THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS. We are recording new episodes of the BEYOND THE WEEKEND PODCAST during the YOU ASKED FOR IT sermon series. Listen to our teaching pastors and Ada Bible staff members dive deeply into Scripture and discuss practical ways to live out its teachings throughout your week. We will also answer additional questions you submitted that weren’t covered in the sermons. New episodes are released each Wednesday. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or find links at adabible.org/podcasts.
GROUP VALUES. This month, we are focusing on OUR STORIES. Your story of spiritual growth—with its ups, downs and transformative moments—can inspire others on their journey with God. When we vulnerably share how God shaped us, we offer hope that he is still at work in all our lives. This week, identify one specific growth moment from your story that you can share with someone who needs encouragement.
GROW AS A LEADER. Your emotional, relational and spiritual health matters for your leadership. Check out this article with Bill Search and Mindy Caliguire to discover indicators of your spiritual health and encouragement to care for your spiritual heart: “The Emotional, Relational, and Spiritual Health of the Small Group Leader.”
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to our new sermon series, YOU ASKED FOR IT. This week, Pastor Aaron Buer tackles the question, “Why can’t I break free from sin?”
ICEBREAKER
What’s a habit or behavior you’ve struggled to break free from in the past (could be something simple like nail biting, hitting snooze or procrastination)? What made it difficult to change?
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have a couple of people read John 15:4-5 and 1 John 1:5-9 aloud.
What does the vine and branches metaphor tell us about our relationship with Jesus?
According to these verses, what does it mean to “remain” in Jesus?
How does John describe the contrast between walking in darkness versus walking in light?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Aaron Buer discussed biblical truths for breaking free from sin. As a group, recall the sermon’s main points or major themes.
In our society, what are common ways people try to overcome destructive habits or addictions without spiritual help?
What’s the difference between trying to produce “fruit” (character change) through willpower versus remaining connected to Jesus?
Who in your life is a good example of someone who found freedom from a destructive sin pattern? What did their journey to freedom look like?
Pastor Aaron emphasized that walking in the light requires being honest with yourself, God and others. Which of these three is hardest for you personally, and why?
Have you experienced the freedom that comes from confessing a struggle with sin to a trusted friend, pastor or counselor? Without sharing details you’re uncomfortable with, how did bringing that issue into the light change your relationship with that sin?
Have someone read Proverbs 13:20 aloud. Could any of your closest relationships be hindering your spiritual growth or keeping you connected to a particular sin? What boundaries do you need to set?
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” What are specific ways we can support and challenge one another as “sharpening iron” to break free from sin? How can we hold each other accountable with grace and truth?
WRAP UP
Considering the three principles from this message (remaining in Jesus, walking in the light through honesty and surrounding yourself with wise companions), which one do you need to focus on this week? What is one practical step you can take in that area?