Small Group Guide for "Slow of Heart, Quick to Hope"

Slow of Heart, Quick to Hope

Sunday, April 27th 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 30

Second Scripture: Luke 24:13–35

Use the Two Passages: Focus on the primary and secondary passages used in this sermon.

Pray for Understanding: Before diving into the text, take a moment to pray for guidance and illumination from the Holy Spirit. Ask for wisdom and insight as you study.

Read the Scriptures: Begin by reading the selected Scriptures thoughtfully and prayerfully. Read the passages more than once to familiarize yourself with the content.

Observation Questions: After reading the text, go through the "Observation Questions" section. These questions will help you notice and record specific details about the text. Look for key words, phrases, repeated ideas, and any observations that stand out to you.

Interpretation Questions: Once you've observed the text, proceed to the "Interpretation Questions" section. These questions will guide you in understanding the meaning and context of the passage. Consider the historical and cultural background, the author's intent, and how the passage fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.

Application Questions: Finally, explore the "Application Questions." These questions will help you apply the lessons and insights from the Scriptures to your own life. Reflect on how the text speaks to your faith, relationships, and daily choices.

Journal Your Insights: Write down your observations, interpretations, and applications in a journal or notebook. This will serve as a valuable record of your spiritual growth and understanding of the Word of God.

Discussion and Sharing: If you are studying in a group, take time to discuss your findings with others. Share your insights, listen to their perspectives, and learn from one another.

Pray for Transformation: As you conclude your study, pray for the transformation of your heart and mind. Ask God to help you live out the truths you've discovered in the Scriptures.

Consistency is Key: Make a habit of using this inductive Bible study method regularly. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become in studying and understanding the Bible.

Remember that the goal of this inductive study method is not just to gain knowledge but to deepen your relationship with God and apply His Word to your life. Approach your study with an open heart, a curious mind, and a desire to grow in your faith.

May your study be richly blessed, and may God's Word transform your life as you engage with it through the inductive method.

View the Sermon this Guide was Created For

Introduction

Welcome everyone to our small group. Today, we will explore our journey of faith as mirrored in the story of the disciples on their way to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-35. Let's read parts of the passage and then discuss some reflection questions.

Section 1: The Journey Begins

Read Luke 24:13-16:

Takeaway: Even after hearing the good news, the disciples are burdened by grief and disappointment.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Have you ever felt burdened by grief or disappointment, even when you knew there was hope?
  2. In what ways can we walk alongside others in their times of grief?

Section 2: Honest Grief

Read Luke 24:17-24:

Takeaway: It's okay to express honest grief and disappointment. These emotions can prevent us from recognizing hope in our midst.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How can expressing grief impact our perception of hope and faith?
  2. Can you think of a time when your expectations were dashed? How did you handle it?

Section 3: Jesus Walks With Us

Read Luke 24:25-27:

Takeaway: Jesus stays with us through our confusion and slow understanding, patiently opening our hearts and minds.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How do you see Jesus walking with you in your journey, even when you struggle to recognize Him?
  2. What practices help you stay open to learning from Jesus and the scriptures?

Section 4: The Revelation at the Table

Read Luke 24:28-31:

Takeaway: Moments of revelation often come when we least expect them, transforming our grief and bringing new life to our faith.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Have you ever experienced a moment of sudden clarity or revelation in your faith?
  2. Why do you think the act of breaking bread was significant for the disciples' understanding?

Section 5: Sharing the Good News

Read Luke 24:32-35:

Takeaway: When we experience the resurrection hope, it compels us to share it with others, despite our previous doubts.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How do you share the hope of resurrection in your daily life?
  2. What is one way you can act on your faith this week, inspired by what we've discussed?

Conclusion

Thank you all for sharing and reflecting today. Let's pray together as we close, asking for open hearts to see Jesus in our own journeys and for the courage to share that hope with others.

Closing Prayer:

(Invite someone to pray or lead a short prayer yourself, offering thanks for the insights shared and asking for guidance and openness in the coming week.)

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