Polarized, Part 5: Drugs and Alcohol
March 3, 2024

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Message Review

In today's world, we are witnessing an increasing polarization where people are being divided into opposing groups. People are taking a stand on their positions, divided from people who disagree. This kind of division is not conducive to glorifying God. Throughout this series, we’re looking at four issues that have created polarization within the Church. One of those issues is Drugs & Alcohol. Drugs & Alcohol are creating polarization but in a very different way. 

Main Point: We can’t be under the influence of the Holy Spirit and something else at the same time.

Scripture References: Romans 5:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:16-17, 22-25; Ephesians 5:8, 15, 17-18

Bible Study      

The focus Bible passage from the sermon was Ephesians 5:1-21. Before going to the Sermon Discussion Questions, study the passage by reading through it together, then talk through it using the Inductive Bible Study Method questions that follow:

  • Context: Discuss the context of this passage (i.e. when it was written, who wrote it, who it was written to, what was going on before and/or after this specific passage, etc.)

  • Observation: What do you notice in this passage?  What words or phrases stick out to you? And why?

  • Interpretation: What was the author’s original intent in this passage?  What main point(s) was he trying to communicate, and why is that important?

  • Application: What is one key takeaway or insight you had from this passage? How can or should you apply it to your life?

  • Questions: What questions/tensions do you have from this passage that you would like to discuss?

Discussion Questions

  • What were your initial thoughts or takeaways from the sermon and why?

  • How have you seen the use of drugs or alcohol negatively impact people’s lives, and/or people’s relationship with Jesus? 

  • Has drugs or alcohol negatively impacted your life or your relationship with Jesus? If so, how?

  • Read Romans 5:12. What did Paul say was true about every person? How do you think that impacts our minds, hearts, behavior, and desires?

  • Read Galatians 5:16-17, 22-25: 

    • According to Paul, what is true about every person who puts their faith in Jesus? 

    • How does Paul say we conquer our sinful nature, and what does that practically look like?

    • Paul instructs Christ-followers to walk by the Spirit and keep in step with the Spirit. What does that mean, and what does He say God does in us when we do?

  • Read Ephesians 5:15-18 again. What does it mean to be drunk? Why does Paul instruct Christ-followers not to get drunk?

  • According to the Apostle Paul, We can’t be under the influence of the Holy Spirit and drugs or alcohol at the same time. 

    • What does “being under the influence” mean? 

    • Why should followers of Jesus only be under the influence of the Holy Spirit? 

  • Ronnie said the question Christ-followers should ask when it comes to making choices around the consumption of drugs or alcohol is, “Is this glorifying to God?” 

    • Why do you think Ronnie said that? 

    • How could focusing on that question impact the choices you make around drugs and alcohol?

  • Regarding your consumption of drugs or alcohol, are you glorifying God, and why or why not? If not, how might Jesus be inviting you to surrender? 

To watch or listen to Sunday’s sermon, visit our Sermons page.