The Gospel of the Kingdom — 4-Session Small-Group Study Kit
This four-session study follows Robert J. Cottle's The Gospel of the Kingdom, guiding discipleship groups through the Bible's central message: the kingdom of God and what it means to follow Jesus as kingdom people. Each session is Scripture-centered, humble in tone, and practical for daily life. Use these studies to encourage reflection, prayer, and faithful obedience. For more about the author and resources, see www.robertjcottle.com and https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Kingdom-Not-Church/dp/1738615006.
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Session 1: Session 1: What Is the Gospel of the Kingdom?
Scripture: Mark 1:14–15; Matthew 4:17; Luke 17:20–21
- What does Jesus mean when he proclaims that 'the kingdom of God is near'? How does that shape your understanding of the gospel?
- Cottle stresses that the kingdom message is not primarily about institutions. How does that challenge or free you in your faith and church life?
- Where do you see evidence of the kingdom 'coming near' in your neighborhood, workplace, or family?
Pray that God would give your group eyes to see his kingdom at work. Ask for humility to live the gospel practically this week and for opportunities to point others to Jesus. (Optional: read Mark 1:14–15 together.)
Session 2: Session 2: Repentance and Kingdom Living
Scripture: Matthew 4:17; Acts 3:19; Romans 12:1–2
- Cottle emphasizes repentance as central to kingdom entrance. How do you define repentance, and what might genuine repentance look like in everyday life?
- How do Romans 12:1–2 and the call to be transformed connect with kingdom discipleship in practical terms?
- What specific habits, relationships, or attitudes might you invite the Holy Spirit to change in your life this season?
Invite each person to name one practical step of repentance they will take this week (e.g., confession, a hard conversation, a new spiritual discipline). Close in prayer, asking God for strengthening and mercy.
Session 3: Session 3: Kingdom Witness and Mission
Scripture: Matthew 5:13–16; Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:18–20
- What does being 'salt and light' look like for you where God has placed you? Share concrete examples if you can.
- How does Cottle's focus on the kingdom shape our understanding of mission compared with a more programmatic, church-centered approach?
- What is one simple, sustainable way your group can witness to the kingdom in your community this month?
Commit to one kingdom-oriented outreach as a group (prayer walk, serving a neighbor, inviting someone to church or a Bible study). Pray for boldness and compassion. Reference Acts 1:8 as a sending promise.
Session 4: Session 4: Persevering as Kingdom People
Scripture: Matthew 13:18–23; Hebrews 12:1–3; James 1:2–4
- Jesus’ parables teach about obstacles to growth. Which 'soil' most often describes your heart, and what would improve the soil?
- How can the disciplines of prayer, Scripture, and community help us run the race with perseverance (Hebrews 12)?
- Reflecting on the whole study, what is one long-term change you desire for your life as a kingdom disciple, and what practical steps will you take to pursue it?
Close with mutual encouragement: share one truth each person is taking away and one prayer request. Pray for endurance, hope, and increased fruitfulness. Remind the group about www.robertjcottle.com and the book on Amazon for further reading: https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Kingdom-Not-Church/dp/1738615006.