Still Standing
How Your Story Brings Hope to a Broken World | Week 8
December 1, 2024 | By Jim Burgen
What’s stopping you from living out your faith boldly? In this powerful message, Jim Burgen unpacks what it means to engage in the Great Commission. Jesus didn’t call us to sit on the sidelines—He called us to share our story and step into His mission. Discover how trusting Jesus, being led by the Spirit, and uniting in mission can transform your life and the lives of those around you. God uses ordinary people to bring extraordinary hope. Could He be calling you?
Setlist
Discussion Questions
Great Commission
Jim Burgen
Dec 1st, 2024
// LEADER NOTE: This week is a little different. You’ll start with three discussion questions to help get the group engaged, and then guide them into a time of sharing parts of their stories during the Challenge section.
As the leader, it’s crucial that you go first when it comes to sharing the story questions. Your openness and vulnerability will set the tone for the group and encourage others to share more deeply. Lead by example, and create a safe, welcoming space for everyone to reflect and participate.
// Bible References: Rom 10:13-17, Matt 28:18-20; John 9:1-17,24-27,35-38
// Community Question: What is one of your favorite stories, books, or movies? Share what about that story, book, or movie makes it standout to you.
// Discussion Questions
- Read John 9:1-17. In the message, Jim shared how the blind man simply told others how he received his sight without knowing everything about Jesus. What does the story of the blind man teach us about sharing our personal stories with others?
- Jim discusses how the Great Commission commands believers to make disciples and share the good news worldwide, stressing the need for active participation. What does the Great Commission mean to you, and how can you actively participate in it in your daily life?
- Jim emphasizes that the Great Commission involves going out into the world and sharing your personal experience and relationship with Jesus, rather than relying solely on church leaders. Why do you think it's important for Christians to actively share their faith story rather than just inviting friends to church?
// Reflection Challenge:
To help us grow in sharing our story, we want you take a few minutes to reflect on your faith journey and how your relationship with Jesus has shaped your life. Use the questions below to guide your thoughts. Write down your answers, and in a few minutes we will all share our responses with the group.
Sharing Time: Each person will have up to 5 minutes to share their story with the group. Be intentional about listening to one another with kindness and respect.
Story Questions:
- Where did your faith journey begin?
Reflect on the moment you first started to understand or experience faith in Christ. Who or what influenced you during that time? - How has your relationship with Jesus impacted your life?
Share a specific moment or season when your faith in Jesus helped you through a challenge or brought significant change to your life. - Where do you see God working in your life right now?
Think about a recent experience where you’ve noticed God teaching, guiding, or encouraging you.
// Close: After everyone has shared, take a moment to close in prayer as a group. Pray for each other, asking God to continue working in your lives and stories. Specifically, ask for His guidance and boldness to step into opportunities to live out the Great Commission this December.
Encourage the group to be intentional about seeking ways to share God’s love and truth with those around them during this season.