Be One - Make One: Class 11
Small Group Discipleship Class: A Disciple is on Mission with Jesus (Evangelism and Outreach)
Class Objective:
Explore the biblical foundation for evangelism and discipleship, focusing on the mission of sharing the Gospel and making disciples. Guide small group discussion and practical applications to equip participants to actively participate in evangelism and outreach as part of their discipleship journey.
Part 1: The Biblical Foundation for Evangelism
Key Scripture References:
Matthew 28:19: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
Mark 16:15: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation."
Romans 10:14: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?"
Overview:
Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 gives a clear command to all disciples: "Go and make disciples." Evangelism and outreach are not optional for followers of Jesus; they are a central part of the Christian mission. Every believer is called to actively participate in spreading the Gospel to all nations, cultures, and people.
Discussion Questions:
What does the Great Commission mean for us as individual believers?
Why is it important for every disciple to be involved in sharing the Gospel?
What does it look like to "go and make disciples" in our modern context?
Application:
Reflect on one person in your life who needs to hear the Gospel. Pray for an opportunity to share Jesus with them, and commit to taking action this week.
As a group, discuss what evangelism looks like in your community and how you can collectively engage in outreach efforts.
Part 2: Sharing the Gospel
Key Scripture References:
Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes."
2 Corinthians 5:20: "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God."
Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Overview:
Sharing the Gospel is a central part of being on mission with Jesus. As Christ's ambassadors, we are given the privilege and responsibility of proclaiming the message of salvation to a lost world. The Gospel is the power of God for salvation, and it is through our witness that others come to know Him.
Discussion Questions:
What does it mean to be Christ’s ambassador, and how can we represent Him well in our daily lives?
What challenges do you face when sharing the Gospel with others, and how can you overcome them?
How can we become more confident and bold in sharing our faith?
Application:
Practice sharing your personal testimony or the Gospel message with a fellow group member. Focus on being clear, concise, and confident.
Identify a practical opportunity this week to share the Gospel with someone, whether at work, school, or in your neighborhood.
Part 3: Living as a Light in the World
Key Scripture References:
Matthew 5:14-16: "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Philippians 2:15: "So that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky."
1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
Overview:
As disciples, we are called to live as lights in the world, pointing people to Jesus through our actions and words. Our lives should reflect the love, grace, and truth of Christ, so that others are drawn to Him. Being a light means living in a way that brings glory to God and draws people toward the Gospel.
Discussion Questions:
How can our daily lives and actions be a reflection of Jesus to the world?
What are some practical ways we can "let our light shine" before others in our community?
How do good deeds and living a Christlike life contribute to effective evangelism?
Application:
This week, intentionally look for opportunities to reflect Christ’s love and truth in your actions. Be conscious of how you interact with others, aiming to glorify God in all that you do.
As a group, brainstorm ways to serve the community in practical ways that can open doors for sharing the Gospel.
Practical Evangelism Tips and Application
Key Tips:
Pray for Boldness: Ask God to give you courage and wisdom as you share the Gospel with others.
Build Relationships: People are often more open to hearing the Gospel when they trust and know you. Invest in building genuine relationships with those around you.
Start with Your Testimony: Sharing your personal testimony is a powerful way to introduce people to the work of Christ in your life.
Use Scripture: Let the power of God’s Word speak for itself. Learn key verses that explain the Gospel clearly (e.g., John 3:16, Romans 6:23).
Be Respectful and Kind: Approach evangelism with humility and love. Even when people reject the message, respond with grace and respect.
Application:
This week, commit to praying for boldness and opportunities to share the Gospel. Share your testimony or key Bible verses that explain the Gospel with at least one person.
As a group, plan a community outreach event or service project where you can engage with others and share the message of Jesus.
Closing Discussion
What stood out to you the most about being on mission with Jesus?
How do evangelism, sharing the Gospel, and living as a light work together in a disciple’s life?
Closing Application:
For the coming week, focus on putting one of the key elements (Sharing the Gospel, Living as a Light, or Being an Ambassador for Christ) into practice. Be prepared to share what you learned and how God worked through your efforts during the next group meeting.
Next Steps:
Over the next few weeks, we will dive deeper into each of these aspects of discipleship—evangelism, living as a light, and making disciples—so we can grow in our mission to spread the Gospel.
This class helps believers reflect on their role in fulfilling the Great Commission, equipping them with practical tools and guidance for evangelism and outreach as they live out their faith.