Sermon Title
Becoming a legend or leaving a legacy
series overview
Father’s Day is a time when we honor the awesome dads and father figures who support us to be our best! It’s also a break from our Recalculating series. Our message will help us all leave better and lasting legacies as we walk through this life, especially if we have children.
Series | Week
Father’s Day
Sermon Summary
On Father’s Day, Josh Whelchel emphasized the importance of leaving a legacy over becoming a legend. He uses the Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy as a framework, encouraging listeners to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. Josh contrasts the fleeting nature of legendary status with the enduring impact of a meaningful legacy that inspires others. He calls us to engage in their spiritual journeys, reminding them that true legacy comes from persevering in faith and devotion, rather than seeking applause.
ice breaker
If you were to pass away tomorrow and your memorial service was next weekend, what do you hope people would say about you if an open mic was put in the middle of the room?
DISCUSSion
Select 3-4 questions from the list below to guide your discussion time.
- Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:7 that he has “fought the good fight.” In our culture today, we often see people fighting the wrong battles or not fighting at all.
What does it mean to fight “the good fight” according to Paul’s example?
Read Ephesians 6:12 – How does this verse help us understand what battles we should be engaging in?
What are some “good fights” you’re currently facing in your life (marriage, parenting, integrity, faith, etc.)? How can the group pray for you in these areas? - The message contrasts being a “legend” (something to be remembered) with leaving a “legacy” (something that remains and continues).
What’s the difference between wanting to be remembered versus wanting to make a lasting impact?
Read Matthew 6:19-21 – How do Jesus’s words about storing up treasures relate to the choice between pursuing legendary status or leaving a legacy?
Think about people who have left a positive legacy in your life. What made their impact lasting rather than just memorable? - Paul mentions finishing “the race” in 2 Timothy 4:7. The sermon reminds us to focus on finishing our own race, not someone else’s.
Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 – What does Paul say about running with purpose?
What “leg of the race” are you currently in (young parent, student, caregiver, etc.)? What challenges are you facing in this season?
How can we help each other stay focused on our own race rather than comparing ourselves to others? - The sermon acknowledges that parenting and life can leave us feeling inadequate and overwhelmed, yet we’re called to “keep the faith.”
Read James 1:2-4 – How does this passage help us understand the purpose of trials in our faith journey?
Share about a time when you felt overwhelmed or inadequate. How did (or could) your faith sustain you through that season?
For parents: How can we model “keeping the faith” for our children even when we’re struggling or don’t have all the answers? - Paul concludes in 2 Timothy 4:8 by looking forward to “the crown of righteousness” that awaits all who persevere in faith.
Read Revelation 2:10 – What does Jesus promise to those who are faithful even unto death?
How does knowing there’s an eternal reward change your perspective on current struggles and challenges?
The sermon emphasizes that our victory comes through Jesus, not our own perfection. Read Romans 8:37-39 – How do these verses encourage you in your daily fight to keep the faith?
WRAP UP & PRAYER
Please share any prayer requests you might have.
- Pray for strength to fight the good fight this week.
- Ask God to help us finish our races faithfully.
- Seek guidance in keeping our faith strong amidst any specific challenges that were shared today.
- Pray for someone else who is struggling in these areas.