Sermon Discussion Guide

Sermon Discussion Guide Sermon Title “Selective Hearing” Scripture Genesis 37.1-9

Key Verse(s): Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.” – Genesis 37.5-7 (NIV)

Summary: We learn in this story about Joseph, the favored (out of 12) son of his father, Jacob. As a young man, Joseph had a dream that his family would one day bow down to him. Despite the hatred he encountered from his brothers and others throughout his life, Joseph clung firmly to the dream God gave him and never lost hope.

Discussion Starters: Have you ever had a vivid dream that you thought had a deeper meaning for your life? Do you ever share your dreams? How does Joseph’s courageousness in sharing his dreams make you feel? Inspired? Scared?

Read and Discuss

Hebrews 12.1-2 – God gives each of us dreams and desires. What dreams has He brought upon your heart to accomplish? Do you find it easy to be discouraged or even frightened as you’re striving to fulfill these dreams? What does God’s word tell us about perseverance? What if we remind ourselves, like Joseph did, that God’s perspective is bigger than our circumstances?

Genesis 39.8-10 & 1 Chronicles 29.17 –Joseph’s integrity is impressive. Pastor and author Rick Warren said that “integrity is built by defeating the temptation to be dishonest.” How can we be better people of integrity? Are you encouraged to know that integrity is a can be built over time? Why does integrity please God?

John 10.27 & 2 Timothy 1.7 – One of the reasons Joseph was able to achieve what God set before him was because he tuned out the banter of all his enemies. He was bold and courageous and lived into the dream God placed on his heart. Have you felt discouragement from others while in pursuit of your dreams? In what ways can we tune this out and turn our focus toward God?

Prayer: Father God, You are the dreamer of all dreams. Thank you for placing dreams on our hearts. Help us to be people of integrity, bent on doing Your will, even in the midst of adversity. Help us listen to Your voice. Amen.

Things I’d like to remember from this week’s sermon: ______

Prayer Requests: ______