The Image

 Video will Premiere at 10am on Sunday

Group Discussion Guide

Each Sunday we come together we offer an open invitation into the way of Jesus. An invitation to enter into sacred rhythms - to draw near to God through singing, giving, learning, and praying.

As a community who desires renewal in Des Moines as it is in Heaven, we recognize that we cannot offer what we ourselves do not have. We cannot lead where we ourselves have not been led; in turn, these questions aim at reflection. Reflecting on God’s word and making space for his leadership. 

After watching or listening consider the following discussion questions as a large group or in groups of three to four:

What stood out to you about this week’s teaching?

• What was most challenging?

• What was most encouraging?

• What’s your “reflex” response to the question, “what belongs to God?”

• What does it practically look like for all things to belong to God? 

  • Try unpacking this without “christian-ese.”

• How have you historically thought about bearing God’s image? 

  • How does this passage (i.e. the image of God as a vision for what we’re to do) shift how you see yourself and others?

  • If you’re feeling brave, consider discussing this question in light of the election.

• Where do you see yourself seeking significance in the world? 

  • How does your significance to Jesus impact how you see yourself now?

1. Here is a (non-exhaustive) list of identity statements from the Bible about those who are in Christ:

   1. I am the salt and light of the earth. (Matthew 5v13-14)

   2. I’ve been given a spirit of power, love, and self-control – not fear. (2 Timothy 1v7)

   3. I can find grace and mercy in time of need. (Hebrews 4v16)

   4. I am hidden with Christ in God. (Colossians 3v3)

   5. I am complete in Christ. (Colossians 2v10)

   6. I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. (Colossians 1v14)

   7. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4v13)

   8. I am a citizen of heaven. (Philippians 3v20)

   9. I know that God will complete the good work he started in me. (Philippians 1v6)

   10. I may approach God with freedom and confidence. (Ephesians 3v12)

   11. I am God’s workmanship. (Ephesians 2v10)

   12. I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 2v18)

   13. I have been adopted as God’s child. (Ephesians 1v5)

   14. I am a saint. (Ephesians 1v1)

   15. I am a minister of reconciliation for God. (2 Corinthians 5v18-21)

   16. I am a new creation. (2 Corinthians 5v17)

   17. I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God. (2 Corinthians 1v21-22)

   18. I am a member of Christ’s body. (1 Corinthians 12:27)

   19. I have been bought at a price. I belong to God. (1 Corinthians 6v20)

   20. I am God’s temple. (1 Corinthians 3v16)

   21. I am God’s coworker. (1 Corinthians 3v9)

   22. I cannot be separated from the love of God. (Romans 8v35-39)

   23. I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. (John 15v16)

   24. I am Christ’s friend. (John 15v15)