AT THE MOVIES - LEADERSHIP COACHING [The purpose of this page is to help you sharpen your skills as a Small Group Leader. Each week we will include concepts, challenges, and resources designed to assist you as you lead and shepherd your group and grow as a disciple yourself.]

Abiding [grow as a disciple yourself]

What separates an owner from an employee? We could point out the levels of authority, the size of their paycheck, or perhaps the hours they work, yet in most cases, the defining difference is a passion for the company. Good owners drive towards success in a relentless commitment to build their business and invest in their people. The same principle that we see in the modern business world applied in the time of Jesus. In this case, the business was livestock. The hired hands would leave when they were needed the most, endangering the sheep and allowing the owner's profits to be eaten. Jesus declares that He is a Good Shephard. Just like a good owner, Jesus genuinely cares for his flock and will not run in times of danger or hardship. As we strive to live like Jesus we must ask ourselves, are we living like owners or hired hands with the people God has placed in our life? As you reflect upon John 10:7-15 ask yourself the following:

• How had God proved to be a good shepherd in my life? • How have I modeled the traits of a good shepherd to those under my influence, and what can I do to better

shepherd this responsibility?

Leading [learn to facilitate your group more effectively]

The last two tips for making your group missional requires an introspective look. Being missional is both a response and a lifestyle. The natural response to the forgiveness God has given to us ought to be sharing this news with everyone in need. Just like we don't hesitate to tell our friends about the new movie or TV show that we have enjoyed, there should be no shame in talking about the good things God is doing in our life.

More than just a response, living to communicate God’s grace to others ought to become a lifestyle. We are not people who do discipleship, but we are disciple makers. This means that our identity as a disciple maker influences our decisions and becomes the driving force in our life.

Lead your group in examining themselves. Do we treat our faith as an extracurricular activity or as a core part of our identity that influences all of our other actions?

Shepherding [know the sheep, feed the sheep, lead the sheep, protect the sheep]

Lead your group in serving each other over the next several weeks. Ask each person to identify one thing, even a small thing, they could use the groups help with. This will challenge both the person asking for help and the group in meeting this need. As you do this ask someone in the group to organize the efforts to take care of these needs. This would include making a list of the needs and setting up a schedule for people to meet up in accomplishing these requests. The needs that arise may sound mundane, such as catching up on the housework or watching the kids so they can have a date night. Do not overlook the small things as this will help you "do life together" by serving one another and building trust with each other.

AT THE MOVIES: GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY Open in Prayer

Welcome/Introductions

Remind Group of Small Group Guidelines

Ask A Hook Question [Ask a thought-provoking question to get the group focused]

What is one thing you’re passionate about that others would consider silly?

Share Background for The Story [Provide context by sharing what comes before the story in the Bible]

John 10 places us in the middle of a busy day for Jesus. Starting in chapter 8 we see Jesus at the temple on the Sabbath. The religious leaders challenge Jesus’ compassion with the woman caught in adultery. Jesus used the opportunity to teach on the kingdom of God and the character of God. In doing so, He was kicked out of the temple and nearly stoned. As He left the temple, Jesus noticed a man who was born blind. Showing compassion and healing this man caused such a controversy that Jesus provided a parable to help them understand that God is not someone who runs away from those in need but passionate about guarding His flock.

Tell The Story - this week’s passage is John 10:7-15

Rebuild the Story [Group members tell the story together based on what they remember]

Read the Story Out Loud [Read the scripture passage to see if anything was added or omitted]

Discuss These Questions:

1. What is the difference between a good shepherd and a hired hand?

2. Why is it essential for you to be under the good shepherd's care?

3. What areas of your life do you have the hardest time trusting in the guardianship of Jesus? (money, children, job, relationships, etc…)

4. What are two things you can do this week to submit this area under Jesus’ guardianship?

Ask Someone to Retell the Story [Ask for a volunteer from the group]

Assign Next Week’s Passage - Acts 18:24-28

Close in Prayer