Scripture/Text: Acts 14:21-28; In Acts 14:21-28, we see that God's mission is always moving forward through believers who testify to what He has done. Paul and Barnabas preach the gospel, make disciples, return to strengthen them through encouragement and leadership, and then report back to the church, showing that mission both builds up believers and encourages the wider church. Their willingness to endure hardship, appoint elders through prayer and fasting, and trust God with the future of the churches shows that lasting mission flows through healthy local churches not lone-ranger converts. As they travel, they continue speaking the Word, using every opportunity—even unexpected “pit stops”—to point others to Jesus. This passage also fits into the bigger story of Scripture: God's mission began in creation, is fulfilled in Christ, is carried forward by the church, and will end with people from every nation worshiping the Lamb (Rev. 7). Therefore, every follower of Jesus is called to testify to God's work wherever they are, knowing that their witness strengthens others and participates in God's global mission — Main Point: Testify of the works of God wherever you are.

Sermon Outline:

1. It Strengthens Disciples (vv. 21-23)
2. It Encourages Churches (vv 24-28)
3. (Bonus) It Supports God's Mission (vv. 21-28)

Discussion Questions:

• What is our role in sharing the gospel with others according to this passage?
• What causes people to hesitate to share the gospel, and how does this passage challenge those fears or hesitations?
• What does it look like to live as a disciple of Christ?
• In what ways does this passage, along with other passages, show us how disciples are strengthened?
• How do the trials of Christ's followers—both in Scripture and in your own life—strengthen your faith as you share the gospel?
• How does this passage encourage us to persevere through trials?
• What are some ways we can support and encourage one another while sharing the gospel and facing challenges?
• What have you seen God do through praying and fasting for leaders in the church?
• What does it look like to trust God for provision in this church and to partner in raising up other churches?
• What “divine pit stops” has God used in your life to guide you toward speaking the Word to others about Jesus?
• How does this passage encourage us to grow in how we share the gospel?
• Are you willing to lose your best friends, your family, and be willing to go yourselves to somewhere to share the gospel?
• How does this passage show the importance of church leadership in missions?
• How does sharing the gospel deepen our faith and trust in what God is doing?
• How does Revelation 7 reveal the mission of God, and how does it both encourage us and challenge us to share the gospel?
• How can you participate in God's mission in your life right now?