Bold Faith [A Touch Of Faith] Discussion Guide

Summary
In this sermon, Jonathan concludes a series on bold faith by examining the connection between our words and our hearts. Using the story of the woman with the issue of blood from Mark 5, he highlights how Jesus intentionally asked who touched Him not because He didn't know, but to give the woman an opportunity to publicly confess her faith. Jonathan emphasizes that when we truly believe something in our hearts, it naturally comes out in our words, drawing from 2 Corinthians 4:13 and Romans 10:9.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word today, we thank You for the powerful connection between our faith and our words. Open our hearts to understand how our speech reflects what we truly believe. Help us to be bold in our faith, not just believing in our hearts but also speaking out with confidence. Guide our conversation today and reveal to each of us what You want us to learn about speaking life into our situations and the lives of others. In Jesus' name, amen.

Ice Breaker
Share about a time when you were so excited about something new in your life (like a purchase, achievement, or good news) that you couldn't help telling everyone about it.

Key Verses

• 2 Corinthians 4:13
• Romans 10:9
• Mark 5:24-34
• Proverbs 18:21
• Psalm 118:17

Questions

• Jonathan mentioned that 'what comes out of our mouth is a reflection of what's in our hearts.' How have you seen this principle at work in your own life?
• In the story of the woman with the issue of blood, why do you think Jesus wanted her to publicly acknowledge what had happened rather than just letting her walk away healed?
• Romans 10:9 says, 'If you openly declare that Jesus is your Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.' How does this verse connect our inner beliefs with our outward confession?
• The sermon highlighted that 'when God's doing something for you, it's not just for you.' Can you share an example of how God used your testimony to help someone else?
• Proverbs 18:21 states that 'the tongue can bring death or life.' What are some practical ways we can be more intentional about speaking life rather than death?
• What makes it difficult sometimes to speak openly about our faith or what God has done in our lives?
• Jonathan quoted Psalm 118:17: 'I will not die. Instead, I will live to tell what the Lord has done.' How might this verse encourage someone going through a difficult season?
• How might our church community grow stronger if we were all more willing to share our testimonies of God's work in our lives?

Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to intentionally speak life in two ways: First, identify one area in your own life where you've been speaking negative words or doubt, and replace those words with declarations of faith based on Scripture. Second, share with at least one person a specific testimony of something God has done in your life. Notice how speaking out your faith not only strengthens your own belief but potentially impacts others as well.

Key Takeaways

• When we truly believe something in our hearts, it naturally comes out in our words.
• Jesus often gives us opportunities to publicly confess our faith, which benefits both us and others who hear.
• Our words have the power to bring either life or death to situations and relationships.
• Sharing our testimony of what God has done in our lives can help others who are going through similar struggles.
• Speaking out in faith is not just about positive thinking but about aligning our words with what we truly believe about God.

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us of the power of our words and how they reflect what's truly in our hearts. Help us to be people who speak life, who boldly confess our faith in You, and who share with others the amazing things You've done in our lives. Give us courage when we're hesitant and humility when we speak. May our testimonies draw others to You and bring encouragement to those who need it. We commit to being more intentional with our words this week, speaking life and truth in every situation. In Your powerful name we pray, amen.