Welcome to The Branch Church! We're here to help each other grow as disciples of Jesus Christ. https://thebranch.org Sat, 16 Apr 2022 07:34:30 +0000 Sat, 16 Apr 2022 07:34:30 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Sermon-Based Bible Study – December 11, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s ser...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/12/09/bible-study-making-history-for-children Fri, 09 Dec 2022 08:29:20 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/12/09/bible-study-making-history-for-children

Sermon-Based Bible Study – December 11, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 18:1-10. How would you summarize what Jesus is teaching in this passage about how children should be viewed/treated? Is there anything about your attitude or behavior toward children that is inconsistent with what Jesus is teaching?
5. Read Matthew 19:13-14.  How would you summarize what Jesus is teaching in this passage about how children should be viewed/treated? Who are the disciples “rebuking” in this passage? How does this passage expand or refine what Jesus had said in Matthew 18:1-10?
6. Compare and contrast the way children were viewed/treated when you were a child and how children are viewed treated today? What changes in the way children are viewed/treated under the law, by educational institutions or by religious institutions have you seen in your lifetime?
7. What do you think it means to say that Jesus is calling those with children at home to “Christ-centered” parenting rather than “child-centered” parenting? What are some things parents typically do to encourage their children to orient their lives around Jesus? What are some things parents typically do that detract their children from orienting their lives around Jesus?
8. Read Malachi 2:2-4.  What does this passage suggest the coming of Jesus will do for parents and children? Have your experienced this the blessing of this promise with your parents? With your children? How does this promise impact your desire or ability to “bring your children to Jesus” for a blessing? What are some ways to bring your adult children to Jesus?
9. Read John 1:12.  Do you think of yourself as a child of God? Why? Do you truly consider that your core identity?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – November 20, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s ser...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/11/18/bible-study-chris-seidman-search-party Fri, 18 Nov 2022 06:44:41 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/11/18/bible-study-chris-seidman-search-party

Sermon-Based Bible Study – November 20, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you?
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling?
4. Read Luke 15:1-7. What does this parable teach you about the character and priorities of God? Do you identify more with the “99,” the “1” or the shepherd? Why?
5. Read Luke 15:8-10. How does this parable amplify/modify/refine what Jesus was teaching about the character and priorities of God in the parable of the lost sheep?
6. Read 2 Timothy 1:9-10 and 2:8-9. In ancient culture, the term “gospel” was used to describe a message of good news about an event that had happened that had implications for people’s lives. It’s not advice – it’s news.
   • But what specifically is such good news about Jesus?
   • What difference does Jesus make for us in how we live our lives, see the world and even ourselves?
   • What does it mean to say that Jesus has brought life and immortality to light?
   • What does it mean to say that Jesus has destroyed death?
7. Read John 1:4 and 10:10.  In what ways have you experienced the reality of the statement that Jesus has brought life and immortality to light? How has knowing Jesus changed your life? In what way are you flourishing because of Jesus?
8. Read Hebrews 2:14-15.  Jesus came so that we could experience life before the grave as well as life beyond it. Would you say you fear death? How does a person’s fear of death keep them from experiencing life this side of the grave?
9. Why is it important to remember that Jesus has destroyed death and brought life and immortality to life? How does remembering these things impact your willingness to share the gospel with others?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – November 13, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s ser...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/11/11/bible-study-chris-seidman-the-state-of-the-church-2022 Fri, 11 Nov 2022 09:33:10 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/11/11/bible-study-chris-seidman-the-state-of-the-church-2022

Sermon-Based Bible Study – November 13, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you?
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling?
4. Ecclesiastes 7:16 and Isaiah 40:18-19.  Do you find yourself longing for some things or ways of doing life that have gone away because of COVID? What are they? What are some other life events or world events that you have experienced that permanently changed the way you do things or experience life?  When it comes to your experience at The Branch Church do you find yourself longing for the “good ole days?” Why is that?
5. In seasons of transition, why do we need to be wary of drifting into nostalgia?  What danger does nostalgia pose for a person who is trying to grow as a disciple of Jesus?
6. Chris suggested two prayers to help guard against the downside of nostalgia, namely: “Father, help me to see where you are at work right now” and “Father, thank you for tomorrow.” Which resonates with you the most in light of your tendency to nostalgia? Why?
7. Read Isaiah 46:9-10 and Romans 15:4. When we are in a season of change, why do we need to be wary of drifting into amnesia?  What is particularly helpful about taking time to remember and reflect on God’s faithfulness in the past?
8. Is there something God did for you in the past that you regularly reflect on? Ask God to remind you of something He did for you in the past that you have not remembered for a long time.
9. Read 2 Timothy 2:8.  One of the dangers we face in seasons of transition is being tripped up by either nostalgia or amnesia? Which seems to be the biggest danger for you? Why? What is it about remembering the Gospel that helps us guard against the downsides of nostalgia and amnesia?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 23, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s serm...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/21/bible-study-hearing-god-voice-prompts Fri, 21 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/21/bible-study-hearing-god-voice-prompts

Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 23, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read John 10:1-6.  Part of recognizing or discerning the voice of God has something to do with knowing what to look for.  What would you say are the characteristics of God’s voice? What do you typically expect to hear when the Lord speaks, encouragement or conviction?  Which seems to be more characteristic of God to you? Why?
5. Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-3.  Why does God give the gift of prophesy? Are there people in your life that God has used to speak words of encouragement/strength/comfort you? Do you think of them as prophets? Why?
6. 1 Timothy 1:18-19.  Why is Paul encouraging Timothy to remember prophesies spoken over him?  Has there been a time in your walk with the Lord when your faith was shaken? What happened? What key memories do you go back to in times when you need encouragement or strength to keep the faith? 
7. Read Romans 12:6-8.  What difference, if any, is there between the gift of encouragement and the gift of prophesy?
8. Read Isaiah 30:21-22. One characteristic of the voice of God is that it convicts us of sin.  What is the difference between conviction and condemnation?  What does conviction encourage us to do or believe? What does condemnation encourage us to do or believe?
9. Read Hebrews 4:12-13. God’s voice is precise and penetrating when it comes to our thoughts and attitudes. Have you ever had a moment where God helped you see something in your heart (like greed, pride, envy, arrogance, etc.) that had been hidden from you for some time? Did that experience prompt you to run to God, or away from Him? 
10. Read 1 Corinthians 16:9.  When it comes to following God’s voice, what is your experience with encountering opposition? When you experience opposition as you follow God’s voice, does it make you doubt if you’ve heard HIs voice? Why?
11. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 16, 2022Hunter Wheatcraft – We Sweep the FloorsWhat is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/14/bible-study-hunter-wheatcraft-we-sweep-the-floors Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:20:20 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/14/bible-study-hunter-wheatcraft-we-sweep-the-floors

Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 16, 2022
Hunter Wheatcraft – We Sweep the Floors

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Luke 19:45-20:2.  What does this story tell you about the character and priorities of Jesus? 
5. Read 1 Peter 2:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 6:19. Do you think of your body as a temple? When it comes to thinking of your body as a temple, would you say it’s more like “a house of prayer” or “den of robbers?” Why? 
6. What does it mean to say that Jesus has authority over our bodies?  Do you struggle with the idea of Jesus having authority over your body as much as the religious leaders of Jesus’s day struggled with the idea of Jesus having authority over the Temple? Why?
7. Read Luke 20:9-18.  As you read this passage what stands out to you as particularly interesting/troubling/important?  What message do you think Jesus was trying to communicate through this parable? What does this parable teach you about the character and priorities of God?
8. Read Matthew 28:19-20. As time goes on the staff and programs at The Branch Church have changed and they will continue to change, but the King, the one in authority, and the mission of the kingdom does not change. Who is the King, and what is the mission of the kingdom? In what ways have you seen The Branch Church, or other congregations you have been a part of, lose sight of who is in authority or the mission of the kingdom? Why do you think that happens?  How can The Branch Church guard against it happening in the future?
9. Hunter challenged us to focus on two core ideas related to making disciples, - connection and community.  What did he mean by “connection?” What did he mean by “community?” Which do you feel you are better equipped to do, help others “connect” or help others develop deepen “community?” Why?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 16, 2022Ryan Rainey – The Other SideWhat is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did ...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/14/bible-study-ryan-rainey-the-other-side Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/14/bible-study-ryan-rainey-the-other-side

Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 16, 2022
Ryan Rainey – The Other Side

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Mark 4:35-41.  Have you ever been in a “storm” that made you fear for your life?  Have you ever been in a “storm” and got to the point of asking God, “don’t you care?”
5. Ryan said “Storm Theology” is what you believe about God when things go wrong.  When a crisis comes into your life, is God good or bad for allowing it to happen? When you pray during the storm, do you see God as caring or uncaring based on how He answers? How would you describe your “Storm Theology?”
6. Storms can cause you to doubt God. Storms can teach you about God. How you react to your storm reveals what you believe about God. What is your storm? Where is your faith now? How would your prayers be different if you believe something like, “Jesus was a good man, a great teacher, but not divine?”
7. Read 1 Peter 5:6-7.  Peter is writing to people who are suffering, people who are “in a storm.”  What does this passage suggest that our “Storm Theology” should be?  Where do you see Peter’s experience (as one of the people who feared for their lives while Jesus was asleep in the boat) reflected in this passage? 
8. Which of the three suggestions Ryan made to help you “cast all your anxiety on him” (Choose to trust that He is with you; Go to His Word; or Talk with someone you trust that is a disciple of Jesus) have you tried before?  Which is something you have never/rarely tried?  Why?
9. When you are in a storm, which passages of scripture do you read/meditate on to help you choose to trust that God is with you?  When you are in a storm are you more likely to go the Bible, or to a friend to help you weather the storm?  Why?  Is it easier for you to share your anxiety with God through prayer, or a friend?  Why? Of the three things Ryan suggested, which do you see as most important?  Why
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 9, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermo...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/07/bible-study-hearing-god-the-voice-in-the-wasteland Fri, 07 Oct 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/10/07/bible-study-hearing-god-the-voice-in-the-wasteland

Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 9, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read 1 kings 18:1 - 19:18 and James 5:17. 
   • What do you see Elijah doing that makes you think he is no ordinary human being? What do you see Elijah doing that reveals that he is a typical human being?
   • Chris has talked about various ways we hear from God (scripture, audible voice, thoughts, impressions, circumstances, other people, dreams/visions, etc.)
     • What are some ways you think Elijah was hearing God’s voice?
     • Which of the things you see Elijah doing in these two chapters do you think were done in obedience to his hearing from God? Which do you think were motivated by his own voice or the voice of Satan? 
     • Do you think God wants to dictate to us everything we do? Why?
   • James seems to be encouraging us to understand that we can pray just like Elijah. Do you think we can also hear from God like Elijah did?  Why?
5. Read 1 Kings 19:13-14.  Chris mentioned that the voice of God will often come in the form of questions to help us to discover/consider the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts. Has it ever occurred to you that God might actually be the one who prompted you to ask yourself a soul searching question? How might God asking, “What are you really concerned about?” or “Why do you want Me to do that for you?” be the best thing you could hear from Him?
6. Read Psalm 139:23.  What lie was Elijah believing?  Have you ever prayed for God to reveal any lies you were believing; or to disclose any false assumptions you might be operating under?  Has God ever spoken to you in such a way that it revealed a lie you were believing; or a false assumption you were operating under?
7. Chris mentioned that the voice of God will speak/minister to us in solitude, but it won’t leave us there. We will be lead back to people to either minister to them, receive ministry from them, or be in partnership in ministry with them.  What is your experience with hearing God’s voice in solitude that lead you into community?
8. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 2, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermo...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/30/bible-study-hearing-god-voice-lessons Fri, 30 Sep 2022 09:43:56 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/30/bible-study-hearing-god-voice-lessons

Sermon-Based Bible Study – October 2, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris talked about learning to distinguish between three voices that routinely seek to influence how we think, speak and behave, namely: Satan’s voice, the Savior’s voice and our own voice.  Is the idea of normal people hearing Satan either audibly, or through a thought or impression, something new to you? Have you ever considered that you are “hearing” from Satan when you are being tempted? What percentage of your thoughts or impressions would you attribute to each of the three voices?
5. Matthew 4:1-10.  When you read this episode in Jesus’s life do you think of the Devil as being physically present to Jesus and speaking to Jesus audibly?  Do you imagine that the Devil is somehow communicating with Jesus through thoughts or impressions? Which way seems to be more tempting? Why?
6. Read Matthew 16:21-23. Is the idea of Satan speaking to you through other people new to you? Do you think the Savior speaks to you through others?  When someone suggests something to you that you believe is evil or ill-advised do you think they are being influenced by Satan to say that to you? Why do you think Jesus was so quick to attribute Peter’s words to Satan?
7. Read 2 Corinthians 11:14 and John 10:27.  Do you ever find it difficult to discern whether what you are “hearing” is coming from Jesus, Satan or yourself?  Chris suggested that we can distinguish the three voices by their quality, spirit and content.  Which voice (Satan’s, the Savior’s, or your own) is the easiest for you to recognize? Why?
8. When it comes to the quality of the Savior’s voice, Dallas Willard described it as authoritative.  E. Stanley Jones said it doesn’t argue or try to convince, it just speaks and is self-authenticating. How are those qualities different than the quality of Satan’s voice? How are tose qualities different than your own voice?
9. Read James 3:17-18.  Do you think this is a good way of describing the “spirit” of the Savior’s voice? Why?  How would you describe the spirit of Satan’s voice? Your own voice?
10. How does the content of what you are hearing help you to discern whether the voice you are hearing is the Savior’s voice or Satan’s voice or your own voice?
11. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 25, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s se...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/23/bible-study-hearing-god-when-there-s-silence-on-the-other-end Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:19:04 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/23/bible-study-hearing-god-when-there-s-silence-on-the-other-end

Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 25, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Psalm 22:1-2.  Jesus echoes the sentiment of the Psalmist when he is on the cross and essentially quotes these verses.  Has God ever gone silent on you?  Have you ever felt like God has abandoned you, or turned His back on you?  What comfort do you get from knowing that others have had the same experience?  Do you equate God’s “silence” with Him being disappointed or displeased with you? 
5. Read Hebrews 11:6.  On a scale of 1 – 10, how would you rate your level of expectation of hearing from God: with 1 being “I have no expectation of ever hearing from God;” and 10 being “I anticipate that God has something important to say to me at almost every moment of the day.” Why would you put your expectation of hearing God at that level?
6. Read John 10:2-4.  Would you say it’s easier for you to recognize the voice of the evil one or the voice of God?  Why?  If someone were to ask you what the voice of God sounds like, how would you answer? What could you do to increase your recognition of God’s voice?
7. Read Luke 8:14.  On a scale of 1 – 10, how would you rate your level of distraction when it comes to hearing from God: with 1 being “I have nothing in my life that distracts me from hearing from God;” and 10 being “I’m so distracted by my pursuit of riches and cares of this world that I couldn’t hear God’s voice if was thunder.” Why? What could you do to eliminate some distractions in your life so you could hear God’s voice more clearly?
8. Read Isaiah 58:2-9a.  How much of your time, energy effort or money to you spend on advocating for or providing for the least and the lost?  What might it mean if you are not aware of any situation involving others that requires or could benefit from your involvement, care and concern?
9. When it comes to hearing God’s voice, what does it mean to say, “Hearing nothing does not mean that nothing is happening? What does it mean to say, “God can be silent, but still present?”  Do you find comfort or encouragement from either of those sentiments?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 18, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s se...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/16/bible-study-hearing-god-interference Fri, 16 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/16/bible-study-hearing-god-interference

Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 18, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris mentioned that two of the greatest lies the enemy tries to sell us are the Lord won’t speak to me because: (1) I’m not important enough; or (2) I’m not worthy enough.  Have you ever bought either of those lies? 
5. Read James 1:18.  In what way is being born again proof that you really can hear Him?  How does being born again counter the lies of the enemy that you are not important enough or worthy enough? Have you ever been convicted of sin and truly sorrowful? What do you think caused the conviction?  Was it the result of hearing God? In what way is the phrase, “Let your conscience be your guide” different than the phrase “listen to God and obey?” In what way are they the same? 
6. Read James 1:19.  How does anger affect your desire to listen to God or others?  How does it affect your capacity to listen?  In your experience does listening help you slow down or even keep from becoming angry?  How?
7. In Matthew 11:29 Jesus describes himself as meek and humble.  What is the connection between listening and humility? 
8. Read James 1:21.  What are some things this passage suggests will make it more difficult to hear and discern God’s voice? Are there other things you’ve discovered that interfere with hearing and discerning God’s voice? What would you say is the greatest source of interference for you when it comes to hearing God?
9. Read James 1:22-27.  How would you describe the difference between “hearing” and “listening?”  What is implied when you ask a child “Did you hear what I said?” What are some things you have done, or stopped doing, because of what God has said to you through scripture? Are there things you are doing, or not doing, that are contrary to what God has said to you?  
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 11, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s se...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/09/bible-study-hearing-god-impressions-and-inner-voice Fri, 09 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/09/bible-study-hearing-god-impressions-and-inner-voice

Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 11, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Isaiah 55:1-12
   • What are some of the things vs. 2 and 6-7 of this passage suggest that the children of Israel were doing, or not doing, that kept them from hearing God? Is there anything in your life God may be working to help you overcome so you can hear him better?
   • What are some of the blessings or benefits vs. 2-3 and 11-12 suggest we experience when we listen to God?  Do you have first-hand experience with any of these benefits?  Do you know anyone who desperately needs to hear from God and receive some of these blessings?
5. Read 2 Corinthians 8:16. Have you ever heard someone use the phrase “God put it on my heart?”  Does it surprise you that that phrase is rooted in scripture? Has God ever “put something on your heart?”  Do you think of those kinds of experiences as times when God is speaking to you?  Why?  Do you think of impressions like that as commands or directives from God?  Why?
6. Read Ezra 7:27.  This passage refers to an occasion where God is influencing or speaking to a “pagan” king.  Does that surprise you?  Do you think the king had the freedom to ignore this message from God? 
7. Read Ezekiel 14:1-4.  Chris talked about the “inner voice” as being something we hear in our heart or mind, not with our ears.  Has God ever spoken to your heart/mind? 
8. Chris suggested one of the ways we can “test” the inner voice to help us discern if it is from God would be to consider whether it is “out of character” for us.  What does that mean? Is suggestion helpful for you in regard to discerning whether the inner voice is God speaking to you?
9. Read Romans 8:14-16.  What does this passage have to say about whether God speaks to us through an “inner voice?”  What does it have to say about how we discern what God wants us to understand and whether it is from Him?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 4, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s ser...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/02/bible-study-hearing-god-dreams-and-visions Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/09/02/bible-study-hearing-god-dreams-and-visions

Sermon-Based Bible Study – September 4, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris mentioned several occasions in scripture where the audible voice of God is associated with a weird or unusual occurrence (burning bush – Duet. 3:3-4; whirlwind – Job 38:1; bright cloud – MT 17:5; and blinding light – Acts 9:3-4).  Why might God use occasions like these to speak rather than to just speak “out of the blue?”
5. Read Acts 2:17.  This passage says that one manifestation of God pouring out His Spirit on us will be dreams and visions.  Has God ever spoken to you through a dream or a vision?  Do you know someone who has heard God through a dream or a vision? 
6. Read Acts 10:1-16.  What differences do you notice between the two visions in this passage?  How are the people who receive the visions different?  How are they the same?  Are both people who receive the visions in the same state of consciousness when they receive the visions?  Why might God have repeated the vision Peter received three times?
7. Chris observed that visions: often occur during a season of prayer; the point is usually to direct the person toward Jesus; and typically are precursors to a season of difficulty/challenge for the person receiving them.  How do you see these observations playing out in the visions referenced in Acts 10?  Why might it be good to know these things are often true when God is speaking to us through visions?
8. When it comes to dreams, Chris suggested that we should “welcome them but weigh them.”  What does that mean?  What are some questions we should consider that would help us “weigh” a dream we believe God is using to speak to us?  Besides asking questions what other practical steps could we take to “weigh” a dream?
9. Read Numbers 12:6-8.  Which seems more likely to you; a person who hears from God is puffed up and proud that God spoke them; or a person is humbled that God spoke to them?  Why might a person become puffed up or prideful after they hear from God?  Have you ever been jealous of another person who seemed to hear from God more than?  Why?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 28, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermo...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/26/bible-study-hearing-god-can-you-hear-him-now Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/26/bible-study-hearing-god-can-you-hear-him-now

Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 28, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris mentioned four ways scripture reveals that God communicates with us: (1) creation, (2) other people, (3) circumstances/events, and (4) angels.  Which, if any, of those ways has God used to communicate with you?  Can you think of other ways scripture reveals that God communicates with us? Make a list of all the different ways God communicated to people in Scripture. 
5. Read Romans 1:20 and Psalm 19:1-4.  What are some things that creation communicates to you about the Creator?  Has God ever communicated something particular to you through creation?
6. Read 1 Corinthians 12:7-8.  Has God ever spoken to you through another person?  Do you think God has ever used you to communicate a message to another person?
7. Read Acts 16:6-10.  In this passage Luke records a past experience and is able to see that it was the Spirit that was preventing Paul from entering Asia.  Do you think in the moment it was happening that Paul was aware that he was being blocked by the Spirit of God?  Have circumstances ever hindered your efforts to do something for God?  What, if anything, do you think God was trying to communicate to you through that experience? 
8. Read Hebrews 13:1-2.  In Hebrews 1:14, the writer says that angels are “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.”  Has God ever communicated to you, or someone you know, through an angel?  Have you ever shown hospitality to a stranger thinking the person might be an angel?
9. Does it seem reasonable to you that a person might be unaware of times when God is trying to communicate with them?  Why? 
10. Chris suggested three things we can do that will help us to discern what God is trying to communicate to us through creation, others, circumstances or angels: (1) keep Jesus at the center; (2) consult Scripture; and (3) process with other believers.  Which of these has been the most beneficial for you in the past?  Why?  Which needs to be improved?
11. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 21, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermo...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/19/bible-study-hearing-god-the-word-above-all-words Fri, 19 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/19/bible-study-hearing-god-the-word-above-all-words

Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 21, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris mentioned that hearing the voice of the Lord sometimes reveals who He is to us, and who we are to Him.  Have you ever received a word from the God that was a revelation to you about His character and priorities? About His love for you?  Sometimes hearing God leads us to love, bless, or serve another person in a particular way.  Have you ever received a word from God like called you to love, bless or serve another in a specific way?
5. Read Hebrews 1:1-5. 
   • Since all things were made through Jesus, have you ever considered that the things that confound, mystify or frustrate you about life on earth could in fact be opportunities for you to inquire of the Lord?  What if He’s saying, “Hey, ask me about that?”
   • What are some things you might infer, know or conclude from the fact that Jesus is the “radiance of God’s glory, the exact representation of His being?”
   • When it comes to hearing God, what difference does it make that Jesus has once and for all provided purification for our sins?
6. Read Hebrews 3:1.  What does this passage suggest we can do to improve our capacity to hear God?  What are some practical ways that have helped you to “fix your thoughts on Jesus?”
7. Read Hebrews 3:7-13.  This passage suggests that the condition of our hearts is an important factor when it comes to heeding God’s voice. What makes your heart “hard?” What would be a good way for you to keep your heart tender? Looking back, do you think there may have been times in your life when God was speaking to you, but you ignored it? Why did you ignore Him?
8. Encouragement literally means to “put heart into” someone.  In Hebrews 3:12-13, encouraging one another means to help each other have the heart to listen for His voice and follow it.  Do you have someone who puts the heart into you to seek God? Do you do that for others?
9. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 14, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermo...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/12/bible-study-hearing-god-no-strings-attached Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/08/12/bible-study-hearing-god-no-strings-attached

Sermon-Based Bible Study – August 14, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Chris mentioned that “it’s only the genuine that’s counterfeited.” People genuinely hear God speak. Others “counterfeit” the genuine experience of hearing from God as a way to manipulate or fit in. Does the argument that Chris made seem reasonable to you?  Why? 
5. Read John 10:3-16.  What is the connection between why Jesus came as revealed in v.10 and listening to Him? What stands out to you from this passage in regard to hearing from God? What is it in this passage that gives you the most hope?  Are there any questions raised by this passage that you would like to hear addressed in the coming weeks?
6. Chris identified four common beliefs/attitudes of people who dismiss the idea of hearing God.  Which of them best describes why you may have discounted the idea of God speaking to you?  Why?  Did you hear anything from the sermon that challenged that belief/attitude?
   • “God already told us everything we need to know in the Bible.”
   • “God wouldn’t speak to me because I’m not that important.”
   • “God wouldn’t speak to me because I’m not good enough.”
   • “How come I’ve never heard Him?”
7. What do you think it means to say, “If you want to hear God better – start with agreeing and submitting to what He’s already saying?”
8. One practical way to agree with and submit to what God is already saying is to read a portion of the gospels where Jesus is speaking. Before reading, simply say, “Jesus is Lord. I only want to hear from the Spirit that says Jesus is Lord.” Then read until something sticks out to you.  Then ask, “Lord what are you saying to me?”  Then see what comes to mind and write it down. Is this something you would be willing to do each day this week and then tell someone else about the experience?
9. Do you think it is good advice for those who want to hear God better to “Seek to hear from God with no strings attached?”  Why?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 26, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon ...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/24/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-practice Fri, 24 Jun 2022 09:49:23 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/24/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-practice

Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 26, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 7:13-27.  In this passage, Jesus paints four pictures or contrasts:
   • Narrow and Wide Gates (Matthew 7:13-14)
   • True and False Prophets (Matthew 7:15-20)
   • True and False Disciples (Matthew 7:21-23)
   • Wise and Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-27)
5. Chris argued that each of these pictures is really illustrating one main point.  What is that?  Do you agree? Why?
6. What is it about the teaching of Jesus that is “narrow?”  What choice do you think Jesus was encouraging people to make when he advised them to enter through the narrow gate?  Is that choice a “once and done” kind of thing?
7. How does Jesus say you can tell if someone is a false prophet?  How might that be related to choosing between the wide and narrow gates?  What “fruit” do you evaluate to determine if someone is a “false prophet?”
8. Which of the many things that Jesus teaches us to do in the Sermon on the Mount do the false disciples point to as proof they should be admitted into heaven?  Would you consider prophesying, exorcisms and miracles “fruit?” Why? Do you think the people listening to Jesus had a clear idea of what it meant to do the will of the Father in heaven?  Do you?
9. Jesus says the wise builder is the one who puts His teachings into practice.  Which of Jesus’s teachings in the Sermon on the Mount have you spent the most time and effort “practicing?”  Which have you not practiced at all?  Do you have a coach or a training partner that helps you practice any of Jesus’s teachings?  Why?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 19, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon ...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/17/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-intervention Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/17/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-intervention

Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 19, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 7:1-5.  Have you ever had a speck of sawdust in your eye?  Did someone have to point it out to you?  If you’ve ever had a speck of sawdust in your eye, what was your highest priority?  Why do you think Jesus chose a metaphor using the eye instead of something less sensitive like your mouth or chin? (“Don’t try to wipe the spot mustard off the corner of your neighbor’s mouth until you have first washed off the chocolate sauce covering your entire chin”)
5. Do you think Jesus is saying that if we don’t judge others God won’t judge us?  Do you think people who quote Jesus as saying - “judge not lest ye be judged,” are in essence judging/condemning someone else for making a judgment? Do you think people who quote Jesus in this way think that everything Jesus said is authoritative?  Do you? 
6. Read Matthew 7:15-16; and 18:15.  Chris argued that Jesus was not teaching that we should never judge, but that our motive for judging/evaluating others should be restoration not condemnation.  Is it easier for you to have your heart in the right place when you are judging/evaluating people who are close to you, or people who are essentially strangers?  Why?  How is what Jesus is teaching here like an intervention?
7. Read Galatians 6:1 and James 5:19.  Are these passages suggesting that you should not judge/evaluate at all? In what way to do these passages help to illuminate what Jesus was teaching when it comes to judging others? How do they speak to the heart behind the judgment/evaluation? What do you think Chris meant by saying we judge more in wrong ways than we do in right ways because when we judge people it’s more about us than it is about them? 
8. Read Matthew 7:6-12.  How do you see this passage connected to, and expanding/clarifying Jesus’s teaching on judging others?  How do you feel when someone else pushes their “pearls of wisdom” on you, when they think you need correction?  How might talking to God (asking, seeking and knocking) help you avoid pushing “pearls of wisdom” on another?
9. Before you judge/evaluate others, what questions does Matthew 7:12 suggest you might ask yourself? Are you willing to judged/evaluated by other believers that you trust? How might that be helpful?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 5, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon t...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/03/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-the-silver-lining Fri, 03 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/06/03/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-the-silver-lining

Sermon-Based Bible Study – June 5, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 6:19-21.  Jesus makes a connection between our hearts and our treasure.  What do you think Jesus meant by the terms “heart” and “treasure?”  How might a person “store up treasure in heaven?”  Would you say you are more intentional about storing up treasure on earth or in heaven?  Why?
5. Read Matthew 6:22-23.  How are these two verses related to the verses preceding them?  What are healthy eyes focused on? 
6. Read Matthew 6:24 and Luke 12:15.  What kind of freedom or power does having money facilitate?  Do you agree with Chris’s assessment that greed and materialism are like a virus that’s easy to catch but no one thinks they’ve caught it?  What kind of freedom or power does living in the kingdom of heaven facilitate?  Is affluence inconsistent with the kingdom life?  How do you manage the tension between storing up treasure on earth and storing up treasure in heaven?
7. Read Matthew 6:25-33.  What does our worry or anxiety about food, clothing and shelter say about our trust in God?  Do you ever find yourself trusting more in the blessing than the one who does the blessing; more in the provision than the provider?  Why?
8. When it comes to money, is there anything you’re anxious about that you need to lift up to your Father?
9. What evidence do you have in your life right now that would indicate that you are seeking the kingdom of heaven first?  What might it look like for you to seek first the kingdom with what you have this week?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 29, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon t...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/27/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-praying-for-reign Fri, 27 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/27/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-praying-for-reign

Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 29, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 6:9-13.  Do you ever use this prayer in your time alone with God?  Do you think Jesus intended for his disciples to use this prayer as a regular part of their daily prayers?  Does reciting the prayer seem very meaningful to you?  Does it seem shallow or trite? Why?
5. Chris said that in this model prayer, Jesus is teaching us to pray about: the love of God; the glory of God; the will of God; the care of God; the reconciliation of God; the transformation of God; and the deliverance of God. Do you regularly include all of these themes in your prayers? Which are you addressing the most often? Which least often? Does anything seems to be missing from this list of themes?
6. What, if anything, is significant to you about the absence of words like, I, me, mine from the prayer Jesus teaches us to pray?  Are those words common in your regular prayers?  How might it be helpful to be aware of how often we are using words like I, me and mine in our prayers?
7. Do you think Miraslov Volv, was right when he said, “It’s deeply hypocritical to pray for a problem that you are, in reality, unwilling to resolve?”  Have you ever found yourself praying for something you were in reality unwilling to resolve?  Why do you think there is such a negative reaction in our culture when they hear a politician or person in authority say to those who are suffering, “you are in our thoughts and prayers?”
8. What did Chris mean when he said, “this is not just a prayer to be prayed but a prayer to be lived?”  What do you think the African Proverb means that says – “When you pray, move your feet?” 
9. Think about one theme from this prayer that particularly resonates with you right now and share with your group a practical way you could live into it this week.
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 22, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon t...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/20/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-under-cover-operations Fri, 20 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/20/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-under-cover-operations

Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 22, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. We all deal with the powerful desire to impress others.  What is something you’ve done or acquired to try to impress others?
5. Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18.  Have you ever tried to impress other people by the beauty, frequency or length of your prayers?  Have you ever tried to impress other people with the amount or frequency of your giving to charity?  Have you ever tried to impress other people by the length or frequency of your fasts?  Which is worse – praying, giving and fasting with mixed motives or not praying, giving or fasting at all?  Why?
6. A common complaint about Christians is that they are hypocrites.  What do you think people who make that complaint mean by saying Christians are a bunch of hypocrites?  Why does Jesus call those who do their acts of righteousness to be seen by others hypocrites? Do you think Jesus is saying you should be perfect before you pray, give or fast?
7. Why do you think people tend to practice too much secrecy about all the wrong things such as our sin or our struggles and not enough secrecy when we do the right things?
8. Which audience have you been more mindful of recently, your Father or others?
9. Is there something to be done by you this week in secrecy or anonymity that will honor God and bless someone else?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 15, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon t...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/19/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-who-s-on-your-list Thu, 19 May 2022 16:19:39 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/19/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-who-s-on-your-list

Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 15, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 5:38-42. How do you typically respond:  When someone insults you?  When someone wants restitution because they believe you have wronged them?  When someone in authority over you requires you to do something unpleasant or time consuming? 
5. Can you think of any instances in Jesus’s life where he “turned the other cheek?”  “Settled matters quickly?” “Went the second mile?” 
6. Which is easier for you - to show grace to others by being willing to let go of your ego, by being willing to let go of your possessions, or being willing to let go of your time and energy? Which is most difficult?  Why? 
7. Read Matthew 5:43-48.  What stands out to you from this passage as the easiest thing to do?  What stands out as the most difficult thing to do? 
8. Do you have a literal list of enemies?  Do you know anyone who does?  What are some common ways people in our culture deal with their enemies?  How would you counsel a friend to act who was dealing with someone who was intentionally seeking to do them harm?
9. Do you think most people consider themselves God’s enemy or His friend?  Do you think most people think God feels about others the same way they do?  What do you think the people Jesus was preaching to believed about how God viewed/treated His enemies?  
10. Jesus calling us to be like God - God is loving and generous and sacrificial because of who He is and not because of who we (or His “enemies”) are.  How is it possible for us to be like God in regard to how we view/treat our enemies?
11. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 8, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon th...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/06/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-go-deep Fri, 06 May 2022 09:21:10 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/05/06/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-go-deep

Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 8, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 5:17-20.  Do you think the people were encouraged or excited when they heard Jesus say, “Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven?” Why?  Why might the people who heard Jesus say this have thought His teaching in this regard was radical?  Chris mentioned that radical is a word that comes from a Latin word – radix – which means “back to the root.”  In what sense is what Jesus is teaching in the Sermon on the Mount “back to the root?”
5. Read Matthew 5:21-30.  In this passage Jesus deals with two things (murder and adultery) that the Law of Moses addressed that on the surface seem pretty straight forward. What does it mean to say Jesus teaches a righteousness with depth?
6. What does Jesus seem to be saying is in the heart of a person who commits murder? How does a person who harbors or cultivates anger in their heart typically act toward others? Would you say you struggle with cultivating a heart of peace? What, if anything, is the significance of Jesus beginning his teaching about the righteousness of the Kingdom of Heaven with anger?
7. What does Jesus seem to be saying is the heart of a person who commits adultery?  What do you think Jesus is really saying about how to cultivate a heart of purity in this passage?
8. Read Matthew 5:31-31.  In this passage Jesus deals with two things (divorce and oaths) that the Law of Moses addressed.  What does it mean to say that Jesus teaches a righteousness with breadth?  How is the righteousness of the Kingdom of heaven different than righteousness of the Pharisees when it comes to divorce?  To truth telling? Does this teaching seem as radical as the teaching on anger or lust?  Why?
9. What does it mean to say that Jesus is teaching a righteousness that is by grace through faith in Jesus?  How is the first beatitude which says that those who are poor in spirit are blessed, related to the idea that the righteousness of the Kingdom of Heaven is by grace through faith in Jesus?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 1, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon th...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/29/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-salty Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/29/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-salty

Sermon-Based Bible Study – May 1, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 5:1-12.  Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a list of things you can count on as the Kingdom of God breaks into the world through Jesus. Which of the “beatitudes” gives you the most hope?  Is there one or more that puzzle or concern you? Why would Chris make a point to say, “what’s important to know is that this is not a list of things to do in order get blessed?” 
5. Have you ever treated the Beatitudes like a list of “attitudes” or “virtues” Jesus expected you to acquire or develop in order to be blessed?  Why might a person think Jesus was teaching something like that? Does this list include those who are typically considered fortunate or joyful? What is it about the Kingdom of Heaven that brings blessing or joy to you?
6. What does this list of Beatitudes say to you about the character and priorities of God?  Do you think Jesus’s teaching in this regard was surprising to those who heard it for the first time? Why? Is it surprising to you now?  Why? Are there any Beatitudes on the list that would be characteristic of those who were considered fortunate or joyful in the Roman “kingdom?” Are there any Beatitudes on the list that would be characteristic of those who are considered fortunate or joyful in the American “kingdom?”
7. Do you think Jesus begins the list of the Beatitudes with the most important one?  What might be the importance of embracing the first Beatitude when it comes to life in the Kingdom of Heaven?  What does it mean to say the Sermon on the Mount begins with a declaration of grace?
8. Read Matthew 5:13-16.  What’s the connection between what Jesus says in the Beatitudes and what He says here?
9. What does it mean for you to be salt and light in your context?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – April 24, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/22/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-beyond-easter Fri, 22 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/22/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-beyond-easter

Sermon-Based Bible Study – April 24, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 28:16-20.  When the resurrected Jesus met his disciples in Galilee, they worshipped Him but some doubted.  What role does faith play in worship?  Can you worship and doubt at the same time?  What do you think they doubted - Jesus’s identity? Their ability to carry out the mission? Their understanding of God’s purpose and plan in all this?
5. Jesus says that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him.  He is Lord over all.  If Jesus is Lord, what does that mean as a practical matter for you? Do you consider the things Jesus said about how to live, behave, relate to God or others to be suggestions? Commands?  Why?
6. Chris said Jesus pursues us to commission us, not condemn us.  What is the commission?  Do you consider being a disciple to be your primary purpose in life?  As a disciple, has your emphasis been more focused on understanding the teachings of Jesus or obeying them?  Why?
7. Dallas Willard defines a disciple of Jesus as “someone whose ultimate goal is to live their life the way Jesus would live if he were me.”  How does adding the words “if he were me” refine or improve on the mantra “what would Jesus do?” 
8. Chris said that a disciple is someone who makes disciples.  Is that a new thought to you?  Why?  Are you intentionally making disciples of Jesus?  We don’t have to go anywhere a long ways off to help make a disciple, we can do it right where we are. How does understanding that Jesus commissioned you to “make disciples as you’re going along” help you obey this command?
9. Chris pointed out that making disciples involves: (i) calling people’s attention to Jesus; (ii) baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and (iii) teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded. Do you think Chris was right when he said we are reluctant to call others to obey Christ’s teachings?  Why?  What’s the connection between the idea that Jesus is Lord and obedience? How is trusting in Jesus’s love for us helpful when it comes to obeying His teaching?
10. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

]]> Sermon-Based Bible Study – April 17, 2022What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What did you hear in this week’s sermon...]]> https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/16/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-easter-seals Sat, 16 Apr 2022 07:34:30 +0000 https://thebranch.org/blog/2022/04/16/bible-study-matthew-king-and-kingdom-easter-seals

Sermon-Based Bible Study – April 17, 2022

1. What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for? What is something you are celebrating? How have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this week?  
2. Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you? 
3. What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling? 
4. Read Matthew 27:52-66.  Why was the tomb of Jesus sealed and guarded?  Why do you think the religious leaders referred to Jesus as the “deceiver” in this passage?  What was the “first deception?”  The religious leaders knew Jesus had promised to rise on the third day. Do you think they knew he had predicted that they, the religious leaders, would hand him over to Rome to be crucified?
5. Read Matthew 28:1-10 and Romans 1:4.  What is the significance of the stone being rolled away as far as Rome is concerned?  What is the significance of the stone being rolled away for the women at the tomb?  .  What does the writer of the Roman letter believe is the significance of Jesus’ resurrection? 
6. Why would someone like C.S. Lewis argue that Jesus was either a liar, a lunatic or Lord?  What do the things Jesus said about his death and resurrection have to do with the argument? 
7. What does the resurrection of Jesus mean for you?  Does it make any difference to you in regard to how you understand or regard who He is?  Why?  Do you regard Jesus as one who is worthy of worship?  What impact does the resurrection of Jesus have in regard to how you view his teachings on the character and priorities of God?  His teaching on meaning of his death?  His teaching on how to live?  His teaching on the meaning of our deaths? 
8. What’s your seal? What is it that’s marked you? What is it that has a bit too much ownership of your life?  What is it that has a bit too much authority over your life? What is it that you’re stuck behind – that has you sealed in?  Jesus is in the business of breaking seals and allowing us to sit on top of what we used to be stuck behind as a testimony to His power.  What does it mean to let the resurrection power of Jesus have you?
9. What is a simple, next step you could take in obedience to what the Spirit is saying to you through this time in the Word?  Who would benefit, or be interested in hearing about what you’ve learned in this study? 

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