Community Group Study Notes
- The Power of Ordinary The message at CP began with the example of a #2 pencil - something completely ordinary that revolutionized the world. What are some "ordinary" things in your life that God might want to use for His extraordinary purposes? How does this challenge the way you think about your own significance in God's kingdom?
- Loving the Church (verses 12-14) Paul calls us to "admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, and help the weak." The sermon mentions that none of these require special spiritual gifts or superpowers. Share about a time when someone in the church did one of these things for you, or when you had the opportunity to do this for someone else. What made it meaningful? What barriers do you face in being more intentional about this?
- Not Repaying Wrong for Wrong (verse 15) The sermon points out that Paul was writing to people who were still living alongside those who had persecuted them. Think about a situation where you've been wronged or mistreated. How does the Gospel change the way we respond to those who hurt us? What does it practically look like to "strive to do what is good" for those who have wronged us?
- Constant Worship (verses 16-18) Paul calls us to "rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances." The sermon clarifies this is about the state of our hearts, not outward appearances. What does it look like practically to live in a "constant state of worship" during ordinary moments - at work, with family, in traffic, during difficult seasons? How can we cultivate this heart posture?
- God's Faithfulness in Sanctification (verses 23-24) The sermon emphasizes that sanctification is an ordinary part of Christian life - we should expect to look more like Christ every day. Verse 24 reminds us that "He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it." How does knowing that God is faithful to complete His work in you change the way you approach personal growth and areas where you struggle? What encouragement does this give you?
Action Step
- Choose one specific way they will live out these "ordinary" Christian practices this week - whether that's encouraging someone, showing good to someone who has wronged them, or intentionally worshipping God in their daily routine.
