
Small Group Deeper Dive and Devotional:
Series:
A PART OF THE HEART
Part 2:
CHAMPIONS ARE THE HEART OF THE CHURCH
Opening Prayer
Key Passage: John 4:1-26 Jesus’ Interaction with the Samaritan Woman (context)
John 4: 27-38 The Harvest is Plentiful
Key Takeaways:
1. God is calling us to move from being cynics, critics, or consumers to becoming champions of His church and harvest.
2. Champions value the will and work of God more than earthly comforts.
3. Evangelism is crucial and should be paired with discipleship.
4. There is incomparable joy in participating in God’s harvest.
Discussion Questions:
Pastor Brandon mentioned the different roles people can have in relation to the church: cynics, critics, consumers, contributors, and champions. Which of these do you most identify with currently? Why?
How can we move from being critics or consumers of the church to becoming champions for God’s work? What might that transformation look like in your own life?
How do you feel about evangelism? What challenges or fears do you face when it comes to sharing your faith? How do you think we can together become better at both evangelism and discipleship?
Let’s look at fasting as a spiritual discipline. Have you ever fasted? If so, what was your experience? If not, what holds you back? Are you fasting for this 21 day initiative? What does it look like for you?
The sermon highlighted the joy that comes from participating in God’s harvest. Can you share a time when you experienced joy from serving God or leading someone to Christ?
How can we as a group support each other in becoming “champions” for God’s kingdom?
Practical Applications:
This week, identify one area in your life where you can prioritize God’s will over your own comfort or desires.
Pray for opportunities to share your faith and commit to taking action when those opportunities arise.
Consider participating in the church’s 21-day fast, even if partially. Use moments of hunger or craving as reminders to pray.
Reach out to someone who doesn’t know Christ and invite them to Alpha or a church service.
Reflect on your current level of involvement in the church. Is there a way you can move from being a consumer or contributor to becoming more of a champion?
Closing Prayer:
Thank God for His love and grace. Ask for His help in becoming champions for His kingdom and for opportunities to participate in His harvest.
Scripture references for further study
Luke 19:10
1 John 3:8
Matthew 16:19
1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Matthew 28:19-20
Romans 10:14-15
1 Corinthians 3:6
Matthew 9:37-38
John 4:34
Colossians 4:5-6
5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide
Day 1: Becoming a Champion for God’s Harvest
Reading: John 4:27-38
Devotional: Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman reminds us that God’s love transcends social barriers and personal shortcomings. Just as Jesus saw the fields ripe for harvest, we too are called to open our eyes to the spiritual needs around us. Reflect on how you might be hesitating to share your faith due to preconceived notions or fear. Remember, God can use your story, imperfections and all, to draw others to Him. How can you step out in faith today to be part of God’s harvest?
Day 2: The Will of God as Our Nourishment
Reading: Matthew 4:1-4
Devotional: Jesus declared that His nourishment came from doing the will of God. In our fast-paced world, we often prioritize physical needs over spiritual ones. Consider how aligning your will with God’s can bring a deeper sense of fulfillment than any earthly satisfaction. What areas of your life might God be calling you to surrender to His will? How can you make space in your daily routine to seek God’s guidance and direction?
Day 3: Grace in Our Efforts
Reading: Ephesians 2:8-10
Devotional: We are saved by grace, not by works, yet we are created for good works. This delicate balance challenges us to serve God wholeheartedly without falling into the trap of earning His love. Reflect on times when you’ve felt pressure to perform for God’s approval. How can you embrace the freedom of grace while still pursuing a life of meaningful service? Consider how your efforts can be an expression of gratitude rather than an attempt to earn favor.
Day 4: The Joy of Harvesting for God’s Kingdom
Reading: Luke 15:1-10
Devotional: Jesus speaks of the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. This joy is not just for the angels but for all who participate in God’s redemptive work. Think about the people in your life who don’t know Christ. How can you share the hope you have in Jesus with them? Pray for opportunities to be a part of someone’s journey to faith, and ask God to fill you with His love for the lost.
Day 5: Champions in Times of Trial
Reading: Romans 5:1-5
Devotional: Paul reminds us that even in our sufferings, we can rejoice because of the hope we have in Christ. Being a champion for God doesn’t mean we won’t face difficulties, but it does mean we have a different perspective on trials. Reflect on a current challenge in your life. How might God be using this situation to develop your character and deepen your dependence on Him? Ask for the strength to be a testimony of God’s grace, even in hardship.