Wk 2 // April 25 & 26
WK 3 // WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN… REALLY?
April 25 & 26, 2026
Small Group Discussion Guide
SERMON RECAP
Spend a few minutes recapping this week's sermon together.
TAP HERE TO VIEW THE SERMON NOTES.
INTRODUCTION
We all know what it feels like to try to change behavior on the outside while something deeper is still going on inside. Jesus doesn’t just address actions. He goes straight to the heart.
UNDERSTANDING
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:17–20.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ COLOSSIANS 2:13–15.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:21–24.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ EPHESIANS 4:26–27.
Jesus raises the standard from outward behavior to inward transformation. He’s not just after rule-following. He’s after our hearts, our relationships, and a completely new way of living.
APPLICATION
PRAYER
Thank God for not leaving us stuck in our old ways, but for making us new through Jesus. Ask Him to transform not just our actions, but our hearts (especially in areas like anger, conflict, and temptation).
April 25 & 26, 2026
Small Group Discussion Guide
SERMON RECAP
Spend a few minutes recapping this week's sermon together.
TAP HERE TO VIEW THE SERMON NOTES.
- What was one takeaway from this week's sermon for you?
- Were there any stories, ideas, or points that stuck out?
- Was there anything that challenged you?
INTRODUCTION
- What’s one habit or reaction you have that you wish you could change, but it keeps showing up anyway?
- When you get frustrated or angry, what’s your typical go-to response?
- Have you ever tried to “fix” something in your life on your own, only to realize you needed deeper change?
We all know what it feels like to try to change behavior on the outside while something deeper is still going on inside. Jesus doesn’t just address actions. He goes straight to the heart.
UNDERSTANDING
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:17–20.
- What does Jesus mean when He says He came to fulfill the Law rather than abolish it?
- Why would this have been surprising or even shocking to His audience?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ COLOSSIANS 2:13–15.
- What does this passage say Jesus accomplished through the cross?
- How does this change the way we view our past and our identity?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:21–24.
- How does Jesus expand the command about murder into something deeper?
- Why do you think reconciliation with others is so important to God?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ EPHESIANS 4:26–27.
- What guidance does this give us about handling anger?
- What happens when anger is left unresolved?
Jesus raises the standard from outward behavior to inward transformation. He’s not just after rule-following. He’s after our hearts, our relationships, and a completely new way of living.
APPLICATION
- Is there a situation in your life right now where you need to pursue reconciliation instead of holding onto anger?
- What is one practical step you can take to guard your heart from things that lead you away from God?
- How can you intentionally lean into your new identity in Christ this week instead of old habits or patterns?
PRAYER
Thank God for not leaving us stuck in our old ways, but for making us new through Jesus. Ask Him to transform not just our actions, but our hearts (especially in areas like anger, conflict, and temptation).