Firm Foundation | Discussion Guide
Summary
In this sermon, the pastor explores the true meaning of faith through the story of the centurion in Luke 7. He challenges common misconceptions that faith is blind optimism or wishful thinking, instead defining it as the reality of future blessings treated as present realities and the proof of things unseen. The sermon emphasizes that genuine faith begins with acknowledging our unworthiness, anchors in Christ’s authority, and requires complete trust rather than mere knowledge or agreement.
The pastor highlights how the centurion demonstrated extraordinary faith by recognizing Jesus’ divine authority and believing Jesus could heal his servant with just a word. This faith amazed Jesus, who declared he hadn’t found such great faith even in Israel. The sermon concludes with the powerful truth that everyone will eventually amaze Jesus – either with their faith or their unbelief – and challenges listeners to move beyond keeping Jesus at arm’s length to fully trusting and resting in Him.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to
understand what true faith means. Just as the centurion recognized Your authority, help us to see where our own faith stands. Guide our conversation today, Lord, and reveal to each of us what You want us to learn about trusting You completely. May we not just know about You or agree with truths about You, but fully rest in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Ice Breaker
What’s something you were initially afraid to try but eventually trusted was safe (like a roller coaster, zip
line, or trying an unusual food)?
Key Verses
Hebrews 11:1
Luke 7:1-10
Habakkuk 2:4
Questions
The pastor described faith as having three parts: knowledge, agreement, and trust. Which of these do
you find most challenging in your own spiritual journey and why?The centurion recognized his unworthiness before Jesus. Why is acknowledging our unworthiness
an important first step in faith?How does the centurion’s understanding of authority help us better understand our relationship with
Jesus?The sermon states that ‘it is impossible for you to manufacture faith.’ How does this truth change
how we approach our spiritual growth?What areas of your life do you find it hardest to fully trust Jesus with? What keeps you from ‘sitting
in the chair’ completely?The pastor said we will either amaze Jesus with our faith or our unbelief. How does this perspective
challenge you?How might our faith look different if we truly believed Jesus could accomplish His will with ‘just a
word’?What’s the difference between faith that is based on our credentials/efforts versus faith that is
anchored in Christ’s authority?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you’ve been keeping Jesus at arm’s length – perhaps a decision,
relationship, fear, or habit you haven’t fully surrendered. Write it down, pray specifically about it each day,
and take one concrete step toward fully trusting Jesus with it. Remember the centurion’s words: ‘Just say
the word.’ Consider sharing your experience with someone in this group next time we meet.
Key Takeaways
True faith is not blind optimism but the reality of future blessings treated as present realities and the
proof of things unseen.Faith begins with acknowledging our unworthiness – we cannot earn salvation through our
credentials or good deeds.Great faith anchors itself in Christ’s authority, recognizing that His word alone is sufficient.
Faith requires not just knowledge and agreement, but complete trust and surrender to Christ.
We will either amaze Jesus with our faith or with our unbelief – there is no middle ground.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, we stand amazed at Your grace and power. Forgive us for the times we’ve kept You at a
distance, knowing about You but not fully trusting You. Like the centurion, help us recognize Your
ultimate authority over every aspect of our lives. Increase our faith where it’s weak, and give us courage to
fully rest in Your promises. May we live in a way that amazes You with our faith rather than our unbelief.
Thank You that we don’t have to manufacture faith on our own, but that You provide everything we need.
Guide us as we step out in faith this week. In Your powerful name we pray, amen.