This small group deep study guide draws directly from Jeremy Wood's sermon “Formed, freed, and sent 2025 year recap” so you can keep engaging with the message all week. Read, reflect, and share it with your small group or friends.
DEEP STUDY GUIDE: YEAR-END KINGDOM FINALE
A Comprehensive Small Group Study Based on Pastor Scott's Message
"But be doers of the word, not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." — James 1:22
INTRODUCTION
This deep study guide explores the year-end message delivered at Oasis Community Church, examining the spiritual journey of formation, identity, and unity that the congregation experienced throughout the year. The message emphasized moving from being mere hearers to becoming doers of the Word, breaking deception through spiritual formation, embracing our true identity in Christ, and pursuing unity as the body of Christ.
PART I: HEARING WITHOUT DOING IS SELF-DECEPTION
Scripture Focus: James 1:22-25
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does."
Theological Context
James addresses a fundamental problem in the early church that continues today: the gap between knowledge and action. The sermon highlighted that the church cannot remain in "neutral" - comparing ministry to a vehicle that needs to be in gear to move forward. This metaphor connects to Jesus' teaching about the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27, where the distinction is not in hearing, but in doing.
Deeper Analysis
- The Greek word for "deceive" (παραλογίζομαι/paralogizomai) implies a false calculation or reasoning - suggesting self-deception is a form of faulty spiritual accounting.
- The mirror analogy in James illustrates how quickly spiritual truth fades when not acted upon - we forget our true identity.
- The "perfect law of liberty" refers to the gospel message that transforms, not merely informs.
Cross-References
- Ezekiel 33:30-33 - People who hear but don't do
- Matthew 7:24-27 - The wise and foolish builders
- Luke 6:46-49 - "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I say?"
- Romans 2:13 - "For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified."
Deep Reflection Questions
- What areas of biblical knowledge have you accumulated without corresponding action in your life?
- How might "religious neutrality" manifest in your spiritual life? What does it look like when your spiritual vehicle is in "park" versus "drive"?
- In what ways have you experienced self-deception in your Christian walk? How did God expose this deception?
- What specific teachings from this past year have challenged you to move beyond hearing to doing?
- How does James' mirror analogy help us understand the temporary nature of spiritual insights that aren't acted upon?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that "the devil doesn't care if you go to church or read your Bible as long as you don't apply it to your life." This highlights the enemy's strategy of encouraging religious activity without spiritual transformation. Consider how religious activity without obedience creates a false sense of spiritual progress.
PART II: THE CALL TO REPENTANCE, BAPTISM, AND DISCIPLESHIP
Scripture Focus: Acts 2:38
"Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'"
Theological Context
The sermon reflected on how the year began with a call to repentance, baptism, and following Christ. This three-fold pattern mirrors the early church's response to the gospel in Acts. The pastor emphasized that this call wasn't about comfort but clarity - distinguishing between mere church attendance and true discipleship.
Deeper Analysis
- Repentance (μετάνοια/metanoia) literally means "change of mind" - not merely feeling sorry but changing direction.
- Baptism symbolizes death to self and resurrection to new life (Romans 6:3-4).
- The call to follow Christ is a daily commitment to discipleship, not merely adding Jesus to an already busy life.
Cross-References
- Matthew 4:17-22 - Jesus' call to repent and follow Him
- Romans 6:1-11 - Baptism as death, burial, and resurrection
- Luke 9:23-26 - Taking up your cross daily
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Becoming a new creation
Deep Reflection Questions
- How has your understanding of repentance evolved beyond feelings of shame to a realignment with God's truth?
- For those baptized this year: How has your baptism experience impacted your daily walk with Christ? For others: How has your baptism continued to shape your identity in Christ?
- What distinguishes a disciple from a mere churchgoer in practical, everyday terms?
- In what ways have you experienced the tension between comfort and clarity in your spiritual journey this year?
- How has the Holy Spirit empowered you to live out your baptismal identity?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that we are "not called to be churchgoers" but "disciples." This distinction is crucial for understanding authentic Christianity. Church attendance and religious activities are means to an end (discipleship), not the end itself. Discipleship involves dying to self, rising to new life, and walking in the Spirit's power.
PART III: THE CROSS AND FREEDOM FROM INIQUITY
Scripture Focus: Galatians 5:1
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of slavery."
Theological Context
The sermon highlighted how the cross not only provides forgiveness but breaks the yoke of slavery to sin, addiction, and generational bondage. The pastor shared powerful testimonies of freedom from generational disease, addiction, and anger as evidence of Christ's liberating power.
Deeper Analysis
- The "yoke of slavery" in Galatians originally referred to the burden of the law, but applies broadly to anything that enslaves us spiritually.
- The breaking of generational curses is rooted in Exodus 20:5-6 and Ezekiel 18, showing God's power to transform family patterns.
- True freedom is not just forgiveness of past sins but liberation from sin's power (Romans 6:6-7).
Cross-References
- Isaiah 10:27 - "The yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing"
- John 8:31-36 - "If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed"
- Romans 8:1-4 - No condemnation in Christ Jesus
- 1 John 3:8-9 - Christ came to destroy the works of the devil
Deep Reflection Questions
- What "yokes of slavery" has Christ broken in your life? What areas still need His liberating power?
- How have you witnessed the breaking of generational patterns in your family through Christ?
- How does understanding that Jesus "rose to free you from who you used to be" change your perspective on salvation?
- What's the difference between trying to break free through human effort versus through "the anointing of Christ"?
- How have you experienced freedom from religious striving to enter into relationship with Christ?
Theological Reflection
The sermon challenged the common teaching that Christians are "always sinners" by referencing 1 John's teaching that in Christ we "sin no more." This reflects the tension between our positional sanctification (already holy in Christ) and progressive sanctification (becoming holy in practice). Consider how a proper understanding of our identity in Christ empowers freedom from sin rather than resignation to it.
PART IV: NEW CREATION AND IDENTITY
Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 5:17
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."
Theological Context
Throughout the year, the church focused on identity in Christ. The sermon emphasized that we are not merely forgiven sinners but entirely new creations with a new nature. This identity transformation affects every aspect of life, including marriages and relationships.
Deeper Analysis
- The phrase "new creation" (καινὴ κτίσις/kaine ktisis) suggests not just improvement but radical transformation - a new kind of existence.
- "Old things have passed away" uses language that suggests a definitive break with the past.
- Identity in Christ means we are sons and daughters, kings and priests (1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6).
Cross-References
- Ephesians 2:15 - "To create in Himself one new man from the two"
- Galatians 6:15 - "What counts is the new creation"
- Romans 8:14-17 - The spirit of adoption versus the spirit of slavery
- Galatians 4:6-7 - No longer slaves but sons and heirs
Deep Reflection Questions
- How has your understanding of your identity in Christ developed this year?
- In what ways do you still struggle to see yourself as God sees you?
- How does understanding your identity as a "new creation" affect how you handle temptation and sin?
- The pastor stated that "if you know who you are in Christ Jesus... there's no such thing as being offended anymore." Discuss how identity security in Christ affects emotional responses to others.
- How has your marriage or close relationships been affected by embracing your new identity in Christ?
Theological Reflection
The sermon highlighted that we "don't fight for our identity; we fight from our identity." This distinction is crucial for spiritual warfare and sanctification. When we try to earn or achieve what God has already given us in Christ, we fall into performance-based religion rather than grace-based relationship.
PART V: SPIRITUAL FORMATION AND INTENTIONAL LIVING
Scripture Focus: Romans 12:2
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Theological Context
The sermon emphasized spiritual formation as intentional rather than accidental. Drawing from John Mark Comer's book "The Way," the pastor outlined how we are all being formed by something - either by default through the patterns of this world or intentionally through Christ-like practices.
Deeper Analysis
- Spiritual formation is universal - everyone is being formed by something.
- The patterns of this world produce negative fruit (stress, hurry, anxiety, etc.).
- Intentional spiritual formation through Christ's practices produces the fruit of the Spirit.
- Formation always precedes manifestation - who we are becoming determines what we will do.
The Practices of Jesus
- Solitude
- Prayer
- Scripture
- Fasting
- Community
- Service
- Generosity
- Sabbath
- Witness
Cross-References
- Matthew 11:28-30 - Learning from Jesus' yoke
- Galatians 5:22-23 - The fruit of the Spirit
- Philippians 2:5-11 - Having the mind of Christ
- Colossians 3:1-17 - Putting on the new self
Deep Reflection Questions
- Which of the practices of Jesus have you incorporated into your life? Which ones need more development?
- How have you experienced the contrast between the effects of worldly formation versus spiritual formation?
- What habits, relationships, stories, or environments have most shaped who you are today?
- In what ways have you seen formation preceding manifestation in your life?
- How might your small group help each other develop these intentional practices?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that "God is not interested in what you can do for Him; He's interested in who you're becoming." This shifts the focus from religious performance to spiritual transformation. Consider how this perspective changes your approach to spiritual disciplines from obligation to opportunity.
PART VI: STANDING FIRM IN AN UNSHAKABLE KINGDOM
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 12:28-29
"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire."
Theological Context
The sermon addressed how believers can stand firm during times of cultural and political upheaval. Rather than being shaken by world events, Christians receive an unshakable kingdom and respond with peace rather than panic.
Deeper Analysis
- The "unshakable kingdom" contrasts with earthly kingdoms and systems that are temporary.
- The Greek word for "receiving" (παραλαμβάνοντες/paralambanontes) is in the present tense, indicating an ongoing process.
- Our response to chaos should be distinctive from the world's response.
Cross-References
- Psalm 11:3 - "If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
- Psalm 46:1-3 - God is our refuge even when the earth gives way
- Matthew 16:18 - The gates of hell shall not prevail against the church
- Philippians 4:6-7 - Peace that surpasses understanding
Deep Reflection Questions
- How have you responded to cultural upheaval and uncertainty in the past year?
- What does it practically mean to "receive an unshakable kingdom" in daily life?
- How does the reality of God's sovereignty change your perspective on troubling world events?
- In what ways have you experienced supernatural peace during difficult circumstances?
- How can we as believers demonstrate stability to a shaken world?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that our response to chaos should be distinctive: "We don't panic, we pray. We don't retreat, we stand. We don't compromise, we remain faithful." This counter-cultural response witnesses to the reality of God's kingdom in the midst of earthly turmoil.
PART VII: UNITY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
Scripture Focus: John 17:20-23
"I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me."
Theological Context
The sermon concluded with an emphasis on unity in the body of Christ - both within the local church and between different churches in the community. The pastor shared examples of cross-denominational cooperation and emphasized that unity must begin within the local body.
Deeper Analysis
- Biblical unity is not uniformity (sameness) but unity in diversity.
- Unity is not based on agreement on all points but on "shared submission to Christ."
- Unity within the church precedes and enables unity between churches.
- True unity has a missional purpose - "that the world may believe."
Cross-References
- Ephesians 4:1-6 - Maintaining the unity of the Spirit
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - Many members, one body
- Philippians 2:1-11 - Unity through humility
- Colossians 3:12-15 - Love, which binds everything in perfect harmony
Deep Reflection Questions
- What barriers to unity have you observed within the local church? How can these be addressed?
- How does "shared submission to Christ" create unity even among people with different perspectives?
- In what ways have you seen disunity in your home affect your church relationships, or vice versa?
- What practical steps can you take to foster unity within your small group and the larger church body?
- How might unity between different churches in your community impact your city for Christ?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that "unity is not a feeling... unity is not an agreement... unity is shared submission to Christ." This definition challenges both superficial unity based on feelings and forced unity based on conformity. True unity flows from each member submitting first to Christ and then to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21).
PART VIII: BEING SENT AS CARRIERS OF CHRIST'S PRESENCE
Scripture Focus: John 20:21-22
"So Jesus said to them again, 'Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.' And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'"
Theological Context
The sermon concluded with a commissioning, emphasizing that church is not about "Sunday attendance" but "Monday through Saturday deployment." The pastor announced a "sent ones initiative" where every member identifies their specific mission field.
Deeper Analysis
- The Greek word for "sent" (ἀποστέλλω/apostellō) is where we get "apostle" - one who is sent with authority.
- Jesus links our sending with His sending - we are extensions of His mission.
- Being sent requires first receiving the Holy Spirit - power precedes mission.
Cross-References
- Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission
- Acts 1:8 - Power to be witnesses
- 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 - Ministry of reconciliation
- 1 Peter 2:9-10 - Proclaiming the excellencies of Him who called you
Deep Reflection Questions
- What specific "mission field" has God placed you in (workplace, school, neighborhood, etc.)?
- How are you currently bringing Christ's presence into that environment?
- What would it look like to be more intentional about being "sent" in your daily life?
- What has God been forming in you that others in your mission field need?
- How can your small group support each other in your various mission fields?
Theological Reflection
The sermon emphasized that we are all "carriers of His presence" - a profound theological concept rooted in the indwelling Holy Spirit. As temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), we bring God's presence wherever we go. This transforms our understanding of mission from something we do to someone we are.
APPLICATION: MOVING FROM STUDY TO ACTION
Personal Reflection Exercise
Take time to reflect on your spiritual journey this past year:
- What has God been forming in you?
- What deception has He been breaking?
- What aspects of your identity in Christ have become clearer?
- What spiritual practices have you developed?
- Where is He sending you in the coming year?
Write down your reflections and share them with your small group.
Group Accountability Questions
- How can we help each other move from being hearers to doers of the Word?
- What would it look like for our small group to practice vulnerability and accountability as mentioned in the sermon?
- How can we support each other in the specific mission fields where God has placed us?
- What practical steps can we take to foster unity within our group and the larger church?
- How might we incorporate the practices of Jesus more intentionally as a group?
Prayer Focus
- Pray for clarity about your identity in Christ
- Pray for freedom from any remaining yokes of slavery
- Pray for discipline in spiritual formation practices
- Pray for unity within the church body
- Pray for boldness in your specific mission field
Action Steps
- Identify one area where you've been a "hearer only" and commit to becoming a doer
- Choose one practice of Jesus to develop more fully this month
- Identify your specific mission field and one way you can bring Christ's presence there
- Take one concrete step toward unity in a relationship that has been strained
- Share your commitments with your small group for accountability
RESOURCES FOR DEEPER STUDY
Books
- "The Way" by John Mark Comer
- "Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life" by Donald Whitney
- "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer
- "Identity Theft: Reclaiming the Truth of Who We Are in Christ" edited by Melissa Kruger
- "Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Scripture Study
- Study the practices of Jesus in the Gospels
- Explore Paul's teachings on identity in Ephesians
- Study the unity prayers and teachings in John 17 and Ephesians 4
- Examine the sending passages in the Gospels and Acts
Reflection Practices
- Journaling through your spiritual formation journey
- Creating a personal rule of life based on the practices of Jesus
- Identity affirmations based on who you are in Christ
- Mission field mapping - identifying where and how God is sending you
Memorization Challenge
Commit to memorizing these key verses:
- James 1:22-25
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Galatians 5:1
- John 17:20-21
- John 20:21-22
"Formation always precedes manifestation. God is not in a hurry to grow a crowd. He has been and is still shaping a people."