Small Group Discussions March 17, 2024

Bible Reading:
Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV)
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Philippians 2:12-13 (ESV)
"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Observation Questions:
1. According to Ephesians 2:8-9, what is the role of grace in salvation, and how does it exclude boasting?
2. What good works are mentioned in Ephesians 2:10, and how are they connected to our faith?
3. Reflecting on Philippians 2:12-13, what does it mean to 'work out your salvation with fear and trembling'?
4. How are the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life?

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of grace as a gift that cannot be earned challenge common ideas about merit and reward?
2. In what ways does the call to 'work out our salvation' complement the understanding that salvation is by grace?
3. What implications does the fruit of the Spirit have for how a Christian should live daily life?
4. How does Hebrews 10:24-25 define the role of community in spurring one another toward love and good deeds?

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your past week: Can you identify a moment when you relied on grace rather than your own efforts? How did that impact your actions?
2. Choose one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit to focus on this week. What specific action will you take to cultivate it in your daily life?
3. Consider your current spiritual practices. What is one way you can 'work out your salvation' more intentionally in the coming week?
4. Identify a person in your church community who needs encouragement. What specific action will you take to spur them on toward love and good works?
5. What is one daily activity you can replace with time spent in prayer or Bible study to prioritize God’s kingdom in your routine?