The word doctrine is one that, as Christians, we don’t always jump at the opportunity to discuss. It can feel oppressive and limiting, but the doctrine of Jesus is freedom and joy. He teaches us about love and freedom, but we have to be willing to receive, live and practice His doctrine under his perfect authority to fully live out the potential He has for us.

Discussion Questions:

Key verses: Acts 2:42, 17:11, Matthew 7:28-29, 4:23-25, 28:18-19, Mark1:21-28, Ephesians 4:11-16

1. What does the word doctrine make you think of? Has your opinion of that word changed since you heard the sermon? Why or why not?

2. What is the importance of reading and studying the word of God? How have you experienced that in your own life? Why is reading and studying it not the end? What further steps are important in living it out?

3. Acts 2:42 says that “they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were true” does your study of God’s word feel like devotion or a chore? Do you agree that we take for granted the gift of the scriptures? Do you blindly accept what people tell you about the Scripture or do you examine it for yourself?

4. Jesus spoke with authority because He really lived out the things He was preaching. Have you ever known someone who was like that? Do you think your testimony is like that to others? Why or why not?

5. Jake said that doctrine is boring because we settle for lists and rules, but it is meant to be lived out. Do you agree with that statement? (without naming names) Have you ever known someone who was obsessed with the “rules” in the Bible, but didn’t live out the full doctrine offered by Jesus? Did that person seem filled with the joy of Christ or empty? Have you ever fallen into that trap? How did you feel?

6. “Community doesn’t feel safe, because we are more concerned about defending our turf & our positions than we are about humbly figuring this out together.” Do you agree with this statement? How have you experienced hurt or betrayal in this arena? How do you think we as a church community and as the body of Christ can do better in this?