North Highlands Bible Church

God delights in working through the unlikely and the overlooked to accomplish His plans reminding us that no one is beyond the reach of His grace. -- QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION & DISCUSSION Where are you tempted to let fear have the final word in your life? What would it look like to cling to God there? How have you seen God redeem a broken part of your past and use it for good? Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, ends up in the lineage of Jesus. What does her story teach us about the kind of people God chooses to use—and how does that encourage you about your own story and calling?

Like Joshua, to step into God's promises, we must be strong and courageous. His presence–with us and within us–makes strength and courage possible. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What truths about God's character (Exodus 34:6–7) help you trust Him even when you don't fully understand His ways? Can you share a time when you had to trust God's character in a confusing or challenging season of your own life? Are there specific practices (daily reading, journaling, Scripture memory, group study) that help you stand firm on God's promises? Where do you want to grow in this area? How can we, as a church family, remind one another of God's presence in both ordinary life and God-sized challenges?

Sometimes we try really hard to change things by our own power, to look good in front of others or earn God's love. It's exhausting! Paul reminds us that God has already saved us and given us His power, even though we did not deserve it. Now, we have the exciting opportunity to embark on the adventure of living a little more like Jesus each day.  -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What is one area you have seen God change your life? How can you thank Him for it this week? What is one way you can put your mind on Christ and things above starting this week?  Are there any sins in your life that you need to put to death?  What is one way you can put them to death this week? What is one way you can put on Christ's love towards people around you this week? 

Discover how God is moving in young hearts and how we, as the Church, have a vital role in raising up the next generation! -- Who in your life has influenced your faith the most, and how can you be that kind of influence for someone else?  Are there areas in your life where you say one thing about your faith but live another? How might that inconsistency affect those around you? What specific ways can you support the next generation over the next school year?

We all suffer from spiritual amnesia. When our souls forget, we preach truth to ourselves until our hearts catch up. - QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION Reflect on a time when you had to choose faith over feelings.How can self-preaching become a spiritual discipline in your life? Which “benefits” of God from Psalm 103 stand out most to you right now—and why might your soul need to remember them today? How might your decision to bless the Lord despite your circumstances impact someone else's faith this week?

Let's score a “100” God's way this school year! - QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION & DISCUSSION What does it look like for you to “make a joyful noise” in your current season of life? How does that challenge or encourage your view of worship? In what areas of life are you most tempted to define yourself by what you do instead of who you belong to? How can remembering your identity in Christ reshape those areas? Which of these four reminders—Worship over Worry, Identity over Achievement, Gratitude over Grumbling, or Faith over Fear—do you most need to focus on this week, and why?

The Church is a sent people. We are all sent, right where we are.

We examine the final chapter of Acts, a remarkable conclusion that intentionally leaves the story open-ended, inviting us to step into the ongoing mission of God's kingdom. 

Wherever you are, you're on assignment. What does it look like to live like it? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Where in your life is God calling you to show unusual kindness—the kind that costs something, the kind that's not expected or earned? Have you been carrying the weight of labels—either from others or from yourself—that don't line up with what God says about you? What would it look like to let God define you this week? What might change if you stopped viewing your current situation as a detour and started seeing it as your assignment? What's one way you can stay on mission right where you are?

Even in life's fiercest storms, God is not absent—He is present, speaking, and faithful to deliver. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What storms—past or present—have made you question God's nearness, and how did He show up in them? In what ways do we try to hold on to “lifeboats” instead of fully trusting God's Word? How might obedience—especially in difficult circumstances—be the key to experiencing God's deliverance in your life?

Have we lost sight of what freedom truly means—and what it's for? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Paul didn't stay silent before Felix, Festus, or Agrippa—he spoke truth with clarity and courage, even when it was risky. Where might God be calling you to speak truth, even if it costs you influence, comfort, or approval? What holds you back? Paul used his Roman citizenship not to escape suffering, but to advance the mission. How are you using the freedoms you've been given—your voice, your vote, your time, your platform—for the kingdom of God? Paul remembered which kingdom he represented, even while standing trial. As you reflect on your life, your priorities, and your decisions—are they shaped more by earthly identity or heavenly citizenship?

What God calls leaders to embody, He calls His people to reflect. This is not just a charge for leadership—it's a calling for all who follow Jesus. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion In what specific ways does your life align—or not align—with the gospel you profess to believe? What would it look like for you to “finish your course” with courage in this season of life? How can you personally help build up the church body with grace-fueled vigilance?

Time is short, people matter, and eternity is real—so let's wake up, lean in, and live like we've been raised to life. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Consider how urgency and intentionality show up (or don't) in your conversations with family, friends, or coworkers. What would change if you knew today might be your last opportunity to speak the truth or hear it? Like Eutychus, drift can happen even when you're in the right room. Are there places where you've become passive or numb? What step do you need to take to “shift your seat” and re-engage with Jesus? Resurrection power creates ripple effects. Who in your life might need the hope you carry? How can you run toward the fallen like Paul did and speak life into their story?

The gospel calls us to confront our idols, remove them from the throne of our lives, and replace them with the One who is greater. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What's an idol—either obvious or hidden—that you've sensed the Holy Spirit inviting you to confront? How has it shaped your priorities or sense of worth? How do you typically respond to resistance—either from others or within yourself—when Jesus challenges something you've clung to? What does it practically look like to “put off the old self” and “put on the new self” in your current season of life? Where is God inviting you to live from your identity in Christ instead of something counterfeit?

We cannot pretend when it comes to faith—the enemy isn't fooled, and neither is God. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What does it look like in your life to be truly available to God—not just praying for His help, but yielding your plans, timing, and control to Him? In what ways have you been tempted to “use” God for outcomes rather than pursuing a deeper relationship with Him? Is there anything in your life you need to “burn”—something that's holding you back from full surrender to Jesus?

You can be close to the truth, confident in your beliefs, and still be completely wrong—until you truly encounter Jesus. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What are some ways we might be “doing the right things” without actually knowing Jesus personally? Like the men in Acts 19, is there something essential about Jesus—who He is or what He's done—that I've heard but not truly trusted in? Am I experiencing real change—new desires, fruit of the Spirit, freedom, and purpose—or am I still trying to live the Christian life in my own strength?

It's the big moments of our lives that get the headlines—but what if the small, ordinary ones matter just as much? What would it look like to give God ALL OF IT? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion How do you currently view your daily work (whether that's a job, caregiving, studying, etc.)? Do you see it as sacred or separate from your spiritual life? What would it look like to intentionally invite God into your workday this week? Who has God placed in your life right now that might be open to deeper conversation or friendship? What routines or habits are currently shaping your life—are they helping or hindering your walk with God?

The world we live in is a lot like ancient Athens–full of energy, ideas, and idols. How do we follow Jesus faithfully in a world that worships everything but God?

Paul and Silas were accused of turning the world upside down, but the gospel they preached actually set the world right side up–just as God intended from the beginning. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What assumptions or “truths” do you think our culture holds that conflict with the truth of the gospel? In what areas of your life does the world feel “upside down” right now? How might the gospel begin to set those areas “right side up”? What keeps you from sharing the gospel more openly—fear, uncertainty, discomfort, or something else? What's one “seed” you can plant this week in someone's life? What step of faithfulness is God asking of you?

Even in our darkest moments, God is ever present – and with Him, “midnight” is never the end of our story. -- Question for Reflection & Discussion How do we discern when something “true” is being used deceptively or manipulatively? Paul and Silas worshipped at “midnight” while in prison – before their circumstances changed. How does that challenge the way you think about worship? What has been one of your “midnight moments,” and how have you seen God work through it?

God's guidance is real, relational, and often unfolds over time. The invitation is to trust Him more deeply and be available for how He might want to use us right now.

Because Jesus lives, the resurrection isn't just an event we celebrate—it's the reality that changes everything–past, present, and future. Forever. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Paul says if Christ hasn't been raised, our faith is "in vain." What does that tell us about the importance of the resurrection in Christian belief? How does the resurrection set Christianity apart from other worldviews or religions? What would change in your life this week if you lived like the resurrection really happened? Who is someone you know that needs to hear the hope of the resurrection? What's one way you can share it with them this week?

Palm Sunday reminds us that deep and abiding peace isn't found in the absence of trouble—it's found in the presence of Jesus. Will we recognize this? Or let our moment (and peace) pass us by? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What's the difference between (and danger of) praising Jesus for what He does and not worshiping Him for who He is? What kind of peace are you searching for right now—and what would it look like to receive it from Jesus instead of chasing it elsewhere? Who in your life needs to hear about the kind of peace Jesus offers? What's one way you could share it with them?

Too often, we treat faith like something we put on for Sundays, but the resurrection isn't just a one-day event—it's a reality that should transform the way we live every day. Join us as we explore what it means to be united with Christ in His death and resurrection, walking in the new life He has given us. This Sunday, we're diving into Romans 6:1-11 and asking the question: Are we truly living in the power of Christ's resurrection? -- Small Group Discussion Questions: What is one area of your life where you've been living like your old self? What would it look like to fully surrender that to God and walk in the new life He has given you? Romans 6:4 says we are “raised to walk in newness of life.” What does that practically look like in your daily routine? Philippians 3:20-21 tells us that our citizenship is in heaven and that our bodies will one day be transformed like Christ's. How does this future hope give us confidence and purpose in our present circumstances?

In a world full of noise and compromise, the early church wrestled with a question that still defines our faith today: Is the grace of Jesus enough to save us? -- What does Peter say about the Law and salvation? Why is his statement in verse 11 so important? What does it mean that salvation is “Jesus plus nothing”? How does that truth confront pride, performance, or self-reliance in your own life? The early church leaders chose unity over division. What does it look like to “fight for each other, not against each other” in today's church? Are there any areas where you've let secondary issues divide you from other believers? How might God be calling you to pursue unity?

Life can change in an instant—betrayal, loss, or unexpected news can leave us shaken. But with God, our trials aren't just struggles; they are testimonies in the making.  -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What are some ways we can ensure that miracles (or answered prayers) in our lives lead us to deeper trust in God rather than distraction or pride? What makes suffering for Christ different from simply enduring hard times? How can we develop the kind of resilience that Paul demonstrated? What is one key takeaway from this Sunday that you want to apply in your own life this week?

Most attribute “The best defense is a good offense” to famous football coaches and war generals. They  rarely think of the early church. But in Acts 13, the early church takes on this mindset—no longer reacting to persecution but advancing by the Spirit's command. From scattered to sent.

Fire either destroys or strengthens—it all depends on what's inside. The same is true for faith. In this message, we explore how trials don't have to consume us, but through faith, God can use them to refine and strengthen us. Faith in the Fire.

The church in Antioch wasn't just a gathering of people—it was a movement that changed the world. And their story isn't just history—it's a blueprint for us today. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion The early church in Antioch was started by unnamed, ordinary believers. How does this encourage you in your own role in God's mission? The disciples in Antioch were the first to be called "Christians" because their lives so clearly reflected Jesus. If someone observed your daily life, would they recognize that you belong to Christ? Why or why not? Where is God calling you to be sacrificially generous—with your time, resources, or talents? What step can you take this week to trust Him in this area?

Have you ever experienced something so profound and undeniable that it left you speechless? God often moved in ways that left the early Church in awestruck wonder—and He can do the same again today. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Have you ever experienced a situation where your limited perspective made you doubt or misunderstand what God was doing? How did it turn out in the end? Are there areas in your life where you sense God calling you to obedience, but you've been hesitant to take the next step? How can you surrender to His plan instead of resisting it? The Jewish believers went from critics to worshipers when they stopped and recognized what God was doing. How can you develop a habit of stopping, stepping back, and worshiping God even when things don't go as expected?

In Acts 10, Peter's word to Cornelius reiterates what Jesus had been saying all along: God's love isn't exclusive. His grace isn't limited. The invitation is open to all who will receive Him. What will you do with the invitation?

When God calls us to change, it's rarely easy—but it's always necessary. This sermon explores how God confronted Peter about a heart issue that needed changing, and how He does the same work in our lives today.

The church is called to be together, bring people together, worship together, and serve God together. How do you fit in with God's calling for His church?  -- What steps can we take to ensure that our words and actions reflect Christ's love in our interactions with others? Can you share an experience where you had to put another's needs above your own? What did you learn from it? What is one action you can take this week to foster a sense of community and unity at North Highlands?

The choices we make in life are often motivated by fear and comfort. This sermon explores the deeper truth that not all fear and comfort is created equal: some fears and comforts lead to life, others to death. The question is, which will you choose? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What are some specific situations in your life where you've been tempted to prioritize the fear of man over the fear of the Lord? When you face discomfort, what “worldly comforts” do you typically turn to for relief? How effective are they in providing lasting peace? What practical changes can you make this week to walk more fully in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit?

It is easy to forget that God changes lives. We assume that people are too far gone, too out of His reach, to ever change. Reflecting on how God has changed the lives of others encourages us to reflect on how He has changed ours and prepares us for future growth! -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion God was always at work changing Saul's life—both before and after his Damascus Road experience. What is one way God has changed your life this past year? Saul seemed like the last person who would ever come to know Jesus. Who is someone you have written off as hopeless? How can you pray for that person this week? Ananias was just an ordinary guy, who God used to heal and commission one of the greatest evangelists in history. Who is someone ordinary that God has used to change your life? Can you encourage and thank them this week?

Faithful witness isn't about grand gestures or extraordinary achievements—it's about ordinary people faithfully following Jesus in the small, everyday moments of life. In this sermon, we look into the ordinary faithfulness that God delights in using for His extraordinary purposes. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Why do you think it's difficult for some people to trust or act on God's prompting, and how can we overcome that? How confident do you feel in your ability to explain how the Bible points to Jesus? What resources or practices could help you grow in this area? What does bold obedience look like in your life? Can you share a time when you stepped out in faith, and what happened as a result? What might God be calling you to next?

As we begin a new year, we often look for ways to improve, but no resolution can compare to one life-changing choice: shifting our trust from what's fleeting to what's firm; trading great for what's truly the greatest. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion The Samaritans placed their trust in Simon's abilities. In today's world, who or what do people often look to as “great” or worthy of trust? Why are these things ultimately insufficient? Simon wanted God's power for his own purposes. How do we sometimes fall into the trap of transactional faith, treating our relationship with God as an exchange rather than a surrender? In what ways can we make sure our faith is anchored in the “greatest”—trusting in Jesus for who He is, not just what He gives?

Christmas may be over, but the story isn't finished. Join us as we walk with the wise men on their post-Christmas quest to find Jesus—a journey that reveals far more than their devotion. The gifts they brought—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—declare who He truly is: our King, our Priest, and our Sacrifice. Don't pack away the spirit of Christmas just yet. There's still more to celebrate, more to discover, and more of Jesus to worship.

No other King would come this way. He's not the King we expected, but He's the King we desperately needed. This Christmas, come and see the Savior who came for you.

Christmas is almost here! Amid the busyness, Advent reminds us of what truly matters: the first Christmas, where God's perfectly magnificent love came to us in the most humble of ways. -- Question for Reflection & Discussion How have you experienced God's personal love in your life? In what ways can you better embrace and reflect His personal love in your daily routines? Where do you see God's transformational work in your life or the world around you? Are there areas in your life where you need to let go of worldly pursuits and allow God to reshape your priorities? How has God's faithfulness been evident in your life or the lives of others? How can remembering God's faithfulness help you trust Him with challenges you face today?

Have you ever felt joy so overwhelming you couldn't keep it to yourself—like having the perfect gift you can't wait to give? That's the joy of anticipation: the thrill before the moment arrives. Let's talk about the ultimate joy—God's promise, presence, and plan—that even caused a baby in the womb to leap with excitement. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Which of the three kinds of joy discussed in the sermon—believing His promises, encountering His presence, or anticipating His return—resonates most with you right now? Why? What practices help you experience God's presence in your daily life (e.g., prayer, worship, Scripture)? Which of these could you prioritize more? How can you share the joy of Jesus with someone who needs Him this week? Think of a specific person and plan a way to encourage them.

What comes to your mind when you hear the word peace? Is it a quiet evening at home? A world without conflict? Or maybe just a break from the chaos of everyday life? If we're honest, peace can often feel like an elusive dream, especially in a world like ours. Yet, Advent reminds us that peace isn't a dream or just an idea—it's a promise. And it's not based on our circumstances, but on a person. This morning, we're going to talk about unending peace, the unlikely people God used to accomplish His plans to bring about that peace, and how we, like Mary, can experience and share His unending peace in the world today. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What does the contrast between Zechariah and Mary teach us about how God chooses people for His purposes? In what ways does Mary's story inspire us to see value and purpose in our ordinary lives? How can we encourage others who feel “unqualified” to step into God's calling? Mary's role as the mother of Jesus came with significant challenges. How does her story reshape your understanding of what it means to be favored by God? Mary said, “Let it be to me according to your word.” What does this level of peace and surrender look like in your life? What might be holding you back from fully trusting God's plan?

We begin Advent with the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were righteous before God but had no children because Elizabeth was barren. Have you ever prayed for something so deeply, so desperately, and felt like all you got in return was silence? Maybe you've been holding onto hope for a breakthrough, for healing, or an answer, but instead, you're left wondering if God is even listening. It's hard, isn't it? To stay faithful, to keep believing, when it feels like nothing is changing. But here's the thing—God's faithfulness isn't tied to our timelines. He always fulfills His promises, even when the wait feels unbearable. This weekend I want to talk about how God works in the waiting and why He's worth trusting no matter what comes our way.  -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What do we learn about Zechariah and Elizabeth's faithfulness despite their personal struggles? How can their example encourage us in seasons of waiting? Why do you think Zechariah struggled to believe the angel's promise? What might this tell us about doubt, even in the presence of God's assurance? What promises of God do you find difficult to trust in your current season of life? How does this passage encourage you to persevere in faith?

The Bible calls us to live lives of thanksgiving—not just one day a year, but every day, in every circumstance. What if we spent less time critiquing the menu and more time cultivating a heart of gratitude? Thanksgiving, in its truest form, isn't about a holiday table—it's about a life transformed by God's goodness and faithfulness. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion When you think of “thanksgiving,” what comes to mind first—the holiday or the spiritual practice? Why? How do you think our culture influences our view of gratitude? What hinders us from living with an attitude of thanksgiving? Is it busyness, entitlement, or focusing too much on what we lack? How can we combat these tendencies? What is one specific thing you are deeply thankful for right now? 

In this weekend's passage from Acts, we see this truth clearly: With God, nothing is ever wasted. All things are His servants. He uses EVERY SINGLE THING we go through—including our suffering—to bring about His plan and purpose, not just in us, but in the world, too. Let's talk about it! -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion What would it look like to trust that God is working in all things, even painful ones, to make you more like Jesus? What situations in your life might God be using to impact others, even if you can't see it yet? Who in your life might need to hear how God has been faithful to you during hard times?

Do you remember the “Be Like Mike” Gatorade commercial? It was the best. The idea was simple: if you drink Gatorade, you could somehow "become" like Michael Jordan – to shoot, move, and dominate like the GOAT. As you might imagine for a boy growing up in the 80's and 90's, I was obsessed with Michael Jordan. All my friends were, too. We would have done ANYTHING to be like Mike. For followers of Jesus, the call is not to be like Mike but to be like Jesus. In Acts, unlike the Gatorade commercial, we see that being like Jesus isn't a mere slogan or wishful thinking for us; it's a transformative reality that the Spirit provides. When we are filled with the Spirit, we can ACTUALLY live like Jesus.  -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Can you think of a time when you felt the Holy Spirit strengthening or guiding you? How would your daily life change if you regularly leaned on the Spirit's power rather than your own abilities? What practical steps can you take to seek and rely on the Spirit's empowerment more consistently? How can you prepare yourself to face potential opposition for your faith, whether it's subtle or overt? What promises from Scripture can you hold onto in those times? What does it mean for you to “hold fast to the truth” in a world that often promotes its own version of truth? Where might you feel pressured or tempted to let go of the truth in your life?

If you have been around long enough to notice, it is safe to say that North Highlands is a growing church. For example, our membership has increased by 60% in the last 18 months. How good is God! Being a part of a growing church is exciting. There are new people to meet. New ministries to start. God is on the move. It's awesome. But “church growth” is not without its challenges. This week, we'll explore how the early church navigated these growing pains and what it means for us today. -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Why do you think the early church's rapid growth brought both excitement and challenges? How might unmet needs and fractured unity affect the health of our church community? What specific gifts or strengths do you bring to the church? How can you use these to help strengthen the church's mission, unity, and care for others? The apostles remained focused on prayer and the ministry of the Word even amid practical demands. How can you guard against distractions and stay focused on our core mission as a church?

Hey, Fam! Sunday is going to be sooo good! This weekend we have the privilege of spending a morning with Marvin Walker, Campus Pastor of Watermark South Dallas. If you don't know Marvin, you are going to love him! He is a native Californian and long-time friend of North Highlands. He is married to his beautiful bride, Amber, and together they have three beautiful children.  He is going to be sharing a message from Judges 3 titled “Fail the Test, Cease to Rest.” It's going to be awesome!

We all know what it feels like to face an impossible challenge. But what if the One whom you have challenged is God Himself? In Acts 5:17-42, we see the religious leaders attempting to silence a movement of God, only to discover a sobering truth: the surest way to lose a fight is to pick a fight with the Most High God. Will we make the same mistake? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion In what ways does our culture elevate personal freedom and autonomy over submission to God? How does this mindset impact your own walk with Christ? Jesus calls us to deny ourselves and take up our cross. What does that look like practically in your daily life? How do you navigate the tension between your desires and God's will? Gamaliel's advice highlights the futility of resisting God's plans. How does this perspective help you trust in God's timing and purpose, especially during difficult seasons? 

This Sunday we have the awesome opportunity to witness and celebrate the baptisms of NINE people in our church family! There's something so powerful about watching someone step into the waters of baptism and declare, “I have decided to follow Jesus—no turning back.” It's a bold step of faith, and it's a reminder that God is still working powerfully in the world today. This weekend we are talking about the power of bold witness. The reality is being bold doesn't just attract attention, it changes lives. It was true then, it is true now. Can I get a witness!? -- Can you think of an example where someone's bold witness influenced you or inspired you in your faith? Are there areas of your life where you feel called to be bolder in your witness for Jesus? The early church experienced miracles regularly, and God's presence was unmistakable. How do you see God's presence at work in your life or your community today? In the early church, some were hesitant to follow Jesus because of fear. What are some of the fears that people face today when it comes to following Jesus? What are some practical steps we can take to help others who may be fearful or hesitant about making a commitment to follow Christ?

This summer no less than eight pastors in the Dallas area resigned or were removed from their positions due to moral failure issues and no less than 50,000 people attend these churches every weekend. What is going on!? Our passage this morning gives us an idea. Could it be that some of Satan's best work is found within the Church? If so, how must we respond? -- Questions for Reflection & Discussion Are there times when you've been tempted to present a more “spiritual” version of yourself to others than is real? What might be motivating that, and how can you pursue greater honesty before God and others? If you were to evaluate your heart and actions, is there any area where you're tempted to “hold back” like Ananias and Sapphira? What is a specific step you can take this week to live with greater honesty before God and others? What is one tangible way you can live out the Spirit-filled generosity demonstrated by Barnabas this week? Whether it's your time, resources, or encouragement, how can you give sacrificially for the sake of others?