Leader’s Study Guide, Memorial Weekend, for the week of May 24, 2020 PDF VERSION
Leader’s Community Group Study Guide
For the week of May 24, 2020
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Three months ago, we had no idea we would end up with a “stay at home” order and transition to meeting with our Community Groups online. It will be a time none of us will forget. We are thrilled that Pastor JJ has said we are one church in many homes, backyards, and driveways, as we regather through our Community Groups!
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SUMMER COMMUNITY GROUP PLAN: We hope that your group decides to continue meeting online or in person for your regular CG time and re-gather for a sermon watch party. Our hope for the summer is that each of you will stay connected and care for each other. We would love to hear how your Community Group is re-gathering. |
FOOD DROP OFF – Friday’s 11:00am – 2:00pm
One FUN idea would be for you to turn this into a CG social! Either all sign up to serve on the same day or choose a Friday that you could all drive to the campus parade style with posters and donations to encourage those who are working.
3 Ways to Give to the Food Drive:
Drop off donations at our Ballast Point Campus, 5101 Bayshore Blvd.
(Note: Hours have changed: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Fridays only)
Ship Items from Amazon or from a local Tampa business to the Ballast Point Campus, 5101 Bayshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33611
Go to stfchurch.com to see list of needs. Contact marc@stfchurch.com with any questions.
MY STORY
1. Growing up, who was your best friend? Do you still talk to this person now? Why or why not?
2. It’S a good thing for us to remember the sacrifices that were made for our country. How do you remember what God has done for you in your life? Is it a physical thing, such as a ring or perhaps its a special tradition? Share how you take time to remember the greatness of God in your personal life.
3. This week, Colonel George Youstra spoke for our Memorial Day Weekend. From his words, what encouraged, inspired, or challenged your way of thinking?
DIGGING DEEPER
1. All of us are aware of the power in numbers. It’s why God has designed us with an innate desire to connect, relate, and team with others. It is then also no surprise that the attitudes and actions of those we spend the most time with are vital for our success. As you read the story of the group of friends in Mark 2:1-5, write down whatever attitudes and actions they needed to accomplish the task at hand.
(The four friends who were so concerned about the well-being of their friend that they literally tore up the roof for this person. This story is a wonderful example of what it means to help others and to be helped by others when needed.)
Looking back at what you just wrote, can you think of any reasons why one person may find it easy, and others find it challenging, to team with others in a similar way? If so, explain.
2. One of the values of having friends is that they help us grow. Knowing what to say and when to say it is an important component of friends helping friends grow. What advice do the following verses give us for how and when to communicate with our friends?
Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 25:11
Proverbs 27:5-6, 9-10.
Ephesians 4:29
(The concept of friendship is a strong one in Proverbs, and the word friend is used nine other times in the book. Wisdom is called a friend (7:4), a friend loves at all times (17:17), faithful are the wounds of a friend (27:6), the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel (27:9), and do not forsake your friend and father’s friend (27:10). Ephesians reminds us to not gossip about our friend, especially after helping through a difficult time.)
TAKING IT HOME
1. Jot down some of the reasons you joined a Community Group this year. What are you looking forward to the most when we re-gather?
2. Living out our calling is how God has designed us to live. In fact, the enemy would love to keep us ineffective and confused about our purpose. How does Jesus make our calling incredibly clear in Matthew 22:37-39 and 28:19-20?
How do Jesus’ words help us keep our focus simple? What might be challenging or confusing for you?
3. How can the group pray for you as you live out your purpose, even now, in uncertain times?
PRAYER REQUESTS