The Trials
Introduction
You thought you understood God’s plan—but what happens when reality doesn’t match your expectations? Peter had a moment of revelation, but it was quickly followed by resistance, missteps, and a hard reality check. Like him, we often assume we're on the right track, only to find out that God's path looks nothing like we imagined. This Sunday, we’re talking about the trials—the lessons we learn the hard way, the moments that humble us, and the challenges that shape us into who we’re meant to be. Are your expectations aligned with God's plan?
Discussion Questions
1. Life is full of hard lessons. Sometimes they’re embarrassing
and we laugh about them later. Tell us about a lesson you learned that makes you laugh now.
2. Peter confessing Jesus as Messiah was a milestone in Peter’s journey. Why was it important that this confession be Peter’s own and not influenced by others?
3. Last week, Pastor Keven said, “When it comes to following Jesus, your faith is your responsibility.” What does this mean? How can we passively give the responsibility to others? What are the dangers of doing that?
4. Peter’s expectations about Jesus didn’t match reality. What
were Peter’s expectations? How were they different from the reality of what Jesus came to do?
5. Read Matthew 16:22. Peter had the guts to actually rebuke
Jesus. His good intentions led to a misstep. But why are our missteps important parts of our journey? How do they impact our evangelism efforts?
6. Jesus rebuked Peter. It was a reality check. God’s rebukes
important to be willing to relearn what we thought we knew and to be corrected when we’re out of alignment with God’s kingdom?
7. CALL TO ACTION: Memorize Matthew 16:24. Talk with
someone about a misstep you’re having trouble moving on from. Look for ways you can be more responsible for your own faith.