THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS
GIVING TABLES are happening through February 18. Each campus is supporting a local non-profit. It’s easy for you or your group to serve others in our community. For a list of items at each campus, check out the Giving Tables by campus at adabible.org/givingtables.
GROUP VALUES
This February, we are focusing on SPIRITUAL PRACTICES. Spiritual Practices are intentional, regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus. Share as a group which spiritual practices have helped you grow in your relationship with God over time. See examples of spiritual practices at www.beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices/.
GROW AS A LEADER
Have you sat down with your staff contact for a 1-on-1 lately? The Small Groups staff are here to support you as a leader and encourage you in your walk with God. Connect with your staff contact to grab coffee or lunch.
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to the fifth week of our series, MAKE IT REAL. This week, we look at James’s teaching about how real faith impacts our words.
ICEBREAKER
Who has made a positive impact on you with their encouraging words?
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have someone read James 3:1-12 aloud.
What are some examples of ways we stumble by what we say according to this passage?
James gives two illustrations in verses 3-5. What point is James making through these word pictures?
Verses 7-8 mention various creatures being “tamed.” What is his point about the tongue in comparing it to these creatures?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Brad Holmes taught us that real faith shapes how we talk. As a group, recall some of the sermon’s big ideas or main points.
What are some common views about the impact of words and how we talk?
The impact of our words is a big theme in the Bible, especially in Proverbs. Have someone read Proverbs 18:21 aloud. When have you seen someone’s words bring life or bring death?
Words people say have the power to change the direction of our lives. Share about a time when someone’s words affected you or changed the direction of your life.
James also teaches that our words have the ability to ignite a fire. In what relationships do you risk lighting a damaging fire with your words?
What are some ways you can use your words to build others up in those relationships where you struggle with your words?
James says our words reveal what is in our hearts (James 3:9-12). If someone examined a week’s worth of your words, what do you think that would show about the state of your heart?
What can you put in place that will allow God to transform your heart and fill it up with his Word?
Which of Pastor Brad’s challenges resonated most with you—let God transform your heart, slow down and apologize regularly?
Which part of the sermon encouraged or challenged you the most, and why?
WRAP UP
Today, we discussed how real faith impacts our words. Where do you most need God’s help to transform your speech this week?