He Sent Out Followers

The resurrection always leads outward.

Easter Season: From Resurrection to Pentecost

After the resurrection, Jesus did not call His followers to stay hidden, fearful, or focused only on themselves. He sent them into the world with purpose, courage, and good news.

The risen Christ turned disciples into witnesses.

He sent them to:

• Share the message of salvation
• Make disciples of all nations
• Teach His truth
• Serve others in love
• Forgive as they had been forgiven
• Live as witnesses to the resurrection

The resurrection always leads to mission.

At Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, we believe Jesus still sends His people into homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and communities with love and hope.

Why Did Jesus Send Them?

Jesus knew the world still needed truth, grace, and hope.

People needed to hear:

• That sin can be forgiven
• That death has been defeated
• That hope is alive
• That God loves them
• That new life is possible in Christ

Go and make disciples.

GROW Through Being Sent

G — Grounded in Scripture

Key Scriptures

• Matthew 28:18–20
• Mark 16:15
• Luke 24:46–49
• John 20:21
• Acts 1:8
• Romans 10:14–15

“As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
— John 20:21 NASB

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses…”
— Acts 1:8 NASB

Jesus sends His followers with authority, presence, and purpose.

R — Reasons We Believe

The early disciples changed the world because they obeyed the call of Jesus.

Fearful people became bold messengers.
Ordinary people became vessels of extraordinary grace.
A small group became a worldwide church.

This reminds us that God often works through willing hearts more than impressive resumes.

O — Obedience in Action

Mission often begins with welcome.

Because Jesus sends us, we are called to respond.

We respond by:

• Sharing our faith naturally
• Serving our neighbors
• Inviting others to worship
• Showing kindness in everyday life
• Supporting missions and ministry
• Using our gifts for God’s kingdom
• Living in a way that points people to Christ

Mission begins where we already are.

W — Walk It Out

We walk this truth daily when we:

• Love people intentionally
• Pray for others
• Notice needs around us
• Speak hope into discouragement
• Offer practical help
• Invite someone to church
• Reflect Christ at work, school, and home

You do not have to travel far to be sent. Sometimes mission starts next door.

Where Jesus Sends People Today

Mission looks like love in action.

1. Into Families

To love, forgive, and lead faithfully.

2. Into Neighborhoods

To be light and kindness nearby.

3. Into Workplaces

To live with integrity and grace.

4. Into Churches

To serve with gifts and joy.

5. Into Communities

To meet needs and share hope.

At Pleasant Grove UMC, that includes Pleasant Grove, western Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond.

What This Means Today

Sometimes mission begins next door.

Jesus still sends His people.

He sends us to care.
He sends us to serve.
He sends us to encourage.
He sends us to witness.
He sends us to love boldly.

You may feel ordinary, but God often sends ordinary people to do meaningful things.

Reflection Questions

1. Where might Jesus be sending me right now?

Possible answers:

• My family
• My workplace
• A neighbor in need
• A ministry at church
• A friend going through hardship
• A community outreach opportunity
• Someone who needs encouragement

2. Am I waiting for a big assignment while missing small daily mission?

Possible answers:

• Ignoring opportunities to help nearby
• Thinking ministry must be dramatic
• Overlooking people around me
• Waiting until life feels easier
• Hesitating because I feel unqualified
• Missing simple acts of kindness

3. What gifts has God given me to use?

Possible answers:

• Encouragement
• Hospitality
• Listening
• Teaching
• Prayer
• Leadership
• Compassion
• Service
• Creativity
• Giving

4. Who needs hope from me this week?

Possible answers:

• A stressed coworker
• A lonely neighbor
• A family member
• Someone grieving
• A discouraged church member
• A student or young person
• Someone overlooked by others

5. What would obedience look like this week?

Possible answers:

• Invite someone to church
• Volunteer in ministry
• Pray with someone
• Share my testimony
• Help a neighbor
• Reach out to someone hurting
• Say yes to God’s next step

Prayer

Sent with His presence, not alone.

Risen Lord Jesus, thank You for sending Your followers with purpose and hope. Open our eyes to the people around us and the opportunities You place before us. Give us courage, compassion, and willingness to serve. Help us be faithful witnesses wherever You send us. Amen.

Continue the Journey

Next Lesson: He Ascended

The risen Christ returned to heaven, reigns as Lord, and still leads His church.