Scrabble

Opening:
How have you presented, or had presented to you, the story of the bible? If this is totally new to you, perhaps a leader in the group can explain the bible, or as we often call presentations about Jesus, “the gospel.” Read John 20:30 and discuss, or for a gospel summary, Romans 6:23, but ask yourself, “is that all there is?”

Digging Deeper:
Follow along with the diagram and talk about each movement. Feel free to reference other scriptures as needed. Keep the discussion on track so you can get to the closing for several minutes of sharing.

CREATION: Connected Read Genesis1:27-2:3.
Do you see a connection between People and God, one another and creation? How does God describe what he made and how would you describe the plan for creation? Do you feel like we were meant for a world that doesn’t, or does not yet fully exist?

FALL: Disconnected Read Genesis 3:8-19.
Don’t get hung up on all the details here. Instead, describe the reality of disconnection. How does it affect human relationships with God, one another and the creation itself? How have you seen or been damaged by disconnection?

REDEMPTION: Connecting Read 2 Corinthians 5:17
Change must begin in us. What do you make of the story so far? Does everything point toward Jesus? Is Jesus the Son of God? Do you believe only he can offer us forgiveness from sins and victory over death? Do you believe in Jesus as you savior and Lord?

NEW CREATION: Reconnected Read 2 Corinthians 5:18-21
In the story Jesus came, died, rose and ascended to heaven. He promised to return and bring about the creation of the new heaven and earth (Revelation 21:1-5). In this time between, with our salvation secure and the hope of New Creation, we are to be Christ’s ambassadors. What does that mean? How does the church fulfill this mission? How do you as individuals fulfill this mission?

Closing:
Which circle are you in? 1. Nothing’s wrong, 2. Everything’s broken, 3. I’m all right because of Jesus, 4. I’m in mission with Jesus and the church? Obvious we are hoping for circle four. What will it take to get there?

* This picture, with only a few minor changes, was taken from "True Story" by James Choung.