Discussion Guide
Every generation faces difficult conversations. While culture often responds with compromise and religion often responds with condemnation, Jesus responds with both truth and grace. In this series we will tackle some “hot topics”, but we first need to settle how we approach them. Jesus consistently began with God’s word, remained humble enough to seek truth over personal preference, and cared more about winning people than winning arguments. As we navigate challenging issues, our goal isn’t simply to prove we’re right; it's to point people toward Christ with that same truth and grace.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start:
Appetizer
What is the spiciest food you’ve ever willingly eaten? Did you enjoy it, or immediately regret it?
Main Course
Mild
Read Matthew 12:1-5.
• What accusations did the Pharisees make against Jesus’ disciples?
• How did Jesus respond?
• When you think about a difficult situation or disagreement and how you normally respond, how could you change that by following Jesus’ example?
Medium
Read 2 Timothy 3:16.
• What are some of the purposes of Scripture?
• What does this passage say Scripture helps us recognize about ourselves?
• Why can it be difficult to admit when God is correcting something in our thinking or behavior?
Hot
Read Psalms 139:23-24.
• What is David asking God to do in these verses?
• According to this prayer, where does God want to lead us?
• What would it look like to sincerely pray this prayer before forming an opinion or entering a difficult conversation?
Extra Sauce (Optional Deeper Dive)
Read Colossians 4:5-6, 1 Corinthians 9:20-22.
• According to Colossians 4, what should characterize our conversations with people who don’t yet know Christ?
• Paul says he looked for “common ground” to reach others. How can we build relationships without compromising biblical ruth?
Dessert Icing On the Cake
Action Step: This week, before responding to a controversial topic, difficult conversation, or even a social media post, pause and ask yourself:
• Have I gone to Scripture first, or am I reacting with my opinions or emotions?
• Am I seeking God’s truth, or simply looking for affirmation of what I already believe?
• Is my goal to win an argument, or to help someone take one step closer to Jesus?
Pray Psalms 139:23-24 each day this week, inviting God to search your heart first. As you interact with others, remember that every person you encounter is someone Jesus loves deeply. Let both truth and grace shape your conversations.