Why We Gather - Part 3 “Use Whatever Gift You Have.” - 1 Peter 4v7-11// November 9th, 2025
Teaching overview
Riley called the church to “choose encounter every time,” especially in a difficult week, reminding everyone that Scripture invites us not to withdraw but to engage deeply with God and one another. Teaching from 1 Peter 4:7–11, he emphasized that we gather in order to serve—using our God-given gifts, practicing hospitality, and making grace tangible through everyday acts of love. Serving, he said, resists both apathy and self-ambition and helps form authentic Christian community.
Our prayer for your Community
Lord, help us choose encounter this week—meeting You in prayer and meeting one another with love, hospitality, and grace. Shape our hearts to serve like Jesus, so that through our words and actions others might experience Your comfort and presence.
Group questions and further meditations:
What part of Sunday’s message convicted, encouraged, or surprised you?
Reflect on where God invited you to “choose encounter”—whether in prayer, community, or simply showing up with openness. How did the call to engage rather than withdraw stir your desire to seek the Lord more intentionally this week?
2. 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?
Consider how 1 Peter 4:7–11 challenges your default rhythms—are you leaning toward apathy, self-protection, or self-ambition? What step of service, hospitality, or love is the Spirit prompting you to take so your faith becomes something practiced, not just believed?
3. How can we as a group support you in living out what we’ve discussed this week?
Identify where you need encouragement, accountability, or prayer to live as a steward of grace—making Jesus’ renewal tangible in your relationships and community. How can your group walk with you as you pursue a servant-hearted way of life in the week ahead?
