Begin group time with 2 minutes of silent prayer. Assume a comfortable position and repeat the phrase “Come Holy Spirit” to yourself as you breathe. If your mind wanders, that's okay—simply notice it, repeat the phrase, and return your focus. After the silence, invite someone from the group to close in prayer.

READ OUT LOUD AS A GROUP: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-28

ICEBREAKER - The Hebrew word “Dayenu” means “It would have been enough” and is a central theme in the Jewish Passover celebration, expressing gratitude for each step of God’s deliverance. It reminds us to reflect on God’s faithfulness, acknowledging that every blessing, large or small, is more than enough reason for thanksgiving.

As we enter into thanksgiving week, take some time to share the ways God has been faithful in our lives, thanking Him for His “over and above” grace and goodness.

Q1 - Before reading 1 Thessalonians, what would you have said the will of God is? What does it mean to operate in the will of God by rejoicing always and praying continually?

Q2 - “God’s will is more about the state of your soul than the results of your decisions”. How is your soul right now?

Q3 - Which gospel are you living under: the “self-help gospel” or the “King Jesus Gospel”? In what ways have you seen these two gospels play out in your life?

• Self-help gospel says, “Will yourself to the end; you can do it.”
• King Jesus Gospel says, “Get to the end of yourself; He will do it.”

‍GUIDED PRAYER:
The process of surrender often begins with prayer. Here are two specific prayers that help us move from self-help to dependence on King Jesus.

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Prayer 1: “I can’t do this.”

• Read verse 24 again: “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
• What specific areas of your life feel too heavy for you to handle right now?
• How does this verse encourage you to bring your limits to God in prayer?

‍Prayer 2: “I’m not going to make it.”

• Reflect again on verse 24: “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
• When have you felt like giving up?
• How can this verse reshape your perspective on perseverance through God’s power?

Q4 - As we close out the “King Jesus Gospel” series, what has stood out to you the most?

CHALLENGE:
‍FEAST with your community group!

RESOURCES:
‍The King Jesus Gospel by Scot McKnight
The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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