October 1, 2023 | How we hear God’s voice through Scripture
Big Idea
God communicates to us through Scripture. We hear from God by listening to Scripture with our heads and our hearts.
Scripture
Luke 24:27, Luke 24:32 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Opening Question
What’s the highest altitude you have experienced? How did it affect you? Did it change your perspective in any way?
Series Overview
Our current series, Hearing God, is about equipping ourselves to hear from God to be disciples of Jesus. A disciple is someone who hears from God and does what He says.
Bible Discussion
- Last week, we introduced a pivotal story that occurs after Jesus’ resurrection while two of his disciples traveled on the road to Emmaus. Jesus strikes up a conversation with them before they realize it’s him. Read Luke 24:27. Out of all the things Jesus could have talked about, why do you think he starts there? In what ways does understanding the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Jesus’ identity and purpose as the Messiah?
- Read Luke 24:32. The fire in these disciples’ hearts was not rekindled by their talking about Jesus. Only when Jesus began to speak to them and “opened the Scriptures” to them did their “ hearts burn within.” Discuss the significance of this.
- Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What does this passage mean by “All Scripture is God- breathed”? How does this influence our understanding of the Bible?
- In 2 Timothy 3:17 it says, “so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” How does a deep understanding and application of Scripture equip us for good works? Provide an example.
Life Application
- What has your relationship with God’s Word been like in the past? Has it changed in any way for you since? Have you ever encountered “your heart burning within” as you read Scripture?
- What do you think is the difference between head and heart knowledge of the Bible? Does one come easier to you? Why do you think that is true for you?
- Lectio Divina is an ancient practice of intentionally reading Scripture and listening to God. When we read Scripture slowly and prayerfully, we can interact more with our hearts than our heads, seeking conversation with God rather than information about Him. End your group time by reading Psalm 89:8-18, sharing anything that comes to mind as you read slowly and prayerfully together, a few verses at a time.
