Harris Creek Baptist Church

Jesus challenges us to surrender our own priorities, lose our lives for His sake, and live for eternal rewards, because nothing in this world is worth more than knowing and following Christ.Let Jesus shape your concernsLose your life to find your lifeLive for the right rewardsLife Group Discussion:What is one area of your life (career, relationships, finances, future, etc.) where you're most tempted to make decisions without first asking God what He wants?Where do you notice yourself trying to control outcomes instead of trusting God? How has that affected your peace?Looking at your current calendar and priorities, what would someone conclude you value most? Does that reflect the life you want to live for Christ?

Jesus challenges us to surrender our own priorities, lose our lives for His sake, and live for eternal rewards, because nothing in this world is worth more than knowing and following Christ.Let Jesus shape your concernsLose your life to find your lifeLive for the right rewardsLife Group Discussion:What is one area of your life (career, relationships, finances, future, etc.) where you're most tempted to make decisions without first asking God what He wants?Where do you notice yourself trying to control outcomes instead of trusting God? How has that affected your peace?Looking at your current calendar and priorities, what would someone conclude you value most? Does that reflect the life you want to live for Christ?

Kam reminded us that Jesus invites us to bring every need to Him by pursuing Him with desperation, asking in faith, and following Him in response. Because Jesus has already met our greatest need through the cross, we can trust Him with every other request.Pursue Jesus in desperationAsk Jesus in faithFollow Jesus in responseLife Group Discussion:Jesus asked Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?” How would you honestly answer that question today, and what keeps you from bringing that request to Him?Bartimaeus pursued Jesus despite the crowd trying to silence him. What distractions, fears, or obstacles are you currently pushing through, or need to push through, to pursue Jesus more intentionally?Bartimaeus didn't just receive healing; he followed Jesus. How can you respond to God's work in your life this week in a way that draws you closer to Him, regardless of how He answers your prayers?

Kam reminded us that Jesus invites us to bring every need to Him by pursuing Him with desperation, asking in faith, and following Him in response. Because Jesus has already met our greatest need through the cross, we can trust Him with every other request.Pursue Jesus in desperationAsk Jesus in faithFollow Jesus in responseLife Group Discussion:Jesus asked Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?” How would you honestly answer that question today, and what keeps you from bringing that request to Him?Bartimaeus pursued Jesus despite the crowd trying to silence him. What distractions, fears, or obstacles are you currently pushing through, or need to push through, to pursue Jesus more intentionally?Bartimaeus didn't just receive healing; he followed Jesus. How can you respond to God's work in your life this week in a way that draws you closer to Him, regardless of how He answers your prayers?

Cooper challenged us to answer Jesus' question, “What do you have?” by trusting Him with what He has already given us. When we surrender our ordinary gifts to God, He uses them to accomplish extraordinary things for His kingdom.What do you have? God uses what you give himLife Group Discussion:When you think about what God has given you (your time, gifts, experiences, finances, relationships, etc.), what comes to mind first? Why?What are you more likely to focus on, what you have or what you don't have? How does that mindset affect your willingness to serve God?Can you think of a time when you trusted God with something you valued and saw Him use it in a way you didn't expect? Share your story.

Cooper challenged us to answer Jesus' question, “What do you have?” by trusting Him with what He has already given us. When we surrender our ordinary gifts to God, He uses them to accomplish extraordinary things for His kingdom.What do you have? God uses what you give himLife Group Discussion:When you think about what God has given you (your time, gifts, experiences, finances, relationships, etc.), what comes to mind first? Why?What are you more likely to focus on, what you have or what you don't have? How does that mindset affect your willingness to serve God?Can you think of a time when you trusted God with something you valued and saw Him use it in a way you didn't expect? Share your story.

We weren't just struggling in our sin, we were spiritually dead until God, in His great love and mercy, made us alive through grace by faith in Jesus Christ. Now that we've been given new life, we're called to walk in the good works God has already prepared for us, living as grateful trophies of His grace rather than trying to earn His favor.You were deadGod made you alive Live the life He prepared Life Group Discussion:JP said, "Dead people don't need advice, they need resurrection." Where do you find yourself trying to "try harder" instead of depending on Jesus?The words "But God" completely change the story. Can you share a "But God" moment where His grace redirected your life?Paul says we're saved for good works, not by good works. What is the difference, and why does it matter?What is one practical step you can take this week to "walk in the works God prepared" for you?

We weren't just struggling in our sin, we were spiritually dead until God, in His great love and mercy, made us alive through grace by faith in Jesus Christ. Now that we've been given new life, we're called to walk in the good works God has already prepared for us, living as grateful trophies of His grace rather than trying to earn His favor.You were deadGod made you alive Live the life He prepared Life Group Discussion:JP said, "Dead people don't need advice, they need resurrection." Where do you find yourself trying to "try harder" instead of depending on Jesus?The words "But God" completely change the story. Can you share a "But God" moment where His grace redirected your life?Paul says we're saved for good works, not by good works. What is the difference, and why does it matter?What is one practical step you can take this week to "walk in the works God prepared" for you?

June 21, 2026John Elmore Psalm 34Psalm 34 shows us that following Jesus can't be borrowed from someone else's story, you must personally taste and see that He is good by trusting Him in your fear, pain, and need. David's testimony in the cave reminds us that Jesus hears us, stays near to us in suffering, gives peace in the middle of trouble, and invites us to live boldly by sharing what He's done and resting in the promise of eternal life.Testify to others about JesusAsk God for answersSeek the Lord and peace Trust God with your troubles Endure afflictions because of Christ Life Group Discussion:If you really believed someone's eternity was at stake, how might it change the way you pray for and engage the people around you this week?Is there an area of your life right now where you're tempted to panic, control the outcome, or rely on yourself instead of bringing it honestly before God?What practically helps stir your affection for God, Scripture, worship, prayer, silence, community, serving, and how can you intentionally build more of that into your week?When life feels crushing, do you tend to carry the weight yourself or cast it on God? What usually keeps you from surrendering it to Him?As we are reminded that the Christian life is not freedom from affliction, but confidence that Jesus will deliver us fully in the end. How does that challenge the way you normally think about hardship, suffering, or unanswered prayer?

June 21, 2026John Elmore Psalm 34Psalm 34 shows us that following Jesus can't be borrowed from someone else's story, you must personally taste and see that He is good by trusting Him in your fear, pain, and need. David's testimony in the cave reminds us that Jesus hears us, stays near to us in suffering, gives peace in the middle of trouble, and invites us to live boldly by sharing what He's done and resting in the promise of eternal life.Testify to others about JesusAsk God for answersSeek the Lord and peace Trust God with your troubles Endure afflictions because of Christ Life Group Discussion:If you really believed someone's eternity was at stake, how might it change the way you pray for and engage the people around you this week?Is there an area of your life right now where you're tempted to panic, control the outcome, or rely on yourself instead of bringing it honestly before God?What practically helps stir your affection for God, Scripture, worship, prayer, silence, community, serving, and how can you intentionally build more of that into your week?When life feels crushing, do you tend to carry the weight yourself or cast it on God? What usually keeps you from surrendering it to Him?As we are reminded that the Christian life is not freedom from affliction, but confidence that Jesus will deliver us fully in the end. How does that challenge the way you normally think about hardship, suffering, or unanswered prayer?

Life can easily become a cycle of routines, responsibilities, and distractions, but Exodus 3 reminds us that Jesus steps into our ordinary lives to awaken us to His presence, invite us into His mission, and sustain us with His power. Just as God met Moses in the middle of his monotony, He is calling us out of comfort and into a life of purpose, dependence, and kingdom impact.Christ's Presence Awakens YouChrist's Mission Includes YouChrist's Power Sustains YouLife Group Discussion:What routines, distractions, or struggles make it easy for you to miss God's presence in your everyday life?Like Moses, have you ever felt unqualified or inadequate for what God was calling you to do? Why?What challenge or calling in your life feels impossible without Jesus?

Life can easily become a cycle of routines, responsibilities, and distractions, but Exodus 3 reminds us that Jesus steps into our ordinary lives to awaken us to His presence, invite us into His mission, and sustain us with His power. Just as God met Moses in the middle of his monotony, He is calling us out of comfort and into a life of purpose, dependence, and kingdom impact.Christ's Presence Awakens YouChrist's Mission Includes YouChrist's Power Sustains YouLife Group Discussion:What routines, distractions, or struggles make it easy for you to miss God's presence in your everyday life?Like Moses, have you ever felt unqualified or inadequate for what God was calling you to do? Why?What challenge or calling in your life feels impossible without Jesus?

Jacob spent his entire life trying to secure blessing, identity, and control through his own strength, only to discover that true change came when he finally surrendered to Christ. In his wrestling match with God, Jacob received a new identity and a lasting testimony, reminding us that Christ changes people not through self-improvement but through surrender, transformation, and dependence on Him.Christ Wants Your SurrenderChrist Changes Your IdentityChrist's Work is Our Testimony Life Group Discussion:What is something you tend to hold onto tightly for security, control, or identity, and how might that be keeping you from fully trusting Jesus?Can you think of a specific way Jesus has changed your desires, priorities, or character since you began following Him?If you had 10 seconds to share your testimony, what would you say about who you were before Christ, how you met Him, and how He has changed you?

Jacob spent his entire life trying to secure blessing, identity, and control through his own strength, only to discover that true change came when he finally surrendered to Christ. In his wrestling match with God, Jacob received a new identity and a lasting testimony, reminding us that Christ changes people not through self-improvement but through surrender, transformation, and dependence on Him.Christ Wants Your SurrenderChrist Changes Your IdentityChrist's Work is Our Testimony Life Group Discussion:What is something you tend to hold onto tightly for security, control, or identity, and how might that be keeping you from fully trusting Jesus?Can you think of a specific way Jesus has changed your desires, priorities, or character since you began following Him?If you had 10 seconds to share your testimony, what would you say about who you were before Christ, how you met Him, and how He has changed you?

When waiting turns into doubt, Jesus meets us where we are and reminds us that His timing and ways are greater than our own. Abraham and Sarah's story shows that nothing is too hard for God, and what begins in cynicism can end in celebration when we trust His promises.Christ comes close in the waitingChrist is counterintuitive Christ confronts the cynic Life Group Discussion:What is something you're currently waiting on, and how has that waiting affected your faith?Have you ever had a plan for your life that God seemed to completely rewrite? What happened?What's the difference between honest doubt and cynicism toward God?

When waiting turns into doubt, Jesus meets us where we are and reminds us that His timing and ways are greater than our own. Abraham and Sarah's story shows that nothing is too hard for God, and what begins in cynicism can end in celebration when we trust His promises.Christ comes close in the waitingChrist is counterintuitive Christ confronts the cynic Life Group Discussion:What is something you're currently waiting on, and how has that waiting affected your faith?Have you ever had a plan for your life that God seemed to completely rewrite? What happened?What's the difference between honest doubt and cynicism toward God?

Jesus doesn't just show up for the polished and put-together, He pursues people in the middle of their mess, pain, and wilderness seasons. Through Hagar's story in Genesis 16, we see that Christ is personal, present, and powerful enough to take the broken pieces of our lives and turn them into something full of purpose, hope, and redemption.Christ Pursues You in Your PainChrist is Personal and PastoralChrist has Plans Beyond Your PerspectiveLife Group Discussion:Why do you think pain often becomes the place where people experience God most deeply?In a culture that often values image over honesty, what keeps us from being real with God and others about what we're going through?What broken part of your story have you struggled to believe God could use for good?

Jesus doesn't just show up for the polished and put-together, He pursues people in the middle of their mess, pain, and wilderness seasons. Through Hagar's story in Genesis 16, we see that Christ is personal, present, and powerful enough to take the broken pieces of our lives and turn them into something full of purpose, hope, and redemption.Christ Pursues You in Your PainChrist is Personal and PastoralChrist has Plans Beyond Your PerspectiveLife Group Discussion:Why do you think pain often becomes the place where people experience God most deeply?In a culture that often values image over honesty, what keeps us from being real with God and others about what we're going through?What broken part of your story have you struggled to believe God could use for good?

Can we trust the Bible? Are spiritual gifts still active? What role do demons play, and how do free will and predestination coexist? John Elmore reminded us that Scripture is not only historically trustworthy, but powerfully transformative, calling us to trust God's Word, stay spiritually alert, and boldly live on mission through the power of Christ in us.How Do We Know the Bible is TrueAre Spiritual Gifts Still Active TodayWhat Role Do Demons Play in Our LivesPredestinationLife Group Discussion:What evidence or experience has most strengthened your trust in the Bible personally?When you hear about gifts like prophecy, healing, or tongues, what reactions or assumptions come up for you?Which area of spiritual warfare mentioned in the sermon feels most real or relatable in your life right now?How does knowing God is both sovereign and personal encourage you in your faith?

Can we trust the Bible? Are spiritual gifts still active? What role do demons play, and how do free will and predestination coexist? John Elmore reminded us that Scripture is not only historically trustworthy, but powerfully transformative, calling us to trust God's Word, stay spiritually alert, and boldly live on mission through the power of Christ in us.How Do We Know the Bible is TrueAre Spiritual Gifts Still Active TodayWhat Role Do Demons Play in Our LivesPredestinationLife Group Discussion:What evidence or experience has most strengthened your trust in the Bible personally?When you hear about gifts like prophecy, healing, or tongues, what reactions or assumptions come up for you?Which area of spiritual warfare mentioned in the sermon feels most real or relatable in your life right now?How does knowing God is both sovereign and personal encourage you in your faith?

Matthew 6:5–13, James 1:6–7, James 4:3, James 5:16–18, Philippians 4:6–7, Psalm 34:4, Luke 11:13, Psalm 66:18, 1 Peter 3:7, 2 Corinthians 12:7–9, Proverbs 15:22, Romans 8:16, 2 Timothy 3:16, John 10:27Prayer isn't about performing or getting perfect answers, it's how you build a real relationship with God, who already knows your needs but still wants you to come talk to Him. Even when prayers feel unanswered, God is at work shaping you, and you learn to recognize His voice through His Word, His Spirit, and people around you.We pray because it builds our relationship with GodGod is often using what we're asking Him to change to change usWe discern God's voice using His Word, His Spirit, and His people Life Group Discussion:What tends to get in the way of you consistently praying, busyness, doubt, distraction, or something else?Can you think of a time when something you prayed for didn't change, but you did? What was different in you afterward?When you feel unsure if something is from God or just your own thoughts, which of the three, Scripture, prayer, or community, do you tend to rely on most? Which do you neglect?

Matthew 6:5–13, James 1:6–7, James 4:3, James 5:16–18, Philippians 4:6–7, Psalm 34:4, Luke 11:13, Psalm 66:18, 1 Peter 3:7, 2 Corinthians 12:7–9, Proverbs 15:22, Romans 8:16, 2 Timothy 3:16, John 10:27Prayer isn't about performing or getting perfect answers, it's how you build a real relationship with God, who already knows your needs but still wants you to come talk to Him. Even when prayers feel unanswered, God is at work shaping you, and you learn to recognize His voice through His Word, His Spirit, and people around you.We pray because it builds our relationship with GodGod is often using what we're asking Him to change to change usWe discern God's voice using His Word, His Spirit, and His people Life Group Discussion:What tends to get in the way of you consistently praying, busyness, doubt, distraction, or something else?Can you think of a time when something you prayed for didn't change, but you did? What was different in you afterward?When you feel unsure if something is from God or just your own thoughts, which of the three, Scripture, prayer, or community, do you tend to rely on most? Which do you neglect?

Hebrews 9:27, 2 Corinthians 5:8, Luke 16:19–31, John 5:28–29; 10:28–29, Revelation 20, Hebrews 6:4–6, Ephesians 2:8–9, Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:1, 38–39; 1:19–21; 10:14, Matthew 7, Acts 17:27JP teaches that when we die, our eternity is determined by what we do with Jesus, and that true salvation cannot be lost because God secures it. He also urges believers to share the gospel, since it's the only way people can be saved.When we die, we will be with God or separated from God depending on if we trusted in JesusSalvation comes from being born of Christ and cannot be lostSomeone must respond to The Gospel to be saved Life Group Discussion:What emotions or questions come up when you think about heaven, hell, and judgment?Do you tend to live more out of fear of losing salvation or confidence in God securing it? Why?Who in your life might God be calling you to have a gospel conversation with this week, and what's holding you back?

Hebrews 9:27, 2 Corinthians 5:8, Luke 16:19–31, John 5:28–29; 10:28–29, Revelation 20, Hebrews 6:4–6, Ephesians 2:8–9, Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:1, 38–39; 1:19–21; 10:14, Matthew 7, Acts 17:27JP teaches that when we die, our eternity is determined by what we do with Jesus, and that true salvation cannot be lost because God secures it. He also urges believers to share the gospel, since it's the only way people can be saved.When we die, we will be with God or separated from God depending on if we trusted in JesusSalvation comes from being born of Christ and cannot be lostSomeone must respond to The Gospel to be saved Life Group Discussion:What emotions or questions come up when you think about heaven, hell, and judgment?Do you tend to live more out of fear of losing salvation or confidence in God securing it? Why?Who in your life might God be calling you to have a gospel conversation with this week, and what's holding you back?

Genesis 1:27, Genesis 3:1–24, Romans 8:20–21, 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, Job 1:21, 2 Corinthians 1:3–6, Genesis 50:20Suffering exists because real love requires real choice, and our broken world is the result, but God hasn't left us in it. He meets us in the pain and uses it to shape us, redeem us, and point us to Jesus.The Root of Suffering: Free will The Role of Suffering: Our SanctificationThe Redemption of Suffering: Message of Salvation Life Group Discussion:Where do you most often feel the tension between believing God is good and experiencing real pain or brokenness?Can you think of a time when something difficult actually shaped your character or deepened your faith?How have you seen God use someone else's pain or story to impact your life?

Genesis 1:27, Genesis 3:1–24, Romans 8:20–21, 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, Job 1:21, 2 Corinthians 1:3–6, Genesis 50:20Suffering exists because real love requires real choice, and our broken world is the result, but God hasn't left us in it. He meets us in the pain and uses it to shape us, redeem us, and point us to Jesus.The Root of Suffering: Free will The Role of Suffering: Our SanctificationThe Redemption of Suffering: Message of Salvation Life Group Discussion:Where do you most often feel the tension between believing God is good and experiencing real pain or brokenness?Can you think of a time when something difficult actually shaped your character or deepened your faith?How have you seen God use someone else's pain or story to impact your life?

The resurrection proves Jesus defeated sin and death, making the Gospel the most important truth in history. When you truly trust it, not just know about it, it saves you and changes your life.This Gospel SAVES YOUThis Gospel STANDS UP TO SCRUTINY  This Gospel CHANGES YOU for ministryLife Group Discussion:Why is the resurrection essential to our salvation—not just the cross?What evidence for Jesus' resurrection do you find most compelling, and why?How has understanding God's grace changed the way you live or view your relationship with Him?

The resurrection proves Jesus defeated sin and death, making the Gospel the most important truth in history. When you truly trust it, not just know about it, it saves you and changes your life.This Gospel SAVES YOUThis Gospel STANDS UP TO SCRUTINY  This Gospel CHANGES YOU for ministryLife Group Discussion:Why is the resurrection essential to our salvation—not just the cross?What evidence for Jesus' resurrection do you find most compelling, and why?How has understanding God's grace changed the way you live or view your relationship with Him?

Worship isn't just something we do on Sundays, it's how we live every part of our lives. In Colossians 3:18–4:6, Paul shows that when Jesus changes your heart, it shows up in your home, your work, and how you treat people in the world. Real worship looks like honoring Christ in your private life, working like you ultimately answer to Him, and being ready to share the gospel with others.Make your private life worship for JesusMake your professional life worship for Jesus (work for your boss' boss)Make your public life worship for Jesus Life Group Discussion:In what ways is it easiest for your faith to slip in your private life (home, roommates, family, dating, etc.)? Why do you think that is?What challenges make it hard to honor Christ in your workplace or school environment?Can you think of a recent moment where you felt an opportunity to talk about faith but hesitated? What held you back?

Worship isn't just something we do on Sundays, it's how we live every part of our lives. In Colossians 3:18–4:6, Paul shows that when Jesus changes your heart, it shows up in your home, your work, and how you treat people in the world. Real worship looks like honoring Christ in your private life, working like you ultimately answer to Him, and being ready to share the gospel with others.Make your private life worship for JesusMake your professional life worship for Jesus (work for your boss' boss)Make your public life worship for Jesus Life Group Discussion:In what ways is it easiest for your faith to slip in your private life (home, roommates, family, dating, etc.)? Why do you think that is?What challenges make it hard to honor Christ in your workplace or school environment?Can you think of a recent moment where you felt an opportunity to talk about faith but hesitated? What held you back?

JP reminded us that our true identity is no longer defined by the world but by Christ, because our old life has died and our new life is hidden with Him. When we exchange our old identity for the one Jesus gives, it changes how we think, how we live, and ultimately who we live for, marking our lives with love, unity, and gratitude.Your new identity changes how you think Your new identity changes how you live  Your new identity changes Who you live for Life Group Discussion:What are some “earthly things” that most often consume your thoughts, and how can you intentionally shift your mind toward things above?Which of the qualities in Colossians 3 (compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, love) do you most want God to grow in your life?Paul had deep gratitude even in suffering, how can remembering your future with Christ help you respond differently to hardship today?

JP reminded us that our true identity is no longer defined by the world but by Christ, because our old life has died and our new life is hidden with Him. When we exchange our old identity for the one Jesus gives, it changes how we think, how we live, and ultimately who we live for, marking our lives with love, unity, and gratitude.Your new identity changes how you think Your new identity changes how you live  Your new identity changes Who you live for Life Group Discussion:What are some “earthly things” that most often consume your thoughts, and how can you intentionally shift your mind toward things above?Which of the qualities in Colossians 3 (compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, love) do you most want God to grow in your life?Paul had deep gratitude even in suffering, how can remembering your future with Christ help you respond differently to hardship today?

So many voices are telling you that you need more, more rules, more experiences, more self-discipline, but the gospel reminds us that Jesus is already enough. Tune down the noise of culture, influencers, and expectations, and get back to the only voice that defines your faith, Jesus Christ.Don't let legalism judge youDon't let mysticism distract youDon't trust asceticism to change you Life Group Discussion:Have you ever felt pressure to look like you “have it all together” spiritually? Where do you think that pressure comes from?Why do you think people sometimes chase spiritual experiences instead of simply pursuing Jesus?Have you ever tried to change spiritually just by “trying harder” or setting stricter rules for yourself? What happened?

So many voices are telling you that you need more, more rules, more experiences, more self-discipline, but the gospel reminds us that Jesus is already enough. Tune down the noise of culture, influencers, and expectations, and get back to the only voice that defines your faith, Jesus Christ.Don't let legalism judge youDon't let mysticism distract youDon't trust asceticism to change you Life Group Discussion:Have you ever felt pressure to look like you “have it all together” spiritually? Where do you think that pressure comes from?Why do you think people sometimes chase spiritual experiences instead of simply pursuing Jesus?Have you ever tried to change spiritually just by “trying harder” or setting stricter rules for yourself? What happened?

Real faith isn't just believing in Jesus once, it's continuing to walk with Him every day. Don't chase the counterfeits of the world; Jesus has already paid your debt and proved He is enough.Continue to live your life in ChristDon't be captured by counterfeitsYour charges are canceled. Christ's work is complete.Life Group Discussion:What does it practically look like for you to live with Christ, not just for Christ, in your daily life?When you've felt distant from God in the past, what usually caused the drift?Do you ever feel like you still must “earn” God's approval? Why do you think that is?

Real faith isn't just believing in Jesus once, it's continuing to walk with Him every day. Don't chase the counterfeits of the world; Jesus has already paid your debt and proved He is enough.Continue to live your life in ChristDon't be captured by counterfeitsYour charges are canceled. Christ's work is complete.Life Group Discussion:What does it practically look like for you to live with Christ, not just for Christ, in your daily life?When you've felt distant from God in the past, what usually caused the drift?Do you ever feel like you still must “earn” God's approval? Why do you think that is?

Following Jesus isn't easy, the climb is real, but it's worth it because the victory is already won in Christ. The mystery we've been searching for isn't success or status; it's Christ in you, the hope of glory. And when He lives in you, you don't just endure the journey, you help others grow, knowing one day it will all be worth it.Expect the sufferings of Christ in youExperience the mystery of Christ in youExtend the maturity of Christ through youLife Group Discussion:When has following Jesus cost you something socially, professionally, or personally—and how did you respond?If you truly believed the power of God lives in you, how would that change your confidence, anxiety, or decision-making?What fears or excuses keep you from sharing Jesus more openly?

Following Jesus isn't easy, the climb is real, but it's worth it because the victory is already won in Christ. The mystery we've been searching for isn't success or status; it's Christ in you, the hope of glory. And when He lives in you, you don't just endure the journey, you help others grow, knowing one day it will all be worth it.Expect the sufferings of Christ in youExperience the mystery of Christ in youExtend the maturity of Christ through youLife Group Discussion:When has following Jesus cost you something socially, professionally, or personally—and how did you respond?If you truly believed the power of God lives in you, how would that change your confidence, anxiety, or decision-making?What fears or excuses keep you from sharing Jesus more openly?

Jesus isn't just part of your life, He is Lord over all of it: over the universe, over the Church, and over you. If you've trusted Him, your life isn't your own anymore, you were created by Him and bought back for Him. Real freedom begins when you fully surrender.God the Son Over All God the Son Over the ChurchGod the Son Over YouLife Group Discussion:Where in your life is it easiest to acknowledge Jesus as Lord, and where is it hardest (dating, career, money, image, ambitions)?What gifts, passions, or abilities might God have given you that you're currently not using for the Church?If you truly believed you were bought with a price, what would change this week in your habits, relationships, or decisions?

Jesus isn't just part of your life, He is Lord over all of it: over the universe, over the Church, and over you. If you've trusted Him, your life isn't your own anymore, you were created by Him and bought back for Him. Real freedom begins when you fully surrender.God the Son Over All God the Son Over the ChurchGod the Son Over YouLife Group Discussion:Where in your life is it easiest to acknowledge Jesus as Lord, and where is it hardest (dating, career, money, image, ambitions)?What gifts, passions, or abilities might God have given you that you're currently not using for the Church?If you truly believed you were bought with a price, what would change this week in your habits, relationships, or decisions?

The gospel creates a real before-and-after in our lives, changing what people see on the outside through love, hope, and faith. It transforms us on the inside with new strength and confidence that God is for us. And it moves us into a new Kingdom, where we don't just act better, we live rescued and changed by Jesus.The Gospel changes the outsideThe Gospel changes the insideThe Gospel changes your KingdomLife Group Discussion:Where do you feel like your actions don't always match what you say you believe?When life gets hard, what do you usually run to for strength or control?What would it practically look like this week to live like you belong to a new Kingdom instead of just trying to be a “better person”?

The gospel creates a real before-and-after in our lives, changing what people see on the outside through love, hope, and faith. It transforms us on the inside with new strength and confidence that God is for us. And it moves us into a new Kingdom, where we don't just act better, we live rescued and changed by Jesus.The Gospel changes the outsideThe Gospel changes the insideThe Gospel changes your KingdomLife Group Discussion:Where do you feel like your actions don't always match what you say you believe?When life gets hard, what do you usually run to for strength or control?What would it practically look like this week to live like you belong to a new Kingdom instead of just trying to be a “better person”?

JP taught that spiritual drift isn't usually rebellion but routine, doing the right things while losing real desire for God. Jesus' message to Ephesus shows the answer isn't trying harder but repenting and returning to our first love. When we rebuild rhythms that stir our affection for Him, our faith becomes real again.Discipline without desire leads to drift Lost love is restored through repentance Return to rhythms that stir affectionsLife Group Discussion:What spiritual habits do you keep out of routine rather than relationship?How could admitting drift strengthen your relationship with God instead of producing shame?What specific practices or environments help you feel closest to God?

JP taught that spiritual drift isn't usually rebellion but routine, doing the right things while losing real desire for God. Jesus' message to Ephesus shows the answer isn't trying harder but repenting and returning to our first love. When we rebuild rhythms that stir our affection for Him, our faith becomes real again.Discipline without desire leads to drift Lost love is restored through repentance Return to rhythms that stir affectionsLife Group Discussion:What spiritual habits do you keep out of routine rather than relationship?How could admitting drift strengthen your relationship with God instead of producing shame?What specific practices or environments help you feel closest to God?

JP's sermon taught that many of us struggle to love God because we're afraid, He's disappointed in us. But God is love, and His perfect love removes our fear because Jesus already took our punishment. We don't love God to earn love; we love because we're already loved.God is lovePerfect love casts out fearsGod loves youLife Group Discussion:When you think about God, do you naturally picture love or disappointment? Why?In what areas of your life do you need to let God's love replace fear right now?What helps you remember God's love when you mess up or feel unworthy?