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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
MARK 6:1-6
1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that even he does miracles! 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their lack of faith. NIV 84
1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that even he does miracles! 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their lack of faith. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The people of Nazareth were amazed at Jesus’ words and works, yet their familiarity with Him prevented them from honoring Him. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as honoring Him. Familiarity with Jesus can either deepen worship or breed indifference.
The people were “blown away” (v. 2), but amazement alone did not lead to faith. Being impressed by Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him.
The Gospel Offends Before It Heals. The people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense because they were offended by Jesus’ ordinary background. The gospel offends because it confronts pride, exposes sin, and calls for repentance.
Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith (v. 6). Faith (pistis) is more than mental agreement—it is faithful obedience and allegiance. The centurion in Luke 7 understood authority and responded with submission. The people of Nazareth understood Jesus’ background but refused allegiance. The measure of faith is not how long we’ve known Jesus, but how fully we obey Him.
The people of Nazareth were amazed at Jesus’ words and works, yet their familiarity with Him prevented them from honoring Him. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as honoring Him. Familiarity with Jesus can either deepen worship or breed indifference.
The people were “blown away” (v. 2), but amazement alone did not lead to faith. Being impressed by Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him.
The Gospel Offends Before It Heals. The people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense because they were offended by Jesus’ ordinary background. The gospel offends because it confronts pride, exposes sin, and calls for repentance.
Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith (v. 6). Faith (pistis) is more than mental agreement—it is faithful obedience and allegiance. The centurion in Luke 7 understood authority and responded with submission. The people of Nazareth understood Jesus’ background but refused allegiance. The measure of faith is not how long we’ve known Jesus, but how fully we obey Him.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Are you still amazed at His grace? When was the last time you felt genuinely overwhelmed by the grace of Jesus? Has “Amazing Grace” become overly familiar in your spiritual life? What would it look like to rediscover its wonder?
1. Are you still amazed at His grace? When was the last time you felt genuinely overwhelmed by the grace of Jesus? Has “Amazing Grace” become overly familiar in your spiritual life? What would it look like to rediscover its wonder?
2. Are you still affected by His gospel? Which parts of the gospel message challenge or confront you most right now? Why do you think the people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense? In what ways do people today admire Jesus but resist surrendering to Him?
3. Are you still allegiant to His glory? Where might there be a gap between what you know about Jesus and how you follow Him? If faith means allegiance, what does that look like in daily life (home, work, relationships, decision-making)? What is one area of clear obedience God may be calling you to right now?
3. Are you still allegiant to His glory? Where might there be a gap between what you know about Jesus and how you follow Him? If faith means allegiance, what does that look like in daily life (home, work, relationships, decision-making)? What is one area of clear obedience God may be calling you to right now?
Tuesday Feb 24, 2026
Tuesday Feb 24, 2026
Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Think about your own life. Where is there a gap between the allegiance you profess — to Christ, to your family, to your community — and the allegiance you actually demonstrate through your actions? What would it look like to close that gap in one specific area this week?
2. What is one "good thing" in your current season of life that may actually be functioning as a weight — pulling your attention, energy, or time away from your formation as a follower of Jesus? What would it require, practically, to set it aside — and what's making that feel difficult?
3. Do you currently have someone in your life who functions as a James 5:16 person — someone who knows your struggles, asks hard questions, and loves you enough to hold you accountable without judgment? If not, what has kept you from pursuing that kind of relationship, and what would a first step toward it look like for you?
4. Ephesians 2:10 says you were created for good works that God prepared specifically for you beforehand. Given where God has actually positioned you right now — your workplace, your neighborhood, your family, your stage of life — what do you think one of those prepared good works might be? What would it look like to practice faithful obedience in that one place this week?
Sunday Feb 15, 2026
Sunday Feb 15, 2026
PSALM 44
For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A maskil.
1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago. 2 With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish. 3 It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them. 4 You are my King and my God, who decrees victories for Jacob. 5 Through you we push back our enemies; through your name we trample our foes. 6 I do not trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; 7 but you give us victory over our enemies, you put put our adversaries to shame. 8 In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.
9 But now you have rejected and humbled us; you no longer go out with your armies. 10 You made us retreat before the enemy, and our adversaries have plundered us. 11 You gave us up to be devoured like sheep and have scattered us among the nations. 12 You sold your people for a pittance, gaining nothing from their sale. 13 You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, the scorn and derision of those around us. 14 You made us a byword among the nations ; the peoples shake their heads at us. 15 My disgrace is before me all day long, and my face is covered with shame 16 at the taunts of those who reproach and revile me, because of the enemy, who is bent on revenge. 17 All this happened to us, though we had not forgotten you or been false to your covenant, 18 Our hearts had not turned back; our feet had not strayed from your path. 19 But you crushed us and made us a haunt for jackals and covered us over with deep darkness. 20 If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, 21 would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?
22 Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. 23 Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. 24 Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? 25 We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. 26 Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love. NIV 84
For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. A maskil.
1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago. 2 With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish. 3 It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them. 4 You are my King and my God, who decrees victories for Jacob. 5 Through you we push back our enemies; through your name we trample our foes. 6 I do not trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; 7 but you give us victory over our enemies, you put put our adversaries to shame. 8 In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever.
9 But now you have rejected and humbled us; you no longer go out with your armies. 10 You made us retreat before the enemy, and our adversaries have plundered us. 11 You gave us up to be devoured like sheep and have scattered us among the nations. 12 You sold your people for a pittance, gaining nothing from their sale. 13 You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, the scorn and derision of those around us. 14 You made us a byword among the nations ; the peoples shake their heads at us. 15 My disgrace is before me all day long, and my face is covered with shame 16 at the taunts of those who reproach and revile me, because of the enemy, who is bent on revenge. 17 All this happened to us, though we had not forgotten you or been false to your covenant, 18 Our hearts had not turned back; our feet had not strayed from your path. 19 But you crushed us and made us a haunt for jackals and covered us over with deep darkness. 20 If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, 21 would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?
22 Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. 23 Awake, O Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. 24 Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? 25 We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. 26 Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Praise Is a Process
Psalm 44:1–8 reminds us that praise is the fruit of a process. We remember God in the past, trust Him in the present, and praise Him in the future. Skipping remembering and trusting leads to just singing rather than genuine praise.
Inherited Belief Must Become Personal Allegiance
“Their faith” must become “my faith.” The psalmist moves from “our fathers told us” (v.1) to “You are my King and my God” (v.4). Spiritual maturity happens when we add our signature to the story — when God becomes personally trusted in the present.
When Theology Doesn’t Seem to Work
The turning point — “But now” (v.9) — captures the tension of undeserved suffering. The people are experiencing the curses of disobedience while claiming covenant faithfulness. Psalm 44 gives language to that painful question: What do we do when our experience contradicts our expectations and explanations?
God Invites Honest Protest
Verses 9–21 model bold, uncensored prayer. He protests. He wrestles. He brings confusion to God rather than away from Him. Faith is not pretending everything is fine — it is bringing everything honestly before the Lord.
Hesed Has the Final Word
The psalm ends with one emphatic word: hesed — unfailing, covenant love. Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 in Romans 8 to show that even unexplained suffering cannot separate us from Christ’s love. When answers fail, God’s steadfast love remains. His hesed is the trump card.
Praise Is a Process
Psalm 44:1–8 reminds us that praise is the fruit of a process. We remember God in the past, trust Him in the present, and praise Him in the future. Skipping remembering and trusting leads to just singing rather than genuine praise.
Inherited Belief Must Become Personal Allegiance
“Their faith” must become “my faith.” The psalmist moves from “our fathers told us” (v.1) to “You are my King and my God” (v.4). Spiritual maturity happens when we add our signature to the story — when God becomes personally trusted in the present.
When Theology Doesn’t Seem to Work
The turning point — “But now” (v.9) — captures the tension of undeserved suffering. The people are experiencing the curses of disobedience while claiming covenant faithfulness. Psalm 44 gives language to that painful question: What do we do when our experience contradicts our expectations and explanations?
God Invites Honest Protest
Verses 9–21 model bold, uncensored prayer. He protests. He wrestles. He brings confusion to God rather than away from Him. Faith is not pretending everything is fine — it is bringing everything honestly before the Lord.
Hesed Has the Final Word
The psalm ends with one emphatic word: hesed — unfailing, covenant love. Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 in Romans 8 to show that even unexplained suffering cannot separate us from Christ’s love. When answers fail, God’s steadfast love remains. His hesed is the trump card.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What are specific ways you intentionally “remember” what God has done? How does remembering strengthen your faith during difficult seasons?
1. What are specific ways you intentionally “remember” what God has done? How does remembering strengthen your faith during difficult seasons?
2. When did your faith move from “theirs” (family, church, tradition) to “mine”?
What helps you continue making that transition daily?
What helps you continue making that transition daily?
3. Have you experienced a “But now” season — where your experience seemed to contradict your expectations and explanations? How did you respond?
4. Why do you think many Christians struggle to bring protests to God? What would it look like this week to pray with more honesty?
5. When answers are unclear, what does it practically mean to “cling to His unfailing love”? How does Romans 8:35–39 strengthen your confidence during hardship?
Sunday Feb 08, 2026
Sunday Feb 08, 2026
PSALM 42-43
For the director of music. A maskil of the Sons of Korah.
1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon - from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of the waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. 8 By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is within me - a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I say to God my Rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?" 10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
1 Vindicate me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from deceitful and wicked men. 2 You are God my stronghold, why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? 3 Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. NIV 84
For the director of music. A maskil of the Sons of Korah.
1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 4 These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon - from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of the waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. 8 By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is within me - a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I say to God my Rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?" 10 My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?" 11 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
1 Vindicate me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from deceitful and wicked men. 2 You are God my stronghold, why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? 3 Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. 5 Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
We were created with a deep need to belong.
Being made in the image of a relational God means we are wired for connection with Him and with one another.
We were created with a deep need to belong.
Being made in the image of a relational God means we are wired for connection with Him and with one another.
To be seen is a sacred longing.
The psalmist’s cry—“When can I go and be seen by God?”—reveals a soul aching for God’s attentive presence. Spiritual thirst is often painful, not pleasant.
The psalmist’s cry—“When can I go and be seen by God?”—reveals a soul aching for God’s attentive presence. Spiritual thirst is often painful, not pleasant.
God’s presence is not distant or indifferent.
Repeatedly, Scripture reminds us that God sees His people. In Christ and through the Spirit, God says again and again, “I see you, and I am with you.”
Repeatedly, Scripture reminds us that God sees His people. In Christ and through the Spirit, God says again and again, “I see you, and I am with you.”
We were made to be fully known and truly loved.
The loss the psalmist feels is not just about place, but about people—being known in the worshiping community. True belonging reflects God’s love: knowing us completely and loving us faithfully.
The loss the psalmist feels is not just about place, but about people—being known in the worshiping community. True belonging reflects God’s love: knowing us completely and loving us faithfully.
The cross is the ultimate invitation to belong.
At the cross, exclusion ends. Jesus’ outstretched arms declare that no one is too far away, too broken, or too unworthy to belong to the family of God.
At the cross, exclusion ends. Jesus’ outstretched arms declare that no one is too far away, too broken, or too unworthy to belong to the family of God.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever felt “unseen” by God? The psalmist longs to be seen by God. Have you experienced a season of longing and thirsting to be seen by God?
2. Who knows you well outside of your immediate family—and chooses to love you anyway? If that list feels short, what might be holding you back from deeper relationships?
3. How can our church fight loneliness intentionally? The sermon highlighted loneliness as a public health crisis. What are practical ways our church or small group can become a place where people are fully known and truly loved?
4. How does the cross redefine belonging for you? If the cross is the ultimate symbol of belonging, how should that shape the way we see ourselves—and the way we welcome others who feel excluded or overlooked?
1. Have you ever felt “unseen” by God? The psalmist longs to be seen by God. Have you experienced a season of longing and thirsting to be seen by God?
2. Who knows you well outside of your immediate family—and chooses to love you anyway? If that list feels short, what might be holding you back from deeper relationships?
3. How can our church fight loneliness intentionally? The sermon highlighted loneliness as a public health crisis. What are practical ways our church or small group can become a place where people are fully known and truly loved?
4. How does the cross redefine belonging for you? If the cross is the ultimate symbol of belonging, how should that shape the way we see ourselves—and the way we welcome others who feel excluded or overlooked?
Sunday Jan 25, 2026
Sunday Jan 25, 2026
PSALM 42
1
As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
2
My soul thirsts for God, for the living
God. When can I go and meet with
God?
3
My tears have been my food day and
night, while men say to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"
4
These things I remember as I pour out
my soul: how I used to go with the
multitude, leading the procession to the
house of God, with shouts of joy and
thanksgiving among the festive throng.
5
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and
6
my God. My soul is downcast within
me; therefore I will remember you from
the land of the Jordan, the heights of
Hermon-from Mount Mizar.
7
Deep calls to deep in the roar of your
waterfalls; all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.
8
By day the Lord directs his love, at
night his song is with me- a prayer to the
God of my life.
9
I say to God my Rock, "Why have you
forgotten me? Why must I go about
mourning, oppressed by the enemy?"
10
My bones suffer mortal agony as my
foes taunt me, saying to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"
11
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and my God.
PSALM 43
1
Vindicate me, O God, and plead my
cause against an ungodly nation; rescue
me from deceitful and wicked men.
2
You are God my stronghold. Why have
you rejected me? Why must I go about
mourning, oppressed by the enemy?
3
Send forth your light and your truth, let
them guide me; let them bring me to
your holy mountain, to the place where
you dwell.
4
Then will I go to the altar of God, to
God, my joy and my delight. I will praise
you with the harp, O God, my God.
5
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my
Savior and my God.
Sunday Jan 18, 2026
Sunday Jan 18, 2026
MATTHEW 6:9-13
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. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. 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. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. NIV 84
PRAYER GUIDE
Opening Question: Which area of prayer resonated most with you this morning and why? Spend time sharing with your group.
Pray through these areas of the Lord's Prayer with your group.
Here is a guide:
1. Our Father in heaven – Connection
Thank God for being a loving, present Father.
Remember prayer is relational, not transactional.
Opening Question: Which area of prayer resonated most with you this morning and why? Spend time sharing with your group.
Pray through these areas of the Lord's Prayer with your group.
Here is a guide:
1. Our Father in heaven – Connection
Thank God for being a loving, present Father.
Remember prayer is relational, not transactional.
2. Hallowed be your name – Worship
Name attributes of God (holy, faithful, merciful, just).
Name attributes of God (holy, faithful, merciful, just).
3. Your kingdom come, your will be done – Surrender
Silently offer areas of life where they need God’s guidance.
One person may pray aloud for God’s will to be done in the group, church, or community.
4. Give us today our daily bread – Dependence
Encourage sharing specific needs (physical, emotional, spiritual).
Pray briefly for each request, trusting God for today—not tomorrow.
5. Forgive us…as we forgive – Restoration
Allow quiet reflection for confession and forgiveness.
Close this portion with a spoken prayer of gratitude for God’s grace.
Silently offer areas of life where they need God’s guidance.
One person may pray aloud for God’s will to be done in the group, church, or community.
4. Give us today our daily bread – Dependence
Encourage sharing specific needs (physical, emotional, spiritual).
Pray briefly for each request, trusting God for today—not tomorrow.
5. Forgive us…as we forgive – Restoration
Allow quiet reflection for confession and forgiveness.
Close this portion with a spoken prayer of gratitude for God’s grace.
6. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil – Protection
Pray for strength, wisdom, and spiritual protection.
Pray for strength, wisdom, and spiritual protection.
Sunday Jan 11, 2026
Sunday Jan 11, 2026
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?