Hope Valley Church Weekly Study

Prevail: 1 Corinthians

Week 7

Imitating Christ in Leadership

Focus: A heartfelt letter from Paul to the church in Corinth that was caught in conflicts, questions, problems, divisions, and difficulties. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to deepen their understanding of Christ and live out their new faith, allowing Jesus to shape their whole lives.

Study by: Anita Venning
Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel

Praise, Thanks, and Reflection

Invite people to share from one or more of the questions below. It can be done as a whole group or in subgroups. It can also involve a worship song, ‘Follow’, by Passion.

What are you thankful for?
Where have you seen God at work?
How has God used you?
How have you gone living out God’s Word since our last gathering?
Where have you struggled to follow the way of Jesus?
Where and with whom have you witnessed to the love and good news of Jesus?

Care and Prayer

In prayer capture the things you have shared above after also inviting people to share any personal needs for prayer or support.

2. Opening God’s Word

Read: 1 Corinthians 11:1

Read the verse in various translations including the Passion Translation.
From what you know about Paul, including his letter to the Corinthians, what are his leadership qualities?
Paul imitates and follows Jesus. What qualities particularly reflect Jesus?
Read the following Bible verses. How does Paul lead in these areas and how does he want people to follow?
- 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
- Colossians 3:12-17
- Romans 12:9-16
How could you use these examples in your own serving and leading?
Why are leading and following Jesus' example so important?

3. Living out the Heart of God

What in particular has stood out to you from this study and how will you allow it to shape your ongoing thoughts and your actions?

Prayer for each other

Break into 2s or 3s to pray.
Pray for each other for any commitment you have made to live out what you have learned.
Praying for your 5 (from your Relational Map - See ‘The Heart of God’ Study - Week 1).
Pray for our leaders at church to continue to imitate Christ in their leadership. Pray for each one serving within the church and in the community, for hearts that seek to reflect Jesus to others, trusting God for the strength to do so.