2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth..
3 John 2-4
Q & A：
- Discuss what comes to your mind with the word “prosperity” and how the world views as prosperity or success. What is the point of gaining the whole world but loses one’s soul? How does the scripture “God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” tell you about the material blessings or provision from God? (3 John 2; Phil 4:19; Prov 10:22)
- Explain why some Christians struggle with the prosperity of the soul in the area of emotions, relationships and mind by referring to the importance of renewing of our mind. Discuss how we as a new creation are able to reign in life and tap into God’s divine nature as compared to living our lives from the realm of the soul and be dictated by our old self or the desires of the flesh. (Eze 11:19; 2 Cor 5:17; 2 Pet 1:3-4; Eph 4:24; Rom 12:2)
- Discuss how we can walk in truth and in the Spirit to prosper our soul by reconciling with those who have hurt or offended us rather than letting bitterness break off the friendship, knowing that a bad horizontal relationship with people will affect our vertical relationship with God. Discuss how forgiveness and unforgiveness affect your mind, physical and mental health when you choose to release the person or hold grudge against the person. (3 John 3-4; Matt 5:23-24)