Week 1: Introduction — The Twisted Sister Within

1.Weaver introduces the concept of the "twisted sister"—the inner war between the flesh and the Spirit that every Christian woman experiences. How did you first react to that phrase? Did it feel liberating, convicting, or something else entirely?

2.She draws on Romans 7:15–25, where Paul confesses, "I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." Have you ever felt exactly what Paul describes? Describe a recent, specific moment when your best intentions collided with your worst habits.

3.Weaver writes that our struggle is not unique but universal—even the most "put-together" Christian woman is fighting this same battle. Why do you think we so rarely admit this to one another in church settings? What would change if we did?

4.The author draws a key distinction early on: the goal of the Christian life is not behavior modification but genuine inner transformation. What is the difference, practically speaking? Where have you seen one substituted for the other in your own life or in your community?

5.Weaver introduces the three biblical Marys who will serve as guides throughout the book: Mary of Nazareth, Mary of Bethany, and Mary Magdalene. What do you already know about each of these women? Which one do you feel least familiar with or most curious about?

6.The introduction sets up the book's central question: Are you willing to give God full permission to enter the hidden places of your soul and renovate them? What "rooms" in your inner life feel most off-limits to Him right now—and why?

7.How does the gospel—the good news that Christ has already done the work of redemption—relate to the ongoing work of inner transformation? Is transformation something you earn or something you receive? What difference does your answer make in how you approach this study?