Better Because He's at Work in Me
RLC Home Group Handout | February 8th, 2026
“Better Because He Lives in Me” | John 17:24-26
Recap
This week we were reminded that Jesus’ words—“it is better for you that I go away”—are not a loss but a gift, because through His departure the Spirit of God now lives in us. We saw that the tearing of the temple veil signaled the end of separation between God and His people, granting us direct access to the Father, full assurance of our standing with Him, and real power for transformation. Rather than trying harder or changing ourselves from the outside in, we are invited to live connected to Jesus, trusting that the same Spirit who raised Christ from the dead is patiently forming Christlike character within us. Because He lives in us, God has not abandoned the work He began—He is faithfully renewing us from the inside out.
References
Matthew 27:50–53 — God removes the barrier between Himself and humanity
Hebrews 10:19–23 — Believers confidently approach God through Jesus
Romans 8:11 — Resurrection power actively works within believers
Galatians 5:22–25 — The Spirit patiently forms Christlike character
Discussion Questions
Head
Is there anything that stood out or spoke to you in this week’s sermon?
How is the Spirit’s role in producing change in our lives different from human willpower or religious effort?
How does the image of the Vine and branches protect us from both passivity and striving?
Heart
When you think about approaching God, do you feel more confidence or hesitation? Why?
Do you tend to relate to God more like a welcomed child or a nervous visitor? Why?
What attribute of the fruit of the Spirit do you long to see grow in your life right now?
How do you typically respond when progress in your spiritual life feels slow?
How does the idea of assurance change the way you approach confession and repentance?
Hands
What would it look like this week to remain connected to the Vine rather than striving to produce fruit?
Is there one area where you sense the Spirit inviting you to trust, repent, forgive, or obey in a small but concrete way?