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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
Episodes
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
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
MARK 12:41-44
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on." NIV
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on." NIV
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Where do you see the benefits of belonging to this church family? What ministries at Southside are most important to you?
2 Why do we shy away from topics like hell and money when Jesus teaches about them so often?
3 Read Mark 12:41-44. What is your initial impression of what Jesus does at the temple? Why did he do this? What are we to learn? How are we to respond? What part of the four verses makes you uncomfortable?
4 "How we handle money is a litmus test of our true character." What do you think about that statement?
5 Why do you give what you give? Where have you received guidance from God's Word regarding giving to your church family? What direction have you followed? What do you think about the principle of the tithe?
6 Where have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement: "It is more blessed to give than to receive"? How would you describe your level of intention when it comes to giving money to your church family? What are you going to do with this brief, uncomfortable, challenging moment in Jesus' ministry?
1 Where do you see the benefits of belonging to this church family? What ministries at Southside are most important to you?
2 Why do we shy away from topics like hell and money when Jesus teaches about them so often?
3 Read Mark 12:41-44. What is your initial impression of what Jesus does at the temple? Why did he do this? What are we to learn? How are we to respond? What part of the four verses makes you uncomfortable?
4 "How we handle money is a litmus test of our true character." What do you think about that statement?
5 Why do you give what you give? Where have you received guidance from God's Word regarding giving to your church family? What direction have you followed? What do you think about the principle of the tithe?
6 Where have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement: "It is more blessed to give than to receive"? How would you describe your level of intention when it comes to giving money to your church family? What are you going to do with this brief, uncomfortable, challenging moment in Jesus' ministry?
Monday Mar 02, 2026
Monday Mar 02, 2026
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?