Why We Gather Part 1 ”God is Really Among You” - 1 Corinthians 14v1-3, 23-25// October 26th, 2025
Teaching overview
Riley Taylor began the new series “Why We Gather” by teaching from 1 Corinthians 14 that the heart of Christian gathering is to encounter God—both personally and together. He explained that prophecy, or Spirit-empowered speech, is one of the primary ways God reveals His presence among His people. Riley invited the church to see Sunday gatherings not as routine or performance, but as sacred spaces where God meets us, transforms us, and sends us out in His love.
Our prayer for your Community
Lord, open our hearts to encounter You when we gather—through worship, Your Word, and the words we speak to one another. Help us recognize Your presence among us and let Your Spirit use our voices to bring encouragement, truth, and love to others this week.
Group questions
What part of Sunday’s message convicted, encouraged, or surprised you? (Seek)
Take time to revisit your notes or reflect on what you heard during the teaching. Consider where God might have been drawing your attention—not just what you thought, but what God might have been saying. A helpful practice is to spend a few quiet moments in Lectio Divina—slowly reading the passage of Scripture again, listening for a word or phrase that stands out, meditating on it, and letting it speak to your heart. Before speaking your own thoughts, let the Word speak first and ask that God's presence would join you.
What perspective do I need to change or adjust to come under the authority of scripture? What action does the text call me to do in light of this perspective? (Practice)
Hearing the word is just the beginning—following Jesus means living in obedience to it. The Spirit often prompts us toward simple obedience, repentance, or renewed action. This is not about being perfect, but about being faithful. What small step could you take this week to practice what was preached?How can we as a group support you in living out what we’ve discussed this week? (Mission)
Discipleship is not only about inward formation but also outward compassion, and we want to walk that journey together as a community. As we pray for one another and seek Jesus together, our hearts are shaped toward His mission to renew all things. Our group isn’t just for us, but a place where we practice loving each other and live out the Kingdom of God.
For further meditation through the rest of your week…
1: God Is Really Among Us
Read 1 Corinthians 14:25.
Reflect: When I gather with others in worship, do I come expecting to meet God? This week, prepare your heart before each gathering—ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of His presence in ordinary moments and through the words of others.
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2: Spirit-Empowered Speech
Read Acts 2:17–18.
Reflect: God still speaks through His people today. Ask Him to use your words—whether in encouragement, prayer, or conversation—to bring His truth and comfort to someone this week.
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3: God Desires to Meet with Me
Read James 4:8.
Reflect: God’s heart is not distant; He desires an encounter with you. Spend quiet time each day inviting Him to draw near, and listen for His loving voice reminding you that you belong to Him.
