Group Notes | February 8

The Marks of a Believer February 8, 2015

Open:

Our bodies are wonderful when everything is working perfectly! Give examples of problems the body may suffer, and tell how they may impact our daily lifestyle.

We have been concentrating on getting fit in every area of our lives, focusing last week on setting right goals. Now we will look at four elements that are the marks of a strong believer, realizing that all of them must work together for a healthy Christian lifestyle.

Discuss:

1. Read Mark 9:14-29. Have someone re-tell the scene as they imagine it happening, and put into their own words the need and hope of the father

2. As you think of the characteristics of a believer, what do you notice happening in verse 15a as Jesus enters the area, and what does that mean to you?

3. Explain why an attitude of worship is essential if you expect miracles from Jesus.

4. List some attributes of God that “blow you away.” Explain possibilities why you may not believe He will control hopeless situations in your life.

5. Re-read verse 24. Why do you think the father cried tears before he said “Help my unbelief?” When have you cried tears over unbelief?

6. Read Isaiah 59:2. What must happen before you are completely healthy as a believer? How does this realization go before 1 John 1:9?

7. If you have a child, describe your feelings when you do not talk on a regular basis. If you talked to your child (or anyone you love) the equal amount of time you pray, would you be happy as a parent or family member? What are some ways you can improve your prayer life?

8. Read Philippians 4:13. Do miracles take place in your life because of you, or because of God working through you?

9. What are the four marks of the believer?

Close:

A healthy relationship with God is the highest priority in your life. As an illness can prevent your body from working well, missing one of these four elements in your Christian life can cause you to desperately need a miracle. Spend small group time praying for needs in your life, as well as for others you know who need a miracle from God. Remember that there are many opportunities for prayer, worship, or Bible study available at church to help you grow as a believer.
Memory Verse: Mark 10:27: “But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.’” (NKJV)