What initial observations, convictions, or encouragements do you have from this specific passage of Scripture after hearing the sermon? How have you been left empty by the false promise of peace that comes from sinful idols? How has Jesus given you peace even when your life or the world around you seems unpeaceful? Are there ways in which you are tempted to feel ashamed or scared to be identified with Christ? What would it mean for you to look to the Spirit in these situations? How would this change your response to fear? How might you be marked by [...]

What initial observations or application do you have about this passage of Scripture after hearing the sermon? Do you struggle with an unhealthy fixation on politics or apathy? How does the gospel temper political idolatry? Why should the church’s witness encourage healthy intentional political engagement? In what ways are you being called to persevere in the face of opposition? How does the truth that God will keep you by His grace no matter what give you comfort and courage? How does knowing that perseverance is God's plan give you comfort and courage as you face difficulty as a Christian? [...]

What initial thoughts, encouragement, or practical applications do you have from this passage of Scripture after hearing the sermon? Why is it important to remember that we are engaged in a spiritual battle against a real "dragon" (Satan) who seeks our destruction? What mistakes do we make when we forget that our ultimate conflict is spiritual? Suffering can teach us that God is good and that His promises are true. Can you share a time when you learned these truths through a personal experience of suffering? How are you tempted to believe the following lies from Satan? God is [...]

In what ways does fear affect your life on a daily basis? How should the security you have in Christ change your perspective about what you fear the most? How should the following verses affect the way you view sharing the gospel? Ephesians 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 1 John 4:4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater [...]

What are some initial thoughts or applications you have from this passage of Scripture after hearing the sermon today? In a world spinning towards judgment, what hope does it give you that Jesus has shut up the condemnation you deserve? How has the mystery of the church encouraged you most recently? What are some ways in which we must make the gospel our own to be both genuine and faithful gospel witnesses? How does considering the bitterness of your sin and the judgment you deserve make the gospel all the more sweet?

What initial applications can you make from this passage of Scripture after hearing the sermon today? How do you respond to natural disasters or other crises in the world? Have you become increasingly numb to these things? Or do you panic? What would it look like to leverage these events for worship and witness? What hope does the gospel give that Jesus is holding all things together by the power of His word in the face of seeming chaos in the created order? How does the power of Christ displayed in the gospel help calm your worst fears? What [...]