KE Group Questions
Week of August 31 2025


Summary
In this sermon titled "Radical Awakening: Ruin and Restoration," Pastor explores the Book of Joel, focusing on God's call to repentance. The message examines how Joel, as a prophet, delivered God's warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of their sin, illustrated through a devastating locust plague. The pastor emphasizes that God loves His people but hates sin, and that He desires for us to draw closer to Him rather than drift away.

The sermon highlights the importance of maintaining our spiritual fire, comparing our faith to a fire pit that needs constant attention and fuel. Using Joel's call to "rend your hearts and not your garments," the pastor urges listeners to focus on internal spiritual transformation rather than outward appearances. He reminds the congregation that God is merciful and compassionate, but also that repentance requires humility and a genuine turning away from sin. The message concludes with an invitation to examine our hearts, confess any unforgiveness or sin, and return to God with sincerity.

Ice Breaker
When was the last time you had to rekindle a fire (whether a literal campfire, fireplace, or even restarting your enthusiasm for a hobby or project)? What did you do to get it burning again?

Key Verses
  • Joel 2:12-13
  • 2 Chronicles 7:14
  • Romans 3:23
  • Galatians 6:7-8
  • Matthew 4:17

Questions
  • The pastor compared our spiritual life to a fire pit that needs constant attention. What are some ways you 'stir up the fire' in your spiritual life?
  • In the sermon, we heard that 'attending church on a Sunday morning does not make you a Christian.' What do you think makes someone a genuine follower of Christ?
  • Joel called the people to 'rend your hearts and not your garments.' What's the difference between outward religious behavior and true heart transformation?
  • The pastor mentioned that we are all 'sowers' with our words and actions. What kind of seeds are you currently sowing in your relationships and daily life?
  • How does God's character as 'slow to anger and of great kindness' (Joel 2:13) impact how you approach Him when you've sinned?
  • The sermon emphasized that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearance. In what areas of your life might you be focusing too much on appearances rather than heart condition?
  • What does it practically look like to 'seek God's face' rather than just His hand (blessings/help) as mentioned in the sermon?
  • Is there an area in your life where you need to respond to God's call to repentance? What's holding you back?

Life Application
This week, take time for a spiritual inventory. Set aside 30 minutes in a quiet place with your Bible, a journal, and an open heart. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas where you've allowed your spiritual fire to diminish or where sin has created distance between you and God. Write down what comes to mind, confess these things to God, and make a specific plan to 'stir up the fire' in your relationship with Him. This might include establishing a new prayer routine, committing to regular Bible study, reaching out to reconcile a relationship, or serving others in a specific way. Share your commitment with someone in this group who can pray for you and hold you accountable.

Key Takeaways
  • God loves His people but hates sin, and He desires for us to draw closer to Him rather than drift away.
  • Our spiritual life is like a fire that needs constant attention and fuel to keep burning; we must be intentional about stirring up our faith.
  • True repentance involves rending our hearts, not just our garments—focusing on internal transformation rather than outward religious behavior.
  • The words we speak and actions we take are seeds we sow, and we will reap what we sow, whether corruption or everlasting life.
  • God is rich in mercy and compassion, but we must humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways for Him to hear, forgive, and heal.

Importance  of KE Groups

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.

Learn More

KE  (KINGDOM EXPANSION)  
GROUP LOCATIONS


Egg Harbor Township
Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 pm - Andy & Lori Holman's home -
108 Glenrock Road, EHT, NJ 08234

1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights @ 7:00 pm - Terry & Sue Luma's home -
201 Huron Ave. EHT, NJ 08234 \

Mays Landing
1st Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Pastor Josh & Loraine Kennedy;
46 Chancellor Park Dr. Mays Landing,

3rd Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Matt & Elise Lukas;
8 Homewood Court, Mays Landing

4th Wednesday, 7 pm - Host: Caleb & Tahlia Wilkes;
4752 Summersweet Dr. Mays Landing

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 -
6036 Chestnut St., Mays Landing, (609) 517-0165

Ocean View
Sunday Nights (Every 1st & 3rd) @ 6pm - Joanne Utt's Home  -
2058 Route 9 Unit 413, Ocean View.  (609) 892-7651