Rooted: Rooted in Community - Don’t Do Life Alone
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Have you ever wondered why church attendance consistently correlates with greater happiness—regardless of political views or background? Pastor John Mark unpacks compelling research showing churchgoers are "significantly more likely to be very happy," especially those ages 25-45. Through Acts 2, he reveals how the early church's devotion to teaching, togetherness, generosity, and worship created a thriving community that changed lives. Whether you're seeking purpose or need a weekly reset in an unstable world, this message shows how being rooted in church provides the spiritual nourishment and relationships we all need. Join us to discover why Christians are naturally drawn to church like "campers to a fire."
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
Pastor mentioned that studies show people who regularly attend church are statistically happier across all political spectrums. Why do you think church attendance contributes to greater happiness?
Recent data from September 2025 showed that highly active religious people are significantly more likely to be very happy compared to those who are non-religious, regardless of political affiliation.
How has being part of a church community impacted your own sense of wellbeing and happiness?
The sermon emphasized that 'just as a camper is drawn to the fire, a Christian ought to be drawn to the church.' What makes church attendance so vital for spiritual growth?
The pastor explained how church provides a weekly reset from worldly messages and offers Biblical truth, fellowship, and encouragement.
What specific aspects of church attendance help you stay 'spiritually warm' and connected to God?
How does the concept of being 'rooted' in a church community help Christians stand strong in an unstable world?
The sermon compared spiritual strength to a tree's roots, explaining that trees don't withstand storms because of a roof over their head but because of roots in the ground.
In what ways has being connected to a church community helped you weather difficult seasons in your life?
The sermon discussed the importance of 'spurring one another on toward love and good deeds' (Hebrews 10:24-25). What are some practical ways church members can encourage and motivate each other?
The pastor shared examples of church ministries, cancer support bags, and missionary support as ways the church spurs people toward love and good deeds.
What is one specific way you could encourage or spur on another believer this week?
According to Acts 2:42-47, what were the key activities and characteristics of the early church, and why were these elements so crucial for building a strong community of believers?
The sermon discussed how the early church was devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They were together, shared everything in common, and met daily.
Which of these early church practices do you find most challenging to maintain in your own life, and what steps could you take to strengthen that area?
Prayer 🙏
Before we close, let's take a moment to share any personal prayer requests. Then, let's focus our prayer time on these key points:
Ask God for strength to remain rooted in our faith despite the uncertainties of the world.
Pray for the ability to support and encourage one another as a church community.
Seek God's guidance in applying His teachings to our daily lives, helping us to grow spiritually.
Request wisdom to honor God with our bodies, relationships, and commitments to the church.
