In this session, Matt James invites us to see how the story of church history shapes the way we live on mission today. He reminds us that we are not the first followers of Jesus to be sent out. For generations, ordinary believers have been changed by the resurrection of Jesus and have given their lives to make Him known. Their stories are not meant to impress us but to encourage us and call us to faithful obedience in our own time.

The heart of this teaching centers on the resurrection of Jesus and how it transforms a person’s priorities, courage, and sense of mission. Using the story of Adoniram Judson, Matt shows that a deep conviction about the risen Christ leads to a willingness to sacrifice, to go, and to share the gospel. This is not something we wait to do when we arrive in New Orleans. It begins right now, in our hometowns, relationships, and everyday lives, and it continues wherever God sends us on mission.

• Church history reminds us that God has always used ordinary people who were devoted to Jesus
• The resurrection of Jesus changes everything and fuels a life lived on mission
• A clear vision of who Jesus is leads to courage and sacrifice for the sake of the gospel
• We learn from both the faithfulness and failures of believers who came before us
• Mission does not start in New Orleans but in our everyday relationships at home
• God can use your obedience right now to impact people for eternity

• What stood out to you about the story of Adoniram Judson and why?
• What fears or hesitations keep you from living boldly for Jesus where you are right now?
• Who are the people in your everyday life that God may be calling you to share the gospel with?
• How can this mission trip help strengthen habits of obedience you can carry back home?