Kingdom Influence Part 6 with Discussion Guide

BySteve

Kingdom Influence Part 6 Discussion Guide

Summary

In this sermon, Pastor Doug explores the concept of kingdom influence through the lens of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. He emphasizes that spiritual growth comes from God, not human effort, using Paul’s words from 1 Corinthians 3:6 – ‘I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.’ The Beatitudes are presented not as a checklist of behaviors to achieve, but as a portrait of what kingdom character looks like when God is at work in someone’s life. The pastor explains that kingdom character often appears opposite to cultural success, focusing on dependence, humility, tenderness, and trust rather than self-reliance. True kingdom influence flows from character formation, not from overpowering others, and begins with surrendering to Jesus and allowing Him to develop our hearts.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts, ready to learn and grow in Your kingdom. We acknowledge that You are the source of all growth and transformation in our lives. As we gather together to discuss Your Word, we ask that You would speak to each of us individually and collectively. Help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us today, and give us the wisdom to apply these truths to our daily lives. Holy Spirit, guide our conversation and help us to encourage one another as we seek to become more like Jesus. In His precious name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s one plant or garden that you’ve either successfully grown or completely failed at keeping alive? What do you think made the difference?

Key Verses

  • 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
  • Matthew 5:3-9
  • Matthew 7:16

Questions

  • How does understanding that ‘God gives the increase’ change the way you approach spiritual growth and ministry?
  • In what ways does our culture’s definition of ‘blessed’ differ from Jesus’ definition in the Beatitudes?
  • Why do you think Jesus started his teaching about kingdom influence with heart formation rather than action steps?
  • Which of the Beatitudes challenges you the most, and why?
  • How can we avoid treating the Beatitudes as a checklist while still taking them seriously as a guide for Christian living?
  • What does it mean that ‘influence flows from character’ in practical terms for your daily life?
  • Where have you been measuring blessing the wrong way in your own life?
  • How can we stay rooted in Christ while actively engaging with the world around us?

Life Application

This week, spend time reading through the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) daily and pray this prayer: ‘God, grow in me the kind of life that reflects your kingdom.’ Reflect on the question: ‘Where have I measured blessing the wrong way?’ and consider how you might shift your perspective from seeking comfort to becoming more like Jesus.

Key Takeaways

  • The Beatitudes are a portrait of kingdom character, not a checklist of behaviors to achieve
  • Spiritual growth comes from God, not human effort – we plant and water, but God gives the increase
  • Kingdom character often appears opposite to cultural success, emphasizing dependence, humility, and trust
  • True kingdom influence flows from character formation, not from overpowering others
  • Blessing is less about comfort and more about becoming like Jesus

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us what true kingdom character looks like through the Beatitudes. Help us to remember that we don’t have to manufacture spiritual growth or perform our way into influence. Instead, help us to stay rooted in You, surrendering our hearts to Your transforming work. As we go from this place, may we depend on You more fully, trust in Your timing, and allow You to develop kingdom character within us. Give us the grace to measure blessing not by worldly standards, but by how much we are becoming like You. We trust that as we remain connected to You, You will produce the fruit of Your kingdom in and through our lives. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.

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