August 17 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 are you hoping to do or finish before the end of summer?
There is still room Pt. 3
SPEAKER: PASTOR Wes Washington
Scriptures—
Luke 14:15-24; 2 Chronicles 20:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:2
Key Takeaways—
Christians are called to a rescue mission, bringing people out of sin and into God's love
The servant's obedience in the parable teaches us to keep our eyes on God despite rejection
God's anger is holy, purposeful, and redemptive, not destructive like human anger
We should invite people to Jesus without trying to fix them ourselves
The invitation to God's table is open to everyone, including those who have hurt us
Radical obedience to God's word is crucial for effective ministry
Forgiveness can be a powerful form of invitation
Discussion Questions—
How can we cultivate a sense of urgency in our spiritual lives and in inviting others to experience God's love?
How might regularly interceding for those who have rejected our invitations change our hearts and potentially impact their receptivity over time?
In what ways can we embody the 'whosoever' mentality of God's invitation in our own lives and communities, especially towards those we find difficult to love or accept?
How might viewing God's anger as 'redemptive' rather than 'vindictive' change our perspective on difficult passages in scripture or challenging life events?
In what ways might our own past experiences of forgiveness and grace inspire us to extend invitations to those who seem least deserving or receptive?
Practical application—
Commit to praying daily for the 10 people you'll invite using the cards provided in church.
Identify someone you need to forgive and begin to pray for willingness to forgive them. Share their name with an accountability partner and follow up with that partner at the end of the week.
Closing Prayer—
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the redemptive love you poured out on us even when while we were sinners and rebels. Give us empathy, courage and opportunities to invite others to experience your grace, even those who we might be hesitate to reach out to. In Jesus name we pray,
Amen.