Small Group Notes

Small Group Notes for 29th May 2022

Being a Model Church (Summer 2022)

Word and Judgement

To note: The sermon is in the Sunday’s service video available via our website and is summarised in the Paper version of the Service produced for those off-line, but also available to view on our website.

Read 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16

Paul says the reason for his thanks to God is because “when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God…”

The Thessalonian church had received this news through men, but had received it as it actually was – news from God himself. The men were merely the vessels and the church recognised the original author.

·       When we typically read scripture, what different origins might we be thinking of? (God / Original Human Authors / Translators?)

Which of these do we focus on, and why?

·       Read 1 Timothy 2:13. How does this verse make you feel?

·       Are there any parts of the Bible that are easier / more difficult to receive accept as words which come from God? Why?

Read the beginning of John’s gospel.

·       What do you think “the word” is? What is the significance?

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul goes on to explain that the word of God is active; he describes it at the end of verse 3 as being “at work in you who believe.” This is because when we truly engage with God himself through his word, we engage with and are transformed by his Holy Spirit.

·       Do you think that scripture is more or less likely to “be at work” in you depending on who you recognise as speaking to you through it?

·       Share a time when the word of God has been at work in you – perhaps a verse that has had a significant impact on your life.

·       If relevant, share a verse or passage that has been on your heart / mind lately, and invite the group to pray with you that this word of God would be at work in you.