The church’s eternity is secure in Jesus as her leader, protector, and provider. Why does this give us hope for our mission as a church? 

How does the church’s security in Jesus change the way you think about your pursuit of personal status and the agenda you have for your life? 

Jesus has promised to build His church through loving, serving, and protecting her as a husband does his bride. How should this inform the hope we often put in government and politics when it comes to the future of our country and the world? 

Why is it important to make a distinction between the universal church and the local church, especially in relation to community, accountability, and responsibility to love and serve one another? 

What is a local church? What makes a local church distinct? (Doctrine, ordinances, mission, discipline)

Jesus doesn’t see himself distinct from His church. How should this affect the way we see our life in relation to the church? How should Jesus’ love for the church help you love the church despite her flaws?

Why is covenant membership in a local church vital to your growth as a Christian? Why is the uncomfortableness of church vital to your growth as a Christian?

How has local church membership helped you grow as a follower of Jesus? What do you love most about the church? What kind of struggles have you had to work through in relation to the church? How have you experienced joy in doing so?