Scripture: Galatians 1:13-17 & 2:11-21
Main Themes: Faith and trust, transformation, humility, openness to truth, inclusion, and God’s unwavering love.
Discussion Questions:
- Faith in Everyday Life
- Pastor Mark began by observing that “we all live by faith” in ways we don’t often realize. From boarding a plane to relying on science or relationships, we constantly place trust in things we don’t fully understand.
- What are some everyday things you trust without thinking twice?
- How might recognizing those small acts of trust help you understand your spiritual faith in new ways?
- Faith and Science
- Pastor Mark said faith and science are not mutually exclusive and that many scientists find their faith deepened by their work.
- Have you ever felt tension between science and faith? How have you navigated that?
- What would it look like to view scientific knowledge as an expression of God’s truth rather than in opposition to it?
- Transformation and Openness
- In Galatians, Paul shares how his life changed dramatically after encountering Christ. Pastor Mark noted that Paul, while imperfect, was deeply committed to the radical inclusion of the gospel.
- Where in your own life have you experienced spiritual transformation?
- How does Barbara Brown Taylor’s definition of faith as “a radical openness to the truth—whatever it may turn out to be” challenge or inspire you?
- Certainty vs. Mystery
- The sermon emphasized the danger of seeking certainty in times of chaos and instead called for humility and openness.
- How do you typically respond to uncertainty in your life or faith?
- What practices help you stay grounded when you don’t have all the answers?
- Inclusion and the Gospel
- The early church wrestled with whether Gentiles had to become Jewish before following Christ. Paul insisted God’s love and grace extended beyond traditional boundaries.
- Where do you see people today being excluded from full participation in faith communities?
- How might RPPC, and you personally, work to ensure the gospel we live is one of radical inclusion?
- God’s Faith in Us
- Pastor Mark concluded with the powerful reminder that “In Christ, God has endlessly chosen us… God has faith in us.”
- What does it mean to you that God trusts you?
- How can that truth shape the way you live, love, and serve this week?
Applying the Sermon:
- What is one step you can take this week to more intentionally live by faith—especially in areas where you feel uncertain, doubtful, or afraid?
- How can we, as a church, embody this kind of trusting, open, and inclusive faith for those who are searching or struggling?
