Breaking Down Barriers: Jesus Cleansing of the Temple
We’ve recently started a new sermon series in our journey through the Gospel of Matthew called "Jesus vs Religion." This last Sunday, we delved into a powerful moment in Jesus' ministry: His cleansing of the Temple as described in Matthew 21.
Discussion Questions for 02/16/25
Thinking back on the sermon, list out some of Jesus’ issues with the practices of the Jerusalem temple. How do you see these same issues manifested in religious practice today?
Discussion Questions for 02/09/24
What is the significance of the "Passion Week" in the life and ministry of Jesus? Why do you think the Gospels devote so much material to it?
Jesus is Enough
Do you ever feel like you're chasing happiness, but never quite catching it? You’re not alone. Many of us spend our lives pursuing things we believe will make us happy—wealth, relationships, success—only to find they fall short. But the reality is that true fulfillment isn’t found in these things. We know this is true. In our bones, we know we’re made for more than the pleasures of this world. So how do we get there?
Discussion Questions for 01/26/25
In the parable, the landowner chose to pay those who worked less the same amount as those who worked all day. How does the parable challenge our understanding of fairness and justice? What does this parable reveal about the nature of God's kingdom?
Finding Fulfillment in God's Kingdom
In Matthew 19, we encounter a rich young man who seems to have it all—wealth, spirituality, and a genuine desire for eternal life. When he asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life, Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions and follow Him. The young man walks away grieving.
Discussion Questions for 01/19/25
What false gospels are appealing to your own flesh? What might Jesus say if confronted with the false gospel your heart leans toward?
The Pursuit of True Happiness
Have you ever wondered why, despite our relentless pursuit of happiness, we often find ourselves feeling more lonely and anxious than ever? If you're like most people, you've probably noticed that our culture places a high value on personal happiness and fulfillment. Yet, paradoxically, we live in a time where depression and loneliness are at an all-time high
Discussion Questions for 01/12/25
What do you suppose is meant by the idea that the human heart is designed for connection with God? How does this speak to the idea of pursuing happiness in family, marriage, divorce, or singleness?
Embracing a New Year with Jesus: Setting Spiritual Goals
If you're like many of us, you've probably set New Year's resolutions before, only to see them fade away by February. But what if this year could be different? What if you could set goals that not only stick but also transform your life? This isn't just about self-improvement; it's about spiritual growth and letting Jesus overflow into every part of your life. Let's explore how you can make this year a turning point in your faith journey.
Discussion Questions for 01/05/25
What are some specific goals you can set for yourself this year that would help you grow spiritually? How can you make these goals specific, measurable, and connected to your passions?
Advent 2024: The Christ of Christmas
Who is Jesus? Over the last 2000 years, many people have tried to answer this question: historians, authors, skeptics, teachers, rockstars, celebrities, kings, and more. This question drives seekers to find the answer in many different places and ways. Each of us has been faced with this same question, and we need to have an answer. It’s important. Who is Jesus?
Embracing the Love of Jesus This Christmas
Do you ever pause to consider the true essence of Christmas? Beyond the twinkling lights, the festive gatherings, and the joy of giving and receiving gifts, lies a profound truth that can transform your life. This season, as we light the Love Candle on our Advent wreath, we're reminded of the incredible gift of Jesus' incarnation—a gift that not only leads to our salvation but also empowers us to love the world around us.
Advent Week Four: Love
If there is one thing that we all know deep down, it is that we are made for love. We all spend our lives searching for it. We want to find another person who will love us for who we truly are. Yet we are also terrified of the opposite. What if that other person will see us as we truly are and reject us?
Advent 2024 Week 3: Joy
What is joy? Is it an emotion? A decision? An attitude? Joy is hard to define, but Joy is even harder to have. Most of us struggle to consistently find joy in our lives. It is much easier to focus on our circumstances. Are they good or bad? Are you too busy? Is your mental health struggling? Is work going well? Do you have enough money? Hows your marriage? If things are well, we’re happy. If they’re not, we’re sad.
Finding Joy in the Unexpected
Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope, only to find hope in the most unexpected place? Imagine being a shepherd on a cold night, just doing your job, when suddenly the sky lights up with angels proclaiming the birth of a Savior. This is the heart of the Christmas story—a story of unexpected joy and hope.