The Proven Power of the Cross

Main Thought:

The cross is perhaps the most prominent symbol of Christianity. It’s image is iconic to us today. It was just as iconic in ancient times. When a cross was visible, death was inevitable and unfortunately, it was too well known. Jesus was far from the only person who would perish on a cross. As a matter of fact, thousands upon thousands of others perished in the same way. The process of crucifixion would be perfected by the Romans and was considered to be one of the most brutal and shameful ways to die. So if it was so common, what made Jesus death on the cross different from the thousands of others who died the same way? The answer is found in Jesus purpose. His death was part of a divine plan to save humanity. When Jesus died on the cross, supernatural power needed to be released. The bible says that the earth shook, rocks split, tombs broke open and the curtain of the temple was torn from top to bottom! That’s some serious power! But it didn’t stop there. The power of the cross continued when Jesus rose from the dead on the third day. His resurrected life is proof that this power is unceasing. Jesus death and resurrection comes with a purpose. That we would experience his life changing power, that our changed lives would reveal God’s message, and His power would manifest among others.

Main Texts:

5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. - Matthew 28:5-8

9 When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it.

12 Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13 These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either.14 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. 20 Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it. - Mark 16:9

18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. - 1 Corinthians 1:18

Discussion Questions:

1. What stands out to you the most from the main thought or the main texts?

2. Have you experienced the power of Jesus? Briefly share one specific area of your life that His power has brought a significant change.

3. Our changed lives are meant to be proof of God’s continuous power. Do you think others recognize God’s work in your life? In what ways can you reveal more of God to others?

Responses of the Humble King

Main Thought

Betrayal. An abandonment or violation of trust by someone close to you. A husband betrayed by his wife. An employee passed over for a promotion by an employer who had promised it. A secret between friends brought to light for all to see. A promise made to a child so easily broken by a parent. Jesus experienced betrayal in a much more intense way in by Judas, by his disciples and the crowds of people who were thought to be loyal to him. We often respond to betrayal with hurt, anger or by dwelling on the circumstances. Jesus responded differently. Through his example, we have a model of how to handle situations of betrayal should they come our way.

Main Passages

 3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. - Isaiah 53:3-7

47 While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.” 49 And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed him. 50 Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” Then they came up and laid hands on Jesus and seized him. 51 And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant[g] of the high priest and cut off his ear. 52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?” 55 At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. 56 But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left him and fled. - Matthew 26:47-56

Discussion Questions

1. What do you think of or what feeling arise when you hear the word betrayal?

2. Have you or someone you love ever experienced some sort of betrayal? If you feel comfortable, briefly describe what happened and the initial response to the situation

3. How will Jesus’ responses to betrayal help you handle similar situations of your own?

Triumphal Entry

Main thought

A red carpet is traditionally used to mark the route taken by VIP’s like heads of state, celebrities or other guests of honor as they arrive at formal events. The event is usually accompanied by a lot of fanfare and attention. Jesus experienced this type of treatment a week before his death and resurrection as he entered Jerusalem on a donkey. The purpose of Jesus entry into Jerusalem was  to publicly proclaim that he was the king and messiah prophesied about in the Old Testament. The multitudes of people hailed him as their king laying their garments down along the path as he entered (Their version of a red carpet). Unfortunately, their praise was short lived when Jesus failed to meet their expectations. The people wanted a king to free them from Roman oppression but Jesus came for very different reasons. Jesus kingdom is not one of military might, but a kingdom of servanthood. Jesus doesn’t rule by force, but by love, grace, mercy and sacrifice. Jesus wants to make a triumphal entry into our hearts so that, as we follow him, we can exhibit those same qualities so that the world can see the true king living and reigning in triumph within us. 

Main Texts

8 And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. 9 And those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! 10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest!” 11 And he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple. And when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. - Mark 11:8-11

The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man - Acts 17:24

Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are. - 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you from the main thought and texts from above?

2. Have you invited Jesus to rule and reign in your life? If so, what does your life tell others about Jesus living in you?

3. What areas of your life need the rulership and lordship of Jesus?

Going Back to Go Forward

Main Thought

In life, sometimes we find ourselves going the wrong direction. Maybe you made a bad decision or followed some bad advice. Maybe it wasn’t your fault and you’re in a bad situation because of somebody else’s choices and now you’re off course. The good news is you’re not stuck!. You can change course by making a decision to follow God. It starts with something called “repentance” which literally means to turn or change direction. But Once we change direction we must continue walking in that direction by living a life of repentance. If we do this we will arrive at the destination God intended for us. 

Main Passages:

12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned— 13 for sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. 14 Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come. 15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. 16 And the free gift is not like the result of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brought justification. 17 For if, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. 18 Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. 19 For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. 20 Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, - Romans 5:12-20                                      

“And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. 2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. - Deuteronomy 28:1-2

15 “But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord your God or be careful to do all his commandments and his statutes that I command you today, then all these curses shall come upon you and overtake you. Deuteronomy 28:15

13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”— 14 so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith. - Galations 3:13-14

Discussion Questions:

1. What stands out to you from the main thought or passages above?

2. Describe one or two positive actions or attitudes that you feel you inherited from your parents. If you feel comfortable, discuss any negative ones.

3. Do you feel like your life is going in the right direction? Is there an area of your life that you feel is stuck or going in circles? If so, is there someone you trust that you can speak to for help?

Don't Quit, Find your Grit

Main Thought

You may not want to hear this but all christians suffer. Either you have, you are, or you will. But God doesn’t randomly allow us to experience tough seasons. Sometimes God leads us to them and through them because he has a purpose in them. Most of us are familiar with the term, IQ or Intelligence Quotient. It indicates a person’s mental ability. A less familiar term is something called AQ or Adversity Quotient. AQ measures how effectively one responds to adversity and their ability to continue to work through it. When it comes to success in life, scientists and psychologists agree that AQ is more important than IQ. A more simple description of AQ would be GRIT, which is the ability to persevere over a long period of time without giving up. You won’t find the word grit in the Bible. But God’s word describes grit in other ways like, endurance and steadfastness. The bible informs us that “in this world there will be trouble” (John 16:33). Therefore, we need grit to make it through the tough seasons of life. The good news is grit can be developed. But grit alone is not enough. We also need God’s grace which is enough when grit runs out. When we encounter difficult times the Bible encourages us to endure and persevere because there is a reward which comes in the form of changed lives. First yours and eventually others.

Main Passages:

You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, 2 and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. 3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. 5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. 7 Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.  8 Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, 9 for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
- 2 Timothy 2:1-10

Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
- 2 Timothy 2:1-10

9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
- Galations 6:9

38 Then he (Jesus) said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” 39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”
- Matthew 26:38-39

Discussion Questions:

1. On a scale of 1-5, when you experience difficult times, what would you say is your “GRIT” level? (1 = You give up easily and 5 = You’re the king of the grind) Briefly explain your answer. 

2. During difficult times, do you typically rely on your own effort or do you typically ask God for help? Why?

3. How will this week’s topic change the way approach difficult seasons of life moving forward?

We Need Spiritual Formation

Main Thought

Disciples are people who follow God, fish for people (by sharing their faith in Jesus), and fellowship with other believers. There are great things that we need to do. But are they enough to secure a long-lasting relationship with God, healthy relationships with others, or a life of service in His Kingdom? No. We need spiritual formation! Spiritual formation is the process by which God transforms us internally. The goal of spiritual formation is to help us love Jesus with all we have, and to look like Him in all areas of our “inner being.” Our inner being includes our emotional health, mental health, our family history and hurts, our sin, and our character development. It’s every part of us that we can’t see - and God wants to use every situation as a tool for spiritual formation. Formation begins when we ask, “Who am I becoming?” Good actions flow from us naturally when good change is happening inside us.

Main Passages

19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him.

- Matthew 4:19

30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’

- Mark 12:30

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

- Romans 8:28-29

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and/or Passages above?

2. What part of your “inner being” needs the most growth, or spiritual formation, right now?

3. In this season of your life, how is God calling you to become more like Jesus? Who are you becoming?

Wrestling for Change

Main Thought

Jacob was a known deceiver. He even lied to his family in order to get what he wanted. As a result, he eventually needed to wrestled with life - which included situations that he helped create. He wrestled with himself internally. His spirit and emotions faced moments of inner turmoil like ours do. But Jacob also wrestled with the Divine and encountered God. That’s when he finally faced the truth. God touched Jacob’s hip, injuring him and caused him to walk differently. Then, God gave Jacob a new name. He was recognized as a new person.

Change starts to happen inside us when we admit the truth about ourselves. We allow God into the dark and difficult parts of our lives. This can include our emotions, our character flaws, or the lies we’ve come to believe about ourselves. It can hurt, but that’s when God can touch us and change us. Then we’ll begin to discover the incredible things God wants to do in us and through us. We can become new too.

Main Passages

6 And the messengers returned to Jacob, saying, “We came to your brother Esau, and he is coming to meet you, and there are four hundred men with him.” 7 Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed…

- Genesis 32:6-7

24 And Jacob was left alone. And a man wrestled with him until the breaking of the day. 25 When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob's hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. 26 Then he said, “Let me go, for the day has broken.” But Jacob said, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” 27 And he said to him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Jacob.”

- Genesis 32:24-27

28 Then he said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.” 29 Then Jacob asked him, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And there he blessed him. 30 So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, “For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered.” 31 The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his hip

- Genesis 32:28-31

Discussion Questions

1. Is there a situation or circumstance that you’re wrestling right now?

2. Have you wrestled with your own spirit and/or emotions recently? If so, why?

3. What difficult truth have you discovered about yourself in the situations you mentioned? How might God be trying to help you change and grow?

Life Group H.E.A.R. Journal: Genesis 2

27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

- Genesis 1:27-28

An easy, memorable way to learn how to read and process the Bible is through the H.E.A.R. journaling method. This process helps us read God’s Word with the goal of understanding it and applying it to our lives. The letters stand for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. 

• Highlight a scripture: Pick one verse (or pick a set of connected or related verses) from Ephesians 1. Highlight this verse or write down the Book, chapter, and verse number.

• Explain the context: By asking some simple questions with the help of God’s Spirit, we can understand the meaning of a passage or verse. The following questions can help us understand the context of a passage: What’s happening in the story? Why was this written, and to whom? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? What does God intend to communicate through this text? 

• Apply it to your life: Application is the heart of the process! Answering a series of questions can help us uncover the meaning of these verses to us on a personal level. What is God saying to me? How can this help me? What does this mean today? How would applying this look in my life?

• Respond with action: This is the last part of the H.E.A.R. Journal. Your response to the passage may take on many forms. You may write a call to action. You can describe how you’ll be different because of what God said to you through His Word. You may indicate what you’re going to do because of what you have learned. You can even respond by writing out a prayer to God.

This week, we’ll read the Main Text from Pastor Roland’s sermon last week: Genesis 2:15-25. We’ll write our responses and share them with our group. (If you already journal some other way, feel free to do that.) Pay special to the Apply and Respond steps; that’s where God’s Word comes to life! If you get stuck, try using these questions to help you think about how this passage relates to Pastor Roland’s sermon. Answering these questions might be helpful, but it’s optional.

• Do these scriptures remind you of part of last Sunday’s sermon? 

• What does this passage teach about marriage?

• What does this passage teach about being single, preparing for a relationship, or being in a relationship?

Let’s encourage each other in God’s Word!

When Love Falls Short

Main Thought

Have you ever run out of something you need? Maybe you’ve run out of something like time, gas, or money. It’s tough to need something and not have enough. This happens with love too. There is an endless demand to love people, but we don’t have an endless supply of love. When love falls short, it produces problems like gossip, bitterness, or anger. What do we do when our ability to love falls short? We go to God! God’s “love supply” is endless. We can go to God as our shelter when we’re overwhelmed, when we’ve been hurt, or when we make mistakes. Once we’ve experienced God’s love, we’re better equipped to extend God’s love. God’s love becomes our standard and our source as we love others.

Main Passages

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

- Ephesians 3:17-19

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

- Ephesians 4:1-3

29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

- Ephesians 4:29-32

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Have you felt short on love over the past week or two? What exposed your lack of love?

3. What do you think it means for God’s love to be our shelter or source? How will you tap into that?

Mixed and Fixed Messages

Main Thought

We’ve seen and heard mixed messages about marriage. They come from places like movies, music, and the lives of other people. These mixed messages produce mixed results. God wants to fix the marriage message! 

The Bible teaches us that marriage is meant to mirror the “Gospel,” or the good news about Jesus. If we can understand the love of Christ for us, and how He relates to us, then we’ll understand God’s desire for marriages. What does the Gospel teach us about the love of Christ? Jesus rejected sin. He remained committed to His love for God and us. His sacrificial love brought Him to the Cross, where He died in our place for our sin. His sacrifice created a covenant with us. (In the Bible, a “covenant” is an unconditional promise - often motivated by what one gives rather than by what one receives.) His love sanctifies us, cleansing our character, as we become more and more like Him.

These elements of the Gospel message create a lens by which we can view marriage more clearly. Marriage is meant to be committed and exclusive. It’s founded on sacrificial love, which informs our motives and actions even when passionate emotions fade. Marriage is meant to be a covenant. And marriage should cleanse us. In marriage, we’re meant to help one another become the best possible versions of ourselves. This beautiful vision of Marriage becomes reality when it reflects the love of Jesus Christ, revealed in the Gospel. That’s how the marriage message can be fixed.

Main Passages

15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

- Ephesians 5:15-17

25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.

- Ephesians 5:25-32

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in last week’s sermon, the Main Thought, or the Main Passages above?

2. What’s one or two things that created “mixed messages” regarding love or marriage for you? It could be the media, the lives of people you know, etc.

3. How does the Gospel help you understand marriage more clearly?

God's Purpose for Marriage

Main Thought

Genesis 1 poetically describes the creation of the world. In Genesis 1, God creates light. He creates the earth. He creates humanity. Then, alongside these other incredible things, God creates marriage. God’s purposes for marriage can be viewed simply yet are incredibly profound. His purpose includes reflection. Marriage is meant to mirror God and His Kingdom. God the Father wants us to be united in heart and purpose, like He is with the Son and the Holy Spirit. God’s purpose for marriage includes replication and multiplication. God’s purpose for marriage also includes rulership. Through marriage, God wants to empower us to act on His behalf in the world.

Main Passage

​​26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. 28 And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”

- Genesis 1:26-28 ESV

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Main Passage above?

2. Do you think our society or culture believes that marriage has a purpose? If so, what does that purpose include?

3. How can marriage reflect God and His Kingdom?

You Can't Dispute the Fruit

Main Thought

Jesus taught in parables. Parables are statements or stories that use tools, like comparisons and analogies, to teach spiritual meaning. In one of these parables, Jesus compared Himself to a grape vine and His followers to branches that come from it. We can learn a lot from this simple idea! The first is that we’re dependent on God’s Spirit for spiritual life, growth, and progress. Everything comes from Him! Healthy fruit comes from healthy trees; healthy spiritual fruit comes from healthy Christians. When things like love, joy and peace come from us - and when people are blessed by us - it reveals that something good is happening in us! When things like bitterness, anger, and cynicism come from us, it reveals negative things happening in our souls. The fruit we bear is always visible. It’s a reliable way to gauge our spiritual health. Good, spiritual fruit increases in our lives over time as we abide in God. This fruit exists for the benefit of others and for the glory of God.

Main Passages

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 

- John 15:1-3

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 

- John 15:4-6

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

- John 15:7-11

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Might there be bad or negative spiritual “fruit” coming out of your life? Why might that be happening? What can you do to address that?

3. What good, spiritual “fruit” has come from your life recently? Why do you think that’s happening? Continue to honor God and do things that contribute to good fruit!

Check Yo Self

Main Thought

Sometimes, the promises of God come with a premise. A condition. Jesus made three conditional promises in John 8: that we’d be his disciples, that we’d know the truth, and that the truth would set us free. What do we need to be set free from? As humans, our “default setting” is habitual sin. Sin is any thought or action that exalts self, damaging relationships with God or others in the process. Sin attempts to meet legitimate needs (like love, comfort, control and more) in illegitimate fashion. Sin overpromises and underdelivers. We eventually find ourselves unsatisfied, and increasingly distant from God and others . Yet we continue in sin as if we’re enslaved by it. It’s a painful cycle and a painful truth. But truth in God brings freedom.

Jesus wants to set us free from slavery to sin! He’ll fulfill the three promises in John 8 if we abide in him. Then, we’ll learn what it means to be free in Jesus. Instead of being enslaved by habitual sin, we are free to do things that honor God. Things that help us grow in relationship with God and others. Things that bring lasting satisfaction and eternal impact. We can experience this freedom in Jesus when we abide in him.

Main Passages

31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 They answered him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, ‘You will become free’?” 34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. 35 The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

- John 8:31-32

34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.

- John 8:34

16 Do you not know that the one to whom you present yourselves as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of that same one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? 17 But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were entrusted, 18 and after being freed from sin, you became slaves to righteousness. - Romans 6:16-18 (NASB)

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Have you ever felt distant from God or from people as a result of your sin (a thought or action in which you were wrong)? Share what happened if you’re able and willing.

3. What do you think it means to abide in God? What are you doing, or what can you do, to abide in God more?

Staple Foods

Main Thought

Everyone depends on something. This is obvious in a physical sense. We all eat food and drink water, right? But we depend on things spiritually and emotionally too! We can depend on our possessions, on other people, or even on ourselves. The things we depend on might reveal what we’re desperate for. (For example, we can depend on our possessions as a means to find the approval we’re desperate for.) Unfortunately, our desperate searches can result in disappointment when we discover that the things we want are temporary. They’re fleeting and they fall apart. 

But God wants to meet our greatest needs through the “Bread of Life,” Jesus Christ! Bread is a “staple food.” Different cultures have depended on it for thousands of years. It’s also a versatile food. It’s been used in and with more dishes than anyone can imagine. We can depend on Jesus just like a staple food. He’s also versatile enough to provide for any of our needs!

So how do we “eat” this Bread of Life? We need to participate actively. We sit down and engage Jesus through His Word and prayer, just like we sit down for a meal. We meditate and reflect on what He’s teaching us throughout the day. We take everything He reveals about Himself - His will, His Character, His power - and become like Him. “You are what you eat,” after all! As we deepen our dependence on God, we’ll discover that He doesn’t disappoint. Jesus is the Bread of Life, a staple food in our spiritual lives.

Main Passage

48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.

- John 6:48-51

67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69 and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”

- John 6:66-69

Discussion Questions

1. Do you depend on anything to help you spiritually and emotionally, aside from God?

2. Why do you depend on that thing? Do you think it might reveal something that you’re desperate for?

3. How can you “eat the Bread of Life,” and deepen your dependence on God?

When in Doubt

Main Thought

Doubts are inevitable in a world that’s been damaged by sin. Sometimes, we might even doubt that we’ve been saved and changed by Jesus, or that we’ll spend eternity with God. What do we do in the face of such scary doubts? The answer has less to do with us and more to do with Christ. Jesus has the ability to give us life, because He’s the Source of Life! Christians have witnessed and experienced what it means to find life in Jesus. The life we find in Him now is a sign of eternal life to come. Through His resurrection, Jesus also proved that He is God’s Son and has authority to judge. These things lead us to acknowledge Christ - to believe in Him and behave like Him - more and more over time. As our acknowledgement of Christ grows, our assurance in Christ grows too. We become more confident of our salvation as we walk with Him. Eventually, this confidence becomes bigger and more resilient than our doubts. We can live without fearing death or judgement because of Jesus.

Main Passages

5 One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” 7 The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” 9 And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.

- John 5:8-9

20 For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing. And greater works than these will he show him, so that you may marvel. 21 For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will. 22 For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son 23 that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.

- John 5:20-24

Discussion Questions

1. Have you ever doubted that you’ve been saved by Jesus, or that you’ll spend eternity with God? If so, did something trigger your doubt?

2. Has your assurance (or confidence) in God grown over time? If it did, what contributed to that growth?

3. How can you acknowledge (or honor) Jesus a little more in this season of your life? (Helpful hints: maybe you can grow in your belief through experience or study. Perhaps you can alter some behavior to become more like Jesus.)

To Know the Word

Main Thought

The first chapter of the Gospel of John famously refers to Jesus as “the Word of God.” Why is this title used to describe Jesus? Words take things that are hidden inside us (like our thoughts, our emotions, our will, and even our character) and make them known. Words allow us to know one another more fully. Jesus is called “the Word of God” because He reveals things that were hidden about God. Jesus reveals God’s thoughts, His heart, His will, His feelings, and so much more. But we don’t have the benefit of seeing Jesus in person, or speaking to him face-to-face! Instead, we can know God through His written Word, the Bible. The Bible teaches us about God’s grace: His love and favor that we could never earn on our own. The Bible also teaches us the truth about God. Because God is full of grace AND truth in equal measure, we can come to Him with nothing hidden.

Main Passage

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it… 

- John 1:1-4, NIV

9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. 

- John 1:9-13, NIV

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

- John 1:14-17, NIV

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and/or Main Passages above?

2. What’s one thing you learned about God from the Bible that had a major impact on you?

3. What’s one thing you can do to know God a little more in 2022?

The Day After Christmas

Main Thought

Christmas is a happy time and a welcome “conclusion” to a busy year and an even busier holiday season. After all the parties and shopping, we just want to take a moment to…. Relax. After all the gifts are opened and the space underneath the tree is empty, what’s next? What happens after Christmas is one of the most important part of our Christianity. The message of Christmas isn’t just for December! It’s a perpetual message meant to be shared throughout the year. What will you do with the timeless message of Jesus coming to earth? There are three main things we can do:

Ponder: Reflect the meaning of the event and the gift.

Praise: Celebrate the gift.

Proclaim - Celebrate the giver and share Him with others.

Main Passage

5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

- Isaiah 53:5-6

17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Luke 2:17-20

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Which of the three main responses to Christmas (listed above) do you do most naturally?

3. Which of the three main responses to Christmas (listed above) can you be more intentional about doing?

Christmas - It's Time!

Main Thought

Ask any parent and they will tell you that they are very familiar with the phrase: “It’s time!” After nine months of carrying a baby in the womb, there’s a moment when a mother’s body gives the signal that a baby is about to arrive and there’s nothing you can do to stop it! In the book of Isaiah, the prophet spoke of a Messiah that would come to save God’s people. This good news brought hope and expectation, but the Jewish people had to wait a while. Finally, almost 1800 years later, it was time! God fulfilled Isaiah’s prophesy and executed His plan to save the world by sending Immanuel (God with us). It’s Christmas; it’s time to reflect on Jesus - who came to be with you.  Let’s make it about God. It’s not about presents; it’s about God’s presence. God wants to be present in each of our individual lives.

Main Passages

14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. 

- Isaiah 7:14

18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. 

- Matthew 1:23

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

- Hebrews 4:15

Discussion Questions

1. At Christmas, we remember that God sent His Son Jesus to be born and live as a Man. What can the Christmas story teach us about God?

2. What are you doing, or what can you do, to make sure God is present in your holiday celebrations this year?

3. Is God present in your life this holiday season? If so, how?

Ready for Lights

Main Thought

Most of us have endured difficult circumstances over the past two years. You might have faced one hard thing after another, or dealt with multiple difficulties at the same time. Distress can rule our days until we find ourselves in a dark place. But God wants to be with us! He wants to bring light into the darkness of our lives. He can be our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. God’s light shines brightest when we allow Him to reign. God reigns when He’s our first priority; when He calls the shots; when He is Lord. Does God reign in your life?

Main Passages

21 They will pass through the land, greatly distressed and hungry. And when they are hungry, they will be enraged and will speak contemptuously against their king and their God, and turn their faces upward. 22 And they will look to the earth, but behold, distress and darkness, the gloom of anguish. And they will be thrust into thick darkness.

2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.

- Isaiah 8:21-22; 9:2

14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

- Isaiah 7:14

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

- Isaiah 9:6-7

Discussion Questions

1. Does God reign in your internal world: your heart, emotions, thoughts, attitudes, etc.? Why or why not? 

2. Does God reign in your external world: your habits, your time, your schedule, etc.? Why or why not?

3. What practical adjustment can you make to allow God to increase his reign in your life?

The "Altared" Dreams of Joseph

Main Thought

Joseph, the eventual husband of Mary and adopted father of Christ, was a man who had dreams too. The Greek word for his profession, often translated as “carpenter,” would have been more in line with what we call an architect or a general contractor. He would have worked for years to pay a high “bride price” before becoming betrothed to Mary. Then, his betrothed became pregnant! Who would have believed that it was actually an act of God? Joseph was righteous and wanted to send Mary away quietly. But God came to Joseph in a dream and made it clear that His plans were different. Instead of holding onto his goals and plans, Joseph submitted to God and obeyed Him. This obedience likely cost him his reputation; it would have been costly financially, and it cost them their comfort. But Joseph received the great privilege of being involved in God’s mission to save the world through Jesus. If we are willing to “altar” our dreams - place them on a metaphorical altar to God, changing (or altering) our plans to align with God’s purpose - then we’ll eventually find that God’s plans for us are better than our wildest dreams for ourselves.

Main Passages

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was betrothed to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin shall be with child and shall bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.

- Matthew 1:18-25

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passage above?

2. Pastor Brett said: “You need to live long enough to look back and thank God for saying ‘no’ to some things.” Can you look back at your life and thank God for saying “no” to any of your prayers or desires? Why?

3. What dream or plan do you need to offer to God, even if He changes it? What attitude or action step can you take practically as you do this?