Children of the Kingdom - Father's Day - June 21, 2026 - Bible Study

Bible Reading

-Exodus 34:6-7 (ESV):“The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty…”
-Ephesians 3:14-15 (ESV):“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named…”

Observation questions

1. In Exodus 34:6-7, how does God describe His own character, and what does this reveal about His relationship with mercy and justice?
2. The sermon mentions that “God’s name does not land as a bare ‘I am,’ but as ‘I am full of compassion’” [10:26]. How does this expand our understanding of God’s identity compared to common misconceptions?
3. According to the sermon, what practical actions (beyond financial giving) embody true compassion for vulnerable people? [09:04]
4. How does Ephesians 3:14-15 connect earthly fatherhood to God’s character?

Interpretation questions

1. Why is it significant that God’s self-revelation in Exodus 34 includes both mercy for generations and justice against sin? How do these qualities work together rather than oppose each other?
2. The sermon states, “Compassion means presence, not just gifts” [09:04]. Why might sustained presence and relationship be more transformative than one-time acts of charity?
3. Ephesians 3:14-15 calls God the source of every family’s identity. How might this truth reshape how parents view their role, especially when they feel inadequate?
4. The sermon claims, “The church fathers the fatherless” [01:15:09]. What does this imply about the responsibility of all believers, not just biological parents?

Application questions

1. Reflect on a time when someone showed you compassion through presence (e.g., walking with you through a challenge). How did that impact you compared to receiving material help? How could you offer similar presence to someone this week?
2. If “fatherhood mirrors patient, joyful love” [12:12], what is one specific way you can intentionally delight in or guide someone in your life (a child, mentee, or friend) this month?
3. The sermon highlights that “God’s compassion is not just admired; it is practiced” through everyday acts like teaching Sunday school or encouraging others [01:14:51]. What is one “holy work” of compassion you could commit to in your community, even if it seems small?
4. Where have you seen or experienced a distorted view of God as harsh or distant? How might focusing on Jesus’ actions (John 14:9) help heal that image and influence how you relate to others?
5. Fresh Start’s ministry supports moms in need with shelter and skills [08:08]. What local needs could you address not only with donations but with your time, mentorship, or advocacy?
6. The prayer for fathers asks God to “heal any damage done and grow children beyond their parents in godliness” [12:12]. If you’re a parent, where do you most need God to “make up the difference” in your weaknesses? If you’re not a parent, how can you support someone else’s family in this way?