SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

WEEK 3

Small Group Guide: 
Heart and Soul: Radical Generosity


Opening Prayer

Overview:
Generosity is more than an act of giving; it is a reflection of what God is doing in our hearts.  When we truly understand the grace and generosity Jesus has shown us, giving becomes a privilege rather than an obligation.

Key Takeaways:
When we choose to live generously, it creates a ripple effect impacting:
Ourselves - Generosity loosens the grip money and possessions have on our hearts, replacing selfishness with joy, freedom and a greater focus on God.
The Church - Generosity strengthens the church by creating a community where believers willingly meet one another's needs and work together to advance God's kingdom.
The Lost - Generosity reaches beyond the walls of the church, creating opportunities for those who don't know Jesus to experience His love and receive the gift of salvation.

Discussion Questions:
1. When you hear the word generosity, what comes to mind?

2. What do you think our priorities and spending habits reveal about our hearts?

3. We heard that the tighter we hold on to our money and possessions, the tighter their grip becomes on us.  What are some ways generosity can bring freedom and joy into our lives?

4. The early church had a heart to make sure no one among them was in need.  What would it look like for us to live with that same mindset today?

5. What are some obstacles that make it difficult to be generous?  How do we learn to overcome these obstacles?

6. Can you share a time when someone's generosity made a difference in your life or helped you experience God's love?

7. How can our generosity - through our time, resources, finances or acts of kindness - create opportunities for others to encounter Jesus?

8. What is one area of your life where you feel God is challenging you to become more generous and what is one practical step you can take this week?


Practical Application:
This week, be intentional about looking for opportunities to show generosity through your time, talents, resources or finances.  The smallest acts of giving can make a big difference.


Closing Thought:
Generosity isn't about how much we have; it's about how willing we are to give what God has entrusted to us.  Our generosity has the power to change our hearts, strengthen the church and reach people for Christ.

Announcements:

  • Operation Christmas Child - This is a powerful way for us to share the love of Jesus with children around the world by packaging shoeboxes with gifts and, most importantly, a presentation of the gospel in their native language.  Boxes are available for pick up in the church lobby.  They are due back November 8. 

  • DISCOVER THE WAY – Discover is an opportunity for you to meet our staff, hear the vision, and connect to the life of the church! Our next class wil be Sunday, November 8, inside the main church building, at 6:00 pm. Dinner will be provided, and childcare is available. Sign up on our church app today.

  • SERVE TEAM - Want to help lead people into a life-giving relationship with Jesus? Sign up to join a Serve team today on our church app!  Our Next Team Night is Sunday, November 1st at 5pm.  If you're looking for a team to join, this is a great time to get connected!

  • BAPTISM ORIENTATION – Have you recently decided to receive Jesus? Made that decision years ago, but never followed through with water baptism? Baptism is your next step. Baptism Orientation is for anyone wanting to be water baptized. We'll explain what it is, why it's important, and give you the opportunity to sign up to be water baptized. Sign up for orientation on our church app today.