Biblical Truth Workshop: Lies vs. Truth About Ourselves and Sin
A 2-Hour Study Session
Workshop Overview
This workshop explores common lies we believe about ourselves and sin, contrasting them with biblical truth that brings freedom. Participants will examine Scripture, share insights, and discover how God's truth transforms our understanding of identity and redemption.
Session Structure (120 minutes)
Opening & Icebreaker (15 minutes)
Truth or Lie Icebreaker
- Have participants sit in a circle
- Each person shares three statements about themselves: two truths and one lie
- Others guess which statement is the lie
- Debrief: "Sometimes it's hard to distinguish truth from lies, even about ourselves. Today we'll explore what God's Word says is true about us."
Part 1: Lies Women Believe (25 minutes)
Common Lies Women Believe About Themselves
- "I'm not good enough" vs. God's Truth: "You are fearfully and wonderfully made"
- Scripture: Psalm 139:14
- Discussion: How does perfectionism mask this lie?
- "My worth depends on others' approval" vs. God's Truth: "You are chosen and beloved"
- Scripture: 1 Peter 2:9, Ephesians 1:4-6
- Discussion: Where do we typically seek validation?
- "I can't change" vs. God's Truth: "You are being transformed"
- Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:2
- Discussion: What areas feel "unchangeable" to us?
Small Group Discussion (10 minutes)
In groups of 3-4, discuss: "Which of these lies resonates most with you, and why?"
Part 2: Lies Men Believe (25 minutes)
Common Lies Men Believe About Themselves
- "I must be strong and never show weakness" vs. God's Truth: "My strength is made perfect in weakness"
- Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
- Discussion: How does vulnerability actually demonstrate strength?
- "My value comes from my achievements/provision" vs. God's Truth: "You are loved unconditionally"
- Scripture: Romans 8:38-39, Ephesians 2:8-9
- Discussion: How does performance-based identity affect relationships?
- "I should handle everything alone" vs. God's Truth: "We need community and help"
- Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Galatians 6:2
- Discussion: What prevents us from asking for help?
Small Group Discussion (10 minutes)
In groups of 3-4, discuss: "How do these lies manifest differently in various life seasons?"
Part 3: Lies About Sin (30 minutes)
Common Lies We All Believe About Sin
- "This sin isn't that bad" vs. God's Truth: "All sin separates us from God"
- Scripture: Romans 3:23, Isaiah 59:2
- Discussion: How do we minimize or rank sins?
- "I can overcome sin through willpower" vs. God's Truth: "Victory comes through Christ's power"
- Scripture: Romans 7:15-25, Philippians 4:13
- Discussion: What's the difference between self-improvement and transformation?
- "God can't forgive what I've done" vs. God's Truth: "No sin is too great for God's grace"
- Scripture: 1 John 1:9, Psalm 103:12
- Discussion: How does shame keep us from grace?
- "I'm too far gone" vs. God's Truth: "God's mercy is new every morning"
- Scripture: Lamentations 3:22-23, Romans 5:8
- Discussion: What does "point of no return" thinking cost us?
Partner Discussion (15 minutes)
With a partner, share: "Which lie about sin have you struggled with most? How has Scripture spoken truth into that struggle?"
Part 4: Walking in Truth (20 minutes)
Practical Steps for Embracing Biblical Truth
- Renew Your Mind Daily
- Scripture: Romans 12:2
- Application: Memorize truth-filled verses that counter specific lies
- Practice Truth-Telling
- Scripture: Ephesians 4:15
- Application: Share struggles honestly in safe relationships
- Replace Lies with Truth
- Scripture: Philippians 4:8
- Application: Create personal "lie vs. truth" statements
- Live from Your True Identity
- Scripture: Colossians 3:1-4
- Application: Make decisions based on who God says you are
Individual Reflection (10 minutes)
Journal Prompts:
- What is one lie you've been believing about yourself?
- What Scripture verse speaks truth into that lie?
- What is one practical step you can take this week to live in that truth?
Closing Discussion & Prayer (5 minutes)
Large Group Sharing
Invite 2-3 volunteers to share one insight from their reflection time.
Closing Prayer
Leader prays, incorporating themes of truth, freedom, and transformation.
Take-Home Resources
Scripture Memory Cards
For Women:
- Psalm 139:13-14 (Wonderfully made)
- Ephesians 1:4 (Chosen before creation)
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 (New creation)
For Men:
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 (Strength in weakness)
- Romans 8:38-39 (Nothing separates from love)
- Ecclesiastes 4:12 (Strength in community)
About Sin & Grace:
- Romans 8:1 (No condemnation)
- 1 John 1:9 (Faithful to forgive)
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 (Made righteous)
Discussion Questions for Further Study
- How do cultural messages reinforce lies about our identity?
- What role does community play in helping us live in truth?
- How can we help others recognize and overcome lies they believe?
- What practices help you remember your true identity in Christ?
Recommended Follow-Up
- Continue meeting in small groups to discuss these themes
- Read through Romans 6-8 together over the next month
- Consider reading books like "Lies Women Believe" by Nancy Leigh DeMoss or "Wild at Heart" by John Eldredge for deeper study
"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." - John 8:32