Trail Builders: Riding Together in DiscipleshipSample

Trail Markers (Engage with the Gospel)

Ready
“How, then, can they call on him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about him? And how can they hear without a preacher?”--Romans 10:14-15

Set
If you’ve ever ridden a trail without markers, you know how disorienting it can be. Every fork in the path feels like a gamble, and before long, you’re second-guessing your every turn. You’re just hoping you don’t end up at a dead end or on terrain you’re not prepared for. Now imagine you’ve got a friend who knows the trail inside and out. They point out the tricky turns, guide you past obstacles, and show you the best route. Suddenly, the ride transforms from frustrating to fun.

The Gospel works the same way. Without it, people are left wandering through life, guessing at the path and hoping it leads somewhere good. But when we share the hope of Jesus, we’re like that trail-savvy friend, guiding others to clarity and purpose.

In Acts 8, Philip does just that for an Ethiopian official who’s searching for answers in Scripture. The man is reading Isaiah but doesn’t understand what it means. Philip meets him where he is and explains how the passage points to Jesus. This simple conversation changes everything—the official comes to faith and gets baptized right then and there.

Sharing the Gospel can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s less about having all the answers and more about pointing others to the hope you’ve found in Jesus. Like trail markers, the Gospel gives direction and clarity to those seeking something more. And just like guiding a friend through a tough ride, sharing the Gospel helps others find a path that leads to life and peace.

Go

1. Who in your life might be searching for direction?
2. How can you share your faith in a way that feels natural and approachable?

Workout
Matthew 28:18-20
Acts 8:35-38
2 Corinthians 5:20

Overtime
Lord, help me be like a trail marker that points others toward You. Give me the courage to share Your love and truth, guiding people to hope and purpose in You. Thank You for giving me a clear path to follow. Amen.