Using Passages for Discussion

As we think about sermon-based small groups, I want to remind you the sermon-based small group is really PASSAGE-BASED small group.

Your group is discussing the passage that was preached that week.

This post lists Do's and Don'ts for sermon-based small groups.

1. Read the passage aloud as a group.
2. Use the sermon and your sermon notes as a resource to discuss the passage.
3. Don't repreach/reteach the whole passage.
4. From the last post, look at the summary of the passage and have group members do the same.  You can have group members think about and write down a summary in your group.  Then, have group members share their summary.
5. Be sure to give people the opportunity to talk.  Being the small group leader does not mean you have to speak the most.
6. As you consider questions, remember HEAD (What does God want me to know?), HEART (What does God want me to desire?), and HANDS (What does God want me to do?).  

Romans 16:25 - 27.

Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen. 

Head:  What is the Gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ?  What do these do?

Heart:  What do I need to be more passionate about?

Paul's use of "my gospel" does not suggest there is Paul's gospel, Apollos' gospel, and Peter's gospel.  "My gospel" is the divinely revealed message of Jesus Christ that Paul is passionately holding on to and sharing with others.

What do I need to be more passionate about?  I need to be more passionate about the gospel.  My gospel, my life-changing hope found only in Jesus Christ.

This passage begins with "to him" and ends with "to [him]" - the only wise God be glory.
We need to be more passionate and focused on God.  What does this look like?

Hand:  In these verses, what action is needed?