In The In Between

How do we live between Jesus saving us and going to heaven? The In-Between is all about the now, and Jesus himself said that his Kingdom is at hand now! As Christians, we are in the In-Between, and Jesus teaches us how to live radically differently right now as we await his return.

Small Group Tips

  • Make note of anything that sticks out to you.

    Write down thoughts that may be sparked as you listen.

    You can facilitate meaningful discussion based on your notes. 

  • They may find something interesting, or even have a question about something. 

    It’s good for them to share that, and good for the group too!

    Some of your best discussion will come from what individuals heard that was particularly challenging or helpful to them. 

  • Even if it seems silly to you (we know every personality is different), it’s supposed to be fun and easy.  Hopefully it can get people laughing together, and comfortable sharing.  It can also bring out some great memories. 

    Groups should be social and spiritual.  It’s good to start light and build friendships, as we discuss God’s Word and share personally. 

  • We give you a few questions.  We hope they work well.  But you know your group. 

    You may pick a few and skip a couple.  You may have a great question that you think of!  There’s no pressure to do every question.

Click the topics below after each week’s message for discussion questions and other resources.

Watch the Series
Real Talk Podcast

MESSAGES

  • How do we live between saving us and going to heaven? The In-Between is all about the now, and Jesus himself said that his Kingdom is at hand now! This weekend we started by looking at how we operate as Christians in the In-Between, and the common places we stray away from the Good News of salvation.

    ICE BREAKER:

    Share a time when you were in between two big decisions. How did you navigate the In-Between?

    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    1. What did you take away from the message this weekend?

    2. Philippians 2:12 shows us how we work out our salvation as God works in us. Do you tend towards trying everything in your own strength, or going with the flow (leaving everything to God) when it comes to faith?

    3. How can our motivations lead us sideways? How can we move our motivations from being selfish? Is this even possible?

    4. Read Matthew 6:6-13. Why does the prayer open with an invitation to the Father? What does this mean for us?

  • In Minooka this weekend, we talked about Jesus’ teaching on money; how we treat and manage our money in this life, and how to invest in the eternal treasure of heaven.

    Ice Breaker:

    What is something you treasured a lot as a kid that wasn’t actually all that valuable (from a monetary perspective)?

    Discussion Questions:

    1. What did you take away from the message this weekend?

    2. Besides money, what else can bring people a strong feeling of security in life?

    3. Being stewards on earth instead of owners is certainly a challenging way of viewing our resources. How does this perspective looses our grip on the things we have on earth? Can this perspective have any impact on seasons of financial loss? (Check out Jeremiah 17:7-3 for some further discussion).

    4. The Kingdom of God is what Jesus says we are to seek first (Matthew 6:33). What do you think it means to seek his Kingdom? What actions and/or attitudes come with seeking the Kingdom first?

    5. As the Christmas season approaches, what can our Small Group do together that could invest in those in need, or in the church?

  • Ice Breaker:

    If you could have dinner with any two people from history (or today), who would they be and why?

    Discussion Questions:

    1. Why do you think relationships are so central to our lives? How does the world’s view of relationships often contrast with God’s design for them?

    2. What are some of the biggest challenges you face in relationships with family, friends, or your spouse? In what ways do you see these challenges reflecting the problems mentioned in the message; such as technology or misunderstandings?

    3. In the message, Marco talked about imitating God’s love in our relationships. What does it mean to you to “imitate God’s love” in practical ways?Can you think of a time when this was hard or rewarding?

    4. How can we maintain humility in our relationships, especially when it feels like the other person is at fault? In what ways can we practice humility even when we feel justified in our anger or frustration?

    5. In the message, Marco highlighted the balance of grace and truth in relationships. What does it look like to offer both grace and truth to someone, especially when they’re not living up to God’s design for relationships?

    6. In Ephesians 5, Paul uses marriage as a reflection of God’s covenant love with the Church. How does this perspective challenge or encourage your understanding of marriage or other close relationships in your life?

    7. What are some practical steps you can take to strengthen your relationships this week? Are there any specific relationships in your life that need restoration or healing, and how can you start that process today?