Is God in control of bad things, too? The pandemic, the hurricane, the 20th anniversary of 9/11, my family member's death... That is certainly not how I would have done it! How could a good God allow such things? And if he does, what comfort does God offer us in our suffering? Let's talk about what Peter says in Acts 2:22-24 ("Not the Way I Planned It").

Discussion Questions

Do you remember any views or attitudes you had about God on or after 9/11? Aside from 9/11, when a tragedy happens in your life, what is your immediate response?

The apostles and the early followers of Jesus (120) were inspired and compelled by something they actually witnessed (i.e., miracles, resurrection, ascension). Aside from teachings, theology, and words about godly living, how would you describe your experience of Jesus that keeps you inspired and compelled to stay faithful? Are you able to attest to His reality, activity, and power in your life, that supplements what you know about Him in your mind?

Unbelievers and skeptics assume that the Bible and Jesus don’t address areas and issues of modern life - especially concerns. What are the main problems the world is trying to solve because - in their estimation - the Bible is silent or way off about them? Is there an area of your own life where you believe God is silent, absent, or not paying attention?

The idea of “God’s plan” can be overplayed and undervalued. Russ retold the story of Joseph (Genesis 39-50), which had a lot of human failings throughout; yet God was still in control. Do you see confirmation of God’s workmanship and plan often, rarely, or never? Give an example.

Nobody wants cheap answers, especially to questions asked out of pain. Is there someone in your life who gives you skillful and helpful feedback? Why are they so good at listening to you and working with you? How might God graciously and lovingly be working at your pace and capacity, knowing you couldn’t handle His? Do you have an example of this?

Gospel: There’s a worse event in history: The time when the One innocent human in all of history was punished and killed. Yet because He suffered through it and was resurrected, we’re assured that He paved a hopeful path out of our suffering. The battlefield will become a party, for those in Christ.

So how can you get this kind of resurrection power and hope infused into your current suffering? Read Romans 8:18-24. Do these verses speak into any current suffering or trial you’re enduring? Is this a cheap answer or THE answer? Something in between?