Weekly Discussion Guide

In his sermon, Pastor Matt talked about resisting the temptation to sit on our laurels and just let future generations take care of themselves.

MY STORY | Starting Place
What kind of impact will your life have five years after you’re gone?

DIGGING DEEPER | Practical Biblical Application
Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord: Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord. And some of your own sons, who will come from you, whom you will father, shall be taken away, and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “Why not, if there will be peace and security in my days?” (2 Kings 20:16-19)

Why did Hezekiah shrug his shoulders after hearing Isaiah’s prophecy about the horrible things that would happen after he was gone?

What might have led to the king’s indifference (or perhaps even glee) about the impact of his pride-driven actions on future generations?

What beneficial and/or heartbreaking consequences in the lives of others might be attributed to you after you’re gone?

GROWING TOGETHER | Spiritual Friendship
The Apostle Paul encouraged his son-in-the-faith Timothy to be deliberate about passing down what he had gained from his mentor along to industrious people, who would, in turn, pass those things down to others.

You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
(2 Timothy 2:1-2)

Why is it important to be strengthened by the grace of Jesus when passing down our legacy? What can happen if we try to give away our spiritual heritage without compassion?

What are the top three things in life you’ve learned that you like to see young people to adapt and make their own?

MOVING OUTWARD | Faith in Action
Consider putting together a “Bullet-Point Legacy,” listing one-sentence summaries of the many challenging lessons you’ve learned out of the decisions you’ve made—good and bad.

Be ready to own up to any of your damaging words or actions that might create significant losses in the lives of those who will follow you.

Publish that legacy somewhere online.

Identify three young people in your life who might benefit from the lessons you’ve learned in life. Take them to lunch and see if that’s true (if the interest is there). If that is something they want, figure out some creative ways to pass along your legacy to them.