Small Group Guide: Part 2 Renewing the Mind

This small group guide follows the Blog Post : Part 2: The Renewed Mind — Living From the Inside Out

Scripture Focus: Romans 12:2

Core Truth: Transformation begins not with behavior, but with the renewal of our thinking. The Spirit shapes us by shifting our patterns of thought to align with the heart of Christ.

1. Welcome and Opening Prayer

Begin with a moment of quiet. Ask God to reveal any areas in our minds that need renewing, and to center your group’s hearts on His truth.

2. Icebreaker Question

Prompt: What’s one “old mindset” or belief you’ve had to unlearn in the past few years?

This sets the tone for discussing the power and challenge of transformation.

3. Scripture Reading

Read Romans 12:1–2 together for context. Consider multiple translations to bring out the richness of Paul’s challenge.

4. Group Discussion

Part 1: Understanding Renewal

• Why do you think Paul contrasts “conformity to the world” with “transformation by renewal”?
• How does the mind function as a spiritual battleground?
• What’s the difference between knowing Scripture and being renewed by it?

Part 2: Naming Worldly Patterns

• What cultural values are most tempting to conform to?
• Which ones are subtle, disguised as “wisdom” or “success”?
• How do we recognize when our thinking has drifted from truth?

Part 3: Embracing Transformation

• What disciplines or habits help you renew your mind?
• Have you experienced a moment when God reshaped your thinking in a powerful way?
• How can the group support each other in resisting conformity?

5. Reflection Activity

Give each person two sticky notes or index cards:

• On the first, write a pattern of worldly thinking they struggle with.
• On the second, write a truth from Scripture that counters it.

Stick the “worldly thinking” on a board or wall—then overlay each with the corresponding truth. Pray over these as a group.

6. Take-Home Challenge

Practice Mind Renewal: Choose one habit this week—like limiting social media, memorizing a verse, or journaling—and do it intentionally as an act of mental renewal.

Memory Verse: Romans 12:2 (encourage memorization and daily reflection).

7. Closing Prayer

Pray that each group member would have courage to stand against conformity and the grace to be transformed from the inside out.

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