At Trailhead, we believe that church is not just about growing in God’s Word but doing so in community. We have designed this study guide to help you follow along with Sunday’s message. Study the scriptures, take notes, and then reinforce what you learned by answering a few questions. Ask others to join you in discussion, whether it be with your family or your Trailhead study group. Let’s have church!
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Interactive Scriptures and Notes
This link is updated weekly, so we encourage you to select the “Email” button at the bottom to send your notes to yourself when you’re finished.
If you want God to do the super, you have to do the natural. - Mark Batterson
Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Revelation 1:16 (NLT)
He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And his face was like the sun in all its brilliance.
Ephesians 6:17b (NLT)
…the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
Discussion Questions
1) While there may be some uncertainty as to how and when God responds to prayer, one thing is certain: prayer has no expiration date!
With that in mind, what role does patience play in a healthy prayer life? Is this something you struggle with? Why or why not?
2) Pastor Josh taught on how the Word of God is like a “two-edged” sword. The Greek translation for “two-edged” is distomos, which comes from the word di (meaning “two”), and stomos (“mouth”). Why is this significant?
How does this affect your view of God’s Word and what happens when you pray according to His Word and promises?
3) The Greek word rhema means “a word that is spoken clearly, vividly, and unmistakenable.” This is used often throughout the New Testatment to convey a word brought to life. In this context, what should our words sound like when we pray? What does this say about the confidence you should have when approaching the Lord in prayer?
PERSONAL REFLECTION
What are some things you are praying for? Write these things down, and make time throughout the week to pray with the authority you have as a born-again believer, understanding that God’s Word is like a two-edged sword!