Week of January 12, 2025 –  Real Purpose

Description:

In a world filled with distractions and competing definitions of success, it’s easy to lose sight of why we are truly here. This week’s sermon dives into God’s design for our lives, revealing that our ultimate purpose is not in personal achievements or fleeting pursuits but in fulfilling the great commission. Being a disciple maker is not just a calling for a select few; it’s a purpose embedded in every believer’s identity. Explore how Jesus’ example and command to “go and make disciples” equips us to live lives of eternal significance, impacting others while drawing closer to God.

Small Group Study Guide

Ice Breaker Questions

1. What’s the most exciting thing you’ve ever shared with someone? How did they react?
2. Imagine you were at a well like the woman in the story. Who is one unexpected person you would love to bump into and why?
3. What’s the most unique or memorable way someone has shared good news with you?

Scripture Passages

Matthew 28:19 (NLT):

• 19 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. 

John 4:19 (NLT):

• 19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet.”

Deuteronomy 18:15  (NLT):

• 15 The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.

John 15:8 (NLT):

• 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

Acts 11:26 (NIV):

• When he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

Discussion Questions

1. In the story of the woman at the well, how did Jesus demonstrate intentionality in reaching someone often overlooked? What can we learn from his approach to evangelism?
2. How does the concept of bearing fruit in John 15:8 connect to making disciples? What kind of “fruit” do you think Jesus expects from our lives?
3. The woman at the well immediately told others about her encounter with Jesus. What does that teach us about the role of personal testimony when it comes to sharing the gospel?
4. Jesus met the woman where she was, both physically and spiritually. How can we apply that principle to share Christ with others?
5. How do you spell filling our purpose as disciple-makers bring glory to God, as described in John 15:8?

Action Steps

• What fears or obstacles have kept you from sharing your faith like the woman at the well? How can you overcome them?

• Who is someone in your life that you feel God is calling you to reach out to? What step can you take this week to engage them in a meaningful conversation about faith?

• How can your small group or Fork Christian Church better support one another in fulfilling our purpose as disciple-makers?

Prayer:

God, thank you for revealing to us the true purpose of our lives, to know you, and to make you known to others. We are humbled by the example of Jesus, who reached out with love and truth to those in need, just as he did with the woman at the well. Help us to follow his example, sharing the hope and joy of the gospel with those around us. We ask for courage to step out in faith, wisdom to speak your truth with love, and sensitivity to meet people where they are. May we bear fruit that glorifies you, as you have called us to be disciple-makers in every aspect of our lives.