Journey Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Journey Church Everett
Listen to messages from the pastors at Journey Church in Everett, Washington. To get to know us a little more and what we believe visit www.joininthejourney.com for more details.
Paul urges the church that he loves to keep the glorious realities of the gospel and the hope of their future resurrection before their eyes. And with that supremely satisfying and secure future in view, remain steadfast as they live for Christ.
The family is an institution created and sustained by God. And God has appointed that fathers have a unique and special calling in the life of their family. Fathers are to train their children in the instruction of the Lord, lead by example and equip their children for the future.
The Apostle Peter writes to encourage Christians who are suffering by reminding them that God’s mercy has caused them to be born again into a living hope. Our great hope is none other than the resurrected Christ. Jesus died and took up his life again, conquering over the grave. Because Jesus is alive from the dead, we have hope. In every circumstance, in every trial we have hope. Therefore, in chapter 2, Peter points the suffering Christian to remember who they are and why they are here!
Proverbs is chalked full of wisdom for living. Proverbs teaches us how to put the wisdom of God and Christ himself at the center of our lives.
The previous chapters gave us a bird’s eye view of Israel’s evil but these next few chapters give us the ground level detailed view of what life in Israel was like at the time and it’s not pretty. As we will see in Judges in 17-18, the danger that plagued the Israelites is they sought to conform God and the worship of God to their own personal desires. And as we will see, that kind of religion does not save.
We are delighted to welcome Lance Caddel as our guest preacher this morning. Lance most recently pastored Valley Christian Fellowship in Longview Washington and now serves as Evangelism and Church Health Leader for the Northwest Baptist Convention.
This week we seek to honor mothers and motherhood. Motherhood is hard work! And it is a work that is meant to be done in the strength the Lord provides.
We are delighted to welcome Lance Caddel as our guest preacher this morning. Lance most recently pastored Valley Christian Fellowship in Longview Washington and now serves as Evangelism and Church Health Leader for the Northwest Baptist Convention.
We are delighted to welcome Lance Caddel as our guest preacher this morning. Lance most recently pastored Valley Christian Fellowship in Longview Washington and now serves as Evangelism and Church Health Leader for the Northwest Baptist Convention.
Easter Sunday and every Sunday we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. After his sacrificial, substitutionary and atoning death, Jesus rose from the dead and his resurrection brings peace, purpose and power to those who repent and place their trust in him.
This morning we are pleased to have Alan Rieb of Restoration Road Church preach for us.
In these chapters we observe Samson's many flaws. But at the lowest moment of his life he rightfully, turns to the Lord and the Lord hears his cry.
As we study the life of Samson, we see he is both exceptionally gifted by God and deeply flawed. Nevertheless, God is not hindered from accomplishing his purposes through Samson on behalf of Israel. God is able to work through even man's sinful choices to fulfill his glorious will.
This morning we are delighted to welcome Pastor Jim Fikkert to preach for us. Jim is the pastor of Communion Church in Mount Vernon and president of the 3 Strand Church Network.
This morning we come to the last of the 12 judges, a man named Samson. Samson is the climatic judge in the book. The author wants us to see something unique about Samson. Although he was a deeply flawed hero, we see in him wonderful hints of the perfect Savior and Judge to come. More than any other judge, Samson is prefiguring Christ and preparing us for God's Messiah.
The Christian is not promised an easy life yet Paul commands the Philippians not to be anxious but at all times to rejoice in the Lord. Despite the trials and suffering we experience, we are exhorted to trust in the Lord's sovereignty and goodness rather than doubt His plans and control. Such doubts lead to worry which underestimates God's power, care, and knowledge of our situation. The antidote to anxious living is faithful prayer. The Lord uses prayer to direct our needs, correct our priorities, and increase our joy. The end result of His Spirit working within the faithful Christian is a peace that endures, guards, and comforts.
Israel foolishly picks a deeply flawed man to lead them and as a result, pays a dear price. We see in these chapters that failing to guard one's heart leads to idolatry, adopting the values of the culture and causes division among God's people.
Israel once again spirals downward into apostasy, but this time they are let down by their judge. Gideon fails to finish his life and ministry well. And as a result, suffering and judgment befall Israel. And we are left longing for the ONE, the leader of God's people who will lead not disappoint.
God delights to show himself strong and sufficient in our weakness. Not only that, but the Lord lives with us in understanding ways. He knows our frame. And He is generous in his assurance and patient in our frailty.
In Judges chapters 4-5 we are presented with another example of the incredible providence and wisdom of our great God who orders all things according to his divine purpose and plan.
Judges chapter three provides us with another example of God saving his people from their well-deserved afflictions. This is a story of deliverance. This is a story of salvation! We are meant to see how God delights to save his people from their afflictions. And He even works through human weakness to do so.
In Chapter 2 we learn the roots of Israel apostasy. And we should learn from their failure and use their example as a warning for our lives. In addition we see the only thing that outlasts Israel's sin is God's mercy and steadfast love.
This morning we begin a new sermon series in the book of Judges. The book of Judges recounts God's mercy and long suffering with his people. And his decision to continually work through his people despite their flaws, weaknesses and even at times, their resistance to his purposes.
As we come to the end of 2021 and look to the dawn of 2022, we want to work to establish and maintain a growing and vibrant prayer life. This morning we examine Psalm 103 and learn from David how to kindle our hearts into fervent prayer.
When God's people were walking in darkness, God chose to send the light of his Son. And the promised Savior comes to us fully sufficient for all our need
Hope is powerful. Hope has the ability to uplift our thoughts and emotions even in the midst of affliction. At Christmas we celebrate the coming of our hope securing Savior. As a result of his life, death and resurrection, those united to Jesus by faith have the greatest hope possible.
During advent we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ - the promised Prince of Peace. In John 14:27, we reflect on the implications of the peace Christ brings, and how it is superior than anything the world has to offer. My hope, is that the truths this verse points us to will grow us in our love for Jesus and sustain us in those times where peace is hard to find.
The Christmas Season brings with it a tenderness and spirit of love among human beings. Christmas softens us up and leads us to give of ourselves more freely. And that is because, at the heart of Christmas is love. Christmas reminds us that God loves us, even when we were at our worst. And because of his love for us, He has drawn near to us that we might receive eternal life.
One the great reminders of Advent is that God desires for us to have joy. And He is so committed to our joy that He secures the means by which we can have joy now and forever. Christmas is a reminder that the Lord is seeking us, inviting us to delight ourselves in him.
Paul ends his letter to the Corinthians with a call to self-examination and an admonition. First, he urges them to test themselves to see if Christ is really in them. In everyone whom Christ dwells, there is transformation and a desire for unity. And finally, Paul prescribes 5 admonitions as an antidote to their division, disunity and rebellion. If followed, restoration and peace will be theirs in abundance.
As Paul's letter to the Corinthians draws to a close, he makes one final attempt to lead the Corinthians to repentance before he arrives. For when he arrives, he anticipates that God will use him to bring discipline and judgment to this presently deceptive and abusive band of false apostles. And he desires to spare them that. Instead, he desires to work for their good in Christ and be used to build them up in Christ.
This week we look at Jesus' high priestly prayer in the upper room. In his prayer, Jesus prays for his disciples who will carry on his mission in the world, to invite the world into the love and unity of the Trinity. And He prays for us. We too are to live in the world as witnesses for Christ.
At this point in the letter, the Apostle Paul describes one of the most difficult things for us to grasp and believe about the Christian life, which is, God purposely blesses us with weakness and affliction for our good. Paul doesn't merely know this metaphorically, he has experienced it personally, first hand. God's sustaining grace in his weakness has radically reformed him and heightened his joy.
Paul, filled with fatherly affection for the Corinthians, is zealous to protect them from false apostles who are in reality deceitful workmen. So Paul demolishes their arguments and seeks to bolster the church's devotion to Christ.
Paul goes on the offensive against his opponents in the church in Corinth. He tears down their arguments and opinions that run contrary to the gospel and sets himself apart as one who boasts only in the Lord.
Paul continues to encourage the Corinthians to give generously to relieve the suffering of the saints in Jerusalem. He assures them of the integrity of the offering and extols cheerful giving which will rebound with God's blessings.
With their relationship restored, Paul invites the Corinthians to resume their contribution to the offering for the saints in Jerusalem. God's grace working in them will lead to their generosity towards their brothers and sisters in need.
Paul rejoices that his prior tearful and severe letter to the Corinthians was used by God to lead them to repent and be reconciled. Through his words, the Holy Spirit has wrought godly grief that has led to repentance and salvation. Paul rejoices in their faith and has great joy when others prosper in the Lord.
Psalm 128 is a celebration of the family and picture of how the godly enjoy blessedness in their homes. In our study of these verses we will see, that as good as this vision of the family is, it is ultimately pointing to something far greater.
Having encountered the risen Christ and been forgiven all his sin, Paul uses the rest of his life seeking to persuade others of the gospel. The love of Jesus has transformed him. He is a new creation in Christ. And as such, he heralds the glorious news of the gospel.
In these verses, Paul shares that to remain hopeful and courageous in the face of life’s trials he actively and intentionally adopts an eschatological perspective on all of life. Because he knows his future eternal state is certain–and infinitely more glorious than this one–he does not lose heart.
Paul does not lose heart in his ministry of suffering because the all surpassing power of God works in salvation.
Paul contrasts the ministry of Moses under the Old Covenant with his ministry under the New Covenant. Contrary to the Old Covenant made at Sinai, the New Covenant inaugurated by Jesus, imputes righteousness, brings spiritual life, empowers true transformation within us and is filled with a greater, eternal glory.
Some in the Corinthian church find Paul's life and sufferings appalling and therefore discredited from apostolic ministry. Paul responds by declaring that he has been conquered and commissioned by Jesus. Just as Moses was insufficient for God's purposes, so too, Paul is insufficient in and of himself. But God has made both Moses and Paul sufficient, demonstrating his power and purposes through him. And unlike Moses, Paul has become a minister of God's new covenant, a covenant that brings life to those who receive it.
Paul explains that in his relationship with the Corinthians, he is working for their joy in Christ. And it was his love for them that motivated him to delay his visit. And now that they have been reconciled to one another, he urges them to practice forgiveness and reconciliation within the church.
Paul writes to the Corinthians to explain why he did not visit them when he said he would. Contrary to him being fickle or unfaithful, he delayed his visit because he wanted to bring them blessing. He explains that he is not unfaithful. His life and ministry are spent proclaiming the goodness of a faithful God. However, sometimes things do not go the way we think they ought. Yet, God's promises are sure no matter what. Even when God's promises appear unlikely, they all come to perfect fulfillment.
This Sunday we begin a new sermon series in the book of 2 Corinthians. Central to the book is Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry. Whereas some look at his life and believe his sufferings disqualify his message and ministry, Paul shows that his sufferings are actually the means through which he magnifies the power and glory of Christ. For God manifests his strength in Paul's weakness and comforts him in all his affliction.
In Joshua's final act of ministry to Israel he leads them in renewing their covenant with the LORD. And to this day, there is a continuity of covenant relationship between God and his people. Today, the church regularly participates in a covenant renewal ceremony, whereby we remember God's grace in our salvation and we profess our faith in and commitment to the LORD.
In chapters 23 and 24, we read Joshua's final words of encouragement and exhortation to Israel. Joshua desires that after his death, Israel will continue to love and serve the Lord only. Hence, his final words are filled with timeless wisdom in order to facilitate their ongoing fidelity to their God.
This morning for Father’s Day, we focus our attention on God’s Word as it relates to fathers. And we begin by remembering that God is our Father and He is a good and perfect Father. God has created Fatherhood and hence, God has instructions on how to be a good father, how to be an effective, godly father. And we desperately need God’s instruction on fatherhood. Much of this instruction comes to us in and through the book of Proverbs. In Proverbs, God has written to us with the specific intent of instructing us how to live wisely in a broken world. So this morning we are going to look at the instruction given to fathers in Proverbs 23 which teaches us to raise children who are wise.
When we become very familiar with something, over time its novelty tends to wear off. Now this ought not be the case with the gospel and yet many of us have experienced seasons where our zeal for the gospel and God wanes, and our faith becomes tepid. In our verses today we will see the glorious antidote to this condition. And it is not long list of things we need to do, but a very short list of things we need to remember.
We are continuing the annual pattern of reflection on Worship. This year we look at the formative aspects. This is difficult because our culture tells us to discover (or create) our identity. This opposes our call to be formed in Christ–likeness. Many cultural commentators have pointed out these problems but often fail to give compelling alternatives. To find answers, we will look at the imaginative retellings of the history of Israel that the early Apostles used in their preaching. Then we will consider tangible practices for reimagining the stories that shape us today.
As we come to chapters 13-21 in Joshua, the promise land is divided up and apportioned according to the tribes of Israel. God has been faithful to his promise and has silenced Israel's enemies within the land. Finally, Israel receives their inheritance and has rest in the land. And their receipt of their inheritance is a glorious foretaste of our future inheritance in Christ.
In Joshua chapter 11, we read the continuing conquest of Israel through the northern region of the promise land. As Israel takes possession of the promise land, we see the sovereignty of God and human responsibility working in tandem. God gives sovereign assurance and Israel acts with courage. In so doing, Israel finds the LORD to be faithful and wholly sufficient for all their needs. Indeed, even when Israel faces their greatest fear, God proves to be more than enough for them.
One of the themes throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is the theme of the LORD as a warrior. Often we can be uncomfortable with this theme. But it is this role of the LORD as a warrior that we, as fallen, finite creatures, desperately need. The Bible describes the LORD going to battle on behalf of his people to save them from their enemies, both mortal and spiritual. And in Joshua chapter 10, we see God's role as a warrior is intimately tied to his Kingship over his people.
On this Mother's Day, we thank God for the good gift of motherhood. And we recognize the hard labor that faithful mothering requires. We will examine a few of the essential characteristics of Christ-exalting motherhood.
As the cities in the Canaan prepare for battle against the Israelites, the Gibeonites take a different approach to assure their safety. Driven by a sincere fear of the God of Israel, and convinced their strong army would not prevail, they offer lives of service in exchange for peace and protection. The Israelites learn an important lesson in their failure to consult with the Lord while the Gibeonites are delivered from God’s wrath and blessed by His mercy.
Because of their disobedience, Israel had fallen to Ai and experienced God’s judgment. But God remains faithful to keep his promises. Through God’s commands and Israel obedience, victory is ensured, and covenantal commitments are renewed.
Shortly after Israel's great victory at Jericho, they turn their attention to conquering Ai. And things take a drastic turn. Israel is soundly defeated. God graciously reveals that Israel has been defeated because of their sin and He prescribes a way for them to be restored and for God's favor to rest on them again.
After entering the Promise Land, Israel prepares to begin taking possession of the land starting in Jericho. Before the battle, Joshua encounters the Commander of the army of the LORD. He has come to give this land as God promised, to Israel. If Israel will obey the LORD, the LORD will fight for them and victory is assured.
After prophesying to his disciples about what lies ahead, Jesus intentionally heads to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. But Jesus has come to do more than celebrate the Passover. He has come to offer himself as the final sacrifice for sin. And as He comes over the top of Mount Olivet and sees the city, Jerusalem, He chooses to enter the city as a humble Savior according to the words of Zechariah. His heart is open, ready to receive all who will come to him.
In the opening Chapters of Joshua we have seen Israel–under Joshua's leadership–cross the Jordan river and take their first steps into Canaan. In Joshua 5:1-12, Israel is on the brink of the conquest of Canaan, however their priority is not military preparedness, but spiritual preparedness. In these verses, we will witness this latest generation of Israel pause to reaffirm their covenantal relationship with God.
As Israel crosses over the Jordan River and enters the promise land, God demonstrates his mighty and unparalleled power. He parts the Jordan River as He previously parted the Red Sea and brings his people safely into the land. In so doing, Israel's exodus is complete. God has redeemed them and delivered them into the promise land.
Joshua chapter 2 is an incredible story in which we see God's mercy extending beyond Israel to people of the surrounding nations. God desires that all nations be saved. And here we see his salvation come to a Canaanite woman.
The church has a magnificent design to it. And one of the wonderful aspects of the church is that it is built for burden bearing. In the church, we are called and equipped to bear each others burdens. And at the conclusion of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians, he offers words of encouragement to those who are weary from doing good and rebukes those who would take advantage of the generosity and sacrificial kindness of others.
Paul has repeatedly prayed for the Thessalonians. Here, Paul asks for reciprocity. He asks them to pray for him and for the spread of the gospel. One of the primary ways God intends the church to participate in his mission is through prayer. Prayer advances the Kingdom.
Paul is writing to a church that is suffering doubts and is thrust into confusion. So he writes to bring stability to their instability by reiterating several truths to anchor their life in.
In this weeks verses Paul is addressing false teaching regarding 'the day of the Lord' that has taken root at the church at Thessalonica. Many at the church are have come to believe that the day of the Lord–that great day of judgment–is upon them. While the source of this teaching is unclear its effect is clear: Great distress throughout the church. What we will see in these verses is Paul’s attempt to comfort and reassure the church by refuting the false claim and reminding them of about the sequence of events that necessarily proceed the Lord’s return.
Discussion Questions
- Take turns sharing with the group particular truths in scripture you find especially comforting?
- Describe a time when you found it difficult to find comfort in the promises of scripture because of difficult circumstances?
- When you reflect on the day when Jesus returns or calls you home, are there areas of your life were you desire to see greater growth before that day? Take turns sharing with the group and encouraging one another in these areas.
- How does your study of these verses impact the way you relate to others within the church? Those you know who have not accepted Christ?
- Take turns sharing with the group how our study of these verses prompts you to pray. Then, pray for each other to that end.
The Bible is full of commands to protect the vulnerable and defend the oppressed because God loves every single person made in his image and He is just. Hence, He commands his people to act justly and even to rescue others from oppression and death. His people are to do so in the strength of his might and to the glory of God.
Community Group Questions
- Where do we see the sanctity of life assaulted in our culture and in our communities? What are the common threads, common assumptions and or worldview that seeks to justify these assaults?
- How can we be strong (or strengthen ourselves) in the day of adversity?
- What does it practically look like to rescue those being taken away to death, those stumbling to the slaughter?
- Why do you think God wants to use us?
- How can we affirm the dignity of every human being?
- In what ways have you turned a blind eye or acts as if "we did not know this"(v.12)?
- What are ways you have advocated and intervened on behalf of the oppressed or perishing? And how does God want to use you moving forward?
- We often take too lightly the promise of reward. What effect do you think Jesus' wants his words to have on us when He speaks of repaying and or rewarding us?
The young church in Thessalonica is enduring significant affliction and persecution for their faith in Christ. And in their communication with Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, they ask, why are they having to suffer so much? Why doesn't God stop their persecution? Paul and his companions respond that God has good purposes even in their unjust suffering and they share with them the hope of Heaven.
Community Group Questions
- Have you ever been mistreated for your faith in Christ? If yes, how so? And how did you respond to such treatment? How did that experience effect your faith?
- How does Paul encourage this church in the midst of their suffering? What should they hope in?
- Why does God desire to see us sanctified while we live on earth?
- Hope does faith in Christ and the hope of justice and Heaven enable us to live radically different? See also Hebrews 10:32-35.
- How can you cultivate hope now?
- Beyond relief, what should we be praying for when we do suffer for his Name's sake?
Paul writes a second time to the church in Thessalonica to strengthen their faith in the midst of great suffering. He praises God that their faith is not failing, but growing. We learn from their example, that faith in Christ is not static, but dynamic. Furthermore, our faith can and should be growing no matter our earthly circumstances.
Community Group Questions
- 2020 was a year of inconvenience and trials, and for some, significant suffering. What impact did these circumstances have on your faith throughout the year?
- Discuss Hebrews 11:1.
- Everyone has 'faith' in something. What sets Christian faith apart?
- Are we saved by the quantity and strength of our faith or the object of our faith?
- What behaviors, thoughts or attitudes are inhibiting your faith from growing?
- How can you grow and strengthen your faith in the coming year?
- How does addressing our fears and doubts strengthen our faith? Why is it important to be driven by our thinking/thoughts rather than our feelings?
- Everyone wants a faith that will endure in crisis. But how do you get such faith?
At the start of every new year, we focus on the vital role of prayer in our spiritual life and in advancing the Kingdom of God. Prayer is the means by which the gospel and the Kingdom of God advances in us and in the world. In other words, prayer is God’s appointed means by which His will is accomplished, gospel is advanced and his Kingdom grows and spreads.
Community Group Questions
- Upon reflection, how would you describe your prayer life right recently?
- What are hindrances to your prayer life? (don't focus on external hindrances/excuses but focus on more personal hindrances. For example, lack of desire or discouragement, etc.)
- What needs to be repented of?
- What is an example of answered prayer in 2020?
- Which example of God advancing his mission through prayer from the sermon was most meaningful or encouraging to you? And why?
- What do you think God wants to do through you in 2021 that needs to undergirded with prayer?
- How can you resolve to make strides in your prayer life in 2021?
As we come to the end of the year and begin to look forward to the next, we emphasize our need to grow in prayer in the new year. All of us have room to grow and need to grow in our relationship with the Lord through prayer. In Ephesians, the Apostle Paul shows us just how vital prayer is to our spiritual life.
It is fitting end to 2020 to come and receive a message of hope from God’s Word. Hope is what every one of us needs. This year has been a difficult and dark year. And the gospel and all of its implications, is good news; the good news we need not just this year, but every year. When the gospel is understood, received and delighted in, it produces hope in us. Hope that is strong, hope that is able to hold us up under the weight of affliction, hope that literally changes the way we live.
Christian joy is rooted in God’s gift of salvation through Christ Jesus and the future hope that goes along with it. We emphasize joy at advent because when Jesus was born, God was confirming his promise of salvation to all peoples. However, God’s promise of salvation will not be fulfilled until Christs second coming. Salvation is both already, but not yet. This week, we reflect on the nature of that completed work of salvation from book of the prophet Isaiah as we look to a day when all God's people will rejoice.
Discussion Questions:
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The banquet in v.6 points to the many spiritual blessings God will bring to humanity through his Kingdom. Read Ephesians 1:3-14, What are the spiritual blessings you see named in this passage that are given to those who are in Christ? Which one stands out the most to you and Why?
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When death–the evidence of the curse resulting form sin–is swallowed up forever (v.8) all the misery that go along with it will be removed as well. What sources of suffering, sorrow, shame, or disgrace will you be most glad for God to remove from you/the world?
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Verse 9 reminds us that we will spend all eternity rejoicing in salvation, but our salvation still gives us much to rejoice in here and now! Share with the group an evidence of God's grace in your life now. If you can see evidence of God's grace in the life of someone else in the group...share that too! (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
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Take turns sharing with the group how our study of these verses prompts you to pray. Then, pray for each other to that end.
At the heart of Christmas is love. You can’t have Christmas in any meaningful way without love. Christmas is a season of love and generosity because God is loving and generous. Christmas is about God’s love in action. The celebration of the birth of Jesus, is about the goodness and love of God appearing, that is, being made manifest, tangible, seen, experienced so as to change our lives forever.
Community Group Questions
- What area/aspect of your life has changed the most since you came to faith in Christ?
- Why do you think Paul reminds the church of what they were and their sin? Why can't they forget their past sinful self?
- How does Paul seek to prevent anyone from boasting?
- Describe each member of the Trinity's work in our salvation.
- How can you let the love of God in-receive it afresh- this Advent season?
- What are the implications of being an heir of God?
While under siege by the Assyrians, God calls Micah to proclaim to Israel a message of judgment and hope. God is punishing Israel for their wicked idolatry and greed, yet, God's judgment will not be the final word. He will send them a deliverer, a shepherd King who will gather together again what has been scattered and restore them to an even greater peace in Israel and not just Israel, but to the entire world.
Community Group Questions
- How does the world think about peace and what are the shortcomings of those ideas?
- How would the Bible describe/define peace?
- Do you live most of your life abiding in this peace? What are the things that rob you of peace?
- There is a pattern in the Bible of God taking or using small things and making them great. What are some examples throughout the Bible? And why does God work this way?
- What is problematic about a local church that is not living with one another in peace?
- How does the ministry of Christ produce peace in us?
- How does the ministry of Christ produce peace between two believers when they are at odds?
- With whom do you need to pursue making peace?
Paul continues instructing the Thessalonians in how to conduct themselves when they come together to worship the Lord. And he encourages them with the wonderful truth that God is working in and through them to sanctify them. Their growth in holiness is sure for God is faithful.
CG Questions
- How should the church determine how it worships the Lord? In addition to the Bible, where can we look for instruction?
- Many charismatic churches prize and pursue what they would refer to as a 'Spirit filled spontaneity' in their worship services. Is this biblical? What are the dangers of doing so?
- What does it mean to 'rejoice always' as a congregation? How does this get expressed in the worship gathering?
- Are you prone to grumble rather than give thanks? If yes, why? How can you cultivate a heart of thankfulness? Why is grumbling not befitting a Christian nor a gathering of God's people?
- How were the Thessalonians quenching or extinguishing the Spirit?
- If someone were to stand up on Sunday and begin to prophecy, how should the church respond?
- What does it mean to be sanctified? How do we become sanctified? Is our sanctification God's work or ours?
- Why should a lack of sanctification be concerning? And if that's you, what should you do?
The character of the Church must be patterned after the life and teaching of Christ and the character of any given church is shaped by conduct of her people. In these verses Paul provides instruction as to how God’s people should relate to one another with a specific emphasis on what are often some of the most challenging: Our relationships with those in authority and our relationships with those who require us to dig a little deeper to love well. Through Paul's instruction we will see that each one of us has an opportunity to contribute significantly to the Christlike character of the church.
Community Group Questions:
- Why is admonition (i.e. warning against sinful attitudes or behaviors and their consequences) an indispensable part of the ministry within the local church?
- What role does formal teaching serve in the effective leadership of a local church?
- Can you think of a time when you received loving correction from a brother or sister in the Christ? What spiritual fruit did that lead to?
- Have you ever received encouragement from a brother or sister in Christ when you were feeling discouraged or were struggling in your faith? What spiritual fruit did that lead to?
- In what ways have these verses challenged the way you relate to others in the church?
- Take turns sharing with the group how our study of these verses prompts you to pray. Then, pray for each other to that end.
We see in Galatians that racism divided the early church. And by God's grace, Paul confronted the sin of racism that was committed by Peter and others. Paul eloquently taught that no one is justified by works of the law and that there is neither Jew nor Greek, for we are all one in Christ Jesus.
Community Group Questions:
- Why can't the church just speak to matters of salvation and holiness?
- What is the significance of Peter's declaration in Acts 10:34? What does he learn from his encounter with Cornelius?
- What steps can you take to pursue and build unity within the church?
- What was Peter afraid of in Galatians chapter 2?
- What was Peter doing in Galatians chapter 2 that was not in step with the truth of the gospel?
- A great question to ask ourselves is, 'Are any of my words or actions not in step with the truth of the gospel?' Or in other words, does my life and my actions reflect the truth of the gospel?
- How did Peter's conduct threaten the unity of the church and the clarity of the gospel?
- How does racism undermine the gospel?
- Is our diversity really meaningful to God? Why or why not?
- How can you be a part of showing the world that racial and cultural barriers do not exist nor divide within the church? Is there anything you need to repent of to accomplish that?
This morning is Missions Sunday, a Sunday in which we emphasize the call of Christ to proclaim the gospel to every tribe, tongue and nation on earth.Throughout the Bible, God intends to use his people as vessels to carry the message of God's glory and salvation to the nations. And today, the mission of the church is to bring glory to God by inviting and urging everyone to be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, making disciples of all nations.
CG Questions:
- What is something you enjoy that you often talk about?
- Discuss C.S. Lewis' quote, "I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation".
- How does our enjoyment of God fuel our boldness in proclamation of the gospel? And conversely, how does a tepid, lukewarm disposition to Christ effect our gospel proclamation? What must we do first if we would be faithful, vibrant proclaimers?
- What specifically are the 'works' and 'glory' we are to declare among the nations?
- What is the mission of the church universal and from where does the church derive its mission? Does the mission change?
- Why should we have an urgency for evangelization and reaching the nations with the gospel?
- How do you participate in taking the gospel to the nations?
- Have you ever prayerfully considered serving as a missionary?
In their exchange of letters, the Thessalonians ask the Apostle Paul the question we all want an answer to, when will the Lord return? Paul teaches them that the Day of the Lord will come unexpectedly and that for Christians, our focus needs to be on making ourselves ready for his appearing, not on dates. He further encourages them that they need not fear the Day of the Lord. For some it will lead to judgment, but for them, it will lead to their full salvation and even greater union with Christ.
CG Questions:
- What does the Old Testament teach about the Day of the Lord? See Daniel 12, Joel 2:21-32; Obadiah 15-21; Zechariah 14:1-21.
- Why do you think the Thessalonians had anxiety over the Day of the Lord?
- How is the Day of the Lord going to be similar to the days of Noah? See also Matthew 24.
- What does Paul exhort the Thessalonians to in vv.6-8? What does it look like for us to live this way?
- What are the things you can become enchanted with in this world that lead you to live as if this world was your true home?
- Paul once again references spiritual armor. What does it mean to 'put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation'?
- Share with your community group the verses that give you encouragement and hope when you are afflicted and or grieving.
- When you encounter suffering, are you tempted to believe it is God's wrath? Is this true? How do you know?
- It is hard to overstate the emphasis in the New Testament on loving, encouraging and building one another up. Practically, what does this look like? Have you ever intentionally sought to build another up? Have you received this from another? What happens if this is lacking within the church?
Worship is clearly centered and directed towards God. However, there’s more to Worship than this. It is not only done corporately, but actually has other Christians as the secondary audience. Understanding this truth helps us have a fuller understanding of Worship. Specifically how we become agents of God’s work to build up one another’s faith.
Community Group Questions:
- How have your previous church experiences balanced focus on God with human aspects of Worship? If you’ve been in church long enough, how have you seen this emphasis shift over time?
- How does it enrich our understanding of Worship to see multiple audiences? Why is it not sufficient to just focus on the vertical relationship with God?
- How have you seen the regular rhythms of Worship gathering build up your faith?
- How has COVID’s isolation put your faith under pressures you’ve never encountered before?
Paul seeks to comfort the Thessalonians as they grieve the loss of loved ones. Paul shepherds them to allow their faith to inform their grief. Loved ones who trusted in Christ will be raised when Jesus returns in glory.
Community Group Questions
- In what ways does this text encourage you?
- Why is 'sleep' a euphemism for death?
- In what other texts does Jesus refer to his return from Heaven? What else do we learn from these texts?
- What did Jesus' resurrection accomplish and set in motion?
- How is it Paul knows what will happen when Christ returns?
- Why do you think the dead in Christ precede the living in joining Christ in the air?
- How does this text change the way you think about death, including your own death?
- How can you encourage others with this text? Does anyone come to mind specifically?
These verses are an exhortation to this young church–who are doing well spiritually–to continue to increase in the kind of conduct that pleases God in the areas of sexual conduct and brotherly love. While the cultural context and circumstances may differ significantly from our own, there is still much here for the church today.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think are some of the greatest challenges to 'abstaining from sexual immorality' in our culture are at the moment? What steps could you take to guard against them for you and your family?
- 1 Corinthians 6:11 reminds us that each of us stood guilty of all manner of sin before receiving God's forgiveness through Christ. Discuss how this reality changes the way you relate to other people, be specific.
- Social media is a source of much interpersonal conflict within the church. Discuss ways in which social media might instead be used in a way that honors God and builds up the church...or if you think that's even possible.
- The consistent teaching of Scripture is that idleness is an enemy of brotherly love among God's people. Are there any areas of your life where idleness is a challenge? How might you redeem that time?
- Share briefly any areas of spiritual maturity where you feel you have experienced growth. Take turns sharing with the group those areas of spiritual maturity you would most like to see grow and pray for each other to that end.
Paul, knowing the church in Thessalonica was experiencing affliction and persecution, sends Timothy to exhort and encourage them so that they are unmoved in their faith. Both Paul and the church were experiencing the effects of spiritual warfare such that Paul attributes their tribulation to satan. Upon Timothy's return to Paul in Corinth, he shares the good news that the Thessalonians have remained steadfast in their faith.
Community Group Questions
- What have you endeavored to do for Christ and his Kingdom that has been hindered by the enemy?
- What does Paul mean when he describes Timothy as 'God's co-worker in the gospel of Christ'?
- Why did Paul send Timothy back to Thessalonica?
- What are common tactics the devil and his minions use to undermine our faith in Christ?
- Both Jesus and Paul teach that in this life, Christians are appointed (or 'destined' v. 3) to suffer affliction. Why?
- How would your life differ if you believed that suffering is a common in Christian faith? Would you walk away? Would you cling even more to Jesus? Would you trust and depend on him more? Would you grumble less knowing He has told us to expect it? Would you treasure Heaven more?
- What did Paul supply that was lacking in their faith? Did this lack mean they were not true Christians?
- What three things does Paul pray for the Thessalonians in v. 11-13? What is the connection between love and holiness?
Paul begins chapter 2 by reminding the Thessalonians of how he and his companions came to them. They came boldly yet gently, faithfully not with error and eager to share the hope of salvation not selfishly. When among them, Paul lived above reproach and as such, the Thessalonians began to follow his example. He now urges them to walk in a manner worthy of God.
Community Group Questions
- What's an example of a modern day sophist or 'spiritual advisor' who is a charlatan and a fake?
- What does Paul mean when we he says we have been 'entrusted with the gospel'?
- How do we now Paul and his companions weren't motivated by fame or money?
- Review what it means to share 'our souls' (also translated 'ourselves'). Should we do this? Why? What needs to happen in your heart to be able to do this?
- Read the following texts: Ephesians 4:1-3; Philippians 1:27; Colossians 1:9-10. What does it mean to walk in a manner worthy of God?And do you see a theme or emphasis arise in these texts? In other words, what is a fruit when we walk in a manner worthy of God together?
- What is significant about the fact that Paul is self-aware that his words are God's Words? And what are the implications for the Bible?
- Paul says that the Christians in Thessalonica are suffering for their faith as the Christians in Judea. It appears that suffering is a normal Christian experience. Have you suffered for your faith (for believing in Christ)? If yes, how did you handle it?
This week we begin a new sermon series in the book of 1 Thessalonians. In chapter 1, we learn how the gospel created the church in Thessalonica, we see the church spread the gospel and how the gospel shapes the church.
CG Questions:
- What are practical ways that Paul encourages the church in Thessalonica that we can emulate?
- Paul mentions faith, love and hope. Where else do we see this triad in Scripture? Why do you think he frequently puts these three together?
- Looking at this text, how can one have assurance of their salvation? What things should thing look for as evidence of genuine conversion?
- When it comes to your Christian walk, are you imitating anyone? Are you actively trying to mold your life after another? If so, other than Jesus, who and why?
- In what specific ways can parents/grandparents model Christlikeness for our children?
- Why should we expect a new convert to have joy?
- Upon hearing and receiving the gospel, what idols did you turn from? What idols do you continue to struggle with?
- Why is waiting on God so difficult? How can we strengthen our hope while we wait?
This morning we conclude our series in Deuteronomy. In the last chapter, we read the last recorded words God spoke to Moses. Moses was a prophet unlike any other in the Old Testament. He was a flawed, sinful man yet, God worked mightily through him. And though God denied him entry into the promise land, we learn God brought him into an even greater promise land.
In his final act, Moses beseeches God's favor upon Israel and blesses them. In doing so, he reminds Israel that God has redeemed them and forged them into a nation and he assures them that God will go with them into the Promise Land. The path forward is fraught with danger, but God shall be with them, his everlasting arms underneath them and He shall be their shield.
Moses references a detail that modern people find shocking and strange. Israel’s God gave the nations and their “gods” to each other as a judgement for their collusion in disobedience. More than just a quirk of the ancient world—this dimension of the gospel narrative shows us that God has dealt with rebellion in multiple frames: individual, corporate and divine.