Your Fresh Start Begins Here!
1 Corinthians 11:23–28
As the new year begins, thinking about fresh starts is natural. Many of us long for a fresh start as we step into this new year—a chance to reset our priorities, renew our hearts, and walk more closely with God. The turning of the calendar brings a sense of renewal—a moment to leave behind the burdens of the past and focus on what lies ahead. This week, we will visit the Lord’s Table, where we remember His sacrifice, reflect on His grace, and recommit our lives to walking in His ways.
1. Why do you think the start of a new year often feels like a natural time for reflection and renewal?
2. How does a “fresh start” apply to our spiritual lives beyond just making resolutions?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-28. Paul highlights the sacredness of the Lord’s Supper. What resonates with you most in this passage regarding our approach to Communion? Why is self-reflection such a crucial step before participating in Communion?
4. Pastor James likened clearing spiritual clutter to cleaning out a messy garage. What “clutter” in your life might be keeping you from fully aligning with God? (If you can’t think of something here, move on to the next question).
5. Psalm 139:23-24 invites us to ask God to search our hearts. How can regular self-reflection help avoid spiritual stagnation? What does this type of prayer look like in your life?
6. This might be a good time to stop and pray. Use these verses to launch your prayer; “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
7. Read Acts 3:19. This passage calls us to repentance for times of refreshing. How have you seen repentance lead to spiritual renewal in your life?
8. Pastor James said, “Repentance is relational and not transactional.” What does it mean to you, specifically in your relationship with God?
9. In 1 Corinthians 11:24, Jesus says, “Do this in remembrance of me.” What truths about Jesus do you find yourself needing to remember most often? How does remembering Christ’s sacrifice transform the way you live day-to-day?
10. How do distractions or busy lifestyles make it easy to forget the significance of the cross?
11. Read Romans 12:1. Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices. What does this look like in your life today?
12. Pastor James compared Communion to a marriage renewal ceremony. How does this analogy deepen your understanding of its significance?
13. Reflection clears the clutter. Remembering brings clarity. Recommitting propels us forward. Together, these actions help believers live in alignment with God’s purpose and immerse themselves in His love. How does acknowledging God’s grace in Communion give you confidence to move forward, even after reflecting on past failures?