Sermon Guide

Seasons of Suffering

April 7, 2024
Dr. Allen Holmes

REVIEW: We all have a “childhood coat.”

  • READ: 1 Corinthians 13:11 “When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.”
  • DISCUSS: What are some of the learned behaviors of your childhood, or family of origin, that you have had to unlearn as you have followed Jesus?

REVIEW: We all have a “performance coat.”

  • READ: Romans 12:1 “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”
  • DISCUSS: How has your perception of suffering and difficulty changed since following Jesus?
  • DISCUSS: Do you think there are any habits or perspectives that you hold that God is calling you to surrender?

REVIEW: We all can have an “imparted coat.”

  • READ: Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
  • DISCUSS: How do you hope God will work through your life to be a blessing to others?

  ASK:

What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?

  PRAY:

For a broad and patient view of our lives in light of God’s redemptive work, and for the perseverance required to endure long seasons of good work—even in the midst of suffering.

Have a Small Group Story?

We would love to know! Share a story from your group through a short email.
Share a Story