FirstSF

REFLECTION QUESTIONS1. Why does Jesus describe himself as the one who has the sharp two-edged sword? Why do we often think of God's judgment first coming to the outside world? Why is it important to remember that judgment begins at the household o God?2. How does opposition to Christianity look different in our culture than it did in Pergamum? Are there any similarities?3. In what areas do you think we as Christians are most likely to compromise today? What can we do to prevent compromise in our lives and in our churches?4. Jesus points out the error of some to the whole church. What should we take away from this? How can we restore those who are caught in sin with a spirit of gentleness (Gal. 6:1)?

REFLECTION QUESTIONS1. In what ways has suffering been a part of your story? Have times of suffering ever made you question your faith? Have you seen suffering be used to help strengthen your faith?2. The church in Smyrna was poor and suffering but Jesus said they were rich What does this mean? Does anyone come to your mind when you hear this description? What should this mean for our lives?3. Jesus mentions the work of the devil in verses 9 and 10. Do you think we often neglect the spiritual component of our lives? How might keeping spiritual realities in view change the way we approach times of suffering?4. How can God's sovereignty and Jesus' resurrection help us endure trials and sufferings? How can we keep these truths in mind and how can we remind each other of them?

INTERSECTIONS is a FirstSF podcast series that discusses the merging of faith and life from different members of our FirstSF family.

Sermon Discussion Questions1. How do we see Paul's love for the people of God in these verses? Do we have that same type of love for other believers? What are some things that tend to diminish our love for those in the Church? What are some things that help our love to grow?2. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10. How are these verses similar to what we've read in other passages in this series? Is there anything that is different?3. Discuss the connection between a loving community and a holy community (as we see in verses 12-13). How have you seen this be true in your own life? How can our community grow in our love and holiness?4. Do we pray with passion and purpose? How can we grow in this? Spend sometime earnestly praying for others.

James Westbrook, Founding Pastor of Realm Church and NAMB Send City Missionary

Gilbert Foster, Executive Minister of Growing Healthy Churches

New to FirstSF? We would love to connect with you! You can fill out our digital connection card through the button.Learn more about FirstSF - https://firstsf.com