June 27 & 28

ARE WE THERE YET?
June 20 & 21, 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 is the longest road trip you have ever taken, and what made it memorable?
  • When you were younger, were you the person asking, “Are we there yet?” or the person getting annoyed by that question?
  • Share about a season of life where you felt impatient waiting for something to change.

Take a few minutes to catch up as a group and transition into today’s topic. This week’s message reminds us that following Jesus is not about reaching a finish line as quickly as possible. Growth often happens in the middle of waiting, pruning, and learning to remain connected to Him.


UNDERSTANDING

HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JOHN 15:1–8. 

  • What stands out to you about Jesus calling Himself the vine and us the branches?
  • Why do you think Jesus repeats the word “remain” so many times in this passage?
  • What do you think fruit looks like practically in a Christian’s life?

Jesus makes it clear that fruitfulness is not something we manufacture through effort alone. Our role is to stay connected to Him and allow Him to produce what only He can produce.


HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JOHN 15:9–17.

  • According to this passage, what connection exists between remaining in Jesus, obedience, joy, and love?
  • Why do you think Jesus ties spiritual growth so closely to relationships?
  • What does it mean to you that Jesus calls His followers friends instead of servants?

The Christian life is not simply behavior modification. Jesus invites us into relationship, transformation, and partnership in His mission.


HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ GENESIS 3:21 AND LUKE 15:20–24.


  • What do these stories reveal about God’s heart toward people who have failed?
  • How does God’s response differ from the way people often respond to mistakes and shame?
  • How can remembering God’s grace help us remain faithful during difficult seasons?

Even in moments of consequence, struggle, or failure, God continues to move toward His people with restoration, purpose, and hope.


APPLICATION

  • Is there an area of your life where God may be pruning something to produce something better?
  • Which of these practices needs the most attention right now: time with God, obedience, taking next steps, or surrounding yourself with godly people?
  • What is one practical way you can intentionally “remain in Jesus” this week?

Growth rarely happens instantly. God often works through seasons, challenges, and daily faithfulness. The invitation is not to quit, wander, or rush ahead, but to stay connected and trust what He is doing.


PRAYER

God, thank You that You do not abandon us in seasons of waiting, pruning, or struggle. Help us remain connected to Jesus, trust Your work in our lives, and bear fruit that lasts. Give us peace and joy as we follow You one day at a time.