Introduction

• The world is changing the definitions of words
• Since most didn’t know the previous definitions they don’t know they have been changed
• But scripture warns us that there would be distortion

2 Corinthians 11:12–15 (NIV) — 12 And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. 13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

Galatians 1:6–9 (NIV) — 6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! 9 As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!

Jude 3–4 (NIV) Jeremiah 6:16–17 (NIV)

In this series, we will go back to the original – thus the name origins

• Sin, Sex, Gender, Marriage
• The focus of this series –the Church

Review – last week – the greatest Kingdom and the greatest commission

• The greatest mission – make disciples not converts
• The greatest message led to baptism and discipleship
• The greatest messengers – regular everyday people

Matthew 28:18–20 (NIV) — 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Remember the first Christ followers were called disciples –

•  Every believer is called on to be and make disciples

Acts 6:2 (NIV) — 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.

Acts 14:21 (NIV) — 21 They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch,

Jesus’ method for disciple making

• They begin the process Jesus revealed to the disciples
• Sharing His Life – the truth—
• Connecting in relationship – connecting to Jesus and His Family – the church
• Learning to Minister

•  Going out to make Disciples in the five spheres

The great commission (make disciples) activated

• They preached We killed Jesus – saved people are cut to the heart (they believe)
• They have repented – condition of the heart
• They have been baptized
• They submitted themselves to the apostles teaching
• The teaching led to Sharing….

Acts 2:38–47 (NIV)

Notice: The disciples Shared their lives and the truth in Jerusalem

• “They” devoted themselves to the teachings of the Apostles –sets the tone for all else
• They changed their priorities with their time –
• They shared what they had
• They were vulnerable in their lives
• They shared the gospel – faith that leads to surrendering to the King
• This lifestyle led to rejoicing
• To strength
• To salvation for others
• All in the face of opposition

Our part –the scale visual

Why do all this Sharing – Connecting, training, and releasing to make disciples?

Philippians 3:17–21 (NIV) 2 Corinthians 5:17–20 (NIV)

To take away….

1. This is serious business
2. Accept Christ – surrender
3. Be about the Fathers business
4. Get connected —

For Small Group Discussion:

Opening Question: What is the best or worst thing you have ever been invited to?

1. How did the disciples first hear about Jesus? How did you first hear about Jesus?
2. Where did Jesus meet them?
3. What motivated the early disciples to follow Jesus?
4. What in our society could be a motivating factor for people to turn to Jesus? How can we potentially take advantage of these opportunities?
5. Jesus told His disciples to not be afraid; does fear ever hold you back from sharing your faith with others?
6. Who do you know that needs to meet Jesus? What is your next step with them?
7. What qualities do you see in others that would attract people to Jesus?