Welcome to the kickoff of our 2026 emphasis at Lantana Community Church: "Formed to Be Sent". In this brief overview, we are reorienting our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. For many, the word "discipleship" conjures up images of a boring class, a rigid program, or information to be acquired. However, this message reframes discipleship as spiritual formation—the lifelong process of being shaped into the image of Christ for the sake of others.

Drawing from Romans 8:28-30, we explore the radical idea that God’s "good" is not necessarily a life of ease, but the process of us being conformed to the likeness of His Son. Using the metaphor of the potter and the clay, we discuss how discipleship is not about our own willpower or effort, but about yielding to the pressure of the Potter’s hands as He designs us for a purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Transformation over Information: Discipleship is not just learning facts; it is participating in what the Holy Spirit is already doing in you.

• The Goal of Growth: We are not formed for our own sake; we are formed to be sent into our neighborhoods and workplaces.

• Yielding vs. Doing: Discipleship is not another "to-do" on a busy schedule; it is an invitation to become aware of God’s presence and yield to His shaping.

A Note on This Audio: To help our congregation stay connected to the word throughout the week, this audio brief was created using AI technology. The content is directly based on Pastor Calvary’s sermon notes and the "Formed to Be Sent" 2026 vision to ensure the message is faithful to our church's mission and scriptural focus.