Talking Points:
- So, as we’ve pointed out, reading the Bible isn’t a “one and done” transaction–it’s an ongoing engagement that is sometimes challenging and confusing but totally worth it! As we engage with God’s Word, he is faithful to speak to us, lead us, and guide us. It is through his Word that we come to know him better and on a deeper level. It is where our faith is strengthened and how we are changed more into his likeness. It all starts with us just showing up ready to listen–and then do.
- Matthew 7:24-27 – “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.”
- James 1:22-25 – But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
- The Bible is the foundation of the Christian life, our trustworthy basis for every choice we face. When our minds are filled with the unchanging truth of God’s Word, our faith won’t be easily shaken. But just reading the verse of the day won’t fill you up.
- Matthew 4:4 – People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
- Think of it this way: Our physical health matters and we know how to take care of our bodies, right? We know the importance of eating good food, drinking water, and exercising. Why should our spiritual health be any different? We can’t expect to be spiritually healthy people when we only dig into God’s Word once a week. A daily practice of digging into God’s Word is so important to our everyday lives! The Bible won’t become our foundation until we start consuming it on an ongoing, daily basis. That’s how we become the transformed people who put God’s Word into action.
- Romans 12:2 – Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
- As you read and apply the Bible to your life, the Holy Spirit transforms you, changing the way you think and see things, and bringing your will and desires in line with God’s will and desires.
Discussion:
- Have you ever wished reading the Bible was easier? What kinds of challenges have you experienced reading the Bible?
- In what ways has the Bible positively impacted your life? Has God ever shown you something through the Bible that changed your thinking or attitude?
- Why do you think it’s important to read the Bible with other Christians?
- Look back to Matthew 7:24-27. How is Scripture like a firm foundation, and why do you need to consume it daily?
- What do you think James means when he says that the person who listens to God’s Word and doesn’t obey it is like someone who forgets what their reflection looks like?
- Look back at Romans 12:2. Who does the transforming work in the life of a believer? Why do you think it’s important to remember this?
- Think back to the comparison earlier in the lesson about God’s Word being similar to food. What does your nutrition look like right now? Are you “snacking” or “feasting” on God’s Word? How can you change the way you feed on God’s Word so that it becomes your foundation for living?
- As we read in James, listening and doing are two different things. Take a few minutes to note at least two things you will do differently to become a doer of the Word.
