Lessons from The Nobodies

# Small Group Guide: Lessons from The Nobodies

## Opening Prayer & Icebreaker
**Icebreaker Question:** Share a time when you felt like "just a nobody" but God used you in a meaningful way.

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## Key Scripture References
- Philippians 3:3-7
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- Isaiah 40:29-31
- Exodus 3 (Moses at the burning bush)
- John 4 (Woman at the well)
- Mark 5:18-20 (Man delivered from demons)
- Matthew 18:1-4 (Greatest in the kingdom)

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## Main Themes & Takeaways

### 1. **God Uses Nobodies**
God doesn't need our position, title, or credentials—only our willingness and humility.

### 2. **The Importance of Fellowship**
Just as goats need daily interaction with their shepherd, we need consistent connection with God and our church family.

### 3. **Humility Over Position**
Paul counted all his achievements as worthless compared to knowing Christ. God keeps us humble so His power can work through us.

### 4. **You Have a Testimony**
You don't need a theology degree to share what Jesus has done for you. Your story is powerful.

### 5. **Love Compels Us**
Ministry flows from genuine love for God and others, not obligation or duty.

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## Discussion Questions

### **Section 1: Understanding "Nobody" Status**
1. What does it mean to be a "nobody" in God's kingdom? How is this different from the world's perspective?

2. The pastor shared about Paul's credentials in Philippians 3. What "credentials" or achievements might we be tempted to rely on instead of God's power?

3. Why do you think God specifically chooses to use humble, ordinary people to accomplish His purposes?

### **Section 2: The Fellowship Factor**
4. The pastor used the illustration of goats needing daily interaction with their shepherd. How does this apply to our relationship with God and our church community?

5. What happens when we "drift off" from fellowship? Have you experienced this? What brought you back?

6. Is Sunday attendance enough for spiritual health? Why or why not?

### **Section 3: Biblical Nobodies**
7. Discuss the biblical examples mentioned:
   - Moses at 80 years old at the burning bush
   - The woman at the well
   - The demonized man in the graveyard
   
   What do these stories teach us about God's calling?

8. Moses had to "turn aside" to see the burning bush. What might God be calling you to "turn aside" and pay attention to right now?

### **Section 4: The Power of Testimony**
9. The pastor said, "You don't have to know the whole Bible. You just have to have a testimony." How does this change your perspective on evangelism?

10. What's holding you back from sharing your story with others? Fear? Feeling unqualified? Something else?

11. Who in your life needs to hear about what Jesus has done for you?

### **Section 5: Love as the Driving Force**
12. The pastor described his love for his wife and for God as something he "can't help"—a compelling force. Is your relationship with God characterized by this kind of love, or does it feel more like duty?

13. How does genuine love for God naturally lead to keeping His commands (as opposed to legalistic rule-following)?

14. Jesus said the greatest in the kingdom are those who humble themselves like children. What does childlike faith and humility look like in practical terms?

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## Personal Reflection Questions
*(Take 5-10 minutes for silent reflection)*

- Do I truly know God, or do I just know about Him?
- Have I had a "burning bush moment" that changed me forever?
- Am I more concerned with position and recognition, or with humble service?
- When was the last time I shared my testimony with someone?
- Do I love God because I have to, or because I genuinely can't help it?

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## Practical Applications

### **This Week's Challenge:**
Choose ONE of the following to put into practice:

1. **Share Your Testimony:** Tell at least one person this week what Jesus has done in your life. It doesn't have to be elaborate—just honest.

2. **Reconnect:** If you've been drifting from fellowship, reach out to someone in the church. Make plans to connect deeper this week.

3. **Humble Service:** Look for one opportunity to serve someone without recognition or credit. Be a "nobody" doing something significant.

4. **Prayer Walking:** Take a walk through your neighborhood and pray for your neighbors by name. Ask God to give you opportunities to share His love.

5. **Evaluate Your Credentials:** Write down the things you've been relying on (education, position, achievements) and surrender them to God. Ask Him to use you as a "nobody" for His glory.

### **Group Accountability:**
- Share which challenge you're choosing with the group
- Exchange contact information to check in mid-week
- Plan to share results at your next meeting

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## Prayer Focus

**Pray for:**
- Humility to be used as "nobodies" for God's kingdom
- Boldness to share our testimonies
- Lost family members and friends to encounter Jesus
- Deeper fellowship and connection within the group
- Hearts filled with genuine love for God and others
- Strength to turn aside when God is calling us to something

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## Closing Prayer
*Leader or volunteer prays, incorporating the themes discussed and specific needs shared by group members.*

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## For Next Week
- Reflect on how God used you this week as a "nobody"
- Come prepared to share one story of stepping out in faith
- Continue praying for the lost people in your life
- Read and meditate on Philippians 3:3-11

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## Additional Resources
- Journal your "burning bush moments" throughout the week
- Memorize: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" (2 Corinthians 12:9)