Small Group Guide: "The One Thing"

Key Takeaways:

1. The ultimate purpose of our lives is to know Jesus intimately and become more like Him.
2. Knowing Jesus is not just about head knowledge, but a deep, personal relationship.
3. Our journey with Christ is an ongoing process of growth and transformation.
4. The prize we seek is not just heaven, but Jesus Himself.

Discussion Questions:

1. Pastor Robb emphasized Paul's desire "to know Him" (Philippians 3:10). What does it mean to truly know Jesus, beyond just knowing about Him?
2. How has your understanding of Jesus changed over time? Can you share an experience that deepened your relationship with Him?
3. The sermon mentioned the concept of "hupogrammos" - tracing Christ's example. In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to follow Jesus' example?
4. Pastor Robb talked about the "religious unsaved." How can we ensure our faith goes beyond religious practices to a genuine relationship with Jesus?
5. The sermon emphasized pressing on towards the goal (Philippians 3:14). What obstacles or distractions in your life make it difficult to stay focused on Jesus?
6. How does the idea that Jesus is the prize (not just heaven) impact your perspective on faith and eternity?

Practical Applications:

1. Daily Prayer: Spend time each day simply calling out to Jesus, focusing on knowing Him more intimately.
2. Scripture Meditation: Choose a passage about Jesus' character or actions. Reflect on it throughout the week, asking how you can embody that trait.
3. Accountability: Partner with someone in the group to encourage each other in "pressing on" towards Christ this week.
4. Surrender Exercise: Identify one area of your life where you struggle to trust God. Write it down and symbolically offer it to Jesus in prayer.
5. Gratitude Journal: Each day, write down one way you've experienced Jesus' love or presence, fostering a deeper awareness of His work in your life.

Closing Prayer: Thank Jesus for His desire to know us intimately. Ask for His help in pressing on, growing in faith, and becoming more like Him each day.