Elevate Part 3 SMALL GROUP STUDY GUIDE
Summary
In this sermon from the 'Elevate' series, Pastor explores the fundamental question of why we exist on Earth. He emphasizes that before we can move to our next level in God, we must understand our basic purpose. The pastor outlines several key reasons for our existence: to glorify God in worship, to have a relationship with Him, to reflect His image, to exercise dominion on Earth, to participate in God's redemptive story, and to enjoy God forever. He challenges the congregation to move beyond mere survival mode and embrace their God-given authority and purpose.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss the purpose You've created us for, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to Your truth. Help us to see beyond our current circumstances and understand the greater calling You have placed on our lives. May this discussion draw us closer to You and to one another. Guide our conversation and help each person to receive exactly what You want them to learn today. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have dinner with any person from history (besides Jesus), who would you choose and what one question would you ask them?
Key Verses
Isaiah 43:7
Genesis 1:27-28
Matthew 28:19
1 Timothy 2:3-4
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Questions
In this sermon from the 'Elevate' series, Pastor explores the fundamental question of why we exist on Earth. He emphasizes that before we can move to our next level in God, we must understand our basic purpose. The pastor outlines several key reasons for our existence: to glorify God in worship, to have a relationship with Him, to reflect His image, to exercise dominion on Earth, to participate in God's redemptive story, and to enjoy God forever. He challenges the congregation to move beyond mere survival mode and embrace their God-given authority and purpose.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss the purpose You've created us for, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to Your truth. Help us to see beyond our current circumstances and understand the greater calling You have placed on our lives. May this discussion draw us closer to You and to one another. Guide our conversation and help each person to receive exactly what You want them to learn today. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have dinner with any person from history (besides Jesus), who would you choose and what one question would you ask them?
Key Verses
Isaiah 43:7
Genesis 1:27-28
Matthew 28:19
1 Timothy 2:3-4
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Questions
- The pastor mentioned that many Christians don't know why they're here in the first place. Before today's discussion, how would you have answered the question 'Why am I on Earth?'
- How does understanding that you were created for God's glory change your perspective on everyday activities and challenges?
- The sermon emphasized that we have authority and dominion on Earth. In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more of this God-given authority?
- The pastor challenged the 'que sera sera' (whatever will be, will be) mentality. Where in your life might you have been passively accepting circumstances rather than standing in your God-given authority?
- When was the last time you shared your faith or led someone to Christ? What makes this difficult for you?
- How does knowing you're part of God's redemptive story affect how you view your daily interactions with others?
- The pastor mentioned that 'as long as you have breath, you have purpose.' How does this statement encourage or challenge you in your current season of life?
- What practical steps can you take this week to better align your life with God's purposes as outlined in this message?
Life Application
This week, take time to reflect on the six purposes mentioned in the sermon (glorifying God, having relationship with Him, reflecting His image, exercising dominion, participating in redemption, and enjoying God). Choose one area where you feel God is calling you to grow. Write down three specific actions you can take to step into this purpose more fully. Each day, pray specifically about this purpose and ask God to show you opportunities to fulfill it. At the end of the week, journal about how focusing on this purpose has changed your perspective or actions.
Key Takeaways
This week, take time to reflect on the six purposes mentioned in the sermon (glorifying God, having relationship with Him, reflecting His image, exercising dominion, participating in redemption, and enjoying God). Choose one area where you feel God is calling you to grow. Write down three specific actions you can take to step into this purpose more fully. Each day, pray specifically about this purpose and ask God to show you opportunities to fulfill it. At the end of the week, journal about how focusing on this purpose has changed your perspective or actions.
Key Takeaways
- We were created primarily to glorify God in all aspects of our lives.
- God has delegated authority to believers to exercise dominion on Earth, not just passively accept circumstances.
- Our purpose extends beyond personal salvation to participating in God's redemptive work in the world.
- Understanding our fundamental purpose is essential before we can move to our next level in God.
- As long as we have breath, we have purpose - age or circumstances don't diminish our calling.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, thank You for creating us with purpose and meaning. We are humbled to know that You designed us to glorify You, to reflect Your image, to exercise authority, to participate in Your redemptive work, and to enjoy relationship with You forever. Forgive us for the times we've lived small, focused only on survival rather than Your kingdom purposes. This week, help us to stand in the authority You've given us and to recognize opportunities to fulfill our calling. May we not just take up space but truly represent Your kingdom in everything we do. Give us courage to share Your love with others and wisdom to steward the gifts and responsibilities You've entrusted to us. In Jesus' name, amen.
Lord God, thank You for creating us with purpose and meaning. We are humbled to know that You designed us to glorify You, to reflect Your image, to exercise authority, to participate in Your redemptive work, and to enjoy relationship with You forever. Forgive us for the times we've lived small, focused only on survival rather than Your kingdom purposes. This week, help us to stand in the authority You've given us and to recognize opportunities to fulfill our calling. May we not just take up space but truly represent Your kingdom in everything we do. Give us courage to share Your love with others and wisdom to steward the gifts and responsibilities You've entrusted to us. In Jesus' name, amen.