Hearing Prophetically, How God Speaks to Us Today

Part 1: For the Home Group Leader, leading & impulse

Goal of the session: participants should recognize that God speaks today, not only through the Bible, but also through the Holy Spirit. They learn to distinguish prophetic speaking from their own, to grow with humility and joy, and to make space for God's voice in daily life. ⏱ approx. 75 minutes Preparation:

1 Corinthians 14:1-5; John 10:27; 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21

Opening, ask the circle:

Short impulse: 3 central truths about hearing

1. God speaks personally

He is no silent God. Through the Holy Spirit he speaks to our heart, through pictures, thoughts, impulses, peace, and sometimes through other people.

2. Prophecy is encouragement, not manipulation

1 Cor 14:3: "The one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding encouragement and consolation ." No pressure. No threatening. No pride. But love, clarity, humility.

3. Testing is duty, but no excuse

1 Thess 5:20-21: "Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good."

→ Not everything that sounds spiritual is genuine. But we should also not reject everything. Learning field instead of panic. 📝 Part 2: participant folder Personal reflection: read 1 Corinthians 14:1-5. What do you notice about the motivation and effect of prophetic speaking?

How do I distinguish between my own thoughts and God speaking?

What helps me become quiet and listen?

How can I handle an impression without overreaching?

Exercise: listening & sharing (optional in the circle):

2 minutes of silence: "Lord, do you want to show me something today, for me or for someone else?" Write down a sentence or impression.

Whoever wishes may read it without pressure: "I had the impression …" Exchange in the circle: "How was it for you while listening?" "What did you receive, and how do you handle it?"

"What does it mean for you that you can hear God's voice?"

Part 3: What comes now?, concrete suggestion

1. Reserve time for listening:

Create 5 minutes of conscious silence each day. Ask Jesus: "What do you want to show me today?"

2. Start an impression journal:

Record pictures, thoughts or verses you receive. Track what is confirmed. Learning by trust.

3. Bold obedience:

If you have an impression for someone (encouragement, Bible verse), bring it into the conversation, but lovingly, never manipulatively.

4. Outlook to topic 8:

"Freedom from guilt & shame, how the New Covenant heals our innermost being."