Disconnected, Part 2: “Communication Substitution”
September 17, 2023

Download a printable version of this guide

Message Review

Humans desire to have real, authentic, intimate, and meaningful connections with people. Despite living in a world that is more “connected” than ever before, we seem to be more disconnected from having these types of relationships than ever before. One of the reasons for this feeling of disconnection is digital communication. It’s disconnected us because true relational connection requires healthy interaction, and healthy interaction occurs through in-person communication. 

Main Point | Healthy interaction occurs through in-person communication.  

Bible Study

The focus Bible passage from the sermon was Ephesians 4:17-32. 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 Jesus’ original intent in this passage?  What main point(s) was Jesus 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?  

  • Why have we replaced face-to-face communication with digital interaction, even with those we're closest to? 

  • Pastor Ronnie said, “Substituting In-Person Communication with digital communication has created a false sense of connection, is negatively impacting our mental and emotional well-being, and Disconnecting us from experiencing true relational connection.” Do you believe this, why or why not?  

  • Read Ephesians 4:29 again as a group. From this passage, what are the important aspects to consider when engaging in healthy dialog? 

  • Read Ephesians 4:30 again as a group. Why do you think unhealthy dialog grieves the Holy Spirit?  

  • Digital Communication drives a wedge in relationships because it removes what is required for healthy interaction, healthy dialog. Why is Healthy dialog key for healthy interaction?  

  • Pastor Ronnie said, “The only time you should type instead of talk is if that’s most beneficial for them and your relationship.” How do you know when it is best to talk instead of type?  

  • Why do you think it is important to pause and ask these questions before posting? 

  • Is this post going to help or hurt the people who see it? 

  • Is this post going to help or hurt my relationship with the people who see it? 

  • How would relationships change if you responded with kindness and compassion during healthy dialogues? 

  • How is your use of digital communication preventing healthy interaction? 

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