KE Group Questions
Week of December 21, 2025
Summary
Pastor Josh delivered a message titled 'Radical Hope: A Word for a World on Edge' from Zechariah 9:9-17. He addressed how people today, like those in Zechariah's time, are living on edge due to various struggles and circumstances. The sermon emphasized that radical hope means being anchored in God regardless of what life throws at us. Pastor Josh explained that Jesus came as a humble king riding on a donkey, bringing peace and freedom from the prison of sin. He highlighted that God fights our battles, destroys weapons formed against us, and promises double blessings for our troubles. The message concluded with the truth that we are God's crown jewels - wonderful, beautiful, and made brand new in Christ, called to thrive rather than merely survive.
Ice Breaker
What is one Christmas tradition or holiday memory that always brings a smile to your face, and why is it special to you?
Key Verses
- Zechariah 9:9
- Zechariah 9:11
- Zechariah 9:12
- Zechariah 9:16-17
- Zechariah 13:1
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- 1 Peter 2:9
Questions
- Pastor Josh mentioned that people today are 'on edge' just like in Zechariah's time. What are some things in our current world that make people feel anxious or hopeless?
- What does it mean to have 'radical hope' versus regular hope? How can we develop this kind of unshakeable hope in our daily lives?
- The message emphasized that Jesus came as a humble king riding on a donkey. How does Jesus' humility challenge our culture's view of power and success?
- Pastor Josh said that God fights our battles and removes weapons formed against us. Can you share about a time when you experienced God fighting for you in a difficult situation?
- The sermon mentioned that we need to fix the 'ruins on the inside' before we can fix the outside. What are some internal issues that God might want to address in our hearts?
- Zechariah 9:12 promises 'double blessings for each trouble.' How have you seen God turn difficult situations in your life into blessings?
- The message described us as God's 'crown jewels' - wonderful and beautiful. Why do you think it's sometimes hard for people to accept this truth about themselves?
- Pastor Josh said we should be 'thriving, not just surviving' in 2026. What would it look like for you to thrive spiritually in the coming year?
Life Application
This week, identify one area of your life where you've been trying to 'fix things' in your own strength rather than surrendering it to God. Practice radical hope by declaring God's promises over that situation daily and choosing to trust Him with the outcome, even when circumstances don't immediately change.
Key Takeaways
- Radical hope means being anchored in God no matter what circumstances we face, because our hope comes from the Lord, not from people or situations
- Jesus came as a humble king who fights our battles and brings peace, removing weapons formed against us and destroying the power of our enemies
- We must allow God to fix the ruins inside our hearts before we can see lasting change in our external circumstances
- God promises double blessings for each trouble when we return to Him and walk in His safety and protection
- We are God's crown jewels - wonderful, beautiful, and made brand new in Christ, called to thrive rather than merely survive
Growing spiritually takes a daily personal walk with God and a gathering together in fellowship with other believers.
Our corporate gathering is for equipping the saints, but meeting in small groups allows regular individual
participation so that personal needs can be addressed.
Small groups also foster growth in ministering the gifts of the Holy Spirit, accountability, and the support
necessary to be a healthy member of the family of God.
The leadership of Praise Tabernacle has encouraged group leaders to be missional and evangelistic
in their approach to leading these groups.
The ultimate goal is Kingdom Expansion.
KE (KINGDOM EXPANSION)
GROUP LOCATIONS
Egg Harbor Township
Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 pm - Andy & Lori Holman's home -
1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights @ 7:00 pm - Terry & Sue Luma's home -
Mays Landing
1st Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Pastor Josh & Loraine Kennedy;
3rd Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Matt & Elise Lucas;
4th Wednesday, 7 pm - Host: Caleb & Tahlia Wilkes;
Reach out to Pastor Josh if you have any questions: (609) 402-8869
Egg Harbor City
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm - Eddie Aponte's home -
Galloway
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm -Greg & Regina's home
Ocean View
Sunday Nights (Every 1st & 3rd) @ 6pm - Joanne Utt's Home -
