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Faithful Prophets Conquer Through Suffering

RC Ford [Stewarts Creek Campus Pastor]

Scripture References & Sermon Points

• Scripture Reference: Hebrews 11:32–38

• Sermon Point 1 = Faithful Prophets Conquer Kingdoms

• Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 7:3

• Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 7:10

• Sermon Point 2 = Faithful Prophets Embrace Suffering

• Sermon Point 3  = Faithful Prophets Stand Alone

• Scripture Reference: 1 Kings 18:21–22

Sermon Discussion Questions

Get to know me

The purpose of these questions is to generate responses that are self-revealing and informative. Feel free to ask all of these questions to your group or simply choose the one that best fits your group.

1. Think of a time when you or someone you know had to face a challenging situation for a good cause. What was it? What happened? How'd it turn out?

Into the Bible

The purpose of these questions is to draw group members into the Bible to discover the truth from passages that were not the primary text for the weekend message.

1. Read Romans 8:31-39. The Gospel is Jesus’ victory therefore our victory for those who follow Him. We have conquered and will conquer because of the Gospel. What assurance and encouragement do you get from these verses?

2. Read Romans 5:1-5. Paul's encouragement in these verses seem counter intuitive. Suffering can produce despair which is the lack of hope, but he tells us our suffering leads to hope. How is this possible, based on what you read in these verses?

3. Read Matthew 10:16-25. In Jesus’ own words we hear that we will be hated because we believe in Him (v.22). This means we will suffer as enemies of the world including standing alone. How will you prepare for when those times come? 

Application

The purpose of these questions is to apply the main points from the weekend message.

1. Read Hebrews 11:32. This is a short list of those we know from the Old Testament who were faithful and endured for the Lord. They weren't perfect but they were chosen by God and they endured. What are some examples of what the prophets accomplished? How does their faith inspire you to greater faith?

2. Read Hebrews 11:33-34. We're are accustomed to the idea that being strong means to dig in, be tough, don't quit. Verse 34 talks about how these prophets “were made strong out of weakness”. What does that mean? (See also Hebrews 4:14-16)

3. Read Hebrews 11:35-38. These verses don't sound like victory, more like defeat and death. Reading this list would make most people turn away to avoid the hardship. Though we are promised trials we must remember that Jesus already secured the victory. He has won! How would you tell someone that you are willing to suffer for Christ?