Know How To Apply God’s Word
Do you ever read the Bible but walk away unsure what to do with it? Or feel like you know Scripture but aren’t sure it’s actually changing anything? In this message, we explore how God’s Word was never meant to just inform us, but to transform us. Using the story of Philemon, Onesimus, and Paul, we learn how to move beyond information into application by asking three simple but powerful questions: What is Jesus saying to me? How does this make me feel? And what am I going to do with it? This sermon invites anyone who’s felt stuck, intimidated, or spiritually dry to rediscover the Bible as a living, active voice that meets us right where we are and calls us forward into real obedience, healing, and growth.
Philemon 1
Discussion topics
- HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word?
- What new insight did you gain from the story of Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus?
(Prompt discussion on Roman slavery, reconciliation, and Christian love.) - How does this short book help us better understand the character of God?
(Explore themes of forgiveness, intercession, and restoration.)
- What new insight did you gain from the story of Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus?
- HEART – How did it make you feel?
- What challenged or stirred something in you during this week’s message?
(Personal application — being asked to forgive, receive correction, or extend grace.) - Have you ever felt like Onesimus — afraid to return and unsure if you’d be accepted? (Let group members share personal stories of reconciliation or restoration.)
- What do you feel when you think about how Paul positioned himself between two people in conflict? (Reflect on the emotional weight of advocacy and grace.
- What challenged or stirred something in you during this week’s message?
- HANDS – What are you going to do with it?
- Is there a relationship in your life where God is asking you to be a Paul, Philemon, or Onesimus? (Challenge everyone to choose courage, forgiveness, or advocacy this week.)
- What specific action can you take this week to demonstrate gospel-driven love to someone in your world? (Think practical — text, coffee, write a note, open a conversation.)
- Who is someone you can disciple or invite into this kind of deeper Bible engagement with you?
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