SERMON OUTLINE & MC DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE

SERMON OUTLINE:

FCF: In a world where many struggle with a sense of purposelessness and a yearning for deeper meaning, it's easy to feel lost and unfulfilled. This pervasive sense of emptiness calls us to find a higher purpose that truly enriches our lives.

Big Idea: There is no greater calling than to plant churches, which brings unparalleled meaning and purpose to our lives.

1) Examine the Great Commission. (John 20:21, Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:18-20, Luke 24:46-48, Acts 1:8)

2) Understand why we plant churches. (Acts 2:41-47, Acts 14:13-14)

- We want to be true to the biblical mandate.

- We want to be true to the Great Commission.

- We want to continually renew the whole body of Christ.

- As an exercise in Kingdom-mindedness.

3) Find your place in the story.

Prop: Let's give our lives for something and something worth living and dying for.

Discussion Questions:

1. Church planting is a "team sport" that involves the whole body of Christ. What are some of the positions on the team?

2. What role do you see yourself serving on the team?

MC DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE:

FIRST THIRD = LOOK BACK - Use up to 30 minutes to build community by caring for one another.

1. Check-in on everyone. (You can ask about "highs and lows" or "struggles and excitements" or whatever works to get people sharing about their lives with one another.)

2. Pray with and for one another as the Spirit prompts you.

3. Transition Question: Share a time when you felt a strong sense of purpose or calling. How did it impact your life?

SECOND THIRD = LOOK UP - Take about 1 hour to review and discuss the Scripture(s) and sermon from Sunday and it's application to your life:

4. First read the passages listed, having a different person read each one.

John 20:21, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:46-48, Acts 1:8

5. What are the key elements of the Great Commission as described in these passages? How do these elements relate to the concept of church planting?

6. How do you feel about the idea of church planting? Have you ever been involved in a church plant or a new ministry initiative? Share your experience.

THIRD THIRD = LOOK FORWARD - Take the last 30 minutes to pray and discuss how God is calling each person to live on mission with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit in the upcoming week.

7. Is there something specific from the Scriptures, sermon or discussion that God wants you to share with someone in your life? What is it and who does He want you to share with?

8. How will you live out the missional BLESS rhythms in the week ahead?

9. Do you or someone you know have a need that we can serve this week?

*BLESS Rhythms are practical ways in which disciples of Jesus live on mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit in their daily lives.

BEGIN WITH PRAYER: Start each day by praying and listening to the Spirit. Continue listening to the Spirit throughout the day, living surrendered to Jesus as your Savior and King.

LISTEN: Listen attentively to the Spirit's guidance and to those you encounter where you live, learn, work and play.

EAT and/or DRINK: Build friendships with others by sharing meals or drinks together, fostering connections and opportunities for meaningful conversations.

SERVE: Look for practical ways to serve your neighbors, co-workers, and those around you, demonstrating the love of Jesus through acts of kindness and compassion.

SHARE: Boldly share the gospel message and your personal testimony with those you engage with, expressing your faith with confidence and sincerity.