Small Group Questions | Week 4
 

1. What stands out to you about the courage and compassion Ebed-Melech showed in Jeremiah 38? How would you define courage and compassion based on his actions?

2. Why do you think Jeremiah’s message of truth caused such a strong reaction from the officials? Have you ever faced resistance for speaking the truth? How did you respond?

3. How does Ebed-Melech’s decision to confront the king challenge our understanding of courage in the face of fear? Can you think of a time when God called you to act courageously, even though it seemed risky?

4. What is the significance of Ebed-Melech using old rags to protect Jeremiah as he was lifted from the cistern? How can small acts of compassion make a big difference in someone’s life?

5. In what ways might we, like Ebed-Melech, be called to rescue others—both physically and spiritually—through courage and compassion?

6. What happens when we separate courage from compassion, as the sermon suggests? Have you ever encountered a situation where one was present without the other, and how did it impact the outcome?

7. How can we practice showing both courage and compassion in our daily lives, particularly when sharing the gospel with others? What steps can we take to ensure we have a balance of both?

8. The sermon emphasizes that the church is not just an organization, but it’s made up of individuals like us. How does this shift in thinking change the way we approach our mission as Christians?

9. How can we trust in God to give us the courage and compassion we need, just as Ebed-Melech did? In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on God’s strength?

10. Who is someone in your life that God might be calling you to reach out to with both courage and compassion? How can you take action this week?