This sermon from Matthew 10:1 focuses on Jesus calling His 12 disciples and giving them authority to heal and cast out demons. The central message emphasizes that 'direction flows through relationship' - we must first be called to Jesus (the who) before understanding what He calls us to do (the what). Pastor Pat warns against idolizing our calling or assignment instead of prioritizing our relationship with Christ because ultimately He is our reward. When we see that Jesus is the point, then the face that He chose ordinary, flawed people and empowered them with supernatural authority is pretty incredible. When we trust who we serve, we are more willing to submit to God setting parameters for our particular assignment and wait for His promise to provide for our needs. The sermon concludes with a call to practice God's presence and surrender fully to His direction, even when it involves rejection or suffering.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together in this small group, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to be receptive to Your voice and willing to be challenged and changed by Your Word. We pray that You would speak to each person here in the way they need to hear from You. Give us wisdom, understanding, and the courage to apply what we learn to our daily lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

If you could have any superpower for just one day, what would it be and how would you use it to help others?

Key Verses

• Matthew 10:1
• Matthew 6:33
• Psalm 23:4
• Romans 12:1-2
• Matthew 28:19

Questions

• The main idea for this message was, 'direction flows through relationship.' How have you seen this principle play out in your own life with God or with other people?
• Jesus chose ordinary, flawed disciples rather than an 'all-star team.' How does this encourage you in your own walk with God?
• What's the difference between being called to Jesus (the who) versus being called to do something for Jesus (the what)? Why is this distinction important?
• Jesus set specific parameters and limits for the disciples' mission. How do you typically respond when God places limits or boundaries in your life?
• The disciples were told to 'freely give' because they had 'freely received.' What has God freely given you that you could share with others?
• Jesus promised the disciples would face rejection and persecution. How can we prepare ourselves mentally and spiritually for opposition to our faith?
• Pastor Pat mentioned that we can get exhausted trying to do things for God in our own strength. Have you experienced this? How can we avoid this trap?
• What does it look like practically to 'practice God's presence' in your daily life? What specific steps could you take this week?

Life Application

This week, focus on deepening your relationship with Jesus before focusing on what He wants you to do. Spend time each day in prayer, worship, or reading Scripture to 'practice His presence.' Also, look for one specific way you can 'freely give' to someone else - whether through prayer, encouragement, practical help, or sharing the gospel - because of what God has freely given you.

Key Takeaways

• Direction flows through relationship - we must prioritize our relationship with Jesus over our assignments or calling
• Jesus chooses ordinary, flawed people and empowers them with supernatural authority to do His work
• God sets parameters and limits in our lives that we must humbly accept and trust
• We are called to freely give because we have freely received from God
• Following Jesus will involve rejection and opposition, but He provides everything we need to endure

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to Yourself first and foremost. Help us to remember that our primary calling is to relationship with You, not just to do things for You. Give us the courage to step into the assignments You have for us, trusting in Your power rather than our own strength. Help us to accept the parameters You set in our lives and to freely give to others as You have freely given to us. Prepare our hearts for any opposition we may face, knowing that You have already gone before us. May we practice Your presence daily and allow our relationship with You to direct our steps. In Your precious name, Amen.