The Compass

A Daily Personal Reflection & Small Group Discussion Guide

by John Hay, Jr.
Senior Pastor, West Morris Street Free Methodist Church

Series: 10 Bible Stories that Build Outgoing Disciples
Being Like Noah
Scriptures: Genesis 5-9
Week of: July 15, 2007

TRACKING THE WORD IN WORSHIP
What insights can we find in this epic story that can build our capacity to be outgoing disciples?

1. Don't take SIN lightly.

Genesis 6:5-7, 11-12

A. What is the condition of the hearts of people which grieved and pained God (v. 5)?

B. What similarities do you see in the behaviors, attitudes, and soul condition of people today?

C. Do you think God overlooks sin? Why or why not?

2. God sees and honors FAITHFULNESS.

Genesis 6:8-9

A. In what 3 ways is Noah described (v. 9)

B. What do you think it means to find "grace" or "favor" in the eyes of God? On what basis might we find such favor or grace?

3. Amid judgment, God's desire is to SAVE.

Genesis 6:13-14, 18-19

A. In this story, how is judgment carried out?

How is salvation carried out?

B. In the Old Testament, God's judgment is not a will to destroy, but a will to correct and reclaim. Behind words and instances of judgment is (1) the deep grief of God and (2) the strong desire of God to save. Judgment is balanced by mercy. How do you see this expressed in this story?

4. The OBEDIENCE of one is critical for the salvation of many.

Genesis 6:13-22

A. Who and what is saved because Noah obeyed God?

B. Are you willing to obey God when others either do not see the need or respond to God's promptings? Why or why not?

C. Make a thorough list of the people who may be influenced by your obedience or disobedience to God. (use a separate sheet or write in your journal).

5. God's covenant is for a FUTURE of hope.

Genesis 8:15-22, 9:8-17

A. In what ways do you think the extent of devastation of people and the earth via the flood prompted the new covenant God made with Noah?

B. List 3 commitments God expresses in this new covenant.

C. List 3 commitments you can make in response to God's promises and commitments to you and the world.

MARKINGS FOR THE JOURNEY
Consider obedience and perseverance

A CHRISTIAN WHEN… "A Christian is a Christian only when he unceasingly asks critical question of the society in which he lives and continuously stresses the necessity for conversion, not only of the individual but also of the world. A Christian is a Christian only when he refuses to allow himself or anyone also to settle into a comfortable rest. He remains dissatisfied with the status quo. And he believes that he has an essential role to play in the realization of the new world to come-even if he cannot say how that world will come about. A Christian is a Christian only when he keeps saying to everyone he meets that the good news of the Kingdom has to be proclaimed to the whole world and witnessed to all nations." - Henri Nouwen

DISCERNING GOD'S PRESENCE. The more deeply you live your spiritual life, the easier it will be to discern the difference between living with God and living without God, and the easier it will be to move away from the places where God is no longer with you. - Henri Nouwen

RESPONSES & OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE
Want to explore The Compass with others? Have questions?

If you'd like to connect with others who are working weekly with The Compass, e-mail me or call the church office (317.632.8311)

If you have questions about Scriptures or some of the questions, or just want to share what your are discovering through The Compass, you are welcome to e-mail me.

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