LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
There are many TV shows today that are focused on transformations. Some transform houses, others transform cars, and some even transform people with makeovers or surgeries. In each situation, people are seeking improvements, looking to better their lives. The problem is that most of these transformations are only external; while the outer appearance has changed, the core is still the same. Without a true, foundational change, the same problems may creep up as they did before!

The same is true in our lives. In our world today, people are constantly seeking ways to change the way they “feel.” They seek change through programs, habits, possessions, even in the people they associate with. But true transformation can only take place in the heart! It can only be found in Christ as we rely on His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and power over sin and death! God will use other Christians to guide us and teach us as we learn more about Him. Then as we grow in Him, we can also help others transform into the disciples God has called them to be. This week, we will look at what God is calling each of us to do as we seek to disciple others.

Passages we’ll review:
2 Corinthians 3:1-6; Jeremiah 31:31-34

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you? Have you ever had to share something that you really loved, something that had immense value to you?

Is confidence a good thing or a bad thing? What are you confident in?

READ

Read 2 Corinthians 3:1-3

How can the verbal testimony of a person be more powerful than a written letter as a reference?

Why is it easier to evaluate ourselves by our credentials rather than by our hearts?

What are the dangers that come with evaluating others based on external, worldly credentials?

What is the difference between the law being written on tablets of stone and the law being written by the Spirit in your mind and heart?

Read 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

What did Paul disclose as the source of his sufficiency? Why is it so important that we recognize God as the source of our strength and ability?

Paul wrote, “The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” What does this mean in our lives today? How is this different from the view the world has towards Christianity?

God always equips us with the ability we need to do whatever He requires. How does this affect our outlook on being disciples and discipling others?

DIGGING DEEPER

Read Jeremiah 31:31-34

Jeremiah was known as the “weeping prophet.” He confronted the people with their sin. He condemned their idolatrous and depraved practices. He challenged their false prophets. When God called him, he was timid and hesitant, but God worked in and through him to make him strong and courageous. In addition to the prophecy of God’s judgment, he also gave a glimpse of God’s gift of hope as well - His new covenant (Jesus)! —Editor’s Note

What promises does God make in His new covenant? Which of them is easiest to trust? Which is hardest to trust? Which one encourages you the most?

How does the new covenant solve the problem of humanity’s sinfulness?

John Piper wrote: “Don’t turn Christianity into a mere list of rules, whether it’s the Ten Commandments or any other list. Because without the work of the Holy Spirit, commandments and rules kill. That is, they meet a self-sufficient heart and produce either self-exalting rebellion by rejecting the rules or self-satisfied moral achievements by keeping the rules - in either case: death. The letter [of the law] kills and the Spirit gives life.”

We are all called to ministry as followers of Christ. Is yours a ministry of life or a ministry of death?

LET’S PRAY

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. A.W.Tozer wrote: “The church’s mightiest influence is felt when she is different from the world in which she lives.” In a world that increasingly opposes Christ, our lives should be a distinct difference from those around us. Do you exhibit His glory and power or do you show your own abilities and inadequacies?
   

2. Paul reminds us that we all represent letters of recommendation, whether it be letters written on tablets of stone or letters written by God on our hearts. Think about those who are reading your life story. Does the story they read glorify God and point them to Him, or does it bring glory to something else? How can you allow Christ to write His story on your heart?
   

3. The Corinthian believers were a testament, or recommendation letter, of the work Paul did for Christ. Who would represent a letter of recommendation for your life? Who have you poured into that can be a living testament of your work for the Lord?