Community Group Discussion Guide

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What are your plans for Memorial Day?

Sermon Summary:

Read:  Following Jesus doesn’t automatically make life easier. Sometimes, it makes things much harder! So, how can we stay faithful even amid persecution? When we experience suffering—or witness others in pain—it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to respond. Thankfully, Scripture provides a framework for understanding suffering in the life of a believer. 

Read:  1Th 2:13-3:5

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from Sunday’s sermon or 1 Thessalonians 2-3.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):  Mt 5:10-12; Mk 4:14-20; Ac 16:22-23; 2Th 1:3-7; 1Pe 4:12–19

Question: What does Paul mean when he says that the Thessalonians are his glory and joy in 2:20? 

Question: What might Thessalonians 3:3-5 and Paul’s honesty to the Thessalonians teach you about evangelism? 

Question: Paul’s joy in this passage was not in the number of converts but in the suffering, they were facing. Suffering was proof of the genuine conversion of the Thessalonians. Paul glories in the lives transformed by the gospel. Following Jesus means we walk in both joy and trial, sometimes simultaneously. When have you seen someone take joy in their suffering? Do you view suffering as proof of faith? 

Question: Encouragement is who God is, what he has done, and what he will do. We need truth, not fluff. Two weeks ago I asked you how you have encouraged others. This week, I want to ask how you have been encouraged lately, or in the past? How has it affected you?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? 

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question:  How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What is your favorite restaurant?

Sermon Summary: When the Apostle Paul brought the gospel to Thessalonica, he was very careful to model a life aligned with his message. He demonstrated the kind of loving care found in a healthy family. This helped those early believers learn what it meant to be part of the church, and it helped sustain them, especially when times were tough. In life and ministry, the "how" matters.

Read: 

Read:   1Th 2:1-12

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from Sunday’s sermon or 1 Thessalonians 2.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional): Mt 6:9; Jn 13:34-35; Ac 16; 1Ti 5:1-2; Eph 1:5; Heb 2:11

Question: Why did Paul find it necessary to recall the purity of his conduct in his letter? What does it remind and/or teach the reader? 

Question: What does it mean in verse 6 when it says, "We were not looking for praise from people, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority"? What kind of authority could they have asserted? 

Question:  In the sermon, David explained that Paul did not want money to hinder his mission. He never asked the people he was ministering to for financial support and would even work as a tent maker to pay for his missions. How often do you let money get in the way of your mission? What does this make you assess in your own heart?

Question:  Are you conscious of your conduct? Do you pay more attention to your words or your conduct? How can they mirror each other more? 

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? 

Wrap Up:

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What is your favorite thing that you have inherited? 

Sermon Summary:

Read: 1Th 1:5b-10

Read:  

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from Sunday’s sermon or 1 Thessalonians 1.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Ex 20:1-6;  Isa 44:6-20; Ac 17:1-15; Ro 8:18-30; 1Co 8; 1Jn 5:21

Question: Pastor David focused a lot on the joy the Thessalonians shared. How did joy shape their testimony? What is joy that surpasses all understanding? What is the joy of the gospel, and what does it produce?

Question: God was not an addition to the Thessalonians' worship, but the replacement of all other idols, and because of this, their “faith in God has become known everywhere” (1 Thessalonians 1:8b). What is divided worship? What does it mean to turn from idols to serve the “living and true God?”

Question: What are the false gods you are worshipping? Is your worship divided? Where is it divided?

Question:  Encouragement is what brings and sustains life in the midst of suffering. Do you know the power of encouragement? When was the last time you pointed out someone else’s strength or fruit? How can we better encourage one another in this group?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? 

Wrap Up:

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Announcements:

Read: Church Potluck (Ethnic Food Fest) this Sunday, May 4th!! 

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What is your favorite ethnicity of food and go-to dish?

Sermon Summary:

Read: 

Read:  1Th 1:1-5a; Acts 17:1-12

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from Sunday’s sermon, 1 Thessalonians 1, or Acts 17.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Mt 5:10-12; Mt 28:18-20; Jn 19:12; Eph 1:15-16; Php 1:3-6

Question: Although this sermon series is about 1 Thessalonians, the main chunk of Sunday’s sermon was spent in Acts 17. How does Acts 17 set the stage for 1 Thessalonians? How would the reading/studying of 1 Thessalonians be impacted if we didn’t have the context of Acts 17?

Question: What does it mean in verse 4 when it says, “For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction”? What does it mean that the Thessalonians were “chosen”? Paul is encouraging the church of Thessalonica, so how is this an encouragement? 

Question: How can we stand firm no matter the consequences?

Question: What do Acts 17 and even 1 Thessalonians teach us about sharing the gospel?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? 

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. If you weren’t working your current job, what job would you be working? Why?

Sermon Summary:

Read: 

Read: Matthew 28:1-20

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from Friday or Sunday’s sermon or from Matthew 26-28?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

 Isa 53:11; Jn 11:25; Ac 4:33; 1Co 15; 1Pe 1:3-4; 

Question: Why do you think the resurrection account is so brief? It is so significant to our faith, but there are only 20 verses in the entire book of Matthew devoted to it. 

Question: “‘Tell people ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep’…. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day” (Matt 28:13,15). How do you think this false narrative affected the church? Do you think the impacts of it can still be seen today?

Personal application questions:
Question: We celebrate Easter every year. Sometimes the Easter holiday may feel repetitive. Was there anything new that stood out to you, or that God was pressing on your heart this year?

Question: On the cross, he said “It is finished,” but the resurrection told a different story. Sin was overcome, death was defeated, and His work was finished. Yet when appearing to his disciples, he tells them of the work that is yet to be completed, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt 28:19). Easter is not only a reminder of what has been done for us but also what that means for how we live our lives because of what Christ completed. The great commission is not just for those called to overseas missions, but for us here in the Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Kaukauna, Kimberly, and Oshkosh, mission fields.

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? Any lost people in your life we can be praying for as a group?

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What are your plans for Easter weekend?

Sermon Summary:

Read: 

Read: Matthew 21:1-17

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Matthew 21.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Dt 18:15; Ps 118; Zec 9:9

Question: What is the importance of the people calling Jesus “Hosanna” in this text? The name “Hosanna” is only ever used in this scene of Palm Sunday, across Matthew, Mark, and John. Why might it be so unique to this event? 

Question: Why is it so important that Jesus’ kingship is “humble” (Zech 9:9) so much that he would ride in on a donkey instead of a war horse to accept his title as king? Why did he choose such a humble life/approach to kingship?

Question: What does it mean to join with the kids and start to shout? What does it mean to have childlike faith? If you have kids, how can you/how have you learned from their faith?

Question: Many people will test the sinlessness of Christ against the cleansing of the temple. Is Jesus overturning the money tables' sinful wrath? Why might this be paired/intertwined with the miracles Jesus did directly after with the blind and the lame? What might the message of this section be?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?  Is there anyone in your life you could invite to church this upcoming Sunday? Easter is a great Segway into church invitations and a perfect opportunity for the gospel to be clearly explained!

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any shared requests. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. With Easter coming up next week, what has God been teaching you throughout this Lent series? 

Sermon Summary:

Read: 

Read: Matthew 26:36-46

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Matthew 26.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

 Pro 3:5-6; Pro 16:9; Jn 6:66-69

Question: What is the “cup”? Jesus in his prayer asks the Father to “let this cup pass from me,” what is the cup? The metaphor of the cup is used all throughout the bible, even last week in Matthew 20:23 Jesus tells the disciples they will drink from his cup.

Question: Pastor David said it was not the fact of death but the type of death that brought anguish, how does verse 45 support this?

Question: Do you expect suffering? 

Question: “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matt 20:41).  In Jesus’s last hours he brought his friends, who are your Godly friends that are keeping watch over you? Who can you confess sin to, and walk through suffering with? 

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? Is there anyone in your life you could invite to church this upcoming sunday? Easter is a great segway into church invitations and a perfect opportunity for the gospel to be clearly explained!

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What are your primary love languages? 

Sermon Summary:

Read: Next in our Values of the Cross series, Jesus challenges the world’s definition of greatness. As He prepares to enter Jerusalem, He reveals that His mission is not to claim an earthly throne but to suffer, die, and rise again.  Unlike the power-hungry values of Rome, Jesus introduces a kingdom where the greatest are those who serve, just as He came “not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”. The cross-shaped way of Jesus calls us to humility, self-denial, and service. This Lent, we must ask: Are we chasing worldly greatness, or are we following Jesus' example of servant-hearted love?

Read: Matthew 20:17-28

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Matthew 20.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Pro 16:18; Php 2:5-11

Question: Jesus repeatedly refers to himself as the "Son of Man" in this section. What does the title "Son of Man" tell us about Jesus? What does "Son of Man" mean?

Question: What does it mean to sit at the right and the left hand of Jesus? There are countless other places in the scripture where it talks about being seated at the Father's right hand, can any of those verses bring context to this one?

Question: How do you tend to define greatness? How are you chasing greatness?

Question: Society changed because the body served like Christ. The term Christian literally means "little Christs." Does your conduct match your title, little Christ? How can you lay down your life for others?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?  Has anyone had any conversations with the people we prayed for last week? 

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What’s one hobby you want to have but don’t yet?

Sermon Summary:

Read: We’re looking at the Values of the Cross during Lent, and how they turn our way of thinking upside down. Jesus teaches that forgiveness is not about keeping count but about adopting a heart transformed by grace. Using the parable of the unmerciful servant in Matthew 18:21-35, the sermon highlights the immense forgiveness we receive from God and how it should shape our interactions with others. Ultimately, Lent is a season to reflect on God’s grace, release bitterness, and pursue reconciliation, embodying the cross-shaped way of Jesus.

Read: Matthew 18:21-35

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Matthew 18.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Ps 51; Jer 29:7; Mt 4:17; Mt 6:12; Ro 12:18; 2Co 5:17-20; 1Jn 1:9

Question: What does Jesus mean when he instructs us to forgive our brothers from our hearts? What does it mean to forgive from the heart? Why is the heart, specific and significant?

Question: Is the Master's anger at the end of the story righteous anger? What makes it righteous? How can we better understand God's justness through this parable?

Question:  What prevents you from reaching full forgiveness from your heart? Is there a sin you struggle to forgive the most? Why?

Question: How does remembering God's forgiveness towards you, shape your forgiveness towards others?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?  Does anyone have someone pressing on their heart that they need to forgive? You don't have to share but now is a time to settle that. 

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What is one thing you could give up for Lent?

Sermon Summary:

Read: The way of Jesus is fundamentally different from the ways of the world. Why? Because the story of the cross produces unique values. And those values transform our focus, conflicts, purpose, expectations, allegiance, and more. The cross changes everything! Lent is a great time to reflect on these unique values. And prayer and fasting, two traditional practices of Lent, can be great tools to help us refocus. Jesus' teaching on prayer and fasting from the Sermon on the Mount helps remind us of our spiritual dependence on God.

Read: Matthew 6:5-18

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Matthew 6. 

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Mt 7:7-11; Heb 4:14-16; Jas 5:13-20; 1Jn 2:15-17

Question: The disciples never asked Jesus how to preach, but they did ask Jesus how to pray. Why do you think that is?

Question: "For your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matt 6:8 ESV). How could this verse be an encouragement to prayer, not a discouragement? 

Question: "Our Father in heaven" Jesus starts with God, not himself, and not his disciples.  How do you address God at the beginning of your prayers? "Hallowed be thy name"(Matt 6:9 ESV) What we think about God shapes how we communicate with Him. For example, if you see God as holy, you are going to address him as high above. On the other hand, if you see God as far off, you're going to hold some distance in your prayers. How have you seen this play out in your own life?

Question: The Lord's prayer is a prayer of dependence. We depend upon the will of God, not our will. We ask him for our daily bread, and He sustains us. We depend on him to forgive us our debts, to protect us from temptation, and to deliver us from the evil one. Yet, we often forget our dependence when we live in comfort. How aware are you of your dependence on God? Is there any circumstance in your life that you are having difficulty surrendering? How can dependence offer comfort?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer that we can celebrate together? 

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What would your Death row meal be? Think four course meal; appetizer, drink, entrée, and dessert.

Sermon Summary:

Read: The revelation of God's glory was not contingent on the moral righteousness of man of the people but the mercy of God. There is no one more glorious in human history than the coming of Christ as God's glory no longer dwells within the temple but with us and now in us! The glory of the Lord that once filled the temple now fills us. This is a glory that leads to worship and obedience. This glory is contagious. 

Read: Ex 40:34-38.

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon on Exodus 40. 

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Num 9:15–23; 2Ch 5:11-14; Eze 10:1-19; Eze 43:1-9; Mt 17:1-5; Mt 24:30; Jn 17:24; 2Co 3-4; Rev 15:5-8.

Question: Why is this an appropriate ending to the book of Exodus? Why might Moses have chosen to focus on the glory of God to conclude his narrative? 

Question: What does Moses' inability to enter the tent of meeting tell us about the magnitude of the glory of God here? How does this tie to last week's discussion on Moses asking to see God's glory? 

Question: God's glory is contagious. Moses' face was radiant after encountering the glory of God because he was transformed by what He saw. We who are in Christ are now transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. God no longer dwells within the temple but within us! How has this sermon series helped you better connect the God of the Old and New Testament? How has it furthered your understanding of the glory of God?

Question: The glory of the LORD was with the Israelites through all their travels, by day and by night. The presence of the Lord was continuous and they did not move unless the presence of God went before them. How does this apply to our lives today? How do we see the glory of God today if it's not in a cloud or in a pillar of fire? Are you looking for God's glory?

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?  Has anyone had any conversations with the people we prayed for last week? If so please share! Keep praying for all the people mentioned last week!

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What about spring are you most looking forward to?

Sermon Summary:

Read: Have you ever wondered what God is really like? When God remade his covenant with Israel, Moses asked to see his glory. The Lord allowed Moses to experience as much as he could bear, revealing multiple aspects of his good character. Yahweh is the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love, and so much more. We learn about God's greatness from his work in creation (general revelation). But we don't see his goodness, grace, or love unless we listen to his word (special revelation). God is great. God is good.

Read: Ex 33:18 - 34:10

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 33-34. 

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Job 42:1-6; Ps 103:6-18; Mic 7:18-20; Ro 1:20.

Question: Why did God remake the tablets? 

Question: How does the proclamation of the name of the Lord in verses 6-7 clarify the meaning of the word Yahweh, “I am who I am,” given way back in Ex. 3:14 (optional, read 3:13-17)?

Question: What are the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of who God is?

Question: At the revealing of God’s glory, Moses quickly bowed his head toward the earth and worshipped. Just as God revealed Himself to Moses, he has revealed Himself to us through the scriptures, the life of Christ, and the Holy Spirit. How have you responded? How does knowing who God is shape your worship? How does it shape your life (relationships, work, ministry, etc.)? 

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Has anyone had any recent answers to prayer? Has anyone had any conversations with the people we prayed for last week? If so, please share! Keep praying for all the people mentioned last week!

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Would you rather have a fast forward, pause, or rewind button on your life? Why?

Sermon Summary:

Read: After the disaster of the golden calf, God put some distance between himself and his people. An angel would lead them, not his own holy Presence. Moses continued to meet with God but did so outside the camp at the "tent of meeting," not in the Tabernacle, which was supposed to be in the center of Israel's camp. The people honored Moses and worshipped Yahweh as they mourned their sin. However, Moses spoke to Yahweh face to face, as one speaks to a friend, and asked God to go with them. God agreed because he was pleased with Moses and knew him by name. Moses' friendship with God is a picture of the type of relationship that is possible with God in Christ.

Read: Ex 33:7-17

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 33. 

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):

Mt 11:28-30; Jn 15:13-15; 2Co 5:17-21

Question: After the golden calf episode, God told Moses, “I will not go up among you, lest I consume you on the way, for you are a stiff-necked people” (33:3). Yet, we see here that although the Lord has said he will no longer go “among” his people, there is still hope because of his presence in the pillar of cloud. And the Lord’s presence resulted in worship. The story seems to take a complete 180 from the golden calf. Why do you think this is? Why does Moses, the author, place this story right after the golden calf?

Question: What attributes of God are displayed in this passage?

Question: Does God’s presence prompt your worship?

Question: It says the Lord used to speak to Moses as a man speaks to his friend. How do you view God? Do you view Him as a friend and father, do you view him as far off and removed, or do you view him in a completely different way? Explain. 

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer? Who is someone in your life you can share the gospel with and we can be praying for?

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What did you do for Valentine's Day? 

Read: The idolatry of the Golden Calf nearly destroyed Israel, showing why God cannot simply ignore our sins and how their consequences are worse than we might think. However, it also foreshadows the forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ.

Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 32-33:6.

Ex 20:4-6; Dt 9:7-21; 1Ki 12:25-33; Ps 106:19-23; Ac 7:37-43; Ro 1:18-25

Question: What stands out to you about God's anger and Moses' intervention?

Question: How does Aaron’s priesthood/leadership contrast with Jesus’?

Question: Have someone read Exodus 25: 1-8. There is a striking parallel between the people contributing to the Lord’s sanctuary and the Gold calf. In Exodus 25, God permits them to make a sanctuary so that He may dwell in their midst! He is allowing them to contribute to the construction, and He is giving step-by-step instructions to do so. Similarly, in Exodus 32, the people bring Aaron their gold earrings in contribution, and out of it, Aaron fastens the golden calf. Through one contribution the Lord was able to dwell among His people, in the other the Lord’s fury burnt against His people and there was separation, “Whoever has sinned against me, I will blot out of my book.”  Be honest, what are some good things in your life that have turned into idols? How can you offer them back to God?

Question: When Moses confronts Aaron about the calf, Aaron is very passive in his involvement. “I said to them, ‘Let any who have gold take it off.’ So THEY gave it to me, and I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf.” Whereas, in the actual account in verse 4, Aaron fashioned it with a graving tool and made the golden calf. It seems very similar to Genesis 3 when God confronts Adam, and he blames Eve. Again, be honest, are you passive towards your sin? Where do you tend to shift the blame? 

Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What is your go-to coffee order? If you don’t like coffee, what do you order instead? 

Sermon Summary:
Read: Many people struggle to find a healthy balance of work and rest. Is there a way to work hard for the glory of God without dying on the altar of productivity? In the story of creation, God modeled productive work (six days) and meaningful rest (seventh/Sabbath day). This pattern was commanded by God in the Ten Commandments and other passages of the Law as a weekly Sabbath, a Sabbath year (every seven years), and the Year of Jubilee (every seven Sabbath years). The lesson of the Sabbath is that God clearly expected his people to adopt this same pattern as a sign of their relationship with him — a sign ultimately fulfilled by faith in Christ.

Read: Ex 31:12-18.
Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 31.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Ge 2:1-3; Ex 20:8-11; Ex 23:10-13; Mk 3:1-6; Col 2:16-17; Heb 4:1-11

Comprehension questions:
Question:  “.... as a covenant forever. It is a sign forever between me and the people of Israel..” (vv. 16-17). As pastor David said the Sabbath is still required of us, what does biblical Sabbath look like in practice today? What does the Sabbath say about God today? 

Question: Verse 18 says the tablets of stone were written with the finger of God. Do you think this is in the literal sense? What might this be implying or “pointing to”?

Personal application questions:
Question: Do you view rest as a blessing and a command from God? What is preventing you from resting? How is your identity tethered to rest and productivity? 

Question:  How can we know God more through rest? What are you feeling convicted of? How can you practically implement the Sabbath into your life?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Do you like your name? Do you think it fits your personality? And does it have any significance attached to it?

Sermon Summary:
Read: Many people wrestle with the questions of purpose and significance, wondering, "Do I matter?" The ministry of the priests and Levites of ancient Israel, along with their priestly garments, special consecration ceremony, sacrificial system, and more, might seem very disconnected from modern life. However, their ministry, summarized by two functions: 1. representing the people to God and 2. representing God (and his will) to the people — reveals a pattern that still applies today. As we follow Jesus, our Great High Priest, we are invited to join him in his priestly ministry. And what could be more significant than that?!?

Read: Ex 28:36-40 and Ex 29:42-46.
Question: Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 28-30.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Ge 14:18-20; Heb 5:1-10; Heb 7:26-28; Heb 10:1-14; 1Pe 2:9-10; Rev 1:5-6.

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why do you think God cared so much about what the priests wore or what animals they sacrificed? 

Question: Whatever touches the altar was made holy. God makes the priest Holy through the offering and the offering itself Holy. What is the connection to this, Christ and the church? Do you think there is a connection? 

Personal application questions:
Question: In chapter 28, God says those who are in charge of making the priest's garments are "filled with a spirit of skill." The word "skill" is used seven times throughout the chapter. Pastor David on Sunday reminded us that God's desire for a kingdom of priests is fulfilled in Jesus and found in his church. Prayer, service, and discipleship were just some of the examples he gave of living out the new covenant priesthood. What skills or spiritual gifts has God given you, and how can you use them for His glory? Do you think you have been stewarding these skills well, or has this been a good reminder?

Question: Aaron was fastened with a golden plate engraved "Holy to the Lord," and his sons were dressed in "coats and sashes and caps... for glory and beauty." 1 Peter 2:9 writes, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." The Tabernacle was constructed with beauty to represent the beauty of God, the priest's garments were to represent the beauty of God, and through Christ, we are to proclaim the excellencies of Him. The beauty of God is paired with a response. Does your awe of God prompt proclamation, how so? How has your awe of God grown recently, or has it become stagnant? 

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. If you could time travel, would you rather visit the past or the future, and why?

Sermon Summary:
Read: The Tabernacle was more than a physical structure or a fancy tent. It was a reminder of the reality of God’s presence with his people — then, now, and forever. It was a physical, tangible message, a picture of God’s heart to dwell with his people and their response in worship of him. And that message still resonates through the pages of scripture all the way to us today. The construction details, while tedious, were never meaningless. Every curtain, stake, and crossbar pointed to something far greater than itself. And in that perfect design, an invitation remains to draw near to him.

Read: Ex 25:1-9.
Question: This is just the start of several chapters of instructions on the building of the Tabernacle. Share anything that stuck out to you from the sermon or Exodus 25-27.

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Lev 26:11-12; Dt 23:14; 2Sa 7:6-7; 1Ki 8:27; Eze 43:1-9; Jn 1:14; Heb 8-9; Rev 21:3

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why do you think God cared so much about the design and materials used to build the Tabernacle? Why such meticulous plans?

Question: What did the Tabernacle teach the Israelites about God's character/nature and desire for his people?

Personal application questions:
Question: When the Apostle John described Jesus, he wrote, "In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God...The Word became flesh and made his dwelling [literally tabernacled] among us." (Jn 1:1, 14). How does the person and work of Jesus fulfill the design and function of the Tabernacle of the Old Covenant at Mount Sinai?

Question: Despite many social media "friends," feelings of isolation and loneliness are rampant. Many people struggle to find a place to belong. How might this idea that God wants to dwell with his people be especially good news for people today?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Ask for 1-2 volunteers from the group to close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share something you're nervous/concerned about for 2025.

Sermon Summary:
Read: The Mosaic Law started with the Ten Commandments but added 600+ commands to guide and guard Israel as a nation. Various laws addressed and regulated worship (loving God) and social responsibility (loving people), including laws about national festivals, servant/slave regulations, and much more. Given our distance from the cultural context in which it was given, understanding the Law can be difficult today. Honestly, it can be hard to relate to. However, in Christ, we are still commanded to love God and love people. So, as we study the Mosaic Law, we can better understand God's heart of love for his people.

Read: Deuteronomy 6. This is Moses' summary of the importance of the law.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 6:1-9, 20-25; Jer 31:31-34; Mt 5:17-20, 7:12, 22:34-40; Lk 24:44; Jn 13:34; Ro 3:21-31, 7:12; 8:3-4, Gal 6:2

Comprehension questions:
Question: From Deuteronomy 6, what is Israel expected to do with the Law? And what are some of the consequences of obedience/disobedience?

There are four law collections in the Torah:

Question: Why are some of the laws easy for us to understand while others seem so strange? How might we grow in understanding what laws would've meant to the original audience of Ancient Israel?

Personal application questions:
Question: As we often say, the gospel is the only thing that has the power to change everything. In Christ, we have been redeemed, set free, from the power of sin and death. However, we have not been set free to live however we want. It might seem counterintuitive, but learning obedience to the law of Christ is freedom. How is this true for you? How does the way of Jesus bring you more freedom?

Question: Modern people usually don't understand that Jesus fulfilled the Mosaic Law and established a new covenant (with a new law). As a result, many people think Christians pick and choose which laws to obey based on their preferences or opinions. What might you say to a friend who says something like, "You don't care about eating pork or getting tattoos anymore, but you do care about who people can marry or sleep with. Isn't that just your own prejudice? Why obey some laws but not all the laws in the Bible?" How might you respond? (Hint: Mt 5:17)

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share something you're looking forward to in 2025.

Sermon Summary:
Read: At Mount Sinai, Yahweh God established a covenant relationship with Israel. Israel's responsibility in the covenant was to learn obedience to God's Law (known later as the Mosaic Law since it came through Moses). Now, every other religion says it’s what you do that saves you. But in the Exodus, Israel learned that Yahweh God was different. He rescues people by grace and then gives them a law to joyfully obey in a relationship with him. This law reflects God's heart for flourishing life, faithfulness, truth, and justice and was a law of love for God and neighbor.

Read: Exodus 20:1-21.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 6:1-9, 20-25; Jer 31:31-34; Mt 5:17-20, 7:12, 22:34-40; Lk 24:44; Jn 13:34; Ro 3:21-31, 7:12; 8:3-4, Gal 6:2

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why does the order of the story matter? Why is it important to see that God had already rescued Israel when he gave them the Law? How is this similar to the New Covenant in Christ?

Question: How do the laws of the Ten Commandments reflect God's good character? What would a person/family/society look like who genuinely believed and joyfully obeyed God's law?

Personal application questions:
Question: Jesus taught that the 600+ commands of the Mosaic Law (including the Ten Commandments) can be summarized by loving God and loving people (Mt 22:34-40). Does this change how you think/feel about learning obedience to the Law of Christ?

Question: As part of the Great Commission, Jesus said that the work of making disciples would include "teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Mt 28:20a). Who might you teach, and what experiences have helped you learn obedience to the way of Jesus?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share something you're looking forward to regarding the second advent (the return) of Christ.

Sermon Summary:
Read: When the Israelites finally reached Mount Sinai, Yahweh God came down and spoke to them, revealing his intent for rescuing them from captivity in Egypt: to establish a covenant relationship with them. They must obey him, but he promised to set them apart as his "treasured possession" and as "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." However, God's holy presence seemed more of a threat to the Israelites than a comfort. Would they ever learn to live with a holy God in their midst? Yes, but not until the new covenant in Christ.

Read: Exodus 19.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Ge 15; 2Sa 7; Jer 31:31; Lk 22:20; 1Pe 2:9-10; Heb 8

Comprehension questions:
Question: What does God require of his people in chapter 19?

Question: What does God promise for his people in chapter 19?

Personal application questions:
Question: If you were an Israelite at Mount Sinai, what sorts of things might you have thought or felt? Be honest!

Question: The Biblical concept of holiness contains two aspects: being set apart or sacred (instead of common) and moral or spiritual perfection (i.e., being without sin). Being near a holy God might be threatening. But in the gospel, God's holiness doesn't contradict his love for unholy people. How does God's love for us in Christ motivate us to grow in our holiness?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week. (Note: Most groups will take a break for the next two weeks for Christmas and the New Year.)

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share something you're thankful for about Christmas when you were younger.

Sermon Summary:
Read: When Jethro, Moses' father-in-law and a priest of Midian, visited the Israelites, he had a conversion experience. He worshipped Yahweh and enjoyed fellowship with Moses, Aaron, and the elders of Israel in the presence of God. But before returning home, Jethro realized Moses would be crushed without some serious help. He advised Moses to invite others to share the leadership burden with him. God’s people needed (and still need today!) good and godly leaders to help them live lives that bring glory and honor to God. Unfortunately, failure to delegate has always been a common leadership trap. Whether you have an official leadership role or title, everyone can influence someone for good. Just don't take on the burden by yourself!

Read: Exodus 18.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Acts 1:8; Acts 1:21-26; Acts 6:1-7; 1Ti 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; Heb 13:17; 1Pe 5:1-4

Comprehension questions:
Question: In vv. 9-12, why is Jethro's declaration of faith in Yahweh God significant? What does it say about God's character that he would welcome this converted pagan priest and allow him to eat in his presence?

Question: How would Moses and the Israelites benefit by adopting Jethro's new leadership structure?

Personal application questions:
Question: Jethro had a big influence on Moses. And Moses would appoint officials who could lead/judge/help/influence the Israelites. "God’s people needed good and godly leaders to help them live lives that bring glory and honor to God." Who has influenced you?

Question: Moses was trying to lead/judge the people by himself, but he was being crushed by the burden. Is it hard for you to ask for help from others? If so, why do you think that is?

Question: How does this story point us to Christ and the gospel? Here are some potentially helpful questions:

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. What are you most excited about for this Advent/Christmas season?

Sermon Summary:
Read: The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. The Lord fought for them at the Red Sea. Were the Israelites ready to fight their first real battle? If they fought by their own strength alone, then no. But while Joshua led the army, Moses stood overlooking the battlefield and held up his staff and hands in prayer. The victory was only won by the power of a mediator who interceded for God's people. Today, in our day of battle, will we trust the power of Christ, our mediator, who intercedes for us?

Read: Exodus 17:8-16.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 25:17-19; 1Sa 30; Isa 53:12; Ro 8:26-27; 1Ti 2:1-8; Heb 7:23-25

Comprehension questions:
Question: Compare the attack of the Amalekites to when the Israelites faced the Egyptian army at the Red Sea (Ex 13-14). How are these stories similar? How are they different?

Question: How do you think it impacted the Israelites who fought to see Moses, staff in hand, and arms lifted over them during the battle?

Personal application questions:
Question: Now, it's likely we'll never have to defend ourselves against an attacking enemy here in Appleton (like the Israelites faced at Rephidim). Still, many situations could be figuratively represented as a battle. What are common battles for us today, whether at home, work, school, or elsewhere?

Question: The Israelites defeated the Amalekites not because of their superior numbers, technology, or military strategy but because Moses acted as a mediator who interceded for them with God. They did need to fight, but without God's power which came through Moses' prayer, the Israelites would never have won. Who/what do you tend to turn to instead of God's power to win your battles?

Question: "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people." (1Ti 2:5-6a). As our true mediator, like Moses, the Lord Jesus intercedes for us. Let this incredible fact sink in: Jesus prays for you. (See also Heb 7:23-25) How does this impact you on the day of battle?

Prayer Requests:
Read: As we discuss the battles of life, we must remember that some of our church members are veterans of real combat situations. Many of us have friends or family members who have served or are serving in the military. And there are Christians around the world who live with violence and war every day. You can, of course, pray for other prayer requests, but it might be a good week to intercede and pray for peace, healing, and life for those who have to face real and violent enemies.

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. For the month of November, we're focusing on gratitude and giving thanks to God. Share one thing about your community group for which you're thankful and why.

Sermon Summary:
Read: In the third and final desert test, at Massah and Meribah, the Israelites desperately needed water (again). Even after two similar tests, instead of faithfully praying for and trusting in God's provision, the people hard-heartedly tested God! Things were getting worse, not better. They quarreled with God and were ready to kill Moses. Yahweh affirmed Moses' leadership and (again) mercifully provided water from the rock. In our times of need, will we harden our hearts and put God to the test? Or will we turn in faith to Jesus, our Rock and our Redeemer, who provides streams of living water?

Read: Exodus 17:1-7.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 8:15-16; Ps 95; Ps 114; Jn 6:37-39; 1 Co 10:1-13; Heb 3:7-14

Comprehension questions:
Question: As we saw for the last two weeks, in testing his people, God was teaching them. What are some of the lessons the Israelites needed to learn from the water from the rock?

Question: How does God affirm Moses' leadership when the people were so angry they wanted to kill him? (Anyone want Moses' job?)

Personal application questions:
Question: What are some situations today where you might be tempted to put God to the test or quarrel with him?

Question: If a friend or family member came to you with real questions or doubts about God, how might you encourage them to deal with them in humble, sincere faith and not by pridefully putting God to the test?

Question: After Jesus our Rock was struck on the cross, streams of living water flowed when the Holy Spirit was given at the Day of Pentecost. How does the Spirit of God help us during our times of testing, neediness, questions, and doubts?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. For the month of November, we're focusing on gratitude and giving thanks to God. Share one place you're thankful for and why.

Sermon Summary:
Read: A month after being freed from slavery, the Israelites were starving in the barren wilderness — the second of three desert tests. Instead of faithfully praying for provision, the whole community grumbled against God. Yahweh rebuked them but mercifully provided bread (manna) from heaven. The Lord fed his people manna for forty years as they made their way through the wilderness. Does God actually know and care about our needs? Can we trust God to provide? Yes. Only he gives the bread of life.

Read: Exodus 16:1-15.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 8:2-3; Ps 78:18; Jn 6:32-33; 1Co 10:1-13

Comprehension questions:
Question: As we saw last week, in testing his people, God was teaching them. What are some of the lessons the Israelites needed to learn from the manna?

Question: What was the common cause of Moses' anger with (v. 20) and God's rebuke of the Israelites (v. 28)?

Personal application questions:
Question: How easy/hard is it for you to trust God's provision? Are there certain areas of life that are harder for you to trust God to provide for your needs?

Question: Can you think of a time when God provided unexpectedly for you? What happened?

Question: Jesus famously taught, "Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world...I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty." (Jn 6:32-35). How does Jesus satisfy and sustain you as the "bread of life"?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. For the month of November, we're focusing on gratitude and giving thanks to God. Share one experience you're thankful for and why.

Sermon Summary:
Read: After crossing the Red Sea, the Israelites walked for three days in the desert without water. Then, all they could find was a bitter spring. The Israelites became bitter (marah) and started grumbling. Yahweh had saved them and was leading them — why was the journey still so difficult? God miraculously purified the waters of Marah and led them to a real place of refreshment at Elim. The Lord was good and faithful; he was testing them to teach them to listen to him and trust him for their needs. They had so much to learn.

Read: Exodus 15:22-27.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Dt 8:1-5; 1Co 10:1-13; Heb 12:4-13

Comprehension questions:
Question: After seeing everything God had just done in Egypt, how could the people get such a bad attitude (bitter grumbling) so quickly?

Question: In testing his people, God was teaching them. What were some of the lessons the Israelites needed to learn?

Personal application questions:
Question: Did you ever have a time when you went through something difficult and knew God was teaching you something through it? What did you learn?

Question: When God tests us to teach us (e.g., to listen to him or trust in him), how do we know it's because he loves us and not because he's punishing us?

Question: The waters of Marah enabled the Israelites to survive, but the waters of Elim allowed them to be truly refreshed. Can you think of anyone in your life in "survival mode" or who has become marah/bitter? How might you help them be refreshed?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. For the month of November, we're focusing on gratitude and giving thanks to God. Share one person you're thankful for and why.

Sermon Summary:
Read: The first real test of faith for the Israelites came when Pharaoh changed his mind and sent his army after them. A slow-moving mass of people and animals without military training or arms, the Israelites faced the most elite fighting force on earth at the time. Caught at the Red Sea with seemingly nowhere to escape, their options seemed to be slavery or death. They were terrified. They couldn’t imagine how God might save them — that is, until God made a way. He fought their battle and led them to freedom. All they had to do was trust him.

This is a longer passage, so you might want several people to take turns reading.
Read: Exodus 13:17-14:31.
Question: What stands out to you?

Additional Scripture Passages (optional):
Songs about crossing the Red Sea: Exodus 15:1-21; Psalm 78; Psalm 106; Psalm 136. Additional related passages: 1 Samuel 6:1-16; Nehemiah 9:9-12; Romans 9:14-24; Ephesians 2:1-10; Hebrews 11:29.

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why did Yahweh lead his people the "wrong" way, southeast toward the Red Sea instead of northeast or more directly toward Canaan? (see map above) Hint: There are at least three reasons in the text.

Question: After hearing God's promises from Moses and Aaron, seeing the miraculous signs, and then seeing the ten plagues, why were the Israelites so afraid?

Personal application questions:
Question: Did you ever have a time when, despite God's track record of 100% faithfulness, you had difficulty imagining how God might redeem a certain situation? What would you say if you could go back in time and give yourself advice?

Question: The Israelites had Moses, who could speak the truth in love to them when they were afraid and had lost all faith and hope (vv. 13-14). Who are some of the people God has used in your life to encourage you, strengthen your faith, and remind you of what's true when you've been afraid?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share a book (other than the Bible) or movie that shaped your life in a significant way.

Sermon Summary:
Read: The tenth plague, the death of the firstborn sons of both people and animals in Egypt, was what finally convinced the hard-hearted Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. However, Yahweh made it clear that unless the Israelites obeyed his instructions for the Passover, they, too, would bear the judgment of God against sin no different than the Egyptians. The requirements of the Passover might seem strange, but they revealed a vital pattern: there is safety from divine judgment under the blood of a sacrificial lamb. This pattern would later be repeated in Jesus, "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." (Jn 1:29). 

Read: Exodus 12:1-13, 29-42.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why do you think Yahweh God wanted the Passover to mark the start of a new calendar year for the Israelites (v.2)? What kind of new era did this represent?

Question: The Passover and Festival of Unleavened Bread were meant to commemorate who God is and what God did in Egypt for later generations of Israelites. What are some of the lessons from the Passover that might've been passed down around the Passover meal?

Personal application questions:
Question: One of the lessons of the Passover is that (to borrow a phrase from the Apostle Paul) "There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Ro 3:23b). Without the Passover lamb, the Israelites would've been destroyed. This is true, of course, for those who put their faith in Jesus for salvation, as well. Without Jesus, we'd be lost. How does our inability to save ourselves change our attitude or actions toward ourselves or others?

Question: God does what he promises. In the Exodus story, we see that God made the family of Abraham and Sarah into a great nation, freed them from slavery in Egypt, judged Egypt, and led Israel out with great possessions — all just as he promised (see Ge 12; Ge 15; Ge 17). How do these ancient stories of God's faithfulness help/strengthen your faith in God's word today?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share your favorite Halloween candy, and if you have kids, would you steal it from them?

Sermon Summary:
Read: Moses and Aaron gave Yahweh's message to Pharaoh, saying, "Let my people go." Pharaoh hardened his heart and repeatedly refused despite five escalating plagues. In judgment, Yahweh hardened Pharoah's heart, sending five additional plagues. He did this to systematically demonstrate his sovereign power over and condemnation of Pharaoh, Egypt, and the whole pantheon of Egyptian gods. This cosmic showdown was nothing like the world had ever seen, and Yahweh was the Judge. The judgment of God is a scary thought for sinful people. However, as Christians, we don't have to fear the judgment of God because of the person and work of Jesus. He took our judgment on the cross and gave us his righteousness.

Ten Plagues:

Read: Exodus 7:8-24.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: Turning Aaron's staff into a snake (v. 10) was a demonstration of God's power, but it wasn't the first plague. How did this first miracle foreshadow the following ten plagues?

Question: The story so far clearly shows that Pharaoh was a wicked and corrupt ruler whose heart was unrepentantly hardened against Yahweh. But Yahweh clearly states that his primary focus of judgment was on the gods of Egypt (Exodus 12:12; Num 33:4). Why was it so important to Yahweh to condemn these false gods? 

Personal application questions:
Question: Our culture wants total freedom over their bodies, morals, choices, relationships, spirituality, etc., all the while demanding affirmation regardless of the consequences of their actions or the truth of their ideas. With all this supposed freedom, why do you think divine judgment makes modern people so uncomfortable?

Question: The gospel is such good news when it comes to dealing with our sins and the judgment of God. If you had a friend looking for help or reassurance for their guilty conscience, how might you gently point them to the cross of Christ?

Read:
Isaiah 53:5–6 (NIV), "But he [Jesus] was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all."

Romans 3:22–25 (NIV), "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith."

1 John 1:9 (NIV), "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low. Share a memory from your childhood that means a lot to you.

Sermon Summary:
Read: Despite any lingering insecurity and doubt, Moses and Aaron did what Yahweh God told them to do, telling Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. However, not only were the Israelites not freed from slavery in Egypt, but their suffering actually got worse when they were commanded to make bricks without straw. Sometimes, obeying God’s word makes things harder, not easier. This can shake our faith. But even when the people were discouraged and lost their hope and faith, and even though Moses was still questioning his calling, Yahweh God didn't give up. He was still faithful in keeping his promises. He would not be shaken.

This is a longer passage, so you might want several people to take turns reading.
Read: Exodus 5:1 - 6:12.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: When Moses made the seemingly harmless request for Pharaoh to let the Israelites make a religious pilgrimage to worship their God (Ex 5:1), why do you think Pharaoh responded with such vindictive cruelty? Why was this seen as such a threat?

Question: From our vantage point, it might seem crazy not to trust that God would do what he promised to do. But let's put ourselves in the shoes (sandals?) of the Israelites in their discouragement and disbelief. At this point in history, why might it have been understandably hard to believe that Yahweh God would rescue and redeem them from slavery in Egypt? What evidence did they have that God was faithful to save?

Personal application questions:
Question: A modern heresy popular with TV preachers is the "prosperity gospel." The property gospel teaches that God's blessings, particularly in health and wealth, depend on the strength of your faith. The more faith you have, the more prosperous you'll be. Conversely, any hardship, illness, or injustice is because of a lack of faith. Then, faith is only proven by how much you're willing to give financially. The more you give, the more you'll be blessed. This heresy turns the church into a pyramid scheme with the "pastor" (wolf) on top. As we see from this passage, the prosperity gospel is obviously false. We see Yahweh God's heart to rescue his people didn't change for one second, even though their circumstances got worse before they got better. How might this truth comfort you during times of hardship, illness, or injustice?

Question: Moses became the quintessential prophet of Yahweh God, who spoke the very words of God. Yet here, he didn't believe himself to be very eloquent (Ex 4:10; 6:12; 6:30). We don't know if this means he had a speech impediment or just a lack of confidence (many people fear public speaking!). But God used Moses in powerful ways despite his real or perceived weakness. Do you think God might use an area of weakness in your life today? Why or why not?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Does anyone have any prayer requests today? Any recent answers to prayer?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: If you think your group is especially forgetful, share your name again. How are you doing this week? Share one thing that makes you excited for the future.

Sermon Summary:
Read: Forty years after Moses fled to Midian, God appeared to him in the burning bush. It was time for God to rescue his people, and Moses would be the one to lead Israel out of captivity in Egypt. However, after his first disastrous attempt at delivering his people, Moses had no confidence in his ability to lead anyone. After so many lost years, how could Moses do what God called him to do? The LORD would go with him. The presence of Yahweh God ("I AM WHO I AM") was all he needed.

This is a longer passage, so you might want several people to take turns reading.
Read: Exodus 3:1 - 4:17.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: This passage reveals many significant things about God's character and nature. Two great Bible study questions are:

Brainstorm a list as a group with as many answers to these questions as possible.

Question: What are all the excuses Moses gives for not wanting to return to Egypt, and what are all the assurances that God gives him?

Personal application questions:
Question: If you were Moses later reflecting on everything you saw and heard from this incredible encounter with God, which aspects of God's attributes/actions (see list above) would have had the biggest impact on you? What about God's character and nature do you need to remember more often? At home? At work?

Question: Moses' insecurity and doubts are on full display in this passage. Even after repeated assurances, he still tries to quit on his calling (Ex 4:13!). How does God's response to Moses provide both comfort and correction to insecurities and doubts in our hearts and lives today?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Before we close in prayer, we regularly share prayer requests, and it's normal for our requests to be for things we need. This is right and good! But we shouldn't forget we can pray for more than our needs. One popular way to expand your prayer life is to use the ACTS prayer framework. ACTS stands for Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication (asking for things). Do you have any prayer requests that include adoration of God, confession of sin, thanksgiving, or supplication?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Icebreaker:
Question: If you're a new group (or new to the group), share your name again. How are you doing this week? Share one high and one low for your life lately. Where did you grow up, and how do you feel about your hometown today?

Sermon Summary:
Read: Exodus starts with a big question: Does God care about suffering and injustice in this broken world? Chapter 2 tells the fascinating story of Moses, the deliverer God would eventually call to lead his people to freedom. But Moses' story takes some unexpected turns. After a disastrous intervention on behalf of a fellow Israelite, Moses was forced to flee to the foreign country of Midian. Despite all this, God heard Israel's groaning in slavery and remembered his covenant. Deliverance was coming. Help was on the way.

Read: Exodus 2:1-25.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: If it had been up to Pharaoh, Moses should've never been allowed to live (see Exodus 1:16). But ironically, according to God's providence, Moses was raised in Pharoah's household. In what ways would this unique childhood help Moses later in life as he confronted Pharaoh and led the people of Israel through the wilderness?

Question: What were the consequences of Moses' "vigilante justice" when he tried to secretly kill an Egyptian who had beaten one of his fellow Israelites?

Question: As a church, our mission is "sharing good news," because we believe that the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the only thing that has the power to change everything. We believe that Jesus is the interpretive key for the whole Bible (Lk 24:44). Therefore, we must always ask, "How does this text point to the person and work of Jesus Christ?" Are there any people or events that point us to or remind us of the gospel?

Personal application questions:
Question: Moses' story is far from perfect (Excuse me, but murder?!?), but God still knew him, spoke to him, cared for him, and provided for Moses in Egypt and then later in Midian. The Bible clearly shows that there is only one perfect person, and his name is Jesus. Do you ever feel you need to be perfect in order for God to care for you? Where do you think that feeling comes from? Can you think of any other Scripture passages that might help when you feel like God's love/care depends on your perfection?

Question: Thankfully, we probably won't have to face enslavement or exile in life, but we will certainly have ups and downs in this broken world. When things are seriously hard, how might it change your perspective to remember that God hears your cries, remembers his covenant, and is concerned about you? How might this Community Group help during those times, too?

Prayer Requests:
Read: Before closing, we'd like to take a few minutes to share any prayer requests you might have. Normally, we'll end our time in prayer (either as a whole group or perhaps in groups of 2-3). As we get to know each other, it's natural to be hesitant about being vulnerable. You certainly don't have to share anything you aren't comfortable with. But hopefully, as we build trust with each other, we'll be able to be honest about what's going on in our lives that could use prayer. So, with that, does anyone have any prayer requests?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying for any requests that were shared. Share any announcements for the next week.

Community Group Introduction:
Question: Share your name, what you do for work (paid or unpaid), and how long you've been part of Appleton Gospel Church.

Read: One of the best things about a Community Group is getting to know other Christians as friends. But real friendship is built on trust, and trust doesn't appear overnight. Trust is established over time by being consistently honest, respectful, humble, and loving. Trust is earned slowly but can be lost in an instant.

Let's make it our ambition to be like-minded, have the same love, and be one in spirit and of one mind. Let's do away with selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, let us value one another above ourselves, not looking to our own interests but to the interests of others (see Php 2:2-4).

Just a reminder to check out your group's "Resources" tab on the Church Center app and read the Guidelines for Groups. If you're part of a group, you agree to these guidelines. It might be appropriate to read through these guidelines now.

Question: What's one thing you're excited about for being part of a community group this year?

Leader note: This would be a good time to share any other announcements/logistics for your group.

Sermon Summary:
Read: Exodus is a story of God working to rescue and redeem a people for himself, freeing them from bondage and leading them into the Promised Land. In the opening chapter of our story, we're confronted with a big question: Does God care about suffering and injustice in this broken world? When the Israelites were suffering greatly under the oppression of the Egyptians, would God be faithful to keep his promises and rescue the family of Abraham and Sarah? Absolutely. As we'll see, Exodus is a picture of the gospel. In Christ, we, too, are freed from captivity (to sin and death) and led through the wilderness by God's Word and Presence as we make our way to our true home, the new Promised Land of God's Kingdom.

Read: Exodus 1:1-22.
Question: What stands out to you?

Comprehension questions:
Question: Why did the new king of Egypt (Pharaoh) start oppressing/killing the Israelites? Why were they seen as such a threat?

Question: Do you think the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, did the right thing in disobeying and deceiving Pharaoh? What are the clues in the text?

Personal application questions:
Question: God doesn't immediately deliver his people from Egypt, but he does allow them to be fruitful and increase in number, even as they are being oppressed. Have you ever had a time of suffering or hardship where you could see God at work before your suffering/hardship ended? Did that change your experience of suffering in any way?

Question: Moses writes that the midwives' fear of the Lord helped them defy Pharaoh's command (v. 17). Proverbs says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, a fountain of life, and so much more. "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe." (Pro 29:25). The fear of the Lord isn't about being afraid of God but having the reverent awe toward God that he deserves. How might the fear of the Lord help guide you in times of suffering, injustice, or other difficulty?

Wrap Up:
Leader note: Close in prayer, praying that God would work in powerful ways in and through your Community Group this year. Share any announcements for the next week.