Wisdom for Living, Part 4: Overlooking an Offense
One’s ability to judge objectively (having “good sense”) provides endurance in the midst of a grievance (being patient and “slow to anger”).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS
- What is one thing that stood out to you from this message? Why?
- Share a time when you were offended or when you offended someone else. What happened? Did it resolve?
- Read and discuss Proverbs 19:11 and 1 Peter 2:19-25. What stands out to you in these verses? What other verses speak to overlooking offenses?
- Review the four truths Pastor Jim highlighted that help “bring level-headed good sense in bearing up under grievances.” How does each point affect how we view and deal with the offenses of others? Which of these are strengths for you? Which do you struggle with?
- The Sovereignty of God (1 Peter 2:19)
- The Critical Role of Perseverance (1 Peter 2:20)
- Overlooking an Offense is Christlike (1 Peter 2:21)
- Jesus Has Forgiven All My Offenses (1 Peter 2:24-25)
- How does our culture view and deal with offenses? How does this compare with a biblical approach? In what ways do modern cultural norms make it difficult for us to overlook an offense?
- What kind of inner qualities are required in a person in order to overlook an offense? How can those qualities be developed within us?
- “To be a follower of Jesus means to be an imitator of Jesus.” How do you respond to this statement? What does this mean in practical terms as you consider overlooking an offense?
- In what circumstances might you struggle to overlook an offense? How does the gospel of Jesus call you to view that situation? How does Jesus provide both the example and the power to overlook an offense?