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 are you looking forward to most this autumn?
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
- Pastor Ryan said, “Biblical faith is not rejecting visible reality, it’s refusing to believe that visible reality is all of reality.” What situation in your life feels overwhelming because you may only be seeing what is directly in front of you?
Additional reading: 2 Corinthians 4:18 - Elisha did not pray for his servant’s circumstances to change; he prayed for his eyes to be opened to what God had already done. Where might you need to pray, “God, open my eyes,” instead of only asking God to change your situation?
- The servant was afraid because he saw the enemy surrounding him, but Elisha was confident because he knew God was present. What fear are you currently facing, and how might remembering God’s presence change the way you respond?
Additional reading: Psalm 46:1–3 - Pastor Ryan said, “Mercy can bring peace to what retaliation and revenge can keep alive.” Is there a conflict in your life where the desire to be right, get even, or defend yourself may be keeping the conflict alive?
- The king of Israel had the power to destroy his enemies but chose to feed them and send them home. What would it look like for you to show practical mercy to someone who has hurt, disappointed, or opposed you?
Additional reading: Romans 12:19–21
