Empowered in Missions | Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores the transition from being a casual observer of God’s kingdom to becoming an active participant in His mission. Using the example of David Brainerd and the disciples in Luke 9:1-9, the pastor emphasizes that every true disciple must move from watching God work around them to allowing God to work through them. Jesus empowered His twelve disciples with authority and sent them out to proclaim the kingdom and heal the sick, demonstrating that effective ministry requires both proclamation of the gospel and compassionate action. The message challenges believers to surrender self-reliance and step into active participation in God’s mission, regardless of their perceived qualifications or experience.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Help us to set aside any distractions or preconceived notions, and make us receptive to Your Spirit’s leading. Lord, we pray that You would speak to each person here according to their specific needs and circumstances. Give us ears to hear, hearts to receive, and the courage to respond to whatever You are calling us to do. We surrender this time to You and ask that You would use it to draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one skill or hobby that you’ve always admired in others but have never tried yourself because you felt unqualified or unprepared?
Key Verses
Luke 9:1-9
Acts 1:8
Mark 1:17
Matthew 28:19-20
Questions
What does it mean to move from being an ‘observer’ to a ‘participant’ in God’s kingdom? Can you think of areas in your own life where you might still be observing rather than participating?
Jesus gave His disciples both ‘power’ and ‘authority.’ How do you understand the difference between these two things, and why do you think both were necessary?
The sermon mentions that effective ministry requires both proclamation and compassion. Why do you think both elements are essential? What happens when one is present without the other?
Jesus instructed the disciples to ‘take nothing for the road.’ What do you think this teaches us about self-reliance versus dependence on God in ministry?
The pastor mentioned that the greatest lie of our day is ‘believe in yourself.’ How does this contrast with what Jesus teaches about where our confidence should come from?
Herod heard about what the disciples were doing and asked, ‘Who is this?’ How can our lives and actions point people to ask questions about Jesus?
What are some common excuses people make for why they can’t be used by God? How does this passage address those concerns?
The sermon describes a ‘cyclone of discipleship’ where people come in, grow, and are sent out. How can we as individuals and as a church better embody this model?
Life Application
Identify one practical step this week where you can move from observing to participating in God’s mission.
Examples:
- Sharing your faith with someone
- Volunteering in a ministry or serving a neighbor
- Taking a next step in discipleship or leadership
Take one concrete step—and trust that God will supply what you lack through His Spirit.
Key Takeaways
Every true disciple must transition from observing God’s kingdom to actively participating in advancing it
Effective ministry requires both proclamation of the gospel and compassionate action working together
God uses willing and surrendered people regardless of their qualifications, experience, or perceived limitations
Self-reliance is the enemy of effective ministry – we must depend completely on God’s power and provision
The impact of obedient discipleship will always be greater than we can imagine, reaching even the most unlikely people
Ending Prayer
Father, thank You for this time of discussion and reflection on Your Word. We are grateful for the reminder that You want to use each of us in Your kingdom work, not despite our weaknesses but through them. Help us to take the step from observation to participation this week. Give us courage to overcome our fears and excuses, and fill us with Your Spirit so that we can proclaim Your truth with compassion. May our lives point others to ask the question, ‘Who is this Jesus?’ and may we be ready to give an answer. Transform us from consumers to contributors in Your kingdom. We surrender our plans, our comfort, and our self-reliance to You. Use us for Your glory and the advancement of Your gospel. In Jesus’ powerful name we pray, Amen.