Message Big Idea

God breaks through and brings the good news of Jesus to all places reaching all people through church planting.

Scripture

Acts 11:19-21, 26-30 Acts 13:1-3

Icebreaker

Share your earliest positive memory of church, whether from childhood or more recently.
Opening Thought: In this series, we have been looking at the book of Acts and how the Holy Spirit broke through into the lives of the first Christ-followers. We want to learn from them about how God wants to breakthrough in our lives today. This week’s focus is on church planting. At first glance, some Christians may think that this area is just for the “professionals.” But we all have a part to play in church planting. We can begin by listening and learning. We can also grow in generosity and work toward multiculturalism. We can pray and fast, and some of us may even be sent to start something new. With all these steps, we can be part of church planting and be committed to this season of Breakthrough.

Bible Discussion

1. Read Acts 11:26-30. What stands out to you in these verses? Why? What can we learn from the “each according to his ability” statement?
2. Read Acts 13:1-3. Barnabas and Saul were sent as missionaries. Imagine the church community of Antioch at that time sending missionaries. In what ways do you think they prayed for them? What would you have prayed for them if you were there?

Life Application

3. Brainstorm as a group what it might mean for everyone to be involved in church planting. How can we learn more about church planting as a group?
4. The message about “Plants” talked about how we don’t have to be wealthy to be generous. How can you, as an individual, be generous toward church planting? What holds you back?
5. What has been your experience of diversity and multiculturalism at work or church? What actions as can we take to be a more inclusive church?
6. Commitment Sunday for Breakthrough is Sunday, November 17. How can we pray for each other as we get closer to that day?

Challenge

“Just as the true fruit of an apple tree is not an apple, but another tree; the true fruit of a small group is not a new Christian, but another group; the true fruit of a church is not a new group, but a new church; the true fruit of a leader is not a follower, but a new leader; the true fruit of an evangelist is not a convert, but new evangelists. Whenever this principle is understood and applied, the results are dramatic.” ― Ed Stetzer, Spiritual Warfare and Missions.

Pray for what God is calling you to do in this season of Breakthrough this coming week.