Life Group Questions

1. If you could not hear this week’s sermon, consider going to the church website and listening to it. What main ideas did you gain from the message? Do you have any questions?

2. Read Genesis 10:1-15 and Genesis 19:34-38. Describe the differences between the Amorites and the Ammonites. Who were these people?

3. In Jephthah’s response he recounts the historical background of the current situation. Read back through Numbers 20-21; 23-24 and Deuteronomy 2. How did the historical events match up with versions given by Jephthah and the king of the Ammonites?

4. Why do you think the writer has included so many references to God in Judges 11 (cf. 11:9, 11, 29, etc.)? How does Jephthah compare with Gideon (cf. 6:34)? How does God’s presence speak about the actions of Jephthah? In what way does the Spirit of God interact with us today?

5. Describe your thoughts about Jephthah’s vow to the Lord. Why do you think he made such a vow? Do you think it was necessary for him to do so? Did the Lord respect his vow?

6. Have you ever made a vow to the Lord? If so, explain. Do you think it is okay or even wise to make vows to God? If so, what are some precautions we should take in making vows to the Lord (cf. Deuteronomy 23:21; Ecclesiastes 5:4)?

7. Read Leviticus 27. What were some of the vows and dedications prescribed by the Lord in the Old Testament? How would you categorize Jephthah’s vows of dedication and sacrifice? Do you feel the daughter was under obligation for her father’s vow? Explain.

8. Do you think God still desires for His people to sacrifice for Him? What are some ways in which God would want His people to sacrifice? What kind of sacrifices are pleasing to the Lord (cf. Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 13:15-16)? Is there anything in which you sense the Lord calling you to sacrifice? Are you willing to sacrifice for Him? Explain.

by Terry Beatty /  Lead Teacher and Ministry Vision