Sermons by: Pastor Deric Bartlett
Glorify God in your Body – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Glorify God in Your Body" based on 1 Cor. 6:12-20.
1. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 12)
2. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 13-17)
3. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v.18)
4. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 19)
2. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 13-17)
3. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v.18)
4. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 19)
ICEBREAKER: Who is the most gifted person you know?
1. “All things are lawful for me” is repeated twice in 1 Corinthians 6:12. It appears to have been a slogan used by some in the church to justify sexual immorality. What are the two rebuttals Paul gave to counter such wrong-headed thinking [cf. Romans 1:24-28; Galatians 5:16-21; and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8]?
2. In 1 Corinthians 6:13, Paul used a familiar word picture from the ancient world to describe the sexual appetite. “As the stomach is for food, so also the body is for sexual satisfaction,” was the reasoning. How does the apostle rebuff this misguided logic [cf. Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 5:24; and Revelation 2:20-23]?
3. How does the believer’s hope in the resurrection argue against sexually immoral behaviour [1 Corinthians 6:14]? Also, consult Romans 6:1-4; Ephesians 5:3-5; and Colossians 3:1-7.
4. According to 1 Corinthians 6:15-17, why is sexual immorality at complete odds with a believer’s relationship with Christ? How does the spiritual influence the physical, and vice versa [cf. Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:3-6; and Ephesians 5:31-32]?
5. In specific terms, how does a believer in today’s world “flee sexual immorality” [1 Corinthians 6:18]? Also, examine 2 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 2:22; and Hebrews 13:4 for more insights.
6. How does the truth that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit impact how you conduct yourself in our sexually permissive culture [1 Corinthians 6:19-20]? Also, consider Romans 8:5-9; Galatians 6:7-8; and 1 Peter 1:13-19.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”(1 Corinthians 10:13)
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- Mar 26, 2023Glorify God in your Body – Deric BartlettGlorify God in your Body – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Glorify God in Your Body" based on 1 Cor. 6:12-20.
1. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 12)
2. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 13-17)
3. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v.18)
4. The truth about ___ _ _____ (v. 19)ICEBREAKER: Who is the most gifted person you know?1. “All things are lawful for me” is repeated twice in 1 Corinthians 6:12. It appears to have been a slogan used by some in the church to justify sexual immorality. What are the two rebuttals Paul gave to counter such wrong-headed thinking [cf. Romans 1:24-28; Galatians 5:16-21; and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8]?
2. In 1 Corinthians 6:13, Paul used a familiar word picture from the ancient world to describe the sexual appetite. “As the stomach is for food, so also the body is for sexual satisfaction,” was the reasoning. How does the apostle rebuff this misguided logic [cf. Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 5:24; and Revelation 2:20-23]?
3. How does the believer’s hope in the resurrection argue against sexually immoral behaviour [1 Corinthians 6:14]? Also, consult Romans 6:1-4; Ephesians 5:3-5; and Colossians 3:1-7.
4. According to 1 Corinthians 6:15-17, why is sexual immorality at complete odds with a believer’s relationship with Christ? How does the spiritual influence the physical, and vice versa [cf. Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:3-6; and Ephesians 5:31-32]?
5. In specific terms, how does a believer in today’s world “flee sexual immorality” [1 Corinthians 6:18]? Also, examine 2 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 2:22; and Hebrews 13:4 for more insights.
6. How does the truth that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit impact how you conduct yourself in our sexually permissive culture [1 Corinthians 6:19-20]? Also, consider Romans 8:5-9; Galatians 6:7-8; and 1 Peter 1:13-19.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”(1 Corinthians 10:13) - Mar 12, 2023The Lord, Lawsuits, and Love – Deric BartlettThe Lord, Lawsuits, and Love – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "The Lord, Lawsuits, and Love" based on 1 Cor. 6:1-11.1. Christians are governed by ____ laws (for now!) v. 1-8
2. Christian’s are living in ____ kingdoms (for now!) v. 9-11
ICEBREAKER: What are you hilariously bad at?
1. First-century A.D. Christians had grievances against fellow believers as in our 21st century [1 Corinthians 6:1]. What does this tell you about the human condition? What is the remedy [cf. Matthew 18:15-17; Ephesians 4:31-32; and James 3:13-18]?
2. According to 1 Corinthians 6:2-3, what will be the occupation of believers in eternity [cf. Daniel 7:22, 27; Matthew 19:28; and Revelation 2:26-27]? How does this excite you about eternity?
3. What was Paul’s greatest concern for lawsuits among believers [1 Corinthians 6:4-6]? What effect does disharmony and disunity among believers have on the church’s witness to unbelievers [cf. 1 Corinthians 1:10-11; 2 Corinthians 13:11; and Galatians 5:13-15]?
4. Should believers retaliate and seek revenge against other believers who act unjustly toward them [1 Corinthians 6:7-8]? Why or why not? How does an eternal perspective help Christians overlook temporal grievances [cf. Romans 12:17-21; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; and 1 Peter 3:9]?
5. Paul’s list of blatant, unrepentant, persistent unrighteous practices in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 indicates that human nature was as corrupt then as it is today. Why do these behaviours disqualify a person from inheriting the kingdom of God [cf. Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:5; and Revelation 22:14-15]?
6. 1 Corinthians 6:11 is one of the most beautiful, hopeful, and restorative verses in the Bible. According to this verse, what hope does anyone caught up in an unrighteous lifestyle have to inherit God’s kingdom? On what basis is there hope? Who effects the restorative process [cf. Psalm 51:10; Romans 8:1; and Titus 3:3-7]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“There is no profounder proof of the grace of character than that of being able to suffer wrongfully and yet to manifest a gracious spirit.”(G. Campbell Morgan) - Mar 5, 2023Sexual Healing for the Christian – Deric BartlettSexual Healing for the Christian – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Sexual Healing for the Christian" based on 1 Cor. 5:1-13.1. We need to ___________ God’s sacred boundaries (v. 1-5)
2. We need to ___________ our Passover Lamb (v.6-8)
3. We need to ___________ the house clean (v. 9-13)
The full prayer used today can be found here:
https://wildatheart.org/prayer/prayer-sexual-healing
ICEBREAKER: What is the most creative thing you have done?
1. How do you account for the sad reality of sexually immoral practices among believers [1 Corinthians 5:1]? Also, consult 1 Corinthians 6:12-20; Galatians 5:19-21; and Ephesians 5:3-5.
2. Why would believers tolerate and even celebrate gross sexual immorality within their church family [1 Corinthians 5:1-2]? What is wrong with their thinking [cf. Romans 1:21; Ephesians 4:17-19; and 1 Peter 1:14-16]?
3. When is it necessary to “judge” another believer [1 Corinthians 5:3]? Is this the same as being “judgmental”? Why or why not [cf. Matthew 7:1-5; John 7:24; and 1 Corinthians 11:31-32]?
4. According to 1 Corinthians 5:3-5, how should believers deal with unrepentant, blatant sin within their church family [cf. 1 Corinthians 11:27-32; 1 Timothy 1:18-20; and Hebrews 12:5-11]?
5. How does the analogy of leaven in 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 help explain the reason immorality needs to be quickly and decisively dealt with within the believing community [cf. Matthew 16:6; Romans 6:16; and 1 Corinthians 15:33]?
6. Why are believers to associate with sinful unbelievers in the world, but disassociate from sinful believers in the church [1 Corinthians 5:9-13]? What is the difference? What is the goal of these opposite approaches [cf. Matthew 5:13-16; Ephesians 5:8; Philippians 2:14-15; and Colossians 4:5-6]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“You will never regret resisting sin. You will always regret giving in. I have never looked back on obedience with regret, nor on compromise with gratitude. Seeing God is both our eternal destiny and our daily delight.”(Garrett Kell) - Feb 26, 2023Revive Us Again and Again – Deric BartlettRevive Us Again and Again – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric shares a special message titled "Revive Us Again and Again" based on Psalm 119:33-40.1. He _______ you the truth (v. 33 – 34)
2. He _______ you in obedience (v. 35)
3. He _______ your heart (v. 36 – 37)
4. He _______ your beliefs (v. 38 – 39)
1. How do you know that the teaching being requested in Psalm 119:33 is more than just “head knowledge”? What should be the goal of all Bible study [cf. Psalm 119:9-11; Proverbs 6:23; and 2 Timothy 3:16-17]?
2. Why is whole-hearted obedience to the Word of God highly prized [Psalm 119:34]? Also, consult Deuteronomy 6:5-6; Joshua 22:5; and Proverbs 3:5-6.
3. Why does traveling along the path of God’s commandments bring delight [Psalm 119:35]? What happens when people wander away from God’s Word [cf. 2 Chronicles 15:1-7; Amos 8:11-12; and Matthew 7:24-27]?
4. According to Psalm 119:36-37, what should a believer turn towards? At the same time, what should he/she turn away from? Why [cf. 1 Samuel 8:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; and 2 Timothy 4:3-5]?
5. How does God’s Word help you recover from the reproachful insults of others [Psalm 119:39]? Also, consider 1 Samuel 17:26; 1 Samuel 25:39; and Isaiah 51:7-8.
6. How are the precepts of the Word of God reviving you and giving you life [Psalm 119:40]? Also, examine Psalm 80:17-19; Psalm 85:4-7; and Psalm 143:11.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Revival is the visitation of God which brings to life Christians who have been sleeping and restores a deep sense of God's near presence and holiness. Thence springs a vivid sense of sin and a profound exercise of heart in repentance, praise, and love, with an evangelistic outflow.”(J.I. Packer) - Feb 19, 2023Kingdom Power – Deric BartlettKingdom Power – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Kingdom Power" based on 1 Cor. 4:9-21).1. We have the power of _________ to overcome the world (v. 9-13)
2. We have the power of _________ to build one another up (v. 14-15)
3. We have the power of _________ living in us (v. 16-17)
4. We have the power of _________ to confront the arrogant among us (v. 18-21)
ICEBREAKER: What sport do you wish you knew more about?
1. Somehow, the Corinthians began to believe they were above the sufferings of this world and self-sufficient [1 Corinthians 4:8]. Why is this a dangerous perspective for believers [cf. Hosea 12:8; Luke 18:11-12; and Revelation 3:17-18]?
2. Paul contrasted the life of a true apostle of the Lord with the Corinthians’ smug self-sufficiency [1 Corinthians 4:9-10]. Why did he do this? What does this teach us about gospel ministry [cf. Romans 8:31-39; 2 Corinthians 11:21-33; and Hebrews 10:32-34]?
3. Paul recounted the reality of suffering for the sake of the gospel of Christ in 1 Corinthians 4:11-13. Why are hardships part of the Christian life? What do they accomplish [cf. 2 Corinthians 4:7-11; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; and Philippians 4:12-13]?
4. The apostle used the imagery of a father with his children in 1 Corinthians 4:14-16. Why is this an effective approach when there is a need to admonish someone caught up in an error [cf. Acts 20:31; Galatians 4:12-20; and 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12]?
5. How was Timothy described in 1 Corinthians 4:17, and what was his mission? What would be included in Paul’s “ways in Christ” that he taught everywhere in every church [cf. Romans 1:1-4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-11; and Philippians 3:7-16]?
6. How did Paul describe the true nature of the kingdom of God in 1 Corinthians 4:18-21? Why does this matter [cf. Mark 10:13-16; John 18:36-37; and Romans 14:17]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“If we do anything to further the kingdom of God, we may expect to find what Christ found on that road – abuse, indifference, injustice, misunderstanding, trouble of some kind. Take it. Why not? To that, you were called. In Latin America, someone who feels sorry for himself is said to look like a donkey in a downpour. If we think of the glorious fact that we are on the same path with Jesus, we might see a rainbow.”
Elisabeth Elliot - Feb 12, 2023Faithful – Deric BartlettFaithful – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Faithful" based on 1 Cor. 4:1-131. We are highly ___________ so we serve the Lord faithfully (v 1-2)
2. We are often ___________ by men but trust only in God’s verdict (v 3-5)
3. We are enormously ___________so we must never boast (v 6-7)
4. We are ___________ in the world but beloved in heaven (v 8-13)
ICEBREAKER: If you could travel back in history, what time period would it be? Why?
1. Why is the status of a “servant” such an honoured position in the kingdom of God [1 Corinthians 4:1]? Also, consult Luke 1:2; Acts 13:5; and Acts 26:16.
2. Why is faithfulness a desired trait in a steward [1 Corinthians 4:1-2]? Also, consider Luke 12:42; Titus 1:7; and 1 Peter 4:10.
3. Why is judging others, or even oneself, an unprofitable exercise [1 Corinthians 4:3-5]? Why is Christ alone qualified to act as Judge [cf. Matthew 7:1-5; Romans 14:3-4; and James 4:11-12]?
4. According to 1 Corinthians 4:5, what will happen when the Lord Jesus returns? What difference does this make in how you live today [cf. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Romans 2:15-16; and 2 Corinthians 5:10]?
5. What are the dangers of becoming “puffed up” and competing with others in the body of Christ [1 Corinthians 4:6]? Also, examine 1 Corinthians 8:1; 1 Corinthians 13:4; and Colossians 2:18.
6. Why is it absurd to boast when everything we are and have is given to us by God [1 Corinthians 4:7]? What ought our attitude be instead [cf. John 3:27; John 15:5; and James 1:17]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“I have come to see clearly that life is more than self. It is more than doing what I want, striving for what will benefit me, dreaming of all I can be. Life is all about my relationship with God. There is no higher calling, no loftier dream, and no greater goal than to live, breathe, and be poured out for Jesus Christ.”
Brother Andrew - Feb 5, 2023The Indestructible Foundation – Deric BartlettThe Indestructible Foundation – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "The Indestructible Foundation" based on 1 Cor. 3:9-23.
1. ______ on the sure foundation: v. 9-12
2. ______ toward your reward: v. 13-15
3. ______ the temple of God: v. 16-17
4. ______ to your potential: v. 18-23ICEBREAKER: What was the best sports game you attended?1. Why is the illustration of a building such an effective metaphor for discipleship ministry [1 Corinthians 3:9-15]? Also, consider Romans 14:19; Ephesians 2:19-22; and Ephesians 4:11-16.2. 1 Corinthians 3:10 exhorts believers to “take care how [one] builds upon” the foundation of Jesus Christ [1 Corinthians 3:11]. How would you build “carefully”? What would you include in your “building project” [cf. Psalm 15; Hebrews 6:1-2; and Jude 1:20-23]?3. The list of spiritual building items can be divided into beautiful, lasting materials (i.e., gold, silver, precious stones) versus common, temporary materials (i.e., wood, hay, straw). What qualifies as “lasting”, and what qualifies as temporary [cf. Matthew 10:40-42; Romans 16:17-18; and 2 Timothy 4:3-4]?4. According to 1 Corinthians 3:13, there is coming a time known as “the Day”. What Day is being referred to, what will happen on that Day, and why does it matter [cf. Isaiah 61:1-11; Malachi 3:2-4; and 2 Peter 3:1-13]?5. Why is “fire” a fitting metaphor for the Day of Judgment [1 Corinthians 3:13-15]? Also consult Zechariah 13:9; 2 Thessalonians 1:8; and 1 Peter 1:7.6. How does the reality of spiritual rewards and losses motivate you to build your life and ministry wisely [1 Corinthians 3:14-15]? What kind of work will be rewarded? What kind will lose rewards [cf. 1 Corinthians 4:5; Galatians 6:4; and 1 Peter 5:4]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Let us remember, there is One who daily records all we do for Him, and sees more beauty in His servants' work than His servants do themselves...And then shall His faithful witnesses discover, to their wonder and surprise, that there never was a word spoken on their Master's behalf, which does not receive a reward.”(J. C. Ryle) - Jan 22, 2023Eat, Grow, Serve – Deric BartlettEat, Grow, Serve – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Eat, Grow, Serve" based on 1 Cor. 3:1-9.1. ________ progress and it’s cause: v. 1-2
2. ________ division and it’s cure: v. 3-8
3. ________ laziness and it’s solution: v. 9ICEBREAKER: What hard time in your life left you a better person after it was finished?1. In context, what should be expected of “spiritual people” [1 Corinthians 3:1]? What would you expect of “people of the flesh” [1 Corinthians 3:3]? Also consult 1 Corinthians 1:10-13; 1 Corinthians 14:20; and Galatians 5:19-21.
2. Why is growth toward spiritual maturity vital for every believer [1 Corinthians 3:2]? Also, consider Ephesians 4:13-14; Colossians 1:28; and Hebrews 5:11-6:3.
3. Why is it spiritually unhealthy to exclusively follow a favourite Christian celebrity [1 Corinthians 3:4]? Also, examine Luke 8:14; 1 Corinthians 4:6-7; and Galatians 2:6.
4. Why are ministry to others and servanthood linked together in 1 Corinthians 3:5 [cf. Mark 10:42-45; 2 Corinthians 6:4-10; and Ephesians 3:7]?
5. What do you learn about ministry from Paul’s agricultural analogy in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 [cf. 2 Corinthians 9:10; Ephesians 2:19-22; and Colossians 2:19]?
6. What are the results of God’s people staying united to work together to accomplish God’s mission [1 Corinthians 3:8-9]? Also, look up Romans 16:3-4; Colossians 4:11; and 1 Thessalonians 3:2.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The Christian life is very much like climbing a hill of ice. You cannot slide up. You have to cut every step with an ice axe. Only with incessant labor in cutting and chipping can you make any progress. If you want to know how to backslide, leave off going forward. Cease going upward and you will go downward of necessity. You can never stand still.”C.H Spurgeon - Jan 15, 2023We Have the Mind of Christ – Deric BartlettWe Have the Mind of Christ – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "We have the Mind of Christ" based on 1 Cor. 2:6-16.1. The mind of Christ is accessible _______ __ ______(v. 6-8)
2. The mind of Christ is given __ ___ ____ ______ (v. 9-10)
3. The mind of Christ leads to _______ ___ __________ (v. 11-12)
4. The mind of Christ ______ __ __ ____ __ _________ ______ (v. 13-16)
ICEBREAKER: What is the most unique shop or restaurant you have visited?1. The first part of 1 Corinthians 2:9 is a quotation from Isaiah 64:4 where the prophet longs for the LORD to act on behalf of His people. How does this prophecy inspire you to worship the Lord [cf. Isaiah 65:17; Matthew 25:34; and Hebrews 11:16]?
2. What is one of the roles of the Holy Spirit recorded in 1 Corinthians 2:10? Why is this significant [cf. John 14:26; John 16:13-14; and Ephesians 3:4-5]?
3. What was Paul’s point when he used the analogy of the human spirit in 1 Corinthians 2:11? How does this help you understand the Spirit’s role in revealing God’s truth [cf. Proverbs 20:27; Jeremiah 17:9-10; and Romans 11:33-35]?
4. What is the difference between “the spirit of the world” and “the Spirit who is from God” in 1 Corinthians 2:12? What blessings come as a result of the Spirit of God [cf. Romans 8:14-17; Romans 8:26-27; and Ephesians 2:2]?
5. What is the reason given in 1 Corinthians 2:14 for the lack of acceptance of spiritual things by unbelievers? How does this influence your approach to evangelism [cf. John 14:16-17; 1 Corinthians 1:18; and 2 Corinthians 4:4]?
6. According to 1 Corinthians 2:15-16, what are the benefits the mind of Christ brings to the life of a believer [cf. Isaiah 40:12-14; John 15:15; and Philippians 2:5]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”Saul of Tarsus - Jan 8, 2023Does Your Faith Rest in the Power of God? – Deric Bartlett
- Dec 18, 2022Gracious Words (Grace and Others) – Deric BartlettGracious Words (Grace and Others) – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the Advent series "Christmas: The Season of Grace" with a message titled "Gracious Words (Grace and Truth)" from John 4:1-26.1. Grace overrules ______ (v. 1-10)“He had to pass through Samaria”
2. Grace ______ for and with ______ (v. 4-7)“Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. A woman from Samaria came to draw water.”
3. Grace ______ spiritual ______ (v.15-21)“Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again.”
4. Grace ______ difficult ______ (v. 16-19)“Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.”
5. Grace ______ distracting ______ (v. 1-3; 19ff)“Our fathers worshipped on this mountain, but you say that in Jerusalem is the place where people ought to worship.”
6. Grace ______ Jesus (v. 25-26)The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.”
ICEBREAKER: What are you best at fixing?
1. It was not geographically necessary for Jesus to pass through Samaria [John 4:4], yet He chose to do so. Why was this decision remarkable considering the ancient animosity that existed between Jews and Samaritans? What do you learn from Jesus about breaking down barriers [cf. Acts 10:34-35; Romans 2:9-11; and James 2:1-13]?
2. What do you make of John’s observation that Jesus was “wearied” from his journey” in John 4:6? What does this indicate about Jesus’ humanity that He experienced fatigue from physical exertion just as we do [cf. Matthew 4:2; John 19:28; and Hebrews 2:17-18]?
3. Why did the Samaritan woman seem surprised when Jesus asked her for a drink [John 4:7-9]? What does the context reveal about her life circumstances? What was counter-cultural about Jesus’ actions [cf. Matthew 5:13-16; John 9:35-39; and Romans 12:16]?
4. Why is Jesus’ use of the thirst-quenching properties of water such a potent metaphor for sharing the good news about Him [John 4:10-15]? How can you use this approach with people today [cf. Isaiah 55:1-13; John 7:37-39; and Revelation 21:6]?
5. Jesus exposed the Samaritan woman’s deepest thirst – to be loved [John 4:16-18]. She was a moral mess, yet He treated her with gracious compassion. What does Jesus’ approach teach you about treating others with grace AND truth [cf. Acts 13:44-49; Acts 17:16-34; and Acts 24:24-25]?
6. It is astonishing that two of the Bible’s key verses about the nature of worship were privately uttered by Jesus to this lowly, broken, unnamed Samaritan woman [John 4:23-24]. According to this passage, what is worship, why is worship our primary responsibility, and how must it be offered [cf. Psalm 100:1-5; Isaiah 6:1-8; and Revelation 14:6-7]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Christ is not a reservoir but a spring. His life is continual, active, and ever-passing on with an outflow as necessary as its inflow. If we do not perpetually draw the fresh supply from the living Fountain, we shall either grow stagnant or empty. It is, therefore, not so much a perpetual fullness as a perpetual filling.”A. B. Simpson - Dec 12, 2022Grace and Truth – Deric BartlettGrace and Truth – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the Advent series "Christmas: The Season of Grace" with a message titled "Grace and Truth" from John 1:14-18.1. Jesus is the ________ of grace & truth (v. 14)
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us”
2. We are witnesses of His ________ (v. 14-15)
“We have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. “John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”
3. We are ________ of His grace & truth (v. 16-17)
“For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
4. Grace & truth lead us into a deeper experience with the ________ (v. 18)
“No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.”ICEBREAKER: What card or board games do you like to play?
1. The Apostle John presents Jesus as the Word of God in John 1:1-5. What truths are recorded in these verses that reveal Jesus’ uniqueness [cf. Genesis 1:1; Colossians 1:15-20; and Revelation 1:8]?
2. What do you observe about the ministry of John the Baptist in John 1:6-8 that motivates your witness about Jesus to the world [cf. John 5:33-35; John 15:27; and Acts 1:8]?
3. In John’s Gospel, the term “world” often refers to a system opposed to God. What did Jesus do for the world and how did it respond to Him in John 1:9-11 [cf. Isaiah 53:3; John 8:12; and Acts 13:44-51]?
4. What response was God looking for from people in the world [John 1:12]? What blessings come to those who receive and believe in Jesus? What is the basis for someone becoming a child of God according to John 1:13 [cf. Galatians 3:24-26; Ephesians 1:5; and Philippians 2:14-16]?
5. What difference does it make in your life to know that God became human and dwelt among sinful people during Christ’s earthly life [cf. John 1:14-18]? Also consider 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:14-15; and Revelation 21:3-4 for further insights.
6. The Apostle John writes that Jesus was full of grace and truth [John 1:14, 17]. Why is this balance necessary to our salvation? Can you think of any other biblical examples where Jesus demonstrated both grace and truth [cf. John 3:1-15; John 4:1-30; and John 9:1-41]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“A paradox is an apparent contradiction. Grace and truth aren’t really contradictory. Jesus didn’t switch on truth, then turn it off so He could switch on grace. Both are permanently switched on in Jesus. Both should be switched on in us… Truth without grace breeds a self-righteousness legalism that poisons the church and pushes the world from Christ. Grace without truth breeds moral indifference and keeps people from seeing their need for Christ. Attempts to “soften” the gospel by minimizing truth keep people from Jesus. Attempts to “toughen” the gospel by minimizing grace keep people from Jesus. It’s not enough for us to offer grace or truth. We must offer both.”Randy Alcorn - Dec 5, 2022Grace and Salvation – Deric BartlettGrace and Salvation – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric begins the Advent series "Christmas: The Season of Grace" with a messaged titled "Grace and Salvation" from selected passages.1. “Where are you?"
2. Call Him “Jesus” “Immanuel”
3. Grace brings salvation
ICEBREAKER: What was something courageous you personally witnessed someone do?
1. As you reflect on the fall of humanity into sin in Genesis 3:1-19, what do you learn from the process of temptation that helps you overcome it today [cf. Genesis 4:5-7; James 1:13-15; and 1 John 2:15-17]?
2. How does God respond both justly and mercifully in Genesis 3:8-24 [cf. Acts 10:42-43; Romans 5:12-21; and Romans 6:22-23]?
3. According to Matthew 1:20-21, what was the significance of Jesus’ identity, name, and mission [cf. Luke 2:11; John 1:29; and Acts 4:10-12]?
4. How can you use the meaning of the name “Immanuel” and the entire Christmas story to demonstrate that God is for us and desires to draw near to us [Matthew 1:22-23]? Also considering Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 57:15; and Isaiah 61:1-3.
5. How are believers to live considering God’s gift of grace [Titus 2:11-13]? Also consult Romans 12:1-2; Philippians 3:20-21; and 2 Timothy 1:8-10.
6. What did Jesus accomplish for us during His first coming 2000 years ago [cf. Titus 2:14]? Also examine 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Titus 3:4-7; and 1 Peter 1:18-23.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The spirit of Christmas needs to be superseded by the Spirit of Christ. The spirit of Christmas is annual; the Spirit of Christ is eternal. The spirit of Christmas is sentimental; the Spirit of Christ is supernatural. The spirit of Christmas is a human product; the Spirit of Christ is a divine person. That makes all the difference in the world.” Stuart Briscoe - Nov 27, 2022Boast in the Lord – Deric BartlettBoast in the Lord – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Boast in the Lord" based on 1 Cor. 1:26-31.1. Answer the ______ (v. 26)
2. Speak the truth to ______ (v. 27-29)
3. Boast in the ______ (v. 30-31)
ICEBREAKER: Who have you met that had a strange name? What was its origin?
1. What does the term “calling” in 1 Corinthians 1:26 indicate about salvation? What are believers called to according to the first chapter of this letter [cf. 1 Corinthians 1:1, 2, 9, and 24]?
2. Why do you think the gospel impacts the lower levels of society more than the upper, favoured levels of society [1 Corinthians 1:26]? Also, consult Luke 12:13-21; Luke 16:19-31; and James 2:1-7 for more insights.
3. What is it about the gospel that appears as foolishness and weakness to the unbelieving world [1 Corinthians 1:27]? Also, consider Isaiah 55:8-9; Isaiah 65:1-5; and 1 Corinthians 1:20.
4. According to 1 Corinthians 1:28, why does God choose the low and despised in the world? How does this help you handle the scorn of others for following Christ [cf. Deuteronomy 7:6-8; Luke 7:36-50; and Luke 18:9-14]?
5. Why does boasting have no place before God and others [1 Corinthians 1:29]? Also, examine Daniel 4:27-37; Ephesians 2:8-9; and 2 Peter 2:17-22.
6. What are the benefits that come to believers who are “in Christ Jesus” according to 1 Corinthians 1:30? How do these truths encourage you today [cf. Romans 3:21-26; 2 Corinthians 5:21; and Philippians 3:8-11]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Just as the cross reverses human expectations in terms of how the world will be saved, so too God chose to save the most unlikely candidates - the foolish and weak. Those who are not esteemed for their wisdom and those who lack political power are among those whom God has savingly called to himself. In verse 28 Paul strikingly emphasizes the low status of those God has chosen: they are lowly and even despised. They are ‘the nothings’ of the world.”Thomas R. Schreiner - Nov 20, 2022The Powerless Cross – Deric BartlettThe Powerless Cross – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the new series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "The Powerless Cross" based on 1 Cor. 1:17-25.1. The cross must be displayed ________ (v. 17)
2. The cross must be humbly ________ (v. 18-21)
3. The cross must be sacrificially ________ (v. 22-23)
4. The cross must be fully ________ (v. 18, 24-25)
ICEBREAKER: What is the worst advice you have ever received?
1. What is it about the cross that seems foolish to many [1 Corinthians 1:18a]? What is it about the cross that reveals its power to those who are believers [1 Corinthians 1:18b]? Also consult Romans 1:16-17; 1 Corinthians 2:14; and 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12.
2. What are some common ideas found in our contemporary world that are presented as wise but are, in fact, foolish from God’s perspective [1 Corinthians 1:19-20]? Also, examine Job 5:13; Isaiah 29:13-16; and Jeremiah 8:9.
3. Why does preaching the Word of God appear to be foolish [1 Corinthians 1:21]? What is the result of proclaiming the gospel [cf. Luke 3:3-14; Acts 2:37-39; and Acts 16:30-31]?4. Why would Jews demand signs [1 Corinthians 1:22]? What was the purpose of signs [cf. Matthew 12:38-41; John 3:2; and Acts 2:22]?
5. Why did the Greeks seek after wisdom [1 Corinthians 1:22]? How does worldly wisdom often lead people away from God [cf. Psalm 53:1-4; Acts 17:32; and Colossians 2:8]?
6. How does the message of Christ crucified display both the power and wisdom of God [1 Corinthians 1:23-24]? Also consider Acts 4:10-12; Galatians 3:1; and 1 Peter 3:18.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Christ does not merely offer the sacrifice; he becomes the sacrifice. He is not simply one who dies with the rest of us or pleads that we be spared the death sentence. He is the one who dies in order that we be spared this death. He drinks the cup so that we should not drink it; is cursed so that we should not be cursed; is forsaken so that we should not be forsaken; is condemned so that we should not be condemned.”Donald MacLeod
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