This guide is designed to help your group create a space for genuine connection and conversation within your discussion time. Don't feel pressured to address every question each week. Instead, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you as you lead your group in uncovering what God intends to communicate during your time together.

This guide comprises three sections: Loving, Learning, and Living. Each section aims to steer your conversation towards meaningful discussions about spiritual growth as individuals and as members of the body of Christ.

First moments together as a group to connect and pray (approx. 10-15 min).

• How have you seen God at work in your life since the last time we met?
• What has been one high and one low since the last time we met?
• How did you do with living out what we talked about last time we met?

Open with prayer and invite God to be part of your conversation and relationship.

The majority of the group discussion is devoted to open dialogue, reflecting on God’s Word and its personal application to each of our lives (approx. 60-75 min).

Scripture References from Message: 1 John 2:8-3:10
Big Idea from Message: The Gospel of Jesus Christ adopts you, transforms you, and teaches you to live in the family of God.

Read 1 John 2:28-29. What does it mean to you to “abide” or remain in fellowship with Christ? We often talk about the hope and joy of Christ’s return, so why do you think John talks about having "courage" instead of shame at his returning?

Read 1 John 3:1-10. John uses the term “children” to talk about those who are followers of Jesus. What does it make you think or feel to be called a child of God?

John stresses that we both are (currently) the children of God and will one day (future) be fully the children of God just as we know Jesus now and yet, will one day “see him as he really is.” Why do you think it is important for John to connect who we are now and who we will be directly to Jesus?

In verses 3-6, John draws a distinction between those who are in Christ and those who are not, focusing on sin in the life of those who claim to follow Jesus. What do you think of John’s insistence that those who are “in Jesus,” will not sin? (v. 6)

In verse 9, John says that those who belong to the family of God don’t “keep on sinning.” Why is it important to watch out for sin within the family of God and what does it mean to live righteous lives, together as God’s children?

The challenge for the week ahead is to grow in our faith and lovingly hold each other accountable through the community.

This is a great week to spend time focusing both on the reality of sin in our lives and the great promise we have that we are, even in our imperfections, the loved and forgiven children of God. Ask yourself, “How can I walk in this tension this week?” This question might lead you to a time of prayerful introspection. It might push you to find a new way to show righteous love toward other children of God this week. It might even spur you to invite those outside of Christ, still deeply loved by God, to experience the joy of being called a child of God. Whatever it is, find space to be reflective, honest with yourself, and thankful for all God has done and is doing in your life!