Champions of Faith Discussion Guide
Summary
This message reminds us that the life of faith is like running a race. We are not called to simply admire the heroes of faith in Scripture but to live as champions of faith ourselves. To do so, we need to strip away sins and distractions that slow us down, fix our eyes firmly on Jesus rather than our circumstances, and stay deeply connected with the family of believers. By being tenacious, transfixed, and twisted together, we gain the strength and endurance needed to finish our spiritual race well.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith and the example of those who have gone before us. As we gather to reflect on what it means to run our race well, open our hearts to hear Your voice. Help us to see where You are calling us to grow and strengthen us to persevere with our eyes fixed on Jesus. May Your Spirit guide our discussion and encourage us to walk faithfully together. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could enter any race or competition — whether sport, game, or talent — what would it be and why?
Key Verses
Hebrews 12:1–4
1 Corinthians 9:24–27
Philippians 3:13–14
Isaiah 40:29–31
Discussion Questions
What kinds of “weights” or distractions make it harder for you to run your spiritual race?
The sermon speaks of being tenacious with Jesus. What does spiritual tenacity look like in everyday life?
What does it mean to you personally to keep your eyes transfixed on Jesus rather than on circumstances?
Can you recall a time when focusing on difficulties caused you to “sink” spiritually? What helped bring your focus back to Christ?
How does the picture of strands twisted together into a rope help you understand the importance of community in faith?
Why do you think Christian fellowship is essential rather than optional for living faithfully?
Isaiah 40:31 says those who “trust in the Lord” will renew their strength. How does this change the way you think about waiting on God?
What is one practical step you can take this week to grow in being tenacious, transfixed, or twisted together?
Life Application
Choose one area where you sense God is prompting you to grow: laying aside a weight, fixing your focus on Christ, or deepening fellowship with believers. Write down a specific step you will take this week. For example, remove a distraction that weakens your walk, set aside daily time to meditate on Jesus, or reach out to a friend to pray together. Share this with someone in the group for encouragement and accountability.
Key Takeaways
Champions of faith are not free from struggle; they persevere through it with their eyes on Jesus.
To run well, we must be tenacious — stripping away sin and distractions.
We must be transfixed — fixing our gaze on Christ, who brings joy and endurance.
We must be twisted together — walking closely with Jesus and the community of believers.
Faith is not meant to be lived in isolation; connection strengthens us to finish strong.
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to live as champions of faith. Forgive us for the times we have settled for less than what You desire. Help us to persevere with tenacity, to keep our eyes transfixed on You, and to remain twisted together with Your people. Give us courage to run with endurance and joy, trusting that You are with us every step of the way. Amen.