June 28 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:
Thinking of the upcoming holiday, are you fireworks? Or no fireworks?
The unlikely pt. 9
SPEAKER: Pastor Wes Washington
Scriptures—
Luke 5: 12-16; Romans 10: 1-4; 12: 1-2 & 11; Revelation 12: 10-12
Key Takeaways—
The Unlikely – Simon the Zealot
Core Theme: Anchoring our passions in Christ
Jesus chose us before He changes us: We do not need to "fix" our lives before coming to Jesus; we are called to follow Him, and He will bring about our transformation.
Intensity vs. Intimacy: We often mistake emotional intensity in worship for spiritual intimacy with God. Passion alone is not enough if it is detached from a relationship with Christ.
Rooting our Passions: Everyone has natural passion (zeal). The danger lies in having passion for worldly things or our own agendas while remaining distant from the source of true righteousness, Jesus, and what he us calling us to.
Living Sacrifice: Being a disciple means offering our entire lives to God—not just our brokenness, but also our strengths, resources, and skills.
Renewing the Mind: Real change involves renewing our perception - of our past and our future. God can use our history and past pain as a testimony to help others.
Releasing Fruit: A "fruit" that keeps everything for itself becomes rotten. Our passions and gifts are meant to be released into the Kingdom to serve others.
Discussion Questions—
Pastor Wes noted that we often feel we need to change our lives before choosing to follow Jesus or returning to Him after we stray. Why do we feel the need to do this, and how can we shift our mindset to let Him do the changing?
In what ways might we be confusing "emotional intensity" (passion for a worship service or other event) with "spiritual intimacy" (a deep, daily walk with God)? Why is that dangerous?
How can we distinguish between having a passion for a good cause and having that passion rooted in Christ?
The sermon mentions presenting our "whole selves" to God—even the parts that are working well. Are there positive areas of your life you have been hesitant to surrender to God's control?
How can you begin to view your past pain or "filth" as part of the soil that God is using to help your testimony grow and reach others?
Who is one person in your life this week that you can "serve intentionally" as a way to practice releasing your passions?
Practical application—
Consider implementing one of the following this week:
Option 1: Morning Surrender:
Each morning this week, pray: "God, I make the vessel of myself empty of my agendas and ambitions. Use me today in whatever way you need—whether in my home, my workplace, or with a stranger."
Option 2: Passion audit
Identify one "passion" you possess (a talent, drive, or cause). Spend time this week asking God how He wants you to root that specific passion in Him rather than in your own self-interest.
option 3: Intentional service
Don't wait for a Rust City Dream Team assignment. Look for someone in your sphere of influence—perhaps someone you find difficult to get along with—and perform a small, intentional act of service for them.
Closing Prayer—
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for choosing us even when You knew our faults. Help us to stop trying to perfect ourselves before coming to You. We surrender our passions, our pasts, and our daily schedules into Your hands.
Transform our minds, root our zeal in Your love, and show us how to be living sacrifices who serve others effectively. Help us become true followers of Jesus rather than just fans of Jesus.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.