Rev. Tish Bowman, speaking Discussion Questions: 1. The sermon begins by empathizing with the man at the temple gate. What does his story reveal about human dignity and the deep need to contribute and belong? 2. Have you ever felt like you were metaphorically "sitting at the gate," hoping for change or healing? What was that experience like? 3. Why do you think Peter and John’s act of healing caused such a strong reaction from the authorities? 4. How have you seen fear used as a tool to maintain control or suppress truth—in history, in society, or in your own experience? 5. The sermon describes how fear "binds us like grave clothes." What kinds of fear do you feel most bound by, and what impact do they have on your life or faith? 6. Peter goes from denying Jesus to boldly proclaiming His name. What changed in Peter? What role does the Holy Spirit play in that transformation? 7. Have you ever had a moment where you were called to speak or act boldly, despite fear? What helped you take the step (or not)? 8. How do you discern when it’s time to take a “leap of faith”? Can you think of a time you did and it made a difference? 9. The sermon connects spiritual empowerment to building a just and inclusive community. What does that look like in your life or church? 10. Jeremiah 22:3 and Psalm 46 call us to both justice and trust in God. How do you hold those together in moments of crisis or injustice? 11. What does “standing on your own two feet” look like in your faith journey right now? 12. What leap of faith might God be calling you to take in this season of your life?