Group Time : June 19

In The World, But Not of It: Never Waver
June 19, 2016
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Is there a belief you hold to so firmly that you would oppose anyone who would deny your right to exercise that conviction? Perhaps it’s Constitutional Rights, or something so simple as disciplining your child. Can you give examples?

This week we will return to the series of living in the world, but making life choices based on the Word of God, rather than following society. We will examine one scene from the life of the prophet Elijah, who stood strong in faith in a pagan world.

Discuss:

  1. Read 1 Kings 18:21-39. What were some amazing things said or done by Elijah in this passage?

Make a Choice

  1. Read verse 21 again. If you have had to make a choice that required you to be unpopular because of your Christianity, will you share?
  2. Why do many Christians not take a stand for what is laid out as Truth in Scripture?
  3. What does silence indicate to the world?

Have Confidence

  1. Read verse 25a. What were some dangers Elijah faced from the prophets of Baal?
  2. If you are asked if you believe God is able to do anything, what would you say? If you had to act on that belief against society’s behavior, what would you do?

Go all In!

  1. Read verses 30-35. Did Elijah manipulate the situation in his favor?
  2. Think back on the opening: when in a position to take a stand in line with Scripture, are you generally confident, silent, or a fence rider? Why?
  3. How much confidence did Elijah place in God’s power, and in particular, His reliability in answering Elijah’s prayer?
  4. Read James 5:17a. Elijah is often held in high esteem because of his amazing faith. It is actually his amazing GOD who should be held in high esteem! Why?

Close:

As you break into small groups, discuss the difficulty of taking a stand that will result in persecution, loss of friends, or gossip. Do you usually choose pleasing friends or people over pleasing God? The Bible calls that being a “man pleaser.” (Gal. 1:10). Discuss ways you can use to develop the trust in God that Elijah had. This week, write down ideas that will help you become more courageous in sharing your faith. There are always Life Groups meeting that will encourage and benefit you. Pray as you leave that God would give you a holy boldness to witness for Him at every opportunity.

Focal Passage: 1 Kings 18: 21-39

Memory Verse: 1 King 18:21. Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him.”

 

 

 

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