Christian Character - Week 11

GREATNESS THROUGH HUMILITY

Opening Question: What is the difference between humility and a poor self-image?

Scripture Reading: Mark 10:32-45

Discussion Questions:

1. In what ways are we like James and John in this passage? In what ways are we like the 10 others?
   
2. What is the significance of Jesus' contrasting greatness in the world with greatness in God's kingdom? What is "revolutionary" about his definition of greatness?
3. Is ambition a bad thing? Why or why not?
   
4. What examples of humility in action can you share as an example that you have seen in your church, family or work? What impact did this action have on you and others?
5. What else did you learn?
   

Christian Character - Week 10

USING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Preview Question: How does your view of yourself affect the way you interact with other Christians?

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-26

Discussion Questions

1. What do we learn about the similarities and differences among the spiritual gifts from this passage?
2. How would you characterize your current place in the body of Christ? Do you feel inferior? Unsure of how you fit? Are you a lone ranger? Do you feel "plugged-in" and serving as God intends?
3. What is the reasoning and purpose of treating those who seem to be weaker or less honorable with the honor they lack? What does this mean for us day by day as we follow Christ's example?
4. What has God put on your heart to do today to build up his body?
5. What else did you learn this week?

Christian Character - Week 9

DEVELOPING A GODLY SELF-IMAGE

Preview Question: Why do you think so many people struggle with having a poor self-image?

Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:1-15, 4:1-17

Discussion Questions:

1. What is the significance of the two objections raised by Moses in 3:11-15? What do they reveal about Moses' self-image and his view of God?
2. In what situations in life do you feel inadequate and can relate to Moses? How should God's reply to Moses encourage us?
3. How do you think Moses' past was impacting his view of himself? In what way do we do the same?
4. What resources have you seen God provide to you when facing adversity or in accomplishing a task or following a path that you know was part of God's will for your life?

Christian Character - Week 8

SERVING OTHERS

Preview Question: In what ways do you find it hard to reconcile the call to be a servant with other pursuits in life?

Scripture Passage: Philippians 2

Discussion Questions:

1. What did is cost Christ to be a servant? How, as a follower of Christ, should we consider that sacrifice in our lives?
2. How have Paul, Timothy and Epaphroditus lived out the commands of this passage? What impact has it made? What are some ways we can follow their example?
   
3. How can we serve others "joyfully" without getting "burned out"?
4. What else did you learn this week?