Leader Guide
As believers, we have been entrusted with different spiritual gifts, talents, money, influence, jobs, and family. Everything we have comes from God and He expects us to be faithful with those resources to advance His Kingdom. When we are good stewards with what He has given us, we are a blessing to others and the value of what we do multiplies.
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
Leaders: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to knowing more, exploring. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. What were some of the chores you had to do when you were young? Share some of the gifts that you feel God has blessed you with.
2. Read Matthew 25:14-23. In what ways can God use what He has given you for His Kingdom? How is comparison holding you back?
Leaders: In this story Jesus is teaching us that we have all been entrusted differently but we all have something to give. It is up to God how much or little each person is given. He does not want us to live our life comparing, but realizing He has given us all we need for He has called us to do.
3. Read Matthew 25:24-28. How do we see the fear of failure playout in this parable? Does the fear of failure hold you back from using your talents for God? How can we develop a mindset that helps us grow in our spiritual and personal lives, like the first two servants?
Leaders: God wants us to trust that He can use our gifts. Just like the first two servants multiplied what they were given, God will do for us. So, step out and make the effort to use these resources for Him. He is with us and for us.
4. Read Matthew 25:29-30, James 2:17-18. Consider how the verses in Matthew show us that the wicked servant was not really a part of God’s Kingdom. According to James, how do faith and works go together? This week think about whose salvation story you are a part of.
Leaders: This verse is not meant to create fear but rather discussion about living out our faith. A Lack of works reveals an unchanged life, or a heart that is spiritually dead. When we become a Jesus follower, He gives all of us talents to advance His Kingdom. What are you doing with what you have been given? God help us not waste our life.
Deeper
5. Read Galatians 5:22. Discuss how this verse reflects that a heart changed by Christ will result in using our talents for His Kingdom.
Leaders: When we accept Christ He changes our lives, and we should see evidence of that change. The fruits of the Spirit are outward evidence of our heart change.
6. Read 1 Peter 4:10-11. Discuss what practical applications we can glean from this verse.
Leaders: God help us be good stewards of your grace, so that we might bring honor and glory to your name.