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. 

Living With The Clock Ticking

1 Peter 4:7-11

(NASB) 7 ​The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. 8 ​Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. 9 ​Be hospitable to one another without complaint. 10 ​As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 ​Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Big Idea: The less time we have, the more intentionally we must live for Jesus.

4 Essentials for Faithful Living in Urgent Times:

① THINK SOUNDLY (v. 7b) Cultivate clarity and self-control so you can live wisely in urgent times.

Discuss what it means and ways to achieve clarity and self-control in our lives – to think soundly. What are some of the obstacles we need to overcome? Do a self-evaluation of where you are in this area – your thoughts, your anxieties, your fears. Be honest with yourself.

② PRAY STEADILY (v. 7c) Depend on God continually through prayer as the end draws near.

Discuss “depending on God continually through prayer” vs praying for what we want, expecting God to answer according to our will.

③ LOVE SINCERELY (vv. 8-9) Demonstrate deep love and generous hospitality when time is short.

Love is a choice. Discuss how we are to love others knowing full well that we may be hurt by those same people we love. How does forgiveness figure into this? If we are offended and it doesn’t hurt, was there love to begin with? If we truly love someone can we just walk away from the relationship if we are hurt?

④ SERVE SELFLESSLY (vv. 10-11) Invest your gifts now—for other’s good and God’s glory.

We all have at least one gift. Discuss using your gift in service to others vs using it for your own benefit.

NEXT STEPS

#1: I will guard my mind with God’s truth and not let distractions or fear control me.

#2 : I will commit to daily prayer, depending on God’s strength and wisdom.

#3: I will choose to forgive quickly, welcome others into my life, and show Christlike love in action.

#4: I will use the gifts God has given me to meet needs in the church and bless others.

• 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.