Small Church June 2, 2024

Conversation Guide for June 2, 2024

Becoming Present to God

While lighting a candle to remind you of God’s Presence, have someone read the candle prayer:

Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
You have called us out of darkness into light.
Open our eyes to your presence,
Open our ears to your call,
Open our hearts to your love.

AMEN

Becoming Present to One Another

Share a consolation (what you are most grateful for) and desolation (what you are least grateful for) from the past week.

As an introductory question, answer:

How have you seen physical healing portrayed in popular culture (movies, tv, etc.)?

In Conversation with the Word

Read Scripture

1 Corinthians 1:17-25
1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Romans 14:13-17

Watch the Video

Discuss

1. What are some of the major cultural and social divisions facing the Christian church today?
2. Can you think of any major differences from the past that seemed super important then, but less so now?
3. In your experience, around such divisions, who is thought of as weak and who is thought of as strong?
4. How do the texts identify weakness and strength?
5. What do you think it means to love Christians who don’t agree with you (or us) on particular issues?
6. How do you think stances and arguments sometimes become bigger than proclaiming Christ?
7. How should we be praying through differences of opinion?

Prayer and Blessing

As according to your particular small church practice, spend some time in prayer for one another and for the world.

Close with someone reading the blessing over you all as the candle is blown out.

May the Father of many resting places grant you rest;
May the Christ who stilled the storm grant you calm;
May the Spirit who fills all things grant you peace.
God’s light be your light,
God’s love be your love,
God’s way be your way.

AMEN