Kingsway Caringbah Kingsway Church

In this message, Dave explores the spiritual discipline of waiting and its profound impact on our faith journey. Drawing from Acts 1:1-14, we see how Jesus instructed His disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit. This waiting period wasn't idle; it was a time of preparation, unity, and devoted prayer. We learn that waiting is not just something we endure until we get what we want, but a crucial part of becoming who God wants us to be.
The message challenges us to consider what God might be asking us to let go of during our seasons of waiting - whether it's disappointment, fear, unforgiveness, or the need for certainty. By embracing these times of preparation, we position ourselves to receive God's power and promises in His perfect timing.
Discussion Questions:
1. How can we cultivate patience and learn to 'wait well' in our spiritual lives, especially when facing long periods of unanswered prayer or unfulfilled hopes?
2. How does the concept of 'waiting' in Acts 1 challenge our modern desire for instant gratification and quick solutions in both spiritual and secular contexts?
3. What role does community play in supporting believers during times of waiting, and how can we better encourage one another in these seasons?
4. In what ways can periods of waiting reveal and challenge our idols or misplaced sources of security and comfort?
5. In what ways might our periods of waiting be opportunities for witness and ministry to others, even as we struggle with our own uncertainties?Watch at: https://youtu.be/8JfUZJ_58wQ

Luke 10 challenges us to be a church that sends people out with a kingdom mindset - to build authentic relationships, serve others' needs without judgment, and proclaim God's love without conditions.
We are called to go beyond our comfort zones and engage with people where they are, sharing meals, 'lingering' to build trust, and ministering to the sick and hurting. Our role is not to save people, but to point them to Jesus and the reality of God's kingdom in tangible ways.
As we go into the world, may we be empowered by the Spirit to connect, serve, and share the good news with everyone we meet.
Discussion Questions:
1. In what ways might building authentic relationships and trust with others, without judgment, reflect the heart of God's kingdom?
2. How can we balance the call to serve and minister to people's needs without imposing our own agendas or biases?
3. In light of the sermon's emphasis on being sent to connect, serve, and share, what specific opportunities or challenges do you sense God calling you to engage with in your own life and community?
4. How can we cultivate a posture of humility, openness, and compassion as we seek to build bridges and share God's love with others, particularly those who are different from us?
5. In what ways does the vision of a church that sends people out to love and serve, rather than simply attracting them in, resonate with your understanding of God's heart for the world?Watch at: https://youtu.be/CdhyYJvU0OA

This message powerfully illustrates how Jesus empowers us to carry out his mission in the world. Just as he sent out the twelve disciples with his authority to heal the sick and proclaim the good news of the kingdom, Jesus also sends us out today with that same power and purpose. The key is to travel light, not relying on our own strength, plans or provisions, but placing our total trust in Jesus to work through us. We are challenged to lay aside the weights, worries and distractions that hinder us from running the race with endurance. As we surrender control and step out in obedient faith, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we will see him do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine for his glory.
Discussion Questions:
1. What does it mean for us as believers to be 'sent' by Jesus to co-labor and collaborate with him in his mission?
2. In what ways do we tend to 'overpack' for the spiritual journey by relying on our own resources, plans and comforts instead of fully trusting God?
3. How can we discern the difference between wise preparation and an unhealthy need for control or certainty in following God's call?
4. What might Jesus be asking you to leave behind or lay down in order to walk in greater trust and obedience to him?
5. What does it look like practically to be 'sent' people who are agents of love, healing and transformation in the world?Watch at: https://youtu.be/arQErZkP2Z8

Series Intro - This message explores the concept of being sent by God to participate in His mission of redemption and restoration in the world. Dave emphasizes that throughout Scripture, God has been sending His people to proclaim the good news, serve the poor and marginalized, and bring healing to the broken.
As followers of Christ, we are called to partner with God in His ongoing work, empowered by the Holy Spirit and united as the Church. The sermon encourages the church to discern God's specific calling on their lives and to respond with faith, courage, and obedience.
Discussion Questions:
1. What lessons can we learn from the sacrificial life of Father Damien caring for the leper colony on Molokai? How might God be calling you to sacrificially love and serve others?
2. How does the truth that 'as the Father has sent Jesus, so Jesus is sending us' shape your understanding of the Christian life and your purpose?
3. Dave quoted Chrostopher Wright who said: 'Mission was not made for the church; the church was made for mission, God's mission.' How should this perspective inform the priorities and activities of our church community?
4. Dave exhorts us to take simple, practical action to serve others and advance God's kingdom. What is one small step of obedience God is calling you to take this week in response to his sending?Watch at: https://youtu.be/pBJiJntO7Bo

Stories of God at work through Kingsways' mission projects - This message reminds us that the essence of mission is loving the person in front of us, no matter how simple the act may seem. We hear the powerful story of teaching a man to read a measuring tape, illustrating how even seemingly unproductive moments can profoundly impact lives when done with love. The message challenges us to ground our service and outreach in genuine care for individuals, letting God work through us as we take time to listen, understand, and connect heart-to-heart. As we engage in mission, whether in our local communities or across the globe, may we never lose sight of the transformative power of love.
Discussion Questions:
1. Phanet shared about the transformative impact Kingsway Cambodia is having on the lives of vulnerable young people. How can we, as a church family, continue to support and pray for this ministry, and what lessons can we learn from their example of Christlike love and service?
2. Platform 9's mission is to provide 'shelter, community, and a fresh start' to those experiencing homelessness and domestic violence. What role do you believe the church should play in addressing these critical social issues, and how can we balance meeting practical needs with sharing the hope of the gospel?
3. The testimonies shared in this message emphasized the importance of prayer and financial support for Kingsway Care's various ministries. What are some creative ways we can rally together as a church family to meet the $50,000 annual fundraising goal and demonstrate our commitment to advancing God's kingdom work?
4. Keith and Marjorie expressed deep gratitude for the love and support they received from our church family during Paul's illness and passing. How can we continue to be a source of comfort, encouragement, and practical help to those in our community who are grieving or going through difficult seasons?
5. As we reflect on the various ministries and missions highlighted today, what common themes emerge about God's heart for the vulnerable, the power of community, and the call to love sacrificially? How might God be inviting you personally to grow in these areas, and what practical steps can you take to respond in obedience?Watch at: https://youtu.be/pA3XIyg5Ga4

Mothers' Day 2024 - This message delves into the profound spiritual practice of trusting and surrendering to God amidst life's challenges. Using the analogy of juggling, we learn that keeping our eyes fixed on God and his promises, represented by the rainbow, allows us to navigate difficulties with faith and hope. The story of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20 illustrates the power of seeking God's presence, praising him, and declaring his faithfulness even in the face of overwhelming odds. As we open our hands in surrender, pouring out our worries to God and relying on his grace, we find the strength to persevere. This message encourages us to cultivate rhythms of remembrance, thanksgiving, and praise, positioning our hearts to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, no matter what life throws our way.
Discussion Questions:
1. In what ways do you find it challenging to surrender control and fully trust God when facing difficult situations?
2. How does focusing on God's character and promises, rather than our problems, change our perspective and empower us to 'juggle' life's challenges?
3. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a habit of consistently lifting our eyes to God and seeking His presence in both good times and bad?
4. In what areas of your life do you sense God calling you to 'open your hands' and surrender to Him, and what holds you back from doing so?
5. How does Jesus' example of trust and surrender, even in the face of betrayal, rejection and suffering, inspire and challenge you in your own faith journey?Watch at: https://youtu.be/e60_qHjme_A