Welcome to the fourth week of our series Good Kings. This series explores the good kings of the Old Testament. This weekend, East Paris Campus Pastor Bob King takes us through the reign of King Uzziah who was the longest reigning “good king.” Together, your group will discuss the things that made him so successful and the circumstances that led to a surprising end to his story.
SHARE LIFE
Building healthy and life-giving relationships.
Updates.
What has been new or challenging in your life since last time the group met? Spend 20–30 minutes checking in with each other.
Care.
Prayer is a key component of caring for each other. Take some time to go around your group identifying prayer requests and spend a few moments praying for each other’s needs.
Share part of your story.
Share about a time when you felt successful.
PURSUE GOD
Taking next steps toward Christ together.
Look back at 2 Chronicles 26.3-23. Have someone read through these verses. Identify the key characters, the setting and the circumstances facing King Uzziah.
Prosperity.
King Uzziah succeeded in so many areas. He strengthened Israel’s borders, outfitted the army, reinforced the city walls and towers, provided jobs and boosted the economy. With all of this success and prosperity, it is important to note that God helped him (2 Chronicles 26.7). Why does any success or prosperity we have ultimately come from God?
What are some of the risks of failing to recognize God’s role in our talents, artistry, success and prosperity?
What are some practical ways you can recognize and thank God for the blessings in your life?
Pride.
Uzziah did great things but he makes a defining decision that profoundly affects his reign. He pridefully seizes the role of the priest—doing something kings were not allowed to do (2 Chronicles 26.16). What are some prideful behaviors or decisions that can sabotage our walk with Jesus, our family or our work?
Eighty priest follow Uzziah into the temple to confront him. How does Uzziah’s response compare to how people often respond when confronted?
There is an opportunity here for your group to take a significant step in vulnerability and grow closer. Take a moment and share with your group how you typically respond to confrontation and challenge.
Have someone read Psalm 51 and identify the specific ways another good king, David, responded when confronted. How can we respond like David?
Punishment.
When confronted, Uzziah responds with anger and it costs him. He contracts leprosy, lives in isolation, is banned from the temple, cannot govern his nation and does not get a state burial. Discuss the following statement: We can choose our sin but we do not get to choose the consequences of our sin.
God provided Zechariah to help Uzziah remain faithful. Uzziah ignored Zechariah’s counsel (2 Chronicles 26.5–6) to seek the Lord in all circumstances. Who is the Zechariah in your life?
Legacy.
We will be remembered for something. Incredibly, we typically get to choose what it will be through our actions. How do you want to be remembered?
King Uzziah started out so well but he was not remembered for being a great general, skillful city planner or a wise economist. He was remembered for the consequence of one prideful decision (2 Chronicles 26.23). The most profound legacy we can leave is a life and heart fully devoted to obeying God. What habits are you practicing that point people to Jesus? How can your group help you speak and act in a way that reflects the heart of Christ and leave a meaningful legacy?
INVEST IN OTHERS
Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith.
Discuss how you and your group can better engage the people in your life outside your small group.
Serve.
Summer is a great time for small groups to serve together. Take a few moments as a group and identify some needs in your neighborhood, social circles or workplace that you could potentially meet. Spend some time in prayer asking God for the eyes to see, ears to hear and the courage to respond.
Invest.
We all need wise counselors in our life. Uzziah had Zechariah and you have your fellow group members. How can you be a Zechariah to the people in your life outside of your group? Identify specific ways your fellow group members can encourage and pray for you to come alongside others to help them follow Jesus.
Download a printable PDF here.