Sermon Study Guide

Name: Maranatha Bible Church Chicago
Address: 4701 N. Canfield Ave., Norridge, IL, 60706, US
Telephone: (708) 716-3103
Price range: Free

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

God's Guideline For Christian Living - Pastor Daniel Banna

Pastor Daniel Banna|Monday, May 1, 2017

Scripture References

1 Corinthians 6:1-121 Corinthians 31 Corinthians 51 Corinthians 111 Corinthians 14Galatians 5:1Romans 6:15Galatians 6:2Galatians 5:16Deuteronomy 22:51 Corinthians 10:23Romans 14:19Romans 15:21 Corinthians 8:1Ephesians 4:291 Thessalonians 5:1Acts 20:32

Sermon Summary

Pastor Daniel Banna explores the balance between Christian freedom and spiritual responsibility. He provides a four-part scriptural test to help believers determine if their actions are truly beneficial and glorifying to God.

Key Takeaways

1Christian liberty is governed by the 'law of Christ,' which focuses on walking in the Spirit and loving others.
2Being 'lawful' is not the same as being 'beneficial'; an action can be permissible but still destructive to one's spiritual growth.
3Believers must guard against anything that threatens to take control of their lives or create an addiction.
4The ultimate goal of every Christian action, whether eating, drinking, or entertainment, is the glory of God.
5Love for the brothers and sisters should limit the exercise of personal freedom to avoid causing offense or stumbling.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1What is the difference between being 'under the law' and following the 'law of Christ'?
2Why do you think the Corinthians used 'all things are lawful' as a slogan for sin?
3Of the four tests mentioned (Mastery, Edification, Gratitude, Glory), which one do you find most challenging to apply to your life?
4Pastor Banna mentioned that 'lawful does not mean useful.' Can you share an example of something that isn't a sin but might not be helpful for a Christian?
5How does the concept of 'mutual edification' change the way we view our personal rights within the church?
6How can we avoid falling into legalism (making new lists of rules) while still pursuing holiness?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Audit your digital habits: Ask if your time on social media or video games is edifying or if you have become enslaved to them.
Practice the 'Gratitude Test': Before engaging in a questionable activity, stop and see if you can honestly thank God for it.
Evaluate your motives for major purchases or lifestyle choices: Is the goal to glorify God or to enhance your own status?
Consider the 'weaker brother': Adjust your behavior in specific social contexts to ensure you are building others up rather than asserting your rights.
Commit to 'walking in the Spirit' daily to discern the difference between fleshly desires and Godly freedom.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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