Small Group Guide: Reconciliation and Letting Go of Anger
Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus emphasizes reconciliation and letting go of anger as foundational to following Him.
2. Harboring anger affects both our relationships with others and with God.
3. We live in an "outrage culture" that often fuels anger and division.
4. Reconciliation is possible, even in seemingly impossible situations, because Jesus walks with us.
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think Jesus starts His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount with a focus on anger and reconciliation?
2. Pastor Josh said forgiveness is "one of the hardest things God will ever ask us to do" but also "one of the most powerful, beautiful, and freeing things." Share an experience where you've found this to be true in your own life.
3. How does holding onto anger affect your relationship with God? Have you experienced this personally?
4. Discuss the concept of "outrage culture." How have you seen this manifest in your own life or in society?
5. How can we apply Jesus' teachings on reconciliation in our digital age, especially on social media?
Practical Applications:
1. This week, take time to pray about any anger you might be holding onto. Ask God to help you identify it and begin the process of letting it go.
2. Identify one relationship or situation in your life where you can be a reconciler or peacemaker. What specific steps can you take?
3. Practice extending compassion to someone who holds different views from you, following Nancy's example.
Prayerful Questions
1. "God, what anger might you be inviting me to let go of this week?"
2. "Jesus, where are you calling me, leading me to be a reconciler and a peacemaker this week?"
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