Faith Talk – October 11, 2026

Title: Learning to Discern the Voice of God

Scripture: Matthew 16:21-23

Overview: When Jesus told His disciples that He would suffer, die, and rise again, Peter objected. He wanted a different path for Jesus, but his response reflected human concerns rather than God’s purposes. Even a well-intended response can lead us away from what God wants. Learning to discern His voice means testing our thoughts against His Word, considering how our choices affect others, and trusting Him when obedience challenges our faith.

Main Points:

• Is it consistent with the Word of God?
• Does it consider the impact on others?
• Does it challenge your faith?

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Peter disagreed when Jesus explained what would happen to Him. Why should we trust what Jesus says, even when we don’t understand?
• How can the Bible help you know whether a choice is right?
• What is one way you can obey God this week, even if it feels hard?

For Students & Adults

• Peter’s response reflected his own expectations rather than what Jesus had told him. How can our feelings or preferences interfere with recognizing God’s direction?
• Jesus’ journey to the cross would bring salvation to others. How can considering the impact on others help us look beyond our own comfort when making decisions?
• What decision or situation is challenging your faith right now? What would obedience look like, and how can you test that next step against Scripture?

Application: Identify one decision you are facing. Consider what Scripture teaches, who your choice will affect, and whether you are resisting obedience because it feels uncomfortable. Pray for wisdom and choose a specific next step that aligns with God’s Word. If you need help, talk with a mature believer who can help you think biblically about your decision.

Scripture: Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 6

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus showed He is God by walking on water. He is powerful and loves us. When we trust Jesus, we don’t have to be afraid when hard times come.

Kids – Jesus showed He is God by walking on water. He has power over everything-wind, waves, and even fear. Jesus is the Son of God who cares for us and is always with us. When we trust Jesus, we don’t need to be afraid.

Students – Jesus showed that He cared for His disciples by calming the storm that threatened their lives. He then called on them to have faith in Him. Jesus would later demonstrate God’s love in a greater way by laying down His life to provide salvation from sin and death. All who have faith in Him have eternal life.

Adults – Jesus’s divinity makes Him all-powerful, able to do all things. He invites us to live by faith in His power.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What did Jesus do that showed His power over the water and wind?
• When Peter became afraid and started to sink, how did Jesus help him?
• What is something that makes you afraid? How can you turn to Jesus for help when you feel that way?

For Students & Adults

• What do Jesus’ actions in Matthew 14:22-33 reveal about His power and His care for His disciples?
• Peter became afraid when he focused on the wind. What circumstances tend to distract you from trusting Jesus, and what helps you turn your attention back to Him?
• Jesus rescued Peter and later gave His life to save us from sin and death. How does His saving love give us confidence to follow Him when the next step feels uncertain?