Encounter - Sundays

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSRead James 3:13-18. What is the difference between worldly and Godly wisdom? Discuss some specific and practical scenarios that you regularly deal with… and talk out what it would look like to use worldly wisdom… and then what it would look like to use Godly wisdom.What effect can bitter jealousy and selfish ambition have on a person’s life? How can we put to death bitter jealousy and selfish ambition that exists in our hearts?James describes true and false wisdom. What are some evidences of false wisdom? And what does James say is the evidence of true wisdom in verse 13?Read verse 17. Of all the characteristics of true wisdom, which one do you need the most in life right now? And why?What are some practical steps you can take this week to grow in God’s wisdom?Have everyone in the group share the one area of their lives that they most need to ask God to give them true wisdom. Close in prayer asking the Lord to give the group wisdom in all these areas.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSRead James 2:8-13. What stands out to you in this passage? What is God’s heart to us?What is it about certain people that makes it hard for you to love them? Or even associate with them?Are all sins equal? If so, in what way? If not, why not?Why do Christians treat favoritism/ partiality/ prejudice lighter than other sins?In what ways will believers be judged for their words, actions, and attitudes? (James 2:12-13)How is God challenging you to show more mercy to others?What does it mean to see people through the eyes of Christ?What is the motive and means to loving others as God wants us to?Close in prayer asking forgiveness for not loving our neighbors as ourselves… including practicing favoritism, partiality, bias, and prejudice. For not caring for those in need or suffering. Ask God to help us show grace and mercy to those around us this week.

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSRead James 1:13-18. What is the nature of temptation? What is God’s part? satan’s part? Your part? What do the words “lured” and “enticed” mean?James says we are all tempted. In what ways are you tempted? Who or what do you blame when you’re tempted? Why is it so difficult to take responsibility?What steps should, and could you take to conquer temptation?Read James 1:19-21. What would your relationships and interactions look like if you followed verse 19? And… describe what humility looks like and how it can be applied here as well.Discuss at least 5 things we can do in relationships that would help us become other-centered listeners.The sermon talked about 5 marks of a Receptive Heart: Open ears, Closed mouth, Restrained anger, Removed sin, and Fertile soil. Which of these are easy, and which of these are difficult for you… and why?What is one specific thing of the 5 marks of a Receptive Heart that the group can pray for you this week?

TOGETHER GROUP QUESTIONSRead James 1:1-12. What is God’s Word saying to you in this passage? What is God’s heart for His people?James was the brother of Jesus who started off as a bitter mocker of Him. Put yourself in James’ shoes: What do you think it would be like to grow up with Jesus as your brother? How would you act toward someone so perfect?God completely changed James’ life and he became a strong leader and pillar of the early church. How has God changed your life? Go around the circle and have each person share one way God has changed their life.What is the worst trial you’ve ever experienced? And what is a trial you are currently dealing with?Honestly, how do you deal with trials? And how do you THINK we should deal with them?What is God’s ultimate goal for you in trials? And when we are in them, where should we turn? (James 1:5-8)Instead of using worldly wisdom and saying, “Why me?”, “This isn’t fair!”, and “Fix it!”… God wants us to seek Him first. Instead of those 3 responses, what are some diffe