Southside Lexington Podcast: Recent Episodes

Southside Church of Christ

Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY

MARK 10:1-12

1 Jesus then left that place and went into the region of Judea and across the Jordan. Again crowds of people came to him, and as was his custom, he taught them. 2 Some Pharisees came and tested him by asking, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" 3 "What did Moses command you?" he replied. 4 They said, "Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce and send her away." 5 "It was because your hearts were hard that Moses wrote you this law," Jesus replied. 6 "But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female.' 7 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, 8 and the two will become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." 10 When they were in the house again, the disciples asked Jesus about this. 11 He answered, "Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. 12 And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits
adultery." NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Divorce is what Moses allowed; but not what God designed. Jesus distinguishes between what Moses allowed due to our hard hearts and what God originally designed in the garden.God's pre-fall plan for marriage establishes three distinct truths: it is a relationship between a man and a woman, it functions as the strongest relationship, and it is a sacred union formed by God Himself.We are called to live out God’s pre-fall plan for marriage in a post-fall world. The beauty and difficulty of marriage is that "two become one" in a broken world where sinners get married.While Jewish cultural debates focused strictly on the external, legal reasons for writing a certificate of divorce, Jesus exposes the root internal issue: hard hearts.Living out God's original intent for marriage in a post-fall world cannot be achieved through trying harder or loving better; it requires our hard hearts to be broken and compelled by the love of Christ.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Of the three characteristics of God's pre-fall plan for marriage - which one challenges you or encourages you the most right now and why?

2 A marriage counselor cited in the sermon advises couples to regularly say, "Remember who brought us together." How does shifting your perspective to view your marriage as a divine union change how you handle daily conflicts?

3 "Two become one" was described as both beautiful and difficult. What has been one of the hardest and one of the most beautiful parts of becoming one with your spouse?

4 Read 2 Corinthians 5:14 ("one died for all"). How does deeply internalizing the reality that Christ died for your spouse's shortcomings—just as He died for yours—transform the way you extend grace during difficult seasons?

COLOSSIANS 3:12-17

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker - what stories from Croatia stood out to you?
In Colossians 3, verses 12-14 have a strong emphasis on our relationships with others. Jeremy shared about how impactful it was for everyone involved as the students built friendships with their Croatian and Ukrainian brothers and sisters, and encouraged us all to build friendships with others. * How impactful can friendship building be?
Do you find it easy or challenging?
Verses 15-17 emphasize the impact of the message of Jesus, and we were encouraged to talk to others about what Jesus is doing in our lives.* Do you find yourself worried that talking about Jesus will push people away or come off as abrasive?
Do you think that people today have a desire to hear about Jesus? If so, in what way?

MARK 9:49-50

49 Everyone will be salted with fire. 50 Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other." NIV 84LESSON NOTES

"Everyone will be salted with fire" (v. 49) isn't a threat about hell — it's an honest statement about a broken world. Trouble touches every person regardless of wealth, faith, or character. Jesus doesn't promise His disciples an exemption from pain; He promises to be with them in it.

The phrase "salted with fire" echoes the Old Testament practice of adding salt to sacrifices to purify them (Leviticus 2:13). Jesus invites His disciples to see their trials the same way — not as pointless, but as a purifying process that can produce perseverance, endurance, and Christlike character.

Salt itself doesn't naturally lose its saltiness — but salt mined in Palestine was often mixed with gypsum, making it useless. Jesus uses this image to warn against a discipleship that has been mixed with something else.

Being "in the world but not of it" means disciples still live fully in the world — but their loyalty belongs entirely to Christ, not split between Him and the world's values. Jesus said we cannot serve two masters; salt that's mixed with impurity is useless.

In the ancient Middle East, sharing a salted meal was a sign of friendship and covenant. Coming right after the disciples argued over who was greatest, Jesus' command to "share salt" is a call to unity. Few things damage the church's witness more than believers fighting each other.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker - what are your top three favorite spices/seasonings? What food item is it essential for you to add salt?
Looking back at a past trial, what specific character traits (such as endurance, compassion, or reliance) did God produce in you that could only have been formed through that fire?
"Saltless salt" comes from mixing pure salt with something impure until it can't be separated again. What are some subtle ways our devotion to Jesus gets "mixed" with other loyalties — money, comfort, approval, politics — without us noticing?
Jesus links our unity directly to our witness (John 13:34-35). Is there a relationship — where you need to "share salt" and pursue peace? What's one step you could take this week?
Of the three salt teachings - Salted with fire, Saltless salt, Share salt - Which one speaks most directly to your current season of life, and what is one practical step God may be asking you to take this week?

MARK 10:13-31

"[13] And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. [14] But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. [15] Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” [16] And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them. [17] And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” [18] And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. [19] You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” [20] And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” [21] And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” [22] Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. [23] And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” [24] And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! [25] It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” [26] And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?” [27] Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” [28] Peter began to say to him, “See, we have left everything and followed you.” [29] Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, [30] who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. [31] But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” ESVLESSON NOTES

Harvard University, California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, MIT, and Princeton University have some of the lowest college acceptance rates in our country (3-4%).In many different fields, being outstanding seems to be the benchmark for entry (colleges, athletics, promotions, jobs). Within these realms, and others, personal achievements/accolades are the pathway to acceptance (Achievements = Acceptance)
Children are great examples of people who are helpless, defenseless, and needy. Unlike adults, children come with no pretense, no artificial or adopted behaviors to impress people. Children come empty handed and they know how to ask for help. And they don't just ask for help, they eagerly receive it. Because of this, Jesus uses these little ones as examples of how one should receive the Kingdom. In Jesus' words in verses 14-15, we see two realities about entering the kingdom of God: 1.) Entrance into the Kingdom of God is received. 2) Entrance into the Kingdom of God is for the child-like. These two realities complement one another because if we are not child-like then we will not receive.

In contrast to the child-like reception Jesus speaks about in verses 14-15, we see the rich man perceive eternal life as a matter of personal achievement. Within his conversation with Jesus, Jesus gives the man this command, "... go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” (vs. 21) Going, selling, and giving were the means by which Jesus told this man to detach himself from his current master, his idol of possessions. These commands ultimately led to the ultimate command: "come, follow me". Yet, upon hearing this, the man walks away. From here we see a difficult truth: entrance into the Kingdom of God is not accepted by everyone.

In the disciples day, those who were rich were considered to be blessed by God. Since this was the dominating ideology, those who were rich were virtually guaranteed a place in the kingdom of God because their wealth was evidence of God’s blessing. This is why the disciples react so stunned after hearing Jesus' teachings in verses 23-26. They ask Jesus a sincere question ("Then who can be saved?") and Jesus responds with the perfect answer (“With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”) Jesus lovingly reminds His disciples that entrance into the kingdom of God is completely beyond the sphere of human possibility. What we can’t do in our humanity, God did in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

There is an ultimate connection between the child-likeness of verse 15 and the rich man of verse 22. This connection is seen in 3 aspects: Their records. Their responses. What they receive.
1.) Record - Child-like: No Significant Record / Rich man: Significant Record
2.) Response - Child-like: Eager Reception / Rich man: Sorrowful Rejection
3.) Receive - Child-like: Salvation / Rich man: Separation

God restores Gospel goodbyes. When we leave good things and say goodbye to dear people for the sake of the Gospel, God does not leave us empty-handed. The God who is able “to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think” does not overlook our goodbyes when they are rooted in the name of Jesus. Entrance into the Kingdom of God gives the children of God hope for what is to come. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

As you remember your process of choosing where to go to college, what were some of the schools you were considering? Why? Did you end up at your "dream school"?
In your life, what environments or settings do you feel the most tempted/feel the most pressure to relay your personal accomplishments or accolades? Why those environments?
Receiving is different than earning. Why is this difference such a big deal in our relationship with God? In your walk with God, do you find it difficult to receive rather than earn? If so, in what aspects is it the most difficult?
Have you had any experience with someone walking away/rejecting Jesus? If so, what was that like for you to experience? As you read about this man's decision, what do you notice about Jesus' reaction/response? Does his response capture your attention in any way?
Are there any difficult statements/teachings from Jesus that you have had to wrestle with in your walk with Him? If so, what did/does that process look like for you?
As you process through this connection between the childlikeness of verse 15 and the rich man of verse 22, what sticks out the most to you? What speaks most deeply to your heart?
Have you ever had to say a "gospel goodbye" to something or someone? If so, how difficult was that? How has God shown up since then?

MARK 9:42-48

42 "And if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck. 43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. 45 And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, 48 where 'there worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.'" NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Take it seriously, not literally. Jesus' commands to cut off a hand or pluck out an eye are not literal instructions — no scholar reads them that way. But the graphic language is meant to shock us into taking sin, and the reality of hell, with the utmost seriousness.Sin is never private. The Greek word used for "sin" in verse 42 is skandalizo — where we get the word "scandal." Our sin doesn't just affect our relationship with God; it ripples out and impacts our spouse, our kids, our friends, and our church. No one sins in a vacuum.It's not the object, it's the effect. Your hand, foot, and eye aren't sinful — they're valuable. Jesus isn't asking us to reject something bad; He's asking us to be willing to reject something good if it's become the pathway to sin in our lives.Hands, feet, and eyes represent real categories. Scholars connect these to what we do (activities), where we go (environment), and what we see (attention) — with relationships (who we're with) as a natural fourth category worth examining."Better" means far better. The word Jesus uses for "better" isn't a close call — it's not 60/40. Any temporary sacrifice on earth, however painful, is immensely preferable to the eternal reality of hell.Radical amputation, not chipping away. Like Aron Ralston trapped under a boulder, we often try to chip away at what's holding us captive, hoping change will come without costing us much. Jesus calls for something more decisive — intentional, surgical removal of whatever is causing us to sin.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker: What's something you've owned or held onto much longer than you should have because you couldn't bring yourself to let it go? (Keep it light—it could be an old phone, favorite t-shirt, first car, or even an unhealthy habit.)2. William Barclay said: "To sin oneself is a terrible thing, but to teach another to sin is infinitely worse." Does thinking about sin in terms of "scandal" — as something that ripples out to affect others — change how you think about your own choices? How?3. NT Wright points out that Jesus isn't asking us to give up something sinful, but something good that has become a cause of sin. Is there something good in your life right now — a hobby, a relationship, a habit — that has quietly become a source of temptation?4. Scholars note that hands represent activities, feet represent environments, and eyes represent attention. Which of these three areas currently requires the most vigilant guard in your life when it comes to sin?5. What is a specific "good thing" (e.g., technology, a relationship, a career path) that you may need to radically remove or alter because it is causing you to sin?

MARK 9:37-41

37 "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." 38 "Teacher," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us." 39 "Do not stop him," Jesus said. "No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, 40 for whoever is not against us is for us. 41 I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward." NIV 84LESSON NOTES

The Irony of Exclusivity: John tries to stop an outsider from driving out demons in Jesus' name right after Jesus finishes teaching about welcoming little children, creating a double irony since the disciples themselves had previously failed at driving out a demon in that same chapter.

History Repeats Itself: This interaction mirrors Numbers 11, where Joshua asks Moses to stop two rogue elders from prophesying in the camp, prompting Moses' humble reply wishing that all of the Lord's people were prophets.

The "Party Spirit": In Galatians 5 (RSV), the "works of the flesh" include having a "party spirit," which does not mean liking social gatherings, but rather refers to creating factions, sectarianism, tribalism, and believing your specific group is superior to others.

Defining "In My Name": Acting in the name of Jesus is not simply doing what we want and asking Him to bless it; it means intentionally aligning our actions under His authority, in obedience to His will, and as a reflection of His character.

The Hula Hoop Analogy: Instead of drawing tiny theological circles (or "hoops") around our specific group and forcing others to jump through them, a kingdom mindset draws the circle entirely around King Jesus and welcomes whoever comes to Him.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker: Do you have something in particular that you like to "sort" - a hobby like cards/coins, a chore like the pantry or garage? What is it and what makes it so satisfying to sort things into their "right" place?
John wanted to stop the unknown man simply "because he was not one of us."
The sermon notes the difference between having a kingdom mindset and a party spirit. How would you describe the difference between the two and how have you dealt with this in your life?3. Jesus states that "whoever is not against us is for us." How does this baseline boundary challenge the way we interact with other Christians?
How does the distinction between "doing what we want and asking Jesus to bless it" versus "acting under His authority, will, and character" change the way you think about doing something "in His name."?5. Mark's version of the text notes that even giving a cup of room-temperature water in Jesus' name will not lose its reward. What is a seemingly insignificant act of service you can perform this week that becomes significant because it is done in His name?

James 5:16-18

16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

17 Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
SERMON NOTES
I. The Burden of Legacy
* The Coca-Cola Lesson: In 1985, "New Coke" failed because customers felt betrayed by the loss of something familiar and trustworthy, even though the new flavor was "better". * Defining the Mantle: To "take up the mantle" means to assume the role and responsibility of a predecessor and say, "I will carry on what they began". * Succession is Hard: It is almost impossible to follow a "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time) because you are constantly compared to their legacy.

II. The Pitfall of Talent: Churchill vs. Eden
* Winston Churchill: A legendary leader who rallied Britain against "monstrous tyranny" with bold determination and grit. * Anthony Eden: A "polished diplomat" and Churchill's right-hand man who seemed perfect on paper but failed his first test (the Suez Canal crisis) and resigned in disgrace. * Insight: It isn’t easy to take up the mantle.

III. The Source of Power: Elijah vs. Elisha
* Dark Days: King Ahab and Jezebel led Israel into extreme evil, murdering God's prophets and worshipping idols. * Elijah’s Fire: Elijah single-handedly confronted 450 prophets of Baal, and God answered with fire from heaven to prove He was the true God. * The Big Truth: Elisha was called to follow this legend, but James 5:17 reminds us Elijah was "a man just like us". The power came from God’s presence, not Elijah’s ability.

IV. Taking Up the Mantle Today
* The Current Call: In modern days of darkness and challenge, we are called to be the church. * The First Passing: Successful legacy requires mentorship. Elijah didn't just leave; he invited Elisha to walk with him and learn from his presence for years. * The Ultimate Strength: We take up the mantle by trusting the Spirit of Jesus, who conquered death and lives in us.

Discussion Questions
1. The "Familiarity" Factor: Why do you think people react so strongly to change (like the "New Coke" example)? In your own life, when has it been difficult to let go of the "familiar" to embrace something new? 2. The Pressure of Success: What makes it so hard to live up to a previous legacy? 3. The "Just Like Us" Reality: James 5:17 says Elijah was "a man just like us." How does it change your view of your own faith to know that Elijah's miracles were about God's power rather than Elijah's special abilities? 4. Practical Mentorship: The sermon mentioned a "first passing" of the mantle where Elijah gave Elisha his presence. What does it look like practically for different generations in our church to spend time together and share their walks with the Lord? 5. Looking at the "Faith Hall of Fame" (Hebrews 11), many faced extreme hardships. Which "dark days" in our world today feel most overwhelming to you, and how does the promise that "He who lives in you is greater" give you courage?

Mark 9:33-37

33 And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.” ESVLESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

G.O.A.T = Greatest of all time. From athletics, to art, to music, to acting, and so much more, there are a lot of G.O.A.T debates that people engage in. With that, people use different arguments and examples to define true greatness. Our gauge for who or what is the “Greatest of all time” is based on how we see true greatness.

1.) Are there any G.O.A.T arguments that you find yourself passionate about?
2.) What are some core tenants of greatness in an area of interest for you?Mark 9:33-34. As Jesus and the disciples were on their way to Capernaum, the disciples got into a heated conversation around this topic: "Who among them was the true G.O.A.T?". Upon entering the house, Jesus asks the disciples this question, “What were you discussing on the way?” (vs. 33) The disciples' response? “But they kept silent…” (vs. 34). They didn’t say any words, but their silence still spoke. At the hearing of Jesus’ question, the disciples were embarrassed and afraid. They were embarrassed by their actions and they were afraid of being exposed. In our humanity, fear and embarrassment are barriers to honesty. Combined, fear and embarrassment produce shame. Yet, here's the gospel truth: We have nothing to hide because the cross of Jesus has already exposed us.

1.) What embarrassments of your life are hindering your honesty with God and with others?
2.) What spaces and rhythms of vulnerability do you have in your life?Mark 9:35. The world measures greatness by who's in first and who's in charge. Yet, as Jesus defines greatness, He flips greatness on its head. He even says this in Matthew 18:4 “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Humility admits that "I need Jesus and I need others" as we acknowledge and accept our own limitations. In our humility, we see the relational dynamic we are to share with those around us. This relational dynamic shows us that humility is a give and receive relationship between us and others. By walking in humility and service towards others and allowing ourselves to receive the humility and service of others, we walk in the footsteps of Jesus (Philippians 2:4-8)1.) Is it difficult for you to accept the help of others? Why or why not?
2.) How has Jesus' upside down definition of greatness affected or challenged your work? Relationships?Mark 9:36-37. Hospitality was a normal part of Jewish culture. In fact, it was expected. At the same time, another cultural norm was that children were extreme blessings. While children were, and still are, a tremendous blessing, they are still helpless, dependent, and small. In relation to social status, children did not rank very high. Yet, in Jesus' real life example of greatness, He uses a child to show what true greatness is. In an argument where the disciples were debating who’s the biggest, Jesus says that greatness is seen in who welcomes the smallest. In other words, to be great is to show hospitality to those who can do nothing for you.

1.) Read this quote. "Our homes, imperfect as they are, must be a haven from the chaos outside. They should be a reflection of our eternal home, where troubled souls find peace, weary hearts find rest, hungry bodies find refreshment, lonely pilgrims find communion, and wounded spirits find compassion.” In what ways does this quote challenge/encourage you?
2.) As you think about what it means to show hospitality (be both host and guest), what feelings or thoughts are invoked within you? Why?"True Greatness". When discussing true greatness, Jesus highlights what true greatness is: To be great is to be honest (vs. 33-34). To be great is to be humble (vs. 35). To be great is to show hospitality to those who can do nothing for you. (vs. 36-37)

1.) As you think about "true greatness", which of these tenants of greatness most challenges you? Most encourages you?

Mark 9:13-29

14 And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15 And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. 16 And he asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” 17 And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. 18 And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” 19 And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” 20 And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. 21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” 26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. 28 And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” 29 And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.” ESVLESSON NOTES

Raphael's sixteenth-century oil painting brilliantly merges two contrasting biblical scenes into one canvas: the radiant Transfiguration at the top and a dark, chaotic struggle at the bottom. This artistic choice reflects our daily reality, where the "good" and the "hard" are often crammed into the very same portrait of life.

Faith requires recognizing that Jesus is both willing and able. While the leper in Mark 1 questioned Jesus's willingness ("if you are willing"), the father in Mark 9 questioned His ability ("if you can"). True reliance trusts both His infinite compassion to care and His absolute power to act.

Every single person at the base of the mountain—the disciples, the crowd, and the teachers of the law—was struggling with faith. The father of the boy was simply the only one honest enough to admit his unbelief out loud, showing that bringing our questions to God is a healthy, biblical practice.

Prayer and fasting are not transactional tools used to gain leverage or build personal holiness. Rather, they are relational practices designed to make us intentionally helpless, shifting our reliance away from our own understanding and entirely onto God.

"Helplessness, not holiness, is the way to access the presence of God." Timothy KellerDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker: Have you ever had a "mountaintop moment"—a time when God felt especially close or life felt especially meaningful—followed immediately by a difficult challenge or disappointment? What was that experience like?

The father cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" Why do you think this prayer has resonated with Christians for centuries? What makes it so relatable?
Do you more often question God's willingness to help or His ability to help? Why do you think that is?
Prayer and fasting are relational rather than transactional. What is the difference between using spiritual disciplines to get something from God and using them to grow closer to God?
If faith is fundamentally reliance on Jesus, what is one practical area of your life this week where you need to rely less on yourself and more on Him?

Hebrews 1:1-3

1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

A.W. Tozer famously wrote, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”

We know God because He chose to make Himself known. The Christian faith is built on divine revelation. God is not hiding from us; He is revealing Himself to us.

The beauty, complexity, and order of creation point beyond themselves to the One who made them. Creation cannot tell us everything about God, but it clearly testifies that there is a Creator behind the creation.Creation gives us a wide-angle view of God. Scripture brings us closer. Jesus gives us the clearest possible picture. Hebrews says Jesus is “the exact representation of God's being.” If we want to know what God is like, we must look at Jesus.

The sermon builds toward the cross as God's fullest revelation of Himself. Creation reveals God's power. Scripture reveals God's voice. Jesus reveals God's character. The cross reveals God's heart.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What was the first thing that came to your mind when you heard the question, "What comes into your mind when you think about God?" What do you think that reveals about your relationship with Him?
What aspects of creation most powerfully point you toward the existence and greatness of God? Why do you think those things affect you so deeply?
God spoke "at many times and in various ways." Why do you think God chose to reveal Himself progressively throughout history rather than all at once? What does that teach us about His relationship with humanity?
The sermon emphasized that Jesus is the exact representation of God's being. What aspect of Jesus' life or ministry most helps you understand what God is really like?
The cross reveals God's heart. What specific truths about God do you see most clearly when you look at the crucifixion of Jesus?

Mark 9:2-13

2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only. 9 And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 11 And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 12 And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things. And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.” ESVLESSON NOTES

Your who must determine your do. The structure of Mark's Gospel highlights a profound truth. The first half focuses on who Jesus is; the second half focuses on what Jesus came to do. His who determined His do. The world says, "What you do determines who you are." The gospel says, "Who you are in Christ determines what you do."

The transfiguration was a "preview of coming attractions." Peter, James, and John were given a glimpse of Jesus as He will appear in His second coming. The veil of His human likeness was briefly lifted so they could see the unveiling of the coming King.

Jesus is not just a rabbi. Peter instinctively called Jesus "Rabbi," but the transfiguration revealed that Jesus is much more than just a respected teacher. A rabbi asks for your agreement, but a Lord requires your allegiance.Jesus is not just another priority. Peter wanted to build three shelters—one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. The temptation today is similar: to place Jesus alongside all our other priorities rather than above them. Jesus does not want a place among your priorities; He deserves the throne of your heart.

Jesus is the suffering Messiah. The disciples had all kinds of ideas about what the Messiah was going to come and do. And none of these ideas included a Messiah who would suffer greatly, experience rejection by his own people and be hung on a cross between two criminals.

Jesus is the one and only source of glory. Just as the moon only reflects the light of the sun, Moses only reflected the glory of God. Jesus, however, does not reflect the glory of God — He is the radiance of the glory of God. Our purpose is not to create significance for ourselves but to reflect the glory of Christ to the world.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker: Imagine you could get a five-minute preview of any future event in your life - a career, retirement, a family milestone, or something else. What would you choose to see, and why?

How does our world encourage us to find our identity in what we do rather than in who we are in Christ? How have you experienced it? What are the consequences of that mindset?
What is the difference between just agreeing with or admiring Jesus as a teacher and obeying Him as Lord? How can we tell which one we're actually doing?
What are some good things (family, career, hobbies, ministry, etc.) that can subtly compete with Jesus for the throne of our hearts?
The Father said, "Listen to Him." Why do you think Christians often struggle with Jesus' teachings about sacrifice, self-denial, and taking up our cross? What does faithful obedience look like in those areas today?
The sermon ended with the phrase "Jesus only." What currently gives my life meaning and significance? What competes with Jesus for my attention and affection? Am I reflecting Christ's glory or pursuing my own?

Mark 8:31-9:1

31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESVLESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite?

Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering.
Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you?

Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering.
Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure?

Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey.
Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance?

Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person:
- To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry.
- To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda.
- To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life.
Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why?

Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives:
- Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness.
- Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains.
- Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not.
Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life?

Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11).
Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?

Mark 8:22-30

22 And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus[c] laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”

27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.* The Trap of "Snake Oil" and False Promises The history of "snake oil" reveals a pattern where human desperation for healing leads to exploitation by those promising instant, miraculous cures. Unlike these false promises, faith in Jesus is not a "magic tonic" for immediate relief of all earthly problems, but a commitment to a deeper restorative work. * The Significance of the Two-Stage Miracle (Mark 8:22-26) In an unusual account, Jesus heals a blind man in stages, first restoring partial, blurry vision before providing total clarity. This intentional "two-stage" healing serves as a physical parable, illustrating that spiritual understanding and healing often happen gradually rather than all at once. * Jesus Will Heal You, and His Timing is Better Jesus offers ultimate physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, yet He maintains authority over the timing and the journey. While we may desire instant transformation, the biblical concept of being "saved" refers both to our immediate forgiveness as well as a progressive process of growing in holiness and becoming more like Him over time. * Living as a "Work in Progress" True spiritual growth requires admitting that we still have healing to do in our hearts and our misunderstandings of God. Because every believer is in a different stage of this process, we must extend the same patience and grace to others—and to ourselves—that Jesus showed His disciples.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker1. Jeremy talked about the history of "snake oil" and other fake cures. What is the most "too good to be true" product or health trend you have ever seen advertised or perhaps even tried yourself?

Discussion Questions1. In the account from Mark 8:22-26, Jesus heals a blind man in two distinct stages rather than all at once. Why do you think Jesus might choose a gradual, progressive process for healing or spiritual growth in our lives today instead of providing an instant "fix"? 2. The healing of the blind man suggests the disciples had "blurry" spiritual vision—requiring a long time together before Peter eventually realized He was the Christ. In what areas of your own faith do you feel like you are still moving from "blurry" vision to clarity? 3. The sermon mentioned that while Jesus will heal us, "His timing is best". How can we maintain our trust in His goodness when we face a "no" to our prayers for immediate relief, similar to Paul’s experience with his "thorn in the flesh"?

Reflection Questions1. "Do you believe you still have some healing to do?". How does admitting that you are still a "work in progress" help you remain open to God's ongoing transformation in your heart? 2. If a church is made up of hundreds of people who are all in different stages of a "messy" healing process, how should that reality change the way we extend grace and patience to one another during disagreements or personal failures? 3. Sometimes we are hardest on ourselves, believing that areas of our lives that seem slow to heal are a sign that Jesus has forgotten us or abandoned us. When healing is slower than we'd like, how can we give ourselves grace?

Mark 8:1-21

1 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.” 4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?” 5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand men were present. And having sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side. 14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” 17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Faith Is More Than Admiration — It Is Trust: The tightrope illustration reminds us that it is easy to admire from the crowd, but much harder to trust personally when we are the ones “getting in the wheelbarrow.” The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles, but they still struggled to trust Him in their own moment of need.Compassion Is More Than Feeling — It Moves Us to Action: In both feedings, Jesus is deeply moved by the needs of the people. Compassion is not simply feeling bad for someone; it is allowing someone else’s need to move us toward action.Jesus cares about both spiritual hunger and physical hunger.Jesus Provides More Than Enough: The crowds were not merely given a snack— both crowds “ate and were satisfied,” and both meals ended with leftovers. Jesus provides generously and completely.

Jesus’ Mission Includes Everyone: The feeding of the 5,000 primarily involved Jewish people; the feeding of the 4,000 occurred in Gentile territory. Together, these miracles reveal that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the nations.

The "One Loaf" Paradox: The disciples worried about having only one loaf of bread while the "Bread of Life" was sitting in the boat with them. We often obsess over our limited resources (the bread) while ignoring the presence of the Provider. If Jesus is in the boat, you already have more than enough.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The disciples forgot previous miracles when facing a new personal challenge. What practices help you to remember God’s faithfulness during stressful seasons?
If "faith elicits compassion and compassion prompts action," how have you seen your own faith move you toward a specific action lately? What "gut-level" needs in your community is God pointing you toward?
The Greek word for "satisfied" in these stories describes being "stuffed" or "gorged" like after a Thanksgiving meal. Do you view your relationship with God more as a "light snack" to get you through the day, or as a source of total satisfaction?
Jesus warned about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. What attitudes, distractions, or influences today can slowly keep us from seeing Jesus clearly?
If Jesus is "in your boat," why does the "one loaf" (your limited finances, time, or energy) still cause you anxiety? How can we practically shift our focus from the scarcity of the loaf to the sufficiency of Christ this week?

Mark 7:31-37

31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged him to place his hand on the man. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man's ears. Then he spit and touched the man's tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!"). 35 At this, the man's ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. "He has done everything well," they said. "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." NIV 84LESSON NOTES

The Isaiah Prophecy: Mark uses a specific, rare Greek word for "speech impediment" (Mark 7:32) that appears only one other time in the Greek Bible—Isaiah 35:6. This purposefully connects Jesus to the prophecy that when God comes to save His people, the "mute tongue will shout for joy."

Connections: The people in the Decapolis likely knew to bring their friend to Jesus because of the formerly demon-possessed man (from Mark 5) who went home and told everyone what the Lord had done. One person's testimony can pave the way for many others to find healing.

Jesus Meets Us Where We Are: By using physical touch and signs (fingers in ears, touching the tongue, looking to heaven, a deep sigh), Jesus communicated with the deaf man using "sign language." He meets us exactly where we are, but loves us too much to leave us there.

A Groan Of Compassion: Jesus’ "deep sigh" (v. 34) was a non-verbal expression of grief. It represents a "hybrid of frustration and sadness" over the brokenness of the world. As Christians, the Holy Spirit gives us the "gift of sighing"—the capacity to groan with compassion for the suffering around us.A Package Deal: When Jesus speaks "Ephphatha" (Be Opened), it is a double miracle. He doesn't just open our ears to hear the Gospel; he loosens our tongues so we can speak plainly about his mercy. You cannot have one without the other.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Go back and read Isaiah 35. Does reading it again give you more insight into the interaction between Jesus and the deaf and mute man? How have you see glimpses of God transforming our sighing into singing?
Who first helped “bring you to Jesus”? Who is someone in your life right now that you could bring to Him? What is a practical step you could take this week toward this end?
Jesus used physical touch and signs to communicate with the man. How has God "spoken your language" - how have you experienced Jesus meeting you where you are?
Jesus sighed deeply when faced with this man's struggle. When you look at the "brokenness" in your own community or circle of influence, what specifically causes you to feel that same "groan of compassion"?
In what ways might you be spiritually “deaf” or “mute” right now? Do you need to hear God more clearly, or speak more boldly—or both? What would it look like for you to live out “Ephphatha” this week? How can you intentionally open your life to God’s voice and be more vocal about your faith?

Mark 6:45-52

45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. NIV 84DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Have you ever experienced - spiritual amnesia - where your past faith experiences don't automatically translate into present trust? Discuss with your group.
Which of the three actions encourages you most when in a time of suffering—that Jesus prays for you, sees you, or comes to you? Why?3. Can you think of a time in your life when you felt terrified? Think of a specific example and share it with your group. 4. These three verses were shared as ways God speaks to us in our terrifying situations - Psalm 46:10, Matthew 6:25-33, 1 Peter 5:7 - how have you experienced God coming to you in your terrifying situation?
The sermon defines a hard heart as an issue of faith. Can you relate to believing, obeying, and even loving Jesus—but still struggling to trust Him fully?

Mark 7:1-30

1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written,

“‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me;
7 in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’

8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”

9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

What Defiles a Person

14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith

24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.LESSON NOTES

Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13)* The Conflict: Pharisees and teachers of the law criticize the disciples for eating with "unwashed hands"—a ritual tradition, not a command from God. * The Absurdity: The Pharisees focused on hand-washing rituals even while witnessing Jesus perform miraculous healings. * The Danger of "Corban": Jesus highlights how human traditions can actually be used to bypass God's commands, such as using religious dedication as an excuse to avoid caring for aging parents.

The Source of Defilement (Mark 7:14-23)* Outer vs. Inner: Jesus teaches that nothing entering from the outside defiles a person; rather, defilement comes from what is already inside the heart. * The Heart’s Inventory: Evil thoughts, greed, malice, and arrogance all originate within and are what truly make a person "unclean". * The World's Unluckiest Bear: The story of the albino grizzly bear (and the fact that the story itself was a hoax) illustrates how easily we are fooled by outward appearances and how quickly we judge others based on surface-level information.

A Surprising Model of Faith (Mark 7:24-30)* The Syrophoenician Woman: Outwardly, she was "unclean" by every cultural standard—a Gentile woman with a daughter possessed by an unclean spirit. * The Contrast: While the "religiously perfect" Pharisees and the chosen disciples failed to understand Jesus, this "unclean" woman demonstrated profound faith and humility. * The Result: She recognized Jesus' authority (calling him "Lord") and her daughter was healed because of her faith-filled response.

Application* Avoid "Externalism": Be careful not to turn people into "issues" or "projects" based on their outward behavior. * Hold Traditions Loosely: We must be willing to let Jesus' word contradict our habits and preferences. * Practice Inner Formation: + Confession: Engaging in the discipline of confessing sins to one another to bring the heart into the light. + Spiritual Disciplines: Intentional practices like prayer to shape our inner selves.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon’s opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese’s Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something?Discussion Questions:1. Tradition vs. Truth: Jesus used the example of "Corban" to show how religious traditions can actually help us avoid doing what God truly wants. Can you think of modern "traditions" or "religious checklists" that might accidentally give us an excuse to avoid the harder work of loving others or obeying God? 2. The "Joey the Bear" Reflection: Jeremy shared that many people feel judgmental toward the conservationists in the bear story until they realize the story itself is a hoax. How does this "double-blind" story challenge the way you view or judge the "Pharisees" in your own life? 3. The Heart of the Matter: Jesus lists several "evils" that come from within the heart (greed, malice, slander, arrogance, etc.). Why is it often easier for us to focus on "clean hands" (outward behavior and rituals) than to deal with these internal heart issues? 4. Learning from the "Outsider": The Syrophoenician woman understood Jesus better than his own disciples did at that moment. What does her interaction with Jesus teach us about how we should approach God when we feel "unclean" or unworthy? 5. Practical Steps: The lesson suggested confession to others as a way to "cut past the external". What makes the idea of confessing struggles to another person so intimidating, and how might it lead to the "transformed heart" Jesus is looking for?

Mark 6:7-13

7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff - no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Hospitality as "Making Room for Jesus": The lesson defines hospitality not just as being nice, but as actively making space in our lives for others as an expression of welcoming Christ himself.

Think Subtraction, Not Addition: Spiritual growth doesn't come from cramming more into an already full life - it comes from removing what crowds out Jesus.

Having a Front Row Seat: Jesus instructed the disciples to take only the bare minimum on their mission—no food, bag, money, or extra clothing—to force a total reliance on the work of God.

Hospitality or Hostility: Both words share the same root meaning "stranger." In the Kingdom of God, there is no middle ground; we either move toward others with openness (hospitality) or away from them in subtle rejection (hostility).

Repentance as a Hospitable Act: True repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is the act of "unlocking the door" to your heart and handing Jesus the key.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The sermon began with a story of generous hospitality. Do you have a similar story of generous hospitality that you could share with the group?
Where in your life do you need to “think subtraction”? What is one specific thing you could remove this week to create more space for Jesus? 3. What does practicing hospitality look like for you today? How can you make room for others in your home, schedule, finances, or daily interactions? 4. Chris Hodges shares "I had invited God to come inside but I had left the door locked." Have you ever felt this way? Do you have a similar story of moving from sorrow to surrender?

Mark 16:1-8

1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance to the tomb? 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe siting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 "Don't be alarmed," he said, "You are looking for Jesus of Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

The Resurrection Produces “Fearful Joy” The women experienced both fear and joy at the same time—an awe-filled response to encountering the power of God. The resurrection isn’t casual news; it shakes us and fills us with wonder.

The Empty Tomb Invites Investigation The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let witnesses in. Christianity is rooted in real history and eyewitness testimony, inviting us to examine the evidence.

“He Has Risen” Demands a Response These three words are the most hopeful in history—and impossible to ignore. We may accept or reject them, but we cannot remain neutral.

Their Joy Was Greater Than Their Fear The women initially fled in fear, but ultimately ran to tell others because their joy was greater than their fear. Sharing the gospel flows from a heart captivated by joy.

The Resurrection Is Personal (“And Peter…”) Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s an invitation to restoration. No failure disqualifies us; the risen Christ still calls and embraces individuals by name.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

In verse 8, Mark describes the women as being both "trembling and bewildered." Have you ever had a "fearful joy" moment in your walk with God where you were simultaneously awestruck by His power and overjoyed by His grace?
The sermon distinguished between three responses to the resurrection - between being convinced of the evidence (mind), convicted by the exclamation (heart), and converted through an encounter (relationship). Which of the three responses resonated with you the most?
The angel singled out Peter for restoration. Do you remember the moment when you realized that Jesus rose from the dead even to restore you and embrace you as one of His disciples? Share with the group your "and Peter" moment.
The women initially said nothing because they were afraid. What are the "fears" (social, personal, intellectual) that most often keep us from sharing the "joy" of the gospel with others today?

PASSION WEEK READING GUIDE

Palm Sunday - Mark 11:1-11
Monday - Mark 11:12-19
Tuesday - Mark 11:20-13:37
Wednesday - Mark 14:1-11
Thursday - Mark 14:12-72
Good Friday - Mark 15:1-15:42
Saturday - Mark 15:42-47
Easter Sunday - Mark 16:1-8 Mark 11:1-11

1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, "What are you doing, untying that colt?" 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! " "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

There's no doubt, the secret's out: After keeping His identity hidden throughout much of Mark, Jesus now deliberately goes public as the Messiah. Palm Sunday is not spontaneous—it is a carefully instructed revelation of His identity.

Faithful obedience goes beyond what makes sense: The disciples obeyed instructions that likely felt confusing and uncomfortable. True allegiance to Jesus often requires trust before understanding. Jesus is not just worthy of worship—He is worthy of royal worship: The crowd’s actions (cloaks, branches, shouts) were not casual—they were fit for a king. Allegiance to Jesus means honoring Him as King over every area of life. Genuine allegiance is revealed in the day to day: The crowd celebrated on Sunday but disappeared by the end of the day. In contrast, true disciples kept following. Allegiance means following Jesus in the day to day. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Can you think of a time when God called you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What helped (or hindered) your willingness to obey? 2. What are some practical ways you can honor Jesus as King in our daily decisions this week (finances, time, relationships, habits)?
What does it look like for you personally to follow Jesus in the “in-between” days—not just on Sundays or big spiritual moments? What tends to pull you away from following Jesus consistently during the week? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that?
Which of the three—faithful obedience, royal worship, or daily discipleship—resonated with you the most when it comes to understanding allegiance? Which one is most challenging, and why?

MARK 12:41-44

41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on." NIVDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Where do you see the benefits of belonging to this church family? What ministries at Southside are most important to you?

2 Why do we shy away from topics like hell and money when Jesus teaches about them so often?

3 Read Mark 12:41-44. What is your initial impression of what Jesus does at the temple? Why did he do this? What are we to learn? How are we to respond? What part of the four verses makes you uncomfortable?

4 "How we handle money is a litmus test of our true character." What do you think about that statement?

5 Why do you give what you give? Where have you received guidance from God's Word regarding giving to your church family? What direction have you followed? What do you think about the principle of the tithe?

6 Where have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement: "It is more blessed to give than to receive"? How would you describe your level of intention when it comes to giving money to your church family? What are you going to do with this brief, uncomfortable, challenging moment in Jesus' ministry?

MARK 6:1-6

1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that even he does miracles! 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their lack of faith. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

The people of Nazareth were amazed at Jesus’ words and works, yet their familiarity with Him prevented them from honoring Him. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as honoring Him. Familiarity with Jesus can either deepen worship or breed indifference.

The people were “blown away” (v. 2), but amazement alone did not lead to faith. Being impressed by Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him.

The Gospel Offends Before It Heals. The people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense because they were offended by Jesus’ ordinary background. The gospel offends because it confronts pride, exposes sin, and calls for repentance.

Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith (v. 6). Faith (pistis) is more than mental agreement—it is faithful obedience and allegiance. The centurion in Luke 7 understood authority and responded with submission. The people of Nazareth understood Jesus’ background but refused allegiance. The measure of faith is not how long we’ve known Jesus, but how fully we obey Him.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Are you still amazed at His grace? When was the last time you felt genuinely overwhelmed by the grace of Jesus? Has “Amazing Grace” become overly familiar in your spiritual life? What would it look like to rediscover its wonder? 2. Are you still affected by His gospel? Which parts of the gospel message challenge or confront you most right now? Why do you think the people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense? In what ways do people today admire Jesus but resist surrendering to Him?
Are you still allegiant to His glory? Where might there be a gap between what you know about Jesus and how you follow Him? If faith means allegiance, what does that look like in daily life (home, work, relationships, decision-making)? What is one area of clear obedience God may be calling you to right now?

Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Think about your own life. Where is there a gap between the allegiance you profess — to Christ, to your family, to your community — and the allegiance you actually demonstrate through your actions? What would it look like to close that gap in one specific area this week?
What is one "good thing" in your current season of life that may actually be functioning as a weight — pulling your attention, energy, or time away from your formation as a follower of Jesus? What would it require, practically, to set it aside — and what's making that feel difficult?
Do you currently have someone in your life who functions as a James 5:16 person — someone who knows your struggles, asks hard questions, and loves you enough to hold you accountable without judgment? If not, what has kept you from pursuing that kind of relationship, and what would a first step toward it look like for you?
Ephesians 2:10 says you were created for good works that God prepared specifically for you beforehand. Given where God has actually positioned you right now — your workplace, your neighborhood, your family, your stage of life — what do you think one of those prepared good works might be? What would it look like to practice faithful obedience in that one place this week?

PSALM 44

For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A maskil.

1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago. 2 With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish. 3 It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them. 4 You are my King and my God, who decrees victories for Jacob. 5 Through you we push back our enemies; through your name we trample our foes. 6 I do not trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; 7 but you give us victory over our enemies, you put put our adversaries to shame. 8 In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.

9 But now you have rejected and humbled us; you no longer go out with your armies. 10 You made us retreat before the enemy, and our adversaries have plundered us. 11 You gave us up to be devoured like sheep and have scattered us among the nations. 12 You sold your people for a pittance, gaining nothing from their sale. 13 You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, the scorn and derision of those around us. 14 You made us a byword among the nations ; the peoples shake their heads at us. 15 My disgrace is before me all day long, and my face is covered with shame 16 at the taunts of those who reproach and revile me, because of the enemy, who is bent on revenge. 17 All this happened to us, though we had not forgotten you or been false to your covenant, 18 Our hearts had not turned back; our feet had not strayed from your path. 19 But you crushed us and made us a haunt for jackals and covered us over with deep darkness. 20 If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, 21 would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?

22 Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. 23 Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. 24 Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? 25 We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. 26 Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Praise Is a Process
Psalm 44:1–8 reminds us that praise is the fruit of a process. We remember God in the past, trust Him in the present, and praise Him in the future. Skipping remembering and trusting leads to just singing rather than genuine praise.

Inherited Belief Must Become Personal Allegiance
“Their faith” must become “my faith.” The psalmist moves from “our fathers told us” (v.1) to “You are my King and my God” (v.4). Spiritual maturity happens when we add our signature to the story — when God becomes personally trusted in the present.

When Theology Doesn’t Seem to Work
The turning point — “But now” (v.9) — captures the tension of undeserved suffering. The people are experiencing the curses of disobedience while claiming covenant faithfulness. Psalm 44 gives language to that painful question: What do we do when our experience contradicts our expectations and explanations?God Invites Honest Protest
Verses 9–21 model bold, uncensored prayer. He protests. He wrestles. He brings confusion to God rather than away from Him. Faith is not pretending everything is fine — it is bringing everything honestly before the Lord.

Hesed Has the Final Word
The psalm ends with one emphatic word: hesed — unfailing, covenant love. Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 in Romans 8 to show that even unexplained suffering cannot separate us from Christ’s love. When answers fail, God’s steadfast love remains. His hesed is the trump card.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What are specific ways you intentionally “remember” what God has done? How does remembering strengthen your faith during difficult seasons?2. When did your faith move from “theirs” (family, church, tradition) to “mine”?
What helps you continue making that transition daily?3. Have you experienced a “But now” season — where your experience seemed to contradict your expectations and explanations? How did you respond?4. Why do you think many Christians struggle to bring protests to God? What would it look like this week to pray with more honesty?5. When answers are unclear, what does it practically mean to “cling to His unfailing love”? How does Romans 8:35–39 strengthen your confidence during hardship?

PSALM 42-43

For the director of music. A maskil of the Sons of Korah.

1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon - from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of the waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. 8 By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is within me - a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I say to God my Rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?" 10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

1 Vindicate me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from deceitful and wicked men. 2 You are God my stronghold, why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? 3 Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

We were created with a deep need to belong.
Being made in the image of a relational God means we are wired for connection with Him and with one another.To be seen is a sacred longing.
The psalmist’s cry—“When can I go and be seen by God?”—reveals a soul aching for God’s attentive presence. Spiritual thirst is often painful, not pleasant.God’s presence is not distant or indifferent.
Repeatedly, Scripture reminds us that God sees His people. In Christ and through the Spirit, God says again and again, “I see you, and I am with you.”We were made to be fully known and truly loved.
The loss the psalmist feels is not just about place, but about people—being known in the worshiping community. True belonging reflects God’s love: knowing us completely and loving us faithfully.The cross is the ultimate invitation to belong.
At the cross, exclusion ends. Jesus’ outstretched arms declare that no one is too far away, too broken, or too unworthy to belong to the family of God.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Have you ever felt “unseen” by God? The psalmist longs to be seen by God. Have you experienced a season of longing and thirsting to be seen by God?
Who knows you well outside of your immediate family—and chooses to love you anyway? If that list feels short, what might be holding you back from deeper relationships?
How can our church fight loneliness intentionally? The sermon highlighted loneliness as a public health crisis. What are practical ways our church or small group can become a place where people are fully known and truly loved?
How does the cross redefine belonging for you? If the cross is the ultimate symbol of belonging, how should that shape the way we see ourselves—and the way we welcome others who feel excluded or overlooked?

PSALM 42
1
As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
2
My soul thirsts for God, for the living
God. When can I go and meet with
God?
3
My tears have been my food day and
night, while men say to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"
4
These things I remember as I pour out
my soul: how I used to go with the
multitude, leading the procession to the
house of God, with shouts of joy and
thanksgiving among the festive throng.
5
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and
6
my God. My soul is downcast within
me; therefore I will remember you from
the land of the Jordan, the heights of
Hermon-from Mount Mizar.
7
Deep calls to deep in the roar of your
waterfalls; all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8
By day the Lord directs his love, at
night his song is with me- a prayer to the
God of my life.
9
I say to God my Rock, "Why have you
forgotten me? Why must I go about
mourning, oppressed by the enemy?"
10
My bones suffer mortal agony as my
foes taunt me, saying to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"
11
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and my God.

PSALM 43
1
Vindicate me, O God, and plead my
cause against an ungodly nation; rescue
me from deceitful and wicked men.
2
You are God my stronghold. Why have
you rejected me? Why must I go about
mourning, oppressed by the enemy?
3
Send forth your light and your truth, let
them guide me; let them bring me to
your holy mountain, to the place where
you dwell.
4
Then will I go to the altar of God, to
God, my joy and my delight. I will praise
you with the harp, O God, my God.
5
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and my God.

MATTHEW 6:9-13

9 This, then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. NIV 84PRAYER GUIDE

Opening Question: Which area of prayer resonated most with you this morning and why? Spend time sharing with your group.

Pray through these areas of the Lord's Prayer with your group.
Here is a guide:

Our Father in heaven – ConnectionThank God for being a loving, present Father.
Remember prayer is relational, not transactional. 2. Hallowed be your name – WorshipName attributes of God (holy, faithful, merciful, just).3. Your kingdom come, your will be done – SurrenderSilently offer areas of life where they need God’s guidance.
One person may pray aloud for God’s will to be done in the group, church, or community.
Give us today our daily bread – DependenceEncourage sharing specific needs (physical, emotional, spiritual).
Pray briefly for each request, trusting God for today—not tomorrow.
Forgive us…as we forgive – RestorationAllow quiet reflection for confession and forgiveness.
Close this portion with a spoken prayer of gratitude for God’s grace.6. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil – ProtectionPray for strength, wisdom, and spiritual protection.

PSALM 41

1 Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. 2 The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and surrender him to the desire of his foes. 3 The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness. 4 I said, "O LORD, have mercy on me; heal me, for I have sinned against you." 5 My enemies say of me in malice, "When will he die and his name perish?" 6 Whenever one comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it abroad. 7 All my enemies whisper together against me; they imagine the worst for me, saying, 8 "A vile disease has beset him; he will never get up from the place where he lies." 9 Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. 10 But you, O LORD, have mercy on me; raise me up, that I may repay them. 11 I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. 13 Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Mercy Is Evidence of a Life Lived with God
A defining characteristic of the Christian is revealed in how we treat the weak, vulnerable, and overlooked. Regard for the weak is evidence of a heart that has been transformed by God.“Regard for the Weak” Requires Thoughtful Compassion
To “regard” the weak means more than noticing them; it means thoughtfully considering their situation and responding with intentional compassion.

God's Mercy Meets Us in Every Kind of Brokenness
“O Lord, have mercy on me” is a prayer that fits every season of life. Whether facing sin, sickness, relational wounds, or betrayal, God welcomes honest, humble cries for help. God’s Mercy Does Not Remove Struggle but Upholds Us Through It
The power of God’s mercy is seen in the way He upholds us. God may not immediately remove suffering, but He promises to hold us steady within it. His mercy keeps us standing when we are too weak to stand on our own.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Who is your “Mephibosheth”? Who is a specific person in your life—by name—that God may be calling you to regard, consider, and compassionately serve?2. When have you experienced God’s mercy personally? Can you recall a season when God delivered, restored, sustained, or rescued you? How does remembering past mercy strengthen your faith in present struggles?
Where do you need to pray, “O Lord, Have Mercy on Me”? Which area of your life currently reflects David’s prayer—sin, sickness, relational hurt, betrayal, or weariness? How does this simple prayer give you language for your need?
What does it look like to trust God’s sustaining mercy rather than expecting immediate solutions? How can this group help “hold one another up” as God does in His mercy?
Close the group by praying the six-word prayer together—slowly and intentionally: “O Lord, have mercy on me.” Encourage one another to carry that prayer into the coming week as both a cry for help and a declaration of trust in God’s sustaining mercy.

PSALM 40

1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you: were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. 6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. 7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. 8 I desire to do your will, O my God, your law is within my heart. 9 I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as you know, O LORD. 10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly. 11 Do not withhold your mercy from me, O LORD; may your love and your truth always protect me. 12 For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me. 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me. 14 May all who seek to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. 15 May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!" be appalled at their own shame. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" 17 Yet I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; O my God, do not delay. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Waiting on the Lord Is a Posture, Not a Pause
Waiting on the Lord is not passive inactivity but an intentional heart posture of trust, dependence, and surrender. Whether we are resting or working, our hearts can remain oriented toward God.

God Responds Personally to Those Who Wait
Psalm 40 reveals a personal God who turns toward us, hears our cries, lifts us from the slimy pit, sets our feet on solid ground, and puts a new song in our mouths. Waiting is worth it because God responds.

Blessing Comes From the Object of Our Trust
True happiness is found not in how strong our faith feels, but in who our faith is in. Even mustard-seed faith produces blessing when the Lord is its object.God’s Wonders Always Outnumber Our Sins and Troubles
David admits his sins and troubles are “too many to count,” yet he boldly declares that God’s wonders are even greater. The sermon emphasizes this hope-filled truth: you cannot out-sin God’s goodness, and grace always outweighs guilt.Delight, Not Duty, Is the Goal of Obedience
Both David and Jesus teach us that true obedience flows from delight in God’s will, not mere obligation. God opens our ears so that obedience becomes our joy, not our burden.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Where in your life are you currently being asked to “wait on the Lord”? How does viewing waiting as a heart posture rather than inactivity change how you approach that situation?
What are some “old mental tapes” that tend to play in your mind? How might God want to replace them with a “new song” of truth and praise this year?
Psalm 40:4 emphasizes trusting the Lord rather than people, success, or security. What objects are you tempted to trust in other than the Lord?
How might intentionally practicing gratitude (such as journaling God’s wonders) help reshape your perspective when guilt, anxiety, or trouble feels overwhelming?5. Of the three “songs” from this sermon—
“Blessed is the one who makes the Lord their trust,”
“Many are the wonders you have done,”
“I delight in doing your will”—
which one do you most need to put on repeat this season, and why?

ISAIAH 49:1-7

1 Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name. 2 He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. 3 He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor." 4 But I said, "I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God." 5 And now the LORD days - he who formed me in the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself, for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD and my God has been my strength - 6 he says: "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." 7 This is what the LORD says - the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel - to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: "Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you." NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Biblical Listening Means Obedient Listening
When the Servant says, “Listen to me,” it is not an invitation to consider His words—it is a call to hear with the intent to obey. True listening to Jesus always leads to action, not mere admiration or reflection.

God’s Kingdom Advances Through Words, Not Weapons
The Servant’s mouth is described as a sharpened sword and a polished arrow. God does not establish His kingdom through force or power, but through truth, grace and the gospel penetrating hearts and transforming lives.

The Servant Becomes What We Failed to Be
The Servant is named “Israel” because He embodies everything Israel was meant to be. In the same way, Jesus becomes for us what we could never be on our own—righteous, faithful, and obedient.

Faithfulness Matters More Than Fruitfulness
Even the Servant experiences discouragement, opposition, and misunderstanding. Yet He entrusts the results to God. Our calling is not to produce results but to remain faithful and trust God with the fruit.

God’s Salvation Is Too Big for One Nation
Restoring Israel alone would be “too small a thing.” God’s plan has always been global—salvation to the ends of the earth. Advent reminds us that Jesus did not come just for one people, but for all people.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

When you hear the words of Jesus, do you approach them as helpful guidance or as words to be obeyed? What makes obedience difficult in everyday life?
The Servant's words are described as powerful and penetrating. When have God's words challenged or changed your heart in a meaningful way?
Where in your life do you feel discouraged because you don't see results - parenting, ministry, work, relationships? What would it look like to focus on faithfulness and leave the outcome to God?
How does understanding that Jesus came to be what we could not be - instead of giving us another chance to "get it right" - change the way you view grace, salvation, and your relationship with God?
In what ways might your vision of God's work be "too small"? How can you participate - locally or globally - in God's mission to be a light to others?

ISAIAH 52:13-53:12

13 See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. 14 Just as there were many who were appalled at him — his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness— 15 so he will sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand.
53 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? 2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. 4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished. 9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. 11 After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.LESSON NOTES & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1.) The Unexpected Pathway of the Servant (Is. 52:13-15)In a punchline that the audience never saw coming, Isaiah reveals that the Servant's pathway to exaltation was through suffering. The arrival of the Servant revealed that exaltation and suffering are not mutually exclusive. In fact, according to Isaiah, they belong together.-In what ways have you seen this reality play out in your life? How have some of your past sufferings led to the exaltation of Jesus?2.) The Unimpressive Appearance of the Servant (Is. 53:1-3)Throughout Israel’s history certain mighty men and deliverers had a certain outward appearance. (See Genesis 39:6 and 1 Samuel 16:2) In the minds of many, a deliverer was a “dominating, forceful, attractive person, who by their personal magnetism drew people to themselves…”. Yet, in the case of the Servant, we see none of these physical qualities. While the eyes of "many" were looking for one thing, the appearance of the Servant revealed something completely unexpected.-What are some ways that Jesus has shown up unexpectedly in your life recently? How did that impact your relationship with Him and with others?3.) The Unimaginable Willingness of the Servant (Is. 53:4-6)In verses 1-3, the Servant was characterized as being "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief". We find out in verses 4-6 that he was characterized this way because He was bearing OUR sorrows and griefs. In this section of the text the heart of the poem and the heart of God is revealed. The heart of God: God so desperately wants a relationship with us that He was willing to do whatever it took to make that relationship happen. The unimaginable willingness of the Servant is mind-blowing!-When you think about Jesus, what blows your mind about Him? What is something that you just can't get over?4.) The Unwavering Submission of the Servant (Is. 53:7-9)Lambs have an extreme naivety when it comes to being slaughtered or shorn. Animals, in general, go as uncomprehendingly to slaughter as they do to shearing. They go with "blind compliance" to wherever the destination is. Yet, while lambs went unknowingly and uncomprehendingly to slaughter, this Servant went fully knowing where He was headed, to death. This servant didn’t go with blind compliance, He went with willing submission.-In your current season of life, in what ways is Jesus calling you to a deeper submission to Him?5.) The Unmatched Exaltation of the Servant (Is. 53:10-12)The Servant didn’t just suffer for suffering’s sake. He suffered for a purpose. The monumental impact of His suffering for mankind is that we are longer left at a distance because of our sin. Instead we can be brought near because of the righteousness we have received. There was also a monumental reward for the Servant. Because “he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors” His reward is a status of total supremacy -How should the total supremacy of Jesus affect how we live our daily lives? What are some current challenges you are facing in making Jesus' supremacy a deeper reality in your life?

ISAIAH 9:1-7

1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan -
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 5 Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

God speaks His “Nevertheless” into our darkest places. Isaiah 9 erupts into hope directly after a chapter filled with distress, darkness, and despair. God does not wait for people to climb out of their misery—He speaks hope into it. The gospel light shines first where suffering has been greatest (Zebulun and Naphtali).2. Jesus launches His kingdom from places of deepest suffering. Just as God promised honor to Galilee—the region most ravaged by invasion—Jesus made Capernaum His homebase of ministry. God’s pattern is consistent: He brings salvation right into the places of our deepest wounds.3. The salvation of Jesus is light breaking into the darkness. The Gideon story forms a biblical picture of salvation: sudden, overwhelming light shattering darkness. Jesus, the Light of the World, fulfills this picture—not symbolically, but literally—breaking the power of spiritual darkness.4. Jesus destroys the works of the devil without the world’s weapons. Like Gideon defeating Midian without a sword, Jesus conquers evil not with violence, but through His own self-giving life. He destroys oppression, sin, and death—not by force, but by the power of sacrificial love.
The King who comes is both fully human and fully God, establishing an ever-increasing kingdom. The child is born (His humanity) and the Son is given (His deity). His shoulders alone can bear the weight of a government that is eternal, peaceful, and ever-increasing. The four names are royal titles that describe the child-king. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Where have you most recently experienced “distress, darkness, or despair”?
How does the word “Nevertheless” in Isaiah 9:1 invite you to reframe your situation in anticipation of God’s coming kingdom?
God chose to begin His saving work in the most devastated region of Israel. What might this reveal about where God wants to work in your life—or in your community—right now?3. Which of the four royal titles in Isaiah 9:6 (Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace) do you need to hear the most in this Advent season— and why?
Jesus destroys the works of the devil not by power or force, but by laying down His life. How might His method reshape the way you approach conflict, suffering, or opposition?5. Isaiah promises a kingdom that will increase forever. How does the idea of “never-ending increase” in God’s goodness shape your hope for eternity—and your endurance in the present?

MARK 5:21-24a, 35-43

21 When Jesus had crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 and pleaded earnestly with him, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live." 24 So Jesus went with him.

35 While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?" 36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the Synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe." 37 He did not let anyone follow him except for Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." 40 But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat. NIV 84LESSON NOTES

Faith is the common ground that connects everyone to Jesus.
Jairus and the woman in Mark 5 could not be more opposite—economically, socially, religiously. Yet the only thing that brings both into an encounter with Jesus is faith. The gospel equalizes everyone at the feet of Christ.Faith must move us to come to Jesus even when it means leaving the crowd.
Jairus steps out from the great crowd and publicly falls at Jesus’ feet—an act shocking for a synagogue ruler. True faith is willing to break from the crowd, reputation, or comfort to seek Jesus.

Faith requires continuing with Jesus when circumstances suddenly turn toward despair. When Jairus receives news of his daughter’s death, Jesus immediately speaks: “Do not be afraid, just keep on believing.” Faith is not a moment—it is a daily, ongoing choice to trust Jesus beyond fear, loss, or confusion.

Faith ultimately conquers in Jesus, not by avoiding death, but by trusting the One who transforms death itself. Jesus doesn’t merely reverse death for Jairus’ daughter—He redefines death as sleep for all who belong to Him. His power over nature, demons, disease, and now death shows He alone can break death’s grip.

The story points us to the final awakening for all who “fall asleep in Christ.”
Jesus’ tender words—“Little girl, wake up”—foreshadow the day He will awaken all His people. Death is not the end; it is a temporary sleep from which the Lord will rouse His children.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Where do you personally find it hardest to “step out of the crowd” and come openly to Jesus? What crowds—social, cultural, relational—make faith costly for you?
Think of a time your faith was shaken by unexpected news or suffering. What helped you keep walking with Jesus rather than turning away?3. Jesus tells Jairus, “Do not be afraid, just continue believing.”
What fears most often compete with your faith today? How might you intentionally respond to them with trust?
How does Jesus’ view of death as temporary sleep reshape the way you think about loss, grief, or your own mortality?5. In what ways do we sometimes place our faith “in faith itself” rather than in Jesus? What practical habits help keep your trust centered in Christ rather than in your own spiritual performance?

Colossians 3:12-17

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.LESSON NOTES

There is a connection between PURPOSE and PREPARATION.
When you have a great purpose in mind, it gives you the drive and direction to prepare for it. And in turn, the preparation ensures that when the moment arrives, you’re ready to live out your purpose.

How our students are preparing for their Croatia mission trip:* Essay questions * Gathering 5 prayer supporters * Interviewing with trip leadership * Studying and presenting on an aspect of Croatian culture * Complete a guided Bible study * Participate in a team fast * Gather for training at a weekend retreat * Contribute to and sign a team covenant * Memorize Colossians 3:12-17

The way you live your life tells people what really matters.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What's something you've spent a lot of time preparing for? How did the preparation impact your life? 2. What similarities are there between how a highwire walker lives and how a Christian should live? 3. Consider the list of ways our students are preparing for their trip this summer. Do you practice any similar types of "preparation" for your Christian walk? What practices do you feel would be beneficial? 4. What traits in Colossians 3:12-17 do you see modeled well? What traits there would you like us to grow in? 5. What does Colossians 3:13 look like practically?

Mark 5:24-34

24 A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. 30 At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?" 31 "You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?'" 32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering." LESSON NOTES

Faith Is the Channel, Not the Cause.
The woman’s healing came by Jesus’ power, but her faith was the conduit through which His grace flowed. Faith doesn’t replace Jesus’ power—it connects us to it.Desperate Faith Leads to Dependence.
The woman’s long suffering left her desperate enough to reach for Jesus. Sometimes God allows desperation so that we learn to fully depend on Him rather than ourselves.Dependent Faith Means Letting Go of Self-Effort.
She could not heal herself, and all her efforts only made things worse. True faith releases our grip on self-effort and holds fast to Jesus as the only source of salvation and wholeness.Salvation is About a Relationship, Not a Transaction.
Jesus refused to let the woman quietly slip away. He called her “Daughter,” turning her faith from a private transaction into a public, relational transformation. Faith isn’t just believing—it’s belonging.Even Small Faith Moves the Heart of Jesus.
The woman’s trembling, timid touch was enough to draw out His power and compassion. Jesus responds not to the strength of our faith, but to the sincerity of it.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

"You don't realize that Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have." Talk about this quote with your group. Put into your own words what it means to be desperate for Jesus?
In what ways can we practice “touching His robe” in our daily lives—taking small steps of faith that connect us to His power rather than depending on our own effort?
Jesus calls her out of the crowd in order to deepen her faith. What might God be using in your life right now to deepen your faith?
Jesus didn’t just heal this woman — He called her “Daughter.” How does this shift from a transactional to a relational view of salvation encourage your walk with God?
How can this story encourage someone who feels like their faith is weak or hesitant right now? What does it reveal about the heart of Jesus toward imperfect faith?

Mark 5:1-20

1 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.

6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. 7 He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” 8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!”

9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?”

“My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” 10 And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.

11 A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” 13 He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.

14 Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. 17 Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region.

18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What questions do you have about the account of the demons and the pigs?

Why do you think Jesus says "yes" to both the demons and the people?

What do you think the man would have felt when Jesus told him "no"?

Jeremy mentioned 3 perspectives on Jesus - Jesus as Enemy, as Disruption, and as Lord. Where do you see these present today? Do you ever find yourself drawn to those different perspectives?

What makes it hard to say "yes" to Jesus' "no"?

What are some reasons Jesus might say "no" to something we think is a good request?

Mark 4:35-41

35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him?" NIV 84DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Personal Reflection:
When have you found yourself asking, “God, don’t you care?” What circumstances led you there, and how did God reveal His care in that season?Heart Check:
The sermon asks, “Who or what has your allegiance?” How might your use of time, energy, attention, and money reveal who truly rules your heart?Faith in the Storm:
Jesus didn’t promise to end every storm, but to be present through them. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in His presence during our “megas” moments of life?Hearing His Voice:
The wind and waves recognized the voice of Jesus immediately. What helps—or hinders—you from recognizing His voice amid life’s noise?Holy Fear:
The disciples moved from terror to awe. What’s the difference between cowardly fear and holy reverence, and how can we develop more of the latter in our daily walk with Jesus?

Matthew 6:9-15

9 "This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. 14 For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. NIV 84DISCUSSION NOTES AND QUESTIONS

1 The word "Our" forms an immediate bridge between you and me. Author David Timms says, "In a single word Jesus calls us together."

In your walk with Jesus, in what ways have you seen this bridge in your life?

2 Our faith in Jesus is both personal and communal. God created each of us to live life with Jesus and live live with others.

Do you see any overlap between these two aspects of our faith? If so, how?
When you examine the rhythms of your current season of life, how well are you living into these aspects of your walk with Jesus?

3 Jesus didn't reveal a new God to his original audience, He just showed then an aspect of God that they had been missing. Jesus perfectly revealed the Father to them in a way that they desperately needed.

In your walk with Jesus, what parts of God's character are you most familiar/comfortable with? Why?
What parts of God's character are you most unfamiliar/uncomfortable with? Why?

4 To speak of God's Fatherhood is to speak of our brotherhood, to speak of our sisterhood. The intimacy we have with our Father gives us the capacity to love our brothers and sisters well.

Why do you think it is so important that we remember that we are brothers and sisters in the family of God?

Mark 4:26-34

26 He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. 27 Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. 28 All by itself the soil produces grain - first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. 29 As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come. 30 Again he said, "What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? 31 It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. 32 Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade." 33 With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. 34 He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything. NIV 84Lesson Notes

The Kingdom Begins Small but Grows Mighty
Jesus uses seeds—especially the mustard seed—to show that God’s kingdom often starts in small, unnoticed ways but grows into something extraordinary.The Seed Represents the Word of God
Jesus identifies the seed as the Word. The power for growth and transformation lies not in human effort but in God’s Word itself—alive, potent, and productive “all by itself.”Growth Belongs to God Alone
Just as a farmer cannot make a seed grow, we cannot produce spiritual growth in others. Our role is to sow faithfully while trusting God to bring about the increase in His time and way.God Values the Insignificant
The parable of the mustard seed reminds us that God often chooses what seems small, weak, or unimportant to accomplish His greatest work—from Israel’s humble beginnings to Jesus’ own life.Small Acts Have Eternal Impact
A cup of water given in Jesus’ name or a quiet word of encouragement can be kingdom work. When done for Christ, no act of service is too small to matter.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

In what ways have you seen God bring growth “all by itself” in your life or someone else’s, apart from your effort or control?2. Why do you think God chooses to work through small, ordinary things rather than large, impressive displays of power?
What does it look like for you to “sow the seed” of God’s Word in your current season of life—at home, work, or in your community?
How can we keep from becoming discouraged when the results of our efforts for God seem slow or invisible?
What’s one small, faithful act you can do this week “in Jesus’ name” that could become a mustard seed moment for someone else?

Mark 4:21-25

21 He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on it's stand? 22 For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear. 24 Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you - and even more. 25 Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." NIV 84Lesson Notes

The Secret of the Kingdom Is Revealed, Not Learned
Jesus says, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you.” This shows that the knowledge of God’s kingdom is revealed, not learned or earned. It’s an act of divine grace that invites us into intimacy with Him.The Kingdom’s Secret Is a “Good Secret” — Meant to Be Shared
Unlike most secrets meant to be kept hidden, the “secret” of the kingdom is like good news waiting to be told. It’s the kind of secret that begins with a few and is meant to spread to many — starting with the disciples and continuing through us.The Parables Both Conceal and Reveal
Jesus’ parables act like a filter for the heart. They illuminate truth for those who are open and receptive, yet harden those who resist. Like sunlight that both melts wax and hardens clay, the same message produces different effects depending on one’s heart condition.

Jesus Is the Lamp of God — the Light That Cannot Be Hidden
Just as a lamp’s purpose is to illuminate a dark room, Jesus came to reveal the truth of God’s kingdom. His light exposes, reveals, and transforms. He is both the Lamp who brings light and the Lamb who gives life.The Lamp Is the Lamb — the Cross as the Ultimate Revelation
The greatest illumination of God’s kingdom comes through the cross. The King’s glory is revealed in His sacrifice. The light of the world shines brightest through the humility, love, and suffering of Jesus, the Lamb of GodDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Can you recall a time when you had a "positive personal happening" that only you knew about and had yet to tell another person? A time when you "good news just waiting to be told." How did it make you feel? What do you think about the "the kingdom of God" being in that category of secret?

2 Jesus said parables reveal and conceal based on the heart’s condition. In what ways have you experienced this with your own heart - times when your heart has been more like wax or more like clay when it comes to receiving the truth of God?

3 How does it feel to know that Jesus has entrusted the secret of God’s Kingdom to you personally? The sermon described the “secret of the kingdom” as both a blessing and a burden. In what ways have you experienced both the wonder and the weight of sharing what God has revealed to you?

4 The sermon concluded that “the Lamp is the Lamb.” How does seeing Jesus’ light through His sacrificial love help you understand God’s kingdom — and shape how you live within it?

Mark 4:1-20

1 Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water's edge. 2 He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: 3 "Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered
because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, multiplying thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times." 9 Then Jesus said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." 10 When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. 11 He told them, "The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is
said in parables 12 so that, " 'they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!' " 13 Then Jesus said to them, "Don't you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 14 The farmer sows the word. 15 Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16 Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18 Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20 Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop--thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown." NIV 84Lesson Notes

The Kingdom Looks Different Than Expected: Instead of arriving with royal pageantry or military power, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a farmer sowing seed—small, quiet, and grassroots, yet destined for great harvest.Parables Are More Than Illustrations: Warren Wiersbe described parables as starting as a picture, becoming a mirror where we see ourselves, and then a window through which we see God and His truth.The Progression of the Soil: Jesus’ parable shows a progression of the heart—from hard soil, to shallow, to crowded with weeds, to fruitful soil producing thirty, sixty, or even a hundredfold. Everyone is somewhere along this journey, and there is always room for growth.The Weeds of the Heart: Worry, wealth, and worldly desires remain timeless distractions that choke out spiritual growth if not pulled up by the root. They may not always be “bad things,” but they become harmful when they take priority over God.The Generous Sower: The parable ultimately reveals God as the Sower, who lavishly scatters His Word on all types of soil. His invitation is for everyone to receive the kingdom—promptly, deeply, totally, and abundantly.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

When you hear the phrase “kingdom of God,” what images or expectations come to mind, and how does Jesus’ description in Mark 4 reshape your understanding?
Looking at the “soil progression” Jesus describes, where would you honestly place yourself right now—and what would it look like for you to take the next step toward deeper fruitfulness?
Of the three weeds—worry, wealth, or worldly distractions—which one most often threatens to choke out your spiritual growth? What practical steps could help you “pull it up by the roots”?
Parables act as a picture, a mirror, and a window. Which of these three aspects of the parable of the sower (picture of the kingdom, mirror of the heart, or window into God) spoke to you most in this sermon, and why?

Mark 3:13-35

13 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve[a] that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons. 16 These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), 17 James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

20 Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples were not even able to eat. 21 When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.”

22 And the teachers of the law who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul! By the prince of demons he is driving out demons.”23 So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come. 27 In fact, no one can enter a strong man’s house without first tying him up. Then he can plunder the strong man’s house. 28 Truly I tell you, people can be forgiven all their sins and every slander they utter, 29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.”

30 He said this because they were saying, “He has an impure spirit.”31 Then Jesus’ mother and brothers arrived. Standing outside, they sent someone in to call him. 32 A crowd was sitting around him, and they told him, “Your mother and brothers are outside looking for you.”33 “Who are my mother and my brothers?” he asked.34 Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! 35 Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”

Lesson Notes

Outline of Mark 3:13-35
13-19 - Jesus appoints the 12
20-21 - Jesus' family notified
22-30 - Conflict with teachers of the law
31-35 - Jesus' family arrives

The teachers of the law have a new strategy to deal with Jesus. They don't question his actions. Instead they accuse him of being on the wrong team.

The key question of this text is "what team is Jesus on?"

NT Wright on the "unforgiveable sin" of 28-29:
“Once you label what is in fact the work of the Holy Spirit as the work of the devil, there’s no way back […] It isn’t that God gets specially angry with one sin in particular. It’s rather that if you decide firmly that the doctor who is offering to perform a life-saving operation on you is in fact a sadistic murderer, you will never give your consent to the operation.”

Family was the key to identity in the first century. Jesus' refusal to acknowledge his family indicate that he has a "new team".

Mark highlights moments of this narrative to demonstrate how Jesus identifies his allegiance not to the demons (as the teachers of the law accuse him of) nor his family, as society expects, but instead is creating something new to belong to.
- He begins (13-19) and ends (33-35) this section by showing who his new team is.Ephesians 6:12 - Paul writes in a time of great Christian persecution that our enemies are not "flesh and blood" but rather spiritual force. People are not our enemy.

Jesus invites us to a new team - one that doesn't see people as enemies, but rather people who just haven't joined up yet.
- We are invited to see people how Jesus sees them, rather than boiling them down to a political idea or unlikable label.
- We can love those we would never otherwise love because Jesus has given us his undeserved love first.

Mark 2:23-28

23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees said to him, "Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?" 25 He answered, "Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions." 27 Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." NIV 84Lesson Notes

God Designed Us for Rest
From creation, God modeled rest by ceasing from His work on the seventh day (Genesis 2:3). The Sabbath was meant as a gift, not a burden—a rhythm of rest that restores both body and soul.The Sabbath Is a Provision, Not a Prohibition
Jesus reminds us that God’s commands are intended for our good. Just as the showbread was given to David as provision, the Sabbath is meant to care for us, not restrict us.Religion Can Complicate What God Made Simple
The Pharisees burdened the Sabbath with rules, missing the heart of God’s intention. Jesus simplified it: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath."Relationship Over Religion
True obedience flows out of relationship with God, not rigid rule-keeping. Religion says, “Obey so that God will love me.” Relationship says, “God loves me, therefore I obey.”Jesus Is Our True Rest
As “Lord of the Sabbath,” Jesus is more than a teacher of rest—He is our rest. Vacations, sleep, and downtime are good, but only in Christ do we find the kind of rest that nothing else can satisfy.Discussion Questions

1 In what ways have you experienced the effects of being physically, emotionally, or spiritually tired? What are some intentional ways you could practice a "rhythm of rest" each week without turning it into a legalistic checklist?

2 Can you think of areas in your life where you’ve turned God’s good gift into a burden (like the Pharisees did with the Sabbath)? How can you shift your perspective to see God’s commands as provision?

3 How does focusing on God’s love and relationship with Him transform the way you approach obedience compared to a rule-focused mindset?

4 Jesus offers deep soul-rest beyond sleep or vacations. What would it look like for you to experience that rest in Him this week? What does it practically look like for you to find your true rest in Jesus during a busy week?

Mark 2:18-22

18 Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, "How is it that John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?" 19 Jesus answered, "How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them 20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and on that day they will fast. 21 No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins."Lesson Notes

The Presence of Jesus is Cause for Celebration
Just as no one fasts at a wedding feast, the disciples rejoiced because the Bridegroom (Jesus) was with them. Our faith is not primarily about rules, but about enjoying the presence of Christ.

Spiritual Disciplines Are Relational, Not Ritual
Fasting and other practices are not meant to prove our holiness but to draw us closer to Jesus. They shift from “religion-driven” to “relationship-driven.”

God is Not in the Tailoring Business—He Creates Something New
Jesus didn’t come to patch up old garments but to make us new creations. Christianity is not about self-improvement but transformation through Christ.

The Holy Spirit Fills and Expands Us
Like fermentation, the Spirit produces fruit within us—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This inner change expands our capacity to live in God’s kingdom.

The Kingdom of God Redefines Expectations
Jesus’ ministry of feasting with sinners broke religious categories. The kingdom isn’t about separation but about transformation through God’s presence and Spirit.Discussion Questions

In what ways might we sometimes treat faith as a ritual rather than a relationship, and how can we shift our mindset away from performance and to presence with Jesus?
Jesus compared being in His presence to a wedding feast. What does it look like to live with a sense of celebration and joy in our daily lives?
How do you personally recognize when your “old garments” (old ways, old habits, old identities) need to be replaced with the “new clothing” of Christ?
The Holy Spirit works in us like fermentation, slowly transforming us. Which fruit of the Spirit do you most long to see expand in your life right now?
Jesus’ willingness to eat with sinners challenged the religious culture of His day. Who might we be hesitant to sit at the table with, and how does the kingdom of God challenge that hesitation?

Mark 2:13-17

13 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. 14 As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow me," Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him. 15 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the "sinners" and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: "Why does he eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" 17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."Lesson Notes/Discussion Questions

1 There are over 30,000 students and 10,000 staff who go to school and work on the University of Kentucky's campus. Who were some classmates/peers or professors that had a profound impact on you while you were in school? Why?

2 In a culture that hated Levi, Jesus gave him a fresh start. As you examine your current season of life, are there any areas where you are longing for a fresh start? If so, where?

3 Each one of us is looking for two things: our people and our place. Belonging is one of the deep needs of the human soul. Over the course of your life, when have you experienced a time where you didn't belong in a certain place/with a certain people? What about a time when you found exactly your place and exactly your people? What was the difference in these environments and interactions?

4 Jesus created a space for us to belong with Him and with others. What rhythms of your life have allowed for you to experience both of these opportunities? Where have you struggled to see this truth become a reality?

5 Just as Jesus created an environment of belonging for those around Him, we are to do the same for those around us. What do you think this looks like in your current season of life? What are some current challenges or perceived challenges you may face within this?

Mark 2:1-12

1 A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. 2 They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 “Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? 10 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, 11 “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”Lesson Notes

When you mistake someone’s identity, more mistakes follow.* You make wrong assumptions. * You say the wrong thing. * You come to wrong conclusions.

Mark chapter 2 marks the beginning of a series of 5 conflicts1. Mark 2:1-12 2. Mark 2:13-17 3. Mark 2:18-22 4. Mark 2:23-27 5. Mark 3:1-6

In each, Jesus does something unexpected, the teachers of the law challenge him, and Jesus responds in a way that silences them.
The conclusion of these conflicts (3:6) shows us the first signs pointing to Jesus' death.Roofing
Homes generally had roof access.
Roofs were constructed by a few support timbers with smaller sticks and beams laid crosswise, then smaller twigs and thistles, and finally a layer of packed dirt on top.

The Question
Jesus' question in verse 9 has two possible answers:1. It is easier to say your sins are forgiven, because there is no immediate, outward evidence. 2. Ultimately, both are impossible for man. If Jesus has the authority to heal with a word, he has the authority to forgive sins in the same way.

Four Different Kinds of Allegiance:
1 Authentic allegiance - the leper in Mark 1:40
2 Affordable allegiance - the rich young man in Mark 10:17
3 Apathetic allegiance - the soldiers in Mark 15:19
4 A la carte allegiance - the teachers of the law in Mark 2:1-12

When we settle for a God who does not deserve our everything, we are settling for a "god" who cannot give us what we need.Discussion Questions

Ice Breaker: Discuss your thoughts on the Joshua Bell experiment (with the violinist). Then share some examples of mistaken identity.
In what ways would Jesus' actions in this passage have been surprising or shocking to his audience?
What do you think of the logic the teachers of the law use, and the conclusion they come to? Is the flaw with their theology, or with something else?
What do you think of Jesus' response in verse 9? What is he trying to communicate to the teachers of the law or the crowd?
The teachers of the law come to the wrong conclusion about Jesus' identity. What are some wrong ideas about who Jesus is that float around today?
Jeremy presented a fourth type of allegiance: "a la carte allegiance", where someone picks and chooses which parts of Jesus they want and discards the rest. What might that look like today?
Jeremy said "when we settle for a God who does not deserve our everything, we are settling for a 'god' who cannot give us what we need." In what ways is that true?

Mark 1:35-45

35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: "Everyone is looking for you!" 38 Jesus replied, "Let us go somewhere else - to the nearby villages - so I can preach there also. That is why I have come." 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving our demons. 40 A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, "If you are willing, you can make me clean." 41 Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" 42 Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cured. 43 Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: 44 "See that you don't tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them." 45 Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere. NIV 84Lesson Notes

Prayer as Appointment - in verse 35, there is an emphasis on both the "priority" of his prayer and the "prior to" of his prayer. Corrie Ten Boom said, "Don’t just pray when you feel like it. Have an appointment with the Lord and keep it.”

A Painless Hell - a researcher and physician named Paul Brand called leprosy this due to its anesthetic qualities. It brings total numbness to all your extremities including your ears, eyes, and nose.

Come. Compassion. Complete.
1 The leper comes to Christ
2 Christ has compassion for the leper
3 Christ completely cleans the leper

Three Different Kinds of Allegiance:
1 Authentic allegiance - the leper in Mark 1:40
2 Affordable allegiance - the rich young man in Mark 10:17
3 Apathetic allegiance - the soldiers in Mark 15:19

Compassion - the Greek word translated as compassion is the word "splagchnizomai." It comes from a word meaning "guts." The word means to feel deeply as in the depths of one's bowels. The word is used only 12 times in all of the NT and each time it’s used it is related to Jesus. Discussion Questions

Ice Breaker: What would you say are the top three things that disgust you and why?
Verse 35 emphasizes the priority and prior to of Jesus’ prayer life. How could you rearrange your schedule or habits so that prayer becomes a non-negotiable, intentional appointment rather than an afterthought?
The man with leprosy approached Jesus with authentic allegiance—kneeling in humility and trusting His power. In your own life, what might it look like to approach Jesus with that same kind of genuine surrender?
Jesus responded to the leper with compassion rather than disgust. Who are the “hard-to-love” people in your life right now, and what steps could you take to respond to them more like Jesus?
The story shows that Jesus’ holiness “contaminates” us in a positive way—making the unclean clean. Where in your life do you need to invite Jesus’ cleansing power?

Mark 1:29-34

29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them. 32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and the demon possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. he also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was. NIV 84Lesson Notes

Mark 10:42-45 42 "Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave to all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

John 13:3-5 3 "Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. 4 So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, 5 and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with a towel he had around them."

Three actions of service in Mark 1:31
1 He goes to her, he moves toward her need.
2 He takes her hand, he gets personally involved in her need.
3 He helps her up, he serves her need in a very practical way.

Three takeaways from Jesus' first day of ministry
1 Jesus Christ uses his authority to serve others.
2 Jesus Christ serves us in our deepest need.
3 Disciples of Jesus Christ are saved to serve. Discussion Questions

Jesus uses His authority to serve others. How can we reflect Jesus’ servant-hearted use of authority in our roles at work, home, or church this week?
Jesus serves us in our deepest need. What needs, burdens, or struggles are you carrying right now that you can bring to Jesus for healing and restoration?
Disciples are saved to serve. Where in your life is God calling you to step into service— either in small, everyday ways or through a larger commitment?
Verse 31 has been called the gospel in miniature: He comes to us, takes us by the hand, and lifts us up. Can you think of a time when Jesus “lifted you up” out of something? How did that experience shape how you now serve others?

Mark 1:21-28

21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. 23 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, 24 "What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are - the Holy One of God!" 25 "Be quiet!" said Jesus sternly. "Come out of him!" 26 The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek. 27 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, "What is this? A new teaching - and with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and then obey him." 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee. NIV 84Lesson Notes

Capernaum
It is a town on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee and is most likely the hometown of Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Matthew. It is fitting then that it becomes kind of their headquarters for ministry to the region of Galilee.

Synagogue
It is a place where Jews would gather for instruction. They formed during the time of exile after the temple was destroyed. Wherever there were 10 Jewish men above the age of 12 a synagogue could be formed.

Good Theology
"Even the demons ace their theology exam." The evil spirit recognizes the humanity of Jesus, the mission of Jesus, and the divinity of Jesus.

The Calming of the Storm
39 He rebuked the wind said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!"
41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? That even the wind and waves obey Him."

Three Ways to Respond to Instruction
1 To perceive a sound (hearing)
2 To pay attention (listening)
3 To position under (obeying) - obedience literally means to "hear under"

Response to the Instruction of Jesus
In order to understand the teaching of Jesus Christ, you have to stand under the teaching of Jesus Christ.
The only way to over-come the world is to place yourself under the authority of Jesus Christ.Discussion Questions

1 Icebreaker: For fun: If I asked your friends or family to name a subject of which they thought you were an authority, what might they say and why?

2 In verse 22, the people are impressed because Jesus teaches as an authority. In verse 27, the people are unsettled because Jesus teaches with authority. What is the difference between being an authority and having authority?

3 Read Mark 4:35-41 and compare the interaction between Jesus and the storm with our text this morning. What stands out the most to you as you compare them?

4 There are three different ways to respond to instruction listed in the notes. Discuss the differences between the three responses. How have you seen each of these responses in your own life when it comes to following Jesus?

Mark 1:16-20

16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 17 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." 18 At once they left their nets and followed him. 19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him. NIV 84Discussion Points and Questions

The 2008 USA Men's Olympic Basketball team, also known as the "Redeem Team", got to experience the thrill of winning Olympic Gold in Beijing, China.
What are some fond memories/experiences you have of being on a team?2. "Pupils chose rabbis; rabbis did not choose pupils." - Timothy Keller
Simon, Andrew, James, and John did not take a "blind leap of faith" in following Jesus.
(John 1:35-42) They made an intentional choice.
Why is this difference an important aspect in this story? Why is this difference an important aspect in our relationship with Jesus?
The word "follow" shows up three different times in Mark 1:16-20. Each of these instances reveals a different aspect of what it means to follow Jesus.
Verse 17 "Follow me" = to follow Jesus is to pursue Jesus.
Verse 18 "followed him" = to follow Jesus is to join Jesus.
Verse 20 "followed him" = to follow Jesus is to be like Jesus.
As you think about these different aspects of following Jesus, which one speaks the most to you? Why?
In Jeremiah 16, Ezekiel 12, Amos 4, and Habakkuk 1 we see the imagery of fishing being used to describe the divine judgment of God. With this in mind, the phrase "fishers of men" is more than just a clever play on words. It's in this phrase that Jesus connects His message (verses 14-15) to His promise (verse 17).
When you think about your current season of life, responsibilities/titles, those you are around, etc. where and how is Jesus wanting to use you as a "fisher of men"?

Mark 1:14-15

14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" NIV 84From the Lesson

Priene Calendar Inscription: two stones were recovered in the marketplace at Priene, an ancient Greek city in Western Turkey. The stones date back to 9 BC and record an edict by Paullus Fabius Maximus, who was the proconsul of the Roman province of Asia. It reads, "the birthday of the god Augustus was the beginning of the gospel for the world."

Outline of Jesus' First Sermon:
A. Life changing news
1. The time has come
2. The kingdom of God is near
B. News changing life
1. Repent
2. Believe

Time After Time: Chronos is measured time, it is where we get the word "chronological," it refers to a quantity of time. Kairos is "deep" time, it is a significant time, it refers to a quality of time.

Near but not yet here: "With His first coming, Jesus shows that He can deliver us from sin, suffering, and death; with His second coming, Jesus will deliver us from sin, suffering, and death."

Commands and Continuous: The two verbs in the second half of Jesus' sermon are both commands and in a continuous form.
They are not just good suggestions.
They are not just one-time decisions.

Metamorphosis: The verb to repent comes from the Greek word metanoia that is the root for our English word metamorphosis. In nature, it is most often used to describe the process of transformation from a caterpillar to a butterfly. The word has come to mean "a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one, by natural or supernatural means."

Kingdom Living: The two verbs that best describe daily life in the kingdom of God are repent and believe. Repentance means with each new day, I should become less like myself and more like my King. Belief means with each new day, I should rely less on myself and more on my King. Discussion Questions

When was the last time you enjoyed doing something or being with someone so much that you lost track of time? Jesus has come not that we may have a full life in terms of quantity but that we may have life to the full in terms of quality. What is the difference?
The kingdom of God is already, but not yet. It is near, but not yet here. We are now living in the time between "He can" and "He will." Discuss this reality of living now in the kingdom of God.
Repentance is a word that describes daily life in the kingdom of God. With each new day, you should become more like your King and less like yourself. In what specific way this year, have you seen this process of transformation in your life?
Belief is a word that describes daily life in the kingdom of God. With each new day, you should rely more on your King and less on yourself. How have you seen yourself grow in trust and dependence on God this year?

Mark 1:12-13

12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, 13 and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.From the Lesson

"Mockery of every sort was added to their deaths. They were nailed to crosses. They were doomed to the flames and burnt to serve as a nightly illumination. They were covered with the skins of beasts and torn by dogs until they perished.”
Tacitus in his book Annals“In order to understand the temptations of Jesus, we have to understand that Jesus’ hair was still wet when he stepped out into the desert.”
Russell Moore in his book Tempted and Tried
It is impossible to overcome the burden of temptation without first receiving the blessing of baptism.
Two questions answered at Jesus' baptism:
1 Who are you? It's an identity question.
Jesus is embraced by the love of the Father.
2 How do you? It's an ability question.
Jesus is empowered by the presence of the Holy SpiritYou are embraced by the love of the Father and empowered by the presence of the Holy Spirit in order to embark on the mission of Jesus. Discussion Questions

1 Who are you? Make a list of your top ten answers to this question. Do you tend to answer this question vocationally, relationally, politically?

2 We are sons and daughters of the Most High God. This must become who we are at the core of our identity. How does knowing this gospel truth as the core of your identity affect the way you live?

3 How do you? Read verse 12 again. It is the Holy Spirit who sends Jesus out into the desert. Jesus is empowered for his mission by the Holy Spirit. What does it mean to be empowered by the Holy Spirit? Do you have an example from your life?

4 It is impossible to overcome the burden of temptation without first receiving the blessing of baptism. How does knowing you are embraced by the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit help you when it comes to temptation?

Psalm 34:1-9

1 I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.

3 Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together!
4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.

5 Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.

6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him
and saved him out of all his troubles.

7 The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

9 Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!From the Sermon

There are 2 types of "Magnified"1. To zoom in 2. To make great

Psalm 34 invites us to do both - zoom in and see who God is, and worship him because of what you've seen and experienced.

Psalm 34 is written due to a real moment:
1 Samuel 21:10-15

How to Magnify God that you might Magnify God - Psalm 34:4-9* SEEK * LOOK * CRY OUT * TASTE * FEAR

Psalm 8:1-4
Here we see how God's greatness causes the David to question God's interest in humanity. This makes Psalm 34:15 and 18 all the more impactful.

God is both:* Incredibly powerful and above us * Cares so deeply about each of us that he walks alongside us in our pain

Discussion Questions

Icebreaker:
What are some times you've "zoomed in" on something, or what is some media that you remember that explored the idea of there being beauty and complexity around us that's out of sight because we can't see it?1. Why do you think David's experiences in 1 Samuel 21:10-15 cause him to write this psalm? 2. Jeremy pointed out 5 "action words" in Psalm 34:4-9: SEEK, LOOK, CRY OUT, TASTE, and FEAR. What does it look like to practice these in terms of our relationship with God? 3. We saw a video that attempted to give us some sense of the universe's scale. What is your response or feeling to recognizing how large creation is compared to us? 4. In Psalm 8, David wrestles with the idea that a God who is so great could care about us. Do you ever feel that way? 5. Psalm 34:15 and 18 tell us that, even as great as he is, God draws near to us in our pain and suffering. What is significant about that?

Mark 1:9-11

9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." Discussion Questions

"Your mission, should you choose to accept it is..."
When you think of the word "mission", what words, phrases, or experiences come to your mind?
Jesus' baptism prepared and propelled Jesus to continue on His mission.
In our discussion together on Mark 1:9-11, we talked about how Jesus was prepared and propelled to continue on His mission. Did any of the following aspects stick out to you the most? If so, why?
-The target of the mission: Sinful humanity (verse 9)
-The anointing for the mission: Spirit descended like a dove on Jesus (verse 10)
-The identity within the mission: The voice of the Father (verse 11)
-The continuation of the mission: Acts 1:8 and Matthew 28:18-20
Allegiance to Jesus binds us to the mission of Jesus.
As you think about the continuation of Jesus' mission in your life right now, in what ways have you carried it out well? In what way has it been a struggle for you?

Acts 2:29-39

29 "Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. 30 But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. 31 Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. 32God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33 Exalted tot he right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 34 For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said, " 'The Lord said to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand 35 until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." ' 36"Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." 37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and
the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" 38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off--for all whom the Lord our God will call."

Luke 24:50-53 and Acts 1:9-1150 When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.

9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Lesson Notes

Special Days Website: daysoftheyear.com

Ascension Day: it is the 40th day of Easter. It is a Christian holiday that commemorates the belief of the bodily ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. This year it was on Thursday, May 29.

Book: The Ascension of Christ: Recovering a Neglected Doctrine by Patrick Schreiner.

Five Reasons Why The Ascension Has Been Neglected:
1 The Bible speaks little of it
2 It seems like a bad plan.
3 The implications are unclear.
4 The event is abnormal.
5 The resurrection subsumes the ascension.

Andrew Murray on the Ascension: “Faith has in its foundation four great cornerstones on which the building rests – the Divinity of Christ, the Incarnation, the Atonement on the Cross, and the Ascension to the Throne. The last one, the ascension, is the most wonderful, it is the crown of all the rest, it is the perfect revelation of what God has made Christ for us. And so, in the Christian life, it is the most important, for the ascension is the glorious fruit of all that goes before.” Discussion Questions

Have you ever been part of a church that has emphasized the ascension of Jesus Christ? Have you ever been part of a class or read a book about it? Would you agree that the ascension of Jesus Christ is a neglected doctrine?
Five reasons were shared as to why the ascension might be considered a neglected doctrine. Which one of the reasons do you think might have the most to do with its neglect?
In your own words, why do you think it is important to properly emphasize the ascension?
Discuss Andrew Murray's quote about the ascension. Do you agree that the ascension should be considered as the most important cornerstone of our faith?
Read again the above seven verses from Luke 24:50-53 and Acts 1:9-11. What stands out to you from these verses about the ascension of Jesus Christ?

Psalm 23

1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.Discussion Questions

What are the ways you see God shepherding in scripture?2. What are the ways you see God shepherding you and the world around you today?3. Who are the shepherds in your life? How do you interact with them?4. What has God entrusted to you to shepherd—people, resources, responsibilities?5. How does Jesus' model of laying down His life challenge or inspire your approach to leadership?

Mark 1:2-8

2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way" - 3 "a voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" 4 And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. 6 John wore clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 And this was his message: "After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." Discussion Questions

1 Who is someone in your life that helped prepare the way for you? (Spiritually, vocationally, relationally, etc.)2 Humility before Jesus is vital in our allegiance to Jesus. In your current season of life, what situations, moments, or environments challenge your humility before Jesus and your submission to Jesus the most?3 Until Jesus returns, we are the construction crew that is preparing the way for the King to enter into the city. Think about your areas of influence and impact. In what ways have you done a good job of preparing the way for Jesus to enter into the hearts and lives of those around you? Where are you/have you struggled?4 "He must increase, but I must decrease." John 3:30 In what ways does this verse speak most deeply to you in your season of life?

Mark 1:1

1 The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.Lesson Notes

The Beginning of the Gospels:
Matthew - a genealogy
Mark - an announcement
Luke - a birth narrative
John - a theological statement

Three Aspects of Mark's Gospel:
1 It's a "not too late" gospel
2 It's a "do not wait" gospel
3 It's a "speak it straight" gospel

NT Wright on the Beginning of Mark's Gospel:
“It’s as if you are sound asleep and dreaming, when suddenly the door bursts open and a bright light shines full in your face. A voice, breaking in on your dream-world, shouts ‘Wake up! Get up! You’ll be late!” And without more ado, the speaker splashes your face with cold water to make the point. Time to stop dreaming and face the most important day of your life.”

Unique Features of Mark's Style of Writing:
It is written entirely in the present tense.
It is the shortest of the four gospels and most fast paced.
There is less teaching and more action in Mark’s gospel.
Mark asks a lot of questions - over 100 questions.
Mark uses the word - immediately - 41 times in his gospel.

Marcus Borg on Mark's use of the term "Son of God":
“We will not fully understand Mark’s affirmation that Jesus is the Son of God unless we realize that there was another Son of God in that world. For Christians to call Jesus “the Son of God” directly countered Roman imperialism and its rule of the world that they knew. So, already in the first verse, Mark names the conflict that will by the end of his story lead to the execution of Jesus.” Discussion Questions

How does Mark’s personal story—his early failure and later usefulness to God—shape the way we understand the Gospel as a “not too late” message?
What does the unique style of Mark's writing (see the examples in lesson notes) tell us about the urgency of the message and mission of Jesus? How does this sense of urgency influence your own faith and action?
How does Mark’s bold proclamation that Jesus is “the Son of God” directly confront the culture and political power of his time? Discuss what it means to declare allegiance to Jesus in a world with competing loyalties.
The sermon compares Mark’s Gospel to a college signing day announcement. How does this metaphor help us understand what it means to publicly declare our faith to Jesus? Share personal experiences of making faith “announcements” in your own life.

Hebrews 13:7, 17-21

7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider their way of life, and imitate their faith.
17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
18 Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.
19 I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.
20 Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant,
21 equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom by the glory forever and ever. Amen.NOTES ON THE LESSON ON FOLLOWERSHIP

Three Questions of Followership:
1 Whose faith are you imitating?
2 Are you willing to submit to someone else?
3 Are you a joy to lead?

A Call to Imitate:
1 Corinthians 11:1 - "Be imitators of me, just as I imitate Christ."
It is beneficial to have people in our lives whose faith we can imitate.

Jesus Learned Obedience:
Hebrews 5:8 - “Although Jesus was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered.” Obedience and submission are learned behaviors.

The Whole of Christianity:
The whole of Christianity is about learning to surrender and yield every aspect of your life – every part of it – all of it – to the lordship of Jesus Christ. That’s what the Christian faith is all about.

The Followership Continuum:
The Hebrew writer makes a continuum for following leaders. On one side of the continuum is joy and on the other side of the continuum is burden.

NOTES FROM THE LESSON ON SOUL CARE

Book on Church Leadership:
The Care of Souls:Cultivating a Pastor's Heart by Harold L. Senkbeil
The task of the leader in the church is to maintain a constant watch over the souls who have been committed to his care.

The Role of the Watchman in the Old Testament:
Watchmen were individuals who were appointed to their role and given the responsibility to watch over a city. Typically, they would be posted on a high wall or a tower so that they could see either a messenger or the enemy coming from long distances.

The Primary Task of the Church Leader is to "Tend to the Soul"
Humans do not have souls, humans are uniquely souls. We are both physical and spiritual, mortal and immortal, ordinary and unique in all of creation. There is nothing else like us in all of God’s creation. We are souls. The Shepherd and His Sheepdog:
The relationship of the shepherd and his sheepdog beautifully illustrates the work of the shepherd in the local church with his ears tuned attentively to the voice of the Great Shepherd and his eyes focused carefully on the Great Shepherd’s sheep.

The Because of Submission:
We submit to the shepherds of the local church because they are in a position of responsibility and accountability to the one who is in a position of authority – our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep. Discussion Questions

Who are some people who you have imitated in your life (in any aspect of life)? Who are two or three people whose faith you imitate? What is it about their faith that you imitate?
Are you willing to submit to someone else? Can you think of a time when it was hard to submit to someone else? What made it so difficult? Can you think of a time when it was a good thing to submit to someone else? What made it good? Does knowing the "because" of submission in verse 17 help you to be someone who is more willing to submit to them?
Where might you place yourself on the followership continuum? Can you think of an example when you or another person was a joy to lead? Can you think of an example when you or another person was a burden to lead?
What aspect of the lesson on soul care helped you to better understand the role of the leader in the church?
Spend some time praying for the shepherd nomination process at Southside. The shepherd selection team has provided us with a great prayer guide. There is a link to the prayer guide on church center.

Hebrews 13:7, 17

7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider their way of life, and imitate their faith.
17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. Notes from the Lesson

Three Questions of Followership:
1 Whose faith are you imitating?
2 Are you willing to submit to someone else?
3 Are you a joy to lead?

A Call to Imitate:
1 Corinthians 11:1 - "Be imitators of me, just as I imitate Christ."
It is beneficial to have people in our lives whose faith we can imitate.

Jesus Learned Obedience:
Hebrews 5:8 - “Although Jesus was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered.” Obedience and submission are learned behaviors.

The Whole of Christianity:
The whole of Christianity is about learning to surrender and yield every aspect of your life – every part of it – all of it – to the lordship of Jesus Christ. That’s what the Christian faith is all about.

The Followership Continuum:
The Hebrew writer makes a continuum for following leaders. On one side of the continuum is joy and on the other side of the continuum is burden. Discussion Questions

Who are some people who you have imitated in your life (in any aspect of life)? Who are two or three people whose faith you imitate? What is it about their faith that you imitate?
Are you willing to submit to someone else? Can you think of a time when it was hard to submit to someone else? What made it so difficult? Can you think of a time when it was a good thing to submit to someone else? What made it good?
Where might you place yourself on the followership continuum? Can you think of an example when you or another person was a joy to lead? Can you think of an example when you or another person was a burden to lead?
Spend some time praying for the shepherd nomination process at Southside. Pray specifically for the Lord to bless our church family with a spirit of followership.

Matthew 27:50-53

50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split.
52 The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.
53 They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

Mark 11:1-11
As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’”

4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted,

“Hosanna!”“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!”“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.FROM THE SERMON

Cherubim - creatures with human heads, animal bodies, and often wings. They were guardians, standing outside of temples and other sacred spaces to serve as a warning.

The Garden
Genesis 3:22 - Humanity in its sinfulness is no threat to God, but a threat to itself and creation.
Genesis 3:24 - The Cherubim guard the entrance to Eden for our own protection.

From the book: The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross
"It is wonderful to live with Him, but because of your sin you can't come in."

The Curtain
The account of building Solomon's Temple - 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3

Garden Iconography in the Temple:* Carved with trees, flowers, and fruit (1 Kings 6:18, 29) * Golden lampstand (Menorah) represents a tree (Exodus 25) * The CURTAIN is covered in Cherubim

Palm Sunday
Mark 11:11 - Jesus visits the temple, remembers the garden, and sees the curtain.Discussion Questions

Share a time when you or someone you know failed to heed a warning (funny or serious).
What does the garden narrative in scripture (Genesis 2 and 3) tell us about God's design and intentions for humanity?
How does the temple (or the tabernacle before it) point back to Eden? (Some examples were shared during the sermon, but there are more ways that weren't discussed as well!)
Why would God have instructed the creation of the tabernacle and temple in a way that would reference and remind people of the Garden of Eden?
How do you think Jewish people felt when they saw the curtain covered with Cherubim blocking the way to the Most Holy Place?
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the beginning of the week of his death, he went into the temple and looked around (Mark 11:11). What thoughts do you think went through his mind, knowing that his death was soon approaching?
One way we worship God is by loving and caring for those who bear His image. What are some ways you could join others or your family in doing that this week to prepare to celebrate the resurrection on Easter?

Romans 1:16-17

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith and for faith; as it is written, “The one who is righteous will live by faith.” NRSVDiscussion Questions

1 Have you ever been offended by the gospel? Which one of these three is more offensive - Jesus is the only way, Jesus died for your sins, Jesus is your King. Is it possible for us to proclaim an offensive message without being offensive?

2 Share with your group some specific ways that you have experienced the explosive power of God in your life. How have you seen His transforming power most at work in your life in the past month?

3 The righteousness of God can be summarized in three ways: God is right. God does what is right. God is making everything right. How do you see the righteousness of God revealed in the faith of Jesus Christ? How have you experienced the righteousness of God in your life of faith?

ACTS 16:25-3425 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. 27 When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” 29 And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. 34 Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.FROM THE LESSON

Rome demanded allegiance.* Matthew 22:15-22 * Matthew 5:41

Philippi was a proud Roman colony.The Philippian jailer had a deep allegiance to Rome.3 FACETS OF FAITH* Belief - intellectual agreement * Confession - Belief acknowledges Jesus is THE king, Confession says “Jesus is MY king.” * Allegiance - a shift in loyalty that is lived out

The way for early Christians to clear their name and regain their status in Roman culture was to proclaim “Caesar is Lord” rather than Jesus.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Jeremy shared the story of Benedict Arnold. How do you feel about someone who betrays their allegiance? 2. Roman allegiance was a powerful force in its time. Do we have any parallels today? 3. We looked at 3 facets of faith: Belief, Confession, and Allegiance. What other facets of faith do you see present in scripture? 4. What are some other things we might give our ultimate allegiance to rather than Jesus? (examples: ourselves, job, someone we’re in love with, family, etc.) 5. What does it look like for you to live out a pledged allegiance to Jesus as your king? What shifts would you like to make?

MARK 1:14-15

14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."FROM THE LESSON

To be fluent in a language is when you have the ability to speak that language easily and effectively.

Faith is a response to the Gospel, faith is not a part of the core content of the Gospel.

Jesus' most central message, according to these Gospel writers, was that the kingdom of God had drawn near.

When our need for Jesus is met with our submission to Jesus, our lives begin to reflect Jesus to those around us. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 If you had to rate your gospel fluency, how would you rate yourself? Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced, or Expert.

2 In your experience, what are some things that are commonly withheld or added in relation to the Gospel?

3 What encourages you or challenges you that the central message of Jesus was about the kingdom of God?

4 In your current season of life, what ways are easiest for you to submit to the Kingship of Christ? What is the hardest?

ROMANS 1:1-6

1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God— 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 6 And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.FROM THE LESSON

Book about Fatih - Salvation By Allegiance Alone by Matthew Bates

Gospel - it literally means "good news." It translates the Greek word - euangelion - where the prefix eu- means "good" and then angelion means "message." It relates to the Greek word - angelos - meaning "messenger" from which the English word angel is derived.

Characteristics of the Gospel -

1 The priority of the gospel (verse 1)
2 The promise of the gospel (verse 2)
3 The person of the gospel (verses 3-4)
4 The purpose of the gospel (verse 5)

The Full Gospel - "the gospel tells the whole story of Jesus; it's not just a Good Friday story. No matter how central the cross is to the Story, we need to keep in mind that the story is much more than the story of the cross. Jesus didn't just die." Scot McKnight

Faith-Fueled Obedience - The NIV translates it as the "obedience that comes from faith." The ESV translates it as the "obedience of faith." NT Wright translates it as "believing obedience."DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker: What if you had to share the gospel with another person only using one sentence? How would you summarize the gospel in one sentence?

1 When was the last time you had some really good news that you couldn't wait to share with someone else? What was the news? God gives us the honor and joy of being the ones to share His good news with the world. Is there someone in your circle of influence with whom you could share the good news?

2 Have you ever purposefully read the Old Testament through the lens of the gospel? When you do this, you see the promise of the gospel almost on every page. Is there an example of this that comes to your mind?

3 The good news of Jesus is about "the whole career of Christ." We know that the story of the cross is good news, but how is the rest of the story also good news?

4 In verse 5, Paul says the purpose of the gospel is to bring about "believing obedience." Discuss the important connection between faith and obedience.

LUKE 18:1-8

1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. 2 He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ 4 “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’” 6 And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”FROM THE LESSON

Book about Fatih - Salvation By Allegiance Alone by Matthew Bates

The Fatih Question - his question in verse 8 is "not asked for the purpose of speculation but for the purpose of self-examination."

Importance of Faith - "Jesus has more regard for faith than for anything else the earth can yield him." Charles Spurgeon

Misconceptions About Faith:

1 Faith is NOT a leap in the dark
2 Faith is NOT the opposite of works
3 Faith is NOT having a positive mindset
4 Faith is NOT a decision to just believeDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker: Do you have a favorite Rocky movie (or a favorite scene) or do you have a Rocky story from your life you could share with your group?

1 Read again Luke 18:1-8. Discuss the widow of this parable as an illustration of the kind of faith that the Son of Man will be looking for upon His return.

2 Would you describe your faith as more of a leap into the unknown or a decision grounded in solid reasoning and substantial proof?

3 Read James 2:26. How has this verse helped you think about the relationship of faith and works?

4 Are you more of a optimist, pessimist, or a realist? What is the difference between having a positive mindset and having faith?

5 Belief has often been reduced to nothing more than mental agreement. Discuss the difference between this kind of belief and the belief of Scripture.

PSALM 39

For the director of music. For Jeduthun. A psalm of David.1 I said, “I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth while in the presence of the wicked.”
2 So I remained utterly silent, not even saying anything good. But my anguish increased;
3 my heart grew hot within me. While I meditated, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue:
4 “Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is.
5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.
6 “Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth without knowing whose it will finally be.
7 “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.
8 Save me from all my transgressions; do not make me the scorn of fools.
9 I was silent; I would not open my mouth, for you are the one who has done this.
10 Remove your scourge from me; I am overcome by the blow of your hand.
11 When you rebuke and discipline anyone for their sin, you consume their wealth like a moth—surely everyone is but a breath.
12 “Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were.
13 Look away from me, that I may enjoy life again before I depart and am no more.”FROM THE LESSON

Hevel - a Hebrew word literally meaning "vapor, mist, smoke, or breath." It is translated also translated as "meaningless, vanity, futility, and insignificant." My favorite definition is by a Hebrew professor who described it as "what's left after you break a soap bubble." This word is located in verses 5, 6, and 11.

Amusement - a compound word of two main parts - the heart of the word is "muse" which means to ponder, to meditate upon or to think about. The prefix of the word is the negative "a" which means no or not. So, literally, amusement means "to not think."

David's Conclusions About Life and Meaninglessness:
1 Life is too short to have any meaning
2 Life is too swift to have any meaning.
3 The way we live our too short and too swift lives is meaningless.

Max Lucado Quote - "God loves you just the way you are, however, he loves you too much to leave you that way."DISCUSSION QUESTIONSICE BREAKER: What is your favorite form of amusement? What do you do for entertainment? Discuss the connection between amusement and not thinking.

Read the first three verses. This is the introduction. David is concerned about talking too soon. He talks to God in prayer before talking to others about what he is thinking. Have you ever struggled with talking too soon? Discuss the principle "pray before you say" with your group.
Read verses 4-6. Discuss David's three conclusions about life and meaninglessness in these verses. Which one of the conclusions resonated most with you this morning?

3 Read verses 8-13. Now read the words of Job in Job 7:16-21. Compare the two statements. Can you relate to their sentiments? Attempt to put their thoughts into your own words.

4 Read verse 7. The ESV reads, "And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you." Start living out your hope in Jesus Christ today. Are there any actions you want to take or changes you want to make in your life with Jesus? Is there a neighbor you have talked about inviting to church? Is there a missionary you have always thought about supporting? Have you thought about fasting but have never done it? Start today. Share with your group.

PSALM 38

A psalm of David. A petition.1 LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath.
2 Your arrows have pierced me, and your hand has come down on me.
3 Because of your wrath there is no health in my body; there is no soundness in my bones because of my sin.
4 My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.
5 My wounds fester and are loathsome because of my sinful folly.
6 I am bowed down and brought very low; all day long I go about mourning.
7 My back is filled with searing pain; there is no health in my body.
8 I am feeble and utterly crushed; I groan in anguish of heart.
9 All my longings lie open before you, Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you.
10 My heart pounds, my strength fails me; even the light has gone from my eyes.
11 My friends and companions avoid me because of my wounds; my neighbors stay far away.
12 Those who want to kill me set their traps, those who would harm me talk of my ruin; all day long they scheme and lie.
13 I am like the deaf, who cannot hear, like the mute, who cannot speak;
14 I have become like one who does not hear, whose mouth can offer no reply.
15 LORD, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God.
16 For I said, “Do not let them gloat or exalt themselves over me when my feet slip.”
17 For I am about to fall, and my pain is ever with me.
18 I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.
19 Many have become my enemies without cause ; those who hate me without reason are numerous.
20 Those who repay my good with evil lodge accusations against me, though I seek only to do what is good.
21 LORD, do not forsake me; do not be far from me, my God.
22 Come quickly to help me, my Lord and my Savior.FROM THE LESSON

The penitential psalms :
These are the psalms of repentance.
There are seven of them in the Psalter: Psalm 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143

Four characteristics of repentance:
A - Ask for His correction with mercy (verse 1)
B - Bring it all to Him (verse 9)
C - Convicted by your sin (verse 18)
D - Desperate for His help (verses 21-22)

Four areas David brought to the Lord:
1 the iniquity caused by his sin
2 the ill effects caused by his sin
3 the isolation felt because of his sin
4 the injustice experienced because of his sin

A person of repentance:
"I don't want to be known as a person who has made a difference,
I want to be known as a person who has been made different."DISCUSSION QUESTIONSICE BREAKER: Do you have a testimony or story from your life about repentance that you can share with the group?

How do you feel about the prayer, "Correct me, Lord"? Read verse 1 again. David is not asking the Lord to not correct him, he is asking the Lord to correct him with mercy. Discuss the difference with your group.

2 The sermon highlighted all of the different areas that David brought to the Lord (each one begins with "my" - ie. my sin, my guilt, my heart). Read verse 9 again. David is bringing "all" of these areas to the Lord. How does his example encourage you?

3 Read verse 18. We must not only confess our sin with our mouths, we must also be convicted by our sin in our hearts. Discuss the importance of both of these responses to our sin.

4 Read verses 21 and 22. What do you hear in David's voice? Do you sense his desperation and his urgency? When are the times when you need the Lord's help most in your life?

PSALM 36

For the director of music. Of David the servant of the Lord.1 I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before their eyes.2 In their own eyes they flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin.

3 The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful; they fail to act wisely or do good.

4 Even on their beds they plot evil; they commit themselves to a sinful course and do not reject what is wrong.5 Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.

6 Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.

7 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

8 They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights.

9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.10 Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.

11 May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.

12 See how the evildoers lie fallen—thrown down, not able to rise!FROM THE LESSON

Three sections of Psalm 36
Section 1: Verses 1-4 are in the form of a lament.
Section 2: Verses 5-9 are in the form of a praise or hymn.
Section 3: Verses 10-12 are in the form of a prayer.

No Fear of God
"To have no fear of God is failing to believe not that He exists but that He matters" Timothy Keller

The Four Chambers of God's Heart
1 Your love reaches to the heavens (verse 5)
2 Your faithfulness reaches to the skies (verse 5)
3 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains (verse 6)
4 Your justice is like the great deep (verse 6)

Definition of Hesed
The Hebrew word occurs 245 in the Old Testament but it is really difficult to translate into English. It is a bigger and better word than our English word for love. The ESV translates is as "steadfast love." The NLT translates it as "unfailing love." It is love "with super glue on it." It is love with an "mmph."DISCUSSION QUESTIONSICE BREAKER: Can you think of an example of how you have personally experienced the pervasiveness in our culture of the message to "follow your heart?"

In verses 1-4, David laments the condition of the human heart. Read these verses again. What stands out to you about his description?
Keller's description of what it means to have no fear of God is helpful. Discuss his description with your group. Can you think of an example from your life when you or someone close to you was indifferent to God?
In verses 5-6, David praises the beauty of God's heart. Read these verses again. How does the idea that these four attributes are all part of God's heart help you to think about the heart of God?
Hesed is a great Hebrew word that does not translate well into English. What are some ways you have understood or been taught to think about hesed? Read again verses 7-9. How do these descriptions of hesed help you to understand?
The takeaway from the lesson today is to not follow your heart, but instead to know God's heart. Discuss this takeaway with your group.

PSALM 37

1 Fret not yourself because of evildoers;
be not envious of wrongdoers!
2 For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb.3 Trust in the Lord, and do good;
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
4 Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.5 Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him, and he will act.
6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday.7 Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;
fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way,
over the man who carries out evil devices!8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath!
Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.
9 For the evildoers shall be cut off,
but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.10 In just a little while, the wicked will be no more;
though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there.
11 But the meek shall inherit the land
and delight themselves in abundant peace.12 The wicked plots against the righteous
and gnashes his teeth at him,
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he sees that his day is coming.14 The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose way is upright;
15 their sword shall enter their own heart,
and their bows shall be broken.16 Better is the little that the righteous has
than the abundance of many wicked.
17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken,
but the Lord upholds the righteous.18 The Lord knows the days of the blameless,
and their heritage will remain forever;
19 they are not put to shame in evil times;
in the days of famine they have abundance.20 But the wicked will perish;
the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures;
they vanish—like smoke they vanish away.21 The wicked borrows but does not pay back,
but the righteous is generous and gives;
22 for those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land,
but those cursed by him shall be cut off.23 The steps of a man are established by the Lord,
when he delights in his way;
24 though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.25 I have been young, and now am old,
yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
or his children begging for bread.
26 He is ever lending generously,
and his children become a blessing.27 Turn away from evil and do good;
so shall you dwell forever.
28 For the Lord loves justice;
he will not forsake his saints.
They are preserved forever,
but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
29 The righteous shall inherit the land
and dwell upon it forever.30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom,
and his tongue speaks justice.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his steps do not slip.32 The wicked watches for the righteous
and seeks to put him to death.
33 The Lord will not abandon him to his power
or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.34 Wait for the Lord and keep his way,
and he will exalt you to inherit the land;
you will look on when the wicked are cut off.35 I have seen a wicked, ruthless man,
spreading himself like a green laurel tree.
36 But he passed away, and behold, he was no more;
though I sought him, he could not be found.37 Mark the blameless and behold the upright,
for there is a future for the man of peace.
38 But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed;
the future of the wicked shall be cut off.39 The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
40 The Lord helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.FROM THE LESSON

Psalm 37 is an instructional psalm in the Wisdom Literature genre, concerning itself with passing on advice that will help someone live in a way that leads to wisdom, righteousness, and life, rather than foolishness, wickedness, and death.

"Fret not" is a phrase that occurs several times in the psalm. It carries a strong meaning, literally translated as "do not let your anger burn".

Verse 1 - the WHAT
Do not be overwhelmed by your anger over the wicked and prosperous actions of others.

Verse 2 - the WHY
The prosperity of the wicked is fleeting, and evil brings its own terrible consequences.

Verse 3 - the HOW
Trust God, do good, dwell in the land, and befriend faithfulness.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSICE BREAKER: Jeremy shared some observations about "unfairness" that children make. What are some things you've observed that are "unfair" in a similar way?1. David composes this psalm to address the challenge that followers of God face when they watch people who seem to profit from wickedness. What does "profitable wickedness" look like today? 2. David writes about how the tools of the wicked will be turned against them. How does evil bring its own terrible consequences? What might this look like? 3. Instead of repaying evil with evil, David encourages us to trust God, do good, dwell in the land, and befriend faithfulness. * What do you think is intended by the phrase "dwell in the land"? * Do these seem like adequate responses to egregious injustice and wickedness? 4. Jeremy contrasted two responses to perceived injustice - that of the United Healthcare shooter and that of MLK Jr. and the civil rights movement. Which sort of response do you see our culture moving more towards? Which response do you see Christians moving toward? How can we make sure we respond in the way David instructs in Psalm 37?

PSALM 35

1 Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. 2 Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. 3 Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, “I am your salvation." 4 May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. 5 May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away; 6 may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them. 7 Since they hid their net for me without cause and without cause dug a pit for me, 8 may ruin overtake them by surprise—may the net they hid entangle them, may they fall into the pit, to their ruin. 9 Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation. 10 My whole being will exclaim, “Who is like you, O Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them.” 11 Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about. 12 They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved. 13 Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered, 14 I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother. 15 But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware. They slandered me without ceasing. 16 Like the ungodly they maliciously mocked; they gnashed their teeth at me. 17 How long, Lord, will you look on? Rescue me from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. 18 I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you. 19 Let not those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; let not those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. 20 They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations against those who live quietly in the land. 21 They gape at me and say, “Aha! Aha! With our own eyes we have seen it." 22 O Lord, you have seen this; be not silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. 23 Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. 24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me. 25 Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.” 26 May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. 27 May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant.” 28 My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.FROM THE LESSON

Schadenfreude - it is a German word that literally means "harm-joy" and has come to mean "the pleasure that is derived from another's misfortune."

Imprecatory Psalms - to imprecate is a word that means to utter a curse against someone or something. The imprecatory psalms are psalms which call for God’s judgment to fall down on the wicked. Of the 150 psalms in our Bible, anywhere between 14-28 of them are put in this category of imprecatory psalms.

Three Things to Know about Imprecatory Psalms:

1 Complaint is a good and necessary thing.
2 Cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
3 Cursing becomes blessing at the cross.

Three Responses to Reading Psalm 35:

1 We agree with David that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience.
2 We admit that cursing is God's right response to my sin and disobedience.
3 We allow this reality to motivate us to tell others about the cross of Jesus Christ. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 One of the primary things David is wrestling with in this psalm is schadenfreude. Read verses 15-16, 19, 24, and 26. People were rejoicing over his misfortune. How have you seen or experienced this in your life?

2 Read verses 17 and 22. Biblical complaint is communicating with God about the tension created between what we know about God's character and how we feel about our circumstances. Talk about Biblical complaint with your group.

3 Read verses 4-6 and 26-27. How do you hear these words of cursing from David? Have you ever felt like this toward anyone else? Does knowing that cursing is God's right response to sin and disobedience help you to better understand his words?

4 Read Galatians 3:13-14. Cursing becomes blessing at the cross. Discuss this gospel reality with your group.

5 Read over the three responses to reading Psalm 35 that are listed in the section above. Which one of these responses did you connect with the most this morning?

PSALM 34

1 I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2 My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3 Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. 5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. 6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. 8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. 9 Fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. 10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. 14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 the face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. 21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.FROM THE LESSON

The Story Behind the Psalm: you can read about the historical context of this psalm in 1 Samuel 21:10-15.

Two Kinds of Fear: David deals with two very different kinds of fear in this psalm. First, there is the fear addressed in verse 4 which scholars refer to as "mortal fear." It is a very negative kind of fear. It is synonymous with dread and terror. It is an intense, irrational kind of fear that comes from trouble. Second, there is the fear addresses in verses 7 and 9 which scholars refer to as "saving fear." It is an extremely positive kind of fear. It is a humble, relational kind of fear that comes from trust.

Four Parts of Psalm 34:

Words of Introduction (verses 1-3)
Words of Illustration (verses 4-7)
Words of Invitation (verses 8-10)
Words of Instruction (verses 11-22)

Worship is a Choice: it must be a conscious decision made beforehand that no matter what the circumstances I am going to choose to worship God.

Process of Praying through Unhealthy Fear: Seek the Lord in prayer - Trust that the Lord hears and answers your prayer - Know that the Lord delivers and saves His peopleDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Do you have a go-to worship song when you are struggling with fear, anxiety or worry? How have you made worship a choice in your life?

2 Read verses 4-6 in this psalm. David shares a prayer process twice in these verses for emphasis. How have you seen this process in your own life?

3 One of the most well-known verses in all of Scripture is Psalm 34:8, "Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed are all who trust in Him." How has this verse ministered to you in your life? Is the Lord inviting you to something more in your relationship with Him?

4 Was the discussion of the two different kinds of fear helpful for you this morning? In what ways? How have you experienced the mortal fear of verse 4? How have you experienced the saving fear of verses 7 and 9?

John 5:1-11

John 1:1-5, 14

LUKE 2:8-20

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I will bring you good news of greta joy that will be for all people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a greta company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. FROM THE LESSON

Signs in the Bible - when something was too good to be true and too great to be real, a sign was given to encourage and to confirm belief.

Parabola of Salvation - the good news of the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and the ascension. The good news of the gospel includes a manger, a cross, an empty tomb, and a crown.

Presence Matters - the good news of the manger is that presence matters to God. When God seems distant to you, let the manger remind you of the distance God came to be with you.

Donkey Dish - the word "manger" comes from a Latin word meaning "to eat" or "to chew." The manger was a feeding trough for dirty animals.

The Helper - "Is anyone crying for help? God is listening and He is ready to rescue you. If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; and if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath." Psalm 34:17-18 (The Message)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: What is the closest you have ever been to a United States president? Share the details with your group.

2 Has God ever seemed distant to you? Have you ever been through a season in your life when God felt distant and far away? Share the details with your group.

3 The nearness of the King means He has come to be with us. Talk about the importance of God's presence with your group.

4 The nearness of the King means He has come to know us and to be known by us. Discuss both the humility and the accessibility of the manger.

5 The nearness of the King means He has come to help us. The Greek word for Helper means one who is called alongside to help (to comfort, to encourage, to empower, to sustain). How have you experienced the help of the Lord?

LUKE 1:8-17

8 Once when Zechariah's division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshippers were praying outside. 11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. 13 But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his birth. 16 Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous - to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.FROM THE LESSON

A Christmas Carol - "Good Spirit, assure me that I may yet change these shadows you have shown me, by an altered life. I will honor Christmas in my heart." Ebenezer Scrooge

Preparation Day - the Israelites had a day designated each week, a day that was part of their weekly routine called the Preparation Day. It was always the day before the Sabbath. In order to keep the Sabbath properly, adequate preparation was necessary.

Make Ready A People Prepared - in ancient times, before a King visited any part of his realm, a messenger was sent before him to prepare the way. And this included everything from repairing the roads to preparing the people. This was the specific role for John the Baptist in the coming of Jesus.

Lamps Without Oil - this is meant to be comical. This is not an accident. It is making a choice to be unprepared. The equivalent today would be showing up for something just holding a light bulb, instead of bringing a flashlight.

KB - he is a Christian hip-hop artist and music executive. He has a podcast called The Southside Rabbi and has written a book titled "Dangerous Jesus." He reminded us that Christianity is not about coming to a building to hear about the King, but about the King coming into our life.

ISAIAH 9:6-7

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. FROM THE LESSON

An Anointed Person - in Hebrew (the language of the Old Testament) the word is meshiach, from which we get the title, Messiah. In Greek (the language of the New Testament) the word is christos, from which we get the title, Christ.

A Promise to David - "When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom...and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father and he will be my son...Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." (2 Samuel 7:12-16)

14 Generations - in Matthew's genealogy, there are fourteen generations from no king to a king (Abraham to David), fourteen generations from a king to no king (David to exile), and fourteen generations from no king to a king (exile to Jesus).

Drum Roll Please - “The average person who thinks maybe I’ll read the New Testament is puzzled to find, on the very first page, a long list of names he or she had never heard of. But it is important not to think that this is a waste of time. For many cultures ancient and modern, and certainly in the Jewish world of Matthew’s day, this genealogy was the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets and a town crier calling for attention.” (NT Wright)

Eager Expectation - it is a word found only in Christian literature. Paul used it twice in the New Testament (Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20). In fact, most scholars think it was a word coined by the early Christians to describe their unique way of living. Literally the word means "to stretch your head away from your body."DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Do you enjoy learning about your family's genealogy? Do you have any interesting information to share about your family tree? Share with your group.

2 Have you ever thought it strange that the New Testament begins with a genealogy? Does it help you better understand the purpose of the genealogy to think of it as "the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets, and a town crier calling for attention"?

3 Read Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20. The word Paul used in these two verses is translated as "eager expectation." It is a word to describe the unique way that early Christians lived. Can you think of a time when you have lived "eagerly expecting" something or someone? Describe how it affected the way you lived.

4 Would you say as Christians that we live in "eager expectation" of the return of Jesus Christ? Discuss with your group.

5 The season of Advent teaches us to learn from our ancestors to once again be a people who long for the coming of our King. How might we live differently if we lived eagerly expecting the coming of our King?

Psalm 24

1 The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; 2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. 3 Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. 5 He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. 6 Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face , O God of Jacob. 7 Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 10 Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty - he is the King of glory.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 How would you describe or define worship? When have you seen misguided worship?
When have you experienced misguided worship in your own life – maybe an idea or a
person or wealth or some possession?

2 “All things were created by him and for him” – Colossians 1:16-17
Talk about that line for a moment. What does this mean?
What does this line promote or inspire?

3 Read Psalm 145:3-5.
Talk about your role in the lives or younger believers as described in this psalm. How
can you honor this principle of passing your experiences with God to the next
generation? Be practical in your response.

4 In the saga of the ark’s journey, what stands out to you? What do you learn?
The Israelites were pretty torn up about losing the ark. What are the parallels related to
this event in your life? What impacts you in this saga surrounding the ark?

5 David has a passion for people to know God is among his people. To what lengths are you willing to move to honor this same goal or passion of David’s for the person sitting next to you at Southside (assuming this person next to you is not your clone).

6 When have you struggled with the question, “Who is this God? Who can stand in his presence?” What was your answer to that question? When someone observes your life, what would prompt this question, “Who is this God?”

7 When has a worship experience inspired change in your life? When has your life or worship left you standing alone or swimming upstream? What do you do with moments like that? What would it take for you to experience more moments of authentic worship?

ACTS 28:23-31

23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law and from the Prophets. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: 26 " 'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever seeing but never perceiving." 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in hi sown rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. FROM THE LESSON

Paul's Journey to Rome:

The Storm - Acts 27:20 - "When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved."
The Shipwreck - Acts 27:41 - "But the ship struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf."
The Snake Bite - Acts 28:3 - "Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand."

Acts 28:31 (literal translation):

"proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness unhinderedly."

Conclusion to the book of Acts:

1 The book of Acts encourages us to have an unhindered faith.
2 The book of Acts reminds us that we have an unhindered gospel.
3 The book of Acts calls us to be an unhindered church.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Have you ever had a difficult experience on a boat? Describe the situation to your group. Which part of Paul's journey to Rome would have been the most difficult for you: the storm, the shipwreck, or the snake bite? Why?

2 Paul's circumstances hindered his abilities, but they did not hinder his faith. I used this point to encourage my parents this week, how does it encourage you in your faith journey? Can you think of an example in your life?

3 In 2 Timothy 2:7, Paul wrote, "And because I preach this good news, I am suffering and have been chained like a criminal. But the word of God cannot be chained." He wrote these words right before he was executed. Discuss this important reminder with your group.

4 One author writes, "The abrupt ending leaves us with the challenge and the opportunity to allow the Holy Spirit to write the next chapter in the book of Acts today in and through us." How might we live unhinderedly as followers of Jesus today?

ACTS 26:24-32

24 At this point Festus interrupted Paul's defense. "You are out of your mind, Paul!" he shouted. "Your great learning is driving you insane." 25 "I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying is true and reasonable. 26 The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do." 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" 29 Paul replied, "Short time or long - I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." 30 The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. 31 They left the room, and while talking with one another, they said, "This man is n o doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment." 32 Agrippa said to Festus, "This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar."FROM THE LESSON

The Herod Dynasty and the New Testament Timeline:

Herod the Great - he tried to kill Jesus at his birth and had all of the boys in Bethlehem under the age of two killed.
Herod Antipas - he beheaded John the Baptist and mocked and ridiculed Jesus on the morning of his crucifixion.
Herod Agrippa I - he beheaded the apostle James, the brother of John
Herod Agrippa II - Paul was a witness to him in Acts 26

Three Aspects of Paul's Witness:

1 His witness was to all people - small and great (verse 22).
2 His witness was persuasive - true and reasonable (verse 25).
3 His witness was patient - short or long (verse 29).DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 The witness of Paul to Herod Agrippa II after all the Herod dynasty had done during the New Testament is an amazing testimony to the grace of God. What is your response to this example?

2 Whether great or small, how does the message to use every opportunity to be a witness encourage you? Can you think of a small way you could be a witness this week?

3 Our witness is persuasive because it is true and reasonable. It does not depend on you being a great storyteller or a good communicator. It does not depend on your personality or your charisma. How does this important aspect of our witness encourage you?

4 What do you think about our witness being compared to seed planting? Discuss the role of prayer in the life of a witness. Spend time at the conclusion of your meeting praying specifically for people who you have been a witness.

ACTS 26:19-23

19 "So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. 20 First to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. 21 That is why the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. 22 But I have had God's help to this very day, and so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen - 23 that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles."FROM THE LESSON

The three realities of the resurrection:

1 Hope fulfilled - verses 4-11
2 Light revealed - verses 12-18
3 Kingdom arrived - verses 19-23

The three defining characteristics of the kingdom:

1 It's a kingdom of obedience - verse 19
Paul is both a Jew and Roman citizen by birth, but first and foremost, he is a citizen of the kingdom of heaven by rebirth.
Philippians 3:20 "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior who is from there, the Lord Jesus Christ."

2 It's a kingdom of repentance - verse 20
Paul preached that they should repent (change their minds) and turn to God (change their direction) and prove their repentance by their deeds (change their behavior).
The Greek word translated prove is also translated "to practice, to exercise, to perform habitually and repeatedly."

3 It's a kingdom of unity - verses 21-23
Acts 1:8 "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you: and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
This is not just a geographical outline for the book of Acts, but it is also God's blueprint for uniting all of His people into one kingdom.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Paul says that our citizenship is in heaven. What does it mean for you to live as a citizen of the kingdom of heaven?

2 The primary desire of the heart for a citizen of the kingdom of God is obedience to the words of King Jesus. You know conversion has occurred when obedience is no longer something you have to do, but something you get to do. How have you experienced this kind of kingdom conversion in your life?

3 The lesson looked at three parts to kingdom repentance. There is a change of mind, a change of direction, and a change of behavior. Repentance means a great deal more than just "turning around." Which one of these three parts helped you most in your understanding of repentance?

4 Have you ever been part of a movement that purposefully worked to unite different cultures or people groups? What was that like? How could we as citizens of the kingdom of God be more purposeful in living into the "sneak peak" of Revelation 7:9-10?

Acts 26:12-18

REVELATION 17:1-6

17 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits by many waters. 2 With her the kings of the earth committed adultery, and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.”
3 Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. 4 The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries. 5 The name written on her forehead was a mystery:

BABYLON THE GREAT
THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES
AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH6 I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What are some examples of "drinking the kool aid" in our culture? 2. Why do you think people can be so strongly influenced by the culture around them? 3. The image of Babylon John sees is very striking. Why do you think he is shown Babylon in this way? 4. Jeremy mentioned 4 values of Babylon - Pride, Power, Pleasure, and Progress. Where do you see these values in our culture today? 5. In Revelation 18, God's people are urged to "come out" of Babylon. What might that look like for God's people today?

PSALM 40:1-5

1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 What do you think about the messiness of the Isaac - Rebekah, Jacob - Esau, Jacob - Laban, Rachel - Leah saga? Why does God continually seem to find people's lives to highlight which would make for a good Jerry Springer episode? Thinking about some of the messes in your life, how can you relate to the hope found in Psalm 40:1-5?2 Review all of the deception found in Genesis 25-31. Among all this deception, who, if anyone, do you think felt a sense of belonging? Where have you found a place to belong? How can you relate to being viewed as "not Esau" or "not Rachel"?3 "God can't bless who you pretend to be." What do you think about that statement?How have you learned the truth of that statement?4 "Life is full of let-downs." What are the let-downs you've experienced which have hit you pretty hard? Describe one of your - "When morning came - there was Leah" type moments.5 "Regardless of how big of a mess we make, God's good and gracious will shall be accomplished." How have you seen this to be true? When have you been amazed at what God does with the glorious mess you made?6 Describe the encouragement you receive from what emerges when you overlay the hope in Psalm 40:1-5 on top of the three statements above.

ACTS 26:1-15

1 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "You have permission to speak for yourself." So Pail motioned with his hand and began his defense: 2 "King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today as I make my defense against all the accusations of the Jews, 3 and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently. 4 The Jews all know the way I have lived ever since I was a child, from the beginning of my life in my own country, and also in Jerusalem. 5 They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that according to the strictest set of our religion, I lived as a Pharisee. 6 And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our fathers that I am on trial today. 7 This is the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night. O king, it is because of this hope that the Jews are accusing me. 8 Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead? 9 I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 And that is just what I did in Jerusalem. On the authority of the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them. 11 Many a time I went from one synagogue to another to have them punished, and I tried to force them to blaspheme. In my obsession against them, I even went to foreign cities to persecute them. 12 On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. 13 About noon, O king, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions. 14 We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.' 15 Then I asked, 'Who are you, Lord?' 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' the Lord replied." FROM THE LESSON

The Herodian Dynasty - it lasted for four generations and was an opponent of Jesus and his movement all throughout the New Testament. It started with Herod the Great who had tried to destroy the infant Jesus. His son, Herod Antipas, was the one who had John the Baptist beheaded. His son, Herod Agrippa, was the one who had James put to death with the sword in Acts 12. His son, Herod Agrippa II, was the one who Paul stands before in Acts 26.

Paul's Speech Before Agrippa II - it is Paul's last and longest speech in the book of Acts. It begins in verse 2 and lasts through verse 23. It is the third time the reader of Acts hears the story of Jesus' appearance to Paul on the road to Damascus. The other two times are in Acts 9 and in Acts 22.

Conversion Story - "the language of conversion may be misleading because at no point did Paul waver in his belief that the God of Abraham was and is the true God, the one and only creator God. Paul didn't change Gods. And from his point of view, he didn't even change religions." (NT Wright)

Hope of Israel - Paul preached that the hope of Israel has been fulfilled in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection fulfills Paul's hope in God in three ways:

1 Hope is rooted in resurrection promise.
2 Hope is renewed in resurrection praise.
3 Hope is realized in resurrection practice. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 How would you define hope? How is biblical hope different from the way hope is used in our everyday language?

2 Hope is rooted in resurrection promise. Read Acts 26:6. Discuss what it means for our hope to be rooted in the promises of God.

3 Hope is renewed in resurrection praise. Can you remember a time when your hope was renewed through worship? Share the story with your group.

4 Hope is realized in resurrection practice. Can you remember a time when something that you desperately hoped for was actually realized? Share with your group. How did it make you feel? How did it affect the way you live? Because of the resurrection of Jesus, we have a realized hope. How does the resurrection of Jesus Christ transform the way we hope?

ACTS 25:13-22

13 A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus. 14 Since they were spending many days there, Festus discussed Paul's case with the king. He said: "There is a man here whom Felix left as a prisoner. 15 When I went to Jerusalem, the chief priests and elders of the Jews brought charges against him and asked that he be condemned. 16 I told him that it is not the Roman custom to hand over any man before he has faced his accusers and has had an opportunity to defend himself against their charges. 17 When they came here with me, I did not delay the case, but convened the court the next day and ordered the man to be brought in. 18 When his accusers got up to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. 19 Instead, they had some points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive. 20 I was at a loss how to investigate such matters; so I asked if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial there on these charges. 21 When Paul made his appeal to be held over for the Emperor's decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar. 22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, "I would like to hear this man myself." He replied, "Tomorrow you will hear him." FROM THE LESSON

Resurrection Responses:

Response 1: Curious non-believers
Example of this response is Felix
He had a genuine curiosity but no belief because of his complacency.

Response 2: Confused non-believers
Example of this response is Festus
He had a general confusion about belief caused by religion and disagreements.

Response 3: Cultural believers
Example of this response is the Sadducees
They had a belief in God but were greatly influenced by culture.

Response 4: Correct believers
Example of this response is the Pharisees
They had a belief in God but were overly concerned with being correct.

Response 5: Changed believers
Example of this response is Paul
He had a belief in God and was forever changed by the resurrection of Jesus. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Which one of the five responses to the resurrection did you think about the most this morning? Why? Can you think of some other common responses to the witness of the risen Jesus?

2 When someone is genuinely curious about Jesus, what are some of the obstacles that keep them from coming to faith in Him?

3 Have you seen disagreements about religion add confusion to our primary witness? How can you keep this from happening in your own life? How can the church keep our primary witness primary?

4 Have you heard the term cultural Christian? In what ways? Talk about how one can make Christianity more about a portrayal than an actual practice.

5 Have you ever been so overly concerned about getting things correct that you have missed Christ? What are the essentials for you when it come to faith in Jesus Christ?

6 How has the gospel of Jesus Christ changed your life? Each person share at least one way your life is different because of your belief in the risen Jesus.

ACTS 24:22-27

22 Then Felix, who was well acquainted with the Way, adjourned the proceedings. "When Lysias the commander comes," he said, "I will decide your case." 23 He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to give him some freedom and permit his friends to take care of his needs. 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. 27 Two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but Felix because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison. FROM THE LESSON

Felix the Governor:

The Roman historian, Tacitus wrote about Felix that he “practiced every kind of cruelty and lust, wielding the power of a king with all the instincts of a slave.”

Drusilla the Jewess:

Her mother was a Jew, however her father was Herod Agrippa, the one who killed the apostle James, the brother of John in Acts 12. Her great-uncle was the one who had John the Baptist beheaded, and her great-grandfather was the one who had tried to kill Jesus in Bethlehem.

Three Reasons for Faith in Christ Jesus:

1 Because of righteousness
What are you going to do about yesterday's sin?
The answer is to have faith in Christ Jesus as your Savior.
The answer is to trust Him with your past.

2 Because of self-control
What are you going to do about today's struggles?
The answer is to have faith in Christ Jesus as your Lord.
The answer is to trust Him with your present.

3 Because of the judgment to come
What are you going to do about tomorrow's scenarios?
The answer is to have faith in Christ Jesus as your Judge.
The answer is to trust Him with your future. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 If someone had asked you last week to give them a compelling reason as to why you have faith in Christ Jesus, how would you have answered the question?

2 Discuss with your group the deal of eternity: the exchange of your sin for His righteousness. How does the reality of this exchange transform the way you live?

3 The only way to have self-control is to be under His control. Discuss the importance of relying on the Lord through the Holy Spirit when life seems out of control.
Are you going through any struggles today that the group can be praying about? Share with the group.

4 Do you worry or get anxious about the future? What kinds of things do you worry about? We often talk about having faith in Jesus as our Savior and Lord, but what do you think about having faith in Him as your Judge?

5 The answer to all three faith questions is to have faith in the person of Jesus Christ. Which of the three do you find most difficult: to trust Him with your past, your present, or your future? Why?

Exodus 2:11-15
11 One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his people and looked on their burdens, and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people. 12 He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. 13 When he went out the next day, behold, two Hebrews were struggling together. And he said to the man in the wrong, “Why do you strike your companion?” 14 He answered, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you mean to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid, and thought, “Surely the thing is known.” 15 When Pharaoh heard of it, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and stayed in the land of Midian. And he sat down by a well.

Numbers 12:3
3 (Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.)

Numbers 20:1-12
1 In the first month the whole Israelite community arrived at the Desert of Zin, and they stayed at Kadesh. There Miriam died and was buried.
2 Now there was no water for the community, and the people gathered in opposition to Moses and Aaron. 3 They quarreled with Moses and said, “If only we had died when our brothers fell dead before the Lord! 4 Why did you bring the Lord’s community into this wilderness, that we and our livestock should die here? 5 Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place? It has no grain or figs, grapevines or pomegranates. And there is no water to drink!”
6 Moses and Aaron went from the assembly to the entrance to the tent of meeting and fell facedown, and the glory of the Lord appeared to them. 7 The Lord said to Moses, 8 “Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.”
9 So Moses took the staff from the Lord’s presence, just as he commanded him. 10 He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?” 11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.
12 But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.”

FAILURES OF MOSES* Exodus 2:11-15 * Exodus 3 * Exodus 4:24-26 * Numbers 20:1-12

ON PRIDE AND HUMILITY

C.S. Lewis:
“The vice I am talking of is Pride or Self-Conceit: and the virtue opposite to it, in Christian morals, is called Humility...According to Christian teachers, the essential vice, the utmost evil, is Pride. Unchastity, anger, greed, drunkenness, and all that, are mere flea bites in comparison: it was through Pride that the devil became the devil: Pride leads to every other vice: it is the complete anti-God state of mind.”

Jesus in Luke 14:11:
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

ICE BREAKER
Share a time where either you failed, or you witnessed a memorable failure.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Glance over chapters 1 and 2 of Exodus. How does scripture set the scene so that the reader might expect an immediate heroic victory? 2. Consider some of Moses' failures that scripture records (2:12-14, chapter 3, 4:24-26, Numbers 20:1-12). Which ones stand out to you? Does our culture punish certain types of failure differently than others? 3. Numbers 12:3 tells us that Moses was the most humble person alive in his day. How can failure contribute to someone developing humility? 4. Jeremy said "a more accurate understanding of the battle for our souls is the battle between our pride and our humility." C.S. Lewis called pride "the essential vice, the utmost evil." What makes pride so dangerous? How does humility counteract pride? 5. What are some positive ways humility can be displayed... 1. ...in our homes? 2. ...at Southside? 3. ...by our leaders? 4. ...in our community?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 What are you waiting for right now?

2 "God will not do something when you want him to do it. " Chad Bird
What do you think about this statement?
When have you been aggravated with God's timing?3 Considering these examples about waiting in the Bible, which one hits home with you?

Abraham and Sarah
Isaac and Rebekah
Jesus, asleep in the boat
Promise made to Simeon
God taking the Israelites the long way around4 Why do you think God shows up late, at least from our perspective?
What is there to gain in waiting?5 Which of these lessons do you think you need to be learning in this season of your life - while you wait?God is our only hope
God will transform you in the waiting
We gain perspective
God has no timetable
How to relinquish control

Mark 2:1-12

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

[1] And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. [2] And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. [3] And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. [4] And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. [5] And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” [6] Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, [7] “Why does this man speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” [8] And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question these things in your hearts? [9] Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk’? [10] But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic—[11] “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.” [12] And he rose and immediately picked up his bed and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” (ESV) FROM THE LESSON

1 How can we, Southside church of Christ, be a fox hole worthy church for UK's campus?

2 Southside is committed to bear the weight of whatever season of life college students will go through.

3 Because Southside loves college students so deeply, we are committed to point college students to Jesus at all costs.

4 Southside is committed to seeing God completely transform college student's lives.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 If you were to holistically describe how you feel in your current season of life, what actual season of the year (spring, winter, etc) would best fit you? Why that season?

2 When you think over your life, in what ways has the church been fox hole worthy for you? Are there any ways that you have felt that the church has not been fox hole worthy for you? If so, how?

3 What are some challenges/obstacles to being a fox hole worthy friend?

Acts 22:12-21

12 "A man named Ananias came to me. He was a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there. 13 He stood beside me and said, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight!' And at that very moment I was able to see him. 14 Then he said: 'The God of our fathers has chosen you to know is will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. 15 You will be his witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. 16 And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.' 17 When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance 18 and saw the Lord speaking. 'Quick!' he said to me. 'Leave Jerusalem immediately, because they will not accept your testimony about me.' 19 'Lord,' I replied, 'these men know that I went from one synagogue to another to imprison and beat those who believe in you. 20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.' 21 Then the Lord said to me, 'God; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'" (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

The 10,000-hour rule - "ten thousand hours is the magic number of greatness" (Malcolm Gladwell). This number serves as a kind of metaphor for the extent of the commitment that is necessary to fully develop or learn a skill.

The content of Paul's witness - there are two parts to this text.
1 Verses 1-11 - Paul is a witness to His experience of Jesus Christ
2 Verses 12-21 - Paul is a witness to His obedience to Jesus Christ

Hebrews 5:8-9 - "Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him."

Course not source - "Our obedience is no longer the source, but our obedience is still the course." (Dallas Willard)

How is Paul able to obey the Lord?
1 He is available.
2 He is amenable.
3 He is adaptable.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - what are some of your favorite memories from watching the Olympics?

2 Read Hebrews 5:8-9. Obedience is mentioned twice in these verses. What do these verses teach us about the role of obedience in the life of a disciple?

3 Dallas Willard wrote that "our obedience is no longer the source of our salvation, but our obedience is still the course." Discuss this quote with your group.

4 In verses 17-21, we discussed three characteristics of Paul's obedience to the Lord. He is available. He is amenable. He is adaptable. Which one of these three characteristics stood out to you the most? Why? Which one of these three characteristics do you need to grow in the most? Share with your group.

Acts 21:37-22:11

37 As the soldiers were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, "May I say something to you?" "Do you speak Greek?" he replied. 38 "Aren't you the Egyptian who started a revolt and led four thousand terrorists out into the desert some time ago?" 39 Paul answered, "I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people." 40 Having received the commander's permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic: 1 Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense." 2 When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet. Then Paul said: 3 "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. Under Gamaliel I was thoroughly trained in the law of our fathers and was just as zealous for God as any of your are today. 4 I persecuted the followers of this Way to their death, arresting both men and women and throwing them into prison, 5 as also the high priest and all the Council can testify. I even obtained letters from them to their brothers in Damascus, and went there to bring these people as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished. 6 "About noon as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me. 7 I fell to the ground and heard a voice say to me, 'Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?' 8 " 'Who are you, Lord?' I asked. " 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting,' he replied. 9 My companions saw the light, but they did not understand the voice of him who was speaking to me. 10 " 'What shall I do, Lord?' I asked. " 'Get up,' the Lord said, 'and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that you have been assigned to do.' 11 My companions led me by the hand into Damascus, because the brilliance of the light had blinded me. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Dagger men - the word translated "terrorists" or "assassins" in Acts 21:38 is literally the word for "dagger." This was a group of violent Jewish revolutionaries who received their name from their practice of carrying daggers under their cloaks. They were trained to stab someone to death and then slip away unnoticed.

Not the right time - stop letting circumstances determine the right time and instead start trusting the Lord to make the time right.

The content of Paul's witness - there are two parts in this text.
1 Verses 1-11 - Paul is a witness to His experience of Jesus Christ
2 Verses 12-21 - Paul is a witness to His obedience to Jesus Christ

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 - “The god of this age – that is Satan – has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as the risen Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For it is God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness” and God made his light shine into our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - have you ever been told that you have a doppelgänger? Have you ever been mistaken for someone else? Share an example or a story with your group.

2 If you had to rate on a scale of 1-10, your willingness to be a witness, how would you rate yourself? Discuss your answer with the group. Stop and pray for the Lord to give us the willingness to witness.

3 Before you share your experience, you must first connect with your audience. Read Acts 22:1-5 and make note of all the ways Paul connects with his audience. Where do you already have a connection with your audience? List out people in your life who do not know Jesus who you already have a connection.

4 How would you describe your conversion experience? Try to put it into your own words. How would you answer these questions: How have you encountered the glory of Jesus Christ? How have you experienced the grace of the risen Lord Jesus?

Acts 21:27-36

27 When the seven days were nearly over, some Jews from the province of Asia saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, 28 shouting, "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple area and defiled this holy place." 29 (They had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with Paul and assumed that Paul had brought him into the temple area.) 30 The whole city was aroused, and the people came running from all directions. Seizing Paul, they dragged him from the temple, and immediately the gates were shut. 31 While they were trying to kill him, news reached the commander of the roman troops that the whole city of Jerusalem was in an uproar. 32 He at once took some officers and soldiers and ran down to the crowd. When the rioters saw the commander and his soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. 33 The commander came up and arrested him and ordered him to be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was and what he had done. 34 Some in the crowd shouted one thing and some another, and since the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks. 35 When Paul reached the steps, the violence of the mob was so great he had to be carried by the soldiers. 36 The crowd that followed kept shouting, "Away with him!" (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

"The best laid schemes of mice and men, go oft awry." A quote from Robert Burns'I poem titled "To A Mouse." According to legend, he penned these words after accidentally destroying a mouse's nest while ploughing the fields at his farm.

Keep Out - Archaeologists have discovered some of the actual signs that hung on the wall the separated the inner court from the outer court of the temple area. These words were inscribed on them: "“No foreigner may enter within the barricade which surrounds the sanctuary. Anyone who is caught so doing will have himself to blame for their ensuing death.”

In Chains - For the last quarter of the book of Acts, from Acts 21:33 to the end of the book (seven chapters), Paul will be in chains.

Witness - the word translated as witness in the New Testament is the Greek word, martus. Because of the way the disciples would bear witness to Jesus in their suffering and even in their death, the word that simply means to witness in the Greek language would become the source of the English word, martyr. This word describes a person who suffers death for being a witness to their faith. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - when you hear the saying, "best laid plans," does an illustration or an example from your own life come to your mind? Share with the group.

2 The "event" of Paul's witness is suffering. "It's in our darkest moments, hottest fires, and deepest pain that we have the greatest opportunity to share the gospel." Discuss how our suffering provides us with a unique platform to be a witness.

3 The gospel provides us with a lens to view our suffering through. The world does not have this lens and so when they see suffering they ask the question, where is God in our suffering? But we have the lens of the gospel and so when we see suffering, we don't ask where is God, but proclaim there is God in our suffering. Jesus meets us in our suffering. Discuss this gospel reality with your group.

4 "All of us can be a witness to Christ through our mundane and daily trials." Have you ever thought about your mundane and daily trials as an opportunity to be a witness to Jesus Christ? What might it look like in your life to bear witness to Christ in your mundane and daily trials?

Acts 21:17-26

17 When we arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers received us warmly. 18 The next day Paul and the rest of us went to see James, and all the elders were present. 19 Paul greeted them and reported in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. 20 When they heard this, they praised God. Then they said to Paul: "You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have believed, and all of them are zealous for the law. 21 They have been informed that you teach all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to turn away from Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children or live according to our customs. 22 What shall we do? They will certainly hear that you have come, 23 so do what we tell you. There are four men with us who have made a vow. 24 Take these men, join in their purification rites and pay their expenses, so that they can have their heads shaved. Then everybody will know there is no truth in these reports about you, but that you yourself are living in obedience to the law. 25 As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. 26 The next day Paul took the men and purified himself along with them. Then he went to the temple to give notice of the date when the days of purification would end and the offering would be made for each of them. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

1 Corinthians 9:19-23: "Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.
To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews.
To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law.
To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law.
To the weak I became weak, to win the weak.
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings."

Witness: "A witness is someone who sees or experiences something important for others to know about. Used as a verb, as in to witness or to bear witness, it just means to tell others about what you saw or experienced (John Mark Comer)."

Extent of Witness: The extent of Paul's witness was to "all" people. Can the church be made up of all people - all ethnicities, all races, all socio-economic levels, all ages, all backgrounds - can we set aside our differences and unite together in Jesus Christ?

Intent of Witness: The intent of Paul's witness was to bring people to Jesus in order to gain a brother or sister in Christ. The word translated "to win" is actually an economic word which means to gain or to profit from an investment. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - practice being a "witness" with your group. Spend a few moments sharing with your group about something significant that you have seen or experienced in the last month.

2 What do you think about when you hear the term "witness?" What are your initial thoughts? How might you be His witness this week? What would that look like?

3 In 1 Corinthians 9:22, Paul writes, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." This is the extent of his witness. Discuss this statement with your group.

4 In 1 Corinthians 9:19, Paul writes, "Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible." This is the intent of his witness. Discuss this statement with your group.

5 A core value of Southside is "to be relevant in an ever-changing culture with the never-changing message of Jesus." The goal is to have cultural sensitivity and yet to maintain gospel integrity. Discuss how Paul and James attempt this delicate balance in the predominantly Jewish Christian church in Jerusalem.

Acts 21:1-14

1 After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Cos. The next day we went to Rhodes and from there to Patara. 2 We found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, went on board and set sail. 3 After sighting Cyprus and passing through to the south of it, we sailed to Syria. We landed at Tyre, where our ship was to unload its cargo. 4 Finding the disciples there, we stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go to Jerusalem. 5 But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way. All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. 6 After saying good-by to each other, we went aboard the ship, and they returned home. 7 We continued our voyage from Tyre and landed at Ptolemais, where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for a day. 8 Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven. 9 He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied. 10 After we had been there for a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’” 12 When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. 14 When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.” (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

William Willimon: “This notion that only good things happen to faithful people was put to rest on a Friday afternoon at Calvary.” Paul’s perspective on suffering: He did not view adversity as an oddity, instead he viewed adversity as an opportunity. Paul’s four responses to suffering:1 Adversity is an opportunity for conformity.
2 Adversity is an opportunity for community.
3 Adversity is an opportunity for Christianity.
4 Adversity is an opportunity for clarity.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - can you think of any other examples from the Old Testament when a prophet acted out the word of God for the people of God? Share with the group your favorite example. 2 Have you ever asked the Father to give you a spirit of resolve like Jesus or like Paul on their way to Jerusalem? What kind of character traits can only be learned and developed through adversity?3 We must never go down a difficult road alone. Share an example when you experienced the importance of community during adversity. 4 Following the example of Paul in verse 13, how might you fill in this blank this morning, “I am ready to __________ for the name of the Lord Jesus.”?5 When you pray for “the Lord’s will to be done” what does that mean to you?

Acts 20:32-38

32 Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33 I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' 36 When he had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. 37 They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. 38 What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

The supreme beatitude - Pastor and author, Dr. Earl Pierce, called these words of Jesus the "supreme beatitude" because unlike the other beatitudes found in the New Testament, this one tells us that we are more blessed.

It is blessed to receive - "Faith is empty hands held open for God to fill."

It is not blessed to want what others have received - When we are content with what we do have, then we will not covet what we don't have.

It is more blessed to live to give - "A disciple is someone who has moved from being the recipient of the church's mission to being responsible for the church's mission."DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - can you remember a recent question that you have asked Google? Share with the group.

2 Are you a good receiver? Read verse 32. It is absolutely necessary for salvation that you are a good receiver. Discuss this statement with your group. Ask the Lord to help you become a good receiver.

3 Read verse 33 and then ask this question to yourself: Can I honestly and genuinely say as Paul does here that I do not want what someone else has? Instead of Paul's three examples, come up with your own examples that might actually tempt you.

4 Read verse 34-35. Based on Jesus' teaching in verse 35, Paul believed it was more blessed to live to give. What can you learn from his example in these verses?

Acts 20:28-31

28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his blood. 29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. 31 So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

The farewell speech - this speech given by Paul to the elders at Ephesus it is a kind of speech that is very familiar in Scripture. We have farewell speeches given by Moses, Joshua, and Jesus. The purpose of a speech like this one is for the leader who is giving the speech to review his life as an example for the others to follow.

Put your oxygen mask on first - this phrase is always shared by a flight attendant during pre-flight instructions. In case of a change in cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop down from above your seat, and if you are traveling with children, then you are instructed to put your oxygen mask on first before helping your child.

Choose to cheat - this phrase is from pastor/author Andy Stanley. It means that you should choose who you are going to cheat because you are going to cheat someone. Someone is going to be cheated of your time and effort. It is not about better time management. Because there are only so many hours in a day, someone is going to be cheated. Who is it going to be?DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - do you have a crazy story about something that happened to you at the airport? Share with the group.

2 In verse 28, Paul reminds them to "keep watch over yourselves." In between the Holy Spirit's compelling them to serve and the words of Jesus convicting them to sacrifice, Paul reminds them to "keep watch over yourselves." Discuss your thoughts about this reminder with your group.

3 The instruction to "put your oxygen mask on first" is not just good instruction on an airplane but serves as a good metaphor of taking care of yourself so that you will be in a better position to help others. Talk about how you have seen this to be true in your life.

4 The phrase used by Andy Stanley is "choose to cheat." It is a call to intentionally order your life in such a way that your job is last in priority. It isn't a call to not work hard at your job, but it is a call to not prioritize your work over the important relationships in your life. Discuss this principle with your group.

Acts 20:17-27

17 From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. 18 When they arrived, he said to them: "You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. 19 I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. 20 You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21 I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. 22 And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23 I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. 24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. 25 Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. 26 Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

The farewell speech - this speech given by Paul to the elders at Ephesus it is a kind of speech that is very familiar in Scripture. We have farewell speeches given by Moses, Joshua, and Jesus. The purpose of a speech like this one is for the leader who is giving the speech to review his life as an example for the others to follow.

Servant - literally it is the Greek word "doulos" that can be translated as "slave." For Paul, embracing the life of a servant is what Christianity is all about.

Compelled by the Spirit - literally this phrase means "bound by the Spirit" (NLT) or "constrained by the Spirit" (ESV)

Three characteristics of a Servant:

1 The servant is compelled to speak without hesitation (verse 20, 27)
2 The servant is compelled to go without consideration (verse 24)
3 The servant is compelled to live without resignation (verse 24)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker - can you recall a time that you participated in a gathering like the one between Paul and the Ephesians elders? A time when you got together with a group one last time prior to someone being gone for a significant amount of time? What was the occasion? Share the details with your group.

2 If you were asked to summarize your Christian life into one sentence so that someone else could follow your example, what would that one sentence be? Spend some time with this individually and try to summarize it in a sentence. Then share these sentences with your group.

3 Paul summarized his life in this way in verse 19: I served the Lord with great humility. For Paul, embracing the life of a servant is what His life was all about. Discuss this summary with your group. How does this summary of Paul's life influence your life? How is it an example for you to follow?

4 In verse 22, Paul writes that he was "compelled" by the Spirit. Have you ever felt compelled by the Spirit to serve the Lord in some way? The word literally means "bound" and "constrained." Talk about this understanding of the word with your group.

5 Three characteristics of a servant that the Holy Spirit compels us to embrace are listed above. Which one of these characteristics encouraged you this morning?

Romans 8:28-30

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 What do you think about being "predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son"?2 In John 5:36-40 how do these words strike you: "...yet you refuse to come to me to have life?" What have you seen and heard which compels you to follow Jesus?3 "Christians aren't perfect, just forgiven." What do yo think about that line? What might have initially prompted someone to say that?4 Take a look at these three statement (from Dallas Willard). How is this challenging to you?Jesus never taught that we can decide to just enjoy forgiveness at his expense and have nothing more to do with him.If we don't become disciples, we remain locked in defeat as far as moral intentions are concerned.Only avid discipleship to Jesus through the Holy Spirit brings inward transformation to our thoughts, feelings, character.5 What do you think about this line: "Satan is drastically shortening the distance between temptation and participation by doing everything he can to keep our senses in a state of awakeness." (from Beth Moore)6 When has following Jesus been difficult for you recently?

Mark 15:1-15

1 Very early in the morning, the chief priests, with the elders, the teachers of the law and the whole Sanhedrin, reached a decision. They bound Jesus, led him away and handed him over to Pilate. 2 "Are you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate. "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. 3 The chief priests accused him of many things. 4 So again Pilate asked him, "Aren't you going to answer? See how many things they are accusing you of." 5 But Jesus still made no reply, and Pilate was amazed. 6 Now it was the custom as the Feast to release a prisoner whom the people requested. 7 A man called Barabbas was in prison with the insurrectionists who had committed murder in the uprising. 8 The crowd came up and asked Pilate to do for them what he usually did. 9 "Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate, 10 knowing it was out of envy that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. 11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead. 12 "What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?" Pilate asked them. 13 "Crucify him!" they shouted. 14 "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!" 15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified. (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: when was the last time you were amazed? For many of us, why does it take more to amaze us than it used to?

2 Share something contained in the Bible which amazes you today? More specifically, talk about what amazes you about Jesus? What have you experienced? What have you seen in others' experiences? What have you read in your Bible?

3 Pilate asked this question: What shall I do with the one you call King of the Jews? With what you know, what you've seen, what you've read...how do you answer this question?

Acts 20:7-12

7 On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. 8 There were many lamps in the upstairs room where we were meeting. 9 Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell to the ground from the third story and was picked up dead. 10 Paul went down, threw himself on the young man and put his arms around him. "Don't be alarmed," he said. "He's alive!" 11 Then he went upstairs again and broke bread and ate. After talking until daylight, he left. 12 The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

10 Examples in Scripture of Someone Being Raised from the Dead:

1 The widow of Zarephath's son by Elijah (1 Kings 17:17-24)
2 The Shunammite woman's son by Elisha (2 Kings 4:18-37)
3 The man who touched Elisha's bones (2 Kings 13:20-21)
4 The widow of Nain's son by Jesus (Luke 7:11-17)
5 Jairus' daughter by Jesus (Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:21-43, Luke 8:40-56)
6 Lazarus by Jesus (John 11:1-44)
7 Holy people at the death of Jesus (Matthew 27:50-53)
8 Tabitha (Dorcas) by Peter (Acts 9:36-43)
9 Eutychus by Paul (Acts 20:7-12)
10 Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18)

How these examples are the same:

In each example, someone was literally dead - not seemingly dead, not playing dead, not thought to be dead, they were dead - and by the authority and power of God, they were raised from the dead.

How one is different from the other ones:

The first nine were raised to their old lives. They were all raised from the dead back to how things used to be. They were raised from death to old life. They were brought back from death to their old life. This is called resuscitation from the dead.

Jesus was raised to a new life. He was raised from death to new life. He is the only one who has been raised from the dead to a new, glorified body. He is the only one who has been brought through death to a new life. This is called resurrection from the dead.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: what are some of the ways you have heard the story of Eutychus taught before today? Have you ever heard it used as a warning to stay alert or as a practical encouragement for better preaching?

2 Read through some of the examples in Scripture of people being raised from the dead. Is there one that has stood out to you more than another? Is there one that has been a favorite of yours? Why? How do these examples of God's power and authority over death encourage your faith?

3 Do you understand the difference between resuscitation from the dead and resurrection from the dead? Why is it important to know the difference?

4 The gospel invitation is to a new life in Jesus Christ. It is not a call to a better version of you. It's a call to a brand new version of you. Discuss the difference with your group.

Acts 19:23-41
23 About that time there arose a great disturbance about the Way. 24 A silversmith named Demetrius, who made silver shrines of Artemis, brought in no little business for the craftsmen. 25 he called them together, along with the workmen in related trades, and said: "Men, you know we receive a good income from this business. 26 And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that manmade gods are no gods at all. 27 There is danger not only that our trade will its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited, and the goddess herself, who is worshipped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty. 28 When they heard this, they were furious and began shouting: "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" 29 Soon the whole city was in an uproar. The people seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's traveling companions from Macedonia, and rushed as one man into the theater. 30 Paul wanted to appear before the crowd, but the disciples would not let him. 31 Even some of the officials of the province, friends of Paul, sent him a message begging him not to venture into the theater. 32 The assembly was in confusion: Some were shouting one thing, some another. Most of the people did not even know why they were there. 33 The Jews pushed Alexander to the front, and some of the crowd shouted instructions to him. He motioned for silence in order to make a defense before the people. 34 But when they realized he was a Jew, they all shouted in unison for about two hours: "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" 35 The city clerk quieted the crowd and said: "Men of Ephesus, doesn't all the world know that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and her image, which fell from heaven? 36 Therefore, since these facts are undeniable, you ought to be quiet and not do anything rash. 37 You have brought these men here, though they have neither robbed temples nor blasphemed our goddess. 38 If, then, Demetrius and his fellow craftsmen have a grievance against anybody, the courts are open and there are proconsuls. They can press charges. 39 If there is anything further you want to bring up, it must be settled in a legal assembly. 40 As it is , we are in danger of being charged with rioting because of today's events. In that case we would not be able to account for this commotion, since there is no reason for it. 41 After he had said this, he dismissed the assembly. FROM THE LESSON

Temple of Artemis - it was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. In fact, it was the largest building of it's time. It was 4 times larger than the Parthenon in Athens. It was 425 feet long and 500 feet in diameter. There were 127 sixty-foot marble columns many of which were overlaid in gold.

The kingdom of God - there is both a reign and a realm. As the reign of the kingdom of God transforms your life, then the realm of the kingdom of God becomes wherever you are, it goes out into the world through your life.

Three characteristics of the kingdom of God

1 The kingdom of God is subtle.
2 The kingdom of God is subversive.
3 The kingdom of God is about submission.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: when you hear teaching about the kingdom of God what do you tend to think about?

2 Discuss the teaching about the kingdom of God having both a reign and a realm. How did that teaching help you in the way you think about the kingdom of God?

3 The kingdom of God is both subtle and subversive. Read again the teachings of Jesus about the kingdom of God being like a mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) and like yeast in dough (Matthew 13:33). Discuss these two very different characteristics of the kingdom of God.

4 The kingdom of God is about submission. The gift of salvation is an invitation into a life of submission. Share with your group about the beauty of a life fully submitted to the Lord.

Exodus 5:1-18

Afterward Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘Let my people go, that they may hold a feast to me in the wilderness.’” 2 But Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.” 3 Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Please let us go a three days’ journey into the wilderness that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God, lest he fall upon us with pestilence or with the sword.” 4 But the king of Egypt said to them, “Moses and Aaron, why do you take the people away from their work? Get back to your burdens.” 5 And Pharaoh said, “Behold, the people of the land are now many, and you make them rest from their burdens!” 6 The same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters of the people and their foremen, 7 “You shall no longer give the people straw to make bricks, as in the past; let them go and gather straw for themselves. 8 But the number of bricks that they made in the past you shall impose on them, you shall by no means reduce it, for they are idle. Therefore they cry, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifice to our God.’ 9 Let heavier work be laid on the men that they may labor at it and pay no regard to lying words.”

10 So the taskmasters and the foremen of the people went out and said to the people, “Thus says Pharaoh, ‘I will not give you straw. 11 Go and get your straw yourselves wherever you can find it, but your work will not be reduced in the least.’” 12 So the people were scattered throughout all the land of Egypt to gather stubble for straw. 13 The taskmasters were urgent, saying, “Complete your work, your daily task each day, as when there was straw.” 14 And the foremen of the people of Israel, whom Pharaoh’s taskmasters had set over them, were beaten and were asked, “Why have you not done all your task of making bricks today and yesterday, as in the past?”

15 Then the foremen of the people of Israel came and cried to Pharaoh, “Why do you treat your servants like this? 16 No straw is given to your servants, yet they say to us, ‘Make bricks!’ And behold, your servants are beaten; but the fault is in your own people.” 17 But he said, “You are idle, you are idle; that is why you say, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to the Lord.’ 18 Go now and work. No straw will be given you, but you must still deliver the same number of bricks.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: Jeremy shared the example of a defiant child who wouldn’t wear their jacket as an example of someone trying to exert control over their circumstances. What are some other examples of the desire to be in control?

2 Over and over, Pharaoh is shown that God, not himself, is the one truly in control. Why do you think he continues to resist God’s command to release the Israelites?

3 The two main words used when Pharaoh “hardens” his heart mean either “to be heavy” (denoting a heart heavy with sin and guilt) or “to strengthen” (indicating a strong and resolute will). How does this help reading the challenging passages about God hardening Pharaoh’s heart? In what ways are those passages still challenging?

4 We can either seek to be in control, or seek to know the One in control. What do each of these approaches look like, and how do they differ from each other?

ACTS 19:8-20

8 Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. 9 But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. 10 This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord. 11 God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them. 13 Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, "In the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out." 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. 15 One day, the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?" 16 Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding. 17 When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. 18 Many of those who believed now came and openly confessed their evil deeds. 19 A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas. 20 In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Burn the boats - a phrase spoken by Hernan Cortes, a Spanish conquistador who overthrew the Aztec Empire and won Mexico for the crown of Spain in 1519.

Ephesian writings - Ephesus was a center for magical power in the Mediterranean world. The phrase "Ephesian writings" was used in antiquity to refer to any documents that contained magical spells and formulas.

"All of life is repentance" - this is a quote from the reformer, Martin Luther. Believers commit not to a moment of repentance but to a life of repentance.

Definition of repentance - "the call to repent is an invitation to see the world differently in light of Jesus Christ."DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: can you think of a motivational phrase or memorable motto that you have liked or that has encouraged you in some way through the years? Share it with your group.

2 Repentance is not a one-time event, but instead it is a commitment to a lifelong process. Discuss the difference with your group.

3 The call to repent is an invitation to rethink everything in your life in light of His life. Discuss this process with your group.

4 We looked at three characteristics of the kind of repentance that leads to spiritual breakthrough in Acts 19:17-19. Re-read these verses. The characteristics are conviction (verse 17), confession (verse 18), and conversion (verse 19). Discuss the importance of these three characteristics with your group.

ACTS 19:1-7

1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" They answered, "No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit. 3 So Paul asked, "Then what baptism did you receive?" "John's baptism," they replied. 4 Paul said, "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus. 5 On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Importance of Ephesus - Paul will stay longer in Ephesus than in any other city he visits on his three missionary journeys. Ephesus becomes the center of the Jesus movement that started Jerusalem went north to Antioch and now west to Ephesus.

John the Baptist - the last in a long line of prophets who longed for the day when the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all of God's people.

The parabola of salvation (aka. the smiley face of salvation) - the full message of the good news includes the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Icebreaker: like the example of my friend, Tim, do you have friends who you could contact this week who would only know you from the first half of your life? Do you have a recent example of reconnecting with an old friend in that way? Share with the group.

2 The disciples in Acts 19 had missed the announcement. Read again Acts 1:4-5. John the Baptist was the last in a long line of prophets who had longed for the day when the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all of God's people. Have you ever thought about Pentecost as the fulfillment of centuries of longing and hoping for this time?

3 The disciples in Acts 19 had missed the ascension. The fullness of the gospel is in the shape of a parabola because it includes the incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and the ascension. Discuss the importance of the ascension in understanding the good news of Jesus Christ.

4 The disciples in Acts 19 had missed the anointing. Simply put, they were ignorant of Pentecost. Read again Peter's explanation of what is happening at Pentecost in Acts 2:32-33. Have you ever thought about the explanation of the ascended Jesus being the one who baptizes us with the Holy Spirit?

ACTS 18:18-28

18 Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken. 19 They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquilla. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined. 21 But as he left, he promised, "I will come back if it is God's will." Then he set sail from Ephesus. 22 When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch. 23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. 24 Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he only knew the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained the way of God more adequately. 27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Four statements about the will of God (from the book Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen):

1 Where God commands, we must obey.
2 Where there is no command, God gives us the freedom (and responsibility) to choose.
3 Where there is no command, God gives us wisdom to choose.
4 When we have chosen what is moral and wise, we must trust the sovereign God to work all the details together for good.

All Christians should have a theology of the dimly seen - based on 1 Corinthians 13:12, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part: then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Who would you say that you know better than anyone else? Who knows you better than anyone else? Why would you say that person? Now with that in mind, how well would you say that you know God?

2 How have you thought about the will of God for your life? Have you thought about it like an individual, specific, detailed plan for your life or more like the way it was presented this morning? Discuss the four statements of guidance stated above. What do you think about this understanding of the will of God?

3 What do you think about all Christians having a theology of the dimly seen? Paul wrote, "now we see but a poor reflection" and "now I know in part." Can you remember a time when someone helped you have a more complete understanding of the ways of God? Can you share it with the group?

4 How did you experience the eclipse on Monday? Were you in the line of totality? Share your experience with the group. Remember a time when you have experienced the wonder of God's grace. Share about this time with your group.

John 3:1-12

1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him. 3 In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." 4 "How can a man be born when he is old?" Nicodemus asked. "Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!" 5 Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, "You must be born again. 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. 9 "How can this be?" Nicodemus asked. 10 "You are Israel's teacher," said Jesus, "And do you not understand these things? 11 I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?" (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 When was the last time you allowed a long time held belief to be challenged?2 What do you think about a salvation scale, weighing good vs bad? How has this idea manifested itself in someone you know? How about in your life?Describe a moment which helped you realize a scale isn't the way God works. What led you to this moment?3 What do these verses say to you about this topic?Romans 3:9-18
John 3:14-18
John 12:32
Romans 3:214 In the song, "Who am I?" by Casting Crowns, the chorus reads:
"Not because of who I am, but because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done, but because of who you are."
What do you hear in these words?5 What do you learn from this encounter Jesus has with Nicodemus?Bonus question: What do you think Nicodemus ended up believing about Jesus?

1 Corinthians 15:12-22

12 But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. 15 More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. 16 For if the dad are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. 18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 19 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam we all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. (NIV 84)

1 Corinthians 15:1-11

1 Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. 2 By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. 3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 9 For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them - yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 11 Whether, then it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON:

The gospel I gospeled: verse 1 literally reads "the gospel I gospeled to you." It is the same word first in noun form and then in verb form.

First importance: the announcement shared by Paul in verses 3-5 is of primary importance to our faith.

Three important components of Christ's death:* Christ died "for our sins" * Christ died "according to the Scriptures" * Christ died "and was buried"

Three Scriptures concerning Christ's death:

Sacrificial - 1 John 3:16 - “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.”

Substitution - Isaiah 53:4-5 - “Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows; but he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities, the punishment that brought us peace was upon him.”

Saving - Hebrews 9:27-28 - “Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people.”DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker - what is an example of a tradition you have received from someone else? What is an example of a tradition you have passed on to someone else? Are there any traditions surrounding the Holy Week that your family has "received and passed on"?
Which of these would best describe how you typically think about the gospel - as a plan of salvation, a set of ideas, a theological statement, or an announcement? Why? Does it help you to think about the gospel simply as an announcement?
As we focused on the death of Christ this morning, we emphasized three components of his death. The first one was that Christ died "for our sins." Christ's death was a sacrifice (1 John 3:16), a substitution (Isaiah 53:4-5), and saving (Hebrews 9:27-28). Which of these three aspects was good for you to think about? Why?
The other two components of his death was that Christ died "according to the Scriptures" and that Christ died "and was buried." Discuss these components of his death. Why do you think is it important to include these components as part of the announcement?

ACTS 18:1-11

1 After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. 2 There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, 3 and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. 4 Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. 5 When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. 6 But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles. 7 Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshipper of God. 8 Crispus, the synagogue ruler, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized. 9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because i have many people in this city." 11 So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God.FROM THE LESSON:

What happens in Corinth, stays in Corinth: Corinth was well-known for its immorality. It was the Las Vegas of its day. From the 5th century BC on, "to corinthianize" meant to be sexually immoral.

Discouraged in Corinth: Paul arrives to Corinth greatly discouraged. He wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:3, "When I first came to you, it was in weakness and fear and much trembling."

The Four Horsemen of Discouragement: * Fatigue - worn out by the activities * Frustration - weighed down by the challenges * Fear - worked up by the unknowns * Failure - wounded within from the setbacks

Encouraged in Corinth: Paul finds encouragement in Corinth in three specific ways. * He experiences the presence of God through His people (v 2-3, 5) * He witnesses the power of God through the transformation of the Holy Spirit (v 6-8) * He hears the promises of God through sharing of His word (v 9-10)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker - when you are feeling discouraged, how do you typically try to manage those feelings? Is there an activity you do or a friend you call? What is your "go-to" form of encouragement when you are feeling discouraged?
Can you think of a specific time when you recently felt discouraged? What was the cause of the discouragement? Of the "Four Horsemen of Discouragement" which one tends to be the root cause of your discouragement more than another one?
Paul found encouragement in Corinth. The first way he found encouragement was through experiencing the presence of God through His people. How have you recently been encouraged in this way? Share an example with the group.

4 Paul found encouragement in Corinth. The second way he found encouragement was through witnessing the power of God through the transformation of the Holy Spirit. How have you recently been encouraged in this way? Share an example with the group.

Paul found encouragement in Corinth. The third way he found encouragement was through hearing the promises of God through the sharing of His Word. How have you recently been encouraged in this way? Share an example with the group.

Exodus 19:3-8

3 Then Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain and said, “This is what you are to say to the descendants of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”
7 So Moses went back and summoned the elders of the people and set before them all the words the Lord had commanded him to speak. 8 The people all responded together, “We will do everything the Lord has said.” So Moses brought their answer back to the Lord.FROM THE SERMON:

Israel's pattern of looking back:* Slavery was better than death in the desert (14:12) * We miss Egypt (16:3) * God brought us here to kill our children (17:3)

Look Back, See God, and Trust Forward.

How to help our perspective:* Commit to and engage with the church. * Give it time.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker - what is something you remember with "Rosy Recollection" - the experience of recalling something more positively than you actually experienced it?
What do you think is responsible for the Israelites' pattern of longing to return to Egypt?
How do you relate to the Israelites in the book of Exodus?
Their time in Egypt clearly had a strong effect on the Israelites, causing them to misunderstand God and distorting their values. What might it look like for this to happen to Christians in America? What are our golden calves, and what about American culture that doesn't mesh with following Jesus do we sometimes long for?
How can looking back on God's activity help us to trust him going forward? Do you have a moment you look back on as a reminder that God can be trusted?
Jeremy shared that one way to help with our perspectives on the past is by being engaged with the Church. How does the community of Christ's body help our perspectives?

Psalm 331 Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. 2 Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. 3 Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. 4 For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. 5 The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love. 6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth. 7 He gathers the waters of the sea into jars; he puts the deep into storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the people of the world revere him. 9 For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. 10 The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. 11 But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. 12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. 13 From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; 14 from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth - 15 he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. 16 No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. 17 A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save. 18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, 19 to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. 20 We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. 21 IN him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. 22 May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you. (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker - do you have a favorite piece of clothing? Describe it to your group and share about why it is your favorite.
How well does praise fit you? Would you say something else in your closet fits you better than praise (ie. fear, pride, doubt)?
We praise God because of His character. Read verses 4-5. What stands out to you in these verses about the character of God? Eugene Peterson in the Message writes, "the Earth is drenched in God's affectionate satisfaction." Discuss this phrase with your group.
We praise God because He is our Creator. Read verses 6-9. What stands out to you in these verses about God as our Creator? Has recognizing God in creation ever caused you to praise? Share with your group a time when this happened.
We praise God because of His concern. Read verses 13-19. What stands out to you in these verses about the concern of God? How have you lately experienced His concern in your life?
Praise always leads to hope. Read verses 20-22. How have you seen this to be true in your own life?

Psalm 321 Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 2 Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit. 3 When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. 4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of the summer. 5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD" - and you forgave the guilt of my sin. 6 Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him. 7 You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. 8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. 9 Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. 10 Many are the woes of the wicked, but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him. 11 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart! (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Maskil - the giving of instruction or the giving of advice. Scholars call Psalm 32 the giving of instruction from Psalm 51:13 - "then I will teach transgressors your ways and sinners will turn back to you."

Blessed - scholars agree this word is better translated today as happy because it is a much more animated and exuberant word than blessed is in today's vocabulary.

Sin - this word has the sense of "missing a target." We can do the right thing for the wrong reason and miss the mark. We can do the right thing with the wrong attitude and miss the mark.

Iniquity - this word comes from a word meaning "to bend or twist something out of its original and proper shape." A good synonym for this word is perversion.

Transgression - this is a strong word that carries with it the meaning of "rebellion." This word indicates that our sins are not simply mistakes but acts of rebellion against God. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice Breaker - what is the best advice you have ever received? Share with your group a piece of advice that you have remembered through the years and in turn shared with many other people.
Psalm 32 begins with happiness and it ends with joy. In the very center of the psalm is the forgiveness of sin. The forgiveness of our sins is at the center of true happiness and real joy. How have you found this to be true in your life?
Read again verse 5. David's advice is when we mess up, fess up. Discuss the importance of this advice with your group.
Discuss the three words used to describe the "messing up" part of David's advice in this psalm: sin, iniquity, and transgression. How do these words help you to better understand how we mess up?
Discuss the three words used to describe the "fessing up" part of David's advice in this psalm: acknowledge, uncover, and confess. How do these words help you to better understand how we fess up?
Read again verses 1 and 2. Discuss the three images used to describe how we are forgiven by God: lifted up, covered up, and not counted up. How do these images help you to better understand the forgiveness we receive in Jesus Christ?

Mark 10:17-2217 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 18 "Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good - except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" 20 "Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy." 21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Jesus talks about money/wealth often. Uncomfortably often. Why do you think this is such a frequent topic of his? How does the frequency of this topic in his teaching impact you?
When have you experienced a pivotal moment regarding finances? Describe that moment. How did you respond in that moment? How were you changed by that moment?
What do you think the Rich Young Ruler was trying to accomplish in his interaction with Jesus? Why do you think he walked away? Was it more than just "because he had great wealth"?
What are your thoughts about offering God a blank check versus a gift card?
Jesus' answer to our struggles and temptations centered around wealth is direct, top the point. Give it away. List all of our excuses to justifiably side-step his simple directive.
What is your response to this meeting between Jesus and this wealthy young man? How do you relate to this encounter?

Romans 12:1-21 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.FROM THE LESSON

God did not give 100% of His Son to only get 50% of me.

Christians are called to be transformed by the Spirit, not conformed to the world.

Christians are called to be thermostats, not thermometers in the midst of our culture.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

What portions of yourself or areas of life are the hardest for you to give over to God? Why do you think that is the case for you?
In your daily living, what cultural pressures do you personally feel the most tempted to conform to? Why do you think that is?
What does it look like for you to be a thermostat in the current environments God has placed you in?
After reading and discussing Romans 12:1-2, what do you need to do with what God has shown you?

Psalm 311 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. 2 Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. 3 Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. 4 Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. 5 Into my hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth. 6 I hate those who cling to worthless idols; I trust in the LORD. 7 I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. 8 You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place. 9 Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief. 10 My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my bones grow weak. 11 Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of all my neighbors; I am a dread to my friends - those who see me on the street flee from me. 12 I am forgotten by them as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery. 13 For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life. 14 But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." 15 My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. 16 Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love. 17 Let me not be put to shame, O LORD, for I have cried out to you; but let the wicked be put to shame and lie silent in the grave. 18 Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous. 19 How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. 20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues. 21 Praise be to the LORD, for he showed his wonderful love to me when I was in a besieged city, 22 In my alarm I said, "I am cut off from your sight!" Yet you heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help. 23 Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full. 24 Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Shaquille O'Neal has some of the biggest hands in the history of the NBA. His hands are 10.25 inches in length and 12 inches in width.

Jeremiah used the phrase "terror on every side" six times in his writings: Jeremiah 6:25, 20:3, 20:10, 46:5, 49:29, Lamentations 2:22.

The "cross trilogy" in the Psalms is made up of Psalm 22, Psalm 31, and Psalm 69. These three psalms uniquely bring us close to the heart of Jesus when he was on the cross.

The Hebrew word translated as "spirit" in verse 5 literally is the word for breath. Jesus is entrusting his every breath into the hands of His Father.

Wisdom about suffering: "I will never get over this sadness, but I trust the Lord will carry me through it." DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Icebreaker (optional): Use a measuring tape or ruler to see who has the largest hands in your group. Length is measured from the bend of the wrist to the top of the middle finger and width is measured from your outstretched pinky to your outstretched thumb.
The Psalms are an incredible resource for the church. This collection of prayers and songs have given us words to say when we don't know what to say; words to pray when we don't know what to pray. Can you think of a time in your life when the psalms have blessed you in this way? Share with your group.
The phrase from Psalm 31 that Jeremiah repeats six times in his writings is from verse 13, "terror on every side." Read verses 9 and 10 of Psalm 31. Highlight the words that David used to describe his circumstance. Can you think of a time in your life when you have felt similar to David in these verses, like you are surrounded on every side by suffering? Share with your group.
Jesus' final words on the cross are taken from Psalm 31:5, "Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit." How might this prayer specifically minister to someone who is suffering?
This bit of wisdom about suffering was shared with me this week, "I will never get over it, but I trust the Lord will get me through it." Discuss this perspective on suffering with your group.
The final verse of Psalm 31 in the Message reads, "Be brave. Be strong. Don't give up. Expect God to get here soon." I summarized Eugene Peterson's words in this way: "Don't give up. Expect God to show up." How might this message encourage someone in their suffering? Discuss with your group.

Luke 10:38-4238 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. (NIV 84)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Read Luke 7:19; Jesus saw the importance of eating with others, especially non believers, what has changed for our society that we no longer make that a priority? 2. Recall a time where a meal had more meaning than just food, who did you share it with, and why was it significant? 3. Do you see your table as a place for evangelism, why or why not? 4. How many meals a week do you spend alone or distracted? 5. What are some obstacles in your life that are keeping you from making the most of your meals? How can you overcome them?

Philippians 3:3-143 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh - 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless. 7 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I considered them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith. 10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

1 I know who I am - confident in our purpose/mission of sharing the gospel
2 I know whom I serve - confident in Christ and his power, and not in the flesh
3 I know where I am going - confident in our eternal future and not clinging to the worldDISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Ice breaker: What is one time that you were extremely confident about something and ended up being totally wrong (and maybe were a little bit embarrassed in the end)?

2 I know who I am: Do you see "The Great Commission" (Matthew 28:18-20) as your purpose or mission in life? How can you be more intentional in living it out as such? Who are some people that you can begin to focus on reaching right now where God has currently positioned you? What are some ways you can broaden your circle to reach others you don't yet know?

3 I know whom I serve: In Philippians, we see Paul's ability to be content and have confidence regardless of his circumstances. What circumstances are hardest for you to be content in? What circumstances do you find your faith tested the most in? Is there anything about your current circumstance that you need to find contentment in?

4 I know whom I serve: Read Philippians 4:6-7. In moments when your faith is tested, do you tend to find your strength in yourself or in Christ? (Hint: Typically, what is your first response? To fix it on your own or to take it to God in prayer?)

5 I know where I am going: Read Philippians 3:7-14. What are some earthly comforts or possessions (or other distractions) that might keep you from pursuing your purpose relentlessly? How can you learn to "forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead?"GROUP PRAYER SUGGESTIONS* Pray for God to help you remain focused on His purpose and mission in your life * Pray for God to open your eyes to people that you can share faith and to give you the courage and power through His spirit to do it * Pray for help trusting in God in all circumstances, and letting Him be the first one you go to in times of trouble * Pray for confidence in your eternal future and for God to remove any distractions that keep you from being focused on that ultimate prize * Thank God for those he has placed in your life that have been faithful examples and encouragements in your faith journey

Psalm 301 I will exalt you, O LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. 2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. 3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit. 4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his; praise his holy name. 5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. 6 When I felt secure, I said, "I will never be shaken." 7 O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed. 8 To you, O LORD, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy; 9 "What gain is there in my destruction, in my going down into the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it proclaim your faithfulness? 10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; O LORD, be my help." 11 You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, 12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Four ways to understand the ups and downs in our lives:
1 Good occurs with the bad
2 Good outweighs the bad
3 Good originates from the bad
4 Good overcomes the bad

David uses three D's to describe his situation in life:
1 You lifted me out of the depths (verse 1)
2 When you hid your face, I was dismayed (verse 7)
3 What gain is there in my destruction (verse 9)

Understanding the character of God:
His anger is always appropriate but His favor is forever (verse 5).

Having a Sleepover with Sorrow:
Literally, weeping is personified in this psalm as one who comes to spend the night with us (verse 5). DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Ice breaker: what has been your relationship with roller coasters? Do you have any good roller coaster stories to share with the group?

2 The lesson looked at four ways for us to think about the ups and downs in our lives. The first way is that good occurs with the bad. We recognize that we live in a beautiful but broken world. David describes his life with these words: depths, dismayed, and destruction. Can you recall a situation or a season in your life when you felt this way? How does it help to recognize that good occurs with the bad?

3 The second way is that good outweighs the bad. Read again verse 5a. "For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime." When you think about God, which one outweighs the other in your mind, His anger or His favor? Discuss this as it pertains to the character of God. Now, when you step back and look at your lifetime, does the good outweigh the bad? How does this way help you think about the ups and downs in your life?

4 The third way is that there is good that originates from bad. Qualities like perseverance, patience, endurance, toughness, strength of character, hope, empathy and compassion are all good qualities that come from bad situations. Can you think of any other good qualities like these? How does this way help you think about the ups and downs in your life?

5 Read again verse 11 and 12. The final way is that good overcomes the bad. It is the good news of the gospel. The one who is good overcomes all that is bad. Jesus overcomes every sin. Jesus overcomes all evil. Jesus overcomes sorrow and suffering. Jesus even overcomes death. How does knowing Jesus change the way you deal with the ups and downs of life?

Matthew 28:18-2018 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV 84)DAY OF PRAYER

Four Areas of Prayer for Southside based on the Great Commission:

1 Respond to the Mission of Jesus - go and make disciples
2 Participate in the Life of Jesus - baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
3 Obey the Teachings of Jesus - teach them to obey everything I have commanded you
4 Trust in the Presence of Jesus - and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age

Exodus 2:23 - 3:1023 During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people of Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God. 24 And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. 25 God saw the people of Israel—and God knew.

1 Now Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, and he led his flock to the west side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 And the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush. He looked, and behold, the bush was burning, yet it was not consumed. 3 And Moses said, “I will turn aside to see this great sight, why the bush is not burned.” 4 When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” 5 Then he said, “Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” 6 And he said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God.

7 Then the Lord said, “I have surely seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters. I know their sufferings, 8 and I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 9 And now, behold, the cry of the people of Israel has come to me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them. 10 Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” (ESV)

FROM THE LESSON

Maximilien Robespierre and King Louis XVI
"What if the King had gotten out of the carriage?"

Main players in the early chapters of Exodus:
Israelites - "slaves with no hope"
Pharaoh - "thinks he is a god"
Moses - "a failed hero"

The Exodus is a forever reminder that God cares and is at work.

Exodus 2:25 - "God saw ... and God knew."

Our King has gotten out of the carriage. We can remember that and honor it by:* Remembering how Jesus stepped into our story. * Sharing our stories and testimonies about what God is doing in our lives.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

The sermon discussed how there are some moments where one person in the right place can totally change the course of someone's future. What is a specific moment in time that you feel made a huge difference in your or someone else's life?

If God doesn't choose to get involved in the story of Exodus, how might it have played out?

Moses seemed very surprised at God's intervention in history. Do you think we expect God's activity in our lives, or are we more often surprised by it?

What are some moments you look back on that help you remember that God is still at work today?

How does having confidence that God is active in our lives change the way we live?

Acts 17:16-3422 Paul then stood up in the meeting of Aeropagus and said: "Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you. (NIV 84)

Acts 17:10-1510 As soon as it was night, the brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 11 Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men. 13 When the Jews in Thessalonica learned that Paul was preaching the word of God at Berea, they went there too, agitating the crowds and stirring them up. 14 The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed at Berea. 15 The men who escorted Paul brought him to Athens and then left with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

John G. Fee - born in Bracken County, KY in 1816, Fee was called by God to preach the gospel of "impartial love" to his native state of Kentucky. In 1853, Cassius Clay gave him 10 acres of land in Madison County to come and pastor a church in that area. Fee would establish a church, a school, and a tiny village. His vision for the school was the co-education of the races. When Fee was asked to name the new settlement, Fee called it Berea after the Biblical town in Acts 17. His hope for the people of the new settlement was they would, like the Bereans of the New Testament, receive this message of "impartial love" with great eagerness.

Compare and contrast - one thing you pick up on when studying the writings of Luke, both his gospel and Acts, is he often uses the writing technique of compare and contrast, where he places two people or events side by side in order to make a point. It is a very effective way to write and it forces the reader to stop and consider the two very different responses. Some examples of this technique are found in Luke 1, Luke 4, Acts 4, and in Acts 17.

Humble and hungry (verse 11) - the Bereans still stand today as the Biblical model of how to receive the Word of God. They received the word with great eagerness, this takes humility. Humility is the attitude that allows you to receive a word from someone else. They also examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true, this takes hunger. Hunger is a feeling that happens daily and not just on the first day of the week. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Have you ever noticed Luke's use of the writing technique called compare and contrast? Some of the examples are of Zechariah and Mary's responses to the angel in Luke 1, the reactions of Nazareth and Capernaum in Luke 4, the responses of Barnabas and Ananias in Acts 4-5, and the responses of Thessalonica and Berea in Acts 17. Spend some time comparing and contrasting these different responses in Luke's writings. Discuss the effectiveness of this writing technique.

2 The Bereans were "humble and hungry" instead of "zealous and jealous" like the Thessalonians. How does the example of the Bereans serve as a model for you of how to receive the Word of God? How does it challenge and encourage you?

3 Whenever and wherever the gospel of Jesus Christ is proclaimed, there will be opposition. This is because Jesus came into the world not just to be born a King at Christmas but to become your King at conversion. There are some who want Jesus to be their King, however most do not. How does the language of Jesus reigning and ruling on the throne of your heart change the way you live?

Acts 17:1-91 When they had passed through Amaphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where they was a Jewish synagogue. 2 As his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. "This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ," he said. 4 Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women. 5 But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. 6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other brothers before the city officials, shouting: "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, 7 and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar's decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus. 8 When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. 9 Then they made Jason and the others post bond and let them go. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Proving (verse 3) - this word literally means to "place beside." This explains Paul's approach in the synagogue. He places the Christ of the Jewish Scriptures beside the Jesus of history in order to prove that it is the same person. He places beside each other the prophecies of the Christ and the person of Jesus.

Another king (verse 7) - the charge made against Paul and Silas by the mob is that they are turning the world upside down by saying there is another king.
Not "just" another king similar to ones they have known, but another kind of king altogether. The world has never seen a king like Jesus.

The one who has been born king (Matthew 2:2) - Jesus is the only person who has ever been born a king. Even if someone is born into a family line of kings, the child is not born a king. Jesus came into the world as a king. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1 Paul explained from the Jewish Scriptures how the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. If you were given this task which Scriptures from the Old Testament would you use to explain these important truths.

2 Jesus is "another" king. He is not "just" another king like all the other kings before him. He is another kind of king altogether. His kingdom will be unlike any other kingdom the world has ever seen. In what ways is Jesus another kind of king? How will His kingdom be unlike any other kingdom the world has seen?

3 The wise men hosted a baby shower for the one who had been born king. They gave Jesus gifts of Myrrh (symbolizing his death and burial), Incense (symbolizing his worship), and Gold (symbolizing his royalty). Discuss the significance of these gifts and how they help us to understand the kingship of Jesus.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Describe a moment when you realized you are not in control.
Did that moment of realization draw you closer to God?
Did that moment of realization drive you away from God?How do you see the issue of control come into play throughout the interaction between Jesus and Pilate in John 18-19?
"You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above." (John 19:11)
What do you learn about control in your context based on Jesus' statement to Pilate?Describe a time when you tried to get control.
Describe a time when you tried to keep control.
Describe a time when you were glad to give up control.What encouragement do you get from Paul's clear teaching in 1 Corinthians 3:5-7 that God is the one in control of outcomes?
For this coming week, share one area of your life which you will practice giving up control.

Job 42:1-6
Then Job answered the Lord and said:

“I know that you can do all things,
and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’
Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.
‘Hear, and I will speak;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.’
I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
but now my eye sees you;
therefore I despise myself,
and repent in dust and ashes.”FROM THE LESSON

Job’s Friends: Job’s friends utilize the standard wisdom of the ancient world, leading them to the conclusion that, because Job’s suffering is so immense, he must have committed evil acts.Their debate with Job, who maintains his innocence, takes place across three cycles, wherein Job states his case, and his friends respond (chapters 13-14, chapters 15-21, and chapters 22-28).The arguments they present take the basic following forms:The Big Assumption: Both Job and his friends are operating on the assumption that God works in the following way:Transactional Relationships: a transactional relationship operates with the assumption that when you provide someone else with something favorable, they are obligated to respond in kind. When we view our relationships with people as transactional, we are looking for ways to control them.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice breaker: what are some funny questions you’ve run into. What are some hard questions you’ve pondered?2. How did you feel about the story of the father and his 9-year-old daughter? Which parts of the story did you relate to or connect with?3. When have you found yourself viewing others through a transactional lens? What does it look like when we view God this way?4. How can hard or challenging questions draw us nearer to God rather than distance us from him? Are there certain approaches we can take to questions that can impact that?5. Job, although he doesn’t get the answer to his question, does get a glimpse of how vast creation is, and how amazing it is that the God who made it all would come and speak with him. What are some things that remind you that you are significant and precious to God?

Acts 16:35-4035 When it was daylight, the magistrates sent their officers to the jailer with the order: "Release those men." 36 The jailer told Paul, "The magistrates have ordered that you and Silas be released. Now you can leave. Go in peace. 37 But Paul said to the officers: "They beat us publicly without a trial, even though we are Roman citizens, and threw us into prison. And now do they want to get rid of us quietly? No! Let them come themselves and escort us out." 38 The officers reported this to the magistrates, and when they heard that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, they were alarmed. 39 They came to appease them and escorted them from the prison, requesting them to leave the city. 40 After Paul and Silas came out of prison, they went to Lydia's house, where they met with the brothers and sisters and encouraged them. Then they left.FROM THE LESSON

"Civis Romanus Sum" - I am a Roman citizen. In the Roman Empire, these three Latin words carried with them the weight of all the legal rights and social privileges of a Roman citizen. All anyone had to do was declare this statement and safety was said to be guaranteed to you.

But we are citizens of heaven - "Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your life after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior." (Philippians 3:17-20 NLT)

Rights and privileges - as citizens of heaven, we too have been given rights and privileges. We have been given the right to become children of God and we have been given the privilege of trusting in Christ, even in our suffering. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Ice breaker: can you think of an example from your life when you have tried to live as a citizen of two worlds so to speak? I shared a personal example of being a fan of both Georgia football AND Kentucky basketball.
Prior to the lesson today, how have you thought about both being a citizen of earth AND a citizen of heaven?
Read again Philippians 3:17-20. What insight does Paul give in these verses about being a citizen of heaven?

4 Philippi was a Roman colony. The desire of a Roman citizen in a place like Philippi was to bring Rome to Philippi. The task was to establish a Roman community there in Philippi. How does knowing this context help shape your understanding of what it means to be a citizen of heaven?

5 We have been given the right to become children of God and we have been given the privilege of trusting in Christ? What does it mean to you to have been given these rights and privileges as a citizen of heaven?

6 Practically speaking, what does it mean for us as a church to live as citizens of heaven in this place?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Describe a time when you experienced a pivotal moment regarding truth - a truth you'd been ignoring or a truth you never knew.2. When have you tried to trick or trap or bribe or manipulate God? When have you sidelined God's sovereignty?3. What stands out to you in this Matthew 22:15-46?4. When have you had difficulty accepting God's timing or his perceived lack of action in a situation you were deeply connected to?5. Talk about your desire, maybe even your need, to be in control. Where does God's sovereignty fit into your pursuit of control?

1 Samuel 9:3-14
3 Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. So Kish said to Saul his son, “Take one of the young
men with you, and arise, go and look for the donkeys.” 4 And he passed through the hill country of
Ephraim and passed through the land of Shalishah, but they did not find them. And they passed through
the land of Shaalim, but they were not there. Then they passed through the land of Benjamin, but did
not find them.
5 When they came to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant who was with him, “Come, let us go back,
lest my father cease to care about the donkeys and become anxious about us.” 6 But he said to him,
“Behold, there is a man of God in this city, and he is a man who is held in honor; all that he says comes
true. So now let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us the way we should go.” 7 Then Saul said to his
servant, “But if we go, what can we bring the man? For the bread in our sacks is gone, and there is no
present to bring to the man of God. What do we have?” 8 The servant answered Saul again, “Here, I
have with me a quarter of a shekel of silver, and I will give it to the man of God to tell us our way.” 9
(Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he said, “Come, let us go to the seer,” for
today's “prophet” was formerly called a seer.) 10 And Saul said to his servant, “Well said; come, let us
go.” So they went to the city where the man of God was.
11 As they went up the hill to the city, they met young women coming out to draw water and said to
them, “Is the seer here?” 12 They answered, “He is; behold, he is just ahead of you. Hurry. He has come
just now to the city, because the people have a sacrifice today on the high place. 13 As soon as you
enter the city you will find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat. For the people will not eat till
he comes, since he must bless the sacrifice; afterward those who are invited will eat. Now go up, for you
will meet him immediately.” 14 So they went up to the city. As they were entering the city, they saw
Samuel coming out toward them on his way up to the high place.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Have there been times in your own life when you have seen God's providence in the way quite ordinary things have come together into a wonderful providential pattern? 2. Why is it disrespectful to expect God always to explain his ways to us when we do not understand them? What should we be doing instead? 3. "There is a time to mourn and a time to dance." Samuel was stuck in mourning because of the failure of Saul's opportunity to be king. But God was ready for him to dance because he had found a king "after God's own heart." How can this example help you navigate the emotional challenges of life? 4. How can you apply the principle of "God looks at the heart" in your relationships and assessments of others? 5. How does God's choice of David encourage you in your current stage of life (or career)?

Mark 10:17-22
17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”
20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.
(NIV)FROM THE LESSON

1 Peter 5:8-9
8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Romans 8:38-39
38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.A QUESTION TO CONSIDER: Have I drawn "a line in the sand" in my heart?

A PHRASE TO REMEMBER: "God loves you, and so do I."

A WAY TO LIVE: SurrenderDISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. What are some examples of people fighting for unworthy things? Have you ever discovered yourself in that position? 2. Why might we be tempted to "dig in" and fight God rather than surrendering to him? 3. The Bible describes the devil as a lion that wants to devour us. How do you tend to view sin? Do you think of it more as a personal struggle, or something with wider-reaching effects? 4. What does surrender to Jesus look like? 5. How do you tend to respond when someone shares a struggle with you? How can we make our community a place where people feel able to share struggles?

Acts 16:25-3425 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!" 29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" 31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved - you and your household." 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his family were baptized. 34 The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God - he and his whole family. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

In verse 26, the Greek words translated as "violent earthquake" are seismos megas. You don't have to be a Greek scholar to understand these words. It was a seismic occurrence of mega proportions.

In 2 Corinthians 11:25-28, Paul gave the details of his sufferings, he wrote, "I have been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger of bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea, and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressures of my concern for all the churches."

In verses 33-34, all of the acts the jailer performed for Paul and Silas following his conversion - washing their wounds, being baptized, removing the prisoners from the jail and bringing them into his house for a meal - were all acts punishable by death according to Roman law.WHAT IS BELIEF IN THE LORD JESUS?* It is not about assurance. Belief does not exempt us from having bad days. * It is not about an amount. Belief is not subjective, it is objective. It's what you believe, not how much you believe. * It is all about allegiance. Belief is best described as allegiance to Jesus as King.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. What do you think about or how does it make you feel when you read in verse 25 that Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God while suffering in prison? 2. Belief in the Lord Jesus does not assure you good health and lots of wealth. It's important to understand that belief is not about assurance. Have you ever struggled with this understanding of belief? 3. Belief in the Lord Jesus has nothing to do with an amount. It's important to understand that it's what you believe about Jesus, not how much you believe in Him. Have you ever struggled with this understanding of belief? 4. Belief in the Lord Jesus is about allegiance to Jesus as the King. It's important to understand that Jesus reigns from the right hand of the Father and is the Sovereign Lord of the Universe. How does this understanding of belief help us to make it through the difficulties of this life?

Acts 16:16-2416 Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. 17 This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved." 18 She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" At that moment the spirit left her. 19 When the owners of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20 They brought them before the magistrates and said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21 by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice. 22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to stripped and beaten. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. (NIV 84)FROM THE LESSON

Spirit of a Python: in verse 16, Luke literally reports that this slave girl had the "spirit of a python." This is a reference to the young women who served as priestess at the Oracle at Delphi. These women were called Pythia, named after the Python dragon that the Greek god Apollo had defeated.

Ventriloquism: in verse 16, the word translated as "fortune-telling" will also be used to describe the art of ventriloquism. This is how the Greeks would have thought about what was happening with this slave girl. The words she spoke would have been understood as the very words of the gods being spoken through her, just like a ventriloquist and his puppet.

IJM: International Justice Mission is a Christian organization that partners with local authorities all around the world to combat human trafficking and slavery, particularly violence against women and the exploitation of children. You can check out the incredible work they do at www.ijm.org.WHY SPEAK THE NAME OF JESUS?* We speak the name of Jesus because we submit our lives to His authority. * We speak the name of Jesus because we want to live without any ambiguity. * We speak the name of Jesus because we desire to see His liberating activity.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. How many times did you speak the name of Jesus last week? Think about it and try to come up with a number. 2. Paul wrote in Philippians 2:9 that "His name is above every name and at the name of Jesus every knee should bow." How can you speak the name of Jesus more in your day to day life as a way of submitting your life to His authority? 3. Peter spoke these words in Acts 4:12, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved." Peter was crystal clear with his message. How can you speak the name of Jesus more in your day to day life as a way of living without any ambiguity? 4. The angel of the Lord told Joseph in Matthew 1:21, "You are to give him the name Jesus because he will set His people free from sin." How can you speak the name of Jesus more in your day to day life as a way of seeing His liberating activity?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcmqSfr1ENY

Matthew 6:2424 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." (NIV 84)

24 "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money." (NLT)FROM THE LESSON

Three Conversions: "There are three conversions necessary: the conversion of the mind, the conversion of the heart and the conversion of the wallet." (Martin Luther)

Conquering Greed: "Guilt is conquered by confession, anger is conquered by forgiveness, and greed is conquered by generosity." (Andy Stanley)

The Principle of the Tithe: God is looking for our first and best. That may be 10% or it may be more.

The Principle of Ownership: God owns it all. "To the Lord belongs the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it." (Deuteronomy 10:14)WHY DON'T WE CHOOSE TO BE GENEROUS?* Procrastination * Hesitation * Exception

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. How open are you to talk honestly about money? What kinds of feelings arise within you when you read what Jesus says about money? Luke 6:24; 12:15; Matthew 6:19; 19:24

What do you think about Jesus positioning money as a rival god in Matthew 6:24? What crazy things have you seen people do to get more money or to cling to what money they have?
How do you find yourself resistant to the direction given to you in your Bible to "give it away"? Why do you have so much?
The principle of the tithe is "first and best". What does that mean for you in the context of giving? Which of the three ideas have negatively impacted your giving: procrastination, hesitation, exception?
"God owns it all." How does this truth make a difference in your giving?

Acts 16:11-1511 From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day on to Naeapolis. 12 From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of the district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days. 13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshipper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her house. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us. (NIV 84)THE CHARACTERISTICS OF CONVERSIONHumility: Don Meyer was the head men's basketball coach at Lipscomb University for 25 years. When he retired in 2009, he was the winningest coach in college basketball history with a record of 923-324. One of his life principles was: "Always Take Notes."

Hungry: Louie Gigglio is a Christian pastor and founder of the Passion Movement. He wrote this about worship, "Worship is simply about value. Worship is our response to whatever we value the most in our lives."

Hospitality: John Stott, in his commentary on Acts, wrote this about the conversion of Lydia, "For once her heart was opened, her home was opened too." THE CONCEPTS OF CONVERSION* Paul gladly shares because conversion is intentional. * God graciously opens because conversion is spiritual. * Lydia genuinely responds because conversion is personal.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Take a few moments and share your conversion story with someone. Do you have a favorite conversion story? Share that story with someone. 2. There is an important principle established in Scripture (Proverbs 3:34, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5). The principle is this, "God gives grace to the humble, but He opposes the proud." How have you seen this principle in your life or in the narrative of Scripture? 3. The word translated "speak" in verse 13 is not a word used for teaching or preaching, it is a more casual word that means to have a personal conversation. Who shared in this way with you about Jesus? Who is someone in your life that you could share with about Jesus? 4. The mystery of conversion is how all three of the concepts of conversion come together as one in a beautiful way. Does knowing all three of these concepts help you to better understand conversion? How? 5. When conversion happens in a person's life, fruit is produced. In the conversion of Lydia, the fruit of hospitality is immediately produced. What kind of fruit have you seen produced in your life or in another person's life due to conversion?

Acts 16:6-106 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man from Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. (NIV 84)ABOUT THE LESSONAsking for Directions: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and the one who knocks, the door will be opened." Jesus, Matthew 7:7-8

Both/And: In his commentary on Acts, John Stott wrote these verses teach that God's guidance is both negative and positive (some doors close and others open), both circumstantial and rational (situations happen and we think about them), both personal and corporate (sharing a vision in order to reach a common mind).

"The Macedonian Call" - it often takes a special call to break new ground. This is more than just a call to a different province, this is a call to a new continent. Paul and his companions will become the first missionaries on European soil. THREE PRINCIPLES WHEN YOU'RE UNSURE ABOUT WHAT'S NEXT* A map is not included. Ask, seek, and knock are the action verbs of the disciple. * We have a guide. Learn to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. * Keep your eyes on the prize. Submit to God's no because you trust God's yes.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Have you ever been unsure about "what's next" in your life? Have you ever asked God, "so, now what?" How did you seek the Lord's guidance and direction? 2. Have you ever stopped and ask for directions? Does the principle of a map not being included in a life of faith encourage or discourage you? Why? How can you grow in the practice of asking, seeking, and knocking? 3. Disciples of Jesus are sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. How have you experienced the leading of the Spirit in your life? 4. Can you think of an example from your life when it seemed like God was saying No? We can submit to God's no because we trust God's yes. How have you seen this principle in your life?

1 He came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. 2 The brothers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. 3 Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, so he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4 As they traveled from town to town, they delivered the decisions reached by the apostles and elders in Jerusalem for the people to obey. 5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in number. (NIV 84)ABOUT THE LESSON"The Dechurching of America" - we are currently experiencing the largest and fastest religious shift in the history of our country, as about 40 million formerly regular Christian worshippers have decided they no longer desire to attend church at all. This accounts for around 16 percent of our adult population. Definition of spiritual formation - the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others (Invitation to a Journey: A Roadmap for Spiritual Formation, Robert Mullholand).Agape - this is the highest form of love. It is the love modeled by Jesus to his disciples. It is a selfless, sacrificial, and serving love. In the KJV Bible, the word is translated as "charity" when it refers to one Christian showing it to another Christian. WHY GIVE CHURCH A SECOND CHANCE?* Because of the need for community: give people a second chance. * Because of the life of conformity: give the process a second chance. * Because of the outcome of charity: give the possibility a second chance.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. What do you think about this movement in our country that has been called the "dechurching of America?" Have you experienced hurt or had negative experiences in the church? Have you had to give church a second chance? 2. Humans are created by God with a need for community. How have you seen this to be true in your life? Discuss both the difficulty and the importance of community. 3. What do you think about the above definition of spiritual formation? Discuss specifically the phrase "for the sake of others." 4. Jesus says that we should love each other as He has loved us. It is the highest form of love. What are some examples of how you have experienced this kind of love through the church?

Acts 15:36-41

Acts 14:8-22

We apologize for the sound distortion

Questions 1 and 2

Introduction

Luke 7:11-23

Acts 12:1-19

Acts 11:19-30

Mark 10:13-16

A night of celebrating Godly marriage

Acts 11:1-18

Acts 10:23-48

Acts 10:1-23

Acts 9:32-43

Easter Sunday

Acts 9:19b-31

Philippians 1:1-8

Colossians 2:6-7

Psalm 29

Psalm 28

Psalm 27

Psalm 26

Psalm 25

Psalm 24

Communion thoughts by Barrett. Four prayers offered by some of our shepherds as we enter 2023.

Guest speaker from a missionary in Chile

Psalm 116:1-9

Acts 2:14-21

Easter Sunday

Luke 24:1-8

1 Samuel 2:1-10

Psalm 23

Psalm 22

Psalm 21

Psalm 20

Psalm 19

Ephesians 4:7-16

Ephesians 4:1-6

Ephesians 2:11-22

Ephesians 2:8-10

Ephesians 2:4-7

Ephesians 2:1-3

Easter Sunday

4 of 4 in a series

3 of 4 in a series

2 of 4 in a series

1 of 4 in a series

Psalm 18

Psalm 17

Psalm 16

Psalm 15

Using the A.C.T.S prayer model (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication)

Advent Series (#4 of 4)

Advent series (#3 of 4)

Advent Series (2 of 4)

Advent Series (1 of 4)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Beginning of a series on Lament

1 Peter 1:8-12

1 Peter 1:6-7

Luke 12:29-34

Luke 12:22-34

EASTER SUNDAY

Exodus 2:11-3:5

Guest speaker - Dr. Carson Reed