Small Group Guide

The sermon discusses the importance of asking questions in our faith journey, using the biblical story of Nicodemus as an example. The pastor emphasizes that questioning doesn't weaken faith but rather strengthens it when done with genuine seeking. He challenges the congregation to move beyond blind acceptance and engage more deeply with Scripture through questioning and discussion with others, particularly across generations.

The sermon focuses on Jesus' last words on the cross and their profound significance. The pastor begins by sharing various historical figures' last words before delving into Jesus' seven statements during crucifixion. He emphasizes how Jesus, despite experiencing extreme physical and emotional suffering, responded with forgiveness, mercy, and sacrifice. The sermon particularly highlights Jesus' words of forgiveness to his persecutors and his promise of paradise to the repentant thief.

The sermon discusses the importance of reading and studying the Bible in community rather than in isolation. The pastor emphasizes that the Bible was written by community for community, and that true spiritual growth happens best when believers study scripture together. He uses examples from Nehemiah 8 and Acts 2 to show how historically, the Bible was meant to be experienced communally through reading, discussion, and fellowship.

The sermon discusses how the Bible is full of mistakes made by people, not errors in the text itself. The pastor uses 1 Samuel 8 to explore how the Israelites rejected God as their king in favor of having a human king like other nations. This mirrors how people today often reject God's leadership in favor of worldly things that ultimately enslave them, whether addictions, money, relationships, or other false kings.

The sermon discusses the evolution of how we engage with the Bible, from ancient handwritten scrolls to modern digital versions, and emphasizes the importance of not taking Scripture for granted. The pastor highlights the significant sacrifices made throughout history for us to have access to the Bible, including people being burned at the stake for translating it into English, and contrasts this with our modern tendency to treat it casually through quick digital access.