Crossroads Community Church

Ice Breaker: When was the last time you got really angry and what was it about?  What does your anger look/sound like?  (screaming, bad language, raging beneath the surface, passive aggressive, sarcasm, silent treatment, hand gestures, hit things) Be descriptive then move immediately to confession!

1. Think about good anger or “righteous indignation” (see John 2:14-17, Matthew 23).  Have you ever experienced this kind of anger? Over what? Did it move you to action? What are the “justice” issues that stir your passion?
2. Track the phrase “Lord’s anger” Exodus 4:14, Numbers 25:3, Deuteronomy 7:4, Joshua 23:16, II Chronicles 24:31.  What makes God angry?  Does anger seem out of character for God?
3. When do you feel threatened or fearful?  What areas of your life do you feel will be easily crushed if you don’t protect them?  (Financial, Relational, Family, Job)  What fruit do your fears in these areas produce?
4. On the continuum between restraint and rage where would you place yourself?
   1. Restraint ___________________________________________________Rage
5. Pastor Kris talked about some ways to restrain your anger: knowing yourself, taking charge of your anger, knowing what triggers your anger, practice gentleness.  Which one of these things do you plan to work on?  Who will help you?
6. Read Ephesians 4:25-32 again. How does this chapter end in v. 32? Would those who know you well describe you with the words of this verse?

Note to the Leader:  Before you dive into the questions below.  Take some time to ask your group what their impressions were from the message.  Did they have questions?  Did they write any highlights in their notes?