The Garden of Faith: Growing Through Prayer
(Luke 18:1–8)
Discussion Questions
1. Prayer vs. Fainting: Jesus contrasts persistent prayer with losing heart in Luke 18:1. What are some challenges or distractions in your life that tempt you to “lose heart” spiritually? How can prioritizing prayer help you stay anchored in faith during seasons of waiting? What helped Joseph stay anchored? (Genesis 37-45).
2. The Widow vs. God’s Elect: The sermon highlights the contrast between the persistent widow and God’s children, who have bold access to God’s throne (Hebrews 4:16). How does knowing you are God’s elect, with Jesus as your Advocate, encourage you to pray boldly? Share a time when persistent prayer transformed your perspective or situation, even if the outcome wasn’t what you expected.
3. The Unjust Judge vs. God the Father: Jesus compares the unjust judge to God, who delights in our prayers (Luke 18:6–8). The sermon suggests three responses to this contrast: confidence, persistence, and reverence. Which of these resonates most with you, and how can you apply it to deepen your prayer life? For example, how might starting prayer with worship (reverence) change your approach/response?
4. Faith in God’s Timing: Jesus ends the parable with a challenge: “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8). The sermon emphasizes trusting God’s character and timing over seeking specific outcomes. How can you balance praying for specific needs (e.g., healing, provision) with trusting God’s perfect timing? Share a practical step you can take to pair persistent prayer with obedient action while awaiting Christ’s return.
(Luke 18:1–8)
Discussion Questions
1. Prayer vs. Fainting: Jesus contrasts persistent prayer with losing heart in Luke 18:1. What are some challenges or distractions in your life that tempt you to “lose heart” spiritually? How can prioritizing prayer help you stay anchored in faith during seasons of waiting? What helped Joseph stay anchored? (Genesis 37-45).
2. The Widow vs. God’s Elect: The sermon highlights the contrast between the persistent widow and God’s children, who have bold access to God’s throne (Hebrews 4:16). How does knowing you are God’s elect, with Jesus as your Advocate, encourage you to pray boldly? Share a time when persistent prayer transformed your perspective or situation, even if the outcome wasn’t what you expected.
3. The Unjust Judge vs. God the Father: Jesus compares the unjust judge to God, who delights in our prayers (Luke 18:6–8). The sermon suggests three responses to this contrast: confidence, persistence, and reverence. Which of these resonates most with you, and how can you apply it to deepen your prayer life? For example, how might starting prayer with worship (reverence) change your approach/response?
4. Faith in God’s Timing: Jesus ends the parable with a challenge: “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8). The sermon emphasizes trusting God’s character and timing over seeking specific outcomes. How can you balance praying for specific needs (e.g., healing, provision) with trusting God’s perfect timing? Share a practical step you can take to pair persistent prayer with obedient action while awaiting Christ’s return.