Discussion Guide
Summary
There are passages and situations in the Bible that can be difficult to understand, especially when we read them through the lens of our own time and culture. Sometimes we wish the Bible would give us a simple answer to every broken thing in the world. But Scripture shows us that Jesus did not come to fix every earthly system or establish an earthly kingdom. He came to rescue us from sin, reveal the truth, and establish the Kingdom of God.
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.
Appetizer
What is something that's outdated, but you still think it's better than the newer version?
Main Course
Read 1 Corinthians 7:20-24.
Discuss:
Why do you think Paul tells believers not to let their circumstances define them?
What are some circumstances we can become so focused on changing that we lose sight of who we are in Christ?
What would it look like to remain faithful to God while also working to improve a difficult circumstance?
Read Ephesians 6:5-9.
Discuss:
What does Paul tell believers about the way they should approach their responsibilities, even when no one is watching?
Verse 9 reminds earthly masters that they also have a Master in heaven. What does that tell us about how God views earthly positions of power and authority?
How might your attitude toward your responsibilities change if you viewed them as an opportunity to serve Jesus?
Read John 18:36-37.
Discuss:
What does Jesus say about the nature of His Kingdom?
Why do you think Jesus made it clear that His Kingdom was not an earthly kingdom?
According to verse 37, why did Jesus say He came into the world?
Where can we become so focused on fixing what is happening around us that we lose sight of the truth Jesus has called us to live?
Read Matthew 20:25-28.
Discuss:
• What is a practical way you can use Jesus’ example by putting someone else’s needs before your own this week?
Dessert (Optional: Deeper Dive)
Read Philemon 15–18.
Discuss:
• How does Paul ask Philemon to see and receive Onesimus differently?
• What does Paul’s willingness to take on Onesimus’s debt show us about the love of Christ?
• Is there someone you need to begin seeing and treating as a brother or sister in Christ rather than through their past, position, or circumstances?
Turning Down the Heat (Action Step)
This week, choose one place where you can intentionally live differently because you belong to Jesus. Maybe it’s working sincerely when no one is watching. Maybe it’s serving someone without recognition. Maybe it’s showing grace to someone you would normally overlook. Or maybe it’s simply letting go of something you have been trying to control or fix and asking God how He wants you to respond instead.