Study Questions for February 15, 2026

Study Questions for February 15, 2026

Roses and Thorns by Pastor Dale Beaver
Read Song of Solomon 1:1-4, 16a; 2:1-2; Genesis 3:17-19; Micah 7:4-6; Ephesians 5:31-33; and Matthew 27:29.

1. In his notes, Pastor Dale explains that the Song of Solomon is a "love song abounding in metaphors and imagery" that depicts Christ’s love for His bride, the church. When you think about your daily walk with Jesus, do you view your connection to Him as a vibrant "love song" or more like a rigid set of rules?

2. Read Song of Solomon 1:2-4. The text uses sensory language like "sweeter than wine" and "fragrant scented oils" to describe love. In your personal experience, what are some of the "fragrances" or characteristics of God’s character that you find most pleasing or attractive?

3. The Prerogative of Love. The notes state: "It is the PREROGATIVE of love to assign beauty where it may and the PRIVILEGE of being loved to walk in its assignment". How does it change your self-image to know that Christ assigns beauty to you based on His love, rather than your performance or human appearance?

4. Read Genesis 3:17-19. Because of the fall, the ground produces "thorns and thistles". Pastor Dale notes that these thorns represent the "pains of relationships" and the brokenness we experience. Regardless of your relationship status, what are some of the "thorns" (conflicts, disappointments, or hurts) you face in your interactions with others?

5. Read Micah 7:4-6. Micah warns that even the most "honest" person can be dangerous as a "hedge of thorns" and cautions against putting ultimate trust in anyone. Why is it essential to make Jesus your primary source of security rather than looking to a friend, family member, or spouse to fill that role?

6. The Enduring Power of Love. The sermon emphasizes that while we cannot expect "thornless" relationships in this world, God's love endures, forgives, and redeems. How does knowing that Jesus loves you despite your own "thorns" empower you to show grace to difficult people in your life?

7. Read Ephesians 5:31-33. Paul describes the union between Christ and the church as a "great mystery". How does the reality that every believer is part of the "Bride of Christ" provide a sense of belonging that transcends your current human relationship status?

8. Read Matthew 27:29. To redeem humanity from the curse of the fall, soldiers wove "thorn branches into a crown" and placed it on Jesus' head. Discuss the significance of Jesus wearing the very symbol of our "pains" and "brokenness" so that we could be restored to God.

9. Reflect on the "Lily among thistles." In Song of Solomon 2:2, the young man describes his darling as a "lily among thistles". How can you, as a member of Christ's church, reflect His beauty and "fragrance" in an environment (work, home, or community) that feels full of "thorns"?

10. Close in Prayer: Thank Jesus for being the one who is "pleasing beyond words". Ask Him to help you find your ultimate identity in His love and to thank Him for wearing the crown of thorns to heal your brokenness.

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Analogy for Understanding: Relying on human relationships for ultimate satisfaction is like trying to find shade under a hedge of thorns; eventually, you will be pierced. However, Christ’s love is the "Lily of the Valley," offering a beauty and security that remains even when the "thorns" of this broken world are pressing in.