Small Group Guide
July 12
Wisdom from Above
James 3:13, 17
1. Wisdom Begins with Purity
Scripture:
“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable...”
— James 3:17
Question: Where are you most tempted to compromise God’s truth in order to keep peace with others?
2. Are You a Peace-Maker or a Peace-Breaker?
Scripture:
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
— Matthew 5:9
Question: How would your family, coworkers, or friends describe the atmosphere you create around you?
3. The Strength of Gentleness
Scripture:
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.”
— Philippians 4:5
Question: In what situations is it hardest for you to respond with gentleness rather than irritation or defensiveness?
4. Easy to Be Entreated
Scripture:
“He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.”
— Proverbs 18:13
Question: How do you typically respond when someone offers correction or criticism?
Leader Note: Discuss the sermon illustration about reviewing the “replay.” Heavenly wisdom listens before reacting.
5. Saying, “I Was Wrong”
Scripture:
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”
— James 5:16
Question: When was the last time you sincerely admitted wrong and asked forgiveness?
6. Full of Mercy
Scripture:
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us...”
— Ephesians 2:4
Question: How does remembering God’s mercy toward you change the way you view difficult people?
Leader Note: Connect mercy received to mercy extended. We forgive because we have been forgiven.
7. Mercy in Action
Scripture:
“Whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?”
— 1 John 3:17
Question: What is one practical way you could show mercy to someone this week?
8. Without Partiality
Scripture:
“My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.”
— James 2:1
Question: Are there people you naturally overlook because of age, income, background, or social status?
9. Without Hypocrisy
Scripture:
“Let love be without dissimulation.”
— Romans 12:9
Question: Is there any area where your public Christian image and private life do not match?
10. Looking to Christ, Our Wisdom
Scripture:
“But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom...”
— 1 Corinthians 1:30
Question: How does seeing Jesus as the perfect embodiment of James 3:17 change the way you pursue growth?