September 14th - Small Group Guide
Small Group Study – Week 3
Theme: Whatever is Just
Key Verse: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
Opening Discussion
- When you hear the word justice, what images or stories come to mind?
- How is justice different from fairness? How is it related to righteousness?
Word Study: “Right” (Greek: dikaios)
- Meaning: “on the right side of justice; just, righteous.”
- Used ~80 times in the New Testament; over 400 times in the Septuagint (Greek OT).
- Emphasizes treating people equally, giving them their rights, and living with fairness and generosity.
Three Crucial Questions About Justice
1. How Do I Define Justice?
Scripture: Psalm 146:7–9; Deuteronomy 10:18; Luke 4:18
Scripture: Psalm 146:7–9; Deuteronomy 10:18; Luke 4:18
- God’s character is the standard of justice.
- He gives food to the hungry, freedom to the prisoners, protection to foreigners, care for orphans and widows.
Discussion:
- How does God’s definition of justice differ from cultural definitions we hear today?
- Where have you personally seen God’s justice at work?
2. Where Do I Focus Justice?
Scripture: Zechariah 7:9–10; Proverbs 31:8–9; Jeremiah 22:3
Scripture: Zechariah 7:9–10; Proverbs 31:8–9; Jeremiah 22:3
- Justice is not abstract—it is directed toward the marginalized.
- God commands His people not to oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, or the poor.
- Speaking up for the powerless is part of living justly.
Discussion:
- Who are “the marginalized” in your community?
- What are practical ways your group or church could advocate for them?
3. How Am I Empowered for Justice?
Scripture: Isaiah 58:10–11
Scripture: Isaiah 58:10–11
- We are called to feed the hungry and help the hurting.
- God sustains and restores us when we pursue justice in His strength.
- Avoid two extremes:
- It’s all up to me → burnout.
- It’s all up to God → passivity.
- True empowerment comes from faith in Christ, walking in His Spirit.
Discussion:
- How do you find balance between doing your part and trusting God’s power?
- Share a time when you stepped out in justice and saw God provide strength.
Reflection & Application
- Personal: What area of your life needs more alignment with God’s justice?
- Group: Choose one tangible act of justice your group can do together this month (e.g., serving a meal, supporting foster families, visiting prisoners, volunteering for a refugee ministry).
- Prayer: Ask God to open your eyes to injustice around you and give courage to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).
Closing Thought: Justice is not merely a concept—it is a reflection of God’s heart. To think about “whatever is just” means allowing God’s righteousness to shape both our thoughts and our actions.