Small Group Discussion

Opening Question:

Icebreaker Question

• What’s a hobby you started with enthusiasm but eventually quit? What made you stop?

Key Scriptures:

• Luke 9:57-62 – The cost of following Jesus
• Luke 5:1-11 – Jesus calls the fishermen
• Galatians 6:9 – Don’t become weary in doing good

Key Takeaways:

• Discipleship requires commitment, not dabbling. Following Jesus isn’t a hobby to pick up when convenient—it’s a complete life commitment.
• Failure doesn’t disqualify you; quitting does. Keep “washing your nets” and doing the right things even when you don’t see immediate results.
• Obedience before understanding. The fisherman’s mentality says “because you said so” even when conditions aren’t perfect and outcomes aren’t guaranteed.
• Faith is proven in what you hope for, not what you see. Sometimes you have to “do it afraid” and trust God’s plan over your comfort.

Discussion Questions:

Part 1: A Hobbyist Dabbles, A Fisherman Commits

1. The pastor mentioned that many Christians “attend occasionally, pray occasionally, read scripture occasionally, serve occasionally, give occasionally.” Which area do you struggle with most when it comes to consistency?
2. Read Luke 9:57-62. Why do you think Jesus responded so strongly to these would-be followers? What was He really asking of them?
3. What would “burning your plowing equipment” look like in your life today? What would you need to give up to follow Jesus without an “exit plan”?

Part 2: A Hobbyist Quits After Failure, A Fisherman Keeps Going Out

1. The pastor said, “Washing your nets is doing the right things today even when yesterday didn’t produce the result you wanted.” What does “washing your nets” look like practically in your current season?
2. Read Galatians 6:9. What area of “doing good” are you most tempted to give up on right now? What would it look like to persevere?

Part 3: A Hobbyist Waits for Perfect Conditions, A Fisherman Adapts

1. What “perfect conditions” are you waiting for before you’ll take the next step of obedience? (Examples: more time, more money, more knowledge, better circumstances)
2. Peter said, “Master, we worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you said so, I’ll cast my net.” When was the last time you obeyed God even when it didn’t make sense?