​I am free to do all things; but not all things are wise. I am free to do all things; but I will not let myself come under the power of any.

​We have reduced marriage to being about “me and my happiness” and so we often struggle when we don’t get what we want out of it or give up when it gets too hard. But the Bible begins and ends with the story of a marriage union, not only to reveal the nature of God’s love for us, but to reveal what is to come and give resurrection hope to those who are united with Christ.

See below for PDF of slides and small group discussion questions. 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Can you think of an example (big or small) in which a new perspective or sense of hope which changed your attitude or energized you to act on something? 
2. Read Rev 21:1-5, 22-23 which portrays the ultimate reunion of God and His people. How does this "new creation" vision impact your hope in the future and shape how you prioritize your relationship with God and others today?
3. The Greek word kainos (new in quality or renewed) is used to describe the new heaven and earth. What areas of your life do you think need to be renewed by God’s transforming power?
4. Is there a specific step you feel called to take in showing self-giving love or practicing mutual submission in your relationships that can foster greater unity (oneness) with God or others?
5. If marriage and singlehood are to complement one another in revealing God’s love and our future union in Christ, how can both groups encourage and support each other in their journeys (inside or outside the church)?

​God often works through what we already have, multiplying it and turning our scarcity into abundance when we trust in Him.

Click below for sermon slides

Discussion Questions:

1. In what ways does the widow’s story demonstrate the importance of faith in God’s provision, even in seemingly impossible situations? How can we apply this to our own lives?

2. Elisha asked the widow what she had in her house, and she responded with “nothing at all, except a small jar of olive oil.” How does this moment highlight the importance of using what we already have? How can we sometimes overlook the resources or talents God has given us?

3. What role does obedience play in the widow’s miracle? Why do you think Elisha told her to collect many jars, and how does this encourage us to prepare for God’s blessings with expectancy?

​4. The widow was told to shut the door behind her while pouring the oil. What do you think is the significance of this instruction? How can “shutting the door” help us focus on what God is doing in our lives without distractions or doubts from others?

​How can the way of Jesus inform not only the what but the how of our political engagement as citizens of the US and God’s kingdom?

Click below for sermon slides

Discussion Questions: 

1. Review the description of the Combatant, the Exhausted, and the Cynic. Which one best describes your current view of politics? What are your thoughts and feelings about the upcoming election and the current state of politics in America? 
2. Kaitlyn Schiess writes in her book The Liturgy of Politics, "Political uninterest thrives in places of privilege." What are your thoughts on this quote? As followers of Jesus why should we choose to engage in the political process? 
3. Among the dominant political issues (economy, immigration, race relations, abortion, gun control, election integrity, etc.) which do you find to be the most complicated? Why do we need to be cautious about using the Bible to justify specific public policies and laws?  
4. Read Isaiah 1:15-17 about God's judgment against Israel and Psalm 82:1-4 about his judgment against the nations. How should this inform the politicians and political platforms that we support? 
5. What does it look like for us to be high in both humility and hope when it comes to political engagement? 
6. Spend some time praying together for the upcoming election. 

​Pastor Steve shares reflections on what he experienced during his recent sabbatical.

​Click below for sermon slides 

Discussion : 

1. Pastor Steve shared about the life-changing impact that the donated sheep had on the poor families of Kapsowar, Kenya. In what ways are you investing in God's kingdom based on the resources he has entrusted to you? Are you seeing fruit from those investments? 
2. We will often make great efforts to witness beauty (visits to places like the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, etc.). What are some moments where you felt this sense of awe and wonder? How does the beauty we see in creation help us to see the glory to God? 
3. Pastor Steve shared his need to rediscover the sufficiency of Jesus in the face of his own limitations and failures. What are the circumstances that you've faced in your life that made you realize that you do not have the resources to solve all the problems in your life? When have you witnessed the power of Jesus to help you in your moments of desperate need? 
4. The experiences of supporting Betty run the Chicago Marathon and being cared for by his friend Paul during their personal retreat together was a reminder that we need one another to finish the race set before us. How do you feel about the community that surrounds you and the support you draw from it? What are some specific ways that we can grow as a community to better support one another's needs?