August 9 2026

Written By Phil Johnston

The heart of a Rust City Group is to care for people and carry the culture of Rust City Church.

You don’t have to follow this guide like a script! Use discernment from the Holy Spirit as you lead your group discussion.

If you notice that someone in your group needs additional care or support that’s beyond your capacity, please let a pastor know.

ICEBREAKER QUESTION OPTION:

What Biblical character, other than Jesus, would you like to spend a day with? Why?

Hot Takes Pt. 1

SPEAKER: Pastor April Surles

Scriptures—

1 Timothy 2:11-15; 1 Corinthians 14:33-35; Acts 2:17-18; Romans 8:30

Key Takeaways—

Core Theme - Misreading Scripture Leads to Misinterpreting Scripture

  • Exegesis vs. Eisegesis: We must draw the original meaning out of scripture (exegesis) rather than reading our own opinions into it (eisegesis)

  • Context is Essential: Paul’s letters were written to address specific problems (false doctrine in Ephesus, disorder in Corinth) rather than creating universal, perpetual bans on women speaking

  • Redefining Authority: The Greek word used for 'authority' in 1 Timothy (authenteo) implies domineering or aggressive behavior, which Paul was correcting, not women’s leadership as a whole

  • The Full Biblical Narrative: God has consistently called, equipped, and sent women throughout the Old and New Testaments, including figures like Deborah, Huldah, Mary Magdalene, and Priscilla

  • Kingdom Assignment: Every believer is called by God, and no human opinion can disqualify what God has ordained

Discussion Questions—

  1. How should the distinction between 'exegesis' (drawing out) and 'eisegesis' (reading into) change how you approach challenging Bible verses?

  2. Why is it important to understand the cultural and historical issues a letter was addressing before applying its instructions to our lives today?

  3. Reflect on the examples of women in Scripture Pastor April mentioned. Which of these stories encourages you most regarding your own identity in Christ?

  4. Do you feel there are areas of your life where you have felt 'disqualified' based on past mistakes or perceived limitations? How can you apply Pastor April’s words to your situation?

  5. What does it look like to walk in your God-given 'assignment' rather than waiting for someone else’s permission or approval?

Practical application—

Consider implementing one of the following this week:

Option 1: Study Deeply

This week, if you encounter a scripture that is troubling or hard to understand, research its historical context and the original Greek/Hebrew words in it before forming a conclusion about what it means. Ask for help if you need it.

Option 2: Encourage others

Identify one person in the church or your life who has been 'overlooked' and actively encourage them in their spiritual gifts and calling.

option 3: explore Further

Use Google or another search engine to identify women in the Bible who played significant roles in God’s plans. Then take a look at what the Bible says about each of them.

Closing Prayer—

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your Word which is a lamp for our steps and light for our paths in life. We ask for wisdom as we study the Scriptures, that we might understand Your true heart and purpose.

Clarify our callings and gifts and give us the courage to answer the call You have placed on our lives. Equip us to be Your hands and feet in this world.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Phil Johnston
Next

August 2 2026