THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS. Serve together in unity! We are looking for people who are passionate about serving to join the team in DISCOVERY VILLAGE. Every Sunday, dozens of volunteers bring their energy as they teach biblical stories and create fun for kids within our children’s ministry. Through Discovery Village, kids learn about God in small groups and community activities. You will also grow in your faith as you help nourish the faith of our youngest disciples. We believe serving is important because God created, gifted and called us to serve. To learn more, click HERE.
GROUP VALUES. Our value this month is GROW TOGETHER. God designed us to grow in close proximity to each other. This week, we explored how maintaining unity is an essential part of our relationships within the church. Unity is a gift from God that we are responsible for nourishing. Take time to explore how you could nourish unity within your small group. How are you unified already? Are there topics or situations that place your unity at risk?
GROW AS A LEADER. As small group leaders, we often find ourselves in situations that require us to lead by example. Nourishing and maintaining unity can often be one of those situations. Think through the relationships in your group. Are there any relationships that need your attention? Is there a conversation that needs to happen? If you find your group is experiencing disunity, consider taking a step toward addressing it. If you need help processing your situation, reach out to your Group Life staff for support. They would love to help you navigate your difficult situation.
SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to the second week of our series, GROUNDWORK. This week, we explore the significance of relationships in the church and why maintaining unity is extremely important.
ICEBREAKER
What kind of relationship did you have with the church growing up? How has it changed over time?
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have someone read Ephesians 4:1-16 aloud.
What stands out to you in this passage?
According to Paul, what does a life “worthy of the calling” look like?
Why does Paul believe that maintaining unity is important for the church?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Aaron continued our series GROUNDWORK with an extended look at relationships in the church and how Jesus stakes his reputation on how we maintain unity. As a group, recall some of the sermon’s big ideas and main points.
How would you describe the way our culture perceives the church and its ability to maintain unity?
Our unrealistic expectations can be a barrier to church unity. What are examples of unrealistic expectations that you have seen prevent unity in the church?
Every follower of Jesus is under construction—growing in faith while remaining imperfect. How are you under construction? How can the group support your growth in that area?
What does it look like to show compassion and understanding to a fellow believer who is also under construction?
Why is it important to experience meaningful Christian fellowship with believers who are different than you?
Where if your life is your group identity more important that your gospel identity? How can we help each other keep our gospel identity at the forefront of our lives?
In order for us to grow in maturity and unity, we each need to serve with the gifts God has given us. If you are currently serving, how have you seen God grow your faith and unity with other believers through serving? If you aren’t serving, what is a good first step you can take?
WRAP UP
While church unity is ultimately accomplished through the Holy Spirit, we still have a role to play. What is one step you can take to guard and protect unity in your relationships?