Church That Refuses to Stand Still

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Scriptures: Acts 13

• Sermon Summary

  This week, we’re moving into the second half of the book of Acts. In this sermon, Jeremy explores the transition from the established church in Jerusalem to the emerging church in Antioch. The church in Jerusalem focused on centralized leadership, but the church in Antioch embraced a diverse, grass-roots leadership team. This community was so unique and inclusive that the neighbors in Antioch were the first to call them "Christians". Instead of trying to protect and consolidate their success, the leaders in Antioch listened to the Holy Spirit and sent away two of their best — Paul and Barnabas — to expand the faith. The challenge for us is that we need to keep growing and taking risks. “Christianity is as fertile as the communities it inhabits — because no matter what we do— eventually the creativity of Spirit leaks through anyway”

• Discussion Guide

  Community is shaped by the conversations we share. These questions and reflections are a tool to help you meaningfully engage with the themes of this week's teaching.
  
  Summer Discussion Guide 2026

  If your group is meeting this summer and wants to talk about the sermons, here are a few questions that you could use to engage with our teaching. 

  • What specific part of the message resonated with you the most? Why do you think that particular part, or idea, or story caught your attention? 

  • Did the sermon speak into a particular struggle or question in your life or your faith journey right now?

  • How did the message challenge or encourage you personally?
    And what do you think the application could be for our church community? Was there anything that could strengthen or stretch us as a church? 

  • How did the exposition of the scriptures used in the sermon provide you with a new perspective of deeper understanding?

  ——
  It is good to remember that the conversation experience in the group is shaped by the personal stories of those who participate in it and how willing the people are to be open and vulnerable in the group.

  So if you’re leading the discussion, feel free to model and encourage person-centred and story-centred sharing by reflecting on how some parts of the sermon resonate with you personally.
  ——

  Additionally, what contributes to a more authentic group discussion is when people can share not about the abstract and theoretical applications, but one or two practical things they are taking away from either the sermon or the discussion. 

  So, you can end your time together with this question: 

  • What is one thing you are taking away from either the sermon or the discussion we’ve just had?

• Service Songs & Prayers

  CALL TO WORSHIP Psalm 21

  MUSIC Curated by Kevin B.
  Mission House - Good God
  Bethel Music - God I Look To You
  Hillsong Worship - Forever Reign
  Leeland - Way Maker
  
  COMMUNITY PRAYER
  Written by Ben Hsu-Chan
  
  God of mercy and compassion,

  We gather today carrying the prayers of our community.

  We pray for those who are feeling anxious, uncertain, or discouraged about work.

  For courage to step away from emotionally or psychologically unsafe workplaces.

  For doors to finally open after a long search.

  For advocates who see those who feel overlooked and marginalized, and trust them to take on the bigger and better things.

  And the reminder that although we all deserve meaningful work, that our worth is not measured by it, but held securely in your deep and unconditional love for us.

  We pray for those navigating difficult medical decisions and journeys, whether it’s their own or alongside a loved one. Bring comfort to their bodies, peace to their minds, wisdom in their planning, and renewed strength every morning.

  We pray for those who are new to Calgary or still trying to find their place. May they find friendship and belonging in their workplaces, in their neighbours, and especially here at Commons.

  And God, we give thanks because we do not have to carry these burdens alone. Thank you for this community where we can be honest about the hard things, lament together, and show up for each other.

  For everyone who is struggling to feel your presence right now, may they know that you are near through this community that surrounds them.

  In the name of Jesus, we pray.

  Amen.
  
  SERIES BUMPER
  The Way Forward: Wider World Series