The News to His People (The Shepherds) December 15, 2024 The News to His People (The Shepherds) Sermon Series: Go Tell It On The Mountain Download PDF Luke 2:8-20 Main Idea The shepherd's reaction to Jesus' birth shows us our response to Christmas should lead us to Christ, to testify, and to worship. Outline 1. They run to his side (vv8-16) 2. They re-tell his story (vv17-19) 3. They rejoice in his birth (vv20) Discussion Questions In verses 8-16, the shepherds receive the angel’s message and immediately go to find Jesus. What does their prompt response teach us about obedience and eagerness in seeking Christ? Reflect on James 1:22, which encourages us to be doers of the word and not hearers only. How can we apply this principle when we sense God prompting us to act? After seeing Jesus, the shepherds spread the word about what had been told them concerning this child. How does their example inspire us to share our faith and experiences with others? Consider 1 Peter 3:15, which urges believers to always be prepared to give an answer for the hope they have. What are some practical ways you can share the story of Jesus in your community? How can you share the story of Jesus’ impact on your life with others during this Christmas season? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

The Fight Is Now February 2, 2025 The Fight Is Now Sermon Series: Contender Download PDF Jude 1-4 Main Idea We are to contend for the faith because the fight is now. Outline Discussion Questions Understanding the Call to Contend Jude urges believers to ‘contend for the faith.’ What does this mean in practical terms for your daily life? In what ways can we actively defend and uphold our faith within our communities? Recognizing Internal Threats Jude warns about individuals who ‘pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality.’ How can we identify and address such distortions within the church? What steps can we take to ensure that we uphold the true message of grace without compromising on holiness? Facing External Challenges Pastor Ryan highlighted opposition from the world, the flesh, and spiritual forces. How do these external challenges manifest in today’s society? How can we equip ourselves to stand firm against these challenges while maintaining a Christ-like attitude? The Importance of Unity and Awareness Why is unity among believers crucial when contending for the faith? How can we foster greater awareness and discernment within our church community to recognize and address false teachings? Pursuing Holiness In what ways does pursuing personal holiness strengthen our collective ability to contend for the faith? What practical steps can we take to grow in holiness and encourage others to do the same? Personal Reflection Reflect on areas in your life where you might have compromised your faith. How can you realign with the call to contend for the faith earnestly? Community Engagement How can you contribute to building a unified and discerning church community that stands firm against false teachings? Action Steps Identify one specific action you can take this week to uphold and defend your faith in your personal or professional life. Looking Forward Prayer Focus

1 Corinthians 10:1-6 September 14, 2025 1 Corinthians 10:1-6 Sermon Series: Standalone Download PDF 1 Corinthians 10:1-6 Main Idea Outline Discussion Questions Read 1 Corinthians 10:1–6. Paul reminds us that Israel experienced God’s deliverance but still fell into sin. What warnings and encouragements can we take from their example in light of recent events? Verse 5 says, “God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.” How does this verse show the seriousness of turning from God even after receiving His grace? When tragedy strikes — like the assassination of Charlie Kirk — what temptations do we face as Christians (bitterness, revenge, idolatry, hopelessness)? How does this passage warn us against those responses? Read Romans 12:17–21. How does Paul’s command to overcome evil with good reshape how we think about responding to acts of evil in our culture? Why is remembering God’s past faithfulness (Exodus, cross, resurrection) so important when we are faced with violence and sorrow today? ⸻ Application This week, what practical steps can you take to guard your heart against bitterness and instead reflect Christ’s love? How can our group pray for and support one another in the face of national and cultural turmoil? Identify one way you can “overcome evil with good” this week — in your words, actions, or relationships. Share it with the group and commit to following through. ⸻ Closing If tragedy reveals what we worship, what would your response this week reveal about your heart? Where do you need to turn from fear, anger, or idolatry and trust more deeply in Christ’s Lordship? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Down Home Christians June 1, 2025 Down Home Christians Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:1-8 Main Idea Outline Discussion Questions How does a right understanding of God's omniscience (that He sees and knows all, even in secret based off of verse 8) challenge how we communicate with God in our lives? (Psalm 139:1-4) How does Matthew 6:1–8 expose the danger of living for the approval of man rather than God, and how does Galatians 1:10 reinforce this truth? In what ways does the desire for human approval reveal a misplaced identity or understanding of righteousness? Jesus emphasizes that God is concerned with the posture of our hearts rather than outward religious acts, echoing the words found in 1 Samuel 16:7. How should this shape the way we approach spiritual disciplines like giving, praying, and worship? Application: What are some practical ways based on the context of Matthew 6:1-8 how we can resist the pull of religious performance and instead embrace a humble walk with God? Jesus emphasizes the "Father who sees in secret." How does knowing that God sees and values what is done in secret encourage or challenge you this week? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

The Warning of Judgement November 3, 2024 The Warning of Judgement Sermon Series: Obadiah Download PDF Obadiah 1:1-9 Main Idea God warns us that he will cut down those who boast in their pride. Outline 1. Pride dooms us (vv1-2) 2. Pride deceives us (vv3-7) 3. Pride destroys us (vv8-9) Discussion Questions In Obadiah 1:3, God points out that Edom’s pride “deceived” them, leading them to believe they were invincible. How does pride impact our view of ourselves and others? Reflect on Proverbs 16:18. How does this proverb help us understand God’s judgment on Edom in Obadiah? Can you share an example of a time when pride led to unexpected consequences in your life? Obadiah 1:4 reveals that God will “bring Edom down” despite their high position. How does this verse show that no one is beyond God’s reach or justice? Read Psalm 7:11. How does this help you understand God’s response to Edom’s actions? How does it change the way you view injustice in the world? Edom felt secure in their strongholds and alliances (Obadiah 1:5-7), but they were ultimately betrayed and vulnerable. What are some “strongholds” people might rely on today that can lead to false security? In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus contrasts building on rock versus sand. What would it look like for you to build your life on a foundation that lasts? The warning to Edom reminds us of the importance of humility and compassion. How can we guard our hearts against the pride that Edom displayed? Read Philippians 2:3-4. What steps can you take this week to demonstrate humility and compassion, particularly in difficult relationships? Obadiah 1:8-9 highlights God’s control over even the wisest and strongest of Edom. How does acknowledging God’s sovereignty help us avoid the mistakes of pride and self-reliance that Edom made? Reflect on James 4:6. How does God’s promise to lift up the humble encourage you to depend on Him rather than your own strength? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Lindsey 4th & 5th Grade Coordinator Lindsey Kerstetter Lindsey has been attending Peace since 2018 and joined the staff in 2022. Originally from Grand Rapids, she is married to Ryan, and they have three children: Lucy, James, and Charlie. Her family enjoys outdoor activities and caring for their barn cats and 12 chickens. In her free time, Lindsey loves biking, hiking, boating, and DIY projects around the house. When she slows down, she enjoys reading her Bible or a good book on the porch. She has many favorite Bible verses, often rotating scripture cards in her kitchen. A recent favorite is Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Contact Kid's Ministry Admin

Heading 3 Deb Crater Centennial Park

Kirsten Admin Services Director Kirsten VanderLaan Kirsten has been attending Peace for over 16 years and joined the staff in 2018. Originally from Hudsonville, Michigan, she has been married to her husband Jeff since 2006. They have three children: Addysen, Levi, and Everleigh. As a family, they love being outdoors, camping up north, and hiking together. In her free time, Kirsten enjoys watching football (GO LIONS!!), and also likes to read and do puzzles. Her current favorite Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. Contact the Admin Services Director

Hallowed Be Your Name July 6, 2025 Hallowed Be Your Name Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:9d Main Idea Praying Hallowed be Your Name means we: Rejoice and tremble at God’s holiness Outline Praying Hallowed be your name means that we: 1. Understand His Name 2. Understand His Holiness 3. Respond to His Holiness Discussion Questions Read Matthew 6:9. Jesus teaches us to begin prayer with “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” What does it mean to “hallow” something? Why do you think Jesus started prayer here? What is holiness? If holiness is not just moral purity, but the fullness of all God is—His justice, power, mercy, and love—how does that change the way you approach God in prayer? Read Psalm 99:1–5. This psalm links God’s reign with trembling, justice, and worship. What stands out to you about the way holiness is described? How do these truths challenge casual or flippant views of God? Read Revelation 15:4 and Philippians 2:12. These verses connect holiness with fear, trembling, and joy. Why do you think reverent fear is part of worshiping a holy God? How does “trembling” go hand in hand with joy for the Christian? Why do you think our culture has lost the sense of the sacred? What examples can you think of—inside or outside the church—where God’s holiness is forgotten, minimized, or misunderstood? The sermon said, “To pray ‘hallowed be your name’ is to treat God as infinitely glorious as he truly is.” How does that impact the way you talk to God? Worship? Represent His name in daily life? Watson wrote, “When we crown God with our hallelujahs, we add nothing to his glory, but we lift Him higher in our hearts.” In what ways do your prayers lift God higher in your own mind? Do you feel your view of Him is too small or too casual? Application Start each prayer this week by pausing to consider who you’re talking to—the Holy One who reigns in power, who is eternal and unchanging, and who delights to be called Father. Practice reverence in your private prayers. This doesn’t mean formal words, but a focused heart. Avoid flippant language. Approach God as both King and Father. Consider how you use God’s name in everyday life—not just in speech but in tone, attitude, and action. Are you honoring or hallowing His name? When singing or praying in worship, remind yourself: you’re speaking to the Holy One. Don’t just go through the motions—engage your heart. Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Present Darkness vs. Spiritual Strength February 18, 2024 Present Darkness vs. Spiritual Strength Sermon Series: Withstand Download PDF Ephesians 6:10-13 Main Idea We need the whole armor of God if we are to stand strong. Outline 1. We need to be all in because the enemy is all in (vs 10-11) 2. We need the right perspective to identify the true enemy (vs 12) 3. We need the whole armor for the whole battle (vs 13) Discussion Questions In the sermon, Ryan said “The Devil has a specific strategy for you. He doesn’t use cookie-cutter strategies.” How does this impact your perspective on how you must fight? How does knowing our enemy change how we operate in the world around us? After hearing this sermon and reading this passage of scripture, who is God calling you to love that you wouldn’t naturally love? How will you put on the armor this week? When Jesus went to the cross he was most likely crucified naked in our place. How does Jesus’ death allow us to be able to put on the armor of God? How does the Gospel connect to putting on the armor of God? In light of this, how will you respond in worship? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

Polarizing Division Vs. Gospel Peace   March 3, 2024 Polarizing Division Vs. Gospel Peace   Sermon Series: Withstand Download PDF Ephesians 6:15 Main Idea The Gospel makes us ready to bring peace in a polarized world. Outline 1. Gives us what we stand in and on. (v15a) 2. Makes us ready to face the world. (v15b) 3. Brings us back home. (v15c) Discussion Questions Reflect on the list of divisive issues mentioned in the sermon (gun laws, climate change, abortion, etc.). Which of these topics do you find most challenging to discuss with others who hold opposite views, and why? How can the Gospel guide us in these conversations? The sermon highlights the growing polarization in American politics and its correlation with people's views on social and policy issues. How does identifying primarily as an ambassador of the Kingdom of Heaven, rather than by political affiliation, change the way we engage with the world and its issues? The main idea of the sermon is that the Gospel makes us ready to bring peace in a polarized world. Discuss how the Gospel equips us to be peacemakers. What are practical ways we can embody the gospel of peace in our interactions with others, especially those with whom we disagree? Ephesians 6:15 discusses the "readiness given by the gospel of peace" as part of the spiritual armor. In the context of the sermon, how does this piece of armor help Christians withstand the spiritual battles behind cultural and political wars? Share examples from your own life or observations. Considering the sermon's emphasis on the Gospel's role in bringing peace to a polarized world, what are some specific actions or commitments we can make as individuals and as a group to bring the message of peace into divisive environments? How can we support each other in these efforts? Looking Forward Prayer Focus

And Forgive Us Our Debts August 10, 2025 And Forgive Us Our Debts Sermon Series: Down Home Download PDF Matthew 6:12a Main Idea How can we be forgiven? Outline Discussion Questions Read Matthew 6:12a.Why do you think Jesus uses the image of "debts" to talk about sin? How does this help us understand the seriousness of sin? Read Psalm 51:1-4. How does David’s prayer for mercy help us see the right posture before God when we seek forgiveness? Read Colossians 2:13-14. Paul says God has canceled "the record of debt" against us. What does this teach us about the completeness of God’s forgiveness through Christ? Read 1 John 1:8-9. What does it mean to confess our sins honestly? How does God's promise to forgive give us freedom to live without hiding or pretending? How does regularly praying for forgiveness keep our relationship with God vibrant and honest? Theological Reflection Forgiveness is not earned but given through grace. Jesus paid our debt in full at the cross. Why is it important to remember this when we come to God in confession? Application Take time each day this week to confess specific sins to God, thanking Him for the forgiveness you have in Christ. Ask God to reveal if there is any sin you are ignoring or excusing, and to give you the humility to bring it before Him. Consider journaling prayers of confession and thanksgiving for forgiveness as a way of deepening your awareness of God’s mercy. Closing If God has forgiven our infinite debt, how should that shape the way we approach Him in prayer? How might it also shape the way we treat those who have wronged Looking Forward Prayer Focus