Conversations with Jesus Week 10: The Centurion

Small Group Discussion Guide: 
Conversations With Jesus Week 10 - The Centurion

Opening Prayer
"Heavenly Father, we gather together today with open hearts and minds, seeking your wisdom and guidance. Thank you for the opportunity to learn from the faith of the centurion. May our discussion lead us closer to understanding your will and inspire us to deepen our faith in Jesus. Bless our conversation and help us to grow together in community. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."

Summary
This session focuses on the story of the Roman centurion whose faith in Jesus led to the healing of his servant. The centurion's humility and understanding of authority were remarkable, setting an example of faith that marveled even Jesus. Through this account, we explore the qualities of faith that transcend cultural and social boundaries and emphasize the importance of placing unwavering trust in Jesus.

Scripture Reading
- Matthew 8:5-13
- John 4:50
- Deuteronomy 18:18
- Isaiah 25:6-8
- James 4:6
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- Matthew 25:37-40
- John 14:1

Discussion Topics and Questions

1. Humility and Authority
   - How did the centurion demonstrate humility in his interaction with Jesus?
   - What can we learn from his understanding of authority?

2. Caring for Others
   - Discuss the examples of the centurion's care for his servant. How does this reflect Jesus' teachings on serving others (Matthew 25:37-40)?
   - How can we apply this attitude in our own communities?

3. Faith in Jesus
   - What impressed Jesus about the centurion's faith?
   - How can we emulate this kind of faith in our own lives?

4. Faith in Action
   - How is faith demonstrated in actions, based on this narrative?
   - Share a personal story where faith played a pivotal role in your life or the life of someone you know.

5. The Kingdom of God
   - Reflect on the inclusion of many nations at the table with the patriarchs in heaven (Matthew 8:11). What does this mean for our understanding of the Kingdom of God?
   - How does faith lift the "veil" over nations, as referenced in Isaiah 25:7?

Follow-Up Exercise
This week, identify one area in your life where you need to exercise greater faith. Pray daily for guidance and courage to trust God fully in that situation. Consider sharing your experience with the group in the next session.

Closing Prayer
"Lord, thank you for this time together where we could reflect on the centurion's faith and learn from it. Help us to be humble and to place our faith in you, just as he did. Give us the strength to care for others and trust in your authority in all aspects of our lives. As we go our separate ways, may we carry with us the lessons learned today and apply them in our daily walk with you. In your mighty name, we pray. Amen."