Love is Gold

Community Group Discussion Guide for the Week of February 16, 2025

Miss this week’s teaching? You can watch it here.

# Summary

Pastor Jim teaches from 1 Corinthians 3 about spiritual maturity and judgment. He explains how Paul addressed the Corinthian church's immaturity, divisions, and carnality, emphasizing that believers will face the Bema seat judgment where their works will be tested by fire. The sermon contrasts this judgment of believers' works for rewards with the Great White Throne judgment for unbelievers.

# Intro Prayer

Lord, as we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to understand what it means to live lives that produce eternal value. Help us to be honest with ourselves about areas where we need to mature spiritually. Guide our discussion and show each person what You want them to learn today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

# Ice Breaker

What's the most meaningful award or recognition you've ever received and why was it significant to you?

# Key Verses

  • 1 Corinthians 3:10-15

  • 2 Corinthians 5:10

  • Matthew 16:15-18

  • Revelation 20:11-15

# Questions

  • What's the difference between being a natural person, a spiritual person, and a carnal person according to the sermon?

  • How does the pastor explain the difference between the Bema seat judgment and the Great White Throne judgment?

  • What does it mean that the same actions can produce either 'gold' or 'hay' depending on our motives?

  • Why does Paul use the metaphor of building materials (gold, silver, precious stones vs wood, hay, straw)?

  • How can we ensure we're building with materials that will last through the refining fire?

  • What does it mean to 'suffer loss' at the Bema seat judgment while still being saved?

  • How does understanding future judgment impact how we should live today?

  • What areas of spiritual immaturity might God be highlighting in your life right now?

# Life Application

This week, before taking any significant actions, pause and examine your motives. Ask yourself if you're acting out of love and obedience to God, or from selfish ambition. Keep a small journal of these moments and reflect on how you can increasingly build with 'gold' rather than 'hay' in your daily choices.

# Key Takeaways

  • The foundation of our faith is Jesus Christ, and no other foundation can be laid

  • Believers will face the Bema seat judgment where their works will be tested for eternal value

  • Our motives and heart attitude determine whether our works are 'gold' or 'hay'

  • Love and obedience are the key factors that produce works of eternal value

  • Spiritual maturity is marked by moving beyond division and self-centeredness to unity and love

# Ending Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace that saves us and Your truth that transforms us. Help us to build our lives with materials that will last for eternity. Give us wisdom to recognize areas where we need to mature, and courage to make changes where needed. May our lives be marked by love and obedience that brings glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

1 CorinthiansPastor Jason MookMTN CHURCH