DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Choose the questions for your group; no pressure to use all of them.
- Growing up, who was an influential woman in your life (mom, teacher, friend, etc.), and how did they impact you?
- When you hear the phrase “just a girl”, what thoughts or emotions come to mind? How have you seen that attitude play out in the world or in our church?
- Read Luke 8:1-3. In this passage, we see Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna each followed and supported Jesus in different ways. What do you notice about each of them?
- Read Luke 10:38-42. Jesus commended Mary for sitting at his feet as a disciple. What do you think Jesus wanted Martha (and us) to understand through that moment?
- Read Matthew 28:6-10. Mary Magdalene was the first person to see the risen Jesus and was sent to tell the others. Why do you think Jesus chose to appear first to women, and what message was he sending about their worth and calling?
- Jesus included women as followers and supporters of his ministry. Why was this so shocking in culture? What does it say about who Jesus values and includes?
- Read Galatians 3:28. How does Jesus challenge our own ideas about gender roles, expectations, or priorities, especially if you or someone you know has felt overlooked or underestimated?
- Jesus often opened doors for those shut out by culture or religion. Who in your life might need you to do the same—to open a door, build a bridge, speak a word of encouragement, or give an opportunity?
- Skim through the Put it Into Practice section. Which of those practices would you like to try this week? Next week, share how it went with the group.
- Share prayer requests and pray for one another.
VERSE TO MEDITATE ON AND MEMORIZE THIS WEEK
There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28
PUT IT INTO PRACTICE (BETWEEN MEETINGS)
- Affirm the Image of God: Each day this week, intentionally affirm the truth that every person, including you, is created in God’s image. Start your day by saying: “I am not just anything. I am made in God’s image, loved and called for his purpose.” Then look for one person each day to affirm the same truth in.
- Encourage a Woman in Your Life: Think of a woman in your life who may feel unseen or undervalued. Send her a note, text, or call to express how you see God’s gifts at work in her. Be specific - name the strength or quality you appreciate. Example: “I see how God uses your compassion to make others feel seen.”
- Open a Door: Jesus opened doors of opportunity for those who had none. Follow his example by helping someone take a next step. Offer mentorship, make an introduction, or advocate for someone’s voice to be heard. Ask: “Who could thrive if I made space for them?”
- Sit at Jesus’ Feet: Like Mary, choose to sit and listen rather than get caught up in busyness. Set aside 10 minutes of quiet time this week to be still before God. Reflect on what he might want to teach you about worth, identity, or calling.
- Pray for the Next Generation: Pray for the girls growing up in your family, church, or community. Ask God to help them know their value, develop their gifts, and live courageously for him. “Lord, raise up women of faith who change the world for you.”
- Champion Equality in Christ: Look at your circles (work, church, friendships) and ask, “Are both men and women being heard, seen, and empowered? What can I do to better reflect the equality Jesus modeled and the unity Paul described in Galatians 3:28?