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Sermon Discussion Guide - 06/08/2025
Published June 8, 2025
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What I Wish I Knew at 20:
Your Circle Shapes You
Sermon Recap
This week’s message, rooted in Ecclesiastes 4 and several Proverbs, explores the profound impact of our closest relationships. The sermon challenges us to consider how our circle of friends shapes our identity, faith, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth. Using vivid stories, Scripture, and the image of Moses' friends holding up his arms in battle (Exodus 17), we are reminded that authentic community is essential for becoming who God has called us to be.
Ice Breakers
- What’s the weirdest fashion trend you ever tried to pull off?
- If you had to be stuck with your 5 closest friends in a tiny house for a week, who would survive the longest?
- If your life had a theme song during your high school years, what would it be and why?
Discussion Questions
1. How have your closest relationships shaped who you are today?
- Context: The sermon highlights research showing how our friends influence everything from health and habits to emotional well-being and faith.
- Application: Who are the five people closest to you right now? What kind of influence are they having on your life? How are you shaping others in return?
2. Are your friendships helping you grow in your relationship with Jesus?
- Context: The sermon draws on Ecclesiastes 4 and Proverbs to show that spiritual growth often happens in the context of community.
- Application: Do you have friends who talk with you about faith and challenge you spiritually? What step can you take to build deeper, faith-centered friendships?
3. Do you have friends who are willing to lovingly confront you when needed?
- Context: Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that "wounds from a friend can be trusted," as true friends help us grow, even when it's hard.
- Application: How do you handle correction from close friends? What keeps you from receiving helpful feedback? Have you offered this kind of friendship to others?
4. Are you isolated in any area of your life where you need support?
- Context: The story of Moses needing Aaron and Hur to hold up his arms in Exodus 17 is a picture of supportive community during weakness.
- Application: Where in your life are you feeling tired, alone, or overwhelmed? Who can you invite to help "hold up your arms"?
5. Who is in your circle, and are they sharpening or dulling your character?
- Context: Proverbs 27:17 (“As iron sharpens iron…”) and 13:20 both warn and encourage us about the influence of wise and foolish companions.
- Application: Is there anyone in your life you need to intentionally spend more or less time with? What changes might God be asking you to make to your inner circle?
Prayer
- Pray for wisdom in evaluating and choosing close relationships.
- Ask for courage to build or deepen Christ-centered friendships.
- Give thanks for friends who challenge, support, and walk beside us faithfully.
- Invite the group to pray for one another's relationships and personal growth.
Leader Tip
Some of the best spiritual growth happens between meetings—in texts, coffee chats, and spontaneous moments. Encourage your group members to follow up with each other during the week. A quick check-in or word of encouragement can deepen bonds and keep the conversation going beyond the circle. Remind them: small steps build strong circles.