Faithful – Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric continues the series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Faithful" based on 1 Cor. 4:1-13
1. 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)
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
WatchNotesDownloadDateTitle
- 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 29, 2023Do Not Be Afraid, I Am With You – Bryan LeeDo Not Be Afraid, I Am With You – Bryan LeeThis week, Pastor Bryan brings us a special message titled 'Do Not Fear, I Am With You' based on Isaiah 41:5-10.
When you are afraid, know that you belong to God, and he is with you
1. You don't belong to the world
2. You belong to God
ICEBREAKER: What do you fear?
1. In Isaiah 41:1, the LORD summoned the Gentile nations to court to give an account to Him. What does this indicate about God’s relationship to those who do not trust Him [cf. Psalm 47:1-9; Isaiah 34:1-3; and Daniel 4:34-35]?
2. What does it say about the LORD when He can use a pagan Gentile king – in this case, King Cyrus of Persia [Isaiah 41:2-3] – to accomplish His purposes [cf. 2 Chronicles 36:22-23; Ezra 1:1-4; and Isaiah 44:28-45:6]?
3. What unique attributes does the LORD ascribe to Himself in Isaiah 41:4? What difference do these make [Isaiah 44:6; Revelation 1:8; and Revelation 22:13]?
4. Rather than trusting in the LORD, what did the unbelieving nations surrounding God’s people turn to [Isaiah 41:5-7]? Why was this foolish and vain [cf. Exodus 20:3-6; Isaiah 40:18-20; and Isaiah 44:9-20]?
5. Who are named in Isaiah 41:8-9? Why would remembering the patriarchs of the nation be of encouragement for God’s people during challenging times [cf. Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 22:15-18; and Genesis 28:10-17]?
6. According to Isaiah 41:10-13, what is the basis for God’s people to take courage and not be afraid? How does this help you during life’s difficulties [cf. Joshua 1:9; Psalm 118:5-14; and Romans 8:31-39]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear. His eye is upon us, His arm over us, His ear open to our prayer - His grace sufficient, His promise unchangeable.”
John Newton - 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
- Jan 1, 2023Renewed Day by Day – Bryan LeeRenewed Day by Day – Bryan LeeOn this Vision Sunday, Pastor Bryan sets the tone for the new year with a messaged titled 'Renewed Day by Day' based on 2 Cor. 4:16-17.
Main Point:Don’t be discouraged, God is renewing you today for a glorious tomorrow
1. You are ________ renewed today
Though our outer body and world decays, God is working in us powerfully now. He isn’t done with us.
2. You will be ________ renewed tomorrow
There is a purpose behind our suffering as it prepares us for the final day of glory when we and the world will be renewed completely.ICEBREAKER: What are some New Year’s resolutions you have not kept in the past that you may revive this year?
1. What was the Apostle Paul’s response to the hardships of Christian ministry [2 Corinthians 4:1-2]? How does his reaction inspire you to courageously face our current culture’s opposition to the gospel [cf. 2 Corinthians 5:16-21; Galatians 6:9-10; and Ephesians 3:13]?2. What is one major reason unbelievers find the gospel unbelievable [2 Corinthians 4:3-4]? What hope is there for anyone to be saved [cf. Matthew 13:18-23; Acts 26:15-18; and 2 Corinthians 4:5-6]?
3. What mindset best suits a Christian servant for effective ministry according to 2 Corinthians 4:7? Also consult 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:5-9; and 2 Timothy 2:20-21 for more insights.
4. Was Paul’s experience described in 2 Corinthians 4:8-12 to be expected, or was it unusual? According to his own words, how was he able to endure [cf. John 15:18-25; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7; and 2 Timothy 3:10-13]?
5. How did Paul’s faith help him cope with the challenges he faced in his Christian walk and ministry [2 Corinthians 4:13-15]? Also consider Psalm 116:10; Philippians 1:19-26; and 2 Timothy 1:12 for fresh encouragement.
6. Despite the reality of your physical body “wasting away”, how are you planning to renew your “inner self” in the coming new year [2 Corinthians 4:16-18]? Also examine Isaiah 40:28-31; Romans 12:1-2; and Ephesians 3:14-19 for helpful ideas.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“It is good to renew ourselves, from time to time, by closely examining the state of our souls, as if we had never done it before; for nothing tends more to the full assurance of faith, than to keep ourselves by this means in humility, and the exercise of all good works.”
John Wesley - Dec 25, 2022The Gift of Grace – Bryan LeeThe Gift of Grace – Bryan LeeOn this Christmas Sunday, Pastor Bryan Lee concludes the series "Christmas: The Season of Grace" with a message titled "The Gift of Grace" from Luke 2:14.Receive the gift of God's grace, because it's for the undeserving.
1. God ________ grace to the undeserving
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth"
2. God is ________ in the undeserving
"peace among those with whom he is pleased!"
ICEBREAKER: What is one of your favourite Christmas memories?
1. Joseph is remarkable. Many details of his story were beyond his control, such as being uprooted due to Caesar’s decree, having a lowly status despite Davidic lineage, and caring for his supernaturally pregnant betrothed. Yet, he faithfully fulfilled his calling [Luke 2:4-5]. How do you account for his extraordinary character [cf. Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-15; and 2:19-23]?
2. Every detail in the birth story of Jesus reeks of abject poverty [Luke 2:4-7]. Why did God the Father arrange for His Son to enter into the human race in such a humble fashion [cf. Isaiah 53:2-4; 2 Corinthians 8:9; and Philippians 2:5-8]?
3. Shepherds appear frequently throughout the Bible, and many of the great Old Testament saints tended flocks [cf. Abraham – Genesis 13:5-7; Jacob – Genesis 30:43; Moses – Exodus 3:1; and David – 1 Samuel 16:11]. Why do you think shepherds play such a significant role in the biblical story [cf. Genesis 48:15-16; 2 Samuel 5:1-2; Psalm 23:1; and Micah 5:2-5a]?
4. Why is fear such a common reaction when God’s glory bursts onto the stage of human history [Luke 2:9-10]? What does it say about God? What does it say about us [cf. Matthew 8:23-27; Matthew 28:5-10; and Mark 9:2-8]?
5. The angel’s message to the shepherds made at least six astonishing claims concerning the Baby lying in a Bethlehem manger [Luke 2:11]. What were these claims, and why were they crucial to our understanding of Jesus identity [cf. Matthew 16:16; John 20:28; and Hebrews 1:1-4]?
6. Angels play prominent roles in Jesus’ story [Luke 23:9-14]. What do you infer from their appearances and activities that encourages you today [cf. Acts 12:7-11; Hebrews 1:14; and Revelation 5:11-14]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“So, God throws open the door of this world—and enters as a baby. As the most vulnerable imaginable. Because He wants unimaginable intimacy with you. What religion ever had a god that wanted such intimacy with us that He came with such vulnerability to us? What God ever came so tender we could touch Him? So fragile that we could break Him? So vulnerable that His bare, beating heart could be hurt? Only the One who loves you to death.”Ann Voskamp - 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 - Nov 13, 2022When Church Hurts – Phil WebbWhen Church Hurts – Phil WebbThis week, Guest Speaker Phil Webb shares 'When Church Hurts' based on Galatians 6:1-10.ICEBREAKER: What does your perfect burger or sandwich have in it?
1. Who are the “spiritual” ones mentioned in Galatians 6:1 who are responsible to restore the one caught in a transgression? How does the context, particularly Galatians 5:22-24, help provide some clarity [cf. Romans 15:1-6; 1 Corinthians 4:14-21; and 2 Corinthians 13:11]?
2.The term “restore” in Galatians 6:1 is used elsewhere to refer to the mending of fishing nets [cf. Matthew 4:21]. How does this background help to explain how to restore an erring believer [cf. Matthew 18:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; and James 5:19-20]?
3. How do you faithfully practice the command to “keep watch on yourself” in Galatians 6:1 [cf. 2 Corinthians 7:1; 2 Timothy 2:20-23; and 2 Peter 3:14]?
4. Why is pride destructive [Galatians 6:3]? What can we do to prevent pride from deceiving us and disrupting our relationships [cf. Romans 12:3; 1 Corinthians 3:18-23; and 1 Peter 5:5-6]?
5. The law of sowing and reaping cannot be bypassed [Galatians 6:7-8]. What can you do to “sow to the Spirit” instead of “sowing to the flesh” [cf. Hosea 10:12; Matthew 6:33; and Galatians 5:19-21]?
6. According to Galatians 6:9-10, what can we do to “sow to the Spirit” to reap eternal life [cf. Romans 2:6-7; 1 Corinthians 15:58; and 2 Thessalonians 3:13]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The Church is the Church only when it exists for others - not dominating, but helping and serving. It must tell men of every calling what it means to live for Christ, to exist for others.”Dietrich Bonhoeffer - Nov 6, 2022Healing a Spiritual Fracture – Deric BartlettHealing a Spiritual Fracture – Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric introduces the new series 'True Spirituality in a Messy World' with a message titled "Healing a Spiritual Fracture" base don 1 Cor. 1:10-17.1. You must be _______: v. 10
2. You must be _______: v. 11
3. You must be _______: v. 12-14
4. You must be _______: v. 14-16
5. You must be _______: v. 17
ICEBREAKER: What is your favourite way to spend time outdoors?1. 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 sets the stage for Paul’s rebuke of the Corinthian church’s divisiveness. What did Paul positively affirm about them in these verses, and why was this important before launching into his reprimand [cf. Romans 15:14; Philippians 1:6; and Philippians 1:27]?
2. Why are divisions within church families so disruptive and damaging [1 Corinthians 1:10]? What contributes to church divisions [cf. 1 Corinthians 11:18-19; Galatians 5:13-15; and James 4:1-3]?
3. Why do quarrels flare up among the people of God [1 Corinthians 1:11]? What causes them, and what can be done to quell them [cf. Romans 1:29; 1 Corinthians 3:3; and 2 Corinthians 12:20]?
4. Why is comparison among Christians destructive [1 Corinthians 1:12]? Why are people, including believers, enamoured by “celebrities”? What can we do to guard against playing favourites [cf. 1 Corinthians 3:4-9; 1 Corinthians 12:14-26; and Galatians 2:6-10]?
5. How do the rhetorical questions (meaning questions with an obvious answer, used for dramatic effect) of Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:13 highlight the absurdity of playing favourites within a church community [cf. Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11; and 1 Timothy 2:5-6]?
6. According to the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:17, what is the priority for the people of God? How does this help us maintain our focus and avoid divisions in our church family [cf. Romans 1:16-17; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; and Titus 3:4-11]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The glory of the gospel is that when the church is absolutely different from the world, she invariably attracts it.”Martyn Lloyd-Jones
