Message Big Idea

God restores his dream for the world when we embody grace.

Scripture

2 Corinthians 5:17-20, Colossians 4:5-6, Proverbs 15:1

Icebreaker & Opening Thought

Jesus calls us to a better way of relating to those around us. Rather than joining in the Social Media trend of outrage, he calls us to embody grace; to see and hear people through the lens of care, compassion, and genuine love. On a scale of 1-10, how well do you see the people around you embodying grace in their interactions on political news coverage, in your own house, or at your job?

Bible Discussion

1. Read Colossians 4:5-6. What do you notice about this passage? How do you imagine a conversation full of grace?
2. Read Proverbs 15:1. What do you think gives power to the gentle word? To the harsh word?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-20. What does the call to be an ambassador of reconciliation mean to you? How would implementing the wisdom of the previous two passages influence your ability to encourage reconciliation?

Life Application

4. “Never make a point at the expense of making a difference.” – Andy Stanley What do you think he means by that?
5. When you find yourself in a situation or conversation that has the potential to spark outrage, the first step is to remember your identity in Christ. How might that help you not get wrapped up in just winning the argument or help you embody grace instead of outrage?
6. How might finding an affirmation about the other person’s view or opinion help you to embody grace instead of jumping in with point and counterpoint in a conversation? Why do you think it is so difficult to focus on common ground instead of differing opinions?
7. When we take a posture of learning, we seek to understand, even if we will never agree. How difficult is it for you to enter into a conversation with the goal of understanding, and not the goal of resolution or agreement?
8. Which is the most challenging step for you to implement in charged conversations: Remembering your Identity, Finding a way to affirm the other point of view, or Taking a posture of learning? Why?

Challenge

Whether it’s about politics, religion, or what kind of pop you like, the temptation to draw lines, create teams, and perpetuate unhelpful distinctions is constant. But God has not called us to a life of division; he has called us to a ministry of reconciliation. We need to remember that our mission is not to win arguments; our mission is to help people find their way back to God. Spend time this week looking for ways to practice implementing one of the three grace embodying steps.