Series Resources

sermon-based study guide

This guide is designed to guide a group discussion around the weekend sermon. You can also use this as an individual, but we highly recommend finding a friend and inviting them to discuss with you. Menlo Church has Life Groups meeting in-person and online using these guides. We’d love to help you find a group.

What you will find in this guide: A discussion guide for groups and individuals. If you are using this as an individual be sure to engage with each question in a journal or simply in your mind as you prayerfully consider what you heard in the sermon and seek to discover what God is inviting you to know and do.

The Cost of Connection | Born Again

CONNECT

What is a question about faith, God, or the Bible that you’ve always wanted to ask but never have?

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ENGAGE

Read: John 3:1-21

Nicodemus was a religious leader, yet he sought out Jesus for answers. What does his curiosity teach us about approaching faith, even if we think we “know” the answers?

Jesus speaks about being “born again.” How does this challenge the way people commonly think about personal growth and transformation?

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APPLY

The idea of "starting over" with a new spiritual birth can feel overwhelming. What parts of your life do you find hardest to surrender for a fresh start with Jesus?

The Gospel is for everyone—not just the religious, successful, or morally upright. How does this truth challenge the way we view others (or even ourselves) when it comes to salvation?

Think about someone in your life who may be spiritually curious like Nicodemus. How can you be a safe space for their questions about Jesus?

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PRAY

Ask for the courage to step out of spiritual darkness and into the light of Jesus.

Pray for those who are seeking Jesus but feel hesitant or afraid.

If someone in your group is exploring faith, offer to pray for them and encourage them in their journey.

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GOING DEEPER

"Question & Surrender Prayer" – A Practice of Bringing Your Curiosity to God

This week, take time each day to practice a simple rhythm of question and surrender in prayer:

Write Your Question – Each morning or evening, write down one question you have for God—big or small. It could be about your faith, a decision you're facing, or something you don’t understand about Him.
Bring It to God – In prayer, honestly ask your question. Speak to God as Nicodemus did—curious, seeking, and open.
Surrender the Answer – Instead of demanding an immediate response, practice surrender. Pray:
"Jesus, I bring this question to You. Whether You answer in a way I expect or not, I trust that You are the truth and that You will guide me in Your time."
Look for God's Response – Throughout the week, pay attention to how God might be speaking—through Scripture, a song, a walk in your neighborhood, a conversation, or a moment of stillness.

May this practice help us move from fear of asking to faith in God's wisdom, deepening our trust in Him.

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE

For The Bay 5K: Put your faith into action and join us for the inaugural For the Bay 5K! This community run is more than just a race—it’s a chance to be a light in the Bay Area. Your participation helps support Mobilize Love, our local partner dedicated to providing academic support, mentorship, and life skills training for under-resourced youth. Let’s come together and make a difference—sign up today!

Discover Menlo: Meeting new people in a big group can be tough, but Discover Menlo makes it easy. Enjoy lunch, connect with others, and hear our story while meeting our amazing campus staff. Kids are welcome! Offered at all Menlo campuses on March 16th.

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