Introduction

One of the ways you know you're growing in maturity as a follower of Jesus is when you can hold competing values in tension. Jesus did this perfectly, and when you learn from his example, you can figure out how to navigate nuance like him. In week three, Pastor Chip taught about how we embrace both grace and truth as a No Matter church.

Discussion

1. What does the phrase “No Matter church” mean to you personally? Did the clarity provided in this message challenge or clarify anything for you? What did this mean to you when you first came to PLC and what does it mean to you now?

2. Revisit and read John 1:14. Jesus is full of grace AND truth (not grace OR truth.) How are you doing navigating the tension between these in your everyday life? What side do you have a tendency to lean on? Where have you seen a nuanced both/and approach to truth and grace?

3. Share a time when you were accepted or forgiven despite a past mistake. How did it make you feel? What did it shape about your understanding (and approach) of grace?

4. Share a time when someone corrected or called you out about something that was true because they cared about you. How did it make you feel? What did it shape about your understanding (and approach) to truth?

5. Revisit and read John 8:1-11. How does Jesus’ response in this story illustrate the tension between grace and truth? How can his example inform how you address sin and repentance in your own life and in the lives of others?

Application

• Remember you’ve been forgiven. God extends grace to others just like he’s extended grace to you.
• Remember you’re not perfect. When it’s time to share the truth with someone, remember how you would want it shared with you.
• Remember the past. Go back and pull up a few memories of when you’ve had to lean into the tension of grace and truth with someone. Reflect on what you did well, what you would do differently now, and what approach best reflects 100% truth and 100% grace.