The Summit Church

Last week we learned that our relationships with others is linked to our relationship with God.
This week we explore one component that when applied to our relationships is not only necessary but becomes very powerful.
Let's talk about Grace.

How would you describe grace or have experienced it when it comes to God?
How would you describe grace or have experienced it when it comes to others either on the receiving or giving end?

Grace: Treating people better than they deserve, before they deserve it, and especially after they don't.

What is your initial reaction to this definition when you think of it in light of how you relate to others?
What is your reaction when you think of it as how God relates to you?

Talk about what grace is and what it is not using Ephesians 4:2 as a guide.

How does this apply when you come face to face with someone's offense or sin?

If Grace is the way through these situations even when someone "knows" better we need to learn to make space for grace.

Applying these principles can help make space for grace.
Talk through each one and share which one you could lean into more in your relationships.
Assume you don't know- We often don't have the whole story that led to someone's actions but often assume we do.

Ask, Listen, Learn- We can become too consumed with our own opinion we miss out on something God wants us to know.

Treat them how you want to be treated- We judge others harder than we wish to be judged

When have you needed grace yourself?

List some ways grace can be misunderstood.

If you applied grace to your relationships like oil is to a car's engine what might that look or sound like?

After reading the scriptures and discussing grace as a group how has your understanding of it changed?
What will you do about it?