Better + Brighter: Be Authentic

Written By Josh Finklea
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Better + Brighter: week 6: Be Authentic

Jesus warns against performative faith and calls us to authenticity. Real generosity isn’t about recognition but sincerity. When we give and serve from honest motives rather than seeking applause, God sees, rewards, and is glorified through our lives.

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  • Week 6 — Be Authentic

    Matthew 6:1–4

    Jesus warns against a faith that performs for people instead of honoring God. Authentic faith doesn’t need applause — it lives from obedience.

    Hypocrisy, Jesus teaches, is wearing a spiritual mask. When faith becomes about appearance rather than devotion, reward is lost.

    Authenticity isn’t secrecy — it’s sincerity. God isn’t impressed by exaggerated spirituality. He honors honest hearts.

    When generosity flows naturally, without self-promotion, heaven takes notice. The reward isn’t recognition — it’s joy, peace, and intimacy with the Father.

  • Small Group Curriculum – Better & Brighter

    Download Week 6 Guide Here

    Small Group Curriculum – Week 6: Be Grace-Filled

    Main Scripture: Matthew 5:38–42 (NLT)

    Big Idea: Respond with grace, not retaliation.

    1. Connect (Icebreaker)

    Fun: What’s your natural response when someone cuts you off in traffic—retaliate or let it go?

    Personal: When has it been hardest for you to show grace?

    Transition: Jesus challenges our instinct to get even and invites us to respond with grace instead.

    2. Discover (Scripture & Discussion)

    Read Matthew 5:38–42; Romans 12:17–21 (NLT).

    Discussion Questions:

    • Why is retaliation so natural for us?

    • What does it look like to “turn the other cheek” today?

    • How can grace interrupt cycles of anger and revenge?

    • Why does responding with grace require strength, not weakness?

    (Dig Deeper) Read Proverbs 20:22. What does it mean to trust God with justice?

    3. Respond (Application & Prayer)

    Personal Application:

    • Who do you feel tempted to “get even” with right now?

    • What would grace look like in that situation?

    Group Prayer Prompt:

    • Pray for hearts that reflect God’s mercy instead of pride.

    • Ask God to help your group release resentment and trust Him.

    Challenge for the Week:

    💬 Memory Verse: Romans 12:19 (NLT) – “Never avenge yourselves. Leave that to the righteous anger of God.”

    🌿 Next Step: Choose one situation this week where you intentionally respond with grace.

    ⏱️ Designed for 45–60 minutes

  • CONWAY

    AYNOR

    SOUTH STRAND

Josh Finklea
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Better + Brighter: Be Gracious