Small Group Objective

Facilitate a conversation of how even though the world can be chaotic and confusing we have hope in Christ and we can share that same hope with others in this confusing world.

Introduction

Today, we are going to talk about something that’s likely been on your minds—why does the world feel so chaotic and confusing? With everything happening around us, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might notice things that seem immoral or confusing, and despite being more connected than ever through technology, many of us feel more isolated.

Let’s look at a quick list of feelings that can resonate:

It feels immoral.
It feels confusing.
It feels disconnected.
It feels tense.
It feels unstable.
It feels fearful.
It feels on the brink of something bad.
It feels violent.
It feels heavy with problems.
It feels apathetic.
It feels chaotic.

These feelings aren’t new; they’ve been around for ages, but as you grow and become more aware, they can weigh on you more heavily. Today, we’ll explore a key passage from 2 Timothy 3:1–5, which describes difficult times and the struggles we face. We’ll discuss why the world feels this way and what hope we can find amidst the chaos.

Key Verses

2 Timothy 3:1-5

1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!

OTHER VERSES: 1 John 4:3, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12, 1 John 2:22, Genesis 6:5-8, Genesis 6:11-13, 1 John 2:18

Key Points

1. The Spirit of the Age

There’s a pervasive spirit of the Antichrist at work, opposing truth and goodness.
Many people choose to reject Christ’s teachings in favor of materialism or fame, creating a culture that can feel dark and discouraging.
Key Verse: 1 John 4:3 — “But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God.”
We must stay rooted in Christ, recognizing the truth that counters the lies around us.

2. The Heart of Man

While we are capable of amazing things—like incredible advancements in technology and science—we also have a sin nature that leads to corruption and division.
The Bible reflects on this in Genesis 6:5, where God sees humanity’s wickedness. Our hearts can think destructive thoughts and lead to harmful actions.
Acknowledging this is crucial; it reminds us that we need God’s intervention to transform our hearts.

3. The End of Days

God has a plan for the end of the world, and understanding this can give us hope.
Signs are all around us, reminding us that we’re in significant times. However, rather than fear, we can approach this with a sense of urgency and purpose.
As we recognize our time, we’re called to live intentionally and boldly in our faith.

Despite the heaviness of these truths, we have HOPE! We can receive a different spirit, a new heart, and a new life through Christ. He offers us peace and direction even when the world seems chaotic.

Questions

How do you personally feel about the current state of the world? Are there specific issues that weigh heavily on you?
Can you identify moments when you felt the "spirit of the age" influencing your environment, like in school or social media?
In what ways do you think our hearts can lead us away from God? How can we guard against that?
What gives you hope when you consider the future? How can understanding God's plan help you live differently today?

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Why Does The World Feel This Way?