Groups Discussion Guide
Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.
Addition by Subtraction
Scripture
15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.
Main Idea
Friendships are formed not found. As we wrap up this sermon series, Pastor Justin asks us to focus on what things need to be subtracted from our friendship formula in order to have happy, healthy, and thriving friendships. By subtracting these things, we add value, purpose, commitment, accountability, perseverance, vulnerability, and hope to our friendships and our own lives. Numerous studies have found that satisfying friendships add significant value and longevity to our lives, more so than wealth, career, etc. It is essential to get it right today to avoid regret in the future.
‘ “Those who have nothing can share nothing. Those who are going nowhere can have no fellow travelers.” - C.S. Lewis. In other words, friendship requires more than just connection, it needs direction.’
Discussion Questions
- This week’s sermon encouraged us to avoid ‘purposeless’ friendships that are going nowhere. What does ‘going nowhere’ look like? What are some ways a friendship can share a common purpose (ie. going somewhere)?
- Pastor Justin encouraged us to define what makes a relationship great. Great relationships encourage communication of what you need or do not need. Take a minute to create a list of things you need out of a friendship. Are you willing to share with the group? Sharing can help us all see we each have unique needs that are valuable in the two-way street of friendships
- Lacking follow-through and accountability are big friendship killers. What are some common ways you see this in your relationships? Have you had a friendship fade away because of these issues?
- Pastor Justin encouraged believing in a better future in your friendships. Do you believe you can begin to have better relationships? If so, share at least one takeaway that you plan to apply to a relationship in the future
Summary
Seven Things to Subtract:
- Neglecting to establish a common purpose
- Failing to define what makes a relationship great
- Lacking follow-through on essential commitments
- Resisting accountability for personal mistakes
- Giving up in the face of major challenges
- Refusing to seek help when it’s needed most
- Doubting the possibility of a better future
Subtracting these pitfalls in relationships can help make your friendships fulfilling and life-giving
Take Action
- One way to have friendships with a purpose is to serve together. This can be forming new friendships by serving with others, OR bringing a friend to serve with you and begin growing your friendship in a new way. Brainstorm some ways you can begin to incorporate serving into your friendships
- Have you lacked follow-though with a friend? How can you take accountability and begin mending a divide you may have created?
- Share a way that God has challenged you to build better friendships through this series, The Friendship Formula
Announcements
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