Scripture:
Isaiah 61:1-3 NLT
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.
Devotional:
The call to be a “sent one” is not just for a select few; it is a mandate for all believers. Isaiah 61 paints a picture of a mission filled with hope, healing, and restoration. As followers of Christ, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to bring good news to those in need. This mission is not limited by geography or circumstance; it is a lifestyle of being available to God’s purposes wherever we are.
Response Questions:
Prayer Points:
Scripture:
Matthew 28:18-20 NLT
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Devotional:
The Great Commission is a clear directive from Jesus to His followers. It is a call to action that transcends time and culture. Making disciples is not just about conversion; it is about teaching and nurturing new believers in their faith. Jesus assures us of His presence as we go, reminding us that we are never alone in this mission.
Response Questions:
Prayer Points:
Scripture:
Romans 2:4 NLT
Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?
Devotional:
Kindness is a powerful tool in the believer’s arsenal. It is through God’s kindness that we are led to repentance, and it is through our kindness that others can see the heart of God. In a world often marked by harshness and division, kindness stands out as a beacon of God’s love and grace.
Response Questions:
Prayer Points:
Scripture:
Luke 19:10 NLT
For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.
Devotional:
Jesus’ mission was clear: to seek and save the lost. As His followers, we are called to continue this mission. It requires intentionality and a heart that breaks for those who do not yet know Him. Our lives should be a reflection of Jesus’ love and a testament to His saving grace.
Response Questions:
Prayer Points:
Scripture:
Acts 1:8 NLT
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
Devotional:
The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses of Jesus Christ. This empowerment is not just for personal edification but for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. We are called to be witnesses in our immediate surroundings and beyond, carrying the message of hope to the ends of the earth.
Response Questions:
Prayer Points:
A weekly guide to carry the conversation beyond Sunday morning.
Opening Prayer:
Begin with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide the discussion and open hearts to the message of being sent ones.
Discussion Questions:
Scripture Reflection:
Action Steps:
Closing Prayer:
Conclude with a prayer asking for courage, wisdom, and opportunities to be effective messengers of hope in the world.
A weekly practice you can do beyond Sunday morning.
A weekly practice you can do beyond Sunday morning.