AMA: When the Church Goes AWOL- Week 3 / Pastor Jeff Struecker

Big Idea: The way we do Sunday morning doesn’t make disciples. I. Sending is God’s mission; not seating! John 20:19 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, I also send you.” II. Discipleship is far messier than Sunday Morning. Acts 15:36-41 After some time had passed, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit the brothers and sisters in every town where we have preached the word of the Lord and see how they’re doing.” Barnabas wanted to take along John who was called Mark. But Paul insisted that they should not take along this man who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone on with them to the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed off to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and departed, after being commended by the brothers and sisters to the grace of the Lord. He traveled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. III. Maintaining moral clarity in a self-focused culture.  2 Timothy 2:1-7 You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the concerns of civilian life; he seeks to please the commanding officer. Also, if anyone competes as an athlete, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer ought to be the first to get a share of the crops. Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. Next Steps: Believe: I surrender my soul to Jesus today.Become: I will join the Discipleship Summit.Be Sent: I will help a friend share their faith this week.  Discussion Questions: What is a disciple?  Explain using your own words. How exactly does a church make a disciple?How do you know when your role in the discipleship process is complete?Is there a difference between following Jesus only and becoming a leader for Jesus?  If so, explain your answer. If the church’s mission is to reach the world, what is the best way to measure if the church is being successful? Who do you know who has been hurt by the church and needs to hear this sermon series?Pray for the Holy Spirit to open the opportunity for you to invite them to listen with you.