Discussion Questions for Sermon Series The N Commandments Week 5 - Doubt Not

Wouldn’t it be great to have a faith with no doubts? But most believers wrestle with doubt at some level. We face circumstances that don’t add up. We see suffering and injustice in the world. Doubt grabs our minds and emotions. We wonder if we’re just making excuses for a God who isn’t really there . . . or isn’t there in the way we assumed. Jesus commanded: “Doubt not.” But when he said that, he didn’t mean for us to quit feeling doubtful. His command was more practical and life changing. 

1. Talk about a time when you doubted your knowledge, talents, abilities, or decision making. What did you do to overcome your doubts?

2. During the message, Jon said, “You can doubt and follow Jesus at the same time.” How does that statement challenge your understanding of the relationship between faith and doubt? In what ways do you find it freeing?

3. Read John 6:60–69. What are some things Jesus said or did that you consider challenging or offensive? In what ways do those statements or actions affect your ability to follow him?

4. Read Matthew 14:22–33. Talk about a time when you doubted because your circumstances weren’t working out the way you thought they would. Why do you think we’re tempted to doubt when God doesn’t do what we want or expect?

5. Is it difficult to believe that God wants to do something significant in you and in the lives of others through you? Why or why not?

6. What is one thing that causes doubt to creep into your faith? What can you do this week to think through the question, “To whom shall I turn?” as it relates to that thing? How can this group support you as you work through that question?

You’ll never know what God would have done in and through your life if you allow your doubt to take you out. Doubt whispers: “Is it true?” But Jesus whispers: “If not me, then who?” Doubt loses its power when held up in the light of the resurrection. When doubt dings your mind and emotions, ask yourself, “To whom shall I go?

Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
John 6:68–69 

Pray