VISION FOR DISCIPLESHIP | JANUARY 18, 2026

Lead Others to Christ – Chip Henderson

Key Passage: Isaiah 50:4, Matthew 5:13–16, 2 Timothy 2:2, Matthew 12:30

OPENING QUESTION

When have you seen someone influence another person’s faith journey, either through words, example, or humility? How did it impact you?

GROW

Jesus did not just call people to follow Him. He promised to make them fishers of men. Every disciple is called to influence others. Whether you realize it or not, you already have influence in your family, workplace, friendships, and community. The question is, how are you using it?

Scripture shows us that influence for Christ happens through three key practices: our words, our example, and our willingness to own it when we fail. Isaiah 50 describes the tongue of a disciple. Matthew 5 calls us salt and light. And 2 Timothy 2:2 reminds us to pass on what we have learned. Discipleship is not passive. As Jesus said, we are either gathering or scattering. There is no neutral.

  • Which of the three ways to influence (words, example, owning it) comes most naturally to you? Which one challenges you?

  • Why is it important to speak and not just live out your faith quietly?

  • What does it look like to influence someone spiritually in everyday life?

PRAY

Prayer helps us recognize where God is already at work and prepares us to respond with obedience. God has already given you influence. Ask Him to open your eyes to the people around you and give you the courage to follow His lead.

  • Who in your life needs the hope or encouragement of Jesus right now?

  • Is there a situation where you have felt hesitant to speak or act in faith?

  • How can we pray for each other to be ready and obedient in using our influence this week?

CONNECT

Discipleship is never meant to stay with us. Jesus invites us to join Him in the work of shaping others. When we invest in the lives of those around us, we create a culture of faithfulness and multiplication.

  • Who in your life helped you grow by intentionally investing in you?

  • Who is someone God might be calling you to disciple or encourage in their faith?

  • What makes you hesitant to see yourself as someone who can lead others spiritually?

SHARE

We are not perfect, and we do not need to pretend to be. Often, the most powerful witness is found in humility, owning our mistakes, repenting well, and showing that grace is real. That is where authenticity and influence come together.

  • Is there a conversation or apology you have been avoiding that could open a door to spiritual impact?

  • What is one way you can intentionally influence someone toward Jesus this week?

  • How can our group support one another as we steward our influence well?

NEXT STEP

Choose one action for this week in one of the Be The Church rhythms:

Grow: What verse will you memorize or meditate on to shape your influence?
Pray: Who will you pray for by name this week to come to know Jesus?
Connect: Who can you initiate a spiritual conversation with?
Share: Where will you speak up, live boldly, or own your failure for Christ’s glory?

PRAYER

Close by thanking Jesus for inviting you to be part of His mission. Ask Him to help you use your words, your example, and even your failures to lead others to Him. Pray that your influence would be salt and light, pointing people to the One who brings life-change.