Weekly Discussion Guide

1. Open with prayer. (2-5 min)
2. Read Romans 15:21.
3. Discuss these questions with your group. (20-45 min)

MY STORY | Starting Place
If you had never, ever, heard about Jesus, (in any context), what type of religious life would you have—if any? What do you think would your baseline spirituality would be?

DIGGING DEEPER | Practical Biblical Application
In Romans 15:21, Paul speaks of the importance of presenting, or preaching the message of Jesus.

In this passage he actually quotes Isaiah 52, a Messianic prophecy about the crucifixion, which says.

As many were astonished at you—
his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of the children of mankind—
so shall he sprinkle many nations.
Kings shall shut their mouths because of him,
for that which has not been told them they see,
and that which they have not heard they understand. (Isaiah 52:14-15)

How is what happened to Jesus on the cross reflected in what Isaiah is describing here?

What do you think Isaiah means that the blood of the Messiah will “sprinkle many nations” ? How is the world different because of Jesus’ death and resurrection?

What would the nations need to be told about the significance of what happened to Jesus on the cross (that they didn’t already know)?

Thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation, but as it is written,

“Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand.” (Romans 15:20-21)

What was Paul’s goal? Should this be our goal? Why or why not?

According to Paul, what is the purpose of missions?

What are various ways people can participate in the presentation of the Gospel message?

GROWING TOGETHER | Spiritual Friendship
What aspect of sharing the Gospel excites you most, or best aligns with the skills and heart God has given you?

What specific skills or resources has God given you to share His love with others? Personality, wisdom, patience, resources, access to a unique group of people?

What scares you about presenting your faith to others? How can you position yourself to allow God to help you there?

MOVING OUTWARD | Faith in Action
These days, you can reach anyone, in any nation, via the Internet (e-mail, chat rooms, discussion groups, web sites, blogs, etc.). Given these technological tools, and your spiritual gifts, what role can you play in helping those who have “never heard, never understood” to get a chance to respond to the Gospel?

Which mission opportunities at Crossroads would be a good fit for you?