Week 1: Study Questions

Hello, noggies! Welcome to the first installment of Respectable Sins, the official book study of the NOG (that's N-O-G)!

I hope you're enjoying the reading so far. The discussion guide breaks the questions down into 3 sections with the first being what I would call "study questions," the second "discussion questions," and the third "personal applications." In looking at the questions, the personal applications seem to be those that strike the deepest chords and will be more likely to cultivate discussion, but I could be wrong. Anyway, my point in telling you all this (yes, I have a point) is to say that tonight I'm going to post just some of the study questions because I think they'll be more useful as you finish reading if you want some Scripture to go with it and some questions that guide your reading a bit more. In fact, in future weeks I think it might be good to post the study questions earlier and then the others later in the week.

So, use the following questions as you wish and more questions will be posted some time on Monday:

1. Why do you think it's important for us to understand what sin is and its impact on our lives and relationships?
2. What do James 1:14-15 and 2:10-11 reveal about the root of our sinful actions? About God's law and the consequences of breaking it?
3. In Matthew 5:22, 27-28, what did Jesus emphasize concerning the seriousness of sin--breaking God's law?
4. What evidence do you see that the word sin has virtually disappeared from our culture? That awareness of personal sin has effectively disappeared from many believers' consciences? What impact is this "softening" having on our lives and our churches?
5. Why is it easier for believers to focus on the sins of unbelievers rather than their own personal sin?
6. List some common "respectable sins." Why are we more inclined to tolerate them?
7. In Galatians 3:10, what did the apostle Paul quote to emphasize the importance of obeying God's law? What might this reveal about the consequences of tolerating "seemingly minor sins"?
8. Describe the choices Peter & Paul urge every true believer to make. (See Galatians 5:16, Ephesians 4:29, 1 Peter 2:11.)
9. Read 2 Samuel 12:1-10, where Nathan the prophet spoke God's words to David after his adultery, murder and denial of his sin. What do we learn about denial? About sin in relation to God and His law?

A Prayer for Us:
Lord, You are a holy, holy, holy God. We worship you and seek to live our lives solely for you, with no other gods getting in our way. As we begin this study, will you open our eyes to the "respectable sins" we are tolerating in ourselves and give us the courage to be honest with ourselves, with one another and with You. Speak to us individually and speak to our group about how these sins affect community as well. Continue to transform us as we learn to trust in You. Help us to receive both Your conviction and Your grace. We love you and bow to no one but You.

In the name of Jesus,
Amen.

Blessings to you, ladies! Let the posts begin!

I love and miss you all!
Beth