DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR 10/12/2025 JOHN 15:4-8

1. My daughter grew a lush patch of grass in the middle of a desert through “sustained, intentional care.” What does that image teach us about how spiritual growth happens in the dry or difficult seasons of life?

Follow-up: What are some “desert conditions” (distractions, discouragements, or habits) that tend to choke out your growth?

Action Step: Identify one “dry” spiritual discipline (Scripture, prayer, worship, or fellowship) you’ll nurture this week, and commit to tending it daily.

2. “Many can describe their wedding to Jesus, but have little to say about their walk with Him since then.” What’s the difference between a wedding (being saved) and a marriage (being sanctified)?

Follow-up: In what ways might we be living like a couple “under the same roof but living separate lives” from Christ?

Action Step: Take one intentional step this week to deepen your “marriage” with Jesus, such as setting aside a specific daily time to talk with Him, listen, and respond.

3. The sermon described four “false gospels”: Immunized, Inward, Incomplete, and Immature. Which one are you most likely to drift toward—and why?

Follow-up: What might repentance look like for you in that area? What truth from Scripture can replace that false belief?

Action Step: Write out one verse (such as John 15:4–5 or Ephesians 2:5) that speaks against that false gospel. Meditate on it each day this week and pray it back to God.

4. We often talk about sins of commission but not sins of omission. Why do you think neglecting time with God is such a common and overlooked sin among believers?

Follow-up: How have you personally seen the consequences of spiritual neglect in your own life or in others?

Action Step: Set a daily reminder or alarm this week for your quiet time—treating that appointment with God as sacred, not optional.

5. Jesus said, “Apart from Me, you can do nothing.” What does it practically look like to abide in Christ day by day?

Follow-up: How does abiding differ from striving? What helps you slow down and rest in His presence?

Action Step: Take a “pause moment” throughout each day this week (before work, in the car, before bed, etc.), to stop, breathe, and pray, “Lord, I choose to abide in You.”

6. In the closing story, early African Christians would say, “Brother, sister: the grass grows on your path,” if someone neglected their time with God. If others looked at your “path” right now, what would they see?

Follow-up: What spiritual habits once kept your path clear that you may need to return to today?

Action Step: “Cut a new path” this week. Recommit to spending consistent time with Jesus. Share your plan with someone who can help you stay accountable.