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?

Sermon 530: The Gospel for Gentiles: Acts 10:1-33

This week’s bulletin

10 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” 4 And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7 When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8 and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.

17 Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate 18 and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. 19 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” 21 And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23 So he invited them in to be his guests.

The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.”

30 And Cornelius said, “Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.”

Sermon 529: A Far-Off God (Psalm 10)

Bulletin Here

10 Why, O Lord, do you stand far away?

Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?

2 In arrogance the wicked hotly pursue the poor;

let them be caught in the schemes that they have devised.

3 For the wicked boasts of the desires of his soul,

and the one greedy for gain curses and renounces the Lord.

4 In the pride of his face the wicked does not seek him;

all his thoughts are, “There is no God.”

5 His ways prosper at all times;

your judgments are on high, out of his sight;

as for all his foes, he puffs at them.

6 He says in his heart, “I shall not be moved;

throughout all generations I shall not meet adversity.”

7 His mouth is filled with cursing and deceit and oppression;

under his tongue are mischief and iniquity.

8 He sits in ambush in the villages;

in hiding places he murders the innocent.

His eyes stealthily watch for the helpless;

9 he lurks in ambush like a lion in his thicket;

he lurks that he may seize the poor;

he seizes the poor when he draws him into his net.

10 The helpless are crushed, sink down,

and fall by his might.

11 He says in his heart, “God has forgotten,

he has hidden his face, he will never see it.”

12 Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand;

forget not the afflicted.

13 Why does the wicked renounce God

and say in his heart, “You will not call to account”?

14 But you do see, for you note mischief and vexation,

that you may take it into your hands;

to you the helpless commits himself;

you have been the helper of the fatherless.

15 Break the arm of the wicked and evildoer;

call his wickedness to account till you find none.

16 The Lord is king forever and ever;

the nations perish from his land.

17 O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted;

you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear

18 to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,

so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more.

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 528: The Lord Sets Prisoners Free (Psalm 146)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Praise then LORD, O My Soul! (v.1-2)
II. The Human Condition (v.3-4)
III. The God who… (v.5-9)
IV. A Diamond God Is Forever (v.10)

Psalm146

1 LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul!

2 I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

3 Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.

4 When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.

5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever;

7 who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free;

8 the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous.

9 The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

10 The LORD will reign forever, your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!”

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Sermon Discussion questions
The Lord Sets Prisoners Free: Psalm 146

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. Psalm 146 begins and ends with Hallelujah! / “Praise the LORD!" How can you incorporate more genuine praise into your daily life? Are there specific moments or practices you can adopt to keep praise at the forefront of your mind?

2. Verses 3-4 warn against putting trust in princes or humans. In what areas of your life are you tempted to place your trust in people or institutions rather than in God? How can you shift your trust to God in those areas?

3. Verses 5-9 highlights God’s care for the oppressed, hungry, prisoners, blind, and orphans. How can you emulate God's compassion in your community? Are there specific actions you can take to support and care for those in need around you?

4. The sermon lists 12 reasons to trust God, including His care for the oppressed, hungry, prisoners and sojourners. Which of these aspects of God's character resonates most with you personally? How might you be used by God in caring for others in these ways?

5. The sermon mentioned the importance of a lifelong commitment to worship. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your relationship with God remains strong and vibrant throughout your life? How can you inspire and encourage others in your community to do the same?

6. How does the idea that "God reigns forever" impact your perspective on current events or personal challenges? How can we live with an eternal mindset in a rapidly changing world?

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 527: The King & His Bride (Psalm 45)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. The Glory of the King (v.1-9)
II. The Beauty of the Bride (v.10-15)
III. The Eternal Kingdom (v.16-17)

Psalm 45

To the choirmaster: according to Lilies. A Maskil of the Sons of Korah; a love song.

1 My heart overflows with a pleasing theme;

I address my verses to the king;

my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.

2 You are the most handsome of the sons of men;

grace is poured upon your lips;

therefore God has blessed you forever.

3 Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one,

in your splendor and majesty!

4 In your majesty ride out victoriously

for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness;

let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!

5 Your arrows are sharp

in the heart of the king’s enemies;

the peoples fall under you.

6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.

The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;

7 you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.

Therefore God, your God, has anointed you

with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;

8 your robes are all fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia.

From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad;

9 daughters of kings are among your ladies of honor;

at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.

10 Hear, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear:

forget your people and your father’s house,

11 and the king will desire your beauty.

Since he is your lord, bow to him.

12 The people of Tyre will seek your favor with gifts,

the richest of the people.

13 All glorious is the princess in her chamber, with robes interwoven with gold.

14 In many-colored robes she is led to the king,

with her virgin companions following behind her.

15 With joy and gladness they are led along

as they enter the palace of the king.

16 In place of your fathers shall be your sons;

you will make them princes in all the earth.

17 I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations;

therefore nations will praise you forever and ever.”

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Sermon Discussion questions
The King & His Bride: Psalm 45

Ice Breaker: What’s one memory that sticks out from your wedding or honeymoon?

This Week Specific

1. The sermon highlights the advice for the bride to leave her past and cleave to her husband. How does this concept apply to your relationship with Christ?

2. What aspects of your old life have you found difficult to leave behind, and how can you fully embrace your new identity in Christ?

3. Ephesians 5 compares the relationship between Christ and the church to a marriage. What practical steps can you take to nurture and strengthen your relationship with Jesus, similar to how you would with a spouse?

4. The sermon mentions the future marriage supper of the Lamb. How does this future hope influence the way you live today?

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 526: A Joyful Noise (Psalm 95)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Joyful Noise For the OmniLord (Psalm 95:1-5)
II. Shepherd Revering Sheep (Psalm 95:6-7a)
III. Y’all. Do Not Harden Your Hearts (Psalm 95:7b-11)

Psalm 95

1. Oh come, let us sing to the LORD;

let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!

2 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;

let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!

3 For the LORD is a great God,

and a great King above all gods.

4 In his hand are the depths of the earth;

the heights of the mountains are his also.

5 The sea is his, for he made it,

and his hands formed the dry land.

6 Oh come, let us worship and bow down;

let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!

7 For he is our God,

and we are the people of his pasture,

and the sheep of his hand.

Today, if you hear his voice,

8 do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,

as on the day at Massah in the wilderness,

9 when your fathers put me to the test

and put me to the proof, though they had seen my work.

10 For forty years I loathed that generation

and said, “They are a people who go astray in their heart,

and they have not known my ways.”

11 Therefore I swore in my wrath,

“They shall not enter my rest.””

---

Sermon Discussion questions
A Joyful Noise: Psalm 95

Ice Breaker: What's one area in your life where you're currently struggling to trust God? Or Describe a moment when you felt closest to God during worship.

This Week Specific

1. What are some specific ways you can better prepare your mind and heart to worship God weekly with your local church?

2. In what ways do you struggle to make worship a priority in your daily life? How can you cultivate a habit of "making a joyful noise" to God throughout your week?

3. The sermon mentions that true worship begins with listening to God's voice through Scripture. What practices help you, not merely read, but listen attentively to God's Word? How can you improve in this area?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "hardening of heart" towards God. What led to this, and how did you (or how can you) overcome it?

5. How does understanding God as your shepherd impact your trust in Him during difficult circumstances? Can you share an example from your own life?

6. The sermon warns against hypocritical worship - honoring God with lips while our hearts are far from Him. In what areas of your life do you see a disconnect between your outward actions and your inner attitudes towards God? How can you address this?

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 525: The Lord Is Our Refuge (Psalm 7)

Today’s Bulletin

Psalm 7

A Shiggaion of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning the words of Cush, a Benjaminite.

1 O LORD my God, in you do I take refuge;

save me from all my pursuers and deliver me,

2 lest like a lion they tear my soul apart,

rending it in pieces, with none to deliver.

3 O LORD my God, if I have done this,

if there is wrong in my hands,

4 if I have repaid my friend with evil

or plundered my enemy without cause,

5 let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it,

and let him trample my life to the ground

and lay my glory in the dust. Selah

6 Arise, O LORD, in your anger;

lift yourself up against the fury of my enemies;

awake for me; you have appointed a judgment.

7 Let the assembly of the peoples be gathered about you;

over it return on high.

8 The LORD judges the peoples;

judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness

and according to the integrity that is in me.

9 Oh, let the evil of the wicked come to an end,

and may you establish the righteous—

you who test the minds and hearts,

O righteous God!

10 My shield is with God,

who saves the upright in heart.

11 God is a righteous judge,

and a God who feels indignation every day.

12 If a man does not repent, God will whet his sword;

he has bent and readied his bow;

13 he has prepared for him his deadly weapons,

making his arrows fiery shafts.

14 Behold, the wicked man conceives evil

and is pregnant with mischief

and gives birth to lies.

15 He makes a pit, digging it out,

and falls into the hole that he has made.

16 His mischief returns upon his own head,

and on his own skull his violence descends.

17 I will give to the LORD the thanks due to his righteousness,

and I will sing praise to the name of the LORD, the Most High.”

---

Sermon 524: Open Mouths & Stubborn Hearts (Psalm 81)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. God’s People, Joyfully Sing Aloud To Yahweh! (v.1-5a)

   [Worship]

II. God Has Delivered (v. 6-7)

    [Remembering]

III. Open Your Mouth Wide! (v. 8-10)

     [Obedience]

IV. Unrestrained Stubborn Hearts (v. 11-12)

     [Consequences of Disobedience]

V. Walk In God’s Ways (v. 13-16)

    [Restoration]

Psalm 81

Psalm 81:1–16 “1 Sing aloud to God our strength;

shout for joy to the God of Jacob!

2 Raise a song; sound the tambourine,

the sweet lyre with the harp.

3 Blow the trumpet at the new moon,

at the full moon, on our feast day.

4 For it is a statute for Israel,

a rule of the God of Jacob.

5 He made it a decree in Joseph

when he went out over the land of Egypt.

I hear a language I had not known:

6 “I relieved your shoulder of the burden;

your hands were freed from the basket.

7 In distress you called, and I delivered you;

I answered you in the secret place of thunder;

I tested you at the waters of Meribah. Selah

8 Hear, O my people, while I admonish you!

O Israel, if you would but listen to me!

9 There shall be no strange god among you;

you shall not bow down to a foreign god.

10 I am the LORD your God,

who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.

Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.

11 “But my people did not listen to my voice;

Israel would not submit to me.

12 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts,

to follow their own counsels.

13 Oh, that my people would listen to me,

that Israel would walk in my ways!

14 I would soon subdue their enemies

and turn my hand against their foes.

15 Those who hate the LORD would cringe toward him,

and their fate would last forever.

16 But he would feed you with the finest of the wheat,

and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.””

---

Shophar Horn

---

Phases Of The Moon

---

OUR HAPPINESS TO OBEY: PRAYER BY RICHARD BAXTER

You, O God, are our Sovereign King, to rule and judge us.
It is our duty and happiness to obey and please you.
May we labour therefore to bring our souls and bodies
into the most absolute subjection to you,
and to make it our delight and business s
incerely and exactly to obey your will.

May our obedience be practical, and not merely notional.
May our obedience be deep-rooted and fixed.
May our obedience be constant and continual.
May our obedience be universal, respecting all your laws.
May our obedience be resolute and powerful,
victorious against temptation.
May we respect you as our supreme King,
recognising no authority against you,
nor any except that which is subordinate to you.
May our obedience be voluntary, pleasant, cheerful.
May it be our delight to obey you to our utmost power.

Though obedience is so difficult for us, yet it is so reasonable, necessary, and good.
For we, we are unable and unfit to govern ourselves.
We are so blind and ignorant;
so biased by a corrupted will;
so turbulent are our passions;
so unable to protect and reward ourselves, that we should fear nothing in the world more, than to be given over to our stubborn hearts, to follow our own devices.

But you have perfect wisdom, to know what is best.
You have perfect goodness, with no evil in your laws.
You are almighty, to protect your subjects.
You are most just, and therefore can do no wrong.
You are infinitely perfect, using no unrighteous means.
You are self-sufficient, with no need to lie or deceive.
You are our end,
our interest,
our happiness,
with no interest other than our good.
You are our dearest Friend and Father,
and love us better than we love ourselves.
Therefore we have every reason confidently to trust you
and so cheerfully and gladly obey you
as one that rules us to bless us.

---

Sermon Discussion questions
Open Mouths & Stubborn Hearts: Psalm 81

Ice Breaker: You have 30 seconds to list all your favorite things or experiences, things you’re grateful to the Lord for.

This Week Specific

1. Pastor Brian mentions various forms of idolatry in our modern lives. What are some potential idols you struggle with in your own life? How do these idols compete with your devotion to God?

2. The Psalm calls us to "sing aloud" and "shout for joy" to God. How can we cultivate a more joyful, expressive worship in our personal and corporate worship times? Also, What is the connection between remembering and rejoicing?

3. God says "Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it" (v.10). In what areas of your life do you need to trust God more fully to provide for your needs?

4. The sermon discusses the dangers of God giving people over to their "stubborn hearts." Can you think of a time when you experienced negative consequences from insisting on your own way rather than following God's guidance?

5. The Psalm ends with God's desire to satisfy His people. In what ways have you experienced God's satisfaction in your life? Are there areas where you're still seeking fulfillment apart from God?

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 523: The Wondrous Word of God (Psalm 119:129-136)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. The Wonder of God’s Word (v.129-131)
II. Seeking God & Mourning Those Who Rebel (v.132-136)

Psalm 119:129-136

Pe פּ

129   “Your testimonies are wonderful;

therefore my soul keeps them.

130 The unfolding of your words gives light;

it imparts understanding to the simple.

131 I open my mouth and pant,

because I long for your commandments.

132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,

as is your way with those who love your name.

133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,

and let no iniquity get dominion over me.

134 Redeem me from man’s oppression,

that I may keep your precepts.

135 Make your face shine upon your servant,

and teach me your statutes.

136 My eyes shed streams of tears,

because people do not keep your law.

Sermon Discussion questions
The Wondrous Word of God: Psalm 119:129-136

Ice Breaker: What are you most insatiable about? A food, a hobby? A subject, etc.

This Week Specific

1. The psalmist declares that God's word is "wonderful" or "wondrous." When was the last time you felt a sense of awe or wonder at God's word? What might help rekindle that sense of amazement at the power and beauty of Scripture?

2. Verse 131 says the psalmist "pants" and longs insatiably for God's commandments. Are you currently experiencing that kind of eager desire to read and obey God's word? If not, what steps could you take to cultivate a deeper longing for Scripture?

3. Is asking God to protect you from sin a regular pattern in your life? Why or why not? How could this request help you?

4. The sermon mentions praying for protection from sin and temptation (v. 133). What specific areas of sin or temptation do you need to ask God to help you overcome through the power of His word?

5. When you see blatant sin and rebellion against God in society, does it grieve you to tears like it did the psalmist (v. 136)? How do you usually respond? Why is that? How can developing a deeper love for God's word increase our holy sorrow over sin?

6. What is one specific plan you can make to prioritize reading and meditating on God's word this week? When and where will you do it? What portion of Scripture will you focus on?

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 522: True Worship (Psalms 134)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. True Worship (Psalm 134)

Psalm 134

Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD! Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the LORD! May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!

Sermon Discussion questions
True WOrship: Psalm 134

Ice Breaker: What non Bible/notes app are you most tempted to use during worship?

This Week Specific

1. The sermon emphasizes that worship is primarily about glorifying God, not about what we get out of it personally. How can you prepare your heart before corporate worship to make it more God-centered and focused on adoring Him?

2. What emotions or affections do you typically experience during worship services? How can you cultivate deeper feelings of awe, reverence, and joy towards God during times of worship?

3. Pastor Brian encourages using physical expressions like lifting hands as a way to engage mind and body in worship. What helps you become more fully engaged in worshipping God with your whole being?

4. Psalm 134 presents worship as something that should happen day and night. How can you make the daily worship of God more of a priority and practice in your life?

5. John Piper is quoted saying we shouldn't "replace Christ this summer with trifles." What trifles or distractions tend to pull your focus away from Christ during the summer months? How can you intentionally "seek the things that are above" this summer?

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 521: The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16)

Today’s Bulletin

Leviticus 16

The LORD spoke to Moses after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they drew near before the LORD and died, and the LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron your brother not to come at any time into the Holy Place inside the veil, before the mercy seat that is on the ark, so that he may not die. For I will appear in the cloud over the mercy seat. But in this way Aaron shall come into the Holy Place: with a bull from the herd for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. He shall put on the holy linen coat and shall have the linen undergarment on his body, and he shall tie the linen sash around his waist, and wear the linen turban; these are the holy garments. He shall bathe his body in water and then put them on. And he shall take from the congregation of the people of Israel two male goats for a sin offering, and one ram for a burnt offering.

“Aaron shall offer the bull as a sin offering for himself and shall make atonement for himself and for his house. Then he shall take the two goats and set them before the LORD at the entrance of the tent of meeting. And Aaron shall cast lots over the two goats, one lot for the LORD and the other lot for Azazel. And Aaron shall present the goat on which the lot fell for the LORD and use it as a sin offering, but the goat on which the lot fell for Azazel shall be presented alive before the LORD to make atonement over it, that it may be sent away into the wilderness to Azazel.

“Aaron shall present the bull as a sin offering for himself, and shall make atonement for himself and for his house. He shall kill the bull as a sin offering for himself. And he shall take a censer full of coals of fire from the altar before the LORD, and two handfuls of sweet incense beaten small, and he shall bring it inside the veil and put the incense on the fire before the LORD, that the cloud of the incense may cover the mercy seat that is over the testimony, so that he does not die. And he shall take some of the blood of the bull and sprinkle it with his finger on the front of the mercy seat on the east side, and in front of the mercy seat he shall sprinkle some of the blood with his finger seven times.

“Then he shall kill the goat of the sin offering that is for the people and bring its blood inside the veil and do with its blood as he did with the blood of the bull, sprinkling it over the mercy seat and in front of the mercy seat. Thus he shall make atonement for the Holy Place, because of the uncleannesses of the people of Israel and because of their transgressions, all their sins. And so he shall do for the tent of meeting, which dwells with them in the midst of their uncleannesses. No one may be in the tent of meeting from the time he enters to make atonement in the Holy Place until he comes out and has made atonement for himself and for his house and for all the assembly of Israel. Then he shall go out to the altar that is before the LORD and make atonement for it, and shall take some of the blood of the bull and some of the blood of the goat, and put it on the horns of the altar all around. And he shall sprinkle some of the blood on it with his finger seven times, and cleanse it and consecrate it from the uncleannesses of the people of Israel.

“And when he has made an end of atoning for the Holy Place and the tent of meeting and the altar, he shall present the live goat. And Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, and confess over it all the iniquities of the people of Israel, and all their transgressions, all their sins. And he shall put them on the head of the goat and send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a man who is in readiness. The goat shall bear all their iniquities on itself to a remote area, and he shall let the goat go free in the wilderness.

“Then Aaron shall come into the tent of meeting and shall take off the linen garments that he put on when he went into the Holy Place and shall leave them there. And he shall bathe his body in water in a holy place and put on his garments and come out and offer his burnt offering and the burnt offering of the people and make atonement for himself and for the people. And the fat of the sin offering he shall burn on the altar. And he who lets the goat go to Azazel shall wash his clothes and bathe his body in water, and afterward he may come into the camp. And the bull for the sin offering and the goat for the sin offering, whose blood was brought in to make atonement in the Holy Place, shall be carried outside the camp. Their skin and their flesh and their dung shall be burned up with fire. And he who burns them shall wash his clothes and bathe his body in water, and afterward he may come into the camp.

“And it shall be a statute to you forever that in the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict yourselves and shall do no work, either the native or the stranger who sojourns among you. For on this day shall atonement be made for you to cleanse you. You shall be clean before the LORD from all your sins. It is a Sabbath of solemn rest to you, and you shall afflict yourselves; it is a statute forever. And the priest who is anointed and consecrated as priest in his father’s place shall make atonement, wearing the holy linen garments. He shall make atonement for the holy sanctuary, and he shall make atonement for the tent of meeting and for the altar, and he shall make atonement for the priests and for all the people of the assembly. And this shall be a statute forever for you, that atonement may be made for the people of Israel once in the year because of all their sins.” And Aaron did as the LORD commanded Moses.

Sermon 520: Starry Eyed Faith (Genesis 15)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. From Fear to Faith Through the Word of God (v.1-6) 

A. God tells Abe, “I got you” (v.1)
B. Abe, “But I got no kids” (v. 2-3)
C. Star Gazing Promises (v.4-5)
D. Justified By Faith (v. 6; Romans 4:3)

II. A Bloody Covenant (v.7-21)
A. Abe Seeking Confirmation (v.7-8)
B. The Strange Obedience Of Splitting Animals (v.9-11)
C. A Dreadful & Great Darkness (v.12-16)
D. The Covenant Confirmation (v.17-21)

Genesis 15

After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord GOD, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “Behold, you have given me no offspring, and a member of my household will be my heir.” And behold, the word of the LORD came to him: “This man shall not be your heir; your very own son shall be your heir.” And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.

And he said to him, “I am the LORD who brought you out from Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land to possess.” But he said, “O Lord GOD, how am I to know that I shall possess it?” He said to him, “Bring me a heifer three years old, a female goat three years old, a ram three years old, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” And he brought him all these, cut them in half, and laid each half over against the other. But he did not cut the birds in half. And when birds of prey came down on the carcasses, Abram drove them away.

As the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell on Abram. And behold, dreadful and great darkness fell upon him. Then the LORD said to Abram, “Know for certain that your offspring will be sojourners in a land that is not theirs and will be servants there, and they will be afflicted for four hundred years. But I will bring judgment on the nation that they serve, and afterward they shall come out with great possessions. As for you, you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried in a good old age. And they shall come back here in the fourth generation, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete.”

When the sun had gone down and it was dark, behold, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates, the land of the Kenites, the Kenizzites, the Kadmonites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites and the Jebusites.”

Sermon Discussion questions
Stary Eyed Faith: Genesis 15

Ice Breaker: What's the most awe-inspiring experience you've had looking up at the night sky? OR What's one thing in your life that you had to wait patiently for over a long period of time?

This Week Specific

1. The sermon highlights that fear is one of the most common human experiences addressed in Scripture. What are some of the fears or anxieties you are currently struggling with? How can focusing on God's promises and trusting in His character help alleviate those fears?

2. Abram is presented as a model for how we can honestly express our doubts, frustrations and anxieties to God in prayer. Why is it important to bring our whole selves, including the difficult emotions, before the Lord? How can doing so strengthen our faith?

3. The passage emphasizes that Abram's righteousness came through faith, not works. How can resting in the finished work of Christ free us from striving to earn our own righteousness? What does it look like practically to live by grace through faith?

4. God made a unilateral, unconditional covenant with Abram, promising blessings despite Abram's inability to uphold his end. How does this foreshadow the new covenant in Christ? What assurance can we take from God's faithfulness depicted here? What’s that mean for you personally?

5. The sermon connects this passage to the means of grace - Scripture, prayer and the sacraments. How can actively engaging with these means strengthen your faith and apprehension of God's promises? What steps could you take to prioritize the means of grace in your 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 519: Night Ops In the Valley of Siddhim (Genesis 14)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Faithfulness In Conflict (v.1-12)
II. Night Ops (v.13-16)
II. Mysterious Melchizedek (v.17-24)
A. Abe’s Response (v.17-20)
B. Abe’s Declaration (v.21-24)

Genesis 14

Abram Rescues Lot

In the days of Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim, these kings made war with Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar). And all these joined forces in the Valley of Siddim (that is, the Salt Sea). Twelve years they had served Chedorlaomer, but in the thirteenth year they rebelled. In the fourteenth year Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him came and defeated the Rephaim in Ashteroth-karnaim, the Zuzim in Ham, the Emim in Shaveh-kiriathaim, and the Horites in their hill country of Seir as far as El-paran on the border of the wilderness. Then they turned back and came to En-mishpat (that is, Kadesh) and defeated all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites who were dwelling in Hazazon-tamar.

Then the king of Sodom, the king of Gomorrah, the king of Admah, the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar) went out, and they joined battle in the Valley of Siddim with Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goiim, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar, four kings against five. Now the Valley of Siddim was full of bitumen pits, and as the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some fell into them, and the rest fled to the hill country. So the enemy took all the possessions of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their provisions, and went their way. They also took Lot, the son of Abram’s brother, who was dwelling in Sodom, and his possessions, and went their way.

Then one who had escaped came and told Abram the Hebrew, who was living by the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol and of Aner. These were allies of Abram. When Abram heard that his kinsman had been taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born in his house, 318 of them, and went in pursuit as far as Dan. And he divided his forces against them by night, he and his servants, and defeated them and pursued them to Hobah, north of Damascus. Then he brought back all the possessions, and also brought back his kinsman Lot with his possessions, and the women and the people.

Abram Blessed by Melchizedek

After his return from the defeat of Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him, the king of Sodom went out to meet him at the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley). And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.) And he blessed him and said,

“Blessed be Abram by God Most High,
Possessor of heaven and earth;
and blessed be God Most High,
who has delivered your enemies into your hand!”

And Abram gave him a tenth of everything. And the king of Sodom said to Abram, “Give me the persons, but take the goods for yourself.” But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have lifted my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth, that I would not take a thread or a sandal strap or anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich.’ I will take nothing but what the young men have eaten, and the share of the men who went with me. Let Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre take their share.”

Sermon Discussion questions
Night Ops & Mysterious Melchizedek: Genesis 14

Ice Breaker: After a rough exhausting day, what meal would you most want someone to provide for you?

This Week Specific

1. Brian highlighted the importance of not defaulting to an attitude of "not my problem" when others are facing difficulties, especially family and fellow believers. Can you think of a situation in your life where you were tempted to have that attitude, but getting involved made a positive impact? What motivated you to get involved then, and how can you cultivate that mindset more consistently?

2. Abram demonstrated faith-fueled courage by pursuing the powerful army that captured Lot, despite being vastly outnumbered. When has God called you to have courageous faith in a daunting situation of any sort? What were the results of stepping out in obedience? Not just huge ways, what little ways have you seen this?

3. The sermon contrasts Abram's responses to the king of Sodom and Melchizedek. How can you cultivate an attitude like Abram's of not seeking wealth or status from ungodly sources, but instead being focused on glorifying God as the true source of blessing?

4. Melchizedek is described as a foreshadowing or "type" of Christ. What insights does this give you into the supremacy, priesthood, and kingship of Jesus? How can meditating on these truths shape your worship and obedience?

5. The sermon closes with the exhortation to view Jesus rightly as our eternal High Priest who intercedes for us. How can you actively set your mind on this reality throughout your day or week? What difference might it make in your thought patterns, attitudes, and actions?

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 518: A Lot Going Eastward (Genesis 13)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Don’t Call It A Comeback: Abram’s Return (v.1-4)
II. Mo Money Mo Problem: Too Rich To Dwell Together (v.5-7)
III. The Fork of Peace (v.8-9)
IV. Eastward (v.10-13)
V. God Speaks, Abe Listens & Worships (v.14-18)

Genesis 13

“So Abram went up from Egypt, he and his wife and all that he had, and Lot with him, into the Negeb.

2 Now Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold. 3 And he journeyed on from the Negeb as far as Bethel to the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Ai, 4 to the place where he had made an altar at the first. And there Abram called upon the name of the LORD. 5 And Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents, 6 so that the land could not support both of them dwelling together; for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together, 7 and there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were dwelling in the land.

8 Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen. 9 Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.” 10 And Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well watered everywhere like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, in the direction of Zoar. (This was before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) 11 So Lot chose for himself all the Jordan Valley, and Lot journeyed east. Thus they separated from each other. 12 Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled among the cities of the valley and moved his tent as far as Sodom. 13 Now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the LORD.

14 The LORD said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, “Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, 15 for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever. 16 I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. 17 Arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.” 18 So Abram moved his tent and came and settled by the oaks of Mamre, which are at Hebron, and there he built an altar to the LORD.”

Sermon Discussion questions
A Lot going eastward: Genesis 13

Ice Breaker: If you could pick any piece of land/real estate to have for yourself, where would you choose and why?

This Week Specific

1. The sermon highlights how Abram had moments of both faithfulness and unfaithfulness to God. When have you experienced seasons of feeling distant from God or struggling with unbelief? What helped you return to a place of trust and worship?

2. Abram initiated peacemaking with Lot and was willing to sacrifice his rights for the sake of reconciliation. Are there any conflicts or strained relationships in your life where you need to take the first step towards making peace? What would it look like to humble yourself and prioritize reconciliation?

3. Lot chose the land that looked most prosperous and desirable from an earthly perspective, but it led him towards the sinful culture of Sodom. When making important decisions, how can you ensure you are considering spiritual priorities and not just worldly or material gain? Any decisions you’re currently making that you need to consider?

4. God renewed his covenant promises to Abram,. how does remembering God's faithful promises encourage you to obey and follow Him, even when it requires sacrifice?

5. At the end of the sermon, Pastor Brian challenges the congregation to be peacemakers in various areas of life. What are some practical ways you can pursue peace this week - in your home, workplace, friend groups, or church 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 517: A Faltering Faith, A Sister-Wife, A Faithful God: GENESIS 12:10-20

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. The Fear Spiral; aka Faltering Faith (v.10-13)
II. The Unsettling Success of Sin (v.14-16)
III. God's Gracious Intervention (v. 17-20)
IV. Apps For Everyone

Genesis 12:10-20

“Now there was a famine in the land. So Abram went down to Egypt to sojourn there, for the famine was severe in the land. 11 When he was about to enter Egypt, he said to Sarai his wife, “I know that you are a woman beautiful in appearance, 12 and when the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ Then they will kill me, but they will let you live. 13 Say you are my sister, that it may go well with me because of you, and that my life may be spared for your sake.” 14 When Abram entered Egypt, the Egyptians saw that the woman was very beautiful. 15 And when the princes of Pharaoh saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh. And the woman was taken into Pharaoh’s house. 16 And for her sake he dealt well with Abram; and he had sheep, oxen, male donkeys, male servants, female servants, female donkeys, and camels.

17 But the LORD afflicted Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai, Abram’s wife. 18 So Pharaoh called Abram and said, “What is this you have done to me? Why did you not tell me that she was your wife? 19 Why did you say, ‘She is my sister,’ so that I took her for my wife? Now then, here is your wife; take her, and go.” 20 And Pharaoh gave men orders concerning him, and they sent him away with his wife and all that he had.”

Canceling Calvin

John Calvin on how Sarai could be beautiful despite being older…
“her sterility (not having had children) availed to preserve her beauty, and to keep her whole habit of body entire; for there is nothing which more debilitates females (beauty) than frequent parturition (child bearing).”

Translation in sermon, Calvin says, the reason Sarai is still stunning at 65 is that she has not given birth to any children. He then adds, “Nothing debilitates the appearance of women more than frequent childbirth.”

Nate Bargatze Ording Coffee like Pharaoh Dismissing Abram

Sermon Discussion questions
A Faltering Faith, A Faithful God: Genesis 12:10-20

Ice Breaker: Ice Breakers will return in fall with Small Groups

This Week Specific

1. The sermon this week highlighted how Abram faltered in his faith and acted out of fear instead of trusting God's promises when the famine hit. Can you think of a recent situation where you struggled to trust God's promises and acted out of fear or self-reliance instead? What were the consequences?

2. Abram's lie to protect himself ended up putting his wife Sarai in a compromising situation with Pharaoh. Have you ever made a decision motivated by fear or self-preservation that ended up negatively impacting or putting loved ones at risk? What did you learn from that experience?

3. Pastor Brian emphasizes that despite Abram's lapses in faith, God remained faithful to His promises. How have you seen God's faithfulness evident in your own life, even during periods when your faith wavered?

4. What is one practical step you can take this week to grow in trusting God more fully with the situations and relationships you are facing? What promise from Scripture can you cling to?

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 516: One Word That Changed The World (Genesis 12:1-9)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

I. Abram’s Call and Promise (v.1-3)
II. Abram’s Obedience (v.4-5a)
III. Abram’s Sojourn (v.5b-9)

Genesis 12:1-9

Now the LORD said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

4 So Abram went, as the LORD had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. 5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the people that they had acquired in Haran, and they set out to go to the land of Canaan. When they came to the land of Canaan, 6 Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. 7 Then the LORD appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built there an altar to the LORD, who had appeared to him. 8 From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. And there he built an altar to the LORD and called upon the name of the LORD. 9 And Abram journeyed on, still going toward the Negeb.

TULIP Explained

Total depravity: This doctrine asserts that as a result of the Fall, humanity is thoroughly affected by sin, rendering individuals incapable of saving themselves or even seeking God without divine grace.

Unconditional election: This doctrine emphasizes that God's choice of whom to save is not based on any foreseen merit or goodness in individuals but is solely based on God's sovereign will.

Limited atonement (also known as particular redemption): This doctrine holds that Jesus Christ's atonement is effective only for the elect, those whom God has chosen to save, rather than for all of humanity.

Irresistible grace: This doctrine teaches that God's grace is efficacious and irresistible, meaning that when God chooses to save someone, that individual cannot resist God's grace but will inevitably be brought to faith.

Perseverance of the saints (also known as the preservation of the saints): This doctrine asserts that those whom God has chosen for salvation will persevere in faith until the end and cannot ultimately lose their salvation.

Calvin’s Real Quote

“For it is better with closed eyes to follow God as our guide than by relying on our own providence to wander through those circuitous paths which it devises for us.”

Summarized version, “It’s far better to go with your eyes closed while holding the Lord’s hand, than to go with your eyes open, but on your own.”

Abraham’s Travel from Ur to Canaan

Sermon Discussion questions
One Word That Changed The World: Genesis 12:1-9

Ice Breaker: What's your favorite way to relax and rest after a long day?

This Week Specific

1. Consider the phrase "verbum dei nudum" or the "naked word of God.” When has God called you to obey His word even when you didn't have proof or couldn't see the full picture? What helped you trust God's bare word?

2. We heard in the sermon, "It's far better to go with your eyes closed while holding the Lord's hand, than to go with your eyes open, but on your own." When have you experienced the truth of this in your own spiritual journey? What are some practical ways we can learn to better trust and follow God's lead?

3. In the seven promises of God (v.2-3; 7) who does the action? Who fulfills these promises? What do you make of that? Which of these promises encourages or challenges you the most right now? Why?

4. Nancy Guthrie said we are "called to leave behind our comfortable way of life, our earthly pursuits and priorities, and to follow after Christ with reckless abandon and wholehearted commitment." What earthly comforts, pursuits or priorities might God be calling you to leave behind or re-prioritize?

5. In what areas of your life do you need to more wholeheartedly worship, the building of altars, and calling upon the name of the Lord as Abram did? How can we as a small group encourage another in this? What does it look like to build an alter today?

6. The sermon highlights obstacles Abram faced in believing God's promises (Sarah's barrenness, the Canaanites in the land, etc.). What obstacles to faith are you currently facing? How can you imitate Abram's example of persevering faith amidst difficulties? How can you better learn to truly rest in the Lord, take breaks from the rushing, and devote undistracted time to worship as modeled by Abram?

7. In what ways do you need to be more public or bold in proclaiming the name of the Lord and the gospel, following Abram's example? What fears or hindrances keep you from doing this?

8. How can we as a group better encourage and spur one another on to the kind of obedient, worshipful, outward-focused faith modeled by Abram?

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 515: To Live Is Christ (Philippians 3:19-26)

Today’s Bulletin

OUTLINE

Philippians 3:19-26

Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, 20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. 24 But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again.

“All of the pain in this world is the closest we Christians will ever get to hell and all of the happiness in this world is the closest that unbelievers will ever get to heaven. In death we have God to comfort us, but the unbeliever has no one.” - Harriett Reymond

Sermon Discussion questions
It’d Be A Shem To Begot Terah: Genesis 11:10-32

Ice Breaker: If you had to eat one meal from a fast food restaurant for the rest of your life, what would it be?

This Week Specific

1. From the statistics shared about death, what stuck out to you the most? Why do you think the reality of our mortality is so easy to ignore or downplay in our daily lives?

2. Brian said our goal should be, “Teaching people to live, preparing people to die.” How can focusing on this goal change your daily perspective and priorities? What are some practical ways we can remind ourselves of this each day?

3. Paul says in Philippians 1:21 "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." If you're honest, is living for Christ your highest priority and biggest passion? What are some things that compete for that top spot in your heart?

4. Brian said, “Paul did not think those things were true (about Christ), he knew them as absolutely true." What are some areas of biblical truth that you intellectually believe but don't fully live out with deep hearted conviction? How can you grow in that?

5. The 13-year-old's profound quote was, "All of the pain in this world is the closest we will ever get to hell and all of the happiness in this world is the closest that unbelievers will ever get to heaven." Discuss how this perspective aligns with or challenges your typical view of suffering and pleasure.

6. In what ways are you using your talents, money, time and energy for "fruitful labor" that helps yourself and others grow in their faith in Jesus? What is one practical step you can take to be more intentional about this?

7. The sermon said pursuing intimacy with Christ requires "seeking Him in the Scriptures." What are some ways we can prioritize diligently seeking the Lord through studying and meditating on God's Word?

8. The sermon concludes "May we view death, not as something to be feared, but an event that brings us into the very presence of God." Does the reality of being with Jesus after death fill you with more hope, joy or apprehension? How can we grow in our eternal perspective?

9. Paul says that he is “hard pressed” to choose between life and death. What can we do to get that same mindset Paul?

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?