Community Group

READ ACTS 2:42-47

Leader: In Acts 2:42-47, we catch a glimpse of the vibrant life of the early Christian community, characterized by a deep commitment to seven foundational practices, and we've invited everyone to consider how they might grow in these practices and live them out daily, transforming our individual lives and collectively shaping the culture of our church community.

Devotion Church gets its name straight from Acts 2:42-47. Our commitment to God's Word grounds us in truth, guiding our journey of faith. Fellowship is more than a casual gathering; it's a shared life in Christ that reflects the depth of our relationships. Through prayer, we connect with God and are shaped by Him.

Breaking bread, a symbol of communion, unites us in Christ's sacrifice. Worship extends beyond Sunday services, reaching into every facet of our existence as we recognize and honor God's presence in our daily lives. Generosity flows from hearts transformed by the Gospel, embodying the selfless love modeled by Jesus.

Lastly, our practice of mission is to share the life-changing message of the Gospel through words and through our life.

As we discuss these practices tonight, let's explore how they can become natural rhythms in our lives, fostering a community that reflects the love and devotion witnessed in the early church. Consider this discussion a time of reflection and growth as we seek to embody these practices in our daily walk with Christ.

PRAY

THE PURPOSE OF SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES

Read Colossians 2:20-23:

Leader: "If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 'Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch' (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh."

Before adding daily practices, we must understand the limitations of human willpower in achieving spiritual transformation. On our own, we are unable to bring about true and lasting change. Willpower falls short; we need God’s grace. Spiritual disciplines serve as a means of positioning ourselves to be receptive to God's transformative work. These disciplines create a space in our lives for God to work.

The practices, in this view, are a way of aligning our hearts and minds with God's purposes, putting ourselves in a position to allow His transformative work to take place in our lives.

Without this view, there are many potential errors we might believe.

REFLECT

  1. In contemplating the role of spiritual disciplines in our lives, have you ever encountered challenges or hesitations? What are your thoughts on potential pitfalls like misunderstanding their purpose, pride, fear of legalism, lack of awareness, busyness, impatience, fear of failure, or an emphasis on externals? Reflect on how these factors might influence your approach to spiritual disciplines and whether they resonate with your own experiences or perceptions.

  2. When it comes to spiritual disciplines, which of these have you thought before? Are there any more error-filled thoughts you can think of?

  • I must do this in my own strength. (Self-reliance / not relying on God’s grace)

  • I’m better than everyone else because I practice…. (Pride)

  • I’m doing these practices so I can earn __ from God. (Legalism)

  • I’ve tried doing spiritual practices before and they didn’t “do” anything for me. (Impatience / instant gratification culture)

  • I know I’m going to fall short of expectations, so I’m reluctant to add daily spiritual disciplines to my life. (Fear of failure)

OUR SEVEN DAILY RHYTHMS: DISCUSS AND REFLECT

God’s Word

Reflect on your current engagement with God's Word. How does Scripture shape your daily routine?

Envision a consistent rhythm of interacting with Scripture. What practices or approaches resonate with you?

Challenge yourself to deepen your understanding and application of God's Word. In what areas can you stretch and grow? And how might you do it?

Prayer

How does prayer currently find its place in your daily life? Share your routine and experiences.

If you struggle to have a prayer routine, what has been the biggest barrier that stops you?

Envision a rhythm of prayer that feels organic and consistent for you. What might that look like?

In the realm of prayer in your life, where, how, or when do you feel most connected with God? Reflect on these sacred moments.

Fellowship

Reflect on the ways you currently experience community. Is it typically in big groups? Do you meet with someone regularly? We often desire to receive support, encouragement and discipleship, but are you also intentionally pouring out these things into others as well?

Envision what an intentional rhythm of Biblical fellowship might look like in your life. What activities, routines, or moments might be part of that rhythm?

Unfortunately we often wait for others to make the first move when it comes to fellowship. Consider how you can proactively foster deeper connections with fellow members. In what ways can you stretch yourself?

Breaking Bread (Communion)

Reflect on your current experience with communion. Do you understand its significance?

Think of intentional participation in communion as a regular rhythm. In approaching communion with reverence, what personal steps can you take? How might this deepen your spiritual connection when coming to the table and participating in communion? Share your reflections.

Worship

Consider how you currently express worship beyond formal services. How do you currently express worship in your daily life?

Describe a rhythm of worship that feels authentic and integral to your daily routine. What practices resonate with you?

Challenge yourself to make worship a more inherent part of your daily experience. In what ways can you stretch and grow?

Generosity

What might intentional generosity look like as a regular rhythm in your giving?

Generosity seems to be easy for some and difficult for others. Where are you on the scale and why do you think you’re there?

Envision intentional generosity as a regular rhythm. What impactful gestures or habits might you adopt?

How can we encourage and support each other in cultivating a generous heart?

Mission

Consider how you currently engage in sharing the gospel with others. What opportunities do you embrace?

Envision intentional mission and evangelism as a regular rhythm in your life. What creative approaches might resonate with you?

Challenge yourself to be more proactive in sharing the life-changing message of the Gospel. In what ways can you stretch and grow?