LG Questions :: 05-22-2011

For Further Consideration :: Hope and Freedom

Shawn Cossin, SLW :: May 22, 2011

Read John 8:34, 36

Paul Revere had a message – what was it? Why was it important?

As Christians, we have a message – what is it? Why is it important?

Read Luke 4:14-30… What was Jesus’ message? Was this section of Scripture chosen by accident or happenstance? And how does Jesus proclaiming what he’s FOR instruct us?

“The Hand of Hope”

:: Proclaim Hope

:: Eyes to See

:: Partnership

:: Education

:: Orphan Care

:: Prayer

“The Hand of Freedom”

:: Proclaim Freedom

:: Education

:: Partnership

:: Addiction Recovery

:: Anti-Trafficking

What are the ways God is calling us to proclaim hope and freedom?

What are some of the specific thoughts/ideas Shawn shared that jumped out at you?

What do you think our church would look like if God grants us favor in addressing these issues?

What do you think our community, region, and world would look like if we address these issues?

Think about this… How would God have us to live? What would it look like?

IN CLOSING :: As you consider the vision Shawn shared for this coming year of ministry at SLW, how would you pray? What would you ask God to help us with as a congregation? How would you pray for yourself personally, and for us as a people? Take a few moments to  consider all this, and then pray as a group!

LG Questions :: 05-01-2011

“Faith” :: SLW :: Shawn Cossin

05/01/2011 :: For Further Consideration

Take some time to catch up – How did Easter go? How has your week been going? Also, take some time to discuss how the recent “I AM” series impacted your life.

Shawn told the story of the man who traveled to Florida. Using the wrong email address, he sent an email to his wife (actually, a different woman). Funny story, but what does it teach us about “context”?

Today's BIG question: Are you trusting in Jesus alone for your access to God? Jesus alone? Or Jesus “plus”?

Read Hebrews 10:19-23

            : What different points does this section communicate?

            : What personally stands out to you the most?

            : What seems to be the key verse of this Scripture?

            : Why do you think this was important for the Hebrew writer to say?

Shawn talked about confidence. Consider these thoughts…

            : If someone lacks confidence, what can happen in his/her life?

            : If someone has an overabundance of confidence, what can happen?

            : As Christ-followers, where should our confidence come from?

            : Why is this so important to understand?

Shawn described the layout of the temple, and specifically referenced the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. What was the important fact he wanted us to remember? Consider this…

            : What did the Holy of Holies represent?

            : What happened to the curtain when Jesus died?

            : Did it tear from top to bottom, or from bottom to top? Why would that matter?

Read Matthew 27:50-54

            : What happened here?

            : What would have amazed or even freaked you out?

            : Why might this have happened?

Shawn talked about his recent attempt to secure passports. He talked about the access/information needed to acquire a new pastor. What did this story illustrate about out access to God?

Re-read Hebrews 10:19-20

            : Do you see what we’re provided? Why does this matter?

Re-read Hebrews 10:21-22

            : What does verse 22 indicate to be our part in this process?

            : Is there more, or is that it? Why does this matter?

So… take a look at this whole Jesus plus” issue… What are some ways people end up living a “Jesus plus” life? What are some ways you have done that? Why is it important to understand that there is to be no “plus”?

 IN CLOSING :: Be honest… admit it if you need help to avoid living a “Jesus plus” life. Tell the group what you need them to pray as you get serious with God about living a “faith in Jesus alone” kind of life. And while you’re at it, please pray for our entire church, asking God to help us live “faith in Jesus alone” kinds of lives. Blessings!