We Are Family: Discussion Guide
Summary
In this sermon on Psalm 133, Pastor Mike explores why the unity of God's gathered family is so special. The psalm describes this unity as both good and pleasant, using two vivid images: precious oil flowing down Aaron's beard and the dew of Mount Hermon falling on the mountains of Zion. These images illustrate that the unity of God's family is joyful (like fragrant oil), good (like life-giving dew), and blessed (commanded by God himself). The sermon emphasizes that this unity is not automatic but a supernatural gift that requires intentional maintenance. It comes from above, ultimately flowing from Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Pastor Mike challenges the congregation to actively participate in this unity by lingering after services, investing in relationships, and pointing one another to Jesus. True unity in God's family provides a unique joy and blessing that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word today, we thank You for the gift of unity in Your family. Open our hearts to understand the beauty and blessing of dwelling together in harmony. Help us to see where we might be holding back from fully experiencing the community You designed us for. May Your Spirit guide our conversation and deepen our appreciation for the unity that flows from Christ. In Jesus' name, amen.
Ice Breaker
What's your favorite family tradition or gathering that makes you feel a sense of belonging?
Key Verses
Psalm 133:1
Psalm 133:3
Ephesians 4:3
John 17:20-23
Hebrews 10:24-25
Questions
The sermon describes unity as both 'good' and 'pleasant.' Can you share an experience where you've felt the goodness and pleasantness of Christian unity?
How is the unity we experience in the church different from unity we might experience in other groups (work teams, sports teams, political parties, etc.)?
Pastor Mike used the image of oil flowing down as a picture of unity. How does this image help you understand what Christian unity should look like?
What are some practical ways we can 'guard' and 'nurture' the unity we have in our church family?
The sermon mentioned that unity is like dew that brings refreshment in dry seasons. How has the church community refreshed you during difficult times?
What obstacles do you face in fully participating in the unity of God's family?
What keeps you from 'lingering' with other believers?
How does keeping our focus on Jesus help maintain unity among believers with different backgrounds, preferences, and opinions?
Pastor Mike challenged us to ask, 'Who needs encouragement from me today?' rather than 'What will I get out of this?' How might this shift in perspective change your approach to church gatherings?
Life Application
This week, commit to taking one specific action to deepen your connection with the church family. This might be lingering after service to have a meaningful conversation with someone you don't know well, inviting a church member or family to share a meal, reaching out to someone who seems disconnected, or joining a small group or Bible study. As you do this, intentionally look for ways to point the conversation toward Christ and ask deeper questions about each other's spiritual journey. Then, reflect on how this experience enriched your sense of unity with God's family.
Key Takeaways
The unity of God's family is both good for us and pleasurable - it nourishes our souls while bringing joy.
True Christian unity is unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world - it's like a special fragrance that attracts others.
Unity in God's family is life-giving, like dew that refreshes dry ground - it sustains us through difficult seasons.
The source of our unity is Jesus Christ - it flows down from Him as our great High Priest.
Maintaining unity requires intentional effort - we must linger with one another, invest in relationships, and keep our focus on Christ.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for making us part of Your family through Your sacrifice. We're grateful for the unity You've established among us - not based on our similarities or preferences, but on Your grace. Forgive us for the times we've taken this unity for granted or failed to nurture it. Help us to be intentional about lingering with one another, speaking words of encouragement, and pointing each other back to You. May our unity be like fragrant oil and refreshing dew that draws others to experience the blessing of life in Your family. Give us courage to move beyond surface-level interactions to deeper fellowship that reflects Your love. We long for the day when our unity will be perfect in Your presence. Until then, help us to be a compelling picture of what it means to truly be family. In Your name we pray, amen.