Deeper Still [Go With God] Discussion Guide

Summary

This sermon concludes a series on going deeper with God by examining how God moves with us when we obey His call to share the Gospel. Using the story of Simon Peter's encounter with Jesus from Luke 5, Pastor Jonathan illustrates how following Christ requires leaving everything behind to become 'fishers of people.' The message emphasizes that every believer is called to be an ambassador of Christ, carrying the wonderful message of reconciliation to the world around them. Rather than requiring dramatic life changes like moving to foreign countries, being on mission for God often means being a light in our everyday environments… our neighborhoods, workplaces, and relationships. The sermon challenges believers to see themselves as having the answer the world desperately needs: the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with grateful hearts, thanking You for bringing us together to explore what it means to go deeper with You. We ask that You would soften our hearts and open our minds to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and receptive to Your Holy Spirit's leading. Lord, we pray that through our discussion, You would reveal new truths from Your Word and show us practical ways to live out our faith. Give us ears to hear Your voice and hearts willing to respond to Your calling. We trust in Your love and guidance as we seek to grow closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

If you could have any superpower for just one day, what would it be and how would you use it to help others?

Key Verses

- Luke 5:1-11
- Matthew 28:18-20
- Romans 10:13-15
- 2 Corinthians 5:15-21
- Matthew 5:14-16

Questions

- In Luke 5, the disciples left everything to follow Jesus right after their biggest catch ever. What do you think made them willing to walk away from such success?
- Pastor Jonathan mentioned that following Jesus isn't just about making one bold choice, but about following Him day after day. What are some daily challenges you face in following Jesus consistently?
- Romans 10:14-15 asks 'How can they hear about him unless someone tells them?' Who was the person that first told you about Jesus, and how did that impact your life?
- According to 2 Corinthians 5:20, we are 'Christ's ambassadors.' What does it mean to you to represent Christ in your daily life?
- Jesus calls us 'the light of the world' in Matthew 5:14-16. In what practical ways can you let your light shine in your workplace, neighborhood, or family?
- The sermon emphasized that being on mission doesn't always mean going to distant places, but often means 'seeing the cross wherever God places you.' Where has God placed you that might be your mission field?
- What fears or doubts do you have about sharing your faith with others? How can we overcome these barriers?
- Pastor Jonathan compared believers to someone in an escape room who has found the answer and needs to share it. Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus, and how might you share that 'answer' with them?

Life Application

This week, identify one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus… whether it's a neighbor, coworker, family member, or friend. Commit to praying for them daily, asking God to soften their heart and give you opportunities to show Christ's love through your words and actions. Look for at least one practical way to demonstrate God's love to them this week, whether through a kind gesture, helpful action, or simply being present in their life.

Key Takeaways

- Following Jesus requires leaving behind our old priorities and securities to embrace His calling, just as the disciples left their nets and boats
- Every believer is commissioned to share the Gospel - we are all ambassadors of Christ carrying the message of reconciliation
- Being on mission for God often starts right where we are, in our everyday environments and relationships
- We are called to be the light of the world, letting our good deeds shine so others will see Christ in us
- God moves with us when we obey His call to go and share His love with others

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of fellowship and discussion. We are grateful that You have called us not only into relationship with You, but also into partnership with You in sharing Your love with the world. Help us to be faithful ambassadors this week, shining Your light in the places You have positioned us. Give us boldness to share Your truth, wisdom to know when and how to speak, and hearts full of compassion for those who don't yet know You. As we go about our day, may we remember that You are always with us, empowering us to be witnesses of Your amazing grace. Help us to see the people around us through Your eyes and to love them with Your heart. We commit to being faithful in the small things, trusting that You will use our obedience to accomplish Your greater purposes. In Your precious and holy name we pray, Amen.