Brevard Christian Church Podcast

Brandon Givens draws from Psalm 12 to explore the life-shaping power of words — how destructive speech tears down and how intentional, truth-filled words can build up, heal, and honor God. The sermon calls believers to guard their tongues, reject cultural deception, and speak the way God speaks: with purpose and weight.Brevard Christian Church - Merritt Island, FL. https://brevardchristian.com

Mark Bourne tackles one of life's most pressing questions — what happens when we die? Drawing from Jesus' parable in Luke 16 and the Great White Throne vision in Revelation 20, he shows that every person's eternal destination is shaped by a decision made while alive: whether to surrender to Jesus and have your name written in the Lamb's Book of Life.Brevard Christian Church — Merritt Island, FL. https://brevardchristian.com

In this Memorial Day message, Evangelist Mark Bourne walks through eight key Bible passages to show how anyone can have genuine confidence in their salvation. He explains what sin really costs, and lays out the path of confession, repentance, and baptism that leads to assurance before God.Sermon Questions:1. Jesus says in Matthew 7:21-23 that some people who called him 'Lord' and did religious things will still be turned away on judgment day. What's the difference between religious activity and truly knowing Jesus — and how would you honestly assess where you stand?2. Mark used the illustration of accidentally kicking a police officer instead of a tree to explain why sin is serious regardless of how minor it feels — it's not what you did, it's who you did it to. Does that reframe how you think about your own failures? How so?3. Romans 10:9 calls for openly declaring that Jesus is Lord, and Mark described early Christians going to their workplaces to say it publicly in front of coworkers. How openly do you talk about your faith with people around you, and what makes that easy or difficult?4. The Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas, 'What must I do to be saved?' (Acts 16) — and they answered right then, at midnight. Is there someone in your life who might be asking that same question, even if they haven't said it out loud? What would you tell them?5. Based on everything covered in this sermon, what is one concrete step you feel you need to take this week — whether for your own relationship with God or on behalf of someone you care about — and who might that decision affect?

Evangelist Mark Bourne challenges the Calvinist idea that God predetermines everything—including who is saved—and instead shows from Ezekiel 18 and John 12 that God created us with genuine free will. Our choices about what we do with Jesus' gift truly matter, and on Judgment Day we will each answer for those decisions.Sermon Questions:1. Before hearing this message, did you lean more toward believing God controls everything—including who gets saved—or that your choices genuinely matter to Him? Has anything shifted in your thinking today?2. In Ezekiel 18, God tells Israel to stop blaming their parents for their spiritual condition—each person stands before Him on the basis of their own decisions (verses 17–20). How does that change the way you personally think about your relationship with God?3. John 12:48 says the very words Jesus spoke will be the standard we're measured by on the last day. Knowing that, is there a specific area of your life where you've been putting off a choice you sense God is calling you to make?4. Mark Bourne pointed out that God's invitation in Matthew 22 goes out to 'anyone and everyone willing to come.' Is there someone in your life who may not realize that invitation is genuinely open to them—and what would it look like to let them know?5. What is one concrete decision you will make this week based on what you heard today, and who in your life might be affected by that choice?

Mark Bourne walks through key moments in church history — including the underground church in Communist Poland — to show how division and additions to Scripture weakened the body of Christ. The core call is clear: return to the Bible alone as the foundation of what it means to follow Jesus, echoing Christ's own prayer for unity in John 17:21.Sermon Questions:1. Mark described how the church in Poland was strongest when the Bible was the only thing believers had. How central is Scripture to your own daily life — is it truly your foundation, or has it become one voice among many?2. Jesus prayed in John 17:21 that his followers would be one, so the world would believe. How does disunity among Christians affect the people around you who are still searching for Jesus?3. The missionaries who smuggled Bibles into Poland risked everything so others could have God's word. What sacrifice — large or small — are you being called to make right now to serve someone who needs it?4. Mark argued that the goal should be 'the Bible, nothing more, nothing less.' Is there an area of your life where you have drifted from or added to what Scripture actually says? What would it look like to realign this week?5. What is one concrete step you will take this week based on what you heard today, and who in your life might be changed by it?

Evangelist Mark Bourne traces the first 325 years of church history to show how the church drifts off course by adding to or taking away from what God actually said. Using a striking baptism illustration and the Lord's Supper, he calls BCC back to the original simplicity of Scripture — nothing more, nothing less than what Christ established.Sermon Questions:1. Have you ever met someone who rejected Christianity because of what the church had become? How does their picture of 'church' compare to what you actually see in the New Testament?2. Mark described two ways the church historically goes off track: adding to what God said, or taking away from it. Can you think of a real example of each, and why does that distinction matter?3. The baptism illustration — dirt piled next to the water, lights out at the moment of immersion, then lights flooding back on as the person rose — was designed to make death and resurrection feel viscerally real. How does understanding what baptism and communion are actually picturing change the way you experience them?4. Mark opened in prayer asking God to help us 'get a little bit closer to Him so we might be better equipped to help other people too.' Who in your life are you consistently praying for or in conversation with about Jesus right now?5. Based on what you heard today, what is one specific thing you will actually do this week — a prayer, a conversation, a note on the map — and who might it help draw a little closer to God?

Evangelist Mark Bourne examines the identity and character of the church. The service centers on what it means to gather as the body of Christ, anchored in a communion reflection that calls each person to remember Christ's sacrifice and honestly ask what they are willing to give back to Him.Sermon Questions:1. Thinking about the church you experienced today — what stood out to you as different or unexpected about it, and why?2. During communion, the question was raised: 'What are you willing to do for Him?' What came to mind when you sat with that question?3. John 3:16 says God gave His one and only Son so that whoever believes would have eternal life. How does knowing that changes the way you live this week?4. Who in your world is quietly asking 'what kind of church is this?' — and what would they see if they showed up with you next Sunday?5. What is one specific thing you will do before next weekend as a response to what Christ did for you, and who might be impacted by that choice?

Ford Levi delivers an Easter Sunday sermon grounded in 1 Corinthians 15 and Ephesians 1:18-21, arguing that the bodily resurrection of Jesus is not a once-a-year holiday but the daily reality powering every believer's life. He challenges the congregation to move beyond a seasonal Easter mindset, embracing the same mighty power God used to raise Christ. A substantial second movement equips the church for practical outreach — prioritizing unknown visitors, sitting in 'the next one's seat,' and being prepared like Bartimaeus to point the searching toward Jesus — closing with communion as a living proclamation of the resurrection.Sermon Questions:1. (Circle 1) Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15 that if Christ has not been raised, our faith is worthless and we are the most miserable of people. How does the bodily resurrection of Jesus serve as the non-negotiable foundation of everything BCC believes, sings, and gathers around — and what would it cost us personally if it were not true?2. (Circle 2) The pastor challenged us to stop claiming 'our seat' and instead prioritize people we have never met, because 'before you came to Christ, you were the next one.' Who is your specific 'next one' this week, and what one concrete action — a hello, an invitation, a conversation — will you take to be the crowd that calls them toward Jesus rather than the crowd that hinders them?3. (Circle 3) The same resurrection power that God exerted in raising Jesus (Eph 1:18-21) is also the power that frees us to give and serve generously without fear. Where in your time, talents, or treasure is God asking you to step into sacrificial service for the body so that others can experience that resurrection life?4. (Circle 4) First Peter 3:15 assumes someone will eventually ask you about the hope you carry. Are you prepared to give that answer right now? What daily spiritual habit — Scripture, prayer, or intentional reflection on the resurrection — would help you live with the kind of unshakable confidence that makes people stop and ask why you are not afraid?5. (Circle 1) The sermon closed with communion, reminding us that every time we gather we proclaim Christ's death and resurrection 'in remembrance of me.' How does regularly and thoughtfully participating in the Lord's Supper shape the way you understand who Jesus is and what his resurrection means for your everyday life?

Pastor Brandon teaches from 1 Peter 5 about what it really means to lead like Jesus — with humility, not control. He challenges us to stop gripping the future so tightly and instead trust God with the people and plans we care about most.Sermon Questions:1. (1 Peter 5:2-3) Peter says to shepherd willingly, not under compulsion. Who in your life functions as a shepherd pointing you to Christ — and are you in regular contact with them?2. The sermon names the lost sheep as George. Who is your George — the one specific person outside the faith you sense God calling you to pursue this year?3. The sermon teaches that elders serve not under compulsion, but willingly. In what area of serving at BCC are you operating out of obligation rather than calling?4. The closing prayer declares "God, we surrender." What is one area of your life where you are holding the future so tightly it is producing anxiety — and what would a concrete act of surrender look like this week?

You can't just think your way into a changed heart, you have to put your money there. In this message, Seth Bourne unpacks what Jesus taught about the powerful connection between your wallet and your heart. Wherever you spend, your heart will follow. Want to love God more? Invest there.Sermon Questions:1. Read Matthew 6:21. Jesus says where your treasure goes, your heart follows. What would it look like to spend your way toward a heart for the lost or for knowing God better?2. Read Luke 12:15–21 (The Rich Fool). He wasn't evil, just self-focused. What subtle ways do we do the same thing without realizing it?3. Where you spend money is a window into what you actually value. If someone examined your last 30 days of spending, what would they say your heart is set on?4. What is one specific thing; a cause, a ministry, a person, that you want your heart to be more drawn to? What would it look like to start putting money there this week?

Some actions don’t matter, but repeated actions define you. …Sermon Questions:1. Have you ever met or seen someone in denial? Why didn't they realize it?2. What do you do most with your free time and why?3. If someone who never met you watched your life for one week how would they describe you? What are both good and bad things they'd say?4. Read Matt. 7:21-23 and Phil. 2:12-13. Why is what we do more important than anything else? See also Matt. 21:28-31. What steps do you need to take in order to change for the better?

Our words can literally reverse- engineer our heart. In this message learn what God’ Word teaches about the power of speech.Sermon Questions:1. Only God sees our hearts (1 Sam. 16:7b). Why doesn’t this scare most people?2. How can we see the heart (since only God truly can)? Read Matt. 12:34b.3. We know our words can change our heart because God commands us to change our speech. (If speech couldn’t change our hearts then God would by commanding us to be fake - see Eph. 4:29.) How do you think God uses our words to change us?4. Read James 3:1-8. Why is God so harsh on our words? What is He trying to get you and I to realize? How can we better realize this (in a practical way) this week?

You get the power of God and the Peace of God when you Pray to God!Sermon Questions:1. What causes you to pray most? What do you pray for?2. How do you pray? When do you pray?3. Read Matt. 7:7-11, Phil. 4:6-7, and James 5:17-18. What is one thing you can do this week to deepen your prayer life?4. As you pray today, who in your life do you need to lift up in Prayer to God?

True change only happens when we engage The mind that God gave us. Find out how in part 2 of our series.Sermon Questions:1. How often do you think about thinking? Why or why not?2. Name a situation you were in that improve only because of your mindset. What made the difference?3. Our mind needs a filter. How do you filter your thoughts? In the list of things in Philippians 4:8 which is the hardest for you to think about consistently? Which is easiest? Why4. What can you praise and thank God for today in your prayers? What brings you the most joy when you think about it?

How do you change yourself at a deep heart level? Is it even possible? Follow along with us over the next 6 weeks on what God's Word says about real change.Sermon Questions:1. Why are self help resources so popular?2. Have you ever been taken in by a self help fad or scheme? How did it draw you in?3. What does the Bible say to those who believe our heart has all the answers? Why is this so popular today? See Jeremiah 17:94. Why do many think that it's impossible to change? How do you draw the line between God's part and yours when it comes to true lasting change? See Philippians 2:12-13.

Apologetics 101 Learn quick defenses for our faith!

Summary: Elder and shepherd, Ford Levi, shares a message with our Merritt Island campus that demonstrates the heart and posture of an evangelist, and delineates the call on us for outreach!Questions:1. Who is God putting on your heart to reach?2. How has God set you up for success in this arena?3. What are you waiting for aka what's stopping you from taking that first step and reaching the lost?

Acts 9, 23 & 26Title: Conversion Part TwoSummary: Acts 9, 22 and 26 records the conversion of Saul. In many ways he is the least likely convert. But his conversion has become a pattern for most people coming to Christianity throughout history.Questions:1. Why is not feeling qualified actually one of the qualities God is looking for in His people?2. Why do many people get so upset when confronted with the truth?3. How does the Holy Spirit work in lives of people who are not yet Christian? (See John 16:8)4. What relative or friend of yours do you consider least likely to become a Christian? How are you discipling that person (ie - bringing them closer to Jesus)?

Summary: The record of an Ethiopian conversion in Acts 8 demonstrates three important questions everyone should ask.Questions:1. How would Americans be different if the Christian message hadn't influenced our history? How would your life be different?2. The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of humility (1 Peter 5:6 for example). Why is it essential?3. How do you connect with people who are not like you?4. Who have you been focused on recently (trying to bring them closer to the Lord)?

Summary: Just as Jesus had polarizing responses to His ministry, so we too will find some love what we say and stand for, while others will hate us for the very same things.Questions:1. Why did Peter and John heal the lame man? See John 5:36; 10:37-38 and Acts 2:22.2. Summarize Peter's message after the healing.3. Why were the priests and religious leaders so mad at Peter and John? Why do some people today still get so upset at Christians sharing their faith?4. How did Peter and John respond to the commands that they stop talking about Jesus? How should we respond to pressure against our faith?

Summary: the early church was made up of people who were drastically changed. They were first cut to the heart and then devoted to a whole new way of living.Questions:1. When you became a Christian - were you "cut to the heart"? What kind of things get to you at that level?2. The early Christians devoted themselves to four things (found in verse 42). What were those four things? Do you have a devotion to all four?3. Why was their teaching and standards of living based on what the Apostles taught? Does that imply that the standards of Christianity are fixed (ie- do not change)? See Jude 1:3 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Text: Acts 2Title: "Supernatural Help"Summary: Acts 2 records for us the day the church began. 3000 were baptized into Christ that day for (1) the forgiveness of sins, and (2) the indwelling gift of the Holy Spirit. God hasn't just forgiven His people, He provides help to live new/transformed lives through the Holy Spirit.Questions:1. Read 2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and Ephesians 6:17. The Holy Spirit protected everything written in the Bible so that we would be prepared and equipped for everything we face throughout life. Are there issues you face that you haven't found addressed in the Bible? If so, share with your group to get help finding the passages in the Bible that can guide you through your challenges.2. The Spirit gave us the Bible to guide us, but He also indwells us for spiritual power. See Acts 2:38; 1 Corinthians 6:19 and Ephesians 3:16. How has He provided power in your life to (1) overcome sin or attacks and (2) accomplish good (think of the things you have been able to do to help the church and help bring other people closer to the Lord). It's important to recognize what the Holy Spirit is empowering in your life and give credit where credit is due.

Summary - The greatest movement in history was started by the greatest event in history.Questions:1. Outside of you becoming a Christian, what was the next biggest event in your life - or the biggest event of 2025 for you? Why was it so impactful? How did it change your life?2. For the greatest movement in history to begin, it took the greatest event - the resurrection of Jesus. But it wouldn't have had such an impact if it were not objectively true. What do we mean by objective truth? Give some examples of objective truth vs subjective truths.3. What are some of the changes that the truthfulness of Christianity requires? (Do you see how these kind of changes had such an impact when the church first began?)4. What really big things (mountain moving kind of things), do you envision for Brevard county in 2025? Do you think it's the same kind of thing God desires for us?

Synopsis: We often say Christmas isn’t about presents, but is that really true? In this message we make the case for why presents are actually what Christmas is all about!Christmas 2025 Sermon Questions:1. What was your favorite present as a kid? Why?2. What was your least favorite present and why?2. What are the benefits associate with gift giving? (See Acts 20:35b, James 1:17 & John 3:16)3. What was your favorite spiritual accomplishment of 2025? What are you looking forward to about next year?4. In order to reach Brevard County for Jesus was must make many “spiritual deposits” (ie. utilize prayers, conversations and money). Which of these 3 will be easiest for you? Which will be the most difficult.5. Pray that God will help us reach more of the lost souls of Brevard in 2026.

Hear the true meaning of Christmas from the heart of our dear elder, Ford Levi!Questions:1) What does Christmas mean in YOUR household?2) How has Christ impacted your life this year?3) How might God be calling you to share the Light of the World in the year to come?

Summary - Jesus wants His Church to be encouraged through persecution and opposition. By means of apocalyptic language, God lets us know that "we win!"Questions:1. Why is apocalyptic language used throughout Revelation?2. What is the best way to understand the meaning of Revelation (what is the best commentary to use)?3. Everything has a beginning and an end. What does Jesus want us to understand when He says that He is the ultimate beginning and end?4. In a practical sense (the way you live your life), what is your "end game"? Are your desires and goals reflected in the way you are living right now? Does anything need to change?

Sermon Synopsis:Jude the other brother of Jesus was compelled to warn us that evil people exist even in the Church community. We must fight for the faith that was once for all time given to us and avoid their corruption. How do we do that? Listen to Jude as he gives us the answer.Sermon Questions:1. Have you ever met or seen someone who was truly evil? How did you know? What gave it away? (Jude 3-4)2. Why are Christians sometimes susceptible to being fooled by evil people? How good are you at discerning hidden evil in others?3. Although Jude gives many examples of how bad these false teachers are, the only evidence he says they have is their “dreams/visions” (see vs 8). Have you ever had a dream or experience that you misinterpreted? How do you lovingly help others see that their dreams/visions are not new revelation from God, but simply a tool to encourage them to look to the Bible?4. When we remember that we have been called through the Bible and loved through the Gospel, we will be kept as long as we hold on to the faith. In your witnessing to others, what do you find they need to know more, that God has called them (ie. told them how to live in the bible) or loved them (Jn. 3:16)? In other words, is it God’s will or God’s love that they struggle with more? How would you answer this yourself?

Synopsis:The elder John gives us a brief insight into the good and bad going on in a local church in the 1st century. Even though it is short in words, 3 John gives us just enough direction to implement as a church today. Questions:1) What is a selfishness that you are currently dealing with that needs to be squashed?2) John urges his readers to imitate what is good. Make a list of 5 goods you can imitate. How do you implement these in your life so far?3) What are some core beliefs of the church, and how are you practicing them?

Sermon Title: Truth...OR Love?? Sermon Synopsis: John writes a letter to the chosen lady and her children (or the Church and her faithful followers). He is grateful to see those who walk in the truth. John's aim in this letter is to encourage us to follow the prime directive to love others. The question is...what does it MEAN to love? Can we truly love others if we leave out the truth? Are we loving simply when we are nice, or when we avoid making others uncomfortable? The answer to those questions, and more, can be found in today's message!

1 John - Ford LeviLove Questions God is LoveA world without Love?Must Love have fruits?3:17-18.3:14-15Anyone who does not Love remains in death.Is this for unbelievers or Christians?Once saved always saved?

Synopsis:2nd Peter gives strict encouragement to be effective and fruitful by supplementing your faith and to long for the coming of King Jesus.Questions:1. Peter alludes to himself not having much time left on earth before he dies, so he gives his audience reminders written down to they may at any time recall them (see 2nd Peter 1:12-15). Like Peter, if you knew your time on earth was ending soon and you had the ability to give the people you care about a document of your final thoughts for them, what might it say?2. Is eternity on your mind? How so?3. Who in your life has used phrases like "I'm spiritual"? In that situation what goes through your mind? How do you respond? After reading 2nd Peter what can you implement for the next time your in said situation?

Summary - Peter encourages a persecuted church scattered throughout the world to remain strong and committed. He encourages us to think about our foundation, our destiny, our ministry and our new birth (baptism).Questions:1. What is your favorite "come from behind" or "come back" story?2. If Jesus sent us a half time encouragement - what do you think He would emphasize the most?3. Do you remember the details of your baptism (what you were thinking about as well as what happened)? Share your baptism story with the group.4. How does remembering your baptism make you strong?

Synopsis: Have you ever played the blame game? How did it work out for you? James brother of Jesus gives us the most practical book in the New Testament. In it he talks about our responsibility as Christians. Playing the blame game is just a way to avoid responsibility. Taking responsibility, however, is key to living the best Christian life possible.Sermon Questions:1. What was one of your earliest responsibilities growing up? What did you learn from it and how did it shape you?2. Why did people play the blame game? Why is it hard for people to take responsibility?3. James talks about 5 ways we try to avoid taking responsibility for our Christian life, when we blame: 1 God 2 Injustice 3 Our Words 4 Others 5 The Rich. Which of these do you tend to want to blame for your current difficulties? How can you get beyond this blame game?4. Read the first and last few verses of the book of James. What does this say about God’s goal for us now?

Sermon Synopsis:The letter of Hebrews has an overarching theme: don’t lose your loyal trust in Jesus. To prove this, the letter gives us multiple views of who Jesus is and the power He holds; as to encourage the readers to stay true to Him.Questions:1. In the book of Hebrews, Jesus is portrayed in many different examples. Which stands out to you and why?2. Read Hebrews 13:7-8 aloud. Who in your life has been a pillar in the faith that you look up to and imitate?3. Through your experiences, how has Jesus been the same yesterday and today? May those stories give us courage and strength in the faith for tomorrow.

Text: Philemon Summary: this is a short letter on how to restore relationships and make things right. (It's not about slavery, the way most people think of slavery.) Making things right requires #1 - getting things out in the open. And #2 - following through with the appropriate actions.Questions:1. Why is it so hard to confess difficulties (not just sins but misunderstandings and unfortunate situations we find ourselves in)?2. Why is confession without repentance a bad thing?3. Why should we get other people involved in our personal struggles?

The people of Crete had a bad reputation, but Paul left Titus there to find outliers, people who were different from the culture and would change the island for the better. Is this the kind of leader you are?Sermon Questions:1. Read Titus 1:5. Why is it important to have a person in your life who is a Godly leader?2. How good of a follower are you when it comes to submitting to leadership?3. Read Titus 2:1-5. Which piece of instruction is the hardest for you to follow? Which is the easiest and why?4. What enables us to lead others in a way that is both kind and bold at the same time? (See Titus 3:1-6)5. Have you had a personal “pet view” or strong opinions that was divisive? What did you learn from this experience? How do you make sure your views are truly “profitable for everyone” (see Titus 3:8)?

Text: II Timothy Summary: II Timothy is the Apostle Paul's second letter to the evangelist Timothy imprisoned in Rome. He is entreating Timothy to fan the flame of bold faith, and to be on guard against those who have only the "appearance of godliness." Paul speaks with boldness and clarity, even as he awaits his own death. He speaks from a posture of courageous faith, rather than from fear for his physical well-being.Questions:1. Are we fanning the flame of our faith in Him?2. Does our life look enough like Christ that we have experienced pain? If not, why not?3. Who are we listening to or following that is not leading us or pointing us towards Christ and His righteousness?4. Are we activating our faith? Are we even IN the game??

Text: 1 Timothy Summary: 1 Timothy is the Apostle Paul's letter to the evangelist Timothy as he was working with the church at Ephesus. He is concerned that Timothy help guide the church in teaching sound doctrine, selecting elders, taking care of widows, and living well with each other and with money. Paul begins the letter by presenting himself as an example of how to think and live out the Gospel. It's that example that we'll focus on today.Questions:1. Why did Paul consider himself the worst of sinners? Why didn't Paul forget about his sinful past? God forgave Paul, so why remember all of that?2. Is there a lesson in Paul's conversion for us?3. How can a great sinner become a great minister? Why do past sins prevent us from serving God?4. What example does your life leave (as for your forgiveness and service)?

Text: II ThessaloniansDid you know that there are Christians you should avoid? That’s right. Even we as Christians, if we’re not careful, can become nothing more than a distraction to be ignored. Not long after writing to the young Church at Thessalonica, Paul writes them again to correct a misunderstanding and set them straight. In so doing, God is setting us straight too.Sermon Questions:What was your favorite job and why? What was your least favorite job and why?Read 2 Thessalonians 1:1-9. How does this provide comfort for us today?Read 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. Why would God do this? What does this say about God?Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 (Paul’s Main Point). According to these verses, how do we stay productive for Jesus? Is there someone that comes to mind that you think God wants you to avoid?What else can you do to help you remain productive for God? Pray about this.

Summary - To the church established in Acts 17, Paul shares his concerns and answers the Christian's questions, mainly about the return of Jesus.Questions -1. What causes you to not look forward to the return of Jesus? Are you doing anything about whatever that is?2. How does your job make the world a better place - doing good for mankind?3. It's important to share our faith, but how do your regular activities at work bring people closer to Jesus?4. Who would you talk to today if you knew they would die, or the Lord would return by tomorrow?

Sermon SynopsisJesus has all authority and power and has conquered death by His own death, because of this, we are called to devout our lives and actions to God the Father with thankful hearts.1. If Jesus has all authority everywhere and at all times then what causes us to lack in trusting Him?2. What are you most grateful for of what Jesus has done?3. Read Colossians. 3:17. In your life, what do you enjoy doing the most in Jesus' name? Explain.

YOUR SUFFERING IS A GOOD THING?! 22 REASONS WHY…SCRIPTURES FROM THE BOOK OF PHILIPPIANSGOOD FOR OTHERS:1. It Prevents Loneliness (1:7, 2:1f, 4:14)2. It Creates Genuine Concern for Others (2:2f, 4:10, 4:15)3. It Gives Others Hope (1:14, 2:17f, 3:17)4. It Produces Courage for You and Those Close to You (1:20f, 1:27, 3:17)5. It Helps You Help Others (1:25, 2:1f, 2:14f, 3:17)GOOD FOR YOU PERSONALLY:6. God Uses it to Mature You (1:5, 2:12f, 3:15)7. It Makes You Wise and Discerning (1:9f, 1:18f, 4:19)8. It Helps You Remain Steadfast (1:28, 2:14, 4:1)9. It Makes You Practice Finding Joy (2:17f, 4:5)10. It Helps You Avoid Earthly Pitfalls (3:19f, 4:2f)11. It Develops Contentment in any Situation (4:11f)12. It Drives You to Pray (4:6f)GOOD FOR YOU SPIRITUALLY:13. It Gives You a Heavenly Perspective (3:8, 3:13f, 3:19f, 4:8)14. It Advances Your Gospel Witness (1:12f)15. It Makes You an Example Worth Being Followed (2:12f, 4:9)16. It Makes You Look Forward to the Future (1:18f, 1:21f, 2:19, 3:8, 3:13f)17. It Produces a Reward (1:28f, 2:9f, 3:14)18. It can Prove You Are Right (1:28f)19. It Shifts the Focus to Jesus and His Power (1:26, 2:5, 2:14, 3:10, 3:19, 4:5)20. It Builds Your Spiritual Legacy (1:29f, 2:17f)21. It Defeats the Enemy (2:10, 3:21)22. It Gives Us Freewill and the Ability to Love 1:16f, 1:22f, 4:10

Text: Ephesians Summary: Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus divides naturally into two parts. The first three chapters focus on Jesus' power for and through the church to bring both Jews and Gentiles to God. The second part (chapters 4-6), address our expected response to Jesus' work. We must give priority to Him and His church.Questions: 1. What does 2:1 mean when it says we were "dead"?2. Why do hardships tend to make us selfish?3. How do relationships (especially marriages) degenerate into consumer relationships? What kind of relationship does God intend marriage to be?4. How is a godly marriage a picture of our relationship with God?

Galatians is a letter written by Paul to Christians to remember what the true Gospel of Jesus is, and for them to heed his warning to live accordingly. In this sermon we focus on the warning for us to walk in the Spirit so that we don't implode on ourselves.Questions 1. Why do we humans so easily become conceited?2. Today, circumcision probably isn't the hot topic of works based salvation, however, what do you think most people struggle with when it comes to working for your salvation?3. Paul says we can become conceited by either provoking or envying one another. Which is harder for you to overcome? Pray over this.

II Corinthians - Seth Bourne - 2nd Service (8/3/25)It's easy to grow distracted and weak in the faith. Sometimes we feel we've fallen to the point of no return. But Paul has something different to say in 2 Corinthians. The secret is to remember who we are.Sermon Questions:1. Have you ever lost something (keys, wallet, etc.) only to find it in a very obvious place? How did you react? What caused it to be lost in the first place?2. Sometimes we aren't as far gone from the faith as we think. We are just a little thrown off and need to course correct. How has this been true in your life?3. Read 2 Cor. 2:15-16. Who in your life has viewed you as having the aroma of life? Who has viewed you as having the aroma of death? (Remember the same Gospel is loved by some and hated by others)4. In the big list of character traits from 2 Corinthians (See Below), which one does God want you to focus on? Use this for your prayer time.2 Corinthians - Who You AreIn the space below evaluate how well you are doing on each of the traits/qualities mentioned.Based on your reflection of each chapter in 2 Corinthians, what is 1 thing you believe God would have you focus on improving this week?IMPORTANT: If you didn’t do well on this evaluation, it’s NOT because you are incapable. God has given you the ability to change through His Spirit. Resist the urge to change too many things at once. Pick ONE main thing and ask God to help you change it!

I Corinthians - "The Body of Christ" - The letter of first Corinthians addresses problems in the church we still face today. From lawsuits and marriage to gifts and understanding the resurrection, this letter's main emphasis is on facing problems together and finding unity doing God's work.Questions:1. What are the two most destructive attitudes in the church?2. How is church like running a race?3. What are your best two talents? How are you using these talents to help God's church and those who are lost?

Synopsis The book of Romans deals with the human condition that we are all sinners in need of a savior. In this sermon we go through the book to find where Jesus fits into this condition and how He is the antidote to save life.Questions1. Why do you think God allows so much bad to happen in the world? 2. Why do you think God allows so much good to happen in the world? 3. What are we truly saying about Jesus when we claim that he is the one in control of our lives and at the same time we're worried about tomorrow?4. In chapter 10 of Romans Paul quotes from Isaiah 52:7. Read it. In all your life who to you has the most beautiful feet? Why them?

Some stories have a happy ending. Others have a sad ending. But the story of Jesus starts with a sad ending that turns happy and suddenly, we realize, isn’t ending at all. The good news continues to press on and give us power. Find out how as we look at Dr. Luke’s second volume, the book of Acts.Sermon Questions:1. When was the first time you remember encountering a sad ending (perhaps in a book or movie)? How did you react?2. Near the end of Luke we see Jesus’ followers sad because they thought the story ended with His death, but in Acts we see them excited to learn that His death was only the beginning! Have you ever encountered a plot twist in your life (something that suddenly changed for the better)? What was it and how did things change for you?3. Read Acts 1:8. Picture this as concentric circles: Jerusalem (those closest to you), Judea, Samaria & Ends of the earth (those furthest from you). If possible, draw 4 concentric circles and put the names of 4 people/peoples (one in each) that correspond to you. Example: Circle 1: a close friend (Jerusalem), Circle 2: a family member (Judea), Circle 3: a group of acquaintances or extended family (Samaria), Circle 4: A country or people group you’re praying for (Ends of the Earth).4. As Christians we have the same Holy Spirit that empowered the Apostles. He makes us courageous, able to rejoice in suffering and unstoppable (see last verse of Acts). How well are you tapping into this power from God?

Summary: the gospel of John was written to help people believe and find real life. John presents proofs for and insights into the fulfilling life of a believer. We will give special attention to coming back to God after you have fallen.Text: John Questions: 1. What was the purpose of the Gospel of John?2. Why did Jesus want Peter to think about his denial (ie - his sin)?3. What did Jesus communicate to Peter when He told him to "feed my sheep?"4. Do you remember a time when you did something you never thought you'd do? How should we handle our sins?

It has been said there is a god-shaped hole in each of us. Many try in vain to fill it themselves. The good news of Luke is that God Himself stepped down to fill it for us. It seems almost too simple. Is that really all there is to it? Find out as we dive into Luke’s Gospel.Sermon Questions:1. It has been said there is a god-shaped hole in each of us. If you didn’t know Jesus, how do you think you would try to fill it? Have you tried to fill it before? In what ways did you feel successful and/or unsuccessful?2. Have you or someone you know been conned before? How did they end up falling for it? What kept them from seeing the deception before it was too late?3. Read Luke 4:16-21. Why do you think people (even Christians sometimes) have a hard time embracing the really good news of the Gospel? How can you remind yourself that Jesus’ sacrifice is really all you need?4. Challenge: Jesus came to bring good news to the poor, freedom for prisoners, and sight to the blind. Who in your life (or community) needs that kind of hope right now, and how can you bring it to them in a tangible way this week?