Explore every episode of the podcast Harris Creek Baptist Church

The Gospel isn’t about checking boxes or piling on rules. It’s about Jesus. He gave Himself to rescue us, and that alone is our hope. In Galatians, Paul warns that twisting this truth means losing the very thing that saves us. So don’t water it down or chase the approval of others. Instead, live with clarity, courage, and conviction that Jesus is the only way.

Don’t distort The Gospel

The wrath of God awaits anyone who does

People pleasing prevents clarity 

Life Group Discussion:

Why do you think it’s so tempting to make faith about rules, habits, or achievements instead of simply trusting Jesus?

How does thinking about God’s justice (His wrath against sin) help us understand His love more clearly?

When have you been tempted to stay silent about your faith because you didn’t want to offend or stand out?

Pastor John Elmore’s sermon on 2 Kings 6, reminded us that following Jesus means asking God first—about the little stuff, when life feels impossible, and before making big moves. Through Elisha’s story, he showed that God cares about the small details, fights for us when we feel surrounded, and can flip the script in ways we’d never expect. His challenge? Make prayer your first instinct, not your last resort, so your faith stays bold, real, and completely dependent on Him.

Ask God about the small

Ask God when your back’s against the wall

Ask God before you make the call

Life Group Discussion:

What’s an example of something in your life that feels “too small” to pray about—but might be worth bringing to God?

How would your fear level change if you could really see that God’s power and presence are greater than what’s against you?

Can you think of a time God’s answer went against what you thought made the most sense—but turned out better?

Nate taught from 2 Kings 5 that pride can keep us stuck while humility opens the door to God’s healing and grace. Naaman’s story shows us that breakthrough often starts with boldness and that true healing requires laying down our pride. Pride distorts our perspective, but God promises His favor to the humble calling us to stop striving to prove ourselves and instead walk in the freedom only Christ can give.

Breakthrough often starts with boldness

Healing requires humility

Pride distorts your perspective

Life Group Discussion:

Can you share a time when someone else’s boldness impacted your faith journey?

What are some areas in your life where pride has kept you from taking a step God was calling you to?

Where do you see pride trying to distort your perspective right now—in relationships, work, or faith?

In 1 Kings 19, Pastor John reminds us that when our faith is under fire, God meets us with compassion—not shame. He is faithful to His covenant and gently calls us back to His presence and purpose. No failure cancels His calling on your life.

Your God is compassionate

Your God is covenant keeping 

Your God has a call for you

Life Group Discussion:

When have you felt like Elijah—exhausted, discouraged, or done—and how did God meet you in that moment?

What are some “mountaintop moments” in your life where you’ve clearly experienced God’s presence or promises?

How can you be faithful to take the next step in the calling God has for your life, even if you don’t feel fully ready?

Many of us live with divided hearts—giving our worship to God and to other things that ultimately destroy us. In 1 Kings 18, we see that whole-hearted worship brings healing and restored relationship with God, while right worship—faithfully and fully given to Him—leads to God’s reward, not in prosperity, but in presence, peace, and purpose. True worship isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a daily surrender of everything—our time, desires, and devotion—to the only One worthy: God alone.

Divided worship destroys

Whole worship heals

Right worship rewards

Life Group Discussion:

How can you identify the things in your life that are taking up space in your heart where only God belongs?

What area of your life might God be asking you to fully surrender to Him right now?

How have you seen God move in your life when you’ve persevered in prayer or obedience?

God often asks for our trust before we understand what He’s doing. Through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 17, we saw that God can provide in unexpected ways, work through unlikely people, and is always doing something good—even when it doesn’t feel like it. Whether it’s ravens by a brook, a widow in a drought, or fleas in a concentration camp, God is still in control—and He’s 100% worthy of our trust.

God is after our trust

God is able to provide

God is always working for our good

Life Group Discussion:

Have you ever seen God ask you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What happened when you obeyed (or didn’t)?

When have you experienced God providing for you in an unexpected or “unlikely” way?

Why is it hard to believe God is working for your good when things feel unfair or hopeless?

Sharing the Gospel starts by choosing to live for Christ—letting your daily life reflect who He is, whether you're at the gym, work, or just hanging out. It means shifting your mindset to see people the way Jesus does—not as interruptions, but as souls deeply loved by God. And finally, it’s about actually sharing Christ—because the Gospel is the real remedy, and you were never meant to keep it to yourself.

Live for Christ

Have the perspective of Christ

Share Christ 

Life Group Discussion:

Can you think of someone in your life who truly lives for Christ? What about their lifestyle challenges or inspires you?

What relationships in your life might God be calling you to see differently, with compassion and purpose?

Have you ever had a moment where you shared Christ and didn’t see the outcome you expected? How did you process that?

Through 1 Corinthians 15, Sam reminds us that Jesus didn’t just die and rise again for a one-time rescue, but offers daily grace to stand, grow, and keep going even when life feels overwhelming. It’s not about trying harder—it’s about calling out, receiving His love, and letting that grace reshape everything.

Stand in saving grace

Observe risen grace  

Strengthened by sustaining grace

Life Group Discussion:

Which of the “I could be drowning if…” statements hit closest to home for you, and why?

How does knowing Jesus rose from the dead change how you face hard things like doubt, fear, or failure?

What’s one area of your life where you need to stop striving and start receiving God’s grace again?

In Acts 12:1–19, the church faced a crisis when Peter was imprisoned, but their problems became an invitation to fervent prayer. God responded by giving Peter peace in the middle of danger and providentially sending an angel to deliver him. Pastor John uses this story to encourage us to share answered prayers as a testimony to God’s faithfulness.

Our problems are invitations to prayer

Prayers bring God’s peace and providence

Share answered prayer

Life Group Discussion:

What are some situations in your life right now that could become opportunities to lean into prayer rather than worry?

In what ways can consistent prayer reshape our perspective on difficult circumstances?

Why is it important to share when God answers prayer, even in small ways?

What does it take to have the courage to go against the crowd? In this message we see God's amazing deliverance in the midst of the courageous faithfulness of three men despite immense pressure to conform.

We must have the courage to stand out

We can have courage because God stands with us

A courageous faith is contagious

Life Group Discussion:

When have you felt pressured to go along with the crowd, and what helped—or hindered—you from standing out?

How does knowing that God stands with you change the way you face fear, rejection, or uncertainty?

Who in your life has inspired you to be bold in your faith, and how can your own courage influence others?

As we continue in our series, “Divine Intervention,” Pastor John explores the story of Jonah to reveal how God's discipline, rescue, and mercy work in the lives of sinners—even when they are actively rebelling. He emphasizes that the very one we sin against is also the one who rescues us, calling us not just to repentance but to join in His mission of redemption. No one is too far gone for God's grace, and our past does not disqualify us from sharing His mercy with others.

Divine Discipline 

Divine Rescue 

Divine Mercy 

Life Group Discussion:

When was the last time you asked God if a difficult season was the result of disobedience? What happened next?

Have you ever felt unworthy of rescue? How does Romans 5:8 speak to that feeling?

Who in your life might be “too far gone” in your eyes—and what would it look like to share God’s mercy with them?

In Judges 6–7, God chooses Gideon—a fearful man hiding in a winepress—to demonstrate that He uses the humble to accomplish His purposes. By reducing Gideon’s army from thousands to just 300, God makes it unmistakably clear that victory belongs to Him alone. Through Gideon’s obedience and faith, we see that God conquers not by strength, but through trust in His power and presence.

God chooses to use the humble

God makes it clear who gets the credit

God conquers through faith

Life Group Discussion:

In what areas of your life might God be asking you to trust Him despite feeling inadequate?

When was a time in your life when God did something big, and you knew it had to be Him?

What risks did Gideon take in obeying God’s instructions? How did faith play a role?

In this message, Pastor John Elmore examines Exodus 14, where the Israelites face the Red Sea ahead and Pharaoh's army behind. Discover how God uses impossible situations to demonstrate His power and faithfulness, teaching us to trust Him when all seems lost.

Pastor JP’s sermon underscores the clear biblical message that Jesus is returning, and challenges believers to live with a sense of spiritual urgency and readiness. God’s grace not only saves us but actively trains us to live godly lives in a world full of distractions and temptations. As we look forward to the return of Christ, we’re called to live in a way that reflects our hope, our purpose, and our mission.

1. Let Grace Train You to Say “No” Now

2. Let Future Glory Move You to Do Good Now

3. Let’s Live Ready—and Help Others Get Ready

Discussion Questions

1. What would change in your life if you truly lived with the expectation that Jesus could return at any moment?

2. In what ways can God’s grace help you say “no” to the world and “yes” to a life that honors Him?

3. How can you actively help others prepare for Christ’s return in your everyday relationships and routines?

Pastor JP unpacks 1 Peter 2:4–12, reminding us that the Church isn’t a place—it’s a people. We are a community of believers, each one chosen, called, and placed with purpose. When we build our lives on Jesus, the cornerstone, and boldly live out our faith, we don’t just go to church—we become the Church, a movement that carries hope to the world.

The Church is being built of Christians

The Church must be built on Christ 

The Church is built when Christians declare and display Christ 

Life Group Discussion:

How can we shift from seeing church as a place we go to something we’re actively part of?

What does it practically look like to make Jesus the cornerstone of your daily life?

Who in your life needs to see or hear the love of Christ through you this week?

Teaching from Acts 2, Pastor John shows that the Holy Spirit isn’t just some mystical force — He’s a real person, part of the Trinity, and fully involved in your everyday life. Through the example of Peter going from scared to bold, we learn how the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live courageously and make a real impact. He challenges us to listen for the Spirit’s nudges and act right away — just like the 3,000 people who heard the gospel and instantly responded with faith and action.

The Person Holy Spirit

The Power of the Holy Spirit

The Promptings of the Holy Spirit

Life Group Discussion:

How would you describe your personal relationship with the Holy Spirit? Do you see Him more as a person or a power, and why?

What are some ways you’ve seen the Holy Spirit empower believers for ministry or daily obedience?

Can you share a time when you sensed a prompting from the Holy Spirit and chose to obey or ignore it? What was the outcome?

We have been given a clear job from Jesus to make disciples. Whether we go to our neighbor or to the nations, we are called to go! 

Jesus is the King with all power

Our purpose is to advance the Kingdom

Jesus’ presence is permanent

Life Group Discussion:

How does knowing that Jesus holds all authority impact the way you live your daily life?

Who is one person in your life right now that you feel called to reach or disciple?

How does Jesus' promise, "I am with you always," give you courage in sharing your faith?

In John 21:1–19, JP reminds us that Jesus doesn’t give up on us—even when we fail. We've been recruited like Peter, not because we're perfect, but because God's grace is bigger than our mistakes. Through Jesus, we're restored to relationship and redeemed for a purpose far greater than our past.

We’ve been recruited despite our failures

We’ve been restored to grace and fellowship  

We’ve been redeemed for a new future and purpose 

Life Group Discussion:

Why do you think Jesus still chooses people with messy pasts or flaws?

In what ways have you struggled to believe that God fully forgives you?

How has your past prepared you for the purpose God has for you?

Pastor John dives into Luke 22:54–62, where Peter—one of Jesus’ closest friends—denies even knowing Him, not once but three times. Jon keeps it real, pointing out that like Peter, we can be quick to talk big about our faith, but when pressure hits, our confidence can crumble. He challenges us to get honest with ourselves: Are we aware of how weak we really are? Are there moments when we’re low-key embarrassed to rep Jesus? And do we actually feel the weight of our sin, or just brush it off?

Are you aware your flesh will fail?

Are you tempted anywhere to be ashamed of Jesus?

Are you grieved over the gravity of your sin?

Life Group Discussion:

What’s an area of your life where you tend to overestimate your own strength or self-control?

What situations challenge your boldness when it comes to living for Jesus publicly?

When you mess up, are you more likely to justify it, ignore it, or actually feel convicted?

In John 18:1–14, JP points out how Jesus doesn’t run from the moment—He steps up. Even though betrayal and arrest are coming, Jesus shows courage and chooses to follow God’s plan on purpose, not by accident. JP also reminds us that Jesus is still running the show—protecting His friends, staying calm, and speaking with authority. And in an incredible moment of grace, Jesus heals the guy who came to arrest Him, showing love to His enemies right in the middle of all the chaos.

Jesus steps out in courage

Jesus is still in control

Jesus shows compassion to his captors

Life Group Discussion:

How does Jesus' courage challenge the way we respond to fear or opposition in our own lives?

Why is it important for us to remember that God is in control, even when things feel chaotic or unfair?

Can you think of a time when you were challenged to extend grace in a hard situation? What happened, and what did you learn?

In the Journey to the Cross series, Pastor JP highlights Jesus’ time in Gethsemane as a moment of deep surrender and trust in God’s plan. He reveals how Jesus, though in anguish, fully submitted to the Father’s will, setting the path for our salvation through His obedience. 

Jesus trusted the Father in His greatest suffering

Jesus trusted the Father in His greatest temptation

In suffering and temptation, Jesus prayed and obeyed

Life Group questions:

1. In Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” What does this teach us about surrendering to God’s will in our own struggles and decisions?

2. The disciples struggled to stay awake while Jesus prayed. How can we stay spiritually alert in our daily lives, and what are some distractions that keep us from seeking God in prayer?

3. Jesus trusted the Father even in His deepest anguish. How can His example help us navigate seasons of suffering or uncertainty with faith?

In the "Journey to the Cross" series, Pastor John emphasizes Communion as more than a tradition but a transformative act of faith. He explains how Jesus is the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice brings salvation, connecting the Lord’s Supper to the biblical Passover. 

Christ’s Life and Death: Our Passover Lamb

Christ’s Body: Our Sinless Sacrifice

Christ’s Blood: Our New Covenant

Life Group Discussion:

What does it mean to apply Christ’s blood to the "door of your heart," and how does it impact your daily life?

Why is it significant that Jesus’ body was given specifically "for you"?

How can you use Communion as an opportunity to share your faith with others?

In his sermon, Nate reveals a side of Jesus we don’t often focus on — His righteous anger. Drawing from Matthew 21, he unpacks how Jesus was angered by fake faith and the exploitation of others, reminding us that true faith produces real fruit. 

Jesus is angered when people are exploited 

Jesus is angered when we pretend to produce

Faith in Jesus produces real fruit

Life Group Discussion:

Jesus showed deep concern for the outsider — how can we intentionally care for those who feel marginalized or overlooked in our communities?

In what areas of your life are you tempted to appear spiritually healthy while neglecting your relationship with God?

What does it practically look like to remain connected to Jesus as the true vine in your daily life?

When Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday it forced the crowd to answer the question of "Who is He?". In the same way, we must answer that question today. 

Christ is in control

The crowd desired to control Christ

You must conclude who Jesus is

Life Group Discussion:

In what areas of your life do you struggle to trust that Jesus is in control? How can you surrender those to Him?

In what ways do people today try to fit Jesus into their own agendas instead of following Him as Lord?

How does your view of Jesus impact the way you live your daily life?

Sin gradually desensitizes us, making what once felt wrong seem normal, which is exactly how Satan works to separate us from God. Ephesians 4 warns that when we give ourselves over to sin, we become aimless, hardened, and blind to its destruction, ultimately giving the enemy a foothold in our lives. Nate reminds us that as Christians, we are called to reject sin, pursue sanctification, and immerse ourselves in God's truth to fully embrace the life He desires for us.

Sin Makes you senseless

Christians part with sin to pursue sanctification

Sin gives Satan a space in Christ's place

Life Group Discussion:

What are some warning signs that you might be drifting toward spiritual numbness?

How can accountability within a community help us in the process of sanctification?

What steps can you take this week to remove sin’s foothold and invite Christ into every area of your life?

As we continue our series, “State of Warfare”, JP looks to 1 Timothy 4:1-10, explaining the enemy’s mission to “abandon the faith” by causing believers to doubt and turn away from God. He highlights the enemy’s method of replacing a genuine relationship with God with rigid rules, leading to spiritual emptiness. JP encourages believers to stay motivated by building a faith that lasts, rooted in gratitude, prayer, and steadfast trust in Jesus.

The enemy’s mission: Get you to “abandon the faith” 

The enemy’s method: Get you to replace relationship with rules

Our motivation: To build a faith that lasts

Life Group Discussion:

Can you share a time when you felt tempted to give up on your faith? How did you respond?

How can legalism affect your personal connection with God and others? 

How does gratitude play a role in strengthening your faith journey?

Pastor Nate emphasizes that true freedom is found in abiding in Jesus' teachings, as God's truth breaks the chains of sin. He warns that Satan, the father of lies, seeks to deceive and destroy, leading people toward spiritual death. Ultimately, Nate reminds us that who we listen to determines who we belong to—either we follow God’s truth and find life, or we believe Satan’s lies and remain in bondage.

God’s truth leads to freedom

Satan’s lies lead to death

Who you listen to is who you belong to 

Life Group Discussion:

How can we ensure we are actively listening to and applying God's truth daily?

In what ways have you seen deception negatively impact relationships, faith, or personal growth?

What influences in your life are shaping the way you think and believe?

Pastor John talks about spiritual battles, explaining that struggles—whether from life, our own choices, or Satan—challenge our faith. Using 2 Corinthians 12, he shows how Paul’s hardships made him rely on God even more. In the end, trusting God through tough times makes us stronger and brings Him glory.

Satan seeks to destroy you through suffering

God shapes you in suffering 

We glorify God by trusting in the suffering

Life Group Discussion:

How have you seen suffering challenge your faith or the faith of others?

Why do you think God allows suffering if He loves us?

How can our response to suffering be a testimony to others?

In our series State of Warfare, Pastor JP emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the need to wear the full armor of God. He calls believers to walk in truth, act righteously, share the Gospel, stand firm in faith, know their salvation, use God’s Word, and pray continually. Through this, Christians can resist deception and stand strong in Christ.

Walking truth

Acting in righteousness

Ready with The Gospel

Firm in Faith

Aware of your salvation

Responding with The Word

Engaged in prayer 

Life Group Discussion:

Have you ever struggled with believing lies about yourself or God? How did you overcome it?

In what areas of your life do you feel the strongest temptation to compromise righteousness?

Who in your life needs to hear the Gospel, and what steps can you take to reach them?

What experiences or struggles have tested your faith the most?

How would you explain salvation to someone who has misconceptions about it?

What are the biggest obstacles to maintaining a consistent prayer life?

Adam and Eve broke their connection with God by choosing knowledge and convenience over obedience. As we wrapped up our “Removed” series, JP explains that our phones can act like the forbidden fruit, pulling us away from God with endless distractions, comparisons, and even harmful habits. True peace and purpose come from putting down our devices and prioritizing time with God over everything else

Communion with God > Knowing more 

Communion with God > Convenience

Our phones are costing us communion with God

Life Group Discussion:

What are some ways your phone distracts you from spending time with God?

What are practical steps you can take to prioritize time with God over consuming news, social media, or other content?

What would it look like for you to “fast” from your phone or social media to focus on your spiritual growth?

Have you ever stopped to consider whether your phone is drawing you closer to God or distracting you from Him? In his message, JP tackled this question, showing how technology has the power to be either a tool for spiritual growth or a stumbling block in our lives. Drawing from the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis, JP challenged us to set intentional boundaries, eliminate distractions, and embrace accountability so that our devices become tools for glorifying God and strengthening relationships, rather than turning into modern-day idols.

Build boundaries

Remove distractions

Invite accountability

Cultivate community 

Keep in touch

Life Group Discussion:

What specific times or situations in your day would benefit most from being phone-free?

What’s one small step you could take this week to declutter your digital life?

Who in your life could you trust to keep you accountable for how you use technology?

What are some ways you could use technology to build up the people around you instead of distracting from them?

Who’s one person you haven’t checked in with recently that you could reach out to this week?

Looking at Revelation 3, Nate encourages us to take a closer look at our spiritual condition. He warns that spending too much time on fleeting distractions, like endless scrolling or tech overload, can leave us feeling spiritually empty and distant from God. Instead of chasing instant gratification, we’re reminded to focus on eternal treasures—things that deepen our relationship with God and give lasting purpose. Through true repentance, we can reconnect with Him and experience the fullness of His love and the meaningful life He has planned for us.

Tech consumption can cause spiritual poverty

Invest in eternal over instant

Repentance results in relationship 

Life Group Discussion:

Can you identify specific ways technology has become a distraction in your daily life?

What are some “instant” gratifications in your life that may be hindering your investment in eternal priorities?

How do you view repentance—as a burden or an opportunity for renewal—and why?

As we begin our new series, Removed, John encourages us through Romans 12:2 not to conform to the patterns of this world, like the way technology often overwhelms and distracts us. Instead, let God transform and renew your mind, helping you see life more clearly and embrace His perfect plan for you. By setting limits on tech use, you create space to focus on God’s will and discover the purpose He has for your life.

Problem: Tech has rewired us

Solution: So God must renew us

Application: By reducing tech, God’s will will be further revealed 

Life Group Discussion:

Do you ever feel like technology distracts you from deeper, more meaningful aspects of life? If so, how?

What does it mean for God to "renew your mind," and how does that differ from simply taking a break from tech?

What specific tech habits could you reduce or adjust to create more space for God in your life?

From His humble birth in Luke 2, where Jesus was wrapped in swaddling cloths as a sign of His ultimate sacrifice, to John 13, where He wrapped a towel around His waist to serve His disciples, Jesus embodied selfless love. In John 19, He was wrapped in burial cloths, fulfilling His role as the Savior who bore our sins and conquered death. Through every stage, Jesus demonstrated that His life, service, and sacrifice were all wrapped in purpose and love for humanity.

Jesus was wrapped as a sacrifice

Jesus was wrapped as a servant 

Jesus was wrapped as a Savior

Jesus shows us how much God loves us by giving His life for us, proving that love is at the very heart of who God is. God is the source of all love, and He gives us the strength to love others in ways we couldn’t on our own. When we love each other, people can see God working in us, and His love becomes real and complete, showing the world what He’s like.

Jesus shows us God’s love

God is the source of our love

God is seen when we love 

Life Group Discussion:

In what ways can you remind yourself of God’s love when you feel distant from Him?

What are some ways you can actively depend on God’s love when relationships become challenging?

What is one specific way you can show God’s love to someone in your life this week?

John unpacks Luke 2:10-11 in our series, “Wrapped”, emphasizing the angel’s proclamation that Jesus is the ultimate good news, bringing salvation and hope to the world. This good news produces great joy, an enduring and internal blessing rooted in Christ rather than circumstances. Finally, John highlights the inclusivity of the gospel, reminding believers that Jesus came for all people, offering eternal life and joy to anyone who receives Him.

Jesus Is The Good News

Jesus Brings Great Joy

Jesus Is For All People

Life Group Discussion:

What other sources of "good news" compete for your attention, and how can you keep Christ central in your life?

Share a time when you experienced joy despite difficult circumstances. What role did your faith play?

Who in your life might feel excluded from the good news of Jesus, and how can you intentionally share His love with them?

This week in our series, Wrapped, JP unpacks the message of Luke 1, reminding us where true peace is found. Peace comes when we trust in God’s promises, rely on His unlimited power, and align our lives with His purpose. As we embrace these truths, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and discover the lasting peace that only He can provide.

Our peace is wrapped in God’s promises

Our peace is wrapped in God’s power

Our peace is wrapped in God’s purpose

Life Group Discussion:

Have you ever struggled to believe in God’s promises? How did you overcome that doubt, or how are you working through it now?

Can you share a time when you saw God’s power at work in your life or someone else’s? How did that experience influence your faith?

How does knowing that God has a purpose for your life bring you peace during times of confusion or doubt?

In this message from Romans 15:8-13, Nate reminds us that God is both a promise-making and promise-keeping God. Through Jesus’ birth, we see how God fulfilled His promises, not just to the Jewish people but to everyone. As we live our lives, we’re called to hold onto hope in what God has promised, because His faithfulness gives us reason to trust and live with joy and peace.

Scripture shows we have a promise making God 

Christmas shows we have a promise keeping God 

Our life should show hope in what God has promised 

Life Group Discussion:

How do Old Testament promises, such as those to the Patriarchs, enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness? Does your life show hope to others?

How can the Christmas story inspire hope in seasons of waiting or uncertainty? What are things you are hoping for in this season of your life?

How does placing hope in God's promises affect your response to disappointments?

As we wrap up our series, “Peace Talks,” JP challenges us to adopt a perspective focused on humility and wisdom from God, which sets the stage for real peace in our lives. JP looks to James 3:14-18 to encourage us to follow a pattern of peace by being kind, pure, and open to others, creating stronger and healthier relationships. Finally, we are reminded that peace is a team effort—when we work with God and each other, we can build a life filled with love and purpose.

The perspective that leads to peace

The pattern that leads to peace

The partnership that leads to peace

Life Group Discussion:

Why do you think peace starts with a change in perspective rather than just actions?

Which of the traits listed in James 3:17 (pure, peace-loving, gentle, willing to yield, etc.) do you find the hardest to practice, and why?

Why is it important to partner with God in pursuing peace rather than trying to do it alone?

In this powerful sermon by John based on 1 Peter 5:6-14, discover the transformative strength found in humility, as we are called to humble ourselves before God’s mighty hand. Learn to release the weight of life’s anxieties by casting them upon the One who deeply cares for you and stand firm in faith to resist the adversary’s schemes. Be inspired to depend wholly on God, trusting in His promise to restore, strengthen, and establish you for His eternal glory.

Humble yourself

Anxieties are cast

Resistance in faith

Depend on God

Life Group Discussion:

Can you think of a time when humility brought about unexpected blessings or growth?

How can sharing your struggles with a faith community help in casting your burdens to God?

In what ways does standing firm in faith encourage others in their spiritual journey?

Why is it important to remember God’s promise to restore and strengthen you when facing trials?

This powerful sermon on Romans 12:14-21 offers a fresh perspective on handling life’s challenges with humility, empathy, and unwavering faith. It’s a heartfelt reminder to counter negativity with kindness, seek peace in our relationships, and entrust justice to God. If you’re looking to deepen your faith and discover practical ways to live out love even in difficult situations, JP’s message will uplift and inspire you.

Proceed Humbly

Engage with empathy

Amend all you can

Counter evil with good

Entrust justice to God 

Life Group Discussion:

What does humility look like in our daily interactions, especially when dealing with those who may oppose us?

How can we better understand the struggles or perspectives of those we disagree with?

How can we overcome fears or hesitations that might hold us back from seeking to make amends?

How does choosing goodness in the face of wrongdoing reflect God’s love to others?

How can we find peace in situations where we feel wronged but have chosen not to seek personal revenge?

Discover the teachings of Romans 13:1-7 in this impactful sermon, where Nate points us to God’s divine role in establishing authority. Gain insight into how we're called to respectfully submit to those in positions of power as an act of faith and obedience. Finally, understand the importance of honoring and giving what we owe to authorities, embracing these principles as part of living a godly life.

God establishes those in authority

God calls us to submit to those in authority

God call us to give what we owe to those in authority 

Life Group Discussion:

How does understanding that God establishes authority influence your view of government and leadership? In what ways can this belief strengthen our faith during times of political or social tension?

In what ways might our submission to authority reflect our trust in God’s overall plan? How can a willingness to submit impact our relationships with others and our witness to those around us?

In our daily lives, what are some practical ways we can "give what we owe" to those in authority, like teachers, employers, or government officials? How might showing respect and honoring these responsibilities reflect our values and faith, even if we don’t always agree with them?

Discover the power of purposeful prayer and learn how it can transform both personal lives and society in this inspiring sermon on 1 Timothy 2:1-2. Through insights on praying for others, practicing godly principles, and pastoring through tough times, JP provides a roadmap to bring hope and peace to our communities. As much as it depends on you, live out your faith with impact and compassion!

We are to pray for the people

We are to practice the policies

We are to pastor the predicament 

Life Group Discussion:

How can praying for others, especially leaders, impact our perspective on current events and challenges?

How can our actions reflect God’s love in situations where we may disagree with societal policies or norms?

How can we effectively provide spiritual guidance to those struggling without overstepping or coming across as judgmental?

In this uplifting sermon on Romans 5:1-2, JP points us to discover how peace with God offers forgiveness for the past and freedom from guilt. You'll also learn how it provides access to God's grace in the present, empowering daily life with purpose. Finally, gain hope for the future, knowing God's love ensures a secure and eternal destiny.

Peace with God offers forgiveness from our past 

Peace with God gives us present access to grace

Peace with God gives us hope for the future 

Life Group Discussion:

How does understanding God’s forgiveness change the way we view our past mistakes and regrets?

How does having access to God's grace influence the way we handle challenges and struggles in our daily lives?

How can we encourage others to find hope in God, especially during times of hardship or doubt about the future?

In this powerful sermon, you'll discover the transformative role of prayer in your daily life. Jon highlights the importance of being thankful in prayer, reminding us to express gratitude in every circumstance. You'll also learn how to be watchful in prayer, staying spiritually alert to God’s guidance and the world around you. With real-life applications and scriptural wisdom, this message will deepen your faith and strengthen your connection with God. 

In this message, you'll explore the core message of what it means to live on mission for Christ. JP highlights the power of missions, explaining how the Holy Spirit empowers us to share the Gospel boldly. You'll also learn about the proclamation of missions, where believers are called to testify about Jesus' death and resurrection. Lastly, the sermon dives into the places of missions, encouraging you to start sharing your faith locally and expand outward to impact the world. This message will inspire you to see every part of your life as an opportunity to spread the hope of the Gospel.

The power of missions

The proclamation of missions

The places of missions

Life Group Discussion:

What are the biggest challenges or fears that prevent you from sharing your faith with others?

How can sharing personal stories of faith and transformation make evangelism more relatable and impactful for those around us?

How does understanding the global need for the Gospel (3.4 billion unreached people) impact our responsibility as Christians to share our faith?

While the message of salvation through Jesus remains unchanged, the Church should creatively adapt how it reaches people. The heart of innovation in ministry is service, and its purpose is to bring people closer to Jesus. Ultimately, the joy of innovation is sharing in the blessings of transformed lives and faith.

The Posture of Innovation is Service

The Purpose of Innovation is Salvation

The Prize of Innovation is sharing in the blessings of the gospel 

Life Group Discussion:

How does the story of the Thai soccer team rescue illustrate the urgency of innovation in ministry, and how does that relate to the Church's mission to reach the lost?

Think about a time when you focused on your own preferences in church (worship style, message, etc.). How could you reframe your perspective to prioritize how the church can serve and reach others, rather than meeting your own expectations?

When you think about the people in your life who don’t know Jesus, how can you innovate the way you interact with them to help bring them closer to salvation?

We are saved by God's grace, not by our own works, as highlighted in Ephesians 2:8-10. Grace is a free gift, and while our works do not earn salvation, we are saved for good works that reflect our faith. The message challenges believers to both embrace God's grace and extend it to others, living as a grace-filled church.

Grace Saves

Works Don’t 

The Saved Work

Life Group Discussion:

In what ways do we, as Christians, struggle to extend grace to others, even though we have received it freely? What challenges do you face in being grace-filled?

Cooper shared the powerful story of Ike Brown Sr. forgiving and adopting his son's killer. How does this story of forgiveness challenge your perspective on grace and forgiveness in your own life?

In what areas of your life do you feel "bumped" or tested by others? How can you be more intentional about responding with grace when you are bumped?

Today’s message emphasizes the call for Christians to live in response to God's mercy. Believers are urged to offer themselves as living sacrifices, dedicating every part of their lives to God's service. We are to live our lives not conforming to the world but being transformed by the renewing of our mind. This transformation helps believers discern and follow God's perfect will. 

You have been saved

You are a living sacrifice

You must be shaped 

Life Group Discussion:

What does it mean to you personally to be a "living sacrifice" in today’s world, and how can this shape your daily actions?

In what areas of your life do you feel the strongest pressure to conform to the world, and how can you counteract this by renewing your mind?

How can we better discern God's will in our lives, and what practical steps can we take to align ourselves with His good, pleasing, and perfect plan?