalonians 2 ~ 2 Thessalonians 3

1. How does it feel when you are trying to get someone’s attention and they ignore you? How can you tell if an issue is important/ What are ways to try to help someone see the seriousness or urgency of what you are communicating? Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1. Why is Paul both asking and urging? Why is it important?

2. According to 1 Thessalonians 4:4-8, what is the specific issue that he is concerned about? What are similar ways we see this issue as a problem in our society today?

3. What does it look like to “to aspire to live quietly and to mind your own affairs”? “Work with your own hands”? (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Why would Paul consider this important? How is it connected to our witness in walking “properly towards outsiders” and being “dependent on no one” (1 Thessalonians 4:12)?

4. What was the most beautiful funeral you’ve attended? Why was it so beautiful? What was the saddest funeral you’ve been to? Why was it so sad? Why does God give us 1 Thessalonians 4:12-18?

5. What is the purpose of a “bucket list”? What are things you’d like to accomplish before you die? Why is it important to you? If you found out that today was the day of your death, do you feel prepared? Why or why not? Why does God give us such an urgent warning about Jesus’ return being so sudden in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11? What are ways He tells us to be ready 24/7 for Jesus’ return?

6. When Paul gives some closing instructions in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22, what stands out to you? Why?

7. Who is someone in your life who you have seen their “faith is growing abundantly” and their love “for one another is increasing”? (2 Thessalonians 2:3). How might you encourage them? Why does praise often inspire us to more growth? How are faith and love interconnected?

8. Read 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10. Why do we like to skip over these passages? Why do we need such passages?

9. Have you ever been scammed or manipulated? How did that feel? Why does God spend so much time to warning us about the “man of lawlessness”? (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12) Who do you know that has “refused to love the truth and so be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:10)? How could you try again to love and reach them? What plans could you make to fast and pray for them more intentionally?

10. What final instructions in 2 Thessalonians 3 stand out to you? Why?

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

OCTOBER

WEEK 39 (10/5)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your favorite hobby?

New Testament

1 Timothy 1 ~ 1 Timothy 2 ~ 1 Timothy 3 ~ 1 Timothy 4 ~ 1 Timothy 5

1. How would you describe your calling in life? Why do you think Paul starts 1 Timothy by describing his apostolic calling as a “command of God”? How might we live differently with such a perspective?

2. Paul calls Timothy “my true child in the faith” in 1 Timothy 1:2. Who is someone that was a spiritual “parent” to you? Who is someone you’ve sought to mentor, guide, encourage, and help as a spiritual “child”? What has made those relationships special and effective?

3. Why does Paul give so much attention to false teachers? What dangers do they pose? What are some false teachings you’ve noticed over the years or recently? How can we best recognize false teachers?

a. www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-false-teachers

4. Paul asserts that the “law is good” when used correctly, but that it is “for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:9-11). How is the law good for those continuing in sin?

5. Paul describes his life before Jesus as “a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent” (1 Timothy 1:13). How would you describe your life before Jesus? How can Paul refer to himself as the “foremost” of all sinners (1 Timothy 1:15)? Apart from God, who is most aware of the depths of your sinfulness?

6. How do we avoid a “shipwreck of faith” like Hymenaeus and Alexander? (1 Timothy 1:19-20) Why would being cast out of church be referred to as “handed over to Satan” (1 Timothy 1:20 & 1 Corinthians 5:5)? How can church discipline help someone? Help the church? (www.trustworthyword.com/church-discipline )

7. Who does God call us to pray for in 1 Timothy 2:1-4? Why? How should we pray for them? What types of people are the hardest to genuinely pray for?

8. Why is prayer and unity important among men in church life (1 Timothy 2:8)? Why is modesty and good works emphasized among women in church (1 Tim 2:9-10)?

9. Read 1 Timothy 3:12. In the context of churches, since pastors “teach” and “exercise authority over a man”, why is it controversial in some churches today to say that only men can be pastors? If our opinion on a subject differs with the Bible, who is wrong? When denominations begin to ordain women as pastors, why is that so concerning? Why does it inevitably lead that church or denomination towards other un-biblical steps like affirming LGBTQ marriages and pastors? Although this is a touchy issue, it is an important one. Here are some other helpful Scriptures to consider on this subject: www.trustworthyword.com/women-pastors

10. Look at 1 Timothy 3:1-7 for pastors/overseers/elders and 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Why do you think God gives so many specific details about what to look for in a pastor or deacon? Why are the characteristics present-tense rather than past-tense? Who is a particular pastor or deacon that had a big impact on your life? Why?

11. God emphasizes the important role of His church by describing them as “the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:15). How does it encourage you to see the impact and importance God gives His church?

12. Can you think of someone you once saw as a faithful Christian but now you are concerned about where they are at spiritually? What does it feel like to think of them? According to 1 Timothy 4:1-3 what are some of the reasons that people “depart from the faith”?

13. Why is physical exercise so difficult? How is it helpful? What makes “spiritual exercise” successful? Why is it so important according to 1 Timothy 4:8?

14. Did you ever have someone look down on you because you were younger? How did that feel? Did you ever have someone older than you show respect to you despite your youth? What are ways, according to 1 Timothy 4:12, that we can show spiritual maturity no matter our age?

15. How do you think our church does at showing respect to older men and women? What can we learn from 1 Timothy 5 and apply to our church ministries to those who are older than us?

16. According to 1 Timothy 5:17-20, the role of pastor is really important. Why is it essential for churches to care for their pastors? Why is it important for churches to publicly rebuke pastors who “persist in sin”? Why should churches be slow to ordain new pastors (1 Timothy 5:22)?

17. Read 1 Timothy 5:24-25. Explain this verse in your own words. How does it help you make sense of examples you have seen in others or yourself?

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 40 (10/12)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

New Testament

1 Timothy 6 ~ 2 Timothy 1 ~ 2 Timothy 2 ~ 2 Timothy 3 ~ 2 Timothy 4

1. Have you ever worked in a workplace where it has been hard to maintain a Christian witness or influence? What were some of the challenges you have faced there? Why is it important to treat your boss as “worthy of all honor” according to 1 Timothy 6:1? Why is that hard to do with some bosses? Why is it extra important to be good employees when working for a Christian boss or organization? (1 Timothy 6:2)

2. 1 Timothy started out with a warning about false teachers and finishes with a warning about false teachers in 1 Timothy 6:3-10. What are some ways to recognize false teachers? What are some false teachings you’ve noticed today? How do we protect ourselves from false teachers and false teachings?

3. Why do you think Paul encourages Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith”? (1 Timothy 6:12) What does that look like?

4. If someone gave you something valuable, how would you protect it during your lifetime? How would you protect it beyond your lifetime? What does it look like to “guard the deposit entrusted to you”? (1 Timothy 6:20). Why do you think this them continues on into 2 Timothy 1:14? What are some ways the “good deposit” is described? Who passed on the “good deposit” to Timothy? How does this encourage you to think about your own spiritual legacy? How do you want to be more intentional?

5. Why do you think Paul refers to a Christian as a “good soldier of Christ Jesus”? (2 Timothy 2:3). How has this been part of your experience? How does this connect with the commands and truths within Ephesians 6:10-20?

6. Read 2 Timothy 2:5. How does this description help us to think about the Christian life? Compare it with 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Who is the prize we are running after? What does spiritual “self-control” and “discipline” look like? Why is it so important and helpful? Read Hebrews 12:1-2 and connect its commands to the idea of life as a “race that is set before us.”

7. How does 2 Timothy 4:6-8 help us more clearly understand and apply this imagery of soldier, athlete, farmer to our own lives? What does it mean that genuine Christians have “loved His appearing”?

8. In 2 Timothy 2:14-26 we are warned of ways we might get attacked or tempted. Which warning stands out to you?

9. How does 2 Timothy 3:1-9 sound similar to the times we are living in? How is it different? What is the solution presented in 2 Timothy 3:10-17? How has God strengthened and matured you in a similar way over the years? How do you aim to continue to grow in future years that the Lord gives you?

10.Who might God be calling you to be more “ready” to speak the Word of God to? What does it mean to “reprove”? “Rebuke”? “Exhort”? (2 Timothy 4:2). Why is patience needed in such situations?

11.What does Paul mean by “itching ears” in 2 Timothy 4:3-4? How have you noticed this happening today? On what issues? What topics do “teachers to suit their own passions” avoid? What do such teachers sound like?

12.How is Demas described in 2 Timothy 4:10? Have you known anyone like this who was once a faithful Christian but now is “in love with this present world”? Why should we be urgently concerned for people such as Demas? How can we best pray for such people? Love such people? Speak truth to such people?

13.(John) Mark is described by Paul as “useful to me for the ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11) after previously abandoning Paul on a missionary trip (Acts 15:36-40)? How does this example of restoration after failure encourage you?

14.Paul explains that “Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm” but trusts that “the Lord will repay him according to his deeds.” (2 Timothy 4:14). How is this instructive to us in our attitudes towards our enemies and those who have hurt us deeply? Why is a warning to others (2 Timothy 4:15) sometimes needed?

15.Paul was abandoned for awhile (“no one came to stand by me” 2 Timothy 4:16) but yet knows that “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.” (2 Timothy 4:17). How does this encourage your faith for seasons of loneliness? What Old Testament story/figure does it seem to reference? How does Paul’s ultimate focus on “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom.” (2 Timothy 4:18) help him? How will that perspective help us move into the challenges of the future?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 41 (10/19)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is the best costume you ever dressed up in?

New Testament

Titus 1 ~ Titus 2 ~ Titus 3 ~ Philemon ~ Hebrews 1

1. In Titus 1:1 Paul calls himself a “servant of God” for what purpose? How is our purpose the same? Different?

2. What is Paul’s relationship with Titus? (Titus 1:4) With whom has God place you into a similar relationship? What responsibilities and privileges come in such relationships?

3. Why does Paul give such specific commands to Titus about the role of pastor/shepherd/overseer/elder in Titus 1:5-9 as he gave to Timothy (1 Timothy 3:1-7)?

4. What does it mean to “hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught” (Titus 1:9)? How does that happen? Why is it so important? What happens if you hold onto something “loosely”? What happens if you hold on to the wrong teaching? Why is that extra important for pastors?

5. Paul gives Titus a warning of “many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers” (Titus 1:10). Why are they dangerous to a church? What is Paul’s command to Titus of how to respond to their presence and teaching (Titus 1:11)? How is this best done? What is the goal of such a confrontation (Titus 1:13)? What are some of the symptoms to watch for in the lives of bad & false teachers (Titus 1:14-16)? Why is this relevant today?

6. Look at the commands to older & younger men and women in Titus 2:2-8. If you had to pick one of these goals for your own life, what would you prioritize and why? How is Titus 2:9-10 important to our workplace ethics today? Why?

7. What does it look like to “renounce ungodliness and worldly passions”? What does it look like to “live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age”? (Titus 2:12) Why is this so challenging on a daily basis? How does the reality that we are “waiting for our blessed hope” (Titus 2:13) help with this daily battle for holiness?

8. How can we be “submissive to rulers and authorities” (Titus 3:1) if they are anti-God and evil in many of the things they say and do? How does such an attitude towards the government help our witness? Why is it important to our witness to “speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people” (Titus 3:2)? Do you struggle with this? How can you do better?

9. Paul writes Philemon about Onesimus, urging him to forgive Onesimus and to receive him as a Christian brother despite his theft and wrongdoing. Why is forgiveness so hard? Paul seems confident about Philemon’s forgiveness and generosity (Philemon 1:21). Why do you think that is? How does that connect with Paul’s start to the letter? (Philemon 1:1-7)

10. Read the beginning of Hebrews 1. What stands out to you? Impacts you? Why? What amazes you about who Jesus is? That the Creator speaks to us? That He is a better messenger than all of the prophets and the angels?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 42 (10/26)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is one thing you would want to be sure to do before you die?

New Testament

Hebrews 2 ~ Hebrews 3 ~ Hebrews 4 ~ Hebrews 5 ~ Hebrews 6

1. Watch this great video explanation of Hebrews: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fNWTZZwgbs

2. Have you ever gone swimming in the ocean? What happens when you ignore the pull of the tide? Why are we warned that “we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard”? (Hebrews 2:1)

3. Read Hebrews 2:6. What amazes you about Jesus paying attention to you and caring for you?

4. How does it comfort you to know that, even though we “do not yet see everything in subjection to” Jesus, God “left nothing outside his control” (Hebrews 2:8)? How is Satan ultimately defeated (Hebrews 2:15)?

5. What does it mean that Jesus made “propitiation for the sins of the people” (Hebrews 2:17)? Why is it so significant that Jesus “had to be made like his brothers in every respect” (Hebrews 2:17) and “he himself has suffered when tempted” (Hebrews 2:18)?

6. When you look at a building, isn’t it obvious that there is an architect and a builder? Why then do atheists look at Creation and try to deny the existence of a designer and Creator? Why is important that we have the reminder that “the builder of a house has more honor than the house itself” and that “the builder of all things is God” (Hebrews 3:3-4)?

7. When have you been tempted to “harden your hearts” against God (Hebrews 3:8)? What are some symptoms of a hardened spirit? What are the dangers?

8. How do we avoid and warn others about turning away “from the living God” by “the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:12-13)? How are we deceived by sin? What does it promise? What does it actually do?

9. Read Hebrews 3:14. What is one evidence of true, saving faith? Why is the example of Israel’s rebellion in the Exodus used to help us understand this reality? How is Jesus better than Moses? Why then is our rebellion against Jesus more serious than Israel’s rebellion against Moses? Why is Heaven described as where we enter God’s rest (Hebrews 4:3-4)?

10. As you have grown as a Christian, how have you experienced the Bible to be “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12)?

11. Why is it important to understand that Jesus is our “great high priest”? What does that mean? How is he better than any other priest in all of history? (Hebrews 4:14-5:10)

12. How do babies progress from milk to solid food? Why is it important? How is spiritual maturity seen? Why is spiritual maturity so important (Hebrews 5:11-14)?

13. How has Jesus been “a sure and steadfast anchor” to your soul (Hebrews 6:19)? How can we better share and show that testimony of hope in Jesus’ finished work on the cross?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

NOVEMBER

WEEK 43 (11/2)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What phone app do you use or like the most?

New Testament

Hebrews 7 ~ Hebrews 8 ~ Hebrews 9 ~ Hebrews 10 ~ Hebrews 11

1. Who was Melchizedek? (Genesis 14:18-20, Psalm 110:4, Hebrews 7) Why is Jesus compared to Melchizedek? Do you think Jesus appeared (theophany/Christophany) as Melchizedek to bless Abraham? (see www.gotquestions.org/Melchizedek.html ).

2. What does it mean that Jesus “has become a priest” by “the power of an indestructible life” (Hebrews 7:16)? How is Jesus “a better hope” with “a better covenant” than the law was (Hebrews 7:19, 22; Hebrews 8:6)? Why does it make it so serious to reject Jesus as the ultimate “high priest”?

3. If you asked the average person how they might get to heaven, what do you think they would say? Do you think many Jews were thinking they could go to Heaven simply by being a good person by keeping the law and making sacrifices? Why then do you think all of this attention is given to Jesus as a priest?

4. How can you tell that every human already has the law of God in their minds and on their hearts (Hebrews 8:10, Romans 2:14-15)? Why does the law “speak to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped” (Romans 3:19)?

5. If you are a Christian, how have you experienced Jesus’ new covenant of knowing Him, being His people, and experiencing His mercy (Hebrews 8:10-12)? How does it feel to know that Jesus chooses not to hold your sin against you any longer (“I will remember their sins no more” (Hebrews 8:12)?

6. What confuses you about all of the Old Testament descriptions of rules for worship and sacrifice (Hebrews 9)? What was the purpose of the various sacrifices? Were they enough (Hebrews 9:9-10)? How is Hebrews showing us that Jesus is far better than any sacrifice (Hebrews 9:11-14)? Why then is it so serious to reject Jesus?

7. Why does an inheritance only pass on at death? How does this help us to see what Jesus accomplishes in His death to allow us an “eternal inheritance” and “the forgiveness of sins” (Hebrews 9:15-22)?

8. How does it make you feel to think that “it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgement” (Hebrews 9:27)? Should Christians fear death? Judgment? Why or why not? Why is it a good description of those who are saved to be “eagerly waiting for him” (Hebrews 9:28)? What distracts us from this focus?

9. Do you think the book of Hebrews is an easy or hard book to understand? Why? How have you discovered it to be important and helpful?

10. How does it help you to have the reminder to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23)?

11. Is church attendance important? Why or why not? Why do we need the encouragement to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24–25)? What happens when we regularly miss church gatherings?

12. Read Hebrews 10:26. What does this mean? Why is an unbeliever described as “one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?” (Hebrews 10:29) How has Hebrews showed us that unbelief is this serious?

13. Although God gives us abundant and overwhelming evidence for His Creative work, why do we still need faith to understand Jesus as Creator? (Hebrews 11:3). Why is this important to understand when talking to someone who believes in Darwinian evolution or atheism? Who are they ultimately trusting and having faith in? Where does that faith lead to?

14. Read Hebrews 11. Why does God give us these examples from across the Scriptures? Why is this summary given to us? Which example stands out to you or encourages you particularly? How are you impacted by reading of the Christian suffering in Hebrews 11:35-38)?

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 44 (11/9)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

If you could be a professional athlete, what sport would you pick?

New Testament

Hebrews 12 ~ Hebrews 13 ~ James 1 ~ James 2 ~ James 3

1. Who has been a great witness of genuine Christian faith to you? How have their words encouraged you and given you biblical wisdom? How has their example inspired you and guided you to be faithful to Jesus? Read Hebrews 12:1-2. How does sin feel like a “weight” that “clings so closely”? How does it affect how we “run” in the race of life? Why is “endurance” essential in a race and in life? Who are we told to be “looking to” throughout our life? Why? How do we best do that daily?

2. In parenting, why is discipline so essential? What is the purpose of discipline? What are some of the ways that children handle and respond to discipline? How do we handle discipline from God? What is Hebrews 12:3-11 teaching about spiritual discipline from God? What does it produce? How should we respond to it?

3. What is bitterness? How does bitterness begin and then grow? How does bitterness affect our relationships and life? How do we “strive for peace with everyone” and destroy the “root of bitterness” (Hebrews 12:14-15)

4. Why do we need “holiness” in order to “see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14)? What does that mean? Where does holiness come from? How does this connect with Hebrews 12:16 and sexual immorality?

5. When you are trying to share something true and important, what does it feel like to be ignored? To be interrupted? To be argued with? Read Hebrews 12:25. How does this help us to understand the seriousness of sin? The importance of obedience?

6. Out of some of the concluding exhortations of Hebrews 13:1-9, which stands out to you? Why? How does this connect with the role and importance of pastoral leaders within the church (Hebrews 13:17)? What does it look like to do God’s will (Hebrews 13:21)? How do we know His will?

7. Why does James (the brother of Jesus) say difficulties should be considered as “joy”? How is that even possible? (James 1:2-4). Why is the follow on instruction in James 1:12-15 important to understand about our sufferings?

8. What does it mean to ask for something “in faith” (James 1:5-8)? Does that mean that God will answer every prayer request that we make in confidence? What sorts of prayers does God not grant? (James 4:3)

9. Read James 1:17. What are you taking for granted in life? How can you be more intentionally grateful? How can we best express that gratitude to God?

10. What is anger? Why do we struggle with it? Why is James 1:19-20 so helpful to memorize if you deal with temptations toward anger?

11. What does James 1:22 mean? Why do we need to hear this?

12. Is James 1:26 too harsh? Legalistic? Why are our words such an accurate tool to evaluate and assess the condition of our heart? (see also Matthew 12:34 & 15:18)

13. Have you ever seen someone be treated with partiality above you? What does that feel like? Why is partiality so sinful? How might we be tempted towards partiality in our church? (James 2:1-13)

14. What is the relationship between faith and works? Is there such a thing as saving faith without good works? Is there such a thing as being saved by our good works? How did Abraham’s good works evidence genuine saving faith in God? (James 2:14-26). How does Ephesians 2:8-10 (and other passages like it) help us to fully understand the connection between faith and works?

15. Look at the statements of James in chapter 3. Why is being a teacher of God’s Word such a serious task? Why is our tongue so significant? Who has been a bad example to you with their tongue? Who has been a good influence to you with their tongue? What kind of influence have you been with your tongue? How would you like to change your tongue in the days, weeks, and months ahead?

16. How does the world around us promote jealous and bitterness? How does it promote selfish ambition? How does James 3:13-18 challenge the worldly views around us?

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 45 (11/16)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

How would you want to be most remembered?

New Testament

James 4 ~ James 5 ~ 1 Peter 1 ~ 1 Peter 2 ~ 1 Peter 3

1. In your life, who have you had the most arguments with? As a child? As an adult? Why do we tend to have more disagreements with family than anyone else? What does God explain to us about the roots of most arguments (James 4:1-2)?

2. Why is “friendship with the world” so offensive? What is the source of such worldly temptations? What does it mean to “resist the devil”? What does it mean to “submit yourselves” to God? (James 4:4-10)

3. What challenges your priorities in James 4:13-17? Why? How do you want to change?

4. If you could inherit $100 million, would you? What would you do with it? What sort of challenges would you expect? How does James 5:1-6 make us think differently about being rich? Are you financially rich compared with most of the world?

5. What are some of the ways we suffer here on earth? What sorts of fears or concerns do you have towards future suffering? How can we best prepare for whatever suffering we will face in the future? (James 5:7-20)

6. Do you have a friend, family member, or coworker who you worry has wandered from the truth? How does James 5:19-20 encourage you?

7. When were you “born again”? How is that a more clarifying question than asking if someone is a Christian or goes to church? What does 1 Peter 1:3 say we are born again to? What does that mean?

8. Since we have been saved, what is the purpose of our lives according to 1 Peter 1:12-25? What are some ways we can best fulfill our purpose as “born again” believers?

9. What 5 things are we warned against in 1 Peter 2:1? How do we “put away” these things on a day-to-day basis?

10.How would you describe yourself to someone new that you met? How do we see our identity? How does 1 Peter 2:9-10 challenge you to reconsider your identity?

11.Was the Roman emperor good or evil? How about your political leaders today? How can we obey 1 Peter 2:13-17 in regard to our attitudes and actions towards our governmental leaders? How does this principle also apply in our workplaces (1 Peter 2:18)? Why is this so hard? Why is this so important?

12.Read 1 Peter 3:1-7. How does this encourage or challenge you in your marriage?

13.How is 1 Peter 3:9 so counter-cultural? How can it be a Gospel witness? How does 1 Peter 3:15 help us to be better witnesses? How have you felt unprepared for evangelism? How can we practically be better prepared for Gospel opportunities?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 46 (11/23)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

New Testament

1 Peter 4 ~ 1 Peter 5 ~ 2 Peter 1 ~ 2 Peter 2 ~ 2 Peter 3

1. How much longer might you expect or hope to live? What life goals do you have ahead? How does 1 Peter 4:2 apply to how we re-prioritize or set new life goals? How have you seen God mature your perspective on life since He saved you?

2. Why would being “self-controlled and sober-minded” affect our prayers (1 Peter 4:7)?

3. What does it mean that “love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8)? How have you experienced this? Who is someone you want to be more loving towards?

4. What sorts of gifts has God given you to serve others (1 Peter 4:10)?

5. Why does suffering often catch us off guard? Cause us to question God? How should we respond to suffering? What helps you from 1 Peter 4:12-19?

6. What are some good characteristics you have seen in pastors? What are some concerning characteristics you have seen in pastors? What are some helpful instructions for pastors that stand out to you in 1 Peter 5:1-5? How are believers and pastors called to treat one another?

7. What sorts of things get you worried or anxious? How can you better cast “all your anxieties on him” (1 Peter 5:8)?

8. If you had to go outside, and knew there was a dangerous beast, how would you prepare yourself? Read 1 Peter 5:8-10. Why is remembering Satan’s ongoing presence and intent important? How do we daily “put on the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-20)?

9. What priorities and qualities does Peter call us to in 2 Peter 1:5-8? Why?

10. Has anyone ever said to you “that’s just your interpretation about the Bible” or “the Bible was written by men” as an attempt to undermine the authority of the Scripture? How should we respond to such statements? When you write something down, do you write it or does your pen? How does that analogy help you to understand 2 Peter 1:21? (see also www.trustworthyword.com/evidence-for-jesus )

11. 2 Peter 2 is one of the clearest warnings about false teachers and false prophets. Skim over it. What warnings do you see that apply today? (see also www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-false-teachers )

12. How does it make you feel to see Peter explain that some of what Paul writes that “are hard to understand”? What warning does he give with that statement (2 Peter 3:16)? How does Peter conclude to end these two letters in 2 Peter 3:17-18?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 47 (11/30)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your favorite season or holiday?

New Testament

1 John 1 ~ 1 John 2 ~ 1 John 3 ~ 1 John 4 ~ 1 John 5

1. Have you ever read 1 John before? If so, what are some of your favorite verses or truths from it? Why does John (the author of the Gospel of John also) say he is writing this book? (1 John 1:4) What does he mean by that? Who have you mentored spiritually and seen grow? How has that experience encouraged you?

2. Read 1 John 1:5-10. What are some symptoms of unbelief? How does verse 9 encourage you? Why do some people call themselves Christians yet live totally contrary to the Bible? Why does Paul tell us to “examine” and “test” the genuineness of our faith (2 Corinthians 13:5)? How does the book of 1 John help us to do just that?

3. What is the definition of an “advocate”? How does it make you feel to know that “we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ” (1 John 2:1)? Why does John say he is writing this book in 1 John 2:1? Why does he say ongoing disobedience to God’s commands is serious (1 John 2:4)? How have you seen God grow you to walk/live increasingly more like Jesus?

4. How can you tell if you hate someone? How can you tell if you truly have forgiven someone? Why does John say hate is so serious (1 John 2:9, also 1 John 4:19-21)? Why is forgiveness so important to God? (see also www.trustworthyword.com/forgiveness) Consider the definitions of these words below. Consider Jesus’ words, “but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15). Does this convict you?

a. Forgive - to stop feeling angry or resentful toward (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake; to cancel (a debt)

b. Hate - to feel intense or passionate dislike

c. Bitterness - anger and disappointment at being treated unfairly; resentment

d. Anger - a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility

e. Resentment - bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly

5. What does it look like to “love the world” (1 John 2:15-17)? How has God changed your heart and priorities since you were born again?

6. Do you know someone that once claimed to be a Christian, but now seems to have abandoned the faith, the Bible, and the church? Why is 1 John 2:19 so heartbreaking to read in such situations?

7. If you are at work and see/know your boss/employer is approaching, how might you honestly change what you are doing? How does 1 John 2:28-29 encourage us regarding Jesus’ return?

8. Why is love the ultimate motivator for our change and growth? (1 John 3 & 4) Why is obedience to God’s commands strong evidence that you have received His love?

9. Can you be a loving parent and issue no rules to your child as they grow up? Can you be a loving child and ignore and disobey your parents’ rules as you grow up? How does this parent-child analogy help us to see the relationship between love and commands/rules?

10. Does 1 John 4:1 seem strange to you? How can we “test the spirits”? Why should we?

11. How do you feel best loved? What are some ways that you can best show love to others?

12. If you were to memorize one verse from 1 John, what would it be? Why?

13. As a child, did you ever hear someone say “my daddy can beat up your daddy”? Why would they say that? How does a strong daddy give you confidence? Read 1 John 4:4. How does this truth give you confidence?

14. How does 1 John help nominal-Christians (those who would claim to be Christian but are not genuinely born-again, they are Christian in name-only, i.e. nominal) to see the seriousness of their spiritual status?

15. How does 1 John help genuine-Christians have greater confidence that they “have eternal life” (1 John 5:13)?

16. How are we to understand 1 John 4:14-15? Does that mean that God will give us whatever we ask? How does this connect with Jesus finishing His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane with “will be done” (Matthew 26:42) and the Lord’s prayer (Matthew 6:10)?

17. In what ways is the Christian life ultimately for us to “know him who is true” (1 John 5:20)? Why do we need the concluding warnings that “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” and we must “keep yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:19-21)?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

DECEMBER

WEEK 48 (12/7)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

When your family gets together to eat, what is your favorite dish?

New Testament

2 John ~ 3 John ~ Jude ~ Revelation 1 ~ Revelation 2

1. What does it mean that truth “abides in us”? How can we tell if truth “abides in us” (2 John 1-2)?

2. Why would John address a church congregation as “dear lady”? Do we take our church as serious as we should? Why is commitment to a church family so important?

3. How does John define love in 2 John 6?

4. If someone adds a book or their opinion to the Bible (“the teaching of Christ”), what is the warning John gives (2 John 9)?

5. Who had caused you trouble in your life? How did you respond? How could you have responded better? Why did John want to encourage Gaius in his endurance in spite of the trouble caused by Diotrephes? How is Diotrephes described (3 John 9)?

6. Jude, brother of James and Jesus, emphasizes the importance of contending “for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). How do we have a similar calling today? How do false teachers continue to “pervert the grace of our God into sensuality” today (Jude 4)?

7. Why does Jude speak so clearly about God’s judgment and Hell in Jude 5-7. What is the danger of churches, pastors, and Christians who avoid reading, teaching, preaching, and believing in Hell?

8. What are some of Jude’s exhortations in the midst of “the last time” (Jude 18-20)?

9. Why is the book of Revelation so interesting to so many? Why can it be an extremely difficult and confusing book to understand? What are your feelings towards the book of Revelation?

10. Why does God give us Revelation according to the first 3 verses? Why did God give us over 300 prophecies about the coming of the Messiah?

11. While Revelation is full of future prophecy, it also has specific rebukes and encouragements to seven churches in chapter 2 & 3. Take the time to look at some of these churches. How does this apply or help teach or correct our churches today?

12. Consider watching this helpful 12 minute video by The Bible Project to introduce the book of Revelation: https://youtu.be/5nvVVcYD-0w

General Discussion Questions

• What do these passages teach us about our enemies’ attacks (deceptions, distractions, discouragement, and temptations)? How can we better resist these attacks?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 49 (12/14)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is a unique or little-known fact about you?

New Testament

Revelation 3 ~ Revelation 4 ~ Revelation 5 ~ Revelation 6 ~ Revelation 7

1. Revelation 2 and 3 gives very specific communication from God to particular churches. Consider some of the following churches and how it applies to our churches today in being faithful and prepared for Jesus’ return:

2. Ephesus: Revelation 2:1-7 – Ephesus was strong with “works”, “toil”, “patient endurance”, and not putting up with “those who are evil” or false apostles. How would you describe the strengths of your church? Ephesus is simultaneously rebuked for having “abandoned the love you had at first.” Is there a previous strength of your church, now a weakness, that you can help improve?

3. Smyrna: Revelation 2:8-11 – Smyrna and Philadelphia are not rebuked/corrected for any apparent problems in the church. The church at Smyrna is being slandered and is about to face severe persecution of imprisonment and death, with the exhortation to “be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life.” Has your church family been slandered? What was that like to experience? How is God encouraging you to set your sights on your eternal reward in order to remain faithful to Him?

4. Pergamum: Revelation 2:12-17 – This church has faced both false teachings and persecution, but is faltering in resisting and discipling false teachers. What biblical subjects has your church struggled to preach faithfully? What false or bad teachings has your church struggled to confront or obey? What surrounding false teachings or influences might tempt your church in the future?

5. Thyatira: Revelation 2:18-28 – While Thyatira is praised on several issues, and rebuked severely for tolerating a false teacher, the faithful are encouraged to “hold fast what you have until I come.” How have you seen, or experienced yourself, the difficulty in staying faithful today? What temptations frequently pull people away from God, the Bible, and church? What has helped you to stay faithful to God?

6. Sardis: Revelation 3:1-6 – The church at Sardis has “the reputation of being alive” but is actually “dead.” The city itself was captured twice by watchmen falling asleep on duty. What lulls Christians and churches to spiritual sleep today? What helps Christians and churches to stay alert and attentive to their spiritual duties?

7. Philadelphia: Revelation 3:7-13 – The church at Philadelphia receives no rebukes or corrections but is praised for having “kept my word and have not denied my name.” What does this mean? Why is this a wonderful aim for every Christian? How can we similarly leave such a legacy in our church, family, and as a believer? What is the significance of the imagery of being made a “pillar in the temple of my God” with the inscription of the “name of my God” and the “name of the city of my God” written on it?

8. Laodicea: Revelation 3:14-22 – Nothing is praised in the church of Laodicea, as it has not fulfilled its purpose and God warns that “I will spit you out of my mouth.” Although they were self-confident and acted self-sufficient, God points out their failures and needs, calling them to “be zealous and repent.” Why is discipline from the Lord so hard to receive? What does a truly repentant child do? What does genuine repentance look like for believers? What does a zealous sports fan look like? What does a zealous Christian look like?

9. What amazes you about the description of God’s throne in Revelation 4? What is significant about what is said?

10.What stands out to you about the song sung to Jesus in Revelation 5:9-14? How is this a picture of pure worship? What is the key to true worship?

11.What is the “scroll” in the Bible and here in Revelation? Why is Jesus only worthy to open the “scroll” and “seals”?

12.The seals of God’s judgment and wrath are revealed in Revelation 6. How does this make you more grateful to God for His mercy, forgiveness, and grace? How does this make you more passionate about evangelism and missions?

13.Read Revelation 7:9-17. How does this make you long for Heaven? How is this description different than many peoples’ opinions about Heaven? Or popularized books about someone dying, going to Heaven, and coming back to talk about it? What is the singular focus of everyone in Heaven?

General Discussion Questions

• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 50 (12/21)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your favorite Christmas carol?

New Testament

Revelation 8 ~ Revelation 9 ~ Revelation 10 ~ Revelation 11 ~ Revelation 12

1. What do you struggle with when reading and studying Revelation? What do you enjoy and find helpful from your time in Revelation? Consider this overview video by the Bible Project as we go into the second half of Revelation: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpnIrbq2bKo

2. How was the Exodus a foreshadowing of the first five trumpets in Revelation 8:6-9:12? Why does God give us such specific foreshadowing and prophecies about His wrath and judgement? How does this connect to 2 Peter 3:8-10 and 1 Timothy 2:3-4?

3. Did Pharoah ever truly repent with the plagues of Egypt? How do the nations respond to God’s wrath in Revelation 9:20-21? Why? What can we learn from their response?

4. What is the symbolism of eating the scroll in Ezekiel 3:1-4 & Revelation 10:9-11? How is that instructive to us? Just as the people refused to listen to Ezekiel and many of the Old Testament prophets and New Testament disciples, what sort of response might we encounter when we share the sweetness of God’s Word?

5. Why do you think so many specific details are given about Heaven in Revelation? Why do you think so many specific prophecies were made about the Messiah’s first coming?

6. Although much of Revelation could be interpreted literally, there is definitely a lot that can be interpreted symbolically. Who is the “temple” of God across the New Testament (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19-20, Hebrews 3:6, 1 Peter 2:4-5)? How does that matter for us today?

7. How are all Christians called to be “lampstands”? What is our mission?

8. Why do we need to understand about our enemies? Why is speculation or fascination with Satan and demonic dangerous? What do we know about Satan and his demons from the Bible? How do we see more of this in the end times prophecies within Revelation?

· Names of Satan: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/names-of-satan

· Works of Satan: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/works-of-satan

· Character of Satan: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/character-of-satan

· Names of Demons: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/names-of-demons

· Works of Demons: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/works-of-demons

· Character of Demons: www.spiritualwarfare.blog/character-of-demons

9. What stands out to you from Revelation 10? Compare this with Ezekiel 3:1-7. Why would the message be both sweet and bitter? How is that similar today?

10. What do we learn from the two witnesses of Revelation 11?

General Discussion Questions

• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 51 (12/28)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What was a special Christmas gift you received?

New Testament

Revelation 13 ~ Revelation 14 ~ Revelation 15 ~ Revelation 16 ~ Revelation 17

1. How does the truth of Ephesians 6:12 that “we don’t wrestle against flesh and blood” come to be clearly seen in our readings from Revelation? Do these descriptions intimidate you? Should they? How can these descriptions help us today? Where do we find victory? (Revelation 12:11)

2. In your lifetime, what “end times” references have you heard people imply connected with global events, natural occurrences, or natural disasters? Why do you think people try to make such connections? How can this be helpful? How can this be harmful?

3. Skim Daniel 7-12 as a comparison with Revelation 13. What similarities and differences do we see? What are the connections and cautions we have with our understanding of governments and government leaders? How can nations (like Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome in biblical days) function like these “beasts”?

4. What does “endurance and faith of the saints” look like in the midst of government persecution and evil? (Revelation 13:10) What other truths and commands can you think of in regard to our relationship with government as Christians? (see www.trustworthyword.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-voting-and-politics )

5. Why do we see so much modern news about the mark of the Beast? How is this ultimately a sign of opposing devotion to God (i.e. the opposite of the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4-8)?

6. When we read about our King of Kings in Revelation 14, how should we feel? In what ways should the world around us see the name of God already written on us, His followers? Why do you think believers (“the saints”) are described as those “who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus”? (Revelation 14:12). What does it mean for us to “rest from our labors”? What does it mean that, for believers, “their deeds follow them”? (Revelation 14:13)? Since we are not saved by works, but by faith, what is the relationship between our faith and our works/obedience?

7. Why do you think God includes such detailed descriptions of His wrath? With the harvest of the lost in Revelation 14:17-20 and the bowls of God’s judgment in Revelation 15 & 16? How do you feel when you read these passages? How does it make you more grateful for God’s grace and mercy? How does it make you more passionate about sharing God’s love and truth with the lost?

8. Why does God’s wrath sometimes feel “unjust”? Should it? Why do you think the angel says, in the midst of God’s wrath: “Just are you, O Holy One, who is and who was, for you brought these judgments. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and you have given them blood to drink. It is what they deserve!” And I heard the altar saying, ‘Yes, Lord God the Almighty, true and just are your judgments!” (Revelation 16:5–7)

9. We usually judge the seriousness of an offense to the seriousness of the harm to another. Why is sin so serious?

10. We usually assign punishment and discipline according to the seriousness of the offense. Why is sin punished so severely?

11. How should this understanding make us more grateful for God’s mercy in not giving us the punishment we deserve? How should this overwhelm us more in regard to God’s grace in providing a way for us to be with Him eternally in Heaven?

12. How does reading a summary of this great battle in Revelation 17:14 encourage you? “They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.” (Revelation 17:14). How does such a description change your perspective on your day-to-day difficulties?

General Discussion Questions

• What was something new you noticed this week? What impacted you the most? Why?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)

WEEK 52 (1/4)

Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:

What is your favorite Christmas activity or childhood memory?

New Testament

Revelation 18 ~ Revelation 19 ~ Revelation 20 ~ Revelation 21 ~ Revelation 22

1. What modern day wars have caught your attention in your lifetime? What does it feel like to see enemy victories? What does it feel like to see allied/friendly victories? As you have read Revelation, how might you see this future battle playing out? What are the best ways we can prepare ourselves and the next generations for any such battles happening in their lifetimes?

2. What do you think life was like for Christians under Roman (“Babylon”) persecution? How do you think Romans treated their government and rulers as “gods”? Do we see people looking to modern day governments and political leaders as “gods” today? If so, how?

3. What does a balanced Christian perspective on governments look like? Why do you think the Lord allows evil governments to exist? Why do you think he allows evil governments to be overturned?

4. Fallen “Babylon” is described as a “dwelling place for demons” (Revelation 18:2). What do you think that means? Biblically speaking, what do demons do? How do think demons are actively working in our cultures and governments today?

5. As you read about the final battles in Revelation 19 & 20, what stood out to you? How did you feel in seeing the vindication of the martyr’s deaths? (Revelation 20:1-7). If you were in a situation where your life was threatened unless you disowned Jesus & Christianity, what struggles would you face? How hard would it be to see your loved ones (parents, spouse, kids, etc.) threatened or tortured for your faithfulness to Christ? How can we prepare now for the ongoing and increasing reality of Christians being persecuted? How do we stay faithful to God to the end?

6. What do you love about the description of Jesus in Revelation 19:11-16?

7. What is Jesus’ weapon in this final battle (Revelation 19:15)? How does that connect with Isaiah 11:4 “he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked” and 49:2 “He made my mouth like a sharp sword”? How is that our weapon already today? What does it look like practically to wield the “Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:12)?

8. What is the coolest invitation you have ever received? What would be an amazing invitation you wish you received? Consider that Christians are “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” (Revelation 19:9). What does this feel like?

9. What connections do you see between Revelation 20 and Daniel 7?

10. How important is it to you to understanding whether Jesus comes before the millennium (1,000 year kingdom, premillenial), after the millennium (postmillennial), or whether the millennium is symbolic and has already begun (amillenial)? Do you have any views about the future rapture of believers in relation to the tribulation (pre-tribulation, post-tribulation rapture)? Should these differing views impact and change how we live our lives now?

11. How would you summarize the main point of Revelation in your own words?

12. Why is this such an important an encouraging reminder: “Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just” (Revelation 19:1–2)?

13. What gets you excited about New Jerusalem (Heaven) described in Revelation 21-22? What descriptions stood out to you? How is it similar to the Garden of Eden? How is it better?

14. If you were watching a movie, would you fast forward to the end to see how it finishes? If you might do this, in what cases would you do this? Why? Why do you think God gives us all of these details about how His story finishes? How did this give hope to the first century churches? How does this help us now?

15. Consider Isaiah 65:17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.” and Revelation 21:5 “Behold, I am making all things new.” Why do you think God does this? How does this get you excited? Make you marvel at the greatness of God?

16. Sometimes people think of heaven more as a reunion with deceased loved ones than they do of being in the presence of God. Why is this so? How does Revelation 21:3 summarize the purpose and reality of Heaven? “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.” Why is this so much more incredible than being with deceased loved ones? How amazing is it to you that God always keeps His promises?

General Discussion Questions

• Context Questions: Who is writing this? Who is it being written to? When? Why? What type of writing is this? How does this matter to my understanding of the meaning of these chapters?

• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)