Called to Be With Him
Sermon Summary
Download a printable version of the discussion guide here
This powerful message from Mark 3:13-15 reveals three foundational truths about our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus.
First, we are wanted and chosen by God, not randomly, but with divine purpose and predetermined love. Before the foundation of the world, God chose us for adoption as His own children.
Second, Jesus calls us to be with Him through the presence of the Holy Spirit, our Comforter who connects us to God’s everlasting love and provides the peace and strength we need for every circumstance.
Third, we are sent out with power and authority to set others free, to share the gospel and cast out the darkness of fear, anxiety, and spiritual oppression.
The sermon emphasized that true authority comes from consecration and staying free from the pollution of worldly influences, allowing God’s pure water to flow through us. Through powerful stories from a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, we see how simple acts of compassion and prayer can bring dramatic breakthrough in people’s lives.
Key Definition
Hesed Love: The Hebrew word for God’s everlasting love that creates connection and attachment. It’s the kind of love that draws us close through care, empathy, comfort, and nurture, the same love that connects us permanently to our Heavenly Father.
Key Scripture Passage: Mark 3:13-15
“And he went up on the mountain and summoned those whom he himself wanted, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve so that they would be with him and that he could send them out to preach and to have authority to cast out demons.”
Additional Key Passages
Ephesians 1:4-5 – Chosen before the foundation of the world
Isaiah 49:14-16 – I will not forget you; you are inscribed on my palms
1 Peter 2:9 – A chosen race, a royal priesthood, God’s own possession
John 14:16-17, 26-27 – The Holy Spirit as Comforter
Jeremiah 31:3 – I have loved you with an everlasting love
2 Timothy 1:7 – God has not given you a spirit of fear
Discussion Questions
Identity Struggles: Which of the three truths (chosen, with, sent) do you struggle most to believe about yourself? What lies or past experiences make it difficult to accept that you are truly wanted and chosen by God?
Feeling Forgotten: The sermon mentioned that everyone has felt forgotten at times. When do you most struggle with feeling distant from God or unseen by Him? What circumstances tend to trigger these feelings?
Authority Barriers: Pastor Jimmy taught that “lack of consecration” weakens our spiritual authority. What “pollution” or compromises in your life do you feel are hindering God’s power from flowing through you?
The Comforter’s Presence: The Holy Spirit is described as our Helper, Comforter, Advocate, and Counselor. In what areas of your life do you most need to acknowledge His presence and let Him comfort you?
Everlasting Love: The grandchildren loved hearing “God loves you with an everlasting love” repeatedly. How does knowing God’s love for you will never stop, never change, and never end encourage you in your current circumstances?
The Comforter’s Presence: Knowing that the Holy Spirit is your Helper, Comforter, and Counselor who is always with you, how does this truth encourage you when you feel overwhelmed or alone?
Chosen for Purpose: You are not just saved but chosen to be “a royal priesthood” and “God’s own possession.” How does knowing you have this royal identity and divine purpose encourage your sense of worth and calling?
Simple Ministry This Week: The Dominican Republic stories showed breakthrough through simple questions like “How can I pray for you?” Who in your life (coworkers, neighbors, family) could you ask this question to this week?
Exercising Spiritual Authority: You have authority to pray against fear, anxiety, and depression. Is there someone specific you could pray for this week using 2 Timothy 1:7, declaring God’s power, love, and sound mind over them?
Clean Water Challenge: Pastor Jimmy suggested putting aside screen pollution for a week to drink from God’s pure water. What specific step will you take this week to reduce distractions and increase time in God’s Word or the 40-day devotional?
Being With God: Jesus called the disciples to “be with Him.” What practical changes could you make this week to better acknowledge the Holy Spirit’s presence throughout your day and experience more of God’s comfort and guidance?
Take Action: Join the 40 Days of Discipleship
As our church family continues in the 40 Days of Discipleship devotional journey, we encourage you to join if you haven’t already. Each morning you’ll receive:
A scripture passage
A fresh worship song
Guided prayer prompts
Questions to help you ask God “What do I do with this?”
Current Focus: Day 28 focuses on humility, a perfect continuation of understanding our identity as chosen, loved, and sent.
To sign up: Scan the QR code provided by your group leader or visit our church website.
Group Challenge: Consider taking Pastor Jimmy’s challenge to put aside screen pollution for a week and focus on drinking from the pure water of God’s Word through these devotionals. Share with your group how this affects your sense of God’s presence and your spiritual authority.
Prayer Focus
Based on the sermon’s closing prayer, spend time as a group praying:
Against the spirit of fear in hearts and minds
For the love of God that casts out all fear to fill your group
For the power of God to be victorious over anxiety and depression
For the sound mind of God and His peace that passes understanding
For boldness to step into the authority God has given you to minister to others
“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with loving-kindness.” – Jeremiah 31:3