Series Resources

sermon-based study guide

This guide is designed to guide a group discussion around the weekend sermon. You can also use this as an individual, but we highly recommend finding a friend and inviting them to discuss with you. Menlo Church has Life Groups meeting in-person and online using these guides. We’d love to help you find a group.
What you will find in this guide: A discussion guide for groups and individuals. If you are using this as an individual be sure to engage with each question in a journal or simply in your mind as you prayerfully consider what you heard in the sermon and seek to discover what God is inviting you to know and do.

Sermon Study Guide | Start Up Faith | Deploy

Series: Start Up Faith
Title: DEPLOY: Faith in Motion
Date: January 25, 2025

CONNECT:

What was one bold step or "startup" moment in your life where you took a leap of faith? How did it turn out?

The church in Antioch was led by a diverse group of leaders from different ethnicities, social backgrounds, and professions. How have you experienced the beauty or strength of diversity in a community of faith or leadership? How did it shape the way the group worked together or sought God’s direction?

ENGAGE:

Read Acts 16:6–10

Paul and his companions faced closed doors as they tried to spread their message, but they trusted the Holy Spirit’s guidance. How does the idea of divine redirection—shutting one door to open another—resonate with you? Have you ever considered how obstacles or delays might serve a larger purpose?

Paul’s vision of the Macedonian man provided clarity for the next steps in his journey. Have you ever experienced a change in plans or direction that felt significant or timely? What did you learn from that experience, and how did it influence your perspective?

APPLY:

In Acts 13:1–3, the church in Antioch fasted, prayed, and sought the Holy Spirit’s guidance before sending out Barnabas and Saul. What steps can you take to intentionally seek clarity or direction in your own life this week? 

The church in Antioch didn’t keep their faith private—they shared it and sent others out to spread hope. How can you embody this sending culture in your own community? What tangible act of generosity, encouragement, or service can you offer this week that reflects the kingdom values of love, hope, and grace?

PRAYER

Thank God for the example of the church in Antioch and their commitment to prayer, unity, and mission. Pray for a heart that seeks God’s guidance in all areas of life.

Ask for wisdom and courage to take bold steps of faith, trusting in the Holy Spirit’s direction, especially in areas where clarity or alignment is needed.

Lift up the Menlo Next participants over the next three weeks. Pray that God would deepen their faith, reveal His purposes, and inspire them to take meaningful next steps in their spiritual journey.

GOING DEEPER

For The Bay 

What if the simple act of serving others could bring unexpected joy and purpose to your life? Imagine being part of something bigger—sharing hope, meeting real needs, and seeing lives change, including your own. Join us in discovering how you can make a lasting impact right here in the Bay Area!

Baptism

Ready to take the next step in your faith journey? Baptism is a powerful way to celebrate what God is doing in your life and share your story of hope and transformation. Don’t miss this opportunity to declare your faith in a meaningful and unforgettable way!

Connect through Serving

In serving we build friendships and get to use our unique gifts and talents. There's a spot for you and we want to help you find it.

Menlo Midweek Podcast
Explore further insights and practical applications from this week’s message.