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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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PSALM 41
1 Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. 2 The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and surrender him to the desire of his foes. 3 The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness. 4 I said, "O LORD, have mercy on me; heal me, for I have sinned against you." 5 My enemies say of me in malice, "When will he die and his name perish?" 6 Whenever one comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it abroad. 7 All my enemies whisper together against me; they imagine the worst for me, saying, 8 "A vile disease has beset him; he will never get up from the place where he lies." 9 Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. 10 But you, O LORD, have mercy on me; raise me up, that I may repay them. 11 I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. 13 Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen. NIV 84
1 Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. 2 The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and surrender him to the desire of his foes. 3 The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness. 4 I said, "O LORD, have mercy on me; heal me, for I have sinned against you." 5 My enemies say of me in malice, "When will he die and his name perish?" 6 Whenever one comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it abroad. 7 All my enemies whisper together against me; they imagine the worst for me, saying, 8 "A vile disease has beset him; he will never get up from the place where he lies." 9 Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. 10 But you, O LORD, have mercy on me; raise me up, that I may repay them. 11 I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. 13 Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Mercy Is Evidence of a Life Lived with God
A defining characteristic of the Christian is revealed in how we treat the weak, vulnerable, and overlooked. Regard for the weak is evidence of a heart that has been transformed by God.
Mercy Is Evidence of a Life Lived with God
A defining characteristic of the Christian is revealed in how we treat the weak, vulnerable, and overlooked. Regard for the weak is evidence of a heart that has been transformed by God.
“Regard for the Weak” Requires Thoughtful Compassion
To “regard” the weak means more than noticing them; it means thoughtfully considering their situation and responding with intentional compassion.
God's Mercy Meets Us in Every Kind of Brokenness
“O Lord, have mercy on me” is a prayer that fits every season of life. Whether facing sin, sickness, relational wounds, or betrayal, God welcomes honest, humble cries for help.
To “regard” the weak means more than noticing them; it means thoughtfully considering their situation and responding with intentional compassion.
God's Mercy Meets Us in Every Kind of Brokenness
“O Lord, have mercy on me” is a prayer that fits every season of life. Whether facing sin, sickness, relational wounds, or betrayal, God welcomes honest, humble cries for help.
God’s Mercy Does Not Remove Struggle but Upholds Us Through It
The power of God’s mercy is seen in the way He upholds us. God may not immediately remove suffering, but He promises to hold us steady within it. His mercy keeps us standing when we are too weak to stand on our own.
The power of God’s mercy is seen in the way He upholds us. God may not immediately remove suffering, but He promises to hold us steady within it. His mercy keeps us standing when we are too weak to stand on our own.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Who is your “Mephibosheth”? Who is a specific person in your life—by name—that God may be calling you to regard, consider, and compassionately serve?
1. Who is your “Mephibosheth”? Who is a specific person in your life—by name—that God may be calling you to regard, consider, and compassionately serve?
2. When have you experienced God’s mercy personally? Can you recall a season when God delivered, restored, sustained, or rescued you? How does remembering past mercy strengthen your faith in present struggles?
3. Where do you need to pray, “O Lord, Have Mercy on Me”? Which area of your life currently reflects David’s prayer—sin, sickness, relational hurt, betrayal, or weariness? How does this simple prayer give you language for your need?
4. What does it look like to trust God’s sustaining mercy rather than expecting immediate solutions? How can this group help “hold one another up” as God does in His mercy?
5. Close the group by praying the six-word prayer together—slowly and intentionally: “O Lord, have mercy on me.” Encourage one another to carry that prayer into the coming week as both a cry for help and a declaration of trust in God’s sustaining mercy.
3. Where do you need to pray, “O Lord, Have Mercy on Me”? Which area of your life currently reflects David’s prayer—sin, sickness, relational hurt, betrayal, or weariness? How does this simple prayer give you language for your need?
4. What does it look like to trust God’s sustaining mercy rather than expecting immediate solutions? How can this group help “hold one another up” as God does in His mercy?
5. Close the group by praying the six-word prayer together—slowly and intentionally: “O Lord, have mercy on me.” Encourage one another to carry that prayer into the coming week as both a cry for help and a declaration of trust in God’s sustaining mercy.
Sunday Jan 04, 2026
Sunday Jan 04, 2026
PSALM 40
1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you: were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. 6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. 7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. 8 I desire to do your will, O my God, your law is within my heart. 9 I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as you know, O LORD. 10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly. 11 Do not withhold your mercy from me, O LORD; may your love and your truth always protect me. 12 For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me. 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me. 14 May all who seek to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. 15 May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!" be appalled at their own shame. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" 17 Yet I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; O my God, do not delay. NIV 84
1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. 4 Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you: were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. 6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but my ears you have pierced; burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. 7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. 8 I desire to do your will, O my God, your law is within my heart. 9 I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as you know, O LORD. 10 I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly. 11 Do not withhold your mercy from me, O LORD; may your love and your truth always protect me. 12 For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me. 13 Be pleased, O LORD, to save me; O LORD, come quickly to help me. 14 May all who seek to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. 15 May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!" be appalled at their own shame. 16 But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" 17 Yet I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; O my God, do not delay. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Waiting on the Lord Is a Posture, Not a Pause
Waiting on the Lord is not passive inactivity but an intentional heart posture of trust, dependence, and surrender. Whether we are resting or working, our hearts can remain oriented toward God.
God Responds Personally to Those Who Wait
Psalm 40 reveals a personal God who turns toward us, hears our cries, lifts us from the slimy pit, sets our feet on solid ground, and puts a new song in our mouths. Waiting is worth it because God responds.
Blessing Comes From the Object of Our Trust
True happiness is found not in how strong our faith feels, but in who our faith is in. Even mustard-seed faith produces blessing when the Lord is its object.
Waiting on the Lord Is a Posture, Not a Pause
Waiting on the Lord is not passive inactivity but an intentional heart posture of trust, dependence, and surrender. Whether we are resting or working, our hearts can remain oriented toward God.
God Responds Personally to Those Who Wait
Psalm 40 reveals a personal God who turns toward us, hears our cries, lifts us from the slimy pit, sets our feet on solid ground, and puts a new song in our mouths. Waiting is worth it because God responds.
Blessing Comes From the Object of Our Trust
True happiness is found not in how strong our faith feels, but in who our faith is in. Even mustard-seed faith produces blessing when the Lord is its object.
God’s Wonders Always Outnumber Our Sins and Troubles
David admits his sins and troubles are “too many to count,” yet he boldly declares that God’s wonders are even greater. The sermon emphasizes this hope-filled truth: you cannot out-sin God’s goodness, and grace always outweighs guilt.
David admits his sins and troubles are “too many to count,” yet he boldly declares that God’s wonders are even greater. The sermon emphasizes this hope-filled truth: you cannot out-sin God’s goodness, and grace always outweighs guilt.
Delight, Not Duty, Is the Goal of Obedience
Both David and Jesus teach us that true obedience flows from delight in God’s will, not mere obligation. God opens our ears so that obedience becomes our joy, not our burden.
Both David and Jesus teach us that true obedience flows from delight in God’s will, not mere obligation. God opens our ears so that obedience becomes our joy, not our burden.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Where in your life are you currently being asked to “wait on the Lord”? How does viewing waiting as a heart posture rather than inactivity change how you approach that situation?
2. What are some “old mental tapes” that tend to play in your mind? How might God want to replace them with a “new song” of truth and praise this year?
3. Psalm 40:4 emphasizes trusting the Lord rather than people, success, or security. What objects are you tempted to trust in other than the Lord?
4. How might intentionally practicing gratitude (such as journaling God’s wonders) help reshape your perspective when guilt, anxiety, or trouble feels overwhelming?
1. Where in your life are you currently being asked to “wait on the Lord”? How does viewing waiting as a heart posture rather than inactivity change how you approach that situation?
2. What are some “old mental tapes” that tend to play in your mind? How might God want to replace them with a “new song” of truth and praise this year?
3. Psalm 40:4 emphasizes trusting the Lord rather than people, success, or security. What objects are you tempted to trust in other than the Lord?
4. How might intentionally practicing gratitude (such as journaling God’s wonders) help reshape your perspective when guilt, anxiety, or trouble feels overwhelming?
5. Of the three “songs” from this sermon—
“Blessed is the one who makes the Lord their trust,”
“Many are the wonders you have done,”
“I delight in doing your will”—
which one do you most need to put on repeat this season, and why?
“Blessed is the one who makes the Lord their trust,”
“Many are the wonders you have done,”
“I delight in doing your will”—
which one do you most need to put on repeat this season, and why?
Sunday Dec 28, 2025
Sunday Dec 21, 2025
Sunday Dec 21, 2025
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?