Compass Equip

Main Text: Matthew 21:33–46 (ESV) 33 “Hear another parable. There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a winepress in it and built a tower and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. 34 When the season for fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to get his fruit. 35 And the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. 36 Again he sent other servants, more than the first. And they did the same to them. 37 Finally he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 38 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.’ 39 And they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. 40 When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” 41 They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” 42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “ ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? 43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits. 44 And the one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.” 45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. 46 And although they were seeking to arrest him, they feared the crowds, because they held him to be a prophet.Preaching Point: Knowing that God will call our lives into account should move us from a self-focused life to one united with Christ and governed by his authority.Teaching Points:Expect God to Collect (vv. 33-34)Respect God’s Ownership (vv. 35-41)Submit to the Son’s Authority (vv. 42-46)

Main Text: Matthew 21:28–32 (ESV) 28 “What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. 30 And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but did not go. 31 Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him.Preaching Point: Knowing how much God despises counterfeit confessions should strengthen our resolve to come to him with genuine faith marked by repentance and obedience.Teaching Points:Understand What God Expects from You (vv. 28-31a)Respond to God with Repentance and Faith (vv.31b-32)

Main Text: Matthew 21:23-27 (ESV) 23 And when he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” 24 Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you one question, and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things. 25The baptism of John, from where did it come? From heaven or from man?” And they discussed it among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 26 But if we say, ‘From man,’ we are afraid of the crowd, for they all hold that John was a prophet.” 27 So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.Preaching Point: Jesus’ tactic for exposing counterfeits should embolden us to use similar tactics to engage those who appear genuine yet lack the sincerity to follow Jesus.Teaching Points: Probe for Genuineness (vv. 23-25a) Expose Intent (vv. 25b-27a) Refuse to Answer Insincere Questions (v. 27b)

Main Text: Matthew 21:18-22 (ESV) 18 In the morning, as he was returning to the city, he became hungry. 19 And seeing a fig tree by the wayside, he went to it and found nothing on it but only leaves. And he said to it, “May no fruit ever come from you again!” And the fig tree withered at once. 20 When the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree wither at once?” 21 And Jesus answered them, “Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. 22 And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”Preaching Point: The words of Jesus should prompt us to consider the judgment awaiting all forms of counterfeit faith while encouraging us with the powerful effects of genuine faith in God.Teaching Points: Grasp God’s Disdain for Counterfeit Faith (vv. 18-19)Expect God’s Generosity Toward Unwavering Faith (vv. 20-22)

Main Text: Philippians 1:12–14 (ESV) 12 I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. 14 And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.Preaching Point: You need to prioritize sharing the Gospel because God has placed you where you are for His redemptive purpose to reach unlikely people.Teaching Points: Trust God is at Work (v. 12)Remember God Reaches Unlikely People (v. 13)Fearlessly Proclaim the Gospel Together (v. 14)

Main text: Romans 4:25-5:1 (ESV) 25 (Jesus) was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. 1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Preaching Point: We must trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection as the only means of dealing with our sin and securing our peace with God.Teaching Points:Own Your Sin (v. 25a)Trust in the Risen Christ (vv. 25b-1a)Enjoy Peace with God (v. 1b)

Main Text: Matthew 21:14-17 (ESV) 14 And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them. 15 But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant, 16 and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, “ ‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise’?” 17 And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany and lodged there.Preaching Point: We must respond to Jesus’ authority with humility and praise, knowing that our response reveals whether our relationship with God is genuine or merely a counterfeit commitment to Christ.Teaching Points: Notice the Kinds of People Who Come to Jesus (vv. 14,15b) Distinguish Religious Activity from Genuine Faith (vv. 15a,15c,16a)Speak Wonderfully of Jesus (vv. 16b-17)

Main Text: Matthew 21:12-13 (ESV) 12 And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 13 He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”Preaching Point: We must confront and eliminate all forms of counterfeit worship and strive to establish true worship that pleases God.Textual Points:1. Decisively Remove Counterfeit Worship (v. 12)2. Share Christ’s Zeal for Pure Worship (v. 13) a. Share Christ’s Zeal for the Nations to Worship b. Share Christ’s Zeal for Your Worship

Main Text: Matthew 21:1-11 (ESV) 1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them at once.” 4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, 5 “Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’ ” 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. 8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” 10 And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.”Preaching Point: Jesus reveals himself as the promised King of Kings and urges each of us to decide whether we will worship him as King or remain uncertain about who he is.Teaching Points: Recognize That Jesus Came to Be Your King (vv. 1-6)Welcome Jesus as Your King (vv. 7-9)Correct Your Deficient View of Jesus (vv. 10-11)

Main Text: Galatians 5:16–25 (ESV) 16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.Preaching Point: Fighting for mastery over our thoughts, desires, and actions is a lifelong battle that God calls us to wage, with the assurance that he fights alongside us by providing Spirit-empowered self-control.Teaching Points:Own Your Need for Self-Control (vv. 16-22)Wage War on Your Fleshly Desires (vv. 23-24)Discern if You Consistently Reflect a Spirit-Filled Lifestyle (v. 25)

Title: House Rules: Unashamed Dependence Main Text: Matthew 20:29–34 (ESV) 29 And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. 30 And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 31 The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” 32And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” 34 And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him.Preaching Point: Recognizing the compassionate authority of the Son of David should cause us to unashamedly depend on his mercy as we follow him daily.Teaching Points:Do You: Recognize the Merciful Son of David? (vv. 29-30)Do You: Shamelessly Depend on Jesus? (v. 31)Do You: Faithfully Follow Jesus? (vv. 32-34)

Main Text: Matthew 20:20–28 (ESV) 20 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. 21 And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” 22 Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” 23 He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” 24 And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Preaching Point: We must pursue greatness not by amassing power and authority, or by seeking greater status, but by serving and sacrificing for others as Christ did for us.Teaching Points:Stop Seeking Status (vv. 20-21)Trust God’s Placement Plan (vv. 22-24)Imitate Christ’s Costly Service (vv. 25-28)

Main Text: Matthew 20:17-19 (ESV)17 And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, 18 “See, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death 19 and deliver him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.”Preaching Point: We must unequivocally accept that God uses human means, including human evil, to accomplish his sovereign, predetermined will, chiefly displayed in the suffering and death of Jesus, which secured our salvation.Teaching Points:Recognize That God’s Plan Is Settled Before it Unfolds (vv. 17-19)Accept God’s Use of Human Means to Accomplish His Plan (vv. 17-19)Bonus Resources: How to Handle Trouble - Jay AdamsEvangelism and the Sovereignty of God - JA Packer

Main Text: Philippians 4:10-20 (ESV) 10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.Preaching Point: As wonderful as gift-giving and receiving are within a Christian community, we must pursue real contentment by looking beyond our circumstances and seeking the strength of Christ, which enables us to remain genuinely content in every situation.Teaching Points:Seek to Benefit Other Christians with Your Generosity (vv10, 14-16)Affirm the Great Benefits of Christian Generosity (vv. 17-20)Depend on Christ, not Things for Your Contentment (vv. 11-13)

Main Text: Matthew 20:1–16 (ESV) 1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ 5 So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ 8 And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ 9 And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. 10 Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, 12 saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ 13 But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. 15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ 16 So the last will be first, and the first last.”Preaching Point: God’s kids must recognize God’s sovereign right to dispense grace as he chooses, while celebrating his generosity toward others rather than resenting those who receive his favor.Teaching Points:Recognize God’s Willingness to Give Grace (vv. 1-16)Kill the Attitude of Entitlement (vv. 10-16)Celebrate God’s Grace Toward Others (vv. 1-16)

Main Text: Galatians 5:16–26 (ESV)16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.Preaching Point: Spirit-empowered gentleness should produce a lifestyle of strength under restraint in every arena of your life. Teaching Points:1) Consider God’s Gentleness Toward You2) Exercise Strength Under Restraint a) Toward Christians b) Toward Non-Christians

Main Text: Ephesians 4:11-16 (ESV) 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.Preaching Point: Christ expects each of us to take the corporate pursuit of spiritual growth seriously through training that equips us to use the giftings he provides, under the leaders he appoints, to build up his church.Teaching Points: Train for Your Spiritual Duties (vv. 11-12)Honestly Evaluate Your Continued Need for Training (v. 13)Train for Ongoing Protection (v. 14)Train for Progressive Christlikeness (vv. 15-16a)Train for Church Growth (v. 16b)

Main Text: 2 Timothy 4:1–5 (ESV) 1 I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.Preaching Point: As a church and as individual believers, we must continually and actively look to teach others to be like Christ. Teaching Points:Take Your Charge to Teach Seriously (vv. 1-2)Take the Threats to Sound Teaching Seriously (vv. 3-4)Take the Lifestyle of Teaching Seriously (vv. 5)

Main Text: Matthew 2:1-12 (ESV) 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “ ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’ ” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.Preaching Point: The Wise Men’s gift of gold should remind us to revere Jesus as the unrivaled King of the universe.Teaching Points:Affirm Jesus’ Divine KingshipOffer Jesus Your Best, Not Just What’s Left Anticipate Jesus’ Eternal Kingship

Title: When Gratitude Meets GraceMain Text: Luke 17:11-19 (ESV) 11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” 14 When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”Preaching Point: You must act in accordance with your faith in Jesus and glorify Him as you continually experience the goodness of His grace in salvation.Teaching Points: Put Your Faith in Jesus Into Action (VV. 11-14)Respond to God’s Grace with Praise and Gratitude (VV. 15-16)Recognize that God Has Met Your Greatest Need Through Christ (VV. 17-19)

Bonus resources:Raising Men, Not Boys - Mike FabarezEquipping for Life - Andreas & Margaret KostenbergerShepherding a Child's Heart - Tedd TripMain Text: Matthew 19:13-15 (ESV) 13 Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, 14 but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” 15 And he laid his hands on them and went away.Preaching Point: God’s kids must value and welcome children, in part, because their humility and trust display the very qualities God expects from everyone who belongs to His Kingdom.Teaching Points:Parents: Make Jesus Your Kids’ Number One Priority (V. 13a)Church: Seize Every Opportunity to Teach Our Kids More About Jesus (VV. 13b-15)Grasp The Childlike Nature of Saving Faith (VV. 13b-15)

Bonus Resources:Summer on the Mount: Divorce (Matthew 5:31-32) | Pastor Hayden ThomasMarriage, Divorce, and Remarriage in the Bible by Jay AdamsMain Text: Matthew 19:1–12 (ESV) 1 Now when Jesus had finished these sayings, he went away from Galilee and entered the region of Judea beyond the Jordan. 2 And large crowds followed him, and he healed them there. 3 And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” 4 He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, 5 and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” 7 They said to him, “Why then did Moses command one to give a certificate of divorce and to send her away?” 8 He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” 10 The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” 11 But he said to them, “Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. 12For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it.”Preaching Point: God’s kids must align their thinking with God’s Word by honoring marriage as a lifelong covenant and confronting the hardheartedness that leads to divorce, while embracing singleness as a valid calling for those who are uniquely gifted for it.Teaching Points:Focus on Marriage, not Divorce (VV. 1-6)Deal with the Hard Heart Surrounding Divorce Talk (VV. 7-9) Value Singleness as a Valid Biblical Option (VV. 10-12)

Main Text: Matthew 18:21–35 (ESV) 21 Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times. 23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. 35So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”Preaching Point: As God’s kids, we must consistently reflect our Heavenly Father’s character by extending the same extravagant forgiveness toward his children that he extends to us.Teaching Point: Get Serious About Extending Abundant Forgiveness (VV. 21-22)Grasp the Unpayable Debt You Were Released From (VV. 23-27)Confess the Hypocrisy of Your Unforgiveness (VV. 28-30)Fear the Implications of an Unforgiving Heart (VV. 31-35)

Main Text: Matthew 18:15–20 (ESV) 15 “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. 18 Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”Preaching Point: Prayerfully correcting God’s kids in the prescribed biblical manner is a responsibility we must administer with great care, knowing that God approves of it and Christ is in the midst of it.Teaching Points:1. Stick to the Biblical Pattern (VV. 15-17) a. Go One-on-One   b. Bring One or Two Along c. Tell the Church2. Grasp the Church’s Divine Responsibility (V. 18)3. Seek God’s Presence and Approval (VV. 19-20)

Galatians 5:16-26 (ESV) 16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.Preaching Point: God’s faithfulness to fulfill all of his promises for us in Christ must propel our own spirit-empowered faithfulness in everyday life. Teaching Points:Recall God’s Perfect Faithfulness Respond to God’s Faithfulness Exhibit Christlike Reliability 

Main Text: Matthew 18:10-14 10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. 12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? 13 And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. 14 So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.Preaching Point: We should reflect God’s heart by showing the same vigilant care for one another that God and his angels show toward us.Teaching Points:Match Heaven’s Concern for God’s Kids (V. 10)Value Every Single One of God’s Kids (V. 12)Eagerly Welcome Back God’s Wayward Kids (VV. 13-14)Bonus Notes on Textual Criticism:Video Resources:Can I trust the Bible? - Dr Robert Plummer (6 min)Why do the footnotes in my Bible say, "Some manuscripts say..."? - Dr Rober Plummer (5 min)Is the Bible we have what the original authors even wrote? - Wes Huff (30 min)Video/Audio Lectures:Origins of the Bible - Dr. Mike Fabarez (12-part series)Books:Can We Trust the Gospels? by Peter J Williams (160 pages)Why I Trust the Bible: Answers to Real Questions and Doubts People Have about the Bible by William Mounce (280 pages)Myths and Mistakes in New Testament Textual Criticism edited by Elijah Hixon & Peter Gurry (400 pages)The Question of Canon: Challenging the Status Quo in the New Testament Debate by Michael Kruger (256 pages)The King James Only Controversy: Can You Trust Modern Translations? by James WhiteWebsite:The Center for the Study of the New Testament

Main Point: Christians must cherish one another as they cherish Christ by promoting behavior that prevents themselves and others from stumbling.Teaching Points: Treat One Another as God’s Kids (V. 5)Prefer Death Over Causing God’s Kids to Stumble (V. 6)Dread the Thought of Causing God’s Kids to Stumble (V. 7) Do Whatever It Takes to Eliminate Opportunities for Sin (VV. 8-9)Application Questions: Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Matthew 5:8. How do you typically treat the average Christian you know? Do you cherish them as you would if they were Jesus?How can you better cherish each Christian as God’s kid?  Read Matthew 18:6. What does this verse reveal about how seriously God views anyone who causes a believer to stumble?How does the severity of Christ’s warning sharpen your own vigilance to ensure that you will not be the reason someone else trips spiritually?Read 2 Peter 3:4-7 and Romans 14:10-12. Why should the sober reminder of God’s coming judgment keep you from adding more stumbling blocks in an already sinful world?Read Romans 13:10-14 and Matthew 18:8-9. What do these verses offer to help you see the necessity of taking any measure necessary to eliminate opportunities for sin in your life?What are some things you can eliminate in your life that are causes for sin, either for you or others?  

Main text: Matthew 18:1-4 (ESV) 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them 3 and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.Preaching Point: We must remember that in God’s House, the greatest are not ranked by their accolades or how fast they climb the ladder, but by how much they humble themselves in the name of Christ.Teaching Points:Stop Thinking You’re Better Than the Next Christian (V. 1)Understand the Terms for Joining God’s Household (VV. 2-3)Excel in Displaying Christlike Humility (V. 4)

Preaching Point: Salvation is given exclusively through the revelation of Jesus Christ to those who are open to truth and burdened by what this world has to offer.Main Text: Matthew 11:25–30 (ESV) 25 At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”Teaching Points:Acknowledge God’s Rejection of Human Wisdom vv25-26Affirm God’s Elective Choice in Salvation v27Find Rest in the Work of Christ vv28-30

Preaching Point: Announcing God's coming judgment to our generation is an unpopular but necessary task with eternal implications.Main Text: Matthew 11:20–24 (ESV) 20 Then he began to denounce the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. 21“Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will be brought down to Hades. For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24But I tell you that it will be more tolerable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom than for you.”Teaching Point:Articulate the Purpose of Jesus’ Miracles vv20-21,23Make Repentance a Requirement vv20-21Expect Varying Degrees of Judgment vv22-24

Preaching Point: Anyone proclaiming Jesus as the Christ should anticipate rejection from those who do not want to accept him and doubt from those who do not understand him.Main Text: Matthew 11:1-19 (ESV) 1 When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities. 2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 6 And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” 7 As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is he of whom it is written, “ ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’ 11 Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, 14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear. 16 “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates, 17 “ ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.’ 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”Teaching Points:Adjust Your Expectations vv1-6Prepare for Increased Hostility vv7-14Expect Unfair Criticism vv16-19

Preaching Point: Any accurate explanation of the good news must include God the Son taking on flesh and living in perfect obedience to the Father, including death on the cross in place of sinful humanity to be resurrected by the Father and exalted above all things.Main Text: Philippians 2:5–11 (ESV) 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.Teaching Points:Confess Jesus is Fully God vv5-6Contemplate the Implication of Jesus’ Humanity v7Comprehend the Substitutionary Death of Christ v8Consider Christ’s Exalted Status vv9-11

Preaching Point: Our only hope of salvation rests on God’s promise to regenerate those who place their faith in the work of Jesus on the cross.Main Text: John 3:1–15 (ESV) 1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” 9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.Teaching Points: See Your Need for Regeneration vv1-3Grasp the Supernatural Work of Regeneration vv4-8Look to the Cross for Eternal Life vv9-15 

Preaching Point : Your commitment to biblical generosity is a powerful and necessary tool for multiplying thanksgiving to God and confirming to others your supreme confidence in the gospel of Jesus Christ!Main Text: 2 Corinthians 9:6–15 (ESV) 6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!Textual Points:Give with Confidence vv6-10Give to Increase Thanksgiving to God vv11-12Give in Response to your Faith in Jesus Christ vv13-15

Preaching Point: Every believer must promote water baptism as the necessary and symbolic means by which someone publicly professes their faith in Christ and finds inclusion into God’s visible church. Main Text: Matthew 28:18–20 (ESV) 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”Teaching Points:1.   Take Baptism Seriously2.   Embrace the Symbolic Significance of Baptism3.   Grasp the Corporate Nature of Baptism

Preaching Point: The Lord’s Supper should shape our worship and serve as an instrumental means of corporately proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.Main Text: Luke 22:14–20 (ESV) 14 And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. 15 And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16 For I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves. 18 For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 20 And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.Teaching Points:See How the Passover Points to Christ’s Redemption vv16-20Be intentional With How You Handle the Lord’s Supper vv19-20

Preaching Point: No matter the circumstances, persistently pray for God to glorify Himself knowing He answers the prayers of His faithful children.  Acts 4:23–31 (ESV)23 When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them, 25 who through the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, “ ‘Why did the Gentiles rage, and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers were gathered together, against the Lord and against his Anointed’— 27 for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, 28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. 29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, 30 while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.Preaching Points:1. In All Circumstances, Be Quick to Pray (vv. 23-24a)2. Pray that You Would Obey God in All Circumstances (vv. 24b-30)3. In All Circumstances, Pray Confidently (v. 31)

Preaching Point: We must see our lives, ministries, and future rewards inextricably linked to Christ and our service to one another, in His name. Main Text: Matthew 10:40–42 (ESV) 40 “Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. 41 The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. 42 And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”Teaching Points:Comprehend Your Union with Christ v40Grasp the Interconnectedness of Our Service v41See the Significance of Personal Generosity v42

Preaching Point: Getting serious about evangelism requires a steadfast commitment to prayer. Main Text: Acts 1:12–14 (ESV) 12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.Teaching Points:Pray for Evangelistic Progress v14Pray with Evangelistic Christians v13Pray When You Don’t Feel Like it v12

Preaching Point: We must be thoroughly convinced that God is pleased with those who boldly stand for the gospel while trusting in His providential care.Main Text: Matthew 10:26–33 (ESV) 26 “So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. 32 So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, 33 but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.Teaching Points:Confront People with Gospel Truth vv26-27Rely on God’s Providential Care vv28-31Realize God Cares About Your Faithfulness vv32-33

Preaching Point: We must thoroughly grasp the bad news concerning our position before God if we hope to comprehend the significance of the good news of the gospel.Main Text: Ephesians 2:1–3 (ESV) 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.Teaching Points:Accept Your Helpless State v1Realize the Depth of Your Wickedness v2Confront the Inevitable Consequences v3

Preaching Point: Approach the opposition to your evangelism with wisdom and confidence, knowing God’s plan will not be thwarted.Main Text: Matthew 10:16–25 (ESV)16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 17 Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. 19 When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. 20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, 22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. 24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.

Preaching Point: Embrace the mission of Christ by compassionately and urgently calling people to a right response to the gospel while warning them of the judgment to come.Main Text: Matthew 10:5–15 (ESV) 5 These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, 6but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. 9Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, 10 no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food. 11 And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart. 12 As you enter the house, greet it. 13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. 15 Truly, I say to you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.Teaching Points:Stay Laser-Focused on Christ’s Mission vv5-8aEnlist Cooperative Co-laborers vv8b-13aKeep Future Judgment in View vv13b-15

Preaching Point: Jesus’ compassionate appeal to his disciples should motivate you to pray fervently for more evangelistic laborers while being an answer to that prayer yourself.Main Text: Matthew 9:35–10:5a (ESV) 35 And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. 36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” 1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. 2 The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 5a These twelve Jesus sent out…Teaching Points:Increase Your Compassion for Lost Souls vv35-36Pray for More Evangelistic Workers vv37-38 Expect God to use You to Answer Evangelistic Prayers vv10:1-5a

Title: Jesus is Greater: Polarizing ResponsesPreaching Point: Every Christian must be prepared to address the polarizing responses associated with Jesus Christ.Main Text: Matthew 9:32–34 (ESV) 32 As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. 33 And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” 34But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”Teaching Points:1 Biblically Engage with People's Positive Responses to Jesus vv32-33a. Good moral teacher b. Miracle working sage c. The God who save2 Respectfully Address People’s Negative Responses About Jesus v34a. Did not exist b. Is not Godc. He’s not my bossApplication Questions:1 Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.2 Read Acts 17:16–34. How does Paul’s grasp of God’s Word help him interact with the various beliefs of the Athenians, who were open to spiritual conversation, but seriously lacking biblical truth about Jesus?What specific examples can you pick out from this text that show Paul’s grasp of the Bible and his understanding of other religious views that help him reason with people using their language in hopes they will respond to the gospel?Why should that motivate you to study the Bible and other worldviews in order to help others respond to the gospel? 3 Read Colossians 4:2–6 and 2 Timothy 2:24–26. How can you practically prepare yourself to engage with the polarizing responses people have about Jesus?4 Read 1 Peter 3:15. What are some of the dangers you face in your family, your church, and society if you are unprepared to respond to questions or opposition toward Christ? 5 What other negative and positive responses have you heard about Jesus that were not mentioned in the sermon that needed further biblical clarity? How did you respond to them? 6 How has another Christian's willingness and ability to effectively answer your questions about God helped you come to faith or grow in your relationship with God?General Apologetics:Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Josh & Sean McDowell (father & son)The Big Book of Christian Apologetics by Norman Geislero Everyone an Answer Francis BeckwithSharing the Gospel: Tactics 10th Anniversary Edition by Greg KouklUnderstanding false religions:So What’s the Difference: A Look at 20 Worldviews, Faiths and Religions, and How They Compare to Christianity by Fritz RidenourKingdom of the Cults by Walter MartinFocal Point Series:Apologetics = https://focalpointministries.org/product/apologetics-series/Bad Religions = https://focalpointministries.org/product/bad-theology-series/Trusting the Bible:Can we trust the gospels – Peter WilliamsWhy I Trust the Bible – William Mounce Worldview:The universe next doors – James Sire.He is there and he is not silent – Francis Shaefer 

Preaching Point: Clearly perceiving our desperate plight, we must trust in Jesus Christ as the central figure of our salvation while anticipating his return to rule on the throne of David forever. Main Text: Matthew 9:27–31 (ESV) 27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” 28When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” 29 Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, “See that no one knows about it.” 31 But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.

Micah 7:18–20 (ESV) 18 Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. 19 He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. 20 You will show faithfulness to Jacob and steadfast love to Abraham, as you have sworn to our fathers from the days of old.

God’s holiness means he is righteous, and his righteousness demands that he is just!

1 Corinthians 15:1–4 (ESV) 1 Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. 3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,

Preaching Point: Make it your mission to showcase supreme confidence in the authority of Christ, even in the most challenging seasons of life.Main Text: Matthew 9:18–26 (ESV) 18 While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. 20And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, 24 he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went through all that district.