Be the Church – A Vision for the Future
Welcome to our For Your Neighbor series. This week, we discuss what it means to “be the church”, going beyond the four walls of the building to truly love our neighbors.
What is one way you’ve seen someone “be the church” outside of Sunday services?
Have someone in your group read Acts 1:6-9 aloud then respond to the following questions:
-Who is your neighbor in your “Jerusalem” (your immediate neighborhood) or “Judea” (your town)? What does loving them well look like in practice?
-The “ends of the earth” included even oppressors and enemies. How can we as a group wrestle with what it means to love and bear witness to those who challenge or even oppose us?
-The early church changed the world by being faithful witnesses. How does the idea of being a witness as a sacrifice challenge or encourage you? How can we carry that legacy forward at St. Mark’s?
-The early church gave generously, prayed regularly, and shared everything. St. Mark’s has been part of this mission for 170 years. What excites or challenges you about being part of the next chapter?
Have someone in your group read Matthew 9:35-38 aloud then respond to the following questions:
-Why do you think Jesus tells the disciples to pray for workers before sending them out?
-Where do you see a “plentiful harvest” around you today — in your neighborhood, workplace, or community?
-Who is someone you know that needs to experience the love of Jesus — not just hear about it?
Read the following quote aloud to your group or to yourself:
“I am like a little pencil in his hand. That is all. He does the thinking. He does the writing. The pencil has nothing to do with it. The pencil has only to be allowed to be used.” - Mother Teresa
Prayer Time
-Pray for courage to be witnesses in our own "Jerusalem" and beyond.
-Pray for more workers for the harvest — in our church and community.
-Ask God to show each person in the group where and how they can “be the church” this week.
(*Video available after Sunday services)
