August 16
Numbers: Being Obedient (Week 6)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: Being Obedient,” Numbers 20:2-5, 8, 10-12.

1. Describe a time when anger led you to do or say something you later regretted.

2. How is this narrative an illustration of a “trust crisis”?

3. What does this mean to you? When my faith wavers, God restores my trust:

He disciplines me.
He provides for me.

4. The Bible describes Jesus as a rock (cornerstone). How does this image help me understand God’s love and provision for me?

5. Commit to memory: “For whom the Lord loves, He corrects.” Proverbs 3:12 (NKJV).

August 9
Numbers: Choosing Servants (Week 5)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: Choosing Servants,” Numbers 17:1-5, 8.

1. Give an example of a team of people who accomplished a great task. What do you learn from that example?

2. What is the difference between God choosing Moses to be a leader and Korah’s ambition and demand to lead? Why is this distinction important?

3. In terms of Christian service, which of these points is most important to you? Why?

Pivot.
Purpose.
Promise.

4. How would you explain to a friend that the cross of Jesus a reminder of God’s grace, power, and life?

5. Commit to memory: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the things He planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10 (NLT).

August 2
Numbers: Addressing Anxiety (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: Addressing Anxiety,” Numbers 13:17-20, 26-28.

1. We live in a time of anxiousness. Whether it is related to covid-19 or another concern of life, what is your greatest concern for yourself or your family? How do you deal with it?

2. In your opinion, why did ten spies come back to Moses and the Israelites with such a threatening report? What does that tell you about the inclinations of many in the face of great challenges?

3. How would you explain to a friend the report that Caleb and Joshua brought to Moses and the Israelites? How did these two spies come to such a radically different view of the Promised Land?

4. Which of these points is most important to you? Why? How to address anxiety:

Rank.
Remember.
Refocus.

5. Commit to memory: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7.

July 26
Numbers: Dangerous Jealousy (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: Dangerous Envy,” Numbers 12:1-2, 5-10a, 13.

1. Share memories about the very best lessons in life were taught you by someone close to you. Who was the person? What was that lesson?

2. In your opinion, how does envy (covetousness, jealousy) lead to disappointment and destruction?

3. Why does God hate envy? How would you explain these points to a friend?

Envy blocks love.
Envy destroys you.

4. Which of these points is most important to you? Why? How to deal with envy:

Check your motivation.
Be content.

5. Commit to memory: “I will never leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5.

July 19
Numbers: God Provides (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: God Provides,” Numbers 11:4-6, 10-14.

1. Share memories about the best or worst trip you have ever taken. Why did you pick that particular trip? What details do you remember most vividly?

2. How would you explain to a friend the importance of trusting God even when circumstances are difficult and God seems distant?

3. God provides food in the wilderness in order to teach us. In your opinion, why is this important? God’s provision not only has to do with what He gives us, but also with what He withholds from us.

4. God provides food in the wilderness in order to love us. Though neither Moses nor the Israelites deserved God’s provision, nevertheless, He provides. How is this a picture of Jesus being the provision of God’s love?

5. Commit to memory: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35.

July 12
Numbers: People Count (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Numbers: People Count,” Numbers 1:1-4.

1. Outside of your immediate family, who is your favorite family relative? Why? Share your favorite family memory about that person.

2. How would you explain to a child the importance of family history? How does Bible history help you understand the truth - “this really happened”?

3. When you encounter struggles in life, why is it important to know the assets you bring to the struggle? How would you describe the importance of having Jesus as your primary asset for your struggles?

4. In dealing with masses of people, how important is listing their names? What is the significance of knowing your name is written in the “book of life” (Rev. 20:12, 15)?

5. Commit to memory: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.

July 5
Re-Opening Christianity: Am I in Love with Jesus or _______? (Week 5)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Re-Opening Christianity: Am I in Love with Jesus or _______?” Exodus 20:1-6.

1. For us, “re-opening” does not imply something is closed. The church never closed. It implies “for the better” as life continues on the other side of our pandemic. In your opinion, what does “for the better” mean for the church…mean for you?

2. This is a “crucial” question: “Am I in love with God or something else?” How would you explain the significance of this question to a friend?

3. What do these two things tell me about love? What do these two things tell me about Jesus’ love for me?

Love is hard work.
Love for someone or something is worth it.

4. The narrative of the rich, young, ruler (Mark 10:17-22) illustrates the nature of conflicting love. How is the first commandment a helpful guide for dealing with conflicting loves?

5. Commit to memory: “You are not your own. You have been bought at a price…” I Corinthians 6:19b-20a.

June 28
Re-Opening Christianity: Am I Known for What I’m For or Against? (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Re-Opening Christianity: Am I Known for What I’m For or Against” John 8:2-11.

1. Share three things that you are “for” or “against.” Explain why this is true for you.

2. From this text, what does this comment mean to you? Jesus is against self-righteousness.

3. Because Jesus is “for” me, I can do two things. Why are these important to you?

I can choose mercy.
I can choose peace.

4. From this narrative, how would you explain to a friend that the peace Jesus has for us goes way beyond simply not being afraid or upset, the peace He gives changes everything?

5. Commit to memory: “If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31.

June 21
Re-Opening Christianity: Am I Playing Offense or Defense? (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Re-Opening Christianity: Am I Playing Offense or Defense?” I Samuel 17:4, 10-11, 32, 45, 48-49.

1. In what ways is the narrative of David and Goliath a story of offense and defense?

2. What does it mean to you that sin always starts small, but it never stops there?

3. David had what we need to step up to a battle and win. What do these mean to you?

David had perspective.
David was prepared.

4. How would you explain to a friend that the narrative of David and Goliath is a story of God using someone He has prepared to do exactly what he was called to do.

5. Commit to memory: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10, NLT.

June 14
Re-Opening Christianity: Am I a Contributor or a Consumer? (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Re-Opening Christianity: Am I a Contributoror a Consumer?” Acts 9:36-42.

1. Share a time in your life when you were the recipient of someone’s generosity and grace. What happened? What were you feeling as that person was generous and gracious to you?

2. In your opinion, how is giving rather than getting a powerful, tangible expression of the Christian faith?

3. Three lessons from Tabitha’s life about being a contributor. Which is most important to you? Why?

• Contribute intentionally.

• Contribute personally.

• Contribute collaboratively.

4. How would you explain this to a friend: “Don’t think that your lifetime limits what God can do through you.” (Pastor Tom Zelt).

5. Commit to memory: “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations, forever and ever!” Ephesians 3:20-21.

June 7
Re-Opening Christianity: Are You Open or Closed Off? (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Re-Opening Christianity: Am I Open or Closed Off?” Acts 15:5-11, 13-14, 19.

1. As restaurants, barber shops, gyms, businesses of all sorts – even churches – begin to re-open post covid-19, what are some things you anticipate that will change?

2. In your opinion, how does the church “re-open” for the better, bringing hope for the future?

3. The question of “open or closed” in defining people of the church is not a new one. Share your thoughts about the insights of the question of admitting Gentiles into the Hebrew church:

God does not discriminate.
Lead with grace.

4. How would you explain this to a friend: Our hope is found in the grace of God through Jesus.

5. Commit to memory: “For there is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus” Galatians 3:28.

May 31
God Only Knows: “Try Something New” (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “God Only Knows: Try Something New” Ezra 1:1-4.

1. Try something new. Share what you remember most about trying something new…a vacation spot, a restaurant, a fitness activity, whatever. Good experience??? Why?

2. Things change when you have a need. How would you illustrate this from your life…from this passage of Scripture?

3. Which of these message points is most important to you? Why?

You have what you need.
Permission works better than pushing.
Circumstances change. God IS with us!

4. How would you explain this to a friend: The old me – old ways, old attitudes, old habits, old addictions, old secrets – does not have to define me.

5. Commit to memory: “I (Jesus) am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5.

May 24
God Only Knows: “Talk to God” (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “God Only Knows: Talk to God” II Kings 20: 1-6.

1. In times of uncertainty (like these days of global pandemic), why is prayer important to you?

2. How would you explain to a friend that God is omniscient (all-knowing)? How is that important to know in times of uncertainty.

3. Which of these lessons on prayer is most important to you? Why

Prayer is a “hotline.”
Prayer is a relationship.
Prayer can be a witness.

4. How would you explain to a child that God answers prayers: Yes, No, and Slow? Why is that important to understand?

5. Commit to memory: “The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him.” Lamentations 3:25.

May 17
God Only Knows: “Trust in God” (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “God Only Knows: Trust in God” Psalm 46:1-7.

1. Describe a time in your life when your best answer to a question was: “I really don’t know.” Why was it your best answer? How did you feel when you said that to someone else?

2. How would you explain the doctrine of omniscience (God knows everything) to a child? Does that truth give you comfort during this covid-19 pandemic? Why?

3. Which of these faith statements is most important to you? Why?

We can trust God because He is powerful.
We can trust God because He provides.
We can trust God because He is present.

4. How would you explain to a friend that your faith in Jesus is stronger than fears?

5. Commit to memory: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear…” Psalm 46:1-2.

May 10
Attitude Adjustment: “Calendar Crunch” (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Attitude Adjustment: Calendar Crunch” Luke 10:38-42.

1. When you think of Mother’s Day, what memory of “Mom” comes to mind first? Why?

2. What insight emerges from this narrative that speaks straight into days when you are tired, overwhelmed, distracted, and nothing is going right?

3. For times when time pressures and demands increase, Jesus instructs Martha to deal with her “calendar crunch.” Which of these three steps is most helpful to you? Why?

Gain perspective.
Realign priorities.
Embrace peace.

4. We give with confidence and joy, even when it’s hard. That’s embracing God’s love and generosity toward others. Would you join Concordia in blessing others during this pandemic? See “Ways to Shine” at Concordia.cc. Have an attitude that becomes action to bless others in Jesus’ name.

5. Commit to memory: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27.

May 3
Attitude Adjustment: “Loneliness Looms” (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Attitude Adjustment: Loneliness Looms” Jeremiah 16:1-4, 8-9.

1. For you, what does “lonely” feel like? In the midst of Covid-19, how have you experienced loneliness and worked to connect with others?

2. What does this verse mean to you? How would you share it with a friend? “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17.

3. Which of these three steps is most helpful to you now? Why? How to navigate loneliness:

You have to reach out…to God; to others.
Loneliness can bring blessings…God redeems my loneliness.
Practice gratitude when you feel lonely…and when you don’t.

4. We give with confidence and joy, even when it’s hard. That’s embracing God’s love and generosity toward others. Would you join Concordia in blessing others during this pandemic? See “Ways to Shine” at Concordia.cc. Have an attitude that becomes action to bless others in Jesus’ name.

5. Commit to memory (a prayer in time of loneliness): “Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.” Psalm 25:16.

April 26
Attitude Adjustment: “Financial Fears” (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to the sermon message, “Attitude Adjustment: Financial Fears,” I Kings 17:8-14.

1. During the Covid 19 pandemic, many people are facing financial pressures. How does faith in Jesus Christ bring hope and help in this time?

2. How is the account of this widow preparing the meal for Elijah a picture of God’s love for us as He gives His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross?

3. How would you explain to a friend these steps about adjusting a financially fearful attitude to one of faith and trust?

We must talk.
We need to give.
We have hope.

4. We give with confidence and joy, even when it’s hard. That’s embracing God’s love and generosity toward others. Would you join Concordia in blessing others during this pandemic? See “Ways to Shine” at Concordia.cc. Have an attitude that becomes action to bless others in Jesus’ name.

5. Commit to memory: “He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32.

April 19
Attitude Adjustment: “Personal Space” (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Attitude Adjustment,” John 6:1 and selected other verses.

1. During the Covid 19 pandemic, many people are finding ways to work and connect by using online resources. During these days, what have been your best and worst online experiences?

2. How would you describe Jesus’ attitude when he saw the massive crowd waiting for Him? What details in this story lead you to this conclusion?

3. How would you explain these steps to a friend about aligning an attitude toward Jesus’ attitude?

Admit what you can’t control.
Give yourself to the One who is in control.

4. Jesus took a little bread and a few fish and fed thousands. With Jesus little things can bring big blessings to others. Would you join Concordia in blessing others during this pandemic? See “Ways to Shine” at Concordia.cc. Have an attitude that becomes action to bless others in Jesus’ name.

5. Commit to memory: “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:5.

April 12
Easter: Hearing and Believing

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Easter Sunday,” John 20:11-18.

1. When you think about Easter Sunday, what comes to your mind first? Why?

2. How would you explain this to a friend: Genesis 3 (the narrative of the fall into sin) tells how a garden leads to a grave. John 20 (the narrative of Easter) tells how a grave is transformed into a garden.

3. The disciples were “sheltering in place” and were terrified. In your opinion, how is fear the very opposite of faith? How does Jesus’ Resurrection build confidence and courage in the lives of His disciples? What does that mean for your life?

4. Psalm 91 is a Psalm that asks God to deliver His people. Like missionaries and people of faith in other times of crisis, would you read and pray Psalm 91 for the next 91 days? Pastor Tuck and Pastor McIntosh will talk about this Psalm on Wednesday at 12 noon for our Online Bible Study…live.concordia.cc

5. Commit to memory: “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” John 20:21.

April 5
Palm Sunday

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, Palm Sunday”- Mark 11:1-10.

1. When you think about Palm Sunday, what comes to your mind first? Why?

2. During a deadly pandemic, how would you explain this to a friend? An Old Testament prophecy concerning Jesus tells He is “righteous and victorious.”

3. Which of these Palm Sunday thoughts concerning Jesus is most important to you? Why?

Jesus is majestic.
Jesus is meek.
Jesus is Messiah.

5. Commit to memory: “The time has come. The Kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news.” Mark 1:15.

March 29
Fear Not: “I Am Stronger Than You” (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Fear Not! I am Stronger than You” – Daniel 6:3-7, 10.

1. How would you describe people you’ve seen during this experience going through the Covid-19 pandemic? Have you seen some who are fearful or anxious or simply overwhelmed? What about you?

2. How would you explain this to a friend? No matter how difficult our circumstances, faith is my connection to the God who prevails over every difficulty.

3. Which of these thoughts is most important to you? Why? Daniel stands strong in his faith in what he does AND does not do:

He stays the course.
He is in the Word.
He is in prayer.
He listens to the authorities.
He is in community.

4. Psalm 91 is a Psalm that asks God to deliver His people. Like missionaries and people of faith in other times of crisis, would you read and pray Psalm 91 for the next 91 days?

5. Commit to memory: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10.

March 22
Fear Not: “I Hear You” (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Fear Not! I Hear You” – Matthew 14:23-32.

1. How would you describe people’s understanding and behaviors during this COVID-19 storm?

2. How would you explain this to a friend? Prayer is how we actively practice believing, so simply, so confidently, that God has the whole world in His hands.

3. Which of these thoughts is most important to you? Why? How we can be courageous, even when the winds of the world are trying the blow us over:

To have courage, we need an example.
To have courage we need a helper.
To have courage, we need a hero.

4. Psalm 91 is a Psalm that asks God to deliver His people. Like missionaries and people of faith in other times of crisis, would you read and pray Psalm 91 for the next 91 days?

5. Commit to memory: “The Lord says, ‘I will rescue those who love Me. I will protect those who rust in My name.” Psalm 91:14.

March 15
Fear Not: “I Am With You (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Fear Not! I Am with You” – Esther 3:8-9, 4:1, 6-7, 9-14.

1. How would you describe people’s understanding and behaviors during this COVID-19 pandemic?

2. “Uncertainty leads to fear.” In times of uncertainty, how is faith a place where you have assurance and strength?

3. What to do in times when people are fearful…which of these is most important to you? Why?

Be courageous.
Be wise.
Be faith-full.

4. How is Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always,” (Matthew 28:20) a source of comfort and strength to you?

5. Commit to memory: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed. For I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10.

March 8
Heart Conversations: Despair (Week 5)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Heart Conversations: Despair.” II Corinthians 1:8-11.

1. When someone is despairing, how do you help that person understand and deal with the despair?

2. How would you explain to a friend the idea of despair being like a maze, everywhere you turn is a dead end?

3. If despair is like a maze, you can exit by re-tracing your steps. Which of these steps is most important to you? Why?

Ask: “How did I get here?”
Get help.
Practice prevention.
Find someone “taller.”

4. In your own words, how is Jesus and His Resurrection a powerful reality for you when life is heavy and despair is at hand?

5. Commit to memory: “He (God) comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.” 2 Corinthians 1:4.

March 1
Heart Conversations: Shame (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Heart Conversations: Shame” Genesis 3:1-7.

1. How would you explain this to a child: “We know what shame feels like, but we don’t necessarily know what it is?

2. Shaming shame out of my life and heart: I need contentment to remove covetousness. What does that mean to you?

3. Shaming shame out of my life and heart: I need confession to make me “blush.” How would you explain that to a friend?

4. shaming shame out of my life and heart: I need a “skin” covering, not a curse. Again, what does that mean to you?

5. Commit to memory: “Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” Romans 13:14.

February 23
Heart Conversations: Anger (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Heart Conversations: Anger” Numbers 20:2-5, 7-12.

1. What does it mean to you when you hear someone say, “I really struggle with my anger?

2. How would you explain this formula to a friend? Anger + Our Sinful Nature = Danger.

3. How do the actions of Moses result in the severe consequence of anger? What can I learn from this concerning my own anger?

He calls them “rebels.” He makes the Israelites out to be terrible.
He takes credit for bringing forth the water.

4. Understanding and managing anger – which of these points is most helpful you? Why?

Anger can stifle your senses.
Anger can linger in your heart.
Anger can destroy your future.
Anger can destroy your future.

5. Commit to memory: “The Lord, the Lord, compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” Exodus 34:6.

February 16
Heart Conversations: Stress (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Heart Conversations: Stress” Philippians 4:4-8.

1. When hear or use the phrase, “Stressed out,” what does that mean to you?

2. How would you explain this to a friend? Stress is inevitable. I can make you stronger, but it can also be overwhelming and destructive.

3. What do you think? “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it.”

4. Which of the resources for dealing with stress that Paul lists in Philippians 4 are most helpful to you? Why?

Joy.
Comfort.
Prayer.
Focus.

5. Commit to memory: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.

February 9
Heart Conversations: Fear (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Heart Conversations: Fear” 2 Kings 6:8-16.

1. People worry and are afraid of different things. What fear and worry is most frequent for you?

2. How would you explain this to a friend? Heart conversations can reveal dark emotions and fears. Jesus said out of the heart proceed “evil thoughts” (Matthew 15:19).

3. Omniscience is the characteristic of God that He is all-knowing. How is this characteristic good news for you in times of fear?

4. Which of these is most important to you? Why? Facing our fears and the people we fear:

Empathy. Fear is a two-way street. People we fear also fear us.
Honesty. Confront your fears and confess them to God.
Charity. Jesus shows charity to His enemies. His charity changes the world,

5. Commit to memory: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.” I John 4:18.

February 2
Where to Share: Be a Conversationalist (Week 5)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Where to Share: Be a Conversationalist” I Corinthians 14:23-25.

1. Why is careful listening an essential part of faith conversations? Give an example that comes to mind.

2. Having a faith conversation does not mean you have to know the answer to every question people might ask. How would you explain that to a Christian friend?

3. Share your thoughts… How do I make my faith conversation clear?

Share my story.
Read and prepare to communicate well with other persons.
Keep the main thing the main thing.

4. What does this mean for you? Overcoming the fear of a faith conversation…two questions:

If I share, what’s the worst thing that can happen to me?
If I don’t share, what’s the worst thing that could happen the other person?

5. Commit to memory: “In your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks for a reason for the hope that is in you.” 1 Peter 3:15.

January 26
Where to Share: Be an Example (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Where to Share: Be an Example” I Peter 3:1-4.

1. What would you say are your biggest problems with sharing your faith?

2. Talk about a significant person in your life whose example of faith was both compelling and inspiring and is an example of faith-sharing. What can you learn from that person?

3. How would you explain Peter’s word, “submit,” to a friend?

4. Peter shares 4 ways that our lives should be examples of faith to others. Which of these is most important to you? Why?

“Like-minded and sympathetic.”
“Loving others.”
“Compassionate and humble.”
“Not paying back evil for evil.”

5. Commit to memory: “For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.” I Peter 2:21.

January 19
Where to Share: Be a Host (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Where to Share: Be a Host” Luke 5:23-27.

1. Describe an experience where someone showed extraordinary hospitality to you. How did the hospitality help you understand the character of that person?

2. At Jesus’ invitation, Matthew would leave everything behind and follow Him. Why do you think Matthew’s next best move is to invite his friends and colleagues to a banquet where Jesus would be present?

3. How would you explain to a friend Jesus’ action of “hanging out” with Matthew, a tax collector? Why is this truth significant?

4. Consider three reasons to practice hospitality. Which is most important to you? Why?

Hospitality fosters relationships.
Hospitality fosters transparency.
Hospitality fosters trust.

5. Commit to memory: “Just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him.” Colossians 2:6.

January 12
Where to Share: Be a Servant (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Where to Share: Be a Servant” Luke 10:25-28.

1. You can share your faith by being a servant, but serving can be tough. In your experience, how is this true?

2. How would you explain to a friend Jesus’ important statement, “I am among you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:27). What is the implication for our lives and faith?

3. Jesus and the inquiring lawyer have a conversation including the words of the Great Commandment (Shema) – Love God; love neighbor. How does Jesus introduction of the story of the Good Samaritan help me understand “where to share”?

4. We are called to love and serve everyone just like we are called to love and serve God. Which of these insights is most helpful to being a servant? Why?

Actions speak louder than words.
Draw strength from the One who loves you.
Start small.

5. Commit to memory: “We love because He first loved us.” I John 4:19.

January 5
Where to Share: Be a Blessing (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Where to Share: Blessed to be a Blessing” Genesis 12:1-4.

1. Share three people/things that you consider a blessing in your life. In what way are these three people/things a blessing to you?

2. You are “blessed to be a blessing.” Based on the blessings you named, how can you be a blessing to others?

3. How would you explain this idea of “blessed to be a blessing” to a friend?

4. Which of these is most important to you? Why?

Blessings are not earned.
Blessings are disarming.
Blessings bring hope.

5. Commit to memory: “I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.” Genesis 12:2.

December 15
Behold! - “Look In” (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s message, “Behold! Look In” Luke 2:16-20.

1. How does looking in a mirror and honestly seeing “outside” you help you understand the importance of looking “inside” you and honestly knowing who you are?

2. How would you explain to a friend the difference between self-awareness and self-focus?

3. The shepherds “hurried off” to find Jesus. The message of Jesus birth was “huge” to them. What does it mean that Jesus is “huge” to you?

4. Mary is an example of “looking in” as an exercise of CHRISTmas faith. Which of these three things inside Mary is most important to you? Why?

In Mary was a memoire.
In Mary was a message.
In Mary was the Messiah.

5. Commit to memory: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be done to me according to Your Word.” Luke 1:38.

December 8
Behold! - “Look Up” (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Behold! Look Up” Luke 2:8-15, (CSB).

1. “Behold” means to focus my attention. How would you describe the shepherds focusing their attention on Jesus?

2. The message of the angels is good news for the shepherds and us. How would you explain this good news to a friend? What do these thoughts mean to you?

God wants to bring you joy.
God is for all people.
God will save you.

3. The shepherds would look up and receive the message of the angels. What does it mean to you to “look up” as you read God’s Word?

4. When you look up to someone, what do these qualities mean? Which of these qualities is most important to you? How will these qualities find expression in your life?

Is an encourager.
Is a truth-teller.
Is real.

5. Commit to memory: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Hebrews 12:2, (NIV).

December 1
Behold! - “Look At” (Week 1)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Behold! Look At” Luke 1:26-35, 37, (NIV).

1. “Behold” mans to focus my attention. With all the distractions that can attend the CHRISTmas holiday season, what best advice would you give yourself to not be distracted from Jesus?

2. There is a God who cares and intervenes in human affairs. How would you explain this CHRISTmas truth to a friend?

3. How does Mary’s story connect with Old Testament men like Abraham, Moses, or Jonah?

4. Three things Mary would “behold” – look at. Which is most important to you? Why?

Look at your fears.
Look at God’s Word.
Look at God’s promises.

5. Commit to memory: “No word from God will ever fail.” Luke 1:37, (NIV).

Remember, a better life begins with a CONVERSATION!

November 24
Strange, but True: “Sinner, but Saint” (Week 4)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Strange, but True: Saint, but Sinner” – I John 1:5-9.

1. How do you understand the idea of “regret” in terms of your life or the life of another?

2. How would you explain to a friend this truth: At the same time, I am both a sinner and a saint.

3. Two thoughts concerning what to do with the mistakes and regrets of your life. Which is most important to you? Why?

Say, “I’m sorry.”
Make things right.

4. To accept the gift of God’s forgiveness is to focus on and receive Jesus and the forgiveness He offers through His death on the cross. What does that simple truth tell us about Jesus?

5. Commit to memory: “If we say, ‘We have no sin,’ we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:8-9.

Remember, a better life begins with a CONVERSATION!

November 17
Strange, but True: “Now, but Not Yet” (Week 3)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Strange, but True: Now, but Not Yet” – John 5:2-9.

1. Talk about how looking at a wrapped Christmas gift under the tree is a lot like the truth of “now, but not yet.”

2. Fill in the blank: Jesus healing this paralytic is pure __________. Why did you choose the word that fills in the blank?

3. How would you explain this quote to a friend: “We can be sure our prayers are answered precisely in the way we would want them to be answered if we knew everything God knows.”

4. When you think about “now, but not yet,” which of these points is most important to you? Why?

Pray a lot.
Look for help.
Be “picky” with your hope.

5. Commit to memory: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1.

Remember, a better life begins with a CONVERSATION!

November 10
Strange, but True: “God, but Man” (Week 2)

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J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Strange, but True: God, but Man” – Colossians 1:15-20.

1. How do you remember someone explaining for the first time to you the idea of Jesus as both God and man? What did you think? How did you understand that truth?

2. What event or teaching of Jesus comes to mind first that illustrates He is both true God and true man?

3. “Jesus was the only 200% person! He was 100% God and 100% human.” How would you explain to a friend what these words mean?

4. Why are these reasons important to consider when you think of Jesus’ Resurrection?

His tomb was empty.
He was seen by lots of people.
His impact on history is not reduced, but expanded.

5. Commit to memory: “For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things.” Colossians 1:19.

Remember, a better life begins with a CONVERSATION!

November 3
Strange, but True: “One, but Three” (Week 1)

Let's Talk About It...

J2e3 conversations...here are some questions to help you have a conversation with family and others related to Sunday morning’s “Strange, but True: One, but Three” – Matthew 3:13-17.

1. How do you remember someone explaining for the first time to you the idea of God as Triune? What did you think? How did you understand that truth?

2. In your opinion, why is the baptism of Jesus an important event to be included in the Gospel narratives?

3. “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” How would you explain to a friend what these words mean?

4. Which of these three points is most important to you to help you understand the meaning of the Trinity? Why?

There is power in presence.
There is dignity in distinctiveness.
There is happiness in humility.

5. Commit to memory: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19.

Remember, a better life begins with a CONVERSATION!

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