Synergy Discussion 5-6-26

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

NOTE: Before we split, Ryan will give a few minutes for everyone to do this:

• Write down 2-3 “what if” statements you have thought recently or maybe even for a long time.

______________________________________

#1 - Lies We Tell Ourselves

Discuss the lists we just made...

• Leaders: What lies do your "what ifs" tell you? How has that affected your life? Keep it brief, but share honestly about anything that could meet the students in their stage of life.

• Ask the Students: What lies do your "what ifs" tell you?

  • If they are willing, ask them to share about what they wrote at the end of the lesson.

______________________________________

#2 - Scripture's Claims About God

Read each passage listed below. 

As a Group: Pause after each passage and discuss what it claims about God. Have at least one person write down your group's answers (you will need this list later).

• Psalm 34:17-19

• Psalm 46:1-3

• Psalm 62:5-8

• Psalm 86:15

• Psalm 121:1-4

______________________________________

#3 - Trusting God vs. Trusting an Outcome

Re-read your group's list of Scripture's claims about God.

• Ask the Students: If these things are true about God, what does that mean for your everyday struggles? 

• Leaders: Share something along these lines...

  • If you already know Jesus as Savior, these truths should encourage you to continue trusting God. 

  • If you have drifted away, let this encourage you to turn back to Him.

  • If you don't yet know Jesus as your Savior, think about how believing these things could change your life.

______________________________________

#4 - Connect to the Gospel

• Leaders: What has Jesus already done that proves God is good?

  • Use this opportunity to explain the gospel to your group. Even if every student in your group is saved (which is unlikely), we all need this reminder daily!

• Finish with this thought: THIS is why we can trust God even if everything falls apart.

______________________________________

#5 - Not "What If" but "Even If"

• Everybody: Individually, look over your "what if" list. Rewrite those statements about God protecting and providing for you, even if things don't go how you expected. Give everyone a few minutes to do this on their own.

______________________________________

#6 - Prayer (get here around 8:00 if possible)

• Leaders: Read this thought from the end of Cheyenne's lesson...

• "Real faith isn't build when everything is easy. It's built when you're standing in front of the fire... And you choose to trust God anyway."

• Split Up the Group: Split up into smaller groups to pray. Pick a few students who are willing to lead a prayer group and split into as many groups as you can. Pray each person would remember...

  • • Even if we struggle, God is still with us.

    • Even if we don't understand, God is still working.

    • Even if things don't go how we planned, God is still good.

Reminders...

• High Schoolers: Discussion groups are meeting next.

• Momentum Students: Sign up for the spaghetti dinner - happening May 17th.

• Everyone: Please pick up trash before you leave.

Synergy Discussion 4-29-26

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 - What Steals our Peace?

Read Romans 5:1

• Recap: For a follower of Jesus, our peace comes from knowing we can be made right with God because Jesus died in our place and conquered death. But Satan uses many things to try to steal our peace.

• Work as a Group: Make a list of at least 10 things that steal our peace. Be specific to middle/high school students.

  • Have at least one person write down your list as you go.

• Follow-up: When you fall into these traps, do you tend to run toward Jesus (and the Church) or away? Why?

  • Student leaders can answer this first and then open it up to see if any other students want to share.

______________________________________

#2 - Remember God's Love & Faithfulness

Read Proverbs 3:1-4 . These are instructions from a parent to a child or a spiritual parent to a child in the faith.

• NOTE: Verse 3 tells us to "bind" God's steadfast love and faithfulness to our necks. In other words, we should find practical ways to remind ourselves of God's love and truth.

• Work as a Group: Now, make a list of at least 10 ways we can remember God's truth when life feels overwhelming. (Examples: Scripture reminders on our phones, write verses somewhere we see them daily, etc.)

  • Write these down too!

______________________________________

#3 - Lean Not on Your Own Understanding

Read Proverbs 3:5-8

• Student Leaders: Share about a time when you leaned on your own understanding rather than God's. How did that turn out for you? What did it take to for God to "straighten your path" as Verse 6 says?

  • You could also share generally about a time in life if you can't think of a specific time.

• Ask the Group: How do the things in these verses (trusting the Lord, acknowledging Him, fearing the Lord, turning from evil) bring healing and refreshment?

  • Follow-up: What are some ways people try to control or escape stress without God? Why doesn't that bring lasting peace?

______________________________________

#4 - Prayer (get here around 8:00 if possible)

Adult Leaders: Share some closing thoughts on tonight's topic and give an opportunity for students to reflect.

• Give this Challenge (or something to this effect): Peace with God comes from His gift of salvation through Jesus. Do you actually have peace with God, or are you just trying to find peace in life? Have you personally trusted Jesus, or are you just trying to handle stress on your own?

Student Leaders Recap: In tonight's lesson, Isaac challenged us to PRAY rather than focusing on stress and anxiety so we are going to close by doing that. 

• Split Up the Group: Between student leaders and adult leaders, split up to pray over each group member by name. Pray for each student to focus on godly things that keep our focus on Jesus.

  • Use Philippians 4:8-9 as a template: "God, please help ___________ to keep his/her thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Help him/her put into practice what we learned tonight. Thank You, God of peace, that You are with us!"

Reminders...

• If you turned in a scholarship book, make sure you pick it up as soon as we dismiss.

• (8th graders & up) - if you'd still like to go to Momentum, talk to Ryan ASAP.

Synergy Discussion 4-22-26

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 - The Hope of the Gospel

NOTE: This is a repeat question from last week but several groups didn't get that far and it is important to set up the rest of the discussion.

• Ask the Group: How would you explain the hope of the gospel to a struggling friend? 

  • HAVE SOMEBODY WRITE THIS DOWN AS YOU DISCUSS.

  • Make sure to include: Who God is, what our problem is, what Jesus did, and how we respond.

  • Don't just have one person respond. Work together as a group to answer this question.

______________________________________

#2 - Why do you believe?

• Adult Leaders: Why do you believe in the hope of the gospel? That Jesus is Savior and Lord?

  • Leaders Also Share: What has competed for your identity during your walk with Jesus? Be specific!

  • Ask the Group: Does anyone have a follow-up questions?

______________________________________

#3 - The Image of God

• Read Genesis 1:26-27

  • Ask the Group: What is unique about humans in the creation story?

  • Ask the Group: If all humans are made in God's image, how should that impact how we treat others? (how we interact physically or online, how we speak to others, or how we talk about them when they aren't around)

  • Leaders Share: Our identity as humans doesn't automatically give us the identity as God's adopted children. 

    • Read Romans 10:9 - "Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

______________________________________

#4 - We Can't Move Past the Gospel

• Review: Have somebody read through your gospel explanation one more time. Is it clear? Is there anything we need to add/change?

• Ask the Group: Be honest. Would you feel comfortable sharing this with a friend who is struggling?

______________________________________

#5 - Invitation & Prayer Prayer (get here around 8:00 if possible)

• Reflection Questions: Alyssa & Jaycie left us with these questions. Take time to think about these before we finish:

  • In what areas of my life do I feel uncertain or conflicted?

  • Am I looking to the world for my identity?

• Adult Leaders: Give a few minutes in silent prayer before you pray out loud to close the group.

  • If anyone doesn't know Jesus as Savior, encourage them to pray about that and talk to you as soon as you finish.

  • For those who do know Jesus, take time to ask God to reveal anything in life that is taking priority over Him.

Reminders...

• Scholarship Books are dues THIS SUNDAY. Turn them in TONIGHT if you won't be here Sunday.

• (8th graders & up) - if you'd still like to go to Momentum, talk to Ryan ASAP.

Synergy Discussion 4-15-26

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

Tonight during our groups, we are going to read through Psalm 42 and talk more about lamenting our frustrations to God when he feels distant. 

Ask a group member to open the discussion in prayer!

______________________________________

#1 - When God feels distant, remember your need for Him.

Read Psalm 42:1-3

• Ask the Group: What do we see around us that reminds us of our desperate need for God?

  • In your own heart? In other people? Around the world?

• Follow-up: What do you find yourself running to instead of God when you feel empty?

______________________________________

#2 - When God feels distant, remember what He has done.

Read Psalm 42:4

• Student Leaders: Share about a VICTORY you have seen through Jesus in your life? (Not just big wins, but ways God is still working)

  • You can share a specific story or maybe a general struggle He is helping you overcome.

______________________________________

#3 - When God feels distant, remember who He is.

Read Psalm 42:5-8

• Ask the Group: What are some attributes of God we should specifically remember when He seems distant?

  • Try to come up with at least 15 attributes.

______________________________________

#4 - When God feels distant, remember to bring your pain to Him.

Read Psalm 42:9-10

• Ask the Adult Leaders: Have you seen God work through a painful situation in the past? How did you see Him work?

  • Give the group an opportunity to ask follow-up questions if we aren't running late.

______________________________________

#5 - When God feels distant, remember your salvation.

Read Psalm 42:11

• Important Note: The Psalmist had hope in God's salvation even though he hadn't yet seen its fulfillment through Jesus. Christians know the hope of Jesus deeply because of the resurrection.

• Ask the Group: How would you explain the hope of the gospel to a struggling friend?

  • Make sure to include: Who God is, what our problem is, what Jesus did, and how we respond.

  • Don't just have one person respond. Work together as a group to answer this question.

______________________________________

#6 - Prayer (get here around 8:05)

• Student Leaders: Close your discussion in prayer. Pray over any requests and also ask God to help the members of the group to come to Him if they are struggling tonight.

Reminders...

• Less than 2 weeks to work on Scholarship Books. Turn them in NEXT WEDNESDAY if you won't be here the following Sunday.

• (8th graders & up) - if you'd still like to go to Momentum, talk to Ryan ASAP.

Synergy Discussion 4-1-26

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 - Debrief Panel

• Ask the Group: What’s one moment or story from the panel that stuck with you? Why?

• Ask the Group: How do you relate to one (or more) of the leaders’ stories?

______________________________________

#2 - Spiritual Influences

Read Ephesians 2:18-22

Point: We are united by the Cross and brought into God’s family. If we’re a family, then it makes sense that there are spiritual parents, older siblings, and weird uncles ahead of us.

• Student Leaders Share: Who do you look up to that has impacted your faith? Why?

• Ask the Group: Same question as above.

• Ask the Youth Leaders: Same question as above.

______________________________________

#3 - Trustworthy Mentors

Read Proverbs 13:20
Point: We should look to trustworthy believers who are ahead of us in wisdom so we can learn to be wise.

• Ask the Group: What makes someone trustworthy to you spiritually?

• Ask the Group: What kind of person would you be willing to open up to?

• Something to think about (nobody needs to answer unless they want to): Do you CURRENTLY let anyone speak into your life? Why or why not?

______________________________________

#4 - Prayer for Youth Leaders

Read Ephesians 6:19-20
Point: Paul recognized the power of prayer and that he needed the prayers of the people he taught.

• Ask the Group:  Can we get 1 or 2 volunteers to pray for each of the youth leaders in our group?

• Lay hands on and pray for each of the youth leaders in your group.

Reminders...

• Sign up TONIGHT to guarantee their spot on the bus for the all-nighter.

• (8th graders & up) - if you'd still like to go to Momentum, talk to Ryan ASAP.

Synergy Discussion 3-25-26

Ephesians 6:10-24

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 - Hypothetical Scenario 

• Group Assignment: Work together as a group to create a hypothetical REAL LIFE scenario where Satan could attack our relationships, then attitudes, then actions.

  • Leaders: Let the students create the scenario, but jump in wherever needed to push a little deeper. Feel free to share from real life experience.

  • Ask: Could you realistically see this happening?

______________________________________

#2 - Putting on the Armor

• Work through each piece of armor and the attribute of God that goes with it. Create at least one action step we can take daily to "put on" this attribute. Take your time with these.

  • Every student should write this down on his/her handout to keep.

  • Examples: If God is truth, I should be truthful with my friends. Recite the gospel to myself or a friend. Write down memories of God's saving power.

1. Truth: God is truth and He guides me.

2. Righteousness: Jesus gave me His righteousness.

3. Gospel: I carry His message, not my own.

4. Faith: I trust in Him, not myself.

5. Salvation: Jesus did the work FOR me. 

6. God's Word: He speaks, I just have to listen.

______________________________________

#3 - Support from Other Believers

Read Ephesians 6:21-24

• Paul wrote this letter to people he actually knew, people who would support him and pray for him.

• Leaders: Share about who you have in your life you know will support you in prayer.

• Challenge: Give the students 2 minutes to silently think about who their support people are. Encourage them to write them down in their books/handouts. After they have time...

  • Ask: Would anyone like to share your list with the group?

______________________________________

#4 - Closing & Prayer

• Leaders: Encourage the students to be building that community they trust right here, especially with adult leaders who love them.

• Prayer: Ask for several volunteers to pray for each other to be able to confidently share the gospel with those around us.

Remind students to...

• Pay for Winter Jam before they leave tonight. If they forgot their money, they need to tell Ryan.

• Sign up for the all-nighter ASAP

• Let Ryan know if you are on a waitlist for Momentum and/or Camp

Synergy Discussion 3-18-26

Ephesians 5:1-6:9

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 – Intro

Read Ephesians 5:1-2

• Ask: What is an actual reflection? What affects how clearly something reflects? (dirt, distance, light source, etc.)

______________________________________

#2 – Words Are Important

Read Ephesians 5:3-7

• Ask: What does crude (inappropriate) joking reveal about our hearts? What does thanksgiving reveal instead?

• Ask: What are some "empty words" we might hear...around our peers? Through influencers on social media? Culture in general?

• Student Leaders: What has worked for you personally to guard your thinking and stay grounded in truth?

______________________________________

#3 – Light & Darkness

Read Ephesians 5:8-14

• Ask: What is the difference between exposing sin to help someone vs exposing it to tear them down?

• Adult Leaders: Have you seen this handled well in a real-life situation? No need to share specifics unless it's appropriate, but give encouragement that this is possible!

______________________________________

#4 – Family Relationships

Read Ephesians 6:1-4

• Student Leaders: What kind of relationship would you want to have with your family when you are older? What kind of habits now could shape that future?

• Adult Leaders: What was your relationship like with your parents growing up? How has that (good or bad) impacted you as an adult? Share whatever you are comfortable with and try to keep it hopeful.

______________________________________

#5 – Working under Authority

This situation was different from what we think of as slavery today, but it still involved people under authority with limited freedom. Paul’s focus isn’t on the system itself here—it’s on how Christians live and respond within a system with authority.

Read Ephesians 6:5-9

• Ask: Who in your life at this time has authority over you? (teachers, coaches, bosses, etc.) 

• Ask: What does it look like to show them Christlike respect? What makes that difficult?

______________________________________

#6 – Closing (get here by 8:05)

Adult Leaders: Remind students to...

• Sign up for Winter Jam TONIGHT to reserve their seat

• Sign up for the all-nighter ASAP

• Let Ryan know if you are on a waitlist for Momentum and/or Camp

Student Leaders: Close out the night by praying over your group.

Synergy Discussion 3-11-26 

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 – Understanding the Battle

Too often we forget our battle is against spiritual forces, not each other.

Read Ephesians 6:12

• Ask: What kinds of problems happen in our lives or in the church when we forget that the battle is spiritual? Why do you think it’s easier to blame people than to think about spiritual issues behind a conflict?

• Leaders: Share a time when you reacted to a situation only from a human perspective instead of responding spiritually (prayer, seeking God, etc.).

• Ask: What is a situation where students today might accidentally treat a person like the enemy instead of recognizing a spiritual battle?

______________________________________

#2 – Humility and Standing Together

We don’t defeat the enemy by ignoring him, and we also shouldn’t try to get as close to sin as possible without crossing the line.

Read 1 Peter 5:6-7

• Ask: Why do you think humility matters when facing spiritual attacks? How could pride make someone more vulnerable to these attacks?

• Ask: What does it mean to cast your anxieties on God?

• Ask: Why do you think anxiety is such a common struggle for people who are trying to control everything themselves?

Read 1 Peter 5:8-9

• Ask: Scripture tells us to be watchful and sober-minded? What are some ways people slowly drift into sin without realizing it?

• Ask: According to verse 9, how do believers resist the devil? (Answer: knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world)

  • Followup: Why do struggles feel stronger when we think we’re the only one dealing with them?

• Leaders: Share a time when another believer helped you stay strong in your faith (maybe in a difficult spiritual moment).

______________________________________

#3 – Spiritual Weapons

God gives us, through His divine power, weapons to fight this spiritual war.

Read 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

• Ask: What kinds of lies or thought patterns can become strongholds in someone’s life?

• Ask: What does it mean to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ? What would it practically look like to challenge a thought instead of just believing it?

• Ask: What spiritual weapons does God give us to fight these battles? (Prayer, Scripture, Truth, Obedience, Encouragement)

______________________________________

#4 – Closing

You don't need to discuss this, but put this question out for silent reflection

• Reflect: What is a situation where you personally might accidentally treat a person like the enemy instead of recognizing a spiritual battle?

• Pray: Close in prayer, asking that God would help us recognize our real enemy and that we should go to Him in every situation.

Middle School Hangout 3-8-26
Acts 5:12-42

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#1 - Read Acts 5:12–16.
People were drawn to Jesus because of the apostles’ lives and what God was doing through them.
👉 What do you think people noticed about the apostles that made them want to come closer?
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#2 - Read Acts 5:27–29.
Peter said, “We must obey God rather than men.”
👉 What are some situations at school or with friends where it might be hard to obey God?
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#3 - Read Acts 5:40–42.
Even after being punished, the apostles kept telling people about Jesus.
👉 Why do you think they were willing to keep going instead of giving up?
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#4 - Challenge for the Week
Your life is kind of like a shadow—it shows people what Jesus is like.
👉 What is one way you could reflect Jesus to someone this week?

Synergy Discussion 3-4-26
Ephesians 4:17-31

Leaders: Small groups tonight will hit a few sections we skipped for time during the teaching time. These sections can be fairly wordy in more word-for-word translations (like ESV) and may be hard for students to follow. Use your judgment with your group, but you may want to use a phrase-by-phrase translation (like NLT) for clarity.

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 – The Old Life

Student Leaders: Read Ephesians 4:18–19 together.

Paul describes people who are:
• Darkened in understanding
• Hardened in heart
• Numb to sin

Ask the Group: Why do you think sin can slowly make people “numb” or less sensitive to what is right and wrong?

______________________________________

#2 – Learning Christ

Student Leaders: Read Ephesians 4:20.

Paul says, “That is not the way you learned Christ.”

Ask the Group: What is the difference between knowing about Jesus and actually learning Christ?

______________________________________

#3 – Put Off the Old Self

Student Leaders: Read Ephesians 4:22.

Paul says believers must “put off the old self.”

Ask the Group: What is one example of something from the “old life” that people often struggle to let go of?

______________________________________

#4 – Renew Your Mind

Student Leaders: Read Ephesians 4:23–24.

Ask the Group: What are some things that shape the way we think every day, and how can God begin to renew our minds?

______________________________________

#5 – Don’t Open the Door

Student Leaders: Read Ephesians 4:27.

Paul warns believers not to “give the devil an opportunity.”

Ask the Group: What are some “small doors” people open that can eventually lead to bigger sin?

______________________________________

#6 – Personal Story (Leaders Share)

Leaders (Student or Adult): Share briefly about a way God has changed your thinking or life since following Christ.

Possible prompts:

• What was something from your “old life”?
• How did God start changing your thinking?
• What has living the “new life” looked like since?

______________________________________

Final Wrap-Up Question

What is one area this week where you want to put off the old self and live more like the new self God created you to be? 

______________________________________

Announcements & Prayer

Adult Leaders: Remind students they need to sign up ASAP for Our Skills for Your Bills Fundraiser and Winter Jam.

• If you have middle schoolers, also remind them about Sweet Frog this Sunday!

Ask a student to close in prayer.

Synergy Discussion 2-25-26
Ephesians 4:1-16

Leaders: Small groups tonight will hit a few sections we skipped for time during the teaching time. These sections can be fairly wordy in more word-for-word translations (like ESV) and may be hard for students to follow. Use your judgment with your group, but you may want to use a phrase-by-phrase translation (like NLT) for clarity.

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 – Unity Comes from Jesus

Unity is more than just tolerance. Unity is bearing the burdens of one another, building each other up, showing grace, loving through the good and the bad, and recognizing that our calling is so much more important than our differences.

Read Ephesians 4:4-6

• Ask: Why do you think Paul repeats "one" so many times? If all of this is true, why do Christians still divide so easily?

• Ask: What are some differences between people in this youth group? (Examples: Personalities, interests, friend groups, schools, maturity, etc.)

  • • Follow-up: Why can unity still exist even with those differences?

• Adult Leaders: Have you ever felt left out or excluded before? How did it affect you?

______________________________________

#2 - Unity Requires Action

Read Ephesians 4:8-10

Ryan didn’t dive into this during the lesson, but the point is that Jesus descended (came down) to our world, and then ascended (went up) to heaven to be with His Father. Because Jesus reigns as King, He has the authority and power to give gifts through the Holy Spirit to build up His church.

• Ask: Why do you think Paul connects Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension with giving gifts to the church?

Read Ephesians 4:11-13

The Point: God gives these gifts to build up the body of Christ

• Adult Leaders: How do you see someone else serving well? (Give some shoutouts!)

• Ask: What are some ways students your age can help build up other believers?

• Ask: What could it look like for a (7th grade girl, 10th grade guy, etc.) to actually use gifts to build the Body?

______________________________________

#3 - Unity is More than Tolerance

• Ask: What’s the difference between tolerating someone and actually loving someone? Give specific examples!

• Ask: Which of these is hardest for students your age? Which of these do you personally struggle with most?

  • • Gossip, Excluding others, Assuming the worst, Silent judgment, Not forgiving, something else?

• Adult Leaders: Which of these is hardest for you personally?

______________________________________

#4 - Reflection & Prayer

Students don’t have to answer out loud, but give them time to think about these…

• What is ONE way I personally can help build unity this week?

• Is there anyone you need to forgive, include, or reach out to this week?

Before you close in prayer, have students sit quietly for 30 seconds and ask God: "Show me one person I need to love better this week."

Synergy Discussion 2-18-26
Ephesians 3:14-21

• REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups! 

• NOTE: If you have any questions during discussion, feel free to call Ryan over.

• Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

______________________________________

#1 – Prayer in Everyday Life

Read: Ephesians 3:14-17

The Point: Paul knows who he is in Christ (citizen, family member, dwelling place) and goes to Him in prayer. Knowing who we are should lead us to prayer too!

Student Leaders: First answer these questions yourselves...

• When do you find yourself praying most often?

• Where do you find it least distracting to pray?

• What do you find yourself praying about?

• Ask the same questions to the adult leaders.

• Ask if anyone else in the group would like to share.

______________________________________

#2 – Far More Abundantly

Read: Ephesians 3:20-21 (we will get back to 18-19 after this)

The Point: God can do so much more than we ask or think!

Student Leaders: 

• Share about a time when God answered a prayer OR worked in a way you didn't expect.

• How did that affect your faith afterward?

• Open it up for others to share if they'd like.

Adult Leaders:

• Have you ever struggled to pray because God didn't asnwer the way you hoped? No pressure to share the specific prayers unless you'd like to.

______________________________________

#3 – Knowing God More

Read: Ephesians 3:18-19

The Point: Believers should want to know and experience God more and more.

Student Leaders: Why do you think people often feel closer to God at a camp or conference?

Ask the Group: 

• What's the difference about those environments?

• What distractions are removed?

• Why is it harder to feel that same closeness afterward at home?

______________________________________

#4 – Camp/Momentum Experiences (get here around 8:05)

Student Leaders: Share about your own experiences at Camp or Momentum (if you have gone before)

• Keep in mind 6th & 7th graders can't go to Momentum yet.

• Do your best to "sell it" to students who might be on the fence!

Adult Leaders: Remind students we don't want money to hold someone back from going to Camp or Momentum. Anyone can talk to Ryan about how to make sure they can go!

• Ask someone in your group to closer in prayer & offer to pray one-on-one if any students in your group would like afterward.

Synergy Discussion 2-11-26
Adult-led discussions this week!
Ephesians 2:11-22

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REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups!

Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

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Before we discuss, have everyone open to Ephesians 2:19-22. Get a volunteer to read.

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#1 – We are citizens of heaven.

Ask the Students: What are the rights of a citizen of a country, city, etc.?

• Examples if needed: Voting (a voice), fair treatment, protection, help in times of need

Ask the Students: What are the responsibilities of a citizen?

• Examples if needed: Taxes (contribution), service, obeying laws

Main Point (leaders say this if students don’t get here on their own): a citizen REPRESENTS where they come from (think Olympic athletes representing their country)

Ask the Students: Where is it hardest for us to live like a citizen of heaven while we are on earth?

• Follow-up Questions: How we treat people? What we care about most? How we respond when things don’t go our way?

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#2 – We are family members.

Ask the Students: What makes someone feel like family, not just related?

• Examples if needed: trust, showing up, forgiveness

Adult Leaders Share: What were the dynamics in your family growing up? (share honestly, but don’t overshare — the goal is to point students to the goodness of God’s family)

Adult Leaders Share: Compare & Contrast that with the idea of being members of God’s family.

• If you had a positive Christian upbringing, point out how your family pointed you to Jesus. Still talk about the imperfections and how God’s forever family is still better.

• If you had a negative family experience (or maybe it was a mixed bag) talk about how much better it is to be part of God’s family (the Church). If your family members weren’t believers, still feel free to point out redemptive qualities.

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#3 – We are God's Dwelling Place

Say this: This one can be harder to understand, because we don’t usually think about people being a dwelling place.”

Ask the Students: What makes a place feel like someone actually lives there? How is that different from a place someone just visits?

• • Examples if needed: Personal stuff, Messes, Comfort, Evidence of People

Adult Leaders: Share what it personally means to you that God lives in His people — not just near them.

• Ask the Students: How is this different from only thinking about God on Wednesdays or Sundays? Or... What does it look like when we treat God like a visitor instead of someone who lives with us?

Ask someone to read Verse 22 again: “In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”

• Recap the Verse: “Believers TOGETHER are a place where God actually dwells (lives).”

• Ask the Students: What are some ways we can make Synergy reflect this truth? 

• Ask the Students: How can we make it actually feel like a place God truly is – not just a place we attend? Possible areas to discuss...

  • • How we welcome people

    • How we treat new students

    • How we handle conflict

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#4 – Prayer (get here around 8:05)

Get 2 or 3 volunteers to pray. Ask them to...

• Thank God that we belong and are no longer outsider.

• Ask God to tear down any walls we've built between each other.

• Ask God to help us be more aware of His presence.

• Pray that Synergy would reflect God's heart.

Note for Group Leaders:

You will likely have students in your group who aren’t yet followers of Jesus. Use this discussion about what it means to follow Jesus to point them to WHY they need Him!

Another Note: If you finish before 8:10, please don't let the students leave the room.

Synergy Student Prayer Night

2-11-26

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Announcements: Jaycie & Delaney

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Prayer Night Intro: Maddie, Keith, & Isaac

• Maddie: Explain what we are doing and why. Point out prayer wall.

• Keith & Isaac: Read Ephesians 1:15-23 – tonight we will be working through this passage as we pray

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Worship Team:

• Build Your Kingdom Here

• Run to the Father

• Great Are You Lord

After we sing, Ryan will send everyone to small group areas for our prayer time.

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Prayer Topics: 

1.    Read the verse from Ephesians and another applicable verse from somewhere else

2.    Explain what we will be praying for (share anything personal you'd like)

3.    Allow 2 minutes for prayer

4.    Close the topic in prayer

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Jack & Cavan (Heath Out)

• Reading: Ephesians 1:15 & one other supporting verse.

• Prayer: Thank God for His faithfulness in blessing our efforts at Synergy.

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Sam & Connor

• Reading: Ephesians 1:16 & one other supporting verse.

• Prayer: Thank God for everybody at Synergy and God's family we are part of.

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Delaney, Lilly R., Amberly

• Reading: Ephesians 1:17-18a (end with "...hearts enlightened") & one other supporting verse.

• Prayer: Ask Holy Spirit to increase our wisdom and enlighten our hearts as we study God's Word.

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Cheyenne & Jaycie (Trinity Out)

• Reading: Ephesians 1:18b (start with "that you may know...") & one other supporting verse.

• Prayer: Ask God to help us know the hope He has called us to.

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Kate, Destiny, Lillian

• Reading: Ephesians 1:19 & one other supporting verse.

• Prayer: Thank God for His ability to save us.

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Carli, Alyssa (Sarah H. Out)

• Reading: Ephesians 1:20-21 

• Prayer: Ask that God would bring more to salvation. Pray specifically for a friend who doesn't know Jesus – OR if you are unsure in your faith, ask that Jesus would reveal Himself to you.

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Sarah S. & Ellie

• Reading: Ephesians 1:22-23

• Prayer: Ask God to help us live faithfully as the Body of Christ.

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Maddie

• Encourage everyone to post on the prayer wall during the last song.

• Prayer Team also available.

Worship Team (Sam, Lorelei, Lilly)

• O Come to the Altar

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Keith & Jeremiah

• Explain F.I.S.H. Prayer. (Friendly, Initiate, Story, Hope)

• For the rest of our time, practice F.I.S.H. in our small groups.

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Synergy Discussion 1-28-26
Ephesians 2:1–10

REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups!

Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

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#1 – From Death to Life (Who Was I?)

Student Leaders:
Share briefly (1 minute) about a time when you realized following Jesus wasn’t just about being “a better person,” but about needing real change or rescue.

Ask the Group:
Paul says we were “dead in our sins,” not just struggling or confused.

• What do you think it means to be spiritually dead?

• How is that different from just “messing up” or making bad choices?

Follow-Up (if needed):
Why do you think it’s important to understand how serious sin is before we talk about grace?

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#2 – “But God…” (What Did God Do?)

Adult Leaders: Ephesians 2:4 starts with two powerful words: “But God.”
Share briefly (1 minute) about a time when God stepped in and changed your direction, perspective, or heart.

Ask the Group:

• What stands out to you about why God saved us (His mercy, love, grace)?

• Why is it important that salvation is a gift, not something we earn?
  
  

Optional Clarifier:
How does knowing salvation isn’t based on works change the way you view yourself or others?

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#3 – New Identity, New Purpose (Who Am I Now?)

Student Leaders: Paul says we are God’s workmanship—His creation, made with purpose.
What’s one word you think best describes who you are now because of Jesus?

Ask the Group:

• What’s the difference between being saved by good works and saved for good works?

• How should our identity in Christ shape the way we live at school, home, or with friends?
  
  

Adult Leaders:
If we still have time, share one way you’ve seen God slowly shape your life after salvation—not to earn His love, but because of it.

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#4 – Prayer (get here around 8:05)

Student Leaders:
Pray for each person in your group that they would understand God’s grace more clearly and walk in the new life He offers.

Feel free to use this script:

“Lord, thank you for ______________.
Thank you that You are rich in mercy and great in love.
Please help (him/her) to know You more and to walk in the life You’ve created for them.”

Note for Group Leaders:

You will likely have students in your group who aren’t yet followers of Jesus. Use this discussion as an opportunity to reach out and maybe help them along their walk with Christ!

Synergy Discussion 1-14-26

REMINDER: If you have 10+ people, split into 2 groups!

Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

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#1 - Illumination, Inspiration, & the Spirit's Power

Student Leaders: Share about a time when the Holy Spirit helped Scripture make sense to you (illumination) – OR – Share about a time you knew the Holy Spirit was at work giving you power to fight temptation, share your faith, or grow spiritually.

Ask the Group: Did what Pastor Ryan said about inspiration and illumination make sense? Reminder: the Holy Spirit inspired (guided the entire process of) Scripture as it was written and now illuminates (helps us understand) Scripture for us. Call Ryan over if you need help!

• How does that change how you might read the Bible this week?

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#2 - Salvation

Adult Leaders: The first half of Ephesians is all about everything Jesus did for us through salvation.  Any leaders who didn’t get to share last week, share briefly (1 minute) about when you gave your life to Jesus. What is one way following Jesus is challenging for you right now?

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#3 - Body of Christ

Student Leaders: How have you seen the Body of Christ at work in your life? Can you think of somebody in particular you want to “shout out” that has either helped you in your walk with Jesus OR been a light to others around you?

Ask the Group: Why is it so important to come together with other believers in Jesus? Is it possible to live the Christian life by yourself?

Adult Leaders: If we still have time, share anything you think could be beneficial from your experience as part of the Body of Christ.

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#4 - Prayer (get here around 8:05)

Student Leaders: Pray for each person in your group that he/she would be able to better connect with Jesus and others at Synergy.

• Feel free to use this script: “Lord, thank you for ______________. Please help (him/her) to connect with You and with others here at Synergy.”  

• Note for Group Leaders: You will likely have students in your group who aren’t yet followers of Jesus. That shouldn’t change how you pray – we pray in faith for what God can do in them! Believers in your group should want to grow deeper in those relationships while nonbelievers could be one step away from making the commitment to follow Jesus!

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NOTE: If you have extra time, use the "1,000 Questions" icebreakers to get to know your group better.

Synergy Discussion 1-7-26

Student & Adult Leaders: Make sure everyone knows your name before you start. Don't just assume they know who you are!

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#1 - Our Identity in Christ

Look at the list of our identity in Jesus from Ephesians 1:2-10. Which is the hardest for you to believe? What lies often replace these truths?

• Student leaders answer first

• Then, Give opportunity for group members.

• Last, ask adult leaders to answer too.

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#2 - Belonging

Where do you see students your age (maybe even yourself) looking for belonging besides Jesus? Why do those things seem so attractive sometimes?

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#3 - Salvation Testimony

Ephesians 1:13 says, "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit "

• Student Leaders: Share briefly (1 minute) about when you gave your life to Jesus. What is one way following Jesus is challenging for you right now?

• Adult Leaders (only if there is time): Share the same thing (if we run out of time, adult leaders can share next week)

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#4 - Prayer (get here around 8:05)

Student Leaders: Close by praying for each individual person in your group by name. Pray that each person would find their identity in Jesus alone.

• It can be short! Something like “Jesus, please help _________ to find his/her identity in You alone.” And then repeat for the next person.

Prayer is powerful, even in repetition! Just make sure to do it with the right heart!

If you have several student leaders, alternate who prays for each student.

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NOTE: If you have extra time, use the "1,000 Questions" icebreakers to get to know your group better.

Synergy Discussion 11-22-25

Jesus came to engage with us in the ultimate way – He JOINED us in our humanity. Paul gives us a cool example of how to engage with people where they are in Acts 17.

Setup: Just before these verses, Paul is waiting for Silas and Timothy to join him in Athens. He sees the city full of idols and starts reasoning with the Jews and Greek philosophers. They invite him to share before their city council…

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Read Acts 17:22-31

22 So Paul, standing before the council, addressed them as follows: “Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious in every way, 23 for as I was walking along I saw your many shrines. And one of your altars had this inscription on it: ‘To an Unknown God.’ This God, whom you worship without knowing, is the one I’m telling you about.

24 “He is the God who made the world and everything in it. Since he is Lord of heaven and earth, he doesn’t live in man-made temples, 25 and human hands can’t serve his needs—for he has no needs. He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need. 26 From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries.

27 “His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us. 28 For in him we live and move and exist. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ 29 And since this is true, we shouldn’t think of God as an idol designed by craftsmen from gold or silver or stone.

30 “God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him. 31 For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed (Jesus), and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead.”

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

#1 - If Paul had just flipped out about the idols, would anyone have listened? Why or why not?

#2 - How did Paul show respect for them without compromising the truth?

#3 - How can we do that at school, on social media, or even at nights like this—engaging people where they are but still pointing to Jesus?

Close by praying we can find ways to talk about the gospel everywhere we go.

Synergy Discussion 10-29-25

Thanks for being willing to lead a group tonight! We want this to be student-led, but feel free to ask the adult leaders in your group for their input, especially if conversation gets stuck.

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Intro (Read This Out Loud): This Fall we have been looking at how the Psalms speak to our mental health. Often we struggle emotionally because of things around us, but SOMETIMES our own sinful choices bring about our struggles. In Psalm 51, David responds to his own sin and shows us how we can respond to ours. Psalm 46 reminds us no matter the source of our troubles, we can turn to God as our refuge and strength.

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#1 - Read Psalm 51:1-2

• Main Thought: When I sin, I can remember God’s attributes.

• Group Activity: List as many individual attributes of God you can come up with (love, grace, etc.) and write them down. If your group can come up with at least 25, you can get a prize at the end of youth.

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#2 - Read Psalm 51:3-4

• Main Thought: When I sin, I can own up to it.

• Group Discussion: Share at least 2 bad examples of how to own up to sin. Then, share at least 3 good examples of how to own up to sin.

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#3 - Read Psalm 51:15-17

• Main Thought: When I sin, I can worship anyway.

• Group Leaders: Share about what has helped you worship through a struggle. (Examples: Music in your car, nature, journaling, singing at church, etc.)

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#4 - Read Psalm 46:1

• Main Thought: God is our refuge and strength.

• Group Activity: What do you think of when you hear the word “refuge”? List some examples.

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#5 - Read Psalm 46:6-7

• Main Thought: God is in control even when the world feels out of control.

• Group Leaders: Give a personal example of a time when life has felt out of control.

• Group Discussion: Can anyone else in the group come up with examples of life feeling out of control?

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#6 - Read Psalm 46:10-11

• Main Thought: Be still and know…

• Group Activity: Go back to your list of attributes from Activity #1. Pass the paper around your group and have each person read this statement - “God, help me be still and know You are __________.” 

  • Example: “God, help me be still and know You are GRACIOUS.”

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Closing Prayer: Finish your time together in prayer and then head back to the youth room for worship.

Synergy Discussion 9-24-25

Thanks for being willing to lead a group tonight! We want this to be student-led, but feel free to ask the adult leaders in your group for their input, especially if conversation gets stuck.

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Icebreaker Question: If you could pick one superpower, what would it be? Why? After everyone shares, talk about how your super team could function together.

Intro (Read This Out Loud): The past few weeks we have been looking at how the Psalms speak to our mental health. God speaks to us through His People, His Spirit, and His Word and we should look to Him for wisdom in times of emotional health and times of emotional struggle.

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Read Psalm 133

1 How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2 For harmony is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron’s head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. 3 Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And there the Lord has pronounced his blessing, even life everlasting.

Main Thought: God gives us other people to build us up mentally, spiritually, and physically. Mentally: It is wonderful and pleasant. Spiritually: Like the anointing of a priest. Physically: like refreshing rain or a cool glass of water. Togetherness ultimately points to the hope we have of eternity with Jesus and other believers!

Group Leaders: Talk about the importance of togetherness (accountability, unity, etc.) in your own personal life. If you are willing, share about a time when you felt isolated and how that affected you emotionally. Also – if willing – share about how spending time with other believers has helped you in both good and bad times.

Everyone Discuss: What would it be like if we didn’t have to walk through life with other people? What struggles would that cause? … Why do you think God designed us to walk through life with others?

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Read Psalm 139:7 & 23-24

7 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! … 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

Main Thought:  The all-knowing, all-present, all-powerful God knows me personally, hears my anxious prayers, and wants my honesty. The Holy Spirit (our Helper) lives inside believers to comfort us when we are hurting and convict us when we are sinning.

Group Leaders: Share about how the Holy Spirit has comforted you (or someone you know) during a time of hurting or sadness. Also, share how He has used conviction in your life as a believer. Feel free to be specific if you are willing OR just share in general about how conviction has worked in your heart.

Everyone Discuss: If God already gave us other people, why do we also need the Holy Spirit? Does anyone else have an example of the Holy Spirit’s comfort or conviction in your life? How else does the Holy Spirit work in the life of a believer?

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Read these main thoughts & supporting verses from Psalm 119.

#1 - God’s Word is an anchor for our thoughts.

Psalm 119:160 - The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever.

#2 - God’s Word strengthens us when we feel weak.

Psalm 119:28 - I weep with sorrow; encourage me by your word.

#3 - God’s Word comforts us when life hurts.

Psalm 119:50 - Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.

#4 - God’s Word guides us when we don’t know what to do.

Psalm 119:105 - Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

Group Leaders: Talk about the importance of God’s Word in your own life. Share what has worked for you in your life if you’ve found a good rhythm for reading Scripture. If you have been struggling recently to stay consistent, share how you know you could do better.

Everyone Discuss: Talk about how amazing it is that God has spoken to us in His Word. Why is it important to spend consistent time reading Scripture? What should we do when we fall out of that rhythm?

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Closing Prayer: Finish your time together in prayer. If it isn’t too late, take time to pray for each person in your group by name. If they don’t have specific prayer requests, pray that he or she would continue to be open to hearing God through His Word, His People, and His Spirit.

Synergy Discussion 8-13-25

Intro: We are called to be “lights in the world” for Jesus. Paul talks about this in the next part of Philippians 2 right after he talks about the example of humility Jesus gives us. This picks up where we left off last Wednesday – but no worries if you missed it. Let’s jump in!

Questions…

1. Icebreaker: Leader – do a few rounds of “Simon Says” and make it as ridiculous as you’d like. Tie this into our topic today of obedience.

2. Philippians 2:12 starts with the word “therefore” – when we see that we need to ask the question, “What is it there for?” Review the previous verses from last week to remember what Paul is talking about.

3. Read Philippians 2:12-13. God is the One who does the work in our hearts, but if we are saved people should see obedience. What does obedience look like at your stage of life? In your social circles? Serving at church?

4. Read Philippians 2:14-16. Paul encourages the reader to shine as lights in the world – in other words, be an example of Jesus to others. Why does he start this thought telling us to do all things without grumbling or disputing (complaining or arguing)? Why is it so hard to do this well?

5. Read Philippians 2:17-18. Paul writes this from prison and knows he is heading toward eventual death, yet he still rejoices with the Philippian believers. Why do you think he still has this attitude?

   • Group Leaders: Be honest with your group – how are you doing with rejoicing right now? What habits should we have in our lives to maintain the right attitude?

6. Group Leader: Take time to pray for each person in your group. If someone doesn’t have a specific prayer request, still pray for him or her in general.

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Philippians 2 - Lights in the World

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 

17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.

Synergy Discussion 8-6-25

Humility is something we should all strive for and we all lack at times. Jesus gives us the ultimate example of humility and Paul talks about this in Philippians 2. Middle schoolers might remember studying this during VBX.

Questions…

1. Icebreaker: Act out a scene where one (or more) of your group members shows humility in serving the others. Take a picture of your entire group acting this out and send it to Aleigha at 814-515-5133.

2. Read Philippians 2:1-2. Paul encourages believes to be “of one mind” – In which things should we be of the same mind? In other words, what are the essentials of following Jesus where we should find unity?

3. Read Philippians 2:3-4. Paul isn’t saying we should ignore our own interests, but they should align with Jesus. How did Jesus look to the interests of others in His life?

4. Read Philippians 2:5-8. We don’t face death on a daily basis, but we are called to daily obedience. Make a list with your group of examples of daily obedience to Jesus.

   • Group Leader: What specific areas of obedience is God calling you to?

5. Read Philippians 2:9-11. What are some ways we “confess Jesus is Lord” in a church or youth group setting? What are some ways we should “confess Jesus is Lord” in our everyday settings?

6. Group Leader: Take time to pray for each person in your group.

Philippians 2 - Christ's Example of Humility

1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 

5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 

9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.