OPTIONAL, CO-ED, 2PM PST, RESPONSIBILITY IN THE BIBLE: LIVING FULLY INTO GOD’S CALLING, BIBLE STUDY, POTLUCK, FILM

SCRIPTURE PASSAGES

"But the Lord replied, 'Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But suppose the servant says to himself, "My master is taking a long time in coming," and he then begins to beat the other servants, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk. The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers. The servant who knows the master's will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.'"
– Luke 12:42-48 (NIV)

"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty."
– Proverbs 21:5 (ESV)

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
– Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)

"The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing."
– Proverbs 20:4 (ESV)

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
– Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

"For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: 'The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.'"
– 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (NIV)

"And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith."
– Matthew 21:22 (ESV)

GROUP STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Luke 12 describes responsibility as a "wise manager" faithfully handling what the master entrusts. What parallels do you see between this and responsibilities in your daily life?

2. How does the idea that "to whom much is given, much will be required" challenge modern views on stewardship and privilege?

3. How does Luke 12 illustrate the consequences of irresponsibility? How might this apply to spiritual responsibilities we bear today?

4. Compare the faithful servant in Luke 12 with the diligent planner in Proverbs 21. How do both scriptures emphasize preparation and discipline?

5. From Proverbs 21, what personal habits might demonstrate diligence in your own walk with God?

6. How can Colossians 3 reshape our understanding of mundane or difficult work? What does it mean to "work for the Lord"?

7. Proverbs 20 warns against laziness. What practical steps can we take to build consistent responsibility in life and faith?

8. What burdens have you been called to "carry" for others (Galatians 6)? How does this reflect Christ’s example?

9. Discuss Galatians 6 in the context of community responsibility. How do we balance this with personal boundaries?

10. 2 Thessalonians 3 speaks to the importance of work. How does this instruction integrate with dependence on God’s provision?

11. How can Matthew 21’s focus on prayer bring balance to the instruction for hard work?

12. Reflect on areas where lack of preparation (Proverbs 20) has led to missed opportunities—how might better discipline have changed your outcome?

13. How do the scriptures as a whole suggest responsibility is intertwined with faithfulness and trust in God?

14. Where do you see tension between ambition and diligence versus humility and patience in the workplace?

15. What role does accountability—either to the church or other believers—play in helping us live responsibly?

16. What might neglecting spiritual responsibilities look like in today’s culture?

17. How does showing responsibility in “little things” prepare us for larger opportunities?

18. Discuss how cultural attitudes toward responsibility may conflict with biblical truth.

19. Identify a “managerial” responsibility God has entrusted you with and the practical steps you’re taking to honor it.

20. How does prayer help align your personal priorities with God’s call to live responsibly?

NOTES:
True biblical responsibility is not just about doing what’s required but about honoring God through how we approach everything we do. The burden to manage what God entrusts is paired with the promise of His help through prayer, faith, and the strength that comes from walking closely with Him. Responsibility isn’t limited to work—it includes generosity, stewardship, and how we invest in the lives of others. This study aims to unpack not just practical duties, but how responsibility can glorify God and mature us as followers of Christ.

After our Bible study, we’ll continue the fellowship with a potluck and a cozy movie marathon featuring Home Alone movies 1–4. It’ll be a day full of fun, food, and family-friendly laughs, perfect for building connections and enjoying each other's company!

Potluck Details

To keep us fueled for the day, we encourage everyone to bring a dish to share. Suggested categories include:

• Savory bites (sandwich platters, casseroles, or finger foods)

• Sweets (cookies, brownies, or holiday desserts)

• Drinks (non-alcoholic beverages like cider, soda, or hot chocolate)

• Healthy options (fruit, veggie trays, or salad)
  Feel free to label your dish if it contains common allergens (such as nuts, dairy, or gluten). Don’t forget serving utensils and anything needed to keep your dish warm or cool! Plates, cups, and napkins will be provided.

Movie Marathon Lineup with Descriptions

1. Home Alone (1990)
   Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old accidentally left behind as his family departs for a Paris vacation, finds himself protecting his home from two bumbling burglars. This holiday classic is a blend of slapstick comedy and heartfelt moments as Kevin discovers courage and ingenuity.

2. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
   Kevin's knack for getting left behind strikes again, but this time, he ends up in New York City with his father’s credit card in tow. While reveling in luxury at a top hotel, he crosses paths once more with the bandits, leading to another iconic showdown.

3. Home Alone 3 (1997)
   A young boy named Alex Pruitt takes center stage in this sequel when international spies mistakenly hide a stolen military chip in a toy car delivered to his home. Alex uses inventive traps in a comical fight to safeguard his home and foil their plans.

4. Home Alone 4: Taking Back the House (2002)
   Kevin returns in this installment but faces a family shift as he navigates life after his parents' separation. Spending Christmas at his dad’s girlfriend’s mansion, Kevin encounters the crooks once again, now plotting to kidnap a prince.

Group Discussion Questions

1. What character traits do you see in Kevin (or Alex) that help them face their challenges?

2. How does each movie reflect family dynamics and the value of relationships?

3. Which traps were the most creative in your opinion? What made them stand out?

4. How does Kevin’s resourcefulness grow from the first movie to the second?

5. What lessons about independence and responsibility can we take from these films?

6. What role does humor play in creating memorable moments throughout the series?

7. How do the villains differ across the four movies? Which pair did you find funniest?

8. What elements tied the films together as a series despite changing characters or settings?

9. How do themes like forgiveness and reconciliation emerge in these movies?

10. Which Home Alone movie was your favorite and why?

We hope the mix of communal food, good-natured laughs, and thoughtful discussion will make this time together rich in connection and joy. Don’t forget to bring your appetite, your favorite dish, and an open heart as we enjoy this day of fellowship!