Talk-It-Over

Talking through the message during the week helps you turn what God is saying into action steps. These talking points, questions, and scriptures are designed to help you take the next step. If you are leading a group through this guide, don’t feel like you have to answer every question. Pick out those questions that will stir up conversation and action among your group. 

From Ears To Action

James 1:19-27

1) Receive the Word Humbly (19-21)

Humility makes room for the light to enter.

• Be ready to receive the Word. (19-20)
• Be rid of any sin. (21a)
• Be receptive to the Word (21b)

Discuss some of the distractions Satan uses to keep us away from His Word. Name some ways to address these distractions.

2) Respond to the Word Honestly (22-25)

Doing the Word turns knowledge into visible light.  

• Don’t just listen—do it. (22-24)
• Hearing without doing = disaster
• Knowledge requires action:
• Don't just glance—linger, then live it. (25)
• Knowing God’s Word is essential, but it was never meant to stay in our heads, it’s meant to be lived out.
• When we do the Word—when we obey what we’ve read and apply it to real life—we put God’s truth on display for the world to see.

People today are inundated with information we do nothing with. We either say the information is irrelevant to us (and most is) or we choose to ignore it. Discuss the consequences of these responses to God’s Word.

3) Reflect the Word Holistically (26-27)

A pure, compassionate life reflects the light of Christ to the world.

• Your WORDS Reflect or Deflect (26)

Discuss the implications walking our talk vs not walking our talk. “If Christianity was suddenly declared illegal, would the police soon be at your door?”

NEXT STEPS

#1 : I will receive the Word with a teachable spirit by cultivating a posture of humility and restraint, and clearing out any sin to make room for the Word.

#2 : I will respond to the Word with active, intentional obedience, immediately putting it into practice even if it is uncomfortable and requires me to change.

#3 : I will reflect the Word through my words and through my works—walking and talking as a shining light for Christ.

• How can we pray for you?

Small Group Guidelines

Though we call these Basic Group Guidelines, these are also effective in all relationships and environments. We believe it is wise to observe these whether in a one-on-one conversation or in a group discussion.

• Guidelines give boundaries for people to operate within.

• They help with the flow and pace of the discussions.

• They help us value one another.

• They help people to be more comfortable sharing deep and meaningful things.

This is a Safe Group

Confidentiality is key, what is said in the group stays in the group. Be aware how you are affecting the environment: words, actions, and non-verbal communication. This needs to be a place where people feel comfortable opening up and sharing.

No Crosstalk

Be considerate of others as they are sharing. No side conversations, checking phone, responding to text or email, etc.

Listen

Let’s value one another by listening to what is being shared. Allow a pause after someone shares to allow them to finish and others to consider what was said. Eye contact and body posture play key roles in creating a positive or negative group environment.

No Rescuing or Fixing

We are not here to fix each other, Jesus does that part. Avoid the tendency to rescue when someone is struggling to get the words out or shares a struggle or conviction.

Use “I” Statements

It’s easy to talk about the issues of others or respond with “we”, “us”, “the church”. But for us to grow as disciples and build relationship we want to use “I” statements.

Don’t Overtalk

We want to create time for all members of the group to participate in the discussion. Be careful not to always be the first responder or regularly give long responses.

Fight for Relationship

It’s not “if” conflict or hurt feelings will happen, but “when”. We commit to fight for relationship with each other. Go to that person and share your struggle or seek wise advice if you are not sure how to handle the conflict.