Small Group Guide

Small Group Guide: The Acquired Anointing

Key Takeaways:
1. The anointing of the Holy Spirit is acquired by believers at salvation.
2. The Holy Spirit helps us discern between truth and falsehood, especially important in the “last hour.”
3. We have both the indwelling Holy Spirit and the Word of God to guide us in truth.
4. The anointing empowers believers to overcome sin, addiction, and various struggles.

Discussion Questions:

1. The pastor emphasized that we are living in the “last hour.” How does this understanding impact your daily life and faith?

2. How have you experienced the Holy Spirit’s guidance in discerning truth from falsehood in your own life?

3. The sermon mentioned several false doctrines and “isms.” How can we lovingly engage with people who hold different beliefs while staying true to biblical teaching?

4. Pastor Bill spoke about the Word of God being like fire and a hammer. Share an experience where Scripture has “burned out” something negative or “broken” a stronghold in your life.

5. How does understanding that you have the “acquired anointing” of the Holy Spirit change your perspective on personal spiritual growth?

6. The pastor emphasized that believers don’t need to be “nagged” about right and wrong because of the Holy Spirit’s presence. How do you balance listening to godly counsel from others with following the Spirit’s leading?

7. What area of your life do you feel the Holy Spirit is currently addressing? How can the group support you in responding to His prompting?

Practical Applications:

1. Scripture Memory: Memorize 1 John 2:27 this week to reinforce the truth about the anointing we have received.

2. Personal Reflection: Spend time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas where you may have been deceived or led astray. Journal your insights.

3. Bible Study: Choose one of the false teachings mentioned in the sermon and research what the Bible says about it. Be prepared to share your findings with the group next week.

4. Accountability: Partner with another group member to check in daily about following the Holy Spirit’s promptings in your life.

5. Outreach: Pray for opportunities to share the truth of the Gospel with someone who may be caught in false teaching or doesn’t know Christ.

6. Worship: Create a playlist of songs that celebrate the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Share it with the group.

7. Service: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to a specific act of service you can do for someone this week, demonstrating the love of Christ in a practical way.