Bible Text: Ephesians 4:25-32 | Speaker: Pastor Rob Burke | Series: Flourish

Message Notes

Criticism stunts growth. Gentle correction creates growth.

Proverbs 27:6 (NLT)
Proverbs 15:1

Defensiveness Destroys. Taking Responsibility Repairs

1 John 1:8

Contempt is toxic. Forgiving & valuing others is the cure

1 Corinthians 13:35
Ephesians 4:29
Ephesians 4:32

Life Group Questions
Opening Question:

Who is your favorite television couple?

Digging Deeper:

Read Ephesians 4:25-32. What stands out to you in these verses? How have you seen the power of your words used for both bad and good? Why is it a struggle for us at times to use our words to build others up?
What does it look like for us to “get rid of bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice”? Why are these so damaging to our marriages/relationships?

Life Application

Do you tend to discuss conflict or shy away from it? How has this helped or hurt you and your relationship with your spouse or relationships if you are single?
Take a moment to think about the 3 points Rob talked about: Criticism, Contempt and Defensiveness. Which one do you struggle with the most? (Offer time to think about it) and discuss why you think that is?
Rob mentioned that Contempt (the feeling that a person or thing is beneath consideration, worthless or deserving scorn) can be one of the most destructive. Why do you think that is?
If you are in a relationship, what steps could you (not your spouse) take to grow? For those that are single, what are some of the benefits and struggles you find in being single?

Spend time praying for each other and healthy relationships.