Faithstl - SoundSage

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Ever felt frustrated because life - or even God - didn't meet your expectations? In a time that often feels like everything is getting worse, Jesus gives us powerful stories to show that His Kingdom is actively growing right in the midst of the brokenness. Discover how a delayed judgment is actually proof of God's radical patience and grace for your life. Let's realign our expectations and find unshakeable hope in the living Christ together.

Matthew 13:24-43

The Parable of the Weeds

24 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, 25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. 26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. 27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?’ 28 He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ So the servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ 29 But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

The Mustard Seed and the Leaven

31 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”

33 He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

Prophecy and Parables

34 All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed, he said nothing to them without a parable. 35 This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet:

“I will open my mouth in parables;

I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.”

The Parable of the Weeds Explained

36 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” 37 He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, 39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40 Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, 42 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Matthew 13:24-43 together.
When have your expectations of God clashed with reality? Share a time you did “all the right things” (prayed, read Scripture, attended church) but still faced a frustrating “weed” (lost job, a breakup, or a disappointing season).
Are you currently focusing more on the weeds or the wheat? Is it easier for you to spot where evil and chaos are growing, or where God is quietly moving?
How does God’s “delayed judgment” change your view of difficult people? Jesus allows the weeds and wheat to grow together to show patience. How can you extend that same radical grace to someone who opposes your faith or frustrates you?
Pray the Lord’s Prayer out loud with each other.

For Families with Kids

Read Matthew 13:24-43. What is something you expected to be super fun, but it ended up being a bummer? Think about a rainy beach trip or a toy that broke right away. Talk about how we handle it when things do not go our way.
If you look at the world, do you think it is getting better or getting worse? Talk about the good things God is doing (people helping each other) and the bad things we see (weeds in a garden). Why are both happening at the same time?
Why do you think God doesn’t just zap all the bad stuff away right now? Discuss how God is being super patient because He loves people and wants to give everyone time to turn to Him and join His family.
Pray together: “Dear Jesus, thank You for being alive and in control, even when the world feels messy. Help us to stop worrying about the bad things around us and trust that You are working. Give us patience like Yours so we can show Your love to others every day. Amen.”

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What do you do when God seems silent? We all know what it's like to pray for healing, restoration, or justice and wonder if our prayers are making any difference. In Luke 18, Jesus tells a simple but powerful parable with one purpose: "Always pray and do not lose heart." Let’s explore what persistent prayer looks like in a broken world through Scripture, honest stories of both answered and unanswered prayer, and the hope we have in Christ, who entered our suffering and promises to make all things new. Whether you're celebrating God's faithfulness or struggling to keep praying, this message is for you.

Luke 18:1-8

The Parable of the Persistent Widow

18 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’” 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Luke 18:1-8.
What is one prayer God has answered in your life that you still remember and thank Him for?
How do disappointment or suffering tempt us to stop praying altogether?
The resurrection reminds us that Jesus didn’t come merely to explain suffering but to defeat it. How does the promise of the resurrection give you hope in the middle of present struggles?
Who in your life needs persistent prayer right now? Spend a few moments sharing those requests with one another.

For Families with Kids

Read Luke 18:1-8 together as a family.
Can you think of a time when God answered one of your prayers? How did it make you feel?
Sometimes we pray, but the answer doesn’t come right away. Have you ever had to wait for something? Was it hard? How can we keep trusting God while we wait?
Jesus died and came back to life so that one day sadness, sickness, and pain will be gone forever. How does that help you when you’re scared, sad, or having a hard day?
Who is someone you can pray for this week? Take turns sharing one person or one need, and then pray together.

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All of us are plagued with an identity crisis from birth: an identity of sin. This identity crisis puts us at enmity with God. Jesus Christ, however, has freed us from this identity crisis and given us an irreplaceable identity: an identity in Christ.

Luke 16:19-31

The Rich Man and Lazarus

19 “There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ 27 And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house - 28 for I have five brothers - so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ 29 But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ 30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ 31 He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’”

For Adult Homes and Groups

What is the greatest gift you have received?
Read Romans 5:12-21. What is the result of this one man’s (Adam’s) sin? How does that compare to the free gift of Christ?
Now in our parable, Luke 16:19-31, compare the identities of the rich man and Lazarus. Where do you see the effects of Adam’s sin? And where do you see the effect of the new identity we have in Christ?
What will you do with the gift of a new identity in Christ?

For Families with Kids

What is the best gift you have ever received? Why was it special?
Read Romans 5:12-21 together. What happened when Adam disobeyed God? How did Adam’s sin affect all people?
What did Jesus do for us that Adam could not do? What gift does Jesus give to everyone who trusts in Him?
The Bible says God’s grace is a free gift. What does it mean that we cannot earn God’s forgiveness, but Jesus gives it to us anyway?
When you remember that Jesus has forgiven you and loves you, how can you share His love with your family, friends, or classmates this week?

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Today we continue our Upside Down Kingdom series with one of Jesus' most familiar parables - the Good Samaritan. Jesus tells this story to answer a much deeper question than, "Who is my neighbor?” Let's discover how this parable exposes our tendency to justify ourselves, reveals the surprising mercy of Christ, and invites us to see and love the neighbors God has already placed along our path.

Luke 10:25-37

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

25 And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?” 27 And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” 28 And he said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.”

29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. 34 He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ 36 Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”

For Adult Homes and Groups

Reread Luke 10:25-37. Who is someone God has placed in your life that is difficult or different for you to love, and why do you think that is?
How does the lawyer’s desire to justify himself reveal our own tendency to limit who we consider our neighbor?
How does this parable point us to Jesus as the One who fulfilled the Law and came near to us in our helplessness?
What is one practical way you can make room this week to love the neighbor God has already placed along your path?

For Families with Kids

Read Luke 10:25-37 as a family. Is there someone it is hard to be kind to at school, on your team, or in your neighborhood? Why?
How has Jesus been like the Good Samaritan by loving and helping us when we needed Him?
Who is one person you can show kindness to this week? What could you do for them?
Why do you think God wants us to love everyone, even people who are different from us?
How would you want someone to treat you if you were the hurt man on the side of the road?
What are some simple ways you can be a good neighbor at home, at school, or at church this week?

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Every one of us has been entrusted with something. Time. Gifts. Abilities. Opportunities. Relationships. Faith itself. The question isn't whether you've been given enough. The question is what you'll do with what God has already placed in your hands. In Jesus' Parable of the Talents, one servant invests what he has been given. Another buries it out of fear. The difference isn't how much each received - it is how each responded. This week, we'll discover that God isn't asking us to compare what we've been given with someone else. He's inviting us to faithfully invest what He has entrusted to us for the sake of His Kingdom. Because the greatest tragedy isn't having too little. It's burying what God intended to use to bring life to the world around you.

Matthew 25:14-30

14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Romans 12:4-8

4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11

4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

1 Peter 4:10-11

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Romans 10:14-15

14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”

Matthew 6:19-21

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Before next Sunday, reread Matthew 25:14–30 and reflect on these questions:

What gifts, abilities, relationships, or opportunities has God entrusted to you that you sometimes overlook or take for granted?
What fears or excuses are most likely to keep you from using those gifts to serve God and others?
In what ways can comparison distract us from faithfully using what God has uniquely entrusted to us?
What is one specific way you can invest one of God’s gifts this week to bless someone else and advance His Kingdom?

For Families with Kids

Read Matthew 25:14-30 together. In this story, who does the master represent, and who are the servants?
How did the first two servants use their talents, and what did the master say when he returned? What did the third servant do with his single talent, and why?
What are some gifts, talents, or abilities that God has given you?
Have you ever felt like what you have isn’t as much as what someone else has? How does this parable teach us to be happy with what we’ve been given?
Take turns writing down two or three unique things you are good at or blessings your family enjoys. Choose one of those to actively use to bless a neighbor or serve your community this week.

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True spiritual treasure is rarely found on the surface. Diving into Matthew 13, God's Kingdom isn’t meant to be a supplement to our routines; it completely transforms our entire existence. Jesus invites us to look past life's competing distractions, rediscover the "pearl of great price", and find the lasting joy that only comes from trusting Him above all else.

Matthew 13:44-52

The Parable of the Hidden Treasure

44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

The Parable of the Net

47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

New and Old Treasures

51 “Have you understood all these things?” They said to him, “Yes.” 52 And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.”

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Matthew 13:44-52 together.
Jesus is not a “supplement” or a “life coach” to add to an already smooth

life; He is our Savior who demands complete transformation. Honestly evaluate your current relationship with Him: Are you treating Him as a helpful add-on, or are you allowing His Kingdom to remake and rule over every area of your life?

Both men in the parables sacrificed everything they had to obtain the treasure, driven by joy rather than guilt or obligation. When you think about your spiritual disciplines, obedience, and service to God, are you driven to “try harder” out of duty, or “trust deeper” because of who Jesus is?
What competing “pearls” (success, relationships, financial security, or comfort) are currently vying for the top spot in your heart, and how can you refocus your allegiance onto Jesus this week?

For Families with Kids

Read Matthew 13:44-52 together as a family.
Read v44 again together. Why do you think Jesus says His love and His Kingdom are like a hidden treasure? How can we “look beneath the surface” to find joy in Jesus even on normal, boring days?
The men in Jesus’ stories gladly sold everything they owned because they found something way better. Following Jesus sometimes means giving up things like selfishness, bad attitudes, or our own way. Why does finding Jesus make those sacrifices feel easy and full of joy?
What are some good things in our lives (like sports, screens, or hobbies) that try to take up all of our time and attention? How can we work together as a family to keep Jesus as our number one prize? Write or plan a goal list for the next month to make Jesus the priority?

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Even if you've never opened a Bible, you've probably heard the word prodigal. Most people think this story is about a son who wandered far from home. But what if that's not the real focus? What if this parable is really about a father pursuing both of his sons - the one who ran away and the one who stayed? What if it's about a Father's love that reaches farther than either of them could imagine?

Today, we explore one of Jesus' most famous parables and discover how it can transform the way we see God's love. Whether you feel far from God or you've been in church for years, this story has the power to challenge, encourage, and change the way you see yourself - and Jesus.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Reread Luke 15:11–32 and reflect on these questions:

Which character do you most identify with right now - the younger son, the older son, or the father? Why?
What does the father’s response to both sons reveal about the heart of God?
Where do you see yourself trying to earn God’s love, approval, or acceptance rather than simply receiving it?
How is Jesus inviting you to respond to the Father’s love this week?

For Families with Kids

Read Luke 15 together.
If you left home and spent all your money, how would you feel about coming back to ask for help?
The older brother was angry (v.28). Have you ever felt jealous or resentful when someone else received grace or a reward you felt you deserved?
Which character do you relate to more right now - the one who messes up and needs grace, or the one who struggles to extend grace to others?
The older brother had lived with his father all along, but he didn’t know his father’s heart (v.31). How can our family live with more joy and celebration instead of keeping score?

Luke 15:11-32

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. 17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” ’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. 24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.

25 “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, 29 but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’ ”

Proverbs 14:12

12 There is a way that seems right to a man,

but its end is the way to death.

Isaiah 64:6-7

6 We have all become like one who is unclean,

and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.

We all fade like a leaf,

and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.

7 There is no one who calls upon your name,

who rouses himself to take hold of you;

for you have hidden your face from us,

and have made us melt in the hand of our iniquities.

Ephesians 2:1-10

2 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

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Have you ever lost something valuable in your own house? Not somewhere far away, but right under your nose? This Sunday we'll explore Jesus' Parable of the Lost Coin from Luke 15:8-10. While it may sound like a simple story, it raises some surprisingly deep questions. What does it mean that the coin was lost in the house? Is it possible to drift from God without even realizing it? And what does God's relentless search for the lost reveal about His heart for us? Whether you've walked closely with Christ for years, feel spiritually distant, or know someone who seems to have drifted away, I think you'll find both challenge and encouragement in this text. Most importantly, we'll see a God who notices when one is missing, searches until He finds, and rejoices whenever sinners are brought home. I hope you'll join us this Sunday.

Text: Luke 15:8-10

8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Discipleship Questions

For Adult Homes and Groups

What is something valuable you have lost and spent a long time searching for?
Have there been seasons in your life where you have felt yourself becoming spiritually distracted, complacent, or further from God than you wanted to be?
Why is it important to distinguish between feeling lost versus being abandoned by God?
How can our church become more intentional about noticing and caring for people before they drift away?

For Families with Kids

Read Luke 15 together.
Have you ever lost something that was really important to you, like a favorite toy? How did you feel when you finally found it?
Why do you think Jesus compares us to a lost coin instead of something else? Hint: Does a dirty coin lose its value? No! It doesn’t matter where we go or what we do, our worth to God never changes.
God loves to seek out and rescue people. What is one way we can show that same love to someone at school or in our neighborhood who might be feeling left out or “lost”?
Activity: Hide a specific number of coins (or small objects) around your living room. Give the kids a time limit to find them. When time is up, celebrate finding them together as a family. Remind your kids that God searches just as carefully and rejoices even more when

He finds us!

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We kick off a series within a series with the "Lost Trilogy" in Luke 15. No other parables fully display God's heart like these three. We're starting with the Parable of the Lost Sheep: a committed Shepherd refusing to give up on just one missing sheep. It's a beautiful picture of God's grace and a wake-up call to anyone who resents His mercy toward outsiders.

Luke 15: 1-7

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

15 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So He told them this parable: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Luke 15:1-7. In verses 1-2, the religious leaders are angry that Jesus is eating with “sinners”. Who are the people today that the modern church might be tempted to keep at arm’s length?
How does the shepherd physically rescue the sheep in Luke 15:5? How does this illustrate the way Jesus steps into your life to carry you through difficult seasons or rescue you from sin?
Jesus states in Luke 15:7 that there is more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous people. Does this surprise you?
Do you naturally identify more with the wandering sheep, the seeking shepherd, or the grumbling Pharisees who struggle to accept that “undeserving” people are receiving grace?
Who is one person that you desperately hope will find or return to their faith? Take a moment to write down their name and pray for them.

For Families with Kids

Read Luke 15:1-7. If you wandered off and got lost, who would come looking for you?
Does leaving the 99 sheep behind mean the shepherd didn’t care about them? Why or why not? Who are the “lost sheep” in our world today? How can we show them God’s love?
Who does the shepherd call together to celebrate when he gets home? What does this story tell us about how valuable each individual person is to God?
Who is one specific person you know who needs to experience God’s love this week? How can you pray for or encourage them? Write the name(s) down and write out a prayer to pray every day this week for that person(s).

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Our world celebrates bigger, faster, and more visible. But Jesus says God's Kingdom often begins small, hidden, and easy to miss. If you've ever wondered whether your faithfulness matters or if God is really at work, Jesus' parables remind us that growth is God's responsibility, not ours. We plant. We water. We trust. What seems insignificant today may be the very thing God uses to build something extraordinary tomorrow. In the Upside Down Kingdom, small beginnings are never small to God.

Mark 4:21-33

A Lamp Under a Basket

21 And He said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? 22 For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 24 And He said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. 25 For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”

The Parable of the Seed Growing

26 And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. 27 He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. 28 The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29 But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

30 And He said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, 32 yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” 33 With many such parables He spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Before answering these questions, take a few moments to reread Mark 4:21-33, and reflect on what Jesus teaches about the growth of God’s Kingdom.

Where have you been tempted to measure success by visible results instead of faithfulness?
What “small seed” of obedience, ministry, or discipleship has God called you to plant or continue nurturing?
How does Jesus’ teaching challenge your assumptions about how God works and grows His Kingdom?
What is one area of your life where you need to stop striving for results and trust God to do what only He can do?

For Families with Kids

Read Mark 4:21-33 together.
Sometimes we want to see immediate results in our spiritual growth or when we share our faith with friends. How does this teach us to trust God’s timing?
How does the mustard seed remind us not to underestimate the value of small, quiet acts of obedience or faithfulness to God?
Verse 28 describes growth in steps (stalk, head, grain). What “spiritual stage” are you in right now? What is one small step you can take to keep growing?
Grab a clear jar or Ziploc bag, a damp paper towel, and a raw bean (like a lima bean). Wrap the bean in the damp paper towel and place it against the side of the jar or bag. Leave it in a sunny spot. In a few days, your family can watch the roots break through the shell. How is God doing the exact same thing in our hearts - breaking through the hard parts to grow something beautiful

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We live in a world drowning in noise. Endless scrolling. Constant reactions. Infinite information is fighting for our attention. And into that noise, Jesus tells a story. A farmer scatters seed, and everything depends on where it takes root. God’s word has power, but the question is whether we will let it take root deeply in us. Will distraction steal it away? Will hurry keep it shallow? Or will God grow something life-giving within us? Listen to the first message in Upside Down Kingdom as we explore the Parable of the Sower - and discover how the word of God still has the power to change lives.

Mark 4:3-20

3 “Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. 6 And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. 8 And other seeds fell into good soil and produced grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” 9 And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

The Purpose of the Parables

10 And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. 11 And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, 12 so that

“‘they may indeed see but not perceive,

and may indeed hear but not understand,

lest they should turn and be forgiven.’”

13 And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown: when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. 16 And these are the ones sown on rocky ground: the ones who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy. 17 And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. 18 And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, 19 but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 20 But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”

For Adult Homes and Groups

As you prepare for this week, reread Mark 4:3-20 and pay attention to the different kinds of soil Jesus describes. Ask yourself not just, “What does this mean?” but, “Where do I see myself in this story?”

Which type of soil do you most identify with right now, and why?
What distractions, worries, or “noise” most compete for your attention and make it difficult for God’s word to take root deeply?
Jesus says the good soil “hears the Word, accepts it, and produces a harvest.” What does it look like practically to accept and nurture God’s Word in everyday life?
Where have you seen God’s Word bring life, growth, peace, or transformation in your own life when you gave it room to grow?

For Families with Kids

In Mark 4:3-20, Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower to explain how God’s Word transforms our lives. Read it together as a family.
When we are too busy, distracted, or stubborn to listen, God’s Word bounces right off. When has God’s truth gone in one ear and out the other for you?
Sometimes we hear God’s Word, but it gets choked out by worries, stress, or wanting too many “things”. What are some “weeds” or worries in your life (like school stress or screen time) that might choke out time with Jesus?
Plants don’t grow overnight. Why does it take patience and time for God’s Word to change our hearts?
Pray together, asking God to “soften the soil” of your hearts, remove those worries, and help His Word grow deep roots in your family.

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Today, we wrap up our Gripped by Grace series by looking at one of God’s greatest gifts to His people: His Word. As we grow up, many of us begin asking harder questions: How do I know the Bible can be trusted? Has it changed? Why are there so many interpretations? Maybe you’ve wrestled with some of those questions or want to know how to answer your kids', friends', or coworkers' questions. Let's look at why Scripture is trustworthy, why it ultimately points us to Jesus, and why staying rooted in God’s Word matters for our daily lives and witness to the world around us.

2 Timothy 3:14-17

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15 and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

For Adult Homes and Groups

When you have a question or need advice, who or what do you naturally turn to first: friends, social media, podcasts, Google, family, Scripture, etc.? Why?
Which of these do you identify with most when it comes to scripture reading? Why?

• Distraction and busyness

• Treating Bible reading like performance or checking a box

• Avoiding God because of guilt or shame

• Spiritual numbness or familiarity

Jesus says in John 5:39-40 that the Scriptures testify about Him. How does Jesus being at the center of the story change how we should see the Bible?
Paul says Scripture equips us “for every good work.” How could being more rooted in God’s Word affect your relationships, parenting, work, or ability to share your faith with others this week?

For Families with Kids

Read 2 Timothy 3: 14-17 out loud together. Verse 15 mentions Timothy learning the Bible from childhood. Who is helping to teach you about God’s Word, and why is it important to keep learning it?
According to verse 16, God’s Word is useful for four things: teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. Why is it a good thing for God to correct us?
Can you think of a specific time you trusted what the Bible said over what the world (or your friends) said? Take time to share.
If we truly believe the Bible equips us for every “good work”, how should that change the way we spend our time, energy, and resources this week?
Pick a short verse from this passage to memorize together as a family this week. Pray the Lord’s Prayer together.

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When we talk about being "Gripped by Grace”, we do not mean we are held by a nice theological truth, although that is true. “Gripped by Grace” means we are held by someone. That someone is the promised Holy Spirit. Being held by the Holy Spirit brings a life filled with true peace and comforting presence. We're never alone because we have the Holy Spirit!

John 14: 25-31

25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. 28 You heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved Me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on Me, 31 but I do as the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read all of John 14. Find and list all the promises Jesus makes to His disciples. Which one resonates right now? Take time to share together.
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to teach us and bring His words to mind. When have you experienced the Holy Spirit prompting you with a scripture or a truth just when you needed it?
Verse 27 contrasts the peace Jesus gives with the peace the world offers. How does relying on your circumstances for security make you feel isolated when those circumstances change?
Take out your phones. Send a quick text to one person outside who might be hurting or lonely. Write something short and simple: “Hey, I was just thinking about you and praying for you today. You aren’t alone!”
Pray together as a group - ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance this week.

For Families with Kids

Read John 14 together.
When do you feel most scared or lonely? (e.g., in the dark, starting a new school year). Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” What do you think a “troubled heart” feels like? How does it feel to know that God’s Holy Spirit is with you even when mom or dad cannot be right next to you?
Verse 26 says the Holy Spirit helps us remember what Jesus said. What is one Bible verse or truth you can remember when you feel lonely?
Think of a neighbor, grandparent, or friend who feels lonely. Bake treats together or make a handmade card. Write on it: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. - John 14:27” Deliver the surprise together to remind that person that they are loved and not alone.

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What if the reason you feel stuck in your faith isn’t that you’re doing something wrong, but because you’ve been asking the wrong question? Through Jesus, you are already 100% in - fully loved and part of God’s family - but new doesn’t mean finished. Like a newborn, you belong completely, yet still have room to grow. Faith is a process, and it can be messy, with real tension between the old life and the new life God is leading you into. Often, we trust God with forgiveness but hesitate to trust Him with our relationships, time, or finances, and that’s where growth stalls. But what if the breakthrough isn’t about trying harder, but trusting deeper? Because every step of growth is really a step of trust, and we are all striving to live more like Christ in every area of our lives. So what is your next step?

2 Corinthians 5:17

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Colossians 1:21–23

21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the Gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Take time to reread 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Colossians 1:21–23, then reflect on these questions:

Where did you place yourself on the spiritual growth line and why?
Where do you currently feel tension between your old life and your new life in Christ?
In what area of your life are you trusting God the least right now?
What is your next best step to continue growing in your faith?

For Families with Kids

Read Colossians Chapter 1 together, then focus on verses 21-23.
What does it mean to be “holy and blameless” because of Jesus, even when we make mistakes?
What are some things that make it hard to keep trusting Jesus (school, friends, worries)?
What is one “habit” (like praying together) we can start to help our family stay “steadfast” in faith?
Draw a tree on a large piece of paper. Have each family member write one way they will grow spiritually this week (e.g., read the Bible, pray, help someone) on a paper leaf, and tape it to the tree.

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We all feel it right now. Division seems to be everywhere. Conversations get tense, relationships feel strained, and even small disagreements can quickly turn into something bigger. But what if the church was meant to be different? This weekend, we’re diving into Galatians 3 to see how the Gospel gives us a deeper identity that cuts through division. We will explore what it really means to be in Christ, how God’s grace brings unity, and how that same grace drives out fear - fear of judgment, fear of rejection, even fear of one another. Come hear how being rooted in Christ changes the way we live, relate, and love in a divided world.

Galatians 3:26-29

26 for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.

For Adult Homes and Groups

What is something small you strongly disagree with others about that doesn’t really matter?
How has pride or identity in something other than Christ shaped the way you view others?
How does knowing your identity is secure in Christ change how you view yourself and others?
How can you practice staying present in a difficult conversation

this week?

For Families with Kids

Read Galatians 3:26-29 together.
In v26, how do we become children of God? Is it by being perfect, or by something else? When we disagree, does it help to remember that we are all loved children of the same Father?
From v27, what does it mean to “clothe yourselves with Christ”? If we are wearing Jesus like a coat, what should other people see when they look at us during an argument (e.g., love, patience, gentleness)?
Paul says there is “neither Jew nor Gentile... male nor female,” but we are all one. What are some things that make us feel different from each other (age, interests, personality)? How can God’s grace help us agree to disagree about small things (what to play, what to eat) while staying united in big things (loving God)?
Draw a picture of a bridge. When someone is angry or disagrees strongly, what are “bridge-building” words (grace, forgiveness, “let’s try this”) compared to “barrier-making” words (shouting, demanding, “no”)?

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We all come to God seeking something - a better marriage, help for a child, healing, provision, or answers. But what if the very thing that brings us to Him isn’t actually our greatest need? Again and again, Jesus shows us that He looks past what we think we need in order to give us what we truly need most. While we’re focused on immediate problems, He sees the deeper need underneath it all and moves to restore what matters most - our relationship with God. Join us this Sunday as we discover how Jesus meets us in our requests, but refuses to stop there, offering something greater than what we came asking for.

Mark 2:1-11

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

2 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.”

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Mark 2:1-11. As you read, discuss these questions:

What were the obvious needs and expectations of the paralytic and his friends? How did Jesus respond differently than they likely anticipated?
Why do you think Jesus chose to address the man’s need for forgiveness before healing his physical condition? What does this suggest about Jesus’ priorities?
Can you identify an area in your life where you are asking God for something specific, but He might be inviting you to trust Him for a deeper purpose?

For Families with Kids

Read Mark 2:1-11 together.
What did the man need healing from? Why did Jesus first forgive the man’s sins?
What did the friends expect Jesus to do first?
What is sin, and why is it a bigger problem than not being able to walk?
We often ask God for big things like healing or help with school. Do we ever forget to ask Him first for the most important thing (forgiveness)? How does it feel to know that Jesus cares about your “inside” (spiritual health) just as much as your “outside” (physical health)?
Heart wash activity: Draw a large heart on a paper towel using a permanent marker. Use washable markers to draw small spots or “yucky things” inside the heart. Each spot represents a “deeper need” or a sin

(e.g., being unkind, lying). Dip the paper towel into a bowl of water and gently agitate it. The washable marker spots will disappear, but the heart remains. Just like the man’s legs were healed on the outside, Jesus wanted to wash the man’s heart clean on the inside first.

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Christ is risen from the dead. It's the eternal game changer. It means that whenever we approach God in faith, we always expect the same thing over and over again: grace. And the crazy good news is, anyone can get in on this. Who is this grace for? Anyone who would believe.

Romans 3:21-26

The Righteousness of God Through Faith

21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Romans 3:21-26 together.
What’s familiar about this passage? What’s something new that stuck out to you in this section of Romans?
Since verse 24 says we are justified “freely” (as a gift) by grace, why is it often harder for us to accept a free gift than to work for it?
Verse 22 states righteousness comes through faith, “to all who believe.” In what areas of your life are you still trying to be “good enough” for God, rather than relying on His righteousness?
What does it look like in your daily life to trust that your faith is enough, rather than relying on your accomplishments or religious routines?
Take time to encourage, pray over one another, and ask the Holy Spirit to pour His assurance into each other’s hearts and minds.

For Families with Kids

Read Romans 3:21-26 out loud together.
According to vv22-23, what is the only thing that separates people, and what is the one thing they all have in common?
If salvation is a free gift, why do people often try to earn it by being “good enough”? How does this gift change how we look at our own mistakes?
If faith is “enough,” does that mean we just do whatever we want? How does trusting in Jesus’ work on the cross help us follow Him more than just trying to follow rules?
Give everyone a piece of paper and ask them to write down something they feel they “must do” to be a good person. Then, read Romans 3:24 together and cross out those items, writing “PAID BY JESUS” in large letters over the top to visualize that faith in His work is what truly counts.

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Today, we continue our Gripped by Grace series with a powerful message centered on the life-changing reality of the resurrection. Through Scripture and a real-life story, you’ll see how God meets us in our brokenness, not after we’ve fixed ourselves, but right in the middle of it. If you’ve ever wondered whether real change is possible, this message is for you. Come and discover how Jesus ' resurrection means you can live a transformed life.

Ephesians 2:1-10

By Grace Through Faith

2 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience - 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved - 6 and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

For Adult Homes and Groups

What’s something people often try to change about themselves (a habit, routine, or goal) but struggle to stick with? Why do you think real change is so hard?
Ephesians 2 says we are “dead in our sins,” not just struggling or broken. How does that challenge the way people usually think about their condition?
Romans 5 says that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” What stands out to you about the timing of God’s love?
As a group or church, what would it look like to be “a place where dead people come to life”? What’s one practical way you can help create that kind of environment?

For Families with Kids

Read Ephesians 2:1-10 together.
According to verse 4, why did God save us?
If salvation is a gift (v. 8), can we ever brag about being “good enough” for heaven?
Imagine trying to talk to or play with someone who is asleep or not responding. According to these verses, what was our spiritual life like before Jesus rescued us?
If someone offers you a gift, do you pay for it? Why is it important that our resurrection/new life is a gift from God and not something we earn by being “good”?
Pray the Lord’s Prayer together

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Every Easter, we dress up, fill the church, celebrate the empty tomb, and say, “He is risen.” But what does that mean for everyday life? Easter isn’t just a tradition - it’s the reality of a Savior who lived, died, and rose again

for you, offering grace and abundant life. It’s an invitation to stop seeing God as distant or demanding and to discover His life-changing grace. Grace is here for everyone - including you.

John 21:1-19

Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples

After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. 9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.

Jesus and Peter

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

John 20:19

19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

Mark 14:26-31

26 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 27 And Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ 28 But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.” 29 Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.”30 And Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” 31 But he said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.

Mark 14:66-72

66 And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, 67 and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” 68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” And he went out into the gateway and the rooster crowed. 69 And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” 70 But again he denied it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” 71 But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” 72 And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.

John 21:1-7a.

Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples

After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. 3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered him, “No.” 6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!”

Luke 5:1-11

Jesus Calls the First Disciples

On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

John 21:7b-9

When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. 9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread.

John 18:15-18

Peter Denies Jesus

15 Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, 16 but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. 17 The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” 18 Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.

John 21:15-19

Jesus and Peter

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

1 Peter 1:3-4

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,

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