Who is the Greatest? July 28, 2024 Who is the Greatest? Sermon Series: It Had To Be Said Download PDF Matthew 18:1-6 Main Idea Jesus calls his disciples to be like children, receive children, and to protect children. Outline 1. Be like children (vv1-4) 2. Receive children (v5) 3. Protect children (v6) Discussion Questions What does Jesus mean when He says we must become like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven? How do you define greatness in your own life? How does this align or contrast with Jesus' definition? Can you share an example from your life where you chose humility over self-promotion? What was the outcome? In what ways can we cultivate a childlike faith and trust in our relationship with God? How can our group encourage and practice servant leadership within our church and community? What specific actions can we take to put others first? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Heading 3 Freedom in Faith Freedom in Faith

Yes And Amen To The Promise Of Peace April 7, 2024 Yes And Amen To The Promise Of Peace Sermon Series: Always Yes Download PDF John 14:25-27 Main Idea The Holy Spirit is God's yes and amen to the promise of peace Outline 1. Jesus' peace is the Spirit of Truth (25-26) 2. Jesus' peace comes from heart-change (27) 3. Jesus' peace casts out fear (27) Discussion Questions 1. What are some ways we shouldn't think about the Holy Spirit? 2. Read Ezekiel 36:26–28. How does this passage help us understand what the Holy Spirit can do? 3. Read Isaiah 32:15–18. Isaiah ties the Holy Spirit to peace. How does this bring comfort to us? 4. Where have you fallen short of relying on the Holy Spirit for your peace? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

What Do I Do With My Guilt? May 26, 2024 What Do I Do With My Guilt? Sermon Series: Standalone Download PDF Isaiah 53:4-6 Main Idea God had to treat Jesus like us to treat us like Jesus Outline 1. Where does guilt come from? 2. What can we do with our guilt? 3. What was done for our guilt? Discussion Questions 1. What is your "go-to" way of avoiding guilt (deny, distract, become numb)? 2. Read 2 Corinthians 7:9-13. How does this passage help us understand guilt? 3. How should guilt draw us closer to God? 4. How will you allow substitution to invade your life? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Our Father June 15, 2025 Our Father Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:9b Main Idea Who is "The Father"? Outline We have a Father. Pray to our Father. We have brothers and sisters. Pray with your brothers and sisters. Discussion Questions Read Galatians 3:26–28. This passage reminds us that we are all children of God through faith in Christ. What does it look like to truly live as one family under the Father—especially across lines of race, status, or background? Read Matthew 7:9–11. Jesus compares our Father to earthly parents who love to give good gifts. What does this teach us about God’s heart toward us when we come to Him in prayer? Why is corporate prayer—saying “our Father” instead of just “my Father”—a powerful expression of unity and shared adoption? What does it declare about who God is and who we are together? How would your life be challenged if you truly believed—on a deep, daily level—that the God of the universe delights to call you His child? What fears or habits might that change? In what ways does our culture train us to view Christianity as a personal, individual journey? How does the word “our” in the Lord’s Prayer challenge that mindset? ⸻ Truths to Consider (drawn from historical theology) When we call God “Father,” we are claiming His mercy and His majesty. A good father doesn’t just forgive; he also provides, guides, and disciplines for our good. Calling God “Father” doesn’t minimize His greatness—it brings us close to Him in His greatness. Saying “our Father” reminds us we are not only God’s children individually, but members of a spiritual family. That means we don’t just pursue God alone; we support one another, confess together, and worship side-by-side. ⸻ Application This week, begin each prayer by saying “Father”—not as a habit, but as a reminder that you’ve been adopted and bought through Christ. Read Romans 8:15–17 each day and ask yourself: Do I approach God with the confidence of a beloved child or with the fear of a distant stranger? Where in my life do I need to rest in the love and leadership of my Father? How can I help someone else this week experience the joy of being part of God’s family? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Become Sons of Light January 11, 2026 Become Sons of Light Sermon Series: Becoming Download PDF John 12:27-36 27 “Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” 29 The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” 30 Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not mine. 31 Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. 32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” 33 He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die. 34 So the crowd answered him, “We have heard from the Law that the Christ remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man?” 35 So Jesus said to them, “The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. 36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” Main Idea WE ARE CALLED TO BECOME SONS OF LIGHT Outline THE PURPOSE OF CHRIST’S SURRENDER: GLORY (VV27-29) THE PLAN OF CHRIST’S SACRIFICE: GOSPEL (VV30-33) THE PATH OF OUR SALVATION: GODLINESS (VV34-36) Discussion Questions THE PURPOSE OF CHRIST’S SURRENDER: GLORY (VV27-29) In verse 27, Jesus openly acknowledges the turmoil of His soul. What stands out to you about His honesty here? What does Jesus ask for instead of asking to be saved from suffering? How does the Father respond, and why do you think the crowd misunderstands what is happening? What does this teach us about how God’s glory is sometimes revealed in ways we don’t immediately recognize? Where do you find yourself tempted to pray “save me from this” instead of “Father, be glorified”? How might your understanding of God’s glory reshape how you view hardship or obedience this year? THE PLAN OF CHRIST’S SACRIFICE: GOSPEL (VV30-33) What does Jesus say His death will accomplish spiritually and cosmically? How does this passage help clarify what the gospel actually is? How does seeing the cross as triumph—not tragedy—change how you think about following Jesus? In what ways does the gospel continue to “draw” you toward Christ today? THE PATH OF OUR SALVATION: GODLINESS (VV34-36) Why do the people struggle with Jesus’ teaching about the Son of Man? What does Jesus mean when He calls people to “walk while you have the light”? What is the connection between believing in the light and becoming “sons of light”? How does this passage challenge the idea that salvation is only about a moment, not a life? What does “walking in the light” look like in everyday rhythms—habits, relationships, priorities? Looking Forward As we begin the Becoming Campaign, what is one specific area where you already feel God calling you to become more of what you were made to be? Prayer Focus Pray for hearts that desire God’s glory above personal comfort, trusting the Father even when obedience feels costly. Pray for clearer spiritual hearing, that we would recognize God’s voice and work even when it doesn’t fit our expectations. Pray for deeper gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice, seeing the cross not as defeat but as God’s powerful plan of salvation. Pray for renewed faith in the gospel, that the truth of Jesus’ death and victory would continue to draw us toward Him. Pray for freedom from sin’s power, trusting that Christ has defeated the ruler of this world. Pray for courage to walk in the light, choosing obedience while the opportunity to respond is before us. Pray for growing godliness, that our beliefs would shape our daily habits, relationships, and decisions. Pray for transformation over the coming year, that we would not merely attend church but truly become sons and daughters of light. Pray for unity across our church, that we would walk this Becoming journey together with humility, grace, and perseverance. Pray for the work of the Holy Spirit, forming Christlike character in us individually and corporately.

The Glory Is Forever February 23, 2025 The Glory Is Forever Sermon Series: Contender Download PDF Jude 24-25 Main Idea Contend for the faith because the glory is forever Outline The glory is forever, so contend because… 1. God is your strength (v24a) 2. Joy is your hope (v24b) 3. Heaven is your future (v25) Discussion Questions Reflecting on God’s Ability to Keep Us (Jude 24) Jude 24 speaks of God being able to keep us from stumbling. How have you experienced God’s sustaining power in your personal faith journey? In what ways can we rely more on God’s strength to maintain our spiritual walk, especially during challenging times? Understanding Our Presentation Before God (Jude 24) The verse mentions being presented ‘blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy.’ What does it mean to you to be presented blameless before God? How does this assurance impact your daily life and interactions with others? Praising the Only God Our Savior (Jude 25) Jude concludes with a doxology, attributing glory, majesty, dominion, and authority to God. How can we incorporate this attitude of praise into our daily routines? What are some practical ways to acknowledge God’s authority and majesty in our personal and communal worship? The Eternal Nature of God’s Glory Considering that God’s glory is eternal, how does this perspective influence your understanding of temporary trials and challenges? How can focusing on God’s everlasting dominion provide comfort and motivation in your faith journey? Application Questions Personal Reflection Identify areas in your life where you struggle to rely on God’s sustaining power. What steps can you take to trust Him more fully in these areas? Community Engagement How can our church community better reflect the glory and majesty of God in our gatherings and outreach efforts? Cultivating a Lifestyle of Praise What daily practices can you implement to maintain an attitude of praise and acknowledgment of God’s eternal authority? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

From Darkness to Light March 9, 2025 From Darkness to Light Sermon Series: The Reversal Download PDF John 1:1-5 Main Idea The Gospel brings us from Brokenness to Renewal Outline Go to Him personally (vv1-2) Learn from Him carefully (vv3-6) Believe in Him specifically (vv7-8) Discussion Questions Go to Him Personally (John 1:1-2) John begins by emphasizing that “In the beginning was the Word.” How does recognizing Jesus as the eternal Word influence your personal relationship with Him? In what ways can you seek a more personal connection with Jesus in your daily life? Learn from Him Carefully (John 1:3-5) John states that “All things were made through Him.” How does this understanding impact your view of creation and your place within it? How can you be more intentional in learning from Jesus and applying His teachings to areas of brokenness in your life? Believe in Him Specifically (John 1:6-8) The passage introduces John the Baptist, who came to bear witness to the light. How does John’s testimony encourage you to believe in Jesus more deeply? What specific aspects of Jesus’ character or works strengthen your faith and trust in Him? Application Questions Identify areas in your life where you feel darkness or brokenness. How can embracing Jesus as the light bring renewal to these areas? How can our church community support each other in moving from darkness to light, fostering an environment of renewal and growth? What practical steps can you take this week to reflect the light of Christ in your interactions with others, especially those who may be experiencing darkness? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Heading 3 Whitney Scholten Winning At Home

He is the Presence of God May 4, 2025 He is the Presence of God Sermon Series: The Helper Download PDF John 16:7-15 Main Idea The Holy Spirit is the presence of God in our lives Outline HE COMFORTS THE FAITHFUL (V7) HE CONVICTS THE WORLD (VV8-11) HE CONVEYS THE TRUTH (VV12-15) Discussion Questions He comforts the faithful (vv7) Reflect on past experiences, have there been moments where the Holy Spirit was with you? What did the Holy Spirit do to show his Presence? Song? Scripture? Phone call? Prayer? He convicts the world (vv8-11) As well as being the comforter, The Holy Spirit also convicts. Are there areas in your life that the Spirit is prodding you on right now? Take a moment and write them down or pray about it. Exodus 33:14 records God saying, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” How does this promise influence your approach to life’s challenges and uncertainties? Application Questions How can you show the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life this week? Identify how the Holy Spirit is prodding you to become more Christ-like and lean into that. How can our church community foster an environment where individuals feel and acknowledge the presence of God more deeply? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Become Children of God January 18, 2026 Become Children of God Sermon Series: Becoming Download PDF John 1:9-13 9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. Main Idea We are called to become children of God. Outline Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9) Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10) Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13) Discussion Questions Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9) What words or phrases stand out to you in verse 9? How does the image of light help us understand what Jesus came to do? In what ways does Jesus reveal truth about God, ourselves, and the world? Where do you see people today searching for truth apart from Christ? What does it look like to live as someone who has stepped out of darkness and into Christ’s light this week? Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10) What is surprising or tragic about verse 10? What contrast do you see between Christ’s role in creation and the world’s response to Him? How does this verse challenge the idea that ignorance of God is neutral or innocent? Are there areas of your life where you benefit from Christ’s rule but resist His authority? Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13) According to this passage, how does someone become a child of God? What does verse 13 say is not the basis of becoming God’s child? How is becoming a child of God different from simply being God’s creation? What does adoption communicate about God’s initiative, love, and authority? Where do you tend to seek worth or belonging apart from your identity as God’s child? Looking Forward As we continue the Becoming Campaign, what are you planning to make as your commitment for next week’s commitment cards? Prayer Focus Pray for hearts that receive the true Light of Christ and turn away from darkness. Pray for clarity to recognize Jesus as the source of truth in a world full of competing voices. Pray for humility to acknowledge Christ as Creator and rightful Lord over every area of life. Pray for repentance where we enjoy God’s gifts but resist God Himself. Pray for faith to receive Christ rather than reject Him. Pray for deeper confidence in our identity as children of God, not based on performance or background. Pray for gratitude for the grace of adoption that comes only through Christ. Pray for obedience that flows from being loved sons and daughters, not from fear or obligation. Pray for boldness to reflect Christ’s light as children of God in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Pray for reverence for all human life, created by God and bearing His image. Pray for unborn children to be protected, valued, and welcomed as gifts from God. Pray for mothers facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies to receive courage, wisdom, and loving support. Pray for fathers to step into responsibility with compassion, strength, and sacrificial love. Pray for families who have experienced abortion or pregnancy loss to find forgiveness, healing, and hope in Christ. Pray for the church to reflect God’s heart by offering truth, grace, and tangible care to vulnerable families. Pray for adoption and foster care ministries as visible expressions of the gospel of adoption. Pray for lawmakers, judges, and leaders to pursue justice that protects the most vulnerable. Pray for pregnancy resource centers and caregivers to have provision, wisdom, and perseverance. Pray for hearts to be shaped by the light of Christ, recognizing every life as known, loved, and created by God.

Live Your Truth September 8, 2024 Live Your Truth Sermon Series: Calling Out Cultural Lies Download PDF John 8:31-38 Main Idea Truth is not fabricated, truth is found Outline Truth is found in the teachings of Jesus Christ Truth is found in the righteousness of Jesus Christ Truth is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ Discussion Questions How have you heard vs 32 used before? How has this passage/sermon changed your understanding? How does sin bring slavery? Rather than demonizing those who may have used this phrase, in what ways might we - subconsciously - believe this as well? How can we break free from bondage of sin? How does the message of "live your truth" and the desire to run from the TRUTH show our sin nature? Looking Forward Prayer Focus