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Set Apart | Week One
You Don’t Have to Prove It
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:26–30
Main Idea: In a world obsessed with achievement, God reminds us that identity isn’t earned—it’s received. We’re not set apart because we’ve done enough. We’re set apart because Christ has done it all.
Opening
Ask your group:
Where do you feel the most pressure to prove yourself—in work, relationships, or even in faith?
Why do you think performing and pretending are so common in our culture (and in church)?
Overview
Paul writes to a Corinthian church immersed in status-seeking, image-crafting, and competition. But instead of calling them to perform harder, he reminds them of the gospel: God chooses the weak, the foolish, the overlooked—not because they’re impressive, but because they’re available. And through Jesus, we receive a new identity: righteousness, holiness, and redemption.
We often try to earn what God has already given. But striving for love, belonging, and significance leaves us tired, anxious, and insecure. The gospel invites us to stop hustling and rest in what Christ has done. That’s where freedom begins.
Discussion Questions
- Where are you most tempted to perform, prove, or pretend in order to be accepted?
- How does it change your motivation to remember that Christ already gave you righteousness, holiness, and redemption?
- What does it look like practically to stop striving and start receiving your identity in Christ?
- Who can you encourage this week—someone who may be feeling the same pressure to prove themselves?
Closing Prayer
Pray together for the Spirit to reshape your group’s understanding of identity. Ask for rest, humility, and boldness to live as people already chosen by God.
“Father, thank You for choosing us, not because of what we’ve done, but because of who You are. Help us stop performing for love You’ve already given. Free us from pretending. Let us live in the joy, peace, and power of being fully known and fully loved in Christ. Amen.”