Discipleship: A Call to Sacrificial Commitment and Outreach
Summary
### Summary
At Boulder Mountain Community Church, our mission is to make disciples who find and follow Jesus. This mission is rooted in the Great Commission from Matthew 28, where Jesus commands us to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe His commandments. Discipleship is not a quick process; it takes time, relationships, and a foundation in God's Word. We emphasize the importance of wisdom and courage, both of which come from God's Word, to guide us in our mission.
We are called to think beyond ourselves and focus on "them"—those who do not yet know Jesus. This involves intentional outreach to our communities, whether it's our neighbors, coworkers, or family members. The early church, led by figures like Paul, exemplifies the dedication and time required for effective ministry. Paul spent 14 years preparing before his first missionary journey, and his first convert, Sergius Paulus, ignited a lifelong commitment to spreading the Gospel.
Looking ahead, we have a vision for the next three years that includes baptizing 150 people, planting a new church, establishing a training ground for future ministry leaders, and building a new facility to better serve our community. These goals are ambitious, but we trust in God's provision and guidance. We are committed to doing whatever it takes, short of sin, to reach people for Jesus.
We are also reminded of the story of Eric Liddell, an Olympic gold medalist who dedicated his life to missionary work in China, ultimately dying in a prison camp during World War II. His life exemplifies the call to make disciples as we go, wherever that may lead us. As a church, we are committed to reaching out, making necessary changes, and continually focusing on those who have yet to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Discipleship Takes Time and Relationships: Making disciples is a lifelong, often messy process that requires deep relationships and a strong foundation in God's Word. It’s not about quick fixes or short-term programs but about investing time and effort into nurturing faith. [03:01]
2. Focus on "Them": Our mission is to reach those who do not yet know Jesus. This requires us to shift our focus from our own preferences and comforts to the needs of others. We must be intentional in thinking about and reaching out to those who are not yet part of our community. [06:15]
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is our helper in fulfilling the Great Commission. Just as the early church relied on the Holy Spirit to reach "them," we too must depend on the Spirit's guidance and power in our mission. [08:06]
4. Vision for the Future: Our vision for the next three years includes baptizing 150 people, planting a new church, establishing a training ground for ministry leaders, and building a new facility. These goals are ambitious, but they are rooted in our commitment to making disciples and trusting God with the results. [13:01]
5. Sacrificial Commitment: Following Jesus often requires sacrifice. Whether it's changing our preferences, investing time, or even risking our lives, like Eric Liddell, we are called to do whatever it takes to reach people for Jesus. This sacrificial commitment is essential for effective ministry. [23:46]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:33] - The Great Commission
[03:01] - Discipleship Takes Time
[04:43] - Teaching and Baptizing
[06:15] - Focus on "Them"
[08:06] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[09:40] - Paul's Journey and Preparation
[11:19] - Paul's First Convert
[13:01] - Vision for the Next Three Years
[14:26] - Baptizing 150 People
[15:45] - Planting a New Church
[17:11] - Training Future Leaders
[18:41] - Building a New Facility
[20:00] - Commitment to Outreach
[22:15] - Eric Liddell's Sacrifice
[23:46] - Call to Action
[25:05] - Writing Down a Name
[26:28] - Josiah Queen's Song
[27:59] - Closing Remarks
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
2. Acts 9:3-6 (ESV): "Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' And he said, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.'"
3. Acts 13:6-12 (ESV): "When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they came upon a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus. He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God. But Elymas the magician (for that is the meaning of his name) opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith. But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him and said, 'You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.' Immediately mist and darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking people to lead him by the hand. Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus command His followers to do in Matthew 28:19-20?
2. How long did Paul prepare before his first missionary journey, and who was his first convert? ([03:01])
3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the mission of making disciples according to the sermon? ([08:06])
4. What are the four specific goals Boulder Mountain Community Church has for the next three years? ([13:01])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus promises to be with His followers "to the end of the age" in Matthew 28:20?
2. How does Paul's 14-year preparation period before his first missionary journey reflect the importance of time and relationships in discipleship? ([03:01])
3. What does the story of Sergius Paulus in Acts 13:6-12 teach us about the challenges and rewards of sharing the Gospel?
4. How does the example of Eric Liddell's sacrificial commitment to missionary work in China inspire us to make sacrifices in our own lives? ([23:46])
#### Application Questions
1. Discipleship takes time and relationships. Reflect on a time when you invested in someone's spiritual growth. What were the challenges and rewards? How can you continue to invest in others? ([03:01])
2. The sermon emphasizes focusing on "them"—those who do not yet know Jesus. Identify one person in your life who does not know Jesus. What specific steps can you take this week to reach out to them? ([06:15])
3. The Holy Spirit is our helper in fulfilling the Great Commission. How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your daily life? ([08:06])
4. Boulder Mountain Community Church has ambitious goals for the next three years. How can you personally contribute to these goals, whether through prayer, volunteering, or other means? ([13:01])
5. Eric Liddell's life exemplifies sacrificial commitment. What is one area of your life where you feel called to make a sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel? ([23:46])
6. The sermon challenges us to think beyond our own preferences and comforts. What is one personal preference or comfort you can set aside to better serve others and reach "them"? ([06:15])
7. Reflect on the vision for the future shared in the sermon. How does having a clear vision and specific goals help you stay focused and motivated in your spiritual journey? ([13:01])
Devotional
Day 1: Discipleship Requires Patience and Deep Relationships
Discipleship is a lifelong journey that demands patience, dedication, and the building of deep, meaningful relationships. It is not about quick fixes or short-term programs but about investing time and effort into nurturing faith. This process can often be messy and challenging, but it is through these trials that true growth and transformation occur. The foundation of discipleship is rooted in God's Word, which provides the wisdom and courage needed to guide us in this mission.
As we engage in discipleship, we must remember that it is a relational process. Just as Jesus spent time with His disciples, teaching and guiding them, we too must invest in the lives of others. This means being present, listening, and walking alongside them in their faith journey. It is through these relationships that we can help others grow in their understanding and love for Jesus. [03:01]
Bible Passage:
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9 (ESV)
Reflection:
Think of someone in your life who is new to faith or struggling in their journey. How can you invest more time and effort into building a deeper relationship with them this week?
Day 2: Shifting Focus from Self to Others
Our mission as followers of Jesus is to reach those who do not yet know Him. This requires us to shift our focus from our own preferences and comforts to the needs of others. We must be intentional in thinking about and reaching out to those who are not yet part of our community. This outward focus is essential for fulfilling the Great Commission and making disciples of all nations.
To effectively reach others, we need to be aware of the opportunities around us. Whether it's our neighbors, coworkers, or family members, there are countless people who need to hear the good news of Jesus. By being intentional in our interactions and looking for ways to serve and share the Gospel, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us. [06:15]
Bible Passage:
"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others." - Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)
Reflection:
Identify one person in your life who does not know Jesus. What is one specific action you can take this week to show them the love of Christ?
Day 3: Dependence on the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is our helper in fulfilling the Great Commission. Just as the early church relied on the Holy Spirit to reach those who did not know Jesus, we too must depend on the Spirit's guidance and power in our mission. The Holy Spirit equips us with the wisdom, courage, and strength needed to share the Gospel and make disciples.
As we seek to reach others, it is crucial to spend time in prayer and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance. By doing so, we can be sensitive to His leading and open to the opportunities He places before us. The Holy Spirit empowers us to speak boldly and act in love, enabling us to effectively share the message of Jesus with those around us. [08:06]
Bible Passage:
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." - Acts 1:8 (ESV)
Reflection:
Spend time in prayer today, asking the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your efforts to reach others. How can you be more attentive to His leading in your daily interactions?
Day 4: Vision for the Future
Our vision for the next three years includes baptizing 150 people, planting a new church, establishing a training ground for ministry leaders, and building a new facility. These goals are ambitious, but they are rooted in our commitment to making disciples and trusting God with the results. By setting these goals, we are challenging ourselves to step out in faith and rely on God's provision and guidance.
As we work towards these goals, it is essential to remain focused on our mission and trust that God will provide the resources and opportunities needed to achieve them. By staying committed to our vision and continually seeking God's direction, we can make a significant impact on our community and beyond. [13:01]
Bible Passage:
"Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." - Proverbs 16:3 (ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on the vision and goals set for the next three years. How can you personally contribute to these efforts? What steps can you take to support the mission of making disciples?
Day 5: Sacrificial Commitment to the Mission
Following Jesus often requires sacrifice. Whether it's changing our preferences, investing time, or even risking our lives, we are called to do whatever it takes to reach people for Jesus. This sacrificial commitment is essential for effective ministry and fulfilling the Great Commission. The story of Eric Liddell, an Olympic gold medalist who dedicated his life to missionary work in China, exemplifies this call to make disciples as we go, wherever that may lead us.
As we reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have gone before us, we are reminded of the importance of our own commitment to the mission. By being willing to make sacrifices and step out of our comfort zones, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of others and advance the Kingdom of God. [23:46]
Bible Passage:
"Then Jesus told his disciples, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.'" - Matthew 16:24-25 (ESV)
Reflection:
Consider what sacrifices you may need to make in order to more effectively reach others for Jesus. What is one specific change you can make in your life this week to better align with this mission?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "We make disciples. What does a disciple look like at Boulder Mountain? It takes time. It's friendships. It's relationships. It's based on God's Word. The source of our truth here at Boulder Mountain, the source of our small groups, the source of our teaching, the source of our programs is the foundation of God's Word. We want to help our students. We want to help our kids know God's Word. Give me the wisdom to know what to do. Where does wisdom come from? Wisdom comes from God's Word. And then courage to do what God's told me to do. Wisdom and courage, working together." [01:33] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Every day I wake up, I have one person I automatically think about pretty naturally. Do you know who that is? It's me. Nobody needs to tell Kyle what I like, what my preferences are, what I prefer and want. I think about me all day long. I'm pretty good about thinking about me. A lot of churches are the same. We do a pretty good job thinking about us. What programs we want, what messages we want. Oh, what songs we like. Am I getting personal now? Them. We have a lot of preferences corporately here today. That's okay. But who we need to think about intentionally every week." [06:15] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The local church is the plan to reach them. Jesus says, I'm going to leave. And when I leave, I'm going to give you the helper. The helper is the Holy Spirit. And the Holy Spirit, as the church gets started, is the way them are going to be reached. And it is our intention, it is our plan to reach them." [08:06] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "What are you willing to do? What are you willing to sacrifice? What are you willing to give up in order so that them might come to know Jesus? Paul's the first church planner. Where's Boulder Mountain Community Church going? I just want to share a few things with you, four things with you, where I believe God is taking us over the next three years. You're like, three years? That's a long time. This is vision. What is vision? Vision is your mission statement with a deadline." [13:01] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "On the crowded streets, all the people that I see, I want them to know that Jesus, the Jesus that I know. If I'm the closest thing to a Bible that they read, I want them to know that Jesus is the Jesus that I know. Let the words they read be what you wrote. Father, help me to go. I'll be a garden in Manhattan. That's the name of the song, a garden in Manhattan. I'll be a river where it's dry. We know about that, right? When my friends can't find the road, I'll be a roadside welcome sign. I'll be sunshine in Seattle, be a cool breeze in July. I'll be a light in the darkness. I'll be a garden, a garden in Manhattan." [26:28] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Making disciples takes time. We live in an instant society, instant culture. Everything is at this two-week class, six-week class, eight-week class. No. making a disciple is lifelong, and it is messy. Jesus' ministry spent 30 years. Jesus spends 30 years preparing for three years of ministry. Paul comes to meet Jesus, and I remember as a kid, I grew up in church, and the back of my Bible had all these cool maps. I love maps. I love geography, and so I would trace all these maps. Before he takes his first missionary journey, it's 14 years. He doesn't meet Jesus and then go get on a boat and starts going on mission trips. 14 years of preparation and study and prayer." [03:01] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Teaching them. In this passage, verse 19 and 20, I've had some conversations in small groups about this. It's the most important word. There's a lot of important words in these couple verses. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit. Teaching them. Teaching them to observe all I have commanded you. What's the most important word in that? There's a lot of important words, there's no wrong answer here, because whatever word you choose is in the Bible, so it's good. But I'm going to emphasize the word them. Them. Who's them? Them is not us. If you know Jesus, them is not you. You know Jesus, your eternity is secure. Praise God. There's a whole lot of them who aren't here, who don't know Jesus." [04:43] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Some of us have been praying for family members and friends, maybe people we know who don't know Jesus. Maybe parents in the room. You've been praying for somebody, and they haven't come to faith in your timeline. Fourteen years. Fourteen years. Paul wrote most of the New Testament. It took him fourteen years before he had his first convert. Who's his first convert? There's a man named Sergius Paulus. He's a pro-council of the Roman government. He's high up. He meets him. And at the time that he meets him, Sergius Paulus in Acts chapter 13, he's also, there's a magician there, and they're both competing for the soul of Sergius Paulus. Paul is pointing them to Jesus, and this magician, Bar-Hesus, is pointing him in a different direction." [09:40] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "My prayer, my goal is not that they come to know Jesus at Boulder Mountain. My prayer in my heart is they come to know Jesus. If that's another church down the street, if that's another church on Ellsworth, if that's another Bible-believing, gospel-preaching church, I will praise God just as much as it would be if it was here. We are on the same team with every other Bible-believing, gospel-preaching church in the area. There are a lot of people who don't know Jesus. And I am so excited to go on this journey with you over the next three years to see what God might want to do here in Northeast Mesa." [27:59] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If you found this message today encouraging and supportive, I'm going to ask you to like or share or comment and let us know and share that with your friends. If it's been an encouragement to you, I trust you'll be an encouragement to others as you share this resource. Hey, we've been praying for you. We're going to continue to pray for you throughout this week and trust you'll join us again next weekend. Have a great week." [27:59] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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