Going to God’s House: Discussion Guide
View Sermon Video HERE
In this sermon, Pastor Mike explores Psalm 122, describing it as a song of arrival and joy for those who gather in God's presence. The psalm answers why gathering as God's people is worth the effort, even when the journey is difficult. The main idea presented is that the joy of God's people is found in gathering where God dwells. The sermon examines where the house of the Lord is located across biblical history - in the past (Jerusalem's temple), the present (the gathered church), and the future (the new Jerusalem).
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we begin our discussion today, we ask that Your Holy Spirit would open our hearts to the joy of gathering in Your presence. Help us to see the value and beauty of being together as Your church. May our time together deepen our appreciation for the gift of community and Your special presence among us. Guide our conversation and help each person to hear what You want them to learn today. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
What's your favorite part about gathering with others, whether it's for church, family gatherings, or social events? What makes those moments special for you?
Key Verses
Psalm 122:1
Psalm 122:6-9
1 Corinthians 3:16
1 Peter 2:5
Ephesians 2:19-22
Questions
The sermon describes the church as 'the house of the Lord' today. How does this understanding change your perspective on attending church?
Pastor Mike mentions that the psalmist was 'glad' to go to the house of the Lord. What aspects of gathering for worship bring you joy?
The sermon highlights three things that happen when we gather: we experience unity in diversity, gratitude rooted in grace, and lives shaped by God's Word. Which of these resonates most with you and why?
How might our church experience be different if we approached it with the expectation of encountering God's presence rather than just fulfilling a religious obligation?
The psalm calls believers to 'pray for the peace of Jerusalem,' which in our context means praying for the church. What specific prayers do you have for our church community?
Pastor Mike challenges us to see the diversity in the church as something to treasure rather than just tolerate. How can we better appreciate and celebrate the diversity within our church family?
The sermon mentions that we gather not to earn God's favor but because we already have it. How does this truth affect your approach to worship and church attendance?
What practical steps can you take this week to 'seek the good' of someone in our church family, as mentioned in verse 9?
Life Application
This week, commit to being intentional about your church attendance and participation. Rather than viewing it as just another obligation, prepare your heart beforehand by reflecting on God's goodness and the privilege of gathering with His people. Additionally, choose one person from your church family to encourage or serve in a tangible way - perhaps through a phone call, a handwritten note, or an act of service. Remember that the church is not just a place you go but a family you belong to, where God's presence dwells in a special way.
Key Takeaways
The joy of God's people is found in gathering where God dwells - in the past (Jerusalem's temple), present (the gathered church), and future (the new Jerusalem).
When we gather as the church, we experience unity in diversity, gratitude rooted in grace, and lives shaped by God's Word.
The church is not just a building but the people of God where His presence dwells in a special way that can't be experienced in isolation. We should pray for and actively seek peace, rest, and goodness for God's people, starting with our local church family.
Our attitude toward church should be one of gladness and anticipation, not obligation, because we're coming to experience God's presence among His people.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, thank You for the gift of Your church - not just a building, but a family of believers where You dwell in a special way. Forgive us for the times we've taken this privilege lightly or approached it with reluctance rather than joy. Renew in us the gladness of the psalmist who delighted in gathering with Your people. Help us to treasure the diversity You've created within our church family and to actively seek the good of one another. May we leave this discussion with a deeper appreciation for Your presence among us and a stronger commitment to being the church You've called us to be. In Jesus' name, amen.