Group Notes | June 28

Reaching the Next Generation
June 28, 2015
Dr. Ed Hindson

Open:
Every generation faces challenges in regard to issues of moral values. If you have children or grandchildren, what are some of the concerns you feel they will face in the coming few years?

Today we are going to turn our focus to the importance of passing the baton of faith on to the next generation. The Biblical accounts of Elijah and Elisha illustrate how important it is that we give them a strong spiritual foundation, so they can face the trials of our broken culture with courage, the voice of God, and the certainty that the Bible is the moral absolute that holds the answers for the questions of the world.

Discuss:
Contrasting Elijah and Elisha

1. Read 1 Kings 17:1 and 18:41. Elijah (“Jehovah is my God”) lived in a time when he saw his country turning away from God. Where did he get the faith for his predictions? (Read James 5:17). Do you have this type of faith?

2. After Elijah raised the widow’s son and killed the 450 prophets of Baal, Jezebel threatened his life. What did he do, and where was his focus?

3. When you encounter problems that paralyze you, do you find yourself running from them, or looking to God for help? How can you listen for His voice?
Confrontation

4. Read 1 Kings 19:9. God spoke to Elijah, giving him specific instructions to carry out. Has He given believers detailed commands? What are they?

5. Elijah was told to anoint a successor, which was Elisha (“God is salvation”). (Read 1 Kings 19:19, 20 if you need to). How is our next generation like Elisha?
Commission: Change the World

6. Go back and read 1 Kings 19:15-18. Did God expect Elijah to do impossible tasks? Does He ask more of you than you can do?

7. Read Romans 4:20-22. What does this verse tell you about your ability to carry out the orders God gives individually?

8. What are some ways we can train the next generation to succeed us?

Close:
Call: Pick up the Mantle
As you break into your small group time, think over the lessons that have been given through these two prophets: 1) God never loses control of a situation; 2) listen for God’s voice in the midst of problems; and 3) be aware of all opportunities to train the next generation. Pray that God will open your eyes to the people who are looking for answers to the emptiness inside them. Call the church and ask if there are people you can minister to. There is always someone who knows less than you, and you can disciple one-on-one. Seize those teachable moments before they slip away!

Memory Verse: Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (NKJV