At The Movies - Warrior | Jentezen Franklin

Sunday, July 28

Introduction

Welcome to our small group discussion on the powerful themes presented in the sermon series "At the Movies," focusing on the film "Warrior." This movie, while highlighting the intense physical battles of its characters, delves deep into the emotional and spiritual struggles within a broken family. It tells the story of two estranged brothers, Brendan and Tommy Conlon, and their journey towards reconciliation with each other and their father, Paddy.

As we explore the themes of forgiveness, the role of men in families, and fighting for what truly matters, let's open our hearts to what God wants to teach us about healing, restoration, and the importance of family. We'll reflect on the challenges faced by the characters and draw parallels to our own lives, seeking wisdom and guidance from God's Word on how we can overcome similar struggles.

Where The Real Fight Is

The Apostle Paul reveals the true nature of the Christian's battle in Ephesians 6:12:

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Paul emphasizes that our primary conflicts are not with other human beings.

By shifting the focus from human adversaries to these spiritual entities, Paul encourages believers to adopt a divine perspective on their struggles. This shift is crucial for several reasons:

Proper Identification of the Enemy: Rather than fighting against people, it's crucial to recognize that the true adversaries are spiritual forces. This understanding allows believers to channel their efforts appropriately.

Spiritual Preparedness: Understanding the nature of the conflict underscores the need for spiritual armor and weapons.

Dependence on God: Believers must depend on the Lord's might and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Human strength and strategies are insufficient.

Although human conflicts and interpersonal strife are common, Paul is urging believers to look beyond these surface-level struggles to the true source of opposition.

Paul says our struggle is "not against flesh and blood". How should this understanding affect our interactions with others, especially those with whom we may have conflicts?

How can believers equip themselves to stand against the spiritual forces mentioned in Ephesians 6:12? What practical steps can we take to put on the full armor of God as Paul describes in the surrounding verses?

What are some examples of "spiritual forces of evil" that we might encounter today? How can we discern and combat these forces in our daily lives?

In summary, recognizing that our battles are against powerful and malevolent spiritual entities better equips us to stand firm in our faith. Our victory is assured through Christ, who has already triumphed over these forces through His death and resurrection.

Finding Mercy: The Power of Confession

When we hide our sins, we create a barrier between ourselves and God. This concealment leads to a lack of spiritual growth and distance from God.

Proverbs 28:13-14 (NIV)

"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble."

In contrast, confessing and renouncing our sins brings us into the light of God's mercy. Confession is an act of humility and acknowledgment of our need for God’s forgiveness. Confession opens the door to healing and restoration.

These verses from Proverbs reveal profound truths: They highlight the importance of confessing our sins to receive God's mercy and warn against the dangers of hardening our hearts.

What often holds me back from confessing my sins and seeking God’s mercy?

Practically speaking, how can I cultivate a heart that is sensitive and responsive to God’s voice?

Are there areas in my life where I sense my heart is becoming hardened? What are the dangers if not corrected?

Standing Strong in the Face of Spiritual Battles

When Nehemiah and the Israelites set out to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, they encountered challenges. The Jews, along with their families, worked together in unity and with dedication, building the wall to half its height. When Nehemiah learned of the enemy's plot to secretly attack, he addressed the community. He encouraged them not to fear the enemy, reminding them of how great and awesome their God was…

Nehemiah 4:14 (NASB) When I saw their fear, I stood and said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: “Do not be afraid of them; remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”

When you’re passionate about building God’s kingdom, you might face sudden attacks from the enemy of our souls. This can affect not only you but also your family, church, and loved ones.

Greater is the One who is in us than the one who is in the world. Therefore, we need not be fearful or discouraged when the enemy strikes. We must stand strong in prayer and fight the good fight of faith for our loved ones. This is how we fight our battles.

What battles are you facing today? How’s it affecting your loved ones?

Breaking Free from the Chains of Unforgiveness

Peter hoped to sound extremely loving by suggesting forgiving a repentant brother up to seven times when three times was the accepted limit taught by many Jewish rabbis of that time.

But in the parable of the unforgiving servant, (Matthew 18:21-35) Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness introduces the concept of unlimited forgiveness when the master (a type & shadow of Jesus) forgives his servant of a debt that could never be repaid.

Here’s what Jesus said:

Matthew 18:22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. 

The principle is clear. God has forgiven such a great debt, that any debt owed to us is insignificant in comparison.

Since we have been forgiven so much, we have no right to withhold forgiveness from others.

Remember, no man can possibly offend me to the extent that my sins have offended God. This principle must be applied in the little things done to us, but also to the great things done unto us.

Matthew 18:34 says the master delivered the unforgiving servant to the torturers. Have you ever been “tortured” by your own unforgiveness towards others? If so, how did that ‘torture’ show up in your life or walk with Jesus?

Have you ever put preconditions or requirements on a person before you forgave them? What was the outcome?

When you think about it, has any person ever offended you to the extent that your sins have offended God? If not, how does that thought cause you to rethink your position?

We tend to quantify offenses (big / small). But does God tell us to only forgive big debts? Will you hold on to the small debts others owe you in light of what Jesus forgave?

Conclusion

"Warrior" highlights the inner battles within families and our hearts, reminding us that the real fight is against forces that seek to divide and destroy, not against one another. We are called to fight for our families with love, forgiveness, and humility.

What declaration can you make today outwardly or privately to forgive the person(s) that the Holy Spirit may be convicting you of right now?

Are you ready to ask forgiveness from others?

This week, let's take practical steps to heal broken relationships, show grace, and be the godly influences our families need. Remember, no situation is too broken for God's healing touch. Let's commit to fighting for our families, trusting that with God's help, we can overcome any obstacle.

Resources

That One Word

Conceal or Confess

All Group Guides