Unusual Suspects: John the Baptist - Prepare the Way
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
What if the key to fulfilling your purpose isn't in your credentials or qualifications, but in the sincerity of your heart? In this week's compelling message, Pastor John Mark Caton continues the "Unusual Suspects" series, highlighting prophets throughout Scripture whom God chose not for their resumes, but for their commitment. A focal point is John the Baptist, an extraordinary figure with a rugged lifestyle and a simple yet powerful message: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near!" John embodies the theme that God uses the most unlikely people to achieve His divine plans—reminding us that the past, filled with sin and doubt, does not disqualify us from His purpose. As Pastor John Mark shares how John the Baptist pointed to Jesus as the "Lamb of God," he encourages us to recognize our role in directing others toward Christ. This message resonates deeply with anyone feeling lost or overlooked in their spiritual journey. Tune in to learn how you can embrace your heart for God and fulfill your calling by sharing His love with the world. Take action now and engage with this powerful lesson; your journey begins today!
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you had to choose between living in the scalding desert or the subzero Arctic, which would you choose and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
Why do you think Pastor emphasized that John the Baptist is not the message but rather the messenger? How can this distinction help us understand our own roles in sharing our faith?
Pastor explained that John the Baptist served as the microphone for Jesus's message, emphasizing that he was not the focus but rather the one pointing to the message.
In what ways do you currently share your faith, and how can you ensure that your focus remains on Jesus rather than on yourself?
Reflect on the idea of repentance as presented by Pastor. How does John the Baptist's call to 'repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near' apply to our lives today?
Pastor shared that John the Baptist’s message was about the need for repentance, highlighting that there are no participation trophies in the kingdom of God.
What areas of your life do you feel you need to repent or change to better align with God's will?
Pastor mentioned that Jesus referred to John the Baptist as 'the greatest man born of woman.' What qualities do you think led Jesus to make this statement about John?
Pastor referenced how Jesus regarded John the Baptist highly, noting his unique role and unwavering commitment to his mission.
What qualities do you admire in people you consider great, and how can you cultivate similar qualities in your own life?
How does the historical context that Pastor provided—such as the 400 silent years—help us understand the significance of John's ministry when he finally arrived on the scene?
Pastor discussed the silence between the Old and New Testaments and how God was still working behind the scenes, preparing the way for John and Jesus.
In your life, have you experienced times where it felt like God was silent? How did you cope with those periods, and what did you learn from them?
What does it mean to you personally to 'make straight the way for the Lord' in your everyday life?
Pastor emphasized that John’s mission was to prepare the people for Jesus's arrival, prompting us also to prepare others to meet Jesus.
What practical steps can you take this week to help others encounter Jesus in your school, community, or circle of friends?
Prayer 🙏
• Share any prayer requests within the group.
• Ask God to help us recognize the unusual ways He calls us to serve Him in our lives.
• Pray for courage to repent and turn towards God in our daily actions.
• Ask for wisdom to point others towards Jesus, just as John the Baptist did.
