Check-In (Highs & Lows) 15 min
A great, quick way to catch the highlights of what is happening in the lives of the people in your group is to take turns quickly sharing the “highs & lows” of your week. High: What was your biggest highlight since we last met? Low: What was the low point during this time?
Settle-In (Ice-Breaker) 10 min
Describe a time when you or someone close to you positively acted in opposition to a family or social norm.
Dig-In (Scripture) 35 min
1. Read Matthew 5:3-12. What response/posture is Jesus calling for his disciple to have/take in the face of adversity?
2. Read Matthew 5:13-16. What metaphors does Jesus use to describe the role of his followers in the world?
3. Reflect on Matthew 5:17-20. How does Jesus relate the concept of fulfilling the Law to his mission? What is the danger Jesus warns against regarding righteousness and the Pharisees?
4. What does Paul say about the relationship between faith, works, and justification in Galatians 2:16?
5. How does Paul address the issue of moralism within the church in Galatians 1:6-7?
6. Read Matthew 22:37-40. What are the two greatest commandments according to Jesus, and how do they relate to the Law?
Gear-Up (Application) 15 min
1. How does the concept of being “salt and light” challenge your understanding of Christian discipleship in today’s world?
2. In what ways have you experienced or observed moralism within Christian communities? How does it contrast with the gospel message?
3. Reflect on your own journey of faith. How has your understanding of righteousness evolved over time?
4. How can we maintain a balance between living out the Law of Christ (the Law of Love) and avoiding legalism or moralism?
5. What practical steps can you take to embody the principles of being “salt and light” in your daily life?
Step-Up (Homework)
Spend time meditating on Matthew 22:37-40 and consider how you can intentionally live out the greatest commandments in your interactions with others throughout the week.