Big Idea of the Series: This four-week series is about tackling any image problem we may have of God, ourselves, and the Church.  During this series, we want to encourage students to gain a “fresh” perspective of the value of being the Church and being connected.  We will suggest that the most “fresh” approach to our community together is actually really old. Instead of creating something new from scratch, we’ll learn from the church in Acts about ways to truly live out a faithful presence in the world.

Week 1

Text: 1 Corinthians 1:10–17

Topic: Division, Status, Unity

Big Idea of the Message: When we fight over what “group” we belong to and we don’t look for ways to include others, we aren’t showing the world the message that unites us.

Application Point: Champion “OUR” group as a Church.

Key Statement:

• MS: I should treat others the way I want to be treated.
• HS: I must put others first and treat others the way God treats me.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is one thing that stood out to you from this week’s message?
   1. Have you ever felt embarrassed of your faith or your church? What kind of negative stereotypes did other people have? Were the stereotypes accurate in any way?
   1. What divisions do you think we struggle with the most?
   1. Have you ever had a leader or a celebrity disappoint you? What did you do?
   1. How can we connect with each other better to encourage each other better?
   1. How can we make sure our loyalty is highest to Christ?
   1. How can I pray for you?

Our love for one another is going to inspire the world.

Step: Challenge kids to draw a bigger circle and interact with someone inside their small group that they don’t know very well.