SAFE HOUSE: Today's Greatest Threats to our Safety

The following questions are to be used as a study aid for the sermon preached by Rev. Rich Tiner at the Grace Place on Sunday, May 19, 2013. To get the most from these questions, go to www.graceplaceonline.us and listen to the service first.

These questions can be used in your private Bible study during the week or as a basis for a small group study. For more information on hosting or leading a small group study, click on "GP Small Groups" under "GP Ministries" at www.graceplace.us.

Fellowship: (Break bread with your community, share life from last week, announcements for next week)

Icebreaker: (Get to know your fellow believers a little bit better using this week’s topic)

In what type costume did you dress up as a child?

What special clothes, equipment or tools are required in your job?

What is your modern-day shield? (Defense – i.e. don’t speak to strangers, big purse)

What is your modern-day sword? (Offense – i.e. hand sanitizer, money in your wallet)

Worship: (Optional for communities who have the time and talent)

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” (See You Tube link on Facebook)

Scripture: (Read the word together – use different readers, different versions, just read it)

Ephesians 6:10-18

Lesson: (Delve deeper into the Word and into the sermon using open-ended questions)

Name the six pieces of spiritual armor found in Ephesians 6:14-17.

How can each of the six pieces of spiritual armor be used today?

1.            Belt of Truth:

2.            Breastplate of Righteousness
3.            Shoes of Readiness:
4.            Shield of Faith:
5.            Helmet of Salvation:
6.            Sword of the Spirit:
 
Many stories in the Old Testament depict battles between the Israelites and their enemies.  A battle strategy used by the Romans and Vikings during Medieval times was called the turtle.  Soldiers would stand with shields overlapping to protect the group from the attacking force’s swords, arrows or rocks.  From this protected position, they could advance with swords exposed.  It was a moving safe house.
 
Who needs to use the turtle formation now?
How can we use the turtle formation against attacks from our culture?

Prayer: (Share each other’s burdens, become a community of believers)

Think about the turtle formation this week as you pray for your community members and family.