Small group questions.
Use these with your small group or on your own this week.
Connection
- What do you remember most from last week’s sermon?
- How did you hear God’s voice or sense His presence this past week?
- What’s your favorite summertime activity?
Reflection
- Summarize this week’s sermon in one to three sentences. What was the main point of the message?
- What did the message say about you, God’s people or the world?
Application
- Ryan said, “Ahab wasn’t denied a vineyard, he was denied control.” Where in your life is God asking you to surrender control instead of demanding your own way? What does trusting God’s boundaries look like in that situation?
Additional reading: Genesis 3:1–7; James 4:1–10 - This story shows how corrupt power can sacrifice people to protect itself. Have you ever experienced power being used selfishly (at work, in family, church, school, or elsewhere)? What does godly leadership look like by comparison?
Additional reading: Mark 10:42–45; Philippians 2:3–11 - Ryan pointed out that Naboth’s murder was the fruit, but idolatry was the root. What “idols” (success, comfort, reputation, money, control, approval, etc.) are most tempting in our culture today? How can idolatry quietly shape our decisions before we even realize it?
Additional reading: Exodus 20:1–6; Colossians 3:5–10 - God confronted Ahab through Elijah, yet He also showed mercy when Ahab humbled himself. Why is it important that God is both perfectly just and perfectly merciful? How should that shape the way we respond when God convicts us?
Additional reading: Psalm 51; Luke 18:9–14 - The sermon ended with a warning for anyone who has influence over others. Whether you’re a parent, spouse, employer, volunteer, teacher, pastor, or friend, how can you intentionally use your influence this week to serve others instead of yourself? Be specific.
