Small Group Study: Holding Fast to Truth

This study using information from the Blog Post: Enduring Belief: The Japanese Soldier and Biblical Faith

Opening Thought

In 1972, Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier, was found still believing World War II was ongoing. His conviction sustained him, but it was misplaced. This story challenges us to consider: What is the foundation of our belief? The Bible calls us to anchor our faith in God’s eternal truth.

Scripture Focus

• 2 Corinthians 5:7 – “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.”
• John 17:17 – “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
• John 8:32 – “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
• Psalm 119:105 – “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
• Isaiah 40:8 – “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”

Discussion Guide

1. The Power of Belief

• Story Connection: Onoda’s loyalty kept him alive, but it was directed toward a war that had ended.
• Bible Connection: Faith sustains believers, but it must be rooted in eternal truth.

Questions:

• What are examples of beliefs that people hold today that may be misplaced?
• How does faith in God differ from Onoda’s faith in his mission?

2. Setting Your Truth vs. Living God’s Truth

• Cultural Idea: “Set your truth” often means defining reality for yourself.
• Biblical Idea: Truth is not self-made; it is revealed by God’s word.

Questions:

• How does John 17:17 challenge the idea of “my truth”?
• What dangers arise when truth is defined individually rather than by God?

3. Conviction Anchored in Eternity

• Onoda’s Conviction: Admirable perseverance, but misaligned with reality.
• Christian Conviction: Anchored in Christ, who is eternal.

Questions:

• What does Hebrews 12:2 teach us about where conviction should be placed?
• How can we remain “steadfast, unmoveable” in a world that questions faith?

4. Living Out Truth

• Practical Application: Truth is not just believed—it is lived daily.
• Scripture: Psalm 119:105 shows truth guiding our steps.

Questions:

• What does it look like to live out truth in everyday decisions?
• How can we encourage one another to walk in God’s truth consistently?

Group Activity

• Reflection Exercise: Write down one belief or conviction you hold strongly. Discuss whether it is rooted in God’s word or personal preference.
• Application Challenge: This week, choose one scripture from the study to memorize and apply in a practical situation.

Closing Prayer

Pray for discernment to distinguish between misplaced beliefs and eternal truth, and for strength to walk faithfully in God’s word.