Icebreaker: Share a time when someone loved you enough to confront you about something difficult. How did that conversation impact your life?

Discussion Questions:
Understanding the Text

1. Why does Jesus give such a specific process for dealing with sin in Matthew 18:15-17? What does this reveal about God's heart?
2. Pastor mentioned that "sheep are not dumb, they are dependent." How does this change your perspective on your relationship with God?

Personal Reflection:

3. What "gates" (eye, ear, mouth) do you need to guard more carefully in your life? What specific steps can you take this week?
4. Have you ever had to go to someone who sinned against you? What made it difficult? What was the outcome?
5. Is there someone you need to forgive or seek forgiveness from? What's holding you back from taking that step?

Practical Application:

6. Pastor said, "If you hurt in public, you need to repent in public." Why is this principle important for church health?
7. How can we balance being a welcoming church while also maintaining biblical holiness and accountability?
8. Discuss the story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5). How does this demonstrate God's view of holiness in the church? How should this impact how we approach church membership?

Going Deeper:

9. Pastor mentioned that many churches preach about sin but do nothing about it in the body. Why do you think churches struggle with this? How can we do better?
10. What does it mean practically to "love someone so hard" that we pursue their restoration? What would that look like in our group?

Reflection Questions for Journaling:

1. What areas of my life am I tolerating sin instead of pursuing holiness?
2. How have I been "dependent" on God this week versus trying to handle things on my own?
3. Who do I need to pursue for restoration? What's my first step?
4. What would change in my life if I truly believed that holiness brings God's presence?