Dangerously Divided: Week 1
Rev. Pete Stearns begins a new series called Dangerously Divided: Conformed to the Pattern of This World. Through Paul’s letter to the Romans, we will explore how the Church today can and must learn to bring the light of Christ into our increasingly divided and divisive world.
1. Pete talked about three distinct divisions in the church of Rome. Take some time as a group to consider those divisions (below) and ask yourself where you see similarities and differences to the cultural divides we face today:
Culturally/Politically Divided – Jewish Christians vs. Roman Christians
Divided by Thought/Worldview – Jewish Christians engaged from a posture of privilege (chosen people of God) while Romans engaged from a posture of Power (status within the empire).
Divided by Actions and Behaviors – Jewish Christians were legalistic Torah-abiders while Roman Christians abused grace to justify their actions.
2. Read Romans 12:1-2. Think about these verses as you discuss the next two questions:
When you see this through a lens of the divisions the Roman church was facing what sticks out to you?
In our current season of division, what about this passage is convicting for you and your family?
3. Pete talked about being tuned to the music of the Spirit in our life. What does that mean to you? What do you think that might look like?
4. Read Romans 12:3-8. With this passage in mind, answer the next few questions:
Where are the gifts of God’s grace evident in your day-to-day life?
Now think about some people you might have conflict with or division with—maybe a friend, a family member, or someone in our church family. Are you actively looking for the demonstration of the gifts of God’s grace in their life? Or are you focused on your divisions?
How would it change the way you related with Christians that think/act/vote differently than you if you sought to keep your focus and attention on the evidence of God’s grace in their life?
5. Read Romans 11:33-36. Why is it so important for the church to take up a new posture in seeking peace amidst our faith division?
6. Take time to pray together that you would have softened hearts, that you would seek to be in tune with the grace and mercy of God in your lives, and that you would surrender yourselves to the peace of God.
