Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

1. Growing Up: What’s something from your family or community that was passed down to you? (Example: a tradition, saying, skill, or value)
2. Legacy Building: If you could be remembered for one thing, what would it be?
3. Unexpected Blessings: Josh mentioned a surprising Wawa in his small town. Have you ever received an unexpected blessing that felt like a little “wink” from God?

Discussion Points

1. What is Legacy?

• Definition: Legacy is a lasting impact that will benefit generations to come.
• Reflection: How would you define “legacy” in your own words?
• Key Passage: Read 2 Timothy 4:6-7.
  • “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Discussion: Paul viewed his life as an offering to God, poured out for others. What could it look like for us to “pour out” our lives in our own communities?

2. Building the Church for the Future

• Reflection: We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. How have others’ sacrifices impacted our church today?
• Key Passage: Read Matthew 16:16-18.
  • “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”

Discussion: What are ways we can actively contribute to the legacy of Fork Christian Church? In what ways can we be the “rock” God builds upon?

3. Imperfect People for a Perfect Mission

• Reflection: Jesus entrusted His mission to imperfect people. What does this tell us about our role in His work, even with our flaws?
• Key Passage: Read Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission).
  • “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Discussion: How can we each be part of fulfilling the Great Commission, even when we feel imperfect or unworthy?

4. Overcoming Hurt and Choosing to Serve

• Reflection: Many have experienced hurt from the church. Josh shared that our imperfections don’t disqualify us from God’s work. How can we reconcile personal hurt with a commitment to the church?
• Key Passage: Read Matthew 16:18 again, focusing on the church’s role in spiritual warfare.
  • “And the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”

Discussion: What does it mean for the church to “take the battle to Hell” and stand against spiritual darkness? How might healing from past hurts equip us to serve?

Application

1. Legacy in Action: How can we take steps this week to start or continue building a legacy at Fork Christian Church?
2. Pouring Out: Think about an area of your life where God might be asking you to “pour out” your time, talents, or resources. What is one specific action you can take this week?
3. Prayer for the Next Generation: Spend time praying for the younger generations in the church so that they can take up the baton and carry on the legacy of faith.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of legacy shown by those before us and the legacy left by Your servant Paul. Help us pour our lives in love and service to You, leaving an impact for generations to come. Grant us the courage to build, sacrifice, and carry on Your work. In Jesus’ name, Amen.