Abiding in Christ

The Gospel, The Spirit, and Christ

Opening Prayer:

Starting this term, we want to emphasize prayer more in our groups and in our church. Please take time to pray as a group. Pray for our church, for the kingdom, for one another, and for anything else that God lays on your heart. Also, ask God to open hearts and minds to His Word and guide your discussion.

Small Group Guide: Abiding in Christ

Key Takeaways:

1. Abiding in the gospel is crucial for believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
2. The Holy Spirit’s anointing abides in believers, guiding and teaching them.
3. Abiding in Christ gives us confidence for His return.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to “abide” in something? How does this apply to our Christian faith?

2. The pastor mentioned “little antichrists” in our world today. How can we recognize and guard against deceptive influences in our lives?

3. How does the indwelling of the Holy Spirit impact our daily lives as believers? Share an experience where you felt the Spirit’s guidance.

4. The sermon emphasized the importance of being rooted in the gospel. What are some practical ways we can strengthen our foundation in the gospel?

5. How does the promise of Christ’s return affect the way we live our lives today?

6. The pastor used the analogy of “driving a stake in the ground” for our beliefs. What areas of your faith do you feel need to be more firmly established?

7. How can we cultivate an awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence and work in our lives?

8. What does it mean to have confidence rather than shame when thinking about Christ’s return?

Practical Applications:

1. Daily Gospel Reflection: Spend 5-10 minutes each day reflecting on a core aspect of the gospel message.

2. Spirit Awareness Exercise: Throughout the week, intentionally pause at different times to acknowledge the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life.

3. Stake-Driving Activity: Write down three core beliefs you want to “drive a stake in the ground” for. Share these with a trusted friend or group member for accountability.

4. Abiding in Christ Challenge: Choose one way you will intentionally “abide” in Christ this week (e.g., extended prayer time, Scripture memorization, acts of service).

5. Return Readiness Check: Reflect on areas of your life where you might feel “ashamed” if Christ returned today. Pray and make a plan to address these areas.

6. Doctrinal Study: Choose a core Christian doctrine to study more deeply this week, reinforcing your theological foundation.

7. Anointing Appreciation: Each day, thank God for a specific way the Holy Spirit’s anointing has impacted your life.

Closing Prayer:

Lord, help us to abide firmly in Your gospel, to be aware of Your Spirit’s presence, and to live with confidence in Christ’s return. Strengthen our faith, guard us against deception, and help us to drive stakes of conviction deep into the bedrock of Your truth. May we live each day ready to meet You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.