A small group guide based on the sermon by Pastor Steve on 8/3/2025 titled "The 10 Commandments".

Small Group Guide: The Ten Commandments - God's Heart Revealed

Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer asking God to open hearts and minds to understand His commandments and draw closer to Him.

Key Takeaways:

  1. The Ten Commandments represent God's heart and character, not just a set of rules.
  2. They provide permanence, a moral compass, and set God's people apart.
  3. Understanding the context of Scripture is crucial for proper interpretation.
  4. God's commandments are boundaries meant to protect and guide us, not constrain us.

Discussion Questions:

  1. The pastor mentioned "fast food Christianity." What do you think this means, and how might it relate to our understanding of the Ten Commandments?
  2. How do you typically view the Ten Commandments? As rules to follow, or as a way to understand God's character? Has this sermon changed your perspective?
  3. The sermon emphasized the importance of context in understanding Scripture. Can you think of other examples where context is crucial for proper interpretation?
  4. How do you see the Ten Commandments providing a "moral compass" in today's world? Are there areas where society seems to be moving away from these principles?
  5. The pastor mentioned that even some isolated tribes have similar moral codes to the Ten Commandments. How does this reinforce the idea of God's law being written on our hearts?
  6. Discuss the concept of "prevenient grace" as explained in the sermon. How have you experienced this in your own life?
  7. How can viewing the Ten Commandments as a way to draw closer to God change our approach to following them?

Practical Applications:

  1. This week, read through the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) daily. Reflect on how each one reveals something about God's character.
  2. Choose one commandment that you find challenging. Pray for God's guidance in understanding and following it more closely.
  3. Look for opportunities to explain to others (especially children or non-believers) how the Ten Commandments are more than just rules, but a reflection of God's heart.
  4. Reflect on how you "remember the Sabbath and keep it holy." Consider making changes to better honor this commandment.
  5. Practice gratitude this week by thanking God for the boundaries He has set in your life, recognizing them as expressions of His love.


Closing Prayer: Close the session by praying for God's wisdom in applying the Ten Commandments to daily life, and for a deeper understanding of His character through these commandments.