A Christian Response to Evil | Keep Talking

In this message, Pastor Todd shared what it looks like to be filled with the Holy Spirit—even when the world seems filled with division. Because of all that’s happening in our world right now, this week’s conversation may feel a little different—perhaps even heavier—than usual. Our goal in this group time is not to debate issues, but to create a safe space to process pain, to mourn with those who mourn, and to seek God’s comfort and healing together on behalf of our families and our nation.   

SERMON HIGHLIGHTS

• When one part of the body hurts, the whole body suffers. 
• We can deal with our emotions without being derailed from our mission. 
• We must live with extreme boldness and extreme kindness. Being bold doesn’t mean being rude—it means being rooted.
• Godly boldness doesn’t come from defending a position; it comes from being in God’s presence. 
• We will stand tall and bow low.

KEY SCRIPTURES

• Hebrews 6:19
• John 14:1
• Psalms 34:18
• Acts 4:13, 29, 31
• Matthew 5:14-16
• John 1:5
• Acts 1:8
• 2 Timothy 1:7
• John 4:4
• Romans 2:4
• 2 Corinthians 5:20
• Romans 1:16
• 2 Chronicles 7:14

START TALKING 

• What has been weighing heavily on your heart lately? Where have you seen glimpses of God’s light breaking through the pain and heaviness? 

KEEP TALKING

• Read Hebrews 6:19. How has your faith in Jesus been an anchor for you in times of uncertainty or pain? 
• Pastor Todd reminded us that we shouldn’t be pastored by Instagram. Think back over the last few weeks. What has been feeding you: social media, the news, or God’s Word? Is it nourishing you or making you sick? 
• How does knowing that the battle we are in is spiritual, not simply political or cultural, change the way you respond to the events happening in our world right now? 
• How can you practically balance being bold in your faith while also showing extreme kindness to others who may not share your beliefs?
• Billy Graham said, “When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened.” Who has inspired you by their courage and faith, and how might your boldness encourage others?

KEEP IT GOING

• This week, let’s stand on the truth of 2 Chronicles 7:14 together, individually and collectively. In humility, let’s bow low before the Lord and pray for our nation. May revival start in us so that healing can happen in our land. Whether it’s setting an alarm to wake up earlier or a timer to remind you during the day, would you commit to praying every day for the hearts that are lost, hurting, and broken in our communities and our country? Imagine what God might do if we all stood on His truth and claimed His promises together.

PRAYER

Father, we desperately need you. You are the only one who can heal our hearts and our country. Holy Spirit, help us to be bold for you while also walking in the fruit of your Spirit. May our kindness help lead a nation to you. We don’t always know what to do in times like these, but our eyes are on you. Amen.