8:30PM CO-ED, OPTIONAL: ON AUTHORITY, BIBLE STUDY, POTLUCK, FILM
Instructions:
Welcome to this co-ed Bible study exploring the theme of authority in Scripture. Authority is a central topic of the Bible, reflecting God’s rule, divine order, and how followers of Christ are called to live under His authority while representing it in the world. This study will guide you through 750 words of Scripture passages on authority, prompting group reflection and discussion. For each thoughtful discussion question, participants should take a brief paragraph of notes that expands on their personal insights. These notes will allow further reflection outside of the group setting.
Scriptures on Authority (Approximately 750 Words):
Genesis 1:26-28
"Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’"
Note: This opening Scripture highlights humanity’s delegated authority under God over creation and the responsibility tied to it.Exodus 20:1-3
"And God spoke all these words, saying, ‘I am the Lord your God... You shall have no other gods before me.’"Psalm 103:19
"The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all."Proverbs 16:9
"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."Matthew 28:18-20
"And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them... and teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.’"Mark 1:22
"And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes."Romans 13:1-2
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God."Philippians 2:9-11
"Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow..."Hebrews 13:17
"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls..."Revelation 19:16
"On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords."
These passages provide a foundation for unpacking the layers of biblical authority — God’s ultimate rule, Christ’s authority, human response, and delegated responsibilities.
Group Discussion Questions:
How does God’s command in Genesis 1 show the balance between authority and stewardship over creation?
What does Exodus 20 teach about living under God’s sole authority? How does idolatry challenge this?
Psalm 103 reminds us of God’s overarching kingdom. How does acknowledging His throne affect your daily life and decisions?
Proverbs 16 speaks to human plans versus divine authority. When has God redirected your path? What did you learn?
Reflecting on Jesus's words in Matthew 28, how should the knowledge of His total authority change how we approach evangelism?
Why were people astonished at Jesus’s authoritative teaching in Mark 1? How does this challenge the way we understand His words today?
Romans 13 relates to obeying earthly authorities. How do you reconcile tensions between civic obedience and God’s higher law?
What does Philippians 2 reveal about the supremacy and humility of Jesus’s authority? How should this shape our worship?
Hebrews 13 describes submitting to leaders who keep spiritual watch. What does submission look like in practical terms, and why is it important?
What does it mean that Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords in Revelation? How does His ultimate authority impact your confidence in difficult times?
Why is it important to see authority not just as power but as responsibility? How does the creation account demonstrate this?
How can Jesus’s example in humility guide leaders in exercising authority today?
What lessons do you see for parents, managers, or church leaders in how God and Jesus steward authority?
How does acknowledging God’s sovereign authority free us from fear?
What role does obedience play in showing we live under divine authority?
What dangers arise when we reject rightful authority (human or divine)? How does this manifest today?
How does God maintain justice and mercy while judging sin with authority?
What arguments would you use to explain the source of Jesus’s authority to an unbeliever?
How might these passages encourage trust in God’s plans when worldly authorities fail?
What steps can you take to better align yourself with living under God’s loving authority?
Notes & Memo for Reflection:
During group discussions, participants are encouraged to listen actively, share openly, and use provided questions to take one paragraph of notes per query. These notes should capture personal insights, shared perspectives, and deeper takeaways for individual meditation throughout the week. By doing so, participants will leave equipped to apply biblical truths in practical, life-giving ways.
After everyone has gathered, let's kick things off with a casual potluck before settling in for an evening viewing of The Wolf of Wall Street. Participants can contribute in one of three ways:
Bring a Dish: Classic American favorites like burgers, mac and cheese, buffalo wings, or apple pie are always crowd-pleasers. Get creative or bring a comfort food you love!
Pick Up Takeout: If time is tight, feel free to order from a favorite spot. Options like pizza, barbecue, or fried chicken are always great choices.
Choose Your Own: If you'd prefer to branch out, bring whatever fits your taste or dietary preferences!
Once everyone's settled with their plates, we’ll kick back and enjoy the film together.
About The Wolf of Wall Street
Directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, The Wolf of Wall Street is an unflinching look at excess, ambition, and consequence. Following Belfort’s meteoric rise as a stockbroker in New York, the film dives into themes of greed, corruption, and morality. Packed with humor, drama, and unforgettable performances, it’s both wildly entertaining and thought-provoking.
Group Discussion Questions
After the film, we’ll come together to unpack its themes and messages. Here are ten questions to guide the conversation:
What aspects of Jordan Belfort’s rise to power stood out to you the most?
How does the film portray the idea of success? Do you agree with this portrayal?
What parallels did you notice between the film's events and modern corporate culture?
Were there any moments you found yourself empathizing with Belfort? Why or why not?
How does the film explore the consequences of unchecked ambition?
Discuss the role of loyalty among Belfort's circle. Were there moments it was authentic or simply transactional?
How did the film's tone shape the message? Did it glorify or criticize Belfort’s lifestyle in your view?
Reflect on Belfort’s final speech. What do you think it says about his character and legacy?
What moral lessons, if any, do you take away from the film?
How do you think The Wolf of Wall Street speaks to the broader cultural values of excess and wealth?
Grab your chair, settle in, and enjoy the ride—this is sure to spark a lively discussion!