Part 3 – The Holy Place
Discussion Guide
Entering the temple courts required sacrifice. Solomon’s temple was dedicated with much ceremony, prayers, worship, and many sacrifices. We, too, must bring the sacrifice of a holy life to please God, whose Spirit lives within us. We, too, need revival in our lives and our church.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. What is one thing you changed when you started “going to church” or when you became a believer?
2. Read 2 Chronicles 7:1-3, 11-12. Before God spoke to Solomon (vs 12), how did the people know God was pleased? What did the fire represent? What do you think verse 11 implies? What principle to do you see there, also? What sacrifices have you made to follow Christ? Share one.
3. Read 2 Chronicles 7:13-14. What does God list in verse 13? If any of those situations arise, what does He expect of us, His people? Why does this responsibility rest on us? Are we in a similar situation now? Where are we looking for relief? Instead, what are we doing about it?
4. Read Revelation 2:2-5. Jesus praises this New Testament church (at Ephesus) for many things. What are they? Do we fit the same description? What did they do wrong? Do you remember your first love of Jesus? What adjectives or actions describe that time of your life?
5. Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. How are we like the Old Testament temple since now “the temple of the Holy Spirit within you”? Do you agree or disagree that you are not your own? How does that go against culture? Does knowing this help you glorify God with your body and life? How has this changed the way you live?
6. Action Step: Would you read and really pray Psalm 139:23–24? Review this YouVersion link for specific sins you might need to confess, repent of, and ask forgiveness for from God. Would you commit (to God and your Life Group) a desire to regain your “first love” of Jesus?
7. Pray: Lord, we seek you today. We come humbly, aware of our sins and our lack of concern for our community, nation, and world. We want to repent of our lack of passion for You and Your purposes in our lives. We want to pray for revival: Lord, let it begin in me. Let it begin in this Life Group. Let it break out in our church family and spread. We ask for the power of the Spirit to stir up our first love for you once again. Empower our prayers, our evangelism, our desire to follow and obey You. Show us Your Glory, Lord, as we sacrifice our lives to you. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Deeper
8. Solomon had one of the most comprehensive, eloquent prayers on behalf of his people at the temple's dedication. If you have time, read all of 2 Chronicles, Chapter 6. Read a part of it now: 2 Chronicles 6:21, 24, 26, 28, 32, 36-37, 39. Why did Solomon pray about future sin? What are some of the consequences that he attributes to the people’s sin? How is this theology of suffering and evil in the world partly true and partly untrue?
9. In that famous verse, 2 Chronicles 7:14, the first thing which God asks of His people is to humble themselves. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-5. What is humility? In what ways does our culture promote being boastful or proud? In what environments or situations have you been boastful or proud?
10. Again, in 2 Chronicles 7:14 we find that humility is crucial to answered prayer, vital to God beginning to act our behalf. Read James 4:3-10. What does “humbling yourself before God” mean, according to this passage? Why is humility necessary to receive the full grace of God? What prevents us from fully feeling the weight of our sin and humbling ourselves before God?
11. Read 2 Chronicles 7:12-15. This passage occurs shortly after Israel (under Solomon's leadership) has completed the temple. The people are still suffering and are seeking God, looking for answers. Why does God ask that His people humble themselves before He brings healing? In what areas of your life are you seeking healing or restoration? Have you humbled yourself (to His plan, acknowledged your sin, etc.) as you prepare for His healing?