Discussion Questions: "Presence in the City"

SWORD AND THE TROWEL | Presence in the City | Nehemiah 2:1-16
BIG IDEA: TOUGH TIMES AWAKEN US FROM OUR SPIRITUAL SLUMBER TO LOVE GOD AND LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS
The gospel of Jesus allows us to be present in tough times by actively loving God, doing our own soul work and being willing to help others. 
Read Nehemiah 2:1-16. Read the passage and consider the following questions. 
TOUGH TIMES AWAKEN US TO THE REALITY OF GOD

1. In the backdrop of COVID-19, What questions about God have surfaced? What doubts do you have?
   
2. Tough times awaken us to assess and ask who is God?  How would you answer that question looking at Nehemiah Chapters 1 and 2:1-8?  
   
3. How does Psalm 86:8-10, 15 add to your answer?  
   

(Extra: Check out the New City Catechism answer. Click here.)
TOUGH TIMES AWAKEN US TO ASSESS SELF

1. Read Nehemiah 2:1-5. What is surfacing in Nehemiah?  
   

Let’s take a moment to do our own soul work. During COVID-19 pandemic what is surfacing in you?   (thoughts, attitudes, feelings)

1. Read v8. ‘The good hand of our God is upon us.’  God promises to meet our needs by his infinitely gracious hand.   What do you need right now?    
   
   • Feelings - (i.e. Anger- voice to be heard; hurt- attention; lonely- to be known; sad- comfort; fear- protection/help/refuge; guilt- forgiveness; shame- attunement)
     
   • Physical - groceries, a friendly video call
     
2. What is God trying to teach you during all of this?
   

TOUGH TIMES AWAKEN US TO THE NEEDS OF OTHERS

1. Read Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Mark 12:30-31. What is significant to Jesus’ addition? How does that challenge you now during COVID-19?
   
2. Where is God at work in your family, your friends, and your neighbors? 
   
3. Who is one person in your life God would have you pursue this week?  (Video call, ask questions, actively listen, identify their greatest need, ask God for clarity in what to do, and then do it)
   
4. How can your Community Group meet the needs of one another in the coming weeks and months as COVID-19 runs its course?
   

PRAY TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY GROUP.
PRAY OVER YOUR OIKOS DOCUMENT.