Finish My Course

Finish My Course

By Caleb Crittendon

October 4, 2026

*NOTICE: The emphasis of our discussion is to see how the Written Word (Bible) and the Spoken Word (Preaching) work together to build up the believer, so when you see WORD in the questions, know it refers to the Scripture and the Sermon.

Recap: Look back for evidence of God’s word reshaping your heart and life.

1. Does anyone have a testimony to share how you applied last week’s “Respond” section?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

2. Read Acts 20:17-38 together as a group and discuss your initial observations.

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

3. Paul said his life was worthless if he was not testifying to the gospel of the grace of God. How does that kind of conviction compare to how most of us think about our daily lives and routines? What would change if we held that same conviction?

4. Paul told the elders to pay careful attention to themselves before paying attention to the flock. Why do you think self-examination has to come first? What happens in a leader, a parent, or a friend when that order gets reversed?

5. The sermon illustrates how a man on his deathbed, unaware of anyone in the room, still discipled his pastor simply through decades of faithful living — what legacy is your daily faithfulness quietly building in the lives of those watching you?

6. Why does Paul emphasize both his teaching and his example?

7. Jesus, with unlimited power and authority, still intercedes for his people right now. What does it say about the importance of prayer that even Jesus prioritizes it on our behalf?

8. Reflect on the farewell interaction between Paul and the Ephesian elders in verses 37 and 38. Do you have relationships like that within the body of Christ? What must it take to get to that level of closeness in the church?

Respond: Respond to both application questions from Sunday’s message and make a plan of action.

1. Am I actively being discipled by my church?
   • Are people regularly praying for you?
   • Does anyone in the church know where you are, spiritually?
   • Are you regularly studying Scripture with others?
   • If the answer is “No” to these questions, take a step towards discipleship this week. If that means being more committed to your community group, joining a Bible Study, or even asking a more mature brother/sister in Christ to mentor you, take the step.
2. Am I actively discipling someone in my church?
   • Ask God to show you someone you could come alongside and begin praying for him/her.
   • Read the Bible together and teach what you know.
   • Invite him/her into your life – not just the religious parts, but the whole thing.
   • Reach out to crittendon@hopepoint.org if you’d like any resources or support!