Big Idea

God’s faithfulness over the last 35 years is the foundation for the new thing God is doing now.

Scripture References

Isaiah 25:1 and Isaiah 43:19-21

In this first week of our new series, New is Now, we reflect on God’s incredible faithfulness as we celebrate COMMUNITY’s 35th anniversary.

Opening Questions

1. How did you first come to COMMUNITY?
2. What were your first impressions of the church?
3. What was the thing that made COMMUNITY feel like home?

Bible Discussion

1. Read Isaiah 25:1.
2. Isaiah begins by praising God for His faithfulness and wonders. How does this verse encourage us to reflect on God’s role in our lives? What are some specific ways we can praise God in our circumstances?
3. This verse speaks of God’s plans that were formed long ago which have come to fruition. How does this demonstrate God’s faithfulness to His promises? What does this suggest about God’s sovereignty and the purpose behind His actions? How can this assurance impact our trust in God during difficult times?

Let’s reflect and celebrate together!

1. What was the most spiritually significant moment for you personally at COMMUNITY?
2. How has your life changed since attending?
3. When did you start attending a small group?
4. How has your small group contributed to your experience at COMMUNITY?

God has been so good to us all! Spend some time in prayer together, thanking God for all He has done in your life and the life of your small group. He is so worthy of our praise and gratitude!

Watch the New is Now vision video together.

1. What stood out to you in the video?
2. The New is Now vision is based on Isaiah 43:19, where God is doing something new, bringing streams in the wasteland and providing for His people. Read Isaiah 43:19-21. How do you see these verses based on what is happening in our world today? What do the images of the wilderness and streams symbolize? How can these metaphors be applied to your own life?
3. This idea of God doing a “new thing” suggests change and renewal. How can this passage encourage us to trust in God’s timing and plans, especially when we are in seasons of waiting or uncertainty? How does this passage give you hope for today and for the future? How does this apply to COMMUNITY and all that God has done and will continue to do in and through His church and its people?

End your group time in prayer, asking God to help each one of us discern and embrace the “new thing” He is doing among us.