Group Notes | September 4
Plugged In: Commissioned
September 4, 2016
Matt Willmington
Open:
Have you ever really thought about the reality that every successful event (party, reunion, etc.) has come about because someone decided “I can/should do that”? Can you give an example?
We continue to focus on the need to be “plugged in” to the power that comes to us as a child of God, enabling us to serve Him and change our world. This week we will look at Nehemiah, a Biblical character, who, because of his great commitment to God, stepped up to the plate and led a community to come together and rebuild the ruins of Jerusalem.
Discuss:
- Today’s busy schedules leave little time for relaxation, but what is the difference between solitude and isolation?
- Read Proverbs 18:1a. How does this verse reflect the life of someone who has no interest in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ?
- Did someone who has withdrawn themselves from fellowship (perhaps from depression, hurt, etc.) come to your mind? What can you do to restore them?
Let’s look at what it takes to successfully carry out God’s commission of loving Him and loving our neighbors.
Work
- Read Nehemiah 2:17-18. Why was Nehemiah concerned about the people rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem? What did he do to get the project started?
- Read Ephesians 4:11-13. How does the work of Christ get done if we just sit on the sidelines? Why do we need to get “into the game?”
War
- Read Nehemiah 4:13-14. What extra effort had to be made as these men worked on the wall? What are some of the hindrances that we should expect in our own lives as we seek to share the gospel?
- Who are some of the enemies we have because of our desire to build God’s kingdom on earth? Who were the Israelites thinking about as they built (vs 14)? Who should we be concerned about as we seek to change our world?
Word
- Read Neh. 8:1-3,5-6,7b-8. Nehemiah realized there was another part of life that was as necessary as the physical wall the people built. What was it?
- We have the advantage of knowing the whole story, from Genesis to Revelation. What are some personal applications we can make from these passages that will help us carry out the commission of Jesus Christ?
Close:
Do you find some Old Testament characters seem to be “hero” material? Nehemiah was one of those. His life shows a deep reverence for God and a willingness to do whatever God laid on his heart. As you close, discuss ways you can get plugged in more closely to God, so that you, with a group of believers, can change your world—perhaps through a Life Group (or possibly even talk to someone who can help you begin one). Nehemiah had a vision, carried it out, and changed his community. Can you pray that God will open doors this week for you to “seek and save those who are lost”? God will bless your efforts and you will find new meaning in life.
Memory Verse: Nehemiah 4:14b: “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”
Focal Passage: Nehemiah 2:17, 18; 4:13-14; 8:1-8.
Home Study: Take some time to read the short book of Nehemiah. Notice how many times he stopped and prayed. Write down those things that inspire you to grow in your knowledge of God and His word.