Kindness and Goodness

Galatians 5:22-23

Kindness: inner disposition of the heart; character.

Goodness: the expression of that disposition; action.

God’s kindness and goodness: enormous subversive strength . . .

          … to uphold those who are fallen. (Psalm 145:9, 13-14)
          . . . to reach even the ungrateful and lost. (Hosea 11:1-4)
          . . . demonstrated in simple gestures. (Ruth 2)
          . . . able to soften the world’s harshness.

Where does it come from?
          as we live by the Spirit.

Take Home Idea: Genuine kindness and goodness will overcome the harshness of the world.

"Kindness and Goodness" Small Group Questions

Opening:
Who was the kindest person you have ever known? What about them made them so kind?
Review Pastor Joel's sermon and Take Home Idea. What struck you about the sermon? What do you have questions about?

Dig: Read Galatians 5:22-23
Is there a difference between kindness and goodness? If not, why does Paul list both of them here? If so, what do you think is the difference?
Knowing the situation in the Galatian church (vs. 15, 26), why do you think kindness and goodness made this list?
What do you think is the difference between being “nice” and being “kind and good”?

Read Psalm 145:9; 13-14
How is God’s character described here by the Psalmist?
Because of who the Lord is, what does he do?

Read Hosea 11:1-4
What images describe God’s relationship with Israel?
How did God respond to Israel’s disobedience?

Skim Ruth 2
Where do you seek Boaz’s kindness and goodness towards Ruth?
Why do you think Boaz was so kind to her?

Reflect:
Where have you seen God’s character of kindness and goodness towards you? How did this unmerited act of kindness change you?
How can you live by the Spirit and grow in your kindness and goodness this week?
Close this time sharing and praying together as a group.