Locations & Times

Matt Chandler is our guest speaker this week. Matt leads us through Job and teaches us that God is not just a God of requests, but a God who will walk with us as we face suffering in our lives. He does not leave us behind and he is there for all of our lives, past, present, and future.

SETLIST

This Is Our God

We Praise You Available on "Revival's In The Air" from Bethel Music

Same God Available on "LION" from Elevation Worship

Reign Above It All Available on "Revival's In The Air (LIVE)" from Bethel Music & Paul McClure

GROUP QUESTIONS

// Bible References
Job 1:1-22, Job 2:7-9, Job 2:11-13, Job 38:4-7, Psalm 23:4

// Community Question
What comes to mind when we hear the word suffering? How has suffering shaped your view of God’s faithfulness in your life?

// Discussion Questions

1. After reading Job 1:20-22, we witness Job's character and faith being tested. How do you perceive Job's initial response of worship to his suffering? How does it reflect his understanding of God? How can we apply this perspective to our own lives when facing difficulties?

2. Job 1 and 2 introduce us to Satan's role in Job's suffering. How do these passages inform our understanding of spiritual warfare and the forces of evil? How can we apply the knowledge that God is ultimately in control even in the face of adversity?

3. Read Job 2:11-13. Job's wife and friends attempt to understand his suffering through Fatalism (giving up and allowing our suffering to become our identity), Detachment (creating distance from people out of a fear of being hurt), or Karma (beliving that suffering is because of something we did). What can we learn from Job's friends' initial response to his suffering in these verses? How can we apply the principles of supporting and comforting those in distress in our own small group or community?

4. Job's response to immense suffering is indeed remarkable. How does Job's reaction challenge our understanding of lament and trust in God during difficult times? What insights can we gain from his example when dealing with our own suffering or when helping others in their struggles?

5. Drawing from Psalm 23:4 and Matt's idea that we can sum up the Bible's theme in three words, "God with us," how can this perspective assist us in navigating and trusting God during challenging seasons and suffering?

// Challenge: Of the four responses to suffering (Fatalism, Detachment, Karma, or Worship), which one resonates with us the most? What is one practical step you can take this week to grow in your trust and reliance on God, especially in times of adversity?