Weekend Sermons updated every week!
Harvest Bible Chapel Des Moines
SermonKids' Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineCaring for the FlockMatthew 18:15-20Partnering with God to care for his peopleObey God's plan for addressing sinValue holiness and restoration of the wayward Uphold God's judgment on the unrepentantRecognize that God is with youSermon Discussion QuestionsHow does Matthew 18:10-14 help you understand the level of care that God has for his people?Why is it so important to address sin rather than ignoring it?What does it look like and sound like to address sin biblically?Do you regularly address sin in the way taught by Jesus in this passage?If so, what fruits have you seen come from your obedience?If not, why not?What is the alternative to restoration for someone who refuses to repent? How might your refusal to confront their sin contribute to this deadly path?What is your role in upholding God's judgment on the unrepentant in your local church? How are you fulfilling this role?Why is it significant that God promises his agreement and presence with his church in matters of discipline/restoration? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667May Total Giving - $30,443Harvest Kids' MaterialKid's Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes Page Sermon OutlineChildlike FaithMatthew 18:1-14Humble acts that shape greatness in the kingdom of heavenBecome like childrenBeware of temptationBe glad for all who believeSermon Discussion QuestionsThough not the main point, this text does show that children are important to God. What are some ways that we can value the children in our congregation and community? What will you personally commit to doing?What do v 1-4 say about the nature of becoming a Christian? What is the difference between childlike faith and being immature in your faith?Are there things in your life that you need to “cut off and throw away”? What is your plan for dealing with these temptations?What does this passage suggest about how the church should interact with and even protect one another?How are you at celebrating the salvation of others? What might that practically look like?Next week we will spend more time discussing church discipline. How does this passage prepare our hearts for the rest of Matthew 18? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667May Total Giving - $16,783Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineMountain-Moving FaithMatthew 17:14-27Cultivating a faith that glorifies God and changes usLament over your little faithSet your focus on great faithEvaluate your response to Jesus’ missionLive humbly as a child of the KingSermon Discussion QuestionsWhere do you see evidence of “little” faith in your life? What is the next step in lamenting/confessing it so that you are positioned to grow? How are you intentionally cultivating relationships in your life that challenge you to pursue Christ?Why is it important to realize great faith is not dependent on me but God? How do you respond to Grant Osborne’s comment: “Even the smallest amount of God-centered living can accomplish incredible things”?How are you actively setting your focus on your great God each day?Which of the following do you need to focus on this week to partner with Jesus in his mission?Consider how God is redeeming your sufferingConsider God’s character that informs all he doesConsider God’s Word for the promises he makesAre there any freedoms/rights that you need to lay down right now because it is hindering your ministry to others? What would it look like to live humbly this week? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667May Total Giving - $16,783Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Glorious ChristMatthew 17:1-13Reasons to marvel at Jesus’ transfigurationJesus’ glory is from withinJesus is greater than his forerunnersGod commends Jesus to the disciplesJesus’ path to glory is the crossSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat is the significance of Christ’s glory coming from within?What hope does the resurrection glory of Christ provide us?How does this hope equip you to face your current life circumstances?What is your response to Jesus? What do you think about him? Do you think about him?What hinders your growth and witness as a follower of Jesus? What would it look like to value living for Christ over worldly gain?Re-read Hebrews 2:9-10. Who gets to enjoy glory because Christ went to the cross? How will you allow these truths to change the way you think and live this week? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667May Total Giving - $7,246Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineA Necessary DeathMatthew 16:21-28Straight talk about God’s redemptive planJesus’ death was necessaryPeter’s response is foolishFollowing Jesus is costly now but eternally rewardingPrioritizing worldly gain invites eternal condemnationSermon Discussion QuestionsHow do you think you would respond if the man you’d devoted your life to following told you he was on his way to die?Why was the death of Jesus necessary? What hope does his death provide?How has your focus or thinking been consumed by your desires rather than God’s will/ways? How does this wrong focus hinder your willingness to follow Christ?Have you ever consciously chosen to count the cost of following Christ? If not, what is stopping you? If so, what did that process look like for you? What changes have come into your life since then?How does knowing the eternal outcome of this decision help you in the present moment? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667April Total Giving - $37,293Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineGod’s Kingdom PlanMatthew 16:13-20Three life-changing realities of God’s planThe Father’s revelation leads to confessionThe Son promises to build his victorious churchThe Son delegates his authoritySermon Discussion QuestionsWho do you say that Jesus is? Do you confess that he is your Savior and Lord?Take a moment to consider that the God of all creation chose to reveal the truth about his Son to you! What response does this provoke within you?What is your understanding of the church? What is it? Why does it exist? Who is a part of it?How do you fulfill your part in the church?What is the significance of the church being victorious for your daily life?What is your responsibility in using the keys of the kingdom wisely?In what ways are you seeking to use Jesus’ delegated authority to minister to others? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667April Total Giving - $30,252Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineDangerous ResponsesMatthew 16:1-12Identifying two harmful ways of livingRejecting God’s revelation Prioritizing worldly matters over spiritual matters Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat is your response to God’s revelation through Jesus Christ?If you reject it, what is the reason for that rejection? Have you considered the condemnation that you are inviting into your life? Would you be willing to discuss this further with a pastor? (If so, please contact the church!)If you believe take time to…Rejoice in God’s forgiveness towards you! Rejoice in the character of God - that he is a God of extravagant grace and mercy, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love!Allow these truths to comfort you if you’re despairing. Allow these truths to convict you and lead you back to the light if you’re living in sin.How are you prone to being distracted by worldly concerns or matters? How has that hindered your spiritual growth and ministry to others?Is it your daily ambition to grow in your understanding of God’s Word so that you can recognize truth and refute false teaching? If not, what steps will you take this week to grow in this area? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667April Total Giving - $22,876Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineSavior of the NationsMatthew 15:21-39Learning from Jesus’ polarizing ministry modelGreat faith matters more than pedigree Compassion is to be extended to all peoplesJesus’ authority confronts human expectationsSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat is the significance of Jesus ministering to the Gentiles in this passage?How is it helpful to know that having faith is more important than your pedigree?When was the last time you were on your knees begging the Lord for help?How would Jesus respond if he were here today? Would he praise your great faith? Or would he rebuke your little faith?What does “great” faith look and sound like?How will you seek to extend compassion to all peoples this week? This month? This year?What expectations do you have of Jesus? What is your ministry mindset? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667April Total Giving - $9,855Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Power of a PromiseLuke 24Marveling at the beauty of God’s redemptive planGod promised to send a SaviorGod always keeps his promisesGod addresses our unbeliefGod’s promises transform our livesSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat do you find amazing about God’s kept promise to send a Savior?How do you respond in situations that seem too great or daunting for you?How does knowing God’s character help you turn to and trust Him in these moments?Does your life reflect a response of joyful submission to your Savior? If not, why not?How have God’s promises transformed your life?Take time to celebrate the work of God in your life.Take time to commit to future growth. Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667March Total Giving - $32,166Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineAuthentic WorshipMatthew 14:34-15:20Addressing fallacies about living for God(Fallacy) I must cut myself off from the world (Truth) Following God means redemptive engagement with the world (Fallacy) Righteousness is determined by religious leaders or tradition(Truth) Righteousness is determined by God and revealed in His Word (Fallacy) My words and actions will justify me before God(Truth) Worship is first a heart attitude that manifests in words and actions (Truth) Everyone is born unclean and only God can clean your heartSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat did you learn about authentic worship from today’s sermon?Which of the fallacies have you been prone to believe? What was the outcome?How does knowing the truth change the way you will live for God moving forward?Write down at least one clear action step you will take this week! Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667March Total Giving - $27,073Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineFacing Kingdom Opposition in the FollowersMatthew 14:22-33 Advancing His kingdom and not our kingdomWe are to be obedient to Christ and persevere Ask Jesus for helpOur eyes on Christ glorify HimSermon Discussion QuestionsWhere might you be too focused on wanting Christ to meet the natural world’s needs? What are the kingdom focus items He wants to use you to advance?Are you seeking His will and then trusting and obediently following? Where do you need to set aside the comfortable, the easy, the practical and your own understanding to simply be obedient?Consider the challenges that may be present in your life at this moment. Are they causing your eyes to go to them? Are there waves slapping at your feet, wind driving at you and causing you to fear them and then overwhelming you?Think through times you had your eyes on Him and followed. Were there times He was causing you to walk on water? Praise Him! Prayer Requests Give Email Chris FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667March Total Giving - $20,010Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineSacrificial ServantsMatthew 14:1-21Two lessons learned from the Messiah and his forerunnerStand for truth despite oppositionCompassionately provide for othersSermon Discussion QuestionsBased on John and Jesus’ example, what does it look like to stand for truth despite opposition? How does this example challenge you?How are you currently using each of the following to stand for truth? Your voice Your time Your talent Your treasure How will you grow in standing for truth with each of these areas this year?What is most striking to you about the compassion of Jesus? How does this challenge or encourage you?How are you using each of the following to compassionately provide for others? Your time Your talent Your treasure How will you grow in compassionately providing for others with each of these areas this year? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667March Total Giving - $9,292Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineSacrificial ServiceColossians 4:2-18Laying down your life for the LordPersevere in prayer Cultivate a compelling lifestyle Advance the Gospel together Sermon Discussion QuestionsHow has Paul demonstrated sacrificial service for the Lord throughout this letter? What would it look like for you to lay down your life for the Lord?What difficulties do you often run into when trying to be faithful in prayer? How can you seek to persevere in prayer in March? (Write this answer somewhere you can keep referring back to it!)Does the way you live as a Christian evoke interest or draw attention or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way? What would it look like to live this way?Do you know anyone who lives this way whom you can learn from? Ask them to help you grow in this area!Are there any ways that you are giving people reasons not to listen to you? Are you rude? Argumentative? Selfish? Unapproachable? If so, take time to confess these to God and ask Him to help you change! Meditate on the truth that He saved you and allow it to humble you!Who can you give thanks for right now as fellow laborers in the gospel? Consider sending them a message of encouragement to keep running the race! Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667February Total Giving - $28,827Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineA New Humanity Pt. IIIColossians 3:1-4, 18-4:1Allowing the lordship of Christ to shape your lifeLook to ChristLive in light of Christ’s finished workSermon Discussion QuestionsTake some time to consider who Christ is as demonstrated in Colossians. How have you been responding to Christ’s identity over the past week? Are you walking in Him?How have the twin calls to “Look” and “Live” challenged you over these past three weeks? What is different in the way you’re thinking and living as a result of meditating on these concepts?How have you been tempted to look to other things to satisfy? Where do you typically look to for satisfaction instead of Christ? (ex. circumstances, emotions, other people, having control)How does looking to Christ influence every other area of our lives? What kind of changes has looking to Christ brought into your life? What is your role in the household? How are you called to live out that role in light of Christ’s finished work? What steps will you take this week to address any sin in the way you’ve lived out your role? How will you practice putting off sin, renewing your thinking, and putting on the new way of living in Christ? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667February Total Giving - $18,449.39Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineA New Humanity Pt. IIColossians 3:1-4, 12-17Allowing the centrality of Christ to shape your lifeLook to ChristLive in light of Christ’s finished workSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat is the significance of the 3 terms (chosen ones, holy and beloved) used to describe Christians in v. 12? Do you realize this also describes you if you’re a Christian? What practical difference should those terms make in our view of ourselves, our fellow SG members, and fellow church members? Of all the attributes a Christian is to “put on” which sticks out to you most and why? Who is the perfect example of all of these attributes? Why is that important? Cross-reference Philippians 4:7 with Colossians 3:15. What does it mean to let the peace of Christ “rule” in your heart? What does it look like to practically live out v. 16? How can we do this in our SG? In our Church? Consider taking some time to worship together as a small group. How would “doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus” (while giving thanks) change your life? What things would you put off? Put on? Prayer Requests Give Email Jack FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667February Total Giving - $14,005Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides15 Day Prayer Challenge Handout Sermon OutlineA New HumanityColossians 3:1-11Allowing the centrality of Christ to shape your lifeLook to ChristLive in light of Christ’s finished workSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat were you looking at last week? How will you seek to look to Christ this week?How have you beheld God’s glory lately? How has it changed you?How do you like to behold the glory of the Lord?Since your old man/woman is already dead in Christ, how will you live in your freedom from sin this week? Where are you tempted towards sexual sin? How will you put it to death?Where are you tempted towards sinful anger/speech? How will you put it away? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667February Total Giving - $7,465Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineDeath to LifeColossians 2:16-3:4 Five realities of being made new in ChristChrist is my judge Christ is my righteousness Christ is the one I seek Christ is my life Christ is my hope Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat has your experience been with false teachers who add human rules and regulations to God’s Word? How did this change your view of God? Why is it so important to know what the Word teaches?How does knowing Christ is your judge provide freedom from man-made religion?What is your response to the truth that Christ is your righteousness, not your good works or anything else you do?How are you prone to “earning my salvation” thinking or behavior? What would it look like to trust Christ’s righteousness and only change as an act of worship of him?What distracts you from pursuing Christ? What takes your time and attention and energy away from living for Christ?If Christ is your life, then how will you live in light of that truth this week? What will it look like to please him?Whose example are you looking to in the faith? Do you have someone who will mentor you? If not, who could you look to or ask to mentor you?Take some time to meditate on the fact that Christ is the hope of glory for you. What does that mean? How should it impact you this week? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667January Total Giving - $40,575Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineIn HimColossians 2:6-15Responding to the reality of unity with ChristWalk in himBeware false teaching Meditate on what God has done Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat does your daily life reveal about what you believe? Does it show that you love Jesus or something else?Make a list of reasons to thank God and rehearse them daily. Allow yourself to abound in thanksgiving!Why are humans so tempted to turn to false teachings? Seek to do an honest evaluation of your own life - are you trusting in or submitting to something other than Christ? (If you’re not sure, ask your family and small group for help!)What would it look like for you to respond with conviction and compassion to those ensnared by false teaching? Is there anyone in your life you need to engage with on this topic this week?How will you take time to meditate on the truths of what God has done this week? What sort of response is appropriate to meditating on truths like these? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667January Total Giving - $33,629Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides5th Sunday Signups Sermon OutlineFor Your SakeColossians 1:24-2:5Three commitments towards selfless ministry for ChristRejoice in suffering service for the church Aim to present everyone mature in Christ Pour out your life to protect the church Sermon Discussion QuestionsWill you accept the calling to rejoicing in suffering service for the church? What would it look like to walk in this calling? To die to yourself this week? To sacrifice on behalf of the gospel for the church’s sake?What message are you proclaiming with your life? Is your goal to present everyone mature in Christ? If so, how? If not, what needs to change?How are you presently seeking to pour out your life to protect the church?Where do you need to repent of selfishness and/or laziness in your ministry for Christ and his church? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667January Total Giving - $22,587Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides5th Sunday Handout Sermon OutlineChrist Is…Colossians 1:15-23Six wonderful, life-altering truths about ChristChrist is the image of God Christ is the firstborn of all creationChrist is the sustainer of creationChrist is the head of the church Christ is the firstborn of the dead Christ is God, the Reconciler of creationSermon Discussion QuestionsWhy is it so helpful for you to know that Christ is the perfect image of God? Why is it important to recognize Jesus of Nazareth is the firstborn of all creation?How often do you stop to consider that Jesus is sustaining you in that very moment? What sort of response should that provoke within you?Why is the church so important to Christ? What evidence is there that you value both the universal and local church?Christ’s resurrection demonstrates his supremacy over the new creation. Why is that essential for humanity to understand?Re-read verses 19-23. Consider how high the price was for your rebellion against God. Praise God for providing a peace-maker. Where are you tempted to place your hope other than Christ? How will you turn away from that and pursue Christ this week? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667January Total Giving - $18,030Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineGospel FruitColossians 1:1-14How are Christians to respond to God’s grace? Give thanks for the transforming gospelGrow in the knowledge of God’s willWalk in a manner worthy of the LordSermon Discussion QuestionsWhy does Paul give thanks and pray for the Colossians? What is the focus of Paul’s prayer for the Colossians?What fruit is the gospel bearing in the Colossians’ lives? What fruit has it borne in your life?What would it look like for you to rejoice in the transforming work of the Gospel in your life? In the lives of others?How are you planning to grow in the knowledge of God’s will this year? (If you don’t have a plan, make one!)Take some time to reflect on each of the four ways to “walk worthy of the Lord.” What could each of these look like in your life this month? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $31,667January Total Giving - $8,374Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon SlidesSermon Handout Sermon Outline2021 – Living for ChristPhilippians 3:1-4:1Four necessities of living for ChristKnow your identity Reform your purpose Pursue the correct goal Live as a citizen of heaven Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat challenges or encourages you from Paul’s testimony from Philippians? Why?Why is it important to know your identity? Who are you? Who are we?How has your life’s purpose/goal been reformed since believing in Christ? How will you aim to pursue the goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus in 2021?What hindrances do you need to lay aside? What specific initiatives do you have for your personal growth this year?How will you seek to help the church accomplish our initiatives? (Reminder – you are the church!) Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167December Total Giving - $57,604Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineAstonished UnbeliefMatthew 13:53-58Two challenges when ministering to family and friendsGetting past their preconceptionsFamiliarity leads to stumbling Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat preconceptions do your family/friends/hometown have of you?How has God been at work in your life this year? (Prepare to share this with others!)Who from your family/friends/hometown needs to hear of the supernatural work of salvation God has done in you? What would it look like for you to be missional in your conversations this holiday season? How might you be intentional to direct the conversation in a spiritual edifying direction? Prayer Requests Give Email Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167December Total Giving - $47,416Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Reality of the Kingdom Pt IIMatthew 13:44-52 Three more responses to the reality of God’s rule and reignPursue the kingdom of heaven above all else (vv. 44-46)Perceive the reality of both now and eternity (v. 47-50)Proclaim the treasure of the kingdom (v. 51-52)Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhy is it important that the man in v. 44 acted because of “his joy”? Can you tell if someone is truly acting from joy or not? How might evaluating one’s beliefs, commitments, and desires help in this?Do you predominantly act from joy or from something else? What personal beliefs, desires, and commitments are helping or hurting you in pursuing the kingdom?What things encourage you when considering the reality of both now and eternity? How do/should these encouragements shape the way you live?What opportunities do you have to be trained for the kingdom and to proclaim its treasure? What opportunity will you take to proclaim the kingdom this week?What wrong conceptions of God’s kingdom have the parables of Matthew 13 corrected or refined for you? Prayer Requests Give Email Jack FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167December Total Giving - $40,965Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Reality of the KingdomMatthew 13:24-43Four responses to the reality of God’s rule and reignComprehend the present reality of the kingdomCarry out Jesus’ commands Cultivate right expectations of the kingdomConsider the finality of eternitySermon Discussion QuestionsHow does the parable of the wheat and weeds help you understand what is going on in our world?What has been revealed in you through this year? What is God trying to produce in you?What does it look like for you to be patient and to trust God in addressing evil? What mission has God given you to focus on? How could you better use your time and resources to accomplish this mission in the next two weeks?How are we to engage in spiritual warfare according to the teachings of the Word? (Hint: Review 1 Peter 5:6-10 and Ephesians 6:10-13)Why should the finality of eternity lead Christians to be incredibly compassionate, kind, generous, sacrificial people? How would you like to grow in these areas as 2021 approaches? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167December Total Giving - $12,535Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineA Call to HearMatthew 13:10-17Three reasons Jesus taught in parablesTo challenge hearers to respond to the kingdomTo reveal the chosen of GodTo promote joyful growth in the faithfulSermon Discussion QuestionsJesus taught so that people would respond. How have you responded to Jesus’ teaching this past week? Why do you suppose that God designed His Word to require study and intentional application to grow from it?What does your own response to God’s Word reveal about your commitment to Christ?Share a recent time when God’s Word impacted your life. How did it produce good fruit?When was the last time that you rejoiced at the grace of God extended to you? Go around the room and share a few reasons to rejoice in God’s extravagant grace. Take time to truly respond in awe and praise afterward. Discuss what it would look like to allow the extravagant grace of God to change and shape your life every day of the week. What would be different?How would you approach each workday? How would you conduct yourselves in conversations with others? How would your pursuit of the Lord change? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167November Total Giving - $30,390Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Parable of the SowerMatthew 13:1-9, 18-23The Seed that is sown/ The GospelGodManSinJesusResponseThe Rocky SoilThe Thorny SoilThe Good SoilDiscussion QuestionsCan you give the Gospel message?Who in your life needs to hear the Gospel message?Can you see any of these “soil” issues in your life? If so, discuss them honestly and discuss actual steps that can be done to resolve them.Hard soil – not understanding, forgetting the Word.Rocky or thin soil – shallowness and not able to withstand tribulations.Thorny soil – it is hard to find time for God or focus on Him due to so many other things. Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Chris FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167November Total Giving - $27,222Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineFaith MattersMatthew 12:38-50Three outcomes of rejecting JesusYou will be condemned You will be given to greater evil You will not be part of God’s family Sermon Discussion QuestionsAs you consider the brokenness of our world, how do you find hope in the teachings of Jesus in Matthew?Why do you think we are so timid in sharing the hope of Jesus to those who are condemned to hell?Who in your family/neighborhood/workplace needs to know Christ this holiday season? How will you share Christ with them?What is the appropriate response to the evil in our world?Why is it that we are often more upset about the evil in our world than the evil in our own hearts/lives? What does that indicate about us?What needs to change in us?What did you write down for how you will live out your faith this week? How will you use your time/talent/treasures to bless others? Where do you need to confess and repent of selfishness/sinfulness? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167November Total Giving - $19,662Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineYou Are What You SpeakMatthew 12:33-37Two life-changing lessons about your speechMy speech reveals my heartI will give an account for every word I speakSermon Discussion QuestionsDo you agree that your speech reveals your heart? Why or why not?What should realizing that you started life with an evil heart produce in you?How should salvation in Christ transform your heart and speech? What does your speech this past week reveal about your heart? Does it support or contradict your claim to love Christ?Based on your speech this past week, what are you treasuring?How would your speech change if you treasured God’s Word and Jesus Christ?What would change in your speech if you truly grasped that you were going to give an account for every word you spoke? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167November Total Giving - $14,452Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineThe Source of AuthorityMatthew 12:22-32Where does Jesus’ authority come from?It cannot be from SatanIt must be from the Spirit of GodWillfully blaspheming the Holy Spirit is unforgivableSermon Discussion QuestionsWhat does it mean that Jesus has authority? How would you explain the source of Jesus’ authority to an unbelieving friend or co-worker?How are you actively engaged in gathering the flock of Jesus? What needs to change if you’re not gathering?What does it mean to “behold the glory of the Lord” in the context of discipleship?What did you learn about the unforgivable sin? How can one make sure they are not committing this sin? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167November Total Giving - $5,383Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineWho Has Authority?Matthew 12:1-21 Reasons to follow Christ Jesus has greater authorityJesus applies the Scriptures righteouslyJesus is the fulfillment of ScriptureSermon Discussion QuestionsHave you ever felt burdened by the “rules” of religion or self-condemnation? Why?Why is Jesus’ claim to authority so important for his promise of rest?How does Jesus provide rest to those who are burdened by religious activity or condemnation?Are you currently resting in Christ or trying to “keep the rules” of religion?What is the difference internally (in your heart)? What is the difference externally (in your words/actions)?What are 2-3 practical ways you can rest in Jesus and do good to others this week? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167October Total Giving - $43,248Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineEntering His RestMatthew 11:25-30God reveals Himself to the humble.Christ has been given all authority. No one knows the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.Invitation – “Come to me” Invited – “all who”Condition – “labor and are heavy laden” The Promise – “and I will give you rest” Instruction – “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me” Reason – “for I am gentle and lowly in heart” Result – “and you will find rest for your souls” Benefit – “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light”Sermon Discussion QuestionsWhat encouraged you from Jesus’ teaching in this passage?What challenged you?What questions do you have?Whose strength are you laboring in? What would it look like to take the Lord’s yoke upon yourself? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Mark FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167October Total Giving - $31,913Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages
SermonKids’ Sermon Notes PageSermon Slides Sermon OutlineFaithful or Fickle?Matthew 11:1-24Your response to Jesus mattersBeware your expectationsBelieve the evidence that Jesus is the MessiahBe faithful, not fickle Remaining unrepentant invites judgmentSermon Discussion Questions What are some ways you’ve struggled in your faith or with your desires this year? Where have your desires/expectations gotten out of line with God and His Word?What are some truths you can cling to as you fight to be faithful?What are some ways you struggle with living for the kingdom of self instead of the kingdom of God?How regularly do you confess and repent of your sin? What typically hinders this process? What blessings have you seen from handling this quickly? Complications from dragging your feet? Prayer Requests Give Email Pastor Nick FinancialsMonthly Need - $29,167October Total Giving - $24,381Harvest Kids’ MaterialKid’s Discussion QuestionsPreschool Activity PagesK-2nd Grade Activity Pages3rd-5th Grade Activity Pages