Big Idea

God communicates with us through other people. Practicing simple prophecy can help us strengthen, encourage and comfort others with Spirit-prompted words.

Scripture

Luke 24:32, 1 Corinthians 2:12-13 and 1 Corinthians 14:1-3

Series Overview

We’re in the final week of our series, Hearing God, and throughout this series we’ve been exploring how God speaks to us through Jesus, through Scripture and through the still, small voice of his Spirit within us. So far, we’ve focused on what God might want to say to us for our own benefit. This week, we will explore the idea that God may speak to us for the benefit of other people. The biblical name for this is prophecy.

Opening Question

Were you able to spend time with God in His creation this week? If so, share any highlights. When you consider the word prophecy, what comes to mind?

Bible Discussion

1. In this series, we’ve been grounded in the story of the couple on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-35. Summarize this passage, focusing on Luke 24:32. In what ways did Jesus prophecy to them? What was the result of this?
2. Read 1 Corinthians 2:12-13. How does this passage relate to prophecy? In what ways does verse 12 highlight the difference between the spirit of the world and the Spirit of God? What implications does this have for us?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-3. Why do you think Paul encouraged the Corinthians to “eagerly desire the gift of prophecy”? What should the outcome of prophecy be?

Life Application

4. Have you ever experienced a follower of Jesus speaking a prophetic word into your life that made your heart burn in a soul-stirring way? If yes, share that experience with your group.
5. How about the other direction…where something you shared turned out to be the “just right words” someone needed to hear? What was that like for you and the person receiving those words?
6. Would you consider eagerly desiring the gift of prophecy as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 14:1 by asking God to give you prophetic words? When deciding whether or not to share words with others, remember to listen intently to the voice of the Holy Spirit. This requires space in our lives. Filter all words in love. Step out in faith by overcoming the fear of looking foolish and share the word God has given you. Finally, release it in humility, surrendering the outcome to God. Come to group next week ready to share how the Holy Spirit showed up in this way.