Click on the corresponding date to download the Sermon Guide for our Current Series. These resources are designed to accompany the weekly sermon. Previous available sermon guides can be found by clicking resources under the sermon audio on the Messages page . Our online services are delayed one week, so check the week prior.
SERMON GUIDES
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This is the one that Pastor Frank referred to the most - Vine of David Haggadah
Here is a free PDF of one that is very good: Broken for You
And one more, also free in pdf form: Messiah in the Passover
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Sermon Guide
April 20, 2024: Luke 24:13-48
What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus often shows up in unexpected ways and to unexpected people.
- The crucifixion wasn't a failure, but the center of God's plan for redemption.
- The resurrection offers an invitation to a new beginning and walking in newness of life.
Discussion Questions:
- Sometimes we get "stuck on Saturday." What does this mean, and how might it apply to our lives today? Sunday’s Coming
- How did Jesus reveal himself to the disciples on the road to Emmaus? Why do you think He chose this approach?
- The sermon states, "These two were not doubting Jesus' power at all. But they were upset that Jesus didn't meet their expectations." How do we sometimes impose our own expectations on God? What are the dangers of this?
- Jesus explained how the Old Testament pointed to Him. How does understanding the broader biblical narrative enhance our faith?
- What was significant about Jesus showing His scars when breaking bread? How does this relate to our understanding of the resurrection?
- The sermon emphasizes that Jesus didn't come to offer temporary solutions but to address our "permanent problem." What is this problem, and how does the gospel address it?
- How does the reality of the resurrection change the way we live our daily lives?
Practical Applications:
- Scripture Study: Spend time this week reading Old Testament passages that point to Jesus. Reflect on how they deepen your understanding of God's plan. OT Passages that Point to Jesus
- Expectation Check: Identify any expectations you might be placing on God that aren't aligned with His character or promises. Pray for guidance in adjusting these expectations.
- Newness of Life: Choose one area of your life where you feel "stuck." What would it look like to walk in "newness of life" in this area? Make a plan to take one step in that direction this week.
- Share Your Story: Practice telling someone about how Jesus has brought new life to you, just as the disciples on the road to Emmaus shared their experience.
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Sermon Guide
April 27, 2024: 2 John
What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
What's something "new" you've been excited about recently? How long did that excitement last?
Key Takeaways:
- John emphasizes the importance of anchoring in established truth rather than seeking new, exciting revelations.
- True biblical knowledge should lead to worship and surrender, not just intellectual pursuit.
- Truth and love are inseparable in Christian life and practice.
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think John repeatedly emphasizes "walking in truth and love" throughout his letters?
- The pastor mentions people chasing "the next big thing" in Christianity. Have you ever experienced or witnessed this? What are the dangers of always seeking something new in our faith?
- How can we balance studying theology deeply while ensuring it leads to worship and not just academic knowledge?
- Discuss the statement: "Theology without worship is like studying oxygen and forgetting to breathe." What does this mean to you?
- James says in James 2:18-19 that demons believe in Jesus but don't obey Him. How does this challenge our understanding of faith and obedience?
- How can we practice speaking truth in love, especially when it involves correcting someone or addressing difficult topics?
- Reflect on Jesus' teachings in John 13-15. How do these passages reinforce the themes of truth and love?
Practical Applications:
- This week, before studying the Bible or a theological topic, pray for God to lead you to worship through your study.
- Practice saying "I don't know" when faced with theological questions you don’t have the answer to. Discuss how this went in your next meeting.
- Identify one person in your life who may hold different views than you. Brainstorm ways to show them Christ-like love while maintaining your convictions.
- Reflect on areas where you might be seeking "new" spiritual experiences at the expense of foundational truths. How can you refocus on the core of the gospel?
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Sermon Guide
May 4, 2024: 3 John
What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
Who has been a significant influence in your life, and how have they shaped you?
Key Takeaways:
- Our actions and words often reveal who or what is shaping us.
- We should be intentional about imitating what is good, not what is evil.
- A healthy soul is characterized by walking in truth and demonstrating love, generosity, and hospitality.
Discussion Questions:
- John calls out Diotrephes and makes an example of him as someone not to imitate. What characteristics of Diotrephes do you see in modern society or even in yourself?
- How can we discern whether we're imitating what works versus what's right? Can you think of examples where these might conflict?
- Frank talked about deleting his Twitter account as a form of personal accountability. What areas in are you influenced in your life that might need similar examination or adjustment?
- Discuss the concept of "fidelity to the truth." How does this differ from simply knowing or believing the truth?
- Biblical hospitality is described as "the process by which an outsider's status is changed from stranger to friend." How does this definition challenge or expand your understanding of hospitality?
- Reflect on the question, "How is your soul?" Using the fruit of the Spirit as a guide (Galatians 5:22-23), how would you assess your spiritual health?
Practical Applications:
- This week, intentionally look for opportunities to practice biblical hospitality, especially with someone who might be considered a "stranger" in your life.
- Conduct a "spiritual health check" using the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Identify one area you'd like to grow in and make a plan to nurture that fruit.
- Evaluate the voices and influences in your life. Are they pointing you toward Jesus or feeding negative traits? Consider making adjustments if necessary.
- Look for a way to support, encourage, and come alongside someone involved in ministry, becoming a "co-worker in the truth."