Prevail: 1 Corinthians Week 12 The Hope of Resurrection: Why is Grace So Amazing? 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 1. Sharing Our Journey 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, e.g., “Forever” by Kari Jobe. What are you thankful for? Where have you seen God and His amazing grace 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 Setting the Scene In this part of Paul’s letter, he is addressing the wrong view that some people in the church had, that there is no resurrection of the dead. Flowing from what he has previously written, Paul clarifies the gospel and the grace given to believers to be motivated and empowered to love and prevail in their faith. Read: 1 Corinthians 15:1-20 If possible, read the passage also in the Message translation. What caught your attention as Paul explains the gospel and why does he emphasize the accuracy of the scriptures? Paul knew deeply God’s amazing undeserved grace. It motivated and empowered him to live a new life. In verse 10 Paul says, “His grace to me was not without effect.” How has God’s grace affected your life? Why is the resurrection of Jesus as important as His dying for your sins? Paul calls Jesus the first fruit, in that Jesus was the first to be raised to life eternal. How does Jesus' resurrection, and therefore the hope of our resurrection, enlarge and change the way we live now? 3. Living out the Heart of God What has stood out to you from this study? When will you make time to think on it further and how can it practically shape your choices and how you live this week? 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. Pray for those joining Alpha to receive the gospel and to be changed by God’s grace. That they would continue reading the Bible and find a church to help them grow. Contacts If you would like more information or further help please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au