June 7 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:
How did you end up at Rust City Church in the first place?
The unlikely pt. 6
SPEAKER: Pastor Wes Washington
Scriptures—
John 1:35-42; Proverbs 11:14; Mark 3:14-15; Acts 4:13
Key Takeaways—
The Unlikely – Andrew
A disciple is led before they lead. Andrew first learned under John the Baptist and was willing to be guided, corrected, and pointed toward Jesus.
Discipleship begins with proximity to Jesus. Before Andrew brought anyone else to Jesus, he spent time with Jesus himself.
Transformation comes from intimacy, not just information. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as being with Jesus; real change happens in His presence.
A disciple brings people to Jesus, not to themselves. Andrew’s simple act of bringing Peter to Jesus shows that our role is faithfulness, while Jesus does the transforming.
God uses unlikely people. The message of Andrew reminds us that God’s power is not limited by our past, weakness, or lack of polish.
Discussion Questions—
What does Andrew’s behavior in the John passage say about his spiritual condition?
What does it practically look like to be “led before you lead” in your current season of life? Have you found yourself in that posture at some time in the past?
How would you describe the difference between knowing about Jesus and actually spending time with Jesus? What does that look like say-to-day?
Who in your life has permission to challenge, correct, or disciple you spiritually right now? If there’s no one, why is that the case for you?
Who among your friends or family might God be asking you to bring closer to Jesus, and what is one step you could take this week?
Practical application—
Consider implementing the following this week:
option 1: sit with jesus daily
Set aside a set time each day to spend with. Even 10-15 minutes of prayer, Scripture reading, and quiet reflection can deepen your proximity to Him. Select a You Version Bible App reading plan from one of the Gospels for this purpose.
Option 2: Identify and approach a possible spiritual mentor
Invite trusted spiritual input. Reach out to a mature believer, pastor, mentor, or small-group leader and ask for honest encouragement or accountability. Be prepared to be candid with that individual and identify 1-2 initial problems or concerns to discuss.
option 3: issue an andrew-like invitation
Identify one person to invite to meet Jesus. Pray for one specific friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor and look for a simple, faithful opportunity to encourage, invite to church, or share what Jesus has done in your life. If you don’t know what to say, see option 2 above.
Closing Prayer—
Jesus,
Thank You for calling unlikely people and using them for Your Kingdom. Thank You that our past does not disqualify us and that Your power is made perfect in weakness.
Teach us to be disciples who are willing to be led, eager to sit with You, and faithful to bring others to You. Help us not to settle for knowing about You when we can truly know You.
Draw us close this week, shape our hearts, and give us courage to obey whatever You ask of us. Use our lives to point others to You.
In your name,
Amen.