Sabbath School Teaching Tip: Small groups typically create “norms” that are unwritten but understood by all, based on what seems to be the actual pattern in the group.  Examples of norms would be things like: “It’s OK to be vulnerable in  this group.” “Any quote from Ellen White ends the discussion.” “Group members can respond to each others’ contributions.” “Our group is mostly a series of tightly controlled 1:1 dialogues between the leader and individual members.” Try to create norms of open dialogue among members and norms of psychological safety to share honestly. Trust the Holy Spirit!

1. Those whom God calls are often surprised. Have you ever experienced a very strong impulse that God wanted you to intervene in someone’s life (through prayer, a supportive reach out, giving feedback, etc)? Share the experience. How can you tell the difference between the Holy Spirit’s urging and your own will?

2. Malachi 4 speaks beautifully about true revival starting in the home. What are 1-2 changes in your current home (could be reducing a habit or increasing a habit) that would be most impactful to spiritually strengthen your home?

3. Our author expresses how the sufferings of John the Baptist “burdened the heart” of Jesus. Can you relate to how the suffering of a beloved can be even more burdensome than your own suffering? Share an example.

4. Isaiah and other prophets often linked suffering to sin. People do tend to become more aware of their sinfulness when “down” than when on top of the world. How have “down” situations helped you to be humble and turn your heart to God? Share an example.

5. The lives of the prophets for this week’s lesson vary in a number of ways. As just a few examples, Abraham’s journey revolved much around his family; Elijah, speaking truth to power. Isaiah spoke warning of great calamity and then restoration in the Savior. Daniel witnessed to the true God among the highly educated pagans. John the Baptist lived a very simple, austere and solitary life to witness to the coming kingdom and then was persecuted for it. Which prophet can you most identify with, when you think about your current situation and talents? Why?

6. Jesus said that you can judge his followers by their fruits. Ellen White’s prophetic office continues to be validated by the fruits we see today. What particular fruits of the SDA church bring blessing to the world today?

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