Shepherd Boy vs. Philistine Giant

Discussion Questions:

​​1. Read through 1 Samuel 17 together. Divide it out and have 5-6 people read the passage. Take a few minutes to retell the story in your own words. What are the initial observations that you make from this passage of scripture?

2. From these verses, look at the different characters in the story and their stance towards the Lord. What do you see about the Philistines? What about the Israelite Army? And lastly, what about David?

Currently, in your walk with God, which one would you say you’re more likely to be in your response to God? Are you most like the Philistines (totally opposed to God) , the Israelite Army (afraid of your enemy - not trusting in your God), or like David (totally dependent on His God)? Take a few minutes to talk about where you’re currently sitting in your relationship with God and why?

3. Look again at 1 Samuel 17:32-37. David speaks of how God had prepared him beforehand while He was in the fields tending the sheep. David says that this situation with the Philistine will be no different. God had prepared David for future difficulty even though David didn’t know it at that moment. How does this encourage your faith in God? Go around the room and discuss ways that you’ve seen the Lord prepare you in the past for difficulties you’re currently facing/difficulties that will come down the road. 

4. Go back to 1 Samuel 17:45-50. In this passage David delivers a very bold statement of faith to the enemy in front of Him. What kind of faith do you have in God? As a group, imagine that your enemy is standing right there in the circle mocking your God. What would you say to him with boldness and authority? Go around the room and have everyone share what they would say. Then read Psalm 91 together. How does this passage of scripture encourage you? 

5. Read 1 Samuel 18:5-16 together. What observations do you make from this passage as you read through it? What do you learn from Saul's response in this passage? What do you learn from David’s response in this passage? And what are the characteristics of God that you see in this passage? Take a few moments to discuss these things together. 

6. In a moment I want you to discuss what you’re going to do for the Life Group Tailgate Party. But before you discuss that, I’d like you to go around and share what The Well has meant to you and how you’ve seen this community impact your life? After discussing the impact that it has had on your life, discuss the importance of being welcoming to others and creating a space where a community like The Well could make a difference in someone else's life. Brainstorm some ways that we can be better at welcoming and getting to know one another in this circle and others that will be coming in? 

*Leaders take notes of the ideas and things that are discussed and send them to Kaleb & Elizabeth once your group is over*

Take some time to plan the specifics of your group's participation at the Life Group Tailgate Party, Saturday, September 23rd 11:00a- 2:00p. Car, food, decorations or anything you would like to add to the day.