Demas is only mentioned a couple of times in Scripture, but there’s a world of difference between the first mention and the last. He started out so strong with so much promise but ended in complete defeat. And what we need to learn from Demas’ life is that, at the end of the day, compromise leads to ruin.
Key Scripture
Discussion Questions
Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.
- Do you know someone who once seemed to be a faithful follower of Christ but has walked away from God since then (like Demas)? What happened? What could it look like to engage with that individual and encourage them to turn back to the truth of God’s love and His perfect will?
- We have all learned that our souls are forever saved when we place our faith in Christ 2 Corinthians 1:21–22 states that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit). Therefore, we cannot lose our salvation, but rather we break fellowship with God. Why can’t someone lose their salvation? What about someone who professes they once believed but no longer believes in Jesus today?
- Read 1 Corinthians 10:12. Is there an area or a specific sin that you believe you could never fail in? How can we guard ourselves against falling into the trap of over-confidence? Brainstorm practical steps with your group members.
- Solomon was the wisest man to ever live, yet he did not heed his own God-given wisdom and ended up in a sorry state by the end of his life. What does this tell you about mental knowledge compared to true heart transformation? Pastor mentioned that moving away from Jesus always begins in a person’s heart. How can we protect our hearts and keep Jesus at the center?
- Our God is a jealous God. He wants to be our first love. Do you ever struggle with placing Jesus above everyone, including the people you love most such as your family? God clearly wants us to love others more than ourselves, so how do we keep Him at the top of the pyramid while still loving our families and others wholeheartedly?
- Read Acts 15:36–38. The Apostle Paul only took with him those he knew were devoted to Christ. Pastor discussed how they served together and, perhaps most importantly, prayed together. What does your prayer life look like? Do you place the utmost importance on it? Does it reflect your devotion to Christ? What practical ways can you deepen your prayer life?
- We can’t fully avoid temptation. However, we must put up guardrails in our lives to avoid temptations and not look twice. Read Matthew 5:29–30. What guardrails have you set up for yourself to avoid and overcome temptation? Are there guardrails that still need to be implemented in your life that can help you stay strong in your relationship with the Lord?
- Have you shamed your Lord and need to ask Him for forgiveness? Is there anything “cooling your life for Jesus” that you can turn over to Him?
Accountability
- Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
- Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
- How can you be praying for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?