By Michael C. Mack

1. Share a time when you intended to do something for someone or visit someone but you had to change your plans. What happened? 

Read 2 Corinthians 1:23–2:11.

2. After having written his first letter to the Corinthian church as a rather strong, to-the-point set of instructions, how would you describe Paul’s feelings and motivations here?

3. How did Paul instruct the church to treat someone who had caused pain to others in the church? 

4. When and how is discipline appropriate in today’s church? (See also 1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 2 Corinthians 7:8-12.) 

5. How can discipline be a necessary instrument to help us grow as followers of Christ? How is it evidence of love for a person? 

6. In what ways have you seen Satan use conflict in your group or church as a scheme? How does Satan use unforgiveness to outwit us?

7. How does your small group deal with conflict? 

• You have no conflict (you play make believe) 

• You sweep it under the rug 

• You throw the bum out 

• You change groups (avoidance) 

• You discuss ending your group (avoidance) 

• You speak the truth in love

8. What are some guidelines you can put in place so that your group is a place of truth and grace, discipline and forgiveness, boundaries and love?

Michael Mack is the author of 16 small group books and discussion guides. He also leads church training events and consults with churches through his ministry, Small Group Leadership (www.smallgroupleadership.com).