Small Group Discussion Guide for January 31 2021

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Small Group Discussion Guide For the week of January 31, 2021

2 Corinthians 5:17-21

1. Think of the first foreign country that pops into your mind. Now, pretend you are the US ambassador to that country. What would your job description look like? How would you define your role? (do this exercise as an individual or group)
2. Read 2 Corinthians 5:18-20. How would you define the “ministry of reconciliation?”
3. 2 Cor. 5:17 says “the old has gone, the new is here!” When you become a follower of Jesus, what were some of the “old” things that left? What were some of the new things that came?
4. A quote from the sermon, “It is the essence of the modern mind that the universe is meaningless and purposeless.” – W. T. Stace.  Do you personally know anyone who is without purpose, or lacks meaning in their life? If so, how might you use this passage to help them?
5. In 2 Cor. 5:20 the NIV translates the word “implore.” Read that passage in as many versions as you can. What are some other words that are used in the place of “implore?” Paul is communicating a sense of urgency. Why do you think he is doing so?
6. In your job as “ambassador with a message of reconciliation,” how are you performing? If you were to give yourself an annual review for the past year, how would you grade yourself? How can you improve?

Pray this week – Lord Jesus, thank you for making me a new creation through your work on the cross. Thank you for reconciling me to yourself. Help me to share your message of reconciliation with others who need it. Give me a sense of urgency in sharing your life-giving love with my friends and family. Amen.

Weekly Bible Reading-

Monday: Psalm 96:3;

Tuesday: Romans 1:16;

Wednesday: Philemon 1:6;

Thursday: 1 Peter 3:15;

Friday:John 3:16