Lessons from the Evil Yetzer

# Small Group Guide: The Evil Yetzer

## Opening Prayer & Icebreaker
**Icebreaker Question:** What's one piece of technology you depend on daily? How would your life change if it suddenly disappeared?

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## Sermon Overview
This message explores the "evil yetzer"—the human inclination toward rebellion against God—and examines how artificial intelligence and demonic wisdom are shaping the coming deception. Pastor challenges us to distinguish between godly wisdom and worldly/demonic wisdom as we approach critical times.

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## Key Scripture References
- **James 1:13-15** - The source of temptation
- **Genesis 2:9** - The tree of knowledge of good and evil
- **James 3:13-18** - Two types of wisdom
- **Joshua 24:15** - Choose whom you will serve

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## Discussion Questions

### Part 1: Understanding the Battle (15-20 minutes)

1. **The Evil Yetzer**: The pastor described the "evil yetzer" as the inclination that leads us to rebel against God. How do you see this playing out in your own life? What are your biggest areas of struggle?

2. **The Tree**: The Tree of Knowledge represented not just awareness but *understanding and wisdom* of both good and evil. How is this different from simply knowing right from wrong? Why does this distinction matter?

3. **Personal Reflection**: Paul said "there's nothing good in me" and described the war between spirit and flesh. Do you relate to this internal struggle? Share an example.

### Part 2: Wisdom—Godly vs. Demonic (20-25 minutes)

4. **Identifying Wisdom**: According to James 3:17-18, godly wisdom is "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy." How can you tell if a decision you're making is based on godly wisdom versus worldly/demonic wisdom?

5. **Self-Promotion vs. Kingdom**: The pastor said demonic wisdom is fueled by "selfish ambition" and self-will. Can you think of an area in your life where you might be operating in self-promotion rather than God's will? How can you shift that?

6. **Seeking God's Wisdom**: Jeremiah 33:3 says "Call upon me and I will answer you." When was the last time you sought God's wisdom instead of just Googling an answer or relying on human understanding?

### Part 3: Technology & Dependency (20-25 minutes)

7. **AI & Dependency**: The sermon discussed how AI is creating dependency outside of God—a "false intelligence" that replaces seeking God for wisdom. Do you see this happening in your life or society? Give examples.

8. **The Coming Deception**: The pastor warned that "the great falling away happens from the church." What makes Christians vulnerable to deception? How can we guard against it?

9. **Practical Boundaries**: Are there areas where technology has replaced your dependency on God? (Examples: instant answers, decision-making, entertainment, relationships) What boundaries might you need to set?

### Part 4: Making Your Choice (15-20 minutes)

10. **Chess Analogy**: The pastor used chess pieces—white vs. black—to illustrate choosing sides. "What side are you on? How are you making your decisions?" How would you answer this question today?

11. **As For Me and My House**: Joshua 24:15 calls us to choose whom we will serve. What does this look like practically in your daily decisions—at work, with family, with finances, with time?

12. **Evangelism Urgency**: The pastor emphasized that "our church only grows through evangelism." Who in your life needs to hear the gospel? What's holding you back from sharing with them?

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## Key Takeaways

1. **There are two types of wisdom**: Godly wisdom (from above—pure, peaceful, gentle) and demonic wisdom (earthly, selfish, ambitious)

2. **The flesh naturally rebels**: Our physical nature leans toward sin; it takes conscious discipline to walk godly

3. **Dependency matters**: What we depend on shapes us—are we dependent on God or on technology/worldly systems?

4. **A decision is coming**: The deception is already beginning; we must choose now whom we will serve

5. **Being born again is essential**: Belief alone isn't enough—we must receive the Holy Spirit and be truly transformed

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## Practical Applications

### This Week's Challenge (Choose 1-2):

**Option 1: Technology Fast**
- Take a 24-hour break from unnecessary technology
- Use that time to seek God in prayer, worship, and His Word
- Journal about what you learn about your dependencies

**Option 2: Wisdom Audit**
- Identify 3 major decisions you need to make
- For each one, write down: "Am I seeking God's wisdom or relying on worldly understanding?"
- Commit to praying and seeking Scripture before deciding

**Option 3: Evangelism Action**
- Write down 3 people who need to hear the gospel
- Pray for them daily this week
- Take one practical step toward sharing your faith with at least one person

**Option 4: Peace Check**
- Before making any decision this week, ask: "Does this come from peace or from selfish ambition?"
- Practice pausing to pray before responding to situations

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## Prayer Focus

**Pray for:**
- Discernment to recognize Godly vs. demonic wisdom
- Protection from the coming deception
- Courage to share the gospel with urgency
- Holy Spirit dependence instead of worldly dependencies
- Family and friends who don't know Jesus
- The church to wake up and be prepared

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## For Further Study

- Read the entire Book of James (focus on chapter 3)
- Study 1 Samuel 17:34-35 (David's love for his sheep)
- Examine Ephesians 6:10-18 (spiritual warfare)
- Research "divine council" in Scripture (Psalm 82, Job 1-2)

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## Closing Thought

*"Choose this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."* - Joshua 24:15

The time to choose is now. The deception is already here. Will you depend on God's wisdom or the world's? Will you seek Him or seek convenience? The battle is real, and your decision matters—not just for you, but for everyone you influence.

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## Leader Notes

- This is a heavy topic; create space for honest questions and concerns
- Some may be skeptical about AI/technology warnings—focus on the spiritual principles of dependency and wisdom
- Be prepared to pray with anyone who realizes they may not be truly born again
- Emphasize urgency without creating fear—we serve a victorious God
- Follow up with group members who commit to specific action steps