Buhler Mennonite Brethren Church

Matthew 22:34-40; 28:16-20; Luke 5:27-32; Ephesians 4:11-13 For Further Discussion What are some ways you have sensed God's calling in your own life (or heard about in the lives of others)? Could a person ever miss out on God's call in their life? If so, how? If not, why not? What do you think distinguishes God's voice and His calling from other voices? How can you know if God is calling you? What might God be calling you to today?

Exodus 1:15 – 21; Joshua 2 & 6:17 – 23; 1 Samuel 25 For Further Discussion Is it always easy to know what the right thing to do is? How do we discern this? What might keep you from doing what you know is right? Do you think courage (like when we do the right thing) can be fostered or developed? How? What other character traits might be reflected in choosing to do the right thing? Consider these stories: What can we expect from God when we do the right thing, especially when it’s hard?

Mark 8:22-25; Matthew 7:15-20; Luke 15:1-24, 31-32 6716 For Further Discussion What do you think of the idea that people are “like trees walking around?” How can you tell if others are fruit-bearers or not? What might you hear someone say whose lostness is like the lost sheep? (They are distracted or misguided). Do you know someone like this? Describe their life. What might you hear someone say who has been hurt or neglected by the church? Do you know any “lost coins?” Share about that situation. Has there been a time in your life when you felt disconnected from the church? What brought you back into connectedness? What might someone say who is living in rebellion? How would you know whether that person’s heart is prepared for repentance? How can you pray for the lost people in your life? How can you guard your own heart against lostness?

Deuteronomy 7:9; Lamentations 3:22-24; 2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 10:23 For Further Discussion If appropriate for your group, discuss anything that stands out from Holy Week services (Good Friday, Sunrise, Easter) at Buhler MB. What does it mean to you that “God is faithful”? What circumstances might arise that make us question God’s faithfulness? How can we encourage one another in those times? Look up the bible verses above. What stands out about God’s faithfulness in these verses? Can you find other verses regarding God’s faithfulness?

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

Mark 11:1-11 or Further Discussion What might it have felt like to be part of the crowd when Jesus rode in? What were some things that did not seem “kingly” in this story? How about other narratives or things Jesus did or said that didn’t seem “kingly”? What defines or indicates a true king? How does Jesus measure up? Have you ever felt like Jesus didn’t or isn’t living up to your expectations? How do you deal with that?

Acts 2:42 - 47; Psalm 29:1 & 2; Romans 12:1 & 2; Revelation 5: 11 - 13 For Further Discussion Do you agree that worship is one of the key purposes of the church? Why or why not? Do you think worship is more significant when practiced individually or corporately? How does worship affect your relationship with Jesus? How does worship affect the larger church community? How does worship foster service & ministry? What about mission & evangelism?

Acts 2:42 - 47; Psalm 29:1 & 2; Romans 12:1 & 2; Revelation 5: 11 - 13 For Further Discussion Do you agree that worship is one of the key purposes of the church? Why or why not? Do you think worship is more significant when practiced individually or corporately? How does worship affect your relationship with Jesus? How does worship affect the larger church community? How does worship foster service & ministry? What about mission & evangelism?

Acts 2:42–47; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24 & 25 For Further Discussion What do you think it means that God recognized & understood our need for others? What does this say about God’s character? How would our relationship with Jesus look different if we didn’t have community? How important is it for community to actually meet together at times? What does support & encouragement for each other look like in our church? How does being in community foster service & ministry? What about mission & evangelism?

Acts 1 & 2 For Further Discussion What comes to mind when you think of the term: “church”? Do you think about purposes of church? What are some purposes of church? How would your life be different if you were involved less at church? Involved more? How would you answer the question: “Why do you go to church?” How important is the “how” we do church?

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 For Further Discussion Do you like the allegory of life as a race? Why or why not? What were the three areas to consider when running your life race? Which one is most challenging? Easiest? What do you think it might mean to be disqualified from the prize? Are you running in such a way as to win the prize? (Which group are you in?) Are there things you can do to move into the winning group?

Ephesians 1:7-10 For Further Discussion What does “redemption” mean? What are we redeemed from? What are some things that God has lavished on us – from this passage and others? What does God lavishing us with the riches of His grace tell us about His love for us? How does this passage impact your understanding of your relationship with God?

Psalm 63 For Further Discussion What does David's thirst for God mean to you? Have you ever felt a similar spiritual thirst? How did that resolve? How do we quench a spiritual thirst for God? What does it mean that “your love is better than life?” (vs. 3) How can we keep other (unsatisfying) thirsts in check? How does Psalm 63 encourage perseverance in our “desert” times?

1 Corinthians 13 For Further Discussion What are the five gifts (or areas) that people may believe are above more important than love? (vs. 1 – 3) Why are we tempted to believe that other things are more significant than love? Review what love is and what it is not. How does Paul’s definition compare with the world’s view of what love is? Does it surprise you to hear that love is greater even than faith or hope? Why or why not? How does our maturity in Christ reflect how we love others?

Exodus 19:4; Deuteronomy 32:10-12; Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 103:52 Samuel 23:8 & 18; Daniel 4:9 & 5:11; Ephesians 2:19 & 20; 1 Peter 5:4 For Further Discussion Is it necessary or essential for Jesus followers to gather for conferences, retreats, camps, etc.? Why or why not? How do gatherings like this grow us closer to Jesus? The eagle is an allegory or illustration used by the writers of the bible. What other allegories from the bible stand out to you? Hint: consider some of Jesus’ “I am” statements and His parables. What does a solid, spiritual leader (chief) look like in our times and circumstance? What might be a good mascot for a Christian school?

2 Corinthians 5: 17 - 19; Matthew 5: 23 & 24; 2 Corinthians 10: 3 & 4 For Further Discussion What does it mean that real reconciliation with God means transformation? How can we help others be reconciled to God? Do we have to determine who was right and who was wrong to resolve conflicts? Can you think of an example where our church handled a personal conflict well? Does non-violence seem like the only/best way to deal with world conflicts? Do you think war is ever justified? How can we be more aware of and open to the Holy Spirit’s working?

Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:2; Acts 2:46 & 47 For Further Discussion Why is forgiveness important for meaningful community? Considering “vertical” or “horizontal” forgiveness, does one seem more important than the other? Which discernment method – preaching, teaching, dialogue - is most effective for you? Is it difficult to practice discernment in community rather than alone? What does “accountability” mean to you? Is it important for a church to have accountability among its members? Does Buhler MB seem to have an Anabaptist approach and focus on community?

Luke 9: 23; Hebrews 1: 1 & 2; Philippians 2: 9-11 For Further Discussion Does it seem ridiculously obvious that Jesus should be central? What do you think that means? How would you define discipleship? What role do beliefs, forgiveness and spiritual experience have in following Jesus? How does a “Jesus as central” approach affect our study and interpretation of scripture? What is the difference between saying, “Jesus is my Savior and Lord” and saying, “Jesus is my Lord and Savior”?

1 Corinthians 3:11 For Further Discussion (Since groups have not met for a couple of weeks, please feel free to spend some time catching up with one another.) Had you heard the term “Anabaptist” before? What comes to mind when you hear the term? Do you think knowing some of the history of our tradition is important to know? Why or why not? Was there anything new or surprising that you heard today?

1 Corinthians 3:11 For Further Discussion (Since groups have not met for a couple of weeks, please feel free to spend some time catching up with one another.) Had you heard the term “Anabaptist” before? What comes to mind when you hear the term? Do you think knowing some of the history of our tradition is important to know? Why or why not? Was there anything new or surprising that you heard today?

Matthew 8: 5-13; 19: 16-23 Father God, as we embark on a New Year May our lives overflow with joy No matter what each day brings May we constantly come to You in prayer For all things large and small And may our hearts be filled with gratitude To acknowledge Your goodness May Your will be done in the New Year And bless us, we pray

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

Matthew 2:1-18 For Further Discussion What were some of Herod’s circumstances that affected his response to the new King (Jesus)? What kind of ruler (leader) do you think Herod was? How is Jesus model of ruling (leadership) different from Herod’s? (keep in mind the Sermon on the Mount) Compare (and contrast) the responses to Jesus of Mary, the Magi and Herod. What can Herod’s story teach us about following King Jesus? What are things in your circumstance/situation that make it difficult to follow Him?

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.

Matthew 2: 1-12 For Further Discussion From what we know of the Magi, why was their response to the coming of King Jesus a little odd? What might this story have to say about people seeking the King? Or honoring the King? How does the Magi’s response to Jesus compare (or contrast) with Mary’s response? What can the Magi’s story teach us about responding to Jesus as King?

1 Samuel 8:5-9; 2 Samuel 7:16; Isaiah 9:6 & 7; Matthew 5-7 For Further Discussion Is it difficult to grasp the idea of a true, definitive King that should be followed and obeyed? Do you think people, in general, want to have a king over them? Why or why not? What are the positive aspects of following King Jesus with committed allegiance? Are there negative aspects? What does it say about God that He provides the ultimate King?

1 Samuel 8:5-9; 2 Samuel 7:16; Isaiah 9:6 & 7; Matthew 5-7 For Further Discussion Is it difficult to grasp the idea of a true, definitive King that should be followed and obeyed? Do you think people, in general, want to have a king over them? Why or why not? What are the positive aspects of following King Jesus with committed allegiance? Are there negative aspects? What does it say about God that He provides the ultimate King?

1 Samuel 8:5-9; 2 Samuel 7:16; Isaiah 9:6 & 7; Matthew 5-7 For Further Discussion Is it difficult to grasp the idea of a true, definitive King that should be followed and obeyed? Do you think people, in general, want to have a king over them? Why or why not? What are the positive aspects of following King Jesus with committed allegiance? Are there negative aspects? What does it say about God that He provides the ultimate King?

For Further Discussion Why is it important (especially as Jesus followers) to be thankful? Is it sometimes difficult to be thankful? Why is that? What does genuine thankfulness reveal about us?

For Further Discussion Why is it important (especially as Jesus followers) to be thankful? Is it sometimes difficult to be thankful? Why is that? What does genuine thankfulness reveal about us?

Isaiah 48:11 Missionary Speaker How then can they call on the One they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15

Matthew 7: 13-29 For Further Discussion What might “good fruit” look like in someone’s life? What about “bad fruit”? (vs 17-20) Verses 21 – 23 can be quite alarming. How should we navigate this section? How can we build our house on the strong foundation? (vs. 24-27) What aspects of the Sermon on the Mount stand out to you?

Matthew 7: 7-12 For Further Discussion Why is it difficult to ask for help from others? Is it difficult to ask for help from God? What do Jesus’ illustrations indicate about God as our ultimate Father? (vs. 9-11) How does the Golden Rule (7:12) sum up the Law and Prophets? What seems easy about the Golden Rule? What seems hard?

Matthew 7: 1-6 For Further Discussion Is a follower of Jesus ever called to judge? Why or why not? In a culture that often views the Church as increasingly judgmental, how can a follower of Jesus interact with others while holding fast to the truth? Give an example (positive or negative) of an instance when you have seen the difference between judgment and discernment displayed. What were the effects? What are some ways or habits a Kingdom dweller can use to practice self-examination and keep himself / herself from hypocrisy?

Matthew 6: 25-34 For Further Discussion What are some things you find yourself worrying about? What really comes out of worrying? How do you understand Jesus’ case for not worrying? What can we learn from birds and flowers? What should we do instead of worry? What does it mean to “seek first His Kingdom?” How do worry, anxiety and fear relate to our trust in God?

Matthew 6: 9-15 For Further Discussion What does “holy” mean? How can we encourage God’s name being recognized as holy? Why would anyone be resistant to God’s Kingdom (rule, reign) coming? Is it difficult to pray just for daily provision? What does this suggest about our relationship with God? Why is it hard for us to forgive others when we know how much God has forgiven us? Why is it important for us to pray for God to lead us away from temptation and to deliver us from evil?

Matthew 6: 9-15 For Further Discussion What does “holy” mean? How can we encourage God’s name being recognized as holy? Why would anyone be resistant to God’s Kingdom (rule, reign) coming? Is it difficult to pray just for daily provision? What does this suggest about our relationship with God? Why is it hard for us to forgive others when we know how much God has forgiven us? Why is it important for us to pray for God to lead us away from temptation and to deliver us from evil?

Matthew 6: 9-15 For Further Discussion What does “holy” mean? How can we encourage God’s name being recognized as holy? Why would anyone be resistant to God’s Kingdom (rule, reign) coming? Is it difficult to pray just for daily provision? What does this suggest about our relationship with God? Why is it hard for us to forgive others when we know how much God has forgiven us? Why is it important for us to pray for God to lead us away from temptation and to deliver us from evil?

Matthew 6: 1-18 For Further Discussion Why are we often pulled toward acting as hypocrites or pretenders, especially in “righteous” practices? Do you believe that pretty much everyone is looking for approval from others? What do you think Jesus is referring to when He mentions “rewards”? What compels a Kingdom dweller to practice these acts of righteousness? Which of these – giving, prayer, fasting – is easiest for you? Most difficult?

Matthew 5: 33-48 For Further Discussion Why are we compelled to use things like oaths? Why is it better to just leave them out? How should a Kingdom dweller understand “eye for an eye…”? Do unresistant people seem like “door mats”? Why or why not? What does it really mean to love our enemies or those that are annoying, tiresome, mean, unpleasant…?

Matthew 5: 21-32 For Further Discussion Why do you think Jesus would begin this section of the Sermon on the Mount talking about anger and lust? How is lustful intent similar to anger? How do these show non-righteous living? Why do you think Jesus used such provocative language about cutting off body parts? How do Jesus’ comments about divorce raise the standard of righteousness above legalism?

Matthew 5: 17-20 For Further Discussion Why would people think that Jesus was interested in doing away with the Law & Prophets (Hebrew Scriptures)? What seems to be His true view of scriptures? What are some ways that Jesus fulfills Hebrew Scriptures? What does the term “righteousness” mean? Can it have negative connotations? How can we help each other be Jesus followers instead of rule followers? Or rule breakers?

Matthew 5: 3-16 For Further Discussion How should we understand this Kingdom that Jesus is preaching about? What do you think it means to be “blessed”? Which of these blessings is most encouraging? Most surprising? Why is it significant that Jesus indicates that blessed people may not look like his audience imagined they should? What does it mean to be salt and light for us today?

Matthew 5 - 7 For Further Discussion If you are familiar with it, what comes to mind when you hear “Sermon on the Mount?” Does it seem that our culture is becoming less and less amicable to Christian ideas and living? If so, how should we react to that? How does it make you feel that Jesus was intentionally addressing ordinary (i.e. not particularly special or important) people at the Sermon? How can we encourage one another to be open to all of Jesus’ teaching, even when it is difficult and contrary to our biases?

For Further Discussion Considering all 5 chapters of 1 Peter, what sticks out to you most (Leaders: be willing to expand on this and let it take your discussion wherever it might go. This may be the only question you get to during your time!)? What must happen in your life for you to be “done with sin?” (4:1) Discuss what a life that is done with sin would look like( suffering, and how it might look different for people would be an appropriate part of this discussion)…is this life something we would want? What holds us back from having a life that is “done with sin?” From a practical standpoint, what does it look like to love one another deeply(4:8)? Try and think about it both from your own perspective and from someone else’s point of view. Two different times in this letter, Peter tells the readers to be sober and alert (4:7, 5:8). What reasons does he give for this admonition? What does it look like for us to be sober and alert and how do we practice doing this? 1 Peter has so many practical applications for daily life. If you could choose just one area from this letter to work on this week what would it be (and why)?

For Further Discussion Does a regular quiet time seem important or not too important? What do you think it means to “abide” in Jesus? Why do we struggle with intentional, alone time with God on a regular basis? What are some things that would help with your quiet time?

We are blessed by your presence with us! We do not believe your visit to our church was by chance, so we pray that you would experience God's blessing as we worship, learn, grow, and encourage one another.