1. Pray always.
2. Pray about everything.
3. Don't give up.
4. Pray especially about what matters most.
ICEBREAKER: What were your favourite television shows when you were growing up?
1. In the context of Ephesians 6, why is the practice of prayer so vital for the believer [cf. Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Corinthians 10:4-6; and 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11]?
2. How does the Holy Spirit help us to pray more effectively [Ephesians 6:18]? Also consult John 14:26; Romans 8:26-27; and Jude 1:20-21.
3. Why do you think it is so hard to pray [Ephesians 6:18]? Also consider Luke 18:1-8; Romans 12:12; and Colossians 4:2-4.
4. Do you find it a challenge to persevere in prayer [Ephesians 6:18]? Why do you think this is such a common experience for Christians [cf. Matthew 26:40-41; Philippians 4:4-7; and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]?
5. What do you learn about prayer request priorities from the Apostle Paul’s request in Ephesians 6:19 that can instruct you to pray more profoundly [cf. Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-21; and Philippians 1:9-11]?
6. What does the designation “ambassador in chains” indicate about the nature of Christian ministry in the world [Ephesians 6:20]? Also examine 2 Corinthians 5:20; Ephesians 3:1; and Philippians 1:7.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
- Oct 25, 2021Speak with God – Darryl DashOct 25, 2021Speak with God – Darryl DashBy: Darryl DashSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Darryl Dash (Liberty Grace Church) joins us again to share 'Speak with God' based on Ephesians 6:18-20.
1. Pray always.
2. Pray about everything.
3. Don't give up.
4. Pray especially about what matters most.
ICEBREAKER: What were your favourite television shows when you were growing up?
1. In the context of Ephesians 6, why is the practice of prayer so vital for the believer [cf. Ephesians 6:10-17; 2 Corinthians 10:4-6; and 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11]?
2. How does the Holy Spirit help us to pray more effectively [Ephesians 6:18]? Also consult John 14:26; Romans 8:26-27; and Jude 1:20-21.
3. Why do you think it is so hard to pray [Ephesians 6:18]? Also consider Luke 18:1-8; Romans 12:12; and Colossians 4:2-4.
4. Do you find it a challenge to persevere in prayer [Ephesians 6:18]? Why do you think this is such a common experience for Christians [cf. Matthew 26:40-41; Philippians 4:4-7; and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]?
5. What do you learn about prayer request priorities from the Apostle Paul’s request in Ephesians 6:19 that can instruct you to pray more profoundly [cf. Ephesians 1:15-23; Ephesians 3:14-21; and Philippians 1:9-11]?
6. What does the designation “ambassador in chains” indicate about the nature of Christian ministry in the world [Ephesians 6:20]? Also examine 2 Corinthians 5:20; Ephesians 3:1; and Philippians 1:7.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer.” (F.B. Meyer) - Oct 17, 2021Engage the Bible – Darryl DashOct 17, 2021Engage the Bible – Darryl DashBy: Darryl DashSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Darryl Dash from Liberty Grace Church shares with us. 'Engage the Bible' is based on Psalm 1.
1. Avoid what's opposed to God (v.1)
2. Delight in and meditate on God's Word (v.2)
3. The results (vv.3-6)ICEBREAKER: What weird quirks did you pick up from your parents?
1. To be “blessed” refers to the happiness that God-given security and prosperity produces. According to Psalm 1:1-2, what are the conditions that lead to “blessedness” [cf. Psalm 32:1-2; Psalm 40:4; and Matthew 5:3-12]?2. Psalm 1 has been described as a “Wisdom Psalm” that boils all of life down to two opposing life directions. What are these two options, and how can you tell when you have chosen well [cf. Proverbs 1:10-19; Proverbs 4:14-19; and Luke 11:28]?
3. Why is it so hard sometimes to read the Bible [Psalm 1:2]? What are some practical steps we can take to make the Bible the primary influence in our lives [cf. Ezra 7:10; Psalm 63:5-7; and 2 Timothy 2:15]?
4. What does it look like to “delight” and “meditate” on the law of the Lord [Psalm 1:2]? Also consider Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:9-11; and Colossians 3:16.
5. Why is the contrast between a tree and chaff a fitting illustration of the benefits of living wisely [Psalm 1:3-4]? Also consult Psalm 92:12-15; Jeremiah 17:7-8; and Matthew 7:24-27.
6. The Wisdom Literature of the Bible always takes the long view of life. What is the destiny of the wicked as compared to the destiny of the righteous [Psalm 1:5-6]? Also examine Psalm 145:20; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43; and Matthew 25:31-46.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The Word of God I think of as a straight edge, which shows up our own crookedness. We can’t really tell how crooked our thinking is until we line it up with the straight edge of Scripture.” (Elisabeth Elliot)
- Oct 10, 2021Keep Looking to Jesus – Dan ShurrOct 10, 2021Keep Looking to Jesus – Dan ShurrBy: Dan ShurrSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Dan Shurr shares a message titled 'Keep Looking to Jesus!' based on Hebrews 12:1-6.1. The danger of discouragement.2. 3 reasons to keep focused on Jesus:
a. Because of WHO HE IS – “founder and perfector of our faith.”
b. Because of WHAT HE HAS DONE – “endured the cross.”
c. Because of WHERE HE REIGNS – “at the right hand of God.”3. He recites 5 promises to us:
a. Steadfast love of God never ceases.
b. His mercies never come to an end.
c. They are new every morning.
d. Great is Thy faithfulness.
e. The Lord is my portion.ICEBREAKER: What is the most delightful hotel or house you have stayed in while on vacation?
1. Who is the great cloud of witnesses mentioned in Hebrews 12:1? Why do we need them [cf. Acts 1:8; 1 Timothy 6:12; and 1 Peter 5:1]?
2. Why is the metaphor of long-distance running such an appropriate illustration of the Christian life [Hebrews 12:1]? Also consult 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Galatians 5:7; and Philippians 2:14-16.
3. How is it possible to experience joy in the middle of suffering [Hebrews 12:2]? Also consider Luke 24:26; John 16:20-22; and 2 Corinthians 8:1-2.
4. According to Hebrews 12:2, who is Jesus, and what had He accomplished on our behalf [cf. Matthew 16:24-27; Philippians 2:5-11; and Hebrews 2:10]?
5. How does Christ’s example of faithful endurance of suffering encourage you to do the same [Hebrews 12:3]? Also examine Luke 2:34-35; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; and Revelation 2:3.
6. What is the value of the Lord’s discipline as outlined in Hebrews 12:5-6? Also look up Deuteronomy 8:5; Psalm 94:12-13; and 1 Corinthians 11:27-32.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Never let any man become necessary to you. Christ alone is necessary. Apart from Him we are completely wretched; without Him we cannot live and dare not die. Our need of Him is real and vital and will outlast time and go on into eternity. That deep and desperate need is met by Christ so completely that when we have Him we need no one else.” (A.W. Tozer) - Sep 5, 2021The New Heaven and The New EarthSep 5, 2021The New Heaven and The New EarthBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Deric concludes his 5-part series with a message titled 'The New Heaven And The New Earth' based on Revelation 21:1-8. 1. Heaven is the _______________ 'welcome home' (v.1-3) 2. Heaven is the _______________ removal of the curse of sin (v.4) 3. Heaven is the _______________ reckoning in God's eternal plan (v.5-6) 4. Heaven is the _______________ 'well done' for every believer (v.6-8) ICEBREAKER: What useless facts do you know? 1. How does the fact that there will be a new heaven and a new earth without any sea influence how you view this present life [Revelation 21;1]? Also consider Isaiah 65:17-25; Colossians 3:1-4; and 2 Peter 3:11-13. 2. What will be the defining feature of the new Jerusalem [Revelation 21:2-3], and how does this bring you comfort, assurance, and hope today [cf. Ezekiel 37:24-28; John 1:14; and Hebrews 11:13-16]? 3. How are the promises of Revelation 21:4 helping you persevere through the pains and problems of this life [cf. Isaiah 25:8; Luke 20:34-36; and 1 Corinthians 15:26]? 4. What does the Lord promise to those who are spiritually parched [Revelation 21:6]? How is He satisfying your thirsty soul today [cf. John 4:7-15; John 7:37-39; and Revelation 22:17]? 5. How is the sobering list of those destined for the lake of fire and the second death [Revelation 21:8] prompting you to regularly self-examine your own life [cf. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19-21; and 1 Timothy 1:8-11]? 6. What does the beauty of the new Jerusalem of Revelation 21:9-14 show you about the character of our God [cf. Isaiah 60:17-22; Ezekiel43:1-5; and Hebrews 12:22-24]? 7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“The New Heaven and New Earth will be God resetting and recreating the heavens and the earth, where sin and the effects of sin will no longer be present. You will be able to enjoy the beauty of God's presence in all of his glory, unhindered by the presence of sin." (Clarence L. Haynes Jr.)
- May 9, 2021The Queen of the Castle – Deric BartlettMay 9, 2021The Queen of the Castle – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Deric shares a special Mother's Day message titled 'The Queen of the Castle" based on the book of Esther.1. The ________ of Esther
2. The _______ of Esther
ICEBREAKER: What life lessons have you learned from your mother?
1. What do you learn about Esther’s background from Esther 2:5-11? How does her less than ideal life circumstances encourage you to face your own [cf. Genesis 50:19-21; James 1:2-4; and 1 Peter 1:6-9]?
2. How was Esther’s character portrayed in Esther 2:9, 10, and 15? Why are these desirable attributes to cultivate in life [cf. Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 19:20; and Proverbs 23:22-23]?
3. Esther was willing to give others credit instead of being self-serving [Esther 2:21-23]. Why is this such an undervalued characteristic today? What good could possibly from turning the spotlight on others [cf. Roman 16:1-2; 1 Corinthians 16:15-18; and Philippians 2:25-30]?
4. Esther could have tried to save herself by keeping her nationality hidden. However, she chose, at the bidding of Mordecai, to identify with her endangered people. How does her act of courage and self-sacrifice inspire you to face your fears [cf. 1 Samuel 17:41-51; Daniel 6:19-23; and 1 Peter 3:18]?
5. How do the events of Esther 5-7 – the first dinner, the humiliation of Haman, the second dinner, and the ultimate downfall of Haman – illustrate the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility [cf. Jeremiah 18:1-11; Acts 13:48; and Philippians 2:12-13]?
6. Esther decided to petition the king by declaring her solidarity with the people of God [Esther 7:3-4]. Do you value the community of faith? If so, how do you demonstrate it [cf. 1 Corinthians 12:26; Hebrews 10:32-39; and Hebrews 13:1-3]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“When Eve was brought unto Adam, he became filled with the Holy Spirit, and gave her the most sanctified, the most glorious of appellations. He called her Eve, that is to say, the Mother of All. He did not style her wife, but simply mother, mother of all living creatures. In this consists the glory and the most precious ornament of woman.” (Martin Luther) - May 2, 2021Be Strong & Courageous – Max OatesMay 2, 2021Be Strong & Courageous – Max OatesBy: Max OatesSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Max shares a message titled "Be Strong & Courageous" based on Joshua 1 as he says farewell.
ICEBREAKER: What workers have the worst jobs?1. One of the key attributes of leadership is the ability to accurately describe reality. How do you see that principle at work in the LORD’s first sentence of Joshua 1:2? Why was this such a significant statement of reality for the people of Israel [cf. Deuteronomy 32:48-52; Deuteronomy 34:10-12; and Hebrews 3:5]?2. What would be required of the people of Israel to experience the fulfillment of God’s promises to them [Joshua 1:2-4]? Consider also Deuteronomy 9:23-24; Deuteronomy 31:7-8; and Hebrew 3:7-19.3. Why did the LORD promise His continued presence as the Israelites prepared to enter the land [Joshua 1:5]? How does this encourage you to trust God and obey Him as you face the challenges in your life [cf. Deuteronomy 31:6; Isaiah 41:10; and Hebrews 13:5-6]?4. Why do you think the LORD told Joshua to be “strong and courageous” three times in Joshua 1:6, 7, and 9? What was about to happen in their immediate future that necessitated courage? How does this influence your approach to your current situation [1 Samuel 17:41-47; 2 Chronicles 14:9-15; and 2 Chronicles 32:1-8]?5. Joshua 1:1-9 is full of commands from the LORD and promises by the LORD. How do God’s promises help us keep His commands [cf. Exodus 15:26; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; and Colossians 3:1-4]?6. What does it look like to meditate on the Word of God day and night [Joshua 1:8]? What does God promise to those who do so [cf. Psalm 1:1-3; Psalm 119:9-11; and Colossians 3:16]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Meditation is simply talking to God about His Word with a desire that your life and those you pray for come into agreement with it.” (William Thrasher) - Jan 3, 2021Spiritual Vaccination – Deric BartlettJan 3, 2021Spiritual Vaccination – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Deric start the new year with a message title 'Spiritual Vaccination' base don Jeremiah 9:23-24.
- Knowing God as the LORD is the experience that summarizes the entire Bible
- Knowing God as the LORD will protect you from judgment
- Knowing God as the LORD will protect you from boasting
- Knowing God as the LORD will protect you from ignorance
ICEBREAKER: What realistic New Year’s resolutions are you planning to make?1. Jeremiah is known as “the weeping prophet”. Jeremiah 9:1-2 provides a great example of this tendency. What prompted his tears, and how does it help in the development of a compassionate heart for people [cf. Matthew 5:4; Luke 19:41-44; and Romans 9:1-5]?
2. Notice the word pictures used to describe the spiritual adultery of the people [Jeremiah 9:3-8]. Has the human condition changed over time? What examples from today reveal the human race’s continued spiritual unfaithfulness [cf. Genesis 6:5-7; Mark 7:20-23; Romans 1:28-32; and 2 Timothy 3:1-5]?
3. God’s patience toward sinners eventually ends. What do you learn about God’s character that prompts you to restrain unrighteousness [cf. Romans 2:1-11; Romans 9:19-26; and 2 Peter 3:8-10]?
4. Jeremiah 9:12-22 lists God’s indictment of His unfaithful people along with the impending doom of destruction and exile. Why do you think people persist in sin when it inevitably leads to disaster [cf. Genesis 4:6-7; Numbers 32:23; and Romans 6:15-19]?
5. After outlining the imminent destruction and death [Jeremiah 9:15-22], the LORD exposed the false boasts of the people of Judah [Jeremiah 9:23]. What were these 3 false hopes, and what are modern parallels [cf. Deuteronomy 8:11-20; Isaiah 5:18-23; and Zephaniah 1:14-18]?
6. According to Jeremiah 9:24, in what does the LORD delight? If someone truly knows the LORD and His character, what practices will he/she exhibit? Consider Exodus 34:6-7; Jeremiah 31:33-34; and Micah 6:6-8 for further insights.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“There’s a difference between knowing God and knowing about God. When you truly know God, you have energy to serve Him, boldness to share Him, and contentment in Him.” (J.I. Packer)
- Oct 18, 2020The Shining City – Deric BartlettOct 18, 2020The Shining City – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Deric shares a special message for our 40th anniversary titled 'The Shining City' based on Matthew 5:13-16.We are the salt of the earth We are the light of the world We are a city set on a hill1.Why do you think Jesus employed the metaphor of salt to describe the impact of His disciples on others [Matthew 5:13]? What is it about salt that makes it influential [cf. Job 6:6; 2 Kings 2:19-22; and Colossians 4:5-6]?2.Jesus listed the qualities of His disciples in His Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12. How do these shed light on how a disciple may lose saltiness [Matthew 5:13]? Consider also Ephesians 4:17-24; Hebrews 6:1-6; and 2 Peter 2:17-22.3.What is it about the properties of light that make it a fitting metaphor for Jesus’ followers [cf. Matthew 5:14]? Examine also John 8:12; Ephesians 5:7-10; and Philippians 2:14-16.4.Why would a city set atop a hill be an apt description of a follower of Jesus [Matthew 5:14]? Look up Psalm 48; Zechariah 8:1-8; and Hebrews 11:13-16 as well.5.According to Jesus, what is the role of “good works” [Matthew 5:16]? Are they necessary for salvation, or necessary as a result of salvation [cf. Ephesians 2:10; Titus 3:4-8, 14; and 1 Peter 2:11-12]?6.What does it mean to “give glory to your Father in heaven” [Matthew 5:16]? How do we ensure God receives glory [cf. Daniel 4:34-37; Matthew 9:1-8; and Revelation 4:9-11]?7.What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn’t.” (John Piper)
- Mar 15, 2020Do Not Be Anxious – Deric BartlettMar 15, 2020Do Not Be Anxious – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week Pastor Deric shares a message called 'Do not be Anxious' based on Psalm 28:& and Philippians 4:6.The video link the entire service which was live-streamed as we monitor the Coronavirus situation. This audio is the sermon only.
CHILDREN’S MINISTRIESKingdom Kid's Sunday Lesson - Click Here
GIVINGWe know that you are concerned about giving your tithes and offerings during the COVID-19 measures. You can always donate through the Give page on our website.. In addition, perhaps now is a good time to consider switching to a regular automatic Electronic Funds Transfer. It’s also an option to simply set aside your gift until you can give in person. We thank you for your faithfulness!
CONNECT WITH OUR PASTORAL TEAMWe’re committed to living in community and being “the church” even during this present situation. Our Staff is ready to connect with you and continue to offer teaching, encouragement and care. You can connect with us here. - Mar 8, 2020Cornering A Con – Brad LehmanMar 8, 2020Cornering A Con – Brad LehmanBy: Brad LehmanSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Brad shares a message called 'Cornering A con', based on the book of Philemon.1. The witnesses of a con: Find faithful accomplices [Philemon 1:1-3].2. The victim of a con: Respond to victimization by refreshing others [Philemon 1:4-7].3. The cornering of a con: Let God corner the useless to convert them to useful [Philemon 1:8-16].4. Climbing into a con’s corner: Identify with the guilty [Philemon 1:17-22].5. Greetings from more accomplices: Praise God for His grace [Philemon 1:23-25]. Let Jesus climb into your corner.Questions:ICEBREAKER: What do you wish someone taught you a long time ago?1. What prayer principles do you pick up from Paul’s prayer in Philemon 1:4-7? Compare with other Scriptures such as 1 Corinthians 1:4-9; Ephesians 1:15-19; and 1 Thessalonians 1:2-5.2. How does a believer refresh “the hearts of the saints” [Philemon 1:7, 20]? What would that look like? Consult also Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Corinthians 16:15-18; and 2 Corinthians 7:13-16 for further insights.3. Paul wrote that he had become the “father” of Onesimus during his imprisonment [Philemon 1:10]. What does this show about their spiritual relationship? What impact does the analogy of a “father” have for those who serve in Christ’s church [cf. Acts 20:25-35; 1 Corinthians 4:14-21; and 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12]?4. Have you ever felt or been called “useless” [Philemon 1:11]? Who or what prompted this reaction? How does the good news of Christ restore one to “usefulness” [cf. Luke 19:1-10; 1 Timothy 1:12-16; and 2 Timothy 2:20-21]?5. The world focuses on status symbols, titles, power, fame and wealth. In contrast, Christ’s gospel elevates all who trust Him to His beloved family members [Philemon 1:15-17]. How does this changed perspective influence how you treat each member of your church family [cf. Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-24; and 1 Timothy 6:1-2]?6. How does Paul’s language in Philemon 1:17-19 echo that of the gospel? How does Paul’s advocacy on Onesimus’ behalf imitate Christ for us? How can we do this for others? Consider Luke 15:1-7; Acts 9:26-30; and Romans 15:7 for more ideas.7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Wherever Jesus has been proclaimed, we see lives change for the good, nations change for the better, thieves become honest, alcoholics become sober, hateful individuals become channels of love, unjust persons embrace justice.” (Josh McDowell)
- Mar 1, 2020What’s Suffering Good For? – Darryl DashMar 1, 2020What’s Suffering Good For? – Darryl DashBy: Darryl DashSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Darryl Dash from Liberty Grace Church shares with us. 'What's Suffering Good For?' is based on 2 Corinthians 1:1-11.God is a compassionate, encouraging God.The suffering we face is purposeful.Suffering builds community.Questions:ICEBREAKER: What has really taken a toll on you?1. Paul discussed affliction and suffering in 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. Yet he began by blessing God [11:3]. What role does worship play in helping us navigate life’s trials [cf. Luke 1:68-75; Ephesians 1:3-6; and 1 Peter 1:3-9]?2. What does it mean that God is the God of all comfort [2 Corinthians 1:3-4]? How does this encourage you? Consult also Isaiah 40:1-2; Isaiah 60:1-3; 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17.3. How does our suffering prepare us to help others [2 Corinthians 1:4-6]? Consider also Philippians 3:10-11; Colossians 1:24; and 1 Peter 4:12-14.4. How does our suffering help to deepen community [2 Corinthians 1:7-11]? Look up Acts 9:15-16; Romans 8:16-17; and 1 Peter 5:8-10 for further insights.5. Paul was honest about his suffering [2 Corinthians 1:8-9]. Why do we sometimes believe that followers of Jesus shouldn’t suffer or despair [cf. Isaiah 53:3-6; Romans 5:3-5; and 2 Timothy 3:10-12]?6. What is the place of prayer in suffering [2 Corinthians 1:11]? How have you experienced comfort through the prayers of others? Examine Acts 12:3-17; Philippians 1:19, and Ephesians 6:18-20 for more encouragement.7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“I am not a theologian or a scholar, but I am very aware of the fact that pain is necessary to all of us. In my own life, I think I can honestly say that out of the deepest pain has come the strongest conviction of the presence of God and the love of God.” (Elisabeth Elliot)
- Jan 19, 2020Breaking The Surface – Brad LehmanJan 19, 2020Breaking The Surface – Brad LehmanBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week, Pastor Brad shares some tips on how to improve your prayer life titled 'Breaking the Surface' based on Acts 4:23-31.Questions:ICEBREAKER: What was your favourite vehicle that you’ve owned?1. The context for Acts 4:23-31 began in Acts 3:1. What was the backstory that instigated this prayer? What was noticeably different about the early Christians, and what caused the change [cf. Mark 5:18-19; Luke 19:7-10; John 4:28-29]?2. How did these early believers begin their prayer in Acts 4:24? Why is worshiping God – rehearsing Who He is and what He has done – such a priority in prayer? Consult also 2 Kings 19:14-19; Nehemiah 9:5b-15; and Isaiah 6:1-7.3. What do you learn about the value of the Bible as an aid to prayer from Acts 4:25-26? What are the benefits of praying Scripture [cf. Psalm 19:7-11; Matthew 6:9-13; 2 Timothy 3:14-17]?4. The prayer of these early Christians acknowledged the evil perpetrated by Jesus’ enemies [Acts 4:27]. Yet, they were confident God sovereignly superintended everything for His purposes [Acts 4:28]. How does their confidence in the Lord inspire you in your life challenges [cf. Acts 2:23-24; Romans 8:28; Ephesians 1:11-12]?5. These early Christians did not pray for deliverance from persecution but boldness in persecution [Acts 4:29]. What does this tell you about the purpose and power of prayer [cf. Acts 4:13; Philippians 1:12-14; 1Thessalonians 2:1-2]?6. Notice the order of the events in Acts 4:31 – prayer, God’s presence, empowerment, and mission. What do we learn about ministry and mission from this order [Acts 9:17-22; Acts 11:23-26; Ephesians 5:17-20]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“The right way to pray is to stretch out our hands and ask of One who we know has the heart of a Father.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer)
- Jan 5, 202020/20 Vision – Deric BartlettJan 5, 202020/20 Vision – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week Pastor Deric sets our vision for the year 2020 with a message titled "20/20 Vision"
Questions:
ICEBREAKER: What are you planning to practice this year to make it your best year ever spiritually?
1. The Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20 is key to understanding City Centre’s reason for existing. Who [Matthew 3:16-17] is commissioning who [Matthew 10:2]? What is the mission [Acts 1:8]? How is it to be done [Matthew 13:36-43]? What is the promise [Matthew 1:21-23] and hope [Revelation 22:1-5]?
2. Christianity is designed to be a relationship with God, not just a religion. Spending time with God fosters that relationship. What are your daily practices that prioritize alone time with God? Consider Psalm 5:3; Psalm 42:1-2; Luke 5:16; and Acts 17:11 in your thoughts.
3. What is the purpose of weekly corporate worship, and why is it so important? Include Psalm 95:1-7; Acts 13:1-2; and Revelation 5:6-14 in your response.
4. Following Christ is more than a solitary pursuit. We are created for community. What are the benefits of walking with Jesus alongside others [cf. Acts 2:42-47; Colossians 3:12-17; and Hebrews 10:24-25]?
5. Christians are saved to serve, for that was the example of our Lord [cf. Mark 10:45; Luke 22:27]. How does serving others benefit us as well as the entire body of Christ [cf. Galatians 5:13-14; Ephesians 4:11-16; and 1 Peter 4:10]?
6. Throughout church history, the Great Commission has too often collapsed into the Great Omission. Why is mission so dear to our Heavenly Father’s heart, and what are we able to do to accomplish it together? Reflect on Romans 16:25-27; Galatians 4:4-5; and 1 John 4:9-10 for further insights.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“All God’s giants have been weak men who did great things for God because they reckoned on God being with them.” (Hudson Taylor
- Dec 1, 2019Jesus, the Perfect High Priest – Deric BartlettDec 1, 2019Jesus, the Perfect High Priest – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettSeries: One offThis week Pastor Deric continues the series No Turning Back with a sermon titled Jesus, the Perfect High Priest focusing on Hebrews 5:1-10.QuestionsHebrews 5:1-10
Ice Breaker: Are you more productive at night or in the morning? Do you think it’s possible to change and get used to another schedule?
1. According to Hebrews 5:1, what qualifies a person to serve as an Old Testament high priest? How does this help us understand Christ’s high priestly role, and how does it encourage you? Check also Romans 8:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:21; and 1 Peter 2:24-25.
2. Hebrews 5:2-4 speak of an effective high priest’s empathy for the people he represents before God. How does Jesus measure up, and surpass, such lofty standards? Also look at Matthew 9:35-38; Luke 7:11-17; and John 11:32-35.
3. Although the texts quoted in Hebrews 5:5-6 speak of the exalted position of God’s Anointed King [Psalm 2:7; Psalm 110:4], Jesus lived on earth as a humble servant [cf. Matthew 21:5; Luke 2:4-7; Philippians 2:3-11]. How does this portrayal of Jesus amaze and inspire you?
4. How does Jesus’ model of a prayer life instruct and inspire your prayer life [Hebrews 5:7]? Consult also Luke 5:16; Luke 11:1-4; and Luke 22:39-46.
5. How do you understand Hebrews 5:8? What is the relationship between a child of God and the purpose of suffering [cf. Matthew 5:10-12; Romans 5:3-5; Philippians 4:10-13; and James 1:2-4]?
6. What is the role of obedience in Christ’s experience as well as the believer’s experience [Hebrews 5:8-9]? How does His obedience motivate your obedience [cf. Romans 1:5; Romans 2:6-8; and Romans 6:15-19]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
- Nov 24, 2019Great Expectations – Max OatesNov 24, 2019Great Expectations – Max OatesBy: Max OatesSeries: One off1. Two times David writes he “waits in silence for God” in this psalm [Psalm 62:1 & 5]. What does that look like? Does it mean do nothing, or is there some activity we must engage in? Consult also Psalm 27:14; Psalm 130:5-6; and Isaiah 40:28-31.2. Why does David use the images of a rock, a refuge, and a fortress [Psalm 62:2, 6-8]? Why were these images so meaningful to him [cf. 1 Samuel 23:24-29; 1 Samuel 30:6; 2 Samuel 5:17]? How do these images help you through life’s difficulties?3. David’s experience seems to mirror today. The current climate of our culture is characterized by mean-spiritedness. Everyone seems angry and personally offended by opposing viewpoints, resulting in yelling past one another, especially in social media. Have you ever experienced Psalm 62:3-4? Is there a better way to respond [ cf. Galatians 5:15; Ephesians 4:25-32; and James 1:19-21]?4. Faith, love and hope are expressed in other words in Psalm 62:8. Why are these 3 expressions so central to believers’ lives, and how do they strengthen us in the middle of hardships? Also examine Romans 5:1-5; 1 Thessalonians 1:3 and 5:8 for more insights.5. Psalm 62:9 addresses our human tendency toward self-importance. In our “selfie” and “viral” age, God’s Word reminds us we are but a “breath”. How does this word picture influence your self-awareness and priorities [cf. Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 8:3-8; Psalm 144:3-4; James 4:13-14; and 1 John 3:1-3]?6. The Bible warns us to not set our hears on temporary material things, especially if they are unjustly gained [Psalm 62:10]. How can we keep material possessions from possessing us? Reflect also on Ecclesiastes 5:10-20; Matthew 6:19-24; and Hebrews 13:5.7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
