Weekend Sermons Podcast

Preaching Point: God’s displeasure with word manipulation should cause you to think carefully before making frivolous promises you are not committed to keeping. Main Text: Matthew 5:33–37 33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.Teaching Points:Recognize Every Commitment is Made in God’s Presence vv33-36Communicate Simply and Sincerely v37aDistance Yourself from Satanic Practices v37bApplication Questions:What is one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon?Read Psalm 139:1–12 and Matthew 12:36–37. How should recognizing God’s omnipresence cause you to increase the care you put into making commitments and promises that would please God?What are some examples of subtle verbal manipulations that can be utilized to gain the upper hand in relationships with others?Why are these examples counter to gospel-centered relationships?Read Genesis 3:1–6. How are these examples more akin to what Satan tries to do to people than what Christians should do?Read Philippians 2:3. How does counting others as more important than yourself change the way you communicate with them, especially in regard to making promises? Read James 5:12 and 1 Peter 3:10. What long-term benefits are there in communicating simply and sincerely in contrast to communicating in a way that gives you loopholes to get out of a commitment?  What temptations exist that might motivate you to use ambiguous statements that do not clearly state your level of commitment to someone or something?How do these kinds of ambiguous or subtle evasive statements harm the progression of otherwise healthy, godly relationships? What are some ways you can keep your communications with others simple and sincere in a way that honors God and others?How can you utilize these principles in the area of an invitation to an event, party, or hang out?How about in a larger commitment like weekly one-on-one discipleship?

Preaching Point: A personal commitment to God’s original intent for marriage is a necessary component of faithfully following Jesus.Main Text: Matthew 5:31–32 31Teaching Points:Recover God’s Permanent Design for MarriageHonor Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church Tenaciously Guard Your Marriage CovenantApplication Questions:Write down one observation or application you made from this week’s sermon. Read Malachi 2:14-16 and Matthew 19:3–8. Throughout history, man has done his best to lower the standard of marriage and create an abundance of loopholes to dissolve the marriage covenant. How does a biblical view of God’s permanent design for marriage challenge the prevailing idea of divorce and remarriage? Read Ezekiel 11:19–20. How does recognizing that sinful hearts are at the bottom of every divorce give genuine hope that as the heart is redeemed so the marriage can be redeemed?Read Ephesians 5:22–33 and 2 Corinthians 11:2–3. What changes in your commitment to the marriage covenant once you recognize that our earthly marriage is designed to reflect Jesus’ permanent love for the church and the church’s eternal commitment and obedience to Jesus?   Read Genesis 2:18–25 and Hebrews 13:4. What are some priority shifts you can make to better guard and honor your marriage?

Preaching Point: Your struggle with lust will often require the Spirit-empowered employment of extreme measures that are well worth the sacrifice and energy you expend to kill your sin.Main Text: Matthew 5:27–30 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.​​Teaching Points:Increase Your Sensitivity Toward the Prevalence of Adultery vv27-28Trust in Christ as Your Only Solution for Purity v28Employ Extreme Measures to Deal with Lust vv29-30Application Questions:Write down one helpful observation or application you made from this week’s sermon.Read Matthew 5:27-28. How does Jesus’ words cause you to reconsider what God views as sinful when it comes to lust? How does your view on lust need to change to align with Jesus?How does an accurate view of lust help you take captive your thoughts and intentions? Read Ezekiel 36:25–27. Why is a new heart through the work of the Holy Spirit your only hope for any lasting solution for purity?If you are a Christians, how have you experienced the work of the Holy Spirit in your life when it comes to empowering you to overcome sin?Read Proverbs 6:25–29 and Colossians 3:5–6. As a Christian, in what ways can you admit to not taking the task of killing your lust as seriously as Jesus commands? What are practical tools you can employ in your fight against lust?Read Hebrews 12:4. What sacrifices do you need to make in your battle against lust? How can you help others in their struggle with lust?

Preaching Point: If we want to sufficiently deal with the hatred in our hearts we must trust in the righteousness of Christ who cleanses us from our guilt and and empowers us to love others.Main Text: Matthew 5:21–26Teaching Points:Abhor Your Unrighteous Anger (vv. 21-22)Pursue Proper Worship Through Your Reconciliation with Others (vv. 23-24)Reconcile with Others Now (vv. 25-26)Application Questions:Write down one helpful observation or application from this week’s sermon. Read Genesis 9:6, Exodus 21:14 & Numbers 35:30-34. Why does God deal with murder so severely? Read 1 John 3:15 & Matthew 5:22. Since God considers our anger toward someone else murder, in what specific ways do you need to address your anger toward others?  Read Proverbs 29:11 & 22, Ecclesiastes 7:9, & James 1:19-22. How do the truths in these verses challenge your outlook on anger? Read Isaiah 1:11-17, Psalm 66:18 & Psalm 51:16–17. How do you need to approach corporate and individual worship differently in light of these verses?   Read Ephesians 4:31-32, Colossians 3:12-14, & Romans 12:17-21. What are the tools given to Christians to help them reconcile with others? Which tools have you been neglecting to use? Read Matthew 5:23-26 & John 13:34-35. Why does our reconciliation with others bring God glory?  If there is anyone in this church you need to reconcile with, make it a point to reach out this week and coordinate a time to meet with them. Use the passages in Question 5 to help you reconcile with this person. If you have questions about what to do, talk with your LifeGroup leader or one of the pastors.

Preaching Point: Christ’s righteousness produces obedience from the inside out concerning all that Jesus commands and even comes with a warning to those who reject absolute obedience to the commands of Christ.Main Text: Matthew 5:17–20Teaching Points:Eradicate Legalistic Ideas of Righteousness V20Fear Invalidating Any of Jesus’ Commands V19aDesire an Honorable Position in God’s Kingdom V19bApplication Questions:Write down one helpful observation or application from this week’s sermon. Read Romans 3:20 and Romans Romans 10:4. How does righteousness that is acceptable to God demolish any feeble attempt to gain favor from God outside of trusting in Jesus for your right standing with God? Read Matthew 5:19 and Matthew 28:18–20 (emphasis on v20). What are some consequences if Christians do not have a healthy fear of misrepresenting Jesus’ teaching? Read Matthew 23:23–24. In what ways would the Pharisees have benefited if they had a healthy fear of invalidating God’s commands? What can you do to keep from falling into the temptation of nullifying Jesus’ commands?Read 2 Corinthians 5:10 and Matthew 19:28–30. Scripture is clear that honor in the Kingdom of Heaven has varying degrees based on how one responds to God’s written revelation. With that in mind:Why is desiring an honorable position in God’s Kingdom a good thing? How does this truth change how you see your daily life as consequential to eternity?Read Matthew 20:20–28. How can you keep from making the same mistake the disciples did in thinking you could even attempt to manipulate your way into an honorable position in Christ’s coming Kingdom?

Preaching Point: A proper understanding of Jesus' relationship to the Law is crucial for believers to grasp the significance of the work of Christ and the usefulness of the whole Bible in the church's life.Main Text: Matthew 5:17–18 17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.Teaching Points:Reevaluate Your View of the Old Testament v17aElevate Your View of Jesus v17bApply all Scripture in Light of Jesus v18Application QuestionsWhat is one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon?Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. In light of Jesus’ own admission on the significance of the Old Testament (Law), how are you reevaluating or building on your own view of the significance of the Old Testament (Law) in your life? Read Colossians 1:15–20 and Philippians 2:9–11. What changes can you make in how you think about Jesus that will help you elevate your view of Jesus in light of what Scripture teaches about Him? Read Colossians 2:16–17 and Hebrews 10:1. How do these verses and Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:17–18 cultivate the expectation that learning the Old Testament (law) is beneficial to grow in your faith in Jesus? Why is learning about the “shadow” and the “Copy” of the ultimate realities found in Jesus from the Old Testament (Law) significant for providing confidence and assurance in God’s never changing plan throughout history to make Jesus the center of worship? 

Preaching Point: In every situation, believers are responsible for visibly standing out through their good works resulting in the world seeing our actions and giving glory to God.Main Text: Matthew 5:13–16Teaching Points:Provide a Distinct Influence to the World v13Produce a Noticeable Presence vv14-16aProperly Understand the Purpose of Good Works v16bApplication Questions:What is one observation or application you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?Read 2 Corinthians 2:14–16 and Colossians 4:5-6. Whether your life serves to prevent or slow the decay of others or to add a distinct biblical flavor in the world, how do both of these results of “being salt” point people to their need for Christ? Read Ephesians 5:8-11 and Philippians 2:14-16. Why is the sentiment that “Christians can live in the background of the world and not attract attention“ a non biblical notion? What area of influence do you have where you can make the most noticeable presence for the glory of God and the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ? Read 1 Peter 2:11–16 and Colossians 3:17. How do these verses along with Matthew 5:13-16 show you that good works, when understood correctly, are not merely an optional add on to your faith, but a necessary part of faithfully following Jesus? Read Matthew 6:1. Compare this verse to Matthew 5:16. How can you ensure that your good works are done to glorify God and not to esteem yourself in the sight of others? 

Title: Happy Are the PersecutedPreaching Point: We need to rejoice in every suffering associated with our connection to Christ, knowing that our persecution is proof of our heavenly citizenship and that all our suffering for Christ comes with the promise of great reward in heaven.Main Text: Matthew 5:10–12 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Teaching Points:Stand Out in a Sinful World v10Be Willing to Be Counted with Christ vv11,12b Stay Focused on Your Future with Christ vv10b,12  Application QuestionsWhat is one observation or application you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?Read Philippians 1:27–29 and Philippians 2:14–18. Consider how these verses exhort you to stand out in a sinful world. How is suffering and standing firm in Christ profitable for assurance of your faith and proof of the world's coming condemnation outside of Christ? Why should we see persecution for our faith as more than a possibility if we live out our faith according to the beatitudes?Read 1 Peter 3:14–17. Why is trusting God’s sovereignty in suffering for Christ necessary to remain faithful in our culture? Read Acts 5:40–42. How does the attitude of Peter and the apostles give you a resolve to be willing to be counted with Christ even when that association includes persecution? In what ways are Christians persecuted today in North America?Do a quick internet search for “Christian persecution in the world today.” Write down your thoughts on the biblical realities of suffering that our brothers and sisters in Christ endure around the world?  Read 1 Peter 4:12-16 and Romans 8:18-25. What can you do this week to stay focused on your future with Christ in the midst of increasing hostility toward the Christian faith?

Preaching Point: The genuine marker of a child of God is diligently laboring, even at great personal cost, to be peacemakers in every sphere of life.Main Text: Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”Teaching Points:Recount What it Cost Jesus to Make Peace with You Sacrifice for the Sake of Peacemaking Be Christ’s Ambassador for Peacemaking Application Questions:What is one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon?Read Isaiah 53:4–6 and Ephesians 2:13-18. How does recounting the tremendous personal cost Jesus went through on your behalf to make peace between you and God help you define the personal cost of being a peacemaker?Read Daniel 7:13-14, Hebrews 12:1–2 and Revelation 5:9–13. Compare the cost that Jesus went through to make peace between God and man with the reward that Jesus receives at the resurrection of the saints.How does the Joy set before Christ and His perseverance motivate you to bear the pain associated with peacemaking knowing that there is great reward awaiting faithful ambassadors of Christ?What sacrifices are often necessary to be an effective peacemaker? Why did you choose your answer?Read 1 Corinthians 10:31–11:1. What does this verse teach you about how the Bible prioritizes peace with God through Christ and peace with others over an individual's comforts and personal preferences? What personal preferences and comforts do you often prioritize over peacemaking?Read Romans 10:13–15 and 2 Corinthians 5:17–20. How do these two scriptures stress the importance of your personal involvement in sharing the gospel with others in order for them to make peace with God?Read John 13:34-35. How does a Christian’s inability to be a peacemaker in every sphere of their life severely hinder their ability to be ambassadors for Christ?Read Colossians 3:12–14. Why is the way church members handle conflict with one another a major indicator of a church’s understanding of the gospel? 

Title: Pure in Heart            Main Text: Matthew 5:8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.Preaching Point: Anyone who desires a relationship with God today and for eternity must undergo a complete transformation wherein their heart, soul, mind, and body are ruled by Christ through our unconditional surrender to Him. Teaching Points:You Must Be Pure in God’s ValuationAccept your Impurity Before GodRespond to God’s Offer to Purify YouApplication Questions:What is one observation or application you found helpful from this week's sermon?Read Hebrews 12:14 and 1 Peter 1:14–16. As you engage with our culture’s current infatuation with subjective truth (or live your truth) why must every Christian stand firm on the objective nature of truth, especially when it comes to God’s objective standards for holiness that without which we will not see God?What are the dangers of living your truth and not God’s truth?  Read Matthew 23:27–28. How does the way Jesus calls out the scribes and Pharisees on their hypocrisy impress on you the need to evaluate your own life in light of God’s concern with the inward purity of a person? Read Isaiah 64:6 and Romans 3:10-12. How do verses like these aid in your understanding of how God sees someone when they are outside of the righteousness of Christ? How can these verses help you engage with others regarding their impurity before a holy God?Read Ezekiel 36:25–27 and Isaiah 1:18. Why is first comprehending your impurity before God foundational to recognizing the tremendous liberation and joy that comes from God’s offer to purify you for himself? Read Acts 3:18–19. Why was Christ's substitutionary death for you on the cross and your response of total surrender through repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ necessary to purify you?Read 1 John 1:8–9 and Psalm 32:5. Why is regular repentance in the life of a Christian necessary and profitable to maintain an intimate relationship with God in the here and now?

Preaching Point: If we are going to be Jesus-minded people, we must undertake the hard work of going after lost souls and genuinely celebrating when God saves them.Main Text: Luke 15:8–10Teaching Points:Increase Your Love for the Lost vv8-9 Get Your Hands Dirty v8bCelebrate Salvation vv9-10Application Questions:1. What is one observation or application you found helpful from this week's baptisms and sermon? 2. Read Matthew 18:14 and 1 Thessalonians 3:12. What can you do to demonstrate your love for lost souls and actively seek to bring them into God's kingdom, knowing that each one is made in the image of God and in need of salvation? 3. Read Luke 10:2 and Colossians 4:5-6. What are some areas of personal influence where you can work this week to diligently share the good news of salvation with those who are lost, recognizing that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few? a. In what ways whether corporately or individually can you actively engage in more evangelism and discipleship to see more people come to know Christ and experience the joy of salvation? 4. Read 2 Corinthians 11:23–29 and Philippians 2:4–8. When you consider how far the apostle Paul was willing to go to see lost people saved and how much Jesus suffered for the salvation of lost souls, how does that motivate you toward a more sacrificial view of your evangelistic labors? How can you sacrifice this week for the advancement of the gospel?5. Read Acts 11:15–18 and Luke 15:7, 10. How can you cultivate a heart of joy and gratitude for the souls that have been saved and come into the family of God? a. How can you join in the celebration of God and the angels when someone repents and turns to Christ, and allow that joy to fuel your passion for evangelism and disciple-making?

Title: Married with BillsMain Text: Luke 16:19-25Teaching Points:Recognize "The Good Life" vv19, 22b-25Trust God More vv19-25Cultivate Faith to Help, Not Hoard vv19-21

Preaching Point: The Power of Christ’s resurrection enables you to live effectively for God today while eagerly awaiting your own bodily resurrection at Christ’s return.Main Text: Romans 6:1–11 1Teaching Points:1. Expect a New Life with New Desires vv1-42. Be Spiritually Motivated by Your Future Resurrection v53. Deliberately Live for God Today vv6-11Application Questions:1. Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.2. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Romans 6:12–14. How would you compare these verses to some cultural ideas of what being a Christian looks like? What do you think are some factors contributing to peoples’ increasingly causal attitude toward what your life should look like as a professing Christian?a. How can you begin changing our culture's perspective of what being a new creation in Christ entails? 3. Read Romans 6:5–7. How can taking the time to explain the significance of Christ's resurrection to a Christian struggling to overcome sin in their life provide a more significant benefit to them than simply confirming that everyone sins and no one is perfect? 4. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18. Why is encouraging other Christians with their future resurrection and being personally motivated by your resurrection on the last day an important discipline for the Christian? 5. Read Ephesians 2:10 and Luke 1:74–75. Why is choosing to deliberately live for God through the power of Christ’s resurrection a non-negotiable part of one’s new life in Christ? Write down one thing you can do to deliberately live for God this week and share it with your LifeGroup.

Preaching Point : Christians count themselves fortunate because of God’s mercy toward them and should labor diligently to display that mercy to others.Main Text: Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.Teaching Points:1. Understand Mercy as a Central Feature of the Gospel v72. Expect God’s Mercy When You Respond to the Gospel v73. Exercise Mercy as a Central Element of Christian Community v7Application Questions:1. Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.2. Read Proverbs 28:13 & Acts 3:19–21. Why is seeing the eagerness of God to show mercy to those who call on Him for forgiveness the correct valuation of God’s character?a. What verse in the Bible would you share with someone who doesn’t believe that God is eager to show mercy to those who call on Him? Why did you choose this verse?3. How would you evaluate your own eagerness to extend mercy to others, especially those in your church family?a. Read Matthew 6:14–15. Mercy is the Kingdom standard for all of God’s children. In His Kingdom family, no one withholds mercy and forgiveness who bear the name of Christ. Is there someone in your church family that you need to forgive? Make a plan this week to meet with them and exercise mercy.4. Read Exodus 34:6–7 & 1 Peter 1:3–5. How does a proper biblical understanding of God's mercy toward people who do not deserve it (like you & me) increase your conviction to show mercy to others, especially when they don't deserve it?5. Read Matthew 18:21–35. How does God view those who have received His mercy and compassion but do not exercise His mercy and compassion on others?6. Read Matthew 5:7 & Colossians 3:12–14. What are some specific examples of why you think Christians who excel at showing mercy and compassion have Kingdom Happiness personally and in their Christian community?compasshillcountry.org

Preaching Point: Kingdom happiness is experienced by those who are counted righteous before God through Jesus Christ and obey Him.Main Text: Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.Teaching Points:1. Find Satisfaction in Christ’s Righteousness v62. Pursue Progressive Righteousness v63. Long for Complete Righteousness v6Application Questions:1. Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.2. Read Psalm 42:1–2 & Psalm 63:1-8. Do you hunger and thirst for righteousness (doing what God desires)? Why or why not?3. Read 2 Corinthians 5:21 & Romans 5:17. How does the believer's longing to be found righteous in the sight of God find its ultimate satisfaction in Christ's righteousness?a. In what specific ways should believers experience Kingdom Happiness through the imputed righteousness of Jesus?4. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 & Proverbs 15:9. Why does God expect his children to pursue progressive righteousness?a. How would you respond to someone who says they don’t need to pursue progressive righteousness as a Christian? Find scripture that helps you articulate why pursuing progressive righteousness is God’s will for every Christian.5. Read 1 Corinthians 15:51–58 & Matthew 13:43. What does longing for complete righteousness look like in the Christian’s daily attitude, disposition, thoughts and actions?6. Read Revelation 7:15–17. What are some benefits of taking time to consider and contemplate the complete righteousness every believer will have in eternity?compasshillcountry.org

Preaching Point:Knowing the eschatological plan of God should motivate you to happily submit to the Will of God.Main Text:Matthew 5:5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”Teaching Points:1. Find Kingdom Happiness in Godly Obedience (v. 5)2. Persevere in Meekness (v. 5)3. Yearn for Jesus' Coming Kingdom (v. 5)Application Questions:1.What is one observation you found helpful from this week's sermon? Why?2.Read Psalm 37:1-11. How does this passage help you see the benefits of faithfully following God despite the culture's success without God? In what ways do you need to apply Psalm 37 practically?3. Read Psalm 112:1, Luke 11:28, & Matthew 7:24–25. How does following God's Will lead someone to kingdom happiness? What specific circumstances do you need to address according to God's Word, knowing it will be inconvenient in the short term but will bring long-term kingdom happiness?4.Read Revelation 3:10-11 & Hebrews 10:36. How do passages like these help you to persevere in submitting to God's Word instead of your wisdom, especially in times of high stress?5. Read Hebrews 10:24-25 & 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Why is being deeply connected in the community of believers (the local church) critical for you to persevere in meekness? What changes do you need to make to prioritize the community at this church?6. Read Romans 8:18-23 & 2 Corinthians 4:16–18. Why is a clear focus on the coming of God's perfect kingdom necessary for you to continually submit to God's Will?7. Read Revelation 21:1-4 & Revelation 22:1-5. Share some of the joy you have, knowing that this is the future for all believers in Jesus Christ. What specific ways can you live differently with the future in mind?compasshillcountry.org

Title: Kingdom Happiness: Those Who MournPreaching Point: Kingdom happiness belongs to people who grieve over their sin and turn to Jesus for forgiveness; they will be comforted.Main Text: Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.Teaching Points:1. Allow Mourning to Lead You to Repentance v42. Rejoice in Your Renewed Position v43. Anticipate Comforting & Encouragement v4Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found helpful from this week’s sermon? Why?2. Read 2 Corinthians 7:10–11. Although paradoxical, how does mourning that leads to repentance actually bring happiness in God’s economy? How has godly grief leading to repentance brought happiness in your life?3. Read Romans 8:31–39. Why is a regular reminder of your renewed position in Christ, like the one found in this passage, pivotal to living a healthy Christian life and experiencing genuine Kingdom happiness?4. Read Revelation 7:17 & Isaiah 25:8–9. Why is remembering our eschatological comfort (comfort associated with the return and reign of Christ) so important? Express some of the comfort you can expect knowing you are free from the wrath of God and a resident of His Kingdom?5. Read John 14:15–18 & John 14:25–27. Along with other New Testament scriptures about the Holy Spirit, describe what comfort the Holy Spirit provides believers.6. 2 Corinthians 1:3–5. How does this scripture explain the connection between God's comfort for His people and the community of believers comforting one another?a. Why is being a comfort for other believers not an option but an expectation?b. How can you be a comfort to someone in our church this month?7. Colossians 4:7–8 & Acts 2:44–47. Why is regular involvement in the local church a prerequisite to much of the Kingdom comfort God promises us on this side of eternity?a. In what areas can you improve your involvement in God’s church?compasshillcountry.org

Title: Kingdom Happiness - Poor in Spirit       Preaching Point: Kingdom happiness belongs to those who own up to their spiritual poverty and give themselves over to the riches of Christ.Main Text: Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Teaching Points:Expect Kingdom Happiness v3Admit Your Spiritual Bankruptcy v3Set Your Mind on the Kingdom of Heaven v3Application Questions:What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?Read Psalm 144:15 & Proverbs 16:19–20. Happiness in God’s economy looks quite different than its worldly counterpart. That being said, how should your thought life change when you consider God’s desire for his children to have genuine happiness in their new spiritual status in the Kingdom of Heaven?How can your hyperfocus on happiness derived from circumstantial situations hinder the genuine happiness God desires for every Christian?Read Isaiah 61:1–2. These people knew the bad news of their desperate situation and gladly looked forward to the freedom that would eventually be fulfilled through Jesus. In the same way, why is a sincere announcement of the bad news of everyone's destitute position before God necessary to effectively guide lost souls to gladly look to Jesus as the answer to their spiritual poverty?Read Ephesians 2:4–5. How does the lie of self-sufficiency hinder someone’s ability to see their great need for God?A). How does this same lie hinder your ability to look to God, except perhaps in times of great distress?Read Matthew 6:19–21 & 1 Timothy 6:17–19. What does a person’s life look like that has their mind focused on the Kingdom of Heaven?What are a few things you can do this week to help you shift your focus away from the world and toward the Kingdom of Heaven and the happiness it promises?compasshillcountry.org

Title: Trials & Triumph: The Miracles & the Message       Preaching Point: The power of Jesus revealed through His miraculous acts ought to be sufficient proof for us to fully trust the authority of His message.Main Text: Matthew 4:23–5:2Teaching Points:1. Make Jesus’ Message the Main Thing (v23a)2. Make Jesus’ Miracles About His Message (v23b-24)3. Sit Under Trusted Biblical Teaching (vv4:25-5:2)Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Mark 1:35–39 & Matthew 28:18-20. Why is anchoring your life around the good news of the Kingdom vital to staying focused on God amid our chaotic world?a. What can you do to strategically keep your focus on the message of Jesus in spite of distractions, even within mainstream Christianity and beyond? 3. Read Matthew 4:23–5:1 & John 20:30–31. What was the purpose of Jesus’ miracles?a. How did miraculous signs authenticate the message of Jesus?b. Why was proving his Messianic credentials important for His message and His mission?c. How can a better understanding of Jesus’ use of miracles help you keep his message the central aspect of Jesus’ mission?4. Read Revelation 21:4–5. How are you encouraged when you realize that Jesus’ miracles were a small sample of the glory that will be fully revealed at the consummation of the Kingdom of God?5. Read Acts 2:42 & 2 Timothy 4:1–5. Why is sitting under trusted biblical teaching an important part of following Jesus?a. What are the benefits of choosing a home church based primarily on the church’s quality of teaching?compasshillcountry.org

Preaching Points: Followers of Jesus leave their old lives behind and take on the role of a disciple who makes disciples.Main Text: Matthew 4:18–22Teaching Points:1. Get to Know Jesus (vv18, 21)2. Reject Ambiguous Definitions of Discipleship (vv19, 21b)3. Characterize Your Discipleship with Immediacy (vv20, 22)Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Matthew 7:21–23, 1 John 2:4-6 and Jeremiah 9:23-24. How can someone mistakenly claim to follow Jesus but fail at knowing him?a. What can you do this week to know Jesus more?3. Read Colossians 1:28-29 and 2 Timothy 2:1–7. Using these passages with others you have found, biblically define the role of a disciple (stick with scripture and you’ll do great).a. How does your definition compare and contrast with some common misconception of what following Jesus entails?4. Read Ephesians 5:15-17, and Psalm 119:60. Why is immediacy important as a disciple of Jesus?5. How do the examples of Andrew, Peter, James and John in Matthew 4:18-22 instruct and motivate you on the proper attitudes of anyone who desires to follow Jesus?compasshillcountry.org

Main Text: Matthew 4:12–17Preaching Point: Jesus came to conquer the depths of human depravity to give light & life to everyone who turns from their sin & trusts in Him for salvation.Teaching Points:1. Grasp the Depths of Your Depravity vv12-16a2. Behold the Answer to Your Depravity v16b3. Repent and Trust in Jesus v17Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Romans 3:10–18. Why is grasping the depth of your own depravity fundamental to understanding your need for a savior?a. Look up some synonyms for the word “Depravity” and write them down.b. How do those words describe life before you were saved?c. For Christians, how do these words effectively describe the desires still present in your flesh that are contrary to God’s character?3. Read Matthew 4:15–16 and Romans 3:23–26. In what ways do you see the darkness of your sinful nature contrast with the light of Christ and His perfect nature? Give examples.a. What do the contrasts between you and Jesus do to help you recognize Jesus as the perfect substitute for your depravity?4. Read Matthew 4:17. What is the fundamental message of Jesus' preaching at the beginning of His ministry in Matthew 4?5. Read Luke 24:46–47. What is the fundamental message of Jesus' preaching at the end of His ministry in Luke 24?a. How does seeing that Jesus’ message never changed throughout His life grow your confidence in the purpose of Jesus’ ministry and in your stewardship to share that message with others?

Preaching Point: Correctly defining the earthly mission of Jesus is crucial for us to comprehend His assignment to conquer Satan and the power of sin in our lives.Main Text: Matthew 4:1–11Teaching Points:1. Trust God Over Your Feelings vv1-42. Don’t Abuse God’s Word vv5-73. Submit to God in All Things vv8-11Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Matthew 4:1–4 & Psalm 119:9–16. How did Jesus, despite significant fleshly weakness, keep his focus on God’s will?a. Read 1 Corinthians 10:13. How does Christ's example of conquering temptation teach Christians, who are, by God's grace in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to focus on God's will in moments of great temptation?3. Read 2 Timothy 2:15 & Matthew 4:5–7. How did Satan abuse scripture to fit his own narrative?a. How did Jesus respond in Matthew 4:5–7?b. What can you do to ensure that your use of scripture is aligned with God’s will and not your own narrative?4. Read James 4:7-8 & Romans 10:1–3. What does submitting to God look like?a. How does submitting to God and His word become both a protection and a guide against the schemes of Satan and your own sinful proclivities? 5. Read Matthew 4:8–11 & Revelation 11:15. How did Jesus model that “the right things in the wrong order are still wrong?”a. Where in your life are you in danger of putting the right things in the wrong order?

Title: Preparing for Jesus: The RevelationPreaching Point: Jesus unashamedly associating himself with our sinfulness ought to motivate us to boldly associate with Jesus and His mission to see the lost saved.Main Text: Matthew 3:13–17Teaching Points:1. Grasp the Significance of Jesus Associating with Your Sinfulness (vv13-16a).2. Participate in the Mission of Our Triune God (vv16-17).Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Philippians 2:3–8 & Isaiah 53:12. What does God sending his Son to associate Himself with the sinfulness of humanity say about God’s compassion for the lost?3. Read Romans 8:1–4. How does the Incarnation of the Son show the seriousness and power of sin?4. Read John 15:26 & Matthew 28:18–20. What does this week’s sermon and these verses do to highlight God’s desire for his children to participate in the same mission as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?a. How does the amount of attention that our Triune God gives to the salvation of souls force us to reconsider how we manage our time regarding reaching people for Christ?5. Read Acts 10:37-38, 2 Corinthians 13:14, 1 Peter 1:2 & Matthew 28:19. How do these verses help make you aware that our one God exists in three persons, and all three persons are involved in the life of believers?a. Why is this awareness important for your faith, specifically in how you relate to the Trinity?

Preaching Point: The work of the Holy Spirit that Jesus inaugurates not only frees you from the coming wrath of God but also empowers you to bear the necessary fruit that flows from genuine repentance.Main Text: Matthew 3:7–12 Teaching Points:1. Expect God’s Coming Judgment vv7,122. Understand the Work of the Holy Spirit v113. Bear Good Fruit as a Necessary Byproduct of Your Faith vv8-10Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Luke 3:16–18 & 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10. Why is focusing on both the positive (for believers) and punitive (for unbelievers) components of God’s coming judgment vital if you want a clear understanding of the judgment to come?a. How is your faith encouraged when considering the positive elements connected to God’s coming judgment?b. How are you both alarmed & encouraged to share the good news of Christ when you consider the punitive elements of God’s coming judgment and the blessings people forfeit by denying Christ?3. Read Ephesians 1:7–14 & Romans 8:7–9. How do these scriptures help you define the Holy Spirit’s role in salvation?4. Read Titus 3:4–8 & Galatians 5:16-26. How do these passages help you understand how the Holy Spirit’s work in your life empowers you to bear good fruit?

Title: Preparing for Jesus: The Herald       Preaching Point: Much like John the Baptist in his day, our mission is to proclaim the coming of Jesus, calling everyone to a biblical response to the gospel.1. Herald the Return of Jesus vv 1-22. Associate Yourself with Jesus vv 3-43. Invite People to Rightly Response to Jesus vv 5-6Application Questions:1. What is one observation you found helpful from this week’s sermon?2. Read Acts 1:7-11 & Matthew 25:31–46. What do these passages do to heighten your attentiveness toward telling everyone you can about the return of Christ?3. Read Luke 9:26, Romans 1:16–17 and 1 Corinthians 10:31–33. How do these verses explain the significance of associating with Christ and his gospel?a. How have you been guilty of advertently or passively disassociating yourself from Jesus and his message when talking with others?b. What are some ways you have or can begin associating yourself with Jesus and his gospel?4. Read 2 Corinthians 5:20–6:3. What is the role of an ambassador?a. How does this description of an ambassador do an excellent job of defining the responsibility of every Christian?b. In what scenario can you, as an ambassador of Christ, invite someone to rightly respond to the gospel of Jesus this week?

Preaching Point : Every Christian exists to reach people for Christ, teach people to be like Christ & train people to serve Christ.Main Text : Matthew 28:18–20Teaching Points:1.) Reach People for Christ v19a2.) Teach People to be Like Christ v19b3.) Train People to Serve Christ v20Application Questions:1.) What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2.) Read Matthew 28:16–20 and 1 Corinthians 2:1–5. The mission of making disciples does not allow us to paint with broad strokes when defining what it means to make disciples. And even though many great service-oriented projects can accompany this mission, how do these verses firmly and decisively define how we make disciples?3.) Read Acts 1:8 and Romans 10:14-15. How do these verses serve as motivation for you to respond to God’s mission to reach people for Christ? a.) What are ways you can be “going” throughout your week to make disciples?4.) Read Acts 2:38–41, Acts 8:30–38, and Romans 6:3–4. How do these verses prove the importance of being symbolically immersed into the water as a part of the disciple-making process to present outwardly what Romans 6:3–4 says has already happened inwardly?5.) Read 2 Timothy 4:1–4 and Colossians 1:28–29. The Great Commission places a premium on the church's responsibility to teach disciples to observe everything Christ commanded and teach others to do the same. What opportunities can you take advantage of here at Compass to help equip you to be like Christ and teach others to be like Christ? If you have not, create a plan to capitalize on those opportunities this year!

Preaching Point: 2023 should be the year we trade in our short-lived resolutions and train ourselves for godliness that guarantees benefits for now and eternity.Main Text: 1 Timothy 4:7–10Teaching Points:1.) Get Familiar with Scripture v7a2.) Pursue Godliness vv7b-93.) Stay Motivated by the End Goal vv10-11Application Questions:1.) What is one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon?2.) Read Psalm 119:9-16. According to Psalm 119, why is familiarizing yourself with God’s words vital if you want to live a godly life? What commitments can you implement to become more familiar with the Bible this year?3.) Read 2 Timothy 2:21 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17. How is the pursuit of godliness directly related to God’s desire to use you for his good purposes?4.) Read 1 Peter 1:13–16. How do these verses define the proper attitude you should have towards the pursuit of holiness? How can you begin to: a.) Plan - b.) Prepare - c.) Partner up - d.) Persevere -5.) Read Hebrews 12:1-3 and Romans 12:1–3. How do these scriptures motivate you to keep the end goal in mind as you pursue personal godliness? Write down two helpful exercises that will motivate you to keep the end goal in mind as you pursue holiness this year.

Preaching Point: Recognizing Jesus’ role as the Everlasting Father requires a careful inspection of God’s covenant promises to King David & Father Abraham so that we have confidence knowing both promises find their ultimate fulfillment in Christ.Main Text: Isaiah 9:6Teaching Points: 1.) Heighten Your View of Jesus v6 2.) Admit Jesus is Your Only Way into God’s Family v6 Application Questions:1.) Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2.) Read Revelation 11:15 & Philippians 2:9–11. How do these two verses help you heighten your view of Jesus? a.) What specifically changes in your day to day life when you have a heightened view of Jesus?3.) Read John 14:6 & Galatians 3:13–16. How do these two scriptures explain how people can inherit a place in God’s eternal family through the blessing of God to Abraham that is fulfilled in Jesus? a.) How should the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham through Christ help you appreciate God’s commitment to keeping His word? b.)What are the implications for us if we know God will keep His word concerning everything He has said to us in the Bible, especially concerning the return of Jesus and the world's future judgment?4.) Read Revelation 7:9–10. God's promise to Abraham was ultimately fulfilled in Christ, in whom the whole world finds its blessing. So how does the scene in Revelation 7:9-10 show the result of God's abundant blessing to people worldwide who trust in Jesus?

Preaching Point: Recognizing the power of Jesus through his miraculous acts should remove any doubt of his true purpose on earth to provide forgiveness of sins for everyone who places their trust in Him.Main Text: John 6:1–51Teaching Points: 1.) Admit Your Need for God’s Provision vv7-15 2.) Reject Temporary Solutions to Eternal Problems vv25-34 3.) Respond to Christ’ Offer of Eternal Life vv35-51Application Questions:1.) Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2.) Read Matthew 9:35–36. In what ways should your felt needs point you to the reality of your eternal needs? a.) How does properly understanding the reason Jesus did miracles help you understand Jesus’ earthly ministry more, especially when it comes to your responsibility to advance his gospel?3.) Read John 4:13–15 & John 6:25–27. After reading these verses, why was looking past their temporary problems necessary for the woman at the well and the crowd to see the eternal problem Christ came to solve? a.) Using Jesus’ example, how can you help people look beyond their temporary problems to see their eternal problems more clearly, hoping they will respond to the gospel?4.) Read Mark 1:15 and Luke 24:46–47. The crowds in John 6 ask Jesus what they need to do to be doing the works of God. How do these verses describe the biblical response to the gospel that God produces in a person for salvation?

Trusting in Christ as God's promised solution to your most significant issue is an indispensable part of successfully addressing the mountain of other problems you face.MAIN TEXT: Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Teaching Points:Discard the Counsel of Our CultureEntrust yourself to the Peace of ChristEmploy Biblical Counsel to Every Area of LifeApplication Questions: 1.)Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon. 2.)Read Isaiah 8:11–17 & Isaiah 9:2–7. What is the historical context of Isaiah 8 & 9? a.)How does the context lead you to see the significance of trusting God instead of what the culture around you tells you to do? 3.) Read Luke 12:4–5 & Psalm 33:8–11. What do these verses teach you about how God views the counsel of the world in contrast with his counsel? a.)How can you apply your answer to question 3 to your life this week? 4.)Read Ephesians 2:14 & Philippians 4:6-7. Why is peace with God through Christ's offer of salvation a prerequisite to finding peace in other areas of life as well? 5.)Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 & 2 Peter 1:3. How do these verses explain the necessity of applying the Bible in every area of life so you can experience the peace of Christ? 6.)Read Hebrews 4:15–16. What is significant about the ability to entrust the counsel of your life to Christ, who has been tempted by all your problems without failing at any of them?

Live unwaveringly for Christ in your present circumstance, remembering God is working your life toward His wondrously good end.MAIN TEXT: Romans 8:28-30POINT 1: Find Comfort in God’s Agency (v. 28)POINT 2: Engage Your Present Circumstances with God’s Purpose in Mind (v. 29)POINT 3: Fortify Your Faith with God’s Guaranteed Work (v. 30)Application Questions: 1.) Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon. 2.) Read Acts 11:19–21 & Philippians 1:12-14. How do these passages display God’s agency in the seemingly problematic positions these Christians faced? a.) Using these passages, how can you view your present circumstances differently? 3.) Read Romans 8:29 & Ephesians 4:22-24. Why is remembering God’s goal to conform you in the image of Christ critical when you consider all of the obstacles you face? a.)How does God’s goal of Christlikeness for you change the way you define what is good for you? 4.) Read Psalm 119:105 & 2 Timothy 3:16-17. How does God’s Word help you engage the specific situations you are facing? a.) How can using Bible Study methods like T-A-N (Then | Always | Now) prepare you for future situations where you need Biblical wisdom to make wise decisions? 5.) Read Philippians 1:6 & Philippians 3:20–21. Knowing that God is working His Willto competition, how does this help you confidently live for Christ despite the difficult situations you are currently facing?

Grasping God’s sovereign purpose in preserving Jesus’s life amid open opposition is pivotal for anyone who desires to follow God amid the world’s increasing resistance to the Christian faith.MAIN TEXT: Matthew 2:13-23PREACHING POINT:Expect God to Use Open Opposition for His Glory (vv13-15)Understand Christ Came to Deal with the Problem of Evil (vv16-18)Recognize that God Uses People, Places & Things for His Redemptive Purposes (vv19-23)Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week'ssermon.2. Read Acts 2:22–24. When thinking about the most evil event in history; themurder of God, how does this evil also serve to give God the most glorypossible? How does the way God uses evil for His glory change the way youthink and see current opposition to your Christian faith?3. Read Genesis 50:20 and Romans 8:28. How can you have great confidence thatall of the opposition to Christ and his people actually serve for the good of God’sredemptive purpose?4. Read Galatians 1:3–5. How does the existence of evil prove both the existenceof God and the great need for Christ to solve the problem of evil?5. Read Acts 17:26–27. How does understanding that God certainly uses people,places & things for His redemptive purpose motivate you to be a person Goduses to see lost people saved and saved people discipled in the places you liveand using the things He has given you?

The unfolding of God’s redemptive plan through Christ needs to motivate us toward proper worship Him.Text: Matthew 2:7-12Main Points:1) Demolish All of Your False Worship (vv. 7-8)2) See the Gratification of Proper Worship (vv. 9-11)3) Let God’s Supremacy Propel Your Obedience (v. 12)

As followers of Jesus, we each have a mission field that we must engage as we play our part to join in the harvest.Main Text: John 4:26-42Application Questions1. Read Psalm 51:12. What are some of the reasons you drift from “the joy of our salvation”? What are some ways you can be intentional to renew or cultivate this joy on a daily basis?2. Read John 4:35-36. What are the white fields that God has provided for you? What does sowing and harvesting look like for you in those fields? Who are some specific names we can be praying for?3.  Read 2 Cor 4:1-2.  What are some ways you can be tempted to tamper with the gospel or turn to cunning ways rather than trusting in the power of the word of Christ to save?4. With all of the excitement of the launch of Compass Hill Country how can you ensure that we maintain our evangelistic fervor after the newness wears off?

True worship can only begin after you step off the throne and diligently search for the One who truly belongs there.Main Text: Matthew 2:1-6Teaching Points:Take Your Place in Christ's Kingdom (vv.1-2)Joyfully Surrender Your Life (vv.2-3)Act on the Truth of God's Word (vv.4-6)Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2. Read Matthew 25:31–34. How does this verse help you understand the privilege of a Christian in Christ's Kingdom? a. How should the privilege of sharing in the Kingdom of Christ impact your daily life?3. Read Matthew 16:24–27. How does this verse articulate the humility necessary for anyone who wants a place in Christ’s Kingdom?a. What practical ways can the humility and surrender described in Matthew 16:24-27 show up in your life?4. Read 1 John 2:3–6 and Ezekiel 36:26–27. Why is taking action on the truths found in God’s Word a necessary and fulfilling part of true worship?

Unexpected events are often God’s providential way of revealing his plan and require us to seek counsel from his word so we can walk faithfully amidst uncertainty.Main Text: Matthew 1:18–25Teaching Points:1. Plan for God’s Unexpected Events vv18-192. Seek Counsel from God’s Word vv20-233. Strive for Immediate Obedience vv24-25Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon. 2. Read Matthew 1:18-25 and Acts 16:6–10. Unbeknownst to them, Joseph and Paul’s original plans were to do the opposite of what God intended, but through a few unexpected events, God made it clear to Joseph and Paul what he wanted them to do. What practical decisions could Joseph and Paul have made that would have prevented them from accomplishing what God intended?a. What practical decisions can you make during unexpected circumstances that can keep you from accomplishing what God wants?b. How can you plan today for God’s unexpected events?3. Read Proverbs 15:22 and 2 Peter 1:3. How do these verses define ways you can and should receive Godly instruction, including in times of uncertainty?a. Write down one example in your life when you needed instruction and God’s word gave you the answer.4. Read Matthew 1:24-25. What was at stake in Joseph’s decision to take Mary as his wife?a. Write down a time when you made a godly decision that was costly but you knew it was God’s desire for you. 5. Read Psalm 119:11. Why is storing God’s word in your heart a prerequisite to being able to respond with immediate obedience? 6. Read Luke 9:62 and Luke 11:27–28. What are practical blessings associated with immediate obedience to God?a. Likewise, what are consequences of delayed obedience or disobedience in the life of a Christian?

The Bible’s predictive prophecy about historical events should bolster your confidence in the veracity of scripture, enable you to look to God’s word as the final arbiter of truth, and embolden you to walk in faith.Teaching Points:Let God’s Promises Illuminate God’s Will for You. V13Remove Any Doubt About the Truthfulness of Scripture vv1-17Focus Your Efforts on Living for Christ’s Coming Kingdom vv16-17Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2. Read Isaiah 44:28 and Daniel 8:20-22. How can a 150-year-old prophecy from Isaiah and a 200-year-old prophecy from Daniel that comes to fruition in great detail help you trust scripture to illuminate God’s will for you as it did for Zerubbabel, Ezra & Nehemiah3. Why is predictive prophecy one of the strongest proofs of the Bible’s trustworthiness?a. How does the fulfillment of predictive prophecy in the Bible give you confidence to trust everything else the Bible says about future events yet to be fulfilled? 4. Read Revelation 11:15. Why should verses like Revelation 11:15 reposition your focus to live for the coming Kingdom of God? a. Colossians 3:1–4. How can you live this week for the Kingdom of God? 5. As we wrap up this series, how has the genealogy of Christ in Matthew encouraged you and strengthened your faith in the promises of God?

Israel’s royal genealogy reminds us of our need to rely on God’s promises, leading us to properly worship him as we await our final vindication. Main Text: Matthew 1:7–11 (ESV) 7 and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph, 8 and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, 9 and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, 10 and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, 11 and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. Teaching Points:Fully Trust in God’s Covenant Promise vv7-11Eliminate Idols in Your Life vv7-11Patiently Await Your Vindication vv11Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2. Read Hebrews 8:6–13. Unlike the bilateral covenant given to Moses, how do the unilateral Covenants between King David (Davidic Covenant) and King Jesus (New Covenant) provide us with confidence to fully trust God’s covenant promise?3. Read Colossians 3:5–8 and Romans 1:21–25. According to these verses, how do you define an Idol?a. How can you identify Idols in your own life?b. What does eliminating idols consist of in the life of a Christian?4. Read Revelation 22:10–12 and Isaiah 11:1–10. How do Jesus' words in Revelation and Isaiah's description of the coming reign of Christ help you arrive at a proper response to this waiting period before the future vindication of Christ?

Our deficiencies ought to be the catalyst that directs us to trust in Christ’s sufficiency as the promised king of Kings.Main Text: Matthew 1:6–7a 6 and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, 7 and Solomon the father of Rehoboam...Teaching Points:1. Get Real About Your Deficiencies V6a2. Invest in Eternal Affairs V6b-7a3. Eagerly Await the Coming of Our King VV1-17Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week's sermon.2. Read 2 Samuel 12:9–12. How does propping up King David as the model King diminish the coming of Christ as the model King?a. How does getting real about David’s deficiencies help you understand Israel’s need for a better king?b. How does getting real about your deficiencies help you see your need for a Lord & Savior? 3. Read Ecclesiastes 2:10–11. What does Solomon’s testimony of filling his life up with earthly pleasures teach you about the snare of focusing on the world?a. Read Matthew 6:19–21. What is Jesus’ purpose in teaching this metaphor, especially in light of Jesus being the model King? 4. Read Deuteronomy 17:14–20. What does Deuteronomy, written hundreds of years before there was a King in Israel describe as Solomon's & Rehoboam's temptation and eventual downfall?a. Read Romans 15:4. Similarly, although the Bible was written hundreds of years before us, why should we look to the words of scripture to guide us in life and give us hope?5. Read Isaiah 9:6-7. How does this sermon & these verses from Isaiah help you see the connection between Israel’s failed Kings & our anticipation of Christ’s return as King of Kings?Student Application Questions:1. Write down one observation you found helpful from this week's sermon.2. Read 2 Samuel 12:9–12. How does propping up King David as the model King diminish the coming of Christ as the model King?a. How does getting real about David’s deficiencies help you understand Israel’s need for a better king?b. How does getting real about your deficiencies help you see your need for a Lord & Savior? 3. Read Ecclesiastes 2:10–11. What does Solomon’s testimony of filling his life up with earthly pleasures teach you about the trap of focusing on the world?a. Read Matthew 6:19–21. What is Jesus’ purpose in teaching this metaphor, especially in light of Jesus being the model King? 4. Read Isaiah 9:6-7. How does this sermon & these verses from Isaiah help you see the connection between Israel’s failed Kings & our anticipation of Christ’s return as King of Kings?Ask Your Parents This:How would you live differently if you knew Christ was coming back next month?

Your life in Christ is the outworking of God’s deliverance amidst your failures, which should move you to respond to God with ultimate faith in his plan.Main Text: Matthew 1:5–6a 5 and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6a and Jesse the father of David the king.Teaching Points:Expect God to Honor Your Faith (v.5a)Anticipate Consequences When You Forget God (v.5b)Trust God to Provide for His Plans (v.6a)Application Questions:#1. So far in this series, how does God’s faithfulness through the lives of those in the genealogy of Christ help you understand more about God’s character?#2. Read Hebrews 11:6. What does this verse say about faith? From your notes on Sunday, where were some places you saw God honoring people’s faith in Joshua, Judges or Ruth?Why can you expect the same response from God regarding your faithfulness toward him?What are some practical steps of faith you can take this week that reveal your trust in God’s plan, whether that is personal decisions, discipleship steps, or steps of reconciliation with God or others?#3. Read Jeremiah 2:12–13 & Jeremiah 2:17–19. How do these verses drive home the sermon’s point that Christians are not exempt from consequences when we forget God in our life?Recall a time in your life where you received consequences because you forgot/disregarded God. What biblical counsel would you give yourself during that time to move you to remember God?#4. Read Matthew 6:25–33 & look at your notes from this week’s sermon. Why should you trust God to provide for his plans and those who are walking in his plans? Like Rahab, how can walking in God’s plan give you protection and community?Student Application Questions#1. Write down one application you found helpful from this week’s sermon.#2. Read Hebrews 11:6. What does this verse say about faith? From your notes on Sunday, where were some places you saw God honoring people’s faith in Joshua, Judges or Ruth?What are some practical steps of faith you can take this week that reveal your trust in God’s plan, whether that is personal decisions, discipleship steps, or steps of reconciliation with God or others?#3. Read Jeremiah 2:12–13. How does this verse drive home the sermon’s point that Christians are not exempt from consequences when we forget God in our life?Recall a time in your life where you received consequences from God because you forgot/disregarded him. What should you have done differently to remember God rather than disregard him?#4. Read Matthew 6:25–33 & look at your notes from this week’s sermon. Why should you trust God to provide for those who are walking in his plans? What are some benefits of following God’s plan?Ask your parents this:How have your own times of forgetting God and dealing with the consequences led you to grow in faith toward God?

Anyone who is placed into Christ can no longer live under the bondage of sin but submits to the authority of the Holy Spirit, who is abundantly at work in your new life.Main Text: Romans 6:1–4 (ESV) 1 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.Teaching PointsContinually Pursue the Gift of RighteousnessEmbrace the Purpose of Your New Life VV3-4Application QuestionsWrite down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon and baptisms.Read Matthew 28:18-20 & 1 Corinthians 12:13 What is the definition of the word baptism? How would you biblically define each of the two most frequent uses of the word baptism in the New Testament (I.e. water baptism & baptism of the Holy Spirit)?Read 1 Peter 2:24–25 & Colossians 3:1–10. According to scripture, why is pursuing righteousness once you have been placed into Christ the proper pursuit for Christian living as we await the return of Christ?Read Romans 6:12-13. Practically speaking, how can you present your body to God as an instrument of righteousness this week? 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 & Romans 8:28–30. How do these verses describe the purpose of your life in Christ? How would you explain to someone the process of sanctification in the life of all believers? Student Application QuestionsWrite down one thing you found helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Matthew 28:18-20 & 1 Corinthians 12:13. What is the definition of the word baptism? How would you biblically define each of the two most frequent uses of the word baptism in the New Testament (I.e. water baptism & baptism of the Holy Spirit)?Read 1 Peter 2:24 –25. According to scripture, why is pursuing righteousness once you have been placed into Christ the proper pursuit for Christian living?Read Romans 6:12-13. What can you do this week to present your body to God as an tool of righteousness? 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8. How does this verse describe the purpose of a Christian’s life?What is sanctification? How would you explain to someone the process of sanctification in the life of all believers? Ask Your Parents This:How did your life change once you were placed into Christ?

Preaching Point: Your trust in God’s promises in Christ should not waver in the presence of suffering or God’s discipline.Main Text: Matthew 1:3–4 3 and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, 4 and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon,Teaching Points:Entrust Your Suffering to God v3Grasp God’s Plan for Deliverance V4aEmbrace God’s Discipline V4Application Questions:Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Philippians 3:8–10 and Romans 5:3-4. Using these verses (and others you may know) Explain how suffering is a normal part of the Christian experience? How does your faith in God’s plan increase when you realize that suffering and faith are not mutually exclusive?Read Isaiah 53:2–6, Matthew 26:26–29 and Romans 3:21-26. How does grasping the continuity of God’s redemptive plan in the Old Testament through the New Testament help you understand God’s plan to deliver his people through Christ?Read Hebrews 12:11, Revelation 3:19, and Deuteronomy 8:5-6. Why is accepting that God is a disciplinarian hard for some people? What fruit do you see in your own life that is directly related to God’s discipline in your life?What can you do to better embrace God’s discipline moving forward?Student Application Questions:Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Philippians 3:8–10 and Romans 5:3-4. Using these verses (and others you may know) Explain how suffering is a normal part of the Christian experience? How does your faith in God’s plan increase when you realize that suffering and faith are both necessary for Christians?Read Romans 3:21-26. How does grasping the connection of God’s redemptive plan in the Old Testament through the New Testament help you understand God’s plan to save his people through Christ?Read Deuteronomy 8:5-6. Why is accepting that God is a disciplinarian hard for some people? If you are a Christian what fruit do you see in your own life that is directly related to God’s discipline in your life?What can you do to better embrace God’s discipline moving forward?Ask Your Parents This:What does it mean that Jesus is our Passover Lamb?

Seeing God fulfill his promises through the lives of real people should give you unwavering confidence in God’s plan for you and the whole world.Teaching Points:Let God’s Promises Bolster Your Faith V2aAllow God’s Promises to Produce Patience V2bTrust God’s Promises in the Dysfunction V2cBelieve God’s Promises in the Obscurity V2dApplication Questions:Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Hebrews 11:1. What does a good understanding of God’s long standing track record of promise keeping throughout history do to bolster your faith in Him?Read Genesis 17:15–19. What does the story of Isaac and Ishmael show you about the necessity of patient faith? What can you do this week to allow faith to produce patience in your life?Read Genesis 50:15–21 & Acts 4:27–28. Why is trusting God in dysfunctional situations pivotal for your faith to grow? How do these verses reiterate the need to trust God in dysfunctional situations?Read 2 Peter 3:9–10 and Romans 8:22–25. Like Judah’s life, much of our own lives seem to sit in seasons of obscurity. How do these verses teach you to wait on God in seasons of ambiguity; especially when it concerns the promises of God?

Understanding the Gospel of Matthew allows you to see how God fulfilled all of his OT promises through the life, death, resurrection, and future reign of Jesus Christ, who has come to save you from the penalty of your sins and initiate the arrival of the Kingdom of God.Teaching Points:The Gospel of Matthew will Direct you toIdentify That Jesus is The Promised SolutionKnow How to Walk With GodDeal with the Here and Now While Focusing on the Kingdom of GodApplication Questions:Write down one observation you found particularly helpful from this week’s sermon.Read Matthew 2:22-23, Matthew 2:4-5, and Matthew 5:17-20. Matthew uses Old Testament (OT) references over 55 times and points to Jesus fulfilling OT scripture 12 times in his gospel account. How does Jesus’ fulfillment of so many Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming Messiah undergird your faith with confidence?Read Matthew 1:18–23, Matthew 9:1-8, and Matthew 26:26–29. What do these scriptures explain as the purpose of Jesus’ earthly ministry? As we study the Gospel of Matthew, why is keeping this central theme of “forgiveness of sins” pivotal to understanding all of Jesus’ parables and narratives?Read Matthew 6:33–34, Matthew 6:9–10, and Matthew 19:23–30. These verses show how much Jesus taught us to deal with our lives here by singularly focusing on the Kingdom of God. Why do you think Jesus spent so much time telling people to focus on the Kingdom? What can you do this week to ensure that your heart, mind, and hands are staying focused on the Kingdom of God and not the Kingdom of Earth? 

Genuine salvation is a gift from God offered to the unrighteous, whose only appropriate response is to turn from everything that captures their allegiance and follow Christ.Luke 18:18–27 (ESV): 18 And a ruler asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 19 And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’ ” 21 And he said, “All these I have kept from my youth.” 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 23 But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich. 24 Jesus, seeing that he had become sad, said, “How difficult it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God! 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” 27 But he said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”

You must drastically increase your concern for the lost if you want to reflect the genuine compassion of God.Jonah 4:1–11 (ESV) 1 But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. 2 And he prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster. 3 Therefore now, O Lord, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.” 4 And the Lord said, “Do you do well to be angry?” 5Jonah went out of the city and sat to the east of the city and made a booth for himself there. He sat under it in the shade, till he should see what would become of the city. 6 Now the Lord God appointed a plant and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be a shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort. So Jonah was exceedingly glad because of the plant. 7 But when dawn came up the next day, God appointed a worm that attacked the plant, so that it withered. 8 When the sun rose, God appointed a scorching east wind, and the sun beat down on the head of Jonah so that he was faint. And he asked that he might die and said, “It is better for me to die than to live.” 9 But God said to Jonah, “Do you do well to be angry for the plant?” And he said, “Yes, I do well to be angry, angry enough to die.” 10 And the Lord said, “You pity the plant, for which you did not labor, nor did you make it grow, which came into being in a night and perished in a night. 11And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from their left, and also much cattle?”

Jonah 3:1-10

Our prayers should encapsulate such an awareness of God’s sovereignty that by the end of our prayers, we are wholly comforted by the overwhelming presence of God in whatever circumstance.Jonah 2:1-10

An awareness of God’s power and authority should lead everyone to absolute surrender to the sovereignty of God.Jonah 1:4-17

God desires to use his chosen people to reach lost souls and may even cause calamity to restore those who abscond from that mission.Jonah 1:1-41 Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, 2 “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” 3 But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. 4 But the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. (ESV)