Sunday, September 20

How to Keep Going in 2020

Matthew 10:1-10, 16-20
Abby Odio, Pastor of Teaching and Formation

Jesus calls his church to “go” and be beacons of hope and life in a world of death and destruction. If that calling feels overwhelming at the moment, the good news is you’re not alone! Matthew 10 clarifies the following three realities, all of which are good news for us at this unique moment in time.

1. Jesus calls to “GO” as we are.
2. Jesus calls us to “GO” as more than we are.
3. Jesus calls us to keep going.

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Discussion Questions
Before questions, attempt to give the group a bit of a summary of the main points of the sermon and then choose a few questions that fit your group’s needs and style. We don’t intend for you to use all of these. Three to five questions may be a good number.

1. In the same way that Pastor Abby began the sermon, pause and take a deep collective breath as you pray. Pray to trust that God has an essential and encouraging word to share amongst you as you gather. (*Leader Note: Option for a moment of sitting in silence, setting a timer on your phone to bring people back with an audible prayer.)
2. Read Matthew 10:1-10, 16-20 aloud as a group.
3. What stands out to you in Jesus’ description of how the disciples are to go out?
4. What part of the directions sound challenging or easy?
5. Knowing that each of us is called where we are RIGHT NOW, even simultaneously with doubt, how does it look to express Christ to others? (Note: The kids offered some great examples during the community life moment as well!)
6. With the example of Jesus telling the disciples to leave their staffs behind, what are some of the things, or routines, defenses or provisions that you are used to depending on but do not currently have to lean on?
7. For sheep who are sent out among wolves, their only hope is the shepherd. How might you begin each day inviting Christ to become your strength in these ongoing moments of impossibility and vulnerability where we are today?
8. Pastor Abby offers that the world needs Christ in us; to hear the assuring words of the guide through us. How does that differ from expressing our own opinions or even platitudes?
9. We were reminded that Bethany Community Church does not exist to create people who are perfectly ready for that to which God calls them. We exist to be a community of believer-doubters. So in your believing doubt, how do you practice endurance of remaining close to Christ?
10. Close with a moment of quiet prayer to ask the question- where, in this moment God, are you filling me and guiding me? Guiding our group?