Helena First
Discussion Guide

Like Mike

Pastor Mike Silvonen (Connection Pastor)
|
March 6, 2024

Main Idea

The main idea of Pastor Mike's message revolved around the biblical story of Gideon, illustrating our often misplaced identity in fear, doubt, and insecurity. Gideon's story served as a mirror to our own lives, showing how we might hide, question, or undervalue ourselves due to these feelings. Pastor Mike underscored that our real identity is declared by God, who sees beyond our fears, doubts, and insecurities. He called us to find our identity in Christ, the one who empowers, forgives, and calls us His own, irrespective of our perceived worth or achievements.

Scripture References

Judges 6:1-15, 2 Timothy 1:9, Colossians 2:10, 1 Thessalonians 1:4, 1 John 2:12, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 John 3:1, Ephesians 1:7, Matthew 5:14, Romans 5:1, Romans 6:22, Romans 8:17, 1 Corinthians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 7:17, Ephesians 2:10, Colossians 3:3, 1 Corinthians 15:57, Romans 8:1, Philippians 4:7, Galatians 4:7, Romans 15:7, 2 Corinthians 5:20, Psalm 32:10, Song of Solomon 4:7, Isaiah 41:10, 1 Peter 2:9, Romans 15:13, Isaiah 43:4, Psalm 139:14, Jeremiah 29:11, Isaiah 43:1

How can we identify and overcome the fears that hinder us from embracing our identity in Christ?

Fear, doubt, and insecurity may try to obscure our true identity, but we must remind ourselves of who we are in Christ.

Discuss times when doubt has shaken your identity. How did you, or can you, find reassurance in God's truth?

Discussion Questions:

In what ways do societal expectations impact our sense of identity, and how can we align our identity with what God says about us?

Reflecting on Gideon's story, how do you see your own insecurities in his reactions, and how does God's response to him encourage you?

What are some practical steps we can take to live out our identity in Christ in our daily lives?

Our identity, our fresh start, comes directly from the mouth of God, even before we feel deserving or courageous.

Summary

Pastor Mike embarked on a series leading up to Good Friday and Easter, focusing on embracing a new identity in Christ. He touched upon the universal struggle with identity crises, influenced by societal expectations of success and greatness. He highlighted how our generation, particularly through the lens of 'Like Mike' commercials, faced pressures in sports and academics, tying worth and identity to achievements. The sermon emphasized the importance of recognizing that true identity is not about worldly achievements or expectations but is found in Christ.

Call to Action

Some next steps to take this week:

Live in the understanding that your identity is not based on worldly things but is found in Christ.

Embrace the identity spoken over you by God, letting go of fear, doubt, and insecurity to discover completeness in Christ.

Check out
Helena First
on our social platforms