Small Group Guide: Be Saved, Live Saved
April 27, 2025

Small Group Guide: Be Saved, Live Saved

Opening Prayer:

Lord, help us understand and apply the truths from this message about living out our salvation. Open our hearts and minds to your Word. Amen.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we have:

    • New life
    • New purpose
    • New promise
    • New hope

  2. Living saved looks different from merely being saved.

  3. Our inheritance in Christ is for now and the future.
  4. Hope in Christ is an active force that shapes how we engage the world.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Read together 1 Peter 1:1-4. How does it change your reading of scripture when you know the original context? Look at the language of inheritance and blessing and discuss how it complements rather than opposes a theology of suffering.

  2. How does understanding that we have “new life” in Christ change how you approach your daily life? Reference 2 Corinthians 5:17. What does this “new life” look like?

  3. The sermon emphasised that our goal isn’t just to “get out of here” but to live with purpose now. How can we balance hoping for Christ’s return while still following Jesus with purpose in our earthly lives?

  4. Discuss the concept of prosperity as a “river” rather than a “lake.” How does this change your perspective on blessings and generosity? How would a follower of Christ define this word “prosper” differently than the world does?

  5. Pastor Brandon talked about framing our understanding of Scripture through God’s nature and character, not our experiences. How does this help us to face disappointments or unanswered prayers? Which of the characteristics from the last series has connected with you the most in this season?

  6. Reflect on the Jeremiah 29 passage. How can we “work for the peace and prosperity” of our community, even if we feel out of place or discouraged? How does it deepen your understanding of Jeremiah 29:11 in the context of present suffering and long-term salvation?

Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:

  1. 1 Peter 1:3-4
  2. 2 Corinthians 5:17
  3. Romans 4:7-8
  4. Psalm 32:1-2 (referenced but not quoted)
  5. Jeremiah 29:11
  6. Jeremiah 29:4-14
  7. John 3:16 (mentioned but not quoted)
  8. John 3:3
  9. Psalm 16:5-6

Additional themes and relevant verses:

  1. New life in Christ:

    • Ephesians 2:4-5
    • Colossians 3:1-4

  2. Purpose and living for God:

    • Ephesians 2:10
    • Philippians 3:13-14

  3. Inheritance and promises:

    • Ephesians 1:11-14
    • 1 Peter 1:3-5

  4. Hope in Christ:

    • Romans 15:13
    • Titus 2:13

  5. Joy in suffering:

    • James 1:2-4
    • 1 Peter 4:13

  6. Gratitude and thanksgiving:

    • 1 Thessalonians 5:18
    • Colossians 3:15-17

  7. Prosperity and blessing:

    • 3 John 1:2
    • Deuteronomy 28:1-14

  8. God’s plans and future:

    • Proverbs 16:9
    • Isaiah 55:8-9

These additional verses align with the main themes discussed in the sermon, even though they weren’t explicitly mentioned.

Practical Applications:

  1. Gratitude Challenge: Each day this week, write down three things you’re thankful for, focusing on aspects of your salvation and relationship with God.

  2. Community Engagement: Identify one way you can positively contribute to your local community this month, reflecting God’s love and hope.

  3. Joy and Hope Journal: Start a journal where you record moments of joy and hope you experience. Review it when you’re feeling discouraged.

  4. Scripture Meditation: Spend time meditating on 1 Peter 1:3-5 this week, reflecting on your inheritance in Christ.

  5. Sharing Hope: Identify someone in your life who needs encouragement and find a way to share the hope you have in Christ with them this week.

Five Day Devo:

Day 1: New Life in Christ
Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Devotional: The resurrection of Jesus offers us more than just forgiveness; it provides a completely new life. As you read today’s passage, reflect on how your life has changed since coming to Christ. What old patterns or attitudes have been replaced? How has your perspective shifted? Today, thank God for His transforming power and ask Him to continue renewing your mind and heart. Consider one area where you still need growth and surrender it to God, trusting in His ability to make all things new.

Day 2: Living with Purpose
Reading: Romans 12:1-2, Ephesians 2:8-10
Devotional: Our salvation isn’t just about escaping judgment; it’s about embracing a new purpose. God has prepared good works for us to walk in. As you meditate on today’s verses, consider how your daily life reflects God’s calling. Are you living “saved” or merely existing? Ask God to reveal His specific purpose for you in this season. What gifts or opportunities has He given you to serve others and glorify Him? Make a commitment to step out in faith this week, living intentionally as a representative of Christ in your sphere of influence.

Day 3: Our Heavenly Inheritance
Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9, Colossians 3:1-4
Devotional: As believers, we have an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. This promise isn’t just for the future; it impacts how we live today. Reflect on how the reality of your heavenly citizenship changes your perspective on earthly challenges. How does it affect your priorities and decisions? Ask God to help you set your mind on things above, living in light of eternity. Consider one way you can invest in your eternal inheritance today, whether through acts of service, spiritual disciplines, or sharing your faith with others.

Day 4: Living Hope in Suffering
Reading: Romans 5:1-5, James 1:2-4
Devotional: The Christian life isn’t exempt from suffering, but we have a living hope that transforms our perspective on trials. As you read today’s passages, consider how God uses difficulties to refine and strengthen our faith. Reflect on a current challenge you’re facing. How might God be using this situation to produce endurance, character, or hope in your life? Thank Him for His presence in your struggles and ask for the joy that comes from knowing He is working all things for your good. Today, choose to frame your difficulties with joy, trusting in God’s greater purpose.

Day 5: Gratitude and Praise
Reading: Psalm 103:1-5, Colossians 3:15-17
Devotional: Gratitude is a powerful force that cultivates joy and strengthens our faith. Today’s readings remind us of the importance of thanksgiving in the believer’s life. Take time to list specific blessings God has given you, from the profound gift of salvation to the simple pleasures of daily life. How does focusing on God’s goodness change your outlook? Challenge yourself to express thanks in all circumstances, even in difficulties. Let gratitude become your default response, fueling your praise and deepening your trust in God’s faithfulness.