You  can download a printable version of the study guide here.

Sermon Summary

In this powerful Father’s Day message, Pastor Clarence Hill Jr. shared the transformative story of his father’s conversion on July 4, 1966, when a simple invitation from a postal worker named James Lay changed the trajectory of multiple generations. The sermon emphasized that we are all “heirs” in Christ – recipients of an inheritance that flows from God’s grace and the faithfulness of those who came before us. Using the metaphor of a relay race, Pastor Hill challenged us to see ourselves as the “anchor leg” of God’s work in history, running with the strength and grace available to our generation. He called fathers and all believers to step outside their comfort zones, recognizing that one act of obedience – one invitation to know Christ – can change generations. The message concluded with three key responsibilities: Train (consistently teaching and discipling), Speak (boldly declaring truth), and Finish (running to win with a clear vision from God).

Key Definition

Heir: One who receives an inheritance in Christ. We inherit righteousness, freedom from sin, and the spiritual legacy of those who have gone before us. As heirs, we have access to God’s grace and are called to pass this inheritance to the next generation.

Scripture Passage: Romans 12:1-2

“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Additional Key Passages

• Matthew 5:14-16 – You are the light of the world 
• Luke 20:9-18 – The parable of the vineyard and the heir 
• Isaiah 42:1-3 – God’s servant who strengthens the flickering candle

Discussion Questions

1. Personal Inheritance: Can you trace back how the gospel reached your family? Who was the “James Lay” in your story, the person who first stepped outside their comfort zone to share Christ with your family line?
2. Generational Impact: Pastor Hill said that one person’s obedience in 1966 affected generations. What “one acts of obedience” in your life could potentially impact generations to come?
3. Comfort Zone Challenge: The sermon emphasized stepping outside our comfort zones to invite others to Christ. What specific comfort zone is God asking you to step out of? What’s holding you back?
4. Heir Identity: How does seeing yourself as an “heir” rather than someone who has to earn everything change your perspective on your relationship with God and your role in His kingdom?
5. Anchor Leg Mentality: Pastor Hill described our generation as the “anchor leg” of the relay race. How does this perspective change how you view the challenges and opportunities of living for Christ today?
6. Honor and Legacy: The message emphasized the power of honor in connecting us to what God has done before. How can you better honor the spiritual legacy that has been passed down to you?
7. Train, Speak, Finish: Which of these three responsibilities (Train, Speak, Finish) do you feel strongest in? Which one challenges you the most? How can you grow in the areas where you feel weak?
8. Light in Daily Life: Where are the everyday places in your life (work, neighborhood, school) where God might be calling you to be a light? Who is your “Clarence Hill Sr.” waiting to hear from you?
9. Transformation vs. Conformity: Romans 12:1-2 calls us to be transformed rather than conformed. In what areas of your life do you need God to change the way you think?
10. Vision for Victory: Pastor Hill asked, “Have you ever asked God what your victory looks like?” What do you sense God’s specific assignment might be for your life? How can you seek clarity on this vision?

Take Action: Join the 40 Days of Discipleship

As our church family continues to focus on life-on-life discipleship this summer, we invite you to join the 40 Days of Discipleship devotional journey. Each morning you’ll receive:

• A Scripture passage
• A fresh worship song
• A guided prayer
• Prompts to help you listen to the Holy Spirit and live as an heir of God’s kingdom

Whether you’re beginning to understand your inheritance in Christ or have been walking with Jesus for years, these devotionals will help you grow in your identity as an heir and equip you to pass this inheritance to others.

To sign up: Scan the QR code provided by your group leader or visit our church website. 

Group Challenge: Consider going through these devotionals together as a small group, sharing how God is speaking to you about your inheritance and your role in passing it on to the next generation.

“You are the light of the world – like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14