LifeGroup Questions

Sermon Passage: 3 John 9-15

Sermon Title: Choose the Right Example

Sermon Big Idea:

Diotrephes, driven by pride and self-interest, became a destructive influence in the church. Instead of serving Christ, he exalted himself and opposed God’s work. We must guard against these same qualities in our own lives and instead, identify those who are spiritually faithful (John, Gaius, Demetrius) and emulate them.

Sermon Points:

  1. Diotrephes – An Example of Character to Avoid

    • Prideful – Loves to be first (vs 9)

    • Rebellious – Rejects authority (vs 9)

    • Slanderous – Speaks wicked nonsense (vs 10)

    • Disloyal – Refuses support (vs 10)

    • Intimidating – Casts out others (vs 10)

  2.  Gaius, Demetrius, John – Examples of Character to Emulate

    • Love in Truth (vs. 1-2)

    • Minister with spiritual priorities (vs 3-4)

    • Generously support God’s Work (actions and finances) (vs. 5-8)

    • Do what is right even when it costs (9-15)

     

Questions: (Use, modify, be selective according to the needs of your LifeGroup)

  1. How can pride and self-interest creep into our ministry or relationships? How do we keep from placing people like Diotrephes in leadership in the church? Why do you think this happens? (Support: 3 John 9; James 3:13–15; Mark 10:42–45)

  2. Why is it dangerous to resist God-given authority, and how can we cultivate a spirit of submission rather than rebellion? What makes it hard to submit to leadership? (3 John 9–10; 1 Saml 15:23; 1 Tim 5:19–22; 1 Peter 3:1; Eph 5:33)

  3. When you are slandered or falsely accused, how should you respond in a way that honors Christ? How do we avoid being influenced by slanderers? (3 John 10; Prov 10:18–19; 1 Peter 2:12)

  4. What does it look like for you to live in humility before the Lord? Where do you need to grow in humility and how can you do it? (3 John 10–12; 1 Sam 2:7; John 3:30; 1 Cor 11:1)