The New Heights Church Podcast

Pastor Dave Bechtel opens 1 Timothy 6:3–5 with a sobering warning about the kind of people who quietly ignite division within the church. In “Congregational Arsonists,” we’ll examine how pride, unhealthy controversy, gossip, and selfish ambition can spread like wildfire through a congregation when left unchecked. Paul calls believers to reject quarrelsome attitudes and guard the unity Christ died to create. This message is both a warning and a challenge: Christians are not called to fuel destructive fires, but to confront them with truth, humility, and godly love before they consume the body of Christ.SERMON QUESTIONS: - Anyone in the group who, as a young person, loved to play with fire? Any "bad experiences" with fire?- Has anyone in the group been personally exposed to false teaching? If so, what "different doctrine" was proclaimed? Did it include a rejection of biblical truth? If so, what truth was rejected?- What were the three descriptors Paul provided of the truths the false teachers rejected (verse 3)? Consequently, what are the three "H's" by which we can evaluate spiritual teaching?- What are the four methods by which false teachers can attempt to reject biblical truth (as given in the sermon)? Have you personally witnessed any of those? - Paul identifies four motivations or inner characteristics of false teachers (verses 4 and 5). What are they? Have you personally encountered any of those? - What is the progressive sequence of congregational "fires" Paul discloses? How can we as church members be used of the Lord to prevent or extinguish church fires?

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Read 2 Corinthians 4:16–18. When you first believed in Jesus, or started taking your faith seriously, what did you assume the Christian life would be like? How has reality matched what you expected, and where has it diverged? Where did those expectations come from in the first place?- Read Romans 8:18-25. Christians aren’t exempt from the natural consequences of living in a fallen world. Do you think you’ve been quietly holding on to any assumptions about the kind of life God “owes” you?- Read Colossians 3:1-5. Even good things — a spouse, a child, a healing, a career — can become idols when we put all our hope in them rather than in God. Has a good thing ever become an idol in your life? How do we tell the difference between a strong, godly desire and an idol?- Many Christians try to find a way to please God and people. Do you think this is possible when God and people hold opposite opinions (e.g., homosexuality)? What are the dangers of trying to please both God and people?- Before you pray, ask if anyone has things they are waiting on the Lord for. Pray for patience, faith, and peace as they wait.

In Genesis 15, God doesn't meet Abram halfway—He walks through the bloody covenant alone, taking on Himself the consequences of every breach by either side. This message traces that picture from Abram's vision all the way to the Cross, where Jesus paid for the half of the covenant we could never keep. If you've ever feared you could blow it and lose your salvation, this one's for you.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Read Genesis 15:7-21. Was there anything about the text that you didn’t understand? Did it raise any questions for you? What sticks out to you?- Read Lamentations 3:22–26. Share about a time you had to wait a long time for God to answer a prayer or fulfill a promise. Looking back, what did the waiting produce in you that you wouldn't have learned any other way?- Read 2 Timothy 2:11–13 and John 10:27–30. Have you ever feared losing your salvation? What did that fear sound like in your head? How do these two passages speak to that fear?- Jeff shared that his mom “never let go of the rope” and prayed him into the kingdom. Who are you holding the rope for right now, in prayer? Pray for each name as a group.

As God comes to Abram while he's wrestling with fear and doubt, we are given a lesson on God's character and how believers are to approach wrestling with these powerful enemies. SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Read Genesis 15:1-6. Have you ever experienced fear or doubt shortly after stepping out in faith, and how did God meet you in that moment?- How does the secular world (culture, medicine, psychiatry, pop psychology, etc.) approach dealing with fear and anxiety? What approaches are compatible with Scripture, and what approaches are contrary to Scripture?- Read Philippians 4:6-7. If/When you have followed Paul’s instructions while wrestling with fear and/or anxiety, how did these practices affect you?- Read 1 Peter 5:6-7. What does it look like practically to cast all your cares on God while still acknowledging the genuine pain and difficulty of your circumstances?- In what ways might fear and anxiety become an identity or a form of self-absorption that prevents us from serving others and obeying God's commands?

In this message on 1 Timothy 6:1-2, Pastor Phil teaches on what it means for believers to honor all people in every area of life. From the workplace, to marriage, to our relationship with governing authorities, this sermon challenges us to reflect Christ through humility, respect, and godly conduct in the way we treat others.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS: - Discuss what it means to give honor to the Lord. - Read 2 Tim. 2:20-21. Discuss the decisions that we make that make us "ready for every good work."- Share ways we bring dishonor to the Lord. - Discuss how we keep a balance between giving honor to a "position" and seeing someone's performance that might be dishonorable.- Share ideas of how we "honor" one another in the church.

As we continue our study of what giving looks like for the Christian under the New Covenant, we'll answer the questions, "Is tithing a perpetual command that predates the Law?" and "Can I give time and service instead of money?" We'll also look at Paul's instructions to the Corinthians regarding giving, which offer many insights still helpful to us today.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- What is the best and worst investment you’ve ever made?- Why does it matter that we serve God with our time and energy and our money? How does each expression affect our hearts?- Read Mark 12:41-44. What do you think Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that would require a change in their previous thinking about giving?- Is it any easier or harder for a rich person to store up treasure in Heaven than for a poor person? Why or why not?- Read 2 Corinthians 8:1-5. How does the Macedonian churches' response of begging for the privilege to give during their own extreme poverty challenge your understanding of what it means to give sacrificially?- How should a Christian balance sacrificial generosity in the present with responsible planning for the future?

Tithing first appears in Scripture in Genesis 14. But is it still something that's relevant to Christians today? How are believers in the Church to approach the subject of giving?SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How does viewing yourself as a steward of God's resources rather than an owner change your daily financial decisions and priorities?- Should giving to God make you more or less worried about money? Why?- Have you ever experienced God’s faithfulness to provide for material needs in miraculous ways? If so, share a story with the group.- What does it mean practically for your giving to be 'felt' or sacrificial, and how might that look different for people in various financial situations?- Why do you think Jesus spent about a third of His teaching time on money and material wealth?- How do you navigate the tension between wanting clear rules and being called to a Spirit-led relationship with God in areas like giving?

In this special Easter Sunday message, we'll dive into the wonderful hope of the Gospel and the picture painted for us through the tenth plague in Egypt in the Book of Exodus.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- We often judge ourselves, for better or worse, by comparing ourselves to others. How can comparing ourselves to Christ instead lead to greater freedom and humility?- Do you view Jesus as having ownership of your life? What does that look like practically for any person?- How should the reality that God is the source of everything good affect our thinking and behavior?- Romans 8:38-39 promises that nothing can separate believers from God's love. Do you feel closer to God in good times or in trying times?- Why couldn’t God just forgive sins without Jesus having to die?

In this message on 1 Timothy 5:24–25, Pastor Dave walks through the judgement of the Lord and what it means for both believers and unbelievers, clearly explaining six types of judgment found in Scripture and reminding us all that the only way to "settle out of court" at the final judgement is to trust in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ on our behalf.

In this message, Pastor Dave walks through 1 Timothy 5:17–25, offering practical and biblical guidance on how we honor and care for others within the body of Christ. This passage highlights the importance of showing respect to leaders, handling accusations with integrity, and living with impartiality and wisdom in all relationships.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS: - Have you had any "close calls"? Could you share one with the group?- How does honoring the people in the church help keep that church strong and healthy?- What are some practical ways that we at New Heights can develop a "culture of honor"?- As a group can you list the elders of New Heights? Does anyone in the group know an elder personally? How can you as a group show the elders honor?- Have you ever made a hasty decision that eventually caused trouble, pain, regret, etc.? What didn't;t you see or consider when you made that decision?- How could you personally do a better job of keeping yourself from sin?- How could you personally do a better job of taking care of your body?

In this study, guest speaker Dr. Jared Moore walks through what it looks like to really live the love of christ. Specifically, he shares with us how we can have freedom from the snares of this fake love that the world offers.

Abram's ne'er-do-well nephew, Lot, gets himself and his family kidnapped, leading to a daring nighttime military rescue and dramatic encounters with the kings of Salem and Sodom - the mysterious Christ-like figure Melchizedek and the "son of evil" Bera.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How have you seen Christians use wealth well to serve God?- How have you seen Christians be led astray by wealth?- Have you observed the difference gratitude makes in your spiritual life and in battling temptations?- How does Lot's decision to prioritize financial prosperity over righteousness serve as a warning to parents about choosing where to live and how they raise their children?- How can Christians “practice” being kings and priests to God in daily life?

God begins to work on growing Abram's faith by putting it to the test. We'll learn from both his successes and failures as we explore the impact of fear and faith on our actions under pressure.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Abram fled to Egypt during a famine rather than trust God to provide in Canaan. What areas of your life are you tempted to take into your own hands instead of trusting God's provision?- What worship practices (“altars”) have you built into your life, and how do they help you stay focused on God in both good and bad times?- How can a Christian resist the natural urge of the flesh to be controlled by fear, leading to compromising our faith?- Do you think it’s possible to grow in knowledge (e.g., of the Word) without growing in Christlikeness? Why or why not?- What should a Christian do when they’re seeking God for help with a decision, but it feels like God is giving them a clear answer?

As Abram enters the Promised Land, we look ahead to see how God's initial counsel was designed to save him from a whole lot of trouble, and learn from his example of prioritizing worship.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Abraham partially obeyed God by leaving his homeland, but brought his father and nephew Lot with him. Have you ever experienced tension between honoring family relationships and fully obeying what you believe God is calling you to do?- How do you discern which difficult relationships you are called to maintain sacrificially versus which ones God may be calling you to limit or leave for the sake of your spiritual growth?- The question from Amos 3:3 asks, 'Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?' How does this principle apply to the relationships you prioritize in your life, particularly regarding shared spiritual direction?- Paul taught that bad company corrupts good morals. How do you evaluate whether you are influencing others for Christ or whether you are being negatively influenced?- What does it look like practically in daily life to "build" worship and "pitch" the less important things?

As we conclude our study of Israel from a biblical perspective, we'll look at the events of 70AD and God's incredible plans to turn Israel's heart back to Him through the crushing of the Great Tribulation and the glory of the Second Coming.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- In Romans 11, Paul warns the Church not to be “arrogant” (V.20), “ignorant” (V.25), or “conceited” (V.25) concerning Israel. How might a Christian fall into these categories in their perspective of Israel?- What doctrine, theology, and Scripture can protect a believer from falling into spiritual pride and wrongly thinking they are saved because they are somehow better than other people? - What does the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD teach us about the transition from Old Covenant worship to New Covenant reality, and why is attempting to rebuild Temple Judaism problematic?- Bible prophecy tells us it will take the Great Tribulation to finally break Israel and bring her to repentance. What does this reveal about the depth of human stubbornness and the extent of God's redemptive plan?- Instead of Israel, the Church is now serving as Christ’s ambassadors on the earth. What does that mean in your life, and what do you think it should look like in the life of believers in our part of the world?

As we continue our examination of who Israel is in Scripture, we see God's chosen nation walking in continued rebellion by rejecting Jesus, orchestrating His death, and persecuting His Church.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Why do you think there were only 120 people in the Upper Room on the Day of Pentecost, following the ministry and Resurrection of Jesus?- Do you feel like you’ve observed 2 Timothy 2:13 in your own life?…if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.- Why would the Jewish leaders and priests simply repair the torn curtain that guarded the Holy of Holies in the Temple, and continue as though nothing had happened?- Do you think most people aren’t Christians due to a lack of evidence? And if not evidence, then what?- What ungodly political compromises might Christians be tempted to support in the name of pragmatism (as the Jewish leaders did in Jesus’ day)?

In this study, Pastor Dave continues through 1 Timothy 5:7–16, where Paul gives further instruction on caring for widows and emphasizes the responsibility of families within the church. This passage highlights the balance between compassion and accountability, showing how God desires families to care for another first, and then for the church to care for those who have no family. SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- In Psalm 62, What was David’s two-characteristic summary of what he had learned about the Lord? How did Jesus’ answer to John’s disciples demonstrate that?- What are some of the implications that the Lord would use an entire 1/12 of the letter to Timothy and the Ephesian church instructing them about taking care of widows? Aren’t there more important issues to be considered in getting that church back into heath?- Can you as a group list at least 5 of the qualifications Paul gives in our passage for those widows who are eligible to be put on “the list”?- At least two parties potentially suffer when people are helped who shouldn’t have been. Who are those two? How might they suffer?- Can you identify one potential “sin sequence” Paul identifies that putting younger widows on “the list” could provoke?- Do you have any stories about someone supposedly helping another and it turned out to hurt both parties?- Do you have any in your “family” for whom the Lord would have you “care”? How about some who are needy but whom you shouldn’t financially assist? Can you share about that?

SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- List the four categories of people the apostle Paul identifies andcharacterize how believers are to respond to each. Can you asa group give some illustrations of how each of those might look?Is there a person in the church comes to your mind for each ofthese categories?- Every had an older woman in the church who was like a“mother” to you? If so, care to share about that?- What does Paul mean when he instructs Timothy and the churchto “honor widows who are widows indeed”? What does it meanto “honor” them? What are the two qualifications Paul gives forsuch widows? Shouldn’t we honor all widows?- Should the church help all who are needy? If so, what might that“help” include? In this passage, what disqualifies a needy personfrom financial help from the church?- Review the different meanings of “dead” as used in the Bible.Which of those does Paul intend when he labels some widows as“dead”? (verse 6)- Bonus: what might it mean that faith could be “dead”? (James2:17, 26)

In Genesis 12:3, God famously comes to Abram and says, "I will bless those who bless you,I will curse anyone who treats you with contempt." In this study, we'll do our best to address some of the controversial questions surrounding Israel, her identity, her relationship to the Church, and what Jesus and His Word have to say about these matters.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- God chose Israel because she was “the fewest of all peoples”. Read 1 Corinthians 1:26-31. What has God had to overpower in your life to bring you to salvation and sanctify you (e.g., stubbornness, wrong beliefs, self-centeredness)?- Why do you think Israel is back in their land today?- Do we, like Israel, experience blessings for faithfulness to God and curses for unfaithfulness to God, or is our relationship with Him different? How? Why?- The Jews in Jesus' day rejected Him as their savior because He didn’t meet their expectations and desires (they wanted a militant deliverer). Are there any wrong expectations Christians sometimes have of Jesus today?- If God knew that Israel was going to be so difficult, why did He choose them to be His nation?

In this study, the Lord begins His work of forming His own special people by calling Abram, a pagan, to leave his home and journey to a new land. We'll also discuss the relationship between revelation and accountability, why Jesus taught in Parables, and the famous apologetics question about "The Man in the Jungle."SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- If, hypothetically, people are only accountable for the revelation we’ve received, then why does it matter whether we share the Gospel?- What are “the incalculable riches of Christ” mentioned by Paul in Ephesians 3:8?- In what ways can Christians “settle in Haran” by partially obeying God’s call on our lives?- Read Matthew 13:10-16. Have you ever experienced God giving you more revelation after you responded rightly to what He had already given? Or have you ever experienced spiritual numbness or hardness after ignoring a revelation from God?- Take time to pray for family and friends who have had the Gospel revealed to them but are not yet responding rightly to it.

How are Christians supposed to think about issues related to ethnicity? In this study, we dive into some of the most controversial issues of our day, including immigration, crime, racism, discrimination, and more. And what we'll discover is that the Bible does not divide the world by ethnicity, but by culture. We'll also take some time to delve into the attributes of Yahweh that make Him absolutely unique among all the other gods/elohim.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- What biblical values do you see most prominently clashing with the culture today?- Why do societies based on God’s laws and values tend to prosper?- Are there any specific cycles of brokenness in your family or cultural heritage that God has freed you from?- When someone is a new or young believer, how can we call and encourage them to obey Christ without overwhelming them with a long list of things that need to change?- When we were studying Yahweh’s unique attributes, what stuck out to you?

In this message, Pastor Phil Paulsen discusses the Magi that visited Jesus after his birth. We dive into who these men might have been, the significance of the gifts they brought Jesus, and what their journey might have looked like.

Something else MASSIVE happened at the Tower of Babel, and it's not documented in Genesis 11. It's found in Deuteronomy 32, and it takes us on a journey through the Scriptures into the Divine Council, the gods of the nations, Christ's triumph over them on the Cross, and more.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How does understanding more of the reality of the spiritual realm affect your perception of prayer and its efficacy?- God’s desire for His faithful children is that they join Him on the Divine Council. Does the prospect of such eternal rewards affect the way you live day to day? Why or why not?- Does understanding the reality that there are spiritual forces at work among the nations change the way you perceive political events?- Read Ephesians 6:12. How should this verse impact how we deal with interpersonal conflict?- Read Colossians 2:15. What are the implications of Christ disarming and disgracing the rulers and authorities at the Cross? How does this victory impact your daily spiritual battles?

In this study, we'll continue peeling back the layers surrounding events at the Tower of Babel, including what the Bible says about "gods," the parallels between Nimrod and the coming antichrist, one-world government, and God's good plans to bless His children.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Read Jesus’ Great High Priestly Prayer in John 17:20-26. What kind of things does Jesus want believers to be united around? What types of things should divide professing Christians?- Does the knowledge that those who are saved are temples of God’s Spirit change the way you think about God’s presence in your life? How?- How can patience and remembering God’s promises help us in our struggle against sin?- Does thinking about things like the New Jerusalem—the city God has prepared for His people—cause you to “check out” in this present life, or does it make you more engaged in living for Christ? Why?- When you look at current global unification efforts (i.e., attempts to create a “borderless world”), do you see good or bad fruit?

At the Tower of Babel, God divided humanity into languages, creating different cultures and ethnicities. But why was God's reaction to a city and a tower so weighty? What was the big deal? In this study, we'll sift through the clues in Scripture and history to discover the disturbing picture that emerges.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Why do you think humanity was so quick to rebel against God after witnessing the devastating judgment of the Flood just a century or two earlier?- Do you know anyone who has “deconstructed” their Christian faith? What did you notice about their process, motivations, actions, etc.?- Do you see any parallels between our world today and the events at the Tower of Babel?- What do you think determines the spiritual “atmosphere” in a location? How about in your own home?- Jeff suggested that our flesh is the most dangerous false teacher we encounter. What specific areas of Scripture do you find yourself most tempted to reinterpret to accommodate your desires?

In this study of 1 Timothy 4:6–10, Pastor Phil clarifies what godliness is not before showing us what true biblical godliness really looks like. Centered on the question, “How does a follower of Christ become godly?”, the message walks through Paul’s instructions to Timothy and invites each of us to take an honest look at our own walk with the Lord. Pastor Phil closes by returning to the question he began with: Are you a godly man or a godly woman?SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Have you ever thought of this description for your life? What makes you feel uncomfortable about this description?- When you see a "godly man or woman," what do you see?- What role does God's Word have in someone becoming godly? What are we doing as a church to train one another to become "godly?" Could we do more? What would that look like?- Read the poem "Only One Life." What convicts you about this poem? How does this change the way we live? Why do we hesitaté to do this?- Godly men and women know how to "renounce" sin. What does it mean to renounce something?- There is only one answer to our sin and our eternal destination.Why do people tend to think that there are many roads to God?- Pray for one another to become "godly." Pray for the church to be filled with godly men.

In this continuation of last week’s message on 1 Timothy 4:11–16, we learn how Paul’s charge to Timothy should shape both our character and our influence. We see how our words can become instruments of godliness when they are rooted in truth and love, and we’re reminded to steward our spiritual gifts with intentionality and humility. Finally, we learn how setting a consistent, Christlike example has a sanctifying effect on the people around us—showing that faithful obedience doesn’t just transform our own lives, but also helps shape the spiritual growth of our entire community.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- (Review) This past week, did you catch yourself using some words that were less than godly? Care to share? Want to be held accountable by the group?- Can you recall and share with the group a time when someone spoke an "apt" word to you, just what you needed to hear at just the right time?- Which of the "worthy words" would the Lord have you focus on at this time in your spiritual walk?- Review the list of the seven spiritual gifts in Romans 12. Is there one you believe that you have? How can the Lord use your gift among His people? How could you "neglect" it?- Is there someone or some people whom you are "following" spiritually? Who are some of the people who are probably following you? If they are, what can you do to make sure that you and they are heading toward salvation?

In this week's study of 1 Timothy 4:11-12, we look at Paul's encouragement to Timothy to not let other believer's look down on him for his youth, but to set an example for other believer's in godliness. In this message, Pastor Dave focuses on how we can walk in godliness with our speech. SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Can you as a group recall or identify at least one Bible passage which reveals a plan God has?- Have you had a recent plan of yours get squashed? Care to share about that?- In the sermon, what were the three biblical responses to changed plans? Can you come up with some references?- How does someone's speech provide insight into their spiritual maturity? Can you give an example?- What is one category of "worldly words" that you personally need to"upgrade"? What can you replace that category with?

In this chapter, we see how Noah's prophetic words spoken over his 3 sons played out over the subsequent centuries. We're also given a few insights into a strange character named Nimrod, who will be a key part of events at the Tower of Babel in Chapter 11.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Can you think of any present-day examples of how charismatic leaders can, like Nimrod, draw people away from God?- Do you feel the natural draw of the flesh to forget and neglect God due to the busyness of life? What practices and disciplines have you found helpful in fighting against this natural tendency?- Even Christians can fall prey to false teachers. In fact, we see repeated warnings about this in the New Testament. How can Christians avoid being deceived by "Christian" false teachers?- Read and discuss Romans 16:17-18, Galatians 1:6-9, Colossians 2:8, and Revelation 2:2.- Read 1 John 4:1. What does it mean to "test the spirits"?

Strange behavior by Noah leads to dishonorable behavior by his son, Ham, and honorable behavior by his sons, Shem and Japheth. This bizarre incident reveals principles about the relationship between children and parents, the dangers of abusing alcohol, and the nature of generational curses.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- As an adult, what does it mean to honor your parents? What does it look like practically?- Why do you think that in the Mosaic Law God places such severe consequences on dishonoring parents?- Romans 14 addresses Christian freedom, honoring weaker brothers and sisters, and the heart attitude we should have toward one another in these things. Read the chapter together and share what sticks out to you.- Have you ever had to make a conscious choice to walk in a different direction from how you were raised, in order to break a cycle of sin or brokenness in your family?- What “seeds” have you sown in life that have borne the best fruit?

God gives Noah and his family promises, reassurances, and commands to guide them as they establish the human race on a new, post-Flood world. These include the establishment of the timeless command of capital punishment and the sign of a rainbow in the heavens.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How should Christians reconcile God's command for capital punishment in Genesis 9 with Jesus' teachings on mercy, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek?- What do you think a biblical perspective is on war, self-defense, and law enforcement? (Address one or all subjects individually.)- If our society were to implement all the justice-related aspects of the Mosaic Law (e.g., the death penalty for murder, adultery, cursing one’s parents, witchcraft), do you think it would be a good or bad thing? Why?- What does it look like for members of a church who don’t currently have young children to support marriages and families in a local church?- When was the last time you felt overwhelmed by the grace of God?

When someone approaches you to discuss an offense or sin you've committed against them, how should you receive them? We'll talk about how to walk humbly in that kind of situation, and how gossip and slander can tear apart a church.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Read the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew 18:21-35. What strikes you about this teaching by Jesus?- Have you ever struggled with defensiveness when confronted about an offense or sin? How can we cultivate a humbler and more receptive attitude?- If you need to be confronted about an offense, sin, or fault, what makes it easier to receive? What makes it harder to receive?- When is sharing concerns about another person with a third party biblically acceptable?What’s the difference between “I’m just venting” or “I just need a sounding board” and gossip?- How can a Christian reconcile Christ’s command to forgive with civil justice also being described as good and necessary in Scripture?

When someone has offended or sinned against us and we've determined the issue needs to be addressed, what does Jesus command us to do? And how can we practically do it in a way that's pleasing to Him? In this study, we'll break down some of the most popular excuses we use to justify ignoring Christ's command in Matthew 18:5a, and how we can instead move toward reconciliation in obedience.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How does agape love manifest practically when working through offenses and conflict?- How might our approach to conflict resolution change if we truly viewed pursuing reconciliation as an act of worship, as Jesus suggests (Cf. Matthew 5:23-24)?- What are some valid reasons to delay going directly to someone who has offended you?What invalid reasons do you think are most common in the Church?- How can we balance the need for wise counsel with Jesus' instruction to keep offenses private between individuals?- How might our expectations and approach to reconciliation change if we truly embraced it as a two-way process of revealing truth, acknowledging sin, and extending forgiveness?

In John 17, Jesus prayed that His Church would be "one". In this study, we'll talk about one of the practical areas of church life that has to be addressed if a congregation is going to walk in unity - conflict resolution.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Was there an aspect of this study you felt specifically challenged by?- How do you normally decide whether you respond to an offense or overlook it?- How can we reconcile the biblical call to judge those within the church (1 Corinthians 5:12-13) with Jesus' command not to judge (Matthew 7:1)?- How might our approach to conflict resolution change if we consistently asked, 'What is best for the other person?' rather than focusing on our own feelings?- When we’re offended or sinned against, how can we be led by the Holy Spirit rather than our emotions?

This sermon explores the power of the small word “but” in Scripture. As we look at 1 Timothy 4:1–5, we’ll examine what it means to fall away from the faith, the enemy’s tactics to lead believers astray, and the importance of a clear conscience and gratitude. Ultimately, this message calls us to align with God’s Word, listen to the Spirit, and stay devoted to Him on the path of godliness.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS: - The first word of this passage sets us up for a contrast. What contrast is Paul making?- What is the significance of the definite article in the phrase “the faith”? What is “the faith”?- How could someone fall away from “the faith”? How is that different than falling away from “their faith”?- List (from the sermon summarizing of them) the five factors of falling away. Which have you seen or experienced?- Have you had interaction, either personally or with someone you are connected to, with a cult? Care to share?- What attitude does Paul reveal as an antidote to falling away (verses 4-5)? How can you personally cultivate that attitude? Take some time as a group and express some specifics.

In this sermon, we dive into 1 Timothy to uncover what godliness really means and how it’s centered on Jesus. We’ll look at how the church can stand up for the truth and shine a light for others. Plus, we’ll explore the unseen forces that guide us toward living a godly life and how our everyday actions can reflect God's character.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- If expository preaching is "making the main idea of the passage the main idea of the sermon" what might be the main idea of one of the following passages? (Pick one:Matt. 7:24-27; Eph. 6:10-20; Luke 9:23-26; ll Cor. 5:1-10;Romans 3:9-18)- As the Bible uses it, what is a "mystery"? Can you, as a group, name some?- What is "godliness"? (Give a definition or two.)- What metaphor does this text employ as a description of the church? What other metaphors can you recall? What is the Lord's expectation of each of those?- It godliness requires learning, what are some of the teachings Paul has identified so far in I Timothy? What are some other things you know need to be learned for someone to become godly?- How does godliness in the church fulfill the Lord's purposes and influence the world?- What mystery is the opposite of the mystery of godliness?What is the source of that? What is the source of godliness (as shown in our passage)?

As Noah and his family step foot off the Ark to see a world destroyed by the wrath of God, they are overcome by gratitude toward God for His unmerited mercy and grace toward them. This leads Noah to offer a lavish, generous sacrice to the Lord and reminds us that we should live our lives from a place of thankfulness for our equally undeserved salvation.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Does anyone in your group have a testimony about God’s perfect timing being displayed in their life?- How does understanding that apart from Christ, we are “children under wrath” impact the way you live as a Christian?- Do you have any unanswered questions about the Flood?- What has caused your trust in God to grow over the course of your Christian life (e.g., a verse, a sermon, an experience)?- As you prepare to pray, ask your group if anyone is trusting God in a situation where things don’t look good right now. Pray specifically for faith and hope and thank the Lord in advance for His faithfulness.

In this study, the catastrophic global flood of Noah's day overtakes the earth. We'll learn more about what actually happened and gain insights into our salvation, how God grows our trust in Him, and the importance of setting an example of faith for our children.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Share about a time when you had to exercise faith while waiting patiently in hope for God to do something.- Christians are called to live in the world while not becoming part of the world. Share any lessons you’ve learned that have helped you to walk this out in your own life.- What are some practical ways fathers and mothers can model faith in God for their children (of any age)?- What do you do when you’re asking God for direction, but it seems like He’s silent?- If someone shared with you that they were struggling with doubting their salvation, how would you respond?

In this study, the Lord reveals His plans to flood the earth but save Noah and his family by having them find safety in an ark, along with at least two of every land animal and bird. We'll learn how this follows a pattern found throughout Scripture - God protects and preserves His people when He pours out His wrath in judgment.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Do you have any theories on what the mark of the beast will be?- If we’re going to walk with God, we must become comfortable living in a way that may seem strange to non-believers – like Noah building the Ark for over a hundred years. What aspects of Christian living do you think seem strangest to non-believers?- If there’s anyone in your group who hasn’t shared their unique salvation story with the group, ask them to share it.- Which of God’s commands have you found most challenging to obey over the course of your life as a Christian?- Do you believe the Church will be raptured before the Tribulation? Why or why not?

In 1 Timothy 3:13, Paul reminds us that those who serve well gain honor before others and boldness in their faith in Christ. This message explores what it means to lead and serve with excellence, not for our own recognition, but for the glory of God. Together we’ll consider how to give honor where it is due, how to serve with our eyes fixed on Jesus, and how the Lord Himself rewards those who are faithful in His service.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Discuss the wrong reasons why people serve in the church. Share positive examples of serving that you have observed. - Share New Testament examples of Christ acting like a servant in how he responded to situations and people. - What does it mean to be "full of the Spirit"? (Eph. 5:18) What daily steps would be taken to be assured that we are full of the Spirit? - The deacons that serve well are "confident" with the Lord. Have you known this confidence? What has kept you from knowing Him in this way? - Review the three steps of faith that are mentioned. Pray for one another to fully connect with Christ and His will this week.

In 1 Timothy 3:10–12, Paul highlights the character and integrity required of God’s people. This message explores the spiritual qualities that prepare us to serve Christ faithfully, so that when we stand before Him, we will hear those long-awaited words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” More specifically, we will discuss the things that would qualify someone to serve as a Deacon or Deaconess in the church. SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- Share the various qualities you have observed through the years of deacons and their wives or women servants in the church. What have you most appreciated?- Discuss the four qualities of a faithful servant in this passage. Which one of them is the most difficult to practice in your life?- Share with one another changes that need to be made to improve as faithful servants of the Lord. Pray for one another.

In this study, we'll explore the parallels between the earths' first great day of judgment, the Flood, and what will be its second great day judgment - the end times. Most importantly, we'll look at what the Flood reveals about the judgment every person will face when they stand before the throne of Jesus, and the steps we must take right now to prepare ourselves for that moment.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- How does the concept of God as a 'righteous judge' challenge or align with your personal view of God's nature?- In what ways do you see parallels between the wickedness described in Noah's time and the state of our world today?- How do you decide what media you do/don't consume (e.g., TV shows, movies, music, podcasts)?- Do you feel like God is always fully present with you? Have you ever "felt" God's presence? How do you make it through seasons of life where you don't feel God's presence?- What does it mean to you to live as though you truly believe in the coming judgment, as Peter exhorts believers to do?

In this study, we'll talk about something big that may have been going on behind the scenes during the angel incursion of Genesis 6:1-4 - something that may also explain the genocides God later instructed Israel to commit in the Promised Land. We'll also look at how angels came to be on the earth after the Flood, why God may have let that happen, and why it's not still happening today. Lastly, we'll examine the popular Sethite View and explain why it simply doesn't make sense - especially in light of the rest of Scripture.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- What do you think about the idea of God ordering the genocide of certain people groups in the Promised Land because their genetic lineage produced giants? Does it change the way you view Israel's conquest of Canaan?- How do we reconcile the idea of God commanding the annihilation of entire people groups with His loving nature?- What conspiracies and schemes do you think Satan might be orchestrating in today's world in his vain attempts to thwart the plans of God?- How should Christians approach passages in scripture that seem fantastic or hard to believe?- While God is never the author of evil, we know He regularly permits it and sometimes even uses it to help accomplish His greater purposes and plans. Are you at peace with the idea of your life being used by God as part of His greater plans - even if it includes pain and suffering for you?

In this study, we'll dive into some of the most controversial verses in the Bible and tackle questions like, Who are the sons of God? Who are the Nephilim? Where did the giants in the Promised Land come from?SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- What do you think of the concept of angels and humans marrying and producing giants? Why do you, or don’t you, find it believable?- Do you think of God’s limiting our lifespans to a maximum of 120 years as a judgment or a mercy? Why?- Why do you think there were so many giants in the Promised Land?- How do you think Noah was able to walk with God in a world literally filled with corruption?- How do you manage to walk with God in environments where you’re surrounded by non-believers?- How do you view the prospect of your own death? Do you have any fear or anxiety? Why or why not?

As we work our way through 1 Timothy, Pastor Phil and Pastor Dave take a side bar regarding 1 Tim. 3:6-7, to address the strategies of Satan that we face in the ongoing spiritual warfare of this world. In this sermon we will discuss ten of the devil’s offensive tactics and we will see what Scripture has to say on resisting the enemy's attacks. SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- As a group, discuss where the devil has attacked you in your walk with Jesus.- Which of the schemes of the devil were new to you? How does knowing the strategy of the enemy change how you live the Christian life?- What specific steps can you take this week that will change the outcome of your life?- Share what has brought you victory in the past.

In this study, we'll walk through a genealogy that takes us from Adam all the way up to Noah and his sons - from creation to the Flood. We'll make some fascinating discoveries along the way, including the first man to be raptured, pictures of the end times and God's gracrious patience, and some secrets coded into the biblical text.SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS:- If someone asked you to describe what it means to walk with God, how would you answer?- What differences do you notice in your life when you are walking with God vs. when you're not walking with God?- Do you have any questions about the Rapture?- Do you have a testimony about God's patience with you during a season of your life?- What does it mean to you to know that you've been adopted into the family of God and made His son or daughter?