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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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4 days ago
4 days ago
ISAIAH 49:1-7
1 Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name. 2 He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. 3 He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor." 4 But I said, "I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God." 5 And now the LORD days - he who formed me in the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself, for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD and my God has been my strength - 6 he says: "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." 7 This is what the LORD says - the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel - to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: "Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you." NIV 84
1 Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name. 2 He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. 3 He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor." 4 But I said, "I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God." 5 And now the LORD days - he who formed me in the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself, for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD and my God has been my strength - 6 he says: "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." 7 This is what the LORD says - the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel - to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: "Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you." NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Biblical Listening Means Obedient Listening
When the Servant says, “Listen to me,” it is not an invitation to consider His words—it is a call to hear with the intent to obey. True listening to Jesus always leads to action, not mere admiration or reflection.
God’s Kingdom Advances Through Words, Not Weapons
The Servant’s mouth is described as a sharpened sword and a polished arrow. God does not establish His kingdom through force or power, but through truth, grace and the gospel penetrating hearts and transforming lives.
The Servant Becomes What We Failed to Be
The Servant is named “Israel” because He embodies everything Israel was meant to be. In the same way, Jesus becomes for us what we could never be on our own—righteous, faithful, and obedient.
Faithfulness Matters More Than Fruitfulness
Even the Servant experiences discouragement, opposition, and misunderstanding. Yet He entrusts the results to God. Our calling is not to produce results but to remain faithful and trust God with the fruit.
God’s Salvation Is Too Big for One Nation
Restoring Israel alone would be “too small a thing.” God’s plan has always been global—salvation to the ends of the earth. Advent reminds us that Jesus did not come just for one people, but for all people.
Biblical Listening Means Obedient Listening
When the Servant says, “Listen to me,” it is not an invitation to consider His words—it is a call to hear with the intent to obey. True listening to Jesus always leads to action, not mere admiration or reflection.
God’s Kingdom Advances Through Words, Not Weapons
The Servant’s mouth is described as a sharpened sword and a polished arrow. God does not establish His kingdom through force or power, but through truth, grace and the gospel penetrating hearts and transforming lives.
The Servant Becomes What We Failed to Be
The Servant is named “Israel” because He embodies everything Israel was meant to be. In the same way, Jesus becomes for us what we could never be on our own—righteous, faithful, and obedient.
Faithfulness Matters More Than Fruitfulness
Even the Servant experiences discouragement, opposition, and misunderstanding. Yet He entrusts the results to God. Our calling is not to produce results but to remain faithful and trust God with the fruit.
God’s Salvation Is Too Big for One Nation
Restoring Israel alone would be “too small a thing.” God’s plan has always been global—salvation to the ends of the earth. Advent reminds us that Jesus did not come just for one people, but for all people.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. When you hear the words of Jesus, do you approach them as helpful guidance or as words to be obeyed? What makes obedience difficult in everyday life?
2. The Servant's words are described as powerful and penetrating. When have God's words challenged or changed your heart in a meaningful way?
3. Where in your life do you feel discouraged because you don't see results - parenting, ministry, work, relationships? What would it look like to focus on faithfulness and leave the outcome to God?
4. How does understanding that Jesus came to be what we could not be - instead of giving us another chance to "get it right" - change the way you view grace, salvation, and your relationship with God?
5. In what ways might your vision of God's work be "too small"? How can you participate - locally or globally - in God's mission to be a light to others?
1. When you hear the words of Jesus, do you approach them as helpful guidance or as words to be obeyed? What makes obedience difficult in everyday life?
2. The Servant's words are described as powerful and penetrating. When have God's words challenged or changed your heart in a meaningful way?
3. Where in your life do you feel discouraged because you don't see results - parenting, ministry, work, relationships? What would it look like to focus on faithfulness and leave the outcome to God?
4. How does understanding that Jesus came to be what we could not be - instead of giving us another chance to "get it right" - change the way you view grace, salvation, and your relationship with God?
5. In what ways might your vision of God's work be "too small"? How can you participate - locally or globally - in God's mission to be a light to others?
Monday Dec 15, 2025
Monday Dec 15, 2025
ISAIAH 52:13-53:12
13 See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. 14 Just as there were many who were appalled at him — his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness— 15 so he will sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand.
53 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? 2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. 4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished. 9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. 11 After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
13 See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. 14 Just as there were many who were appalled at him — his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness— 15 so he will sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand.
53 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? 2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. 4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished. 9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. 11 After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
LESSON NOTES & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1.) The Unexpected Pathway of the Servant (Is. 52:13-15)
1.) The Unexpected Pathway of the Servant (Is. 52:13-15)
In a punchline that the audience never saw coming, Isaiah reveals that the Servant's pathway to exaltation was through suffering. The arrival of the Servant revealed that exaltation and suffering are not mutually exclusive. In fact, according to Isaiah, they belong together.
-In what ways have you seen this reality play out in your life? How have some of your past sufferings led to the exaltation of Jesus?
2.) The Unimpressive Appearance of the Servant (Is. 53:1-3)
Throughout Israel’s history certain mighty men and deliverers had a certain outward appearance. (See Genesis 39:6 and 1 Samuel 16:2) In the minds of many, a deliverer was a “dominating, forceful, attractive person, who by their personal magnetism drew people to themselves…”. Yet, in the case of the Servant, we see none of these physical qualities. While the eyes of "many" were looking for one thing, the appearance of the Servant revealed something completely unexpected.
-What are some ways that Jesus has shown up unexpectedly in your life recently? How did that impact your relationship with Him and with others?
3.) The Unimaginable Willingness of the Servant (Is. 53:4-6)
In verses 1-3, the Servant was characterized as being "a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief". We find out in verses 4-6 that he was characterized this way because He was bearing OUR sorrows and griefs. In this section of the text the heart of the poem and the heart of God is revealed. The heart of God: God so desperately wants a relationship with us that He was willing to do whatever it took to make that relationship happen. The unimaginable willingness of the Servant is mind-blowing!
-When you think about Jesus, what blows your mind about Him? What is something that you just can't get over?
4.) The Unwavering Submission of the Servant (Is. 53:7-9)
Lambs have an extreme naivety when it comes to being slaughtered or shorn. Animals, in general, go as uncomprehendingly to slaughter as they do to shearing. They go with "blind compliance" to wherever the destination is. Yet, while lambs went unknowingly and uncomprehendingly to slaughter, this Servant went fully knowing where He was headed, to death. This servant didn’t go with blind compliance, He went with willing submission.
-In your current season of life, in what ways is Jesus calling you to a deeper submission to Him?
5.) The Unmatched Exaltation of the Servant (Is. 53:10-12)
The Servant didn’t just suffer for suffering’s sake. He suffered for a purpose. The monumental impact of His suffering for mankind is that we are longer left at a distance because of our sin. Instead we can be brought near because of the righteousness we have received. There was also a monumental reward for the Servant. Because “he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors” His reward is a status of total supremacy
-How should the total supremacy of Jesus affect how we live our daily lives? What are some current challenges you are facing in making Jesus' supremacy a deeper reality in your life?
Monday Dec 08, 2025
Sunday Nov 30, 2025
Sunday Nov 30, 2025
ISAIAH 9:1-7
1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan -
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 5 Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. NIV 84
1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan -
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 5 Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
1. God speaks His “Nevertheless” into our darkest places. Isaiah 9 erupts into hope directly after a chapter filled with distress, darkness, and despair. God does not wait for people to climb out of their misery—He speaks hope into it. The gospel light shines first where suffering has been greatest (Zebulun and Naphtali).
1. God speaks His “Nevertheless” into our darkest places. Isaiah 9 erupts into hope directly after a chapter filled with distress, darkness, and despair. God does not wait for people to climb out of their misery—He speaks hope into it. The gospel light shines first where suffering has been greatest (Zebulun and Naphtali).
2. Jesus launches His kingdom from places of deepest suffering. Just as God promised honor to Galilee—the region most ravaged by invasion—Jesus made Capernaum His homebase of ministry. God’s pattern is consistent: He brings salvation right into the places of our deepest wounds.
3. The salvation of Jesus is light breaking into the darkness. The Gideon story forms a biblical picture of salvation: sudden, overwhelming light shattering darkness. Jesus, the Light of the World, fulfills this picture—not symbolically, but literally—breaking the power of spiritual darkness.
4. Jesus destroys the works of the devil without the world’s weapons. Like Gideon defeating Midian without a sword, Jesus conquers evil not with violence, but through His own self-giving life. He destroys oppression, sin, and death—not by force, but by the power of sacrificial love.
5. The King who comes is both fully human and fully God, establishing an ever-increasing kingdom. The child is born (His humanity) and the Son is given (His deity). His shoulders alone can bear the weight of a government that is eternal, peaceful, and ever-increasing. The four names are royal titles that describe the child-king.
5. The King who comes is both fully human and fully God, establishing an ever-increasing kingdom. The child is born (His humanity) and the Son is given (His deity). His shoulders alone can bear the weight of a government that is eternal, peaceful, and ever-increasing. The four names are royal titles that describe the child-king.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Where have you most recently experienced “distress, darkness, or despair”?
How does the word “Nevertheless” in Isaiah 9:1 invite you to reframe your situation in anticipation of God’s coming kingdom?
2. God chose to begin His saving work in the most devastated region of Israel. What might this reveal about where God wants to work in your life—or in your community—right now?
1. Where have you most recently experienced “distress, darkness, or despair”?
How does the word “Nevertheless” in Isaiah 9:1 invite you to reframe your situation in anticipation of God’s coming kingdom?
2. God chose to begin His saving work in the most devastated region of Israel. What might this reveal about where God wants to work in your life—or in your community—right now?
3. Which of the four royal titles in Isaiah 9:6 (Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace) do you need to hear the most in this Advent season— and why?
4. Jesus destroys the works of the devil not by power or force, but by laying down His life. How might His method reshape the way you approach conflict, suffering, or opposition?
4. Jesus destroys the works of the devil not by power or force, but by laying down His life. How might His method reshape the way you approach conflict, suffering, or opposition?
5. Isaiah promises a kingdom that will increase forever. How does the idea of “never-ending increase” in God’s goodness shape your hope for eternity—and your endurance in the present?
Sunday Nov 23, 2025
Sunday Nov 23, 2025
MARK 5:21-24a, 35-43
21 When Jesus had crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 and pleaded earnestly with him, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live." 24 So Jesus went with him.
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?" 36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the Synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe." 37 He did not let anyone follow him except for Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." 40 But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat. NIV 84
21 When Jesus had crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 and pleaded earnestly with him, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live." 24 So Jesus went with him.
35 While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?" 36 Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the Synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe." 37 He did not let anyone follow him except for Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue ruler, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, "Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep." 40 But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the the child's father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum!" (which means, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Faith is the common ground that connects everyone to Jesus.
Jairus and the woman in Mark 5 could not be more opposite—economically, socially, religiously. Yet the only thing that brings both into an encounter with Jesus is faith. The gospel equalizes everyone at the feet of Christ.
Faith is the common ground that connects everyone to Jesus.
Jairus and the woman in Mark 5 could not be more opposite—economically, socially, religiously. Yet the only thing that brings both into an encounter with Jesus is faith. The gospel equalizes everyone at the feet of Christ.
Faith must move us to come to Jesus even when it means leaving the crowd.
Jairus steps out from the great crowd and publicly falls at Jesus’ feet—an act shocking for a synagogue ruler. True faith is willing to break from the crowd, reputation, or comfort to seek Jesus.
Faith requires continuing with Jesus when circumstances suddenly turn toward despair. When Jairus receives news of his daughter’s death, Jesus immediately speaks: “Do not be afraid, just keep on believing.” Faith is not a moment—it is a daily, ongoing choice to trust Jesus beyond fear, loss, or confusion.
Faith ultimately conquers in Jesus, not by avoiding death, but by trusting the One who transforms death itself. Jesus doesn’t merely reverse death for Jairus’ daughter—He redefines death as sleep for all who belong to Him. His power over nature, demons, disease, and now death shows He alone can break death’s grip.
The story points us to the final awakening for all who “fall asleep in Christ.”
Jesus’ tender words—“Little girl, wake up”—foreshadow the day He will awaken all His people. Death is not the end; it is a temporary sleep from which the Lord will rouse His children.
Jairus steps out from the great crowd and publicly falls at Jesus’ feet—an act shocking for a synagogue ruler. True faith is willing to break from the crowd, reputation, or comfort to seek Jesus.
Faith requires continuing with Jesus when circumstances suddenly turn toward despair. When Jairus receives news of his daughter’s death, Jesus immediately speaks: “Do not be afraid, just keep on believing.” Faith is not a moment—it is a daily, ongoing choice to trust Jesus beyond fear, loss, or confusion.
Faith ultimately conquers in Jesus, not by avoiding death, but by trusting the One who transforms death itself. Jesus doesn’t merely reverse death for Jairus’ daughter—He redefines death as sleep for all who belong to Him. His power over nature, demons, disease, and now death shows He alone can break death’s grip.
The story points us to the final awakening for all who “fall asleep in Christ.”
Jesus’ tender words—“Little girl, wake up”—foreshadow the day He will awaken all His people. Death is not the end; it is a temporary sleep from which the Lord will rouse His children.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Where do you personally find it hardest to “step out of the crowd” and come openly to Jesus? What crowds—social, cultural, relational—make faith costly for you?
2. Think of a time your faith was shaken by unexpected news or suffering. What helped you keep walking with Jesus rather than turning away?
1. Where do you personally find it hardest to “step out of the crowd” and come openly to Jesus? What crowds—social, cultural, relational—make faith costly for you?
2. Think of a time your faith was shaken by unexpected news or suffering. What helped you keep walking with Jesus rather than turning away?
3. Jesus tells Jairus, “Do not be afraid, just continue believing.”
What fears most often compete with your faith today? How might you intentionally respond to them with trust?
4. How does Jesus’ view of death as temporary sleep reshape the way you think about loss, grief, or your own mortality?
What fears most often compete with your faith today? How might you intentionally respond to them with trust?
4. How does Jesus’ view of death as temporary sleep reshape the way you think about loss, grief, or your own mortality?
5. In what ways do we sometimes place our faith “in faith itself” rather than in Jesus? What practical habits help keep your trust centered in Christ rather than in your own spiritual performance?
Sunday Nov 16, 2025
Sunday Nov 16, 2025
Colossians 3:12-17
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
LESSON NOTES
There is a connection between PURPOSE and PREPARATION.
When you have a great purpose in mind, it gives you the drive and direction to prepare for it. And in turn, the preparation ensures that when the moment arrives, you’re ready to live out your purpose.
How our students are preparing for their Croatia mission trip:
There is a connection between PURPOSE and PREPARATION.
When you have a great purpose in mind, it gives you the drive and direction to prepare for it. And in turn, the preparation ensures that when the moment arrives, you’re ready to live out your purpose.
How our students are preparing for their Croatia mission trip:
- Essay questions
- Gathering 5 prayer supporters
- Interviewing with trip leadership
- Studying and presenting on an aspect of Croatian culture
- Complete a guided Bible study
- Participate in a team fast
- Gather for training at a weekend retreat
- Contribute to and sign a team covenant
- Memorize Colossians 3:12-17
The way you live your life tells people what really matters.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What's something you've spent a lot of time preparing for? How did the preparation impact your life?
- What similarities are there between how a highwire walker lives and how a Christian should live?
- Consider the list of ways our students are preparing for their trip this summer. Do you practice any similar types of "preparation" for your Christian walk? What practices do you feel would be beneficial?
- What traits in Colossians 3:12-17 do you see modeled well? What traits there would you like us to grow in?
- What does Colossians 3:13 look like practically?
Sunday Nov 09, 2025
Sunday Nov 09, 2025
Mark 5:24-34
24 A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. 30 At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?" 31 "You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?'" 32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
24 A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. 30 At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?" 31 "You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?'" 32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
LESSON NOTES
Faith Is the Channel, Not the Cause.
The woman’s healing came by Jesus’ power, but her faith was the conduit through which His grace flowed. Faith doesn’t replace Jesus’ power—it connects us to it.
Faith Is the Channel, Not the Cause.
The woman’s healing came by Jesus’ power, but her faith was the conduit through which His grace flowed. Faith doesn’t replace Jesus’ power—it connects us to it.
Desperate Faith Leads to Dependence.
The woman’s long suffering left her desperate enough to reach for Jesus. Sometimes God allows desperation so that we learn to fully depend on Him rather than ourselves.
The woman’s long suffering left her desperate enough to reach for Jesus. Sometimes God allows desperation so that we learn to fully depend on Him rather than ourselves.
Dependent Faith Means Letting Go of Self-Effort.
She could not heal herself, and all her efforts only made things worse. True faith releases our grip on self-effort and holds fast to Jesus as the only source of salvation and wholeness.
She could not heal herself, and all her efforts only made things worse. True faith releases our grip on self-effort and holds fast to Jesus as the only source of salvation and wholeness.
Salvation is About a Relationship, Not a Transaction.
Jesus refused to let the woman quietly slip away. He called her “Daughter,” turning her faith from a private transaction into a public, relational transformation. Faith isn’t just believing—it’s belonging.
Jesus refused to let the woman quietly slip away. He called her “Daughter,” turning her faith from a private transaction into a public, relational transformation. Faith isn’t just believing—it’s belonging.
Even Small Faith Moves the Heart of Jesus.
The woman’s trembling, timid touch was enough to draw out His power and compassion. Jesus responds not to the strength of our faith, but to the sincerity of it.
The woman’s trembling, timid touch was enough to draw out His power and compassion. Jesus responds not to the strength of our faith, but to the sincerity of it.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. "You don't realize that Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have." Talk about this quote with your group. Put into your own words what it means to be desperate for Jesus?
2. In what ways can we practice “touching His robe” in our daily lives—taking small steps of faith that connect us to His power rather than depending on our own effort?
3. Jesus calls her out of the crowd in order to deepen her faith. What might God be using in your life right now to deepen your faith?
4. Jesus didn’t just heal this woman — He called her “Daughter.” How does this shift from a transactional to a relational view of salvation encourage your walk with God?
5. How can this story encourage someone who feels like their faith is weak or hesitant right now? What does it reveal about the heart of Jesus toward imperfect faith?
1. "You don't realize that Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have." Talk about this quote with your group. Put into your own words what it means to be desperate for Jesus?
2. In what ways can we practice “touching His robe” in our daily lives—taking small steps of faith that connect us to His power rather than depending on our own effort?
3. Jesus calls her out of the crowd in order to deepen her faith. What might God be using in your life right now to deepen your faith?
4. Jesus didn’t just heal this woman — He called her “Daughter.” How does this shift from a transactional to a relational view of salvation encourage your walk with God?
5. How can this story encourage someone who feels like their faith is weak or hesitant right now? What does it reveal about the heart of Jesus toward imperfect faith?
Sunday Nov 02, 2025
Sunday Nov 02, 2025
Mark 5:1-20
1 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.
6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. 7 He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” 8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!”
9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?”
“My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” 10 And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.
11 A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” 13 He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.
14 Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. 17 Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region.
18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.
1 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones.
6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. 7 He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” 8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!”
9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?”
“My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” 10 And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area.
11 A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” 13 He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.
14 Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. 17 Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region.
18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What questions do you have about the account of the demons and the pigs?
Why do you think Jesus says "yes" to both the demons and the people?
What do you think the man would have felt when Jesus told him "no"?
Jeremy mentioned 3 perspectives on Jesus - Jesus as Enemy, as Disruption, and as Lord. Where do you see these present today? Do you ever find yourself drawn to those different perspectives?
What makes it hard to say "yes" to Jesus' "no"?
What are some reasons Jesus might say "no" to something we think is a good request?
What questions do you have about the account of the demons and the pigs?
Why do you think Jesus says "yes" to both the demons and the people?
What do you think the man would have felt when Jesus told him "no"?
Jeremy mentioned 3 perspectives on Jesus - Jesus as Enemy, as Disruption, and as Lord. Where do you see these present today? Do you ever find yourself drawn to those different perspectives?
What makes it hard to say "yes" to Jesus' "no"?
What are some reasons Jesus might say "no" to something we think is a good request?
Sunday Oct 26, 2025
Sunday Oct 26, 2025
Mark 4:35-41
35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him?" NIV 84
35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" 41 They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him?" NIV 84
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Personal Reflection:
When have you found yourself asking, “God, don’t you care?” What circumstances led you there, and how did God reveal His care in that season?
Personal Reflection:
When have you found yourself asking, “God, don’t you care?” What circumstances led you there, and how did God reveal His care in that season?
Heart Check:
The sermon asks, “Who or what has your allegiance?” How might your use of time, energy, attention, and money reveal who truly rules your heart?
The sermon asks, “Who or what has your allegiance?” How might your use of time, energy, attention, and money reveal who truly rules your heart?
Faith in the Storm:
Jesus didn’t promise to end every storm, but to be present through them. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in His presence during our “megas” moments of life?
Jesus didn’t promise to end every storm, but to be present through them. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in His presence during our “megas” moments of life?
Hearing His Voice:
The wind and waves recognized the voice of Jesus immediately. What helps—or hinders—you from recognizing His voice amid life’s noise?
The wind and waves recognized the voice of Jesus immediately. What helps—or hinders—you from recognizing His voice amid life’s noise?
Holy Fear:
The disciples moved from terror to awe. What’s the difference between cowardly fear and holy reverence, and how can we develop more of the latter in our daily walk with Jesus?
The disciples moved from terror to awe. What’s the difference between cowardly fear and holy reverence, and how can we develop more of the latter in our daily walk with Jesus?
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Matthew 6:9-15
9 "This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. 14 For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. NIV 84
9 "This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. 14 For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. NIV 84
DISCUSSION NOTES AND QUESTIONS
1 The word "Our" forms an immediate bridge between you and me. Author David Timms says, "In a single word Jesus calls us together."
In your walk with Jesus, in what ways have you seen this bridge in your life?
2 Our faith in Jesus is both personal and communal. God created each of us to live life with Jesus and live live with others.
Do you see any overlap between these two aspects of our faith? If so, how?
When you examine the rhythms of your current season of life, how well are you living into these aspects of your walk with Jesus?
3 Jesus didn't reveal a new God to his original audience, He just showed then an aspect of God that they had been missing. Jesus perfectly revealed the Father to them in a way that they desperately needed.
In your walk with Jesus, what parts of God's character are you most familiar/comfortable with? Why?
What parts of God's character are you most unfamiliar/uncomfortable with? Why?
4 To speak of God's Fatherhood is to speak of our brotherhood, to speak of our sisterhood. The intimacy we have with our Father gives us the capacity to love our brothers and sisters well.
Why do you think it is so important that we remember that we are brothers and sisters in the family of God?
1 The word "Our" forms an immediate bridge between you and me. Author David Timms says, "In a single word Jesus calls us together."
In your walk with Jesus, in what ways have you seen this bridge in your life?
2 Our faith in Jesus is both personal and communal. God created each of us to live life with Jesus and live live with others.
Do you see any overlap between these two aspects of our faith? If so, how?
When you examine the rhythms of your current season of life, how well are you living into these aspects of your walk with Jesus?
3 Jesus didn't reveal a new God to his original audience, He just showed then an aspect of God that they had been missing. Jesus perfectly revealed the Father to them in a way that they desperately needed.
In your walk with Jesus, what parts of God's character are you most familiar/comfortable with? Why?
What parts of God's character are you most unfamiliar/uncomfortable with? Why?
4 To speak of God's Fatherhood is to speak of our brotherhood, to speak of our sisterhood. The intimacy we have with our Father gives us the capacity to love our brothers and sisters well.
Why do you think it is so important that we remember that we are brothers and sisters in the family of God?