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: Acts 1:8; Luke 4:24; Colossians 4:5-6
Big Idea from Message: A heart of fear cannot live a story of love with those we love the most.

In Acts 1:8, Jesus told His followers they would be His witnesses in concentric circles, starting with Jerusalem—their home base and inner circle. This message reminded us that our closest relationships can be the hardest spaces to share our story of faith because those people know both our best and worst. Why do you think it's often hardest to live out your faith with those who know you best?

Have you ever felt tension between who you used to be and who you are now in Christ - especially around people from your past?

In Colossians 4:5, Paul urges believers to “walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time.” The idea is that every interaction, especially in our close relationships, is a chance to reflect God’s love through how we live. What does it look like for you to "walk in wisdom" toward someone close to you who may not share your faith? Can you recall a time when you missed—or made the most of—an opportunity to show Jesus through your actions?

Paul continues in Colossians 4:6 by calling us to let our speech always be gracious, “seasoned with salt,” so that we know how to answer each person. That means speaking in ways that are appropriate, helpful, and flavored with God’s love. What challenges do you face when trying to speak graciously to someone close to you about faith? How can you better shape your words to meet others where they are, instead of just saying what you want them to hear?

Take a moment to share with the group someone in your life—especially in your inner circle—whom you feel called to share your story with. What hesitations or fears come up when you think about having that conversation? After sharing, spend time praying for one another, asking God for courage, wisdom, and love to be a faithful testimony of Jesus in those relationships.

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

Think of one person in your “Jerusalem”(your inner circle) who needs to see or hear the love of Jesus through you. This week, focus not on convincing or fixing, but on loving. Look for an opportunity to walk in wisdom, speak with grace, and reflect God’s love in a way they can receive. Pray for them daily, and trust God to do what only He can.