1. As we finish the Words to Hang On To series, what is one truth, Scripture, or idea that has stayed with you?
2. What comes to mind when you think about being asked to go on a mission? Does it feel exciting, intimidating, meaningful, or something else?
3. When in your life has Jesus protected you in a way you may not have recognized in the moment?
1. Read
John 17:13–18 together. What do you notice about what Jesus desires for His followers and what He asks the Father to do for them?
2. People often summarize some of this passage as being “in the world but not of the world.” What have you understood that phrase to mean in the past? Has your understanding changed over time?
2. Jesus doesn’t ask the Father to remove His followers from the world, but to protect them as they are sent into it. How should that shape the way we engage people who believe or live differently from us?
3. When have you experienced both the joy and the challenge of following Jesus at the same time? How did the joy help you continue through the challenge?
4. Greg shared Paul Metzger’s description of the little “deaths” we face each day. It could be the “death” of an unhealthy desire, habit, attitude, busyness, etc., because we trust that Jesus’ way is the best way. What is something you have had to put to death in the past? What might Jesus be inviting you to put to death now?
Take Action
Take a moment to prayerfully consider:
Where do you currently feel like you are on mission with God? What has that experience been like?
Where might God be challenging you to join Him in His mission?
Choose one specific step you can take this week in response.
Jesus, thank You that we get to join You in the mission of reconciling all things to Yourself. We know this mission has joy and challenge, tension and victory, and we trust Your promise to protect us in it and be with us always. We long for the day when we will be with You and all things will be made new. But until then, help us recognize where You are already at work and give us the courage to say yes and join You there. Thank You for saving us, reconciling us to Yourself, and loving us to the end. We ask that You give us the courage and faithfulness to continue this journey with You. Amen.