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 Connections | Eyes Opened

Series: The Cost of Connection
Title: Eyes Opened
Date: March 16, 2025

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CONNECT

What’s something you used to believe as a kid that turned out to be totally wrong? (For example: “I thought the moon followed me” or “I thought my toys came to life when I wasn’t looking.”)

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ENGAGE

Read: John 9:1-7

Jesus says the man’s blindness was allowed “that the works of God might be displayed in him.” How does this change the way we view suffering in our lives?

Read: John 9:13-23

The Pharisees rejected the miracle because it didn’t fit their religious framework. What are ways we might miss God's work today because of our own expectations?

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APPLY

Fear kept the man’s parents from standing up for him. What fears might be keeping you from fully embracing Jesus?

The Pharisees were focused on rules instead of recognizing God's work. Are there areas where you are resisting change because it challenges your traditions or assumptions?

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PRAY

Thank God for His presence in both joy and suffering.

Ask for faith to trust His purpose, even when we don’t understand.

Pray for strength to endure challenges and grow through them.

Seek wisdom to see how God might use our struggles for good.

Ask for opportunities to encourage and help others through our experiences.

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GOING DEEPER

Practice Noticing – This week, ask God to open your eyes to someone who may feel unseen or overlooked. It could be a coworker, neighbor, or someone in need in your community. Take a moment to acknowledge, encourage, or serve them in a tangible way.

Live the Verse – Meditate on John 9:25: “One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” Write it down, pray over it, and reflect on how Jesus has transformed your own spiritual vision. Let it shape the way you see and respond to others.

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MAKE A DIFFERENCE

For The Bay 5K: Join us for the first-ever For the Bay 5K! More than a race, it’s a fun way to unite the community and support a great cause. Proceeds benefit Mobilize Love, helping under-resourced youth with mentorship, academics, and life skills. Be part of something bigger—sign up today!

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