In Pursuit: Continuing To Serve

Continuing to Serve: Preventing Spiritual Drift Across Generations
Small Group Discussion Guide based on Sermon by Tim Bach, 6/29/25

Opening Prayer:
Start with a moment of silence, then offer a prayer asking for guidance and understanding as the group explores the teachings of Joshua and applies them to their lives. Pray for open hearts and minds to God's word and for fruitful discussion.

Scripture Readings:
1. **Joshua 22:5**
2. **Joshua 23:6**
3. **Joshua 24:1-15**
4. **Judges 1:28**
5. **Judges 2:7, 10**
6. **Hebrews 2:1**
7. **Colossians 2:8**

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:

**1. Understanding Choices and Their Impact:**
   - Discuss how choices shape our lives and those around us.
   - **Question:** How have your past choices influenced where you are today, both positively and negatively?
   - **Question:** What are ways we can ensure our choices align with God's will?

**2. Generational Faith:**
   - Explore the importance of passing down faith.
   - **Question:** What practices have you found effective in sharing your faith with the next generation?
   - **Question:** How can we prevent the drift away from faith described in Judges 2:10?

**3. Cultural Influence vs. Biblical Conviction:**
   - Discuss the tension between cultural norms and biblical teachings.
   - **Question:** Can you identify a cultural norm that struggles with or contradicts biblical teachings?
   - **Question:** How do you safeguard your own beliefs against cultural pressures?

**4. Complacency in Prosperity:**
   - Consider the pitfalls of complacency when times are good.
   - **Question:** What are the dangers of taking God’s blessings for granted?
   - **Question:** How can we actively maintain a sense of gratitude and dependence on God during prosperous times?

**5. Personal Encounter with God:**
   - Reflect on the necessity of having a personal relationship with God.
   - **Question:** Share an experience where you felt a personal encounter with God.
   - **Question:** What steps can we take to ensure each generation has their own spiritual experiences?

Follow-Up Exercise:
- **Action Step:** Over the next week, encourage each group member to identify one area in their life where they need to make a choice aligned with God’s will. They should pray, read scripture related to that area, and seek counsel from a mature believer if necessary.

- **Journaling:** Have the members jot down reflections on how they can actively engage the next generation in faith-building activities or share their spiritual journey.

Closing Prayer:
Conclude with a prayer thanking God for the insights gained. Ask for strength and wisdom to make godly choices and to pass on faith to the next generation. Pray for protection against cultural drift and for a personal, continuous encounter with God for each participant.