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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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4 days ago
4 days ago
Mark 8:31-9:1
31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESV
31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESV
LESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite?
Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering.
Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you?
Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering.
Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure?
Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey.
Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance?
Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person:
- To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry.
- To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda.
- To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life.
Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why?
Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives:
- Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness.
- Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains.
- Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not.
Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life?
Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11).
Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?
Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite?
Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering.
Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you?
Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering.
Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure?
Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey.
Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance?
Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person:
- To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry.
- To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda.
- To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life.
Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why?
Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives:
- Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness.
- Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains.
- Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not.
Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life?
Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11).
Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?
Sunday May 17, 2026
Sunday May 17, 2026
Mark 8:22-30
22 And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus[c] laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”
27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.
22 And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus[c] laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”
27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.
- The Trap of "Snake Oil" and False Promises The history of "snake oil" reveals a pattern where human desperation for healing leads to exploitation by those promising instant, miraculous cures. Unlike these false promises, faith in Jesus is not a "magic tonic" for immediate relief of all earthly problems, but a commitment to a deeper restorative work.
- The Significance of the Two-Stage Miracle (Mark 8:22-26) In an unusual account, Jesus heals a blind man in stages, first restoring partial, blurry vision before providing total clarity. This intentional "two-stage" healing serves as a physical parable, illustrating that spiritual understanding and healing often happen gradually rather than all at once.
- Jesus Will Heal You, and His Timing is Better Jesus offers ultimate physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, yet He maintains authority over the timing and the journey. While we may desire instant transformation, the biblical concept of being "saved" refers both to our immediate forgiveness as well as a progressive process of growing in holiness and becoming more like Him over time.
- Living as a "Work in Progress" True spiritual growth requires admitting that we still have healing to do in our hearts and our misunderstandings of God. Because every believer is in a different stage of this process, we must extend the same patience and grace to others—and to ourselves—that Jesus showed His disciples.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker
Icebreaker
- Jeremy talked about the history of "snake oil" and other fake cures. What is the most "too good to be true" product or health trend you have ever seen advertised or perhaps even tried yourself?
Discussion Questions
- In the account from Mark 8:22-26, Jesus heals a blind man in two distinct stages rather than all at once. Why do you think Jesus might choose a gradual, progressive process for healing or spiritual growth in our lives today instead of providing an instant "fix"?
- The healing of the blind man suggests the disciples had "blurry" spiritual vision—requiring a long time together before Peter eventually realized He was the Christ. In what areas of your own faith do you feel like you are still moving from "blurry" vision to clarity?
- The sermon mentioned that while Jesus will heal us, "His timing is best". How can we maintain our trust in His goodness when we face a "no" to our prayers for immediate relief, similar to Paul’s experience with his "thorn in the flesh"?
Reflection Questions
- "Do you believe you still have some healing to do?". How does admitting that you are still a "work in progress" help you remain open to God's ongoing transformation in your heart?
- If a church is made up of hundreds of people who are all in different stages of a "messy" healing process, how should that reality change the way we extend grace and patience to one another during disagreements or personal failures?
- Sometimes we are hardest on ourselves, believing that areas of our lives that seem slow to heal are a sign that Jesus has forgotten us or abandoned us. When healing is slower than we'd like, how can we give ourselves grace?
Monday May 11, 2026
Monday May 11, 2026
Mark 8:1-21
1 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.” 4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?” 5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand men were present. And having sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side. 14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” 17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” NIV 84
1 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.” 4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?” 5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand men were present. And having sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side. 14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” 17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Faith Is More Than Admiration — It Is Trust: The tightrope illustration reminds us that it is easy to admire from the crowd, but much harder to trust personally when we are the ones “getting in the wheelbarrow.” The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles, but they still struggled to trust Him in their own moment of need.
Faith Is More Than Admiration — It Is Trust: The tightrope illustration reminds us that it is easy to admire from the crowd, but much harder to trust personally when we are the ones “getting in the wheelbarrow.” The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles, but they still struggled to trust Him in their own moment of need.
Compassion Is More Than Feeling — It Moves Us to Action: In both feedings, Jesus is deeply moved by the needs of the people. Compassion is not simply feeling bad for someone; it is allowing someone else’s need to move us toward action.Jesus cares about both spiritual hunger and physical hunger.
Jesus Provides More Than Enough: The crowds were not merely given a snack— both crowds “ate and were satisfied,” and both meals ended with leftovers. Jesus provides generously and completely.
Jesus’ Mission Includes Everyone: The feeding of the 5,000 primarily involved Jewish people; the feeding of the 4,000 occurred in Gentile territory. Together, these miracles reveal that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the nations.
The "One Loaf" Paradox: The disciples worried about having only one loaf of bread while the "Bread of Life" was sitting in the boat with them. We often obsess over our limited resources (the bread) while ignoring the presence of the Provider. If Jesus is in the boat, you already have more than enough.
Jesus’ Mission Includes Everyone: The feeding of the 5,000 primarily involved Jewish people; the feeding of the 4,000 occurred in Gentile territory. Together, these miracles reveal that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the nations.
The "One Loaf" Paradox: The disciples worried about having only one loaf of bread while the "Bread of Life" was sitting in the boat with them. We often obsess over our limited resources (the bread) while ignoring the presence of the Provider. If Jesus is in the boat, you already have more than enough.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. The disciples forgot previous miracles when facing a new personal challenge. What practices help you to remember God’s faithfulness during stressful seasons?
2. If "faith elicits compassion and compassion prompts action," how have you seen your own faith move you toward a specific action lately? What "gut-level" needs in your community is God pointing you toward?
3. The Greek word for "satisfied" in these stories describes being "stuffed" or "gorged" like after a Thanksgiving meal. Do you view your relationship with God more as a "light snack" to get you through the day, or as a source of total satisfaction?
4. Jesus warned about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. What attitudes, distractions, or influences today can slowly keep us from seeing Jesus clearly?
5. If Jesus is "in your boat," why does the "one loaf" (your limited finances, time, or energy) still cause you anxiety? How can we practically shift our focus from the scarcity of the loaf to the sufficiency of Christ this week?
1. The disciples forgot previous miracles when facing a new personal challenge. What practices help you to remember God’s faithfulness during stressful seasons?
2. If "faith elicits compassion and compassion prompts action," how have you seen your own faith move you toward a specific action lately? What "gut-level" needs in your community is God pointing you toward?
3. The Greek word for "satisfied" in these stories describes being "stuffed" or "gorged" like after a Thanksgiving meal. Do you view your relationship with God more as a "light snack" to get you through the day, or as a source of total satisfaction?
4. Jesus warned about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. What attitudes, distractions, or influences today can slowly keep us from seeing Jesus clearly?
5. If Jesus is "in your boat," why does the "one loaf" (your limited finances, time, or energy) still cause you anxiety? How can we practically shift our focus from the scarcity of the loaf to the sufficiency of Christ this week?
Sunday May 03, 2026
Sunday May 03, 2026
Mark 7:31-37
31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged him to place his hand on the man. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man's ears. Then he spit and touched the man's tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!"). 35 At this, the man's ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. "He has done everything well," they said. "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." NIV 84
31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged him to place his hand on the man. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man's ears. Then he spit and touched the man's tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!"). 35 At this, the man's ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. "He has done everything well," they said. "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The Isaiah Prophecy: Mark uses a specific, rare Greek word for "speech impediment" (Mark 7:32) that appears only one other time in the Greek Bible—Isaiah 35:6. This purposefully connects Jesus to the prophecy that when God comes to save His people, the "mute tongue will shout for joy."
Connections: The people in the Decapolis likely knew to bring their friend to Jesus because of the formerly demon-possessed man (from Mark 5) who went home and told everyone what the Lord had done. One person's testimony can pave the way for many others to find healing.
Jesus Meets Us Where We Are: By using physical touch and signs (fingers in ears, touching the tongue, looking to heaven, a deep sigh), Jesus communicated with the deaf man using "sign language." He meets us exactly where we are, but loves us too much to leave us there.
A Groan Of Compassion: Jesus’ "deep sigh" (v. 34) was a non-verbal expression of grief. It represents a "hybrid of frustration and sadness" over the brokenness of the world. As Christians, the Holy Spirit gives us the "gift of sighing"—the capacity to groan with compassion for the suffering around us.
The Isaiah Prophecy: Mark uses a specific, rare Greek word for "speech impediment" (Mark 7:32) that appears only one other time in the Greek Bible—Isaiah 35:6. This purposefully connects Jesus to the prophecy that when God comes to save His people, the "mute tongue will shout for joy."
Connections: The people in the Decapolis likely knew to bring their friend to Jesus because of the formerly demon-possessed man (from Mark 5) who went home and told everyone what the Lord had done. One person's testimony can pave the way for many others to find healing.
Jesus Meets Us Where We Are: By using physical touch and signs (fingers in ears, touching the tongue, looking to heaven, a deep sigh), Jesus communicated with the deaf man using "sign language." He meets us exactly where we are, but loves us too much to leave us there.
A Groan Of Compassion: Jesus’ "deep sigh" (v. 34) was a non-verbal expression of grief. It represents a "hybrid of frustration and sadness" over the brokenness of the world. As Christians, the Holy Spirit gives us the "gift of sighing"—the capacity to groan with compassion for the suffering around us.
A Package Deal: When Jesus speaks "Ephphatha" (Be Opened), it is a double miracle. He doesn't just open our ears to hear the Gospel; he loosens our tongues so we can speak plainly about his mercy. You cannot have one without the other.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Go back and read Isaiah 35. Does reading it again give you more insight into the interaction between Jesus and the deaf and mute man? How have you see glimpses of God transforming our sighing into singing?
2. Who first helped “bring you to Jesus”? Who is someone in your life right now that you could bring to Him? What is a practical step you could take this week toward this end?
3. Jesus used physical touch and signs to communicate with the man. How has God "spoken your language" - how have you experienced Jesus meeting you where you are?
4. Jesus sighed deeply when faced with this man's struggle. When you look at the "brokenness" in your own community or circle of influence, what specifically causes you to feel that same "groan of compassion"?
5. In what ways might you be spiritually “deaf” or “mute” right now? Do you need to hear God more clearly, or speak more boldly—or both? What would it look like for you to live out “Ephphatha” this week? How can you intentionally open your life to God’s voice and be more vocal about your faith?
1. Go back and read Isaiah 35. Does reading it again give you more insight into the interaction between Jesus and the deaf and mute man? How have you see glimpses of God transforming our sighing into singing?
2. Who first helped “bring you to Jesus”? Who is someone in your life right now that you could bring to Him? What is a practical step you could take this week toward this end?
3. Jesus used physical touch and signs to communicate with the man. How has God "spoken your language" - how have you experienced Jesus meeting you where you are?
4. Jesus sighed deeply when faced with this man's struggle. When you look at the "brokenness" in your own community or circle of influence, what specifically causes you to feel that same "groan of compassion"?
5. In what ways might you be spiritually “deaf” or “mute” right now? Do you need to hear God more clearly, or speak more boldly—or both? What would it look like for you to live out “Ephphatha” this week? How can you intentionally open your life to God’s voice and be more vocal about your faith?
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Mark 6:45-52
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. NIV 84
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. NIV 84
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever experienced - spiritual amnesia - where your past faith experiences don't automatically translate into present trust? Discuss with your group.
2. Which of the three actions encourages you most when in a time of suffering—that Jesus prays for you, sees you, or comes to you? Why?
1. Have you ever experienced - spiritual amnesia - where your past faith experiences don't automatically translate into present trust? Discuss with your group.
2. Which of the three actions encourages you most when in a time of suffering—that Jesus prays for you, sees you, or comes to you? Why?
3. Can you think of a time in your life when you felt terrified? Think of a specific example and share it with your group.
4. These three verses were shared as ways God speaks to us in our terrifying situations - Psalm 46:10, Matthew 6:25-33, 1 Peter 5:7 - how have you experienced God coming to you in your terrifying situation?
5. The sermon defines a hard heart as an issue of faith. Can you relate to believing, obeying, and even loving Jesus—but still struggling to trust Him fully?
5. The sermon defines a hard heart as an issue of faith. Can you relate to believing, obeying, and even loving Jesus—but still struggling to trust Him fully?
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Mark 7:1-30
1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written,
“‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me;
7 in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’
8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”
9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”
What Defiles a Person
14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.
1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written,
“‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me;
7 in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’
8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”
9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”
What Defiles a Person
14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.
LESSON NOTES
Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13)
Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13)
- The Conflict: Pharisees and teachers of the law criticize the disciples for eating with "unwashed hands"—a ritual tradition, not a command from God.
- The Absurdity: The Pharisees focused on hand-washing rituals even while witnessing Jesus perform miraculous healings.
- The Danger of "Corban": Jesus highlights how human traditions can actually be used to bypass God's commands, such as using religious dedication as an excuse to avoid caring for aging parents.
The Source of Defilement (Mark 7:14-23)
- Outer vs. Inner: Jesus teaches that nothing entering from the outside defiles a person; rather, defilement comes from what is already inside the heart.
- The Heart’s Inventory: Evil thoughts, greed, malice, and arrogance all originate within and are what truly make a person "unclean".
- The World's Unluckiest Bear: The story of the albino grizzly bear (and the fact that the story itself was a hoax) illustrates how easily we are fooled by outward appearances and how quickly we judge others based on surface-level information.
A Surprising Model of Faith (Mark 7:24-30)
- The Syrophoenician Woman: Outwardly, she was "unclean" by every cultural standard—a Gentile woman with a daughter possessed by an unclean spirit.
- The Contrast: While the "religiously perfect" Pharisees and the chosen disciples failed to understand Jesus, this "unclean" woman demonstrated profound faith and humility.
- The Result: She recognized Jesus' authority (calling him "Lord") and her daughter was healed because of her faith-filled response.
Application
- Avoid "Externalism": Be careful not to turn people into "issues" or "projects" based on their outward behavior.
- Hold Traditions Loosely: We must be willing to let Jesus' word contradict our habits and preferences.
- Practice Inner Formation:
- Confession: Engaging in the discipline of confessing sins to one another to bring the heart into the light.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Intentional practices like prayer to shape our inner selves.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon’s opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese’s Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something?
Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon’s opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese’s Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something?
Discussion Questions:
- Tradition vs. Truth: Jesus used the example of "Corban" to show how religious traditions can actually help us avoid doing what God truly wants. Can you think of modern "traditions" or "religious checklists" that might accidentally give us an excuse to avoid the harder work of loving others or obeying God?
- The "Joey the Bear" Reflection: Jeremy shared that many people feel judgmental toward the conservationists in the bear story until they realize the story itself is a hoax. How does this "double-blind" story challenge the way you view or judge the "Pharisees" in your own life?
- The Heart of the Matter: Jesus lists several "evils" that come from within the heart (greed, malice, slander, arrogance, etc.). Why is it often easier for us to focus on "clean hands" (outward behavior and rituals) than to deal with these internal heart issues?
- Learning from the "Outsider": The Syrophoenician woman understood Jesus better than his own disciples did at that moment. What does her interaction with Jesus teach us about how we should approach God when we feel "unclean" or unworthy?
- Practical Steps: The lesson suggested confession to others as a way to "cut past the external". What makes the idea of confessing struggles to another person so intimidating, and how might it lead to the "transformed heart" Jesus is looking for?
Monday Apr 13, 2026
Monday Apr 13, 2026
Mark 6:7-13
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff - no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. NIV 84
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff - no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Hospitality as "Making Room for Jesus": The lesson defines hospitality not just as being nice, but as actively making space in our lives for others as an expression of welcoming Christ himself.
Think Subtraction, Not Addition: Spiritual growth doesn't come from cramming more into an already full life - it comes from removing what crowds out Jesus.
Having a Front Row Seat: Jesus instructed the disciples to take only the bare minimum on their mission—no food, bag, money, or extra clothing—to force a total reliance on the work of God.
Hospitality or Hostility: Both words share the same root meaning "stranger." In the Kingdom of God, there is no middle ground; we either move toward others with openness (hospitality) or away from them in subtle rejection (hostility).
Repentance as a Hospitable Act: True repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is the act of "unlocking the door" to your heart and handing Jesus the key.
Hospitality as "Making Room for Jesus": The lesson defines hospitality not just as being nice, but as actively making space in our lives for others as an expression of welcoming Christ himself.
Think Subtraction, Not Addition: Spiritual growth doesn't come from cramming more into an already full life - it comes from removing what crowds out Jesus.
Having a Front Row Seat: Jesus instructed the disciples to take only the bare minimum on their mission—no food, bag, money, or extra clothing—to force a total reliance on the work of God.
Hospitality or Hostility: Both words share the same root meaning "stranger." In the Kingdom of God, there is no middle ground; we either move toward others with openness (hospitality) or away from them in subtle rejection (hostility).
Repentance as a Hospitable Act: True repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is the act of "unlocking the door" to your heart and handing Jesus the key.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. The sermon began with a story of generous hospitality. Do you have a similar story of generous hospitality that you could share with the group?
2. Where in your life do you need to “think subtraction”? What is one specific thing you could remove this week to create more space for Jesus?
1. The sermon began with a story of generous hospitality. Do you have a similar story of generous hospitality that you could share with the group?
2. Where in your life do you need to “think subtraction”? What is one specific thing you could remove this week to create more space for Jesus?
3. What does practicing hospitality look like for you today? How can you make room for others in your home, schedule, finances, or daily interactions?
4. Chris Hodges shares "I had invited God to come inside but I had left the door locked." Have you ever felt this way? Do you have a similar story of moving from sorrow to surrender?
Sunday Apr 05, 2026
Sunday Apr 05, 2026
Mark 16:1-8
1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance to the tomb? 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe siting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 "Don't be alarmed," he said, "You are looking for Jesus of Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. NIV 84
1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance to the tomb? 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe siting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 "Don't be alarmed," he said, "You are looking for Jesus of Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The Resurrection Produces “Fearful Joy” The women experienced both fear and joy at the same time—an awe-filled response to encountering the power of God. The resurrection isn’t casual news; it shakes us and fills us with wonder.
The Empty Tomb Invites Investigation The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let witnesses in. Christianity is rooted in real history and eyewitness testimony, inviting us to examine the evidence.
“He Has Risen” Demands a Response These three words are the most hopeful in history—and impossible to ignore. We may accept or reject them, but we cannot remain neutral.
Their Joy Was Greater Than Their Fear The women initially fled in fear, but ultimately ran to tell others because their joy was greater than their fear. Sharing the gospel flows from a heart captivated by joy.
The Resurrection Is Personal (“And Peter…”) Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s an invitation to restoration. No failure disqualifies us; the risen Christ still calls and embraces individuals by name.
The Resurrection Produces “Fearful Joy” The women experienced both fear and joy at the same time—an awe-filled response to encountering the power of God. The resurrection isn’t casual news; it shakes us and fills us with wonder.
The Empty Tomb Invites Investigation The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let witnesses in. Christianity is rooted in real history and eyewitness testimony, inviting us to examine the evidence.
“He Has Risen” Demands a Response These three words are the most hopeful in history—and impossible to ignore. We may accept or reject them, but we cannot remain neutral.
Their Joy Was Greater Than Their Fear The women initially fled in fear, but ultimately ran to tell others because their joy was greater than their fear. Sharing the gospel flows from a heart captivated by joy.
The Resurrection Is Personal (“And Peter…”) Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s an invitation to restoration. No failure disqualifies us; the risen Christ still calls and embraces individuals by name.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. In verse 8, Mark describes the women as being both "trembling and bewildered." Have you ever had a "fearful joy" moment in your walk with God where you were simultaneously awestruck by His power and overjoyed by His grace?
2. The sermon distinguished between three responses to the resurrection - between being convinced of the evidence (mind), convicted by the exclamation (heart), and converted through an encounter (relationship). Which of the three responses resonated with you the most?
3. The angel singled out Peter for restoration. Do you remember the moment when you realized that Jesus rose from the dead even to restore you and embrace you as one of His disciples? Share with the group your "and Peter" moment.
4. The women initially said nothing because they were afraid. What are the "fears" (social, personal, intellectual) that most often keep us from sharing the "joy" of the gospel with others today?
1. In verse 8, Mark describes the women as being both "trembling and bewildered." Have you ever had a "fearful joy" moment in your walk with God where you were simultaneously awestruck by His power and overjoyed by His grace?
2. The sermon distinguished between three responses to the resurrection - between being convinced of the evidence (mind), convicted by the exclamation (heart), and converted through an encounter (relationship). Which of the three responses resonated with you the most?
3. The angel singled out Peter for restoration. Do you remember the moment when you realized that Jesus rose from the dead even to restore you and embrace you as one of His disciples? Share with the group your "and Peter" moment.
4. The women initially said nothing because they were afraid. What are the "fears" (social, personal, intellectual) that most often keep us from sharing the "joy" of the gospel with others today?
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Monday Mar 30, 2026
PASSION WEEK READING GUIDE
Palm Sunday - Mark 11:1-11
Monday - Mark 11:12-19
Tuesday - Mark 11:20-13:37
Wednesday - Mark 14:1-11
Thursday - Mark 14:12-72
Good Friday - Mark 15:1-15:42
Saturday - Mark 15:42-47
Easter Sunday - Mark 16:1-8
Palm Sunday - Mark 11:1-11
Monday - Mark 11:12-19
Tuesday - Mark 11:20-13:37
Wednesday - Mark 14:1-11
Thursday - Mark 14:12-72
Good Friday - Mark 15:1-15:42
Saturday - Mark 15:42-47
Easter Sunday - Mark 16:1-8
Mark 11:1-11
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, "What are you doing, untying that colt?" 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! " "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. NIV 84
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, "What are you doing, untying that colt?" 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! " "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
There's no doubt, the secret's out: After keeping His identity hidden throughout much of Mark, Jesus now deliberately goes public as the Messiah. Palm Sunday is not spontaneous—it is a carefully instructed revelation of His identity.
Faithful obedience goes beyond what makes sense: The disciples obeyed instructions that likely felt confusing and uncomfortable. True allegiance to Jesus often requires trust before understanding.
There's no doubt, the secret's out: After keeping His identity hidden throughout much of Mark, Jesus now deliberately goes public as the Messiah. Palm Sunday is not spontaneous—it is a carefully instructed revelation of His identity.
Faithful obedience goes beyond what makes sense: The disciples obeyed instructions that likely felt confusing and uncomfortable. True allegiance to Jesus often requires trust before understanding.
Jesus is not just worthy of worship—He is worthy of royal worship: The crowd’s actions (cloaks, branches, shouts) were not casual—they were fit for a king. Allegiance to Jesus means honoring Him as King over every area of life.
Genuine allegiance is revealed in the day to day: The crowd celebrated on Sunday but disappeared by the end of the day. In contrast, true disciples kept following. Allegiance means following Jesus in the day to day.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Can you think of a time when God called you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What helped (or hindered) your willingness to obey?
1. Can you think of a time when God called you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What helped (or hindered) your willingness to obey?
2. What are some practical ways you can honor Jesus as King in our daily decisions this week (finances, time, relationships, habits)?
3. What does it look like for you personally to follow Jesus in the “in-between” days—not just on Sundays or big spiritual moments? What tends to pull you away from following Jesus consistently during the week? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that?
4. Which of the three—faithful obedience, royal worship, or daily discipleship—resonated with you the most when it comes to understanding allegiance? Which one is most challenging, and why?
3. What does it look like for you personally to follow Jesus in the “in-between” days—not just on Sundays or big spiritual moments? What tends to pull you away from following Jesus consistently during the week? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that?
4. Which of the three—faithful obedience, royal worship, or daily discipleship—resonated with you the most when it comes to understanding allegiance? Which one is most challenging, and why?
Sunday Mar 22, 2026