Welcome to the final week of our summer series The Generosity of God. In this series, we look at four of the ways God is generous. This weekend, Student Ministries Pastor Aaron Buer helps us understand the gift of the Holy Spirit. In our conversation today, we will see four ways the Holy Spirit works in our lives.
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.
Safe Environment.
As we transition from summer to fall, many groups are getting back into regular routines. Take a few minutes to discuss some of the “ground rules” for your group. What will help make your group a safe place to share life’s joys and struggles?
Share part of your story.
When you were a kid, what did your family typically do on Labor Day weekend?
PURSUE GOD
Taking next steps toward Christ together.
Look back at John 16:7-15. Have someone read through these verses. Identify the main characters, the setting, the circumstances and people’s actions.
The Spirit Moves In.
The Holy Spirit is called an advocate or a helper. What does Jesus mean when he says this? How have you heard it described?
Why do you think Jesus said it is better for him to leave so the Holy Spirit could come? Do you really believe Jesus was right about this?
Since the Holy Spirit lives in every believer, there is potential that every person you interact with might get a glimpse of who God is and how much he loves them. When, recently, have you experienced who God is through another person?
The Holy Spirit resides in you as a believer. How should knowing this change how you approach your day, your interactions, and your relationships?
The Spirit Transforms.
Have someone read aloud John 14:26. What two things does the Holy Spirit do according to this verse?
The transforming work of the Holy Spirit is dynamically tied to the Word of God. The Spirit inspired the authors of the Bible so we could have the very words of God. When we seek to know and understand Scripture, the Bible has the potential to influence our lives. This is the work of the Holy Spirit. How have you recently experienced the work of the Holy Spirit convicting, challenging or encouraging you through the Bible?
Have someone share about a time the Holy Spirit helped them remember something from the Bible just when they needed it.
The Holy Spirit’s actions of teaching and reminding are in conjunction with the Bible. How do you interact with the Bible on a regular basis? What are some goals you have for your Chair Time and Bible reading this fall?
The Holy Spirit Persuades.
Have someone read aloud John 15:26. What does it say the Holy Spirit will do?
John 15:27 continues, “And you also must testify…” Why do you think Jesus said this?
The Holy Spirit desires to work through us. Why would God choose to work through people instead of just doing everything?
Discuss this paragraph about sharing. How do these words encourage you to share more?
Sharing with others about Jesus is a partnership with the Holy Spirit. As we share, the Spirit helps us remember what we have learned as we tell others what God has done for us. We don’t have to know the answer to every question to share. Sometimes, we just need tell about what God has done in our life. Though we are responsible for sharing, the Holy Spirit is responsible for the results.
The Holy Spirit Guides.
John 16:13 says the Holy Spirit “will guide you into all the truth.” What comes to mind when you hear that?
People often struggle to discern how the Holy Spirit is leading them. John 16:13-14 reminds us that the Spirit’s leading is connected to what Jesus taught. The guidance of the Holy Spirit always harmonizes with Scripture. What does that mean? Why is it important?
How can your group help you determine whether or not the Holy Spirit is moving you in a specific direction?
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.
Invest.
We discussed the partnership between us and the Holy Spirit when we share with others about Jesus. Who in your life do you want to share about Jesus with? How can the group be praying for you in that relationship?
Serve.
As people start to settle into their fall routines, many will be trying out Ada Bible Church for the first time. We want to be hospitable and welcoming as we serve them. Have a conversation about serving. How have you benefitted from taking the time to serve in the past? Where are you planning to serve this fall? For more information or to sign up to serve, go to adabible.org/volunteer.
Download a printable PDF here.