The Church – Part 1
Introduction
The New Testament describes the Church as the body of Christ – a single, unified body made up of many different parts. Each is created, gifted, and placed by God for a purpose. No one is extra to requirements. Paul’s teaching reminds us that the Church thrives when every member recognises their value, contributes their gifts, and honours the gifts of others. In a world that often divides people by ability, personality, or status, Jesus forms a body where diversity strengthens unity and every person matters.
Discuss
Leaders: Choose questions that spark meaningful conversation and discern where God is leading – no need to answer them all.
- Many of us serve in different ways within the church. What area are you currently serving in, and how did you decide to step into that ministry? Perhaps your Life Group leader/s could start by sharing their journey. If you are not serving now, what’s stopping you from making the first step?
- See Ephesians 4:11–13. Often we expect that ministry is done by the “professionals” who may be apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds (pastors) and teachers. But what does this passage state that their primary role is supposed to be? What does it look like in everyday life for ordinary believers, especially in Life Groups, to help build up the church?
- Read 1 Corinthians 12:4–7. Pastor Mark reminded us that our gifts are given for God’s Kingdom, not for our own platform or preference. How does this perspective change the way we think about serving or using our gifts?
- Read 1 Corinthians 12:14–20. One of the key ideas is that the church is meant to celebrate our differences, not erase them. What differences or strengths in others do you genuinely celebrate? Are there differences that you sometimes find challenging and why?
- Read Romans 12:6–8. Pastor Mark encouraged us to know who we are and recognise the gifts God has placed in us. What is one way you feel God has wired you to contribute, whether through personality, strengths, experience, or passion? What is one area you’re still praying for clarity or confidence in?
- Read 1 Corinthians 12:21–26. This passage shows how the whole body suffers or thrives together. What helps a church community become a place where people feel valued, needed, and encouraged in their gifts?
Who’s Your Person of Peace?
Who is one person in your world right now who might need encouragement to take a step toward serving, belonging, or using their gifts? How can you come alongside them this week?
Respond
Every follower of Jesus has been chosen, gifted, and placed intentionally in His body. No one is ‘just’ a volunteer. No one is insignificant. Your presence and contribution help the Church thrive, grow, and reach others for Christ. Take a moment this week to ask, “Lord, where are You inviting me to serve, grow, or step into my gifting in this next season?”
The Church – Part 2
Introduction
This week we explore what it means for believers to be living stones in God’s spiritual house. Individually, and collectively as the Church, we are both beautiful and unfinished. We are God’s masterpiece still under construction. And yet we are much more – we are God’s people, invited into a living relationship with Jesus, the Living Stone. From 1 Peter 2:4–10, Nick demonstrated that God’s eternal desire has always been to dwell among His people; from Eden to the Tabernacle and Temple, to Jesus Christ, and now through the Church. Each of us is a living stone being shaped by God and joined together to form a spiritual house – the Church – the body of Christ. Jesus is the Cornerstone, the foundation upon which the whole structure depends. As His people, we are called to learn what it means to build His house: to be both formed and joined, allowing God to shape our character while actively contributing to the life and mission of His Church.
Discuss
Leaders: Choose questions that spark meaningful conversation and discern where God is leading—no need to answer them all.Living Formed, an Individual Identity — The Shaping of the Stone
- Read 1 Peter 2:4–5. What does it mean for you personally to be a “living stone”?
- In what areas of your life do you sense God’s “chiselling” or shaping taking place to grow you in purity and righteousness?
Living Joined, a Collective Identity — Building Together as God’s House
- Read Ephesians 2:19–22. What does this reveal about our identity and belonging in the household of God?
- Nick shared that spiritual life is not meant to be lived in isolation. What helps or hinders you from being joined with others in the church community?
Living Purposefully, with Purpose — Our Role as a Royal Priesthood
- Read 1 Peter 2:9–10. What does it mean to be part of a “royal priesthood”?
- Priests minister both to God and to people. How can you live out that calling in your workplace, home, or relationships?
Living Aligned — Building on the Cornerstone
- Read Isaiah 28:16 and Matthew 16:18. Jesus is the Cornerstone, our foundation and alignment. What areas of your life need realignment with Jesus’ truth and character?
- How does keeping Jesus as your Cornerstone help you stay steady amid change or challenge?
Respond
Nick warned us against two temptations: Firstly, to focus only on personal formation, being shaped by God but never joining ourselves to His house. Secondly, to focus only on activity and service, building the house while neglecting the personal, inner work God wants to do in us. Instead, God calls us to a joyful balance: to be shaped as living stones and built together into His house. The challenge is to live both formed and connected, allowing God to refine us while being fully engaged in His mission. Jesus wants us to grow in our hunger and our heart for the things that matter to Him. To be a living stone in the house of God means each of us has a vital role to play. Ask yourself this week: What edges does God need to chisel away in my life? Where might He be calling me to serve or reconnect in the life of the church? How can I realign my life to Jesus, the Cornerstone?