June 1 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:
What’s one thing you’re learning about yourself lately?
Christian-ish: “The Surrender Strategy”
SPEAKER: PASTOR KARL WENDEL
Scriptures—
Matthew 16:24-26, Hebrews 11:6
Key Takeaways—
Christian-ish faith is superficial and watered-down, lacking true transformation.
Surrendering to God means living with open hands rather than clenched fists.
The cross is not an accessory but an assignment for believers.
Jesus wants to be Lord of all aspects of our lives, not just a part.
True faith requires daily surrender and obedience, even when it's difficult.
Discussion Questions—
How do you currently measure success or progress in your spiritual life, and how might that 'scoreboard' need to change to align with God's priorities?
How does the concept of 'Christian-ish' challenge your current approach to faith, and in what areas of your life might you be settling for a superficial version of Christianity?
What does it mean to you personally to 'give up your own way' and 'take up your cross' as Jesus instructs in Matthew 16:24-26?
In what ways might you be holding onto control in your life, and how could adopting an 'open hands' approach change your relationship with God?
What areas of your life have you not fully surrendered to God, and what fears or reservations are holding you back from making Jesus 'Lord of all'?
How might your priorities and decisions change if you truly believed that 'God's way is always better' than your own plans?
What is one step of faith or act of obedience that you feel God calling you to take, even if it seems difficult or doesn't make sense right now?
Practical application—
Daily Surrender Challenge: Each day this week, identify one area where you can surrender control to God. Journal about your experiences.
Closing Prayer—
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the reminder that true faith means full surrender. Help us let go of control and follow You with open hands. Where we’ve settled for a surface-level faith, awaken something deeper in us. Teach us to trust that Your way is always better, even when it's hard to see. Lead us by Your Spirit this week—to obey, to serve, and to reflect Jesus in all we do. In His name we pray, Amen.
