16 Jul Discussion Guide Coming to a City Near You: Communities of Compassion
Before We Get Started
For our discussion today, we will be using the sermon series discussion guides. If you would like to follow along you can access this discussion guide on the website at mosaicchurchaustin.com and then select “community group resources” in the menu options.
Prayer
Because the primary goal of our time together is to establish relationships and learn how to walk with one another in all that God has called us to be and do, we’d like to begin by praying for one another. So, does anyone have anything you’d like us to pray for or anything to share regarding how you’ve seen God moving in your life that we can celebrate together?
This Week’s Topic
Today, we continue our series titled Coming Soon to a City Near You, in which we study the letter of Ephesians. Written to Christians in the ancient city of Ephesus, which is in modern-day Turkey, Ephesians announces to the world that there is a better story coming to a city near you, and the church is the screen on which the “Jesus movie” plays.
Today’s Topic
Communities of Compassion
Discussion Questions
Has the kindness of a stranger brightened your day recently? What was that like?
Ephesians 4:25-32
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Kindness & Compassion in Our Actions
Ephesians 4:28
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
JRR Tolkien
Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil at check. But that is not what I have found. I have found that it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.
Mother Teresa
Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.
What does it mean to you to be kind and compassionate?
How can small acts of kindness toward others change the world?
How does our willingness to do something useful with our hands open the door for kindness to flow from our lives?
Kindness & Compassion in Our Words
Ephesians 4:1, 29
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body… Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen
Blaise Pascal
Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.
What is an example of a truth you hold dear because it reminds you of God’s kindness toward you or others?
In the passage, Paul instructs the people of Ephesus to be both truthful and kind. How is achieving both these goals with our words challenging, and what do you find helps you strike that balance best?
What is a kind, truthful word of encouragement you can offer someone in the group?
Kindness & Compassion in Forgiveness
Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Desmond Tutu
Forgiving is not forgetting; it’s actually remembering–remembering and not using your right to hit back. It’s a second chance for a new beginning. And the remembering part is particularly important. Especially if you don’t want to repeat what happened.
Is it possible to forgive someone without first cultivating kindness and compassion toward them?
How does forgiveness require us to remember what is true?
How has forgiving someone or being forgiven by someone impacted your life?
Closing Thought
Brene Brown
Compassion is not a virtue — it is a commitment. It’s not something we have or don’t have — it’s something we choose to practice.
What are some strategic ways to practice kindness and compassion this week? How can your group encourage one another in cultivating greater kindness and compassion?