Feb 24 2025

The heart of a Rust City Group is to care for people and carry the culture of Rust City Church.

You don’t have to follow this guide like a script! Use discernment from the Holy Spirit as you lead your group discussion.

If you notice that someone in your group needs additional care or support that’s beyond your capacity, please let a pastor know.

ICEBREAKER QUESTION OPTION:

If you had a personal hype song that played every time you walked into a room, what would it be?

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our responsibility in shaping the future church

SPEAKER: PASTOR TIFFANY VARNER

Scriptures—

Luke 9:23, Deuteronomy 6:5-9, Matthew 19:13-14, Proverbs 22:6

Key Takeaways—

• The church must model authentic faith, not just preach it

• We need to prioritize our faith and make it transformational, not just transactional

• Our proximity to Jesus matters and influences those around us

• We must lead the way for the next generation, not hinder their access to faith

• Every believer has a role to play in shaping the future church

• Prayer and active involvement are crucial in combating negative influences on youth

• We have a responsibility to shape the next generation.

Discussion Questions—

1. What practical steps can we take to make our faith more 'transformational' rather than merely 'transactional' in our daily lives?

2. In what ways might we be unintentionally hindering young people from experiencing a genuine relationship with Jesus, similar to how the disciples initially rebuked those bringing children to Him?

3. How can we strike a balance between protecting children from harmful influences while also preparing them to navigate the challenges of the modern world with a strong faith?

4. How might our church adapt its approach to ministry to better engage and retain young people in the faith, especially given the statistics Pastor Tiffany mentioned about declining religious affiliation?

5. In what ways can we 'add logs to the fire' of faith for the young people in our lives, both within our families and in our broader community?

6. How can we foster an environment where young people feel safe to ask difficult questions about faith and receive thoughtful, honest answers?

7. What role should technology and social media play in our efforts to reach and disciple the next generation, considering both its potential benefits and drawbacks?

8. How can we better equip parents and grandparents to be the primary spiritual influencers in their children's lives?

9. In what ways can those who don’t have children or don’t feel called to youth ministry still contribute to nurturing the faith of the next generation?

Practical application—

Take a moment to reflect on your daily actions and interactions. Identify one specific habit or behavior you can adjust this week to better reflect Christ in your words, attitude, or choices.

Closing Prayer—

Thank You Lord for this time together, for the conversations we’ve had, and for the ways You are growing us. We ask that You ignite a passion in each of us to impact the next generation. Give us wisdom and open doors to model authentic faith, so that others may see You through us and be drawn to a deeper relationship with Christ. Help us to be faithful in leading, encouraging, and investing in those who come after us. In Jesus' name, Amen.