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. 

Walking In The Spirit

Galatians 5:16-26

16 I say, then, walk by the Spirit and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, 21 envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I am warning you about these things—as I warned you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

① Call to Walk by the Spirit

4 Pillars of the NT

• Regeneration
• Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
• Forgiveness of sins
• Responsive obedience 

Discuss each of these. Why is walking in the Spirit so important?

Discuss the hand in glove analogy.

② Works of the Flesh

Look at the listed works of the flesh. (Gal 5:16-21) How do we, as Christians, address these works in our non-Christian friends and acquaintances that they generally accept as normal, or at least tolerable or acceptable.

③ Fruit of the Spirit

Look at the listed works of the Spirit. (Gal 5:22-26) How do we, as Christians, address the reactions of our non-Christian friends and acquaintances that they generally see as unrealistic, “holier than thou”, and hypocritical?

Next Steps

1: Draw close to Christ.

The more time we spend with Him & in his word the more clear His will will be for our lives.

2: Be Thankful

3: Pray:

• 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.