Getting Started
Introduction
Following Jesus isn’t a solo journey. We grow in grace and truth through encouragement, accountability, shared joy, and steadfast hope. Simply put, we need each other—to be pointed back to God’s Word, reminded of Christ’s sufficiency, and upheld in prayer.
Discipleship Groups are small, same-gender groups of three, committed to. Scripture, prayer, and gospel-centered accountability. Together, we fix our hearts on Jesus and walk in His transforming love..
Starting
The place to start is prayer. Express your desire for community to God. Ask Him to lead you by His Spirit and connect you with other believers who would become an integral part of your spiritual development. God hears our prayers and He will guide you into the right discipleship group.
Here are several ways that you can find a discipleship group:
Community Group - Typically, a Discipleship Group forms in the context of a Community Group. If you have not checked out a C-Group yet, you can find more information here.
Join an existing group - A discipleship group of 2 or 3 can welcome you to join them. You can often find an existing group at one of our Mission Men/Mission Women gatherings that happen monthly. You can find out when the next Mission Men or Women’s gathering is on our website.
Start a new group - Find 1-3 people of your gender who agree to meet together intentionally. This guide is designed to walk you through starting a discipleship group from scratch.
Focus
In discipleship groups, we purposefully come together, discuss the Word and bow to its authority. We seek to keep the time Christ-centered, Gospel-driven, and Scripture-focused (NOT sin-centered). We look at the ancient disciplines or practices of our faith to help us walk in the way of Jesus.
The goal is to fight for faith and against sin, the flesh, and the devil and do so believing the promises of God found in Scripture. Make a text your initial focus, devotionally reading the same chapter from a book of the Bible. Then come together, read it out loud, and talk about it. We encourage you to start in a gospel.
How does this work
In Discipleship Groups, we encourage you to alternate between text-theology-life and the disciplines, using the guides in the following pages. Once you’ve walked through the disciplines, begin crafting a Rule of Life and start again from the beginning. Discipleship is a lifelong journey—a long obedience in the same direction. We will never master the way of Jesus; we are shaped by Him as we walk with Him. Ask the Lord to refine you over time, using these practices to deepen your faith and form you into His likeness.
Rule-Of-Life
A Rule of Life is an ancient practice that helps us order our lives around Jesus with intentionality. It’s not about rigid rules but a framework that shapes our rhythms in a way that deepens our dependence on Christ, forms us in His likeness, and aligns our daily lives with His kingdom.
Meeting Together
Text-Theology-Life
1.Story (approx. 15 mins)
Spend some time catching up on life.
If we don’t do this, we fight in the dark, isolated from what God is doing in the larger picture of our lives.
Get to know each other’s histories and backgrounds. Take turns sharing your story every other meeting
Pray and ask the Spirit to lead you to Christ in your discussion.
2.Text-Theology-Life (approx. 30-45 mins)
Text
Each person in the Discipleship Group commits to reading the same chapter from the Bible before meeting. As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to highlight what He wants you to see. He may be prompting you—or someone in your group—to repent of sin, rejoice in a promise, or meditate on an insight.
When you meet, keep the Bible at the center of your discussion. It’s God’s Word that pierces our hearts, reveals our sin, and leads us to deeper joy in Jesus (Hebrews 4:12).
Questions to Consider:
What stood out to you in this passage? Why do you think the Holy Spirit drew your attention to it?
Was there a verse or phrase that challenged, convicted, or comforted you?
How does this passage reveal more about who God is and what He’s doing?
Theology
Work through the text together, paying attention to the flow of the author’s argument. Ask the Spirit for wisdom and understanding. The goal isn’t just knowledge but knowing Jesus more deeply.
Questions to Consider:
What is the central theological truth in this passage?
How does this passage point to Christ and His work?
What does this teach us about the gospel—who God is, what He has done, and how we should respond?
How does this challenge or reshape what we believe about God, ourselves, and the world?
How would you explain this passage in a simple, gospel-centered way to someone else?
Press one another for honest engagement, particularly in light of each other's backgrounds and stories. Challenge and encourage one another with the promises of God. Stay gospel-centered; glance twice at Jesus for every glance at your sin.
Life
God’s Word is meant to shape the way we live. Be intentional about connecting what you’ve read to your real-life struggles, relationships, and mission.
Questions to Consider:
How does this passage call you to respond in your life right now?
Are there sins to repent of, promises to cling to, or steps of faith to take?
How does this passage shape the way you approach work, family, or relationships?
What specific area of your life needs to be more aligned with the truth of this passage?
How can we pray for and encourage each other to live this out?
Share your lives with honesty and grace. Fight the fight of faith with each other, not against each other. Let this be a place where you stir one another up toward love and good works. Finally, pray for opportunities to share the gospel. Get specific—who in your life needs to see Jesus through you this week?
3.Pray (approx. 15 mins)
Pray promises, hopes, fears, confessions
Pray for People in your life who don’t know Jesus.
Meeting Together
The Disciplines
1.Story (approx. 15 mins)
Spend some time catching up on life.
If we don’t do this, we fight in the dark, isolated from what God is doing in the larger picture of our lives.
Get to know each other’s histories and backgrounds. Take turns sharing your story every other meeting
Pray and ask the Spirit to lead you to Christ in your discussion.
2.The Disciplines (approx. 30-45 mins)
Discuss
Spiritual disciplines are not about earning God’s love—they are about positioning ourselves to receive it. Like training for a marathon, we don’t start by running 26 miles. We build habits slowly, learning to walk in step with Jesus.
Discuss a discipline together, using the questions below to reflect and apply.
Encourage one another in forming these habits with grace, not guilt.
Keep your focus on Jesus—glance twice at Him for every glance at your ability (or inability) to keep these practices.
Rule-of-Life
A rule of life is simply a rhythm that helps us be intentional about our discipleship. It’s less about strict rules and more about creating space for what matters most—being with Jesus and becoming like Him.
How could this become a regular habit in your life?
What would it look like to practice this daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly?
What obstacles make this difficult for you? How can the group encourage you to overcome them?
How does this discipline help you live in the freedom of the gospel rather than just adding another thing to your to-do list?
How have you seen fruit from practicing this (even in small ways)?
3.Pray (approx. 15 mins)
Pray promises, hopes, fears, confessions
Pray for People in your life who don’t know Jesus.
Rule-of-Life
(Ref Jeremy Linneman)
Why create a rule-of-life
Every Christian has a well-established pattern of living, whether it’s an intentionally developed set of commitments or an unstated set of values and practices, like praying before meals and going to church twice a month. But many of us aren’t as deliberate with our spiritual development as we are with our time and priority management at work, and our lives and relationships suffer as a result. Amid our busy schedules, we’re constantly juggling relationships and responsibilities and often feel like we’re dropping more balls than we’re keeping in the air. When we lack a consistent and thoughtful way of doing life well, we will end up distracted and overwhelmed by life, and our spiritual and emotional growth will plateau. Few of us want to take this approach to life, but it just seems to happen. We wind up:
Scattered: Our schedule is full but doesn’t reflect our purpose and priorities.
Hurried: We’re busier than we want to be, but don’t know what to change.
Reactive: It seems we’re never in charge, always responding to demands.
Exhausted: We end each day weary and discouraged, unsure if we’ve spent it well.
Experience shows that many aren’t undone by poor theology or a lack of biblical information. Instead, we often fail to grow spiritually because we haven’t planned and made space for a deep, abiding fellowship with God.The lack of spiritual planning may be rooted in a lukewarm heart toward Christ, but at other times, we genuinely want to go deeper with God but don’t know how to make time and space to simply be with him and gain spiritual strength for each day’s challenges.
What is a Rule-of-life?
A Rule of Life is “an intentional, conscious plan to keep God at the center of everything we do. . . . The starting point and foundation of any Rule is a desire to be with God and to love him” (Scazzero, 196).
The Rule is a way to “begin with the end in mind”—to envision a sustainable, thriving walk with the Lord, in his Word, in prayer, in community, in our family, and in our work, then work backward to a set of commitments. It’s not about detailed to-do lists that must be maintained. A Rule of Life instead gives you the opportunity to prayerfully discern what roles and responsibilities the Lord has given you, and to organize your life in the manner most conducive to spiritual growth and depth in him.
The Rule of Life has a rich history in Christian tradition. The Rule has been traced back to the early monastic movement in the fourth century, and the most well-known Rule was written by Benedict in the sixth century. The Rule of Saint Benedict has influenced Eastern and Western Christians for roughly 1,500 years, and many Reformers and evangelical patriarchs have practiced similar spiritual routines without the title. Lately, many Christian traditions have returned to the Rule as an antidote to our Western culture’s lonely and fragmented lives. (Yes, Christians were doing 12 Rules for Life way before it was cool.)
Five Basic Elements of a Rule
When helping others create a Rule of Life, we suggest five basic elements: Relationship with God, Personal Life/Health, Relationships, Church, and Work.
The goal of life is to dwell in deep communion with Christ and to be firmly anchored in our union with him. But how and when and where we practice these blessed realities will depend greatly on many factors, including our life stage, work, and physical capacity. If you have multiple jobs or small children, your Rule should reflect those responsibilities. In the words of Clint Eastwood in Dirty Harry, “A man’s got to know his limitations.” Here are a few subcategories, and you’ll certainly want to prayerfully think of your own components.
Relationship with God
Scripture reading
Prayer
Silence and solitude
Study and reflection
Personal Life/Health
Sleep
Rest and Sabbath
Physical health and fitness
Recreation and hobbies
Money and possessions
Relationships
Friendships
Neighbors and coworkers
Marriage
Children and Parenting
Extended family
Church
Participation and worship
Friendships and community
Service and mission
Generosity
Work
Calling/vocation
Current position and responsibilities
Workplace relationships
Education, personal development, and coaching
In each of these five areas of life, write out one key verse, a vision statement, and four to eight commitments. For example, under Personal Life/Health, you might write:
Verse: “Only take heed, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things which your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life” (Deut. 4:9).
Vision: I am a human being, created in the image of God, with limits and needs; I am a steward of the health and life God has given me, and I honor him by refreshing myself spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Commitments:
I sleep an average of eight hours every night (9:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.).
I work no more than 50 hours weekly, including only two evenings each week.
I exercise five days each week (Mon—Fri from 4 to 5 p.m.).
I review our expenses each Friday and discuss our finances with my spouse at the end of each month.
I reflect on my past week and plan the week ahead each Sunday (1 to 3 p.m.).
How to Create Your Rule-of-Life
When writing a rule we encourage you to prayerfully discuss your goals for walking in the way of Jesus with your Discipleship Group. From their we recommend the following steps:
Plan Ahead
Ideally, set aside an entire day. It may be good to plan a retreat with your discipleship group or family. The best thing you can do right now, if you’re interested in writing a Rule, is to get out your calendar and pick an entire day away for this. If you’re married, coordinate with your spouse to trade off days away.
Get Away
Step out of your routine. Go to a cabin or head out to a beautiful space. You could also spend the day at a public library or park, or even at home if it’s not too distracting. Go somewhere life-giving!
Be Prepared
We suggest taking with you only a Bible and a blank notebook. Don’t bring your laptop or smartphone. We will discuss using a rule-of-life builder later, but for now spend time with Jesus. Resist filling the space with music and noise.
Start with God’s Word
Consider spending the first few hours of your day simply reading through passages of Scripture that help quiet and center your heart.
Read a few dozen Psalms and pick another book of the Bible to read in its entirety.
Also, take some time to pick a key verse for each of your five main categories. You’re not in a hurry!
Pray through Your Five Areas
Prayerfully reflect on the five main areas of your life, and you may get a good sense of which area to focus your attention. It can be easy to ignore the area of you life that needs the most attention.
Write Out Your Commitments
There is a big difference between goals and commitments. A goal is something you want to achieve, such as running a marathon. A commitment is a rhythm of life that puts you in a place to get there, such as running four miles five days a week.
Goals are overrated; commitments are underrated.
When your retreat day is complete, and you are back in the world of technology, translate each of your commitments into your calendar.
Utilize the Rule-of-Life Builder
Once you return take your notes and utilize The Rule-of-Life Builder (https://www.practicingtheway.org/ruleoflifebuilder) to help you come up with a clear plan for walking in the way of Jesus.
Share your Rule-of-life
Share your rule-of-life with your discipleship group. Keep in mind this is a tool that aids you in your journey with Jesus. This is something you should revisit often and consider revising annually.
The spiritual disciplines—sometimes called sacred rhythms, rhythms of grace, or what the Reformers called the means of grace—are practices rooted in the life of Jesus that train us to walk in greater obedience and dependence on Him. These are not pathways to earning God’s favor but rather habits that shape us because of the grace we’ve already received in Christ.
Our standing before God is not determined by our ability to practice these disciplines—it is entirely secured by Christ’s righteousness alone (Phil. 3:9). But because we belong to Him, we press on toward godliness (1 Tim. 4:7-8), knowing that true freedom is found in walking in step with the Spirit.
The disciplines are a means by which we are conformed to the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29). They are not self-improvement strategies or religious checklists but a way to align our lives with the reality of who God is and who we are in Him.
Dallas Willard puts it this way:
"The disciplines are activities of mind and body purposefully undertaken to bring our personality and total being into effective cooperation with the divine order. They enable us to live in a power that is beyond us, deriving from the spiritual realm itself, as we yield ourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and our members as instruments of righteousness unto God."
While some disciplines—like prayer, fasting, and Scripture reading—are well-known, any habit you see in the life of Jesus could be considered a spiritual discipline. His rhythms of retreat, acts of service, walking in nature, sharing meals, and even washing feet all point to a life formed by dependence on the Father.
In the following pages, you’ll find nine core disciplines briefly defined, each followed by discussion questions and resources for deeper study. The goal is not to master them but to be formed by them—to be shaped more and more into the likeness of Jesus, for the glory of God and the good of others.
The Disciplines
Living in the way of Jesus
“The life of the Christian faith is the practice of many practices.”
Rest
Rest is not just a suggestion—it’s a command, woven into the fabric of creation itself. Before humanity ever lifted a finger, God established rest as the starting point of life with Him (Gen. 2:2-3). In Scripture, the day begins at sundown, and the week starts with Sabbath—reminding us that we work from rest, not for it.
In a world that glorifies hustle and wears exhaustion like a badge of honor, the discipline of rest confronts our self-reliance and reorients our hearts toward dependence on God. Rest is not just about physical recovery—it is an act of trust. When we step away from work, margin our time, and embrace stillness, we declare: God sustains us, not our effort (Ps. 127:2).
But rest is more than stopping—it is about delighting in God. Sabbath-keeping is not just a day off; it is a day set apart for worship, joy, and renewal in God’s presence. In a world marked by hurry and heaviness, Sabbath reminds us that the world keeps turning without us, and God is still on the throne.
Ignoring rest dulls our spiritual senses—when we are constantly drained, we struggle to see God clearly, hear His voice, and love others well. But when we embrace God’s rhythm of rest, we reflect His design, walk in His joy, and live out of the abundance of His grace.
To practice rest is to acknowledge our limits, trust in God’s sufficiency, and keep our hearts alive to the beauty of His presence.
Scripture:
Exodus 20:8-11
Mark 2:23-28
Luke 6:6-11
Matthew 11:28-30
Psalm 23, Psalm 46, Psalm 91, Psalm 92, Psalm 145
Discuss
1. How’s your current rhythm of life?
Would you say your weekly schedule allows for real rest, or are you constantly running on empty? Where do you feel the strain the most—physically, emotionally, or spiritually?
2. Sabbath vs. Just a Day Off
What’s the difference between a Sabbath and just taking a break? How can you shift from simply “not working” to actually delighting in God on your day of rest?
3. What makes rest so hard?
Be honest—what keeps you from slowing down? Is it work, family, social expectations, or just feeling guilty about resting? How does the pressure to always be productive shape your view of rest?
4. Rest as Worship
How can you make your rest more than just "checking out" and instead a way to enjoy God? What are some ways you can intentionally cultivate joy and worship in your Sabbath?
5. Connecting Rest and Renewal
Have you ever noticed how physical exhaustion impacts your ability to pray, worship, or engage with others? How does getting real rest change the way you relate to God and people?
6. Hearing God in the Quiet
When was the last time you actually slowed down enough to hear from God? How does busyness or exhaustion keep you from sensing His presence? Share a time when rest helped you reconnect with Him.
7. Practical Next Steps
If you were to set aside intentional time for Sabbath this week, what would it look like? What needs to change in your schedule, mindset, or habits to actually make it happen?
8. Resting Together
How can we encourage each other to rest well? What would it look like to build a culture of rest in our homes, our friendships, and our church?
9. Rest in Hard Seasons
When life is difficult, rest often feels impossible. How do you think Sabbath can help you hold onto joy and hope even when things are tough?
10. Commitment for This Week
What’s one change you can make this week to prioritize rest in a way that draws you closer to Jesus? How can we pray for and encourage you as you take that step?
Resources for further study:
The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God - Guy Pretiss Waters
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction - Justin Whitmel Earley
Silence & Solitude
The world is loud. From the moment we wake up, we are bombarded with voices—notifications, responsibilities, distractions, and demands. But throughout Scripture, we see that God often speaks in the quiet (1 Kings 19:11-12). Jesus Himself regularly withdrew to desolate places (Luke 5:16), not to escape but to be with the Father. Silence and solitude are not about emptying our minds but about creating space to hear God's voice and be formed by His presence.
In the Gospels, the Greek word erēmos (translated as “the wilderness” or “the quiet place”) describes where Jesus often went to pray, rest, and seek the Father’s will. This practice wasn’t optional for Him—it was essential. If the Son of God needed time away from the noise, how much more do we?
Silence and solitude expose what’s really in our hearts. When we strip away the noise, we begin to see the anxieties, sins, and distractions that we often ignore. But in that place, God meets us—not with condemnation but with grace. The stillness reminds us that we are not defined by our work, our words, or our productivity. We are His.
Silence and solitude are not about doing nothing—they are about actively waiting on God, listening for His voice, and learning to enjoy His presence. They train us to live in awareness of Him, not just in the quiet but in the middle of our daily lives.
This discipline is an invitation: step away from the noise, quiet your heart, and meet with the God who delights to meet with you.
Scripture:
Psalm 37:7
Psalm 62
Mark 6:31
1 Kings 19:4-21
Luke 5:16
Habakkuk 2:20
Luke 6:12-13
Discuss
1. Have you ever truly sat in silence with God?
Share a time when you intentionally stepped away from the noise to be alone with Him. What was that experience like? Did it feel refreshing, uncomfortable, or something else?
2. What makes silence and solitude so hard?
Be honest—what keeps you from slowing down? Is it the pull of distractions, the fear of being alone with your thoughts, or just not knowing where to start?
3. Do you see silence and solitude as valuable?
In a world that celebrates busyness, how do you view these practices? Have they felt like a waste of time, or have you experienced their impact? Has your perspective shifted over the years?
4. Hearing God in the quiet
What do you think of the statement: “Find the quiet to find God”? Have you ever experienced God’s presence in stillness? If so, how?
5. Making space for quiet
If you wanted to incorporate more silence and solitude into your life, what would need to change? What’s one practical adjustment—big or small—you could make?
6. Seeking wisdom in stillness
Have you ever made a major life decision after spending time in solitude with God? How did that time of silence shape your clarity or direction?
7. How does silence affect your relationships?
How might regularly stepping away to be with God actually strengthen your relationships rather than isolate you?
8. What has God shown you in silence?
Think back to any time of solitude you’ve had with God. Did He reveal something about Himself, about you, or about a situation you were facing?
9. Building a sustainable rhythm
If you were to create a simple, sustainable plan for incorporating silence and solitude, what would it look like? Would it be a few minutes in the morning, an extended retreat, or something else?
10. Encouraging each other
How can we hold one another accountable in this discipline? What are some creative ways to encourage each other to slow down and seek God in the quiet?
Resources for further study:
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Prayer
Prayer is not just a duty or a ritual—it’s the lifeline of our relationship with God. In the life of Jesus, we see that prayer was not just an escape into solitude, nor was it merely a list of requests. It was constant communion with the Father(Luke 5:16, John 17). At its core, prayer is an ongoing conversation—one that shapes us, aligns our hearts with God's, and deepens our dependence on Him.
Many of us think of prayer primarily as asking God for things, and while petition is important, prayer is much more than that. It’s about engaging with God in a way that transforms us. A well-rounded life of prayer includes these four dimensions:
Talking to God – This includes praying through Scripture (like the Psalms), liturgical prayers, and even singing prayers in worship. These structured prayers teach us how to pray and ground us in biblical truth.
Talking with God – Beyond structured prayers, this is the personal, honest conversation where we bring our lives before Him—thanking Him for the good, lamenting the brokenness of the world, and making requests for ourselves and others.
Listening to God – Prayer is not just about speaking; it’s about hearing. God speaks through His Word, through the Spirit’s promptings, and even through silence. Practicing things like Lectio Divina (slow, reflective reading of Scripture) or simply sitting in stillness before God can train our hearts to listen.
Being with God – At its deepest level, prayer is not just about words; it’s about presence. Sometimes the most powerful moments in prayer are simply resting in God’s love, sitting in His presence without an agenda—just being with Him.
Prayer is not a formula but a lifelong journey of learning to abide in Christ (John 15:4-7). As we grow in prayer, we move beyond just “saying prayers” to walking in step with God, where every moment of life becomes an opportunity to draw near to Him.
Scripture:
Matt 6:5-8
Hebrews 4:16
1 Thess 5:16-18
Philippians 4:6-7
1 John 5:14-15
Matthew 6:9-13
Mark 11:24
Ephesians 6:17-18
1 Timothy 2:1
James 5:16
Discuss
1. Which type of prayer comes most naturally to you?
Reflect on the four aspects of prayer—talking to God, talking with God, listening to God, and being with God. Which of these do you engage in the most? Which one feels the most difficult or unfamiliar, and why?
2. A meaningful moment in prayer.
Share a time when your prayer life felt especially deep or transformative. What made that moment stand out? Were there specific practices that helped you connect with God?
3. Listening for God’s voice.
When was the last time you intentionally set aside time to listen to God? What did that look like, and how did you sense Him speaking to you—through Scripture, a prompting, or a sense of peace?
4. What gets in the way of prayer?
Be honest—what are the biggest obstacles to prayer in your life? Is it distraction, doubt, busyness, or something else? How can you take small steps to address these challenges?
5. Praying Scripture.
How has using Scripture—like the Psalms or Lectio Divina—deepened your prayers? Are there specific Bible passages that have shaped how you pray?
6. Praying together.
How does prayer in community (with a small group, family, or church) differ from praying alone? What are the unique benefits of praying with others, and what challenges come with it?
7. Simply being with God.
Many of us are used to talking to God, but how often do we just sit in His presence without words? Have you ever practiced contemplative prayer or silent adoration? What was that experience like?
8. Balancing gratitude and lament.
Why is it important to bring both thanksgiving and grief into our prayers? How does practicing both help us have a more honest and deep relationship with God?
9. How has your prayer life changed?
Think about your journey with prayer over time. Have you grown in certain areas? Are there new ways of praying that you feel God is inviting you to explore?
10. One step forward.
Based on this conversation, what’s one simple change you can make this week to grow in your prayer life? How can the group encourage and support you in this?
Resources for further study:
A Praying Church - Paul Miller
Enjoy Your Prayer Life - Michael Reeves
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Fasting
Fasting is one of the most powerful yet overlooked disciplines in the life of a disciple. In a culture that revolves around comfort and instant gratification, fasting feels counterintuitive—why willingly deny yourself? Yet, throughout Scripture, we see that fasting is not just about going without food—it’s about creating space for God (Matt. 4:4)
At its core, fasting is a way of praying with your body. It is an act of surrender, where we set aside physical nourishment to feast on God’s presence. Jesus Himself fasted (Matt. 4:2), assuming that His followers would do the same (Matt. 6:16). When we fast, we break the grip of our appetites and learn to depend more fully on the Holy Spirit.
Fasting exposes the things that control us. The initial discomfort—the hunger, fatigue, or irritability—serves as a mirror to our souls, revealing where we seek satisfaction apart from God. It teaches us joy that is not dependent on circumstances, stretching our capacity to trust in God’s provision.
But fasting is not just about denial—it is about freedom. It clears away distractions, increases our sensitivity to God’s voice, and strengthens our faith. It is an act of resistance against self-indulgence and a pathway to deeper joy in Christ.
When we fast, we echo Jesus’ words:
"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." (Matt. 4:4)
This is an invitation to reclaim a lost but vital practice—to step into the discomfort, knowing that in our weakness, God meets us with greater strength, deeper intimacy, and lasting satisfaction in Him.
Scripture:
Luke 2:36-38
Matt 6:16-18
Luke 4:1-3,14
Exodus 34:28-30
Acts 13:2-4
Joel 2:12
Nehemiah 1:4
Matt 17:20-21
Discuss
1. How do you view fasting?
What has been your perception of fasting—something intimidating, unnecessary, or essential? Have you ever fasted before? If so, what was your experience like?
2. Spiritual vs. physical challenges.
What are some spiritual benefits you’ve experienced (or hope to experience) through fasting? How do these compare to the physical challenges of going without food?
3. Fasting as worship.
Fasting is more than self-denial—it’s offering our whole selves to God in worship. Does this change the way you think about fasting? Why or why not?
4. Joy in the midst of hunger.
Fasting teaches us to find joy in discomfort and contentment beyond immediate gratification. Have you ever experienced joy through self-denial? How did that shape your faith?
5. Fasting and hearing God.
How might fasting make you more spiritually sensitive? How could this discipline deepen your prayer life and your ability to discern God's voice?
6. What fasting reveals in us.
Hunger often exposes what we rely on for comfort or control. What challenges do you anticipate facing in fasting, and how do you think God might use them to shape you?
7. Starting small.
What would it look like to incorporate fasting into your spiritual life? Would a partial fast, a short fast, or another form of self-denial be a good first step?
8. Fasting together.
How can we encourage one another in this discipline? Would fasting as a group or sharing experiences help with consistency and accountability?
9. Spiritual food vs. physical food.
Jesus said, “I have food to eat that you do not know about” (John 4:32). What do you think He meant? How does fasting help us experience a deeper dependence on God?
10. One next step.
Based on this discussion, what’s one way you can explore or deepen your practice of fasting? How can we pray for and encourage you as you take that step?
Resources for further study:
Why Should I Fast - Daniel R. Hyde
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Scripture
The Word of God is not just information—it is transformation. Engaging with Scripture is central to the renewal of our minds (Rom. 12:2), shaping us to see the world as Jesus does and live according to His wisdom. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we begin to adopt the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16), learning to think, love, and act in a way that reflects His character.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to engaging with Scripture. Different practices help us absorb and apply God’s truth in unique ways:
Lectio Divina invites us into slow, prayerful reading, allowing us to personally encounter God in His Word.
Reading Scripture aloud in community reminds us that much of the Bible was meant to be heard together and discussed.
Deep study helps us explore biblical context, history, and theology, grounding us in truth.
Listening to sermons and teachings provides insight and wisdom from others who faithfully teach God’s Word.
Memorization stores Scripture in our hearts, making it a wellspring of truth and encouragement in all seasons of life.
Each of these practices, whether done individually or within community, shapes and frees us to live in greater dependence on Christ. The goal is not just to know Scripture but to be transformed by it—allowing God's Word to shape our thoughts, redirect our desires, and lead us into a life that reflects Jesus.
Scripture:
2 Tim 3:16-17
Romans 15:4
Matt 24:35
Isaiah 55:11
Heb 4:12-13
2 Peter 1:19-21
Gal 3:21-22
2 Peter 3:15-16
Luke 24:27
Matt 4:4
Discuss
1. How has Scripture changed you?
Share a time when engaging with God’s Word transformed your thinking, attitude, or actions. Can you recall a specific verse or passage that deeply impacted your life?
2. Which approach to Scripture works best for you?
There are many ways to engage with the Bible—Lectio Divina, communal reading, deep study, memorization, listening to sermons, etc. Which of these do you practice most? Which one has been the most meaningful to you, and why?
3. What makes consistency hard?
What are the biggest challenges you face in staying consistent in your time in Scripture? Is it busyness, distraction, lack of motivation, or something else? What has helped you stay engaged, or what could help?
4. What does it mean to have the ‘mind of Christ’?
Scripture shapes the way we think, helping us see the world through Jesus’ eyes. How have you seen God’s Word transform your mindset, values, or decision-making?
5. Experiencing joy, peace, and love through Scripture.
Have you experienced a greater sense of joy, peace, or love as a result of spending time in God’s Word? If so, how has that looked in your life?
6. How does Scripture shape us in community?
How does reading and discussing Scripture with others (like this group) differ from reading it alone? What are some ways communal engagement has helped you understand or apply God’s Word more deeply?
7. The role of memorization.
Have you ever memorized Scripture? If so, how has it helped you? Share a verse that has been a source of strength or guidance in your life.
8. Bringing Scripture into daily life.
What are some practical ways to make Scripture a regular part of your daily routine? Would setting a specific time, listening to audio Bible, journaling, or another method help you stay consistent?
9. Growing in understanding.
Have you ever changed your perspective on a passage of Scripture over time? How did deeper study or discussing it with others help clarify or reshape your understanding?
10. One next step.
What’s one specific way you want to grow in engaging with Scripture? How can this group encourage and support you in that commitment?
Resources for further study:
How to Read The Bible For All Its Worth -Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart
How to Read the Bible Book by Book - Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction Justin Whitmel Earley
Community
Following Jesus was never meant to be a solo journey. The Christian life is fundamentally communal, rooted in the truth that we grow, heal, and flourish together. As John Ortberg put it, “We generally sin alone, but we heal together.” The church is not just a gathering—it is a spiritual family where we are re-formed into the image of Christ through relationships.
In a culture that values radical individualism, community can feel risky, inconvenient, or even unnecessary. But true spiritual growth and healing cannot happen in isolation. Scripture calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2), confess our sins to one another (James 5:16), and encourage one another daily (Heb. 3:13).
We are shaped by our relationships, and community is where our faith is tested, refined, and strengthened.
This happens through:
Worshiping together
Sharing meals
Confessing struggles in safe spaces
Seeking wisdom through spiritual direction, counseling, and mentorship
Community challenges our self-reliance and calls us into something deeper—a life marked by love, forgiveness, and accountability. It is where our rough edges are smoothed, our wounds are healed, and our faith becomes tangible.
Jesus doesn’t call us to follow Him alone—He calls us into a people, a body, a family. This discipline invites us to embrace the messy, beautiful reality of doing life together, trusting that God works powerfully in the shared journey of faith
Scripture:
Gal 6:1-2
Heb 10:24-25
Acts 2:42-47
Eccles 4:9-12
Col 3:11-17
1 Peter 4:8-11
1 Cor 12:12-20
Psalm 133:1
John 13:34-55
Romans 12:9-18
Discuss
1. How has community shaped your faith?
Think about your experiences within the church. How has being part of a Christian community helped you grow spiritually or brought healing in your life?
2. When has community been hard?
Relationships aren’t always easy. Have you ever been hurt or disappointed by community? How did you navigate that experience, and what did you learn about forgiveness, grace, and reconciliation?
3. Resisting Individualism
How has a culture of independence shaped your faith? How does biblical community push back against this mindset?
4. Rhythms of Community
What church or group practices—worship, meals, confession, mentorship—have most deepened your faith? Why?
5. Accountability Matters
Has someone ever challenged or corrected you in love? How did it impact your spiritual growth?
6. Engaging More Deeply
What’s one practical way you can invest more in your church, small group, or relationships?
7. Healing Through Community
Share a time when friendships, mentorship, or support helped bring restoration in your life.
8. Church as Family
How have you seen the church function as the family of God? Have you experienced discipleship that felt like being "re-parented" in the faith?
9. Walking Together
Do you have people truly walking alongside you in faith? How can you deepen those friendships?
10. Investing in Others
What’s one step you can take this week to build stronger community? How can this group support you?
Resources for further study:
Made For People - Justin Whitmel Earley
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Uncomfortable - Brett McCracken
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Generosity
Generosity is a natural response to the gospel. At the heart of Christianity is the truth that God gave first—the Father gave His Son (John 3:16), the Son gave His life (Mark 10:45), and the Spirit is given to us as our helper (John 14:16). When we give, we mirror God’s character and display the transforming power of the gospel in our lives.
Generosity is not just about money—it’s about a posture of the heart. It means giving freely of our resources, time, gifts, and love because we recognize that everything we have belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). Instead of hoarding or holding onto our possessions tightly, we trust in God’s provision and find joy in meeting the needs of others (2 Cor. 9:7).
This discipline also frees us from the grip of materialism. Our culture constantly pushes us to accumulate more, convincing us that joy comes from having. But Scripture teaches that joy is found in giving (Acts 20:35). When we live within our means, resisting the pull of overconsumption, we create margin to be generous—supporting those in need, strengthening the church, and advancing God’s mission in the world.
The practice of generosity isn’t just about what we give—it’s about who we’re becoming. As we step into a life of open-handed faith, we experience the freedom, joy, and deep satisfaction that comes from trusting God and using what He’s given us for His glory.
Scripture:
2 Cor 9:7
Matt 6:2-4
Duet 15:11
James 2:15-16
Prov 3:9-10
Luke 6:30
Malachi 3:10
1 Cor 13:3
Prov 11:24
Mark 12:42-44
Discuss
1. How does your generosity reflect your faith?
Think about your current habits of giving—whether with your money, time, or talents. In what ways does your generosity reflect your trust in Jesus? Where do you see room for growth?
2. Does simplicity lead to generosity?
Have you noticed a connection between living within your means and your ability to be generous? How might simplifying your lifestyle free you to give more freely?
3. Giving as an act of worship.
How does viewing generosity as participating in God’s nature—rather than just a good deed—change your perspective on giving?
4. When have you felt joy in giving?
Share a time when you experienced deep joy through generosity. How did it confirm Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35)?
5. What holds you back from giving?
What are the biggest barriers—fear, busyness, financial worries, or something else—that keep you from being more generous? How can you take steps to overcome them?
6. Generosity beyond money.
Financial giving is important, but generosity is broader. What are some practical ways you can give your time, skills, encouragement, or presence to others?
7. How does generosity shape community?
How can practicing generosity impact your church, neighborhood, or relationships? What would a culture of generosity look like in your community?
8. Recognizing what you have to give.
Have you ever overlooked something you have to give because you didn’t think it was valuable? How can recognizing non-financial resources—like wisdom, hospitality, or service—expand your generosity?
9. Reflecting God’s heart.
Consider the statement, “When you act like God, you get to feel like God.” How does generosity help you experience more of God’s heart and character?
10. One step toward greater generosity.
What is one tangible step you can take to grow in generosity this week? How can this group support and encourage you in that commitment?
Resources for further study:
The Treasure Principle - Randy Alcorn
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Money, Possessions, and Eternity - Randy Alcorn
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Service
The call to follow Jesus is a call to serve. He made this clear when He said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Service is not just something we do—it is who we are called to be as disciples of Christ.
Service challenges our natural tendency to seek comfort, status, or recognition, calling us instead to orient our lives toward meeting the needs of others. Whether in big, sacrificial acts or small, unseen gestures, service is a radical way of reflecting Jesus’ love in a world that often seeks to be served rather than to serve.
At its core, service is about humility. Jesus’ act of washing His disciples' feet (John 13:14-15) flipped social expectations upside down, showing that true greatness in God’s kingdom is found in humble, self-giving love. When we serve, we not only bless others—we are also transformed. Service frees us from self-absorption, entitlement, and pride, shaping us to be more like Christ.
But service isn’t just about charity—it’s about gospel-driven love. It is a way to bring healing to a broken world by engaging with the hurting, advocating for the marginalized, and demonstrating the power of Christ through acts of love and justice.
Jesus promises that in serving others, we find true blessing (John 13:17). This discipline invites us into a life of purpose, joy, and Christlikeness, as we embody His love by pouring ourselves out for the good of others.
Scripture:
Philip 2:3-8
Col 3:23-24
1 Pet 4:10-11
Gal 5:13-14
Mark 10:42-45
John 13:12-15
Matt 5:14-16
Matt 25:35-40
Rom 12:6-13
Mark 9:34-35
Discuss
1. How does Jesus’ example challenge you?
Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” How does this push against your natural tendencies?
2. Do you lean toward serving or being served?
In daily life, do you naturally look for ways to serve others, or do you expect to be served? How does this affect your relationships?
3. Healing division through service.
How can humble service help mend broken relationships or bring unity in a divided world?
4. Finding everyday opportunities.
What simple ways can you serve your family, workplace, or community more intentionally?
5. How has serving changed you?
Share a time when serving someone impacted you more than you expected.
6. What makes serving difficult?
What holds you back from serving freely—time, pride, exhaustion, or something else?
7. Serving without recognition.
How can you practice quiet, unseen acts of service without seeking attention?
8. The mutual blessing of service.
How does serving others not only help them but also transform you?
9. Learning from Jesus washing feet.
What’s an act of service that might stretch you but reflect Jesus’ humility?
10. One step toward deeper service.
What is one way you can grow in serving others this week? How can this group help?
Resources for further study:
Serving Without Sinking - John Hindley
The Law of Kindness: Serving with Heart and Hands - Mary Beeke
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Witness
Jesus calls every believer to be a witness—to proclaim the good news not just with words but with our lives (Mark 16:15). The discipline of witness is about more than just conversion efforts; it’s about living in a way that consistently points others to Jesus.
At its core, witnessing is an act of hospitality in a hostile world. It’s creating space for people—welcoming the last, the least, and the lost into our homes, our conversations, and our lives. It’s not about pushing an agenda but about sharing the love, warmth, and generosity of Christ through everyday interactions.
This can look like:
Inviting others to the table—a meal, a coffee, or a conversation can open doors to the gospel.
Living out the kingdom—demonstrating love, kindness, and generosity in ways that make Jesus tangible.
Speaking truth boldly and graciously—being unashamed of the gospel while presenting it with wisdom and love (Col. 4:5-6).
Witnessing is not reserved for a select few—it’s the calling of every disciple. Whether through words, actions, or hospitality, we offer a glimpse of God’s kingdom and invite others to know the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
Scripture:
Matt 28:19-20
1 Peter 3:15
1 Cor 2:1-5
Romans 10:14-15
Matt 9:36-58
1 Cor 9:19-23
Rom 1:16-17
Prov 11:30
2 Tim 4:1-5
2 Cor 5:20
Discuss
1. How do you view witness?
How do you currently practice sharing your faith? How does this align with Jesus’ command to “preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15)?
2. Hospitality as a witness.
How can welcoming others into your home, conversations, or life create opportunities to share the gospel? Have you seen hospitality open doors for spiritual conversations?
3. What makes witnessing difficult?
What holds you back from sharing Jesus with others—fear, uncertainty, time, or something else? How can you take steps to overcome these barriers?
4. Sharing your story.
Your testimony is one of your greatest tools for witnessing. How has your experience with Jesus shaped you? How can sharing your story help others see Christ?
5. Being hospitable in a hostile world.
How can you embody grace, welcome, and love in a culture that often feels divided or resistant to faith?
6. Who are ‘the last, the least, and the lost’ in your life?
Who in your community might be overlooked or in need of the hope of Jesus? How can you intentionally reach out to them?
7. Witnessing through simple kindness.
Something as small as a shared meal, an encouraging word, or an act of service can open hearts. What are some practical ways you can witness through kindness?
8. Making witness part of daily life.
How can you naturally incorporate evangelism and hospitality into your normal routines and relationships?
9. Encouraging one another in witness.
How can this group support and challenge each other to be bold and intentional in sharing the gospel?
10. One next step.
What is one practical way you will step into the discipline of witness this week? How can you reflect hospitality and openness to sharing the gospel in that step?
Resources for further study:
The Unbelievable Gospel - Jonathan Dodson
Stay Salt - Rebecca Manley Pippert
The Gospel Comes with a House Key - Rosaria Butterfield
Habits of Grace - David Mathis
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life - Donald S. Whitney
Resources
Lectio Divina: Praying Scripture
Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina is an ancient spiritual practice from the Christian monastic tradition. It is the practice of “divine reading” or praying Scripture. It involves a balance of silence and God’s word, seeking to encounter God as he speaks directly and personally through his word. It involves listening to a short passage, setting aside understanding and analysis, to open oneself to receive God’s word “expectantly and passively” (Benner).
Process
Read the passage four times, paying attention to different aspects of the passage as it is read.
First and Second Reading
Read the passage aloud, twice, attentively listening for words or phrases that stick out. The purpose of this reading is to hear the text and listen for a word or phrase or idea that captures your attention.
Third Reading
Focus your attention on that word, phrase or idea, repeating it to yourself silently as the passage is read aloud a third time. After the third reading and a time of silent reflection, share what you have heard with the group(or journal individually).
Fourth Reading
Listen during the fourth reading on what God is inviting you to do or become. After the reading and a time of silent reflection, share what God is calling to you with the group(or journal individually).
One Anothers
LOVE - “Love one another” (Romans 13v8, 1 Peter 1v22 & 4v8)
DEVOTE - “Be devoted to one another in love” (Romans 12v10)
HONOR - “Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 10v12)
HARMONIZE - “Live in harmony with one another” (Romans 12v16, 1 Thess. 5v13)
NO JUDGING - “Stop passing judgment on one another” (Romans 14v13)
ACCEPT - “Accept one another” (Romans 15v7)
INSTRUCT - “Instruct one another” (Romans 15v14)
AFFECTIONATELY GREET - “Greet with a holy kiss” (Romans 16v16, 1 Corinthians 16v20)
AGREE - “Agree with one another in what you say” (1 Corinthians 1v10)
HAVE EQUAL CONCERN - “Have equal concern for each other” (1 Corinthians 12v25)
BE OF ONE MIND - “Be of one mind” (2 Corinthians 13v11)
ENCOURAGE - “Encourage one another” (2 Corinthians 13v11, 1 Thessalonians 5v11)
CARRY BURDENS - “Carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6v2)
SERVE - “Serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5v13, 1 Peter 4v10)
SHOW KINDNESS - “Be kind to one another” (Ephesians 4v32)
SHOW COMPASSION - “Be compassionate to one another” (Ephesians 4v32)
RECITE - “Speak to one another in psalms, hymns and songs from the spirit” (Ephesians 5v19)
SING - “Speak to one another in psalms, hymns and songs from the spirit” (Ephesians 5v19)
SUBMIT - “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5v21)
BEAR WITH - “Bear with one another in love” (Ephesians 4v2, Colossians 3v3)
FORGIVE - “Forgive one another” (Ephesians 4v32, Colossians 3v13)
LOOK TO INTERESTS - “Looking to the interests of others” (Philippians 4v2)
TEACH - “Teach one another” (Colossians 3v16)
ADMONISH - “Admonish one another with all wisdom” (Colossians 3v16)
DO WHAT IS GOOD - “Strive to do what is good for each other” (1 Thessalonians 5v5)
MOTIVATE - “Spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10v24)
CONFESS SINS - “Confess your sins to each other” (James 5v16)
PRAY FOR HEALING - “Pray for each other so that you may be healed” (James 5v16)
OFFER HOSPITALITY - “Offer hospitality to one another” (1 Peter 4v9)
Gospel-Centered Questions
What do you desire more than anything else?
What do you find yourself daydreaming or fantasizing about?
What lies do you subtly believe that undermine the truth of the gospel?
Are you astonished with the gospel?
Where have you made much of yourself and little of God?
Is technology interrupting your communion with God?
Is work a source of significance? How?
Where do your thoughts drift when you enter a social setting?
What fears keep you from resting in Christ?
What consumes your thoughts when you have alone time?
When people see how you spend money, do they conclude that God is a priceless treasure, exceedingly valuable above all worldly goods?
When people observe your relationship with others, are they alerted to the power of Christ’s forgiveness of you that alone accounts for your forgiveness of them?
If you are complimented for some accomplishment, does the way you receive it drive onlookers to give thanks to the Lord?
Is your use of leisure time or devotion to a hobby or how you speak of your spouse the sort that persuades others that your heart is content with what God is for you in Christ?
Does your reaction to bad news produce in you doubt or fear, or does it inspire confidence to trust in God’s providence
What do you love? Is there something you love more than God or your neighbor?
What do you want? What do you desire? What do you crave, long for, wish? Whose desires do you obey?
What do you seek? What are your personal expectations and goals? What are your intentions? What are you working for?
Where do you bank your hopes? What hope are you working toward or building your life around?
What do you fear? Fear is the flip side of desire. For example, if I desire your acceptance, then I fear your rejection.
What do you feel like doing? This is a synonym for desire. Sometimes we feel like eating a gallon of ice cream, or staying in bed, or refusing to talk, etc.
What do you think you need? In most cases a person's felt needs picture his or her idol cravings. Often what we have called necessities are actually deceptive masters that rule our hearts. They control us because they seem plausible. They don't seem so bad on the surface and it isn't sin to want them. However, I must not be ruled by the "need" to feel good about myself, to feel loved and accepted, to feel some sense of accomplishment, to have financial security, to experience good health, to live a life that is organized, pain-free, and happy.
What are your plans, agendas, strategies, and intentions designed to accomplish? What are you really going after in the situations and relationships of life? What are you really working to get?
What makes you tick? What sun does your planet revolve around? Where do you find your garden of delight? What lights up your world? What food sustains your life? What really matters to you? What are you living for?
Where do you find refuge, safety, comfort, and escape? When you are fearful, discouraged, and upset, where do you run? Do you run to God for comfort and safety or to something else? (To food, to others, to work, to solitude?)What do you trust? Do you functionally rest in the Lord? Do you find your sense of well-being in His presence and promises? Or do you rest in something or someone else?
Whose performance matters to you? This question digs out self-reliance or self- righteousness. It digs out living through another.
Do you get depressed when you are wrong or when you fail? Have you pinned your hopes on another person? Are you too dependent on the performance of your husband, wife, children or friends?
Whom must you please? Whose opinion counts? From whom do you desire approval or fear rejection? Whose value system do you measure yourself against? In whose eyes are you living?
Who are your role models? Who are the people you respect? Who do you want to be like? Who is your "idol"? (In our culture, this word is used for role model.)
What do you desperately hope will last in your life? What do you feel must always be there? What can't you live without
How do you define success or failure in any particular situation? Are your standards God’s standards? Do you define success as the ability to reach your goals? The respect and approval of others? Is it defined by a certain position or the ability to maintain a certain lifestyle? By affluence? By appearance? By acceptance? By location? By accomplishment?
What makes you feel rich, secure, and prosperous? The possession, experience, and enjoyment of what would make you happy? The Bible uses the metaphor of treasure here.
What would bring you the greatest pleasure? The greatest misery?
Whose political power would make everything better for you? Don't just think in a national sense. Think about the workplace and the church. Whose agenda would you like to see succeed and why?
Whose victory and success would make your life happy? How do you define victory and success?
What do you see as your rights? What do you feel entitled to? What do you feel is your right to expect, seek, require, or demand?
In what situations do you feel pressured or tense? When do you feel confident and relaxed? When you are pressured, where do you turn? What do you think about? What do you fear? What do you seek to escape from? What do you escape to?
What do you really want out of life? What payoff are you seeking from the things you do? What is the return you are working for?
What do you pray for? The fact that we pray does not necessarily mean we are where we should be spiritually. On the contrary, prayer can be a key revealer of the idols of our hearts. Prayer can reveal patterns of self-centeredness, self-righteousness, materialism, fear of man, etc.
What do you think about most often? In the morning, to what does your mind drift instinctively? When you are doing a menial task or driving alone in your car, what captures your mind? What is your mindset?
What do you talk about? What occupies your conversations with others? What subjects do you tend to discuss over and over with your friends? The Bible says it is out of the heart that our mouths speak.
How do you spend your time? What are your daily priorities? What things do you invest time in every day?
What are your fantasies? What are your dreams at night? What do you daydream about?
What is your belief system? What beliefs do you hold about life, God, yourself, others? What is your worldview? What is the personal "mythology" that structures the way you interpret things? What are your specific beliefs about your present situation? What do you value?
What are your idols or false gods? In what do you place your trust or set your hopes? What do you consistently turn to or regularly seek? Where do you take refuge? Who is the savior, judge, controller of your world? Whom do you serve? What voice controls you?
In what ways do you live for yourself?
In what ways do you live as a slave to the Enemy? Where are you susceptible to his lies? Where do you give in to deceit?
When do you say, "If only..."? Our "if onlys" actually define our vision of paradise. They picture our biggest fears and greatest disappointments. They can reveal where we tend to envy others. They picture where we wish we could rewrite our life story. They picture where we are dissatisfied and what we crave.
What instinctively feels right to you? What are your opinions -- those things that you feel are true?
(Ref. David Powlison, Jonathan Dodson)
Further Resources
How to Read the Bible Book by Book by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart – a wonderful guide providing helpful tips and concise summaries of each book of the Bible.
One to One Bible Reading by David Helm
The Walk by Stephen Smallman
Your most important resource: The Bible
Use a translation you understand. The CSB or ESV versions are both accurate and accessible. As a group decide what book of the Bible you will read together. The goal is to keep the groups focused on a chapter or text of the Bible.
FAQs
What is a disciple?
A disciple is someone who follows Jesus by being with him, becoming like him and doing as He did as they bring others to Jesus.
How do Community Groups (CGroups) and Discipleship Groups work together?
CGroups are groups of 10-20 people that meet weekly in people’s homes. Meetings last around 90 minutes. They include prayer and singing and a study of the Bible helping us to apply the previous Sunday’s sermon to our lives. Men and women of every age and background in the church are encouraged to mix and enjoy fellowship together.
Discipleship Groups are more flexible and focused, intimate gatherings of 3-4 people (same gender) of your choosing. They are intended to provide an environment in which we’re at ease sharing and challenging each other about personal and sensitive issues. Discipleship Groups are about intimacy and affinity; CGroups are about interacting with men and women of every age and background, using our gifts to bless and minister to each other and corporately engage in mission together.
Who leads?
Our desire is to encourage every person to take ownership of the call to make disciples by taking responsibility for helping others to become more like Christ. In this case we ask for each member of the discipleship group to take collective ownership.
Why groups of 3s?
We recommend Discipleship Groups be groups of three to help develop closer and more intimate relationships and to facilitate greater flexibility.
How frequent?
Discipleship Groups require us to get comfortable getting into each other’s lives and sharing our hearts. We recommend weekly or every other week.
I don’t feel equipped to address difficult issues – what should I do?
If issues are raised in your Discipleship Groups that you feel too inexperienced to address, please confidentially refer the matter first to your Community Group Leader(s), or where appropriate, to your Pastor.