Developing a God-Given Burden for the Lost

Pastor Pilira Chibwana, husband to Omega, father to Caleb and Watipatsa, is Pastor of Mulunguzi Community Church and the National Director for Passion Center for Children in Zomba, Malawi.

Key Scripture

Romans 1:13–17

Discussion Questions

Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.

1. Read Romans 1:15. We see Paul say, “as much as is in me.” Do you have a burden to share the gospel of Christ with the lost? If so, how are you doing it, and with whom? If not, why do you think that is? Pray today that God would change your heart and give you the burden to share the good news with your circle of influence.
2. Share a recent experience sharing your faith and the gospel with someone who needed to hear it. How did the opportunity come about? Did the person see the conviction, passion, and burden you have for their eternal destination?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 5:18–19. Since God has committed to us the word of reconciliation, what are some practical ways that we can put evangelism on our agendas or our “to-do list?” Brainstorm ideas with your group.
4. Read Romans 1:14. Once saved, are we debtors to God or those around us? How does seeing yourself as a debtor help persuade you or spur you on to share the freedom and grace that is found in Christ?
5. “Delayed obedience is not obedience. Delayed obedience is disobedience.” Does this phrase convict you? Do you ever find yourself pushing off your obedience to “go” until a later time? What reasons have you given yourself? How can we alter our thinking to surrender immediately and act with urgency?
6. Becoming a Christian costs us nothing, but living a life for Christ costs us everything… even our very lives at times. Have you ever considered the difference here? Salvation is a free gift requiring nothing from us, but once saved, God expects every part of us. As a group, search for and share Bible verses that confirm this truth.
7. Read 1 Peter 3:15. Have you been trained in evangelism? How have you prepared to be an effective evangelist? Would it be helpful to go through training? Would that make you more comfortable and confident striking up spiritual conversations with those who may not have heard the gospel?
8. What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Considering your specific sphere of influence, who could you, or do you, disciple? What does it practically look like for you to disciple someone? Discuss with your group.

Accountability

• Where are you reading in the Bible this week? What has God been revealing to you through your quiet time with Him?
• Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
• How can you be praying for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?

Questions about following Jesus?

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