Keeping Place / week 3

Watch session 3 video of Keeping Place at RightNow Media, then answer the following questions:

Bible Exploration

Luke 8:19–21. According to Jesus, who are His family members? What do you think is the significance of these verses for Christians? Would you say your idea of family is positive or negative? Why? As you reflect on your personal view of family, what are your initial thoughts about the Church being a family?

1 Timothy 3:14–15. According to Paul, what’s his purpose in writing to Timothy? Why do you think it’s important for Christians to know how to treat one another?

1 Timothy 5:1–2. Are there any older believers who have become “spiritual parents” to you? If so, how has your relationship with them developed your faith? How might considering the people in your church as your parents or siblings change your attitude and actions toward them? How does thinking of the Church as a family shape your view of Christian community?

1 Thessalonians 2:1–12. How does Paul describe his conduct and the conduct of his companions in verses 3–6? What types of people does Paul compare himself and his friends to in verses 7 and 11?

What kinds of things did Paul and his friends do to treat the Thessalonians as family? What stands out to you about how Paul and his friends acted in Thessalonica?

When has someone treated you the way Paul treated the Thessalonians? How did that person (or those people) impact your faith?

What does it look like to “share your life” with someone? How has that improved your life? How has it been uncomfortable?

Deeper Walk Select at least one activity below to complete before next week. Serve: Find a need and fill it this week. If you’re having trouble finding someone to serve, check with your small group leader or pastor to see if there are any needs in the church. Consider offering your help in secret so your motives remain pure.

Ask: Sit down with a close Christian friend, sibling, parent, or with your spouse this week and ask them one way you can love them well. Make note of what they say and come up with creative ways to love them throughout the week.

Memorize: Memorize 1 Thessalonians 2:4 as a reminder to check your motivations this week. Write it down and put it somewhere you’ll see it often.

Journal: Take time this week to write down your thoughts and prayers, especially if the question about motives stood out to you. Write out what motivates you—if you’re trying to please people or earn your salvation—and confess your motives to God. Ask Him to purify your motivations.