Mission Over Moments Discussion Guide
Summary
Pastor Steve Hilder delivered a powerful message titled 'Mission over Moments' about staying focused on God's calling despite life's difficult circumstances. Using the story of Paul and Silas in Acts 16, he emphasized that believers are commissioned by Jesus to be on mission, led by the Holy Spirit, and authorized to make an eternal impact. Pastor Steve shared his personal testimony of losing his wife to cancer and learning to 'sing in the prison' - maintaining worship and mission focus even in the darkest times. He challenged the congregation to prioritize their God-given mission over temporary moments of difficulty, reminding them that they are not defined by their jobs but by their identity as kingdom ambassadors called to reach others with the gospel.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts this morning, hungry for Your presence and Your word. Just as Mary said 'let Your word be unto me,' we ask that You would speak to us today and that we would receive Your truth with faith. Holy Spirit, prepare our hearts to hear what You want to teach us through this discussion. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and open to the ways You want to challenge and encourage us. We pray that this time together would draw us closer to You and to each other. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have any job in the world for just one day, what would it be and why?
Key Verses
Acts 16:6-15
John 16: 13
John 17: 18
John 6: 38
Luke 4: 18-19
Acts 16: 27-34
Questions
Pastor Steve talked about Mary saying 'let your word be unto me.' How can we cultivate that same attitude of openness to God's word in our daily lives?
Paul and Silas were prevented by the Holy Spirit from preaching in certain places. Can you share a time when you felt God redirecting your plans? How did you respond?
The message emphasized that 'mission gives you spiritual authority.' What does it mean to you to be commissioned and authorized by Jesus for His mission?
Paul and Silas sang in prison instead of complaining. What 'song' do you sing during your most difficult moments? Who might be listening?
Pastor Steve shared that the Holy Spirit told Paul not to speak at certain times. How do we discern when to speak and when to remain silent in our witness?
The jailer asked 'What must I do to be saved?' without Paul preaching to him. How can our lives and attitudes speak the gospel even without words?
How do you typically introduce yourself to others? How might it change if you saw yourself primarily as 'on mission for the kingdom'?
What are some 'moments' (distractions, difficulties, or circumstances) that tend to pull you away from the mission God has given you?
Life Application
This week, identify one specific area where God has called you to be 'on mission' - whether at work, in your family, or in your community. Commit to listening for the Holy Spirit's guidance in that area and ask God to show you one practical way you can be His light and salt. Practice 'singing in the prison' by choosing worship and gratitude over complaint when facing difficulties.
Key Takeaways
People on mission are led by the Holy Spirit and must learn to listen for His guidance, even when it doesn't make sense
Mission gives us spiritual authority - we are commissioned and authorized by Jesus to be His representatives
Mission leads to eternal impact and will always create opportunities for salvation and kingdom advancement
Mission turns moments of prison into opportunities - our response in difficult times can lead others to ask 'what must I do to be saved?'
We are not defined by our jobs but by our identity as sons and daughters of God called to kingdom mission
Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for the powerful reminder that You have called each of us to be on mission for Your kingdom. Help us to prioritize mission over moments, choosing to worship and trust You even in our darkest times. Holy Spirit, lead us and guide us as we step into the authority You've given us. Give us ears to hear Your voice and courage to obey, even when it doesn't make sense. May our lives be a sweet song of worship that draws others to ask about the hope we have in Jesus. Use us to reach our families, workplaces, and communities with Your love. We commit to being Your light and salt wherever You place us. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.