Wk 4 // September 27 & 28

Wk 4  //  GOD’S MASTERPIECE
September 27 & 28, 2025
Small Group Study


SERMON RECAP

Spend a few minutes recapping this week's sermon together.
TAP HERE TO VIEW THE SERMON NOTES. 

• What was one takeaway from this week's sermon for you?
• Were there any stories, ideas, or points that stuck out?
• Was there anything that challenged you?

INTRODUCTION

Icebreaker:
Think back to when you were a kid.  What was the first leadership role you ever had (team captain, class project leader, older sibling “in charge,” etc.)? How did it go?

Discussion Starters:

• When you think of a great leader, who comes to mind and why?
• Why do you think people sometimes shy away from the word “leadership”?
• What’s one area of your life where you feel God is already calling you to set an example?
  
  

For many of us, “leader” sounds like a title reserved for pastors, CEOs, or people with big influence. But Scripture paints a different picture: every follower of Jesus is called to lead — starting with ourselves, then in our families, our church, and in the world. Let’s look at what God’s Word says about this calling.


UNDERSTANDING

HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JAMES 1:19–22.
 

• Why do you think James emphasizes not just listening to the Word, but doing what it says?
• How does obedience to God’s Word shape our influence on others?
• In what ways can living out God’s Word be more powerful than simply talking about it?
  
  

James reminds us that our witness is tied to obedience. When people see a faith that matches our words, they see the real deal. Obedience leads to blessing, and blessing equips us to lead.


HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ ACTS 20:28.
 

• What does it mean to “pay careful attention” to ourselves before leading others?
• Why is it significant that Paul says the church was “purchased with Christ’s own blood”?
• How does this verse show the seriousness of leadership within the church?
  
  

Every Christian is called to shepherd, guide, and set an example in their own circle of influence. Leadership isn’t optional; it’s part of discipleship.


HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MATTHEW 28:18–20.
 

• Jesus calls all disciples to “go and make disciples.” What does that look like in everyday life?
• Why is discipleship more about relationships than programs?
• How do you see yourself participating in this Great Commission personally?
  
  

Making disciples begins with leading ourselves well. Scripture reminds us that spiritual discipline isn’t always easy, but it produces growth and fruit that impacts generations.


HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ HEBREWS 12:11–13.
 

• Why do you think discipline is described as “painful” but necessary?
• What happens to our leadership when we neglect spiritual discipline?
• How have you experienced growth by pushing through something difficult in your walk with God?
  
  

Leadership flows in every direction: leading ourselves, leading down, leading across, and even leading up. God has placed each of us in unique positions to influence others for Christ.


APPLICATION

• Which area do you feel God is asking you to focus on first: leading yourself, your family, your church, or your workplace/community?
• What specific step of obedience to God’s Word do you need to take this week?
• Who in your circle of influence could you intentionally encourage, disciple, or set an example for in the coming days?
  
  

Leadership isn’t about power or titles.  It’s about responsibility, obedience, and love. When we lead ourselves and others toward Christ, we become part of God’s plan to bring hope to the world.


PRAYER

Pray that each group member would take seriously their call to lead (beginning with themselves). Ask God to reveal opportunities to disciple others, to strengthen families, and to influence workplaces and communities for Christ. Thank Him that through His Word and Spirit, He equips us to be the real deal; leaders who love, obey, and live out the gospel.