Sermon

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR SHEPHERD GROUPS

1. What was one thing from this sermon you found particularly insightful, helpful or difficult to grasp?
2. What tends to come to mind when you think of "meditation"? How is that similar or different to meditation from a biblical perspective?
3. Read and discuss Psalm 1. What does this chapter tell or infer about the nature of man? What do you observe about who God is? What does Psalm 1 tell us about mediation and the Word of God?
4. What are some benefits of meditating on Scripture? How have you personally experienced some of those benefits?
   What is the difference between studying Scripture and meditating on Scripture? Are both necessary? Why or why not?
5. Pastor Mike defines mediation as "seeking the richness of God's Word by being still as you reflect on the greater possibilities of meaning and application without violating the intended meaning of the text." What does it mean to violate the intended meaning of a text? How can we avoid that?
6. Look over the account of David & Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. As Pastor Mike shared from his own meditations, what insights were fresh for you from this well-known account? How is this account pointing us to Jesus?
7. What practical steps can you take to incorporate meditation as a regular discipline in your walk?
8. Pick a portion of Scripture to meditate on as a group. Spend the next week or so reading and meditating on those verses. Take some time to share any below-the-surface insights with each other the next time your group meets.