EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Living with Hope – Session 2

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NEW: Online Group Plan for Session 2

Date: June 14, 2020

The Expression of Our Hope

The Point: Our hope in Christ changes how we view the world and live in it.

Get Into the Study

Use the following as you introduce the session.

The Tennessee Attorney General’s office has reported a significant increase in consumer complaints related to the coronavirus. An article in the Tennessean reported 347 complaints as of April 28, 2020. These included reports of businesses price-gouging supplies like toilet paper and face masks, with at least one complainant noting a face mask listed at $50. Two complaints have also been filed regarding businesses reportedly selling fake hand sanitizer. The businesses taking part in these types of activities are looking to what they can gain in this crisis rather than how they can serve others.

As Christians, we do not put our hope in money or financial gain, nor does our ultimate hope rest in health and safety. Our hope in Christ changes how we view the world and live in it.

Nikki Wilbanks grew up in Tennessee before heading to California to study literature at Pepperdine University. After graduation, she enjoyed a decade-long career as a commercial real estate appraiser and investor. Having returned to Tennessee with her husband, she is now thrilled to be a stay-at-home mom, writer, and Bible study teacher.

Get Into the Study [Additional Option for Adult Leader Guide]

In advance, to help group members prepare to answer Question #1, share examples from a list of historical product flops.

Live It Out

Use the following as you conclude the session.

15-year-old Hita Gupta had been volunteering at a nursing home in Pennsylvania for over a year, visiting residents and organizing games. But then the coronavirus pandemic began to affect nursing home visits. “They told me that I couldn’t visit because they were trying to limit interaction with seniors to prevent the spread,” Gupta told CNN. “The seniors aren’t able to see their families, so that’s causing loneliness, boredom and anxiety.”

So Hita decided to do something about it; she began collecting care packages with coloring books, puzzle books, colored pencils, and notes of encouragement. She takes precautions to safely drop these packages at nursing homes. “Cheering them up makes me happy. Even if it’s just for one day,” she says.

Consider how our hope in Christ impacts the way we live. Ask, “What are some unique opportunities we Christians have for loving others sincerely and consistently in this time?” Allow time for discussion.

Additional Questions

Icebreaker

What are some items on your “bucket list” you still hope to experience?
When have you seen a shortcut turned into a long and frustrating path?
When have you been let down by something that you really hoped would work?

1 Peter 1:13-16

What’s the relationship between holiness and hope?
How do we live a holy life when we are surrounded by individuals who are conformed to the ways of the world?
In what ways are Christians tempted to conform to the culture’s worldview?

1 Peter 1:17-21

What are some examples of empty ways of life you see in our culture?
How do we love people in the world while not developing a love for the world?
What situations or circumstances make you feel like a “stranger” in this world?

1 Peter 1:22-25

What are some practical ways we can express love to others, especially those who are difficult to love?
How can our group help one another grow in purity and love?
How can we express our hope to those who need to hear it?

Podcast

Click here for a 20-minute podcast for both the group member and the leader.

For Those in Your Group

Send the following link to your group members as either a teaser before the group meets or as a follow-up thought: