Go Not Grow: Embracing the Call to Make Disciples

       "Go Not Grow" is a focus on the Church’s mission—not on numbers or buildings, but on making disciples, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:16–20. When Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” He wasn’t speaking only to the original eleven disciples, but to every believer across generations. This command is not about church attendance or expansion, but about a lifestyle of intentional mission—living every day with the purpose of helping others follow Christ.
       Making disciples means more than sharing the gospel—it’s walking with people as they learn to follow Jesus. It involves teaching, encouraging, and modeling obedience to Christ in every area of life. Discipleship is relational—it happens over coffee, in living rooms, at work, and in shared struggles. And it always starts where we are: in our homes, neighborhoods, and circles of influence. The call to “go” doesn’t necessarily mean crossing oceans—it begins with crossing the street.
      But this mission requires a mindset shift. Instead of saying “I go to church,” we must begin to live as the church—active, present, and sent. The questions we must ask ourselves are challenging but necessary: Who are we walking with in faith? Who needs to hear the gospel in our lives? What does our generosity reveal about our priorities? Where is God sending us today? These reflections turn passive belief into active obedience.
       Ultimately, this mission is empowered not by our abilities, but by Christ’s presence. Jesus promises, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” assuring us that we’re never alone in the work. As Charles Spurgeon said, “Every Christian is either a missionary or an impostor.” We’re called to respond—not with fear, but with faith. Let’s embrace the “Go Not Grow” mindset and take the first step in making disciples, trusting God to use our obedience to change lives, including our own.

Transformation Group Guide: Go Not Grow - The Great Commission

Key Takeaways:
1. The Great Commission calls all Christians to make disciples.
2. Worship and obedience are foundational to fulfilling the Great Commission.
3. Jesus has all authority, which gives us confidence in our mission.
4. Discipleship starts at home and extends to all areas of our lives.
5. The presence of Jesus is with us as we go and make disciples.

Discussion Questions:

1. How can you intentionally create space in your life to hear from God, similar to the disciples going to the mountain where Jesus directed them?

2. How does understanding Jesus' authority (as described in Colossians 1:15-20) and the promise of Jesus' presence 'to the end of the age' impact your approach to evangelism and discipleship?

3. Pastor Josh emphasizes that not making disciples is actively disobeying God. How does this perspective change your view on discipleship?

4. What are some practical ways we can "teach them to observe all that I have commanded you" in our daily lives?

5. How can we shift our mindset from "I go to church" to "I am the church"?

6. In what areas of your life do you struggle to submit to Christ's authority, and how might surrendering those areas affect your spiritual journey?

7. In what ways can you practically support and encourage missionaries, both locally and globally, as part of Refuge's 'Go not grow' vision?

Practical Applications:
1. Identify Your Mission Field: Write down names of people in your immediate sphere of influence who need to hear the gospel.

2. Discipleship Audit: Evaluate your current discipleship relationships. Who are you discipling? Who is discipling you?

3. Community Building: Take a step this week to deepen your relationships within the church community (e.g., invite someone for coffee, join a ministry team).

4. Prayer Walk: Plan a prayer walk in your neighborhood or on San Juan Street, asking God to show you opportunities for ministry.

5. Missionary Support: Choose one of the church's missionaries to pray for regularly and find a practical way to encourage them this month.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the Great Commission and the privilege of participating in your mission. Help us to be obedient in making disciples, starting where we are. Give us courage to go, wisdom to teach, and love for those who don't know you. May we live as sent ones, always aware of your presence with us. In Jesus' name, Amen.