For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this Anchor Group study with you.
⌘ Space to Belong | 5-10 minutes
Connect with one another with an ice-breaker.
If your life was a movie, what would be the theme song? Why?
⌘ Space to Believe | 10-15 minutes
Read and reflect on the scripture.
Ephesians 5:18-19 (NIV) . . . be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16 (NIV) Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
What stands out to you? Is there anything new for you to believe or obey?
⌘ Space to Become | 10-15 minutes
A. Familiarize yourself with the sermon.
Pastor Paul shares a reflection on the theme of "Does it fit?" using personal anecdotes and scripture to explore what it means for worship elements to be fitting in church. He emphasized that everything done within a congregation should be aimed at building each other up and conducted in an orderly manner, as stated by Paul in 1 Corinthians.
The sermon delved into the significance of music in worship, advocating for a blend of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs that reflect both personal experiences and collective praise. Ultimately, Paul encouraged Belay to embrace diverse musical expressions that bring glory to God and foster spiritual growth among believers.
B. Discuss one or more of the following questions.
- What do you think the phrase 'everything must be done so that the church may be built up' means in the context of worship and music?
- Pastor explained this phrase from 1 Corinthians 14:26 and emphasized the importance of music that builds up the church.
- In what ways can you help to build up your church community through music or participating in worship?
- Why do you think the Bible includes different forms of music like psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs?
- Pastor shared that Paul mentions these forms of music in Ephesians 5:18-19 and Colossians 3:16, implying that each has a unique purpose in worship.
- How can understanding these different forms of music influence your personal worship experience?
- How can singing spiritual songs, which come from our own experiences with God, lead to more meaningful worship?
- Pastor encouraged the idea that spiritual songs express personal stories and can create deeper connections with God and others.
- Can you think of a time when you wrote or sang a song expressing your feelings toward God? How did that experience impact you?
- In what ways might your musical preferences differ from those of others in your community, and why is it important to understand this?
- Pastor acknowledged that there are strong opinions on music in the church, recognizing everyone's unique tastes and backgrounds.
- How can you be open to various musical styles when worshipping together with others who might not share your preferences?
- Why do you think it is significant that the very middle chapter of the Bible (Psalm 117) focuses on praising the Lord?
- Pastor highlighted that Psalm 117, which emphasizes praise, lies at the center of Scripture, suggesting that worship is a core element of faith.
- How does knowing this influence your understanding of the importance of praise and worship in your daily life?
⌘ Space to Belay | 5-10 minutes