The first letter we have written to the earliest followers of Jesus has a surprising message for us. This week we look at our tendency to strive toward perfectionism and find that Paul’s message of good news to the Galatians is as liberating today as it was then.

Discussion Questions for Gift & Worth (Galatians) Part 5 | September 30, 2018 | Click here for a printable version

Key Bible Passage: Galatians 3:1-14

Discussion

  1. Briefly read this summary of a recent study on perfectionism by psychologists Thomas Curran and Andrew Hill: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/01/perfectionism-has-become-a-hidden-epidemic-among-young-people What stood out to you from the article?
  2. In what ways do you see or experience perfectionism in your own life? Be honest!  
  3. In Galatians 3:1-14 Paul refers to faith or belief numerous times. How can faith be so important in the struggle against perfectionism?  
  4. Read Galatians 3:5. The message explained that the Greek word translated as “give” has a background associated with someone who lavishly hosts a dance party. How does this metaphor connect with you and your relationship with God?
  5. What are unrealistic expectations you place on yourself to be perfect? What are unrealistic expectations you place on others?
  6. How can we pursue some things (for example, accomplishments at work, a nice house, or physical health) without making them about our worth? What’s the balance? How do we know when we’ve made something central (other than Christ) that needs to be de-centered?
  7. What’s the one area in your life or heart where you felt challenged by this message?

Moving Forward

If you have a spouse and/or kids, consider having a conversation with them about expectations, perfection, and worth. What do you need to say to them? What do you want to hear?

When something doesn’t go “perfectly” this week and you’re tempted to wallow in failure, what will you do instead?

What’s one thing you can do this week that has a high risk of failure and will provide a great opportunity to trust in God for your worth instead of your own success?