God and Government (Romans 13:1-7)

                                       Community Group Discussion Questions

                                 Making disciples through the mutual ministry of

                                                 redemptive relationships.


                                                       Text: Romans 13:1-7

                                         Sermon Title: God and Government
                                                     Date: October 18, 2020
 

1. Read 1 Peter 2:13-17. How does Peter’s counsel challenge the way our culture views and discusses politics and government? How does the fact that Nero, who violently persecuted Christians at the time, was emperor at the time?
2. Do you feel more inclined to “over-value” or “under-value” the government? Explain.
3. How does seeing the government biblically (through Romans 13)strengthen our gospel witness? How can getting our view of government wrong hinder our witness?
4. In what way(s) will you seek to glorify God by your participation in our government over this next month?
5. How can your active participation be a way for you to love your neighbor?
6. How can we pray for you during this political season? What specific help do you need from the Lord as you navigate it?
   
   

Forgive Us (Matthew 6:12)

                                       Community Group Discussion Questions

                                   Making disciples through the mutual ministry of
                                                 redemptive relationships.


                                                       Text: Matthew 6:12
                                          Sermon Title: Forgive Us Our Debts
                                                     Date: October 4, 2020

1. Read Matthew 18:21-35. Which character (in this parable) does Jesus want his listeners to identify with most? Who do you identify with most? Explain.
2. When you think about the debt you owe God, do you think first more about sins of omission (good you’ve left undone) or sins of commission (sins you’ve done)? How does this impact the way you view your debt to God? How does it shape your requests for forgiveness?
3. Do you focus more on your sins or God’s grace when you ask Him for forgiveness? How will focusing on the “Running Father” impact the way you pray this prayer?  
4. Who are you demanding repayment from because of the ways they have wronged you? How are you doing this? What fears do you have about forgiving this person? Why is it so hard to forgive them?

In what ways is forgiveness of another a gift we give to ourselves? Explain how this act is even possible.