GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: The great and glorious truths of the gospel are not meant to be kept a secret. But how do we go about sharing these truths in a society that often seems hostile to the Christian message and the story of Jesus? As Paul closes out his letter to the Colossians, he lays a beautiful groundwork explaining in the simplest terms how ordinary followers of Jesus can work together with God in sharing his good news.
Main Points:
Jesus is at work opening doors for mission and showing us where they are.
Jesus tells us to be prepared to share his message with others.
Jesus invites us to work side by side with other believers in his mission.
On-Ramps:
Ask the Lord to open doors for you and others to share about Jesus.
Prepare yourself for opportunities, and talk with courage and grace.
Creatively work together with other believers in sharing the message.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
Talk about the idea of praying for “open doors.” Are there people in your life right now that you think may be open to the gospel?
What has been your personal experience with “sharing the gospel”? Is this an area that you feel confident and courageous, or more timid and tentative?
Share about some people that have been important in your faith journey. How have they impacted you in positive ways?
What could it look for you in this season if you were to join in God’s mission together with others?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
Pray for one another to be empowered and effective in sharing the gospel. If you’d like, share the names of one or two people in your life that you think may be open to the gospel and bring them to the Lord in prayer.
NEXT WEEK: Please note, there will be no discussion guides for December 24 & 31, 2023.
