GPYP 1 :: discussion questions

This Week

Talking through the message during the week helps you turn what God is saying to you into action steps. These talking points, questions, and scriptures are designed to help you take the next step.

• What was one of your least favourite nicknames you were called growing up? Why did you dislike your nickname?

Read 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 and Isaiah 62:2.
We learn in these verses, that in Christ, we are all new creations and labels no longer apply because of the new name God has given us.

• What negative labels have followed your name? How have these labels influenced the way you see yourself?
• Why do so many of us accept negative labels and let them define us? 
• How does having a God-centered view of yourself change the way you see yourself?
• What new name would best describe your new life in Christ?

Read Matthew 16:17-18, Jeremiah 29:11 and Philippians 3:13-14.
These verses show us that God has given us a purpose and a new future.

• In what ways have you seen your strengths grow out of your weaknesses?
• What God-given purpose are you growing into? What next step(s) do you need to take to embrace that purpose?
• How have you let the labels of your past limit God’s plan for your future?
• How can knowing that God has a future planned for you help you overcome your negative labels? What next step(s) do you need to take?

NEXT STEPSHere are some specific things you can do this week that will help you overcome the negative labels of your past and embrace the purpose and future God has given you:
One of the best examples in the Bible of a person breaking free from the bondage of their negative labels is Rahab, in the Book of Joshua. Read Rahab’s story in Joshua 2 & 6.

• Write down the negative labels that continue to define you and influence the way you see yourself
• Next to each label write the new name that God has given you to replace that label. For example if your label is “average,” write “extraordinary” next to it. If your label is “addict,” write “overcomer” next to it. Place your list somewhere you’ll see it often to remind you that you no longer will let labels define you, but instead be defined by your life in Christ.