A New Identity Group Guide

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Start Off

• Let’s begin our time by acknowledging the presence of God in our Group. We’ll put an empty chair in our circle to remind us that God is right here with us, and then take a few deep breaths and open in prayer.
• To kick off our discussion, when have you felt like an “outsider” or “resident alien,” and what made you feel that way?
• For a quick summary of the message, you can take turns reading the summary and key thoughts from the “Sermon Notes” section on the main page of the Chase Oaks App.

Reflect on God’s Word

• Read 1 Peter 1:1-2. What words does Peter use to describe followers of Jesus, and what do these descriptions tell us about our identity?
• Read 1 Peter 2:9-12. What does Peter say about who we are and why we are here?
• Peter calls Christians “exiles.” What do you think it means to be a “resident alien” in today's culture?
• Reread 1 Peter 2:12 and read Matthew 5:14-16. According to these passages, what should people see in the lives of Christians, and what impact can that make?

Go Deeper

• What tends to compete with your identity in Jesus? Work, politics, success, family, money, relationships, sports, social status, or something else?
• Where might God be asking you to become more “alien” or to live differently from the culture around you?
• Think about your home, workplace, school, neighborhood, or community. Where might God be inviting you to become more “resident” or more relationally engaged and present?
• Where are you currently living in the “eddy” rather than the “current”? What comfort, sheltered community, habit, fear, or distraction might be keeping you stuck?
• If you started each day praying, “God, I want to join you in your redemptive work today,” how might that change the way you approach your day?
• What is one person, place, or situation where you can live differently and make a difference this week?

Wrap Up

• What was a win for today’s meeting? Where did we see the Holy Spirit show up?
• Go around and share prayer requests and close in prayer, asking God for one opportunity to be “weirdly good.” i.e., to live into our identity as Jesus-followers and to do something unexpectedly generous, humble, forgiving, welcoming, or compassionate that points people toward God.

VERSE TO MEDITATE ON AND MEMORIZE THIS WEEK

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, NIV)

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE (BETWEEN MEETINGS)

Day 1 — Remember Your Identity

Read 1 Peter 2:9-10

Spend a few minutes remembering who you are because of Jesus: chosen, holy, God’s possession, and his people. Identify one earthly label that has been competing with your identity in Jesus and surrender it to God.

Day 2 — Live Differently

Read Romans 12:2

Ask God to show you one cultural value that is shaping you more than Jesus is. Make one intentional choice today that reflects the values of Jesus rather than the culture around you.

Day 3 — Be Beautifully Different

Read Matthew 5:14-16

Ask yourself, “What could I do today that would make God’s goodness visible to someone else?” Do one unexpected act of generosity, kindness, forgiveness, humility, or hospitality without seeking recognition.

Day 4 — Move Toward People

Read 1 Peter 2:12

Think about the people God has placed around you. Intentionally engage someone outside your normal circle. Listen, ask questions, encourage them, or offer practical help.

Day 5 — Get in the Current

Read Ephesians 2:10

Pray, “God, I want to join you in your redemptive work. Help me recognize where you are already at work and show me how to participate.” Identify one place where you see God working and take one concrete step to join him there.