Small Group Resources
Small Group Discussion Questions
September 13 - 19
Sermon Series: Running with the Horses
Week 4: God-Shaped Dreams
Ice Breaker if Needed
What is the most memorable roadside attraction or tourist trap you’ve visited?
Discussion Questions
- As we wrap up the Running with the Horses series, share what God has shown you about what it means to “run with horses.” Refer to Jeremiah 12:5. What happens if we can keep pace, but are swayed by the scenery and distractions along the way? What is worth stopping for? Where are you heading?
- Read Jeremiah 18:11-12. What does the Lord tell Jeremiah to say? What does the Lord know the answer will be? Why is this a bizarre response? Read Jeremiah 18:13-14. Why would they depart from the goodness God established for them? Why would we?
- Read Jeremiah 18:15. What is an idol? Why is every idol, by definition, worthless? Read Jeremiah 2:11-13. What are the two sins committed by the nation? Why does God want us to steer clear of idols? What do they offer that God doesn’t?
- It is easy to shake our heads at ancient idolatry, but the allure of idols hasn’t disappeared. We may not worship wood or golden statues, but we elevate comfort into an idol. How? What role does distraction and avoidance play in our pursuit of comfort? Where does genuine comfort come from? Why are we quick to accept shabby substitutes instead of the comfort that comes from the Holy Spirit?
- What is real comfort? Think about grief, pain, guilt, and doubts. What does the comfort of the Holy Spirit do that the comfort of an idol cannot? Why is there a “cost” associated? What is reckoning?
- A God-first life focuses us to take our eyes off the idol of Self. Read James 1:13-15. Where does insistence on having your way lead? Where does insistence on comfort lead? Insistence on pursuit of distraction? How do you contend with assaults on your pride? What would happen if you saw these assaults as a gift?