The Least Of TheseSample

SESSION 1: Following the Great Commission

Following Christ means following Christ’s Great Commission, even when there is great cost in doing so.

DEVOTIONAL:

The film THE LEAST OF THESE tells the story of Graham Staines and his family, who were Australian missionaries in Kendujhar, India. What we find throughout the film is that the Staines Family believed the Great Commission and Great Commandment were more important than their own comfort and were worth any personal risk they might face. Scenes like the one shown in the opening clip are largely foreign to the church in America today. Still, we understand, on some level at least, the difficulty and resistance experienced in carrying out Christ’s Great Commission.

We all have opportunities to make known the truth of God’s Word, though it’s often not easy. To “preach” includes more than standing behind a pulpit to deliver a sermon. In 2 Timothy 4:1-5, Paul pointed out how Timothy was to do this. He was to persist in it “in season and out of season.” This phrase may also be translated “whether it’s convenient or not.” As believers, we need to speak up for the truth of God not only when the situation seems convenient or when we are “on duty,” but when it is inconvenient. We must live the faith and be available as witnesses to the truth all the time.

TALK IT OVER:

1. What is the central command Jesus gives his disciples (Matthew 28:19-20)?

2. When have you experienced an opportunity to share your faith? Did you take it? Why or why not?

3. When you think about Jesus’ “Great Commission”, what holds you back from actively passing on the Good News of Christ?