Unmask: Unmask Acceptance - Week 3
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE
For the week of July 19th, 2020
Connecting (Aim for 15 minutes)
Breaking the Ice/Think Time
Think through situations where you compromised who you were to fit in and gain acceptance from others. How did you feel afterwards?
Quick Review… Looking back at your notes from this Sunday’s sermon, what caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Understanding the Truth (Aim for 30 minutes)
1. In our need to seek acceptance, we try to find Self-Worth based on Our Performance + Other’s Opinions. Why is it easier for us to operate under that assumption rather than under God’s truth?
Read Galatians 1:10
2. Paul talks about seeking the approval of God over men. Is it easier for us to seek acceptance from God or from man? Why?
Read Luke 15:11-24
3. How does this parable reflect God and his relationship with us?
4. How are we like the younger son? Which parts of his story resonated with you the most? Have you ever felt like you are unworthy of God’s favor or blessings?
Read Isaiah 64:6
5. The way we try to gain acceptance from others directly impacts our relationship with God. Why is understanding the truth of Isaiah 64:6 important with our need to seek acceptance from God?
Living the Truth (Aim for 20 minutes)
Read Ephesians 2:8-10, Colossians 1:21-22, Romans 5:8
1. Jesus reconciled us to God through the cross. By Grace alone, through Faith alone, in Christ alone we are made righteous and accepted by God. How does the idea that “Christ’s work assures my acceptance with God” challenge our works-based approach to acceptance?
Read Romans 8:38-39, John 10:27-30
2. Our acceptance with God is not only based on Christ’s work, but is unbreakable because of it. How do you feel knowing that nothing can separate you from the love of God?