Having Doubts About Christianity

Horizon Community Church - Philadelphia

We kick off a new series about doubt. Here's the discussion questions mentioned at the end of the message: Discussion Questions: 1/5/2025 1. Relating to Doubt ◦ Have you ever experienced a "bitter laugh" like Sarah's, where disappointment or hopelessness made belief difficult? ◦ How does acknowledging the doubts of biblical figures like Abraham and Sarah change your perspective on your own doubts? 2. Faith and Doubt Coexisting ◦ What does it mean to you that "faith isn’t the absence of doubt, but acting despite doubt"? ◦ Can you recall a moment when you acted in faith despite uncertainty? What was the result? 3. Being Honest with God ◦ Why do you think it’s challenging to be fully honest with God about doubts or fears? ◦ How might your relationship with God change if you felt free to bring your doubts to Him? 4. God’s Faithfulness Amid Doubt ◦ What stands out to you about God’s response to Sarah’s laughter and doubt? ◦ How does it encourage you to know that God’s promises are based on His character rather than your belief or faithfulness? 5. Personalizing the Story ◦ In what ways can you relate to Abraham and Sarah’s journey of waiting and doubt? ◦ How do you think God might be working through your doubts right now, even if you don’t see the outcome yet? 6. Transforming Doubt into Joy ◦ Sarah’s doubt turned into joy when Isaac was born. What does this transformation teach us about God’s ability to redeem moments of disbelief? ◦ Where in your life are you longing for God to turn bitterness into joy? 7. Doubt as an Invitation ◦ How might doubt be inviting you to deepen your understanding or relationship with God? ◦ What steps could you take this week to explore your doubts instead of suppressing them? 8. Faith as a Journey ◦ How does the concept that "doubt doesn’t exclude you from Christianity" resonate with you? ◦ In what ways can doubt be a tool for spiritual growth rather than a barrier?