Groups Discussion Guide

Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.

Pastor Justin Jenkins

In You. On God

Scripture

Titus 3: 5-7 (NET) and Philippians 1:6 (GW)

Titus 3:5-7 NET

5 He saved us not by works of righteousness that we have done but on the basis of his mercy, through the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us in full measure through Jesus Christ our Savior. 7 And so, since we have been justified by his grace, we become heirs with the confident expectation of eternal life.

Philippians 1:6 GW

6 I’m convinced that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it through to completion on the day of Christ Jesus.

Main Idea

God wants us not only to believe in him, but to be like him. 

God’s will for us is to be holy.

Historically, the church has developed doctrine to help us learn why and how we grow in holiness.

One of the ways God has chosen to impart his grace and drawing us to holiness is through the sacraments, such as communion and baptism.

Sacraments should not be reduced to simply something symbolic.

Sacraments are sacred rituals that bring supernatural things. They are an outward and physical sign of an inward and spiritual grace. 

The sacraments are a public pledge or oath claiming our allegiance and are reserved for those who have put their faith in Jesus as a pipeline of grace to our lives. 

The pursuit of holiness is not on our shoulders to accomplish under our own power; we need grace which God provides. 

One of those sacraments that provides grace to us is baptism; an outward expression of an inward work. 

When you get baptized, you’re not saying you’ve purified yourself and now you’re ready. You’re recognizing you need God’s grace to live holy.

BAPTISM ISN’T JUST A SYMBOL, IT’S A SACRAMENT. BAPTISM ISN’T JUST PICTURE OF CHANGE IT’S THE PIPELINE FOR IT

Discussion Questions

  1. What has been your understanding of participating in the sacraments (baptism and communion) of the church before this message?
  2. If you have not been baptised and are a believer, what has kept you from participating in this sacrament?
  3. ‘Self-help won’t change me, but grace will’ is a counter-cultural statement. Discuss how we set ourselves apart from the world as believers in terms of self-improvement. 
  4. What are some areas of your life that could use God’s grace?

Summary

God’s grace is the power by which we become holy. God has given believers sacraments to observe and participate in as a pipeline of his grace to our lives.

Take Action

  1. Pray this week for a friend who could use encouragement. Let them know you have prayed for them as an encouragement to them
  2. If you are believer and have not been baptized, consider talking to your pastor about how to become baptized. 
  3. We grow best together. If you aren’t in a small group, consider signing up for one and get connected (see link in Announcements)

Announcements

Groups sign ups happening now: https://www.findvelocity.org/groups