The Glory of the Gospel

PRINTER-FRIENDLY DISCUSSION GUIDE

Community Group Discussion Guide for the Week of February 15, 2026

Miss this week’s teaching? You can watch it here.

# Summary

Paul addresses the church in Corinth, defending his apostolic authority against critics who demanded letters of recommendation. He explains that the believers themselves are his living letter of recommendation, written by the Spirit of God on human hearts. Paul then contrasts the Old Covenant (the law) with the New Covenant (grace), explaining that while the law was glorious, it brought condemnation and death because no one could perfectly keep it. The New Covenant, however, is far more glorious because it brings life through Christ's perfect sacrifice. Where the law condemned us for our failures, grace offers forgiveness and righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

# Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for gathering us together today to study Your Word. As we dive into this discussion about Your amazing grace and the freedom we have in Christ, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be honest about our struggles and failures, and remind us of the incredible love You have shown us through Jesus. Holy Spirit, guide our conversation and help us to encourage one another as we grow in understanding of Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

# Ice Breaker

What's one thing you've tried really hard to be good at but just couldn't seem to master, no matter how much effort you put in?

# Key Verses

  • 2 Corinthians 3:3

  • 2 Corinthians 3:6

  • 2 Corinthians 3:17-18

  • Romans 7:7-13

# Questions

  • Paul says the Corinthian believers are a 'living letter of recommendation.' What does this mean, and how should this truth impact how we live our daily lives?

  • Why does Paul describe the Old Covenant (the law) as glorious yet ultimately bringing death? How does this help us understand our need for a Savior?

  • Pastor Jim mentions that many people live under a 'constant dark cloud' of guilt and condemnation. Why do you think believers sometimes still struggle with these feelings even after accepting Christ?

  • Paul contrasts the fading glory of Moses' face with the permanent glory of the New Covenant. What are some practical differences between living under law versus living under grace?

  • Pastor Jim emphasizes that we are saved by grace alone, not by our performance. How does this truth change the way we approach our relationship with God?

  • Paul says 'where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.' What kind of freedom does the gospel provide, and how have you experienced this freedom in your own life?

  • Pastor Jim mentions that God 'holds no record of wrongs against you.' How does this truth help us when we're struggling with past mistakes or current failures?

  • Paul describes believers as being 'changed into his glorious image' by the Spirit. What does this transformation process look like in practical terms?

# Life Application

This week, identify one area where you've been trying to earn God's approval through your performance rather than resting in His grace. Practice daily reminding yourself that your righteousness comes from Christ alone, not from your good works. When you catch yourself falling into guilt or condemnation, speak the truth of God's forgiveness over your life and thank Him for the freedom you have in Christ.

# Key Takeaways

  • Believers are living letters of recommendation, showing the fruit of God's work in their lives

  • The Old Covenant (law) was glorious but brought condemnation and death because no one could perfectly keep it

  • The New Covenant is far more glorious because it brings life and righteousness through Christ's perfect sacrifice

  • Salvation comes by grace alone through faith alone, not by our performance or good works

  • Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom from guilt, condemnation, and the burden of trying to earn God's approval

# Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the incredible truth that we are not condemned but are made righteous through Your sacrifice on the cross. Help us to live in the freedom You have provided, not under the weight of trying to earn Your love, but in the joy of knowing we are already loved and accepted. Transform us by Your Spirit to reflect Your glory more and more each day. May we be living letters that point others to Your amazing grace. Thank You for removing the veil of condemnation and giving us boldness to approach You. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.

2 CorinthiansPastor Jason MookMTN CHURCH