June 21 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:
What’s a favorite childhood summertime memory?
The unlikely pt. 8
SPEAKER: Pastor Wes Washington
Scriptures—
Luke 9:51–56; Mark 10:35–45; 2 Timothy 2:24–25; Jeremiah 1:5; Acts 12:1–2
Key Takeaways—
The Unlikely – James
Many believers are spiritually exhausted because they are carrying responsibilities God never assigned to them.
Disciples are called to prepare people to encounter Jesus, not to preach condemnation or try to defeat them in arguments.
Following Jesus means pursuing servanthood rather than status, recognition, or control.
Calling is discovered as we become more like Christ, not as we chase position or promotion.
Our responsibility is love, obedience and faithfulness, while the outcomes belong to God.
Discussion Questions—
In Luke 9, James wanted to respond to rejection with judgment; how do we sometimes respond similarly when people reject Jesus, truth, or our invitations?
Where in your walk do you see yourself carrying responsibilities that may belong to God rather than to you?
What is the difference between preparing someone to encounter Jesus and trying to win an argument with them? How can you do the former rather than the latter?
In Mark 10, James wanted a position of honor; are there places where you are tempted to seek status instead of just servanthood?
How does Jesus’ example of serving and giving His life reshape the way we think about greatness?
Acts 12 shows James quietly faithful even when the outcome was suffering and death; what might faithful discipleship cost you in your life?
Practical application—
Consider implementing the following this week:
option 1: Change your approach
Identify one person you have been trying to correct, convince, or control, and intentionally choose one act of kindness, service, or encouragement that helps prepare the way for them to encounter Jesus.
Option 2: seek unseen opportunities
Each morning this week, pray, “Jesus, help me become more like You today,” and look for one specific opportunity to serve without seeking recognition.
option 3: Lay down an unnecessary burden
Choose one burden or outcome you have been trying to manage on your own, write it down, and spend time in prayer surrendering it to God while asking Him to show you the next faithful step.
Closing Prayer—
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding us that the battle, our place in it, and its outcome belong to You. Forgive us for the times we have tried to control people, chase status, or carry burdens You never assigned to us.
Teach us to stay faithful in our assignment, to prepare the way for others to encounter Jesus, and to serve with humility instead of seeking recognition. Help us surrender the outcomes we cannot control and trust that You are working even when we cannot see it.
Make us more like Christ this week in our homes, relationships, workplaces, and church.
In Jesus name,
Amen.