The Bride Church: Recent Episodes

The Bride Church | Yuba City, CA

Welcome to the weekly audio podcast for The Bride Church in Yuba City, CA. We love God and we love people, and our hope is that this podcast will encourage you and help you grow closer to Jesus Christ. Visit us at thebridechurch.org.

Key Points

Parables open a window into the heart of God and hold up a mirror to the condition of our own hearts.

The value of a person does not change when they are lost; God still sees them as infinitely valuable.

God is not waiting for us to clean ourselves up; He runs toward us while we are still a long way off.

There is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine who need no repentance.

The older brother reveals the danger of a hard, self-righteous heart that refuses to celebrate the lost being found.

The invitation to the banquet goes out to everyone — the poor, the crippled, the blind, the lame, and even those who have squandered everything.

True repentance looks like coming to our senses, turning, and returning to the Father.

Jesus came to seek and to save the lost, and He is still seeking and saving today.

Discussion

Pastor Bob said every parable opens a window into God’s heart and holds up a mirror to ours. What window into the Father’s heart stood out most clearly to you in these three stories?

The lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son were all still valuable while they were lost. How does that truth change the way you view people who are far from God (or even yourself when you feel far from Him)?

In the parable of the Lost Son, the father ran to his son while he was still a long way off. What does that picture of God do in your heart right now?

The older brother stayed outside the celebration. In what ways can a “good” religious life still keep us outside the joy of the Father’s heart?

Jesus said there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. How should that reality shape the way we respond when someone turns back to God?

Zacchaeus shows what real repentance looks like — immediate, costly, and joyful. Is there any area of your life where the Holy Spirit is inviting you to “come down” and respond like Zacchaeus?

Jesus said, “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Who is one person in your life that you sense God is still seeking, and how can you join Him in that pursuit this week?

Key Points

Parables are stories Jesus “throws alongside” everyday life to reveal spiritual truth.

Every parable should be framed with a window (into the heart of God and the secrets of the Kingdom) and a mirror (into the condition of our own heart).

The secrets of the Kingdom are given to those who follow Jesus; hardness of heart keeps others from seeing and hearing.

The condition of the soil (our heart) determines whether the Word produces lasting fruit.

The Kingdom grows quietly and often invisibly (like a mustard seed or leaven) from the inside out.

Weeds and wheat grow together until the final harvest; God is patient and we are not the reapers.

The Kingdom is a treasure worth selling everything to obtain. It brings great joy.

Discussion

Pastor Bob said every parable should be viewed through a window and a mirror. What window into God’s heart or the Kingdom did you see most clearly in these parables?

Which of the four soils in the Parable of the Sower most challenges you right now, and why?

Jesus said the secrets of the Kingdom are given to His disciples. How does that truth affect the way you approach Scripture and teaching?

The Parable of the Weeds teaches that wheat and weeds grow together until the harvest. How does this help you stay patient with difficult people or situations?

The mustard seed and the leaven both start small and work from the inside. Where is God currently working in quiet, almost invisible ways in your life?

In the parables of the Treasure and the Pearl, both men sold everything with joy. What would it look like for you to value the Kingdom that highly?

Jesus asked, “Have you understood all these things?” What is one truth from this message that you sense the Holy Spirit wants you to apply this week?

Key Points

The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy but Jesus came to give abundant life (Zoe).

There are three kinds of life in Scripture: bios (physical), psyche (soul), and Zoe (the God kind of life).

Zoe is the eternal, kingdom life that only Jesus can give through the Holy Spirit.

Without Zoe you do not have Jesus; with Zoe you become an agent of His kingdom.

The war began in the garden when Adam failed to protect and wash his wife with the Word.

Jesus has given believers the keys of the kingdom: authority to open the door of the gospel for others.

Hardship and suffering are often the very places God uses to unlock deeper endurance, character, and hope.

The call is clear: stop living as casual Christians and become devoted disciples who unlock life for others.

Discussion

Marcus shared powerful stories from camp of kids encountering Jesus. Where have you recently seen God show up in unexpected ways?

John 10:10 contrasts the thief’s agenda with Jesus’ mission. In what areas of your life do you still see the thief trying to steal, kill, or destroy?

How does understanding the difference between bios, psyche, and Zoe change the way you define “the good life”?

Marcus said many of us build ourselves “towers of Babel bricks” of self instead of temples of living stones. What self-focused patterns is the Holy Spirit highlighting in your life right now?

Jesus has given us the keys of the kingdom. What does it look like practically for you to use those keys this week to unlock life for someone else?

Romans 5 teaches that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope. How have you seen God use hardship to unlock deeper life in you?

The invitation is still open: turn from sin and receive the Zoe life of Jesus. Is there any area where you need to say a fresh “yes” to Him today?

Key Points

Our view of God shapes who we are and how we live (A.W. Tozer).

Our vision of God is often far too low. When we see Him, we will be surprised by His beauty, holiness, and majesty.

Holiness means God is completely set apart. Pure, innocent, and free from all sin.

When people truly encounter God’s holiness (Isaiah, Moses), they are undone and transformed.

Losing a sense of God’s holiness causes us to lose a true sense of how dark and destructive sin really is.

Sin is not “just a little thing.” It breaks fellowship with God, brings death, and caused Jesus to be forsaken on the cross.

Grace is greater than sin. Where sin abounded, grace super-abounded through Jesus Christ.

The proper response to God’s holiness and grace is to seek His face, walk in the holiness He has given us, and say, “Here am I, send me.”

Discussion

A.W. Tozer said our view of God will determine the kind of people we become. How has your view of God changed over time, and how has that affected the way you live?

Henry said we will be surprised by God’s beauty, holiness, and greatness when we see Him. Which of those three do you most look forward to seeing?

Isaiah was “undone” when he saw the Lord high and lifted up. Have you ever had a moment where God’s holiness made you deeply aware of your own sin?

Why do you think the church often loses a sense of the seriousness of sin when it loses a sense of God’s holiness?

Jesus became sin for us and cried out, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” How does that reality change the way you view both your sin and His love?

Romans 5 says grace “super-abounded” where sin increased. How does this truth free you from both despair over sin and carelessness about sin?

Henry challenged us to seek God’s face (not just His hand) and to be willing to take risks for Him. What is one practical way you can respond to that challenge this week?

Key Points

The story of redemption is a love story culminating in the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

Jesus has already paid the ultimate bride price, His life.

Many are called, but few are chosen: the invitation is open to all, both good and bad.

The proper wedding garment is the righteousness of Christ, not our own good works.

Without the garment of His righteousness, there is judgment and outer darkness.

The Lord’s Supper is a foretaste of the wedding feast, a sacred reminder of the covenant.

We are betrothed to Christ now and called to live holy, faithful, and fruitful lives as we await His return.

The invitation remains open today: “Come!” The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.”

Discussion

Pastor Bob described the gospel as a wedding invitation. How does viewing salvation as an invitation change the way you think about your relationship with Jesus?

In the parable of the wedding feast, many were invited but made excuses. What excuses sometimes keep people from fully saying “yes” to Jesus? What excuses have you made?

The only proper wedding garment is the righteousness of Christ. How does this truth free you from trying to earn God’s favor? How does it affect the way you live your life?

The Lord’s Supper is a foretaste of the Marriage Supper. What does taking communion mean to you in light of this bigger picture?

The bride is called to make herself ready. What does it look like practically for us to live holy and faithful lives while waiting for Christ’s return?

Pastor Bob shared that many are called but few are chosen. How should this reality affect the way we share the invitation with others?

Jesus says repeatedly, “Come.” Is there any area of your life right now where the Holy Spirit is inviting you to come closer to Him?

Key Points

Jesus promised He would return: “I will come again and take you to Myself.”

He will come visibly on the clouds with power and great glory.

He returns as King of kings and Lord of lords to judge the nations with justice.

Satan will be bound for a thousand years while Christ reigns on the earth.

There will be a first resurrection and the saints will reign with Christ for a thousand years.

After the thousand years, there will be a final judgment before the Great White Throne.

God will create a new heaven and a new earth where He dwells with His people forever.

Jesus says repeatedly in Revelation 22, “Behold, I am coming soon.” We are to live watchful and ready.

Discussion

Pastor Bob emphasized that Jesus promised “I will come again.” How does this promise affect the way you live day to day?

The sermon described Jesus returning as King of kings on a white horse to judge and rule. How does this picture of Jesus differ from how we sometimes think of Him?

What does it mean practically to live “watchful” and ready for His return?

The thousand-year reign shows Christ ruling on the earth with the saints. How does this future hope give us strength in present trials?

At the Great White Throne judgment, everyone will give an account. How does this reality motivate us to live holy and godly lives now?

Revelation 21 describes a new heaven and new earth with no more death, sorrow, or pain. What gives you the most hope about this promise?

Jesus ends the book of Revelation saying, “Behold, I am coming soon.” What is one step the Holy Spirit is prompting you to take this week in light of His soon return?

Key Points

Jesus declares, “I am the first and the last, and the living one.” He is alive forevermore and has authority over death.

He is our risen Lord and is actively present with us today through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Jesus is our great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father.

Because of His sacrifice, we can draw near to the throne of grace with confidence to receive mercy and help.

He is the head of the church, not a pastor or program, but Christ Himself rules and leads His body.

Jesus is the good Shepherd who knows His sheep, lays down His life for them, and protects them from the wolf.

He is our advocate with the Father. When we sin, we have a righteous defender who has already paid our penalty.

Knowing who Jesus “is” right now should fill us with confidence, peace, and a desire to surrender control and draw near to Him.

Discussion Questions

Pastor Bob emphasized that Jesus is alive forevermore. How does this reality change the way you face fear, anxiety, or uncertainty?

Hebrews 4 tells us Jesus is our great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses. What weakness or struggle do you need to bring to Him this week?

Jesus is the head of the church. How does this truth affect how we view leadership, decisions, and unity in the body of Christ?

As the good Shepherd, Jesus knows His sheep intimately. In what area of your life do you need His protection or guidance right now?

1 John 2 says we have an advocate with the Father. How does knowing Jesus defends you change the way you respond when you fail or sin?

The sermon encouraged us to preach the gospel to ourselves daily. What is one truth about who Jesus “is” that you want to remind yourself of this week?

If Jesus is alive, present, and interceding for you right now, what is one practical step you can take to draw nearer to Him?

Key Points

Jesus was not created. He existed before time, before the universe, and before humanity.

“In the beginning was the Word…” Jesus (the Logos) was with God and was God from eternity.

All things were created through Him and for Him. Nothing exists apart from Jesus.

He holds all things together. Our security rests in the One who sustains the entire universe.

The cross was not Plan B. Redemption was in God’s heart before the foundation of the world.

Jesus chose us in Him before the foundation of the world. We were never an afterthought.

The same love the Father has for the Son has been extended to us through Christ.

Knowing who Jesus “was” before creation transforms how we view our troubles, our value, and our daily surrender.

Discussion

Pastor Bob emphasized that Jesus existed before the world began. How does this truth change the way you think about your own life and purpose?

Colossians 1 says “in Him all things hold together.” Where in your life right now do you need to trust Jesus to hold things together instead of trying to control them yourself?

Ephesians 1 tells us we were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world. How does this reality affect feelings of worth or rejection?

The sermon highlighted that the cross was not Plan B. How does knowing redemption was always part of God’s plan give you hope in current struggles?

John 17 shows Jesus praying for us to share in the same oneness and love that exists in the Trinity. What does “oneness” with God look like practically in your daily life?

Pastor Bob encouraged us to preach the gospel to ourselves every day. What is one truth from this message you want to remind yourself of this week?

If Jesus was, is, and is to come, how should that shape the way we live today?

KEY POINTS

· God is faithful to finish what He starts in us and through us.

· Life involves opposition and tribulation, but Jesus has overcome the world.

· Whether we feel like life is generally easy or hard, our hardships are light compared to many believers globally.

· Ezra and Nehemiah (originally one combined book) show three movements of restoration: worship (altar/temple), holiness (people/repentance), and security (walls).

· Opposition comes in many forms: enemies, mockery/ridicule, false accusations, distraction/temptation, interpersonal struggles, personal weakness/doubt, and spiritual forces.

· Reading and obeying God’s Word leads to repentance.

· Revival begins with repentance and prayer.

· We must be self-feeders who dig into Scripture daily, not just Sunday listeners.

· Daniel and Primula’s testimony illustrates real-world opposition and persecution; God’s work still advances through discipleship, and bold gospel-sharing.

· We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against a real spiritual enemy. But we have a greater God who completes His work.

DISCUSSION

· What forms of opposition (enemies, mockery, doubt, spiritual forces, etc.) are you or your family currently facing? How does John 16:33 speak to that?

· Ezra-Nehemiah highlights restoring worship, holiness through repentance, and security. In what area of your life or our church does God seem to be calling for restoration right now?

· Share a time when you experienced mockery, false accusation, or distraction while trying to obey God. How did you (or how could you) respond like Nehemiah (“I am doing a great work and cannot come down”)?

· Pastor Tony emphasized repentance as turning fully from sin. What does genuine repentance look like practically in daily life, and how can we encourage one another in it?

· Daniel and Primula’s ministry in Pakistan shows opposition leading to revival and discipleship (especially empowering women). How does their story challenge or encourage your view of mission and perseverance?

· Looking at examples like Moses, Gideon, and Elijah, where do you see personal weakness or doubt holding you back? How can we trust that “what God starts, God finishes” in those areas?

Key Points

Jesus knows every church intimately. He commends Philadelphia for keeping His word and not denying His name despite having little power.

An open door that no one can shut is a powerful gift from Jesus to those who remain faithful under pressure.

Patient endurance (holding fast) is highly valued by Jesus and leads to great reward.

The church in Laodicea was spiritually lukewarm: self-deceived, thinking they were rich when they were actually wretched, poor, blind, and naked. They were the only one of the seven churches that were not affirmed.

Jesus would rather we be hot or cold, but never lukewarm. He warns us that he could spew us out of his mouth, but he would rather us repent, which is an act of his mercy and love.

True riches, white garments, and spiritual sight come only from Jesus.

Jesus stands at the door of the heart and knocks. We buy from him all that we need when we open the door and let him in.

To the one who overcomes, Jesus offers the highest honor: sitting with Him on His throne and becoming a pillar in the temple of God.

Discussion

In the letter to Philadelphia, Jesus commends them for keeping His word and not denying His name even with little power. Where is God calling you (or our church) to “hold fast” right now?

Pastor Bob highlighted the contrast between an open door (Philadelphia) and a closed, lukewarm heart(Laodicea). Which of these two churches feels more like your current spiritual state, and why?

Jesus says, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline.” How do you typically respond when the Lord corrects or challenges you?

The church in Laodicea thought they were rich but were actually spiritually bankrupt. Where might self-deception or complacency be hiding in your life?

Revelation 3:20 is often used for salvation, but it was written to the church. What does it look like practically for Jesus to “come in and eat with” a believer or a church?

Jesus promises great rewards to those who overcome (pillar in the temple, new name, sitting on His throne). How does this future hope help us endure present trials?

What is one specific step the Holy Spirit is prompting you to take this week — to hold fast, repent of lukewarmness, or open the door wider to Jesus?

Key Points

Our souls are vulnerable to the storms of life: anxiety, grief, brokenness, and uncertainty can leave us feeling cast down and drifting.

Biblical hope is not wishful thinking. It is a confident, unshakeable expectation anchored in the unchanging character and promises of God.

Jesus is our sure and steadfast anchor. Our hope goes behind the veil into the very presence of God where Jesus has gone as our forerunner.

Storms and suffering are not meaningless. They produce endurance, character, and a deeper hope that does not put us to shame.

When our souls feel heavy or tossed by waves, we must intentionally turn our hope back to Jesus, who holds us securely.

The world notices when we remain steady in the storm; our anchored hope becomes a powerful testimony of God’s faithfulness.

We must always be ready to gently and respectfully share the reason for the hope that is within us.

Jesus invites every soul to find rest, security, and unshakable hope by being firmly anchored to Him.

Discussion

Zach shared how he and Emily chose to anchor their marriage to Jesus from the very beginning. What does it look like practically for you to anchor your life (or marriage, family, career) to Jesus?

Our souls can feel anxious, heavy, or cast down during storms. Share a time when your soul felt tossed by circumstances.

Hebrews 6:19 calls Jesus the “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.” What does this image mean to you personally?

Romans 5 teaches that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope. Where have you seen this chain reaction in your own life or someone else’s?

Zach challenged us to be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:15). How can we better prepare to share our hope with gentleness and respect?

In the middle of a current “storm,” what helps you keep your soul anchored instead of drifting?

What is one practical step you can take this week to strengthen your anchor line to Jesus and find rest for your soul?

Key Points

Jesus knows the true condition of His church — we may have a reputation of being alive, but He sees when we are spiritually dead or sleeping.

The church is called to wake up and strengthen what remains before it dies completely.

Spiritual coasting, complacency, and compromise lead to a dying church.

God’s ultimate vision for the church is a spotless bride prepared for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

Jesus is coming like a thief — we must live ready, dressed for action, with lamps full of oil (the Holy Spirit).

White garments represent the righteous deeds of the saints and the righteousness of Christ given to us.

Those who overcome will walk with Jesus in white, have their names confessed before the Father, and will never be blotted from the Book of Life.

The church is in the betrothal period — we are to make ourselves ready as the Bride of Christ for the return of our Bridegroom.

Discussion

Pastor Bob described the church in Sardis as having a reputation of being alive but actually being dead. Where might complacency or “coasting” be showing up in your own walk with Jesus?

Jesus told the church in Sardis to “wake up and strengthen what remains.” What areas of your faith do you sense the Lord is calling you to strengthen right now?

How does the picture of the church as the Bride of Christ (preparing for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb) change the way you think about daily Christian living?

In the parable of the ten virgins, some were ready and some were not. What does it practically look like for us to “be ready” for Jesus’ return?

Pastor Bob shared how his wife maintained purity and faithfulness. What does it look like for us to keep our “garments” unstained in today’s culture?

Jesus promises white garments and to confess our names before the Father to those who overcome. How does this hope motivate you to live differently?

What is one step the Holy Spirit is prompting you to take this week to “wake up,” repent, or prepare yourself as part of the Bride of Christ?

Key Points

Jesus is not distant—He walks among His churches with eyes like flame of fire and a sharp two-edged sword in His mouth, ready both to heal and to judge.

Jesus sees those who hold fast His name and do not deny their faith.

Comfort often leads to complacency, which leads to compromise, which leads to corruption—especially in the area of sexual immorality.

The church must not tolerate false teaching or sexual immorality.

Jesus gives time to repent because He desires restoration, not immediate judgment—but unrepented sin brings serious consequences.

Sexual immorality is uniquely serious because it sins against one’s own body, which is a temple of the Holy Spirit.

True overcomers receive hidden manna (Christ Himself), a white stone of innocence with a new name, and the Morning Star (Jesus).

The church is a hospital for the broken and redeemed, not a museum for the perfect—Jesus washes, sanctifies, and calls us to holiness.

Discussion

Pastor Bob said comfort can lead to complacency, compromise, and eventually corruption. Where have you seen this pattern in your own life or in the broader church?

In both Pergamum and Thyatira, the issue was tolerating false teaching that led to sexual immorality and idolatry. Why do you think Jesus is so serious about this inside His church?

Looking at 1 Corinthians 6, Paul says “such were some of you” but now you have been washed. Share (as you’re comfortable) how God has brought freedom or healing in the area of sexual brokenness.

Pastor Bob emphasized that the church is not a museum for the pure but a hospital for the broken. How can we balance truth with grace when someone is struggling in this area?

What is one practical step the Holy Spirit is prompting you to take this week to “flee sexual immorality” or help someone else walk in purity and freedom?

KEY POINTS

· Jesus is actively present in His Church, walking among the lampstands and speaking directly to His people through the Holy Spirit.

· Repentance is not punishment but the pathway to restoration, renewed works, and the promise of eating from the Tree of Life.

· In the face of tribulation and persecution (as with Smyrna), Jesus sees our suffering, calls us not to fear, and promises the crown of life to those who are faithful unto death.

· Self-examination is essential: believers must regularly test whether Jesus Christ truly lives in them through love, hatred of sin, repentance, love for the Church, and a heart for the lost.

· True faith produces visible fruit—forgiving love, genuine repentance, commitment to the body of Christ, and zeal to reach the lost—because salvation always leads to transformation.

· The Holy Spirit is still speaking to the Church today; those who have ears must listen, repent where needed, and overcome so they will not be hurt by the second death.

DISCUSSION

· Looking at the letter to Ephesus, can you identify any ways your own walk with Jesus or our church family may have drifted from “first love”? What did that first love look like for you?

· Jesus commends hard work and endurance but still calls for repentance. How do you typically respond when the Lord highlights something that needs correction in your life?

· Smyrna faced real persecution and poverty yet was told, “Be faithful unto death.” What does “faithful unto death” look like in our comfortable American context?

· Pastor Bob encouraged self-examination using several tests (love, hatred of sin, repentance, love for the Church, heart for the lost). Which of these areas feels most challenging for you right now, and why?

· How can we, as a small group and church, help one another stay passionate in our first love and avoid becoming complacent or isolated?

· If someone asked you today, “Is Jesus really in you?” how would you answer, and what evidence from your daily life would you point to? What step of repentance or obedience is the Spirit prompting you to take this week?

KEY POINTS

• Revelation is not primarily about events but about the unveiling of Jesus Christ.

• Jesus is actively present in His church, seeing, evaluating, and speaking to His people.

• The call of the church is not passive attendance but zeal for love and good works.

• Diligently seeking God requires surrender, focus, and intentional pursuit.

• It is possible to do the right things while drifting from genuine love for Christ.

• Jesus lovingly confronts His church, calling for repentance and renewal.

• Returning to “first love” restores both relationship and spiritual vitality.

• A church without love risks losing its witness, even if its activity remains.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

• When you think about Revelation as “the unveiling of Jesus,” how does that change the way you approach the book?

• Why is it easy to evaluate church based on personal preference instead of asking what Jesus thinks?

• In what ways can someone remain faithful in works yet drift from their first love?

• What did your “first love” for Christ look like when your faith was most alive?

• Where might complacency have replaced passion in your walk with God?

• How do you typically respond to correction or rebuke from others?

Key Points

Jesus’s resurrection was not only proof of victory but the beginning of a mission for every believer.

The Great Commission is a command to go, not an invitation to stay comfortable.

Doubt and hesitation are common, but they cannot be an excuse for disobedience.

The message of the mission is repentance and the forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ.

Discipleship is not complete until disciples make more disciples.

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live on mission beyond their own strength.

Everyday moments and ordinary interactions are opportunities to share the gospel.

Discussion

Where do you see yourself in the Great Commission—actively going or holding back?

What fears or doubts tend to cause you to shrink back from sharing your faith?

How would you clearly explain the message of forgiveness of sins to someone else?

Who has God placed in your life right now that you may be avoiding or overlooking?

How does the promise of the Holy Spirit change your confidence in living on mission?

In what ways can you move from simply attending church to actively going with the gospel?

Key Points

Jesus meets people in the middle of their ordinary lives and calls them despite their brokenness.

A right response to Jesus begins with recognizing our true condition as sinful and in need of Him.

Strong intentions and self-confidence are not enough to sustain faith under pressure.

The enemy ultimately targets our faith, not just our circumstances.

Following Jesus at a distance leads to compromise and eventual denial.

Failure often comes in moments of fear, weakness, or misaligned expectations.

Jesus responds to our failure not with condemnation, but with conviction, love, and pursuit.

True repentance is marked by deep sorrow that leads us back to God rather than away from Him.

Jesus intentionally revisits the places of our failure to redeem and restore us.

Grace does not ignore sin but meets us personally and invites us back into relationship.

Our past failure does not disqualify us from God’s purpose; it becomes part of our testimony.

Discussion

When you think about Peter’s story, where do you see yourself most: his calling, his confidence, his denial, or his restoration? Why?

What does it look like in real life to “follow Jesus at a distance,” and how have you seen that lead to compromise?

Why do you think Jesus responds to failure with grace and restoration instead of rejection, and how does that challenge your view of Him?

Can you identify a moment in your life where you felt conviction like Peter did? What was your response, and what did it produce in you?

In what ways can failure either push someone toward shame or toward repentance, and what makes the difference?

Where do you sense Jesus is calling you to move forward again instead of staying stuck in past failure?

Key Points

Jesus meets people personally in their grief, fear, doubt, and confusion.

The resurrection does not remove struggle, but it transforms how we experience it.

Jesus offers peace not as an idea, but as His presence in the middle of chaos.

Doubt and questions are not rejected by Jesus; they are met with grace and truth.

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out what Jesus has called them to do.

Belief is central to the Christian life, even when we have not seen.

Discussion

Where do you see yourself in this passage right now—Mary in grief, the disciples in fear, or Thomas in need of a personal encounter with Jesus? Why?

Jesus repeatedly says, “Peace be with you.” What does it look like to experience His peace in a real, practical way in your current circumstances?

How have you seen Jesus meet you personally in a difficult or confusing season of life?

Why do you think Jesus responds to doubt with invitation instead of correction? What does that reveal about His character?

What are some “locked doors” in your life right now? Where fear, pain, or uncertainty have kept you closed off?

KEY POINTS

Apart from Christ, people are spiritually dead even while physically alive.

Jesus did not come to improve life but to give true life through His death and resurrection.

The cross was necessary because sin brings death and separates us from God.

The resurrection proves that Jesus is God and that death has been defeated.

Real life—abundant and eternal—is found only in Jesus Christ.

Salvation is not earned; it is received by believing in the finished work of Christ.

Passing from death to life happens the moment a person truly believes in Jesus.

Abundant life begins with dying to self and living by faith in Christ.

Many people continue seeking life in things that only produce death.

Forgiveness, repentance, and surrender are pathways into experiencing real life in Christ.

DISCUSSION

Pastor Bob described being “alive on the outside but dead on the inside.” Have you ever experienced that tension? What did it look like?

Why is the resurrection essential to the Christian faith, not just the cross?

What are some ways you “seek the living among the dead” in everyday life?

What does it practically look like to “die to self” and live by faith in Christ?

How does forgiveness, both receiving it and giving it, connect to experiencing abundant life?

Jesus says we pass from death to life through belief. What does genuine belief look like beyond just intellectual agreement?

If someone asked you today, “Are you truly alive?” how would you answer, and why?

KEY POINTS

Triumph is not commonly associated with humility.

The Triumphal Entry was a purposed provocation to expedite HIS appointment with the cross.

JESUS expressed triumphal humility by HIS obedience to the FATHER’s will, fulfilling prophecy, not folding to the will of the people, and not cowering on the path to the cross.

JESUS’ humble mission was spiritual warfare to counter the root sin of pride.

The entire week from the Triumphal Entry to JESUS’ death was a silent subversion of the kingdom of darkness while the people thought all hope was gone.

JESUS faithfully fulfilled our wants and needs to the infinite degree, but often our faithfulness is returned to HIM (reciprocated) only as long as our temporal wants and needs are met.

In the blackest darkness, the light is brightest. When times are hardest, GOD is closest.

Sinful, selfish pursuits blind us to the triumphant nature of humility.

Isaac Newton said, “What goes up, must come down.” The kingdom principle is: “Whoever humbles himself down low, will be exalted high up.”

The way JESUS left in HIS lowliness is how HE will soon return in HIS highness.

DISCUSSION

Before hearing this message, how did you feel about JESUS’ final week before HIS death that began with the Triumphal Entry? Heartbroken? Happy? Humbled? Why?

What are some typical ways that triumph is defined in the world?

Share a story of someone who has set an example of humility for you.

When has JESUS helped you to be humble in a hard situation?

Which of your temporal needs not being met shakes your faith the most? Why?

Where are opportunities for you to humble yourself? With a family member? A spouse or a friend? Coworker? How will you take steps toward humility?

Is it difficult to believe that JESUS will physically return? Why?

KEY POINTS

The church is not a building or event but a people: God’s family and His body on earth.

God reveals His wisdom and glory through the church, even to unseen spiritual realms.

Believers are not saved to sit but to participate in the life and mission of the body.

Every person in the church is intentionally placed by God and is indispensable.

Isolation contradicts God’s design; we are called to be deeply connected to one another.

The church functions as a family where strength supports weakness and growth happens together.

Spiritual growth often happens when we step out of comfort and into obedience and service.

The early church model was marked by devotion to Scripture (teaching), fellowship, prayer, and shared life.

Genuine church life produces unity, generosity, joy, and visible transformation.

God’s power is meant to work through His people to impact others and expand His kingdom.

DISCUSSION

When you think about “church,” do you naturally think of a place, an event, or a people? Why?

Ephesians 3 says God displays His wisdom through the church. How does that change the way you view your role in it?

In what ways have you personally experienced the tension between “attending” church and actually being part of the body?

What are some common reasons people isolate from the church? Which of those do you relate to most?

1 Corinthians 12 teaches that every part of the body is indispensable. Do you truly believe your role matters? Why or why not?

Where might God be calling you to step out of comfort and into deeper participation or service?

Who in your life right now might need you to show up, listen, serve, or love in a tangible way?

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KEY POINTS

The church exists to celebrate and display the work of Jesus Christ, not the achievements of people.

The church is the ekklesia—the called-out people of God gathered together for His purposes.

Jesus is the One who builds His church and sustains it across generations.

God often begins His greatest works through small beginnings and simple acts of obedience.

The church is meant to equip believers and send them out to live out the gospel in everyday life.

Every believer has a role in displaying the wisdom and glory of God through the life of the church.

Looking back at God’s faithfulness strengthens our faith to trust Him for what lies ahead.

DISCUSSION

Jesus says in Matthew 16:18 that He will build His church. How does remembering that the church belongs to Christ change the way we think about church leadership, growth, or challenges?

The word church means “called-out ones.” What does it practically look like to live as someone called out of darkness and into God’s kingdom?

Pastor Bob emphasized that the church is made up of broken people who find healing and transformation through Christ. How have you experienced that kind of grace within the church community?

Why do you think God often chooses small beginnings or unlikely people to accomplish His purposes?

Ephesians 3 teaches that God displays His wisdom through the church. In what ways can a local church demonstrate God’s character to the surrounding community?

Looking back at God’s work over the past 15 years was meant to encourage faith for the future. How can remembering God’s faithfulness in your own life strengthen your trust in Him moving forward?

Each generation of believers contributes to the life of the church. How do you sense God inviting you to participate more fully in the life and mission of His church?

KEY POINTS

The letter of Titus repeatedly connects sound teaching with good works.

Healthy doctrine should produce transformed lives.

Good works do not save us, but they are the natural fruit of salvation and grace at work in us.

Devotion to good works is something believers learn through obedience and practice, not something that comes naturally.

God often works through ordinary acts of obedience to accomplish extraordinary things.

Many of the miracles in Scripture were witnessed by those who were serving and obeying behind the scenes.

Believers are God’s workmanship, created in Christ for good works that God prepared beforehand.

A life that only receives but never gives can become spiritually unfruitful and stagnant.

Faith is meant to move outward in love.

Serving others reflects the character and glory of God.

God invites believers to participate in His work by meeting real needs around them.

Followers of Christ should not grow weary in doing good, trusting that God will bring a harvest in His time.

DISCUSSION

Why do you think Scripture describes good works as something we must learn, rather than something that happens automatically?

Why might obedience and service position people to see God work more clearly?

Ephesians 2:10 says we were created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand. How does this change the way you think about everyday opportunities to help others?

What are some ways comfort, busyness, or distraction can cause us to miss opportunities to serve or love others?

Think about a time when you stepped out in obedience or generosity. What did you learn about God, yourself, or others through that experience?

What are some ways people can become discouraged in serving others, and how can the church encourage perseverance?

What is one practical way you could intentionally look for opportunities this week to love someone through a simple act of service or generosity?

Key Points

Christians are called to live submissive, obedient, and peaceable lives in a divisive world.

Speaking evil, quarreling, and stirring division dishonor God and contradict the gospel.

We were once foolish, disobedient, and enslaved to passions, but God saved us by His mercy.

Salvation is not earned by righteous works but accomplished through God’s loving kindness and regeneration by the Holy Spirit.

The grace that saves us also transforms us and produces good works.

Division within the church must be addressed seriously because it damages witness and unity.

The blood of Christ is the only blood that truly makes peace between God and humanity.

Eternal hope reshapes how we engage a chaotic world and how we treat one another.

Discussion

Titus 3 begins by calling believers to be submissive and ready for every good work. Why is submission often so difficult, even for Christians?

How does remembering your past condition guard you against pride or harshness toward others?

According to Titus 3:4–7, what role do mercy and regeneration play in salvation? How does this protect us from self-righteousness?

In what ways are you most tempted to engage in unhelpful arguments (in person or online)?

Proverbs 18:2 says a fool delights in airing his own opinion rather than understanding. How does this challenge the way you interact with others?

How does fixing your hope on eternal life (Titus 3:7) change the way you respond to political tension, cultural division, or global conflict?

Paul instructs the church to warn a divisive person and then separate if necessary (Titus 3:10–11). Why is unity so serious in God’s design for His church?

What is one practical way you can pursue peace, gentleness, and good works this week instead of division?

Key Points

Sound doctrine must lead to transformed lives. Healthy teaching shapes healthy living.

Older believers are called to model maturity, teaching sobriety, dignity, self-control, love, and steadfastness.

Discipleship is generational. Older men and women are commanded to train the younger.

God’s design for marriage reflects His order. Husbands are called to loving leadership; wives to come under that mission.

Our daily work is a platform for the gospel. Even ordinary obedience can adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.

Grace does more than forgive. The grace that saves us also teaches us to renounce ungodliness.

We belong to God. Christ redeemed and purified a people for His own possession.

Zeal for good works is evidence of redemption. The Christian life should be marked by eagerness to love and serve.

Discussion

Which character trait in Titus 2 challenges you most right now? Why?

Who has modeled godliness for you? Who are you currently modeling it for?

In what ways do you resist the biblical vision of marriage and leadership?

How does your behavior at home or at work either adorn or undermine the gospel?

Titus 2 says grace “trains” us. What is grace currently teaching you to renounce?

Where have you grown spiritually comfortable instead of spiritually zealous?

What is one specific “good work” you sense the Lord inviting you into this week?

KEY POINTS

· God is holy and He is redeeming a people who will honor His name in a fallen world.

· God listens to our conversations and remembers those who fear Him and esteem His name.

· Sound doctrine leads to godliness and godliness honors God.

· God establishes order and leadership in His church so that His name is not dishonored.

· Leaders must be above reproach in character because they represent God’s name.

· False teaching and empty talk dishonor God and damage families and churches.

· Rebuke and correction are meant to restore people to healthy faith.

· Crete was broken and chaotic but God builds something beautiful in broken places through truth.

· Repentance does not lead to shame but to refreshment and renewed fellowship with God.

DISCUSSION

· How does Malachi 3:16 challenge the way you think about what God hears and remembers?

· Why is sound doctrine essential for personal holiness and church health?

· In what ways can someone profess Christ yet deny Him by their works?

· What “empty talk” or unhealthy influences might be shaping your thinking more than Scripture?

· Where does your workplace, home, or heart resemble Crete, and how can truth begin restoring it?

· How have you experienced repentance leading to refreshment rather than shame?

KEY POINTS

Nothing can change the fact that God loves us.

God has bigger plans than anything we can imagine.

God works through ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things.

Even in the silent times, God is expressing His love for you.

God is always working, even when His activity is hidden or delayed.

DISCUSSION

Have you ever gone through a season where God felt silent or distant? What made it difficult?

How did that silence affect your prayer life, trust, or expectations of God?

Looking back now, can you see anything God was doing beneath the surface during that season?

In John 11, Jesus delays even though He loves Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. What does this teach us about God’s timing?

How can trusting God’s presence change how we endure seasons of uncertainty or silence?

What practices help you remain aware of God’s presence when you don’t feel it?

In Sunday’s message, the following passages were highlighted as sources of encouragement in times of waiting/silence. How do they speak to you?

“Surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously to all… and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

“Come to Me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Are there any passages you could add to this list?

Key Points

Consistent Bible reading transforms lives.

The hope of the gospel is rooted in who Christ is and what He has already accomplished.

Reconciliation with God is accomplished by Christ and not sustained by human effort.

Biblical tensions lead to humility. Apparent contradictions in Scripture (sovereignty vs. responsibility, assurance vs. warnings) aren't errors but invitations to humble dependence on God.

Scripture holds grace and responsibility together without turning faith into a performance.

Jesus must be first in everything. When Christ isn't first, we typically put ourselves first, even in seemingly good actions.

God’s saving work comes first and our obedience flows from what He has already done.

We are saved by grace alone, yet Scripture calls us to continue in faith and work out our salvation.

Warnings in Scripture are meant to guard believers, not to rob them of assurance.

Growth and endurance flow from God’s work within us, even through trials and suffering.

Nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Discussion

In Colossians 1:15-23, Paul says we are holy and blameless and beyond reproach, but then adds, if indeed you continue in the faith. How do you understand this tension? Does it make you feel secure or anxious about your salvation? How does understanding this as remaining in Christ shape the way you hear this passage?

“The more we recognize God's grace is sufficient, the more we realize how much we need it.” Have you experienced this paradox in your own life? Share an example.

Romans 8 declares there is no condemnation for those in Christ and that nothing can separate us from God’s love. How does this truth reshape the way you respond to mistakes, failures, or ongoing struggles?

In what areas of your life have you struggled to put Jesus first? What typically takes His place?

When the enemy brings shame after you fall into sin, how do you typically respond? What is the gospel-shaped response to condemnation, and how does that differ from self-punishment or denial?

Pastor Tony explained “work out your salvation” as to bring into expression what God has already worked in you. What has God already worked in you that needs to be expressed more fully?

KEY POINTS

Present suffering is real but temporary in light of God’s coming renewal.

God has promised a new heaven and a new earth, not the repair of the old one.

New creation has begun in Christ but will be fully revealed in the future.

Creation itself is waiting for complete restoration.

Christian hope is rooted in what God will do, not what we can achieve.

Waiting is shaped by trust in God’s promised future.

God’s final act of renewal will remove sin, death, and sorrow forever.

DISCUSSION

Why is the promise of a new heaven and a new earth essential to Christian hope?

How does Revelation 21 expand the way we think about God “making all things new”?

What is the difference between God renewing creation and merely improving it?

Why does Scripture describe creation itself as waiting and groaning?

How does future resurrection and renewal give meaning to present suffering?

In what ways can an incomplete view of the future weaken Christian endurance?

How should the certainty of God’s coming renewal shape how believers live now?

Key Points

Salvation gives believers a new heart, a new spirit, and a new mind.

The natural mind is hostile toward God and must be transformed by the Spirit.

Transformation is not behavior modification but spiritual renewal.

Believers have been given the mind of Christ as a gift, not an achievement.

A renewed mind produces a reconciled life marked by humility and love.

The Spirit renews the mind daily, shaping thoughts, desires, and direction.

Setting the mind on the Spirit leads to life and peace.

Discussion

Why does Scripture describe the old way of thinking as futile rather than merely immature or misguided?

What does it mean to be “renewed in the spirit of your mind,” and how is that different from changing behavior?

How does the idea that believers have been given the mind of Christ reshape how we approach growth and maturity?

What are some subtle ways the world pressures believers to conform in their thinking rather than be transformed?

Why does Paul connect renewed thinking with putting off the old self and putting on the new self?

How does setting the mind on the Spirit lead to life and peace, according to Romans 8?

In what ways can spiritual renewal be misunderstood as self-help or self-discipline rather than the work of the Spirit?

Key Points

God restores people for the sake of His Holy Name.

The reason God gives us a new heart and new spirit is to vindicate His name.

New life begins with a new heart and a new spirit.

God brings life where there was only death.

The Word of the Lord, not human effort, produces transformation.

Remembering the past wrongly can keep us from walking in freedom.

Grace trains believers to renounce ungodliness.

Discussion

Why does God emphasize acting “for the sake of His name” rather than for human merit?

What does the image of dry bones reveal about human inability apart from God’s Spirit?

How does understanding the context of Ezekiel 36 reshape the way you read Ezekiel 37?

In what ways can remembering the past be either healing or harmful to spiritual growth?

What is the difference between trying harder and believing more?

How does the idea of renouncing ungodliness challenge common views of grace?

Why is identity in Christ essential before addressing behavior or obedience?

What does it mean to live in a way that visibly vindicates God’s name?

Key Points

In Christ, believers are not improved versions of their old selves.

God creates something entirely new in salvation.

God gives a new heart that desires Him.

God gives a new spirit that empowers obedience.

God renews the mind to align with truth and holiness.

The old identity has passed and no longer defines us.

The word “behold” calls believers to stop and live from what is true.

Discussion

Why is it significant that Scripture calls believers a new creation rather than a restored one?

What does the command to “behold” reveal about how believers are meant to live out their identity in Christ?

How does understanding a new heart reshape the way we think about desire and motivation?

In what ways does relying on the Spirit differ from relying on discipline or willpower?

How does a renewed mind change the way we interpret failure, shame, or struggle?

What stands out most to you about the relationship God desires with His people?

Key Points

Legacy is what we intentionally pass to the next generation.

God calls His people to tell the next generation what He has done.

Scripture is meant to be taught daily and lived openly in the home.

Faith grows when God’s works and testimonies are shared.

Jesus left a living legacy that continues through discipleship.

Discussion

When you hear the word legacy, what comes to mind first and why?

How does the idea of legacy challenge the way you think about everyday faithfulness?

Why do you think God places such a strong emphasis on remembering and retelling His works?

What stories of God’s faithfulness have shaped your faith, whether from family, church, or personal experience?

How does Jesus’ command to make disciples shape the way you view legacy today?

In what ways can silence or neglect impact the spiritual legacy passed to the next generation?

KEY POINTS

God’s love is revealed in sending Jesus as Savior, not Judge.

Jesus entered a dark and hostile world out of love for sinners.

Salvation flows from God’s kindness, not human effort.

Love rescues, restores, and reconciles us to God.

God’s love changes us from the inside out.

Those who receive God’s love are called to love others the same way.

DISCUSSION

What stands out to you about the way God defines love?

Why is it significant that Jesus came to save rather than condemn the world?

How does understanding salvation as rescue and restoration shape how you see your own story?

In what ways does the sermon challenge common ideas about earning God’s approval?

Why do you think love, rather than law, is what leads people to repentance?

How does remembering what God saved you from affect how you view people who resist Him?

What does it look like to live “through Him” rather than merely believing facts about Him?

How does the depth of God’s love reshape your understanding of Christmas and the cross?

Key Points

Biblical hope is a confident expectation rooted in God, not circumstances.

Hope is often born in seasons of suffering, waiting, and endurance.

Depression can coexist with faith, and hope is often forged in that tension.

Hope is sustained through community and shared faith, not isolation.

Endurance shapes character, and character produces hope.

Hope is not what we see, but what we hold onto while we wait.

Jesus Himself is the anchor and fulfillment of our hope.

Discussion

How does Scripture define hope differently than how our culture uses the word?

Why do you think God allows hope to be formed through suffering rather than comfort?

How does the imagery of light breaking into darkness shape your understanding of hope?

How does shared suffering with others deepen or reshape hope?

In what ways does this sermon challenge common assumptions about depression and faith?

Why is endurance essential to hope rather than a detour from it?

How does anchoring hope in Christ differ from anchoring hope in outcomes or relief?

What does it reveal about God that hope is described as something He gives, not something we manufacture?

Depression is not meant to be carried alone. Consider sharing your struggle with someone you trust. You are not alone.

Key Points

Faith begins when God speaks and we choose to trust what He says even when we cannot see what He is doing.

Mary models true surrender by receiving an impossible assignment and responding with humility and obedience.

Faith rejects fear and stands on the promises of God rather than emotions or circumstances.

Faith is the means by which God empowers us to do what is humanly impossible through the Holy Spirit.

Faith pleases God because it draws us near to Him and aligns our lives with His Word.

Faith must be exercised in real areas of life such as forgiveness, reconciliation, obedience, and spiritual growth.

Faith believes that God is present, active, and faithful even when our feelings, history, or habits say otherwise.

Faith says yes to God without knowing the outcome and trusts Him with the results.

Faith grows as we hear the Word of God, seek Him diligently, and rely on the Holy Spirit.

Faith transforms us and the world around us when we submit to God with a servant’s heart.

Discussion

What part of Mary’s response challenges you the most and why?

Where do you feel God is asking you to walk by faith instead of relying on your own understanding?

Which promise of God is hardest for you to believe right now and what makes it difficult?

How do you usually respond when God asks you to do something that feels impossible?

What habits, fears, or assumptions create barriers to exercising real faith in your daily life?

When have you seen God meet you with strength or grace the moment you finally said yes?

How would your relationships change if you applied faith to forgiveness, reconciliation, or love for difficult people?

What is one step of faith you can take this week that aligns with God’s Word rather than your comfort?

Key Points

God is the Author of the Greater Story and the Bible reveals His plan from beginning to end.

Humanity fell into sin, but God promised a Redeemer in Genesis 3:15.

Jesus fulfills every major foreshadow in Scripture and is the central point of the story.

The atbash pattern in the Bible shows how God brings the story full circle from Genesis to Revelation.

Believers are part of the story as sons and daughters of God.

We are called to share the message of Jesus and shine His light in the world.

God will restore all things and dwell with His people forever.

Discussion

How does understanding the whole Bible as one story help you follow Jesus more clearly?

Which foreshadow or Old Testament connection to Jesus stood out to you?

The sermon explained the atbash pattern that shows Scripture coming full circle. What part of that pattern made the biggest impact on you?

Where do you see yourself in God’s story right now and why?

How do you feel called to share God’s light with someone in your life this week?

How does knowing the end of the story in Revelation give you confidence today?

Key Points

We are God's masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He has prepared beforehand.

Five essential actions for mission: Go and pray, Go and forgive, Go and love, Go where you are, Go and make disciples.

Prayer should begin early in the morning and continue without ceasing throughout the day.

Forgiveness is essential before effective ministry. We cannot carry bitterness and minister mercy.

Love must be demonstrated in deed and truth, not just words.

The mission field is not somewhere distant but right where you already are.

God is an ever-present help in times of trouble. He goes ahead of us.

Making disciples begins with becoming a disciple yourself.

We never go alone. God promises to be with us always.

Discussion

What does your current prayer life look like? What obstacles keep you from prioritizing prayer?

The message emphasizes praying 'without ceasing' as a mindset throughout the day. How would your daily routine and interactions change if you maintained constant awareness of God's presence and leading?

How does unforgiveness hinder our ability to serve others effectively?

Is there someone you need to forgive? What's holding you back? What would it look like to take a step toward forgiveness this week?

How can we become more aware of the pain and needs around us? What distracts us from noticing?

Where do you spend most of your time? How might God be calling you to be "on mission" in those everyday places?

What does being a disciple look like in practical terms? How are you growing as a disciple right now?

How does witnessing someone's decision to follow Christ impact your own commitment to share the gospel with those in your sphere of influence?

Key Points

We are chosen and seen by God. Before we were born, God chose us and predestined us for adoption.

We have been made holy and blameless through Christ's sacrifice, not our own efforts. Salvation is by grace through faith alone, not by works, so no one can boast.

Our salvation is secure. We are sealed with the Holy Spirit and have a guaranteed eternal inheritance.

We are not defined by our past. We are forgiven, redeemed, and made new in Christ.

We are God's "workmanship" (ποίημα/poiéma/masterpiece), created for good works that He prepared beforehand.

Understanding our secure position in Christ gives us confidence to serve without fear of rejection or inadequacy.

Grace precedes mission. We must understand who we are in Christ before we can effectively serve Him.

We are seated with Christ in heavenly places, fully accepted and beloved.

The forgiveness we receive should free us from shame and empower us for mission.

Discussion

Pastor Bob outlined 12 things we have in Christ. Which is hardest to believe about yourself and why?

Chosen before the foundation of the world

Called to live holy and blameless

Adopted into God's family

Accepted and beloved in Christ

Redeemed by His blood

Forgiven of all trespasses

Lavishly covered by grace and wisdom

Given revelation of God's will

Made heirs with Christ

Predestined according to His purpose

Sealed with the Holy Spirit

Guaranteed an eternal inheritance

What trials in your life have unexpectedly deepened your understanding of God's love or revealed new dimensions of faith?

Do you struggle to truly believe you are forgiven and redeemed? What do you think is holding you in the 'swamp of shame' and keeping you from living in your new identity?

The sermon contrasts being 'dead in trespasses' with being 'seated with Christ in heavenly places' - how should this radical transformation affect the way we treat others who are still walking in spiritual death?

Why do you think that is important to know your position in Christ before being commissioned?

Key Points

Cleansing Comes Before Commission. God always purifies us before He sends us. Isaiah's lips were cleansed with a burning coal before he received his mission.

God Won't Fill What Isn't Empty. As Spurgeon said: "God will never fill you with himself until he has emptied you of your own self."

Mission Starts at Home. Before we can care for God's church or community, we must learn to manage and love our own households well (1 Timothy 3:4-5).

Consecration Precedes Breakthrough. Joshua 3:5 - "Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, the Lord will do wonders among you."

Discussion Questions

Share about a time when you felt completely unprepared for something God called you to do. How did that experience change you?

How have you experienced God's cleansing and forgiveness in your life? Share a specific example.

What fears hold you back from serving God more fully?

Why do you think God prioritizes how we care for our own households before sending us to serve elsewhere?

Without sharing details that would dishonor anyone, where do you see opportunities for greater service and sacrifice within your own home or immediate family?

Jesus says if someone has something against you (whether you intended harm or not), go make it right before offering your gift. Why is this so countercultural and difficult?

What "dishonorable" things might God be asking you to cleanse yourself from?

Paul says to "flee youthful passions" and "pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace." What's one thing you need to flee and one thing you need to pursue this week?

Key Points

God is still on the throne even when everything around us feels uncertain.

Seeing God’s holiness reveals our own sinfulness and need for grace.

God’s mercy cleanses and restores what sin has made unclean.

Forgiveness always comes before the call to serve.

Every believer is sent to share what God has done.

God often reveals Himself most clearly in seasons of loss or change.

True worship begins with a right view of God’s holiness.

God doesn’t just forgive. He invites us into His work.

The same God who cleanses also empowers through His Spirit.

Our mission starts where we already are: our home, family, and community.

Discussion

What’s an area of your life where you’ve recently had to remember that God is still on the throne?

How does seeing God’s holiness change the way you see yourself?

Why do you think Isaiah’s response to God’s presence was “Woe is me”?

How have you experienced God cleansing or forgiving you in a personal way?

What do you think it means to say, “Here I am, send me”?

Where might God be sending you right now?

Key Points

Jesus watches our giving because He’s after our hearts, not our wallets.

The widow’s two coins model trust-filled worship.

The spiritual principle stands: we reap what we sow—including generosity.

New-covenant giving is decided in the heart, not under compulsion.

God multiplies seed for sowing, enriching us to be generous in every way.

Firstfruits: honoring God first trains the heart and consecrates the rest.

Cheerful giving leads to thanksgiving and glory to God.

The Gospel is God’s firstfruits: the Father gave His Son—our model and motive.

Discussion Questions

Do you consider yourself to be a cheerful giver? Care to share?

Which part of 2 Corinthians 9 most challenges your current habits, and why?

How have you experienced “sow → reap” (good or bad) in the past year?

What would it mean for you to practice “firstfruits” over the next month?

Where could our church’s generosity spark thanksgiving to God this coming month?

How does remembering Christ as the Father’s “firstfruits” reshape your giving?

Key Points

Trust begins with God’s character. Humanity broke trust in the garden, but God’s response was redemption, not rejection.

Broken trust has consequences, but not abandonment. God set boundaries for restoration and pointed to Jesus, the Lamb who would restore what was lost.

God entrusts broken people with sacred things. He gives His Spirit, His Word, and relationships to those who fail yet can grow by His grace.

Love bears the weight of failure. Like Jesus bore our sin, love forgives, hopes, and endures through the Spirit’s power.

Mistrust affects every relationship — even with God. Chronic mistrust hardens the heart and keeps us from community and grace.

Faithfulness is a fruit, not a feeling. The Spirit forms it in us as we walk with integrity and obedience.

When you can’t trust someone, trust God with them. Doing so frees your heart from bitterness and releases control to Him.

Restoration begins with repentance and grace. Healing comes when truth meets mercy, just as Bob and Terry experienced.

God’s faithfulness changes how we see others. Because He keeps believing in us, we can keep believing the best in others.

Broken but trusted is the story of the Gospel. God still entrusts His Spirit, His mission, and His people to us — that’s grace in action.

Discussion Questions

What does it mean to you that God still entrusts us with His Spirit, even after we’ve failed Him?

Why do you think trusting others can feel riskier than trusting God?

How does “trusting God with someone” differ from trusting that person directly?

What does 1 Corinthians 13:7 teach us about love’s role in rebuilding trust?

Can you think of a time when someone showed you grace you didn’t deserve? How did it change you?

How do we know when we’re walking in the Spirit’s faithfulness instead of human effort?

What small steps can you take this week to rebuild trust — either in God, others, or yourself?

KEY POINTS

· True trust in God produces good works. When we stop doing good, it reveals a lapse of trust.

· Jesus modeled perfect trust. He obeyed the Father even to the cross, doing good to an undeserving world.

· Doing good is an act of faith, not reciprocity. We bless others because of who God is, not because of what others deserve.

· Trust unlocks God’s provision and purpose. When we trust Him, He shapes our desires and meets them according to His will.

· Every believer is a branch in Christ’s vine. Fruitfulness—multiplying disciples—is the evidence of trust and life in Him.

· God turns adversity into testimony. Pastor Daniel’s story shows that surrender and trust bring freedom, favor, and revival.

· The mission is for everyone. Churches and believers must open their doors and hearts to the lost.

DISCUSSION

· Psalm 37:3 commands us to “trust in the Lord and do good.” Which part do you find easier, and why?

· When have you heard the enemy whisper, “Why are you doing good?” How did you respond?

· How does Jesus’ example of trusting the Father encourage you when life feels unfair or uncertain?

· What “fruit” is God calling you to bear right now—in your family, workplace, or community?

· How can our church better open its arms to those who are lost or hurting?

· Pastor Daniel said, “God has an individual plan for your life.” What step of trust might He be asking you to take next?

Key Points

Trust is an expression of love.

We may struggle to trust people, but trusting God is different—His promises never fail because His character never changes.

God fulfills His Word through Jesus; we agree with Him by faith and glorify Him when we believe His promises.

His power is made perfect in our weakness.

Admitting our inability opens the door for divine strength; self-reliance blocks what grace wants to accomplish.

The Spirit is God’s guarantee of our inheritance and the daily source of divine power for life and godliness.

God’s power doesn’t merely remove hardship—it changes us through hardship so that we reflect His nature.

Forgiveness, adoption, redemption, and eternal life are promises already granted—live from them, not toward them.

Jesus promises that the Father will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask; divine power flows from continual dependence.

Discussion Questions

How is trusting someone an expression of love? What makes trusting God different from trusting people?

Which promise of God has been hardest for you to truly believe? Why?

Pastor Bob said, “It is in your weakness that He is made strong.” What does this look like in your life right now?

Ephesians 1 says we’ve been blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ. How can remembering that truth change your response to daily challenges?

2 Peter 1 says God’s divine power gives us everything we need for life and godliness. What does “divine power” mean to you personally?

How can we shift from asking God to simply remove our problems to asking Him to transform us through them?

When’s the last time you intentionally asked God to fill you with the Holy Spirit? What changed—or what might change—if you began asking daily?

Which of God’s promises do you most need to stand on this week?

Key Points:

Trust in man or self leads to dryness and isolation.

Trust in the Lord leads to life, stability, and fruitfulness.

God tests our hearts in trials to reveal where we place our trust.

Fear of man is a trap that keeps us bound.

Confession and honesty before God bring freedom and healing.

Waiting on the Lord is not wasted time—it grows faith and intimacy.

Even in drought, those rooted in God remain green and fruitful.

True blessedness is internal and comes from God, not circumstances.

Discussion Questions:

Jeremiah compares the one who trusts in man to a shrub in the desert. What does this imagery say about the results of misplaced trust?

What does it mean to be a tree “planted by water” in your daily walk with God?

In what areas of life are you tempted to lean on your own strength instead of trusting God?

How has fear of what others think (“fear of man”) affected your ability to trust God?

Share a time when waiting on the Lord produced growth in your faith.

How can we encourage each other to stay rooted in God during “drought” seasons?

Key Points

Trusting God is essential not only for salvation, but in the ongoing trials of life.

Stress and suffering expose the true condition of our hearts.

Hannah’s story shows how surrender and prayer bring peace before circumstances change.

God’s grace is present both in calm seasons and in overwhelming floods.

“When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.”

Trials can refine character, develop intimacy with God, and prepare us for His purposes.

Pouring out our heart before God leads to peace that surpasses understanding.

Humility and surrender open the way for God to lift us up in His timing.

Don’t check out—stay where God has placed you and allow Him to work.

Discussion

How has God used trials in your life to reveal areas where you needed to grow in trust?

What part of Hannah’s story resonates most with your own experiences of waiting or disappointment?

Pastor Bob emphasized that “when you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.” What does that mean practically in your life right now?

Have you ever experienced peace even before your circumstances changed? What did that look like?

Why is it important not to “check out” of difficult situations too early, and what are some ways we can stay faithful in those times?

How can you encourage someone in your life who is currently struggling to trust God through their trials?

Key Points

Like 9/11 or the Utah tragedy, some events stop us in our tracks. They force us to ask, What does this mean to me?

The world is broken by sin that divides and destroys, but God’s Word reveals truth and grace that cut through lies.

God’s Word reveals truth, even when the world resists it.

Voices can be stopped, but truth only grows louder. Like Stephen and Hezekiah, faithful witness outlives opposition.

Where sin increases, God’s grace abounds even more.

Hezekiah trusted the Lord like no king before or after him. His turning point came when he spread the letter before the Lord.

At first, Hezekiah tried to buy peace with Assyria. But when fear failed him, he spread the letter before the Lord.

God delivered Judah. Idols and false gods cannot save or protect.

Fear tempts us to compromise instead of trust.

Trust means surrendering the outcome to God.

God can do more in one night than we can do in a lifetime.

We each face “letters” of fear (bad news, loss, false accusations). The question is: Will we shrink back, or trust God?

Discussion

What are some “watershed moments” in your life where your faith was tested?

Why do you think we often try to solve problems in our own strength before turning to God?

What does it look like to “spread your letter before the Lord” in your context today?

How does the story of Hezekiah encourage you to stand firm in trust when the odds are against you?

Share about how you have experienced God turning a situation around when you trusted Him.

How can we help one another resist fear and walk in trust?

Key Points

God continually invites us to come to Him, offering living water without cost.

Faith believes in who God is; trust acts on that belief.

Trusting God means releasing control and resting in His ways, even when they don’t make sense.

Our own understanding is limited; God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours.

When trust deepens, peace and joy replace anxiety and fear.

Broken trust with people can wound deeply, but God’s covenant love is steadfast and sure.

Trusting God glorifies Him and transforms our souls more than striving ever can.

Discussion

What’s the difference between faith and trust in your own walk with God?

Why do we often struggle to let go of control and rest in God’s promises?

Which part of Isaiah 55 speaks most to your current season of life?

How have you experienced peace or joy by trusting God in a difficult time?

What practical steps can help you lean less on your own understanding this week?

Key Points

To be a “loser” means to lose your life—deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow JESUS.

Jesus repeated this teaching multiple times across the Gospels, showing its importance.

The world sees disciples of Jesus as “losers,” but Heaven calls them champions.

Our culture glorifies self-preservation, self-promotion, and compromise, but Christ calls us to surrender.

Choosing to “lose” means giving up popularity, possessions, and approval to have a relationship with JESUS.

Even with good intentions—compromising Biblical faith can open doors to corruption.

The narrow way is lonely and difficult, but it leads to true life and joy in Christ.

Persecution and tribulation are promised for the believer, but Jesus has already overcome.

Jesus Himself modeled losing—resisting Satan’s temptations, and ultimately choosing the cross.

The true prize of Heaven is not the place, but the presence of Jesus Himself.

Discussion Questions

How do you personally wrestle with the tension between living for Jesus and seeking the world’s approval?

Which part of Jesus’s call to “deny yourself and take up your cross daily” challenges you most?

Pastor Marcus said, “The world’s losers are Heaven’s champions.” Where do you see that truth in your own life? Or someone’s life you know personally?

What are some areas where you may be tempted to compromise your faith for acceptance, comfort, or success?

How can remembering persecuted believers around the world (Hebrews 13:3) strengthen your faith and boldness?

Jesus is the true prize of eternity. If Heaven were offered without Him, would you still want to go? Why or why not?

Key Points

Scripture is the plumb line that equips us to live ready for the return of Christ.

Our hearts are deceitful, but the Lord transforms and equips us to live holy lives.

From Genesis to Revelation, the story of God centers on Jesus as Savior and King.

Jesus fulfilled prophecies at His first coming and will fulfill the promises of His return.

Signs of His coming are increasing: Israel restored, global unrest, the push for a Third Temple.

The return of Christ will be unmistakable, and believers will be gathered to Him.

God is calling His Church to repentance, awakening, and readiness.

The last days will bring both great harvest and great tribulation.

We are called to lay down comfort, fear, and distraction to live fully surrendered lives.

Jesus is coming soon—our response must be obedience, faithfulness, and proclaiming the Gospel.

Discussion Questions

How does knowing Jesus is coming again shape the way you live today?

What “comforts” or distractions might be keeping you from full surrender to Christ?

How can you live with readiness without falling into fear or speculation?

Where do you see God calling you to join in the harvest of souls?

How do the Scriptures in 1 & 2 Thessalonians and Matthew 24 give you confidence about the future?

KEY POINTS

· Two kinds of fear:

Negative fear (false evidence appearing real): worry, anxiety, paralysis, cowardice, laziness
Positive fear (reverence of God): awe, respect, obedience, intimacy, boldness, holiness

· False fear cripples faith – it causes spiritual laziness, paralysis, and doubt. Jesus calls us to seek first the kingdom of God rather than being consumed with worry (Matthew 6:33).

· True fear of God empowers faith – we realize the depth of HIS love by the cost HE was willing to pay to draw us to HIMSELF causing HIS influence to strengthen our faith and faithfulness.

· Salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–10), but true saving faith produces fruit and works. A faith without works is dead (James 2:17).

· To fear God is to take Him seriously – His holiness, His judgments, His love, and His sovereignty. He is Savior and Judge.

· Examples of God’s majesty and danger – like the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, or the Sun: beautiful yet powerful and dangerous if not respected.

· Fear fuels faith – when we fear God rightly, we become bold as lions (Proverbs 28:1), knowing He is for us.

· Practical start: Honor your parents – reverence begins with learning honor in the home, leading to deeper reverence for God.

· Pastor Marcus’s testimony – losing the fear of God led to sin, mental breakdown, and despair, but the love of God restored him in the fear of GOD and taught him forgiveness toward his father.

· Call to repentance – fear of God is essential in communion, repentance, and daily living. God’s mercy is available, but He must be approached with reverence.

DISCUSSION

· How do you personally distinguish between unhealthy fear and the healthy fear of God?

· Why is it dangerous to confuse God’s grace with a “license to sin”?

· In what ways does reverence for God fuel courage and obedience in your life?

· Pastor Marcus said, “Fear fuels faith.” How have you experienced that truth?

· How does honoring your parents (even imperfect ones) connect to learning to fear God?

Key Points

Gaius – Walked in truth, was faithful, hospitable toward missionaries, and had a great testimony.

Diotrephes – Put himself first, rejected authority, gossiped, refused hospitality, stopped others from serving, and removed people from the church who opposed him.

Demetrius – Had a good testimony from everyone and from the truth itself.

Walking in truth means living out what you believe—truth is not just known, but practiced.

Hospitality begins with humility—putting others before self for the sake of God’s glory.

Supporting God’s workers makes us fellow workers in the truth.

Self-centeredness poisons the body of Christ; humility and service build it up.

Discussion Questions

Which of the three men in 3 John do you most relate to in this season of life—Gaius, Diotrephes, or Demetrius? Why?

How can we practically “walk in the truth” in daily life?

What does hospitality look like for you—both in your home and in the church?

Have you ever been tempted to put yourself first in ministry or relationships? How did you handle it?

In what ways can you actively support God’s workers—locally and globally—this month?

✍️ Key Points:

God’s grace, mercy, and peace are freely given through Jesus—and they are with us now.

Walking in truth means living in alignment with God’s Word, not just knowing it.

Real love shows up in obedience and action, not just emotion or words.

We must guard against false teaching by holding fast to Christ’s truth.

Grace, mercy, and peace are gifts that shape how we speak, forgive, and live.

Mercy is not receiving what we do deserve (like not getting a speeding ticket).

Grace is receiving what we don’t deserve (instead of a ticket, the cop buys you donuts).

Peace is resting in what Christ has done. It’s being made right with God… complete wholeness, restoration, harmony, well-being. Shalom.

Mercy comes running… it is God’s compassion coming toward us.

Grace is how we are saved, not something we can work for or earn.

Peace is a position, not a feeling. Peace with God, not just peace of mind.

Grace, mercy, and peace are all given–none of them are earned.

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💬 Discussion Questions:

What does it mean to “walk in the truth” instead of just knowing the truth?

How are grace, mercy, and peace different—and why do we need all three?

How do you typically respond to spiritual deception or false teaching?

What does real love look like in action in your daily life?

In what area of your life do you need to rest in God’s peace right now?

✍️ Key Points:

Assurance of salvation brings confidence, boldness, and joy.

Abiding in Christ and in His Word empowers answered prayer.

Loving others sacrificially is evidence of new life.

Walking in the light requires ongoing confession and surrender.

💬 Discussion Questions:

Why do so many Christians struggle to feel confident in their salvation?

What does it mean to abide in Christ daily? How do His words abide in you?

When has God used you in a way that surprised you—like Scripture or wisdom flowing unexpectedly?

What does “walking in the light” look like practically in your daily life?

Key Points

Being “born of God” means loving Him, obeying His commandments, and loving others born of Him.

God’s commandments are not a burden—they’re an expression of His heart and love.

True victory (Nico) over the world comes through faith in Jesus, not effort.

God’s testimony is revealed through the water, the Spirit, and the blood—all testifying that Jesus is the Son of God.

The new birth is a mystery of the Spirit’s work—initiated by God and affirmed through life change.

Nicodemus’ journey shows a transformation from secrecy to boldness in faith.

Eternal life begins the moment we are born again—not after we die.

Discussion

What does it mean to be “born again,” and how is that different from simply believing in God?

How can we recognize the testimony of God at work within us?

In what ways have you experienced God’s commandments as an expression of His love rather than a burden?

How do the water, Spirit, and blood each uniquely testify to Jesus’ identity and mission?

What step of obedience—public or private—is God calling you to as a response to His testimony?

KEY POINTS

God’s love is perfect and drives out fear; it’s not based on our performance or merit.

1 John 4 teaches us that love is evidence of being born of God and knowing God.

We are commanded to love others as He has loved us, but first we must let Him love us.

God’s perfect love was shown in Christ’s atoning sacrifice—the propitiation for our sins.

Loving others requires confronting six barriers: Selfishness, Pride, Fear, Jealousy, Bitterness, and Distraction.

Each barrier is overcome not by effort alone, but by receiving God’s love and abiding in Him.

Perfect love transforms us so others can see God at work in us.

Our call is to daily pause, let God love us, and intentionally love others in the details of everyday life.

DISCUSSION

How would you explain the difference between human love and God’s perfect love?

Which of the six barriers (Selfishness, Pride, Fear, Jealousy, Bitterness, Distraction) do you most struggle with, and why?

Why do you think it’s so important to “pause” and let God love you before trying to love others?

Perfect love casts out fear. What does that mean in your own walk?

How can you practice seeing God “in the details of your day” this week?

KEY POINTS

· We are encouraged as believers to test every spirit.

· There are many spirits, but only one spirit of God.

· False prophets and cultural pressures will attempt to pose as truth, but God gives us discernment through His Spirit and His Word to distinguish truth from error.

· The world listens to the false spirits and believes them because they are of the world, but He that is in us is greater than he that is in the world and we have victory over false prophets.

· When we receive the love that is given to us by God, we are able to love one another as He has loved us.

· God is love, and God demonstrated His love by giving his Son.

· God‘s love flows, even in the midst of great tragedies and great sorrows.

· Both the Earth and mankind are fallen, neither of which will escape tribulations, but both will experience redemption.

DISCUSSION

· How can we practically “test the spirits” today when there are so many voices on social media, in culture, and even in the church?

· Why is it impossible to love like God without first receiving His love?

· How do you hold on to hope and His love when both the world and your own heart are hurting?

· How do the passages in Romans eight help you understand the truth that God is love, even in the midst of tragedies?

KEY POINTS

· You are created in God’s image and likeness.

· You are created both male and female

· You are created with unique characteristics given by God.

· You are created with a purpose.

· You are created to be like Him.

DISCUSSION

· How often are you affirming your children?

· How are you demonstrating the love of the Father to your children?

· What is the meaning of your name?

· Do you know God’s purpose for your life?

KEY POINTS

• John makes it clear those that are born of God live like his children.

• We are either a child of God or children of the Devil.

• Jesus appeared to defeat the works of the devil. Lawlessness / Sin are works of the devil.

• His children know their identity and except His unchanging love.

• His children don’t make it a practice to sin.

• His children want to pursue His holiness.

• His children live righteously as he is righteous.

• His children love like he loves.

DISCUSSION

• When we behold his love what kind of love is this?

• Do you lack some of his spiritual DNA? Discuss.

• What are some of the works of the devil?

• How important is it to be secure in your identity as Children of God?

• Did you have another takeaway from the sermon?

Key Points

Fathers reflect God's character – A father’s role is to mirror the Heavenly Father’s protection, leadership, and love.

Spiritual danger is real – The spirit of the antichrist is already active; fathers must stay alert and guard their homes.

Protection begins with fear of the Lord – Wisdom and spiritual authority flow from reverence and submission to God.

Integrity shapes legacy – A father's example, not just his words, determines the path his children follow.

Prayer is a father’s greatest weapon – Leading in prayer breaks spiritual complacency and establishes godly covering.

Discussion

What does it mean for a father to "protect" spiritually, not just physically? How does God model this for us?

In what ways might the "spirit of the antichrist" be subtly influencing our homes today?

Which of the five roles (provider, protector, teacher, spiritual leader, encourager) comes easiest to you—and which is hardest? Why?

What impact does a father’s integrity have on children, based on Proverbs 20:7? How can we walk in greater integrity?

How can prayer reshape the way we protect, lead, and love our families—even if we feel like it’s “too late”?

Application

Start on Your Knees: Begin each day asking the Lord for help, wisdom, and the strength to fear Him and lead your home well.

Affirm Your Children Daily: Don’t wait for performance—speak life, identity, and worth into them regularly.

Guard Your Home Spiritually: Identify and remove anything that may be influencing your family away from Christ.

Lead by Example: Your integrity, even when you fail, leaves a lasting mark. Be honest. Repent when needed. Keep showing up.

Pray Out Loud: Get comfortable talking to God audibly. It builds spiritual confidence and sets a powerful tone for your home.

KEY POINTS

Loving the world is incompatible with loving the Father.

Worldly desires are temporary, but God’s will is eternal.

The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life are spiritual traps designed to pull us away from God.

Jesus was tempted in all the same ways as us, but He overcame so we could walk in freedom.

We are not called to separate from the world’s people, but we must resist its influence.

The Father gives us the Holy Spirit. The world itself is an adversarial Spirit.

The Holy Spirit helps us discern what is of God and empowers us to be ambassadors of reconciliation.

Our identity in Christ allows us to carry His light into dark places without fading to gray.

To walk in the light is to engage the world without becoming part of it.

DISCUSSION

What does it mean to love the world? How does that differ from loving people in the world?

Why is it significant that Jesus faced the same three temptations as Eve, and overcame them?

Have you ever caught yourself “fading to gray”? What triggered that, and how did God lead you back to the light?

Which of the three temptations (flesh, eyes, pride) do you personally wrestle with most often?

How do you personally navigate being in the world but not of it?

Who has helped you stay grounded in truth when you were tempted to blend in with the world?

APPLICATION

Ask for Discernment: Invite the Holy Spirit to expose any area of compromise with the world’s values.

Resist Temptation: Choose to walk in the Spirit instead of giving in to the flesh, especially in daily decisions.

Shine Intentionally: Identify one way you can be light in a dark environment this week—at work, school, or in a relationship.

Stay Anchored: Commit to regular time in Scripture so you’re rooted in what is true, not just what is trendy.

Live as an Ambassador: Look for a chance this week to extend grace or truth to someone living in darkness.

KEY POINTS

True believers are children of God, not merely creations of God. Identity in Christ begins with adoption through faith.

Hatred toward a fellow believer reveals spiritual blindness and hinders fellowship with God.

Walking in the light means loving one another, staying free from darkness, and recognizing the cost of unforgiveness.

Every believer is part of a spiritual family—children, young adults, and spiritual mothers/fathers—each playing a vital role.

God’s Word brings clarity, strength, and the power to overcome sin and darkness.

Forgiveness is both personal and communal—remembering we’ve been forgiven helps us extend grace to others.

Discipleship happens generationally: young believers need older mentors, and seasoned believers find renewed purpose in guiding others.

DISCUSSION

How does seeing the church as a spiritual family challenge or encourage you?

Why does harboring hate or grudges make it harder to walk in the light?

What does it look like to forgive someone but still remember what happened?

Who has helped you grow in your faith—and who might God be calling you to invest in?

Which stage of spiritual growth best describes you right now—child, young adult, or mother/father in the faith?

APPLICATION

Identify Darkness: Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any hidden resentment, contempt, or relational distance—and confess it.

Pursue Reconciliation: Reach out to someone you’ve distanced from and ask for forgiveness, or offer grace where needed.

Find a Mentor (or Be One): Whether you’re a newer believer or a seasoned disciple, ask God to show you who you should walk with.

Engage the Word: Begin or renew a habit of reading Scripture daily—ask God to strengthen and guide you through His truth.

Celebrate Forgiveness: Reflect on Isaiah 43:25 and thank God that He chooses not to remember your sin. Let this truth soften your heart.

KEY POINTS

John speaks to believers as little children—a term of identity, intimacy, and dependence on the Father.

Sin separates us from God and is described in Scripture as lawlessness, defilement, slavery, treachery, iniquity, rebellion, ignorance, foolishness, and deception.

Jesus is our Advocate and our propitiation—the atoning sacrifice who absorbed God’s justice and reconciled us to the Father.

God’s justice was satisfied in Christ’s death. He paid our debt in full so we can live in freedom.

Those who know God will desire obedience—not to earn His love, but because of His love.

A true believer hates their sin, confesses it, and grows in surrender and obedience over time.

Maturity is measured not by perfection but by our willingness to walk as Jesus walked.

⸻

DISCUSSION

What does it mean to you personally that God calls you His “little child”?

Which of the biblical descriptions of sin resonated with you most? Why?

How has Jesus functioned as your advocate in a time when you failed?

What’s one area of your life where you’re still tempted to “stiff-arm” God’s grace and act independently?

How can obedience be an act of love instead of legalism?

What does walking like Jesus look like in your current season of life?

⸻

APPLICATION

Receive the Advocate: Confess any current sin and rest in the truth that Jesus has paid your debt in full.

Surrender Like a Child: Reflect this week on what it means to walk in humility and dependence on the Father.

Hate the Sin You Once Loved: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you new eyes to see sin as God sees it—and to run from it.

Walk as He Walked: Take one practical step of obedience this week (forgiveness, prayer, generosity, honesty).

Find Your Peace: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you lay your head down each night with confidence and rest, knowing that Jesus’s blood covers you.

Key Points

John’s message is personal and urgent. He saw, heard, and touched Jesus—and now proclaims the truth so we can have fellowship with God and with one another.

Fellowship isn’t a feeling—it’s a transformation. Real connection with God brings light that reveals sin and cleanses us through Christ.

God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. We can’t claim to walk with God and remain in unconfessed darkness.

The Word of God functions like a motion light. When we open Scripture, it illuminates truth in the dark places of our hearts.

Walking in the light brings cleansing and communion. The same God who reveals sin also removes it through Jesus’s blood.

Isolation blocks fellowship. God calls us into honest, transparent relationships—with Him and with each other.

We need continuous cleansing. Walking in the light isn’t a one-time event—it’s a lifestyle of confession, grace, and growth.

Discussion

What does “walking in the light” look like in your everyday life?

How have you experienced the difference between knowing about God and having fellowship with Him?

What’s one area in your life where you tend to stay in the dark rather than walk in the light?

Have you ever felt afraid to be honest with God or others? What held you back?

How has the Word of God illuminated something in your life recently?

What would it look like to stir someone else toward love and good works this week?

Application

Practice honesty with God. Confess a hidden struggle this week and ask Him to cleanse you with truth and grace.

Read Scripture with expectancy. Open the Bible daily and ask God to “turn the light on” in your heart.

Initiate reconciliation. If there’s tension or silence between you and someone else, take the first step toward peace.

Encourage someone else. Stir up a brother or sister to walk in the light—through a conversation, text, or prayer.

Refuse isolation. Join a small group, talk with a mentor, or share your struggle with a trusted friend. You’re not alone.

Key Points

Honor is a command, not a reward. We are called to honor our mothers not because they earned it, but because it is right in God’s eyes.

God shares His heart through mothers. The nurturing, comforting, and life-giving nature of moms reflects God’s own character.

You don’t need to give birth to mother someone. Spiritual mothers and nurturing women have profound impact—even those who never had biological children.

A mother’s influence is powerful and generational. Faith passed down from women like Lois and Eunice shaped Timothy’s life and ministry.

Teaching from mothers leaves lasting impressions. Their wisdom, even in small sayings or gestures, can shape the way children think and live.

Honor can still be given amid deep hurt. Honoring an undeserving parent doesn’t mean excusing harm—it means walking in grace and obedience.

God sees unseen sacrifices. Moms often feel unseen, unheard, and “not enough,” but every act of faith and love matters to God.

Discussion

What does it mean to “honor” a mother who wasn’t present or nurturing?

Who has been a mother to you spiritually or emotionally even if they weren’t your biological mom?

How has a mother or grandmother’s faith impacted your walk with God?

What are some small but lasting lessons or sayings your mom taught you?

What’s one way you’ve seen God reflect His heart through a mother figure in your life?

Application

Express gratitude today. Call, text, or write to your mom or a mother figure and thank her for one specific influence she’s had on you.

Extend grace where there is pain. Choose to honor your mother even if reconciliation feels impossible—by releasing bitterness and praying for them.

Be a spiritual mom. Identify someone you can encourage or nurture, whether you have biological children or not.

Reflect and emulate. Think about what your mom or another woman did that showed God’s love—find a way to do that for someone else this week.

Encourage the unseen. Affirm a mom you know who might feel invisible or like she’s failing. Let her know she is seen and appreciated.

Key Points

We are to learn to reckon upon certain Reckonings and Declarations which Christ’s Death and Resurrection have secured.

To reckon upon truth means to count on it, consider it true, live it, be confident in it, draw upon it, and know it matters. If not, we get stuck and miss the full benefits of the truth.

Christ’s resurrection creates a new reality which ought to bring about changes in our lives, like rejoicing. Jesus’ ten appearances in the 40 days before ascending were opportunities for His disciples to adjust and grow or even get unstuck from misconceptions.

Jesus’ followers were not fully free to go make other disciples until certain hang-ups or hurdles were dealt with.

In the last 39 days before Jesus ascended, He was weaning His disciples from having to see Him before they’d believe in Him, teaching us all to walk by faith and not by sight.

Discussion

Would Thomas’ doubt ever have been cured if Jesus didn’t accommodate him? Would Peter be able to fulfill his calling if Jesus didn’t confront Him on the beach? Do you know you’re forgiven but still feel unworthy? How did Paul handle that? 1 Corinthians 15:9-11

Do all our hangups have to get dealt with fully before we can be used by the Lord? Can they be a hindrance to our effectiveness if never faced and changed? What’s one hangup in your life which has affected your witness? (e.g. grumbling, complaining, etc.)

Since you have the Holy Spirit in you, empowering you with the Risen Christ, do you know currently what He is affirming in you or convicting you of to bring growth?

Mary’s name spoken to her by Jesus in her grief changed everything. Are you assured that Jesus called your name, and you belong to Him?

Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong and were tempted to do whatever it took to fit in?

The Emmaus disciples stated their hearts burned within them. Why? Has (or could) the same thing light a fire in your heart? How important is it to get the big picture in Scripture?

Jesus spoke “Peace to you” in some of His appearances. Romans 5:1 speaks of the objective “peace withGod” acquired by Christ’s cross. Philippians 4:6-7 speaks of the subjective “peace of God” acquired by prayer. How does reckoning upon the first help toward bringing about the second?

Application

Name the 10 appearances in the 40 days. 5 the first day. 3 after Jesus’ ascension?

Pick another appearance of Jesus not talked about and see what you can learn from what Jesus says to them that applies to you. Like Revelation 1:10-18.

Ask God to show you if there is anything He wants to free you of to help you move forward. Mary was freed from 10 demons, loneliness, not belonging, and deep grief.

Key Points

Christians receive the Holy Spirit at salvation; there's no need to wait for a separate experience. We don’t need to wait to start sharing the Gospel.

Sharing your faith grows your faith—increases joy, maturity, and satisfaction with God.

The Gospel has supernatural power to transform lives—it’s not our power but God’s.

The Word of God never returns void; every seed you plant will fulfill God’s purpose.

Tools for evangelism:

15-second Testimony

I used to be __________, but then __________. Now I’m __________.

Napkin Gospel (3 Circles)

Communion reminds us weekly to live the Gospel and share it.

We are called to return to the broken world with God's truth, grace, and love.

Discussion

The sermon mentioned going "full speed ahead" in life. Can you relate to this? Share an experience where you've either burned out or stalled out in your faith journey.

Reflect on the moment you accepted Christ. How has your enthusiasm for sharing your faith changed since then?

What are some reasons you hesitate to share the gospel with others? (e.g., fear, feeling unqualified, etc.)

How does knowing you already have the Holy Spirit change your confidence?

How does knowing that God's Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:10-11) encourage you to share your faith more boldly?

Take a few minutes to craft your own 15-second testimony using the format: "I used to be ___, but then ___, and now I'm ___." Share your testimony.

Who is one person you can intentionally share the Gospel with this week?

All believers have the Holy Spirit. How does this truth impact your view of your ability to share the gospel?

Application

Write your 15-second testimony this week and share it with at least one person.

Practice the Napkin Gospel with a friend or family member to get comfortable sharing the story of salvation.

Ask God to show you if you’re being called to stay, wait, or go in any area of your life—and obey.

Key Points

The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith.

The Resurrection Fulfills God’s Promises. Jesus did exactly what He said He would.

We Are Justified by Faith, Not Works. Our salvation is a gift, confirmed by His resurrection.

God Has Power Over Death. The empty tomb proves He conquered death itself.

We Have Hope Beyond the Grave. This hope anchors us, not just for eternity, but for today.

The Tomb Is an Invitation to New Life. Resurrection power invites us into transformation.

Discussion

What’s your vantage point on the empty tomb—faith, doubt, fear, or awe? Explain.

Why is it important that Jesus’ resurrection was witnessed and recorded?

How does understanding that salvation comes through faith, not works, impact your relationship with God?

What does “justified by faith” really mean to you, practically?

Share an experience where you've seen God fulfill a promise in your life.

How does your view of death and eternity change when you believe in the resurrection?

Discuss the significance of baptism as a symbol of dying to old life and rising to new life in Christ.

Where in your life do you most need the “new creation” promise of 2 Corinthians 5:17?

Application

Personal Reflection: Write down a specific area where you’ve been trying to earn God’s approval. Give it to Him in prayer.

Family Conversation: Read Romans 6:3-4 together and discuss what baptism symbolizes.

Outreach: Share your testimony this week using this simple phrase: “The tomb is empty—Jesus is alive, and He changed me.”

Spiritual Reset: Use 2 Corinthians 5:17 as your morning affirmation this week: “The old has passed away. The new has come.”

If you haven't been baptized and feel led to do so, talk to someone about it or contact the church about taking this step.

Key Points

After Jesus’ death, His disciples were devastated—paralyzed by sorrow and unmet expectations.

Like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, we often walk away from hope without realizing that Jesus is walking with us.

The disciples hoped for a political savior—not a suffering servant.

Jesus often doesn’t meet expectations, but exceeds them by meeting our deepest need.

True hope is not in a situation, a miracle, or a dream fulfilled, but in the unchanging character of God.

We must learn to hope in what we cannot yet see.

Jesus didn’t fix their circumstances—He walked with them, listened, and taught them the Scriptures.

He led them back to the truth of the prophets, reminding them it was necessary for the Messiah to suffer.

When Jesus is our hope, we no longer walk away—we return to Jerusalem or the place of peace.

Discussion

Think of a time in your life when something didn’t go the way you expected—what did that moment reveal about where your hope was rooted?

Have you ever emotionally or spiritually distanced yourself from God after disappointment or loss? What helped you return—or what’s keeping you from returning now?

Can you recall a moment when Jesus was walking with you, but you didn’t recognize Him at the time? What changed when you realized He had been with you the whole time?

Where do you go when you’re grieving or confused? Do you run to distractions, isolation, people, or God? How can you begin to invite Jesus into that space more intentionally?

Is your hope in Jesus—or in something you want Him to do? What would it look like for you to shift your hope from a specific outcome to Jesus Himself?

Application

Name your disappointment to God instead of pretending it doesn’t hurt. Honest confession is the first step toward healing and restored hope.

Stay in Scripture, especially when your emotions feel louder than truth. God’s Word grounds you when everything else feels uncertain.

Talk to Jesus, even if you don’t feel His presence. He’s walking with you, even when you can’t see Him.

Choose community when you feel like isolating. Go back to “Jerusalem”—the place where God’s people are gathered.

Shift your hope from outcomes to the One who holds your future. Let Jesus be enough, even when nothing else makes sense.

Key Points

You can’t have a resurrection without death. It’s important to reflect on Christ's death before celebrating His resurrection.

The death of Jesus was prophesied in detail in the Old Testament, demonstrating God's sovereign plan.

Jesus' death satisfies God's justice and demonstrates His love simultaneously.

When Jesus said, "It is finished," He meant the debt of sin was paid in full (τετέλεσται).

Believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection.

The tearing of the temple curtain symbolizes direct access to God. The power of sin is broken, and we have direct access to God through Jesus' sacrifice.

The mission of Christ was accomplished through His death.

Discussion

Discuss the paradox of God's love and justice being displayed at the cross. How does this shape your understanding of God's character?

It is important to "die with Christ" before experiencing resurrection life. What does this mean to you practically in your daily walk with God?

How does understanding that the debt of sin is "paid in full" affect your approach to guilt, shame, and striving for God's approval?

The sermon used the analogy of an open birdcage. In what areas of your life do you still feel "caged" by sin, despite the door being open? How can you step into the freedom Christ offers?

Reflect on the tearing of the temple curtain. How does having direct access to God impact your prayer life and relationship with Him?

Application

Take time this week to read Isaiah 53 and reflect on how it points to Jesus' sacrifice.

Identify an area where you've been trying to "earn" God's favor. Practice resting in Christ's finished work instead.

If you're struggling with a particular sin, meditate on Romans 6:6-7. Ask God to help you live in the reality of sin's broken power.

Share the gospel with someone this week, emphasizing both the gravity of sin and the sufficiency of Christ's death.

As you face challenges this week, practice viewing them through the lens of 2 Corinthians 4:7-10, remembering the power of Christ in you.

Key Points

Words are foundational to existence and have power beyond mere speech

Jesus is the Word (Logos) incarnate, the source of all creation and truth

Our words, thoughts, and actions define our character and spiritual state

Repentance involves changing our mind and aligning with God's truth

The Bible is a direct way to understand God's mind and will

We must be cautious of teachings that elevate human will over God's sovereignty

True faith is submission to God's will, not commanding God or "manifesting" our desires

As GOD spoke light to the darkness, disorder and chaos, we rehearse the same w the Gospel

Discussion

Words are unimaginably powerful. Share an example from your own life where words had a significant impact on you or someone else.

How does understanding Jesus as the "Logos" (the Word) change your perspective on creation and your relationship with Him?

What we allow into our hearts through our ears and eyes is important. How mindful are you of the media and influences you consume? What changes might you need to make?

Discuss the difference between the "Word of Faith" movement and true biblical faith. Why is it important to distinguish between the two?

What challenges do you face in surrendering your own desires to God?

How does the concept of being "in the name of Christ" (walking in righteousness and harmony with Jesus) challenge or encourage you in your daily life?

Application

Media Fast: Choose one form of media (social media, TV, music, etc.) to fast from for a week. Replace that time with reading Scripture or listening to worship music.

Word Watch: For the next week, pay close attention to the words you speak. At the end of each day, reflect on how your speech aligned with God's Word.

Bible Reading Plan: Commit to reading a chapter of the Bible each day, focusing on passages about God's character and promises.

Encouragement Challenge: Each day this week, use your words to genuinely encourage at least one person, reflecting Christ's love through your speech.

Key Points

The law is an expression of God's heart and character, revealing sin and holding us accountable.

Grace is God's unearned gift that saves us and empowers us to live godly lives.

Repentance involves changing one's mind and turning away from sin towards God.

Being born again is receiving new life through the Holy Spirit.

Righteousness is both a gift from God and a calling to reflect His character in our lives.

Discussion

How does understanding the law as an expression of God's heart and character change our perspective on obedience and sin?

Grace is way more than salvation. How have you experienced God's grace beyond just being saved?

Discuss the concept of repentance as "changing the way you think." How is this different from just feeling sorry?

How would you explain the concept of being "born again" to someone unfamiliar with Christianity?

The sermon describes righteousness as "a gift that should become a lifestyle." What does this mean to you practically?

What role does the Holy Spirit play in our understanding and application of these spiritual concepts?

In what ways might a deeper understanding of these five spiritual concepts change our approach to evangelism and discipleship?

Application

Identify one area where you need to "recalculate" or repent. Share with a partner for accountability.

Reflect on how you've experienced God's grace recently. Write it down and share it with the group next week.

Choose one aspect of God's character revealed in His law (e.g., holiness, justice, love) and focus on reflecting that in your life this week.

If you haven't been baptized since coming to faith, consider taking that step as a public declaration of being "born again" on Easter.

Identify one way you can live out your "right standing with God" in a practical way this week (e.g., forgiving someone, serving others, etc.).

Key Points

Discipleship involves answering the call to follow Jesus and make disciples.

Becoming like Christ is an ongoing process for disciples.

Disciple-makers encourage and support others in their faith journey.

Understanding core concepts like the law, grace, repentance, righteousness, and being born again is crucial for discipleship.

True discipleship is characterized by servant-hearted love for others.

“Christianity is more about a towel than a title.”

The “Barnabas Blueprint”

See the potential.
Invite them in.
Empower them.
Cheer them on.
Walk with them through setbacks.

Discussion

Have you ever felt a lack of discipleship in your own life? How has that impacted your faith journey?

Discuss the Barnabas Blueprint. How can we apply these principles in our relationships with other believers?

The sermon highlighted several core concepts (law, grace, repentance, righteousness, born again). Which of these do you feel you understand well? Which ones would you like to explore further?

How does Jesus washing His disciples' feet challenge our understanding of leadership and service in the church?

What barriers are in the way of you seeking discipleship or offering to disciple others?

Love is a key indicator of discipleship. How can we cultivate and demonstrate this love?

Application

Identify one area of your life where you need to grow more Christ-like.

Reach out to someone this week to offer discipleship or ask for discipleship.

Practice humble service for someone in your life, reflecting Jesus.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to follow You and entrusting us with the mission of making disciples. Open our eyes to the opportunities around us, give us courage to step out in faith. Help us to love others as You have loved us. Remind us that You are always with us as we go.

Key Points

Being a disciple involves following Jesus, becoming like Him, and making other disciples.

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) calls all believers to make disciples.

Discipleship is a form of love and sacrifice, reflecting Christ's love for us.

Jesus empowers and equips us to make disciples, even with our limited resources.

Every believer has the capacity and responsibility to help others grow in Christ.

The mystery of multiplication in discipleship can have a profound impact.

Discussion

How has someone discipled you in your faith journey? What impact did that have on your life?

How do you understand the phrase "as you go" in relation to making disciples? What might this look like in your daily life?

Loving others includes helping them grow as disciples. How does this expand your understanding of Christian love?

What lessons can we draw about our role in making disciples from the feeding of the 5000?

What fears or hesitations do you have about making disciples? Where do those fear come from?

Application

Identify one person in your life who might benefit from discipleship. Commit to praying for an opportunity to invest in their spiritual growth.

Choose a passage of Scripture to study this week. Invite someone to join you in discussing what you learn.

Pray for laborers in the harvest (Matthew 9:37-38) and for opportunities to be one yourself.

Make a list of the "little" you have to offer in discipleship (like the five loaves and two fish). Pray for God to multiply your efforts as you step out in faith.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for calling us to be your disciples and for entrusting us with the mission of making more disciples. Help us to see the opportunities around us and give us courage to step out in faith. Multiply our small efforts for your kingdom's sake. May we love others as you have loved us, investing in their spiritual growth. Remind us that you are always with us as we go.

Key Points

The call to follow Jesus is a call to be transformed.

Sanctification is a lifelong journey of becoming like Christ.

Trials refine us, just as fire purifies silver, shaping us into His image.

Following Jesus means surrendering, not just trying harder.

The ultimate goal is to reflect Jesus in our love, forgiveness, and endurance.

Peter and John were recognized as having been with Jesus—our lives should reflect Christ’s character in a way that is noticeable.

While transformation is God’s work, we must cooperate with Him by surrendering daily and embracing His refining process (Romans 8:29).

If your cross isn’t heavy, you’re probably not carrying it.

Hardships are not wasted but shape us into Christ’s image.

Discussion

How does the idea of following Jesus as a lifelong transformation challenge the way you view salvation?

In what ways have you seen God calling you out of something and into something new?

Romans 8:28-29 tells us that God works everything for good to conform us to the image of His Son. How does this perspective change how you view hardships?

Following Jesus is not about trying harder but about surrendering deeper. How does this shift your perspective on discipleship?

Have you ever struggled with just “tagging along” in your faith instead of fully surrendering? What steps can you take to deepen your walk?

Do people recognize that you’ve been with Jesus? What evidence do you see of His work in your life?

Application

Spend time in prayer this week asking God to reveal areas where He wants to shape you. Write down one specific way you can cooperate with that process.

Memorize Romans 8:29 as a reminder that God’s purpose is not just to save us, but to transform us into Christ’s image.

Identify a “cross” in your life—something difficult that God is using to shape you. Instead of resisting it, commit to surrendering it to Him daily.

Be intentional about reflecting Christ in your interactions this week. Look for an opportunity to forgive, serve, or encourage someone in a way that mirrors Jesus.

Prayer

Seek the Lord regarding things that may need to be “chiseled” out of you to make you look like Jesus. Pray for one another in the specific areas that need growth.

Key Points

Jesus’ calling in our lives is all-inclusive. The call includes leaving our past behind—our pride, selfish ambition, independence, and false security.

His call to follow includes self-denial & cross-bearing, bringing us closer to the epicenter of His calling.

Even at the beginning of Jesus’ call on Peter’s life, He cast the vision for his future—that he would be part of His Great Commission to reach the lost.

Believing in Jesus is different from following Him and becoming His disciple.

When counting the cost of following Jesus, we must always remember that the benefits far outweigh the cost.

God’s love and grace enable us to follow Him despite our shortcomings and weaknesses.

The great exchange—our unrighteousness for His righteousness—enables us to answer His call to follow.

Discussion

How would you describe the difference between being a believer and a disciple?

What might you need to "renounce" or let go of to follow Jesus more closely?

What do you think Jesus means by "hating" family members in Luke 14:26?

Daily self-denial and cross-bearing are essential to discipleship. What might this look like in your everyday life?

Pastor Bob mentioned that no one is worthy to follow Jesus on their own. How does this truth impact your view of discipleship and God's grace?

Application

Daily Reflection: Spend a few minutes each day this week asking God to show you areas where you need to "pick up your cross" and follow Him more closely.

Accountability: Partner with someone to encourage each other in your discipleship journey. Check in regularly to discuss challenges and growth.

Self-Examination: Make a list of things that might be hindering your commitment to following Jesus. Pray & consider steps you can take to address these areas.

Prayer Focus: Spend time in prayer, asking God to deepen your understanding of what it means to be His disciple & for the strength to follow Him more faithfully.

Prayer

Father, I surrender my pride, my selfish desires, and every distraction that keeps me from fully following You. Jesus, help me to take up my cross daily—to live a life marked by sacrifice, humility, & unwavering trust in Your Word. Strengthen my faith so I may renounce anything holding me back from living the life You intended. Holy Spirit, guide me in every step of my journey, and may I always reflect Your love and mercy.

Key Points

The heart of the Great Commission isn’t “going”—it’s intentional disciple making.

Mission is less about the where and more about who we are and what we do.

Compassion breaks through cultural and social barriers.

Caring for the least of these—orphans, widows, the hungry—is fruit of disciple.

Unexamined biases—toward the homeless, prisoners, or those who are different—hinder our witness.

We are witnesses through the power of the Holy Spirit, not our strength.

Every believer is given a mission.

Compassion breaks the barriers of culture, prejudice, and fear.

A disciple does not just believe. A disciple is on mission takes action.

Discussion

How has the sermon changed or expanded your understanding of mission?

The Great Commission is sometimes treated as the "Great Omission." Why do you think this happens, and how can we combat this tendency?

Who do you identify with most in the parable of the Good Samaritan?

How does Jesus' definition of "neighbor" challenge your current perspective?

Have you ever had an experience of God using you despite feeling unworthy?

The sermon lists several passages describing what God requires of us (Micah 6:8, Isaiah 58:6-7, James 1:27, Matthew 25:31-40). Which of these instructions do you find most challenging to live out? Why?

What prejudices or biases might be preventing you from showing compassion to certain groups or individuals? How can we work to overcome these?

Application

Take time this week to prayerfully consider where God might be calling you to "make disciples."

Ask God to reveal any prejudices you might hold. Write them down, pray over them, and ask Him to help you see people as He sees them.

Memorize John 15:8 and let it shape your daily reflection on how you’ve lived out your faith through action.

Prayer

Father, thank You for entrusting me with the mission to make disciples. Help me to see this calling not as a task, but as a way of life. Soften my heart toward those I’ve overlooked or avoided. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I witness through Your power, not my own strength. Show me opportunities to serve, care, and share the Gospel. I surrender my plans to You. I am willing to go, willing to serve, and willing to love, because You first loved me.

Key Points

Our conscience is a gift from God, but it's not infallible. It needs to be calibrated to God's will through Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

Everyone is made in God’s image; moral beings who makes moral judgements.

Your conscience has the moral capacity to change, for better or for worse.

A “weak” faith person is one who thinks they are forbidden to do something. A “strong” faith person is one who thinks they have freedom to do something.

In matters of conscience, there are often "weak" and "strong" positions. Neither is necessarily more pleasing to God if both are acting to honor Him.

We shouldn't judge others for having different convictions on disputable matters.

The strong are obligated to make allowances for the weak, even if it means limiting their own freedom.

The goal is to glorify God and build up the church, not assert our freedoms.

When we find ourselves judging someone, we need to consider our own impending position before the throne of God.

A proper focus on the conscience shapes us toward holiness, drives us to the Gospel, and produces real joy in a community of believers.

Discussion

How would you define "conscience"? How is it different from just following rules?

Describe what your conscience is like to you.

Do you think it is fair for the strong to have to uphold the weak person? Explain.

Why is wisdom so important in matters of conscience? How do we gain wisdom?

How can we respectfully disagree with fellow believers on matters of conscience without causing division?

How can we help "calibrate" our conscience to better align with God's will?

When did you last welcomed someone back into your life? Why did you do it?

Application

Identify an area where your conscience differs from other believers. Reflect on why you hold that conviction and whether it's rooted in Scripture or tradition.

Practice extending grace to someone who has different convictions than you on a disputable matter.

Memorize Romans 14:19 and put it into practice throughout the week.

Prayer

Pray for wisdom to navigate matters of conscience with grace and love. Ask God to help us prioritize unity in the church over asserting our personal freedoms. May our actions be motivated by a desire to glorify Him and build up our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Key Points:

God desires to transform us from the inside out, moving beyond superficial changes.

We often ask for the wrong things, missing what God truly wants to do in our lives.

Repentance leads to times of refreshing from the Lord.

True transformation comes through Jesus Christ, the “Beautiful Gate" through which we enter into new life.

Our spiritual lameness can be healed by the power of Christ.

We need to be open and expectant for God's work in our lives.

True transformation often requires us to rely on God's strength, not our own.

God makes everything beautiful in His time, even our past mistakes and struggles.

Discussion:

Have you ever experienced God giving you something different (and better) than what you initially asked for?

What are some worldly attitudes or behaviors you struggle to let go of in your Christian walk?

Why is repentance so important, and what does it look like in practical terms?

In what area of your life do you feel you might be spiritually "lame" or struggling to walk fully with Christ?

What does it mean to you to have "eternity in your heart" as mentioned from Ecclesiastes 3:11?

Application:

Identify one area in your life where you've been "asking amiss" or focusing on the wrong things. How can you shift your perspective to align with God's desires?

Choose one "lame" area in your spiritual life and commit to taking a step towards healing or growth in that area.

Memorize John 10:9-10 about Jesus being the gate and reflect on its meaning throughout the week.

Prayer:

Thank God for His transformative power and ask for the courage to walk through the "beautiful gate" of Christ in all areas of life. Pray for each other's specific areas of needed growth or change.

Key Points

Prayer draws us closer to God.

Being devoted means being steadfast and committed.

The Greek word for devoted, proskartereo (προσκαρτερέω), means to be steadfast to, toward, or with regard to something.

Complacency is rooted in pride. When we become complacent, we lack devotion.

“You can do more than pray after you have prayed, but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed.” – S.D. Gordon

John Piper’s three reasons we should pray: God commands us to pray, the needs are great, and God moves when we pray.

To be devoted to prayer is to have a pattern of prayer.

When husbands and wives pray, they get closer to God and closer to each other.

Discussion

How can we maintain a balance between being content with what God has given us and avoiding complacency in our spiritual growth?

Describe your current prayer life. Are devoted or more casual about it?

What does Samuel Gordon's quote mean to you practically?

How have you seen God move in response to prayer in your own life or the lives of others?

What are some signs of complacency in our spiritual lives?

Application

Commit to a daily prayer time this week, even if it's just for 5-10 minutes.

Find a partner to pray with regularly for accountability and encouragement.

Read through 1 and 2 Timothy this week, noting Paul's advice for staying devoted to God.

Identify one area in your life where you may have become complacent spiritually. Share with the group and pray for each other in these areas.

Try using a prayer guide or praying Scripture this week to grow your prayer life.

Fellowship is more than friendship; it involves sharing our spiritual lives with one another.

Jesus prayed for believers to be one, just as He is one with the Father.

Men are called to be spiritual leaders in their homes, praying for and with their wives and children.

Unity in the body of Christ doesn't mean conformity, but embracing diversity while being united in purpose.

Vulnerability and open communication are essential for spiritual growth in marriages and the church.

We should strive to "stir one another up to love and good works."

Read John 17:20-26. How does Jesus' prayer for unity challenge your current understanding of Christian fellowship?

Pastor Bob mentioned that fellowship involves "sharing burdens, praying for one another, and reading the Word together." How are you currently experiencing this kind of fellowship? Where do you see room for growth?

For the married couples: How have you seen spiritual leadership (or lack thereof) impact your relationship? What steps can you take to grow in this area?

For singles: How can you actively participate in and contribute to the unity of the body of Christ?

The sermon emphasized the importance of vulnerability in fellowship. What makes being vulnerable difficult for you? How might an increased vulnerability deepen your relationships?

Everyone is devoted to something.

The early church was devoted to the teaching of the Apostles.

The Apostles taught what Jesus taught them.

Jesus taught from what we know as the Old Testament (Old Covenant), but He amplified it.

Love is the core of abiding in Christ and being devoted; if we abide in Him, much love will be the fruit produced in and through us.

Love is the key to practicing our faith well. (See 1 Corinthians 13:1-3)

Disciples of Jesus love one another. (See John 13:35)

Participating in worship is an important part of practicing our faith.

Pruning is not comfortable, but it is necessary in our lives so that we will produce good fruit.

Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing.

Jesus wants to bless us by giving us what we ask for, but it is for the sake of glorifying the Father and producing fruit in us.

To abide is to remain faithful and steadfast.

To abide in Christ is to be devoted.

In order to abide in Christ, we need to practice our faith. We need to be devoted.

Practicing communion is a proclamation of the Gospel.

What are you devoted to?

Do you attend the prayer nights? Share about your experience there. If not, what is stopping you from going?

What takeaway do you have from the sermon on Sunday?

Discuss an aspect of your faith that you need to practice more.

One of the things Jesus taught His disciples (and the Apostles taught the Church) was how to pray. Break down the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) into its five main sections, then use it as your guide to pray together as a group.

Jesus established the Church.

The Church is the Called-Out Ones, called out of the world and into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

We are called into a Body of believers, and Christ is the head.

Devotion is an expression of love.

The Holy Spirit came at the end of a 10-day prayer meeting and 3000 people were saved, baptized, and filled with the Spirit that day.

The early church was devoted to the Apostles’ teachings, fellowship, communion, and prayer. This is the recipe for a Spirit-filled Church.

Before spiritual gifts came, the people were in awe.

Day by day, the early church was in fellowship with each other and communion with God, and the Lord brought more people to salvation day by day.

Members of the Body of Christ are honest with each other, even when things are not alright.

When all you have is a groan, Jesus intercedes and prays for you.

Prayer can be as simple as saying, “Help!”

Which of the four ingredients to you lack? The Word, fellowship, communion, or prayer? Discuss.

Why do you go to church?

Everyone is devoted to something. Discuss what you are devoted to.

Have you made Jesus preeminent in your life? If not, what is in the way of that?

Share about a time you’ve been in awe at the power or work of God.

Practice praying together.

Jesus is the founder and perfector of our faith.

There is only One who is perfect to look upon and be like: He is Jesus.

Jesus is the Word; we need to study the Word to know Him.

The Bible is His love letter to us.

If we would look to Jesus, He wants to reveal Himself to us in a deep and personal way.

The life of Jesus was to glorify the Father. He did so in a way that was uncommon to man: He laid down His life; He loved to the end. He was obedient to the will of the Father.

Heroes of the faith in Zach’s life have been like the dandelion full of seeds. Fully surrendered to where the Holy Spirit leads.

“Turn full your soul's vision to Jesus, and look and look at Him, and a strange dimness will come over all that is apart from Him, and the Divine ‘attrait’ by which God's saints are made, even in this 20th century, will lay hold of you. For ‘He is worthy’ to have all there is to be had in the heart that He has died to win.”

Lilias Trotter

What do you have your eyes fixed on?

What in your world needs to dim?

What stage of the dandelion are you at?

Sing the hymn, “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus,” as a group.

God brings light into existence.

Jesus’s coming to earth is often referred to as a sunrise or dayspring.

Light reveals the truth and gives direction.

When light appears in scripture as prophecy, it is often connected with the shadow of death.

Jesus referred to Himself as the Light of the world.

Jesus brings the light of life into men.

Light in the darkness is a parallel to His strength and our weakness.

When Jesus’s birth was announced, it came with a bright light in the darkness. When Jesus returns, He will come with a bright light.

When Jesus sits on His heavenly throne, He will be our light and there will be no more darkness.

Have you ever been afraid of the dark? How much difference did a flashlight make?

Take a moment to review and summarize each of the four messages. How can God make His power perfect in your weakness?

The choir sang a powerful ballad: “Go, Tell It On The Mountain”

Pray as a group about making that a lifestyle instead of just a song.

The birth of Christ was announced to shepherds, outcasts ordinarily unnoticed who worked seven days a week.

The angels proclaimed Good News for all people.

The shepherds responded to the Gospel and immediately shared their encounter.

Jesus, the Savior, continues to seek and save the lost.

Jesus is now our Shepherd.

Read the shepherds’ encounter and discuss how you might have responded.

Is the Christmas season a challenge for you?

How can we recenter our focus on Emmanuel?

Do you remember how much darkness you were walking in before you heard the Good News? Share.

Joseph’s name can be interpreted: “to make much of God.”

Joseph was unsung, unheard, and unnoticed. -Pastor Jerry Hovater

When our plans change, that is a sign we should be ready to surrender.

Joseph’s dream was shattered but God gave him four dreams that gave prophecy, protection, and direction.

Joseph was given an extraordinary responsibility, and he needed all the help he could get to accomplish it.

Hell was on the heels of Jesus’s birth. God worked through Joseph to protect the Messiah.

Joseph’s journey teaches us that in our place of weakness, we don’t need less trouble, but rather more trust.

Jospeh leaves a strong example for fathers to be guardians and protectors over our family.

What did the Holy Spirit speak to you about this message?

Hell is coming after our children; what can fathers do to protect our children and youth?

What doors need to be closed in our hearts in order to stop Satan from roaming in our homes?

Pray for fathers to take up their calling and allow God to supply their needs.

Mary was insignificant, from an insignificant town, and God chose the insignificant to do very significant things.

Mary, like us, had fears; she had uncertainties. She had concerns about what other people think. And God overshadowed her with His power. God’s will was made perfect in her weakness.

When Mary surrendered to God’s plan, she also surrendered her entire future into His hands

When God chooses to use us, He sends us to those who are like-minded to encourage us along our way. Mary was sent to Elizabeth.

As Mary was identified, she lifted her voice to praise, and her soul began to magnify the Lord.

God’s power is made perfect in our weakness, but we must first stop trying in our own strength.

What were some of your takeaways from the message? What can you learn from Mary’s life?

Do you find yourself working out of your own strength in the weak areas of your life? Explain.

Have you discovered how God perfects His power inside of your weakness?

What is the Holy Spirit telling you to surrender?

Hallelujah (הַלְלוּ־יָהּ‎) comes from 2 words:

Hallel (הַלְלוּ‎) – Hebrew for praise

Yah (יָהּ‎) – alternate Hebrew for the covenant name of God, Yahweh (יְהוֹהָ)

Giving thanks is representative of receiving and being grateful.

Giving thanks breaks our self-righteousness and entitlement.

Giving God praise is not contingent on circumstances, gains, or loses.

Giving God praise corresponds to attributes of God.

Giving God praise is a heart posture representative of a heart submitted to Him.

Giving God praise is currently going on in the heavens. When we give Him praise, we are joining the heavenly chorus.

Daily praise helps us to see God in the details and places us in a place of understanding His sovereignty.

Sometimes our praise is small rather than great. Could this be because we fail to acknowledge how great God is?

Do you have a practice of giving God praise?

Is your praise still contingent on circumstances?

Do you hold back from singing when giving God praise? Why?

Talk about the diversity of the instruments in Psalm 150.

If we are to lift our hands to the Lord, what keeps us from giving praise with our hands?

God’s love is greater than human love.

God’s love liberates, overcomes, always wins, and endures forever.

God’s love is personal and set us free to live in harmony with Him.

God’s love is never-ending; when we remain in His love, we are less prone seek love from anywhere else.

The acrostic that was shared Sunday:

Liberating

Overcomes

Victorious

Endures

Which of these have you experienced?

Be honest… have your efforts to be loved given you heartache?

How can we better receive God’s love?

How would you summarize this nine-week series?

Jesus talks about money often and always uses it as a barometer of one’s heart.

When we understand our money was given to us by God, we will steward it well.

When our soul craves more than we need, our affection for money increases.

Debt leads to many pains and sorrows.

Laying up treasury in heaven should be our aim with money.

Giving releases our grip on money and transforms our hearts.

M – manage

O – offer

N – needs

E – eternal

Y – yielded

Which letter of the acronym do you do well?

Which letter of the acronym do you need to work on?

Have you experienced the spiritual principle of reciprocity with your giving?

Has money caused division in your relationships?

Take up an offering as a group and decide where to give it.

Surrender – submit to His will and not your feelings or expectations.

Sympathize – rember that everyone is weak and prone to sin; at the core, they are no different than you.

Survey – put yourself on a shelf, make an effort to get to know others. Be more concerned to hear their story rather than to tell yours. Don’t attempt to fix a problem without first validating.

Serve – serving others helps to remove selfishness. Serving can help to foster community and unity. Jesus set a great example for us to follow.

Share – sharing helps us remember that we have received in order that we would give. Sharing breaks greed and opens your heart to place others above yourself.

Remember, your first reaction is often the wrong one. Pause and ask the Spirit to lead you rather than your feelings.

Which of the five S-words do you do well?

Which one is your weakest?

Jesus asked more than 300 questions as He related to others. How can asking questions help you foster deeper relationships?

How are you currently sharing/serving?

Above all, we are called to love.

In the last days lawlessness will increase, and love will diminish.

We are called to cover sin with love.

Overlooking offenses can help maintain the unity and the bond of peace.

Patience is an expression of love.

Bitterness and withholding love are often rooted in resentment.

Remember, every offense is an opportunity for grace.

Our nation is divided completely in half; division is running rampant. Have you found yourself caught up in this struggle?

Resentment builds up over time. Have you ever experienced this? What were your symptoms? How did you overcome?

From a practical standpoint, what does it look like when love covers sin?

Pray as a group that God would increase your love for one another, especially as we approach this election cycle.

Pride will seriously destroy your ability to love.

You may need to repent of pride if:

You are unwilling to reconcile.
You are verbally aggressive.
You are habitually angry.
You are condescending.
You are overly judgmental.
You have been described as arrogant.

Your ability to love others is a great indicator of your spiritual health.

God places His Spirit in us and is yearning for us to become like Him. He laid His life down for us; loving those who are at odds with us will require the same sacrificial love.

Our relationship with God is in direct correlation with our relationship with others.

How does pride enter your life? Can you relate to any of the symptoms that are listed?

Are you withholding love from someone? Why?

Discuss as a group how we can remove pride from our lives.

How can knowing God create humility?

Shame is different than guilt:

Shame can be debilitating and lead to unnecessary strategies to cope, including isolation and self-harm.

Shame can lead to perfectionism, dishonesty, and self-sabotage.

Chronic shame can lead to depression, anger, and even physical health maladies including chronic fatigue.

Shame can cause obsessive negative self-talk and perpetual feelings of inadequacy.

Luke 7:36-50 vividly teaches us what happens when shame encounters a forgiving Savior.

Forgiveness from God unlocks a reservoir of worship.

God’s steadfast love can and will erase shame.

What was your takeaway from Eric’s testimony?

Have you ever suffered under the weight of shame?

How were you delivered from shame?

What other observations can you make from the encounter that the “sinful woman” had with Jesus?

Eight people were saved Sunday. Take time as a group and pray for them.

There are generally many healthy (walking on a freeway, standing on a train track, walking to close to a cliff, etc.), but only one fear will lead you to life: fear of God.

We face numerous fears that can cause us to shrink back. Some can lead to sleepless nights, unhealthy thoughts, and flesh maintenance.

We often predict the worse possible outcome even though we don’t know the outcome.

A clever acronym to remember: False Evidence Appearing Real (FEAR).

A healthy fear of God leads us to knowledge, understating, and humility.

Fear of circumstances can bring unwarranted anxiety.

Fear of man can cause us to compromise, lose confidence, and it can keep us from our calling.

When the spirit of fear strikes, it always rooted in unbelief.

Remembering His perfect love and our eternal destiny can get us through every fear.

How would you describe your fears? How do you react?

In your own words, describe your fear of God. Is it healthy or unhealthy?

How does God’s perfect love cast out fear?

Do you have a go to scripture verse or promise that helps alleviate fear?

There is a glass display in the church lobby that reminds us from Colossians 1:18 – JESUS IS PREEMINENT, meaning “the highest place of ascendency, above all, over all, surpassing all, to the point that nothing and no one else can even come close”.

Our Statement of Faith states that our number one priority is to “worship GOD in all HIS fullness…”

We must prioritize our loves: GOD first, people second. Anything, including people, that replaces GOD as preeminent is idolatry.

Honoring our parents is critical to honoring GOD.

The final days we live in are full of deception. We must urgently love GOD and keep HIM first.

We should be careful to not allow cultural Christianity (humanism at its core) to deceive us into placing humanity above JESUS’s deity.

JESUS is returning soon to rule HIS Kingdom of Love where HE will reign the UNDISPUTED PREEMINENT KING!

How do you make JESUS preeminent in your life …in devotional time? …in relationships? …in giving?

Identify the idol: What or who is getting in the way of you loving GOD by putting HIM first?

Were there any deceptions or potential deceptions mentioned in the message that you were unaware of? How can you guard yourself, your family, your church body from these interfering with JESUS’s preeminence?

To be on the receiving side of Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3, we must learn how costly God’s love is and how it can never be earned.

Scripture points to love more than 680 times. “Chesed” (חסד) in the Old Testament and “agape” (ἀγάπη) in the New Testament.

Jesus indicated that we would know Him by the testimonies of the written word; not necessarily by experience.

What we come to know and believe about His love is acquired by faith.

God’s love frees us to be ourselves and removes the temptation to hide or self-protect.

Our interchangeable use of the word “love” cheapens the true meaning of God’s sacrificial love.

God’s love was an action, not a feeling or thought. His love was demonstrated in Christ’s death.

What have you misunderstood regarding God’s love?

How does understanding God’s love free us?

Each person in your group, look up 3 scriptures that use the word love. Read aloud and discuss the application of each verse. (use your Bible concordance or search on your Bible App if you need help)

Did you have a specific takeaway from the message that you would like to share?

God’s goodness is better than I could ever imagine!

God draws us closer to Jesus!

He makes us more like Jesus!

He takes us to Jesus!

Is there a better “good” than Jesus?

Why is it so common for our concept of good to differ from God’s idea of good?

What do you think about the poster on the wall? “God’s will is exactly what I would chose, if I knew all the details.”

Describe a time in which pain brought you back to Jesus.

Considering the current circumstances of your life, is it possible that God is trying to get your attention?

How can personal pain serve a divine purpose in our life?

How do you respond to this statement made on Sunday? “Glorified” is the finish line of the divine plan! That is how God defines the word “Good.”

Discuss the truth found in Romans 8:18. How does that passage impact the ways in which we live our daily lives?

It’s important to interpret the life of Samson through God’s sovereignty.

The Spirit of the Lord was stirring Samson.

Samson’s riddle speaks to us today.

God saves, heals, and delivers.

What Satan meant for evil, God can turn it into good.

God lives in a broken and contrite heart.

What impacted you from the interview with Lynn and Zach?

Was there a defining moment in your life when you sensed the world was not safe?

In the aftermath of your experience, what lies did you begin to believe about yourself?

Was there a defining moment in your life that helped you to heal?

How is God producing honey from this life experience?

Chapter 12 starts with “Therefore…” as the conclusion of chapter 11. Chapter 11 chronicles the life of 18 saints that achieved great exploits by faith.

We are surrounded by these witnesses.

The word “race,” from the Greek, “agon,” means a conflict or struggle.

Jesus is at the starting gate of our race and at the finish line.

All racers are sinners and share the same entanglements.

Look unto Jesus; not your sin, not the witnesses, and not your own strength.

Our race is to His glory, and He is our prize.

Despise the shame, not the shamers.

The race requires endurance.

Faith fuels the racer.

Too many of us struggle with receiving love. Have you experienced this? How have you overcome?

If you were to describe the race, what lap are you on? What are you enduring?

How can we help other racers? How can we hurt them?

What were other impressions that the message left with you?

God’s eternal plan predestined us to Christlikeness.

Many misplace their aim and ambition on ministry and purpose when God’s will for us is to become Christlike.

God’s mercy has been laid into the path of sinners.

God’s mercy can often be introduced to us through others.

Real life is found in a life founded in Christ.

God is more interested in who we are becoming than what we are doing.

Scripture reveals to us that we are dead in our sins. Discuss this as a group.

Have you thought more about God’s will as mission and purpose more than transformation?

Discuss the past, present, and future tense in the last four scriptures listed above.

What part of Pastor Bob’s friendship with John touched you the most? Why?

Key Points

God both warns and offers hope with stories of brother-to-brother relationships.

Both Cain & Abel were committing religious acts. Both “believed” but Cain was still “of the evil one”. You can be religious and not know God.

God sees and comes asking questions, knowing our very heart. We can bring a tight-lipped stubborn resolve or a surrendered admittance: “I need help.” “Mastering it” is too much for me without You.

There are other forms of murder as stated by the apostle John and Jesus: hatred in your heart, anger, name calling with derogatory terms murdering the soul.

We need to either be born of God, resulting in loving our brothers, or growing in the love of God, corrected and freed by Him from the influence of another spirit.

If we are truly born of God, we will not continue in habitual anger turning to hatred. Our continued growing hatred, resentment, or unforgiveness may reveal our need to be born again; our own soul is in jeopardy until we are born again.

Being born of God is a supernatural rebirth and empowering of the risen Christ, who by His cross has forgiven us of all our hatred and unloving ways; by His resurrection, He now lives in us, teaching us to love and forgive as He does.

Loving your brother does not always mean unified in thought/action. Jesus stuck to His mission despite His brothers’ disbelief, then forgave and utilized them.

Loving your brother appreciates differences of temperaments and celebrates the Lord’s use and successes of the other, such as Andrew and Peter.

Discussion

Which brother/sister (maybe not by blood) came to mind during this message?

Does knowing that God sees your heart bring you comfort or conviction? Do you want to hide and justify yourself or run to Him for forgiveness and help?

Are you sure by John’s accounting that you indeed have been born of God? If not, what do you think is the next step for you?

After assurance of being born of God, what next steps could you prayerfully take to move toward that person that came to mind earlier?

Our Savior & Lord is known as our brother (Hebrews 2:10-12; John 20:17) and He is not ashamed to call us His brethren. How does that affect you?

Ten Suggestions For Parents And Siblings

At a very early age, they need to see you bowing your head and talking to God. They can’t see Him but will start wondering and learn that He sees all and cares.

At a very early age, tell them who God is: our loving Creator who made us and everything in the world.

He made you very special, with likeness to Him. You are wonderfully made. He made you so He could love you too, like He loves mommy and daddy. He made us to love Him back. He wants us to be part of His family: called Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Yes, God has a Son. His name is Jesus.

Know that your child is born with Adam’s fallen nature and will reveal it at a very early age with the word “mine,” and a scream when someone tries to take it.

When they have a sibling born, let your firstborn participate in caring for their brother or sister, telling them everything they have learned above. Their sibling is made by God too, very special. Special to God, special for you. He wanted you to have a brother or sister. Let’s always treat them very special and be kind with good words.

We all need a Savior. God knows we mess up and are not always kind… “Mommy got impatient today, will you forgive me?” God sent His Son, our Savior, to forgive me.

If you have ever called your child a derogatory word or phrase, it is time for you as a parent to repent. Don’t excuse it. Humble yourself and ask for forgiveness of your child if they are old enough to remember and give them permission to call you on it if you ever do it again. Tell them you need a Savior too.

Do not display that you have favorites like Sarah did with Jacob and Isaac did with Esau. Jacob did it with Joseph, gifting him a special coat to honor him.

Know that, though you don’t play favorites, each child is different in temperament and giftings and cannot be treated exactly the same way. One form of discipline which is necessary with one child, could crush another. You must study your children, asking God for wisdom and insight into them.

To older siblings who participated in the name calling and mistreatment of your brother or sister: you ought to care what God thinks and ask Him for help. Apologize and start fresh. You may not know how deeply they are dealing with things until it is too late.

Key Points

The priests are given their cities, the two and a half tribes are allowed to return to their previous inherited land on the other side of the Jordon.

They set up an altar that was misunderstood by the other tribes. War was averted when they explained its meaning. May we be as sensitive to rebellion as they were.

Joshua was about to go to the way of the earth, and he brought a holy message to Israel.

Stay the course, don’t return to your past, remember the promises, and fear the Lord!

God blesses obedience and is jealous for us. He hands out consequences for swaying to the right or left.

Joshua brings them to a place of decision at Shechem.

Stay in the light… Jesus is asking us to go all in.

Discussion

What is God speaking to your heart regarding obedience?

What are your top three takeaways from the Joshua series?

What do you see in Luke and James that speaks to you?

Are you all in, half in, or not in at all?

Key Points

God grants mercy for manslayers; He sets up cities of refuge.

Manslayers were given refuge from the avenger of blood.

The one who flees into the city of refuge must stay until the chief priest dies.

When the priest died, this was considered the full atonement for their sin of unintentional murder. The manslayer was free to go home.

Our Chief Priest died on our behalf and lives to intercede for us.

The Law is our avenger of blood and Jesus sets us free from the second death.

The six cities’ names are indictive to the character of Jesus. Jesus is the seventh City of Refuge.

Kadesh – to be set apart, to be made holy; a sanctuary for the righteousness

Shechem – shoulder; a place of strength to carry burdens

Hebron – fellowship; to join or bind together

Bezer – fortress; a stronghold a place of protection

Ramoth – heights; to be elevated above

Golan – to rejoice while being held captive

Discussion

The cities of refuge bring the Gospel to light. Explain.

What is the application of Sunday’s sermon?

Of the six cities names, which one speaks to you and why?

Key Points

Five scenarios occur with people responding to their land allotments. Those who stood on God’s promise realized their requests.

Caleb’s daughter and nephew had the same courage as Caleb. We often see the fruit of our faithfulness fall on our decedents.

Othniel was later called on to be Israel’s deliverer and their first judge.

Joseph’s sons were not satisfied with their allotments but were not willing to apply effort or faith to procure it.

The four sisters were much like Caleb; they held fast to God’s Word (promise) and secured individual land allotments.

Courageous Caleb: bold, brave. God said so… let’s go!

Opportunistic Othniel: he was given a challenge and took it!

Assurance of Achsah: she could trust her Father to bless her.

Security of the sisters: these women contended for God’s promise and were given security.

The easy Ephraimites: entitlement sets in and causes laziness.

Discussion

Are you standing on God’s promises? Which one comes to mind?

Can you relate to any of the 5 scenarios above? Why?

Do you find yourself leaning more into yourself than the Holy Spirt of promise?

Have you seen yourself grow into Christ like your ancestors? What legacy do you desire to leave for your children?

Key Points

Caleb was told on the west side of the Jordon that he would inherent Hebron because he was fully faithful.

Caleb asked for the upper hills of Hebron 45 years later and proclaimed his whole heartedness.

Moses said Caleb had a different spirit. That same spirit is available to us today.

Caleb’s patient endurance was forged in the wilderness as he and Joshua endured the grumbling and complaints of the unbelieving Israelites.

Caleb, at 85 years, old selected the land that was uphill and filled with fortified cities and giants.

Caleb’s faith was in God’s promise; his courage exuded from this faith and his devotion was a grateful response to God’s Word.

Parallels between Caleb & Jesus:

Caleb was from the tribe of Judah. Jesus was from the tribe of Judah.
Jesus waited 30 years to begin His ministry and had to endure grumbling and mockery from his peers. Caleb - waited 40 years before entering the land of Canna to begin his ministry and endured the complaints of his - peers in the wilderness.
Caleb was content to be under the leadership of Joshua, to be second. Jesus was fully surrendered to the Father to support His mission.
Caleb saw the mountain of Hebron with its giants 45 years prior and wanted to conquer it. Jesus saw the hill at Golgotha before the foundation of the world and was destined to overcome.
Caleb knew it would be an uphill battle and that he would face giants. He was devoted to his call and took the giants out by faith. Jesus knew what was awaiting him on that hill: it was a cross. The giant was all our sin, and that giant was conquered!

Discussion

Have you ever served as second behind someone? What was that experience like for you? What did it reveal to you about your character?

Is there an area in your life that you have shrunk back from because of fear? How can faith in God’s promise help you overcome?

How does the story of Caleb inspire you?

Work as a group to draw additional parallels between Caleb and Jesus.

Key Points

The Lord is my Light.

Light brings order.
Light reveals what's hidden.
Light frees us from darkness.

The Lord is my Salvation.

Jesus set us free.
Jesus rescued us.
Jesus saved us.

David's desire.

A heart surrendered to the Lord.
To contemplate the beauty of the Lord.
To inquire in Your temple.

Discussion

What can I do to improve my intimacy with God?

Has my life made a difference where I walk (being light)?

Key Points

General revelation is the glory of God revealed through nature as described in the first part of Psalm 19, and it is available to all humankind.

God’s instructions are good and meant to guide us in the way we should go.

It is not easy for us to perceive unintentional sins, but we ought to repent of them when they are brought to our attention rather than get defensive about them.

Being acquitted of our wrongdoing is to be found innocent and requires no change in us. Being cleansed of all unrighteousness leads us to change and become more like Christ.

Words have power. Words in prayer have the most power.

Practicing simple prayers through the many moments of the day helps to align the thoughts of our hearts and our words with God’s Word.

Our actions are guided by our words and our words are an outpouring of what is in our heart.

Breath prayer: breathe in a name of God and breathe out a request or praise.

Speaking God’s name is the simplest of prayers.

Discussion

Share your takeaways from the message.

Which part of Psalm 19 (vs 1-6, 7-11, 12-13, or 14) resonates with you the most? Explain.

Discuss you see between what is in your heart, the words that come from your mouth, and the way you act.

Develop and share some breath prayers of your own that can help you align your thoughts, words, and deeds with God during a typical day.

Encourage and edify one another as you pray for each other.

Key Points

Abraham was used by God to bless, to be a blessing, and to be blessed.

Jacob asked for blessings.

The Portuguese phrase, “benca pai/mai” means “father/mother bless me.”

The response is “Deus abencoe,” meaning “God bless you.”

God declares a blessing over those who walk in obedience to His voice.

Jesus took the curse upon Himself so we who believe can walk in the blessings.

The beatitudes relate to our response to the Gospel, the Good News.

Discussion

How can we as a church stop the negative cycle of cursing the next generation?

What encouragement did you take away from the video of the grads?

What are some ways we can bless those around us more?

Discuss what you can do to come alongside the next generation.

Key Points

Israel’s Promised Land was about to be allotted, tribe by tribe.

The land was considered an inheritance for the descendants of Abraham.

An inheritance is typically realized after the death of the promissory.

God gives us an unfading and undefiled inheritance, guarded and kept in heaven for us. This inheritance was given to his children (believers) after the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

We have been given the Holy Spirit as a down payment of our inheritance.

God calls us His inheritance. This revelation should strengthen and deepen our love for Him.

Discussion

Share your takeaways from the message.

Paul prayed that we would be given the spirit of wisdom to understand this revelation. Discuss why he feels that it is important “that the eyes of our heart” be open to this understanding?

Pull the application from the scriptures in 1 Peter and Colossians and discuss.

How can this understanding of us as His inheritance motivate us?

Key Points

A Huge alliance is assembled in the north to come against Israel.

As we gain ground in our transformational journey there will be increased resistance.

Joshua was a successful leader, not because of his military might but because he was obedient to what God had asked him to do.

Complacency and distraction are two enemies that can keep us from success in God’s Kingdom.

Fathers’ roles are essential to the family. Fathers are called to lead, protect and cover their homes in prayer and the Word.

We should devote worldly pursuits and anything that God would not co-sign to destruction before they destroy us.

Jesus overcame sin, death, and the devil and grants us new life. The lives we now live we should live for Him.

Obedience to God’s instruction leads to blessings.

Discussion

Have you experienced increased resistance following spiritual growth? Explain.

Do you struggle with complacency? How does it affect you and others?

Discuss and encourage each other to increase our efforts to read the Word and pray with our spouses and families.

What was your primary take away from the message?

Key Points

The camp at Gilgal is a significant location for Israel in the Promised Land.

Gilgal is a shadow of Calvary.

Gilgal is where the 12-stone monument was set up as a reminder of God’s faithfulness when he brought Israels across the Jordan River and Red Sea on dry land.

The cross is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to forgive our sin.

Gilgal is where the men of Israel were circumcised and God “rolled away” the shame they carried from Egypt.

The cross is where our old self is put to death by God.

Gilgal is the first place where Passover was celebrated in the Promised Land.

The cross points us to the resurrection where we celebrate new life in Christ.

Throughout the conquest of Joshua and all Israel through southern Canaan, they always returned to the camp at Gilgal.

Throughout our daily walk with Christ, we ought to return to the cross often.

We return to the cross of Christ to remember how He faithfully took our sin and shame and replaced it with His righteousness.

When a king/queen is dethroned, there is a vacancy that must be filled with Christ before another false king/queen takes control.

As God puts the heads of kings/queens under our feet, we must stay vigilant in fighting against other false kings/queens.

Discussion

Have you experienced other kings or queens taking over in your heart after overcoming one? Or has a dead king/queen ever resurrected in your heart when you thought you were free from it? Please share.

What do you do to remember God’s faithfulness when it’s hard to trust that He is faithful and good?

What areas do you need to borrow faith from your brothers and sisters in Christ?

Spend some time praying for each other regarding faith, hope, and trust.

Key Points

The king/queen of unforgiveness is the only unwanted ruler that can cause hatred in your heart.

The Greek word, aphesis (ἄφεσις), is used when referring to forgiveness more than 40 times in the New Testament. It means to send the obligation of debt away.

To not work towards forgiveness is a sin.

The first step to forgive someone is to count the cost: acknowledge the hurt, the injustice, and the loss. Do not try to forget it.

The second step is to identify the wrongdoing as the sin of another sinner. Do not judge them any differently than God would judge you for your own sin.

The third step is to release them from the obligation to pay the debt and absorb the cost, just like Jesus did to forgive yours.

Imagine releasing them from the choke hold of your hate.

The fourth step is to aim for reconciliation if/when possible. This is what Jesus did and continues to do for us after forgiveness occurs.

Discussion

Have you experienced a journey of unforgiveness? Please share.

How would you help others when they are stuck in unforgiveness?

Explain what it means to absorb the debt.

Pray for those who are struggling to forgive.

"To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you." - C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity (New York: HarperOne, 2001), 125.

Key Points

The need to control is always rooted in fear. The thing you fear the most is often what you try to control the most.

The thing you try to control the most will reveal where you trust God the least.

The need to control can be connected to past trauma, an event where you felt out of control.

Lack of trust can stem from someone breaking trust when you should have been able to trust them. This leads to future fears which leads to control.

Control places unnecessary burdens on those around you.

There is no freedom or peace in the midst of control.

The solution to remove control is to surrender and trust. (God)

If we can trust God with our salvation, then we should be able to trust Him in our daily living.

Discussion

How does control creep into your life? What does it look like?

How does control effect those around you?

What is your greatest fear? …this will lead you to trace your control. Discuss.

Breakdown Proverbs 3:1-8. How can this lead to freedom from control?

Key Points

Busyness can be a sign of brokenness.

Martha was troubled and distracted.

Busyness can sometimes be rooted in pride.

The remedy for busyness is resting at the feet of Jesus and His teaching. (Word)

It is good to be hospitable and serve but not in an excessive way.

Flee from sexual immorality.

God calls us to make our bodies surrender to His holiness through sanctification.

Sexual sin can lead to a terrible stronghold of addiction.

The battle is only won through the Sprit and help from others. It will not be won in isolation.

Internal and external means are necessary though the Gospel’s ability to change the heart and accountability through external means.

No other sin is called out as a sin against the body.

These sins are forgiven by the blood of Christ just like the rest of our failings. He has mercy for those who are suffering.

Discussion

What were your takeaways from Jamie’s testimony?

Describe what busyness looks like in your life.

Do you think that your busyness is a way to cope with something? Explain.

How has Jesus given you rest?

What were your takeaways from Bobby’s testimony?

How does porn damage our mental and spiritual health?

Discuss how hidden sexual sin damages relationships.

Why does God want holiness in relation to sex?

Book Recommendations

Finally Free by Heath Lambert

The Genesis Process by Michael Dye and Patricia Fancher

Crazy Busy by Kevin DeYoung

Key Points

This week, we are taking another unwanted king/queen out from the cave.

Simply put, man-pleasing is desiring to please man more than God.

Man-pleasing can be rooted in rejection, father wounds, competition, or a chronic need to be affirmed.

A gift of mercy or helps can sometimes be overextended leading to a desire to be needed by others. This can cause relational problems at home as well as your own physical and mental health.

You cannot serve two masters, otherwise you will be double minded.

Comparing ourselves to others causes us to minimize our own uniqueness.

God has fashioned us all as one of a kind. We should find contentment and joy in who we are becoming like. (Jesus)

Comparison is one of the tricks our adversary can use against us. If he can get us to focus on what is going well in others’ lives over our own, he can get us to question the goodness of God in our life.

Comparison blinds us from being able to see and use the gifts that he has placed in us.

We are one of a kind; there is no one else like us and we were each created with a purpose.

Discussion

Have you ever dealt with man-pleasing or comparison? Please discuss.

How did you resonate or connect to those who shared?

How can these false kings/queens keep us from intimacy with Jesus and others?

How can applying 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 help us to overcome?

Key Points

An alliance was formed to attack Gibeon; Joshua was summoned, and Israel came to their defense.

God stopped the sun and dropped hailstones on the alliance.

The five kings abandoned their people and hid in a cave.

Joshua, with all his men in sight, removed the kings from the cave and executed them.

God will go to great lengths without cooperation to slay false kings that try to rule our hearts.

There are five kings and five queens that try to rule our hearts:

Five Kings

Sexual Perversion

Control

Unforgiveness

Man Pleasing

Isolation

Five Queens

Comparison

Unforgiveness

Busyness

Insecurity

Control

Insecurity can be cloaked in meekness, compliance, and assuming blame. It can also be disguised in bravado, defiance, and never admitting wrong. In one person, insecurity moves them to avoid attention if possible; in another, it moves them to demand as much attention as possible.

Isolation and insecurity are rooted in self-absorption and pride.

God wants us to operate from the Spirit, not our flesh.

Discussion

In general, how did you respond to this message?

How could you relate to Allen, Nowell, or Diane?

Have you ever struggled with isolation or insecurity?

Are you currently struggling with isolation or insecurity?

Discuss how to come along side those dealing with these kings and queens.

Key Points

An alliance is formed with five kings to come against Israel, but the people of Gibeon decide to use some trickery to save themselves.

The Gibeonites deceived Joshua into thinking they were from a foreign land and Joshua, unaware, made peace with his enemy.

One small verse in the middle of this chapter made a big difference: they failed to ask counsel from the Lord.

Our adversary, the devil, is very crafty and deceives us into believing his lies.

The devil’s deception can lead us to discouragement, despair, disillusionment, and defeat.

Many of us settle with the devil’s lies and blame ourselves.

The lies of the devil often hold us hostage, keeping us from growing in Christ.

We are to be on guard and not be outwitted by Satan and his schemes.

When lies become exposed, it is important to backfill them with the truth.

Always remember, our adversary has more power than us, but never more than what God can give us!

Discussion

Those who are willing, discuss any lies that were exposed to you during this message with your group.

Work together as a group to proclaim the truth of God‘s Word & aim it at the lies.

Share an experience in your past where you believed a lie. How you were able to overcome that lie?

Discuss ways to discern whether you’re hearing from God, yourself, or the devil.

Pray as group in advance of next week’s message as we begin working through the five kings.

Key Points

God’s grace is apparent in His response to Israel’s defeat at Ai.

God instructs Joshua with a precise strategy for their victory at Ai; Joshua obeys.

The King is captured alive and brought to Joshua to be hung on a tree.

After the success at Ai, Joshua remembers what Moses had instructed regarding the reading of the blessings and curses between the two mountains, Gerizim and Ebal. He calls all the people to head to this area and places the Arc of the Covenant between the two mountains. The words are proclaimed, and the people agree with “Amen.”

Discussion

Discuss how Gods response to their loss at AI includes grace.

What do you think is the significance regarding point number 4?

A common cycle found in Joshua:

• Obedience followed by victory.

• Victory followed by blessing.

• Blessing followed by pride & disobedience.

• Disobedience followed by defeat.

• Defeat followed by judgment.

• Judgment followed by repentance.

• Repentance followed by obedience.

Where are you in this cycle right now? Why are you there?

How does the passage in Galatians present itself as a shadow and type when compared to the fate of the King in Joshua 8?

Key Points

Humankind needs hope. The world is lost and have fallen into deep despair.

Eternal hope is found in Jesus.

The Church is God’s method of proclaiming hope to the world.

Prayer is stronger than any weapon. Never underestimate your prayers.

Jesus sent the disciples into the storm and met them in the storm.

God didn’t keep Daniel from the lion den. He saved him in the lion den.

The three men were not saved from the furnace. God saved them through the furnace.

Keeping our eyes focused on Jesus enables us to be strong and courageous.

Jesus is our protection and our provider.

When we look at Jesus, the answer comes.

Discussion

Share about a time in your life when you had to persevere through difficult circumstances and where your hope and strength came from in that season.

What area of your life do you need an extra measure of hope right now?

How can you give hope to others who need it?

Spend some time praying for each other and the needs of the Shalukhin family.

Prayer needs for the Shalukhin family:

People of Kherson need hope, clothing, and food.

To be able to have a youth camp.

$10,000 to serve 100 youth in a safe place.

To continue to be able to feed and provide for their community.

Continue to rebuild farm to provide safe housing for the displaced.

Solar power for the farm (has been 2 years without power).

$10,000

Financial needs to keep the church operational.

$5000/month.

Key Points

Good Friday is the best example of suffering and death yielding good results.

Hope is the positive expectation of good things to come, namely God’s promises.

Materialism has caused us to be too beaten, blinded, and busied to embrace eternity.

Taking up your cross daily prepares you to meet your end with dignity and hope.

Object permanence… passing away does not equal ceasing to exist.

In the mind of God (unconscious eternity) Jeremiah 1:5; Psalm 139:16
At conception in the mother’s womb
Into the world
In Christ
In Heaven (conscious eternity)

Discussion

How is God using suffering and/or death to produce good in your life?

Where are the strongholds of materialism that hinder your walk with Jesus?

Are you certain you are going to Heaven?

Key Points

500 years before the battle of Jericho, the Lord spoke to Abraham about the judgment coming to the land of the Amorites.

The Lord’s character includes both justice and mercy.

There was justice for the city and salvation for Rehab and her family.

Faith and obedience are followed by victory.

God’s direction also includes warnings.

Discussion

God could have destroyed Jericho without the marching, trumpets, and shouts; why do you think He asked Joshua to do this?

How are faith and obedience connected?

How does the backstory of Jericho change your perspective of this battle?

What were the two warnings?

Explain how an understanding of God’s wrath towards rebellion elevates your appreciation of salvation.

The Gospel of the Wall of Jericho, by John Piper

Your wall, O wicked Jericho, your ancient, mighty wall,

Your shame, where you have made your infants’ blood renowned,

Your boast, your monument, your Babel, tall

And endless on its side, bent ’round

Into a ring, a thrust,

Betrothing you

To dust;

Your wall, your peace, your life you thought would ever thrive,

Now hollowed with four centuries of pride

Into a labyrinthine hive

Of honeyed lust inside,

With brothels all

Will fall;

But for one slender segment, with it’s rooms

And beds and washing bowls and creams

And ointments and perfumes,

Enflaming dreams,

Now screams;

Where Rahab and her kindred hide,

All hanging by a thread

The spies supplied

And said

Would save, if they obeyed.

They ’wait the blade

In dread;

But there, instead

Of sword,

The cord.

Key Points

Circumcised men heal on the banks of the Jordan prior to Passover.

Only one Passover is recorded after the exodus until they get to the other side of the Jordan, then Passover continued all the way to the Last Supper with Jesus.

Circumcision was a covenant given by God to remember Him and He to remember us.

On this side of the resurrection, circumcision occurs in our heart. God poured out His blood for us on the cross. This circumcision is made in our spirit through faith.

Israel's reproach was rolled away at the bank of the Jordan. God wanted them to know that He was no longer disappointed in them and this new generation was ready to march fourth in faith.

Persistent shame lies to us and tells us that is who we are. Our identity in Christ frees us from shame.

The Lord manifested himself to Joshua in the form of a warrior with a sword; Joshua was willing to surrender to his orders.

God does not want us to wallow in shame but to move forth in victory and fully hold on fully to His forgiveness and covenantal relationship in his blood.

Jesus is our Passover Lamb.

Discussion

What was your primary takeaway from Sunday's message?

Do you have any shame that you are holding onto that is causing you to not fully embrace God's forgiveness?

If you were to encounter the captain of the Lord’s Army, how would you have responded?

How can this message help you to better understand communion and the Lord's Supper?

Key Points

God’s presence, power, and promise held back the Jordon River.

The people had to camp next to the flooded Jordon for three days to take in the magnitude of the obstacle.

Passing over the Jordan required more faith than the Israelites needed 40 years prior when they walked across the Red Sea. This time they weren’t running from trouble; they were walking into trouble. This required Faith!

Passing by the priests and the Ark in the dry riverbank made a lasting impression on those who crossed.

Memorial stones were placed for generations to remember the faithfulness of God.

God wants us to remember times in our past when He delivered us through trials.

Memorials help us to remember to have faith when faced with new trials.

Discussion

Describe a critical time in your life that God got you through.

How does remembering that time help you today?

Do you tend to forget those moments or remember them in times of trials?

Have you set up a shadow box, a journal, or something to share with your children about how God has been faithful to your family?

Key Points

Joshua sent two spies to Jericho.

What was a military mission turned into a missionary journey.

Rahab was justified by her faith, and her works proved her faith.

Faith produces works.

God’s grace moved into the heart of Rahab and redefined her destiny.

We have faith in Christ that saves, and we can exercise that faith for exploits in His Kingdom.

Discussion

How does Rehab’s salvation inspire you?

We have opportunities to have faith for God to work in our lives. Have you been complacent in exercising your faith muscle?

Break down the passage in 2 Corinthians. How can you apply it?

Pray for God to help us in our unbelief.

Key Points

After 40 years of murmuring and wandering, it was time to move forward into the promises of God.

Wandering in self-pity, the past, bitterness, self, or grief can be traced to unbelief.

A generation was lost in the wilderness due to unbelief.

Joshua was affirmed with the God’s mission and provision to arise after the death of Moses.

Moses’s death before entering the promise land is a type and shadow of the law bringing forth death.

We must always believe that God is with us, and this is where fear flees and courage flies.

Discussion

Discuss the backdrop of the wilderness experience and how unbelief led to the demise of a generation.

Has this message found you wandering? Share.

Have you wandered in the past? How did you pivot out of that?

Have you experienced the closeness of God and the release of fear in His presence?

What does courage mean to you?

Key Points

Elohim might refer to false gods or the one true God.

Yahweh is the name of the one true God.

Side note: the Jewish people would not say “Yahweh” out of reverence for Him. Special markings in the text guided them to say Elohim or Adonai when reading. Many modern translations of the Bible render Yahweh as Lord, with small cap letters to signify that it is the name of God.

Idolatry is a major sin that Yahweh was very clear about.

Idols take many forms and often hide in our lives without us even noticing.

When we have and idol, we are bowing down and worshiping a false god.

Idols can usually be seen as good things, but they have been elevated to a place in our lives that should be reserved for Yahweh alone.

We are all prone to wander; it’s the consequence of being born with a sin nature.

Through Jesus, we are freed from sin and enslaved to Yahweh, but we tend to choose other gods and bind our hearts to them.

Some examples of modern-day idols are: identity, money, things, jobs, physical beauty, entertainment, sex, family, friends, influence, and even Christian ministry.

What you worship (give your time, money, talents, and attention to) can either be an idol or Yahweh. It can’t be both.

Discussion

How do you spend most of your time outside of sleep?

How do you use your talents (God-given gifts) and skills (things you’ve learned)?

If someone could see your spending for an average month, what would they think is most important to you?

What occupies your mind throughout the day?

What do you pursue to add joy to your life?

Share one or two idols that you struggle with. (This is not a time to give suggestions to overcome an idol.)

What is one thing you can change in your daily life to shift away from idolatry towards fully worshiping Yahweh?

Pray together for Yahweh to lead you in repentance towards true worship.

Key Points

God’s grace in Greek simply means a gift.

Grace isn’t fully realized without considering the cost of His gift.

We deserve death but instead, He gives us the gift of life.

Grace empowers us as well as trains us to renounce ungodliness.

Grace enables us to give.

Grace can never be earned or deserved.

Discussion

How have you experienced God’s grace?

Has God’s grace propelled you into transformation?

How can you manifest grace?

How would you describe grace upon grace?

Who in your life has embodied God’s grace?

Key Points

The indwelling Holy Spirit was promised by Old Testament prophets.

God graced us with His indwelling Spirit to help us walk according to His will and to vindicate His Holy Name.

The Holy Spirit brings us life and living water.

The Holy Spirit reveals to us the truth about Jesus & His Word and is named The Spirit of Truth.

Jesus promised to send us the Holy Spirit after His resurrection.

Jesus said that He (Holy Spirit) would be our helper.

The Holy Spirit is a person. The third person in the Trinity.

We often forfeit the presence and power of the Sprit, resulting in working from our flesh.

We are commanded to be filled with the Sprit and to ask to be filled.

In Luke 11, we see how God wants us to ask: seek and knock and we will be filled.

The Holy Spirit dwells within us at conversion but we are to ask to be filled as often as necessary.

The fruit of the Spirit and gifts of the Spirit are produced and carried out by the Spirit.

Discussion

What percentage of your day do you think you are working in your own strength without relying on the Spirit?

When is the last time you asked the Father to fill you with His Spirit?

What do you think is different about you when you are walking in The Spirit?

If you honestly assess your perspective, do you think of the Holy Spirit more in terms of gifts rather than daily living?

Key Points

Fasting for ourselves defeats the purpose of fasting.

In Isaiah 58 we find God’s chosen fast. To repent and give.

We are oftentimes yoked or strapped to self-desires.

Giving to those in need helps free us from self.

We are saved not by works but those who are saved do good works.

Discussion

Pastor Bob listed some unhealthy yokes that we are at times strapped to: covetousness, complacency, compromise, isolation, unforgiveness, pride and various addictions. How can you relate?

How does looking to the needs of others help free us from self?

List the promises found in Isaiah 58.

Why were you born? (This could take a while)

Key Points

Prayer awakens us to the presence of God.

Jesus instructs us to pray to the Father in secret.

The prayer positions us under His hallowed Name.

The prayer is relational both vertically and horizontally.

Daily bread, daily forgiveness, and daily protection.

There is beauty and majesty embedded into The Disciples’ Prayer.

This prayer is to be lived.

Discussion

What part of this prayer speaks to you and why?

Discuss your prayer life.

Is it easy or hard for you to address God as Father? Explain.

Spend time interceding for others in prayer.

Key Points

We are promised a blessing when we hunger & thirst for God.

We need to be awakened to our daily need to crave Jesus.

Trials, suffering, and lack can awaken us to hunger and thirst for God.

We often settle for a substitute to meet our needs. These will never satisfy.

David describes this relationship as our souls clinging to God.

The practice of fasting from food can help awaken our hunger for God.

Discussion

Can you describe the difference between needing Jesus verses needing something He can do?

Has there been an experience where you were awakened to hunger & thirst for Jesus?

What have you been clinging to for your security?

Discuss how to be awakened to a pure hunger & thirst for His righteousness.

Key Points

“The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year, but rather we should have a new soul." - GK Chesterton

For us to be transformed, we must look upon the One who changes us, Jesus Christ, Himself.

You will never be satisfied with the praise of man.

Jesus was not looking for the praise of man but only to glorify the Father in His timing, not His own.

There is a better reward from our Father who sees in secret.

Discussion

What is our reward from the Father in Matthew 6?

What is holding you back from practicing these disciplines?

Share about a time when you gave, prayed, or fasted. How did that affect your growth in being a disciple of Jesus?

Share some secrets that God has revealed to you for the edification of the body.

Christmas Eve 2023

Key Points

Old Testament prophesy indicates a single shepherd with a single flock.

Jesus declares Himself the Door to the sheep fold as well as the Good Shepherd.

This contrasts the thieves and false shepherds of Israel. He taught this just following his declaration as the Light of the World. The Pharisees had just removed the blind man that was healed from fellowship. (John 8 & 9)

The Good Shepherd lays His life down for the sheep.

We are often referred to in Scripture as sheep. We all need a Shepherd.

Many of us are independent & not willing to admit that we are in this condition.

The Good Shepherd protects, guides, heals, feeds, waters, and cares for His sheep.

The sheep know the Shepherd’s voice and the Shepherd knows his sheep.

Our salvation is secured in both the Father and the Son.

If one wanders, we can count on Jesus to bring them back.

Knowing Jesus in this way can help our love for Him grow.

Discussion

Are you willing to admit that you need a Shepherd?

Do you identify more like an independent lion or a needy sheep?

Have you ever wandered away from the fold and been brought back?

How can our understanding of Jesus as the Good Shepherd help us to draw close to Him?

Key Points

Jesus declares Himself The Light of the world.

His “I Am” statement is backed up with the healing of the blind man.

The darkness and the light will always be divided.

Walking in the light includes confessing the darkness.

Light in the dark brings revelation to the goodness of God, even in the pain.

As His light bearers, we are called to good works.

Discussion

How would you describe His declaration as The Light of the world?

Have you experienced the freedom found in the confession of sin?

What does “walking in the light” mean to you?

Discuss how to apply Matthew 5:14-16.

Key Points

Moses found out that God’s Name speaks to the sum of who He is, His character, and His essence.

God highly exalted His Son and gave Him His Name and His Name is above every other name.

Jesus rightly proclaimed that He is the first and the last.

Jesus not only took part in creating the universe and all that is in it, but it was created through Him and for Him. Jesus holds it all together.

Jesus knows the end at the beginning, as evidenced many times in scripture; He references the past and the future.

Jesus saw us before we were ever born and numbered our days.

We should take great assurance that His sovereign will is governing our lives.

We should surrender daily to His will, placing His name above our name.

Discussion

What did you come away with after Sunday’s message?

Was there a reason that your parents gave you your name?

Look at the list of the Names of Jesus below. Which of these Names has become meaningful in your life?

Which of these Names have you yet to discover within the character of Jesus?

Key Points

After the Israelites were delivered from Egypt and after God miraculously parted the Red Sea, His people were singing praises. Three days later, they began to grumble.

God moves to bring grace upon grace to His grumbling people by sweetening the water, raining bread from heaven, and even providing quail for food.

Notice: the original grumbling turns the entire congregation against Moses.

The people thought they were complaining to Moses but learned that their grumbling was against God.

Paul points out the importance of giving thanks always as well as to avoid grumbling.

We are to be lights; grumbling quenches the light.

Grumbling is forgetting how good God is.

Grumbling is a gratitude killer

Discussion

Discuss what happens when we grumble.

How do you feel when someone around you begins to grumble?

How do the verses from Philippians motivate you away from grumbling?

Discuss the verses in Corinthians listed above. What are your takeaways?

Key Points

Those who fail to honor God or give thanks will end up with darkened hearts.

A heart of ingratitude stems from “never enough” and “I deserve more.”

A heart of gratitude stems from “I don’t deserve anything” and “I expect nothing.”

If one expects nothing, anything more will produce a heartfelt thanks.

God doesn’t need a thank you, but He knows we need to.

A grateful heart carries over to others with kindness and patience.

Grateful hearts are not natural; these hearts have been sanctified by the Spirit. We are asked to put these hearts on by being filled with the Spirit.

The biblical command to be thankful includes being thankful in all circumstances.

When we thank Him amid pain or misfortune, we are reminded that He is present, and we can trust He is good.

Discussion

Do you consider yourself a thankful person or a person who tends to complain?

Why do you think the Lord wants us to have a grateful heart?

What can you thank Him for amid pain or misfortune?

How can you develop a grateful heart?

David's Medley of Thanks

"I will GIVE THANKS to the LORD according to His righteousness, and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High… I will GIVE THANKS to the LORD with all my heart; I will tell of all Thy wonders… Therefore, I will GIVE THANKS to Thee among the nations, O LORD, And I will sing praises to Thy name… The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore, my heart exults, and with my song I shall THANK Him… Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, And GIVE THANKS to His holy name… I will GIVE THANKS to Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and will glorify Thy name forever… With my mouth I will GIVE THANKS abundantly to the LORD; And in the midst of many I will praise Him… I will GIVE THANKS to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Thy works, and my soul knows it very well."

(Psalms 7:17, 9:1, 18:49, 28:7, 30:4, 86:12, 109:30, 139:4)

Paul's Medley of Thanks

Romans 1:8 – First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world.

1 Corinthians 1:4 – I thank my God always concerning you, for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, 5 that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge,

Ephesians 1:16 – do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers;

Philippians 1:3 – I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,

Colossians 1:3 – We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

Philemon 1:4 – I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers

Key Points

Jonah is angry and leaves the city to what watch would become of Nineveh.

God appoints a plant, a worm, and a hot wind to teach Jonah about the condition of his heart.

We often give too much credit and blame Satan for circumstances God Himself has appointed to transform our hearts.

God’s mercy was good for Jonah but not for his enemies.

God is merciful towards the ungrateful.

Discussion

There are only 48 verses Jonah. Which verse best describes your takeaway?

Are you experiencing a God-appointed “worm” that is working away at an idol?

If there was another chapter in this book, what would you hope it would say?

In light of this series, what are you applying?

Key Points

Jonah is graced with new life on land and given a second chance.

Although Jonah is obedient and does what the Lord asked him to do, as he goes into Nineveh, he will soon be very angry.

God’s forgiveness and mercy was good for Jonah; in Jonah’s heart, His mercy and forgiveness was not for the Ninevites.

Jonah was not only a runaway prophet, but he was also someone that needed God’s heart for the lost.

We too, are sometimes much like Jonah when we carry bitterness around in our heart when we should be offering forgiveness and mercy.

Perhaps we can say the Gospel is centered on the forgiveness of sin, and Jesus asked us to forgive others as He has forgiven us.

Forgiveness does not come naturally; it comes from the fruit of the spirit and from a complete understanding of the centrality of the cross.

If we are going to forgive, we must walk around the cross as long as it takes to understand how much it cost Jesus to pay for our sin.

Jesus teaches that withholding forgiveness is making someone still pay for their sin. When He absorbs our sin and takes the punishment for our sin, He makes the payment on our behalf so that it is no longer held against us as a debt.

It has been said that when we focus on withholding forgiveness toward someone, they become more important to us than God Himself.

Discussion Questions

What did the Holy Spirit impress upon you during the message on Sunday?

What are your thoughts after seeing that, between the two services, 70% of the people at our church are holding onto bitterness and unforgiveness?

It was suggested to take a walk around the cross long enough to take in the Gospel to help someone forgive the other. What do you see as you take a walk around the cross?

Pray together and ask the Lord to bring faith to the group that He will go ahead of you as you forgive.

Key Points

We are fighting spiritual enemies, false teachings, and hostile ideologies.

Knowing God’s Word is critical toward winning the battle.

Jesus’s example of swordsmanship against the devil in the desert was a clinic on how to fight spiritual battles.

Jesus gave authority to His Church to be aggressors in this war; “the gates of hell will not prevail against it.”

We don’t fight for the victory but from the place of victory won by the Son of God.

Discussion Questions

Why is knowing the Word important?

What are some false teachings/beliefs that have been corrected in your life by studying the Word of God?

How has the study of Scripture set you free from false teachings/beliefs?

How much time do you spend studying/memorizing Scripture? What are some of your methods?

Key Points

The fruit of Jonah’s honest guilt is repentance.

Jonah did not blame shift, minimize, or victimize his sin.

The real change brought through repentance is the transformation in our heart.

Jonah turned to God, restored his worship, and gave thanks.

When in the belly of the fish, there are no distractions.

The Lord spoke to the fish, but Jonah got the message.

Discussion Questions

If you were in Jonah’s predicament, what would your prayer have been?

How important is confession when it comes to repentance?

Pastor Bob talked about taking full responsibility for sin. What does that look like to you?

Have you ever blamed your behavior on others? Explain.

What strategies do you use to avoid repentance?

Pray for each other in the group to be fearless and courageous when it comes to repentance.

Key Points

Jesus believed the reality of Jonah’s great fish experience; we should too.

Jonah was asked to bring a message of repentance to the Ninevites.

Jonah attempted to run from the call of God and run from the presence of God.

God appointed a storm to turn Jonah’s heart back to Him. In the process, men with foreign gods were saved.

It is impossible to run away from the presence of God.

When we run from the calling of God to live according to the Word and/or share the Word, we unknowingly affect those around us.

God’s mercy was given to Jonah when He appointed to him a great fish.

Discussion Questions

Have you ever shrunk back from God’s call?

If repentance is at the heart of the Gospel, are you open and willing to call others to repent from sin?

Discuss your takeaways from the message.

Read the book of Jonah and write a one sentence heading for each chapter.

Key Points

The aim of repentance is love.

Our problem with our idea of repentance less about what we haven’t been told to do but more about what we have already been told to repent of.

There are many unique situations that we need the Spirit’s help to navigate the right and wrong, some of which are matters of conscience. To go against your conscience is sin.

The church needs to be taught all that Jesus said to teach.

You don’t have to repent; you get to repent!

God is patiently waiting for you to repent.

Repentance is not penance.

Without real change, there is no repentance.

Repentance is right thinking that leads to a change of mind followed by a change in behavior.

Faith and repentance are a two-sided coin.

Repentance is a realization that we have been wrong in our thinking, wrong in our outlook on life, wrong in our actions.

Repent quickly, joyfully, and constantly.

Discussion Questions

Can you tell someone to repent in love? What does that look like?

What are some of the things God has told you to repent from?

What are some of the things you know you should change but that God has remained silent on?

What is penance? How is it different than repentance?

How hard is it to tell someone you were “wrong” about something? Why is it hard?

What, if anything, prevents you from repenting?

Key Points

Peter capitalized on the questions of non-believers and skeptics. He used it as an opportunity to explain the Gospel.

Peter did not soft sell the message.

Peter’s sermons were outlined by the prophecies of the Messiah’s coming, His suffering, and His resurrection.

Peter charged the listeners that they killed Jesus.

His sermons called the hearers to repentance, to turn from wicked ways, to be baptized, to receive the forgiveness of sins, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Thousands were added to the church following these sermons in just a matter of a week.

The new believers were unified by sharing, praying, serving, breaking bread, and learning about Jesus.

Discussion Questions

The early Church was empowered by the Holy Spirit. Can you explain your relationship with the third Person of the Trinity?

What thoughts do you have when Peter says that we killed the Author of Life?

What does it look like in your life when you repent?

When was the last time you spoke to someone you assumed needed to know the Gospel?

Do you feel qualified to share the Gospel?

Pray together as a group that the Holy Spirit would empower you to share the Good News.

Key Points

Peter was called while fishing to fish for men.

Peter was strong-willed with good intentions but never capable to maintain his commitment in his own strength.

Peter’s denial was foretold by Jesus, but Peter overlooked it.

Peter’s denial was around a charcoal fire; he lied three times about knowing Jesus. Jesus looked him in the eye while the rooster crowed.

Peter wept in brokenness.

Peter led the disciples to go fishing. They came up empty until instructed by the Lord.

Peter’s call is not revoked but recommissioned by Jesus around a charcoal fire and breakfast.

Discussion Questions

Besides Jesus himself, where do you escape to find safety?

Have you experienced emotional or situational triggers? Explain.

Pastor Bob talked about redemption in his life coming full circle from what used to create a trigger (trauma of a sudden loss of a friend to now ministering to those who are dying). Have you had similar pattern of redemption?

How can we exchange our old patterns of emotional security and turn them into an opportunity for closeness with Christ?

Key Points

Peter’s life was radically changed by Jesus Christ.

All of Peter’s letter should be looked at under the lens of the sovereignty of God, especially 1 Peter 5:6-11.

The God of all grace is sovereign over salvation, suffering, life, death, and everything in between.

Peter exhorts the older in faith to shepherd the younger ones in the flock.

God rewards those who shepherd others in accordance with His will.

Younger Christians ought to submit to the wisdom of their elders.

Humility is not natural. We have to put it on.

Pride leaves no room for grace.

Allowing worry to captivate you is a form of submitting to pride.

Humility is a gift to be applied under the sovereignty of God’s mighty hand.

Be humbled.

Be on guard.

Trust the process.

Discussion Questions

Are you holding onto or feel bound and weighed down to anxiety in any form? How does pride play into the picture?

What keeps you from receiving the gift of humility? What does it look like to “put on” humility?

What do you think about what Pastor Tony said about consumer Christianity? Do you ever think the way he described it? How can/do you approach your faith and church differently?

Describe what it means to stand firm in faith against the adversary who is looking for someone to devour.

Is it harder to trust or have patience with the process? Explain.

Key Points

Peter points us to the mortification side of the cross to arm us against the temptation to go back to the past life in the flesh.

We are to reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive to Christ.

Suffering for doing good is within the will of God.

Love covers sin but love also includes discernment.

Remembering the Holy Spirit rests upon us during trials is reassuring.

Hatred stirs up strife and so does meddling.

“If you want to learn how to love, start with someone you hate.” Nikka (6 yrs old)

Discussion Questions

Are you under a trial? Can you discuss what your temptation is?

How does Isaiah 11:2 help while going through a trial?

Peter frames the gifts into two categories: serving and speaking. Which category do yours fall into? How are you able to use them to glorify God?

Please pray for each other’s needs.

Key Points

Peter’s letter continues to point us to mimic Jesus and to suffer for righteousness sake.

He asks wives to submit to their husband even when they are not in alignment with the Word that they may be won over.

Peter ascribes precious beauty in the eyes of the Lord when a woman comes under the leadership of a husband.

Submission means to come under the mission of the husband as they follow Christ instructions to love and protect.

Men are to honor their wives as treasure and not to Lord over them with a strong will.

The husband should protect their wives and remember that they are coheirs.

Men’s prayers are in jeopardy when they are not living with their wives in an understanding way.

We are called to another level of love as followers of Christ. We are called to bless those who curse us.

Discussion Questions

In general, how difficult is it for you to let someone else lead?

Wives, what has been your experience with coming under the mission of your husband?

Husbands, what has been your experience in living with your wives with honor and understanding?

Has there ever been a time when you blessed someone who hurt you?

Key Points

Jesus calls Peter out of his own enterprise and into His.

God has chosen us to be His priests.

God calls us out of darkness and into His light.

God calls us out of our individual body and into His.

God calls us out of our own interests and into His.

God calls us out of self and into others.

God calls us out of rebellion and into submission.

We are invited to come to Him and desire the purity of His Word.

Discussion Questions

Why is it important to know that we are chosen by God?

What has He called you out of and into?

What is He currently calling you out of?

How hard is it for you to come under authority? Why?

Interesting Facts About Peter In Scripture

Peter’s name is mentioned in the Gospels more than anyone other than Jesus.

No one speaks in the Gospels as often as Peter.

Jesus spoke more to Peter than to any other individual.

Jesus rebuked Peter more than any other disciple.

Peter was the only disciple who dared to rebuke Jesus.

Peter confessed Jesus more boldly and accurately than any other disciple.

Peter denied Jesus more forcefully and publicly than any other disciple.

Jesus praised Peter more than any other disciple.

Jesus addressed Peter alone as Satan among the disciples.

Key Points

Peter’s first encounter with Jesus was just following Jesus’s Baptism. He was introduced to Him by his brother Andrew.

Jesus immediately changed his name.

God desires to transform us into Christlikeness.

Peter’s letter to the area of Turkey was approximately 30 years after his encounter with Jesus.

Peter points out twice that we have been born again.

This salvation includes each person of the Godhead and includes obedience and sanctification.

Therefore, we must realize the cost and live holy as He is holy.

Our salvation has a profound effect in the heavenlies as grace is dispensed onto the Church.

We have been redeemed by blood and ransomed away from ignorant futile living.

Discussion Questions

When you think of Peter, what story comes to mind and why?

How do you relate to Peter?

When you read, “be holy as I am holy,” what is triggered in your heart/mind?

How can we grow into holiness?

Key Points

The final chapter of Hebrews is filled with more than 14 imperatives including words on love, hospitality, marriage, sex, money, sharing, and doing good.

We are all instructed to honor marriage and keep the marriage bed undefiled.

Marriage is dishonored by fornication, adultery, homosexuality, prostitution, and pornography, as well as other things.

Be on guard against strange teachings, the love of money, and not being submissive to leaders.

A certain and true promise is found in verses 5 & 6.

A beautiful blessing is found in verses 20 & 21.

Discussion

Work as a group to list the imperatives (commands) in chapter 13.

From that list, which commands are you doing well and which commands are you falling short of?

Why do you think that sexual sins carry a great weight as noted in 1 Cor. 6?

Read aloud the blessing and break it down as a group.

How does the promise found in verses 5 & 6 help you in day to day life?

Key Points

In light of chapter 11... Therefore, let us run the race.

We are not racing against each other.

Remove the weight of sins and look to Jesus as we run the race.

Don’t disregard the loving discipline of the Lord.

Work hard to keep the peace with others.

Forgiving others is a pathway to holiness.

Take care lest you fall into bitterness and defile others.

Jesus is fully approachable, accessible, and He is for you.

God is a consuming fire; let Him shake and consume the things in us that are not of Him.

Let us worship him with reverence.

Discussion

1. The “race” in Greek comes from the word “agona” (αγώνα) which is where we get the word agony. How is our journey with Jesus (the race) related to this root word?

2. What are some easily besetting sins that weigh us down along the way?

3. Have you ever experienced bitterness? How did it defile others?

4. Approach His throne of grace and let your request be made with boldness as a group.

Key Points

We are reminded of His sacrifice and the atonement necessary for the remission of sin.

The blood of bulls and goats were not enough, but a body was prepared.

The New Covenant is established at the death of Jesus and our lawless deeds will be remembered no more.

There are 3 “let us” responses in Hebrews 10:

22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.
24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

An urgent warning is given to not go on deliberately sinning, otherwise we should have a fearful expectation of judgement.

Discussion Questions

From the three let us scriptures listed above, which one speaks to you and why?

Discuss as a group why the Spirit of grace would be outraged (see verse 29).

What was your personal takeaway from the message?

Key Points

The earthly temple set up by man and designed by God was a shadow of the Messiah to come.

God establishes a meeting place (tent) for communion and worship.

The Ark held the law, and the mercy seat was its lid.

The blood of an animal presented annually by the high priest on the Day of Atonement sprinkled on the mercy seat provided a way to God.

None of this could completely solve the sin problem. Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

The mercy seat triumphs over the judgement of the curse of the law.

Jesus has entered the real Holy of Holies and sits on the throne as the Lamb that was slain.

Our sins ore truly forgiven and remitted once and for all.

Everything we pass through today is preparation for tomorrow.

Discussion Questions

How does the understanding of Hebrews 9 deepen your worship?

Discuss your personal takeaways from Sunday’s message.

Discuss the implements found in the tent: The Table of Presence, The Lamp Stands, The Altar of Incense, etc.

Key Points

We do not have the strength or protection we need to stand against the schemes of the devil.

God provides us His strength and His armor.

Jesus created the principalities and cosmic forces, rules over them, and will finally bring them to an end. In Christ, none of these forces will ever be able to separate us from the love of God.

Our battle is not against people.

His schemes are in place to get us to retreat, mess up, and give up.

We are called to stand firm.

We are not fighting for victory, but we are firmly standing in victory.

The belt of truth is everything that Jesus stands for.

The breastplate of righteousness gives us our right standing with the Father.

The shoes make us ready to share the Gospel by which we stand in peace.

The shield of faith withstands the attacks.

The helmet reminds us of the security in which we stand.

The sword of the Spirit proclaims boldly in whom we stand.

We pray for each other from where we stand.

Discussion Questions

Each piece of armor represents the protection and armament to stand in victory. Discuss what each piece means to you.

How often do you forget that our battle is not against flesh and blood? Discuss.

Key Points

God has given us a greater covenant based on better promises.

The Old Covenant was necessary to see that the New Covenant is greater.

Jesus is the guarantor of the New Covenant.

Prophetically, the New Covenant is established on God’s promise to forgive and remember our sins no more, to cleanse us from unrighteousness, to write the law on our hearts and minds, to remove our old heart and replace it with his, to place His Spirit in us, and to cause us to obey and follow his requirements.

God’s covenants are always relationally driven.

The Old Covenant response was “we will.” The New Covenant response is to believe and receive.

Discussion Questions

Most of us have made covenants with ourselves and cling to our old ways to provide comfort of security. These old patterns and beliefs must vanish to be opened to the beauty of the New Covenant. Pastor Bob laid out 12 traps that we fall into. Can you relate to some of these? Discuss in your group.

Independence, Isolation, Imposter

Doubt, Debt, Division

Overthinking, Old Behaviors, Oaths

Lying, Lies (that we believe), Legalism

How can the promises of God found in the New Covenant prophecies from Jeremiah and Ezekiel help to replace these old idols?
Pray for one another to believe and receive God’s promised New Covenant love and mercy.

Key Points

Melchizedek’s name means King of Righteousness and Peace.

Melchizedek’s priesthood precedes the Mosaic Law.

Melchizedek is a type or a foreshadowing of Jesus.

God has established an eternal Priesthood for us.

Jesus is our High Priest, able to save to the uttermost by being our intermediary between us and the Father.

Because of Jesus’s ministry we have continuous access to the Father.

We have peace with God, fellowship with God, and love from God.

We have been granted a Perfect High Priest.

Discussion Questions

Why is it necessary for God to provide a Priest for us?

How can we find joy in our salvation?

Describe being saved to the uttermost.

Appoint a scribe and list those you know who need Jesus. Spend time praying (interceding) for them by name.

Key Points

The elementary principles listed appear at first to be something to not leave, but they are all related to the Old Covenant.

Impossible is a strong word, especially as it relates to being restored from falling away. There is a distinction between falling and falling away. Falling away is more than falling into sin. Falling away is to deviate from the truth of salvation through Christ.

To apply this to ourselves: we are to be sternly warned not to deviate or fall away from the truth.

God desires us to mature and the evidence of this is fruit.

God does not overlook our works of righteousness.

God’s promises are secure and proven out over time if we patiently endure.

We have a hope that is an anchor for our souls. This anchor keeps us holding on to the promises of God and to not fall away during difficult times.

Discussion Questions

1. How secure are you in your thoughts regarding your salvation?

2. Describe how having hope in the promises of God acts as an anchor for your soul?

3. Discuss other applications or takeaways from this message.

4. Are there friends or family that come to mind as you read the passage in James?

Key Points

The High Priest was always appointed by God.

The High Priest was only from the tribe of Levi through the lineage of Aaron.

Exodus 28 outlines the details of the High Priest’s clothing.

He was to bear the tribes on his shoulders and his heart.

No one else was to have this priestly position and those who asserted themselves to usurp the office were punished by God.

Jesus was aquatinted with suffering and obedience.

Discussion Questions

Discuss as a group Hebrews 5:11-14.

What is the application concerning these verses?

Pray for God to help us mature.

Key Points

Our thoughts and our ways are not like God’s.

The Word divides our thoughts and intentions and allows us to have His mind.

The Word is alive and brings life to our souls.

Christians are malnourished without the Word as their Daily Bread.

Our potentially hard hearts need to be pierced by God’s Word.

Jesus is approachable and desires us to enter into His throne of grace.

Discussion Questions

How does God’s Word divide truth from error in your life?

What becomes of us if we only rely on the Sunday sermon to feed our souls?

Honestly evaluate on a scale of 1-10 your time in the Word.

Read the passage from 2 Timothy together. Which of the descriptors stand out to you and why?

Pray for one another to treasure His Word.

Key Points

Jesus had to become just like us in every respect to become a perfect, merciful High Priest.

Jesus ministers to us in a perfectly relational way having understood what it is like to be tempted, to suffer death, and all other human conditions.

Jesus is greater and more faithful than priests or Moses.

His sacrifice was perfect as He knew no sin.

We can trust Jesus to forgive us, change us, and save us from temptation.

Moms will always leave a lasting impression on their children, good or bad.

Whether the impression was good or bad, God is the builder of the house.

God is greater than moms best day or worse sin.

Discussion Questions

If you are willing, share your relational experience you had with your mom.

What impressions did your mom leave in your heart and now your actions?

Why is it important to remember that Jesus is greater than moms?

Why is it important to know that Jesus was made like us in every respect?

Key Points

God speaks through Jesus.

God’s character is revealed through Jesus

Jesus is heir, creator, redeemer, sustainer, mediator. and ruler.

Six quotes from the Old Testament are used to reinforce that Jesus is greater than angels.

Angels were created to worship Jesus and act as ministering representatives.

Angels are ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation. (Hebrews 1:14)

Jesus was made perfect by suffering and secures our salvation by making purification for sins.

Discussion Questions

Work as a group to select a passage in each of the 13 chapters of Hebrews. Give each person in your group a chapter to choose a verse or a select passage. Read them consecutively together.

What are the major themes of your verses?

What does the first chapter of Hebrews convey to you?

Key Points

GOD miraculously named Goshen and Grace to affirm HIS involvement.

GOD caps the Old Testament with a charge to families followed by 400 years of silence. The passage speaks of one who comes in the spirit of Elijah the prophet. This was fulfilled by John the Baptizer whoseemergence ended the silence.

A secondary interpretation: we are also called to be voices in the wilderness, preparing the way of JESUS with the Gospel.

We are called to reconcile man and GOD, starting from our households with our own families and moving outward.

The devil is called, in Isaiah 14:12, the "weakener of nations." He has focused a barrage upon the family leading to a weakened nation.

Biblical prophecy warns of a 3rd temple (currently being prepared) where the man of lawlessness will declare himself god and issue a mark on the hand or head to force the world to worship him.

GOD also issued a mark on the hand and head found in Deuteronomy 6:4-8, actualized with the sealing of the HOLY SPIRIT.

GOD has brought us into HIS eternal family through a divine plan worked out by the TRINITY.

Discussion Questions

Like the "Elijah" in Malachi 4:6, how can we be voices in the wilderness preparing the way of the LORD?
With the World Book Encyclopedia describing the rise of the Industrial Revolution as a catalyst to separating fathers from their homes and leading to "serious social evils". Where do you think that places us today in terms of family dynamics?
The true TRINITY and the false one offer marks. What are some ways the world is being prepped to receive the false mark? How can we know we've received GOD's mark?

Key Points

Many of the promises of God have been fulfilled.

Promises from God are found in His Word for believers to grab ahold of by faith.

God’s promises are always yes in Christ.

God upholds his promises to bring Glory to His name.

Standing on a promise brings steadiness in storms and hope to the soul.

Fulfilled promises such as the flood, Jesus’s birth, His resurrection, and the promise of the Holy Spirit give us confidence that He is faithful to uphold everyday promises such as forgiveness.

Promises are found when reading the Word… Read the Word!

Discussion Questions

Share a promise that you stand on that helps you in your walk with Christ.

Have you ever broken a promise? What was the result?

Read Romans 10 as a group and stop when you read the first promise.

How is faith connected to the promise?

Key Points

Believers have a mission as reconcilers to carry the Good News with love to a lost world and to be eager to maintain unity with others.

Satan’s mission is to take us off mission.

Satan uses tactics like distraction, discouragement, and division.

Believers who are trying to advance the Gospel are not affective when they are outwitted by Satan, holding on to unforgiveness or resentment.

We must be watchful, alert, and aware of our adversary’s devises and schemes.

We are to remember that our fight is not against flesh and blood.

We must keep short accounts and be quick to forgive.

God can use Satan’s devises to help refine us in the process of reconciliation.

Grace is our secret weapon to offer to those who offend, thereby canceling the record just as Christ has graced us with forgiveness.

Discussion Questions

Have you been distracted from your mission? Why?

2. Are you currently struggling to be unified in any relationships?

3. Have you discovered any of Satan’s strategies that he tries to use against you?

4. As a group, pray and formulate a plan to help others in relational struggles.

Key Points

When Jesus encounters Mary Magdalen at the tomb, He gives her insight into her new relationship status: “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God."

The resurrection changes the status of our lives into a born-again life.

A new life where our past is behind us and not counted against us.

A new life that hinges on faith in the resurrection and not on works.

A new life that is loved and guarded.

A new life that is prayed for by Jesus daily.

A new life culminated in a glorified body.

Discussion Questions

We watched a video on Sunday of testimonies regarding Easter. How was Easter different for you this year?

2. Discuss 2 Corinthians 5:17-20 as a group. What stands out and why?

What do you think Jesus prays about as he prays for you?

Key Points

Jesus makes his entry into Jerusalem on a young colt just as prophesied in Zechariah 9:9.

Some say he is a prophet, others the King of Israel, and others say The King.

The Pharisees tell Jesus to stop the praise. Jesus said if he did, even the rocks would cry out.

Four different responses are much like the way people respond to Jesus today.

Jesus came to fulfill the law and atone for our sin, giving us a blessed hope.

Psalm 24 runs parallel in that Jesus is the King of Glory who desires to come in and rule our hearts.

The King is strong and mighty but gently knocks on the door of our heart.

The Psalm encourages to not only seek Him, but to seek His face.

The Christian is in for a long race where they will be called to persevere, content, and fight with their faith.

Discussion Questions

How are you preparing your heart to receive the King of Glory?
What hinders you from intimacy with Jesus?
In your own words, what is the difference between seeking Him and seeking His face?
How are you currently fighting with faith while running your race?

Key Points

Honor is given to those who help a believer to be restored.

David’s song in Psalms 51 describes how a restored sinner should respond.

The restored sinner desires a clean and restored Spirit.

The restored sinner worships and praises God.

The restored sinner recovers and helps others to be restored.

Discussion Questions

1. Read Psalm 51 together. What stands out to you and why?

2. Since your recovery from sin, where are you in this Psalm?

3. Are you inadvertently trying to cover sin with good works?

4. Pray as a group to grow closer in intimacy with Jesus as we draw close to Holy Week.

Key Points

As part of the Body of Christ, we are obligated to bear the trespasses of others.

Burden bearers gently help other believers get back on the track of becoming like Christ.

Bearing the sinful loads of others is part of building each other up.

Burden bearers are led by the Spirit.

Burden bearers are conscious of their own propensity to sin.

Burden bearers are eager to fulfill the law.

Burden bearers bear up the loads for others as Jesus bore ours.

Burden bearers do not gossip.

Discussion Questions

Have you ever had another believer help to bear your load of sin?
Can you explain a time that you gently guided someone else back on track?

3. In what ways have you not always practiced restoring others in the right way? Ignoring, gossiping, condemning, etc.?

4. Was the instruction from Sunday’s message challenging? Why?

5. Can you think of a person who needs you to be a burden bearer?

Key Points

Every book in the Bible reveals and points towards Jesus Christ.

Jesus is the center of time and sovereign over it.

We are all drawn to God because it is our created nature to be drawn to Him.

We were not created to be separated from God; separation is a result of sin.

Death and condemnation are our default settings because of sin.

It has always been God’s plan to save His people from their sins.

Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

The penalty of sin has been paid (Romans 5:8-11).

The power of sin has been disconnected (Romans 6:20-23).

The presence of sin will ultimately be removed (2 Peter 3:1-13).

We cannot walk two different directions at once; we are either walking towards sin or walking towards Jesus.

It is by God’s grace that we can repent and be reoriented towards Jesus.

God’s grace frees us from the penalty, power, and presence of sin.

It is by God’s grace that we are saved.

Discussion Questions

What parts of Sunday’s message resonated with you the most? Was there anything that was particularly convicting or encouraging?
Have you ever felt as though your actions were beyond saving? Share that experience. If God has brought you through the other side of it, describe that journey.
How is God drawing you towards Himself?
Who can you share this Good News with this week? Spend some time praying for them as well as courage and opportunity to share the Gospel with them.

Stanislav and Snizhana share updates about the ministry in Ukraine and testimony of God's provision and protection.

Key Points

Love must be the foundation that we build from. Spiritual gifts without love are worthless.

When love for each other is pursued, the Holy Spirit acts freely in our lives and spiritual gifts abound.

Love enables us to fully receive edification (even correction) from others.

Spiritual gifts are given by God to whom He chooses when He chooses.

The gifts are given to us to:

equip each other for ministry
build up the Body
mature our faith
grow us in the likeness of Christ
serve others
speak God’s words
glorify God through Jesus Christ in everything

The spiritual growth and health of the Church is dependent on the whole Body, not just the pastors, elders, and ministry leaders.

Some spiritual gifts seem common among all believers but are given in extra measure to some (e.g. evangelism, faith, giving, hospitality, mercy, discernment).

Discussion Questions

How has God gifted you for the sake of edifying the Body?

Give examples of how a spiritual gift might be used with and without love.

What spiritual gifts do you desire? Why?

Share how you’ve seen spiritual gifts active in your life or other group members.

If you’d like to learn more about spiritual gifts and what gifts God has given you, go to https://thebride.church/shape to take the S.H.A.P.E. assessment, then meet with your leader or a pastor/elder/staff member of the church to discuss.

Key Points

Paul’s lists of spiritual gifts are not exhaustive.

In His perfect sovereignty, God distributes spiritual gifts to the Church.

We don’t get to choose which gift(s) God gives us.

The Church is meant to be both diverse and unified as the Body of Christ.

It is good to desire spiritual gifts, but we are not meant to chase after them or their benefits.

Spiritual gifts are given to members of the Church for the edification of the Body.

Spiritual gifts are worthless without love.

We ought to chase after love and utilize the gifts that God gives us from a place of love for one another.

An inability to love your brother or sister is a symptom of not abiding in the love of the Father.

Discussion Questions

Have you ever pursued relational benefits rather than the relationship? This might be your relationships with others or your relationship with God. What were the results of that pursuit?

What has your experience with spiritual gifts been so far?

Are there certain gifts that you desire God to give you? Why do you desire those specific gifts?

Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and describe how you’ve expressed love in recent weeks.

What aspects of love do you need to work on in your life?

Pray for each for God’s grace and love to fill you and invite the Holy Spirit to work in and through your relationships this week.

Key Points

When following Jesus, we need to be encouraged and empowered; The Holy Spirit is our source.

Zerubbabel needed the Word of the Lord to be reminded of His promise.

Jesus explained to His disciples that they would be discouraged by His absence but encouraged and empowered by the Father’s promise to send the Holy Spirit.

If we are going to edify others, we need to be built up by the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit convinces us of our need for Jesus, empowers us to carry out our calling, and emboldens us to be His witnesses.

The Holy Spirit indwells in the believer and fills us when we ask Him too.

Discussion Questions

How much are you leaning into the Father’s promise of the Holy Spirit?
Explain your experience of the Holy Spirit’s ability to convict you of sin.
Are you actively asking for God to fill you with His Spirit?
Pray for one another and build one another up. “Edify!”

Additional Scriptures: Luke 24:44 & 11:9-13

Key Points

Our words can build up or tear down.

God wants us to speak love to build up those in the Body of Christ.

Isaiah was repentant for his and his people’s unclean lips. God purified him with a burning coal, atoned for the sin, and sent him.

Born-again believers need to refrain and repent from perverse (rotten) talk and speak grace as it fits the occasion.

Speaking the truth in love includes correction. Correction is also a means of grace

Discussion Questions

How would you evaluate your tendencies? Are you more of a criticizer, judge, or encourager?
In your own words, how does love build up?
Have you been hurt or wounded by others’ words?
Who do you know that needs to be encouraged right now? What is your next step?

Key Points

Breaking the fast does not mean the spiritual battle is over. You will face difficult situations, but you have your Dad with you.

Moses sent spies to check out the land of Canaan. The promises of God often come with opposition.

God gave the spies a preview of the goodness of the land they were promised with an abundance of fruit.

When you zoom in and focus on the problems and bad things, the promises and goodness of God become background blur.

Opposition may look like walls build all around you.

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, His precious blood has set you free.

Discussion Questions

What type of perspective do you have most when you face giants (difficult situations) in your life? Are you zoomed in on the problem or do you have a different perspective? Explain.
Do you tend to allow situations to drive you toward God or move away from Him? Share about a time when this happened.
Describe a time where God or His promises became background blur.
How can your home group come alongside you in your difficult situations? How can your home group come alongside each other?
In what ways can you love someone that is broken right now?

Key Points

God asks us to walk worthy of our calling.

Worthy relates to a balancing of the scales. When our practical life application matches our spiritual position, we are walking in worthiness.

Not denying the needs of others and moving towards them regardless of our fears allows God to move in His power.

God’s shares His heart with us through instruction and the gift of righteousness.

Discussion Questions

What have you been experiencing this month during the fast?
If you have been attending Sunday morning worship this month, discuss why you believe the church is filling up.
Are you motivated to live out Isaiah 58? In what aspect?
Pray as a group about coming together to the night of Worship on Sunday, January 29th.

Key Points

Fasting for your own abundance and feeding others is God’s idea of fasting.

Fasting in God’s eyes is life changing, not only for you but for those in your sphere of influence.

God lists several promises in this passage that are available to those who apply God’s chosen fast.

Blessings come when God’s Word is both heard and applied.

Discussion Questions

List the promises found in Isaiah 58.

2. Have you experienced any of these promises?

3. What have you heard or read that you have yet to apply?

God points out the wrong way to fast.

God points out that He doesn't hear or reward certain attitudes of the fast.

God desires transformation from fasting and prayer.

Justice, mercy, and good deeds are God's heart for the fast.

How did your first week of the fast go?
Have you increase your prayer life?
Have you experiences any of the rewards/benefits of the fast?
How about the challenges?

Rewards/benefits of fasting:

More personal time with God
Resting in His presence
Moving away from sin and into His will
Transformation into His likeness
Opportunities for mercy, grace, and forgiveness
Breakthroughs from bondage
Opportunities to witness
Opportunities to give personally to another
A more focused and disciplined walk
Ministry opportunities
Financial provision

Challenges of Fasting

You will be tempted
You will be tested
You will be distracted

Key Points

God has placed eternity in our hearts; therefore, we have an unquenchable need without Jesus. God is unchangeable but desires to change us.

To want more and hope for better is as natural as breathing.

To fast or to remove something good and replace it with something better is a discipline that can lead to transformation.

The prophet Isaiah is directed to not hold back but to shout with a loud cry and tell God’s people their transgressions. This is a first step in drawing close to God: understand what is in the way!

Transgression is a willfully unrepentant heart that trespasses against God’s desires for us.

Faith pleases God.

Belief in His promise to reward the diligent seeker is a great place to break unbelief.

Fasting is the amplifier of prayer.

Discussion Questions

Are you ready to fast and pray this month? Discuss as a group your plans, concerns, and enthusiasms?
How does fasting breakdown the barriers of unbelief?
Are you ready for changes? Explain.
Spend time a group praying for God to speak and allow space to listen for what He may say to you.

A Son was given from the Father from a heart of mercy and redemption.

The Creator became one of His creations to redeem mankind.

He would carry the weight of the world and become an Everlasting Father.

He would bring Peace and Counsel.

Discussion Questions

From the names and attributes listed in Isaiah 9:6, which do you most relate to? Why?

2. Can you begin to fully believe in one of these to meet a current need?

3. How are all these attributes relational? Discuss.

It's not about me. It's about my need for a Savior.

We need His help.

We need His direction.

It is His desire that none should perish, but all should have eternal life.

He offers us His treasure so that we can take His light into a dark world.

He is with us.

Key Points

Zachariah’s prophesy points to a light that will shine into darkness.

Jesus is the light of the world and brings clarity, showing us our need for a savior.

God is sovereign over the darkness.

His light and presence is a promise that brings peace.

Turn on the light!

Discussion Questions

Take some time to discuss the passage from Isaiah.

What traditions have been passed down from your parents for Christmas?

How does the light of Christ shine into your darkness?

When rooted together, the Church is built up and held together in unity.

God desires us to no longer be children but to mature.

Maturing into Christlikeness is God’s heart for His people.

Loving one another in truth and deed adds to the sanctification process.

Test yourself to see if you are growing up (maturing) into Christlikeness.

God’s plantings have opportunities to grow into oaks of righteousness.

How do you know if you are maturing? Discuss.
How eager are you to grow? How does this translate into your life?
What has God spoken to you the most during this series and how are you applying it?

We are baptized into the Body of Christ

The Body has many members, and we are not only members of Christ’s Body but members of one another.

We are rooted together for growth, love, correction, holiness, and evangelism.

Isolation from the Body is simply not Christianity.

Body life takes devotion.

How does being a part of a Home Group connect you to the Body?
Explain how Christlikeness occurs being connected to the Body of Christ.
Have you experienced a time in your walk where you were disconnected from the Body?
Explain how you have come to appreciate the "one anothers" in your life.

Here is a sample of the “one another” imperatives in Scripture:

Be devoted to one another (Rom 12:10)

Honor one another above yourselves (Rom 12:10)

Live in harmony with one another (Rom 12:16)

Build up one another (Rom 14:19; 1Th 5:11)

Accept one another (Rom 15:7)

Admonish one another (Rom 15:14; Col 3:16)

Greet one another (Rom 16:16)

Care for one another (1Co 12:25)

Serve one another (Gal 5:13)

Bear one another's burdens (Gal 6:2)

Forgive one another (Eph 4:2, 32; Col 3:13)

Be patient with one another (Eph 4:2; Col 3:13)

Speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15, 25)

Be kind and compassionate to one another

(Eph 4:32)

Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (Eph 5:19)

Submit to one another (Eph 5:21, 1Pe 5:5)

Consider others better than yourselves (Php 2:3)

Look to the interests of one another (Php 2:4)

Bear with one another (Col 3:13)

Teach one another (Col 3:16)

Comfort one another (1Th 4:18)

Encourage one another (1Th 5:11)

Exhort one another (Heb 3:13)

Stir up [provoke, stimulate] one another to love and good works (Heb 10:24)

Show hospitality to one another (1Pe 4:9)

Employ the gifts that God has given us for the benefit of one another (1Pe 4:10)

Clothe yourselves with humility towards one another (1Pe 5:5)

Pray for one another (Jas 5:16)

Confess your faults to one another (Jas 5:16)

Once rooted, we are to walk it out in life, allowing the fruit to be nourishing.

Being established in the faith will produce fruit.

There are many reasons to be thankful when remembering what Jesus has accomplished.

Abounding in giving thanks keeps us rooted.

When one stops giving thanks, they will be discontent and critical.

Giving God thanks is a battery charger for your soul.

Read the passage listed in Colossians 2:19-15.
As a group, list reasons to give thanks from this text.
Are you a “thanks giver”? Discuss.
How does giving thanks keep you rooted?

Christians are fruit-bearers.

Fruitless Christians are not in the Vine.

God sends us what we need to grow and produce.

He is patient with the nonbearing tree but a time comes when it will be cut down.

Dead branches, nonbearing branches and fruit producing branches are pruned by the Vine Dresser. This is not punishment, but a means to grow more fruit.

Spiritual fruit is not that same as ministry success.

The Word is the active ingredient of the fertilizer and the pruner.

Spiritual fruit are listed in Galatians 5:22-24.

1. God prunes fruit-bearing branches to produce more fruit. How does this relate to your experience?

2. What branches in your life need to be pruned?

3. Which fruit are applied in relationship towards God?

4. Which fruit are applied in relationship towards others?

5. Are you growing during this sermon series? Share what God is doing in your life.

Jesus is the root.

Roots go down first, then the fruit.

Abide simply means to remain.

We are incapable of producing Godly fruit without being rooted in Christ.

Jesus loves us just as much as the Father loves Him.

Are you remaining in Jesus under trials?

2. Discuss your experience of the process of producing fruit.

3. Is growing in Christ a priority in your life?

4. Of the nine fruit in Galatians 5, which one seems to be producing the most in your life? Which seems to be lacking most in your life?

God desires to gives us all we need to grow into the likeness of Christ

We do not grow when we walk, stand, or sit in the ways of the world.

We need to be open and teachable and have a thirst for the Word.

Our roots dive deep next to the water of the Word.

Without the Word it is impossible to discern truth.

Meditating on the Word daily by speaking verses back to yourself can be lifegiving.

God desires us to be planted, not only in the Word, but in the Body (the Church).

You grow where you are planted.

What keeps you from investing your time in God’s Word?
Where are you planted?
What or who is nourishing your tree?
Discuss how to encourage one another with reading the Word.

Paul prays that we would comprehend this:
• The Father wants to share all He has with us…
• • His power
• • His strength
• • His Spirit
• • His Son
• • His love
Even though we are rooted and filled with His fullness, He desires to uproot anything that He has not planted.
Some of us have stumps from our past that need to be removed. These stumps are giving place to the devil and at times producing foul fruit.
We can co-labor with Jesus to say to these roots/trees/stumps, “Be removed,” by faith in His power and desire to deliver us.
Bitterness and unforgiveness are in the way of others obtaining grace.
God desires our hearts to remain tender.

Have you had “stumps” removed from your past? Can you share the process?
How do you personally deal with bitterness?
Are there trees planted in your life that you are willing to allow God to uproot?
What are you hoping to get from this series?

Jesus commissions His disciples to share the Gospel with the world.
Signs will follow the proclamation of the Gospel.
We are not called to follow the signs.
Some signs that follow those who shrink back from sharing are:
• Fear of rejection, fear of saying the wrong words, fear of failure.
• Forgetting that Jesus has commissioned us and given us power. Forgetting that someone told you. Forgetting that God has strategically put people in your life for you to come alongside. Forgetting that God has promised that he will be with you.
• Believing that we are not ready or worthy.
Distractions: our time, talents, and resources are being spent on this world.
Some signs that follow those who do not shrink back from sharing the Gospel are:
• Grateful hearts; those who fully embrace the forgiveness of sins are quick to share.
• Believers who regularly ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
• Those who walk by faith and not by sight.
• Those who are invested in the Kingdom.
• Those who have a heart for the lost.

In your own words, explain your efforts (or lack thereof) to share the Gospel.
How many of the contacts on your phone have you yet to share the Gospel with?
Strategize as a group how you can begin outreach to others to share the Gospel.

As prophesized in Isaiah 53:9, Jesus would be buried in a man’s tomb.
Joseph “took courage” and asked for Jesus’s body and personally exercised his faith to ask Pilate.
As believers, we need to take courage and not shrink back in fear when asked to do something for Jesus.
Three of Jesus’s female disciples came early in the morning to anoint His body.
They realized they would need help to roll away the stone.
God had raised Jesus and rolled the stone from the slot in the tomb that held it in place.
Our sin keeps us in the tomb and only God can roll away the stone.
The resurrection brings hope to those who have passed on as well as those of us who are alive. The resurrection removed the power and bondage of sin.
Romans 6 makes it plain: we have died with Jesus, were buried with Jesus, and have been risen with Jesus.

Can you name some things you were bound to before the stone was rolled away for you?
How many times does Paul say the same things in the Romans 6 passage?
Do you struggle with persistent guilt? How can the message of the death, burial, and resurrection help?
How many of you would confess you need more courage to do what Jesus has asked you to do? Discuss.

Jesus’s charges were all truths, but man put him to death for the charges non the less. He was the Son of God, King of the Jews, and He would tear down and rebuild the temple.
Jesus died as a sinless man.
He wasn’t able to carry His own cross, but He enables us to carry ours.
He denied the wine mixed with myrrh, a form of narcotic. He wasn’t going to sleep on the cross. He committed to remain conscience until the bitter end. He experienced pain, abandonment, sorrow, mockery, and reviling, yet he humbly never retaliated.
Jesus resisted all political overtones but ironically is executed as a political messiah.
The cross of Christ still speaks… I love you.
Theses passages are parallel to the account given by Mark. Psalm 22:16,17,7,8,6,1
Pride, envy, jealously, greed, slander, betrayal, disobedience, cruelty, and murder: all sins that were associated with those who crucified Christ.

What are your top three sins that Christ carried to the cross for you?
Pastor Bob mentioned homework… remember? Discuss as a group what the cross represents for you?
Jesus experienced the human condition, from the list given in the fourth point above, which of these can you relate to?
How does knowing that He experienced this help you?

Peter follows behind Jesus as He is led away. He warms himself by a fire while Jesus is tried. Jesus is given over to Pilate to be condemned to death. Peter denies Jesus three times. Peter is left in tears of regret and shame. Hebrews 10 speaks of the Old Covenant of animal sacrifice and that it can never fully take away sin. Jesus’s sacrifice was more than forgiveness; it canceled the payment. Jesus was found innocent; Barabbas was guilty but was set free in exchange for Jesus.

What were the 4 types of shadows leading up to the sacrifice of Jesus as described by Pastor Bob? Discuss.
How does Jesus’s sacrifice differ?
Do you struggle to fully except His forgiveness?
What area of your life is hindered when you’re not able to receive full forgiveness?

The Old Testament is The New Testament concealed. The New Testament is the Old Testament revealed! – Augustine

Jesus experienced deep distress and sorrow while praying in the garden. Jesus asked the Father to take the cup away. Jesus submitted to the Father's will. The disciples failed to stay awake and pray and did not keep their promise to go to the cross with Him. The disciples failed to keep their promise to not deny Him. All of us fall short but God uses our failures to produce a dependence on Him. Our “I will” eventually collapses and give opportunities for humility to grow. Jesus knows we will fall short.

Discuss a time when you could not follow through with an “I will not”, “I will never”, or “I will always”.
How have your failures turned into opportunities to meet with God alone.
Is God actively working on removing independence from your life? Explain.
Are you in a position to surrender? Explain.

The Passover celebrated God delivering them from the bondage of slavery. Jesus made a new covenant with us and became the Passover Lamb for us. God is sovereign. Even when it seemed like evil had won, God was in control. We constantly need to be reminded about what He did for us.

When was a time in your life that you thought evil had won? Has there ever been a time in your life where you originally thought it was a bad thing, but later saw that God intended it to be good? What are you trying to control right now, but you know you need to let go and let God take control? How is God leading you? How can your small group support and pray for you?

Our devotion springs from believing in His worth. Mary valued the treasure; Judas valued the treasury. Our devotion sends out an aroma and leaves an impression on the world. Mary was always at the feet of Jesus.

How is your devotion to Jesus expressed?
Have you ever been judged about your worship?
Where are your time, talents, and treasure spent?
What happens at the feet of Jesus?

Considering the promise of Jesus return, what are we to do and be? Peter says we are to be stirred up. He reminds us that this has been foretold from Prophets, Apostles, and The Lord Jesus. He tells us to be diligent and know that He comes quickly. The second coming of Christ is both great and terrible. Great for the Church and terrible for the judgment that He brings. The witness of our lives to a dying world suffers when we have one foot in and one foot out.

What is your major takeaway after the three weeks of teaching on the second coming of Christ?
What are spots and wrinkles in your life that are ready to be washed and cleaned?
Are there people in your life that have caused bitterness in your heart? Peter says that making peace is important before Christ’s return. Discuss.

“But I want tell you a secret: There is a calf in every believer in this room. And given the right setting, it will leap. And we would do well to give it some room.” - John Piper

No one knows the hour of His return. All will see and hear Him when He returns. The Master and Servant parable gives us responsibility.

If you expected His return was emanate, what would you be doing?
What does it look like in your life to stay awake and watch the door?
How does perseverance and patience serve as a testimony?

Jesus prophesied the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple. Jesus’s disciples ask when all these things will be accomplished. Jesus emphasized “Do not be led astray.” Jesus explains what the signs are not. Jesus emphasizes “Be on Guard.”

How often do you think about the return of Jesus?
What does it look like to be led astray?
How do we stay on guard?

By teaching in the temple, Jesus asserts Himself as the messianic promise. Jesus watches those making offerings and teaches the disciples the offering from the widow is greater because it came from a place of sacrifice. Our giving flows from a trusting and devoted heart. If our time, talent, and treasure is devoted to good or bad it will come back multiplied. This is the spiritual principal of reaping and sewing. God provides an increase to the sewer so that his/her giving can increase. The widow who was obedient to give her all to the prophet was sustained.

Has your heart been transformed to give? Explain.
Have you experienced the spiritual principal of reciprocity?
Do you have a tight hold on your money?
Who has influenced your life regarding giving?

The new birth is the act of the Holy Spirit, connecting our dead, selfish hearts with God’s living, loving heart. His life becomes our life, and His love becomes our love. Notice the scribe has answered correctly but Jesus says, “you are not far from The Kingdom of God.” When we allow God to love us, and we manifest that love, we then realize who we were destined to be. We love others when we desire the very best for them as well as bearing their burdens.

How do we allow God to love us? What prevents us?
How do we love God?
How do we love others?

Jesus is just a few days away from the cross and Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herodians are trying to trap Him in conversations. They are questioning His allegiance to the authorities of Rome as well as the reality of the resurrection. His reply: you’re wrong, you don’t know the scripture nor the power of God. “Render to God what is God’s” begs the question, “What is God’s?” Everything! Our lives, our Families, our possessions, our troubles, and our triumphs. Rendering everything that He has given us back to God is real life. When Jesus says that God is the God of the living, not the dead, it stirs up the power of the resurrection and places value on life!

Are there things in your life that need to be rendered back to God? Explain.
What brings life to you? What brings death?
Which do you desire to know more, the Scripture or His power?

The idea of the body being evil finds its roots in Docetism (“to seem”). We need to keep Paul’s concept of the “flesh nature” separate from the “body.” Our bodies are ground zero for our sinful nature and give visibility to that nature. Early attacks on Jesus denied His bodily existence and His resurrection. Our own embarrassments at our bodily functions/limitations might be at odds with the God who gave them to us. Finite bodily form is an existence that God put in place and becomes part of. The God of creation began the work of re-creation by entering it in bodily form. Human flourishing and glorifying God come in the healthy wholeness of our creaturely limits. We misunderstand creation by confusing our limitations with sinfulness. Your body is part of who you are… your identity. Body shaming undermines the goodness of our Creator’s work. We are called to affirm our creaturely existence in its distinctiveness, seeing it as a blessing rather than a curse. Jesus is at the core of what it means to be a particular human being. If the body itself was sinful, God could not have taken up residence in one. Every form of worship to God is done with our body. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” is the highest compliment the human body has ever been paid. The problems that we experience with our bodies will never completely be solved by our own bodies. It is through the cross that our bodies will ultimately be fixed.

How do you feel about your own body? What are some of the ways that you glorify God with your body? What are some ways that you don’t glorify Him with your body? If someone told you that the body is evil, how would you explain the human body in reference to the Bible’s teaching on creation, the fall, and redemption?

Jesus has authority over all things in Heaven and on Earth. Jesus’s authority is from God the Father, not from man. The religious leaders challenged Jesus’s authority because they were afraid of Him, and they wanted Him dead. Jesus used questions and parables as effective teaching tools. The Pharisees were not satisfied being tenants; they wanted to be owners. We have been entrusted as stewards of the Gospel. God’s love and mercy are never-ending. God is patient, not indifferent; there will be judgement.

Give an example of when you have challenged authority.
Are you fully surrendered to the authority of Jesus Christ?
How have you responded to the Gospel? a. Convicted and repentant? b. Irritated and heart hardened? c. Indifferent?
Challenge: Try reading through the Gospel and answering the questions Jesus asked in your own words!

One story within another almost always points to parallel stories in the Bible. The presence of God produces fruit. Jesus cursed the fig tree because it did not produce fruit in the season of the coming of the Kingdom of God. The tables of the money-changers were overturned to show that atonement is not something that can be bought with money. The buyers and sellers of sacrificial animals were driven out to bring an end to sacrificing animals for forgiveness. Jesus stopped people from carrying anything through the temple to usher in the end of cultic rituals for purification. Jesus has been replacing the temple throughout His ministry: healing the sick, forgiving sins, and restoring people to society. Jesus replaced the tables of the money-changers with the Lord’s Table, where remember that He alone atoned for our sins. Jews thought that prayer was more effective in the temple, but Jesus tore down the barriers and invites all people to be a part of the new temple. We can’t hide a lack of fruit behind fig leaves of rituals and church attendance.

Does your relationship with Jesus affect every part of your life? What areas of your life are still hidden behind fig leaves or rituals?
If you were a priest, scribe, or Jew in the temple that day, how might you have responded to the scene Jesus made?
What areas of your life are you trying to still earn a right standing with God rather than accepting His grace through Jesus Christ?
Have you erected barriers that keep you from sharing Christ’s love with others?

Quarreling is a sign of foolishness and ignorance and is a snare of the Devil to take control of your life. When we think we are right (and righteous) and begin to judge others, we might actually be wrong and ensnared by our enemy. We are born with a snare in our soul that encourages us to have our own way. We must be born again to overcome our selfish ambitions. The turn from quarreling to doing the Devil’s will happens in the snap of a finger. Strife is the only fruit of quarreling. It produces separation and causes our prayers to be hindered. Our quarreling and rebellion effects those around us and our children and grandchildren for generations. Quarrels produces envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. We are holy because of our Father’s endless mercy and grace that He lavished upon us in Christ Jesus!

Have you ever argued with someone because you were so sure you were right, only to find out later that you were wrong? Share about that experience.
Respond to the idea that quarreling with someone in the Church is actually quarreling with Jesus.
What does it mean to be holy?
Do you know Him?

We must recognize our need for prayer. Jesus encourages persistent prayer when He tells the story, “ask, seek, knock.” The Father answers our prayer with the best gift of all: Himself through the person of the Holy Spirit. At our new birth, the Holy Spirit unlocks God becoming Father and we are joined to Him in spirit. At our new birth, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. The Holy Spirit unlocks worship for us in spirit and in truth. God has granted us complete access to Himself. The Holy Spirit (Spirit of Truth) unlocks the mind of Christ for us. The Holy Spirit unlocks for us a Kingdom vision and the power to live it — our lives for the King and His will. The Holy Spirit opens our eyes to spiritual reality to see that this world is passing away but whoever does the will of God abides forever. The all-encompassing ministry and work of the Holy Spirit will complete the work He has started in us as He transforms us into the image of Christ. We need the Holy Spirit.

How does your prayer life compare to the friend Jesus describes that wouldn’t stop knocking in the middle of the night?
When you pray, do you ever pray to the Holy Spirit?
When you go to God, do you feel He has given you complete access to Himself?
Have you experienced the Holy Spirit unlocking the mind of Christ as you read God’s Word?
How can you intentionally begin to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit and allow the Holy Spirit to operate in your life?

There is always room in our lives for more Scripture and more prayer. The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem was nothing like a Roman triumphal entry. There were no spoils of war, prisoners, army, or golden chariot. The people were expecting a conquering king to come and reestablish Davidic reign. Riding on a young colt was a symbol of Jesus coming in peace rather than as a conqueror. Hosanna means “Please! Save us!” The people were praising Jesus, but their motives were what Jesus could do for them. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, our prayer life should grow as well. Asking God to meet our needs is an important part of prayer, but prayer is much more that only asking and receiving. It includes adoration, gratitude, confession, and more. Jesus doesn’t want to be a priority in your life. He wants to be the center.

What kinds of things distract you from spending time soaking in God’s Word and praying? Have you ever expected something from God, but He had a different plan? Explain. What would it look like for Jesus to be the center of your life? How would it affect the following for you: Your job, friends, marriage/family, recreation, politics, and social media. Spend some time in prayer, including adoration, gratitude, confession, and requests.

John was amazed that Jesus loved them to the end. Jesus models love by washing their feet, then commands them to love one another as He has loved them. Jesus models right actions flowing out of right thinking. (John 13:3) If we don’t know who we are (identity), where we are heading (destiny), and what we are about (purpose/mission), we will falter in teaching our kids who they are. There is still a snake in the garden; if he can’t take you out, he will attempt to render you ineffective. He is at work in culture, influencing our kids with his lies. We must teach our kids after learning ourselves: - You are uniquely made in your mother’s womb, a special creation of God. - You are made in the image of God to reflect His likeness. - God created them male and female to reflect His character. Our genders are to be celebrated rather than attempting to change them. - Sin entered the picture with confusion and pain. Many are confused about God’s design, but you don’t have to be. - As a Christ follower, He gives you a new life and clears the confusion by renewing your mind with His truth.

Have you come to terms with Jesus’ love for you even through your mess?
Is there something you have said like Peter to Jesus: “never will you…”?
How do Jesus’s words affect you: “you have no part with me unless…”?
Does His love really motivate the way you live? Do you love Him with a willingness to obey Him?
Do you have a “biblical world view” being trained by the Word versus the culture? How is the Word of God renewing your thinking and leading in right living?

As a result of the Hebrew people's hard-hearted rebellious unbelief in the good news, they did not enter God's promise of rest in the land. Today, God calls us to believe the Good News and strive to enter His rest. Today's Sabbath-rest is a faith-based spiritual position of the entire self, surrendered in relentless loyalty to the will of God, flowing from the finished work of Jesus Christ. The future Kingdom that will be established has already begun in the hearts of those who put their trust in Jesus and are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. The Lord of the Sabbath dwells within us. We are Kingdom people, people of faith. Our identity is in Jesus the Messiah, resting peacefully in His finished work. Sabbath rest in Jesus distinguishes us as His holy people. Some scholars believe Peter is making a connection between the seventh day Sabbath and the Millennial reign of Jesus in 2 Peter 3:8. Resting in Jesus allows Him to work in us so that we can move in unity with Him; He will accomplish His will in this broken world through us. True Sabbath observance is resting in the finished work of Christ, having our sins forgiven, being dead to self, and living the resurrection life in Him.

How are the 10 commandments useful today?
As royal priests, which sacrifices do we offer daily to God?
What are some things that are disturbing your rest in Christ?
What does holy rest mean to you?
What does it look like to strive for rest?

Bartimaeus: Son of Timaeus, his name in Hebrew is “unclean” but in Greek it’s “highly prized.” Jericho is 900 ft. below sea level and Jerusalem will be a 3,300 ft. climb. Look closely at Bartimaeus’s approach to Jesus. He didn’t listen to the crowd, he continued to cry out for mercy, he threw off his cloak, he sprang to his feet, and then followed Him. Sometimes we are blind beggars looking for attention and love from others rather than being satisfied in Christ. Some wear a cloak of self-pity, rejection, or man pleasing; these all need to be thrown off.

Describe the process of Bartimaeus going from unclean to highly prized. Pastor Bob mentioned Jesus finding us in low places or hidden places of the heart that we are begging from. Do you have any? Describe your uphill journey with Jesus.

“Evangelism is one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread.” - Adrian Rogers

Jesus heads uphill to Jerusalem and explains to the disciples what will happen to The Son of Man. James and John ask to be put in a position of glory in His Kingdom. We are called to glorify God, not to be glorified. Jesus came to serve, not to be served. Jesus serves us daily, and from His death we receive freedom to serve. We have been ransomed by the greatest Servant of all. Jesus helps us, we do not help Him.

Give examples of how Jesus serves us.
What motivates you to serve?
Who do you serve the most? The least?
Describe your first thought of Jesus washing your feet.

Jesus introduces the Kingdom by welcoming children. If there is a Kingdom, there is a King. The rich young ruler was being ruled by his money and power. The rich young ruler wanted to merit eternal life & was not willing to give up his power or his possessions. It is impossible to be saved by earning. We owe a debt that only Jesus can pay. Following Jesus is a divestment of self and an investment in Him. The King rules and reigns over those in the Kingdom. The Ruler is the standard of the truth, sets the rules, guides, and directs. Note the contrast between the rich young ruler’s encounter with Jesus and Zacchaeus’s interaction with Him.

Are your material possessions being served or are they being used to serve?
If you’re following Jesus then you are unfollowing something. Which one of the following have you unfollowed? Comfort, power, bitterness, sexual sin, love of money…
Jesus told the rich young ruler if he was to sell all, he would find riches. Which of these have you become rich in since following Jesus? Grace, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, giving, serving.
Spend time discussing the contrast between the rich young ruler and Zacchaeus.

God’s design for marriage is for the covenant to last until death separates us. God’s design for marriage is a mirror of Christ and the Church. Moses instituted a divorce certificate because of the hardness of man’s heart. (sin) Divorce and remarriage are permitted in cases of sexual sin, abandonment, and abuse. Men are called to protect, lead, and to help sanctify their wives. Women are called to come under the mission that their husbands are given. There is hope for broken marriages at the foot of the cross.

Discuss as a group the husband’s mission as given by God in marriage.
Discuss the role of the wife.
Why does God say in Scripture that singleness is a better choice? (see 1 Cor 7)
If you are able, share the current state of your marriage.
What advice would you give to someone considering marriage?

Knowing the power of the resurrection helps us to trust, believe, hope, and persevere through trials. There is power in God’s law to charge us as sinners condemned to die. There is power in our nature to be self-willed. There is the power of love and obedience when Jesus surrendered His will to the Father in the garden. There is power in the cross of Christ to atone for sinners. There is power in the resurrection that produces victory over death and the grave. There is power over the devil. There is power given for us to be transformed, to love, and to spread the Gospel. When Christ returns, He will return with power!

How did your family celebrate Easter as a child? Have you changed the tradition?
How does knowing the power of the resurrection help you today?
Discuss the power of our self-will.
Have you experienced His power in your walk?

Jesus instructs the disciples regarding the consequences of sin. Jesus describes hell as unquenchable. Jesus instructs His disciples that all will be salted and go through fire. Salt was used in covenant making as well as offerings. Salt is one part sodium and one part chloride and is immutable. Salt purifies, preserves, seasons, and changes to everything it is added to. Jesus says we must be the salt and bring peace. Each item of food in the Passover meal has meaning and each item may be dipped into a bowl of saltwater. The saltwater bowl represents the tears of the slaves.

What does Jesus’s description of sin and hell mean to you?
Discuss in your group how we can be salt to the world.
Salt was used to symbolize faithful friendship. Discuss the fruit that has been born from friendships within your group.

Jesus tells the 12 of His impending fate and resurrection for the second time. The disciples were afraid to ask questions and did not understand. Their hearts were consumed with self and their own potential greatness. Jesus says greatness is only achieved in the Kingdom through serving. A child is brought in to demonstrate the need for humility as well as serving without the applause of people but to the Glory of God. Another argument about someone other than the 12 casting a demon arises with John. Jesus explains that even if “anyone” give a cup of cold water to one of his own it doesn’t go unrewarded. Jesus only has six months left with these future world changers and they must learn to deny self-recognition and glorify God. We are much like the men when we compete and seek approval from others.

Have you ever found yourself seeking the approval of others?
What does serving others look like?
What was your personal take-away from Sunday’s sermon?
How can serving others change your own heart?

Expect evil to present itself after times of refreshing. Jesus rebukes all for their faithlessness. Jesus privately explains to His disciples… no prayer, no power! Great stress or circumstances generally weaken our faith, but at the same time motivate us to pray. Unbelief causes the believer to be double minded and uncommitted, and displeases God. Prayer stretches and builds our faith muscle, thus, prayer and faith are interconnected.

When are you least likely to pray?
How do prayer and faith interrelate?
What area in your life is currently producing reasons to pray with faith?
Can you share an experience of when the descent from the mountain brought an unexpected challenge?

The account of the transfiguration of Jesus is a pivotal moment in the life and ministry of the Messiah. After the assent to the top of the mountain with Peter, James, and John, Jesus will descend from the mountain and head towards Jerusalem. Jesus tells his disciples of his impending rejection, death, and resurrection for the second time. This time gives them a glimpse of His glorified state of divinity. Both Elijah and Moses appearing with Jesus during the transfiguration points to a pivotal moment: the law and the prophets will be fulfilled and completed in Jesus. The transfiguration also gives us a picture of our resurrection. Peter testifies to this event in his second letter; notice how majestic and how powerful this event impacted his life. This event should leave us just like it did with the disciples. With Jesus touching us and reminding us to listen to Him. God affirms his Son and His obedience. And by our faith He affirms us as His sons and daughters.

Everyone either has gone through, will go through, or is currently going through tribulations. Tribulation is when your very foundation is being shaken. God wants us to be victorious as we go through tribulation. David’s intimacy with God is built his faith and strength to withstand tribulations. It is important to turn to God and seek Him for help. God promises to respond to us when we are humble before Him. Even in tribulations, God is drawing people nearer to Him. When Jesus prepared a meal for His disciples, He didn’t judge them for their little faith. He received them, fed them, fellowshipped with them, and taught about love. The love of God was poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Through Jesus, God’s love was given to us to heal, restore, and fill us with His strength. God’s love can restore you, bring balance, and bring healing no matter what storm you are facing. It’s not easy, but God’s love leads us through tribulation.

Jesus ascends through Mark 8, then begins to descend ever the next 8 chapters to the cross. The account of healing the blind man by spitting into his eyes is only found in Mark. It is no coincidence that the man’s progressive healing is parallel to the disciples slow understanding who Jesus is. Jesus asked two questions; who do they say I am and who do you say that I am? He tells them [plainly] what will happen but they still can’t see fully. We are much the same in our sanctification; slowly changing but sometimes stalled as we co-sign sin. Jesus asks us to deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him. Spiritual blindness includes not seeing anything wrong with what God calls sin.

The Pharisees came to argue and test. They probably didn’t actually want a miracle; they wanted more fuel to accuse him of being a false prophet. The Pharisees and Sadducees (it’s crazy that they worked together here) wanted a sign from heaven. Signs from heaven would: - show the prophet to be trustworthy and reliable. - show power and authority. Many of the miracles that Jesus performed were done in response to the person’s faith. There are many instances where Jesus did not perform miracles. It was usually a response to the motive behind the request or because Jesus knows the bigger picture. The disciples missed out on an important lesson because they got distracted and forgot about what Jesus had already done for them. 3 questions we should ask ourselves: - What is the heart behind the things we ask of God? - Are we missing the signs? - What have we forgotten that God has already done?

The crowd was with Jesus for 3 days without food. Their desire to be with Him was greater than their desire for food. Jesus had compassion on the crowd. Compassion means to co-suffer with someone. Jesus had more than empathy or pity; He suffered with the crowd. Jesus gave them what they needed to sustain them on their way home. Jesus knows more than anyone else what you are going through because He has compassion for you. He endures your struggles with you. Jesus made sure the entire crowd was fed and satisfied. Even when we can’t see Jesus from where we are, He still cares deeply for us. Being yoked with Jesus is another image of His compassion. The compassion of God… ...gives our souls rest. ...restores our hope. ...leads us through the struggle to the cross. ...knows we’re starving and gives us the Bread of Life to sustain us. ...gets us all the way home to Him. ...became the Passion of Christ.

Jesus is challenged by the religious leaders for not following tradition. He begins to tell all and then teach His disciples that defilement comes out of the heart. We cannot not gain access to God by tradition. Legalism is founded on non-scriptural laws placed on believers. Jesus encounters a woman in a gentile nation who needs deliverance for her little girl. Jesus in this moment leaves the 99 in Israel to save the one. He came for the Jew first and then the Gentile. What seems like a rude statement does not phase the woman, and she asks Jesus for a crumb. Pride will keep us independent and critical. Pride always elevates us over others, including God. Humility is knowing that we are not worthy and need salvation. Jesus then heals a deaf mute by opening his ears and loosening his tongue. Notice his sigh. Our ears have been opened by His Spirit and our tongues have been loosed to praise and to testify!

When Jesus asks His disciples to get in the boat, He is setting them up for a teaching. Jesus sees that the disciples are struggling against the wind The disciples are “terrified” by the appearance of Jesus. He brings His presence, His person, and His power. He encourages the disciples to take heart! Do not fear! Fear is a paralyzing force that keeps us from our destination. Jesus brings peace and takes us to the other side. The disciples are learning who Jesus is and are having to trust even when He is not physically with them. Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. To take heart is to receive by faith the empowerment of His presence, His person, and His power.

The key to understanding the feeding of the 5,000 is found in the verse 34: His motive was to be “The Good Shepherd.” Jesus wanted His disciples to participate in the feeding. The blessing preceded the multiplication. The disciples were walking by sight, not faith. Jesus’s first act of shepherding the flock was to teach about the Kingdom. All were satisfied and the 12 brought home a basket each. This is the only miracle (other than the resurrection) that is found in all four gospels.

The heart of the problem is the problem of the heart. “Soul words” are intangible but we respond to them because they are intrinsically more than just words. The heart is the center of all thinking, willing, feeling, and moral life. With enough sin, you can undo some of the benefits of God’s grace. The Scripture describes our hearts as being made of stone or as being changed to flesh. A new disposition is a new nature, a new approach to life. We have been given new life, a new chance, a new outlook. We walk in a new realm and not in the old realm. Someone who refuses to “listen” contributes to a disposition in himself of not wanting to hear, not wanting to believe, and darkens his understanding. Without the Spirit, the human heart is a poor student of the Word of God! On the far side of the problem with the heart is repentance.

Jesus sends out the 12, two by two, but instructs them to not take any provisions. Jesus wants the 12 to learn to trust. Mark flashes back to the imprisonment and execution of John the Baptizer. John’s mission to call others to repent costs him his life. John never held back from his calling. John was fearless in his approach.

Jesus returns home to Nazareth to unbelief. Unbelief doesn’t limit God but certainly hinders the work of Jesus in our lives. Jesus marvels at our unbelief as well as our confident expectation. God desires us to hold fast to His promises. God gives us His divine nature and His righteousness by faith. Jesus never again returned to His hometown.

Jairus and the woman with the issue of blood were in hopelessness. Their hopelessness was exchanged for faith. They both fell at the feet of Jesus and their fears were exchanged with His compassionate concern. He called the woman, “daughter.” Jesus wanted to make the woman whole just as much He healed her disease. Notice the woman had to break the mosaic law to touch Jesus and come out into a crowd. Jairus also risked his position as a synagogue ruler by falling at the feet of Jesus. Sometimes we take risks when we move into faith. Jesus ultimately is proving He is God by raising the dead. We may not always be healed of every disease or sickness, but we will hear Him say, “Arise.”

740 years before Jesus was born, a birth announcement was given. But it also included his character and his purpose. He was given — God is a giver not a taker. He shall rule — the weight is on Him, not us. He came to establish and govern His Kingdom. He shall counsel. He is mighty — in Him there no weakness; meekness, but no weakness. He is a forever Father, filled with goodness and mercy. He is Peace — He gives us peace with God and personal internal peace. Every day is Christmas.

Jesus is willing to enter into your mess. The birthing place of Jesus was a messy place. Joseph and Mary were in a mess and the Lord met them there. God sends Jesus to literally bear our mess (sin). When God came to dwell among us and in us, He generally finds a mess but doesn’t leave us in it. Christmas has always been about Jesus’s mission to take away our sin.

The birth of Jesus was God’s plan before the foundations of the Earth were laid. Mary and Joseph had to yield to God’s plan. God’s ways are higher than our and His thought are as well When our plans change, we can war against the change or surrender. God does have a plan for us and it is two-fold: to be saved and to be changed into His likeness.

Jesus is our help. Jesus is our strength. Our eyes need to be fixed on the Lord; our expectations need to be on Him: seeking the Word, obeying the Word, and teaching the Word.

Notice, when slowing the Scripture down you will see three requests: the demons were given their desire, the townspeople were given their desire, but the man who had been possessed was not given his. If you ask Jesus to leave, He will. The Gospel can be seen in this man’s deliverance. Living among the dead, bound, tormented, and then set free. He was calmed, clothed, and sent back home to share the mercy. The townspeople may have been afraid of losing their way of life. Jesus loved the man more than the pigs. We too must remember the mercy that God has given us that caused us to be set free from the tombs. The maniac has become a missionary. The ten cities around us need to hear our Gospel story.

There are three “greats” (mega) in the account of the storm. A great storm, a great calm, and a great fear. The great fear of who this man is will be the most rewarding of the three megas! Jesus has now proven his authority over all creation. Jesus was asleep as a man but under full control as Creator of the universe. Jesus was given authority to create the world from the Father. He challenges his disciples to exercise faith when there is no control. Control is a mirage in the face of God’s sovereignty. Fear can lead to despair in believing that God does not care. The internal storms in us emanate from not fully believing that God is with us and in control. His promises will carry us to the “other side.”

Jesus explains the spiritual principle of reciprocity. The more you desire to hear and receive, the more you are given. Jesus desires to give us more! The disinterested will lose what little they have. We should come expecting and desiring the hearing of His Word. God provides the increase after the sewing. When the blade appears it’s on its way to produce. Hearers are destined to become scatterers.

Jesus escapes the crowds to broadcast the word across the sea. Again, His primary mission is to teach and preach the Word. Jesus teaches in a parable, which He will use 35% of the time when He teaches. Parables: our earthly truths coming alongside a spiritual truth. The seed is scattered and lands on different conditions of the heart. A hard heart, an excited heart, an easily distracted heart, a heart that is consumed with the cares of the world. And then finally the heart that is prepared and opened to receive and believe the Word. When the Word is excepted and applied it will produce and multiply. Hearts that turn away from the truth of Scripture will harden and eventually be locked up. The Word of God is truth, and the truth will set a hard heart free. Fallow ground is uncultivated ground. Many of our hearts have places that are yet to be cultivated with the Word of God. When we see the priority that Jesus sets to preach the Word that we may hear it, this should give us the inspiration to be hungry for God‘s Word. Jesus’ disciples live in the Word and are continually discovering secrets of the Kingdom. (that’s us)

Jesus spent all night in prayer before he appointed the 12. Important decisions should always be preceded by prayer. Extra ordinary, ordinary men were chosen. They would become the foundation on which we stand. Jesus was accused by his family to be out of His mind. The scribes accused him of using the devil’s power to cast out demons. Jesus first parable of the strong man being bound turns their understanding upside down. Jesus reinvented the term family. His family are those that do the will of God. Family in the body of Christ brings security. Like the Apostles, we have all been called and commissioned to bring the Good News of reconciliation.

Jesus came to fulfill the law and bring in the new covenant. Breaking away from tradition causes some to follow and others to criticize. When Jesus called Levi to follow Him and had dinner with the other sinners, the pharisees were confused. This grieved the heart of Jesus. He saw the hardness of their hearts. The pharisees thought being with sinners would make them unholy. Jesus came for the sick not the self-diagnosed. Jesus did not come to patch up an old system he came to bring New Wine. Be careful not to add our own traditions on to the Word of God. Traditions can cause bondage and legalism instead of a heart to serve. Your conscience is yours. Don’t heap it onto others who do not share your conscience.

The paralytic along with his friends were not expecting Jesus to address the sin problem. Forgiveness is the greatest miracle that Jesus ever performs. It meets the greatest need, it costs the greatest price, and it brings the greatest blessing and the most lasting results. The scribes were correct in saying that only God can forgive sins. Jesus establishes His authority to forgive sin. God’s forgiveness removes His wrath and grants us fellowship and peace. God’s forgiveness removes the penalty of sin. Like a Judge, He drops the charges, removes the destination of hell, and grants a forever home in heaven with the Trinity. God’s forgiveness removes the power of sin and grants you the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. We were never destined to forgive ourselves but to receive and believe in the sacrifice of Jesus.

Jesus starts his mission on day one in Church, teaching with authority. A demon attempts to interrupt and is told to shut up. Jesus personally heals Peter’s mother-in-law. That same night, the town shows up to be healed and delivered. Jesus wisely retreats to pray. The leper asked to be clean. Jesus is fulfilling prophesy as well as the law. In reviewing chapter one, Jesus submits to the Father, resists the Devil, and is given authority to preach, drive out demons, sickness, and disease. All of this is a precursor to His final blow to death itself!

Jesus came with a primary mission to preach. His message was to repent and believe. Jesus was the message! Repentance and belief happen simultaneously. The first disciples had to unfollow before they followed. Following Jesus is an expression of trusting Him. There is no room for blame shifting or procrastination within repentance.

Jesus stood in our place in the Jordan. Jesus doesn’t ask us to do anything that He hasn’t already accomplished. Jesus went from the waters of baptism to the dry wilderness, from the waters of baptism to the fires of testing, from Heaven opening wide to hell being by His side, from hearing the affirming voice of His Father to hearing the lies of the devil. Adam failed in a beautiful garden and ate. Jesus was victorious over temptation while fasting for 40 days in the wilderness. The number 40 in the bible generally speaks in conjunction with testing and trial. Jesus was made like us and experienced suffering so that He could become sympathetic and merciful to us in our weakness to sin. We can come boldly to Jesus in our time of need; He knows what it is like for us to be tempted. God does not tempt us, but He does allow testing.

Isaiah prophesied that someone would come and prepare the way for The King. He said he would come in your face. 😮 John the baptizer came preaching to prepare your heart for repentance. Repentance clears the way for the forgiveness of sin. Locusts and honey are bittersweet; so is forgiveness. Trials and obstacle are an opportunity to cry from the wilderness. Jesus is the greater and is clearly the beginning of the Gospel. Mark is like us, somewhat obscured by the Glory of the Lord.

Peter’s (and the disciples’) view of the Messiah was too limited. The Kingdom of God is here now but is also yet to come. Jesus taught the disciples “on the way.” Rebuke comes as a challenge to understand and leads to repentance. We see what we are trained to see more than what is there. Social justice is important to the heart of God, and He wants the best for us, but there is more to being a disciple than that. Getting Jesus’ title correct is only the first step of being a disciple. Disciples are called to deny self, take up their execution stake, and follow Christ. When we deny ourselves, we say “no” to the “I” that would enslave us, and we say “yes” to God, and He leads us to life. To take up our cross and follow Christ means to suffer and die. It’s the difference between a disciple and an admirer of Christ. Jesus doesn’t need new PR or good marketing. He needs disciples who are dying to self and living the cross. “There are many that follow Jesus as far as the breaking of bread, few as far as drinking the cup of suffering…” – Thomas à Kempis in The Imitation of Christ

Jesus challenges us to apply His teachings. The warning of imminent storms and coming judgment is motivation for reflection. We know that good works will not save us, but they are a barometer of our spiritual health. Foundations are costly. Jesus paid the price that allows Him to be our Rock. It costs us to follow Jesus and apply His teachings. The passage from Luke comes on the heels of his sermon on the plain. Foundation building includes fleeing from sin and pursuing righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. We are to take ahold on eternal life which leads to real life!

Offering ourselves as a sacrifice leads to love. Loving our enemies is the ultimate test of love. If our ultimate treasure is found in Christ and glorifying Him, we have the motivation to love our enemies. To love in the face of opposition is an opportunity for the world to see Jesus. If we are we are overcome with evil, we may lose an opportunity to give grace; even worse, we may become bitter. It has been said when hurt or offended, “Don’t curse, don’t rehearse, don’t nurse, but reverse!”

Your living sacrifice will lead to transformation that will ultimately lead you to others. Romans 12:9-13 lists 13 commands. Ten for others, three for you and the Lord. None of these commands are carried out by the natural man but by the Holy Spirit working through His disciples. When these commands are applied and genuine love flows, it is a sign that you have gone from death to life! Ten of these marks of a Christian cannot be manifested without others. To honor someone is to value the price that has been paid. God never intended a Christian to do it alone.

God equips the body of Christ with Spirit empowered gifts. Spiritual gifts are to be used to edify or build up the body. Spiritual gifts are manifestations of the Spirit, given by grace to the believer. Prophesy, Mercy, Helps, Administration, Serving, Teaching, Wisdom, Faith, Tongues, Interpretation, Discernment of Spirits, Exhorting, Encouragement, Healings, and Miracles are some of the gifts. The body of Christ is interdependent of these gifts. The believer should earnestly desire spiritual gifts. Gifts are manifested and realized when serving and ministering to others.

God’s mercy motivates us to give ourselves as a sacrifice. Our sacrifice is continual worship; it’s a “living” sacrifice. Mercy allows us to be merciful. We must willingly allow God to consecrate us from the world. The Word of God is required to transform our minds. He saves all who call on Him, He Saves us from His wrath, He frees us from condemnation. He takes away our shame, He gives us his son, He paid the price for our sin. He took the judgement of our sin, He frees us from the penalty of sin. He frees us from the power of sin, He doesn’t keep a record of our sin. He shares his Son’s righteousness with us, He fills us with his Holy Spirit. He empowers us to do the next right thing, He pours his love into our hearts. He corrects us, He inclines his ear to us in prayer, He intercedes for us when we don’t know how to pray. He is working all things out for good, He never forsakes us, He grants us Peace. He sings over us, He adopts us as His sons and daughters, He calls us his own. He lifts us from the grave, He gives us eternal life. And all this mercy is new every morning!

Paul was zealous and self-righteous when Jesus encountered Him. Paul was broken as he was blinded in order to see. He saw the truth of his need for Jesus and others. Paul was led by another man’s hand to teach him humility. Paul was personally confronted by Jesus. The scales of pride, self-sufficiency, and old identity fell off. Paul was given new power and a new purpose. Paul was taught that God’s grace is sufficient when suffering. We, like Paul, have an opportunity in brokenness to be content with insults, calamities, afflictions, and hardships. Paul was broken to bless.

A broken and contrite heart is a sacrifice that the Lord accepts. David had experienced great victories and great deliverance, but his biggest gain was when his heart broke over his sin. When your heart breaks over sin, you have discovered what breaks God’s heart. Spiritual heart disease includes a hard heart, an unforgiving heart, a proud heart, a deceitful heart, a rebellious heart, a lustful heart, and others. These hearts need to be broken and replaced with his. The woman with the alabaster jar experienced real intimacy as she broke her sacrifice open.

Renée Marquez shares her story of brokenness and God's faithfulness through it all.

Naomi suffered a series of great losses but gained a great friend. Ruth’s commitment to the Lord was not hinged on personal gain. God weaves his sovereignty as well as His mercy all the way through their lives. Boaz is a type of Christ as he upholds the law and redeems the lost. God is close to the broken and contrite heart. Naomi said she went away full and came back empty, but her emptiness created a gateway for intimacy with God. When brokenness breaks in, God opens his wings of protection and becomes our refuge.

Jacob was truly born a sinner as he was attempting to pull back on His first-born twin Esau, even at birth. We are born broken. Jacob stole his brother’s birthright and his father’s blessing. Jacob was on the run from his brother, but God was on a run to Jacob. During the 20 years he was in Harlan he was reaping what he had sewn with Leah and Laban. God wrestled with Jacob and Jacob lost; or did he? Jacob was asking for God’s deliverance from Esau but was first delivered from his own strong will. Jacob was moved to bless his brother.

The Hebrew word for bless used in the Genesis passage is “berakah” (to kneel) and the Proverbs passage uses “ashre” (to be happy). When God blesses us, we can see a rhythm to it. We realize our need for Him. Our own efforts are not enough. We break or bend our knees. We begin to cling to Him and He gives us a purpose from the pain. Ministry efforts are realized or multiplied. We can see this rhythm in Peter’s life. Breaking is part of the sanctification process leading to greater intimacy with Jesus and to become more like Him. Without this understanding we can miss the real blessing.

Luke 15 starts with Jesus responding to the murmurs regarding eating with sinners. He teaches them a Parable (3 stories forming one parable). The Son seeks the lost sheep. The Holy Spirit  the lost coin. The Father receives the lost son. The son wanted the father’s treasure but found out what he really needed was his father. The embrace: forgiveness The kiss: His love The robe: His righteousness The ring: His sonship The shoes: His peace The calf: His sacrifice The celebration: His joy God’s heart is that none should be lost.

God is my salvation. Obey God rather than man. Speak the truth in love. Preach the Gospel with boldness. Rejoice in the Lord always. Count it all joy when you face various trials. God's Word will always stand. Be filled with The Holy Spirit. The gospel is the greatest love song. Love your enemies. Depend fully on God during persecution. God will give us the strength to rejoice during the hardest times in your life. Jesus is our Song!

God’s purpose to sanctify a bride for his Son is woven through the Bible as a mystery. The mystery is slowly being revealed through shadows and types such as Abraham, Isaac, and Rebecca. Every Jewish wedding is a shadow of the consummation of His eternal covenant. Everyone is given an invitation to the wedding. But only those with the wedding attire (his righteousness) are in matrimony. The Spirit and the Bride (the Church) are to be continually inviting others in this relationship with Jesus.

God’s love was displayed on the cross for sinners. Paul describes the difference between a good man dying for a righteous man verses Jesus, the perfect man, dying for an ungodly man. This is love. Jesus says we are more than servants; we are His friends if we do what He asks. There is no greater love than when Jesus gave up His life. To fulfill the commandment of loving others, we are in desperate need of the Holy Spirit to love like Jesus loves. Remembering the great love that Jesus has towards sinners is one of the ways to reflect when taking communion: “Do this in remembrance of Me.”

His name is Jealous. His jealousy is Holy. He wants our hearts to belong to Him alone. Friendship with the world is the absence of God’s love. Repentance is the solution for our wandering. The end of idol worship is destruction.

God covered man’s first sin with animal skins. Ham spread the news of Noah's weakness and his other two sons covered it. Love covers sin. The blood of Jesus covers sin. His love covered Peter’s sins, Paul's sins, the woman at the well’s sins His love covers our sins! Jesus moves into the very place we try to cover.

He corrects those He loves. His correction should be expected. His correction should not cause bitterness. His correction should lead us to holiness. His correction is not punishment. His correction proves that we are His sons and daughters. Let’s welcome this kind of love.

Only one time in Scripture does God actually say “I love you,” but He demonstrates His love countless times. God holds up both ends of the Old and New Covenants. God’s steadfast love is: unchangeable, unbreakable, unmovable, unconditional and unending. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ for those that are in Christ. Steadfast love is faithful and full of daily mercy.

The first mention of love in Scripture is the love of Abraham towards his one and only son. God expressed his heart to call a people unto himself by trusting Him. The altar on Mt. Moriah with Abraham and Isaac was a shadow of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus on Calvary. God credited unto Abraham righteousness because of faith. God called him His friend. God’s mercy and faithfulness was made manifest before He referred to Himself as love. It’s not that we love God but that He loved us first. By sending His Son to atone for our sin. All of us need an Isaac moment to realize the cost and the substitutionary atonement.

Jesus calls us rise up with Him. We come alive in Jesus. His Word comes alive in us. His love comes alive in us. His forgiveness comes alive in us. We come alive when we serve. Some things only come alive after repentance.

Jesus prayed that we would believe in Him as the only true God. His resurrection distinguishes Him as the one true God. His tomb is empty: victory over death was accomplished. Jesus transcends our pain, sorrow, fear, pride, rebellion, and addictions. Jesus offered Himself to His disciples as they were locked in a room. Jesus’s offer remains the same after the resurrection: His peace, a purpose, and His power.

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem to die, the disciples were blinded to the spiritual vision for how He was going to expand the Kingdom through the cross. The Kingdom of God is not made by human hands, human ideas, human means, human wisdom, or human governments. God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours. The message of the cross is folly to those who are perishing but life and peace to those being saved. We need a new vision for the Kingdom and how we can be a part of its operation in our lives every day. The Kingdom of God is expanded by new birth. The battle for the Kingdom is a spiritual battle. The spirit of the Kingdom is opposite to the spirit of the world. Jesus acted in the opposite spirit: a spirit of humility. He laid down his life in perfect love for sinners. He died for his enemies. He’s calling us to this Kingdom vision: to follow in His footsteps that we would die to self, operate in the spirit of humility, and love sinners as Jesus did as we share the Gospel. As Jesus is, so are we in this world.

Jesus was changing paradigms when he started his ministry. John’s disciples were questioning the changes. Jesus says we need new wineskins to go along with the new wine. New wineskins allow us to make changes and be flexible and open to the Holy Spirit’s leading. Our old affections and traditions can limit us. God cannot be limited but we can certainly be resistant. We are called to be ambassadors; ambassadors don’t have an independent agenda. We don’t make God work with us; we work with Him. Stretch wide the place of your tent and make room.

Adam was a type of Christ: through one man’s disobedience, all have sinned; through one man’s obedience, many have been made righteous. Our new birth includes being baptized with Jesus in his death, his burial, and his resurrection. In Christ, our old self has been crucified and we are resurrected in our new self. Self is another word for our nature. Our new nature is no longer bound to sin but bound by grace and abounding in love.

In Scripture, there are types and shadows in the Old Covenant that come to life in the New Covenant. The New Covenant was prophesied in the Old Covenant. Hebrews 8 references Jerimiah 31:31-34. Jesus was the better sacrifice that gives us full access to God in a new and living way. His sacrifice is better as it relates to the full assurance of forgiveness and atonement. Jesus has rested from His finished work unlike the priests in the Old Covenant. An understanding of the Old and New Covenants should cause us to elevate our worship and gratitude.

There are lingering effects to spending so much time isolated from one another. It’s ok to not be ok. Saying “I’m fine” when we aren’t really fine is not healthy. There is power in praise and worship. Lament is meant to be a part of our worship. Praising God is not for God’s benefit or our own. We praise God because of who He is and who we are. Sometimes we just have to praise, even if we don’t feel like it. There is a longing for God deeper than our feelings. The more we spin our wheels when we are stuck in a rut, the deeper the rut gets. Jesus tells us to go to Him, and He will give us rest.

Paul went from someone who persecuted the Church to someone willing to be persecuted for the Church. Paul closes his letter with a hint of his Roman guards’ conversions. Paul boldly asks us to imitate him as he follows Christ. Paul has four new passions: God’s saving grace, the Gospel, the Church, & the lost.

It is helpful to remember that the letter to the Philippian church was in response to their giving: a “Thank You” letter from Paul. Giving is an act of grace that first occurs in us by God’s gift of forgiveness. Giving becomes a natural outflow of the believer that has received God’s grace. Our giving is always first unto the Lord and then unto others. Giving breaks off entitlement and becomes an expression of gratitude. Paul boasted of the generosity of the Philippian church and used their giving to inspire other churches. Giving includes forgiving. God’s character overflows with giving.

Until we accept by faith the blood that was shed by Jesus for our sins, we are at war with God. Jesus grants us peace with God. Jesus gives us peace with God, then gives us the Peace that comes from God This peace can be partially interrupted by uncertainty, untruths, unforgiveness, unrighteous living, and unconfessed sin. Paul exhorts us to bring our anxious thoughts to prayer and meditate on specific things that bring peace. Peace is not the absence of difficult circumstances. Peace is the presence of God. People who have experienced trauma need to include others in the process of walking out from under the burden of carrying these fears.

God calls us out of the world, then places us back in it to be salt and light. As we hold onto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, He transforms our minds and changes us. We lose our pride and selfishness. We outdo one another with honor. We bless and love our enemies. We give to the needs of each other. None of this is possible without keeping our gaze upon Jesus.

Paul warns us not to attach ourselves too closely to earthly things. Notice who Paul weeps over… the lost. Jesus saves us from the kingdoms of earth and gives us a new citizenship in heaven through our new birth. Jesus saves us from the world and then sends us back into to it to be salt and light. This perspective of eternity helps us to stay focused on our mission and calling.

Paul speaks to Christian maturity in these scriptures. The high calling is to move forward in Christ without looking back when times are difficult. Accept all circumstances and, by any means necessary, become like Christ. Longing for the good old days may cause us to miss what God is doing now. Looking back briefly to see what God has done or learn from mistakes is healthy. Hard times or dry times are opportunities to experience the power of the resurrection.

Paul gives us a pathway to maturity: to count everything as loss compared to knowing Christ as Lord and His resurrection power. All is not wasted, but it’s all loss compared to the value of knowing Christ. To count as a loss, one must let go of fleshly securities and cling to Christ. Our worth comes from knowing Jesus, not from what we’ve accomplished or where we have failed. Knowing His resurrection power is to experience forgiveness of sin, right standing with God, and our inheritance in Christ.

People always hope but so much of what we hope for does not materialize, leading to disappointment and despair. Biblical hope is anchored in a promise made by the ultimate Promise Keeper, the God of Hope, and is better defined as a certainty, just not yet fully realized. The God of Hope wants His people to be abounding in hope (hope on steroids), having been filled with His Spirit. God allows lesser dreams and hopes to fade or even shatter in order to help us discover a higher dream: our desire for God. Having Christ in one’s life does not stop pain, disappointment, grieving or suffering. But to suffer with Him will result in being glorified with Him.

Turn to God first and pray. Believe His promises. Trust Him with your situation. The battle is not yours but God’s. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord. God is much bigger than the situation you are facing. Praise and worship God in the middle of your circumstances.

The backdrop behind the prophecies of Isaiah and Micah are destruction and darkness and/or loneliness. The backdrop of the birth of Jesus was similar to when the birth was announced. Emmanuel (God Is With Us) brings forth the glory of God and the light of Christ. There is always light to be discovered, even in dark times. Hope is a confident expectation and a certain realization that God is with us.

Paul was relieved that Epaphroditus was spared, saving Paul from grief. Understanding the nature of grief can help us better cope with loss. Grief is a natural, healthy process that enables us to recover from loss. We need to remember that it is ok to not be ok when experiencing grief. Grief is the medicine to process the loss. God promises to comfort those who mourn Unresolved grief can be crippling and life altering. Grief is halved when working within community. The pattern in psalms of lament is a good guide for grieving. Verbalize your condition and feelings to God, petition Him for help, and finish with trust and praise. The best help to give others who are grieving is your time and a listening ear.

Paul calls us to obedience and to apply humility, unity, and witness. We are to work out what God works in. We are to work out our own Salvation, not others. Grumbling can be an outward expression of selfish desires. Grumbling in light of the sovereignty of God is like stating, “God, You’re not being good to me.” We are lights of the World! Lights are used to make things evident or clear. Sometimes we need to let go and let God. Other times we need to grab God and get going!!!!

Jesus did not empty Himself of his divinity but added to Himself humanity. Humility can be a pathway to relational peace. "Accept the hurt without complaint and without fail, He will bring you through to victory and to peace." - Ray Steadman Jesus humbled himself even unto death on a cross. “The lower he stoops to save us, the higher we ought to lift him in our adoring reverence. Blessed be his name, he stoops, and stoops, and stoops, and, when he reaches our level, and becomes man, he still stoops, and stoops, and stoops lower and deeper yet.” - Charles Spurgeon His name has been placed above every name. And one day all will bow down and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

The Fall story of our original parents is lived out over and over in each of us. Not all new possibilities are temptations; but all temptations are new possibilities. Often our sin is not considered immorally evil but looks to us like a greater good. Covering-up is the natural response to shame, guilt, and knowledge of wrongdoing. When our desires rule us, we bend modesty until God turns us over to ourselves, and modesty in the form of restraint disappears. There’s tension between the desire to be loved and the desire for self-sufficiency. We pretend weaknesses do not exist and try to earn through performance. We are united in our vulnerability and exposure before God; self-sufficiency is inherently individualistic and begets isolating from others. Although guilt cannot be denied, it’s often minimized by projecting it on someone else. Blame-shifting, like shame, can be observed from early childhood on. Recognizing our participation in Adam’s sin ultimately opens us to grace, especially if we believe that God comes specifically for the sick (Mk 2:17). Being in Christ is the only way that we can ever be free of sin, He took our sin upon Himself.

Paul uses what we receive from Christ as a springboard to building unity. Competition and selfish ambition must be removed from the Body of Christ. Considering the interests of others requires participation with the Spirit. Having the same mind of Christ is essential to building unity. God grants us the mind of Christ as a gift.

A manner of life worthy of the Gospel is not something to live up to it but to live out of it. We are asked to stand together in unity working side by side to advance the Gospel. We are asked to not fear opponents of the Gospel. We are asked to suffer well for the sake of the Gospel.

Paul’s third missionary journey ended with imprisonment in Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit and a prophet both foretold that Paul would be afflicted and imprisoned if he went to Jerusalem. Paul was committed to the will of God. He did not count his own life more worthy than sharing the Gospel. Often times of hardships are just opportunities to grow and share the Gospel. Living for Christ is real life with real struggles. Where there is Gospel progress there will be resistance.

The Church in Philippi was started with a converted businesswoman, a demon-possessed slave girl, and a jailer. Wherever there is Gospel progress, there will always be resistance. Paul’s letter to the Church was about 10 years after the account in Acts as he was under house arrest in Rome. Paul shares his heart and his appreciation for the people in the body and for their partnership in the Gospel. Paul declares that what God starts, He is faithful to complete. We should remember Philippians 1:6 before we give up or judge ourselves or others.

Solomon asked for wisdom and was granted his request. Solomon started with worship by building the temple, but his taste for sinful pleasure cost him and the people of Israel. All the wisdom in the world cannot keep you from sin. Wisdom doesn’t fully take root until it is carried out in obedience. Everything hidden will be brought into the light.

Listening to understand is an act of love. Poor listening diminishes the significance of the other person. Asking questions is a great way to engage others and get to know them. Answering others’ questions empties the person of their ability to discern and make godly decisions. Jesus always engaged others to point them closer to the Father and help them to grow into His image. We should as well. Without the power of the Holy Spirit, we will not be able to overcome the selfish ways we relate to others.

God has given us access to counsel within the body of Christ. Wisdom is found when seeking others input. Good wise counsel can help protect us, recenter us, and move us into a closer relationship with Jesus. Isolation, spiritual pride, stubbornness, independence, and perfectionism are all concepts that keep us from others’ counsel. We all suffer from blind spots that can be lovingly pointed out by others. When relationships repeatedly hit unhealthy flare-ups, these are often indicators that others in the body should be invited in to help. Be careful not to seek out counsel from others that will only co-sign your desires. “Our highest purpose as human beings isn’t to try to make this life work. It’s to reflect the character of God–of our Creator, Savior and Lord–in the middle of a life that doesn’t work.” - Larry Crabb

Walking wisely, or wise living comes from knowing who you are in Christ. Right living flows from right understanding. Our salvation is no guarantee you will walk wisely and avoid landmines, hurtful decisions with terrible consequences. We are called to walk carefully. God is eternal Community: Father, Son, Holy Spirit. We are made in His image and need community. We are susceptible to counterfeit or noxious, toxic community, even on our devises. (See: The Social Dilemma on Netflix) True Community is the “called out ones” ecclesia, the church, gathered together having connected with God, who has chosen, adopted, redeemed, forgiven, accepted, assigned, revealed His will to us. True community is people from all walks of life now being fitted together into a habitation of God in the Spirit. The wisdom of God is revealed through the church, even teaching the angels. The Church is the body of Christ, He is the head, each member playing their part to grow us up to be more like Jesus. We need each other. Koinonia—fellowship can only be experienced together.

A 7th “C” regarding wisdom from God: Contends for the faith The 6 wise practices from Jude for contending for the faith: Keep watch for perversions of the true Gospel Remember the teachings and predictions of the Apostles. Build up your faith Pray in the Spirit Keep in the love of God Have mercy on those who doubt and share your faith. There are no neutral relationships.

The 6 C’s regarding wisdom from God: Comes from the Spirit Consistent with God's Word Conflicts with man’s ways Clashes with our sinful nature Challenges our faith Calls us to courage

2020 Vision for The Bride Church: That we would love well and grow into the likeness of Christ. Wisdom is relational. Wisdom from us produces disorder. Wisdom from God produces righteousness and peace. Harvests can’t happen without planting. Sew peace. Harvest righteousness.

Stop. Slow down and reflect on the way you walk. Do not be unwise, but wise. Make the best use of your time. Redeem the time. Greek: kairos – decisive moment in time; season. This is a crossroads moment in time, separating our past and propelling us into the future; a walk that brings us into a new frontier and a new future, Wisdom separates us from the world, the flesh, and the devil. The days are evil.

God is not torn between love and justice. To be truly loved, one must be truly known. God truly knows us. Love does not exist in the absence of judgement, only in the presence of it. We must see justice and love as coming together. Moralizing is making a judgement and not acting upon it. Compassion conveys a sense of passing a moral judgement but acting on it. Whenever you extend mercy, you always do it at the expense of justice. Reconciliation with God Himself, should be the reason we want to be forgiven. The trajectory of a soul that lives a self-centered life will be granted what he/she wants.

Mystery: any truth that is unknowable except by divine revelation. We are created. We are made. And therefore, we are owned. We are not our own, we are bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus! Jesus said: I know longer call you servants, but I call you friends! A price was paid for the bride. The groom goes to his father’s house to prepare a place. The bride prepares for her groom’s return. When the groom finishes the room, the father decides when it is time to return to the bride.

As Jesus has warns of the difficulty to come in the end, He prepares us with divine understanding. Parables give insight into the mysteries of His Kingdom. The parable of the sewer and of the wheat and tares give warning of false conversions versus true conversions which produce fruit. The mystery of lawlessness gives insight into the attempts of fallen humankind to solve problems. The mystery of godliness reveals us as a vessel meant to contain God himself. A transcendent power from without now living within. We were never intended to face life alone. Christians face all the same afflictions, perplexities, and struggles as non-believers, but can learn to live by God’s power within. God conditions us for the future difficulties and puts us on display to the world.

Though we would like things to return to normal, what if they get worse? Our Lord states they will in Matthew 24? Will we be ready? The picture of increasing trouble isn’t pretty: being misled, increased lawlessness, tribulation, persecution, natural love of hearts growing cold in most people, professing believers falling away. True believers who endure to the end will continue proclaiming the gospel to all nations, filled with Christ’s supernatural love. Two things are required to be one of those who do not grow cold in their love: Divine Understanding and Divine Power, revealed to believers in “the Mysteries of God.” We are trustworthy stewards. (1 Cor. 4:1-3) Christians must be informed (divine understanding) of the two opposing kingdoms and how they operate: the mysteries of the Kingdom (Matt. 13:11) and the mystery of lawlessness (2 Thess 2:7). The mystery of godliness is essentially the counteracting measure against lawlessness, which is “Christ in You, the hope of glory.” Christians must place their confidence in Christ in them—not a political figure or party—to stay on course, manifesting the fragrance of Christ.

2 Peter 3

There are 1,845 mentions in scripture concerning the second coming of Christ. For each verse that speaks about the birth of Christ, there are 8 that speak about the second coming. 21 times, Jesus said “I’m coming back.” 50 times, we are told to be ready. We are to expect Christ’s coming and believe that He is coming back. We are to be aware of false teachers twisting the scriptures to support their own passions. We are to make peace with those around us. We are to live holy and blameless lives. We are to look forward to the new heaven and new earth.

Dwell in the Word of God. Breathe it in. We need to be saved. Salvation is through Jesus Christ. Salvation brings freedom. Freedom from the wrath of God. Freedom from sin. Freedom from the law. Freedom from death. “We dwell on this side of glory—we carry about, as Paul elsewhere writes, our “outward man” which is wasting away even though our “inward man is being renewed day by day.” – J. V. Fesko We live in the already and not yet of the Kingdom of God. We are already in His glory, but not yet in the fullness of glory. Dwell in the Word of God.

We are to grow into the image of Jesus. Four things that will keep us wandering in the wilderness: Grumbling / Complaining Not submitting to God's Word and leaders Not applying faith to God's promises Lack of gratitude God places His Son and His Spirit in us to glorify Him. If we are found to be wandering, we must confess and turn. Obedience, trust, and serving all are ways to Glorify God.

We are void of life and darkened without Jesus. We are completely dependent on Jesus. No eternal perspective or eternal purpose without Jesus. Prayer is a declaration of dependence. Living in and through Christ allows us to forgive and love. Love is a sacrifice.

Putting on the armor is for the express purpose of protecting the believer from the evil day. Believers are called to stand firm and withstand. Our battle is not against each other (but it sure seems that way when watching the news or reading social media). We need to stand together... a house divided cannot stand. When we put up the shield of faith, there is more protection when linked together. Pray in the Spirit in unity for proclamation of the Gospel. We are called to humility. Pride will keep us apart. We are called to build each other up in the faith. One Body, One Spirit, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God, One Father. We should be eager to maintain what has been given: One Body. Are you one with the one another’s in our body? God judges who stands or falls. Accept the non-essentials in those around you. Honor God in all you do. Don’t look down on another believer as if they are less-than. Live in such a way as to not trip up your brother or sister.

Before we put on the armor, we must put off our old manner of life. The belt of truth…Jesus. The shoes of the Gospel... peace. The breastplate of righteousness... new heart. The shield of faith… protection. The helmet of salvation… victory over death. The sword of the Spirit... the Word of God. The armor protects us from our own self-righteous nature. The Word of God should be wielded in our own heart before we share it with others. Be careful of strong opinions they will cause division. Praying in the Spirit at all times includes praying for our brothers and sisters.

Stand in The Gospel. Stand in His Grace. Stand Firm in Faith. Stand in Freedom. Stand in Unity. Stand Firm in The Lord.

Jesus died to redeem men back to God, creating one Body. We are now identified as Brothers and Sisters. Christ is the head of the body and God is Father. The Scriptures use the word 'nations,' which means ethnos, people, groups. The blood of Christ reconciles all ethnos who believe to God and their fellow brothers and sisters. When we put off the old man we should put off partiality, prejudice, and racism. We put on love.

The Significance of Celebrating Pentecost (literally means 50) Sunday is to remember our calling to spread the Gospel. The Power of The Spirit is available to all believers. Luke 24:49 - "And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high." When the Holy Spirit descends on a believer it usually a "suddenly" and often times we have to wait. We must have need of the Spirit to experience the saving power. 2 Corinthians 12:9 - "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." We ask for The Spirit. Mark 11:9-13 - "And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

The story of Onesimus is also our story — the story of Jesus transforming us from useless to useful, from wandering runaways to beloved brothers and sisters. When Onesimus becomes born again Paul regards him no longer as a slave but a brother. Paul's letter to Philemon is the only epistle he writes that does not include the death burial and resurrection, but it is the application of the Gospel. We are call to be ministers of Reconciliation. Cast a vision for a new believer and don’t hold them to their past.

The Gospel is the revealed power of God. The Gospel was preached to believers over and over by Paul and Peter in their letters. The Gospel preached to yourself produces life. The healing of the Paralytic contains the Death Burial and resurrection. We stand in the message of the Gospel and find Grace for the day.

God commands us to honor our Parents. Honor is given and is not earned. Honor ascribes value to a person and glorifies God in the process. Honoring others is the only place in scripture where we are given permission to compete with others (see Romans 12:10). Four ways to honor your Mother: - Forgiveness: Forgive them of any and all wrongdoing. - Spending time together. Ask them to tell you their story. - Esteem them. Let them know what they have sewn into you that is good. - Take care of them when they are old.

Jesus wanted His followers to have rock solid certainty to face whatever the future held There is the certainty of His risen Life; by 10 appearances and many convincing proofs over 40 days. There is the Certainty of who He is; the promised Messiah, the very Son of God and only Savior, the Good Shepherd who lays His life down for His sheep. There is the Certainty of the Provision; the forgiveness of sin By God and eternal life with God by believing, repenting and receiving Jesus. The Certainty of His unseen, but very real ongoing Presence. Jesus was conditioning His followers with the last 5 appearances over 39 days; to walk by faith, not by sight. The Certainty of the Lord’s desire and ability to use us despite our failures. Jesus forgives Peter and then with confrontational love accepts Peter’s feeble lesser love and commissions him despite his failure. The Certainty that the Risen Christ who stood before them would soon be within them; the greatest certainty of all, the eternal intimacy of us in Christ and Christ in us, just as Jesus was in His Father and He is in His Son. The certainty of Jesus conditioning us as He did them; Jesus is preparing us for perhaps a great awakening or even His soon return, which should motivate us to avail ourselves for His mission, purifying ourselves.

God is speaking to you. He wants you to know that you are loved. It’s not just some kind of superficial love that is here today and gone tomorrow. He loves you with the deepest love that endures through everything.

We all have in our DNA to want, to pursue that which will satisfy, This is a universal time throughout the World a defining moment if you will. To Pause, to reflect, to re-calibrate, to rest to refocus. When we hit a crisis and we begin to seek God let us seek him for who he is and not just what we want. Let us ask him what are you doing in me more than change the circumstances around me. Don’t miss an opportunity to grow and change or else you may have to go around the mountain again. Repent from drinking water that cannot quench your thirst. If what you pursue is empty, meaningless, valueless, worthless, you become just like what you pursue. It is necessary to remove the noise in order to be still and know.

Hopelessness can lead to a troubled heart (uncertain is the translation from Greek) laziness, depression and even premature death. The Believers hope is not based on wishful thinking but our hope is resting on the Resurrection of Jesus. Hope is an Anchor for our Soul to keep us steady in troubled waters. When Jesus rose he made good on his prophetic promises. The resurrection solidifies our Salvation, Defeats the Devil, Hell and the Grave. Hope is confident assurance and certain expectation.

Jesus came to suffer and die. His Kingdom is upside down to The Worlds Kingdom, His Kingdom is not of this world. This King came as a suffering Servant not a King to be crowned. God always uses what appears in our eyes to be bad and turns it into good. There is always an upside to down.

Unexpected Crisis / Trials expose our Idols. These include, a Routine, Comfort, Control, Image, Financial Security, Health. Denying ourselves means surrendering our will and our control and following another. Jesus does not come to arrange my circumstances the way I want them to be, but he comes to arrange my circumstances to change the inside of my life the way God wants it to be. Jesus denied himself as well as his equality with God and humbled himself all the way to The Cross. On the way to Golgotha Simon Had to let go of: “I didn’t sign up for this,” “I came for Passover not a crucifixion” and “What are people thinking of me?”

Jesus endured the Cross and His mission was accomplished under the weight of a trial. Trials are the tool that God uses to make us more like Christ. When Trials come, they often identify what we use to use for security. The 'What Ifs' can cause either Fear or Faith. The Unknown is where we discover our Need for God.

Jesus was our substitutionary atonement. He took our sin, judgement and penalty. We have been given His righteous standing before the Father. He sits on the right hand of the Father interceding for our past present and future sins. Salvation in Christ should bring not only eternal security but security in these uncertain times.

The Cross was foreshadowed and foretold of in the old Testament. The Cross was the only way for Sin to be atoned for by a Holy God. The Cross is foolishness to those who are not saved. The Cross connects the old covenant to the New covenant. The Cross has made a way for us to be saved.

We were created by God to have relationship with him. Sin will lead us into fear and then hiding. The fallen man often finds himself hiding behind Titles, Relationships, Work, Money, Addictions, and Performing. God has given us access to freedom from guilt and shame through Jesus. God’s grace allows us to be open and honest. In Christ we are Holy, Blameless, and Righteous. No need to hide when we are hidden in Christ.

When we focus on something, we lose focus on other things. Posture portrays attitude. Humility is seeing God as He is. – Louie Giglio Jesus modeled perfect humility for us. Biblical worship comes from a posture of humility. Harold Best describes worship as a continuous outpouring. We are not created to worship God. That implies that God is somehow incomplete and needs our worship in order to be complete. Neither are we created for worship, because that would suggest that we can choose to worship or not. Instead, we are created as worshippers Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears build on that to say, “…we are continually giving ourselves away or pouring ourselves out for a person, cause, experience, achievement, or status.” Tim Keller describes sin as the “refusal to find your deepest identity in your relationship and service to God… Most people think of sin primarily as ‘breaking divine rules,’ but… the very first of the Ten Commandments is to ‘have no other gods before me.’ So according to the Bible, the primary way to define sin is not just the doing of bad things, but the making of good things into ultimate things. It is seeking to establish a sense of self by making something else more central to your significance, purpose, and happiness than your relationship to God.” Eventually, anything that we put in place of God will crumble under the weight of being god to us.

A heart of thanksgiving and gratitude even in the midst of tough things. An optimistic Trust in the Sovereign Lordship of the Christ who leads us always in His Triumph. A surrendered, offered up life for another (see Ephesians 5:1-2) and from the Servant Songs we saw the fragrance of Christ is. A heart tuned to the Father, and ear inclined to Him to learn. A desire to speak life to the weary, not crush them. An obedience response to the Father’s direction.

Time alone with God helps us to remember him the rest of the day. To see him in the mundane and the mess. Stewardship of our time is often overlooked. We are prone to distraction. Quietness allows us to hear from God. Jesus purposed in His heart to spend time alone with The Father. Busy people don’t love well, Jesus was never to busy to spend time with the Father. Seek him first, abide in him, be planted by the water. And you will prosper. Cultivate a heart that longs to connect personally with God.

Jesus was sent by the Father and He sends us. He sends us with his power. Boldness comes by His power and by believing in what we are sharing. Witnessing, Evangelizing and making Disciples flow from being a Disciple. Jesus Saves, we don’t but we have been entrusted with the message of Reconciliation. Our ministry is relational, it is not impersonal nor is it completion.

We have been given the cure for sin and death. How will the unsaved hear unless they are told. Let us not forget our true calling. To make disciples, “Fishers of Men.” Fear of failure or fear of man will keep us from sharing our faith. Placing to much responsibility on self and not on The Lord will cause us to shrink back from witnessing. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, it is not enough just to display love, we must speak the Gospel. Jesus came to save sinners, If He lives in us, we should have the same motivation and purpose. Let us co-labor to seek and save the lost. Pray for the next 30 days for The Holy Spirit to give you a heart for the lost.

Jesus came to serve not to be served. God's work in us moves us to work for him. If we are emptied He will fill us for more. If we are idle we become more idle. God has put us providentially where we can be used. If we follow Jesus example we will be blessed.

Jesus prayed alone, in public, before meals, before healing, after healing, before important decisions, he prayed to follow The Will, He prayed for us, He also taught us to pray. Three petitions for God: God’s Name, God's Will, and God's Kingdom in the Lord's Prayer. Then three more for us: Our bread, Forgiveness, and Temptations. When a prayer seems to go unnoticed or unanswered this should move us further into relationship with Jesus. We should ultimately be developing a relationship with The Lord through prayer. Notice that Jesus' prayer in the garden seemed to go unanswered but he was submitting to His Father's will.

Discouragement can lead to isolation, frustration, disbelief, and depression. We were designed by God to carry each other’s burdens, to be encouraged and to encourage. When our comfort from The Lord comes, we are being prepared to use that same comfort to help others. Be careful whose voice you are listening to. Our trials help us to grow into the image of Christ.

God desires us to change into him image, therefor resolving to change in 2020 is good and necessary. Change requires Godly grief not worldly sorrow (repentance). Making sure we are respectable of His will is primary. Asking for a word to carry you through the tough times will encourage and strengthen you in The Lord. Casting vision helps you to focus on Jesus the author and perfecter of your Faith. Beware of tunnel vision, what you idolize may cause you to demonize.