9-13-2026: The Church That Prays

9-13-2026: The Church That Prays

Sermon Title: The Church That Prays

Scripture Reading: Acts 1:1–14, 2:42; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thess. 5:17

Sermon Focus: Prayer is not simply another activity of the church; it is the posture of a congregation that recognizes its dependence upon God. The early church prayed together, and their prayers shaped their courage, unity, discernment, and mission. In the first message of our series, Pastor David begins with an overview of The Thriving Congregation series, explores the purpose and power of prayer, and shares what happens when prayer moves from the margins of church life to the center.

Thank you for going deeper in conversation with your small group. Use the following questions to help guide your small group discussion: 

  1. Begin by reading Acts 1:1-14. Notice, the disciples went to Jerusalem, waited (as Jesus told them to do), and they were “constantly in prayer” for God to act. So, the first activity of the church after Jesus' ascension was not production; it was a show of their dependence on God. How is God speaking to you about this passage?

  2. Pastor David pointed out that when the church prays something happens. There are a few things we see in the first chapters of Acts: (1) prayer creates unity; (2) prayer helps the church discern; (3) prayer empowers the church for mission; and (4) prayer gives the church courage to act. How have you seen this occur today?

  3. Read the following verses: Ephesians 6:18, Colossians 4:2, and 1 Thessalonians 5:17. In each of these verses, Paul is emphasizing the power of prayer and describing an ongoing relational awareness of God and a prayerful posture that continually recognizes: “God, you are here. God, I need you. God, what are you doing? God, how do you want me to participate?” Do you “pray continually” in this way? How does it help to view prayer as an ongoing conversation with God?

  4. Prayer is about reliance upon God. Prayer gives us access to his power and provision. Ask yourself, “Where in my life have I not been relying on God? How is the Spirit inviting me to go to God more in prayer?” There are areas in each of our lives that this applies. Please be honest in your sharing with each other.

  5. As you think about how the early church waited on God and showed their dependence upon him in prayer, ask, “Where are we lacking unity, discernment, power, or courage as a congregation? How might God be inviting us into deeper prayer?” What is the Spirit speaking to you about these things? 

  6. Pastor David shared the true story of how New Hope Ministries began with congregants seeing a need, going to God in prayer, and believing that he could do the impossible. How is the Spirit speaking to you through this inspiring story?

  7. LIFE ON MISSION QUESTION – What is one specific step I can take this week to make prayer a more central part of my life and our life together?