Running to Win – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Running to Win" based on 1 Cor. 9:24-27.
1. You must ______ to win – v. 24
2. You must ______ to win – v. 25
3. You must ______ to win - v. 26
4. You must ______ to win - v. 27
ICEBREAKER: What is the most useful app you have installed on your phone?
1. In 1 Corinthians 9, the Apostle Paul was urging his readers to follow his example of giving up personal rights for the Gospel’s sake. Why is relinquishing personal rights such a challenge [cf. 2 Corinthians 11:7-11; 1 Thessalonians 2:9; and 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13]?
2. Do you think Paul was being indecisive and characterless when he stated in 1 Corinthians 9:22, “I have become all things to all people…” [cf. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23]? Why or why not [cf. Romans 11:13-14; 1 Corinthians 8:13; and 1 Corinthians 10:31-33]?
3. What are the blessings that accompany the Gospel [1 Corinthians 9:23]? Also, consult Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 3:6; and 2 Timothy 1:8-12.
4. What is the race each believer is running, and what is the prize to be won at the end [1 Corinthians 9:24]? Also, consider Philippians 3:12-14; 2 Timothy 4:6-8; and Hebrews 12:1-2.
5. Why is self-control a critical component to an athlete’s success [1 Corinthians 9:25-26]? How do these athletic word pictures of running and boxing help you strive to win imperishable rewards [cf. 1 Timothy 4:7-8; Hebrews 5:14; and Hebrews 12:5-11]?
6. What does it look like in practical terms to discipline your body to bring it under control [1 Corinthians 9:27]? Also examine Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:16-18; and Colossians 3:12-17 for further clues.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“We must face the fact that many today are notoriously careless in their living. This attitude finds its way into the church. We have liberty, we have money, we live in comparative luxury. As a result, discipline practically has disappeared. What would a violin solo sound like if the strings on the musician's instrument were all hanging loose, not stretched tight, not "disciplined""?
(A. W. Tozer)
WatchNotesDownloadDateTitle
- May 28, 2023Running to Win – Deric BartlettRunning to Win – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Running to Win" based on 1 Cor. 9:24-27.
1. You must ______ to win – v. 24
2. You must ______ to win – v. 25
3. You must ______ to win - v. 26
4. You must ______ to win - v. 27ICEBREAKER: What is the most useful app you have installed on your phone?1. In 1 Corinthians 9, the Apostle Paul was urging his readers to follow his example of giving up personal rights for the Gospel’s sake. Why is relinquishing personal rights such a challenge [cf. 2 Corinthians 11:7-11; 1 Thessalonians 2:9; and 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13]?
2. Do you think Paul was being indecisive and characterless when he stated in 1 Corinthians 9:22, “I have become all things to all people…” [cf. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23]? Why or why not [cf. Romans 11:13-14; 1 Corinthians 8:13; and 1 Corinthians 10:31-33]?
3. What are the blessings that accompany the Gospel [1 Corinthians 9:23]? Also, consult Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 3:6; and 2 Timothy 1:8-12.4. What is the race each believer is running, and what is the prize to be won at the end [1 Corinthians 9:24]? Also, consider Philippians 3:12-14; 2 Timothy 4:6-8; and Hebrews 12:1-2.
5. Why is self-control a critical component to an athlete’s success [1 Corinthians 9:25-26]? How do these athletic word pictures of running and boxing help you strive to win imperishable rewards [cf. 1 Timothy 4:7-8; Hebrews 5:14; and Hebrews 12:5-11]?
6. What does it look like in practical terms to discipline your body to bring it under control [1 Corinthians 9:27]? Also examine Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:16-18; and Colossians 3:12-17 for further clues.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“We must face the fact that many today are notoriously careless in their living. This attitude finds its way into the church. We have liberty, we have money, we live in comparative luxury. As a result, discipline practically has disappeared. What would a violin solo sound like if the strings on the musician's instrument were all hanging loose, not stretched tight, not "disciplined""?
(A. W. Tozer) - May 21, 2023A Servant to All – Deric BartlettA Servant to All – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "A Servant to All" based on 1 Cor. 9:1-23.1. God’s servants are ______ (v. 1-2)
2. God’s servants are ______ (v. 3-6)
3. God’s servants are ______ (v. 7-14)
4. God’s servants are ______ (v. 15-23)
ICEBREAKER: What is your favourite line from a book or a movie?
1. Paul listed a series of at least 16 questions in 1 Corinthians 9:1-12. What was his point? Was it legitimate? Why or why not [cf. Matthew 10:9-10; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; and 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10]?
2. What does the fact that the Apostle Paul had to defend himself against personal attacks [1 Corinthians 9:3] indicate about his cultural circumstances? How should believers respond to criticism and conflict [cf. Philippians 1:15-18; 2 Timothy 2:23-26; and 1 Peter 3:15-16]?
3. How do you understand Paul’s quote of Deuteronomy 25:4 in 1 Corinthians 9:9? What point was he trying to make [cf. Romans 15:4; 1 Timothy 5:17-18; and 2 Timothy 2:6]?
4. How does the agricultural word picture in 1 Corinthians 9:10 help to support Paul’s claim in verse 11? Should Christian
workers be supported financially [cf. Romans 15:25-27; Galatians 6:6; and Philippians 4:15-19]?
5. In contrast to our present culture, the Apostle Paul willingly refused to exercise his personal rights to earn a living from the gospel [1 Corinthians 9:15-18]. What were his reasons [cf. Acts 20:33-35; 2 Corinthians 11:7-11; and 2 Corinthians 12:13-18]?
6. How does voluntarily serving others help to share the gospel with unbelievers [1 Corinthians 9:19-23]? What are ways you can use your gifts, talents, abilities, and resources to win others to Christ [cf. Acts 9:36-39; 1 Corinthians 10:31-33; and Colossians 4:5-6]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”
Henry Drummond - May 14, 2023Esther: The Queen of the Castle – Deric BartlettEsther: The Queen of the Castle – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric delivers a special message in honour of Mother's Day titled "Esther: The Queen of the Castle". The reading is form Esther 2:5-18.1. The Plot
2. The Queen of the Castle
3. The Bigger PictureICEBREAKER: What food is underrated or underappreciated?
1. The third chapter of Esther provides the background to what occurs in chapter four. What do you notice about the dangers of the human ego in Esther 3 [cf. Proverbs 16:18; Romans 12:3; and Romans 12:16]?
2. After hearing of Haman’s genocidal plot, Mordecai and the rest of the Jews tore their robes and put on sackcloth and ashes [Esther 4:1-3]. What did these actions signify, and why was this an appropriate response [cf. 2 Samuel 1:11-12; Daniel 9:3-5; and Jonah 3:6-9]?
3. Notice Esther’s emotional response to Mordecai’s dishevelled condition in Esther 4:4. What does this say about her character and her relationship with Mordecai [cf. Esther 2:5-7, 10-11; Mark 6:34; and Luke 10:33]?
4. Mordecai had a plan [Esther 4:6-8]. But obstacles stood in the way that only Esther knew of [Esther 4:11]. What were the obstacles? Why does the Lord allow us to face unexpected challenges in life [cf. Acts 20:18-21; James 1:2-4; and 1 Peter 1:6-7]?
5. God is never mentioned directly in the book of Esther. Yet, His providence is seen throughout, and especially in Esther 4:13-14. How does this encourage you to trust the Lord in your current challenging circumstances [cf. Genesis 45:7; Isaiah 10:20; and Joel 2:12-14]?
6. Courage flows out of character. How do Esther’s words in Esther 4:15-16, and her actions in Esther 5-7, demonstrate her noble, courageous character [cf. Mark 15:43-46; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; and Philippians 1:20]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“A God wise enough to create me and the world I live in is wise enough to watch out for me.”(Philip Yancey) - May 7, 2023Knowledge + Love = Freedom – Deric BartlettKnowledge + Love = Freedom – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Knowledge + Love = Freedom" based on 1 Cor. 8:1-13.1. What do I need to know in order to make the best decision? (v. 1-4)
2. Who will my choice impact? (v. 3-6)
3. Is my conscience clear on the matter? (v. 7-13)
ICEBREAKER: What do you think the ideal age to be is? Why?
1. Is knowledge harmful [1 Corinthians 8:1]? Why does knowledge promote pride? What can be done to prevent knowledge from leading to arrogance [cf. Romans 14:19; Romans 15:14; and 1 Corinthians 13:4-6]?
2. Why is love the preeminent virtue [1 Corinthians 8:1]? How does it build others up [cf. Ephesians 4:15-16; 1 Peter 1:22; and 1 John 4:16]?
3. In what ways is our world today just as idolatrous as the first century A.D. [1 Corinthians 8:4-5]? Why is it critical for believers to have a clear understanding of who God is to combat idolatrous perspectives [cf. Acts 17:22-31; Romans 1:18-25; and 1 Corinthians 10:14-22]?
4. What do we learn about God the Father from 1 Corinthians 8:6? What do we learn about God the Son from the same verse? How do these truths influence your worldview [cf. John 1:1-3; Romans 11:36; and Colossians 1:15-17]?
5. How does a person’s background affect their perspective on controversial issues [1 Corinthians 8:7]? Should “weaker” believers be reviled, or respected? Why? Also consult Romans 14:13-15:3; 1 Corinthians 10:23-33; and Galatians 5:13-15.
6. How did the Apostle Paul relate to “weaker” believers with sensitive consciences [1 Corinthians 8:8-13]? What role does love play in how others should be treated [cf. Matthew 25:45; 1 Corinthians 10:32-33; and 2 Corinthians 6:3]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Love is the doorway through which the human soul passes from selfishness to service.”Jack Hyles - Apr 30, 2023The Cost of Following Christ – Bryan LeeThe Cost of Following Christ – Bryan LeeThis week, Pastor Bryan shares a special message titled 'The Cost of Following Christ' from Luke 9:18-24.Follow Christ. It costs everything, but it is worth so much more.1. The ______ to Follow (V18-22)
2. The ______ to Follow (V23)
3. The ______ to Follow (V24)
ICEBREAKER: What was your least liked toy as a child?1. Why would Jesus pray [Luke 9:18]? What does this indicate about the nature and purpose of prayer [cf. Luke 6:12-16; Luke 11:1-13; and Luke 22:39-46]?2. The disciples repeated several rumours circulated among the crowds as to Jesus’ identity in Luke 9:18-19. What did the crowds get right? Where did they fall short [cf. John 1:1-5; Colossians 1:15-20; and Hebrews 1:1-4]?
3. On what basis did Peter and the other disciples conclude that Jesus was “the Christ of God” [Luke 9:20]? Also consult Mark 1:21-27; Mark 4:35-41; and John 6:66-69.
4. Jesus clearly forewarned His followers that suffering for Him precedes victory with Him [Luke 9:21-22]. Why is this an important lesson to comprehend [cf. Luke 24:25-27; Philippians 2:5-11; and Hebrews 12:1-3]?
5. What does it look like to deny yourself and take up your cross daily and follow Jesus [Luke 9:23]? Also consider Romans 12:9-21; Ephesians 5:1-20; and 1 Thessalonians 3:1-10.
6. Jesus’ pronouncement in Luke 9:24 seems counter-intuitive. How do Jesus’ words, recorded in the previous context [cf. Luke 9:21-23], help explain the sense of what He was challenging His followers to do [cf. Matthew 10:34-39; John 12:23-26; and 1 Corinthians 1:18-25]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“To deny oneself is to be aware only of Christ and no more of self, to see only him who goes before and no more the road which is too hard for us. Once more, all that self-denial can say is: ‘He leads the way, keep close to him.’”Dietrich Bonhoeffer - Apr 23, 2023Bought with a Price Part 2 – Deric BartlettBought with a Price Part 2 – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric resumes the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Bought With a Price, Part 2" based on 1 Cor. 7:17-40.
1. Every _______ is meant to live by faith: 17-24
2. Every _______ should reflect our love for the Lord: 25-31
3. Every _______ is one step closer to being with the Lord: 31
4. Every _______ is an opportunity to trust the Lord: v. 32-35
5. Every _______ should be made in faith: 36-40ICEBREAKER: What kind of people do you most enjoy spending time with? Why?1. Our current culture makes one’s “self” sovereign. According to 1 Corinthians 7:17, who is the real Sovereign? What difference do these two opposing worldviews make in real life [cf. Acts 4:24; 1 Timothy 6:15; and Revelation 6:10]?2. The LORD commanded His people in the Old Testament to practice circumcision [cf. Genesis 17:9-14]. However, Paul appears to change this requirement in 1 Corinthians 7:18-19. How do you account for this change [cf. Deuteronomy 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4; and Romans 2:28-29]?3. How can it be that a bondservant could be free, and a free person be a bondservant [1 Corinthians 7:21-22]? Why does Christ make all the difference in a believer’s perspective in life [cf. Ephesians 6:5-9; Philemon 1:15-16; and 1 Peter 2:16]?4. 1 Corinthians 7:23 states we were “bought with a price.” Who bought us? When was the price paid? How does this impact how you live your life today [cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Titus 2:14; and 1 Peter 1:18-19]?5. The Apostle Paul seemed to think he was living in the last days prior to Christ’s return [1 Corinthians 7:26, 29, 31]. Considering the impending suffering for followers of Jesus, what was his advice regarding marriage [cf. 1 Corinthians 7:26-28]? How should believers live in a world that is passing away [1 Corinthians 7:31]? Also consult Romans 13:11-14; Ephesians 5:15-16; and 1 John 2:17.6. How does one’s marital status impact ministry effectiveness [1 Corinthians 7:32-35]? How can married couples balance devotion to one another and to the Lord [cf. Ephesians 5:21-33; Colossians 3:18-19; and 1 Peter 3:1-7]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“What then are we to do about our problems? We must learn to live with them until such time as God delivers us from them. We must pray for grace to endure them without murmuring. Problems patiently endured will work for our spiritual perfecting. They harm us only when we resist them or endure them unwillingly.”A. W. Tozer - Apr 16, 2023Bought With a Price, Part 1 – Deric BartlettBought With a Price, Part 1 – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric resumes the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Bought With a Price, Part 1" based on 1 Cor. 7:1-16.
1. _______ are welcomed; v. 1
2. _______ is for Marriage; v. 2-5
3. _______ is not for everyone: v. 6-9
4. _______ is not the answer; v. 10-16ICEBREAKER: What was the craziest theme park or fair ride you have ridden?
1. The Bible is not shy about addressing the topic of sex [1 Corinthians 7:1-16]. However, contrary to current cultural views, God has established moral boundaries. Why are boundaries necessary [cf. Proverbs 6:23-35; Matthew 5:27-28; and Romans 1:24-32]?2. How does 1 Corinthians 7:2 address our culture’s popular openness to engaging in any and every sexually promiscuous practice [cf. Genesis 2:18-25; 1 Corinthians 6:12-20; and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8]?3. What are the reasons the Apostle Paul lists in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 for a married couple to seek to satisfy the legitimate desires of their partner [cf. Exodus 21:10; Song of Songs; and Ephesians 5:21-33]?4. Why is celibacy a legitimate option for a follower of Jesus [1 Corinthians 7:6-9]? Why might it be desirable? Why might it be difficult [cf. 1 Corinthians 7:26; 1 Corinthians 9:5; and 1 Timothy 5:11-15]?5. How does Paul’s instructions to Christians about divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 show the value God places on this special relationship [cf. Malachi 2:13-16; Matthew 5:31-32; and Matthew 19:3-12]?6. According to 1 Corinthians 7:12-16, what effect can a believing spouse have on his/her unbelieving partner and children [cf. 1 Timothy 2:9-10; Titus 2:3-5; and 1 Peter 3:1-7]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Great marriages don’t happen by luck or by accident. They are the result of a consistent investment of time, thoughtfulness, forgiveness, affection, prayer, mutual respect, and a rock-solid commitment between a husband and a wife.”(Dave Willis) - Apr 9, 2023Hope in the Resurrection – Deric BartlettHope in the Resurrection – Deric BartlettPastor Deric shares a special message for Easter Sunday titled 'Hope in the Resurrection' based on Luke 24:13-35.
Lost Hope & Found Hope
ICEBREAKER: What do you usually do on your commute to work?1. Luke 24:13-16 sets up this post-resurrection encounter between these disciples and Jesus. The terms used indicate they were debating the recent events surrounding Jesus. In context, what do you think they were debating [cf. Mark 9:9-10; John 2:18-22; and John 16:16-18]?2. Luke records that the 2 disciples had “sadness written across their faces” in Luke 24:17. What does this reveal about their perception of Jesus and their current state of mind [cf. Nehemiah 2:1-2; Proverbs 15:13; and Proverbs 17:22]?3. According to Cleopas’ own statement in Luke 24:18-21, who was Jesus to him? Was he accurate? Why or why not [cf. Luke 7:16; John 6:14; and Acts 2:22-23]?4. What did Cleopas mean when he stated, “we had hoped he was the Messiah who had come to rescue Israel” in Luke 24:21? What was he missing [cf. Isaiah 41:14; Luke 1:68-75; and Luke 2:38]?5. Why did the 2 disciples not believe in Jesus’ resurrection after hearing the testimony of the women and the others who rushed to the tomb [Luke 24:21-24]? Why was there so much confusion [cf. Matthew 28:17; Mark 8:31-33; and John 20:24-25]?6. What Old Testament passages do you think Jesus used to show the 2 disciples “that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory” [Luke 24:25-27]? Also consult Genesis 3:15; Psalm 22:1-31; and Isaiah 52:13-53:12.7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“The resurrection was indeed a miraculous display of God’s power, but we should not see it as a suspension of the natural order of the world. Rather it was the beginning of the restoration of the natural order of the world, the world as God intended it to be…The resurrection means not merely that Christians have hope for the future but that they have hope that comes from the future. The Bible’s startling message is that when Jesus rose, he brought the future kingdom of God into the present.” Timothy Keller - Apr 2, 2023Behold Your King – Deric BartlettBehold Your King – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric shares a special message for Palm Sunday, 'Behold Your King' based on Matthew 2:1-11.1. He is ______ (v. 1-2)
2. He is ______ (v. 3)
3. He is ______ and ______ (v.4-9)
4. He is ______ (v.10-11)ICEBREAKER: What was your best vacation?
1. Jesus’ actions and words in Matthew 21:1-3 are presented in this story as deliberate and decisive. What does this indicate about His mission [cf. Luke 22:22; Acts 2:22-23; and Acts 4:28]?
2. Matthew 21:5 quotes Zechariah 9:9. In that Old Testament context, the LORD pronounced judgment on the surrounding nations. What does Zechariah 9:9 reveal about Jesus at His triumphant entry? What does it predict about the future [cf. Isaiah 2:4; Isaiah 9:7, and Jeremiah 23:5-6]?
3. All four Gospels record that Jesus entered Jerusalem on a lowly beast of burden [Matthew 21:2-6]. What does this show about Jesus’ character and approach to fulfilling His life’s purpose [cf. Isaiah 53:7; Matthew 11:28-30; and Matthew 12:15-21]?
4. The exclamation, “Hosanna!” means, “O Lord, save!”, and was found in the quotation from Psalm 118:25-26. How would a first-century A.D. Jew have understood the phrase, “Hosanna to the Son of David” [cf. Psalm 132:11; Mark 12:35-37; and John 7:40-43]?
5. Psalm 118 was the final song sung during the Passover meal [Matthew 21:9; cf. Matthew 26:30]. How does this psalm relate to what Jesus was about to do [cf. Isaiah 28:16; Ephesians 2:20; and 1 Peter 2:4-8]?
6. The city of Jerusalem was in an uproar over Jesus’ entry and people wanted to know Who He was [Matthew 21:10-11]. What seems odd about the answer, and what does it say about Jesus’ identity [cf. Deuteronomy 18:15-18; Luke 24:19; and John
1:45-49]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“He [Jesus] has a right to interrupt your life. He is Lord. When you accepted Him as Lord, you gave Him the right to help Himself to your life anytime He wants.”Henry Blackaby - Apr 1, 2023Glorify God in Your Body – Deric BartlettGlorify God in Your Body – Deric BartlettThis 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 19, 2023The Immagrated Gospel of Jesus Christ – Bechara KarakfiThe Immagrated Gospel of Jesus Christ – Bechara KarakfiThis week, our guest is Bechara Karkafi (FEB Church Planting Ambassador to New Canadian Communities). He shares "The Immagrated Gospel of Jesus Christ" from John 3:16-18.ICEBREAKER: Are you a cat or dog person or neither? Why?
1. According to John 3:16, what was God’s motivation to offer the world eternal life [cf. 1 John 4:9-11; 1 John 4:19; and Ephesians 2:4-5]? How does His approach influence your witness to the world?
2. Why did God choose to love the world that was in rebellion against Him [John 3:16]? Also, consult Romans 5:8; 1 Timothy 1:15; and 1 Peter 3:18.
3. What does it mean that Jesus is God’s “only” Son in John 3:16? What difference does it make [cf. Genesis 22:12; John 1:14; and John 3:18]?
4. What is the only prerequisite for a person to receive eternal life according to John 3:16 [cf. John 5:24; Romans 10:9-10; and Ephesians 2:8-9]?
5. Why does the world need to be saved [John 3:17]? What evidence do you observe that demonstrates the world cannot save itself [cf. Luke 19:10; Ephesians 2:1-3; and Ephesians 4:17-19]?
6. What is the frightening future prospect of all those who do not believe in God’s only Son [John 3:18]? Also, consider John 3:36; 2 Peter 3:7; and Jude 1:14-15.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The purpose of the Bible is simply to proclaim God’s plan to save His children. It asserts that man is lost and needs to be saved. And it communicates the message that Jesus is the God in the flesh sent to save His children.”Max Lucado - 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
