• Sermon Series Name: Hard Questions
• Message Title: What Does God Say About Being Transgender?
• Short Summary: In a world filled with questions about identity and gender, Pastor Carter's message addresses the complex and sensitive topic of transgender identity and gender dysphoria and explores what the Bible says about being transgender. Todd emphasizes the importance of living in the tension between grace and truth, as Jesus did, and encourages believers to engage with love and empathy, recognizing the image of God in every person.

Icebreaker Question

• If you could choose any superpower related to understanding people better, what would it be and why?

Review of the Previous Week’s "I Will" Statement

• Reflect on last week's commitment: I will check in with someone I know who is hurting. 
  In what ways did you notice personal growth or change as you attempted to live out your "I Will" statement this past week? How did this impact your relationship with God or others?

Five Discussion Questions (Core Focus)

1. Reflecting on the Message:
   • The message highlighted Genesis 1:27, where God created humans in His image, male and female. How does this understanding of being made in God's image influence your view of identity?
   • Context: Todd's message emphasized that our identity is rooted in being created intentionally by God.
   • Life Application: Consider how this perspective might change the way you view yourself and others.
2. Living in Tension:
   • Describe a time when you had to balance truth and grace in a relationship. What was challenging about it, and what did you learn?
   • Context: Todd's message discussed the tension between truth and grace as the essence of love.
   • Life Application: Think about how you can apply this balance in your current relationships.

1. Empathy and Understanding:
   • How can we, as followers of Jesus, embody His love by ensuring everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their struggles or identity?
   • Context: Todd's message emphasized that Pathway Church will never have a sign that excludes anyone, reflecting Jesus' inclusive love.
   • Life Application: Identify one way you can actively demonstrate this welcoming spirit in your daily interactions, ensuring that others feel the love and acceptance of Christ through you.

1. Transformation of the Mind:
   • Romans 12:2 talks about being transformed by the renewing of your mind. How have you experienced this transformation in your own life?
   • Context: The message contrasted societal views with the biblical call to let God transform our minds.
   • Life Application: Reflect on areas where you need God's transformation and how you can invite Him into that process.
2. Building Bridges:
   • What does it mean to you to "run to the tension" and build a bridge of love? How can you extend this love and compassion to family members who may be feeling sad or confused about a loved one struggling with gender dysphoria or gender identity?
   • Context: The sermon challenged believers to engage with love and build bridges in difficult conversations, recognizing that family dynamics can be complex and emotionally charged.
   • Life Application: Commit to one action this week that builds a bridge of love, whether by reaching out to someone navigating questions about their gender identity or by offering support and understanding to a family member who is struggling to process these issues. Consider how you can be a source of comfort and clarity, embodying the love of Christ in your family relationships.

This Week’s "I Will" Statement

• I will run to the tension and build a bridge of love. Consider reaching out to someone who is different from you and seeking to understand their story.

Prayer Prompts

1. Begin by asking for any personal prayer requests from the group.
2. Pray for the courage and wisdom to live in the tension between grace and truth, as Jesus did.
3. Pray for those struggling with identity issues, that they may find peace and purpose in God's love and truth.
4. Pray for our church community, that we may continue to be a place of welcome and love for all, reflecting the heart of Jesus in our actions and attitudes.

Rewatch the Message

• For further reflection, you can rewatch the message at www.pathwaychurch.com/messages.