Joshua 3–4 reminds us that God often calls us to move forward before we can see exactly how He will make a way. Israel had to trust God’s presence, step into the Jordan, and watch Him do what they could never do themselves. But God didn’t want the miracle to be forgotten—He commanded them to remember and to tell the next generation about His faithfulness. The same God who made a way for Israel calls us to trust Him, follow Him, and remember what He has done.

Joshua 3-4

Sermon Outline
1. Follow God, even when its unfamiliar territory
2. Prepare yourself for God to move
3. Move forward with confidence
4. Remember what God has done.
5. Tell the next generation

Discussion Questions

• Have you ever been in a season where you knew God was leading you, but you had no idea how things were going to work out? What did that season teach you about trusting Him?

• What is something in your life right now where you feel like you're standing on the edge of the Jordan? What makes it difficult to take the next step?

• What usually keeps you from taking a step of faith—fear of failure, wanting more control, uncertainty, waiting for more confirmation, or something else?

• Think about a time when God made a way for you that you couldn't have made for yourself. How does remembering that experience affect the way you face what you're dealing with today?

• Why is it so easy to forget what God has done for us when we face the next difficult thing? What helps you remember His faithfulness?

• What is something you've learned about God through your own experiences that you want your children, grandchildren, or someone younger in your life to know?

Hello Church Family,

Once again it is time for our Kenya mission team to start the long journey across the world. Excitement of being in Africa again fills every part of me as I pack items into my backpack. It’s been twenty years since I first had the chance to travel to Africa, and I can’t possibly put into words the changes it’s made in my life. This September 26, we will depart Texas to return to the Kenyan countryside. We will see the rolling mountains, the iconic Acacia trees on the horizon, and the unmatched sunsets in the distant west. The stars at night shine brighter in Africa than they do in even the most remote wilderness areas of the contiguous USA. Twenty years ago I departed American soil for the first time. Now it is not the mystery of Africa that stirs me, but the work of ministry we will get to do there this year.

As we drove, the red dust swirled behind, you’d think it had been years since it last rained the way it lingered in the air. The green leaves heavy on all the things growing along the roadsides would tell a different story. Everything was so green, except for the heavy coating of red dust clinging to anything within twenty feet of the roadsides, it was green. It was a new road, one less traveled by the western visitors than most, and for the three of us in the small diesel safari van, we were excited! God’s prompt for me to go to Kenya was not subtle in my own mind, in fact it was quite direct, but that had been more than ten years previous to this point and I was begging to hear from Him again. We hit every bump, every rock, washed out trench, and pothole the old road had to offer as we traveled toward the new church that we had so recently been told was our next stop. A place with a young pastor eager to make disciples and ready to put in the work required of him. Even now as I’m writing this, I can close my eyes and see the mountainside, the near perfect rows of corn planted on the impossibly steep grades of the Transmara terrain. It was as beautiful a land as I’ve ever seen. As I looked at this place I had never seen before, the possibility of God’s creation gets to jump from the landscape straight into every bit of the imagination that I can muster. What was this place like thirty, forty, fifty, or one hundred years ago. How wild was this place? How did the people survive in such a place as this when the powerful wild animals of Africa roamed untamed in comparison to their now dwindled numbers? I was lost in my own daydreaming of days long ago, when the small mud walled dwelling first took my attention. Then another, then yet another, all the way up there! Upon further inspection I saw more than the houses, I saw men, shepherds, flocks, cattle, I saw opportunity. Having a craving for adventure, and no desire to spend another day preaching in a church building, I knew what I had to do. Leaning forward I got the attention of the man in my lead, and with not as much persuasion as I anticipated, Pastor Eric agreed to let me take the gospel to the ones “up there”.

That was 2016, and as I look back on that day it still plays a huge part of shaping me into who I am. I would love to sit down with anyone who cares to know more and give you the entire progress of that day, even show you the notebook and names of the people I met and for whom I prayed. But that’s a story for another time. That simple act of following God’s initiation in my life allowed me to be ready for this day, ten years and a few months later. Since that trip we have worked alongside that young pastor you know as Pastor Ezekiel, and he is a true definition of a man who loves God. In 2017 when the church allowed me to lead the Africa trip, Ezekiel shared his dream of being a missionary with me and asked me to aid in training him for the task. Yes, we did a mission trip two years ago, and yes it was a great success, but we both knew there was more to come. Which brings us this years trip, a monumental step in the life of the Kilgoris church that you all have been so gracious to give toward each year since 2016.

This year’s trip takes us across the country of Kenya. From the beautiful transmara mountains to the valley of Laikapia. Being in a new area of Kenya I’ve never been before I’m at the mercy of the things I can read and the pictures I can find, but the short overview of the area is that it sets on the equator and is in the foothills of Mt. Kenya. Forget everything you thought about Africa if you think hot desert, this is a beautiful green rolling mountain terrain with an average elevation of 6,300 ft, with temps averaging from 52 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.

However exciting that might be we have a even greater reason to be excited…A new church, a new group of people, a new place to share the good news of Jesus.

Pastor Ezekiel has described this place to me many times, the most practical way is to say this…
“they are a people who are twenty years behind in the church, and in their cultural practice!”

We have our work cut out for us this trip as we head into the great unknown, mostly because of what we do know. Physical abuse within marriages and FGM (female genital mutilation) are our two biggest topics we have been asked to tackle head on upon arrival. It’s something most Maasai overcame the better part of two decades ago. It’s not that these things go unnoticed, or are practiced in secret, these are common cultural practices that are not hidden and are still active in the Rumuruti Village  we plan to visit this year. Along with this ministry there will be a variety of other ministries happening, sometimes all simultaneously, pastors conference, marriage conferences, women’s and men’s break out sessions, door to door evangelism, and open air crusades are all on the itinerary.

That all being said to say this! We need, and we cherish your prayers. I personally have seen prayer answered my whole life, and I know that most of you reading this cannot travel with us this year. BUT YOU CAN PRAY! Pray for us as we travel, as we prepare our lessons, as we build relationships with new people, as we maintain relationships with old friends and ministry partners. Pray for our heath, and that we obey God in his prompting, pray that we have bold faith. Pray that God is working ahead of us and that He has the hearts of the people prepared to receive what He plans to do as He uses us in Laikapia/Rumururti this fall.

Our team this year consists of Robert Quick, Robert Grimes, Reggie Musgrove, Becky Pope, Rachel Crabtree and myself. We would love to answer any questions or speak to you about the trip or any of the many giving opportunities that are associated with this years trip.

Todd Crabtree 903-720-6625

Joshua 2 reminds us that God is often working long before we can see the evidence of it. While Israel is preparing to enter the Promised Land, God has already gone ahead of them and prepared the way in Jericho. Through Rahab, we see what happens when someone hears what God has done and chooses to trust Him before she sees the outcome. This chapter challenges us to trust God's promises, act on what we know, and remember that God is working even when we can't see it.


Sermon Outline
1. God's work often begins before we see it.
2. Faith responds to what God has revealed.
3. God can use unlikely people in His purposes.
4. Courage isn't the absence of fear.
5. Rahab makes a choice.


Discussion Questions

• What are you currently facing that makes it difficult to believe God is working because you can't see any evidence of it?

• Are you trusting God based on what He has said, or only when your circumstances give you reason to trust Him?

• What has God already told you to do that you're delaying because you don't know how the situation will turn out?

• Could your frustration with God's timing actually be revealing a lack of trust in God's sovereignty? Why?

• Where are you tempted to take control because you don't trust God to be working behind the scenes?

• If you truly believed God was already working ahead of you, what would you do differently this week?

After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, the Israelites are camped on the east side of the Jordan River, poised to finally enter a new season and conquer the Promised Land. God takes this moment to encourage Joshua, promise to be with him, challenge him to obey, and call him to action.

Sermon Outline

• Presence – Joshua 1:1-6
• Obedience – Joshua 1:7-9
• Commitment – Joshua 1:10-15
• Impact – Joshua 1:16-18

Application Points

• Respond immediately when God calls you into a new season
• Be patient in the current season until God finishes what he is doing in your life
• When God asks you to change something, don’t wait for a convenient season
• Be aware of what season you are in and what God is doing in your life

Discussion Questions
God’s Presence

• What are some times in your life that you were aware of God’s presence with you?
• Do you see any common elements in those times, something that invited his presence?

Commitments

• What are some of the important commitments in your life right now?
• Are commitments a healthy thing?
• Do you feel you have too many or too few commitments?
• Do any of your commitments conflict with each other?

Understanding the Season

• Do you tend to lag behind or run ahead of God’s leading?
• How would you describe the season you’re in and when did it start?
• What do you like about this season? What is hard about it?
• What requires strength and courage in this season?
• Have you let go of the old things God asked you to leave behind in this season?
• Have you embraced the new things God has for you in this season?
• Are you growing or stagnating?
  • If growing, in what ways?
  • If stagnating, why?
• What is God teaching you or building in you in this season?
• Are you being patient and cooperating with God in the growing process?
• What does God want to do in this season of our church, and what is your role in that?

In John 21, Jesus meets Peter after his greatest failure and asks him a simple but deeply personal question: “Do you love Me?” Jesus shows us that our relationship with Him matters more than our performance, reputation, or past failures. But genuine love for Jesus doesn't stop with words—it leads us to obedience, service, and a willingness to follow wherever He leads. As we close this series, we're reminded that beneath every question God asks is an invitation to examine our hearts and respond to Him.

Sermon Outline
1. Jesus Meets Us in Our Failure
2. Jesus Goes to the Heart
3. Love for Jesus Always Leads to Obedience
4. Following Jesus Means Following Him Wherever He Leads


Discussion Questions

• If Jesus asked you today, “Do you love Me?” how would you answer—and why?
• What makes it difficult for us to believe that Jesus still wants to use us after we've failed?
• What is one area where your love for Jesus needs to become more than words and show up in your actions?
• Where might Jesus be asking you to simply “follow Me” right now, even if you don't know exactly where He's leading?
• What do you think Jesus was trying to get Peter to understand by asking the same question three times?
• What tends to compete with your love for Jesus—comfort, success, relationships, busyness, fear, or something else?
• How would your life look different this week if loving Jesus became your primary motivation for what you do?
  
  

 

Jesus asks a deeply challenging question: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” It is possible to speak the language of faith, attend church, and affirm that Jesus is Lord while still resisting His authority in our everyday lives. Jesus teaches that a life that will withstand the storms is built by coming to Him, hearing His Word, obeying what He says, and digging deep before the flood comes. The storm doesn't create our foundation—it reveals it.

Luke 6:46-49

Sermon Outline
1. Saying “Lord” Isn’t the Same as Following the Lord
2. The Foundation Is Jesus and His Word
3. Obedience Builds What the Storm Will Test



Discussion Questions

1. What do you think Jesus means when He asks, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and not do what I tell you?”
2. Where do you think it is easiest for us to say the right things about Jesus but struggle to actually obey Him?
3. What does “digging deep” into our foundation look like in everyday life?
4. Why do you think Jesus uses a storm to reveal the strength of the foundation?
5. Think about a difficult season you've walked through. What did that experience reveal about your foundation?
6. Is there an area where Jesus has spoken clearly through His Word, but obedience has been difficult for you? What makes it difficult?
7. What is one practical step of obedience you could take this week to strengthen your foundation?
8. If the “stream” hit your life today, what would you hope it reveals about your relationship with Jesus?

For 38 years, this man has lived with the same condition, the same disappointment, and the same excuses. Then Jesus walks into his situation and asks a seemingly obvious question: “Do you want to be made well?” Jesus wasn't asking because He didn't know the answer—He was inviting the man to confront whether he was willing to leave behind what had become familiar and follow Jesus into something new. The same question confronts us: Are we willing to let Jesus change the things we've learned to live with?

Sermon Outline
1. Jesus Sees You Where You Are — vv. 1–6
2. We Can Get Comfortable Being Stuck — v. 7
3. Jesus Calls Us to Respond — vv. 8–9
4. Jesus Wants More Than Circumstantial Change-- vv. 10-17



Small Group Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you most about Jesus' question, “Do you want to be made well?” Why do you think He asked it?
2. What are some things people can become comfortable with, even when those things aren't healthy or God's best for them?
3. The man immediately explained why he couldn't get well. Why do we sometimes find it easier to explain our circumstances than to take responsibility for our response?
4. What might “Get up, take up your bed, and walk” look like practically in someone's life today?
5. Is there an area of your life where Jesus may be asking, “Do you want to be made well?” What would responding to Him look like?
6. What's the difference between wanting Jesus to change your circumstances and wanting Jesus to change you?

Isaiah 6 reminds us that God's call always begins with God's presence. Before Isaiah was commissioned, he encountered the holiness of God, recognized his own sin, received cleansing through God's grace, and only then responded with complete surrender. God's question, "Whom shall I send?" was not about finding a volunteer but revealing a willing heart. The same pattern remains true today: God reveals Himself, transforms us by His grace, and invites us to trust Him with whatever assignment He gives.

Sermon Outline

1. Before God uses You, he reveals himself to you. 
2. Before God Uses You, He Cleanses You. 
3. Before God Tells You Where to Go, He asks if you WILL Go

Discussion Questions

• What stood out to you most about Isaiah's encounter with God in this passage? Why?
• Isaiah was surrounded by uncertainty when King Uzziah died, but he saw that God was still on the throne. Where do people tend to look for security when life feels uncertain?
• What are some things that can distract us from seeing God's presence and greatness in everyday life?
• Isaiah became very aware of his own shortcomings when he encountered God's holiness. Why do you think an honest view of ourselves is an important part of following God?
• Isaiah didn't have to fix himself before God could use him—God provided the cleansing. How does that change the way we should respond when we feel unqualified or have failed?
• What is an area of life where it can be difficult to simply trust God and say, "Yes," before knowing exactly what He's going to ask you to do?
• What might "Here am I, send me" look like in ordinary life—not necessarily going somewhere, but being available to God where you already are?
• If you were to take one step toward greater obedience this week, what might that look like?

God's question to Moses, "What is that in your hand?" wasn't really about a shepherd's staff—it was about whether Moses would trust God with what had already been entrusted to him. After years of failure, obscurity, and believing his best days were behind him, God reminded Moses that He specializes in using ordinary people and ordinary things for extraordinary purposes. In the same way, God has uniquely placed each of us in families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and relationships where we can make an eternal impact. Ministry isn't reserved for pastors or missionaries; every believer has been called and equipped to faithfully use what God has placed in their hands for His glory.

Exodus 3-4

Sermon Outline

1. God uses broken people, NOT perfect people. 
2. God uses ordinary things for extraordinary purposes. 
3. God places purpose in every believer. 

Discussion Questions

1. Moses believed his past failures had disqualified him. Have you ever felt like your past or your mistakes have limited what God can do through you? Why?
2. What do you think the "staff" in your hand represents? What gifts, opportunities, relationships, or resources has God already entrusted to you?
3. Why do you think so many Christians separate their job or everyday life from "ministry"? How does Exodus 4 challenge that way of thinking?
4. Who has God placed in your sphere of influence that no one else is uniquely positioned to reach?
5. How would your attitude toward work, school, or home change if you truly believed it was your primary mission field?
6. What is one practical step you can take this week to intentionally use what God has placed in your hands to serve or point someone toward Christ?

Every question God asks in Scripture is an invitation to examine our hearts, and the very first question He asks is, "Where are you?" In Genesis 3, we discover that sin always promises more than it delivers, leaving us burdened with shame, fear, and the desire to hide from God. Yet before God speaks words of judgment, He comes looking for Adam and Eve, revealing His heart of grace and His plan of redemption. The same God who pursued them in the garden still pursues us today, inviting us to step out of hiding and walk with Him again.
Genesis 3

Sermon Outline

1. Sin Always Promises More Than It Delivers 1-7
2. Sin Always Leaves Us Hiding 7-10
3. God Comes Looking 8-20

Discussion Questions

• The serpent's first attack was on God's character, not His command. Why do you think believing lies about God often comes before disobeying Him?

• Have you ever looked back on a decision and realized sin promised something it could never deliver? What did you learn from that experience?

• Adam and Eve responded to sin with shame, fear, blame, and hiding. Which of those responses do you most naturally identify with, and why?

• Why do you think our instinct is to hide from God when we've failed instead of running to Him?

• God asked, "Where are you?" not because He lacked information, but because He wanted Adam to honestly assess his condition. If God asked you that question today, how would you answer?

• What are some modern-day "fig leaves" people use to cover shame or avoid dealing with their sin?

• How does it change your view of God to realize that His first response to sin was to pursue people rather than abandon them?

• What's one practical step you can take this week to stop hiding and respond honestly to God's invitation to draw near?

Peter closes his letter by reminding suffering believers that the Christian life is not sustained by self-confidence but by humble dependence on God. Humility trusts when God's timing is different than ours, releases worry instead of carrying it alone, stands firm against the enemy, and rests in the confidence that God will finish what He has begun. The pathway to strength is not through pride or control, but through surrender to the mighty hand of God.

1 Peter 5

Sermon Outline
1. Humility shapes how we lead and follow
2. Humility trusts Gods timing
3. Humility releases worry to God
4. Humility stands alert against the enemy
5. Humility rests in restoration


Discussion Questions

• Where in your life are you struggling to trust God's timing instead of trying to force your own?
• What burden have you been carrying that God is inviting you to cast on Him today?
• How has pride—or self-reliance—shown up in your life recently, and what would humility look like instead?
• Where do you sense the enemy attacking your faith right now, and how can you stand firm in Christ rather than give in to fear or discouragement?
• If you truly believed that God cares for you and that His mighty hand is over your life, what would you do differently this week?

In Psalm 19, King David recounts the ways God has revealed himself to men, and celebrates what is most precious to him: His relationship with God. This psalm both whets our appetite to know more of God and gives us a practical template for getting to know him better.

Knowing God
Psalm 19

Outline

• God Wants to be Known – Psalm 19:1-6
• God Invites Us into Covenant – Psalm 19:7-11
• God Wants Our Hearts – Psalm 19:12-14

Discussion Questions

• What have you learned about God from nature?
• What outside activities effectively draw you closer to God?
• Why or in what ways is God’s Word precious to you?
• How did it become precious to you?
• Can you share examples when God’s Word revived your soul or gave you joy?
• Can you share examples when it was hard to obey God’s Word and what the outcome was?
• What fascinates or surprises you about God?
• The Bible says we were created in the image of God. How are we like and unlike God?
• What “terms of endearment” do you use when talking to God?
• What steps do you need to take for “knowing God” to be a higher priority in your life?

Peter reminds believers that history is moving toward a definite conclusion: “the end of all things is at hand.” Because Jesus is returning, Christians are not called to fear or retreat, but to live with clear minds, faithful prayers, and intentional lives. Peter points the church toward the priorities that matter most in the last days: loving one another deeply, practicing hospitality, and using God’s gifts to serve others. The way we live today reveals whether we truly believe eternity is coming.


Sermon Outline

1. Live with a clear mind
2. Love with a deep heart
3. Welcome with an open life
4. Serve with a faithful gift

Discussion Questions

1. Peter says, “the end of all things is at hand.” How should the reality of Jesus’ return change the way we live right now?
2. Peter connects being “sober-minded” with prayer. What are some things that distract or cloud our spiritual focus, and how do we fight against them?
3. “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly.” Why do you think love is such a priority for believers living in the last days?
4. Peter says love “covers a multitude of sins.” What does it look like to respond to people’s failures with grace without ignoring truth?
5. Hospitality requires opening our lives to others. What are some practical ways we can create space for people to experience the love of Christ?
6. Peter says every believer has received a gift to serve others. What gifts, abilities, or resources has God placed in your hands that you can use more faithfully?
7. What is the difference between serving God in your own strength and serving “by the strength that God supplies”?
8. If someone looked at your schedule, priorities, and relationships, would they see someone living with eternity in mind? What might need to change? 

Suffering is an unavoidable part of living in a broken world, and sometimes it comes simply because we belong to Jesus. Peter reminds us that when suffering comes, we are not to respond with fear, but with hope, gentleness, and a clear testimony of what Christ has done. Jesus is our example because He suffered unjustly, took our place, and ultimately conquered through His resurrection. Because of Jesus’ victory, we can choose obedience over comfort and trust God even in the fire.


Sermon Outline
1. Suffering Will Happen 1 Peter 4:12-19
2. We Will Suffer- Be Ready with a Defense- 1 Peter 3:13-17
3. Jesus Suffered and was Victorious 1 Peter 3:18-22
4. We Will Suffer When We Choose Jesus Over the World 1 Peter 4:1-6


Discussion Questions

• Why do you think Peter begins by saying, “Do not be surprised” when suffering comes? How does that challenge the way we often think about following Jesus?

• Peter gives several reasons suffering happens: living in a fallen world, the choices of ourselves or others, and suffering because of faithfulness to Jesus. How do these different types of suffering require different responses?

• Read 1 Peter 3:15-16. What does it look like practically to “be ready to give a defense” for the hope we have? How can our attitude affect the way people receive our message?

• Jesus suffered “the righteous for the unrighteous.” What does this teach us about the heart of the gospel and the character of Jesus?

• Read 1 Peter 4:1-3. What does it mean to “arm yourselves with the same way of thinking” as Christ? What areas of life require us to choose God’s will over our comfort?

• Have you ever experienced a situation where following Jesus caused you to be misunderstood or treated differently? How did you respond?

• Peter says to entrust ourselves “to a faithful Creator” (4:19). What makes trusting God difficult during suffering, and what helps us remember His faithfulness?

• If suffering reveals something about us, what do you want your faith to reveal when life gets difficult?

After addressing submission in government, work, and marriage, Peter broadens his focus to every believer. A life submitted to Christ is marked by the right attitude toward others, the right response when mistreated, and the right pursuit of godliness. Instead of reflecting the world's values of pride, retaliation, and self-interest, Christians are called to display the character of Christ through humility, blessing, and peace. As we live before the watchful eyes of God, our lives become a powerful testimony to the transforming work of the gospel.


Sermon Outline
1. Right Attitude- vs 8
2. Right Response- vs 9
3. Right Life- vs 10-12

Discussion Questions

• Why is the word "finally" important in understanding how 1 Peter 3:8-12 connects to the previous passages on submission?

• Which of the attitudes listed in verse 8 (unity, sympathy, brotherly love, tenderheartedness, humility) comes most naturally to you? Which is most challenging?

• How does humility serve as the foundation for the other attitudes Peter mentions?

• Why is it so difficult to respond with blessing when we have been hurt or insulted?

• Can you think of a situation where responding with grace instead of retaliation changed the outcome of a conflict?

• What does Peter mean by "seeking and pursuing peace"? How is that different from simply avoiding conflict?

• How can our words either strengthen or damage our witness for Christ?

• Peter reminds us that "the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous." How should that truth affect the way we live and treat others?

• In what area of your life do you need to better reflect the character of Christ: your attitude, your response, or your daily conduct?

• What is one practical step you can take this week to live out the truths of this passage?

Beginning in 1 Peter 2:12, Peter calls believers to live honorably among unbelievers so that their lives point others to Christ. He applies this principle to relationships with government, employers, and ultimately within the home, showing how the gospel shapes everyday life. In 1 Peter 3:1–7, Peter is not promoting domination or inequality, but calling both wives and husbands to reflect Christ through humility, honor, and faithful witness. The goal of marriage is not personal power, but displaying the transforming power of the gospel.

Sermon Outline
1. A Godly Marriage Displays the Gospel
2. For Wives
1. Behavior- Your conduct speaks louder than your words
2. Beauty- True beauty comes from within
3. Belief- Trust God in uncertain circumstances
3. For Husbands
1. Understand
2. Honor
3. Protect

Discussion Questions

• Why is it important to read 1 Peter 3:1–7 in light of the larger context beginning in 2:12?

• How does Jesus' example in 2:21–25 shape our understanding of submission and sacrifice in marriage?

• What are some ways this passage has been misunderstood or misused, and how can we avoid those errors?

• Peter says unbelieving husbands may be won "without a word" by godly conduct. What does this teach us about the power of our daily witness?

• What is the difference between a "gentle and quiet spirit" and passivity or weakness?

• Why do you think Peter emphasizes inner beauty over outward appearance?

• What does it mean for husbands to live with their wives "in an understanding way"?

• How does viewing husbands and wives as "co-heirs of the grace of life" shape a biblical understanding of marriage?

• Which part of this passage challenges you most personally?

Our ultimate submission is to Jesus Christ, the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls. But he also calls us to submit to the human authorities he has placed over us. This passage commands slaves to submit to their masters with heart and actions, regardless of how kind or unjust their master is. Submission pleases God, fulfills the calling to follow Jesus’ example, and can be used by God to bring great results. If God calls slaves to submit in this way, how much more should employees show respect and obedience to their employers, who actually pay them for their work!

Sermon Outline  1 Peter 2:18-25

• How to Submit
  • With heart and actions
  • Regardless of the leader’s qualities
• Why to Submit
  • It pleases God
  • We are called to follow Jesus’ example
• Results of Submission
  • It is counter-cultural and God can use it powerfully

Discussion Questions

• What are some differences between slaves and employees? What are some similarities?
• How much harder is this passage to live out for a slave than for an employee?
• Since God calls slaves to submit with respect, what does he expect of employees?
• Do you have an adversarial relationship with your employer or a cooperative relationship?
• How respectful are employees at your workplace? If they are disrespectful, do you join in, or are you a contrast to them?
• What can you do to be a greater blessing to your employer or boss?
• Have you ever endured unjust situations at work? What motivated you to stay and endure rather than leave? How did it turn out?
• In what ways are we like sheep? In what ways is Jesus like a Shepherd to us?
• If Jesus is a perfect Shepherd and Overseer, why do we resist him at times?
• Can you think of a time when you resisted his will, but then found out his will was much better than what you wanted?
• How can you be more like Jesus in the way you shepherd those he has entrusted to your care?
• Extra credit: Read Ephesians 6:5-9 and Colossians 3:22-4:1. What do these passages add to the topic?

In 1 Peter 2:13–17, Peter teaches believers how to live faithfully under earthly authority while remaining fully devoted to Christ. Christians are called to submit to governing authorities, not because government is ultimate, but because God is. Our obedience, humility, and honorable conduct become a powerful witness to a watching world. At the same time,  when government steps outside of God’s moral design, believers must obey God above all else.

Sermon Outline
1. The Command to Submit
2. The Role of Government
3. The Result of Our Submission
4. Live Honorably 


Discussion Questions

• Why is it important to remember that government is established by God but is not ultimate authority?
• How does our submission and conduct become a witness to unbelievers according to verse 15?
• What is the difference between biblical freedom and worldly ideas of freedom?
• In what practical ways can Christians “honor everyone” even when they strongly disagree with people?
• Why do you think Peter says to “fear God” but only “honor the emperor”?
• What are some examples of Christians using freedom as a “cover-up for evil” in today’s culture?
• According to Scripture, when is it right for Christians to disobey government authority?
• How can believers stand for truth without becoming hateful, rebellious, or dishonoring?
• What challenged or encouraged you most from this passage?
• What is one practical way you can better represent Christ in how you speak about authority, politics, or culture this week?

In Luke 1, Mary is called “favored” by God, yet that favor immediately brought disruption, uncertainty, sacrifice, and pain. This message explores the reality that God’s blessing is often very different than our cultural definition of comfort and ease. Through Mary’s life, we see that true favor is found in surrender, trusting God before we fully understand, and remaining faithful even when the weight feels heavy. Whether in parenting, leadership, relationships, or difficult seasons, God meets us in obedience and carries us through what He has called us to bear.


Sermon Outline

1. Gods Favor Often Disrupts Our Comfort
2. God Often Calls Us to Obey Before We Understand
3. Obeying Will Sometimes Make You Misunderstood
4. Blessings Often Bring Joy and Pain
5. True Blessing is a Surrendered Life

Discussion Questions

1 Peter 2:1–12 calls believers to put away sin and spiritual immaturity and instead crave the truth of God’s Word so they can grow. It reminds them that Jesus is the cornerstone, and though rejected by the world, He is chosen by God—and those who trust in Him are being built into a spiritual house. As God’s people, they are set apart with a new identity and purpose: to declare His praises and live differently. The passage ends by urging believers to live honorably among others so that their lives point people to God.

Sermon Outline
1. Spiritual Desire
2. Spiritual Identity
3. Spiritual Purpose
4. Spiritual People

Discussion Questions
1.  What specific attitudes or behaviors does Peter instruct believers to “rid themselves of” in verse 1? Why might these be especially dangerous to new or growing Christians?
2.  In verses 2–3, Peter compares believers to “newborn babies” who crave “pure spiritual milk.” What does this image teach us about spiritual growth? How does it connect to “tasting that the Lord is good”?
3.  Peter calls Jesus the “living Stone” (v. 4) that was rejected by humans but chosen by God. What other “stone” imagery does Peter use in verses 4–8? What do these images (cornerstone, stumbling stone) reveal about how people respond to Christ?
4.  In verses 9–10, Peter gives a series of powerful identity statements about the church (“chosen people,” “royal priesthood,” “holy nation,” “people belonging to God”). How do these descriptions echo Old Testament language about Israel, and what does that mean for the church?
5.  What does it mean to “declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (v. 9)? How is this both a privilege and a responsibility?
Application & Personal Reflection
6.  Peter says believers are “foreigners and exiles” (v. 11). In what ways should this identity affect how Christians live in today’s culture? Where do you feel the tension of being “in the world but not of it”?
7.  Verse 11 urges us to “abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” Which desires does Peter likely have in mind here? How can we practically fight this internal war?
8.  Peter emphasizes that our good behavior among non-believers can lead them to “glorify God” when He returns (v. 12). Share examples of how honest, excellent living can silence criticism and point people toward God.
9.  How does the truth of our new identity in Christ (vv. 9–10) help us overcome the old ways we are to put aside in verse 1?
10.  Looking at the whole passage, what is the connection between growing in Christ (vv. 1–3), understanding who we are in Him (vv. 4–10), and living holy lives before the world (vv. 11–12)?
Deeper / Challenging Questions
11.  Some people today view the church primarily as a social club or self-help group. How does Peter’s teaching in this passage challenge or correct those views?
12.  Peter wrote to Christians who were suffering and scattered. How do the truths in this passage provide comfort and motivation during difficult times?
13.  In what ways is Jesus still a “stone that causes people to stumble” today? How should we respond when people reject Him or are offended by the gospel?
14.  If a new believer asked you, “How do I grow spiritually?” how would you use verses 1–3 to answer them? What practical steps would you suggest?
15.  How can our group/church better live as a “royal priesthood” and “holy nation” in our local community this week?

1 Peter 1:13-25

Because believers have a secure future, Peter calls them to set their hope fully on Christ and live holy, obedient lives in the present. They are to reject their former ways and live in reverent fear, remembering they were redeemed not with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ. This new identity produces a sincere love for others, flowing from a heart that has been born again through the living and enduring Word of God. While everything in this world fades, God’s Word—and the new life it produces—endures forever.

Sermon Outline 
1. Full Hope
2. New Life
3. Reverent Fear
4. Brotherly Love
5. Lasting Foundation

Discussion Questions

• What are some subtle ways we place our hope in things other than Christ?
• What does “being holy” look like in everyday life (work, family, culture)?
• How does understanding the cost of your redemption change how you live?
• What is the difference between fearing God and being afraid of God?
• Where is God calling you to love others more deeply or sincerely?
• What are you currently building your life on that may not last?
• How can you become more intentional about grounding your life in God’s Word?

Peter opens by grounding believers in their identity as chosen exiles—scattered in the world, yet securely held by God. He points them to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus, reminding them that their future inheritance is untouchable and eternal. Even their present suffering has purpose, refining their faith and producing lasting glory. What they now experience in Christ is something prophets longed to see and angels still marvel at.


*Stand firm in hope, even in suffering, because in Christ your identity and future are secure. 


Sermon Outline
1. Living Hope
2. Current Suffering
3. Future Glory

Discussion Questoins

1. Where in your life do you most feel like an “exile” or outsider right now?
2. What does it practically look like for you to live with a “living hope” this week?
3. How does knowing your future is secure change the way you view current struggles?
4. In what ways might God be using a trial in your life to refine your faith?
5. Why do you think Peter emphasizes unseen faith (“though you have not seen Him”)?
6. What would it look like to respond to pressure or opposition differently because of your identity in Christ?
7. How can remembering the bigger story of God (prophets, angels, redemption) reshape your daily perspective? 

The Christian life is not lived on neutral ground—it’s a spiritual battlefield. But Ephesians 6 doesn’t call us to win the war; it calls us to stand in a victory already won through Christ. Believers are not powerless against the enemy—we are equipped, armored, and anchored in truth.

Sermon Outline
1. Know Your Real Enemy
2. Know Your Position
3. Put on the Armor
4. Pray Like it Matters


Discussion Questions

• When you hear the phrase “spiritual warfare,” what comes to mind?
• Have you ever realized later that a situation was more spiritual than you first thought?
• Ephesians 6 says our battle is not against flesh and blood.
  • Why is that hard to remember in real life?
• Which truth about the enemy stood out most:
  • He is defeated
  • He is limited
  • He works through deception
  • He is not equal with God
• Let’s make it personal:
  • Where do you need more truth (belt of truth)?
  • Where are you struggling with shame or identity (breastplate)?
  • Where do you lack peace or stability (shoes)?
  • Where is your faith under attack (shield)?
  • What thoughts need guarding (helmet)?
  • Are you actively using God’s Word (sword)? 
• What would it look like to make prayer a daily weapon, not a last resort?

After the resurrection, two disciples walk away from Jerusalem discouraged, unable to see that the victory has already been won. Jesus meets them in their confusion, corrects their perspective through Scripture, and ultimately reveals Himself in His presence. Their eyes are opened, their hearts are ignited, and they turn around to run back toward purpose. This passage reminds us that even when we feel defeated, Jesus has already secured the victory—we just need to see it and live in it.

Luke 24:13-35

Sermon Outline
1. The Battle for Our Perspective
2. Jesus Reframes the Battle Through Scripture
3. Our Eyes are Opened in His Presence
4. Victory Changes Your Direction


Discussion Questions

1. Where in your life have you found yourself saying, “I had hoped…”? What does that reveal about your perspective?
2. Why is it possible to have the right information about Jesus but still feel defeated?
3. How does Scripture help reframe the way we interpret difficult seasons or disappointments?
4. What does it look like practically to move from knowing about Jesus to truly encountering Him?
5. Where might God be calling you to “turn around” instead of continuing to walk away?
6. What is one way you can begin living this week from a place of victory instead of defeat? 

In Matthew 4, Jesus steps into the wilderness and faces the full force of temptation—attacks on His appetite, identity, and desires. These align with what 1 John 2:16 calls the lust of the flesh, the pride of life, and the lust of the eyes—the same battles we face today. Yet Jesus stands firm, answering every temptation with truth and complete trust in the Father. Because of this, as Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, we have a Savior who understands our struggle and has already won the victory.

Sermon Outline
1. Lust of the Flesh-If I feel it, I should fulfill it
2. Pride of Life- I need to prove who i am
3. Lust of the Eyes- If I can see it, I should have it

Discussion Questions

• Which of the three areas—lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or pride of life—do you find yourself battling most often? Why?
• In Matthew 4, Satan attacks Jesus when He is physically weak. When are you most vulnerable to temptation, and what patterns do you notice?
• Jesus responds to every temptation with Scripture. What does that teach us about how to fight spiritual battles in our own lives?
• How does knowing that Jesus was “tempted in every way” (Hebrews 4:15) change the way you approach Him in your struggles?
• Where might you be believing the lie that you need to satisfy, prove, or take something outside of God’s timing?
• What is one practical step you can take this week to stand firm in truth instead of giving in to temptation?
• How can community (friends, small group, church) help you fight these battles more effectively?