Sermon: Summary
Pastor Mike delivers a sermon about stepping out in faith, using the story of Peter walking on water from Matthew 14 as the central text. He discusses how stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting God leads to spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with Him. The sermon emphasizes that it’s better to be with Jesus on the water than without Him in the boat, encouraging believers to take faith-filled risks rather than remaining in comfortable but spiritually stagnant positions.
Opening Prayer
Lord, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts and minds to understand what it means to truly step out in faith. Help us to be honest with ourselves and each other about our fears and hesitations, and guide our discussion to bring glory to Your name. Amen.
Share: Get Talking
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your life that ended up being worth it?
Study: Go Deeper
What does the boat represent in your life right now – what’s your comfort zone that God might be calling you to step out of?
Why do you think Peter was the only disciple who asked to walk on water?
What causes us to sink in our faith like Peter did?
How has God shown His faithfulness in past situations where you’ve stepped out in faith?
Which of the five ‘boats’ mentioned in the sermon (comfort, compromise, complacency, criticality, or carnality) do you struggle with most?
What practical steps can we take to maintain our focus on Jesus when stepping out in faith?
How might our steps of faith influence others around us?
What’s one specific area where God is calling you to exercise greater faith right now?
Support: Accountability & Application
This week, identify one area where you’ve been staying in your ‘boat’ of comfort or security. Make a specific plan to take one small step of faith in that area, and share that commitment with someone who can pray for you and hold you accountable.
How can we support and pray for you this week?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to a life of faith. Give us the courage to step out of our boats of comfort and security, trusting that You will catch us if we begin to sink. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on You as we walk in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Additional Resources
KEY VERSES:
Matthew 14:22-33 / Hebrews 12:2 / 1 Corinthians 3:1-3
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Greater power from God comes when we step out in faith
Deeper intimacy with God develops through trusting Him in uncertain times
It’s better to be with Jesus on the water than without Him in the boat
Our steps of faith can influence others to trust God more
Faith isn’t about the quantity but about who you’re putting your faith in