Better + Brighter: Be Gracious
Better + Brighter: week 5: Be Gracious
Jesus calls us to live by grace, not revenge. Grace rewrites the rules, reacts differently, and responds with unconditional love — even toward enemies. When we choose grace over retaliation, we reflect Jesus and shine brightest in a hostile world.
-
coming soon
-
-
Week 5 — Be Gracious
Matthew 5:38–48; 7:12
The world teaches retaliation. Jesus teaches grace.
Grace rewrites the rules. Instead of matching harm with harm, Jesus invites His followers to respond the way they wish others would respond to them. This isn’t weakness — it’s radical strength.
Grace reacts differently. Turning the other cheek, giving generously, and going the extra mile all communicate trust in God rather than control over outcomes.
Grace also responds with love — even toward enemies. This agape love mirrors the heart of Christ, who served, forgave, and sacrificed for those who opposed Him.
When we live this way, we become unoffendable. We refuse to let others dictate our character. Grace doesn’t deny pain — it transcends it.
Grace wins because it reflects Jesus.
-
Small Group Curriculum – Better & Brighter
Small Group Curriculum - Week 5: Be People of Integrity
Main Scripture: Matthew 5:33–37 (NLT)
Big Idea: Let your life match your words.
1. Connect (Icebreaker)
Fun: What’s a phrase people say today that doesn’t always mean what it sounds like? (“I’ll pray about it,” “Let’s do lunch,” “No worries.”)
Personal: When have you struggled to trust someone’s words—or had someone struggle to trust yours?
Transition: Jesus teaches that integrity isn’t about convincing words, but consistent character.
2. Discover (Scripture & Discussion)
Read Matthew 5:33–37; Proverbs 20:7 (NLT).
Discussion Questions:
• Why do you think Jesus emphasizes simple honesty—“yes” and “no”?
• How does exaggeration, half-truths, or silence still affect integrity?
• Why is integrity often tested in small, everyday situations?
• How does living with integrity reflect God’s character?
(Dig Deeper) Read Psalm 15:1–2. What kind of person can “dwell” with the Lord?
3. Respond (Application & Prayer)
Personal Application:
• Where might God be inviting you to be more honest or consistent?
• Is there an area where your words and actions don’t fully align?
Group Prayer Prompt:
• Pray for courage to live with integrity even when it costs something.
• Ask God to make your group known for honesty and trustworthiness.
Challenge for the Week:
💬 Memory Verse: Matthew 5:37 (NLT) – “Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.”
🌿 Next Step: Practice intentional honesty this week—even in small moments.
⏱️ Designed for 45–60 minutes
-
CONWAY
AYNOR
SOUTH STRAND