Facing Opposition

SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1.Read John 16:33. According to this passage, we have been promised that we will go through things. Often we think as Christians that life should be easier for us, but that’s not what we are promised. Why do we struggle with this truth so much? What does it mean that Christ has overcome the world? How did He overcome our daily struggles? How can we find peace in this? Discuss.

2.Read Nehemiah 4:1-3. Have you ever been in a situation like this, where the things that you’re doing for the Lord or with great passion have come under criticism from others? How do you typically respond? How should we respond as Christians to criticism? Discuss as a group.

3.Read Nehemiah 4:4-6. Nehemiah pours his heart out to God in this passage, much like we do. He cries out for God not to forgive the people who are criticizing them. Have you ever done this? Discuss a time when you went through something like this and what happened. Do you think this pushback helped to propel the people to be more diligent in their efforts? Do you feel conflict can help us grow?

4.Read 1 Peter 5:6-7 & Nehemiah 4:7-9. Adversity should push us closer to rely on God to overcome our tough situations. Discuss a difficult time in your life where the outcome caused you to lean harder into God. How can we trust God in these situations that test our faith?

5.Read Nehemiah 4:14 & Nehemiah 6:1-3. No matter how desperate the situation or how difficult the resistance, we can rest assured that God is for us. What is the solution that Nehemiah had for the people when they became afraid? How can we make this a part of our routine when we are going through similar fears?

6.Read Nehemiah 6:4-9 1, Corinthians 16:13, Matthew 5:43-44, & 1 Peter 3:15. These passages detail how we should respond to criticism and situations that cause fear. How should we respond according to these scriptures? Discuss.