Leader Guide
This week our Pastors shared the vision for our church for 2026. It’s about all of us being willing to grow spiritually this year and taking our next steps. We were reminded that growth doesn’t usually happen all at once; it happens through small, intentional steps over time. The encouraging part is that wherever we are in our faith, there is always a next step. In 1 John 2, John gives us a simple picture of spiritual growth. It’s not about age, but about maturity. As we discuss this today, we’ll reflect on where we might be and consider how God is inviting us to keep growing.
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
Leader: 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 know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. What was something that took you a really long time to finally stop doing when you were a child? (Thumb sucking, a blankie, training wheels, sleeping with your parents or a nightlight...no judgment.) Growing up, did your family ever measure your height on a wall or celebrate milestones in a special way?
2. Read 1 John 2:12–14. What 3 stages of growth do you see in this scripture? What do you notice about what John emphasizes for each stage?
Leader: Notice John doesn’t talk about performance; he talks about the things that really mark spiritual growth: forgiveness, knowing God, strength, and overcoming. He does not mention how much we do or how involved we are in church. Growth in faith always starts with grace, not effort.
3. Learning to Follow. Read 1 Corinthians 3:1–2. Why do you think it’s important to be honest about where we are in our faith? What might a small, simple next step look like if you’re just starting out or rebuilding?
Leader: Milk isn’t weakness; it’s where we all begin. Just like a child needs it to begin growing and learns to crawl before walking, spiritual growth happens step by step. It’s usually small, steady steps — showing up consistently, reading your Bible, asking honest questions, and choosing obedience over sinful choices.
4. Growing Stronger. Read Hebrews 5:14. Have you ever had to train or prepare for something –like a 5K, new job, or a big event? What was it and how did you have to prepare? What do you think “training” looks like in everyday life with God? Where have you seen even small signs of growth in how you handle decisions or challenges?
Leader: This stage isn’t about having it all together. It’s about continuing to grow. Just like anything else in life, strength builds slowly through steady practice. As we spend time with God and try to live out what we’re learning, we begin to see change, sometimes in small ways at first. But over time, those small steps add up.
5. Helping Others Grow. Read Matthew 28:19-20. Has there been someone in your life that helped you grow spiritually? What did they do that made a difference? What might it look like to encourage or walk alongside someone this year?
Leader: Helping others grow usually looks more ordinary than we think. It can be as simple as being available, listening, praying together, or sharing what you’re learning. We don’t have to have all the answers; we just have to be willing to take a step with someone else, seek and follow Christ so they can follow us.
Action Step: This week, identify which stage best describes where you are right now.
Take one small, intentional step:
• Show up consistently.
• Begin a daily rhythm in Scripture.
• Say no to something that pulls you away.
• Encourage someone who is newer in faith.
Pray and ask “God, help me grow — and to be available to help others grow.”
Optional - Deeper Dive: Read 1 Corinthians 11:1. What makes this verse feel uncomfortable or intimidating to you? What does it look like to live in a way that others could imitate? If someone followed you around this week, what parts would clearly point them to Christ? What parts might not?