Missions
Important Note
This week’s study will look a little different. There is no video clip. Instead, we’ll reflect directly on the key themes from the message and Scripture together.
Introduction
The mission of God has always been carried forward by ordinary people empowered by an extraordinary gospel. From the early church to today, the message of Jesus has reached across nations, cultures, and generations. It is not because of human strength, but because of God’s Spirit working through His people. This week, we explore how churches can grow by the power of the gospel, through hospitality that transcends boundaries, and by the radical act of forgiveness. These three expressions of faith reveal the heart of God’s mission to the world.
Discuss
Leaders: Choose questions that spark meaningful conversation and discern where God is leading—no need to answer them all.- Read Romans 1:16. Paul calls the gospel “the power of God that brings salvation…”. What do you think makes the gospel powerful—not just as a message, but as a transforming reality in people’s lives?
- Read Hebrews 13:2. The Greek word for hospitality is philoxenia, “friend to a stranger.” How might we live out that kind of hospitality today? What practical barriers can prevent us from doing so?
- Read Luke 14:13–14. Jesus challenges us to include those who cannot repay us. What might it look like for our group (or you personally) to show this kind of kingdom hospitality?
- Read Matthew 5:44. Jesus commands us to love and pray for our enemies. How is forgiveness one of the most powerful ways to reflect God’s character and advance His mission?
- Think about the people or groups who might be hardest for you to love or forgive. What would radical forgiveness look like in that space?
- The gospel, hospitality, and forgiveness each break down barriers in different ways. Which of these do you sense God calling you to grow in most right now?
Is there someone in your life who seems far from faith or difficult to reach? Perhaps a neighbour, colleague, or even someone you’ve struggled to get along with? How could you begin showing them the love of Jesus through genuine friendship, hospitality, or forgiveness this week?
Respond
The gospel still changes lives today through love that welcomes, and forgiveness that restores. As followers of Jesus, we are part of that ongoing story of grace. This week, what is one small step you can take to live out God’s mission—whether through sharing your story, extending hospitality, or offering forgiveness?
Download PDFMissions – Part 2
Important Note
This week’s study will look a little different. There is no video clip. Instead, we’ll reflect directly on the key themes from the message and Scripture together.
Introduction
This discussion is a continuation of last week’s message presented by our guest speaker from the mission field. The lessons here are applicable to everyday Christian living and discipleship. The Church is composed of the people of God, therefore, as Christians grow spiritually, the Church grows. This often comes at a personal cost, as being a disciple of Jesus fundamentally involves laying down our ‘rights’ as we follow Him as Lord and Saviour.
Discuss
Leaders: Select 3-4 questions that spark meaningful conversations and discern where God is leading – no need to answer them all..
- In some cultures and even church denominations, women are not allowed to be in leadership roles. Here at Crossway, we believe that everyone can serve based on their giftings, regardless of gender or status. Have you personally experienced or observed a situation where someone was not allowed to serve in a particular role because of their gender or some other limiting criteria? Are there situations where culture may need to take precedence in this matter?
- Read Romans 12:4-8. What are some of the giftings or talents described here? What is Paul challenging the Church to do with these gifts? Do any of the gifts resonant with you?
- We are called to serve based on our giftings, talents and passions, not because of our gender or status. What do you think your giftings may be, and how do you think you can serve in these areas?
- Read Matthew 10:37-39. What is your understanding of this teaching in regard to our relationships with our parents and children in comparison to our relationship with Christ? Have you experienced or observed a situation where you or someone else had to choose?
- Discipleship often comes with sacrifice, though the kind of sacrifice experienced in Western societies is often quite different from what believers face in places where following Christ brings persecution. What kind of sacrifices or persecution can Christians in the Western world face? How can one still have hope despite the sacrifices made, according to Matthew 19:29?
- In Matthew 16:24, Jesus said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” What does it mean to ‘deny’ oneself and ‘take up the cross’? How has this been true for you – that is, what did you have to ‘deny’ or what ‘cross’ did you have to bear when you began following Jesus?
- Review John 5:19-20. What does Jesus mean when he says he can only do what he sees his Father doing? How can we follow his example?
Who’s Your Person of Peace?
A person of peace is someone who loves you, serves you and listens to you. It is likely that God is already working in their lives. God may have placed them in your world so that you can connect with them and invite them to read the Bible with you. Like Jesus, we can do only something where God is already working in someone’s life. Who might be that Person of Peace in your life right now?
Respond
Let us make a fresh commitment to follow Jesus despite the cost of discipleship – he is worth it because he loves us and he is Lord. When we trust him enough to lose our lives for him, we discover our life’s full potential and meaning. Take a few moments with your group to make this fresh commitment to follow and serve Him. What do you think God is currently challenging you to sacrifice for His sake?