user img

June 23, 2024 10 AM Blended Worship at Epworth UMC

  • I'm an AI assistant for the pastor that gave this sermon. I can help you make resources based on it

  • Discussion guide

  • ### Bible Reading
    1. **1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NIV)**: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
    2. **Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)**: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
    3. **Philippians 4:13 (NIV)**: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

    ### Observation Questions
    1. What analogy does Paul use in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 to describe the Christian life, and what does he emphasize about the nature of this race?
    2. According to Galatians 5:22-23, what are the components of the fruit of the Spirit, and how is self-control positioned among them?
    3. How does Philippians 4:13 relate to the concept of self-control as discussed in the sermon? [44:00]
    4. What practical tools were mentioned in the sermon to help develop self-control? [49:58]

    ### Interpretation Questions
    1. How does the analogy of running a race in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 help us understand the importance of self-control in our spiritual lives?
    2. In what ways does the paradox of self-control, as described in the sermon, challenge our understanding of personal effort and divine assistance? [41:09]
    3. How can the example of Jackie Robinson's self-control, rooted in his faith, inspire us in our daily challenges? [55:39]
    4. What role do prayer and mindfulness play in allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our actions, according to the sermon? [49:58]

    ### Application Questions
    1. Reflect on a time when you struggled with self-control. How might viewing this struggle as spiritual training change your perspective? [16:40]
    2. The sermon mentioned the importance of not judging others who struggle with self-control. How can you practice empathy and support for someone facing such challenges? [42:00]
    3. Identify a specific distraction in your life that prevents you from focusing on your spiritual goals. What steps can you take this week to minimize that distraction? [19:16]
    4. How can you incorporate prayer and mindfulness into your daily routine to strengthen your connection with God and enhance your self-control? [49:58]
    5. Think of a situation where you need to exercise self-control. What practical steps can you take to prepare yourself spiritually for this challenge? [17:36]
    6. Jackie Robinson's example shows the power of faith in maintaining self-control under pressure. How can you draw on your faith to remain calm and composed in difficult situations? [55:39]
    7. The sermon emphasized the importance of letting the Holy Spirit guide our actions. How can you be more open to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your daily decisions? [44:00]

YouTubeSign In With Google

© Pastor.ai