Week 20 - The Old Testament
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Family Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:
Would you describe yourself as more of an introvert or extrovert?
The Old Testament
1 Samuel 8-22
1. Consider this video & info on 1 Samuel by the Bible Project: www.bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-samuel . How would you summarize your reading of 1 Samuel so far?
2. In 1 Samuel 8:3, Samuel’s sons, who he made judges, are described: “his sons did not walk in his ways, but turned after gain. They took bribes and perverted justice.” Why do so many people use their position or privilege for selfish purposes? What are some ways in which we can protect the next generation of our family from falling into the same sort of sin? How can we use this example in specific prayers for our government, work, and church leaders?
3. The Lord explains that Israel has “rejected me from being king over them “(1 Samuel 8:7). How is this a good description of sin? How does this convict you of the seriousness of sin?
4. The Israelites demand a human king, despite God’s warnings through Samuel, so that they “may be like all the nations.” (1 Samuel 8:19-20). In what ways do we see “Christians” today trying to be like the world around them? How can we resist that temptation ourselves?
5. When Saul becomes king of Israel, the people are impressed with his height and appearance (1 Samuel 8:23-24). What are ways in which we might judge others by their external appearance? What are ways we may be tempted to base our identity on our physical appearance? Why?
6. When the people are convicted of their sin and repent, Samuel says “Do not be afraid; you have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart.” (1 Samuel 12:20) How is this a good illustration of the Gospel?
7. While Saul has some victories as king, in his impatience and fear, he breaks the Lord’s clear commands when performs sacrifices (burnt and peace offerings) in the place of Samuel (1 Samuel 13:8-15) and suffers the consequences of losing his kingdom. Why can the “high points” of life, when we are “successful”, be dangerous to us spiritually? How do we guard and prepare ourselves during such seasons?
8. In 1 Samuel 14:6, Jonathan (Saul’s son) goes up with his armor bearer by themselves against the whole Philistine army and states that “nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few”? Is this foolishness or faith? What is the difference? How does this inspire you?
9. When the Lord rebukes Saul for turning away from God and disobeying His commandments (1 Samuel 15:10), He says through Samuel that “to obey is better than sacrifice” and that “rebellion is as of the sin of divination” (1 Samuel 15:22-23). What does this mean? Why is obedience from the heart so beautiful compared to religious rituals? Why is rebellion against God’s commands compared to seeking out demonic wisdom and power through divination?
10. When the Lord instructs Samuel in seeking the next king (David), God says “man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7)? What characteristics should we aim for the Lord to see upon our hearts?
11. What are some of your favorite aspects of the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17)? How do you see the allusion to David’s representation of Jesus and Goliath’s representation of Satan?
12. God provides a faithful friend to David in Jonathan: “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. (1 Samuel 18:1). Multiple times Jonathan encourages and protects David’s life. Later on, David extends kindness, care, and protection to Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth, who was lame in both feet (2 Samuel 9). Who have been some of your closest friends in life? What makes for a good friend? How can we be better friends?
General Discussion Questions
• What can you learn about God from these passages? His work? His character? How can this help you grow in your trust of Him?
• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)