Small Group Questions – Freedom, Can I or Can’t I?


If you woke up tomorrow as an animal, what animal would you be, and why?


1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1


Principle 1: Determine before God what your personal standard will be and why on the non-specified issues.
Have one of the group read Romans 14:4
Discuss how easy it is to judge or criticise someone more free than you, and to despise someone more strict than you.
How do we handle the differences?

Principle 2: Our standard is not from the world.
Have one of the group read Romans 12:1-2.
To what extent have our standards been influenced by the world for generations?
How can we live in the world but not let it influence our decisions?

Principle 3: While everything may be permissible we must ask ourselves, is it beneficial and constructive to ourselves and others.
Have one of the group read 1 Corinthians 10:23.
Discuss what this means in your life, and in the life of other followers of Jesus.

Principle 4: Think of God first.
Have one of the group read 1 Corinthians 10:31, Hebrews 11:25.
How can we make God the major influence in our decision-making?
Are there times you have sought God’s guidance? If so, how?
Do other believers have a role in helping us seek God’s guidance? If so, what is their role?

Principle 5: Think of others before yourself.
Select five people in the group to read one passage each: Romans 14:13, 21; 15:1. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, 32.
Have you ever judged other followers of Jesus?
Can you admit you were wrong?
Do you ever take pride in being right as a believer and righteous as a follower of Jesus?
Is this healthy?
Has anyone ever apologised to you for judging you as a follower of Jesus? Share with the group.

Principle 6: Our activities should build us up,
Have one of the group read Romans 14:9. Follow this with 1 Corinthians 10:23-24
What have you decided to do without because it’s not good for you, even though it may be permitted in the Bible?
What have you decided to make part of your lifestyle because it builds you up?
Christianity is often considered judgemental and restrictive. What does it look like to live life freely and follow Jesus?
As followers of Jesus can we live attractive lives?
What would Paul say?

Principle 7: Aim to set an example to follow 1 Corinthians 11:1.
What sacrifices have you made because it might cause someone to stumble?
Tell the story of someone who copied your example (good or bad).

John said ‘Determine before God what your standards will be on what’s not specified in scripture.’
Make a list of what’s not specified, such as alcohol, smoking, gambling, dancing etc and then use this study to help you decide a policy about it.

Pray for wisdom and sensitivity in applying your freedom as followers of Jesus.