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Standing Up for One Another |
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LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE
Wednesday Night, April 26, 2006
“Standing Up For Each Other ”
5 Minutes - Welcome and Prayer
10 Minutes - OPEN
How would you describe the state of race relations . . . in your family? . . . In our church? . . . In your workplace? . . . In our community?
If you consider yourself someone who is accepting and tolerant of racial diversity in all areas of life, to what do you attribute the strides you have made to this end?
Why is it important that we as a church talk and pray about this important issue?
15-20 Minutes - DIG
In your own words, give a definition of prejudice. Why is prejudice sinful?
What are the real life issues that test your attitudes and practices of racial tolerance and acceptance (for example):
* When was the last time someone of color stayed in your home?
* Do you ever make value judgments about people based solely on the color of their skin?
* Would you consider yourself to be a vocal proponent or silent, passive observer of racial equality?
* What are your feelings toward government programs that are designed to benefit minorities?
* What are the day-to-day indignities; the subtle humiliations, the assumption of superiority; and the gross arrogance that goes along with such?
Why are people’s feelings and behaviors so volatile and explosive on this issue?
What is the teaching of scripture on this subject (consider some of these passages)?
___ Revelation 5:9-10 ___ Matthew 18:11-12
___ Galatians 3:27-28 ___ Acts 10:34-35
___ Ephesians 2:11-22 ___ Acts 17:26-27
___ Genesis 1:26-27 ___ James 2:1-13
___ Matthew 8:11-12
Jesus calls upon us to uphold the cause of justice, mercy, and faithfulness in the fight for people of diversity (Mt. 23:23).
What are the real ways you’ve been called upon to engage in this fight?
Is prejudice and racism something you have battled to overcome in your life?
15 Minutes - REFLECT
Through your life experiences, what are the barriers that have been created that foster a spirit of prejudice, hatred, resentment, and racism?
In your life (or in the life of your children), what has happened to break down these barriers?
If you are a parent, have you noticed a difference in how you and your children feel about prejudice and racism? If so, describe in your own words this difference.
While you would think that the church would be the most integrated of all societal entities, the truth is - - such is not the case! Why do you think this is?
What is the role of the church in creating a color-blind society? What can our church do here in Little Rock to make a difference on this front?
CLOSING PRAYER
Submit these matters to God!
Pray for specific needs that were revealed during the meeting.
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