1 John 3:19–24

1. Read 1 John 3:19–24. What do you think John means in 1 John 3:20 that “God is greater than our heart”? Why do you think he felt compelled to say that?
2. Think about a pattern of sin you have been actively trying to put to death in your life. If you were to fall into that sin again later today, what would it look like to respond in faith versus what it would look like to respond in unbelief?
3. The apostle Paul distinguishes between “godly grief” and “worldly grief,” writing, “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death” (2 Corinthians 7:10). How can you tell the difference between conviction (godly grief) and condemnation (worldly grief) in your own heart? Describe a time when you confused the two—what did it feel like, and what helped you see clearly?
4. Are there any failures from your past or present that are so shameful that you sometimes struggle to believe you could ever be forgiven? You don’t have to name those failures out loud unless you want to. But spend a few moments thinking and reflecting together on why some past sins seem to linger so persistently in your mind and heart.
5. Have somebody pull up the song “Before the Throne of God Above” to listen. Alternatively, somebody can just read the lyrics out loud for the group. Meditate on each line. Then go to God in prayer together. Set your full attention on the person, work, and promises of your Savior. Give Him glory for who He is and what He has done for you!