Summary

This sermon focuses on the responsibility Christians have to share their faith rather than 'burying' the treasure of their relationship with Jesus. Using the story of Philip and Nathanael from John 1, the pastor emphasizes that sharing faith doesn't require having all the answers - it's as simple as saying 'come and see.' The message challenges believers to examine what has changed in their lives because of Jesus and to share that transformation with others. The pastor addresses common fears about sharing faith, such as feeling inadequate, hypocritical, or worried about not knowing enough, and encourages a simple approach of inviting others to experience Jesus rather than trying to argue or convince them.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts and minds. We ask that You would speak to each person in this group in the way that You know they need to hear from You. Help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us through Your Word and through each other. Remove any barriers or distractions that might keep us from receiving what You have for us today. Give us courage to be honest about our struggles and fears, and help us to encourage one another as we grow in our faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's your favorite team or sports memory, and what made it so special to you?

Key Verses

1. John 1:43-50
2. Matthew 25:14-30
3. Mark 1:15
4. Deuteronomy 18:15

Questions

1. What was your 'genesis moment' - the person or event that led you to faith in Jesus? How did someone else play a role in your spiritual journey?
2. The pastor mentioned that many Christians feel inadequate when it comes to sharing their faith. What fears or concerns do you have about talking to others about Jesus?
3. Philip simply said 'come and see' when Nathanael raised an objection. How might this simple approach change the way you think about sharing your faith?
4. What has genuinely changed in your life because you know Jesus? Take time to think of specific examples, both big and small.
5. The sermon mentioned that Jesus wants to be 'first chair' in our lives. What areas of your life might you need to surrender more fully to Him?
6. How do you typically respond when someone asks you a difficult question about faith that you don't know how to answer?
7. The pastor said sharing faith should be like recommending a great roller coaster rather than being a math professor. How does this analogy change your perspective on evangelism?
8. What practical steps could you take this week to be more intentional about sharing the light of Christ with others in your daily life?

Life Application

This week, write down 3-5 specific ways that knowing Jesus has changed your life. Practice sharing one of these changes with someone - whether it's a friend, family member, or coworker. Look for natural opportunities to simply invite someone to 'come and see' rather than feeling like you need to have all the answers. Remember, your role is to point people to Jesus, not to be their savior.

Key Takeaways

1. The gospel was never meant to stop advancing with you - it's intended to multiply through you to others
2. Sharing faith is more like recommending a great experience than being a professor who knows everything
3. You don't need all the answers - 'come and see' is often the best response to objections
4. Jesus sees you in your 'under the fig tree' moments and knows your struggles intimately
5. Stop hiding your light under a bushel - let the changes Jesus has made in your life shine for others to see

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that You have given each of us a treasure in our relationship with You. Help us not to bury this gift out of fear or inadequacy, but to let Your light shine through us. Give us courage to share our stories of how You've changed our lives, and help us to trust that You are big enough to handle any questions or objections that come our way. Show us opportunities this week to simply invite others to 'come and see' who You are. May we be faithful stewards of the gospel message You've entrusted to us. In Your precious name, Amen.