KE Group Questions
Week of April 19, 2026
Summary
Pastor Joshua Kennedy delivered a sermon on the foundational call to follow Jesus, emphasizing the difference between casual Christianity and true discipleship. Drawing from Matthew 4:18-22, he explained how Jesus called ordinary fishermen to become disciples, not by requiring them to get their lives together first, but by simply saying 'come, follow me.' The pastor stressed that following Christ is a 'death sentence' to self, requiring believers to move beyond just believing to actively obeying and living as disciples. He highlighted the importance of being connected to the body of Christ through discipleship relationships and accountability, rather than practicing solo Christianity. The message challenged congregants to examine whether they are casual Christians or true disciples who immediately respond to God's call.
Ice Breaker
If you could have any job for just one day (with no experience required), what would it be and why?
Key Verses
- Matthew 4:18-22
- Luke 6:38
- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Questions
- What's the difference between being a 'casual Christian' and being a true disciple of Christ? Which category do you honestly find yourself in most often?
- Jesus called the fishermen to follow Him before they had their lives together or any religious training. How does this challenge our ideas about who God can use?
- Pastor Josh mentioned that following Christ is a 'death sentence' to self. What are some specific areas of your life that need to 'die' for you to follow Jesus more fully?
- The disciples left their nets and followed Jesus 'immediately.' What are some things that might be preventing you from immediately responding to God's call in your life?
- How can being connected to other believers through discipleship relationships help us grow, rather than trying to follow Jesus alone?
- Jesus said 'I will make you fishers of men.' How can you be a 'fisher of men' in your current workplace, neighborhood, or social circles?
- What role does accountability and discipline play in spiritual growth? How comfortable are you with receiving correction from other believers?
- The sermon emphasized that we cannot change ourselves - only God can make us who He's called us to be. How does this truth change the way you approach spiritual growth?
Life Application
This week, identify one specific area where you've been a 'casual Christian' rather than a true disciple. Choose one practical step you can take to 'immediately' respond to God's call in that area. Additionally, if you're not already connected to a small group or accountability relationship, take steps to get plugged into the body of Christ through the church's discipleship opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Following Jesus requires moving from casual Christianity to true discipleship, which involves immediate obedience and surrender
- God calls ordinary people just as they are and transforms them as they follow Him - we don't need to get our lives together first
- True discipleship is a 'death sentence' to self, requiring us to lay down our own will and desires to follow Christ
- We are called to be 'fishers of men' wherever God has placed us, using our current circumstances as opportunities to reach others
- Spiritual growth happens best in community through discipleship relationships and accountability, not in isolation
Growing spiritually takes a daily personal walk with God and a gathering together in fellowship with other believers.
Our corporate gathering is for equipping the saints, but meeting in small groups allows regular individual
participation so that personal needs can be addressed.
Small groups also foster growth in ministering the gifts of the Holy Spirit, accountability, and the support
necessary to be a healthy member of the family of God.
The leadership of Praise Tabernacle has encouraged group leaders to be missional and evangelistic
in their approach to leading these groups.
The ultimate goal is Kingdom Expansion.
KE (KINGDOM EXPANSION)
GROUP LOCATIONS
Egg Harbor Township
Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 pm - Andy & Lori Holman's home -
1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights @ 7:00 pm - Terry & Sue Luma's home -
Mays Landing
1st Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Pastor Josh & Loraine Kennedy;
3rd Wednesdays, 7 pm - Host: Matt & Elise Lucas;
4th Wednesday, 7 pm - Host: Caleb & Tahlia Wilkes;
Reach out to Pastor Josh if you have any questions: (609) 402-8869
Egg Harbor City
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm - Eddie Aponte's home -
Galloway
2nd & 4th Wednesday Nights @ 6:30pm -Greg & Regina's home
Ocean View
Sunday Nights (Every 1st & 3rd) @ 6pm - Joanne Utt's Home -
