In this series we’re looking at how all truth is God’s truth, so that even in the movies we can see big messages from God about this world and our lives and how He has called us to live. In the movie Black Panther, the people of Wakanda and their King T’Challa are faced with a decision. Do they keep their resources and technology to themselves, do they share their resources with others or do they use what they have to exert power over the rest of the world. It’s a question we all face – will we use our blessings to share hope or to hoard? We have been blessed to be a blessing. But it’s our choice.

(1) When you think of the word “blessed” what do you think of? Why?

(2) Spiderman said “with great power comes great responsibility”, Jesus said “to whom much is given, much is required”. What do you think this might look like for us at The Journey as a church and individually?

(3) We are called to spread kindness and share hope as we follow the model of Jesus. People’s needs are both physical and spiritual. Read Mark 2:1-12. How do you see this play out in this account with Jesus?

(4) How can you “act” in love even if you don’t “feel” it? Have you ever done that before? If so, how did you “feel” afterwards?

(5) Read 1 Peter 3:15. What does this say about “sharing hope”? What does your story of God at work in you look like – how would you communicate it?

(6) Read 1 Peter 2:9. What does this say about followers of Jesus? In this passage it says “so that you may proclaim . . .” What do you think it looks like for you to proclaim the goodness of God (in the Greek it means “advertise”, like a giant living billboard)?

(7) What’s one way you can spread kindness and share hope this week? Commit to doing it this week! In Proverbs 11:24-25 it says that “he who refreshes others, will himself be refreshed”

CHALLENGE FOR THIS WEEK: Do one act where you spread kindness to someone this week, and look for one opportunity to share simply how God has been at work in your life (sharing hope).