DON'T MISS THIS. We're celebrating BAPTISM on August 22/23. Baptism displays a powerful story of God's work in our lives. We believe baptism is an outward expression of an inward change that has taken place in our lives after we have placed our faith and trust in Christ. Whether you're watching someone you know take this step or considering it yourself, this is a great moment to celebrate what God is doing. If you'd like to be baptized or want to learn more about what it means, click HERE. 

GROUP VALUES. This week, we continue our focus on the value of SERVING. Serving is a core value for followers of Jesus and an expression of loving God and loving others. This week's message reminds us that our time on earth is brief compared to eternity—which makes how we spend it—including how we serve one another, matter even more. Talk as a group about a practical way to serve someone in your group or community this week.

GROW AS A LEADER. This week's message touches on loss and the hope of heaven—topics that may stir up GRIEF for people in your group. Some members may be carrying grief they haven't shared. As a leader, create space for that. You don't need to fix anyone's grief or rush them toward hope; simply listening and sitting with someone in their loss is a powerful gift. Watch for cues that a group member may need one-on-one follow-up after your discussion.

ICEBREAKER

What's a place you've called home that felt especially good to return to? What made it feel that way? 

THIS WEEK'S TEXT

Have someone read Revelation 21:1–5 aloud. 

What does John see? Describe the details that stand out to you. 

How does this passage describe God's relationship with his people in the future? 

What specific things will no longer exist in that future? 

THIS WEEK'S SERMON

This week, guest speaker Pastor Dave Stone taught on WHY I WANT TO GO TO HEAVEN by exploring the picture God gives us in Revelation 21. As a group, recall some of the sermon's big ideas and main points.  

Why do you think our culture is often uncomfortable talking about heaven and hell as real destinations? 

If we don’t hunger for heaven, we’ll be tempted to go after heaven on earth. What are some ways we as believers treat this life as if it’s all there is? 

Faith in Jesus means we don't have to hope we get lucky or wonder if we've done enough to go to heaven—we can know for certain. What tends to shake that confidence for you? 
(If you are unsure what it means to have faith in Jesus, visit adabible.org/salvation or talk with your leader or a staff member.) 

Have someone read John 14:2–3 aloud. If you genuinely believed that this world isn't your permanent home and Jesus is preparing a place for you, what would change about how you handle stress, disappointment, or fear this week? 

A day is coming with no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. Which of those promises do you most need to hold onto right now—in your own life or someone else's? 

Have someone read 1 Corinthians 13:12 aloud. If you're honest, what usually comes to mind first when you picture heaven: Jesus or something or someone else? 

Eternity with Jesus in heaven is the greatest invitation you'll ever receive. What currently competes for your attention or affection for Jesus?  

WRAP UP

What’s one specific step you could take this week to give Jesus more attention and live like someone certain about where they're headed after this life?