Revival is Here!
Community Group Discussion Guide for the Week of September 28, 2025
Miss this week’s teaching? You can watch it here.
# Summary
Pastor Jim exhorts us in the wake of recent national tragedies, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk and other acts of violence. He emphasizes that as Christians, we must not be silenced by fear but should stand boldly for truth and the Gospel, even when it's dangerous or unpopular. The sermon focuses on how believers should live in these challenging times - resisting fear, seeking salvation rather than vengeance, fully committing to God's purposes, balancing grace with truth, and preparing for spiritual battle.
# Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to discuss these challenging truths, we ask for Your wisdom and courage. In a world that seems increasingly hostile to Your ways, help us to stand firm in Your truth while extending Your grace. Open our hearts to hear what You want to teach us today, and give us the boldness to live out our faith regardless of the cost. May this discussion draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name, amen.
# Ice Breaker
What's something you were afraid to do but did anyway, and how did you feel afterward?
# Key Verses
John 14:27
Romans 12:17-21
Ephesians 2:10
Matthew 16:24-26
John 1:14
Ephesians 6:12-18
# Questions
Pastor Jim mentioned that 'standing for truth, standing for the Gospel, standing for Jesus may cost you your life.' How does this reality affect how you approach your faith?
What's the difference between seeking safety and seeking comfort in our faith journey?
How do we balance 'not seeking vengeance' with 'violently defending the innocent' as mentioned in the sermon?
Pastor Jim emphasized the importance of both grace and truth. In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to maintain this balance?
What does it mean practically to 'give yourself fully to the purposes of God' in your daily life?
How can we prepare ourselves for spiritual battle in today's cultural climate?
Pastor Jim mentions that 'the gospel is an offense to those that don't believe.' Have you experienced this in your own life when sharing your faith? How did you respond?
How can we as Christians engage with politics and culture without compromising our faith or becoming divisive within the church?
# Life Application
This week, identify one area where fear might be holding you back from fully living out your faith. It could be fear of rejection, criticism, or even physical harm. Commit to taking one specific action to overcome that fear - whether it's having a difficult conversation about your faith, standing up for truth in your workplace or school, or serving others in a way that pushes you out of your comfort zone. Remember Pastor Jim’s words that 'today is the day, not tomorrow' to fully commit to following Jesus. Journal about your experience and be prepared to share how God worked through your step of faith.
# Key Takeaways
Resist fear and trust the Lord - Christians must choose faith over fear, speaking boldly and courageously even in dangerous times.
Don't seek vengeance, seek salvation - we battle lies with truth, hate with love, and evil with goodness, while still defending the innocent.
Give yourself fully to God's purposes now, not tomorrow - today is the day to wholeheartedly follow Jesus.
Conduct yourself with both grace and truth - Jesus modeled the perfect balance of uncompromising truth delivered with love and grace.
Prepare for spiritual battle - we must put on the full armor of God to stand firm in these challenging times.
# Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that following You has always been a dangerous calling, yet the most fulfilling path we could ever walk. Give us courage to stand firm in Your truth when the world pushes against us. Help us to balance grace and truth in all our interactions, loving others enough to speak truth while extending the same mercy You've shown us. Protect our hearts from fear and our minds from compromise. May we be found faithful when You return or call us home, having given ourselves fully to Your purposes. Strengthen us for the spiritual battles ahead, and use us to bring Your light into dark places. We pray this in Your mighty name, amen.