Small Group Guide for "The Stones We Cannot Roll Away"

  1. Home
  2. Current Sermon Series
  3. Message Detail
  4. Small Group Guide for "The Stones We Cannot Roll Away"

The Stones We Cannot Roll Away

Sunday, April 20th 2025

First Scripture: Psalm 118:17, 21-24

Second Scripture: Luke 24:1-12

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

Welcome and Opening Prayer:

Leader:
Welcome, everyone! I’m glad you’re here as we explore the themes of hope and transformation through the Easter story. Let’s begin with a moment of prayer.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing us together today. Open our hearts and minds as we explore Your Word and the message of resurrection. Guide us in our discussions and reflections. Amen.

Section 1: The Women at the Tomb

Scripture Reading:
Read Luke 24:1-3 aloud: "On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus."

Takeaway:
The women approached the tomb expecting death, yet they encountered the unexpected. Just as God had already rolled away the stone, He is working in our lives even when all seems lost.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are some "stones" in your life that feel immovable?
  • How can you remain open to the unexpected ways God might be working behind the scenes?

Section 2: Encountering the Angel

Scripture Reading:
Read Luke 24:4-7 aloud: "While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them... 'Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!'"

Takeaway:
The angels challenge the women to seek life and hope instead of focusing on death and despair, inviting them to shift their perspective.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there areas in your life where you’re seeking life among things that cannot offer true fulfillment?
  • How can you shift your focus towards what brings life and hope?

Section 3: The Transformation and New Reality

Scripture Reading:
Read Luke 24:8-12 aloud: "They remembered his words. When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense."

Takeaway:
The empty tomb signifies the beginning of a new reality—a transformation. The women's testimony, initially dismissed, eventually leads others to encounter the risen Christ.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you ever shared a hope or belief that seemed unbelievable to others? How did you handle it?
  • In what ways can you embrace and share the transformative power of Christ in your daily life?

Conclusion and Closing Prayer:

Leader:
Thank you for being part of this meaningful discussion today. As we ponder the resurrection story, let’s remain open to the ways God is working in and around us, helping us move past our immovable stones towards hope and transformation.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for this time together. May the story of the empty tomb inspire us to see Your possibilities in our lives. As we leave this place, help us to carry this hope and share it with others. Amen.

Feel free to adjust the script according to your group’s needs and encourage open sharing and listening. Thank you for leading with grace and courage!

Top