Life Group Questions - June 7th

Ice Breaker Question: Share about a time when you had to be diligent about something important (school, work, parenting, etc.). What motivated you to stay committed?


Discussion Questions:
Part 1: Be Diligent in Holiness (2 Peter 3:14)
  1. Understanding Holiness
    • What does it mean to be "holy" in practical, everyday terms?
    • How does being "set apart" or "distinct" differ from being "perfect"?
    • Pastor Rino mentioned that Peter never said "be happy because God is happy" or "be rich because God is rich," but rather "be holy because God is holy." Why do you think holiness is the primary call for Christians?
  2. Personal Reflection
    • In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to live differently from the world around you?
    • The sermon mentioned being "zealous" about holiness. On a scale of 1-10, how zealous would you say you are about pursuing holiness? What would increase that number?
  3. Practical Application
    • What does it look like to be "holy" in your workplace? In your family? In your thought life?
    • How can we pursue holiness without becoming legalistic or judgmental?

Part 2: Be Steadfast in Understanding (2 Peter 3:15-16)
  1. God's Timing
    • Pastor Rino emphasized that "with the Lord one day is like a thousand years." How does this perspective change the way you view unanswered prayers?
    • The sermon stated: "When we believe that God's going to answer prayer, we function way different." How have you seen this truth play out in your own life or the lives of others?
  2. Soul Winning Focus
    • Peter says God's delay is for salvation—He's waiting for people to come to Him. How does this change your perspective on current world events and the "delay" of Christ's return?
    • Pastor Rino challenged us to be soul winners rather than focusing solely on social justice. How can we balance meeting physical needs while prioritizing spiritual needs?
  3. Evangelism in Daily Life
    • Share about a time when you successfully shared Jesus with someone in a natural, everyday conversation.
    • What fears or obstacles keep you from talking about Jesus with the people you encounter daily (grocery clerks, neighbors, coworkers)?
    • Discuss practical ways to incorporate sharing Jesus into your regular routine.

Part 3: Beware of Spiritual Deception (2 Peter 3:17)
  1. Staying on Guard
    • Peter warns us to "be on your guard" and never let our guard down. What are some ways Christians become vulnerable to deception?
    • The sermon mentioned that false teaching comes not just from words but from actions (like Peter's hypocrisy in Galatians 2). How can our actions teach false doctrine even when our words are correct?
  2. Accountability
    • Pastor Rino shared how his wife helps keep him accountable. Who in your life helps you stay on guard spiritually?
    • How can this small group better function as a place of accountability and spiritual protection?
  3. Distraction vs. Focus
    • The sermon mentioned that we live distracted lives and forget what's important. What are the biggest distractions that keep you from focusing on Christ's return and living with urgency?
    • What practical steps can you take this week to reduce distractions and increase your time in God's Word?

Part 4: Growing in Grace (2 Peter 3:18)
  1. Grace-Empowered Living
    • Pastor Rino emphasized: "You alone cannot live holy. Only through Christ in you by the power of Holy Spirit can you live holy." How does this truth free you from performance-based Christianity?
    • Share about a time when God's grace was sufficient for you during a difficult season.
  2. Trials and Suffering
    • The sermon concluded with: "Growing in grace often means experiencing trials and even suffering. Stop crying about it; start thanking God." How does this challenge you?
    • Are you currently in a trial? How can you shift from complaining to thanking God and asking what He wants to teach you?
  3. Living Ready
    • If you knew Jesus was returning next week, what would you change about your life right now?
    • What prevents you from living that way today?