In View of God's Mercy

The Way of a Worshiper: A Saddleback Church Small Group Study

Promo: Making Time

You have the same 24 hours in your day as the most accomplished people in the world. So why doesn't it feel that way? Follow along on this special 6 episode series as we take a look at how to make more time. By following biblical principles and taking a look at what you really want, Making Time shares the secret to having all the time you need... with a little help from some friends.

Learn more and download group guides at https://lumivoz.com/making-time/

For questions, comments, or sharing your tips on how to make more time, reach out to [e-mail]

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So, what do you do with a love like God's? How do you respond to that kind of extravagant love, grace, and mercy? In this session from Saddleback Church's pastor, Buddy Owens we look at God's incredible mercy and examine God's view of us! And in light of God's opinion of us, what should we do next?

In addition to the abbreviated discussion questions below, the full study guide is available at https://store.pastors.com/the-way-of-a-worshiper-study-guide.html

And for more great studies and curriculum, search for "Lumivoz" in your favorite podcast app or go to https//lumivoz.com

SESSION ONE
In View of God ’s Mercy

LOOKING AHEAD
1. If your group is new or you have new members, give everyone a chance to introduce themselves and share how they came to be a part of the group.
2. What are you hoping to get from this study?
3. How do you define “worship”?

KEY VERSE
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1 (NIV)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Buddy started this session by saying: “The pursuit of God is the chase of a lifetime. In fact, it’s been going on since the day you were born. The question is: Have you been the hunter or the prey?” Looking back on your life experience, can you pinpoint a time when God has taken initiative in your relationship with him? Share your memory of that moment.
2. Reflect on the Parable of the Prodigal. Was Buddy’s perspective on it new to you? How? Discuss the ways you’ve seen God lavish his love on you.
3. Read the Closing Thought in the lesson outline. How would you answer that final question: “What is our Father worth to you?” In what ways have you discovered God’s value?
4. What would you say has been the primary motivating factor in your desire to please God? Has it been obligation or fear, or has it been love and gratitude?

PRAYER DIRECTION

Sung Prayer
Listen to, or sing along with “Good, Good Father” and “He Knows My Name” on the Songs for The Way of a Worshiper playlist.

Silent Prayer
If, like the boy in the Parable of the Prodigal, you are far from God in a “distant country,” your journey home begins with a single decision. It starts by coming to your senses, turning your heart toward home, and surrendering your life to Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NIV). If you want to come home to the Father today, simply pray: “Lord Jesus, please forgive me of my sins. I believe you died for me and that you rose from the dead. Please come into my life and be my Savior. Amen.” If you are giving your life to Jesus Christ today, please share that decision with a member of your group. He or she will be happy to pray with you.

If you’re already at home with the Father but feel a little overwhelmed with life’s daily activities, consider Jesus’ words: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NIV). Take your burdens and give them to him now. Experience his rest.

Group Prayer
God loves us despite our brokenness and regardless of our failures. Offer brief prayers of thanksgiving to God for his love and mercy. Then pray for each other’s requests.

LIVING ON PURPOSE

Worship
1. Buddy said, “You can tell what a person worships by the way he lives his life.” If someone were to look at your life, what would they think you worship? What would lead them to that conclusion?
2. What are some practical ways you can worship God by the way you live your life?