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Sermon Discussion Guide - 07/13/2025
note to self - seeing what god sees:
Quiet the Critic
Sermon Recap
This message calls us to silence the condemning voice in our heads and believe the truth that Jesus speaks over us. Drawing from Romans 8, the story of the woman caught in adultery (John 8), and 1 John 3, Dallas reminds us that there is no condemnation for those in Christ. Our inner critic may be loud, but it is not Lord. Instead, we are invited to name the lies, replace them with God’s truth, and walk forward with compassion and confidence.
Ice Breakers
- Have you ever left a voicemail and instantly regretted how your voice sounded?
- What’s the most ridiculous criticism you’ve ever received (funny or strange)?
- If your inner voice had a theme song, what would it be?
Discussion Questions
- Context: Dallas shared how hearing his own voice in videos brought out intense self-criticism, and many of us can relate. Paul also battled this in Romans 7, saying, “I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.”
- Application: What kinds of thoughts do you say to yourself that you’d never say to someone else? What triggers those thoughts?
- Context: “There is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.” This truth reshapes how we view ourselves and quiets the voice of shame.
- Application: How would your self-talk change if you truly believed that you are no longer condemned?
- Context: The sermon offered a 4-step process for overcoming the inner critic, emphasizing the replacement of lies with truth. Scripture like Romans 5:8 and Philippians 1:6 were shared as examples.
- Application: Identify a specific lie you’ve been believing. What Bible verse can you begin to repeat in response?
- Context: Jesus didn’t condemn the woman caught in adultery, He gave her dignity and called her to a new life. We're invited to do the same for ourselves.
- Application: How do you respond to your failures? What would it look like to treat yourself with the grace you’d offer a friend?
- Context: The sermon cautioned that unchecked self-criticism often turns into harshness toward others. Confession and compassion are key to healing.
- Application: Is there someone you’ve unfairly criticized or judged? What step can you take this week to restore that relationship?
Prayer
- Pray for freedom from self-condemnation and inner criticism
- Ask for transformation of our thought lives through God’s truth
- Thank God for grace, forgiveness, and the voice of Jesus that speaks louder than shame
- Invite prayer for personal healing and relational restoration
Leader Tip
This week's message strikes a deeply personal chord for many. Create a safe space in your group for vulnerability, especially when discussing the inner critic. Remind your group that honesty is a pathway to healing, and that Scripture is a tool, not a test. Consider inviting members to choose one verse to memorize together this week as a group-wide step toward replacing lies with truth.