Letter to the Thessalonians | Week 8 – Deep Breath

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Whether we live a peaceful life or not, usually depends upon us. If our response to a situation leads to discord, we are responsible for escalating the situation. One of the results of being filled with the Holy Spirit should be having a different mindset; the ability and desire to view every situation in a way that is different from what is normally expected. If we are constantly judging others or allowing ourselves to be easily offended, we cannot be a good witness to God’s grace. Unless we are willing to humble ourselves, we will be unable to lead by example or shine the light of Jesus into the darkness.

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READ Romans 12:1

 

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

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READ this passage again and consider these related questions.

 

How should pondering God’s grace and mercy affect how we interact with others?

 

How does worship help us to get past a self-centered mindset?

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

 

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15; Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:21; Colossians 3:5-10; Philippians 4:5; Mark 12:31; Matthew 5:4; James 1:19-20; 1 John 4:19-21

 

1. How does having a transformed mind enable you to do what Paul urges in verse 14?

 

2. From a Christian perspective, how is submission a strength rather than a weakness?

 

3. Consider the Colossians passage, what is the difference between the behaviors in v.5 compared to v.8?

 

4. Use the 1 John passage to describe the transformational aspects of the Gospel.

 

5. How are the health of our relationships an indication of our sanctification?

 

6. What is the connection between anger and the sins of pride and haughtiness?

 

7. With all of the above passages in mind, discuss the importance of studying the fruit of the Spirit.