Group Note | April 17
Agents of Grace: Grace That Sets Us Free
April 17, 2016
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Open:
Today, more than any other time in history, generations are clashing over the customs taught them by parents, educators and society. Can you give examples of differences?
Because we are the recipients of the gift of salvation, we want to share the good news that it is available to all people. At the same time, we want to be certain we do not pass on the idea that salvation is earned by our works. Today we will focus on the problem of “Legalism,” which is a mindset that rules and restrictions supersede grace, ruining a church’s effectiveness and giving Satan a foothold.
Discuss:
- What do we mean by “legalism”? Can you give some examples found within the church?
- Read Luke 11: 37-41. What did Jesus condemn the Pharisees for?
- Read Mark 7:6-9. How does hypocrisy and legalism go hand-in-hand?
Rules Over Righteousness
- Read verse Luke 11:42. What could be the result of a church whose focus is on following rules, rather than letting the Holy Spirit convict and lead?
- Can anyone give examples from past experiences? Was music mentioned? Were the responses from preference or God’s word?
Don’t Hate Truth
- Why is it important to love truth? Read Eph. 4:15. How does this verse contradict the actions of the Pharisees?
God Will Deal With Hypocrisy
- Jesus will one day deal with all who profess Him, but do not live for Him. Read Matthew 7:21-23. How were they being hypocritical?
God Will Protect the Faithful
- Read John 8:31, 36. How does grace set us free from the bonds of legalism?
Close:
As you break into small groups, talk briefly about the traps legalism can set for you. Is there any area in your life where the Holy Spirit has shined a light on something you need to give to God? So many were raised in the era of extreme legalism, and have old shackles that need to be thrown away! Pray with the group that Christ would free you from any chains or holdovers that need to be torn down. We have Freedom Groups to help if you need them. Go forth this week rejoicing in the freedom that God has for you!
Focal Passages: Luke 11:33-54, 12:1b-3, 7; Hebrews 12:1; Isaiah 29:13; Romans 5:20, 21.
Memory Verse: John 8:31-32: “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.”
Hypocrisy Is:
1) Rules Over Righteousness (Luke 11:42)
2) Reputation Over Humility (Luke 11:43)
3) Popularity Over Truth (Luke 11:44)
4) Hypocrisy Over Obedience (Luke 11:45, 46)
5) Attacking Others Over Being Agents of Grace (Luke 11:47)
6) Having Focus On Ourselves Over Focusing On Jesus (Luke 11:52)
Study these points this week, praying that God will show you if you have any areas where you need Him to set you free!