Micah 4b - Reap What You Sow
Book of Micah
Scripture references:
Explicitly Mentioned:
1. Micah 4:6-13
2. Micah 5:1
3. Romans 8:28 (alluded to)
4. Galatians 6:7-8
Alluded to or Thematically Relevant:
1. Genesis 32:22-32 (Jacob wrestling with God)
2. Matthew 21:1-11 (Triumphal entry of Jesus)
3. Revelation 20:4-6 (Millennial reign of Christ)
4. Deuteronomy 30:19 (Choose life or death, blessing or cursing)
5. Jeremiah 26:18-19 (Referencing Micah's prophecy influencing Hezekiah)
6. 2 Kings 19:14-19 (Hezekiah's prayer against Assyrian threat)
Thematically Relevant (not explicitly mentioned):
1. Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe."
2. James 4:7 "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
3. 1 Peter 5:8-9 "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith..."
4. 2 Corinthians 10:4 "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."
5. Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God)
6. 1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
Sermon Discussion Guide: Heed God's Warnings and Stay Faithful
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. Sin has consequences, and God allows punishment as a means of correction.
2. God offers warnings and alternatives before judgment comes.
3. God’s remnant/survivors are those who humble themselves and acknowledge their need for God.
4. Even in difficult times, God has a plan and it will succeed.
5. We must stay vigilant and "get to our positions" in prayer and repentance.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that "sin has an ultimate destination that it will end up in." How have you seen this play out in your own life or in the lives of others?
2. Reflect on the statement: "Don't be shocked when you end up where your sin takes you." How can we be more mindful of the consequences of our choices?
3. The pastor talks about those who "walk different" becoming God's remnant. What does it mean to "walk different" in today's world?
4. How can we maintain faith and trust in God's plan when we're facing difficult circumstances or "enemy attacks"?
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of getting into "position" through prayer and repentance. What practical steps can we take to make this a consistent part of our lives?
6. Discuss the analogy of treating our relationship with God like a "fad diet." How can we avoid this mentality and cultivate a lasting, consistent walk with God?
Practical Applications:
1. Daily Prayer Position: Set aside time each day this week to get into your "prayer position," bringing your concerns and repentance before God.
2. Sin Consequence Awareness: Keep a journal this week noting moments when you're tempted to sin, and reflect on potential consequences to help resist temptation.
3. Walking Different Challenge: Identify one area in your life where you can "walk different" from the world's expectations. Share with the group and hold each other accountable.
4. Stronghold Identification: Reflect on any areas in your life where you might be treating God like a "fad diet." Develop a plan to address these inconsistencies.
5. Community Support: Pair up with another group member to check in regularly and encourage each other in staying faithful to God throughout the week.
Closing Prayer
Explicitly Mentioned:
1. Micah 4:6-13
2. Micah 5:1
3. Romans 8:28 (alluded to)
4. Galatians 6:7-8
Alluded to or Thematically Relevant:
1. Genesis 32:22-32 (Jacob wrestling with God)
2. Matthew 21:1-11 (Triumphal entry of Jesus)
3. Revelation 20:4-6 (Millennial reign of Christ)
4. Deuteronomy 30:19 (Choose life or death, blessing or cursing)
5. Jeremiah 26:18-19 (Referencing Micah's prophecy influencing Hezekiah)
6. 2 Kings 19:14-19 (Hezekiah's prayer against Assyrian threat)
Thematically Relevant (not explicitly mentioned):
1. Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe."
2. James 4:7 "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
3. 1 Peter 5:8-9 "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith..."
4. 2 Corinthians 10:4 "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds."
5. Ephesians 6:10-18 (The Armor of God)
6. 1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
Sermon Discussion Guide: Heed God's Warnings and Stay Faithful
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. Sin has consequences, and God allows punishment as a means of correction.
2. God offers warnings and alternatives before judgment comes.
3. God’s remnant/survivors are those who humble themselves and acknowledge their need for God.
4. Even in difficult times, God has a plan and it will succeed.
5. We must stay vigilant and "get to our positions" in prayer and repentance.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that "sin has an ultimate destination that it will end up in." How have you seen this play out in your own life or in the lives of others?
2. Reflect on the statement: "Don't be shocked when you end up where your sin takes you." How can we be more mindful of the consequences of our choices?
3. The pastor talks about those who "walk different" becoming God's remnant. What does it mean to "walk different" in today's world?
4. How can we maintain faith and trust in God's plan when we're facing difficult circumstances or "enemy attacks"?
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of getting into "position" through prayer and repentance. What practical steps can we take to make this a consistent part of our lives?
6. Discuss the analogy of treating our relationship with God like a "fad diet." How can we avoid this mentality and cultivate a lasting, consistent walk with God?
Practical Applications:
1. Daily Prayer Position: Set aside time each day this week to get into your "prayer position," bringing your concerns and repentance before God.
2. Sin Consequence Awareness: Keep a journal this week noting moments when you're tempted to sin, and reflect on potential consequences to help resist temptation.
3. Walking Different Challenge: Identify one area in your life where you can "walk different" from the world's expectations. Share with the group and hold each other accountable.
4. Stronghold Identification: Reflect on any areas in your life where you might be treating God like a "fad diet." Develop a plan to address these inconsistencies.
5. Community Support: Pair up with another group member to check in regularly and encourage each other in staying faithful to God throughout the week.
Closing Prayer
Micah 4 - The Promise
Book of Micah
Sermon discussion guide: God's Promise of Restoration
Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help apply His truths to your lives.
Message Summary:
Key Scripture: Micah 4:1-5
Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help apply His truths to your lives.
Message Summary:
Key Scripture: Micah 4:1-5
- Recap of Micah 3
- God's indictment against Israel and Judah
- Promise of restoration after punishment
- Context from Micah 3:12
- Prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction
- Connection to Jeremiah 26:16-19
- Micah's prophecy led to repentance
- Micah 4:1-5 - God's Promise
- "In the last days"
- Not yet fulfilled
- Ultimate fulfillment in Revelation 20-21
- The Lord's temple established as the “highest mountain”
- Figurative and literal interpretations
- Connection to Daniel 2:34-35, 44-45
- Revelation 21:9-10 - New Jerusalem
- Growth of God's Kingdom
- Church as God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16)
- Spiritual fulfillment today
- Many nations coming to God
- Parallel passage in Isaiah 2:2-4
- Jesus as judge and teacher
- Peace and prosperity
- Allusion to Solomon's reign (1 Kings 4:25)
- Foreshadowing of Jesus' reign
- God's faithfulness
- Luke 1:37 - God's word never fails
- Isaiah 55:11 - God's word accomplishes its purpose
- Response to God's promise (Micah 4:5)
- Living with eternity in mind
- Choosing to serve God
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that we are living in the "last days." What does this mean to you, and how does it affect your daily life?
2. How do you interpret the imagery of the "mountain of the Lord's temple" being established as the highest of mountains? What might this represent spiritually in our lives today?
3. The sermon draws parallels between Daniel's vision, John's vision in Revelation, and Micah's prophecy. How do these connections help you understand God's overarching plan?
4. Discuss the concept of the Church being God's temple today (1 Corinthians 3:16). How does this change your perspective on your role in God's kingdom?
5. The sermon emphasizes God's faithfulness even in difficult times. Share a time when you experienced God's faithfulness during a challenging period in your life.
6. How can we practically "take our disputes to Jesus" in our daily lives, as mentioned in the sermon?
7. Reflect on Micah 4:5. In what ways can we "walk in the name of the Lord our God" in a world where others may follow different paths?
Key Takeaways:
1. God's promises of restoration provide hope during difficult times.
2. The Kingdom of God is growing spiritually now and will have a physical fulfillment in the future.
3. We are living in the last days, but the ultimate fulfillment of some prophecies is still to come.
4. As believers, we are God's temple, and His Spirit dwells within us.
5. God's Word is always true and will never fail.
Practical Applications:
1. This week, intentionally look for ways to "walk in the name of the Lord" in your daily activities.
2. Practice taking your problems to Jesus in prayer before seeking other solutions.
3. Share the hope of God's promises with someone who is going through a difficult time.
4. Reflect on how you can contribute to the growth of God's kingdom in your community.
5. Memorize a verse about God's faithfulness (e.g., Luke 1:37 or Isaiah 55:11) to remind yourself of His promises during challenging times.
Closing Prayer: End the session by thanking God for His faithfulness and asking for His help in applying these truths to your lives.
- God's indictment against Israel and Judah
- Promise of restoration after punishment
- Context from Micah 3:12
- Prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction
- Connection to Jeremiah 26:16-19
- Micah's prophecy led to repentance
- Micah 4:1-5 - God's Promise
- "In the last days"
- Not yet fulfilled
- Ultimate fulfillment in Revelation 20-21
- The Lord's temple established as the “highest mountain”
- Figurative and literal interpretations
- Connection to Daniel 2:34-35, 44-45
- Revelation 21:9-10 - New Jerusalem
- Growth of God's Kingdom
- Church as God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16)
- Spiritual fulfillment today
- Many nations coming to God
- Parallel passage in Isaiah 2:2-4
- Jesus as judge and teacher
- Peace and prosperity
- Allusion to Solomon's reign (1 Kings 4:25)
- Foreshadowing of Jesus' reign
- God's faithfulness
- Luke 1:37 - God's word never fails
- Isaiah 55:11 - God's word accomplishes its purpose
- Response to God's promise (Micah 4:5)
- Living with eternity in mind
- Choosing to serve God
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that we are living in the "last days." What does this mean to you, and how does it affect your daily life?
2. How do you interpret the imagery of the "mountain of the Lord's temple" being established as the highest of mountains? What might this represent spiritually in our lives today?
3. The sermon draws parallels between Daniel's vision, John's vision in Revelation, and Micah's prophecy. How do these connections help you understand God's overarching plan?
4. Discuss the concept of the Church being God's temple today (1 Corinthians 3:16). How does this change your perspective on your role in God's kingdom?
5. The sermon emphasizes God's faithfulness even in difficult times. Share a time when you experienced God's faithfulness during a challenging period in your life.
6. How can we practically "take our disputes to Jesus" in our daily lives, as mentioned in the sermon?
7. Reflect on Micah 4:5. In what ways can we "walk in the name of the Lord our God" in a world where others may follow different paths?
Key Takeaways:
1. God's promises of restoration provide hope during difficult times.
2. The Kingdom of God is growing spiritually now and will have a physical fulfillment in the future.
3. We are living in the last days, but the ultimate fulfillment of some prophecies is still to come.
4. As believers, we are God's temple, and His Spirit dwells within us.
5. God's Word is always true and will never fail.
Practical Applications:
1. This week, intentionally look for ways to "walk in the name of the Lord" in your daily activities.
2. Practice taking your problems to Jesus in prayer before seeking other solutions.
3. Share the hope of God's promises with someone who is going through a difficult time.
4. Reflect on how you can contribute to the growth of God's kingdom in your community.
5. Memorize a verse about God's faithfulness (e.g., Luke 1:37 or Isaiah 55:11) to remind yourself of His promises during challenging times.
Closing Prayer: End the session by thanking God for His faithfulness and asking for His help in applying these truths to your lives.
5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes presented in the message:
Day 1: God's Faithful Promise
Reading: Micah 4:1-5, Isaiah 2:2-4
Devotional: In a world often filled with uncertainty, God's promises stand as an unwavering beacon of hope. Micah and Isaiah paint a powerful picture of God's future kingdom - a time of peace, justice, and universal worship. As we read these passages, we're reminded that God's word never fails (Luke 1:37). Today, reflect on how this promise of future restoration can bring comfort and strength to your present circumstances. How might your daily actions and attitudes change if you lived with the certainty of God's coming kingdom? Ask the Lord to help you "walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever" (Micah 4:5), even when the world around you chooses different paths.
Day 2: Repentance and Restoration
Reading: Jeremiah 26:16-19, 2 Chronicles 7:14
Devotional: The story of Micah's prophecy and Hezekiah's response teaches us a crucial lesson about repentance and God's mercy. When confronted with their sin, the people of Judah turned back to God, averting disaster. This narrative echoes God's promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 - that if His people humble themselves, pray, and turn from their wicked ways, He will hear and heal their land. Today, take time for honest self-examination. Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and turn back to God? Remember, it's never too late to seek God's forgiveness and restoration. Pray for the courage to confront your shortcomings and the faith to trust in God's unfailing love and mercy.
Day 3: The Growing Kingdom
Reading: Daniel 2:31-45, Matthew 13:31-32
Devotional: The vision of the rock becoming a mountain in Daniel 2 beautifully illustrates the growth and eventual dominion of God's kingdom. Jesus echoes this imagery in the parable of the mustard seed, showing how God's kingdom starts small but grows to encompass all. As members of Christ's body, we are part of this growing kingdom. How are you contributing to its growth? Consider ways you can share God's love and truth with others today. Pray for opportunities to be a "living stone" in God's expanding kingdom, and for the courage to seize those moments when they come.
Day 4: God's Presence in Suffering
Reading: Micah 3:12, Romans 8:18-25
Devotional: Micah's prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction is a stark reminder that sin has consequences. Yet, even in pronouncing judgment, God offers hope for the future. Similarly, Paul reminds us in Romans that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us. When facing trials, it's easy to lose sight of God's bigger picture. Today, reflect on a difficult situation in your life. How might God be using this challenge to shape you or to prepare you for future blessings? Ask God for the strength to endure, the wisdom to learn, and the faith to trust in His ultimate plan for your good and His glory.
Day 5: Living with Eternity in Mind
Reading: Revelation 21:1-7, Colossians 3:1-4
Devotional: The beautiful vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation gives us a glimpse of our eternal home with God. This promise of future glory should transform how we live today. Paul urges us in Colossians to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. How does the reality of eternity impact your daily decisions and priorities? Challenge yourself to make one choice today that reflects your heavenly citizenship rather than worldly values. Pray for God to continually renew your mind and heart, helping you to live each day in light of eternity, full of hope and purpose in Christ.
Day 1: God's Faithful Promise
Reading: Micah 4:1-5, Isaiah 2:2-4
Devotional: In a world often filled with uncertainty, God's promises stand as an unwavering beacon of hope. Micah and Isaiah paint a powerful picture of God's future kingdom - a time of peace, justice, and universal worship. As we read these passages, we're reminded that God's word never fails (Luke 1:37). Today, reflect on how this promise of future restoration can bring comfort and strength to your present circumstances. How might your daily actions and attitudes change if you lived with the certainty of God's coming kingdom? Ask the Lord to help you "walk in the name of the Lord our God for ever and ever" (Micah 4:5), even when the world around you chooses different paths.
Day 2: Repentance and Restoration
Reading: Jeremiah 26:16-19, 2 Chronicles 7:14
Devotional: The story of Micah's prophecy and Hezekiah's response teaches us a crucial lesson about repentance and God's mercy. When confronted with their sin, the people of Judah turned back to God, averting disaster. This narrative echoes God's promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 - that if His people humble themselves, pray, and turn from their wicked ways, He will hear and heal their land. Today, take time for honest self-examination. Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and turn back to God? Remember, it's never too late to seek God's forgiveness and restoration. Pray for the courage to confront your shortcomings and the faith to trust in God's unfailing love and mercy.
Day 3: The Growing Kingdom
Reading: Daniel 2:31-45, Matthew 13:31-32
Devotional: The vision of the rock becoming a mountain in Daniel 2 beautifully illustrates the growth and eventual dominion of God's kingdom. Jesus echoes this imagery in the parable of the mustard seed, showing how God's kingdom starts small but grows to encompass all. As members of Christ's body, we are part of this growing kingdom. How are you contributing to its growth? Consider ways you can share God's love and truth with others today. Pray for opportunities to be a "living stone" in God's expanding kingdom, and for the courage to seize those moments when they come.
Day 4: God's Presence in Suffering
Reading: Micah 3:12, Romans 8:18-25
Devotional: Micah's prophecy of Jerusalem's destruction is a stark reminder that sin has consequences. Yet, even in pronouncing judgment, God offers hope for the future. Similarly, Paul reminds us in Romans that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that awaits us. When facing trials, it's easy to lose sight of God's bigger picture. Today, reflect on a difficult situation in your life. How might God be using this challenge to shape you or to prepare you for future blessings? Ask God for the strength to endure, the wisdom to learn, and the faith to trust in His ultimate plan for your good and His glory.
Day 5: Living with Eternity in Mind
Reading: Revelation 21:1-7, Colossians 3:1-4
Devotional: The beautiful vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation gives us a glimpse of our eternal home with God. This promise of future glory should transform how we live today. Paul urges us in Colossians to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. How does the reality of eternity impact your daily decisions and priorities? Challenge yourself to make one choice today that reflects your heavenly citizenship rather than worldly values. Pray for God to continually renew your mind and heart, helping you to live each day in light of eternity, full of hope and purpose in Christ.
Micah 3 - Because of YOU
Book of Micah
Lessons from Micah 3
Here are the scripture references from the sermon:
1. Micah 3 (the entire chapter is discussed)
2. Philippians 3:2
3. Romans 1:22
4. Romans 1:25
5. Proverbs 1:23-32
6. Proverbs 29:18
7. Romans 1:28-32
8. Exodus 18:21
Additional relevant verses that align with the main themes discussed:
9. Acts 2:1-4 (alluded to when discussing being filled with the Holy Spirit)
10. Matthew 5:14-16 (aligns with the theme of being light in darkness)
11. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (relates to the discussion of false teachers)
12. 1 Timothy 6:10 (connects to the theme of loving money/dishonest gain)
13. James 1:22 (fits with the emphasis on not just hearing but doing God's word)
14. Matthew 7:15 (warns about false prophets, which is discussed in the sermon)
15. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (relates to the discussion of false apostles and deceitful workers)
Open in Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. God warns against leaders who abuse their power and exploit people for personal gain.
2. There are consequences for ignoring God's guidance and pursuing our own desires.
3. We are called to be filled with God's Spirit and be His witnesses in the world.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions leaders who "tear the skin from my people and the flesh from their bones." How do you see this metaphor applying to modern leadership in politics, business, or even churches?
2. Reflect on the phrase "If there's no word from God, if there's no revelation from God, if he's not leading us, then there is nothing but despair." How have you experienced this in your own life?
3. The pastor talks about the qualifications for leaders in Exodus 18:21. How do these qualities (fear of God, trustworthiness, hating dishonest gain) compare to what our society often values in leaders?
4. Discuss the statement: "If your leader isn't praying for you, then he is preying on you. If he is not feeding you, then he is feeding on you." What does this mean to you?
5. How does the warning "because of you" (Micah 3:12) challenge us to take responsibility for our actions and choices?
6. The sermon emphasizes being "filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord" (Micah 3:8). What does this look like in practical terms for believers today?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-reflection: Take time this week to examine your own life. Are there areas where you've been ignoring God's guidance? Commit to bringing these before God in prayer.
2. Be a "light bearer": Identify one specific way you can share God's truth or show His love in your community this week.
3. Leadership inventory: If you're in any leadership position (at work, church, family), evaluate yourself against the qualities mentioned in Exodus 18:21. Where do you need to grow?
4. Scripture meditation: Spend time reflecting on Micah 3:8 daily this week. Ask God to fill you with His power and Spirit.
5. Accountability: Share with the group one area where you feel God is calling you to "heed His rebuke" and repent. Ask for prayer and support in this.
Close in Prayer
Here are the scripture references from the sermon:
1. Micah 3 (the entire chapter is discussed)
2. Philippians 3:2
3. Romans 1:22
4. Romans 1:25
5. Proverbs 1:23-32
6. Proverbs 29:18
7. Romans 1:28-32
8. Exodus 18:21
Additional relevant verses that align with the main themes discussed:
9. Acts 2:1-4 (alluded to when discussing being filled with the Holy Spirit)
10. Matthew 5:14-16 (aligns with the theme of being light in darkness)
11. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (relates to the discussion of false teachers)
12. 1 Timothy 6:10 (connects to the theme of loving money/dishonest gain)
13. James 1:22 (fits with the emphasis on not just hearing but doing God's word)
14. Matthew 7:15 (warns about false prophets, which is discussed in the sermon)
15. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (relates to the discussion of false apostles and deceitful workers)
Open in Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. God warns against leaders who abuse their power and exploit people for personal gain.
2. There are consequences for ignoring God's guidance and pursuing our own desires.
3. We are called to be filled with God's Spirit and be His witnesses in the world.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions leaders who "tear the skin from my people and the flesh from their bones." How do you see this metaphor applying to modern leadership in politics, business, or even churches?
2. Reflect on the phrase "If there's no word from God, if there's no revelation from God, if he's not leading us, then there is nothing but despair." How have you experienced this in your own life?
3. The pastor talks about the qualifications for leaders in Exodus 18:21. How do these qualities (fear of God, trustworthiness, hating dishonest gain) compare to what our society often values in leaders?
4. Discuss the statement: "If your leader isn't praying for you, then he is preying on you. If he is not feeding you, then he is feeding on you." What does this mean to you?
5. How does the warning "because of you" (Micah 3:12) challenge us to take responsibility for our actions and choices?
6. The sermon emphasizes being "filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord" (Micah 3:8). What does this look like in practical terms for believers today?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-reflection: Take time this week to examine your own life. Are there areas where you've been ignoring God's guidance? Commit to bringing these before God in prayer.
2. Be a "light bearer": Identify one specific way you can share God's truth or show His love in your community this week.
3. Leadership inventory: If you're in any leadership position (at work, church, family), evaluate yourself against the qualities mentioned in Exodus 18:21. Where do you need to grow?
4. Scripture meditation: Spend time reflecting on Micah 3:8 daily this week. Ask God to fill you with His power and Spirit.
5. Accountability: Share with the group one area where you feel God is calling you to "heed His rebuke" and repent. Ask for prayer and support in this.
Close in Prayer
Micah 1&2 - The Breaker
Book of Micah
Here's a small group guide from Micah 1-2:
Small Group Guide: Micah's Warning and God's Deliverance
Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon, along with some relevant verses for the main themes discussed:
Opening Prayer:
Begin with a prayer asking God to guide your discussion and help apply the truths from Micah to your lives.
Key Takeaways:
1. God takes sin seriously, even among His own people.
2. Idol worship and injustice provoke God's judgment.
3. Worldly influences can corrupt God's people if not guarded against.
4. Despite judgment, God promises restoration through Jesus Christ.
5. Jesus is the "Breaker" who can free us from bondage and lead us to freedom.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentioned that judgment begins with God's household (1 Peter 4:17). How does this challenge your view of God's relationship with believers?
2. What are some modern-day "idols" that people, including Christians, might be tempted to put before God?
3. The sermon talks about the "sins of the north infecting the south." How have you seen worldly influences affect the church today? In what ways might we be allowing the 'sins of the north' to infect our spiritual lives, and how can we guard against this?
4. How does the image of Jesus as the "Breaker" of walls and chains speak to you personally? What areas of your life might need this breakthrough?
5. The pastor emphasized repentance as key to experiencing God's deliverance. Why is repentance sometimes difficult, and how can we cultivate a repentant heart?
6. How does the promise of God's restoration through Jesus provide hope in the face of His judgment?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-examination: Take time this week to prayerfully examine your life for any "idols" that may be competing with God for your devotion.
2. Media fast: Consider a short "fast" from a form of media or entertainment that might be negatively influencing your spiritual life.
3. Repentance journal: Start a journal where you regularly confess sins and areas of struggle to God, asking for His forgiveness and help.
4. Breakthrough prayer: Identify an area where you feel "stuck" or in bondage, and commit to praying daily for Jesus to break through in that situation.
5. Accountability: Share with a trusted friend or group member one area where you need support in following God more closely.
Closing Prayer:
Close by thanking God for His patience, His judgment that leads to restoration, and the deliverance available through Jesus Christ. Ask for His help in applying the lessons from Micah to your daily lives.
Small Group Guide: Micah's Warning and God's Deliverance
Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon, along with some relevant verses for the main themes discussed:
Explicitly mentioned:
- Micah 1-2 (The entire sermon is based on these two chapters)
- 1 Peter 4:17
- Exodus 34:14
- Deuteronomy 4:24
- 2 Corinthians 11:2-3
- John 10:9
Alluded to:
- Jonah 3 (Reference to Jonah's prophecy to Nineveh)
- 1 Corinthians 10:22 (Provoking God to jealousy)
- Ephesians 5:25-27 (Christ and the Church as bridegroom and bride)
- Matthew 7:15 (False prophets)
Opening Prayer:
Begin with a prayer asking God to guide your discussion and help apply the truths from Micah to your lives.
Key Takeaways:
1. God takes sin seriously, even among His own people.
2. Idol worship and injustice provoke God's judgment.
3. Worldly influences can corrupt God's people if not guarded against.
4. Despite judgment, God promises restoration through Jesus Christ.
5. Jesus is the "Breaker" who can free us from bondage and lead us to freedom.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentioned that judgment begins with God's household (1 Peter 4:17). How does this challenge your view of God's relationship with believers?
2. What are some modern-day "idols" that people, including Christians, might be tempted to put before God?
3. The sermon talks about the "sins of the north infecting the south." How have you seen worldly influences affect the church today? In what ways might we be allowing the 'sins of the north' to infect our spiritual lives, and how can we guard against this?
4. How does the image of Jesus as the "Breaker" of walls and chains speak to you personally? What areas of your life might need this breakthrough?
5. The pastor emphasized repentance as key to experiencing God's deliverance. Why is repentance sometimes difficult, and how can we cultivate a repentant heart?
6. How does the promise of God's restoration through Jesus provide hope in the face of His judgment?
Practical Applications:
1. Self-examination: Take time this week to prayerfully examine your life for any "idols" that may be competing with God for your devotion.
2. Media fast: Consider a short "fast" from a form of media or entertainment that might be negatively influencing your spiritual life.
3. Repentance journal: Start a journal where you regularly confess sins and areas of struggle to God, asking for His forgiveness and help.
4. Breakthrough prayer: Identify an area where you feel "stuck" or in bondage, and commit to praying daily for Jesus to break through in that situation.
5. Accountability: Share with a trusted friend or group member one area where you need support in following God more closely.
Closing Prayer:
Close by thanking God for His patience, His judgment that leads to restoration, and the deliverance available through Jesus Christ. Ask for His help in applying the lessons from Micah to your daily lives.
Habakkuk - Yet, I Will Rejoice
Book of Habakkuk
Here's a small group guide based on the sermon on Habakkuk:
Small Group Guide: Finding Hope in Hard Times
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. It's okay to bring our complaints and struggles to God.
2. God's plans may not always align with our expectations.
3. Sometimes things get worse before they get better.
4. We can choose to rejoice in God even in difficult circumstances.
5. God is always in control, even when we don't understand His ways.
Discussion Questions:
1. The pastor mentioned that it's okay to complain to God. How do you typically approach God when you're struggling? Do you feel comfortable expressing your frustrations to Him?
2. Habakkuk was upset about the wickedness in his nation, but God's response surprised him. Have you ever experienced a time when God's answer to your prayers was unexpected or even difficult to accept?
3. The sermon emphasized that "it gets worse before it gets better." Can you share an experience where this was true in your life? How did you maintain faith during that time?
4. Reflect on the phrase "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord" (Habakkuk 3:18). What does it look like to rejoice in God even when circumstances are challenging?
5. How does the idea that God is always in control impact your daily life and decision-making?
6. The pastor mentioned that God sometimes uses difficult situations to burn away things in our lives that don't belong. Have you experienced this kind of "refining fire" in your own spiritual journey?
Practical Applications:
1. Practice Gratitude: Each day this week, write down one thing you can rejoice about, even if you're going through a difficult time.
2. Memorize Habakkuk 3:17-18: Use these verses as a reminder to praise God regardless of circumstances.
3. Intentional Silence: Set aside 10 minutes each day for silent reflection, allowing God to speak to you without the interference of your own words or thoughts.
4. Share Your Story: If you've been through a challenging time that ultimately strengthened your faith, consider sharing that testimony with someone who is currently struggling.
5. Prayer Partners: Pair up with another group member to pray for each other throughout the week, especially focusing on any current challenges you're facing.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, help us to trust You even when we don't understand Your ways. Give us the strength to rejoice in You regardless of our circumstances. Help us to remember that You are always in control and working for our good. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Small Group Guide: Finding Hope in Hard Times
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. It's okay to bring our complaints and struggles to God.
2. God's plans may not always align with our expectations.
3. Sometimes things get worse before they get better.
4. We can choose to rejoice in God even in difficult circumstances.
5. God is always in control, even when we don't understand His ways.
Discussion Questions:
1. The pastor mentioned that it's okay to complain to God. How do you typically approach God when you're struggling? Do you feel comfortable expressing your frustrations to Him?
2. Habakkuk was upset about the wickedness in his nation, but God's response surprised him. Have you ever experienced a time when God's answer to your prayers was unexpected or even difficult to accept?
3. The sermon emphasized that "it gets worse before it gets better." Can you share an experience where this was true in your life? How did you maintain faith during that time?
4. Reflect on the phrase "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord" (Habakkuk 3:18). What does it look like to rejoice in God even when circumstances are challenging?
5. How does the idea that God is always in control impact your daily life and decision-making?
6. The pastor mentioned that God sometimes uses difficult situations to burn away things in our lives that don't belong. Have you experienced this kind of "refining fire" in your own spiritual journey?
Practical Applications:
1. Practice Gratitude: Each day this week, write down one thing you can rejoice about, even if you're going through a difficult time.
2. Memorize Habakkuk 3:17-18: Use these verses as a reminder to praise God regardless of circumstances.
3. Intentional Silence: Set aside 10 minutes each day for silent reflection, allowing God to speak to you without the interference of your own words or thoughts.
4. Share Your Story: If you've been through a challenging time that ultimately strengthened your faith, consider sharing that testimony with someone who is currently struggling.
5. Prayer Partners: Pair up with another group member to pray for each other throughout the week, especially focusing on any current challenges you're facing.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, help us to trust You even when we don't understand Your ways. Give us the strength to rejoice in You regardless of our circumstances. Help us to remember that You are always in control and working for our good. In Jesus' name, Amen.
