Wk 4 // May 2 & 3
WK 4 // WHAT IS A CHRISTIAN… REALLY?
May 2 & 3, 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 have natural instincts when it comes to relationships, conflict, and how we treat people. But Jesus challenges those instincts in a way that can completely turn our world upside down.
UNDERSTANDING
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:31–32.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:33–37.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:38–42.
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:43–45.
Jesus isn’t just giving rules. He’s reshaping how we live, love, and respond to people. His way often goes against our instincts, but it leads to a transformed heart and a life that reflects Him.
APPLICATION
PRAYER
Thank God for His patience and grace toward us, even when we fall short. Ask Him to help you grow in love, integrity, and humility (especially in difficult relationships).
May 2 & 3, 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
- Have you ever had a moment where your perspective on something completely flipped (like what you thought was right suddenly looked very different)?
- When conflict happens in your life, do you tend to lean in and resolve it or avoid it and hope it goes away?
- Who is someone you find easy to love, and someone you find… not so easy?
We all have natural instincts when it comes to relationships, conflict, and how we treat people. But Jesus challenges those instincts in a way that can completely turn our world upside down.
UNDERSTANDING
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:31–32.
- What do you notice about how seriously Jesus treats marriage and relationships?
- How does this reflect a deeper concern for the heart, not just outward actions?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:33–37.
- What point is Jesus making about honesty and integrity?
- What does it look like to be someone whose “yes” and “no” can be trusted?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:38–42.
- Which part of this teaching feels the most difficult or countercultural to you?
- How does Jesus redefine justice, fairness, and our “rights”?
HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 5:43–45.
- What stands out to you about loving enemies and praying for those who hurt you?
- Why do you think Jesus connects this kind of love to reflecting God’s character?
Jesus isn’t just giving rules. He’s reshaping how we live, love, and respond to people. His way often goes against our instincts, but it leads to a transformed heart and a life that reflects Him.
APPLICATION
- Is there a relationship in your life where God might be calling you to show more grace, forgiveness, or humility?
- What is one area where you need to grow in integrity (being more honest, dependable, or consistent)?
- Who is one person you can begin praying for this week that you normally struggle to love?
PRAYER
Thank God for His patience and grace toward us, even when we fall short. Ask Him to help you grow in love, integrity, and humility (especially in difficult relationships).