Pointing to Jesus: The Witness of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In the Christian Church, there are varying views of Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Some church traditions elevate Mary to the point of idolatry, while others ignore her role in the life of Christ and would rather focus on who Mary was not. In this Christmas message, Pastor Rich focuses on who Mary was. Mary was a model disciple and "the ultimate sign-post or witness to Christ."

Mary was Holy Spirit empowered to give birth to Jesus. And her life pointed to Christ who was the "supreme example of the Spirit-empowered person." Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit, completed His ministry by the Holy Spirit, and was raised from the dead by the Holy Spirit.

Mary pointed to Christ in that she also modeled submission. Mary's, "may it be to me according to your will" points to Christ's submission to God's will in the Garden of Gethsemane. And lastly, Mary points to Jesus in her suffering; having lived with the scandal of her pregnancy and the loss of her son to a violent death. Christ suffered and died for our sins because there was no other way to save humanity.


GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Share an experience which displayed to you the power of the Holy Spirit? What effect did that have on your life or your perspective of God?
2. Have you ever had God “promise” something, yet you experienced a delay in its fulfillment? How did you respond in the interim? What lessons did you learn while waiting?
3. What’s the worst movie sequel ever? What’s your favorite movie sequel? Explain.


INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Acts 1:1-11

1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”

7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

• (vs 1-2) It’s clear that Acts is “part 2” of Luke’s writing – What contrast exists between the two books? Why a “Sequel”? Who are the main characters? For those familiar with the book of Acts, comment on some Theologians’ suggestions that the name of the book should really be “The Acts of the Holy Spirit”? Do you have a different title suggestion?
• Notice that Luke said “all that Jesus began to do and to teach” – why is it important not to separate what Jesus did with what he taught? What are the main themes of Jesus’ ministry (Luke 4)? What implication does that have on the nature of our discipleship?
• (vs 3-5) What is the pivotal point in this story? Please describe the impact on human history of the Jesus’ resurrection? What was the “state” of Jesus’ body? What’s significant about that and why would Jesus care if that bit of information was understood clearly?
• What did Jesus teach on? How long was the “conference”? (vs 6 & 11) Did the disciples get it? Consider the roller-coaster they’d been on that last couple weeks? How has a “rollercoaster” experience affected your faith or understanding of God? In what ways do we continue to miss the point of the Kingdom of God? How do we gain the right perspective?
• How many times is the Holy Spirit mentioned (vs 2, 5, 8)? (vs 5) What’s the difference between John’s baptism and Jesus’? What’s the purpose of each? How is the Holy Spirit connected to the Great Commission (Matt 28:18-20)?
• What does it mean to be a “witness” (vs 8)? Are you empowered in your “witness”? How important is the Holy Spirit to Jesus (vs 4)? So even after all that teaching (40-day conference), the disciples still lacked something…Consider Jesus’ ministry and comment on Jesus’ empowerment? What does that say about Jesus’ commission for the disciples and consequently for us today? How has being “empowered” affected your witness? Please explain.

3. In this week’s message, Pastor Rich pointed out that when we stop insisting on our own way and choose to do God’s will in a situation, we can feel freer and have more peace inside.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any situation in your life where you need to submit to God’s will, rather than insisting on your way.
• If you need the power of the Holy Spirit to be a witness in any area of your life – ask another person to pray that you’d receive it now.



Attention small group leaders; a new website, RichNathan.org, is being launched! On this site, you will find a collection of thoughtful and relevant resources that will encourage and enrich you spiritually. We are happy to announce that RichNathan.org will officially go live just in time for Christmas. Please feel free to explore this exciting new website.

Additionally, please be aware that there will not be a discussion guide provided the weeks of January 2nd and January 9th due to the Holidays.

Lessons To Be Learned From A Scandal: The Life of Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11- 12; 1 Kings 2)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
Like modern-day times, the Bible is filled with stories involving scandal. Even the stories of those in our Savior’s past are affected by it. In this message, Pastor Marlene focuses on David and Bathsheba, a woman in Jesus’ past, and shares several lessons we can learn from a situation saturated by scandal. There are lessons to be learned from Bathsheba; lessons to be learned from David; and most importantly, one primary lesson to learn about God. Our God is a God who can see everything, and work things out for His glory if we put our trust in Him.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Can you describe a situation where you were able to learn from the mistakes that you witnessed another person make? How different might things have gone for you without that information? Did that experience change your attentiveness to the failures and successes of those around you?

2. Do you ever feel like the Lord gave you a warning, a check in your spirit, about someone or something and it turned out to be correct? Please share. Are you aware of God’s warnings (signs, words, dreams, impressions, etc) and how do you foster a sensitive ear?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read 1 Corinthians 10: 1 - 13

1 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our forefathers were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. 3 They all ate the same spiritual food 4 and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered over the desert. 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. 7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: "The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry." 8 We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did--and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. 9 We should not test the Lord, as some of them did--and were killed by snakes. 10 And do not grumble, as some of them did--and were killed by the destroying angel. 11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. 12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

• In preparation for Small Group time, leaders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Israelite Exodus from Egypt (suggested scriptures include: Exodus 1- 12; Exodus 13: 21-22; Exodus 14; Exodus 16:4; 24-31, Exodus 17: 1 – 7; Numbers 20: 2 – 13) and Corinthians 1 – 9.
• With whom is Paul encouraging the Corinthians to identify? (v. 1) Why do you think Paul calls these persons to the Corinthians’ attention?
• What do you think Paul means by being “baptized into Moses”? ( v.2) How does this relate to being baptized in Christ? ( Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:27)
• What is the “spiritual” food ( Exodus 16:4; 14-31) and “spiritual” drink (Exodus 17: 1-7; Numbers 20: 2 – 13) Paul references in vv. 3-4? Why are they characterized as “spiritual”? Are their ways God still sustains us today? Discuss. The Old Testament often refers to God as a “rock” (Genesis 49: 24; Deuteronomy 32:4; 2 Samuel 22:32). With this in mind, what connection is Paul encouraging the Corinthians to make by referencing Christ as the “spiritual rock”? (v. 4)
• In vv. 1 – 4, Paul uses the word “all” four times, to emphasize that all of the Israelites experienced the miracles and blessings of God’s guidance. Yet after all this, most of them rebelled against God and died without ever entering the Promise Land. (v. 5) Why did God allow these things to occur? (v. 6). Also, do you remember how many persons from this generation emerged from the wilderness and entered the Promise Land (Numbers 14:30)?
• What is an idolater? (v. 7) Why is idolatry so serious? Describe some examples of modern-day idolatry.
• How many persons died because of sexual immorality? (v. 8). In what span of time did this occur? Why do you believe God’s punishment was so strong regarding sexual immorality? Much of the idol worship in Corinth focused on ritual prostitution and sexual immorality of all kinds. Considering this, what implications would this historical example have for the Corinthians? For us today? ( See Colossians 3: 5- 8).
• What does it mean to put the Lord “to the test”? (v. 9) In what ways did persons from the Exodus “test the Lord”? What was the result? Are there ways people put the Lord to the test, even today? Share.
• Why do you imagine Paul highlights grumbling for the Corinthians? (See Corinthians 3: 1 – 9). How do you feel when someone grumbles towards and/or around you?
• Verse 11 mentions “the fulfillment of the ages to come.” When Christ came, the ages past reached their fulfillment, and now their lessons are recorded in the pages of scripture. How do you view these lessons in light of God’s mercy and salvation in Jesus Christ? In what ways do such views compare and contrast with Paul’s admonishment in verse 12? Discuss.
• What does Paul tell us to remember? (v 13a)? When faced with temptation, what are we to remember about God? (v. 13b) What are we to look for when facing temptation? Why is it important to look for this?


3. In the sermon, Pastor Marlene shares: (1) that anyone can fall and (2) that our eyes can get us into trouble. Ask members of your small group to take some time to do some self inventory:
• Are there areas of your life where you need forgiveness for having given in to temptation or idolatry?
• Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas in your life where you need to be vigilant against possible temptation. Are there any areas you’re ignoring God’s “warnings” ? (v 11).

Take some intentional time to pray and encourage one another. Additionally, as a point of information, please share the following ministry opportunities with persons who may benefit from any of the following ministries:

Men’s Sexual Wholeness
180 (Men’s Ministry) Monday 7:00 pm
Helping Men recover from sexual sin and return to God. This ongoing small group is open to all men, meets weekly throughout the year and has been successful helping men live lives of purity in spite of years of sexual addictions as well as those simply struggling with sexual temptation. It includes worship, a teaching time, small group accountability, mentoring and healing prayer. For more information please contact: John Doyel, jdoyel@hotmail.com, 740-649-6050

Men Building Integrity (Men’s Ministry) Tuesday 7:00 pm
Redeeming sexual issues over 15 weeks, includes break-outs for young men (18-30 years old) and men over 30. Next cycle begins January 4th.
Contact: Justin Fogt, justin.fogt@gmail.com

Women’s Sexual Wholeness
Integrity.women Preregistration by 1/11/11 required for next session; Tuesday 7:00 pm
Healing for sexual brokenness while finding freedom from addiction, shame and rejection. Next session runs 1/11-3/8. (No new participants can join after the first class.) Future session begins, Monday, May 9.
Contact: Tiffany Baugher, 740-815-1621 or tifer529@yahoo.com

Hearts Restored (Women’s Ministry) 2nd & 4th Mondays 7:00 pm
For women who have experienced sexual betrayal by a partner (i.e., through pornography, affairs, etc.). This is an open group where women can come and share their experience in a supportive setting with other women who are dealing with similar issues. Each meeting begins with a brief teaching time that focuses on each woman dealing with her own emotional and spiritual issues while allowing her husband to deal with his own issues. The goal of this group is to encourage each woman to discover what God has for her and who God wants to make her in the midst of this situation regardless of her husband's future choices and behavior. Contact: Mona Doyel, 614-471-1659 or monadoyel@hotmail.com

Same Sex Attraction
Circle of Love, 1st Monday 7:00 pm
Support group for family, friends, & those affected by same sex attraction.
Note: Jan 3 is a Monday holiday so we will meet again on January 10. For more information, contact:
Fred & Nora Seemann, 614-855-2184 or circle.of.love@sbcglobal.net

A Woman Who Kept Her Commitment: Celebrating the Life of Ruth (Ruth 1: 1-18)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
The sermon opens with a cultural analysis about how Americans view marriage and divorce – Pastor Rich says we live in an uncommitted age. He introduces a concept called “expressive individualism”. The sermon focuses on Ruth, but highlights 2 other major characters in Ruth’s story to illustrate commitment. Elimelech, Naomi’s husband, runs from his commitments. We might run from commitments because: our circumstances are hard; our relationships are fragile; or our feelings are paramount. Naomi complains about her commitments but not to God. There is a place in scripture for bringing complaints to God (consider Job). Ruth models commitment. She clings to Naomi. A committed person understands that to live well, they need to understand that endurance is a call, and that difficulties are a part of life, God empowers us to keep commitments. We need to regularly pray about commitments. And we need prayer and accountability from community to keep our commitment.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. In the midst of fulfilling a commitment to someone, have you ever found yourself wanting to quit? How did you deal with those feelings?
2. When you think about the word “commitment” is there a person that comes to mind? If so, who is that person and why do you perceive him/her as a committed person ?
3. How important is commitment in our culture today? Where do you see a high value placed on commitment and where do you see a relatively low value placed on commitment? What does that say about our culture? Are you in-step or out-of-step with our culture’s prevailing values and practices?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read 1 Peter 4: 12 - 19

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.17 For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” 19 So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

• “Do not be surprised.” (v. 12) The KJV version says “think it not strange concerning the fiery trial.” This suggests trials are part of Christian living. What does this mean to you? Why do we experience fiery ordeals? How does this connect us to Jesus? Have there been times in your own life where you have experienced fiery ordeals? Share.
• What are the three ways we ought to respond to fiery ideals? (vv. 12-13) How do these responses, in your opinion, help us stay committed to the cause of Christ when facing difficult circumstances?
• The New American Standard Bible (NASB) tells us to “Keep on rejoicing.” (v. 13) Is Christian joy based on circumstances? If not, what is it based on? What does it mean for us to “share the sufferings of Christ? How is the sharing of the suffering of Christ described in Peter’s letter? (I Peter 1: 18 – 19; 2: 21-24; 3:18)
• Did you notice that the suffering may come in the form of verbal insults, and that verbal suffering is real? (vv. 14) Perhaps you can think of a time when you were insulted because of your faith in Christ. With this in mind, what do you think it means that “the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you?” (v. 14) Do you think this is significant in helping us to maintain our commitments? Discuss.
• The text provides instructions for how we are to suffer as Christians. (vv. 15-16) How can we avoid feeling ashamed when the time of suffering comes? (v. 16)
• What do vv. 17-18 say about judgment and salvation? What are those who reject the gospel called? In contrast to the “ungodly and the sinner”, what does the faith of the believer look like? What are we to keep doing?
• If you are a believer, in the end what can you be sure your commitment to do good leads to? (I Peter 4:19, 3:17; 2: 21, Revelation 6: 9 – 11; Matthew 16:21; Luke 13:33, John 7:30 Acts 9: 15-16; 14: 21-22).


3. In the sermon, Pastor Rich shared “we never experience the joys and sweetness that God wants to bring in our lives by quitting..” As we approach this Holiday season, there may be persons in your group who are exhausted from the rigors of the year, or may be in need of encouragement, wisdom, and strength. Still others may be convicted by the quality of their commitment to God, relationships, or even other responsibilities. During your prayer time, encourage one another to share and invite the Holy Spirit to minister in these respective areas. Remind them that the reason we have small groups here at Vineyard is for them to be in an environment where they can turn to someone and seek prayer and support.

A Faith Which Overcomes: Celebrating the Life of Rahab (Joshua 2: 1-13)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In the new sermon series, Advent: The Women In Jesus’ Past, we’re going to look at the lives of four of the women in the genealogy of Jesus: Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary.

In this week’s sermon, we found that Jesus is the Savior of Gentiles, not just Jews. He is the savior of the whole world, not just people of a certain race, a certain ethnicity, or a certain nationality. He is the Savior of the immoral, not just the moral. In addition to good people, Jesus also saves those with a past; those familiar with scandal; those that society has labeled. And Jesus is the Savior of women, not just men. Jesus came to save women from sin and also the oppression and abuse they’ve historically lived with in the world. The faith of Rahab overcame her past, enabled her to overcome her aloneness, and overcame the odds. Her faith believed in a God who is over the heavens and the earth. God was Lord over her life.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. In follow-up to the sermon – were you challenged to consider any way you “put limits” on God? Especially as we enter the Advent Season, full of hope and expectation, is there any place you’ve become hardened and perhaps your hope or expectation of what God can do has diminished?
2. Can you think of an example of someone, or some group, overcoming insurmountable odds through their faith in God? Were there any set-backs along the way or perpetual smooth-sailing?
3. How would you describe our culture’s understanding of Faith? How would one build faith, or sustain faith? Is it consequential to doing life well?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Romans 4:17-25:

17As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls things that are not as though they were.18Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” 19Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. 20Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 22This is why “it was credited to him as righteousness.” 23The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, 24but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

• (Context) In Romans 4:1-15 Paul challenges assumptions about Justification (right-standing before God) by using Abraham as the example. What is Paul’s argument against “works” as a valid path to justification (vs 2-8)? What is Paul’s argument against circumcision as a valid path to justification (vs 9-12)? What is Paul’s argument against the Law as a valid path to justification (vs 13-16)? What is the valid path?
• (vs 17a) Was Abraham meant to be the father of just one nation – the Jews (Read Gen 17:3-5)? Is it important to see yourself as part of the “family” of Abraham – brought into the covenant promise as heirs? How should a family act? What implication does this have for our church? What about your community or your circle of friends?
• (vs 17b) How is God described? Can you honestly say those words about God? Have you seen God act with this power in your life - resurrect dead things or create something from nothing?
• (vs 18) Use your own words to describe “against all hope”. Why was hoping hard for Abraham? Is hope linked to faith? In what, or whom, do we hope? How reliable is the person, or thing we trust?
• (vs 19) This hope linked to faith allowed Abraham to do what? Have you ever faced something seemingly impossible like Abraham, or are you currently facing a seemingly impossible situation right now? Please describe.
• (vs 20-21) Did doubt ever enter the equation (Gen 17:17)? What alternatives did Abraham have to God’s promises? Abraham didn’t “give in” to unbelief – what does that mean? Instead he strengthened himself in what way? Are we fully persuaded that God has the power to do what he promised – focusing on His qualities and not the “reality” around us? Living in this tension is Paul’s reason for Abraham being declared righteous.
• (vs 23-25) Who is the Abraham’s story for? Is God’s way for saving Abraham any different for us? Paul’s emphasis on the Gospel is for us - our experience of faith isn’t just to get us through a difficult situation, but is integral to the foundation of our relationship with God. Have you seen your relationship with God affected through experiences that test of your faith? Please describe.


3. Take some time at the end to examine yourselves (Ps 139). Is the Holy Spirit highlighting something in your life?

• From Rich’s sermon, are there any women who feel disqualified from the life and promises of God? Any way you feel unable to fully participate in God’s Kingdom purposes.
• Is there any way you’re limiting God? Is there a place in your life where you’re attempting to make-up for something you perceive God lacks?
• Do you fee like your faith is disconnected from any real hope? Has the reality of God’s power and sovereignty been replaced by something else or diminished in any way?
• Do you see yourself wavering in unbelief, as Abraham might have done? Paul indicates there are degrees of faith (vs 19-20) – weak and strong – do you need be strengthen through the touch of the Holy Spirit or deep reminder God’s promises?

The Joy Of Thanksgiving (Psalm 100)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
Though we are in the Thanksgiving season, everyday is a day of thanksgiving. The key to a thankful heart is a heart that is filled with joy. Such joy is actualized when we (1) offer reverence to God; (2) are in relationship with God; (3) and rely on God.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Briefly share how you and your family celebrated Thanksgiving. Do you have Thanksgiving traditions that you engage in each year?
2. Is your family experiencing difficulties that made it difficult to be thankful this year? Share and discuss.

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read 2 Chronicles 20:12-22:

12 Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you." 13 All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the LORD. 14 Then the Spirit of the LORD came on Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite and descendant of Asaph, as he stood in the assembly. 15 He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. 16 Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. 17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' " 18 Jehoshaphat bowed down with his face to the ground, and all the people of Judah and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the LORD. 19 Then some Levites from the Kohathites and Korahites stood up and praised the LORD, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice. 20 Early in the morning they left for the Desert of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, "Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem! Have faith in the LORD your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful." 21 After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: "Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever." 22 As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.

• Briefly discuss the context of the passage. (2 Chronicles 20:1-12) Upon hearing distressing news, Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah seek God in prayer and fasting. What can we learn from their response to a seemingly impossible situation? What is your immediate response to discouraging news?
• After Jehoshaphat declares the power of God in his prayer, what does he admit to God? (v. 12) Do you ever find it difficult to admit your powerlessness to God, or to one another? Discuss and share.
• What instruction does the Holy Spirit give the people? (vv. 14-17) For what reasons are they instructed not to give in to fear and discouragement? (v. 17) Have you ever heard these words from the Lord during a troubling time? Is the promise of vs.17 real for you today? Read Romans 8:35 and discuss.
• Do you think it is significant that the Holy Spirit speaks through Jahaziel, rather than Jehoshaphat (v. 14)? Why or why not? What is the environment in which God provides direction to the people? Only in community do we see all the gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed – what gifts exist in your small group? How might this encourage you when we are waiting for direction or wisdom from God?
• How do Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah respond to God’s instruction? (vv. 18-19) Do the promises of God lead you toward worship like King Jehoshaphat? Why or why not? What impact does worship have on your relationship with God and your perspective on your own circumstances? How can you increase the quality and quantity of the practice of worship in your life?

3. Some of us find it hard to give thanks because we allow our circumstances to dictate our condition. But when we worship God, we recognize God's presence in spite of our predicaments. Consider the following questions, and take time to seek the Holy Spirit. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you as a group.

• Are there any places in your life where you need to hear the words, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.”?
• Pray that worship and thankfulness would increase in your lives despite life’s difficulties.

When You Finally Deal With Your Sin (Genesis 42-44)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In Genesis 42-44 we read a story of a family whose lives are in suspended animation. They are stuck and frozen in time because of an incident that happened more than twenty-years before. Jacob is stuck mourning for a son that supposedly he has lost. The brothers are stuck trying to run from their guilt; and Joseph is stuck, to some degree, wondering if his brothers still hate him. Like this family, many families and individuals today are stuck because they have not effectively dealt with their past. In this message, Pastor Rich shares why some of the ways we choose to deal with past sins are ineffective and contrasts these with positive methods we can use to finally deal with our past sin(s) once and for all. We don’t have to be imprisoned by guilt; when we finally deal with our sin, we can be set free through the miraculous power of Jesus Christ!

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. The experience of shame and guilt is powerful. There are many stories in film and literature that center on this human experience. Can you think of any recent stories or films that deal with guilt and shame? What was your response to the story?
2. Are you aware of personal stories from your own family or circle of friends where someone has suffered because of guilt and shame?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Psalm 51:

1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. 14 Deliver me from bloodguilt, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. 18 May it please you to prosper Zion, to build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous, in burnt offerings offered whole; then bulls will be offered on your altar.

• When David asks for mercy, what aspects of God's character does he emphasize? (v. 1) Why might it be important to focus on the nature of God when seeking relief from our guilt? What images come to mind when you read David's request that God "blot out", "wash away", and "cleanse"? (vv. 1-2) How does this influence the way you think about God's compassion, love, and forgiveness? Discuss and share.
• David isn't trying to cover up his sin, he is truly repentant. (vv. 3-6) Do you feel it is important to openly repent and confess when you've done wrong? Why or why not? What impact does denial and covering up have on us? Have you ever felt that your sin is "always before me"? Discuss and share.
• Discuss David's description of the clean that God can bring, "whiter than snow." (v. 7) How does David describe the feeling of having been cleansed? (v. 8) Have you ever been relieved of a heavy guilt in your life? Describe the experience.
• Describe what living with a "pure heart" and a "steadfast spirit" looks like for you? What about the "joy of your salvation" and a "willing spirit"? Have you experienced these in your relationship with Christ? How do you believe the Holy Spirit is involved in our experience of these? (vv. 10-12)
• Having been cleansed, what does David intend to do? (v. 13) How can the forgiveness that you've received impact others? Are there people in your life that would benefit from hearing about the freedom from guilt and shame that Christ can give? Are there people in your life that would benefit from hearing your honest confession of a wrong you've committed against them?
• What do you think David means when he says, "You do not delight in sacrifice"? Why do you think he focuses on a "broken spirit" and a "contrite heart" instead? (vv. 16-17) When seeking forgiveness, what does it look like when you have a "broken spirit" and a "contrite heart"? Are there outward actions that accompany this inward state? Discuss and share.

3. In his sermon, Rich talked about confession, sacrifice, restitution, and repentance as ways to deal with our guilt and sin. Consider the following questions, and take time to seek the Holy Spirit. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you as a group.

• Have you struggled with prolonged guilt and shame in your life? Is there something that you believe the Holy Spirit wants you to confess to the group, or another brother/sister? Do you need to repent; that is, get off the path you’re on and go in the opposite direction?
• Is God calling you to share your experience of God's compassion and forgiveness with someone else in your life? Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how and when to approach this person.


Small group leaders, please be aware that there will not be a discussion guide provided the week of November, 21st, as many groups will not be meeting due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

When God Raises A Child (Genesis 37)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In this week’s message, Insoo talks about how to partner with God to raise your children. Based on the story of Joseph in Genesis 37, he talks about how even our best efforts as a parent aren’t good enough, and how sometimes God is up to something that we can’t see right now; therefore we should learn to rely on God and partner with him. He talks about how we need to reshape our understanding of “family” and allow God to move through us even outside of our families.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. As a growing child, what were some of the disciplinary measures you argued against and yet now as an adult you agree with? Briefly share.
2. Can you recognize any “failures” or past hurts in your life that molded you into a better person? Do you believe God allowed them to happen? Do you believe he has a purpose for them? Share your experience.
3. What are your thoughts of God as your father? What beliefs or attitudes from your parents have you imposed on God’s character? How has your relationship with your parents influenced your relationship with God?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Psalms78:1-8:

1 My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth.
2 I will open my mouth with a parable; I will teach you lessons from the past— 3 things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us.
4 We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.
5 He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, 6 so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.
7 Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.
8 They would not be like their ancestors— a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him.

• In verse 2, the Psalmist talks about lessons from the past. What lessons do you believe he’s talking about? How do we learn from our past? What are some valuable lessons that have been transferred from generation to generation in your family? Can you identify any lessons or proof of God moving in your family through the years? Briefly share.
• What is God asking his people to do (v. 4)? What is the reason behind this command (v. 7)? What is the benefit of knowing “the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done”? Have you ever found remembering God’s deeds or works in your life or in others to be helpful? How do you think you would face your problems or difficult situations if you were not aware of “the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done”? Briefly share.
• According to verse 5, what were the Israelites supposed to do with God’s statutes for Jacob and the Law? What can we say was the purpose for the Law (vv. 6 & 7)? Can we as God’s children trust that all of his commandments for our lives are meant as a blessing? Have you ever experienced this? Briefly share.
• Why does God chose to reveal himself to us through human parents? What does that say of our role as parents or persons of influence over someone’s life? What are the advantages/disadvantages to that?
• Should the lessons learned from this Psalm be applied only to parent-child relationships? How do you think this message applies in terms of your responsibilities beyond your immediate family? How about in terms of people outside your family? To the next generation? In light of this passage, what does your responsibility as a Christian look like?

3. ln his sermon, Insoo shows us how the suffering and pain endured by Joseph in his life actually prepared him for life and for what God had in store for him.

• Have you been able to release to the Lord the pain and suffering in your life and allowed him to transform you through those events?
• Have you been able to release the pain and suffering that you have inflicted on others? Pray that God gives you the strength not only to ask that person for forgiveness, but also to forgive yourself for your actions in the past.
• Pray that God will show each person in your small group the purpose behind each painful situation from their past and how to turn it into a blessing and receive his freedom for their life.

Please also encourage persons in your small group to participate in the following Family Mess follow-up seminar:

How to Partner With God to Raise Your Children
Monday, November 15th, 7:30-9pm
Childcare available (ages 1 and up) for $3/child.
For more information contact Staci Rue.
Staci.Rue@vineyardcolumbus.org or 614.259.5390

When You Wrestle With God (Genesis 32:22-32)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
Anyone who wishes to have a life of faith, anyone who wishes to seriously engage in all that a relationship with God means, is signing up for a wrestling match, as they will wrestle with God and His will for their life.

In Genesis 32 we read the story of Jacob wrestling with God. After working for his father-in-law for 20 years, Jacob is finally heading back home, to the Promised Land, yet even though he’s had great experiences with God, he still is not willing to fully surrender his life to God and is still committed to do life as an independent agent.

Yet, God, in His sovereignty, allows Esau, Jacob’s brother, to come with 400 armed men to meet him, and this becomes a source of great fear for Jacob. However, God allows this to happen so that Jacob would draw near to Him, and as Jacob cries out to God for protection, God wrestles with him to strip him of everything that was keeping him from completely surrendering to God. As a result, Jacob is finally broken before God, and yet, as he holds on to Him, he receives God’s blessing for his life.

God wants to bring us to the end of our self-help methods, to a place where we’re finally broken and utterly surrendered to Him so that He can bless and transform us.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Have you ever wrestled with anyone over a particular issue? A co-worker? A friend? God? Briefly share.
2. Are there areas of your life where you’ve been asking God to intervene but it seems he hasn’t? Share and discuss your experience.
3. Do you feel that you can interact honestly with God about things that you don’t understand or that frustrate you? Why or why not?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read 2 Corinthians: 12:2-10:

2I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows. 3And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— 4was caught up to paradise. He heard inexpressible things, things that man is not permitted to tell. 5I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. 6Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say. 7To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

• Most believe that by saying the “man in Christ”, Paul is referring to himself. Explain why you agree/disagree. (v.2)
• When Paul says “in the body” or “out of the body” experience what do you think he means? (vv. 3 – 5) Do you think such experiences happen today? Have you ever had such an experience? Please share.
• In vv. 3 -6, Paul appears to be preoccupied with not appearing boastful to others. Why do you think Paul was concerned about this? Can you think of any times where sharing your spiritual experience with others made you uncomfortable with how others would receive it? Why did you feel it was uncomfortable to share it?
• Would boasting about genuine experiences with God make people think more of you than is warranted (v. 6)? Where do you draw the line?
• Who is it that Paul says gave him a thorn in his flesh to torment him and keep him from being conceited (v. 7)? Many theologians are divided about what Paul’s thorn was. With this in mind, what do you believe Paul means by “thorn in my flesh?” Describe situations, if any, where you feel you may have had such a thorn.
• What has Paul tried to do about the thorn in his flesh (v. 8)? How did the Lord respond to Paul’s request (v. 9)? Can you think of times where you or a loved one asked the Lord for relief but the request was not granted? What effect did it have upon you? How did it affect your faith?
• What does it mean for Christ’s power to be made perfect? How do you feel our weakness relates to the “perfecting” of Christ’s power in us? Have you ever experienced Christ perfecting His Power in your weakness? Share.
• How does Paul’s attitude about hardships, weaknesses, insults, persecutions and difficulties differ from most Christians you know? Is his attitude different from yours? Why or why not?

3. In his sermon, Rich says that sometimes God allows Esau (huge problems) to go away; and sometimes he doesn’t… because He wants us to be broken and utterly surrendered to Him so He can bless and transform us.

• Encourage your small group to share any areas of their lives where they have been broken and experienced a blessing.
• In your prayer time, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the areas of life any other small group members may need to have broken in order to receive the blessing the Lord has for them.
• Pray for one another that any areas revealed are surrendered and offered to the Lord. Encourage one another in the journey toward transformation.

When Family Members Conflict (Genesis 30:25-31:55)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In Genesis 30 and 31, we find the family mess that existed in the relationship between Jacob and Laban. Similar to modern-day examples of family conflict, Jacob and his father-in-law Laban were engaged in a business conflict that exposed deeply rooted personal issues. Laban had made Jacob’s work and personal life miserable. He treated Jacob poorly and regularly deceived Jacob. However, God brings healing to the situation and Jacob is eventually released.

The story of Jacob and Laban provides us with an example of how God can bring healing to our family conflicts. It may not seem that God is answering our prayers for our families, but he remembers our prayers and regularly restores families. We can move towards restoration in our relationships when we verbalize the hurt done to us, resolve to stop hurting one another, try to understand the other’s perspective, and receive God’s heart for the other person.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. How do you resolve conflict in your family/friends/work? What conflict resolution “style” do you embody?
2. Has the Holy Spirit ever given you special insight in resolving conflict? Have you seen growth in this area of your life?
3. Can you look back on your own family or relational conflict and tangibly see God was at work? Or have you considered he might be at work in within a current conflict?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less, briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Colossians 3:12-15a:

12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.

• Vs 12a What is the ‘Therefore’, there for (for context see 3:9b-10)? “Chosen people, holy and dearly loved”– what is Paul reminding the young Colossian church about? What is the source of this new found identity? Are their times when your own identity seems more rooted in your own goodness, or your own love-ableness, rather than Christ’s final and complete work? Why is that such a hindrance and Paul so adamantly preach against it?

• Vs 12b With a clear understanding of our new identity we are to “clothe [our]selves” with what things? What does it mean to “put on” compassion? We heard in the sermon the 4 steps that God empowers us to resolve relational conflict – how vital is compassion - “an understanding sympathy with others that affects one’s innermost being” (N.T. Wright)? What exchange needs to happen in our hearts to allow compassion to grow? Have you experienced God’s healing presence in a relationship to the point where you felt true compassion for someone with whom you had conflict? Or what barriers have you noticed in your own heart that hinder the process? Please explain.

• What is Kindness, and how is it coupled with compassion? Is kindness valued in our culture, or in your family? Is it essential to being Christ-like, and consider the life of Jesus? Is it a feeling or a lifestyle? If you don’t feel kindness towards others, particularly someone with whom you have conflict – how do you intentionally “put on” kindness? How can you be kind in the face of a perceived, or actual, injustice or hurt? Please explain.

• If kindness is our attitude, our orientation, toward others – what is humility? Phil 2:4-8 – can be summarized as “giving up one’s rights”, “relinquishing one’s rightful claim” – have you ever experienced this deep level of freedom and grace? What steps might exist to reach this point?

• How are gentleness and patience linked with kindness and humility? Since gentleness is our approach towards other, and patience is our reaction – do you find yourself living-out these Christ-like behaviors?

• Vs 13 Explain “bear with each other” in your own words (defined simply as restraint). Since giving your life to Jesus, have you felt this “restraint” when reacting to others? Is it realistic that you never have a grievance against someone? But how should we respond when we do? What is the standard, the principle, Paul is laying down for followers of Jesus? Unpack this principle “forgive as the Lord forgave you”? What does it mean to you? Should this principle apply to even those outside the Body of Christ? Please explain.

• Vs 14 What is the “final garment” believers should clothe themselves with? How is love the “binding agent”? Is Paul suggesting that love come after compassion and kindness, etc? Since Love is made up of these other virtues, the tissue connecting them, how does our own definition(s) of love fall short of Paul’s? Does the absence of love nullify, or render innocuous, the exercise of the prior virtues – why or why not? In what ways have you actively experienced Paul’s definition of love in your relationships (your family, your marriage, your friendships)?

• Vs 15a What kind of peace does Paul want for the Colossian church (e.g. peace of mind, absence of violence, or reconciliation etc)? This kind of peace penetrates and rules our hearts – what would this practically mean for you? Have you experienced this kind of peace? Please explain.

3. Ministry Application

• Where are you on the path, the 4 steps toward restoration, with current relational conflict (family, marriage, brothers and sisters in Christ, friends, co-workers). What might God be pressing you to give up so as to live with “peace”?

• Consider your styles of conflict resolution (or animal). How might Christ’s call in your life require you to grow or change? Consider a current relationship in which you feel the Holy Spirit prompting you to grow.

• When you consider the “clothing” of Christ’s followers, what is most lacking or most foreign to you? Examine yourself and let the Holy Spirit examine you in these areas.

When You Need To Replace Family Idols (Genesis 29)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In the message idolatry was described as “anything you can’t live with without”, or “something you’d do anything for”. Jacob sought his father’s blessings and romantic love with Rachael – at any cost; Leah aimed to “beat her rivals” and secure her husband’s love and affection – at any cost; and Rachael wanted to have a child – at any cost.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Describe idolatry in your own words and even provide an example for the group.
2. Do you agree with Paul’s statement(s): the power of sin has been broken because Jesus is in my life, and I am free from bondage to sin or idols?
3. Can you be a follower of Jesus, yet still have idols in your life? Are those idols always obvious? Is it possible to “discover” you currently have an idol in some area of your life? Please explain.

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Judges 17:

1 Now a man named Micah from the hill country of Ephraim 2 said to his mother, "The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse—I have that silver with me; I took it." Then his mother said, "The LORD bless you, my son!" 3 When he returned the eleven hundred shekels of silver to his mother, she said, "I solemnly consecrate my silver to the LORD for my son to make an image overlaid with silver. I will give it back to you." 4 So after he returned the silver to his mother, she took two hundred shekels of silver and gave them to a silversmith, who used them to make the idol. And it was put in Micah's house.
5 Now this man Micah had a shrine, and he made an ephod and some household gods and installed one of his sons as his priest. 6 In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.
7 A young Levite from Bethlehem in Judah, who had been living within the clan of Judah, 8 left that town in search of some other place to stay. On his way he came to Micah's house in the hill country of Ephraim. 9 Micah asked him, "Where are you from?" "I'm a Levite from Bethlehem in Judah," he said, "and I'm looking for a place to stay."
10 Then Micah said to him, "Live with me and be my father and priest, and I'll give you ten shekels of silver a year, your clothes and your food." 11 So the Levite agreed to live with him, and the young man became like one of his sons to him. 12 Then Micah installed the Levite, and the young man became his priest and lived in his house. 13 And Micah said, "Now I know that the LORD will be good to me, since this Levite has become my priest."

• Vs.6: How does the writer of Judges characterize this time? Discuss the role of leadership, good or bad, and its impact for the larger community of Israel (consider other major Judges in Israel’s recent past)? Have you ever experienced a failure of leadership, or been led into something or to do something that you later discovered was not God’s way, please describe? How do/should we respond when leaders fail and what responsibility do I have before God for my own faith and obedience?
• Vv.1-5 Describe the events of the mother and son? Despite dedicating the returned money to the LORD, what is the outcome? Like in the sermon, Jacob is willing to do anything for his father’s blessings, Micah responds by allowing this God-dedicated money to be made into an idol and placed in his home…have you ever violated God’s law by honoring a request from parent or loved one? Have you ever compromised (perhaps often) between “honoring” a parent or loved one and honoring God?
• The Mother (vv.3-4): What’s her “confusion”? Is it possible to believe you’ve consecrated (devoted, given to the Lord) something to God in your life (i.e. career, money, talents, relationships), but really it’s serving your own personal idolatry? Have you felt recently that God is speaking to you about “the thing you can’t give up”? How can you be faithful to walk that out?
• What’s the impact of the mother’s embrace of idolatry, and who does it affect? Sometimes we think our “issues” only affect us, but that’s not the case – have you seen this to be true in your own life, please describe? Has God’s grace empowered you to break that cycle?
• Vv.6-13 Why does the Levite stay with Micah? In order to “make ends meet”, a Levite (from the family of Israel responsible for leading and ministering before Yahweh) becomes a priest for an idol. Is it possible to confuse provision, no matter how great or from what source, with God’s will for your life? How does our community play a role in helping to discern for us what God’s will is during crucial life decisions? Are you open to this reality (Rom 12:2-7)?
• V.13 What is Micah’s response? What happens to Micah (Judges 18:14-17 & 25)? Micah seems to view following God as a religious activity opposed to an intimate relationship with Him (Jesus). Are there places in your life where you view the practice of your faith strictly as an activity, or that you can somehow earn God’s favor through a certain behavior (Eph 2:4-9)?
• Do you see any parallels in Micah to our experience of modern day religious pluralism? Can you name a few examples? How can we keep our eyes focused on Jesus? How can we successfully navigate conversations in our families or workplaces?

3. According to Rich, the definition of idolatry is something you “can’t give up” or “can’t live without”.

• Take time to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to highlight anything for you that fits this definition.
• Is there a family member or loved one who is causing you to compromise in your obedience and faithfulness to Jesus? Pray that you can confront this person/situation with grace and truth and be free to obey the Lord.
• Like Micah, are you feeling any confusion about how to keep your eyes focused on God? Pray for Jesus to reveal himself clearly into your life and situation.

When You Fight For A Blessing (Genesis 27)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In Genesis 27 we find a story of family mess, of deception and favoritism as Jacob tricks his father Isaac into giving him his blessing instead of giving it to his older brother and firstborn son Esau; but we also find a story of blessing, a story of God and his sovereignty and how God works through weakness and even through wickedness. However, if we want to experience the fullness of God’s blessing on our lives, we’ve got to walk in the path of faith and obedience of the Lord. At the same time, in this scripture we also find that this story ultimately points to the person of Jesus Christ and his work of salvation.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Have you ever wanted for yourself something that someone else had? Do you struggle with trusting in God and his provision for your life?
2. Have you ever been the victim of favoritism? What impact did that experience have on you? On the other hand, have you ever experienced being the favorite? Were you able to notice the impact that experience had on those around you?
3. Take time to share experiences in which you’ve seen God’s plan for your life move forward despite of the wickedness of others.

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Romans 1: 1-24:

1 I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying, my conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit— 2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own race, 4 the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. 5 Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of the Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised! Amen.
6 It is not as though God's word had failed. For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel. 7 Nor because they are his descendants are they all Abraham's children. On the contrary, "It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned." 8 In other words, it is not the natural children who are God's children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham's offspring. 9 For this was how the promise was stated: "At the appointed time I will return, and Sarah will have a son."
10 Not only that, but Rebekah's children were conceived at the same time by our father Isaac. 11 Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God's purpose in election might stand: 12 not by works but by him who calls—she was told, "The older will serve the younger." 13 Just as it is written: "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated."
14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion."
16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God's mercy. 17 For Scripture says to Pharaoh: "I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth." 18 Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden.
19 One of you will say to me: "Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?" 20 But who are you, a mere human being, to talk back to God? "Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, 'Why did you make me like this?' " 21 Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for disposal of refuse?
22 What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? 23 What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory— 24 even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?

• Why is Paul in great sorrow and unceasing anguish (v. 3)? What was God’s original plan for the people of Israel? (Gen. 12:1-3) Was all of Israel living under God’s plan?
• Why would some consider God failed in his plan (v. 6)? What’s the difference between “Israel” and all who are descended from Israel? Or between Abraham’s descendents and Abraham’s children (vv. 7-8)? Who is considered God’s people today? What does it mean to be children of the promise in the 21st century? Is God’s plan still at work today?
• In verses 11 and 12, we read that God had already promised Rebekah that the older of her sons would serve the younger, yet she still felt the need to cheat Isaac into blessing her younger son. Have you ever had to struggle with the tension of trusting God to keep his word and you taking matters into your own hands? Briefly share.
• In verse 16, the apostle Paul says that it does not depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy. What do you think would happen if God’s blessing for our life did depend on our desire and effort? How does knowing that we are subject to his mercy affect the way you live your life? Does this statement have an impact on your relationship with Jesus? How?
• According to the apostle Paul, why does God allow wickedness in mankind? What is God’s response to that wickedness and evil (vv. 17, 22-23)? How should we then face the wickedness of this world? How can we believe in God’s sovereignty despite of that wickedness? How then does wickedness and evil become and instrument for God to reveal his mercy?

3. In his sermon, Rich says that the reason you are not an imposter when you come into God’s presence; the reason why you don’t have to tremble in fear about being found out; the reason why you can believe God for blessing on your life is that if you have trusted in Christ, Christ voluntarily clothes you with his clothing of righteousness, and now when you go into the presence of your father in heaven as you pray, your father in heaven smells the smell of Jesus on you. Your father in heaven says, “Ah, the smell of my son; the scent of his righteousness is on you.”

• Are there any areas in your life in which you still feel like an imposter when you enter into God’s presence? If so, take time to pray that God may speak his truth into your life and release freedom in your relationship with him.
• At the same time, pray for those who are having difficulties trusting in God’s sovereignty for their lives.

When A Loved One Dies (Genesis 23)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In Scripture we find that the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus. However, we live in an age between the “already and the not yet” in which death is still a reality. In this message Stephen shares with us about the reality of death, the reality of grief and how Christians should support those who grieve, but most importantly, he shares with us about the reality of hope in Christ Jesus and how in him we will all be made alive.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Have you ever been caught off guard by someone’s death? How did you react to the news? How do you feel about “death”? Briefly share.
2. Have you ever experienced peace and joy in the midst of loss? Where did it come from? Have you ever been able to bring comfort to someone in the midst of their loss? Briefly share.
3. How do you cope with the fact that our lives here on Earth are relatively short? Why is the Christian reaction to death different than that of other religions / cultures?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read John 11: 17-37:

17 On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. 18 Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, 19 and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
21 "Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."
23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again."
24 Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day."
25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
27 "Yes, Lord," she told him, "I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world."
28 After she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. "The Teacher is here," she said, "and is asking for you." 29 When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him. 31 When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there.
32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died."
33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 "Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, Lord," they replied.
35 Jesus wept.
36 Then the Jews said, "See how he loved him!"
37 But some of them said, "Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?"

• Read John 11:1-5 and explain the context of this story. Place emphasis on Jesus’ relationship with the main characters in the story.
• In verse 3 we read that Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus that Lazarus was sick, yet in verse 17 we find out that Lazarus had already been dead for four days before Jesus got there. Have you ever found yourself in a place where you feel God is not answering your prayers? Did you loose hope? In this story, Jesus had heard about Lazarus’ sickness yet chose to wait before he went to meet them. Do you believe Jesus had a purpose in that? Do you believe Jesus has a purpose when he has you wait? What are some lessons you have learned as you wait in the Lord?
• What does Mary and Martha’s reaction to the news that Jesus was coming tell you about the different ways in which they grieve the death of their brother (v. 20)? When you find yourself in a difficult situation, do you find it difficult to seek Jesus?
• Even though Jesus knew what was going to happen, in verse 35 we read that he wept when he was taken to Lazarus. What does that tell you of Jesus’ heart for us? How does knowing that we have a God that feels for us and even grieves with us make you feel?
• What’s different about what Martha says to Jesus when he first sees him from what Mary tells him (vv. 21-22, 32)?
• In verses 21 through 27 we see Jesus speak truth into Martha’s situation and as a result, Martha’s heart is changed. How can the truth of Jesus transform our hearts? Have you ever been in a difficult situation in which you had to hold on to Jesus and his truth in order to “survive”? Briefly share.

3. In verses 25 and 26 Jesus says: “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

• How does this truth bring hope to your life?
• Are you currently going through a situation in which you desperately need to hold on to this truth?
• Are there any areas in your life in which you still need God’s kingdom to break through?
• Please take time to pray for each other, especially for those in need of hope and comfort.

Please also encourage persons in your small group to participate in the following Family Mess follow-up seminar:

When a loved one dies: help for hurting people
Tuesday, October 12th, 7-9pm
What is grief? How long will it take to feel better? This seminar will help you learn ways to navigate the grief process from a Christian perspective.
Contact: Toni.King@vineyardcolumbus.org / 614.259.5289

When You Live In Sodom (Genesis 19)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In this message Rich shares with us principles to help us keep our bearings and preserve our values when facing “Sodom-like” situations. For example, when we talk about Family Mess, the family is not isolated in its own cocoon. Families are impacted by the larger culture. We may have great values, but our kids are exposed to peer- pressure; a materials-based culture, and a media, entertainment and marketing juggernaut that is sweeping over our kids and our family like a tidal wave. Such an environment, metaphorically, represents Sodom.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Describe a time when your values or morals have been challenged. For example, have you ever worked in a place where people frequently did things that were contrary to your value system or faith? How did you cope with them?
2. How do you best impart values and morals to your circle of influence? Why is peer pressure so influential? How can we best equip the next generation not to compromise their values or morals when facing peer pressure or other forms of temptation?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read Daniel 1: 3 – 5; 8 - 21:

3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. 5 The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service.

8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. 9 Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, 10 but the official told Daniel, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you." 11 Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12 "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." 14 So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. 16 So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead. 17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. 18 At the end of the time set by the king to bring them in, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. 19 The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service. 20 In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. 21 And Daniel remained there until the first year of King Cyrus.

• What type of men is the King of Babylon looking for among the Israelites (v. 3-4)? What is he going to do with them? (vv. 4-5)? Is this a good or bad thing?
• How does Daniel respond to this opportunity? (v.8) What does this communicate about Daniel’s values? Why would he think his body would be defiled? (Consider Hebrew dietary laws) Why do you think these values were important to him? How do you respond to pressures that are seen as potential rewards but go against God’s will for your life?
• How is God intervening in this situation? (v. 9) Can you think of a time when you sought the will of God when an unpopular decision was made beyond your control? What did God lead you to do and how did you respond?
• What did Daniel ask the ranking official permission to do? (vv. 11 – 14). Do you think this was a good compromise? Why or Why not? Describe a time when you had to challenge the status quo. Have there been times when a reward or bonus has factored into your choice to compromise? Briefly share.
• What were some of the results of Daniel choosing to follow God’s will? (vv. 15 – 21). What are some of the times in your life where you had to make a choice to follow God’s will? How do making seemingly small compromises have large affects in our life? How does Daniel’s choice inform us how to respond when facing compromising situations?

3. In his sermon, Rich shares that there are ways we can survive in Sodom” avoiding bad judgmentalism; stop believing in our own moral superiority; not to say everything we think; do something good for people, and go deeper in our relationship with God. Do you struggle with any of these issues? In your ministry time, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any of these areas (or others) you may need to work out in your own life. Take some time to share with others and pray for strength in these areas.

Please also encourage persons in your small group to participate in the following Family Mess Event:

Women’s Ministry is hosting: “The Truth About Human Trafficking Right In Our Own Backyard-Part II” – Saturday, October 9, 9:00am – 2:00pm in the Auditorium. At this event, Jeff Barrows, MD will also be doing a breakout session for men called, “Your Brain on Porn”. All other Family Mess Events can be found in The Mix or at www.vineyardcolumbus.org

When You Can’t Get Pregnant (Genesis 16)

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SYNOPSIS OF THE SERMON
In our family mess series we see in the lives of the patriarchs and their wives some of the same messes that we see in our own lives. One of these messes that is squarely addressed is the inability to conceive a child. In Biblical times, conceiving children was one of the dreams of families as it is in many societies today. Many of us have dreams that have not come into fruition and even some that have been shattered. Even when this happens our Father in heaven sees us with eyes of love, compassion and concern.

GETTING THE CONVERSATION STARTED
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Begin by sharing with one another any dreams you may have for your life. Have all of those dreams come true? If not, how have you personally dealt with unfulfilled dreams?
2. Have you ever had a goal in mind and worked hard to achieve it? Describe some of the efforts put in to attain the goal(s). If you accomplished the goal how did you feel? If the goal was not accomplished how did you feel?
3. Can you think of a time where you had to help someone face disappointment? What advice and/or assistance did you provide? Do you think it was effective? Why or why not?

INTERACTING WITH THE SERMON
1. In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

2. Read 1 Samuel 1:3 -20:

3 Year after year this man (Elkanah) went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the LORD Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the LORD. 4 Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters. 5 But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the LORD had closed her womb. 6 And because the LORD had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. 7 This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. 8 Elkanah her husband would say to her, "Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don't you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?" 9 Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the LORD's temple. [b] 10 In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD. 11 And she made a vow, saying, "O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head." 12 As she kept on praying to the LORD, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk 14 and said to her, "How long will you keep on getting drunk? Get rid of your wine." 15 "Not so, my lord," Hannah replied, "I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief." 17 Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him." 18 She said, "May your servant find favor in your eyes." Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast. 19 Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the LORD and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah lay with Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her. 20 So in the course of time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, [c] saying, "Because I asked the LORD for him."

• Each year Elkanah went with his family to the temple for worship. (v. 3) Why do you think it’s important for families to worship together? What impact does it have on children to see their parents worshipping God? How can this have a long lasting effect in their lives?
• The narrative indicates that the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb. (v.5) Why do you think that God sometimes shuts doors or delays doors from opening in our lives? Can you think of a time in your life when a blessing was delayed? How did you respond? Discuss and share.
• What was Hannah accused of? (v. 14) What explanation did Hannah provide for her countenance? (vv. 15 - 16). What does it mean to pour your soul out to the Lord? (v. 15) How did Eli respond? (v. 17) Do you think his response triggered a change within Hannah? Why or why not? Has the Lord ever used anyone to speak to you in times of anguish/wait? Discuss and Share
• The next morning, what did Hannah do? (v.20). Had her prayer been answered? What does this say to you concerning how we should respond even in the midst of delayed blessings?
• How did the Lord “remember” Hannah? How would you characterize Hannah’s lifestyle of worship throughout this whole situation (e.g. before she made her request, while she was requesting, and after the Lord responded)? How does this inform us when dealing with delayed blessings or even shattered dreams?

3. In his sermon, Rich said that when we can’t get pregnant and our dreams are shattered, we can rest assured that our Father in heaven sees us with eyes of love and compassion and concern. Take some time to revisit the dreams shared by members of your group. Spend some time praying for those with unfulfilled dreams to be showered by the compassion and concern of Christ.

Please also encourage your small group to participate in the follow up events and seminars being offered in conjunction with the Family Mess series.

When Family Mess Is Handed Down (Genesis 12:10-20)

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Synopsis of the Sermon
In the Family Mess series we are going to look at the family of the patriarchs and how family mess was handed down generation to generation. When generational sin is handed down in our families, it forms patterns for us. However, we can break the chain of generational sin when we acknowledge our need to change and ask God to give us the courage to choose a different way.

Getting the Conversation Started
These questions can be used as ice-breakers in the beginning OR interwoven between the questions below to draw the group into the discussion.

1. Have you ever caught yourself using a saying that you often heard your father or mother use? Or maybe you use the same gestures?
2. If you have children, have you seen your son or daughter imitate things that they’ve seen you do? How did that make you feel?
3. Can you think of an instance when you have learned from the mistakes made by earlier generations of your family? Or instances where you have repeated those mistakes?

Interacting with the Sermon
In 5 minutes or less. Briefly give a synopsis of this week’s sermon. What insight, principle, or observation from this weekend’s message did you find to be most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.

Read 2 Kings 22:1-19:

1 Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother's name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath. 2 He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. 3 In the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah sent the secretary, Shaphan son of Azaliah, the son of Meshullam, to the temple of the LORD. He said: 4 "Go up to Hilkiah the high priest and have him get ready the money that has been brought into the temple of the LORD, which the doorkeepers have collected from the people. 5 Have them entrust it to the men appointed to supervise the work on the temple. And have these men pay the workers who repair the temple of the LORD-- 6 the carpenters, the builders and the masons. Also have them purchase timber and dressed stone to repair the temple. 7 But they need not account for the money entrusted to them, because they are honest in their dealings." 8 Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the LORD." He gave it to Shaphan, who read it. 9 Then Shaphan the secretary went to the king and reported to him: "Your officials have paid out the money that was in the temple of the LORD and have entrusted it to the workers and supervisors at the temple." 10 Then Shaphan the secretary informed the king, "Hilkiah the priest has given me a book." And Shaphan read from it in the presence of the king. 11 When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes. 12 He gave these orders to Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Akbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the secretary and Asaiah the king's attendant: 13 "Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the LORD's anger that burns against us because those who have gone before us have not obeyed the words of this book; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written there concerning us." 14 Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Akbor, Shaphan and Asaiah went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter. 15 She said to them, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Tell the man who sent you to me, 16 'This is what the LORD says: I am going to bring disaster on this place and its people, according to everything written in the book the king of Judah has read. 17 Because they have forsaken me and burned incense to other gods and aroused my anger by all the idols their hands have made, my anger will burn against this place and will not be quenched.' 18 Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, 'This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: 19 Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people--that they would become a curse and be laid waste--and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I also have heard you, declares the LORD.

· Discuss the context of this passage. (2 Kings 21) What was the family mess handed down to Josiah? How did Josiah’s reign differ from previous kings? (v. 2) Can you think of family mess that has been handed down in your own life? Discuss and share.
· We know that Josiah “did what was right in they eyes of the Lord.” (v. 2) What was the attitude and character of the temple workers just before the discovery of the Book of the Law? (vv. 3-7) How do you think our character and our present response to God can impact our ability to see the need for change in our lives? Discuss and share.
· Josiah became a king when he was eight years old, but the Book of the Law was found when he was eighteen. Are there things that you accepted as “normal” when you were a child, but you later discovered were actually family mess? How did that feel? How did you respond to this new knowledge? Discuss and share.
· What was Josiah’s response when he heard the reading of the Book of the Law? (vv. 11-13) What did he instruct the priest to do? What might this tell us about how we can respond when we recognize our need to change generational patterns in our lives? Discuss and share.
· What was God’s response to Josiah’s repentance and humility? (vv. 18- 19) How does God respond to us when we recognize our need to change and repent? How does knowing this affect your feelings about personal change? Discuss.
· In 2 Kings 23:1-3, we find a detailed description of the ways that king Josiah turned from the disobedience of previous leaders and renewed the people’s covenant with the Lord. Can you think of ways that you can actively change some of the sin patterns that have been passed down in your family? How can you establish new patterns? Discuss and share.

In his sermon, Rich said that we can’t change until we become aware of our need to change. Spend some time praying about areas where God may be asking you to change. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you as a group.

· Ask the Holy Spirit to show you areas of your individual lives that are being negatively impacted by generational patterns. As a small group, ask the Holy Spirit to show you areas where these patterns may be hurting you as a group.
· If you’ve identified a sinful pattern or behavior that has been handed down from your family, consider asking a member of your small group to support you as you choose a different path.

Please encourage your small group to participate in the follow up events and seminars being offered in conjunction with the Family Mess series.