Group discussion
Each number below includes questions that relate to
the scripture. I offer a few answers, but your perspective may be better. The point
is to discuss, not to get 100% agreement. Rule of thumb: the fewer questions you
ask, the better. Save time for “the big question.”
Read Genesis 1:26-31. You might even think about reading this
passage in a few different translations.
Sermon Reflection
1. What is something from the sermon that struck you this morning?
Is there something that Wilson said that impacted you?
Is there anything from the sermon you want to discuss further?
Our Primary View of Ourselves
2. What is the first thing that the Bible says about humans? (26-27)
Competing Views in Scripture
3. According to the sermon, one reason we struggle with this view of
ourselves is because of how we read Scripture. Wilson discussed
the difference between beginning the story in Genesis 1 versus
Genesis 3. What difference did he say that makes?
What are some of the foundational things we believe about
ourselves when we start in Genesis 3? Hint: One thing is that the
focus becomes on who we are not.
What are some of the foundational things we believe about
ourselves when we start in Genesis 1? Hint: One thing is that the
focus becomes on who we are.
What other differences might it make in our view God and the world
by starting the story of Scripture in Genesis 1 versus Genesis 3?
Hint: Pay attention to all that is said in Genesis 1 about God and the
creation he made.
What do you think of when you hear this phrase “the image of God?”
Hint: see Bible notes for additional ideas.
Our Primary View of Others
Why is this an important thing for us to remember about ourselves?
4. There is a challenge in our passage—all people are created in the
image of God (not just people of faith). Why is it sometimes a
challenge to view others as created in the image of God?
What are some ways you might go about remembering this primary
identity about yourself? Hint: Think about things you can do as well
as what others might do for you.
Who is one person, or group of people, that you need to work on
seeing the image of God in them? Why?
Competing Views of Ourselves
What can you do to help develop this new view of others?
3. What are some competing views we encounter in our world that
distract us from seeing ourselves as created in the image of God?
Hint: We live in a world that tells us our primary view of ourselves is
determined by our abilities, accomplishments, and achievements.
How might your life be different if you viewed others in this way?
Why do you think that it is so easy to listen to these voices and
views as opposed to what we read in Genesis 1?
How might we go about resisting these competing voices to our
primary identity?
! The million-dollar question If you ask only one question, let this be it.
Allow at least 20 minutes. Go around the circle and give each person an
opportunity to answer. It’s okay if they pass, but at least they get a chance to
respond.
What do you want to be your new view for this New Year? In other
words, take time to share with your group the priorities you want to
have as you start 2016.
College Hills LIFE Group Guide
January 2016 Guide 1
Resources
Bible notes
The key statement made about humans in this passage is that they are
created in the image of God. This phrase “the image of God” would have
been a significant one for those hearing this passage in its original context.
Genesis was written during a time when the phrase “the image of God”
would have been used of god-like rulers and kings. When kings were
unable to be in all parts of their kingdom, then they would put up images of
themselves in those places. That image would serve as a reflection of that
ruler even though they could not be there themselves. So the writer of
Genesis is making a claim about what it means to be human with this
phrase. Humans are intended to be reflections of God wherever they find
themselves. This is a significant statement.
There is also a scandal to this passage as well. The phrase “the image of
God” was also exclusively used for people of royal blood. It was not used
for “everyday people.” This is an exclusive term that the writer is making
into an inclusive one—ALL people are created in the image of God.
Kid-friendly activity. An activity designed to help kids and adults grow in faith
together. Do this first, then dismiss the kids so the adults can talk.
Created in the Image of God
Prep: Get construction paper and crayons.
Activity: Have the kids spend some time drawing themselves on the
construction paper. Encourage them to draw a friend or two on the
paper with them.
Read: Genesis 1:26-31.
Delivery: “The first thing said about all men and women is that they
are created in the image of God. This is the primary thing said about
you and me. We are created with the image of God in us.”
Ask the kids: What does it mean to be created in the image of God?
Activity: Have the kids take out their pictures. Have them write “the
image of God” on every person they drew. Have them take these
with them as a reminder of how God has created them and others.
Close in prayer.
Genesis 1:26-31 – A New View for a New Year
By Wilson McCoy ([email protected])
The theme: What do you want 2016 to look like? What are your
dreams for the upcoming year? Before we look out into the New Year
we need to look at ourselves. More specifically, we need to look at
ourselves the way God looks at us. In our passage this week we will
explore how God looks at each and every one of us. For many it will
give you a new view for the New Year.
Leadership Date: Next Sunday is Vision Sunday. This is a day when the
leadership of the church presents a picture of what the New Year will look
like for our congregation. We hope you will make it a point to be here!
Leadership Tip: The New Year is a great time to renew commitments to
your LIFE Group. As a leader, take some time to choose one thing you want
to do better as you lead your LIFE Group this year. Maybe it is to pray weekly
for your group. Maybe it is to prioritize meeting regularly. Maybe it is to find a
way to serve with your group. Whatever you decide share that commitment
with your group. They will be encouraged to see you making them a priority.
Relate
Use a few to introduce the theme, check everyone’s spiritual pulse, and
“break the ice.” No right or wrong answers – maybe goofy but not wrong! Look for
opportunities to affirm and encourage through these questions.
" Who made a New Year’s resolution? Who wants to share it?
" What is a highlight from your recent holidays?
" If you had to choose to be at the beach or in the mountains for
the rest of your life, which would you pick? Why?