Reformation: Thinking New Thoughts

A Sabbath School resource from the Victorian Conference of the Adventist Church in Australia

Discussion Guide

Read Proverbs 23
Ask each group member, what is your favourite verse and why?
If you had to put it in a quick sentence, what is this chapter telling us?
If our thoughts have the ability to determine what we become, what type of thinking in your life do you want to change?

Read Philippians 4:6–8
How does this verse apply to your thought life?
Do you want a life of peace? What are the promises, conditions and choices you must make in order to live a life free of anxious thoughts?

Read Genesis 3:1–6
How is Satan described in verse 1?
What was the first question Satan asked which caused Eve to have doubts?
What lie did Satan speak?
How is Satan using the same lies and tactics today?

Read 1 John 2:15–17
What four things are we warned to guard our minds against?
What is the condition of the world?
What is the promise for the one who does the will of the Father?

Read Romans 8:5–6 
Where do you set your mind when you are walking in the Spirit?
What is the result of setting your mind on things of the Spirit?
What contrast does this passage show us?
What is the result of setting your mind on the things of the flesh?

Read Galatians 5:16–26
What will walking by the Spirit enable you to do?
Make a list of the fruit that is manifested when we walk in the flesh.
Now make a list of the fruit that is manifested by walking by the Spirit.
As you review these lists, what do you hear God telling you?
Does this passage tell us how we can know if we’re walking in the Spirit or in the flesh?


Conclusion

Do you think it is possible to go back and forth, walking in the Spirit and in the flesh? Explain why or why not.

Right thinking is a vital necessity for every believer. Our thoughts—right or wrong—bear fruit. We need the power of the Holy Spirit if we are going to live a Spirit-controlled life and fulfil God’s purposes for our lives. We cannot do the work of the Spirit in the energy of the flesh. We will burn out trying. Zechariah 4:6 says, “...‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.” Seek the Holy Spirit. He is your helper. With Him, you’re never alone.