To Obey is Better than Sacrifice

What does true worship look like to God? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the answer from 1 Samuel 15.

Sermon Discussion

1. What are some external actions that we tend to associate with being a “good Christian”? What are some ways that these can replace an actual heart of worship and faith?
2. What is one highlight from the sermon and one question that you had after hearing the sermon?
3. Read 1 Samuel 15:1–3; Exodus 17:14. Do you struggle with God’s commands concerning the Amalekites? What does the context of God’s command here teach us (cf. Romans 2:4)?
4. Read 1 Samuel 15:22–23. In what ways was Saul “rebelling” against the Lord by not listening to him? What are some ways that we do the same?
5. What is the sin of “presumption”? How is this a form of idolatry? What are some ways that we are guilty of idolatry?
6. What are some ways that you can pursue obedience this week rather than just external “forms” of religion?

Vision Discussion

7. While the Israelite army was obedient in the easy “things,” they failed when it came to the hard things (i.e., devoting the good livestock to God). Why does God “ask big things” of us in the path of obedience? What is God asking of you this week?

Transformation Stories

8. Take some time as a group to share stories of how you have seen God at work in your life or the lives of others. Alternatively, take turns sharing your testimony with your group to celebrate God’s saving and transformative work in your life.