Embracing Our Mission: Following Jesus Together

Missions is at the very heart of what it means to follow Jesus. When Jesus called his first disciples, he didn’t give them a long list of requirements or a detailed plan—he simply said, “Follow me,” and they left everything immediately. This wasn’t just a random act; in the Jewish context, being chosen by a rabbi was a high honor, something every young boy aspired to. Yet, Jesus didn’t pick the best of the best; he chose ordinary fishermen, people who had already been passed over by other rabbis. This shows that Jesus values availability over ability, and he invites all of us—regardless of our background—to join him in his mission.

Spending time with Jesus transforms us. Just as we get to know those we spend time with, the more we walk with Christ, the more we understand what he values. Jesus holds people in the highest regard, and if we are to become like him, people must matter to us as well. Following Jesus isn’t about making him more like us, but about being conformed to his image. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it. If we find ourselves too busy for the things of God, it’s a sign that our priorities need to shift.

Serving others is central to the life Jesus modeled. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve and to give his life for many. True greatness in the kingdom is found in humility and service, not in status or recognition. We are called to lay aside our own preferences, take up our cross daily, and follow him—even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.

The mission Jesus gave is clear: go and make disciples of all nations. This isn’t just for a select few; it’s for every follower of Christ. Missions isn’t an optional add-on to the Christian life—it is the very purpose of the church. Whether we go across the street or across the world, we are all called to be witnesses, sharing the love and message of Jesus wherever we are.

Ultimately, missions matters because it matters to Jesus—and because at one time, each of us was the mission. Someone shared the good news with us, and now we have the privilege and responsibility to do the same for others. We are better together, and God has entrusted his mission to us. Let’s not settle for being spectators; let’s step into the calling to love, serve, and reach people for Christ.

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Key Takeaways

• 1. Jesus Calls the Ordinary, Not the Elite Jesus chose fishermen—those overlooked by society and religious leaders—to be his disciples. This demonstrates that God values willingness and availability over worldly qualifications. If you feel unqualified or ordinary, remember that Jesus delights in using those who simply say “yes” to his call. [13:57]
• 2. Transformation Comes from Proximity to Christ The more time we spend with Jesus, the more we become like him. This isn’t about making Jesus fit our preferences, but about allowing him to reshape our hearts and priorities. True discipleship means learning what Jesus values—especially his love for people—and letting that shape our actions. [17:24]
• 3. Serving Is the Path to Greatness Jesus redefined greatness as serving others, not seeking to be served. He modeled humility by washing feet and giving his life for others, challenging us to do the same. When we serve, especially in unseen ways, we participate in the very heart of Christ’s mission. [22:58]
• 4. Missions Is the Core Purpose of the Church The mission of the church is not just to gather, but to go—making disciples of all nations. This is not reserved for a select group; every believer is called to be a witness, both locally and globally. Missions is not an extracurricular activity; it is the main thing Jesus entrusted to us. [25:39]
• 5. We Are the Fruit of Someone’s Mission Each of us is here because someone took the mission of Jesus seriously and shared the gospel with us. Remembering this should fuel our passion to reach others, knowing that God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. We are called to both give and go, participating in God’s redemptive work in the world. [31:10]

Youtube Chapters

• [00:00] - Welcome
• [05:48] - Introduction and Humor
• [07:04] - Why Missions Matters
• [09:09] - Two Questions for Christ Followers
• [10:18] - The Call of the First Disciples
• [13:12] - The Jewish Context of Discipleship
• [15:09] - The Three Goals of a Disciple
• [16:06] - You Can’t Outgive God
• [17:24] - Spending Time with Jesus
• [18:44] - What Jesus Values Most
• [19:44] - Becoming Like Jesus
• [21:15] - Prioritizing the Things of God
• [22:11] - Serving Like Jesus
• [24:23] - Taking Up Your Cross
• [25:39] - The Great Commission
• [26:42] - Why Missions Matters: Two Reasons
• [28:36] - Missions Starts Where You Are
• [30:04] - Crossing Boundaries for the Gospel
• [31:10] - Missions Is Personal
• [32:56] - Invitation and Response
• [36:00] - Closing and Encouragement

1. In Matthew 4:18-22, what did Jesus say to the fishermen, and how did they respond? What stands out about their reaction?
2. According to Mark 10:45, what did Jesus say about his own purpose in coming to earth?
3. In the sermon, what was the significance of Jesus choosing fishermen instead of the “best of the best” as his disciples? [[13:57]]
4. What is the main command Jesus gives in Matthew 28:18-20, and who is it directed to?

1. Why do you think Jesus chose ordinary people, like fishermen, to be his first disciples instead of religious experts or leaders? What does this say about who can be used by God? [[13:57]]
2. The sermon mentioned that spending time with Jesus changes what we value. How does being close to Jesus affect the way we see and treat other people? [[17:24]]
3. Jesus redefined greatness as serving others (Mark 10:45). How is this different from how the world usually defines greatness? [[22:11]]
4. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is given to all followers of Jesus. What might it look like for an “ordinary” Christian to live this out in their daily life? [[25:39]]

1. The disciples left their nets “immediately” to follow Jesus. Is there something in your life that you feel God might be asking you to leave behind or reprioritize so you can follow him more closely? What would it look like to respond “at once”? [[10:18]]
2. The sermon said Jesus values availability over ability. Do you ever feel unqualified to serve God or share your faith? What is one way you can say “yes” to God this week, even if you feel ordinary? [[13:57]]
3. The more time we spend with Jesus, the more we become like him. What is one practical way you can spend more intentional time with Jesus this week? How might this change your attitude toward others? [[17:24]]
4. Jesus modeled serving others, even in unseen or humble ways. Is there a specific act of service—big or small—that you can do for someone this week, especially if it’s not likely to be noticed or praised? [[22:58]]
5. The sermon challenged us to check our priorities: “If you’re too busy for the things of God, you’re too busy.” Is there something in your schedule that needs to shift so you can make space for God’s mission? What is one step you can take? [[21:15]]
6. Missions isn’t just about going overseas—it starts where you are. Who is one person in your life (neighbor, coworker, friend) who needs to experience the love of Jesus? What is one way you can reach out to them this week? [[28:36]]
7. The pastor reminded us that each of us is here because someone shared the gospel with us. Who shared Jesus with you, and how does remembering that motivate you to share with others? [[31:10]]