On Mission: The Jesus Way
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Have you ever wondered if your brokenness could become someone's breakthrough? Like the Samaritan woman who transformed from hiding her past to boldly sharing her testimony, Pastor John Mark reveals that missions isn't about perfect people but about surrendered hearts. Through powerful examples from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, he shows how Cottonwood Creek actively supports over 26 local ministries, multiple church plants, and missionaries in 160+ countries. Whether it's building homes in the Rio Grande Valley or reaching college campuses, this message inspires us all to say "yes" to God's mission. Don't miss this compelling call to move from spectator to participant in God's global work!
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could have dinner with any fictional character from movies or books, who would it be and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
In Matthew 28, Jesus gives the Great Commission. Why does Pastor John Mark emphasize that this is a command to be obeyed rather than a suggestion to consider?
The sermon references Hudson Taylor's quote that 'the Great Commission is not an option to be considered, it is a command to be obeyed' and explains how Jesus gave authority and clear direction to go make disciples
How does viewing the Great Commission as a command rather than a suggestion change how you approach sharing your faith?
How does the story of Isaiah's encounter with God in Isaiah 6:5-7 demonstrate the proper heart attitude for someone wanting to be on mission?
The sermon describes how Isaiah first acknowledged his own sinfulness ('unclean lips') before God, received forgiveness, and then responded with 'Here I am, send me.'
What areas of your life might need to be surrendered before you can effectively serve on God's mission?
The sermon describes missions as having three 'dominoes' - Jerusalem (local), Judea/Samaria (national), and the ends of the earth (international). Why is it important for churches to be involved at all three levels?
Pastor John Mark detailed various ministry efforts at each level, from local food banks to national church plants to international missionaries
Which of these three areas do you feel most called to serve in, and why?
How does the example of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8 challenge our perspective on giving to missions during difficult times?
The sermon highlighted how these churches gave generously despite their extreme poverty and severe trials, even pleading for the privilege to give
What prevents you from being more generous in supporting missions, and how might the Macedonian churches' example inspire you to overcome those obstacles?
What can we learn from the woman at the well about how ordinary conversations can become mission opportunities?
The sermon describes how Jesus didn't need a pulpit or microphone, just a conversation, and how the woman's simple invitation to 'come and see' led many in her town to believe
What simple opportunities for spiritual conversations might you be missing in your daily life?
Prayer 🙏
Please take a moment to share any prayer requests you have.
Ask God for a heart that is always willing to surrender to His will, just like Isaiah.
Pray for the strength to live the Great Commission in our daily lives, at work and home.
Seek guidance on how you can contribute to local and global missions within your means.
Request courage to share your story of transformation with others as the Samaritan woman did.
