June 14 2026
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:
Father’s Day is approaching. Who in your life has been a meaningful father figure for you?
The unlikely pt. 7
SPEAKER: Pastor Wes Washington
Scriptures—
John 1:43–51; Genesis 27:6-10, 15-17, 22-23
Key Takeaways—
The Unlikely – Nathaniel
Core Theme: A disciple takes off their “Sunday mask” and strives for authenticity and intimacy with Jesus.
Discipleship vs. Christianity: We must move beyond the title of "Christian" to being a true "disciple" who actively follows God’s Word.
Fully Known and Loved: The Gospel is rooted in the truth that God knows our darkest secrets and brokenness, yet chooses to love us unconditionally.
Stop Pretending: We often wear a "Sunday mask," but transformation only occurs when we bring our authentic, broken selves to God.
Jesus-Improved, Not Self-Improved: True sanctification is Jesus working in us, not our own efforts at self-improvement.
The Power of Community: We need others, like the people here today, in our lives to hold us accountable and sharpen us, as iron sharpens iron.
Discussion Questions—
How would you explain the difference between simply calling yourself a "Christian" and truly being a "disciple" of Jesus?
Why do we often feel the need to "hide" our failures and weaknesses or put on a "performative" version of ourselves at church?
How does knowing that Jesus sees you even when you're "under the fig tree" (in private) change the way you view your relationship with Him?
Pastor Wes mentions the "weight of pretend." What would it look like to lay down some part of that weight in your daily life? What’s keeping you from doing it?
Have you ever felt skeptical about Jesus or His path for your life, like Nathaniel was about Jesus being from Nazareth? How did you move from skepticism to trust and worship?
Why is it difficult to open up about our struggles to others in the church? What would make it easier?
Practical application—
Consider implementing the following this week:
Schedule quality time with jesus
This week, block out a specific time in your calendar each day for undistracted, time with Jesus—not for asking for things, but just to "be" with Him. Talk with Him as you would a close friend or family member. Tell Him what’s been on your mind, how you’re feeling about things. And then sit quietly to see how He responds.
Closing Prayer—
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for knowing every single part of us—the parts we are proud of and the parts we try to hide. We thank You that You still love us unconditionally. Help us to stop pretending and to stop living for the approval of others.
Create in us a heart that seeks Your truth and desires to follow You authentically every day. Give us the courage to be vulnerable with one another so that we can grow together as true disciples.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.