Bold Faith [Lack Of Faith] Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon explores the concept of bold faith through the story of Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4:35-41), Thomas's doubt (John 20:24-29), and how Sarah’s faith was renewed after she doubted (Genesis 18:1-2, 9-15).

Jonathan emphasizes that God is greater than any storm we face in life, whether literal or metaphorical. The sermon illustrates how our perception of God shapes how we view our circumstances, and that true faith means trusting God even when we can't see or understand what's happening.


Intro Prayer
Lord, as we gather to discuss Your word, open our hearts and minds to understand what it means to have bold faith. Help us to see beyond our circumstances and focus on You. Guide our discussion and help us learn to trust You more deeply, even in the storms of life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker
Can you share a time when you had to trust someone else's judgment even though you couldn't understand the situation yourself?

Key Verses

• Mark 4:35-41
• John 20:24-29
• Philippians 1:6
• Isaiah 55:8-9
• Romans 8:28
• Genesis 18:1-2, 9-15
• Hebrews 11:11

Questions

• What does it mean to have faith when you can't see or feel God's presence?
• How do you typically respond when facing storms in your life?
• Why do you think the disciples were afraid even though Jesus was in the boat with them?
• How does God's perspective differ from our human perspective during difficult times?
• What are some things people commonly put their faith in besides God?
• How can we shift our focus from our circumstances to God during challenging times?
• What does this sermon teach us about God's response to our doubts and fears?
• How can we help others maintain their faith during difficult seasons?

Life Application
This week, identify one situation in your life that's causing you anxiety or fear. Practice intentionally shifting your focus from the circumstances to God's promises. Each time you feel overwhelmed, pause and remind yourself of God's power over your situation.

Key Takeaways

• God's purpose is bigger than your storm
• God's perspective is bigger than your storm
• God's intervention is bigger than your storm
• God's determination is bigger than your storm
• God's lesson is bigger than your storm
• Jesus is not afraid of your lack of faith
• As long as you are looking at the circumstances of what is happening to you, you will find yourself sliding into unbelief because the answer isn’t there
• Faith is restored as you take your eyes off the circumstances and storms that are raging around you, and put your focus onto the living God, the LORD, for whom nothing is impossible.
• True faith means trusting God even when we can't see or understand

Ending Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are greater than any storm we face. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You rather than our circumstances. Give us the courage to trust You even when we can't see the way forward. Strengthen our faith and help us to remember that nothing is impossible with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.