Sermon 550: The Word Made Flesh (John 1:1-18)

A One-off sermon for Christmas

Today’s Bulletin

John 1:1-18

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.

9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (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.’ ”) 16 For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.

Sermon Discussion questions
The Word Made Flesh: John 1:1-18

Ice Breaker: What’s the most famous person you’ve ever seen in the real world?

This Week Specific

1. The sermon mentions how we can be "too easily impressed" by celebrities or important people, while sometimes missing the wonder of God becoming human. What aspects of Christmas or your faith have become too familiar, and how can you rediscover a sense of wonder about them?

2. When discussing Jesus' full humanity, the sermon describes how He experienced all aspects of human life - from learning to walk, to working a trade, to experiencing physical and emotional pain. How does knowing that Jesus fully experienced human life change how you approach Him with your daily struggles and challenges?

3. The sermon emphasizes that Christmas is a love story rather than an origin story. Think about your closest relationships (family, friends, spouse). How does understanding God's sacrificial love in becoming human challenge or inspire how you love the people in your life?

4. The text mentions receiving "grace upon grace" (John 1:16). Looking at your workplace or school environment, what would it practically look like to extend this kind of generous, overflowing grace to difficult colleagues, challenging students, or demanding supervisors?

5. Brian described Jesus' profound humility in becoming human. In what specific area of your life (parenting, marriage, work, friendships) do you find it most difficult to practice humility? What one step could you take this week to follow Christ's example of humility in that area?

6. Consider the Nintendo game analogy from the sermon - of a creator entering their creation. How does this perspective of God willingly entering our broken world change how you view and interact with the brokenness in your own community or neighborhood?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 549: The Ultimate Blind Date (Genesis 24)

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Continuing the Genesis series

Today’s Bulletin

genesis 24

24 Now Abraham was old, well advanced in years. And the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things. 2 And Abraham said to his servant, the oldest of his household, who had charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh, 3 that I may make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and God of the earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell, 4 but will go to my country and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son Isaac.” 5 The servant said to him, “Perhaps the woman may not be willing to follow me to this land. Must I then take your son back to the land from which you came?” 6 Abraham said to him, “See to it that you do not take my son back there. 7 The Lord, the God of heaven, who took me from my father’s house and from the land of my kindred, and who spoke to me and swore to me, ‘To your offspring I will give this land,’ he will send his angel before you, and you shall take a wife for my son from there. 8 But if the woman is not willing to follow you, then you will be free from this oath of mine; only you must not take my son back there.” 9 So the servant put his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master and swore to him concerning this matter.

10 Then the servant took ten of his master’s camels and departed, taking all sorts of choice gifts from his master; and he arose and went to Mesopotamia to the city of Nahor. 11 And he made the camels kneel down outside the city by the well of water at the time of evening, the time when women go out to draw water. 12 And he said, “O Lord, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today and show steadfast love to my master Abraham. 13 Behold, I am standing by the spring of water, and the daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water. 14 Let the young woman to whom I shall say, ‘Please let down your jar that I may drink,’ and who shall say, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels’—let her be the one whom you have appointed for your servant Isaac. By this I shall know that you have shown steadfast love to my master.”

15 Before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham’s brother, came out with her water jar on her shoulder. 16 The young woman was very attractive in appearance, a maiden whom no man had known. She went down to the spring and filled her jar and came up. 17 Then the servant ran to meet her and said, “Please give me a little water to drink from your jar.” 18 She said, “Drink, my lord.” And she quickly let down her jar upon her hand and gave him a drink. 19 When she had finished giving him a drink, she said, “I will draw water for your camels also, until they have finished drinking.” 20 So she quickly emptied her jar into the trough and ran again to the well to draw water, and she drew for all his camels. 21 The man gazed at her in silence to learn whether the Lord had prospered his journey or not.

22 When the camels had finished drinking, the man took a gold ring weighing a half shekel, and two bracelets for her arms weighing ten gold shekels, 23 and said, “Please tell me whose daughter you are. Is there room in your father’s house for us to spend the night?” 24 She said to him, “I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, whom she bore to Nahor.” 25 She added, “We have plenty of both straw and fodder, and room to spend the night.” 26 The man bowed his head and worshiped the Lord 27 and said, “Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his faithfulness toward my master. As for me, the Lord has led me in the way to the house of my master’s kinsmen.” 28 Then the young woman ran and told her mother’s household about these things.

29 Rebekah had a brother whose name was Laban. Laban ran out toward the man, to the spring. 30 As soon as he saw the ring and the bracelets on his sister’s arms, and heard the words of Rebekah his sister, “Thus the man spoke to me,” he went to the man. And behold, he was standing by the camels at the spring. 31 He said, “Come in, O blessed of the Lord. Why do you stand outside? For I have prepared the house and a place for the camels.” 32 So the man came to the house and unharnessed the camels, and gave straw and fodder to the camels, and there was water to wash his feet and the feet of the men who were with him. 33 Then food was set before him to eat. But he said, “I will not eat until I have said what I have to say.” He said, “Speak on.”

34 So he said, “I am Abraham’s servant. 35 The Lord has greatly blessed my master, and he has become great. He has given him flocks and herds, silver and gold, male servants and female servants, camels and donkeys. 36 And Sarah my master’s wife bore a son to my master when she was old, and to him he has given all that he has. 37 My master made me swear, saying, ‘You shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell, 38 but you shall go to my father’s house and to my clan and take a wife for my son.’ 39 I said to my master, ‘Perhaps the woman will not follow me.’ 40 But he said to me, ‘The Lord, before whom I have walked, will send his angel with you and prosper your way. You shall take a wife for my son from my clan and from my father’s house. 41 Then you will be free from my oath, when you come to my clan. And if they will not give her to you, you will be free from my oath.’

42 “I came today to the spring and said, ‘O Lord, the God of my master Abraham, if now you are prospering the way that I go, 43 behold, I am standing by the spring of water. Let the virgin who comes out to draw water, to whom I shall say, “Please give me a little water from your jar to drink,” 44 and who will say to me, “Drink, and I will draw for your camels also,” let her be the woman whom the Lord has appointed for my master’s son.’

45 “Before I had finished speaking in my heart, behold, Rebekah came out with her water jar on her shoulder, and she went down to the spring and drew water. I said to her, ‘Please let me drink.’ 46 She quickly let down her jar from her shoulder and said, ‘Drink, and I will give your camels drink also.’ So I drank, and she gave the camels drink also. 47 Then I asked her, ‘Whose daughter are you?’ She said, ‘The daughter of Bethuel, Nahor’s son, whom Milcah bore to him.’ So I put the ring on her nose and the bracelets on her arms. 48 Then I bowed my head and worshiped the Lord and blessed the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who had led me by the right way to take the daughter of my master’s kinsman for his son. 49 Now then, if you are going to show steadfast love and faithfulness to my master, tell me; and if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left.”

50 Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, “The thing has come from the Lord; we cannot speak to you bad or good. 51 Behold, Rebekah is before you; take her and go, and let her be the wife of your master’s son, as the Lord has spoken.”

52 When Abraham’s servant heard their words, he bowed himself to the earth before the Lord. 53 And the servant brought out jewelry of silver and of gold, and garments, and gave them to Rebekah. He also gave to her brother and to her mother costly ornaments. 54 And he and the men who were with him ate and drank, and they spent the night there. When they arose in the morning, he said, “Send me away to my master.” 55 Her brother and her mother said, “Let the young woman remain with us a while, at least ten days; after that she may go.” 56 But he said to them, “Do not delay me, since the Lord has prospered my way. Send me away that I may go to my master.” 57 They said, “Let us call the young woman and ask her.” 58 And they called Rebekah and said to her, “Will you go with this man?” She said, “I will go.” 59 So they sent away Rebekah their sister and her nurse, and Abraham’s servant and his men. 60 And they blessed Rebekah and said to her,

“Our sister, may you become thousands of ten thousands, and may your offspring possess the gate of those who hate him!”

61 Then Rebekah and her young women arose and rode on the camels and followed the man. Thus the servant took Rebekah and went his way.

62 Now Isaac had returned from Beer-lahai-roi and was dwelling in the Negeb. 63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening. And he lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, there were camels coming. 64 And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she dismounted from the camel 65 and said to the servant, “Who is that man, walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “It is my master.” So she took her veil and covered herself. 66 And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. 67 Then Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.

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Sermon Discussion questions
Match Making: Genesis 24

Ice Breaker: What deal breakers or requirements were on or are on your husband/wife list? You can have humorous ones.

This Week Specific

1. Rebekah demonstrated a servant's heart by going above and beyond in helping the stranger at the well. Share a time when someone's unexpected act of service impacted you. How can you cultivate a more servant-minded attitude in your family, workplace, or community?

2. The sermon emphasized being "equally yoked" spiritually in relationships. For those in dating relationships or seeking a spouse, what are some practical ways to discern if someone shares your core spiritual values? For married couples, how can you continue to grow together spiritually?

3. Rebekah showed remarkable faith by saying "I will go" to a completely unknown future. Where in your life is God calling you to step out in faith, even when you can't see the entire path? What fears might be holding you back?

4. Pastor Brian highlighted sexual purity as important, but also emphasized God's grace for those who have made mistakes. How can we create a culture of grace and healing around this topic in our community? What ways can we help one another pursue and nourish healthy relationships?

5. We see the servant boldly include all the God did in the midst of stories where he could have left God out, how easy or difficult is it for you to include God answering prayer, or working providentially when telling someone, particularly an unbeliever a story from your life?

6. The sermon suggested looking for character qualities like hospitality, generosity, and a servant's heart in potential partners. Beyond romantic relationships, how can you develop these qualities in yourself? What practical steps can you take to become more hospitable and generous?

7. Isaac loved Rebekah, reflecting how Christ loves the church. Married couples: How can you more intentionally show love that reflects Christ's love? Single individuals: How does understanding Christ's love shape your view of relationships and personal worth?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 548: The Plot is the Plot (Genesis 23)

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Resuming the Genesis series

Today’s Bulletin

genesis 23

23 Sarah lived 127 years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. 2 And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. 3 And Abraham rose up from before his dead and said to the Hittites, 4 “I am a sojourner and foreigner among you; give me property among you for a burying place, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” 5 The Hittites answered Abraham, 6 “Hear us, my lord; you are a prince of God among us. Bury your dead in the choicest of our tombs. None of us will withhold from you his tomb to hinder you from burying your dead.” 7 Abraham rose and bowed to the Hittites, the people of the land. 8 And he said to them, “If you are willing that I should bury my dead out of my sight, hear me and entreat for me Ephron the son of Zohar, 9 that he may give me the cave of Machpelah, which he owns; it is at the end of his field. For the full price let him give it to me in your presence as property for a burying place.”

10 Now Ephron was sitting among the Hittites, and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the hearing of the Hittites, of all who went in at the gate of his city, 11 “No, my lord, hear me: I give you the field, and I give you the cave that is in it. In the sight of the sons of my people I give it to you. Bury your dead.” 12 Then Abraham bowed down before the people of the land. 13 And he said to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, “But if you will, hear me: I give the price of the field. Accept it from me, that I may bury my dead there.” 14 Ephron answered Abraham, 15 “My lord, listen to me: a piece of land worth four hundred shekels of silver, what is that between you and me? Bury your dead.” 16 Abraham listened to Ephron, and Abraham weighed out for Ephron the silver that he had named in the hearing of the Hittites, four hundred shekels of silver, according to the weights current among the merchants.

17 So the field of Ephron in Machpelah, which was to the east of Mamre, the field with the cave that was in it and all the trees that were in the field, throughout its whole area, was made over 18 to Abraham as a possession in the presence of the Hittites, before all who went in at the gate of his city. 19 After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field of Machpelah east of Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. 20 The field and the cave that is in it were made over to Abraham as property for a burying place by the Hittites.

Here is a picture of the Cave of Patriarchs aka Machpelah cave today, it’s under this building and not really accessible today.

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Sermon Discussion questions
The Plot Is The Plot: Genesis 23

Ice Breaker: If you could plan your own funeral, is there one unique or quirky thing you'd want to include?

This Week Specific

Dealing with Grief
Abraham mourns Sarah’s death openly and honestly (v. 2). How can we create space in our families, friend groups, etc to process grief together?

Faith and Future Hope
In what areas of your life are you currently struggling to live with a perspective of future hope in Christ? How might you practically demonstrate faith in unseen promises, similar to how Abraham purchased the burial cave?

Navigating Grief and Loss
How does the sermon's perspective on death and resurrection change the way you approach grief? Share a time when your faith helped you process loss differently than someone without hope.

Long-Term Kingdom Investment
The sermon discusses investing in God's promises beyond immediate circumstances. What are some tangible ways you can invest your time, resources, or energy into God's kingdom that might seem counterintuitive or premature to others?

Living Beyond the Visible
If an unbeliever observed your daily life for a week, what would they conclude about your priorities and beliefs? What changes might you need to make to more visibly demonstrate your faith in Christ's future promises?

Generational Faith
Abraham's purchase of the burial cave was an act of faith for future generations. How are you currently investing in or modeling faith for the next generation - whether in your family, workplace, or community?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 547: Do This and You Will Live (Leviticus 18-20)

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Sermon 7 of 9 of Jeremy’s Leviticus Series

Today’s Bulletin

Leviticus 18-20

18 And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, I am the Lord your God. 3 You shall not do as they do in the land of Egypt, where you lived, and you shall not do as they do in the land of Canaan, to which I am bringing you. You shall not walk in their statutes. 4 You shall follow my rules and keep my statutes and walk in them. I am the Lord your God. 5 You shall therefore keep my statutes and my rules; if a person does them, he shall live by them: I am the Lord.

6 “None of you shall approach any one of his close relatives to uncover nakedness. I am the Lord. 7 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father, which is the nakedness of your mother; she is your mother, you shall not uncover her nakedness. 8 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s wife; it is your father’s nakedness. 9 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your sister, your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether brought up in the family or in another home. 10 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your son’s daughter or of your daughter’s daughter, for their nakedness is your own nakedness. 11 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s wife’s daughter, brought up in your father’s family, since she is your sister. 12 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s sister; she is your father’s relative. 13 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your mother’s sister, for she is your mother’s relative. 14 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s brother, that is, you shall not approach his wife; she is your aunt. 15 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your daughter-in-law; she is your son’s wife, you shall not uncover her nakedness. 16 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your brother’s wife; it is your brother’s nakedness. 17 You shall not uncover the nakedness of a woman and of her daughter, and you shall not take her son’s daughter or her daughter’s daughter to uncover her nakedness; they are relatives; it is depravity. 18 And you shall not take a woman as a rival wife to her sister, uncovering her nakedness while her sister is still alive.

19 “You shall not approach a woman to uncover her nakedness while she is in her menstrual uncleanness. 20 And you shall not lie sexually with your neighbor’s wife and so make yourself unclean with her. 21 You shall not give any of your children to offer them to Molech, and so profane the name of your God: I am the Lord. 22 You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. 23 And you shall not lie with any animal and so make yourself unclean with it, neither shall any woman give herself to an animal to lie with it: it is perversion.

24 “Do not make yourselves unclean by any of these things, for by all these the nations I am driving out before you have become unclean, 25 and the land became unclean, so that I punished its iniquity, and the land vomited out its inhabitants. 26 But you shall keep my statutes and my rules and do none of these abominations, either the native or the stranger who sojourns among you 27 (for the people of the land, who were before you, did all of these abominations, so that the land became unclean), 28 lest the land vomit you out when you make it unclean, as it vomited out the nation that was before you. 29 For everyone who does any of these abominations, the persons who do them shall be cut off from among their people. 30 So keep my charge never to practice any of these abominable customs that were practiced before you, and never to make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.”

19 And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy. 3 Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father, and you shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the Lord your God. 4 Do not turn to idols or make for yourselves any gods of cast metal: I am the Lord your God.

5 “When you offer a sacrifice of peace offerings to the Lord, you shall offer it so that you may be accepted. 6 It shall be eaten the same day you offer it or on the day after, and anything left over until the third day shall be burned up with fire. 7 If it is eaten at all on the third day, it is tainted; it will not be accepted, 8 and everyone who eats it shall bear his iniquity, because he has profaned what is holy to the Lord, and that person shall be cut off from his people.

9 “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. 10 And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God.

11 “You shall not steal; you shall not deal falsely; you shall not lie to one another. 12 You shall not swear by my name falsely, and so profane the name of your God: I am the Lord.

13 “You shall not oppress your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired worker shall not remain with you all night until the morning. 14 You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.

15 “You shall do no injustice in court. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor. 16 You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the Lord.

17 “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. 18 You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.

19 “You shall keep my statutes. You shall not let your cattle breed with a different kind. You shall not sow your field with two kinds of seed, nor shall you wear a garment of cloth made of two kinds of material.

20 “If a man lies sexually with a woman who is a slave, assigned to another man and not yet ransomed or given her freedom, a distinction shall be made. They shall not be put to death, because she was not free; 21 but he shall bring his compensation to the Lord, to the entrance of the tent of meeting, a ram for a guilt offering. 22 And the priest shall make atonement for him with the ram of the guilt offering before the Lord for his sin that he has committed, and he shall be forgiven for the sin that he has committed.

23 “When you come into the land and plant any kind of tree for food, then you shall regard its fruit as forbidden. Three years it shall be forbidden to you; it must not be eaten. 24 And in the fourth year all its fruit shall be holy, an offering of praise to the Lord. 25 But in the fifth year you may eat of its fruit, to increase its yield for you: I am the Lord your God.

26 “You shall not eat any flesh with the blood in it. You shall not interpret omens or tell fortunes. 27 You shall not round off the hair on your temples or mar the edges of your beard. 28 You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves: I am the Lord.

29 “Do not profane your daughter by making her a prostitute, lest the land fall into prostitution and the land become full of depravity. 30 You shall keep my Sabbaths and reverence my sanctuary: I am the Lord.

31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God.

32 “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.

33 “When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. 34 You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.

35 “You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity. 36 You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt. 37 And you shall observe all my statutes and all my rules, and do them: I am the Lord.”

20 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Say to the people of Israel, Any one of the people of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech shall surely be put to death. The people of the land shall stone him with stones. 3 I myself will set my face against that man and will cut him off from among his people, because he has given one of his children to Molech, to make my sanctuary unclean and to profane my holy name. 4 And if the people of the land do at all close their eyes to that man when he gives one of his children to Molech, and do not put him to death, 5 then I will set my face against that man and against his clan and will cut them off from among their people, him and all who follow him in whoring after Molech.

6 “If a person turns to mediums and necromancers, whoring after them, I will set my face against that person and will cut him off from among his people. 7 Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. 8 Keep my statutes and do them; I am the Lord who sanctifies you. 9 For anyone who curses his father or his mother shall surely be put to death; he has cursed his father or his mother; his blood is upon him.

10 “If a man commits adultery with the wife of his neighbor, both the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death. 11 If a man lies with his father’s wife, he has uncovered his father’s nakedness; both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. 12 If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both of them shall surely be put to death; they have committed perversion; their blood is upon them. 13 If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. 14 If a man takes a woman and her mother also, it is depravity; he and they shall be burned with fire, that there may be no depravity among you. 15 If a man lies with an animal, he shall surely be put to death, and you shall kill the animal. 16 If a woman approaches any animal and lies with it, you shall kill the woman and the animal; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.

17 “If a man takes his sister, a daughter of his father or a daughter of his mother, and sees her nakedness, and she sees his nakedness, it is a disgrace, and they shall be cut off in the sight of the children of their people. He has uncovered his sister’s nakedness, and he shall bear his iniquity. 18 If a man lies with a woman during her menstrual period and uncovers her nakedness, he has made naked her fountain, and she has uncovered the fountain of her blood. Both of them shall be cut off from among their people. 19 You shall not uncover the nakedness of your mother’s sister or of your father’s sister, for that is to make naked one’s relative; they shall bear their iniquity. 20 If a man lies with his uncle’s wife, he has uncovered his uncle’s nakedness; they shall bear their sin; they shall die childless. 21 If a man takes his brother’s wife, it is impurity. He has uncovered his brother’s nakedness; they shall be childless.

22 “You shall therefore keep all my statutes and all my rules and do them, that the land where I am bringing you to live may not vomit you out. 23 And you shall not walk in the customs of the nation that I am driving out before you, for they did all these things, and therefore I detested them. 24 But I have said to you, ‘You shall inherit their land, and I will give it to you to possess, a land flowing with milk and honey.’ I am the Lord your God, who has separated you from the peoples. 25 You shall therefore separate the clean beast from the unclean, and the unclean bird from the clean. You shall not make yourselves detestable by beast or by bird or by anything with which the ground crawls, which I have set apart for you to hold unclean. 26 You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine.

27 “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer shall surely be put to death. They shall be stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon them.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
Do This and you will live: leviticus 18-20

Ice Breaker: What Thanksgiving food would you ban from tables if you could?

This Week Specific

Holiness and God’s Character

    1    How does your life reflect the distinctiveness of being in God’s presence? Are there areas where your life resembles the world more than God’s character?

    2    Leviticus 19:2 says, “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” What does this truth reveal about how your actions should align with God’s character?

    3    Holiness is often described as obedience to God. In what specific ways can you obey God in your daily life to reflect His goodness, justice, and love?

Holiness and God’s Promises

    4    The Israelites were promised blessings for obedience and warned of consequences for disobedience. How do God’s promises encourage you to pursue holiness, even when it feels costly?

    5    What are some ways you have seen the blessings of holiness in your life or the lives of others?

    6    Reflecting on Hebrews 12:14 (“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord”), what motivates you most to strive for holiness?

Holiness and God’s Actions

    7    God’s actions in redeeming Israel foreshadow Christ’s work on the cross. How does reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice inspire you to pursue holiness in your own life?

    8    Consider the statement: “You are already holy because God has made you so.” How does this truth provide confidence in your pursuit of holiness, even when you fail?

    9    In what areas of your life are you tempted to take God’s grace for granted? How can remembering God’s redeeming action help you fight against this?

Holiness in Practical Areas of Life

    10    Holiness encompasses all areas of life—worship, family, business, and social interactions. Which of these areas do you feel most called to pursue greater holiness? Why?

    11    The holiness code highlights the importance of honoring parents, treating the poor fairly, and living with integrity. How can you apply these principles to your current relationships and responsibilities?

    12    How does pursuing holiness in your sexual ethics, finances, or social interactions set you apart from the world and point others to Christ?

Reflection and Growth

    13    What specific behaviors or attitudes do you need to “put off” to reflect the holiness of God more fully? What “godly attributes” do you need to “put on”?

    14    How can the community of believers support you in your pursuit of holiness? How can you help others in theirs?

    15    In what ways can you regularly remind yourself of God’s love and the gospel, so that it fuels your pursuit of holiness?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 546: Attitude of Gratitude (1st Thessalonians 5:12-18)

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One off sermon on Gratitude today

Today’s Bulletin

1st Thessalonians 5:12-18

1 Thessalonians 5:12–18 “12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
An Attitude of Gratitude: 1st Thessalonians 5:12-18

Ice Breaker: What family tradition do you look forward to most, and why?

This Week Specific

1. Personal Reflection
   Reflect on a time recently when you found yourself grumbling or complaining. How might you have looked for God's grace in that situation instead? What might you thank Him for in that moment?

2. Family Life
   In your family, how can you actively express gratitude to one another? What are some practical ways to make thankfulness a habit in your home? Example: Thanking family members for small acts of kindness or recognizing ways God has blessed your family.

3. Work/School
   How can you cultivate a habit of gratitude in your workplace or school?
   Think about specific challenges you face—how can you see God's grace and respond with thankfulness in those situations?

4. Community Influence
   Philippians 2:14 says, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” How might living out this command influence your relationships with others (family, coworkers, friends)? How does gratitude stand out in a culture often marked by complaining?

5. Perspective Shift
   Think about a difficult or painful experience you’ve faced. Can you identify any specific ways God’s grace was present in that situation? How can recognizing His grace help you “give thanks in all circumstances”?

6. Cultivating Gratitude
   What are some practical habits you can build into your life to recognize and express gratitude regularly (e.g., journaling blessings, praying with thanksgiving, verbalizing thanks to others)?

7. Sharing with Others
   How can you encourage gratitude in those around you, whether at home, work, or in your community? What role does your example play in influencing others to cultivate thankfulness?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 545: For Such A Time As This (Exodus 35:4-29)

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Today’s Bulletin

Preaching today is George Boomer, the Senior Pastor of Grace PCA in Lawrence.

Exodus 35:4-29

Exodus 35:4–29, “4 Moses said to all the congregation of the people of Israel, “This is the thing that the LORD has commanded. 5 Take from among you a contribution to the LORD. Whoever is of a generous heart, let him bring the LORD’S contribution: gold, silver, and bronze; 6 blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen; goats’ hair, 7 tanned rams’ skins, and goatskins; acacia wood, 8 oil for the light, spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense, 9 and onyx stones and stones for setting, for the ephod and for the breastpiece.

10 “Let every skillful craftsman among you come and make all that the LORD has commanded: 11 the tabernacle, its tent and its covering, its hooks and its frames, its bars, its pillars, and its bases; 12 the ark with its poles, the mercy seat, and the veil of the screen; 13 the table with its poles and all its utensils, and the bread of the Presence; 14 the lampstand also for the light, with its utensils and its lamps, and the oil for the light; 15 and the altar of incense, with its poles, and the anointing oil and the fragrant incense, and the screen for the door, at the door of the tabernacle; 16 the altar of burnt offering, with its grating of bronze, its poles, and all its utensils, the basin and its stand; 17 the hangings of the court, its pillars and its bases, and the screen for the gate of the court; 18 the pegs of the tabernacle and the pegs of the court, and their cords; 19 the finely worked garments for ministering in the Holy Place, the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, for their service as priests.”

20 Then all the congregation of the people of Israel departed from the presence of Moses. 21 And they came, everyone whose heart stirred him, and everyone whose spirit moved him, and brought the LORD’S contribution to be used for the tent of meeting, and for all its service, and for the holy garments. 22 So they came, both men and women. All who were of a willing heart brought brooches and earrings and signet rings and armlets, all sorts of gold objects, every man dedicating an offering of gold to the LORD. 23 And every one who possessed blue or purple or scarlet yarns or fine linen or goats’ hair or tanned rams’ skins or goatskins brought them. 24 Everyone who could make a contribution of silver or bronze brought it as the LORD’S contribution. And every one who possessed acacia wood of any use in the work brought it. 25 And every skillful woman spun with her hands, and they all brought what they had spun in blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen. 26 All the women whose hearts stirred them to use their skill spun the goats’ hair. 27 And the leaders brought onyx stones and stones to be set, for the ephod and for the breastpiece, 28 and spices and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the fragrant incense. 29 All the men and women, the people of Israel, whose heart moved them to bring anything for the work that the LORD had commanded by Moses to be done brought it as a freewill offering to the LORD.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
for such a time as this: exodus 35:4-29

Ice Breaker: What family tradition do you look forward to most, and why?

This Week Specific

1. Boomer shared a story about his grandfather being generous with candy and his own selfish response as a child. What are some ways you've experienced either giving or receiving generosity that shaped your view of money and possessions? How did those experiences affect you?

2. The sermon emphasized that everything we have is "a gracious gift from God." How might viewing your possessions, skills, and resources as gifts from God (rather than things you've earned) change how you use them? Be specific about areas like your home, career abilities, or education. 1st Chronicles 29:11-12, 14, Haggai 2:8, 1st Corinthians 10:26.

3. Pastor Boomer mentioned that the Israelites gave out of their poverty, having just been slaves. What holds you back from being more generous - is it actually a lack of resources, or something else like fear, desire for control, or concerns about the future? How can the gospel address those hesitations?

4. Pastor Boomer challenged our giving to be joyful and sacrificial. What can you do if you aren’t joyful in giving? What does sacrifice look like in your life?

5. The sermon highlighted how children led the way in joyful giving through lemonade stands and garage sales. What creative ways could you and your family work together to be more generous? How might you teach and model generous giving to the next generation?

6. Tim Keller was quoted saying "money itself isn't usually an idol, but what you put your money towards does show you where your idols are." Looking at your spending over the last month, what patterns do you see? What might those patterns reveal about what you truly value or trust in?

7. Boomer suggested praying this prayer for 21 days: "Lord, what would you do through me to accomplish your vision for our church? Help me discern a sacrifice for our campaign that is meaningful and joyful." Beyond church giving, how could this prayer mindset reshape your approach to generosity in all areas of life - work, neighborhood, family needs, etc.?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 544: Okay, So We're Doing This (Genesis 22)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Worst Test Ever (v.1-2)
II. Road Trip (v.3-5)
III. Isaac’s Awkward Question (v.6-8)
IV. You Don’t Know Submission (v.9-10)
V. Jehovah Jireh Ram Providah (v.11-14)
VI. I Will Surely Bless You (v.15-19)
VII. Expansion (v.20-24)

Genesis 22

1 After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 2 He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” 3 So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac. And he cut the wood for the burnt offering and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. 4 On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place from afar. 5 Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; I and the boy will go over there and worship and come again to you.” 6 And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son. And he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So they went both of them together. 7 And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” 8 Abraham said, “God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together.

9 When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. 10 Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. 11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” 12 He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” 13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 So Abraham called the name of that place, “The LORD will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the LORD it shall be provided.”

And the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven 16 and said, “By myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, 18 and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.” 19 So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beersheba. And Abraham lived at Beersheba.

Now after these things it was told to Abraham, “Behold, Milcah also has borne children to your brother Nahor: 21 Uz his firstborn, Buz his brother, Kemuel the father of Aram, 22 Chesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.” 23 (Bethuel fathered Rebekah.) These eight Milcah bore to Nahor, Abraham’s brother. 24 Moreover, his concubine, whose name was Reumah, bore Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah.

Sarah lived 127 years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. 2 And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan, and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. 3 And Abraham rose up from before his dead and said to the Hittites, 4 “I am a sojourner and foreigner among you; give me property among you for a burying place, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” 5 The Hittites answered Abraham, 6 “Hear us, my lord; you are a prince of God among us. Bury your dead in the choicest of our tombs. None of us will withhold from you his tomb to hinder you from burying your dead.” 7 Abraham rose and bowed to the Hittites, the people of the land. 8 And he said to them, “If you are willing that I should bury my dead out of my sight, hear me and entreat for me Ephron the son of Zohar, 9 that he may give me the cave of Machpelah, which he owns; it is at the end of his field. For the full price let him give it to me in your presence as property for a burying place.””

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Sermon Discussion questions
Ok, So We’re Doing This: Genesis 22

Ice Breaker: What family tradition do you look forward to most, and why?

This Week Specific

1. Just discuss this quote by John Ortberg
   “Obedience to Jesus in all things is the journey. Obedience is a far more creative, proactive, grace-powered, intelligent way of life than is normally thought in our day. The obedience Jesus called for requires judgment, discernment, creativity and initiative. It is about becoming an excellent person not an excellent rule follower. In fact, an obsessive concern with following rules will hinder your development in becoming the kind of person that does what Jesus says.”

2. Abraham Abraham
   In verse 11 the angel speaks Abraham’s name twice, this is the first of seven instances in Scripture where God or his angel refers to someone by their name in this manner, what do think is the significance?

   
   Here are the other instances.

   1. Abraham, Abraham – Genesis 22:11

   2. Jacob, Jacob – Genesis 46:2

   3. Moses, Moses – Exodus 3:4

   4. Samuel, Samuel – 1 Samuel 3:10

   5. Martha, Martha – Luke 10:41

   6. Simon, Simon – Luke 22:31

   7. Saul, Saul – Acts 9:4

3. Reflecting on Tests of Faith
   Think about a time when you felt God was testing your faith. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

   How does seeing God’s testing as an opportunity for growth change how you view current challenges?

4. Trusting God’s Provision
   Abraham said, “God will provide” without knowing how. Where in your life do you need to trust that God will provide, even if the way forward seems unclear?

5. Sacrificing Idols in Our Lives
   Sometimes we value God’s gifts (like family, career, relationships) over God Himself. What areas of your life have you have made an idol of a good gift? What does it look like to practically “lay it on the altar” and place it under God’s control?

6. Facing ‘Unreasonable’ Commands with Faith
   Abraham’s command felt impossible and unreasonable, yet he chose faith. What teachings of Scripture feel especially challenging for you to follow (e.g., forgiveness, purity, generosity)? What does obedience in these areas look like for you this week?

7. Confidence in God’s Promises
   Abraham’s obedience was anchored in confidence in God’s promises. What specific promises from Scripture encourage you in difficult times?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 543: Well Well Well (Genesis 21:22-34)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. God Is With His People (v.22-24)
II. Well Drama & Mutual Resolutions (v.25--32)
III. Responding In Worship (v.33-34)

Genesis 21:22-34

“At that time Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army said to Abraham, “God is with you in all that you do. 23 Now therefore swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my descendants or with my posterity, but as I have dealt kindly with you, so you will deal with me and with the land where you have sojourned.” 24 And Abraham said, “I will swear.”

25 When Abraham reproved Abimelech about a well of water that Abimelech’s servants had seized, 26 Abimelech said, “I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me, and I have not heard of it until today.” 27 So Abraham took sheep and oxen and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant. 28 Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock apart. 29 And Abimelech said to Abraham, “What is the meaning of these seven ewe lambs that you have set apart?” 30 He said, “These seven ewe lambs you will take from my hand, that this may be a witness for me that I dug this well.” 31 Therefore that place was called Beersheba, because there both of them swore an oath. 32 So they made a covenant at Beersheba. Then Abimelech and Phicol the commander of his army rose up and returned to the land of the Philistines. 33 Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and called there on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God. 34 And Abraham sojourned many days in the land of the Philistines.”

Tamarisk Tree

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Sermon Discussion questions
Well Well Well: Genesis 21:22-34

Ice Breaker: If you could make a promise to yourself and absolutely keep it, what would it be?

This Week Specific

1. Reflecting God’s Presence: Just as Abimelech noticed God’s blessing on Abraham, what might it look like for others to see God at work in your life? How could you display integrity, patience, or kindness in your family, work, or school settings that would reflect God's presence in you?

2. Faith in Waiting: Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for God’s promise to be fulfilled. In your personal life, where do you feel challenged to wait on God’s timing? How can you support each other in trusting God during long or difficult waiting periods?

3. Peacemaking in Conflict: Abraham approaches the conflict over the well with peace rather than aggression. When faced with conflict, whether at work, home, or school, how can you pursue peace and humility as Abraham did? What practical steps could you take to resolve conflicts in a Christ-like way?

4. Responding in Worship: After making peace and receiving God’s provision, Abraham worships by calling on God’s name. In your day-to-day life, how can you intentionally pause to worship or express gratitude to God, especially after experiencing His provision or guidance?

5. Living in the World but Not of It: Abraham made a covenant with a local ruler but kept his primary allegiance to God. In what ways can you live faithfully in your community, job, or nation without compromising your allegiance to God? How does this apply to navigating cultural or societal pressures?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 542: Baby Mama Drama (Genesis 21:1-21)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. The Promise Fulfilled, Embraced & Celebrated (v.1-7)
II. Unbearable Tension (v.8-13)
III. Departure & Provision (v.14-21)

Genesis 21:1-21

“The LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did to Sarah as he had promised. 2 And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. 3 Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac. 4 And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. 5 Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. 6 And Sarah said, “God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh over me.” 7 And she said, “Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.”

8 And the child grew and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. 9 But Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, laughing. 10 So she said to Abraham, “Cast out this slave woman with her son, for the son of this slave woman shall not be heir with my son Isaac.” 11 And the thing was very displeasing to Abraham on account of his son. 12 But God said to Abraham, “Be not displeased because of the boy and because of your slave woman. Whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for through Isaac shall your offspring be named. 13 And I will make a nation of the son of the slave woman also, because he is your offspring.” 14 So Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, along with the child, and sent her away. And she departed and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.

15 When the water in the skin was gone, she put the child under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went and sat down opposite him a good way off, about the distance of a bowshot, for she said, “Let me not look on the death of the child.” And as she sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept. 17 And God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. 18 Up! Lift up the boy, and hold him fast with your hand, for I will make him into a great nation.” 19 Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. 20 And God was with the boy, and he grew up. He lived in the wilderness and became an expert with the bow. 21 He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
Baby Mama Drama: Genesis 21:1-21

Ice Breaker: If you could pick one annoying habit of yours to never do again (like repeatedly hitting snooze), what would it be and why?

This Week Specific

1. Faith and Doubt: Reflecting on Abraham and Sarah's journey of faith, how do you balance believing God's promises while facing doubts or fears in your own life? Can you share a personal experience where you felt both faith and doubt simultaneously?

2. Handling Conflict: Sarah's actions toward Hagar and Ishmael demonstrate how unresolved tensions can lead to conflict. How do you handle conflict within your family or work environment? What biblical principles can guide your responses to such situations?

3. Obedience and Response: Abraham's obedience in naming Isaac and circumcising him reflects a commitment to God's instructions. In what areas of your life are you feeling called to obedience? How can you take practical steps to respond to God’s guidance?

4. Longings and Satisfaction: The sermon emphasizes that even fulfilled desires do not always bring lasting satisfaction. What longings do you have in your life that you believe will bring fulfillment? How might you shift your focus to seek deeper satisfaction in God rather than in circumstances?

5. Connecting with Others: Just as God showed care for Hagar and Ishmael, who in your life might need your support or encouragement right now? How can you reach out to them in a way that reflects God's love and provision?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 541: I Think I’ve Seen This Film Before (Genesis 20)

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Manhattan Pres PCA · 541 I Think I’ve Seen This Film Before (Genesis 20) Sermon

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Oops I Did It Again (v.1-2)
II. Not Today Abimelech (v.3-7)
III. You Done Me Wrong  (v.8-10)
IV. It’s Complicated (v.11-13)
V. Blessings Despite Blunders. AKA Grace (v.14-18)

Genesis 20

1 From there Abraham journeyed toward the territory of the Negeb and lived between Kadesh and Shur; and he sojourned in Gerar. 2 And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, “She is my sister.” And Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah. 3 But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night and said to him, “Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is a man’s wife.” 4 Now Abimelech had not approached her. So he said, “Lord, will you kill an innocent people? 5 Did he not himself say to me, ‘She is my sister’? And she herself said, ‘He is my brother.’ In the integrity of my heart and the innocence of my hands I have done this.” 6 Then God said to him in the dream, “Yes, I know that you have done this in the integrity of your heart, and it was I who kept you from sinning against me. Therefore I did not let you touch her. 7 Now then, return the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, so that he will pray for you, and you shall live. But if you do not return her, know that you shall surely die, you and all who are yours.”

8 So Abimelech rose early in the morning and called all his servants and told them all these things. And the men were very much afraid. 9 Then Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, “What have you done to us? And how have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and my kingdom a great sin? You have done to me things that ought not to be done.” 10 And Abimelech said to Abraham, “What did you see, that you did this thing?” 11 Abraham said, “I did it because I thought, ‘There is no fear of God at all in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife.’ 12 Besides, she is indeed my sister, the daughter of my father though not the daughter of my mother, and she became my wife. 13 And when God caused me to wander from my father’s house, I said to her, ‘This is the kindness you must do me: at every place to which we come, say of me, “He is my brother.”’”

14 Then Abimelech took sheep and oxen, and male servants and female servants, and gave them to Abraham, and returned Sarah his wife to him. 15 And Abimelech said, “Behold, my land is before you; dwell where it pleases you.” 16 To Sarah he said, “Behold, I have given your brother a thousand pieces of silver. It is a sign of your innocence in the eyes of all who are with you, and before everyone you are vindicated.” 17 Then Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelech, and also healed his wife and female slaves so that they bore children. 18 For the LORD had closed all the wombs of the house of Abimelech because of Sarah, Abraham’s wife.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
I Think I’ve Seen This Film Before: Genesis 20

Ice Breaker: If you could pick one annoying habit of yours to never do again (like repeatedly hitting snooze), what would it be and why?"

This Week Specific

1. Abraham's Fear and Distrust: In Genesis 20, Abraham falls into the same sin as before by lying about Sarah being his sister. In what ways have you found yourself repeating the same mistakes or sins? What do you need to change to not fall into that? Are there areas in your life where you're tempted to use deception or control because you fear the outcome? How can you trust God more in these situations?

2. Impact of Fear on Decisions: Abraham acted out of fear, assuming that there was no fear of God in Gerar. In your own life—whether at work, school, or with family—how does fear influence your decisions? How can you practice trusting God’s control over situations you can’t control?

3. Besetting Sin: The sermon discussed “besetting sins,” or habitual sins we struggle to overcome. What might be a besetting sin in your own life? How can you bring this into the light through prayer, community, and accountability? You can talk about this generally, don’t have to share your personal issue here.

4. Integrity vs. Self-Protection: Like Abraham, who deceived Abimelech out of self-protection, we sometimes compromise integrity to protect ourselves or our reputations. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to bend the truth? How might trusting God’s provision help you walk in greater integrity?

5. Community and Accountability: The sermon highlighted the importance of community in battling sin. Who in your life can you trust to help keep you accountable in areas where you struggle? How can you actively seek out community for support in your spiritual journey?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 540: Sodom: Made It Weird, Made it Worse (Genesis 19:30-38)

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Today’s Bulletin

Manhattan Pres PCA · 540 Made It Weird Then Made It Worse (Genesis 19:30-38) Sermon

OUTLINE

I. Afraid In A Cave (v. 30)
II. Wine & Worse (v.31-35)
III. Grandpa Dad and More Descendants (v.36-38)

Genesis 19:30-38

“Now Lot went up out of Zoar and lived in the hills with his two daughters, for he was afraid to live in Zoar. So he lived in a cave with his two daughters. 31 And the firstborn said to the younger, “Our father is old, and there is not a man on earth to come in to us after the manner of all the earth. 32 Come, let us make our father drink wine, and we will lie with him, that we may preserve offspring from our father.” 33 So they made their father drink wine that night. And the firstborn went in and lay with her father. He did not know when she lay down or when she arose.

34 The next day, the firstborn said to the younger, “Behold, I lay last night with my father. Let us make him drink wine tonight also. Then you go in and lie with him, that we may preserve offspring from our father.” 35 So they made their father drink wine that night also. And the younger arose and lay with him, and he did not know when she lay down or when she arose. 36 Thus both the daughters of Lot became pregnant by their father. 37 The firstborn bore a son and called his name Moab. He is the father of the Moabites to this day. 38 The younger also bore a son and called his name Ben-ammi. He is the father of the Ammonites to this day.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
Made It Weird, Then Made It Worse: Genesis 19:30-38

Ice Breaker: You can choose any famous historical figure to join your family for a week. Who do you think would create the most awkward family dinners and why?

This Week Specific

1. Isolation and Community Influence: Lot and his daughters ended up isolated in a cave, leading to disastrous decisions. In what ways can isolation (emotional, spiritual, or physical) negatively affect your family life or personal decisions? How does your choice of community impact your faith and values?

2. Compromise in Desperation: Lot’s daughters made a terrible decision out of fear and desperation for a future. Are there areas in your life—whether in work, school, or relationships—where you’ve felt pressured to compromise your values? How can trusting God’s provision help you avoid making such compromises?

3. The Gradual Drift of Worldliness: Lot initially resisted the sinful culture of Sodom but gradually assimilated into it. What are some subtle ways the culture around us tries to shape our thinking, especially in family dynamics, work, or school? How can you stay vigilant in resisting worldly influences?

4. The Role of Christian Community: Lot’s failure to return to Abraham and the covenant community contributed to his downfall. In what ways can being part of a Christian community (church, small group, or fellowship) help you stay accountable and grounded in your faith at home, in school, or at work?

5. Choosing Role Models: The sermon highlighted the importance of who we look up to and imitate. Who are the people you look to for guidance in your family, career, or personal life? How do they align with your values as a follower of Christ?

6. Parental Responsibility in Faith Formation: Lot’s daughters were heavily influenced by the Sodomite culture and their father’s decisions. If you’re a parent, how can you better model faith in Christ for your children, helping them navigate the world’s influences at school and in friendships?

7. Responding to Fear with Faith: Lot’s fear led him to make poor choices. Can you identify areas in your life (work, family, school) where fear is influencing your decisions? How might trusting in God’s promises free you from making decisions based on fear rather than faith?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 539: Sodom: Compromise & Consequence (Genesis 19:1-29)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Angels At The Gate (v.1-3)
II. Know Them Not (v.4-5) 
III. Worst Father Ever? (v.6-9)
IV. Fly, You Fools (v.10-22)
V. So Dumb, So-dium (v.23-26)
VI. Morning After (v.27-29)

Genesis 19:1-29

“The two angels came to Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them and bowed himself with his face to the earth 2 and said, “My lords, please turn aside to your servant’s house and spend the night and wash your feet. Then you may rise up early and go on your way.” They said, “No; we will spend the night in the town square.” 3 But he pressed them strongly; so they turned aside to him and entered his house. And he made them a feast and baked unleavened bread, and they ate.

4 But before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, both young and old, all the people to the last man, surrounded the house. 5 And they called to Lot, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us, that we may know them.” 6 Lot went out to the men at the entrance, shut the door after him, 7 and said, “I beg you, my brothers, do not act so wickedly. 8 Behold, I have two daughters who have not known any man. Let me bring them out to you, and do to them as you please. Only do nothing to these men, for they have come under the shelter of my roof.” 9 But they said, “Stand back!” And they said, “This fellow came to sojourn, and he has become the judge! Now we will deal worse with you than with them.” Then they pressed hard against the man Lot, and drew near to break the door down. 10 But the men reached out their hands and brought Lot into the house with them and shut the door. 11 And they struck with blindness the men who were at the entrance of the house, both small and great, so that they wore themselves out groping for the door.

12 Then the men said to Lot, “Have you anyone else here? Sons-in-law, sons, daughters, or anyone you have in the city, bring them out of the place. 13 For we are about to destroy this place, because the outcry against its people has become great before the LORD, and the LORD has sent us to destroy it.” 14 So Lot went out and said to his sons-in-law, who were to marry his daughters, “Up! Get out of this place, for the LORD is about to destroy the city.” But he seemed to his sons-in-law to be jesting.

15 As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city.” 16 But he lingered. So the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the LORD being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city. 17 And as they brought them out, one said, “Escape for your life. Do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley. Escape to the hills, lest you be swept away.” 18 And Lot said to them, “Oh, no, my lords. 19 Behold, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have shown me great kindness in saving my life. But I cannot escape to the hills, lest the disaster overtake me and I die. 20 Behold, this city is near enough to flee to, and it is a little one. Let me escape there—is it not a little one?—and my life will be saved!” 21 He said to him, “Behold, I grant you this favor also, that I will not overthrow the city of which you have spoken. 22 Escape there quickly, for I can do nothing till you arrive there.” Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.

23 The sun had risen on the earth when Lot came to Zoar. 24 Then the LORD rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the LORD out of heaven. 25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the valley, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. 26 But Lot’s wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.

27 And Abraham went early in the morning to the place where he had stood before the LORD. 28 And he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah and toward all the land of the valley, and he looked and, behold, the smoke of the land went up like the smoke of a furnace.

29 So it was that, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, God remembered Abraham and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow when he overthrew the cities in which Lot had lived.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
Sodom:Compromise & Consequences: Genesis 19:1-29

Ice Breaker: If you had to quickly leave your house forever and could only take three items with you (assuming all people and pets are already safe), what would you grab and why?

This Week Specific

1. In what ways do you see yourself in Lot’s story?

   Lot struggled with living in a culture that was deeply sinful, yet he lingered when God called him to flee. How do you wrestle with living in a culture that often celebrates things contrary to God’s ways? Where might you be "lingering" instead of fully following God’s commands in your life—whether in your home, work, or school?

2. What sacrifices have you had to make or need to make to fully follow Christ?

   Lot hesitated because of the comfort and possessions he would lose by leaving Sodom. Are there areas in your life where comfort or attachment to material things is hindering your obedience to God?

3. How do you respond when those around you reject or mock your faith, like Lot’s sons-in-law did?

   Lot’s sons-in-law thought he was joking when he warned them of God's judgment.

   How do you balance the call to share truth with those around you while dealing with potential rejection or indifference?

4. Lot tried to balance his faith with cultural expectations, but this led to devastating decisions, especially concerning his family.

   How do you prioritize your family’s spiritual health over societal expectations? In what ways might you be compromising, knowingly or unknowingly, in your work, school, or family life?

5. In what ways does God show mercy to you, even when you don’t deserve it, like He did with Lot?

   Lot didn’t ask for help, yet God’s mercy was extended to him and his family. How has God extended His mercy to you, even when you were resistant or slow to obey?

6. How does this passage shape your understanding of God’s justice and mercy?

   God judged Sodom but also provided a way of rescue for Lot. How does this affect the way you view justice and mercy in your relationships and responsibilities at work, home, or school?

7. Reflect on Lot’s wife’s disobedience in looking back.

   Lot’s wife looked back despite clear instructions not to. What “past” or worldly things are you tempted to look back at? How does this affect your spiritual growth and your focus on God’s calling for your life now?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 538: Lifeblood (Leviticus 17)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

Leviticus 17

“1 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Speak to Aaron and his sons and to all the people of Israel and say to them, This is the thing that the LORD has commanded. 3 If any one of the house of Israel kills an ox or a lamb or a goat in the camp, or kills it outside the camp, 4 and does not bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting to offer it as a gift to the LORD in front of the tabernacle of the LORD, bloodguilt shall be imputed to that man. He has shed blood, and that man shall be cut off from among his people. 5 This is to the end that the people of Israel may bring their sacrifices that they sacrifice in the open field, that they may bring them to the LORD, to the priest at the entrance of the tent of meeting, and sacrifice them as sacrifices of peace offerings to the LORD. 6 And the priest shall throw the blood on the altar of the LORD at the entrance of the tent of meeting and burn the fat for a pleasing aroma to the LORD. 7 So they shall no more sacrifice their sacrifices to goat demons, after whom they whore. This shall be a statute forever for them throughout their generations.

8 “And you shall say to them, Any one of the house of Israel, or of the strangers who sojourn among them, who offers a burnt offering or sacrifice 9 and does not bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting to offer it to the LORD, that man shall be cut off from his people.

10 “If any one of the house of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn among them eats any blood, I will set my face against that person who eats blood and will cut him off from among his people. 11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life. 12 Therefore I have said to the people of Israel, No person among you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger who sojourns among you eat blood.

13 “Any one also of the people of Israel, or of the strangers who sojourn among them, who takes in hunting any beast or bird that may be eaten shall pour out its blood and cover it with earth. 14 For the life of every creature is its blood: its blood is its life. Therefore I have said to the people of Israel, You shall not eat the blood of any creature, for the life of every creature is its blood. Whoever eats it shall be cut off. 15 And every person who eats what dies of itself or what is torn by beasts, whether he is a native or a sojourner, shall wash his clothes and bathe himself in water and be unclean until the evening; then he shall be clean. 16 But if he does not wash them or bathe his flesh, he shall bear his iniquity.””

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Sermon Discussion questions
Lifeblood:: Leviticus 17

Ice Breaker: What is something a friend or spouse would say is quirky about you?

This Week Specific

1. 1. Drawing Near to God:

   • Why do you think God gives such specific instructions for how the Israelites were to approach Him in Leviticus?

   • How do we, as Christians, draw near to God today? What role does Jesus play in this process?

   • In what ways do we sometimes try to “diversify our assets” when trusting God doesn’t seem enough?

   2. Loyalty to God:

   • The sermon highlights betrayal, mentioning figures like Judas and Benedict Arnold. How does divided loyalty to God manifest in our lives today?

   • What are some modern-day idols that can tempt us to be disloyal to God?

   • How can we combat the temptation to turn to other "gods" (e.g., money, status, success) when we feel God is distant?

   3. God’s Means and Exclusivity:

   • Why is it important that Israel followed God’s specific instructions for worship and sacrifice? How does this relate to Jesus being the only way to God?

   • How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus?

   • In what ways do we sometimes try to create our own “means” of drawing near to God, apart from Jesus?

   4. Respect for Atonement:

   • Why was it such a serious offense to consume blood in Israel? What was the symbolism behind it?

   • How do we today show respect or disrespect for the atonement Jesus provided?

   • What does it mean to “go all in on Jesus,” as the sermon suggests? How do we live this out practically in our daily lives?

   5. The Struggle to Trust:

   • The sermon talks about the Israelites struggling to trust that God would deliver. In what areas of your life do you struggle to fully trust God?

   • How do you remind yourself that Jesus is enough when you’re tempted to seek satisfaction or help elsewhere?

   • Peter’s confession in John 6 is a key part of this message. How can Peter’s words, “Where else are we to go?” encourage you in times of doubt or uncertainty?

   6. Exclusive Loyalty in Today’s World:

   • How does the idea of exclusivity in loyalty to God challenge the values of a pluralistic, multi-faith world?

   • What does it look like for a Christian to remain loyal to Christ when surrounded by competing worldviews and ideologies?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 537: The Sake of 10 (Genesis 18:16-33)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. God Spills The Beans of Justice (v.16-21)
II. Abe Intercedes For Sodom (v.22-26)
III. How Low Can You Go (v.27-33)
IV. God’s Justice and Jesus (Genesis to Revelation)


Updated Alternate Outline

I. What Happened Here

II. Questions Of What God Is Teaching Us

1 Why does God decided to tell Abraham his plan to destroy SoGo? (v.16-19)
2. What exactly does it mean, God heard the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah? (v.20)
3. What’s God mean by, I will go down and check? Doesn’t he already know? (v.21)
4. Why does Abe ask, “Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” And “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” (v.23-25)
5. Will God Do Justice still today? (Whole Bible)
6. What can we learn about prayer by how Abraham intercedes for SoGo? (v.22-33)
7. Why the weird deduction from 50 to 10 people? (v.22-33)
8. Can a man or woman change God’s mind? (v.22-33

III. A Question of One, would God have shown mercy for one righteous? (New Testemant)

Genesis 18:16-33

“Then the men set out from there, and they looked down toward Sodom. And Abraham went with them to set them on their way. 17 The LORD said, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, 18 seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I have chosen him, that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice, so that the LORD may bring to Abraham what he has promised him.” 20 Then the LORD said, “Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great and their sin is very grave, 21 I will go down to see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry that has come to me. And if not, I will know.”

22 So the men turned from there and went toward Sodom, but Abraham still stood before the LORD. 23 Then Abraham drew near and said, “Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? 24 Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city. Will you then sweep away the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous who are in it? 25 Far be it from you to do such a thing, to put the righteous to death with the wicked, so that the righteous fare as the wicked! Far be that from you! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” 26 And the LORD said, “If I find at Sodom fifty righteous in the city, I will spare the whole place for their sake.”

27 Abraham answered and said, “Behold, I have undertaken to speak to the Lord, I who am but dust and ashes. 28 Suppose five of the fifty righteous are lacking. Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five?” And he said, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there.” 29 Again he spoke to him and said, “Suppose forty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of forty I will not do it.” 30 Then he said, “Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak. Suppose thirty are found there.” He answered, “I will not do it, if I find thirty there.” 31 He said, “Behold, I have undertaken to speak to the Lord. Suppose twenty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of twenty I will not destroy it.” 32 Then he said, “Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak again but this once. Suppose ten are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of ten I will not destroy it.” 33 And the LORD went his way, when he had finished speaking to Abraham, and Abraham returned to his place.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
For The Sake of 10: Genesis 18:16-33

Ice Breaker: What is something a friend or spouse would say is quirky about you?

This Week Specific

1. Abraham's Compassion and Prayer
   Abraham intercedes for a city he knows is filled with sin, asking for God's mercy. Who are the people or communities in your life that you feel called to pray for, even though they may be far from God? How can you cultivate a heart of compassion like Abraham for those around you?

2. Boldness in Prayer
   Abraham boldly negotiates with God, moving from 50 righteous down to 10. How bold are you in your prayers, especially for others? Can you think of an example in your life where you need to approach God with greater boldness and persistence in prayer?

3. Responding to a Corrupt Culture
   Abraham lived in a culture that was decaying morally, yet he remained righteous and sought God’s will. What practical steps can you take to remain faithful to God in a culture that often rejects biblical values, especially in your workplace, school, or neighborhood?

4. God’s Justice Today
   We see that God is both just and merciful in His dealings with Sodom and Gomorrah. In your day-to-day life, how do you reconcile the concept of God's justice with His mercy? Are there ways you can trust God's justice more deeply when you see injustice around you?

5. Humility in Approach to God
   Abraham humbly acknowledges his position as "dust and ashes" (v. 27) while boldly praying to God. How can humility in your relationship with God help you when you pray, work, or relate to others in your daily life?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 536: A Laugh By The Oaks of Mamre (Genesis 18:1-15)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. God + To Show = Theophany (v.1-2)

II. Generous Hospitality (v.3-8)
III. Doubting the Wonder of the Lord (v.9-12)

IV. Seriously, Is Anything Too Hard For The LORD? (v.13-15) 


Genesis 18:1-15

“1 And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day. 2 He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth 3 and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant. 4 Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree, 5 while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.” 6 And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.” 7 And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly. 8 Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.

9 They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” 10 The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah. 12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?” 13 The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ 14 Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.” 15 But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.””

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Sermon Discussion questions
Laughing at the oaks of mamre: Genesis 18:1-15

Ice Breaker: When have you laughed at the wrong time?

This Week Specific

1. Reflecting on God's Promise: In Genesis 18, Sarah doubted God’s promise of a son. What promises of God are you currently struggling to believe, either in your family, at work, or in other areas of life? How does knowing God cares most about your faith help?

2. Believing in God's Power: The sermon emphasized the question, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?”

   Two parts-

   1. Think about a time when you faced a seemingly impossible situation. How did you respond?

   2. What is a situation in your life right now that feels impossible? How can you trust God with this area, and how might you need to adjust your prayers to reflect belief in His power?

3. Hospitality in Everyday Life: Abraham showed generous hospitality to his visitors. What are practical ways we can invite others into our life to reflect Christ’s love? Choose one specific action you can take this week.

4. Applying Childlike Faith: The sermon mentioned that growing in faith sometimes means returning to simple truths we learned as children. In what areas of your life—such as your work, home, or studies—do you need to recapture a sense of awe and trust in God’s power?

5. Practicing Bold Prayer: Brian encouraged us not to shy away from bold prayers, even for seemingly impossible situations. What bold prayer do you need to begin praying—whether for a family member, a co-worker, your church, or your own spiritual growth?

6. Overcoming Cynicism: Like Sarah’s laughter, we can sometimes laugh at God’s promises because they seem too good to be true. How does cynicism show up in your daily life, and how can you intentionally replace it with faith, particularly in challenging environments like work or school?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 535: Solomon Turns From God (1st Kings 11:1-8)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

No Outline This week

1st Kings 11:1-8

“1 Now King Solomon loved many foreign women, along with the daughter of Pharaoh: Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian, and Hittite women, 2 from the nations concerning which the LORD had said to the people of Israel, “You shall not enter into marriage with them, neither shall they with you, for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods.” Solomon clung to these in love. 3 He had 700 wives, who were princesses, and 300 concubines. And his wives turned away his heart. 4 For when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. 5 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6 So Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and did not wholly follow the LORD, as David his father had done. 7 Then Solomon built a high place for Chemosh the abomination of Moab, and for Molech the abomination of the Ammonites, on the mountain east of Jerusalem. 8 And so he did for all his foreign wives, who made offerings and sacrificed to their gods.”

Sermon Discussion Questions: Solomon Turns From the Lord: 1 Kings 11:1-8

Ice Breaker: What’s one piece of advice you’ve received that has really stuck with you? Why?

This Week Specific

In our passage this week, Exodus 34:16 is quoted and is a passage that prohibits marrying non-Israelite women. What are some things that the presence of the law might tell us about Solomon’s heart? In what ways have you seen your heart do the same?

What are some things that we learn about marriage and its spiritual importance?

What might be some factors in Solomon’s turning away from the Lord? How might repentance have looked for Solomon?

What are some things that tend to draw your heart away from the Lord? What does repentance look like for you?

Weekly Questions

What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

How can this group pray for you this week?

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Sermon 534: God vs Impossible (Genesis 17:15-27)

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Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. A New Name For Sarai (v. 15-16)

II. Abraham’s Laughter (v. 17-18)

III. The Child of Promise & Provision for Ishmael (v. 19-21)
IV. A Strange Painful Obedience (v. 22-26)

Genesis 17:15-27

“15 And God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 I will bless her, and moreover, I will give you a son by her. I will bless her, and she shall become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said to himself, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” 18 And Abraham said to God, “Oh that Ishmael might live before you!” 19 God said, “No, but Sarah your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his offspring after him. 20 As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I have blessed him and will make him fruitful and multiply him greatly. He shall father twelve princes, and I will make him into a great nation. 21 But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you at this time next year.”

222 When he had finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. 23 Then Abraham took Ishmael his son and all those born in his house or bought with his money, every male among the men of Abraham’s house, and he circumcised the flesh of their foreskins that very day, as God had said to him. 24 Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 25 And Ishmael his son was thirteen years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 26 That very day Abraham and his son Ishmael were circumcised. 27 And all the men of his house, those born in the house and those bought with money from a foreigner, were circumcised with him.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
God vs Impossible: Genesis 17:15-27

Ice Breaker: If you could erase and make the world forget about one modern technology for the betterment of life, what would you remove?

This Week Specific

1. Faith in Difficult Situations: Abraham had to wait many years for God's promise to be fulfilled. What are some "impossible" situations you are currently facing in your life, family, work, or school? How can you respond with faith like Abraham while you wait for God's timing?

2. Honest Prayers: Abraham's laughter in response to God's promise shows his amazement and perhaps some doubt. How do you usually respond to God's promises? Do you feel comfortable being honest with God about your struggles and doubts in prayer? How might doing so strengthen your faith?

3. Obedience in the Waiting: Abraham immediately obeyed God’s command regarding circumcision, even though it was strange and painful. Is there an area in your life where God is calling you to obey, even though it might be difficult or countercultural? How can you take a step of obedience this week? (Or share a time from the past if easier)

4. God's Power vs. Human Effort: Abraham tried to fulfill God's promise through Ishmael, but God made it clear that Isaac was the child of promise. Are there areas in your life where you are relying on your own efforts instead of trusting God to work? How might you shift your focus from self-reliance to God’s power?

5. Praying for Others: Abraham prayed for Ishmael, showing his concern for his son. How can you be more intentional in praying for your family members, friends, or coworkers, especially those who seem far from God? What specific prayers can you start lifting up for them?

6. Embracing the Impossible: The sermon emphasized that nothing is impossible for God. How does this truth impact your approach to challenges in your personal life or in the lives of those around you? Can you think of a time when God accomplished something in your life that seemed impossible? Is there something impossible you’re asking God for right now?

7. Living Out Your Faith: How can you apply the lesson that “obedience is not a means to gain the grace of God, but a response to the grace of God” in your daily life? What changes might you need to make in your behavior, attitude, or priorities to better reflect your trust in God's promises?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 533: Ah Schmucks, A Covenant Cut (Genesis 17:1-14)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. The Covenant of Grace Revealed (v.1-8)
   A. God's Self-Revelation (Verse 1)
   B. The Renewal of the Covenant (v.2-4)
   C. The Promises of the Covenant (v.5-8)
II. The Covenant Sign of Circumcision (v.9-14)
   A. Circumcision as the Covenant Sign (v.9-11)
   B. The Covenant Community (v.12-13)
   C. The Seriousness of Covenant Faithfulness(v.14)

Genesis 17

Genesis 17:1–14 “1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless, 2 that I may make my covenant between me and you, and may multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell on his face. And God said to him, 4 “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. 6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. 8 And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.”

99 And God said to Abraham, “As for you, you shall keep my covenant, you and your offspring after you throughout their generations. 10 This is my covenant, which you shall keep, between me and you and your offspring after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised. 11 You shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and you. 12 He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised. Every male throughout your generations, whether born in your house or bought with your money from any foreigner who is not of your offspring, 13 both he who is born in your house and he who is bought with your money, shall surely be circumcised. So shall my covenant be in your flesh an everlasting covenant. 14 Any uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin shall be cut off from his people; he has broken my covenant.””

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Sermon Discussion questions
TAh Schmucks, A Covenant Cut: Genesis 17:1-14

Ice Breaker: Have you ever been a "sojourner" (traveler in a foreign place)? Share a funny or memorable moment from that experience.

This Week Specific

1. How does understanding the covenant as a deeply relational bond, rather than just a contract, impact the way you view your relationship with God? What steps can you take to strengthen this covenant relationship in your daily life?

2. Abraham waited many years for God's promise to be fulfilled. Can you share a time in your life when you had to wait on God? How did that waiting period affect your faith? What can we learn from Abraham's response during his long wait?

3. God calls Abraham to "walk before me, and be blameless." What does it mean to live with integrity in our modern context? What areas of your life might need realignment to reflect a wholehearted commitment to God?

4. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant for Abraham and his descendants. Today, baptism serves as a sign of the New Covenant. How do you view the role of baptism in your spiritual life, and how can it serve as a reminder of your covenant with God?

5. The sermon emphasizes that being part of the covenant community means we have a bond with others in the church. How can you actively live out this covenantal relationship within your church community? What practical steps can you take to support and care for others in your small group or congregation?

6. God’s covenant was not just with Abraham, but with his descendants. How can you apply this idea to your own family or spiritual influence? In what ways can you encourage the next generation to grow in their faith and understanding of God’s covenant?

7. Reflecting on the statement "I will be your God," how does this promise resonate with you personally? In what ways do you see God’s faithfulness in your life, and how can this assurance shape your actions and decisions moving forward?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?

Sermon 532: The God Who Sees (Genesis 16)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Sarai’s Plan (v.1-4)
II. Poor Plan Begets Poor Results (v.5-6)
III. Intervening For Hope (v.7-12)
IV. El Roi: God Sees & Cares (v.13-16)

Genesis 16

Genesis 16:1–16 “1 Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. She had a female Egyptian servant whose name was Hagar. 2 And Sarai said to Abram, “Behold now, the LORD has prevented me from bearing children. Go in to my servant; it may be that I shall obtain children by her.” And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. 3 So, after Abram had lived ten years in the land of Canaan, Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar the Egyptian, her servant, and gave her to Abram her husband as a wife. 4 And he went in to Hagar, and she conceived. And when she saw that she had conceived, she looked with contempt on her mistress. 5 And Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done to me be on you! I gave my servant to your embrace, and when she saw that she had conceived, she looked on me with contempt. May the LORD judge between you and me!” 6 But Abram said to Sarai, “Behold, your servant is in your power; do to her as you please.” Then Sarai dealt harshly with her, and she fled from her.

77 The angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur. 8 And he said, “Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from and where are you going?” She said, “I am fleeing from my mistress Sarai.” 9 The angel of the LORD said to her, “Return to your mistress and submit to her.” 10 The angel of the LORD also said to her, “I will surely multiply your offspring so that they cannot be numbered for multitude.”

11 And the angel of the LORD said to her,

“Behold, you are pregnant

and shall bear a son.

You shall call his name Ishmael,

because the LORD has listened to your affliction.

12 He shall be a wild donkey of a man,

his hand against everyone

and everyone’s hand against him,

and he shall dwell over against all his kinsmen.”

13 So she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, “You are a God of seeing,” for she said, “Truly here I have seen him who looks after me.” 14 Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi; it lies between Kadesh and Bered.

115 And Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael. 16 Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore Ishmael to Abram.”

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Sermon 531: Crying Out To God (Psalm 69)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Panic On The Brain (v.1-4)
II. No Place to Hide & Reputation (v.5-6)
III. Haters Gonna Hate, Even Godly Zeal (v.7-12)
IV. It’s Over My Head (v.13-18)
V. Reproach & Despair (v.19-21)
VI. Imprecatory Pleas (v.22-29)
VII. Chorus of Gratitude & Praise (v.30-36)

Psalm 69

1 Save me, O God!

For the waters have come up to my neck.

2 I sink in deep mire,

where there is no foothold;

I have come into deep waters,

and the flood sweeps over me.

3 I am weary with my crying out;

my throat is parched.

My eyes grow dim

with waiting for my God.

4 More in number than the hairs of my head

are those who hate me without cause;

mighty are those who would destroy me,

those who attack me with lies.

What I did not steal

must I now restore?

5 O God, you know my folly;

the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.

6 Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me,

O Lord GOD of hosts;

let not those who seek you be brought to dishonor through me,

O God of Israel.

7 For it is for your sake that I have borne reproach,

that dishonor has covered my face.

8 I have become a stranger to my brothers,

an alien to my mother’s sons.

9 For zeal for your house has consumed me,

and the reproaches of those who reproach you have fallen on me.

10 When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting,

it became my reproach.

11 When I made sackcloth my clothing,

I became a byword to them.

12 I am the talk of those who sit in the gate,

and the drunkards make songs about me.

13 But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD.

At an acceptable time, O God,

in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.

14 Deliver me

from sinking in the mire;

let me be delivered from my enemies

and from the deep waters.

15 Let not the flood sweep over me,

or the deep swallow me up,

or the pit close its mouth over me.

16 Answer me, O LORD, for your steadfast love is good;

according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.

17 Hide not your face from your servant,

for I am in distress; make haste to answer me.

18 Draw near to my soul, redeem me;

ransom me because of my enemies!

19 You know my reproach,

and my shame and my dishonor;

my foes are all known to you.

20 Reproaches have broken my heart,

so that I am in despair.

I looked for pity, but there was none,

and for comforters, but I found none.

21 They gave me poison for food,

and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink.

22 Let their own table before them become a snare;

and when they are at peace, let it become a trap.

23 Let their eyes be darkened, so that they cannot see,

and make their loins tremble continually.

24 Pour out your indignation upon them,

and let your burning anger overtake them.

25 May their camp be a desolation;

let no one dwell in their tents.

26 For they persecute him whom you have struck down,

and they recount the pain of those you have wounded.

27 Add to them punishment upon punishment;

may they have no acquittal from you.

28 Let them be blotted out of the book of the living;

let them not be enrolled among the righteous.

29 But I am afflicted and in pain;

let your salvation, O God, set me on high!

30 I will praise the name of God with a song;

I will magnify him with thanksgiving.

31 This will please the LORD more than an ox

or a bull with horns and hoofs.

32 When the humble see it they will be glad;

you who seek God, let your hearts revive.

33 For the LORD hears the needy

and does not despise his own people who are prisoners.

34 Let heaven and earth praise him,

the seas and everything that moves in them.

35 For God will save Zion

and build up the cities of Judah,

and people shall dwell there and possess it;

36 the offspring of his servants shall inherit it,

and those who love his name shall dwell in it.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
Crying Out To God: Psalm 69

Ice Breaker: Have you ever been a "sojourner" (traveler in a foreign place)? Share a funny or memorable moment from that experience.

This Week Specific

1. In verses 1-4, David expresses a deep sense of desperation and helplessness. Can you think of a time you felt similarly overwhelmed? How did you respond to those feelings, and what role did prayer play in your situation?

2. David mentions being hated without cause (verse 4). Have you ever faced unjust criticism or accusations? How did it affect your relationship with God and your sense of self-worth?

3. The sermon mentions how David was concerned about bringing shame to God's name through his situation. How can we be mindful of our witness as Christians, even in difficult circumstances?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced criticism or mockery for your faith. How did you respond, and how might David's example in this Psalm inform future responses?

5. In verses 5-6, David acknowledges his faults while addressing God. How can we practice humility in our own prayers, recognizing our imperfections without being defined by them?

6. Do you think there is a correlation between our zeal for God and persecution? Why not or how so?

7. David speaks of bearing reproach for his zeal for God (verse 9). How can we find strength and encouragement when our faith leads to misunderstanding or ridicule from others?

8. How can we cultivate a balance between honestly expressing our pain to God and maintaining trust in His character and timing?

9. In verses 30-32, David shifts from despair to praise. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a habit of gratitude and worship in our lives, especially during difficult times?

10. Reflecting on David’s imprecatory prayers (verses 22-29), how should we approach feelings of anger or desire for vengeance? How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:43-44 challenge our natural instincts?

11. The sermon discusses imprecatory prayers and how we should approach them as Christians today. How do you reconcile feelings of anger or desires for justice with Jesus' command to love our enemies?

12. David transitions from despair to praise in this Psalm. What practices or truths help you shift your focus to praising God during challenging times?

13. In verses 34-36, David expresses confidence in God’s future deliverance. How can we hold onto hope in the midst of our suffering, and what promises from Scripture can help us in those times?

Weekly Questions

1. What stood out to you/challenged you most in this sermon?

2. What’s one area you feel the Lord wants to grow you into more Christ likeness?

3. How can this group pray for you this week?