6-14-2026: Reclaiming the Nations
Sermon Title: Reclaiming the Nations
Scripture Reading: Matt. 24:14, 28:16-20; Acts 1:8, 2:1-13; Eph. 2:11-22, 3:10-11
Sermon Focus: The Great Commission is more than a call to personal evangelism—it is Jesus’ declaration that he has all authority in heaven and on earth, and that the nations are being reclaimed for God’s Kingdom. Viewed through cosmic lenses, we see that proclaiming our faith is spiritual warfare. In the seventh message of our series, Pastor David explores how Pentecost is a reversal of Babel and how the church is God’s chosen instrument for uniting people from every tribe, language, and nation in Christ.
Thank you for going deeper in conversation with your small group. Use the following questions to help guide your small group discussion:
1. Read Matthew 28:16–20. Jesus begins the Great Commission by declaring that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him. Why is that important? How does this connect to the themes of spiritual warfare we've explored throughout this series? Also, how does viewing disciple-making as part of God's mission to reclaim the nations change the way you think about evangelism?
2. Read Acts 2:1–13. Pastor David described Pentecost as a reversal of Babel. The people gathered there go back to their “nations” and share the gospel that Jesus is Lord and has authority over heaven and earth. Any new thoughts about this?
3. Read Ephesians 2:1-22 and 3:10-11. God’s “eternal purpose” and plan was to reclaim the nations and unite Jews (Israel) and Gentiles (the nations) in Christ. In light of this, are there beliefs, passions, or attitudes you have that don’t reflect God’s purpose through the church? Also, ask yourself: Where is God calling me to pursue reconciliation, unity, or bridge-building in my relationships or community?
4. Based on this message, we should view competing ideologies like nationalism, racism, tribalism, sexism, and xenophobia as anti-Christ and anti-Kingdom of God. Where do you see these things at work in or around you? Please take time at the end of your meeting to pray against these forces and to pray for the people you see participating in this evil who are playing into the powers of darkness.
5. Paul says that through the Church, God's wisdom is being made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. What do you think that means? How can ordinary acts of faithfulness, love, reconciliation, and discipleship become a witness to God's kingdom? Where might God be inviting you to participate more intentionally in his mission to your family, neighbors, co-workers, community, etc.?
6. WEEKLY PRACTICE: Missional Prayer – “See People as Contested Ground”
• Challenge: Pray daily for 2-3 people within your sphere of influence who don’t know Jesus and find ways to engage them. • Invitation: Pray something like this: “God, draw them to yourself. Use me as part of your mission. Help me share my faith.” • Goal: See embodying the gospel, making disciples, and sharing your faith (evangelism) as a form of spiritual warfare.
Finally, if God is reclaiming the nations through the gospel, what is one practical step you can take this week to share Christ's love, invite someone into discipleship, or participate in God's mission in your community? Each of you share one thing.