Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:14-17

Pastor Brad Flurry shared his personal “Once Upon a Time” story and four powerful words that changed his life. The words “how can I help” were spoken by members of the family of God — the people whom God used to help change the course of Brad’s life.

God can use us to help change the story of someone else’s life. As members of the family of God, we have responsibilities toward others

1. Responsibility to Love One Another.
Verse 14 reminds us that we are beloved children of God. Our identity is not defined by our story but determined by the gospel. We have the opportunity to speak this truth into other peoples’ lives.

2. Responsibility to Set An Example.
Verse 16 urges us to imitate Jesus Christ in how we live our lives and treat others.

3. Responsibility to Make an Investment.
Verse 17 speaks of Paul’s example of sending Timothy to invest in the lives of others. As part of God’s family we get to share our most valuable possession, the gospel of Jesus Christ, with others.

Discussion:

• Tell your “Once Upon a Time” story over lunch or dinner. Give thanks to God for the people He used to help change your life. This is a great opportunity to continue to “restore the table.”

• Talk about practical ways you can help someone’s “Once Upon a Time” story.

• If your “Once Upon a Time” story is painful, take time to reflect on these powerful truths from God’s Word:

— You are God’s beloved child (vs. 14)
— You are a member of God’s family (vs.15)
— God can use your story to make a difference in someone’s life (vs.17)