Introduction: Is it surprising to you that the phrase “a personal relationship with God” isn’t in the Bible?

DISCUSS
1. Did you grow up knowing that God wanted a personal relationship with you? Or can you relate more to Pastor Stephen’s childhood sense that following was God a duty? Or perhaps something to do in order to avoid hell? Or a lot of rules you do in order to avoid shame?
2. What happens when we view salvation not as the end (that is, something to be achieved) but rather the beginning (that is, a starting point for a new life)?
3. What could be more valuable than salvation? What have you been saved for?
4. As Pastor Stephen talked about examples of God in relationship with people in the Bible, did any of those stories/examples stand out to you? Why?
5. Have you ever replaced relationship with God with religion? Why do you think this happens so easily and frequently?
6. What does it make you feel to know that the creator of the universe desires to know you and be known by you; to be in relationship?

PRAY:
Lord, may we live in light of the significance of your desire to live in personal relationship with us…what a humbling, joy-filled, wonderful thing this is. Thank you for loving us, for pursuing us, for allowing us to know you.

SHARE & PRAY:
- Share one thing you need prayer for today…
- Take time to pray for one person at a time
- Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your time
- Listen to the Lord for guidance in how to pray for one another
and then pray….