Over the next four weeks, we will explore four pillars of ministry, focus areas, for our church in 2026. We can't do everything, so how do we narrow the focus to strengthen our ministry? These four pillars are Outreach, Worship and Prayer, Care and Spiritual Growth.
In the sermon this week, I suggested that because Jesus sends his disciples out to make disciples, St Columb’s must be an outward-looking church. Every believer needs to see their own “sphere of influence” as their mission field for outreach. Outreach is not just a church program; it is both a personal and corporate way of life in Hawthorn.
Small Group Discussion Guide – Week 1 | Pillars: Outreach
Here are the suggested study and reflection questions for Week 1 – Pillars: Outreach.
Small Group Discussion Guide
1. Bible Study Questions
In Mark 6:6b–13, Jesus sends the disciples out earlier than we might expect. What stands out to you about when and how Jesus sends them, and what does that suggest about how God forms his people for mission?
In Matthew 28:16–20, Jesus’ final instruction is to “make disciples.” How does this shape our understanding of the Church’s purpose, and how is this different from simply maintaining an institution or community?
Across these passages, what do we learn about the relationship between going, speaking, and trusting God with the outcome? Where do you see God’s role, and where do you see human responsibility?
Jesus sends his disciples to particular places and people. How does the biblical idea of place and mission help us understand the Anglican focus on parish and local community?
Paul urges believers to live “a life worthy of the gospel” (Philippians 1). What might it look like, biblically, for everyday life to be a form of witness to Christ?
2. Life Application Questions
Thinking about your own “sphere of influence” (work, study, family, neighbourhood), where has God already placed you to be a witness to Jesus, even before you say anything?
The sermon described outreach as a journey: living as a witness, speaking about Jesus, and inviting others to explore faith. Where do you sense God inviting you to take a next step along that journey?
Hawthorn is a busy, time‑poor community with many pressures and commitments. What might gracious, realistic, and Spirit‑led outreach look like in your current season of life?
Prayer Suggestion
As you finish, I invite you to pray for one person God has placed on your heart this week. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom, compassion, and courage to love well, and trust God with the outcomes.
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