Reimagining the Church – Week 8 Guide
The Family of God
To download the guide for this week, use the link below.
Connecting
Briefly (30-60 seconds each), have people share one family member who impacted or touched their life deeply in a positive way and what was one quality that person demonstrated (unconditional love, generosity, patience, encouragement, etc.).
Questions
- Why do you think 1 Timothy 3:15 emphasizes “how one ought to behave” and the need for proper conduct in the church? How can our behavior impact and influence how other people feel about the gospel or Jesus?
- What does it mean for the church to be described as the “household of God”? How does this image of the church as a loving household or family shape our understanding of community and belonging within the church?
- In what ways can the church serve as a pillar and foundation of truth? What challenges do we face in this role? Why are truth and honesty so important?
- 1 Timothy 3:15 refers to “the church of the living God.” If we believe God is alive, how does this shape our faith and the church’s mission?
- How can we as individuals contribute to the church’s mission of being a pillar of truth? What steps can we take to embody the teachings of the gospel in our daily lives?
- How can the church foster unity among its members despite differing opinions or backgrounds, especially considering its role as the family of God? How can you help create a community of unity?
Wrap Up
Ask people to share one thing they learned or will remember about this series on the church. As a reminder, these were our themes:
Disciples of the Cross, Mark 8:31-38. We’re called to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus even if that means suffering.
Households of Justice, Matthew 12:46-50. Everyone who does the will of our Father in heaven is part of Jesus’ family.
A Sign of the Kingdom of God, Luke 6:20-36. We’re called to be signs who point others to Jesus.
A Body with Many Parts, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27. Each one of us is unique and has a part to play in the healthy functioning of the body.
A Community of Reconciliation, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21. We’re to be ambassadors for Christ in the ministry of reconciling people to God and one another.
A Home for the Homeless, 1 Peter 1:1-2, 3:8-9. Were to have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind in the church which is our home.
A Community of Resistance, Revelation 21:1-6. We’re to resist the forces of the world that are opposed to God’s good and gracious will for all creation.
The Family of God, 1 Timothy 3:14-15. Like all families, the church is composed of unique individuals who are bound together by love for one another and for God. Closing Prayer – Invite those who wish to offer a sentence prayer of gratitude for your group &/or for our church as we seek to live out our calling as listed above.
Closing Prayer
Invite those who wish to offer a sentence prayer of gratitude for your group and / or for our church as we seek to live out our calling as listed above.