Advance the Gospel

Topics: sharing the gospel

I. View circumstances as opportunities

* Be optimistic in how God can use your situation for His glory!

1. Now after these things were finished, Paul purposed in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, saying, "After I have been there, I must also see Rome" (Acts 19:21).
2. Often I have planned to come to you (and have been prevented so far) . . . So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome (Romans 1:13 b, 15).
3. For this reason I have often been prevented from coming to you; but now, with no further place for me in these regions, and since I have had for many years a longing to come to you whenever I go to Spain for I hope to see you in passing, and to be helped on my way there by you, when I have first enjoyed your company for a while. But now, I am going to Jerusalem serving the saints (Romans 15:22-25).
4. Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel (Philippians 1:12).

II. Make contact with lost people

* Be intentional in fostering loving relationships with people!

1. So that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else (Philippians 1:13; see Acts 28:30, 31)
2. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. So Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you" (John 20:20b, 21).

III. Inspire courage in other believers

* Be real and authentic about your life and ministry!

1. And that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear (Philippians 1:14).
2. You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:1, 2).

Sermon by Pastor Rod Akins, July 26th, 2026.

Life Group Flow and Discussion Questions

Advance the Gospel

An important Guideline of Life Groups:Just as Paul was passionate about advancing the gospel, your Life Group is strategic in building God's kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Brainstorm creative ways to further the gospel of love both within your own lives and as an outreach to others.

Getting Started:

1. How do you handle difficult circumstances, trials and adversity? What was Paul's perspective of his tribulations (Romans 5:3-5; 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17)?
2. Have you ever been reluctant about sharing the gospel with others? How does Paul's example inspire more courage to speak the word of God without fear (1:14)?

Discussing Truths:

1. Can you be optimistic in tribulations with an authentic and sincere faith? What helps you keep perspective in the midst of a crisis?
2. How would you evaluate and grade your passion for the gospel?
3. What would you probably put in our memory verse if you were being vulnerable and honest?For to me, to live is?
4. Are there ways that you have been intentional in fostering loving relationships with your OIKOS? Share some creative ideas to advance the gospel (Luke 21:13)!
5. In Paul's final epistle, he writes to Timothy: Remember Jesus Christ . . . for which I suffer hardship even to imprisonment as a criminal; but the word of God is not imprisoned? (2 Timothy 2:8, 9). How does God's truth transcend circumstances?
6. Whose faith has given you fresh boldness to speak the word of God without fear?

Now What? Application:

1. What are some open doors that God has given you for ministry, and what opposition will you face (1 Corinthians 16:9)? Be faithful to advance the gospel.
2. Don't underestimate your influence on others! Be optimistic, be intentional, and be real so others will trust the Lord more because of your example.