Discussion Notes (for use in a small group or individual study)
Sermon: The Sheep of His Flock
(Phone apps are good for comparing multiple translations. Study Bibles help with interpretation.)

Questions:
1. Icebreaker question: Think about a time when you were lost. What happened?
2. Key Scriptures to review: John 10:1-16; John 10:24-29
3. The sermon focused on what it means that the Church is a flock being led and cared for by Jesus. What do you remember about each of the main points? What stood out to you or impacted you?
4. In this study, we will focus on the divine guidance we receive from Jesus as our shepherd. It might be helpful to remember the acronym, SWORD (Scripture, Wisdom, Open Doors, Revelation, and Discernment). These represent typical ways that God guides his sheep.
5. Scripture
a) Read Daniel 9:1-3. How did God reveal His will to Daniel?
b) Read 2 Peter 1:16-21. What experience is Peter referring to? How might that experience have given Peter more confidence in Scripture (v. 19)?
c) Would God ever tell you something that contradicts Scripture? Read John 10:35 for Jesus’ perspective.
d) What should you do if you struggle to understand Scripture? (See 2 Timothy 2:15, Luke 24:45, John 14:26, and Psalm 119:18).
6. Wisdom. Read James 1:5-6. What instructions are given to those who lack wisdom?
a) Open Doors. Read 1 Corinthians 16:8-9. How did Paul know that it was God’s will to stay in Ephesus longer?
7. Revelation
a) Read Acts 16:6-10. How did Paul know to go to Macedonia? Why didn’t Scripture, wisdom, or following open doors suffice to give Paul guidance in this case?
b) Do you believe there are times that God might want to speak supernaturally to you today? What safeguards can protect you from deception or delusion?
8. Discernment
a) Read 2 Corinthians 2:12-13. Paul had an open door but didn’t use it. Why not?
b) Paul was heading toward Jerusalem, but many Christians were telling him not to go. Read Acts 21:4 and Acts 21:10-14. Why would Paul ignore prophecies from his friends and continue to head toward Jerusalem? (see Acts 20:22)
9. Read the following quote from George Mueller regarding seeking guidance from God. What is your reaction to it? “I seek at the beginning to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in regard to a given matter. Nine-tenths of the trouble with people generally is just here. Nine-tenths of the difficulties are overcome when our hearts are ready to do the LORD's will, whatever it may be. When one is truly in this state, it is usually but a little way to the knowledge of what His will is.”
10. Who in the group needs guidance from God for something right now? Spend some time praying for each other.