LifeGroups

His Choice… The Cross // A Sneak Peak

1. Read John 11:1-44. What stands out to you most about this passage? Why? How do you think Mary, Martha, and the disciples felt during this event?
2. In verses 4-6, Jesus delays going to Lazarus. Why do you think He waited? How does this reveal God’s timing in miracles?
3. Read John 11:25. What does Jesus mean when He says, “I am the resurrection and the life”? How does this statement challenge the people around Him?
4. Read John 11:45-53. How did the religious leaders react to Lazarus being raised from the dead? Why do you think this particular miracle caused such a strong response from the Pharisees and high priests?
5. How does this passage challenge your understanding of suffering and God’s greater purpose?
6. In what ways can opposition or difficulties in life be a sign that God is working powerfully?
7. How can we live with boldness knowing that Jesus is the resurrection and the life?

Walking in the Rabbi’s Footstep // Living Stones

1. Read 1 Peter 2:4-5. What does the metaphor of “living stones” mean to you? What does this mean for us as individuals and as a community?
2. Why is the cornerstone so important in a structure? How does this apply to Jesus being the cornerstone of our faith?
3. The sermon states that God does not dwell “up there” but rather “in here.” How does this truth impact the way we live as followers of Christ? How can we, as a church, ensure that when people encounter us, they experience the presence of God?
4. Jesus said that His disciples would be known by their love for one another. What are some practical ways we can live this out in our church and community? What specific steps can we take to build a strong, united community that reflects God’s love?
5. How does division or lack of love within the church affect our witness to the world?
6. What is one way you can personally grow in being a “living stone” this week?
7. How can we encourage each other to stay anchored in Christ as our foundation?

Walking in the Rabbi’s Footstep // A Countercultural Community

1. Read Matthew 22:16-21. What was the significance of Jesus’ response about paying tribute to Caesar? How does this apply to our lives today?
2. Read 1 John 2:6. What are some practical ways we can walk as Jesus walked in today’s culture?
3. How do we see Philip’s example of faithfulness in the way he navigated the Agora? What lessons can we learn from his decision not to offer incense? What are some modern-day equivalents of the Agora where we are pressured to conform? How should we respond?
4. How did Nebuchadnezzar try to change the identity of Daniel and his friends? What are some ways the world tries to redefine our identity today? How does knowing our identity in Christ give us the strength to stand firm in our beliefs?
5. Have you ever encountered a situation like Pastor Bob and the street preacher example? How can we share truth without pushing people away? What’s the difference between making a point and making a difference? How do we ensure that our approach to sharing truth is filled with love?
6. What does it mean to “look like our Rabbi” in our daily interactions? How can we become more like Jesus?
7. In what areas of your life do you feel the most pressure to conform to the world? How can you resist that pressure? What is one specific action you can take this week to stand strong in your faith while also showing love to those around you?

Walking in the Rabbi’s Footstep // Go

1. What do you think Jesus meant when He told His disciples, “Go and make disciples of all nations”? How does this apply to us today?
2. Read Matthew 28:19-20. In the context of this passage, what does it mean to be “sent out” by Jesus? How does this shape the way we view our daily lives and actions as believers?
3. Read Matthew 28:18. Jesus starts the Great Commission by stating, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” How does the authority of Jesus shape how we view the mission He gives to His followers? How can we draw strength and confidence from knowing that Jesus has all authority as we carry out His command?
4. How do you feel about the privilege of being invited by Jesus to participate in His ministry on earth? How can we cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude for this opportunity? How does understanding this privilege change the way we approach our relationships and the people around us?
5. What are some obstacles that might prevent us from living out the Great Commission in our daily lives? (e.g., fear, complacency, cultural barriers). How can we overcome these obstacles as individuals and as a group?
6. How can you apply the Great Commission in your own life? Are there specific areas (work, school, community) where you feel called to share Jesus’ message?
7. In what ways can our group support each other in preparing to go and make disciples? How can we hold each other accountable?

Walking in the Rabbi’s Footstep // Come

1. What does it mean to be a disciple in the context of Jesus’ time? How does it differ from what we understand discipleship to be today?

2.  When Jesus called his disciples to “follow me,” He asked them to leave everything behind. What do you think was the significance of this radical call to abandon their former lives?

3. The idea of being “in the dust of the Rabbi” implies being so close to Jesus that you learn from His every movement. What does that look like in our modern-day relationship with Jesus?

4. What are some things that we might need to leave behind in order to more fully follow Jesus today? How does this apply to our personal lives?

5. How can we encourage one another in our LifeGroup to embrace a radical transformation of life like the first disciples did? What practical steps can we take together?

6. What role does trust play in being a disciple? How did the disciples show their trust in Jesus when they left everything to follow Him? How can we grow in trust today?
7. Jesus’ invitation to follow Him was not just a call to learn, but a call to live differently. How can we live in a way that shows we are truly following Jesus, not just learning about Him?
8. Have you ever experienced a moment of radical transformation or surrender to Jesus, similar to the disciples in Matthew 4? How did that change your life?

Moses // Passing the Baton

1. Read Deuteronomy 31:1-8. What do you think the Israelites were feeling as Moses told them he would not be leading them into the Promised Land? How does Moses encourage Joshua and the Israelites in this passage?
2. Read Deuteronomy 31:6,8 and Matthew 28:20. How does God’s promise to “never leave or forsake” His people in Deuteronomy compared to Jesus’ promise to be with His followers in Matthew? In both cases, what do the departing leaders (Moses and Jesus) emphasize about God’s presence?
3. Why do you think God chose to provide a leader (Joshua) for Israel but the Holy Spirit for the Church?
4. What are some ways we can rely on the Holy Spirit for leadership and strength, just as Israel had to rely on Joshua?
5. How does God’s promise to go before His people apply to us today in light of the Holy Spirit’s presence? Just as the Israelites had to trust Joshua, how do we as believers today need to trust the Holy Spirit’s leading?
6. How does this comparison challenge or encourage you in your walk with God right now?
7. What are some practical ways you can move from your old way of living into the new way of fully living in his Kingdom?

Moses // The Tabernacle & God’s Presence

1. Read Exodus 32:1. Why did the Israelites feel the need to create the golden calf? What were they truly seeking? In what ways do people today seek “conduits” to connect with God that might actually become idols?
2. Pastor Bob compared the golden calf to modern symbols of prosperity (e.g., the bull in New York City). What are some subtle idols in our culture that we might overlook because they’re socially accepted? How can we guard our hearts against modern-day idolatry?
3. Read Exodus 33:1-3. Why is God’s presence more important than just receiving His blessings? Have you ever experienced a time when you were more focused on what God could give rather than on God Himself? How can we prioritize seeking God’s presence in our daily lives?
4. Read Exodus 33:12-14. Moses understood his need for God’s presence to fulfill his calling. How can we apply this mindset to our own lives?
5. How did the design and rituals of the tabernacle symbolize the process of approaching a holy God? In what ways does the tabernacle foreshadow Jesus’ role as our High Priest?
6. How does understanding the tabernacle enhance your appreciation of Christ’s sacrifice and our access to God?
7. Are there any “idols” in your life that compete for your attention and devotion to God? How can you actively seek God’s presence and cultivate a deeper relationship with Him? What steps can you take this week to ensure you’re pursuing God Himself and not just His blessings?

Moses // The Golden Calf

1. Read Exodus 32:1-14. In what ways do the Israelites’ actions in Exodus 32 reflect a deeper belief that God wasn’t enough for them? How does their impatience and fear influence their decision to make the calf?
2. How might we, as modern-day Christians, show similar tendencies of saying God isn’t enough? Consider how we might turn to materialism, comfort, or control in moments of doubt or crisis instead of trusting in God.
3. Can you think of a time in your life when you’ve tried to rely on something other than God for security, comfort, or direction? How did that impact your relationship with God?
4. Read Exodus 32:13-14. What is the significance of Moses reminding God of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (verses 13-14)? How can we use God’s promises to strengthen our own faith in times of difficulty?
5. How can we, as a community of believers, avoid the mistake of turning to idols (like technology, materialism, or success) instead of God?
6. What role does worship play in reminding us that God is enough? How does worship—whether through prayer, music, or scripture—help reorient our hearts and minds back to God’s sufficiency?

Moses // The Ten Commandments

1. Pastor Bob compared the 10 Commandments to guardrails, keeping us on the right path. How do you see the 10 Commandments functioning in your own life today? Do you view them more as rules or as a form of protection?
2. Moses climbed the mountain four times to receive God’s instructions. What does his perseverance say about his relationship with God? How does his example inspire your own obedience? In what ways can we be more intentional about listening to God’s voice and following His commands, even when it’s hard or inconvenient?
3. The golden calf incident in Exodus highlights how quickly the people turned away from God’s commandments. What are some modern-day “golden calves” that might distract us from worshiping God fully? How can we guard against these distractions?
4. Commandment #4 is to remember the Sabbath day and to keep it holy. How can you incorporate the true spirit of Sabbath rest into your own life? Why do you think it’s important to set aside time for rest and reflection?
5. The sermon ends with the reminder that God wants us to be a picture of peace to the broken world around us. How can we live in a way that reflects God’s peace to others, especially in times of conflict or division? What role do the 10 Commandments play in helping us be agents of peace and reconciliation in our communities?
6. How do you view the 10 Commandments now after hearing this sermon? Are there any areas in your life where you feel challenged or encouraged to grow in your relationship with God?

Moses // Manna from Heaven

1. Why do you think God tests His people, especially in the wilderness (Exodus 16)? What do you think He is trying to accomplish through these tests? How do you think the Israelites’ experience in the wilderness parallels our own spiritual journey today?
2. Why do you think God only allowed the Israelites to gather enough manna for one day (except on the Sabbath)? What lesson about obedience and trust was God teaching them? What are some areas in your life where you struggle with trusting God for provision, instead of relying on your own resources or control?
3. Read Exodus 17:1-7. This passage shows the Israelites testing God. How is this different from trusting God? What can we learn from their response to God in this passage? How do you know when you are testing God rather than trusting Him? Can you think of a time when you might have done this in your own life?
4. When life is going well, how can we ensure we don’t forget the Lord or become complacent in our relationship with Him? How can you cultivate gratitude and humility when things are going well, so you don’t fall into the trap of self-sufficiency or pride?
5. In what ways do spiritual tests help us grow closer to God? How can tests refine our character and faith? What do you think is the ultimate purpose of God’s tests? Are they meant to reveal our weaknesses, strengthen our faith, or both? How can you view tests as opportunities for growth rather than burdens?
6. How does the principle of trusting God daily for our “manna” challenge our approach to life? Are you living in a way that reflects daily dependence on God’s provision? What are some practical ways you can live out this daily dependence on God, whether in your work, relationships, or personal struggles?

Moses // Crossing the Red Sea

1. Just as Bud, from the opening story Pastor Bob shared, gave a New Testament to those who were in need, how can we, as followers of Christ, help others discover the treasures found in God’s Word? What are some practical ways you can engage more deeply with the Bible to uncover its treasures? Have you ever discovered something in Scripture that was particularly meaningful or timely for your life?
2. Read Exodus 14:10-12. The Israelites feared the Red Sea and the Egyptians, but God was calling them to trust Him. How do we handle fear in our own lives, especially when we face situations that seem impossible? Can you think of a time when fear initially clouded your faith but later you saw God’s hand at work?
3. Read Psalm 106:7. The Israelites forgot what God had done in Egypt, and that caused them to complain and rebel. What are some ways you can intentionally remember and recount God’s past faithfulness in your life?
4. Read Exodus 14:13-14. Moses told the people “You need only to be still” when they were overwhelmed. How can we train ourselves to focus on the Lord in moments of fear, struggle, or uncertainty?
5. God told the Israelites to move forward, even when the Red Sea was in front of them. How does obedience to God in the face of uncertainty show our trust in Him? Is there an area in your life where God is calling you to step out in obedience, even if the path ahead seems unclear or difficult?
6. After witnessing God part the Red Sea, the Israelites responded with worship. How does God’s work in our lives lead us to worship Him? What are some ways you personally express worship to God, both in times of joy and in times of difficulty?
7. God gave Moses a stick to remind him of His power and promises. What are some “reminders” that God has given you (scripture, a moment of answered prayer, etc.) to help you trust Him in difficult times?

Moses // The Call of Moses – Part 2

1. Moses’ staff was transformed into a snake by God, symbolizing the true authority of God. What does this transformation teach us about the nature of God’s power versus earthly powers? How do we recognize God’s power in our lives? Can you think of a time when God demonstrated His authority in a situation you were facing?
2. The plagues were directed at the Egyptian gods, showing that God is greater than all other powers. In what ways do we see “false gods” in our culture today, and how does God’s power still challenge these idols?
   Pastor Bob emphasized that God wanted to demonstrate His power to both Egypt and Israel. How can we better understand God’s actions not just as a way of delivering His people, but also as a means of revealing Himself to the world?
3. Moses had to step out in faith before God acted. What does this idea of “acting in faith before God moves” mean for us in our own spiritual journeys?
4. When the Israelites had to choose which God to follow and demonstrate their commitment by marking their doorposts with blood, what lessons can we take from their decision to stand for God publicly? Is there a “cost” to following God today? How do we see obedience to God as part of our partnership with Him? How does God call us to play a role in His plan for our lives and the world?
5. Read Exodus 13:21-22. God led the Israelites with a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night to demonstrate His constant presence. What are some ways we can recognize and respond to God’s presence in our lives today? How does God’s continual guidance give us confidence during times of uncertainty or fear?
6. The Israelites had to learn to depend on God after their years of slavery. In what ways does God allow us to face challenges that force us to rely on Him more fully? How can we grow in our trust and dependence on God in our daily lives? Are there specific areas where you are being challenged to trust God more deeply right now?
7. The sermon mentions that God’s name would be proclaimed on the earth through the story of His deliverance. In what ways can we share the story of God’s power and glory with others today? How can we actively participate in making God’s name known in our world, much like Moses and the Israelites were called to do in their time?

Moses // The Call of Moses

1. Pastor Bob began the sermon by stating, “God never breaks promises; He always exceeds them!” How does the idea that God’s promises are certain and exceed our expectations change the way you think about your relationship with God?
2. Pastor Bob mentions that there was never a “Plan B,” but always “Plan A.” What does this mean for our lives, especially when we face challenges or failures? Can you think of a time when God pursued you, even before you realized you needed it?
3. How did Moses’ upbringing and education shape his ability to fulfill God’s calling? In what ways can our own skills or experiences be used by God for His mission?
4. Moses saw the burning bush and was drawn to it. What does this moment teach us about God’s invitation to us? Are there “burning bushes” in your life—moments when God has drawn your attention in an unexpected way?
5. Moses offered several excuses for why he wasn’t qualified to lead the people of Israel. Have you ever made similar excuses when God has called you to something? Which of Moses’ excuses (identity, ignorance, unbelief, inadequacy, unavailability) do you find most relatable in your own life? Reflect on God’s response to Moses: “I AM” means that God becomes all that we lack. How does this truth change the way you approach your own limitations?
6. Read 2 Corinthians 6:1 The sermon emphasizes that God desires a relationship with us and wants to partner with us in His work. How do you understand the idea of being a “co-worker” with God? What does it mean for your daily life and actions? In what ways can we more fully partner with God in His mission? Are there areas in your life where you feel God calling you to step into a greater partnership with Him?
7. Read Exodus 3:7. The verse says that God has seen the affliction, heard the cries, and knows the suffering of His people. What does it mean to you that God is deeply aware of your struggles and is actively working toward your deliverance? What areas of your life do you need God’s deliverance? How can you trust Him to deliver you in His perfect timing and way?
8. The sermon concluded with the idea that being a person of faith simply means being obedient, one step at a time. What does obedience look like in your life today? Are there areas where God is calling you to take a step of faith, even if you don’t feel fully equipped? Moses took a big leap of faith when he stepped into the calling God gave him, despite his fears. How can you take a similar step, trusting that God will provide what you lack?

Christmas: Bethlehem Style // The Shepherds and Angels

1. The shepherds didn’t just hear the message; they believed it and acted on it. How does obedience reflect genuine belief in God’s word? Are there areas in your life where you hear God’s message but hesitate to act on it? Why or why not?
2. In what ways can we show our faith in Jesus the way the shepherds did—by believing and acting on the good news of His birth?
3. The shepherds didn’t keep the message to themselves but shared it with others. Why is it important for us to share the good news of Jesus with those around us? Who is God calling you to share your story with this Christmas season?
4. What is the difference between just telling people about Jesus and sharing your personal story of how God has impacted your life? How can our personal stories make the message of Jesus more relatable to others?
5. The shepherds celebrated after encountering Jesus. How does celebrating the birth of Jesus impact our daily lives? In what ways can we celebrate Jesus not just at Christmas, but throughout the year?
6. The shepherds were often considered “the least of these” in their society. What does it say about God’s character that He chose them as the first to hear about Jesus’ birth? How does this impact our understanding of God’s love for all people, no matter their status or background?
7. How do you personally respond to the message of Christmas each year? Is it just a celebration, or do you also take time to reflect on the deeper meaning of Christ’s birth? If you were to respond like the shepherds, what might you need to change in your own life to receive, believe, and share the good news of Jesus this Christmas?

Christmas: Bethlehem Style // the Birth of Christ

1. How can we understand the idea that being “chosen” by God is not about favoritism, but about responsibility? What responsibility do we have as believers in sharing God’s blessings with others, as Israel was meant to do?
2. Read Isaiah 49:6. What does it mean for us today that Israel was chosen to be a light to the nations? In what ways are we called to reflect God’s character and holiness to the world around us?
3. The sermon challenges us by saying, “YOU have been chosen by God.” How does this impact how you live your life? Do you see yourself as part of God’s plan to be a light to others? What does that look like in your daily life?
4. Pastor Bob emphasized Jesus’ humility by His birth in a manger. What does the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth reveal about His nature? Read Philippians 2:7. We read that Jesus “emptied Himself” to become human. Why is it important that Jesus came in such a humble way? How can we model humility in our own lives?
5. Pastor Bob said, “You can’t have the cross without the cradle.” How does Jesus’ birth in the manger point us toward His ultimate purpose of sacrifice on the cross? What does it mean for you personally that Jesus’ birth was tied directly to His mission of salvation?
6. In light of the manger and the cross, how do you respond to the sacrificial love of Jesus? What is one way you can show that love to others this week?

Christmas: Bethlehem Style // Journey to Bethlehem

1. What does Christmas mean to you? How does the commercialized side of Christmas (retail, “Happy Holidays,” etc.) impact your experience of the season?
2. Read Luke 1:37. How does this verse encourage you in moments when God asks you to do something without knowing all the details?
3. Pastor Bob mentioned that Mary’s “yes” to God was not easy. What are some of the challenges that Mary might have faced by accepting God’s call to be the mother of Jesus? How does her response of faith inspire you in your own life?
4. Can you think of a time when God asked you to step out in faith, even without knowing the full picture? How did you respond?
5. Making room for Jesus requires removing things from our lives. Is there something in your life that you feel God is asking you to remove in order to make more room for Him? How can you take practical steps to do that?
6. The journey to Bethlehem wasn’t easy for Mary and Joseph, and their faith required trust in God’s plan. What is one area of your life where you need to trust God’s plan even if it feels uncomfortable or uncertain?
7. The sermon highlights Mary’s willingness to say, “May it be to me just as you have said.” What would it look like for you to live with that same heart of surrender to God’s will this Christmas season and beyond?

Christmas: Bethlehem Style // And He Shall Be Called

1. Read Isaiah 9:1-7. In verse 6, Isaiah lists several names for the coming Child: “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” What do each of these Names reveal about the character of the Messiah?
2. Which of these names, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, resonates most with you, and why?
3. How have you personally experienced the Messiah as Wonderful Counselor? Mighty God? Everlasting Father? Prince of Peace? Share your stories with your LifeGroup.
4. As we prepare for the birth of Christ, how can you intentionally focus on the meaning of Advent this week to deepen your relationship with God?
5. As we reflect on Isaiah 9:1-7, how can we pray for a deeper understanding of the Messiah’s role in our lives and in the world? Also, take some time with your LifeGroup to pray for each other this Advent season.