1. What is it about encountering one another at church or Christian gatherings that sometimes seems sufficient for us?

2. What kind of expectations do you typically bring into worship gatherings or growth group in regards to encountering God? Do you think your expectations are too high, too low, or right on?

3. Why do we need to an encounter with God when we gather?

4. Why, as we seek to share the message of Jesus with hurting people, is it important for us to have faith in God's ability to transform anyone's life, regardless of his or her problems? Is your faith at that place where you believe God is truly able to transform anyone?

5. As people who attended the Brooklyn Tabernacle were energized by the Holy Spirit, what happened among the different races represented in the congregation?

6. Pastor Cymbala writes, "In America it would appear that there is more openness, acceptance, and teamwork in the gym [among people of different races] than in the church of Jesus Christ." Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Illustrate your answer if possible.

7. We live in a predominantly white area but what might you, your growth group, and/or those who are a part of Shalom, do within the next month to increase openness and respectful acceptance between races in our church? In our community?

8. Over and over again, Pastor Cymbala and members of the Brooklyn Tabernacle congregation have wept and pleaded before God for last-minute help. How do you approach God when you need his intervention in what otherwise would be an impossible situation?

9. Why is it important for us to be persistent in calling on the Lord?

10. What is your biggest takeaway from what you read in chapter 2?