SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Week of 3/17/2024

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Turnarounds

Responding to Abusive Authority

1 Samuel

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Authoritative abuse seems to be on the rise in our culture, or at least we’ve seen it more in the headlines. Maybe the most unsettling thing is seeing it pervasive in the American Church. In the last half of 1 Samuel we see King Saul abuse David. David’s responses to Saul’s abuse gives us great insight into how we can respond to abusive authority in our lives.

Saul throws spears, David refuses to throw them back…

Read 1 Samuel 18:10-11 and 24:4-6. 

• Why is it hard for us to respond like David and not retaliate against those that hurt us?
• How might you find a way to respond more like David?

Read 1 Samuel 24:6 and Hebrews 13:17. If your leader is a Saul, you need to be discerning while keeping a high view of spiritual authority.

• Why do you think David had a high view of Saul’s authority?
• How can you be discerning when dealing with an abusive leader, while at the same time not losing respect for people in authority?

Read Matthew 7:15-16, 19. If your leader is a Saul, you can confront what is wrong without needlessly harming the organization.

• Discuss ways you can confront without bringing undue trouble.

Read 1 Samuel 19:10. If your leader is a Saul, don’t let yourself be wrongfully victimized for the sake of loyalty.

• Discuss when it is appropriate to move on from a difficult situation.

Prayer Focus: Read Colossians 1:17-20. If your leader is a Saul, stay focused on Jesus, not those who fail Him. May this be your prayer today. That whatever situation you face, no matter how difficult, that you would keep your eyes on Jesus. And even in the midst of challenges you would grow closer to Him.