THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS. SHARING YOUR STORY is telling others how God is moving in your life. When we share—we remember what God has done, strengthen our faith and encourage others to believe and receive his promises. Step out in faith and share your story HERE.
GROUP VALUES.
This October, we’re focusing on PRAYER. Consider how prayer shapes your perspective on life’s challenges. Share about a time when prayer shifted your attitude or approach to a difficult situation. As a group, brainstorm ways to support each other in maintaining a prayerful mindset throughout the week.
GROW AS A LEADER. Every group has struggles, and every leader feels overwhelmed at some point. Check out the book The Essential Guide for Small Group Leaders by Bill Search for tips and encouragement in helping your group grow as Christ-followers, become more outward-focused, build relationships and more.
DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to the third week of our sermon series, UNSHAKABLE. This week, we explore how our faith can have a powerful spiritual influence on those around us.
ICEBREAKER
What’s something you’re known for among your friends or family? (It could be a skill, personality trait or even a funny story.)
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have someone read 1 Thessalonians 1:2-9 aloud.
What stands out to you about Paul’s description of the Thessalonian believers?
How does Paul describe the impact of the Thessalonians’ faith on others?
What specific actions or attitudes does Paul highlight in the Thessalonians’ faith journey?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Aaron Buer continued our Unshakable sermon series by discussing how we can become spiritual influencers. As a group, recall some of the sermon’s big ideas and main points.
How do people today typically seek to gain influence or become “known” for something?
The Gospel message is the starting place and source of our spiritual influence. Discuss as a group what the Gospel message is and how you would explain it to someone who didn’t know.
Pastor Aaron said that we not only share the Gospel, we live the Gospel through the power of the Holy Spirit. What are some tangible actions that reveal we are living out the gospel?
Our spiritual influence often grows through how we handle difficulties. Can you think of a time when someone’s faith during a trial impacted your walk with God? How did their example affect you?
In what area of your life is it challenging to trust Jesus right now? How might stepping out in faith in this area affect those around you?
The Thessalonian believers turned from idols to serve and worship God. What are some “idols” you are tempted to think will rescue you instead of God?
How can our group help each other to keep turning to God instead of those idols?
How might the concept of being a “witness” with a “testimony” change the way you view your everyday interactions with others?
WRAP UP
This week, we discussed growing our spiritual influence and the impact of sharing our testimony with others. What steps can you take this week to be more prepared to share your faith story with others?