Greetings! Below you will find questions which reference the sermon preached on Sunday, February 22nd, 2015 at The Park. This week we studied Chapter 18 of Genesis. Have someone in your group read this section of scripture.
Each week new questions are posted to track along with the sermons. Work hard to facilitate discussion. Listen to the hearts around the room and close with prayer.
Intro to Tent & Altar:
Abraham was a man called and sent by God. He is revered in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity today. Abraham’s name was originally “Abram”, which means ‘the father is exalted’. His name was changed to “Abraham”, which means ‘father of a multitude’, when God initiated His covenant with him (Genesis 17). God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many people. As we study his life and journey of faith in Genesis, we believe we will be challenged and encouraged by what we see and hear. Simply put, Abraham trusted God and believed God could accomplish all that He had promised.
Questions for this week:
- Consider Abraham and Sarah’s laughter/doubt/uncertainty when faced with God’s plan. Does our disbelief derail God’s plans? What do you think God values more, the accomplishment of his “to do” list or the restoration of broken relationships with us? Discuss the phrase “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” What is meant by that?
- Why do you think the fulfillment of God’s promises sometimes takes a while? Is it that God is slow, or that we often aren’t ready…even when we think we are?
- From family holidays to dating, what is so intimate and relational about sharing a meal? Why is it so powerful? Discuss banquets and meals as told in the Bible (parables, actual meals, etc). How do they play in to illustrating the Kingdom of God?
- Share a time when you experienced gracious hospitality. How did it affect your relationship with the hosts? Do you enjoy opening up your home or resources to guests? Would you consider doing it more for the sake of building relationships? How might more openness with our resources spread the gospel?
- Read Acts 2:43-46, Hebrews 13:1-2. Share other passages that talk about the community of believers. Given the Biblical emphasis on believers working/living together, discuss how and why some people try and live for God without church. Discuss experiences that drove you away from church. What brought you back? Wouldn’t it be easier if we did church by ourselves? Is that possible?
- God clearly invites us to His table in times of waiting and offers fellowship with Himself. Discuss a time when this was true for you.