Small Group Study Guide: How Deep Is Your Faith

Small group study Guide to enhance blog post “How Deep is Your Faith”

Opening and Icebreaker

Begin by welcoming everyone and inviting a brief icebreaker:

• Share a time you trusted someone’s word without seeing proof.

This warms up the group and sets the stage for exploring trust in Jesus.

Scripture Reading

Ask volunteers to read aloud:

• Matthew 8:5–9 (KJV)
• Luke 7:1–10 (KJV)

Pause between readings so everyone can notice similarities and differences.

Observation

Give the group a few minutes of silence to note what stands out. Invite comments on:

• The centurion’s approach (direct vs. through intermediaries)
• His language of unworthiness
• Jesus’ response and marvel

Discussion Questions

1. What does the centurion’s confidence in Jesus’ word reveal about his understanding of authority?
2. Why do you think he insisted that Jesus need not enter his home?
3. How do Matthew’s and Luke’s versions complement each other? What unique insight does each bring?
4. When Jesus declares He has not found such faith in Israel, what message is He sending to both Jews and Gentiles?
5. How deep is your faith when you face uncertainties today?

Encourage everyone to share honestly and listen without judgment.

Application

Challenge each member to deepen their trust in Christ’s spoken word:

1. Identify one situation this week where you fear circumstances more than God’s power.
2. Pray daily, asking God to increase your confidence in His promises rather than your feelings.
3. Practice intercession—pray for someone else’s need with the same assurance that God hears and acts.

After a few minutes, invite volunteers to share which step resonates most.

Closing Prayer

Pray as a group, focusing on:

• Humility to recognize our unworthiness
• Boldness to trust Jesus’ word without physical proof
• Faith that crosses cultural and personal barriers

End by thanking God for encountering us through His Word and asking Him to deepen our trust in Him.

Next Steps

Encourage members to journal reflections on faith throughout the week and come prepared to share a breakthrough or struggle at the next gathering.

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