Watermark Fort Worth

This sermon explores Jesus's declaration in John 14:6 that He is “the way, the truth, and the life,” delivered to His troubled disciples the night before His crucifixion. The message traces humanity's original design in Eden—created for God's presence, truth, and eternal life—and how sin shattered this design, leaving humanity separated from God, confused about truth, and subject to death. Jesus restores what was lost by becoming the exclusive way back to the Father, the source of truth that corrects our distorted understanding of reality, and the giver of abundant and eternal life. The sermon challenges believers to evaluate whether they truly believe Jesus is sufficient as their way, truth, and life, rather than seeking satisfaction in worldly achievements or alternative paths to God.Main Points:- Jesus is the way into right relationship with God- Jesus is the truth that restores our understanding of God and reality- Jesus is the life that sin and death have taken from youScripture Referenced:John 14:1-6 (Primary passage); John 13:21; John 13:33; John 13:36-38; Genesis 2:7; Genesis 1:28; Genesis 3:22; Genesis 3:24; Genesis 3:1; Genesis 3:8; Isaiah 59:2; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 8:1; Galatians 5:16; Romans 5:8; Acts 4:12; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Psalm 119:160; Ephesians 4:18; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15; Matthew 11:27; John 14:26; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:1; Genesis 3:19; Colossians 1:16-17; John 3:16; John 5:24; John 10:10Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion QuestionsRead John 14:1-6 together.1) The sermon mentioned that “the human heart is troubled” because we've lost three things from creation: God's presence, God's truth, and eternal life with God. Which of these losses do you feel most acutely in your own life right now?2) Read John 14:6 again and Acts 4:12. Why do you think Jesus's claim to be “the only way” is so offensive to modern culture? How do you navigate conversations about this with non-believers?3) What situation in your life right now has you feeling stuck, and your instinct is to fix it on your own? How might trusting Jesus as “the way” change your approach?4) If God's Word disagrees with your perspective on something, which one wins? Can you identify an area where the enemy has been feeding you lies that you need to fight back with the truth of Scripture?5) John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”What's the difference between the world's version of “abundant life” and the abundant life Jesus offers?6) What are you chasing right now that you're convinced will satisfy you? Where do you run when you feel empty, restless, or unsatisfied? What would it look like to run to Jesus instead?Personal Reflection and Practical Application1) Share your story with someone this week—how Jesus became your way, revealed truth to you, and gave you new life.2) If you resonated with Newley's story or desire to strengthen your marriage, consider joining re|engage this Wednesday (or any Wednesday at 6:30pm). You'll hear stories of transformation, learn practical ways to grow in oneness, and connect in a small group as you walk through 16 lessons. No registration required—join anytime.3) Spend some time praying through your responses to the questions Newley asked in the sermon. Confess areas where you need to repent, and remind yourself of what God has promised and what is true:- What situation in your life right now has you feeling stuck, and your instinct is to fix it on your own?- If God's Word disagrees with your perspective, which one wins?- What are you chasing right now that you're convinced will satisfy you?- Where do you run when you feel empty, restless, or unsatisfied?- Whose version of “the life” have you quietly begun to adopt?Worship Setlist: The Way; Holy Holy Holy; Hope Has A Name; ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus; Behold Him

This Easter sermon explores Jesus' declaration "I am the resurrection and the life" through the account of Lazarus's death and resurrection in John 11. The message emphasizes that Jesus is not merely one who provides resurrection as a future event—He Himself is the resurrection, the source and substance of eternal life. The sermon addresses how Jesus meets us in our sorrow and grief, demonstrating that He is bigger and better than we often think. Through the lens of Lazarus's story, we see that Jesus delayed His arrival intentionally so that God's glory would be fully revealed and people would believe in His deity. The message concludes with the truth that resurrection power is available now through union with Christ, transforming our lives today while securing our hope for bodily resurrection in the future. Christians have hope not just for resurrected bodies, but for a resurrected world—a new heavens and new earth cleansed from all evil and suffering.  Main Points: - Jesus meets us in the sorrow of sin and death - He is not distant but draws near to comfort us in our grief and suffering. - Jesus is the resurrection and the life - Eternal life is not just an event or a place; it's found in the person of Jesus Christ. - Jesus is our hope for eternal life - Christians have hope for both a bodily resurrection and a transformed world, and this new life begins today.  Scripture Referenced: John 11:1-44 (main passage); Romans 5:12; Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:54-58; 2 Corinthians 4:16-17; 2 Corinthians 5:1-4; Galatians 2:20; John 17:3; John 10:10; John 3:1-8; Revelation 3:20   Community Group Guide:  Begin with Prayer Begin by thanking God for bringing your group together and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.   Discussion Questions 1) Read John 11:1-44 together. What stands out to you from this passage? 2) Martha confronted Jesus saying, 'if you had been here, my brother would not have died.' When have you questioned God's timing or presence during a difficult season, and how did that wrestling shape your faith? 3) Jesus wept at Lazarus's tomb even though He knew He was about to raise him from the dead. What does this reveal about how God relates to our suffering, and how should this impact the way we comfort others? 4) The sermon emphasizes that Jesus doesn't just give eternal life as a gift separate from Himself, but that He IS eternal life. How does this change your understanding of what it means to have a relationship with Christ? 5) The sermon ends with the question 'Do you believe this?' about Jesus being the resurrection and the life. What would it look like for you to move from intellectual acknowledgment to truly banking your entire life on the truth of the resurrection?  Personal Reflection and Practical Application Choose one or more of the following to put into practice:  1) Bring Your Grief to Jesus: If you're experiencing loss, pain, or disappointment, spend time honestly bringing your questions and emotions to God in prayer. He can handle your wrestling. 2) Expand Your View of Jesus: Identify one area where you've been thinking too small about Jesus. Write down specific attributes of Christ that counter your limited view and meditate on them daily. 3) Live in Resurrection Power: Identify one destructive pattern, addiction, or "dead" area in your life. Confess it to a trusted believer and ask them to pray with you for Christ's resurrection power to bring new life. 4) Share Your Story: Like Jorge shared in both services, share with someone this week how Jesus has brought you from death to life—whether that's your salvation story or a specific area where He's brought transformation. 5) Examine Your Belief: Honestly evaluate whether you're truly trusting Jesus with your life or just giving intellectual acknowledgment. What would it look like to fully surrender one specific area to Him this week?   Worship Setlist: Who Else; That's My King; Behold the Lamb; What A Beautiful Name; You've Already Won; Because He Lives 

This message takes us on a journey into John 10, where Jesus declares Himself the Good Shepherd, but it challenges us to move beyond merely knowing this truth intellectually to experiencing it deeply in our souls. Through the lens of attachment theory and relational patterns, we discover that many of us relate to God through the wounds of our past, projecting onto Him the unavailability, criticism, or distance we experienced from earthly authority figures. Yet the entire biblical narrative, from Genesis to Revelation, reveals a God who relentlessly pursues us with love, who became vulnerable as an infant, who absorbed our sin and death on the cross, and who breathed new life into us through His Spirit. This is God as He truly is, not our wounded representations of Him. When we grasp that the Lord truly is our Shepherd who leads us beside quiet waters and walks with us through the valley of the shadow of death, we begin to experience the weight of glory that seems almost too good to be true.Main Points:- There is a vast difference between how we experience God and who God actually is- God exists as Father, Son, and Spirit in a perfect relationship of love that existed before creation- Throughout Scripture, God consistently pursues humanity despite repeated rebellion, demonstrating His nature as a Good Shepherd- The cross demonstrates that God absorbs all our pain, sin, and death, transforming it into new creation- Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit into us (John 20:22), paralleling the Genesis 2 creation account- God doesn't merely tolerate us; He delights in us as a father delights in his children- Our defensive relational patterns prevent us from experiencing God's true goodnessScripture Referenced:John 10 (The Good Shepherd discourse – primary focus)Genesis 2 (God breathing life into humanity)Genesis 3 (The Fall and Protoevangelium)Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd)John 20:22 (Jesus breathing the Holy Spirit on disciples)Hebrews 13:20-21 (Benediction about the Great Shepherd)Revelation 21-22 (New creation and God dwelling with humanity)Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion Questions1. Read John 10:11-18. What specific characteristics of the Good Shepherd stand out to you?2. When you walk through your own valley of the shadow of death, what makes it difficult to believe that God is truly with you as a Good Shepherd rather than distant, angry, or critical?3. What “defense mechanisms” have you developed in your relationship with God that have been born out of an inaccurate view of God's character? (Examples: trying to earn His approval, keeping Him at a distance, performing spiritual disciplines out of fear rather than love)4. Nathan traced God's pursuing love from Genesis through Revelation. What does it mean to you that God chose to reveal Himself not as a conquering warrior but through the vulnerability of birth in a manger and service as a Shepherd?5. How does the cross ultimately demonstrate that God is truly good, even when our circumstances feel painful or confusing?6. “He suffers with you. He suffered for you.” How does this reality change the way you approach God in your darkest moments?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationRead Psalm 23 slowly each day this week1. Each day, focus on one verse and ask: “What does this verse reveal about God's character toward me?”2. Take note of any resistance or disbelief that arises and bring it honestly to God. Where are you struggling with an inaccurate view of who God is?3. Spend some time looking through Scripture for verses that remind you of God's specific characteristics or promises you are struggling to believe are true.4. Ask God to not only help you grow in understanding but also in experiencing His true character in your daily life. Praise God for who He is and His loving posture toward you as your Good Shepherd.Worship Setlist:Worthy of More; We Fall Down / Awesome in This Place; Cornerstone; Doxology; The Goodness of Jesus

This sermon challenges believers to move beyond comfortable, self-designed lives toward God-ordained mission. Drawing from Acts 1:1-11, the message emphasizes that Jesus interrupts not only our sinful pursuits but also our natural, comfortable ones to redirect us toward His greater purposes. Garrett argues that a life filled with normal, civilian pursuits, while not sinful, can create an interlocking grid of responsibilities and comforts that leave no room for God's supernatural work. Christians are called to be witnesses who tell the truth about Christ with urgency, recognizing that Christ's return could happen suddenly and unexpectedly. The sermon calls for availability to God's mission, whether locally or globally, and warns against the mission-killing boredom of a purely self-centered existence.Main Points:1. Jesus Interrupts Our Natural Pursuits-God's mission often redirects us from perfectly natural (but not ultimate) pursuits-The disciples asked a logical question about restoring Israel's kingdom, but Jesus had a bigger plan-Mission isn't just avoiding sin, it's being available for God's supernatural purposes2. Jesus Makes Us No More or Less Than Witnesses-A witness simply tells the truth—no more, no less-We shouldn't hide our faith or force it on others-Good deeds complement but don't replace verbal proclamation of the gospel3. Jesus Motivates Us with Urgency-Christ could return suddenly, miraculously, unexpectedly-We don't know how much time we have to live on mission-Our lives should reflect the urgency of the gospel, not just drift through normalcyScripture Referenced: Acts 1:1-11 (primary passage); Hebrews 12:1; 2 Timothy 2:4; Hebrews 13:8; 2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 28:18-20Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion QuestionsRead Acts 1:1-11 together before discussing the following questions.1. Why do you think Jesus redirected the disciples' question about restoring Israel's kingdom? What does this teach us about God's priorities versus our own?2. The sermon mentioned that “no soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits” (2 Timothy 2:4). Is there anywhere normalcy has killed your mission? Where might normal (not sinful) pursuits be quietly crowding out God's mission in your life?3. How does the difference between being a witness versus being judge, jury, and executioner change the way we should approach sharing our faith with others?4. Do the people you interact with regularly know you're a Christian? If not, what's one natural way you could make your faith known this week?5. On a scale of 1-10, how available are you to God interrupting your five-year plan? What makes you hesitant? What would help you become more available?6. How can you begin cultivating a God-designed life instead of a self-designed one? What's one specific step you need to take this week?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationPrayerfully reflect on the following and ask God to help you identify where and how to move forward in His pursuits:1. Where is Jesus trying to interrupt my natural pursuits right now?2. Who in my life (neighbors/coworkers/family) needs to hear me bear witness to Christ?3. If I truly believed Jesus could return tomorrow, what would I do differently today?Worship Setlist:Christ Be Magnified; Shout to the Lord; Firm Foundation (He Won't); All Hail King Jesus; O Praise the Name

This sermon explores Jesus' declaration “I am the door” from John 10, highlighting both His deity and His role as the exclusive means of salvation. Tracing the theme of “doors” throughout Scripture—from the Garden of Eden to the torn temple veil—the message shows how Jesus is the only way back into God's presence.Jesus draws on imagery familiar to His listeners, referencing two types of sheep pens in first-century Israel: communal village pens with gatekeepers and countryside pens where the shepherd himself served as the door. In this image, Jesus reveals Himself as both the door to eternal salvation and the gateway to abundant life in the present.The sermon calls believers to learn the Shepherd's voice through Scripture and prayer, live in their new identity in Christ, and practice gratitude in every circumstance. Rather than restricting life, Jesus offers true freedom and satisfaction that surpass anything the world offers.Main Points:- Jesus declares His deity – When Jesus says, “I am,” He connects to God's revelation to Moses in Exodus 3 (“I AM sent you”)-Jesus is the door of salvation – He is the ONLY way to enter into relationship with God, not just one option among many-Jesus is the door to abundant life – Salvation isn't just about eternity; Jesus offers life to the full NOW-We learn His voice through intimacy – Prolonged familiarity, repeated exposure, and relational closeness help us recognize the Shepherd's voice-The door theme throughout Scripture – From the Garden of Eden to the torn temple veil, God has been revealing Jesus as the way back to HimScripture Referenced:John 10:1-10 (primary passage); Exodus 3 (I AM); John 8-9 (context); Genesis 6 (Noah and the ark); Exodus 12 (Passover); Ephesians 2; Acts 4; Psalm 121:8; Philippians 4:19; Psalm 63; 1 John 1:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and asking the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion QuestionsRead John 10:1-10 together before discussing the following questions.1) How does Jesus healing the blind man in John 9 (especially on the Sabbath) set up the tension with the Pharisees in chapter 10?2) Jesus says He is THE door, not A door. In a culture that often says there are many ways to God, this claim can feel uncomfortable. - Why do you think Jesus' claim is difficult for many people today? - How do you personally respond to the idea that Jesus is the only way?3) Jason mentioned that sheep know their shepherd's voice through “prolonged familiarity, repeated exposure, and relational closeness.” - How would you honestly assess your ability to recognize Jesus' voice right now? - What practices help you become more familiar with His voice? - What “other voices” compete for your attention most often?4) Jesus says He came to give life “to the full” in the present, not just eternal life later. - What does abundant life in Christ look like practically? - How is this different from what the world calls “the good life”?5) 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” - What “old self” patterns do you find yourself returning to? - What would it look like to live more fully in your new identity?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationChoose one or more of the following to practice this week:Option 1: Learn His Voice- Spend time each day reading Scripture (start with John 10-15) and ask, “What is the tone and heart of Jesus here?”- Journal what you sense He is revealing to you about who He is and what that might mean about how He sees you- Share with your community group next week what you discoveredOption 2: Live in Your New Identity- Identify one “old self” pattern you're struggling with- Find 2-3 Scripture verses about your new identity in Christ, particularly related to that struggle if possible- Memorize them and speak them aloud when you are tempted to return to the old patternOption 3: Practice Gratitude- Each evening, write down three things you're grateful for, focusing specifically on God's character and provision- Include at least one thing from a difficult circumstance- Notice how this practice affects your perspective by week's endOption 4: Share the Door- Pray for one person in your life who doesn't know Jesus as the door to salvation- Look for an opportunity to have an honest conversation about faith this week. Ask the Spirit to lead you in this – that He would give you the words to say, that your words would be seasoned with salt and shared in loveMemorize John 10:9-10:“ I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”Worship Setlist:The Way; You Only; King of Kings; In Christ Alone; Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me

This sermon explores Jesus' declaration, “I am the light of the world” (John 8), spoken during the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. During this festival, large lampstands in the temple reminded Israel of God's guiding presence in the wilderness. Against that backdrop, Jesus declares that He Himself is the true light, the returned presence of God among His people.Through the story of the woman caught in adultery, we see that Jesus exposes darkness not with condemnation but with compassion. Ultimately, the cross becomes the moment when the Light of the World moves into the deepest darkness to defeat sin and death. Because of this, believers are called to be WITH the Light, WALK in the Light through confession, and LIVE as the Light as God's agents in dark places.Main Points:*Jesus' presence exposes darkness with compassion, not condemnation*The safest place to be is in the Light, where sin is exposed and dealt with*As children of light, we are called to be WITH the light, WALK in the light, and LIVE as the lightScripture Referenced:John 8:2-16 (primary passage); John 3:16-21; Matthew 5:14-16; 1 John 1:5-9; Psalm 27:1; Ephesians 5:8; Luke 19:10; Acts 8-9 (Saul's conversion); Ezekiel 10-11 (God's glory leaving the temple); Exodus 40 (God's presence in the tabernacle)Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present. Pray for your community group to be a community that celebrates confession and walks in the light together.Discussion QuestionsRead John 8:2-16 together before discussing the following questions.1. What in this passage stands out to you? Does this text reveal anything to you about the character of God?2. Read John 3:16-21 together. According to verse 17, why did God send Jesus into the world? How does this passage shape our understanding of Jesus as light?3. Jason said, “The greatest thing that happened to her was that she was brought before Jesus and her darkness was exposed.” Why might that feel counterintuitive? When has exposing sin in your life actually led to freedom?4. Why do you think we often believe the lie that life is found in darkness rather than trusting that exposure and confession lead to freedom and healing?5. Read 1 John 1:5-9 together. What promises does this passage give us about confession? What happens when we walk in the light together?6. In what ‘dark places' has God positioned you as a light, whether at work, in your neighborhood, or among family members who don't know Christ?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationUse the following prompts as you go throughout this week:1. “Be WITH the Light” – set aside time to be with God in prayer, solitude, His word, through worship in song, or any other means that stir your affections for Him.2. “WALK in the Light” – Thank God for meeting you with compassion when you confess. Ask Him for courage to confess any areas where you've been walking in darkness. Then find a trusted friend and share any ways you may have chosen darkness instead of the light.(If you need further support as you pursue the freedom found in Christ, join us for Re:generation on Monday nights at 6:30 PM in the auditorium.)3. “LIVE as the Light” – pray daily for someone you know that does not know Christ. Ask God specifically: “Where would you have me shine Your light?” Be open to opportunities to share your faith as the Spirit leads. Pray for the specific “dark rooms” where God has placed each person in your Community Group to shine His light.Memorize John 8:12:“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”Worship Setlist: Ancient Gates; This I Believe; Holy Forever; All Sufficient Merit; Build My Life

This sermon explores the final chapters of Nehemiah, confronting us with an uncomfortable truth: the hardest part of any spiritual journey isn't the beginning or the end, but the middle—when excitement fades and faithfulness becomes a daily grind. Through the lens of Israel's post-wall-building reality, we discover that physical restoration is only half the battle; the real work lies in rebuilding our hearts. The people made covenants, celebrated with overwhelming joy, and experienced genuine revival, yet drift crept in almost immediately after their leader departed. This pattern mirrors our own lives with startling accuracy. We see three essential principles emerge: faithfulness is proven through presence (we cannot build from a distance), faithfulness requires joyful participation (showing up is just the beginning), and faithfulness means constantly guarding against drift (which is always the default). The imagery of ocean currents pulling us away without our awareness resonates deeply. Busyness, comfort-seeking, and distraction quietly separate us from the life-giving connection we need. But here's the hope: while Nehemiah could only pray ‘remember me,' we serve Jesus, who answers that prayer completely. He is the greater Nehemiah who doesn't just rebuild walls but transforms hearts, securing an eternal kingdom that will never fall. Our calling isn't to climb perfectly but to remain connected to the one who already finished the climb for us.Main Points:Faithfulness is proven through presence (Nehemiah 11)Faithfulness requires joyful participation (Nehemiah 12)Faithfulness means guarding against drift (Nehemiah 13)Scripture Referenced: Nehemiah 10-13 (main passage); Proverbs 16:33; Psalm 127:1; Matthew 6:21; John 15:4-5, 11; Psalm 1:2; Luke 23:42-43Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion QuestionsPart 1: Faithfulness through Presence (Read Nehemiah 11:1-2)Our Part: Show up and be present. God's Part: He builds His people.What is the difference between attending church and being the church, and how does this distinction show up in your own life?How does comfort function as an idol in your life, and what would it look like to move toward calling rather than comfort?Part 2: Joyful Participation (Read Nehemiah 12:27-31, 38-43)Our Part: Plug in. God's Part: He gives joy.Read John 15:4-5, 11. How does “abiding in Christ” lead to joy, and how is that different from happiness we try to manufacture?Using the lamp illustration from the sermon (a lamp that isn't plugged in produces no light), discuss:What does it look like to be “plugged in” to Christ personally?What does it look like to be “plugged in” to the body of Christ corporately?What are signs that you've become “unplugged”?Part 3: Guarding Against Drift (Read Nehemiah 13:15-18)Our Part: Remember and fight drift. God's Part: He remembers us.Jarod Cox shared his beach story about drifting away while boogie boarding. What are the “currents” in your life right now that are most likely to pull you away from faithfulness? (Examples: busyness, stress, conflict, success, failure, etc.)If drift is the default, the question isn't if we drift, but how quickly we notice and return. What helps you notice drift sooner, and how can this group help each other stay connected?Three times in Nehemiah 13, Nehemiah prays “Remember me, O my God.” Why is remembering God's faithfulness the remedy for drift? Where do you most need Jesus to “remember you” right now?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationChoose 1-2 of the following action steps:Show Up: Commit to being present in one area where I've been distant (community group, serving team, family dinner, etc.)Plug In: Take one concrete step toward deeper connection—join a community group, sign up to serve, or commit to consistent givingFight Drift: Establish a daily practice of “remembering”: Scripture memory, morning devotional, prayer walk, or meditation on a specific gospel truthCheck In: Reach out to someone you know who may be drifting and invite them back into connectionConfess Comfort: Identify one area where comfort has become an idol and take a step toward obedience even when it's uncomfortableWorship Setlist: Jesus, Firm Foundation; Holy Holy Holy (Jesus Reigns); Chris Be Magnified; How Marvelous; O Praise the Name

Continuing in Nehemiah 4–9, this message highlights that while the enemy consistently opposes God's work through discouragement, distraction, and division, God always completes what He begins. Through the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, we see that God brings not only physical restoration but deep spiritual renewal through His Word. Believers are called to recognize opposition, respond faithfully through prayer and persistence, and remain anchored in Scripture as the ongoing means of transformation.Main Points:The enemy opposes God's work (through discouragement, distraction, and division)God always completes His workGod works renewal in His people through His wordScripture Referenced: Nehemiah 4-9 (main passage); 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:10; John 15:20; Ephesians 6:12; Joshua 1:9; Nehemiah 4:14; Nehemiah 6:3; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Nehemiah 6:15; Psalm 133:1; Romans 12:18; Matthew 18:15; Daniel 4:35; Psalm 19:7; John 6:63Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion QuestionsPart 1: Understanding Opposition (Read Ephesians 2:10)The sermon identified three tactics of the enemy: discouragement, distraction, and division. Discuss each of these through the questions below.Discouragement Discussion: Discouragement is theological, not just emotional—it happens when we believe something that is out of step with God's power or promises. What specific area of discouragement in your life might actually be a crisis of belief about who God is?Distraction Discussion: Newley shared “Distraction doesn't usually announce itself as disobedience. It shows up as overcommitment.” What “good things” might be pulling you away from the “great work” God has called you to?Division Discussion: Are there any relationships in your life where unity needs to be pursued or restored? Do you find biblical conflict resolution (Matthew 18:15-17) difficult to follow? If so, why?Part 2: God's Faithful Completion (Read Nehemiah 6:15-16)Newley admitted struggling to believe God could use Grady as a worship leader because of his limitations, yet God was already doing it differently than expected. Where might you be putting God in a box by defining what completion or success must look like in your life?Part 3: Renewal Through God's Word (Read Psalm 19:7 and John 6:63)If someone asked you, “Tell me what you're learning from God right now. What are you reading in God's word?” would you have an answer?In Nehemiah 8-9, The Israelites' renewal came through hearing, studying, weeping over, confessing, and acting on God's word. How would you honestly assess your own active and intentional engagement with Scripture right now?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationCombat DiscouragementWrite out 3-5 promises of God from ScriptureWhen discouragement hits, speak these truths out loudShare with one person how God is at work, even if you can't see the finish lineEliminate DistractionIdentify one “good thing” that's pulling you from the “great work” God has called you toMake one practical decision to create margin for God's prioritiesPractice saying “no” to something this week, internally remembering Nehemiah's words: “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down”Pursue UnityIf there's division in a relationship, pray for the Spirit to help you take the Matthew 18:15 step this week as He leads: Reach out privately, speak truth in love, and pursue restorationIf no division exists, encourage someone in the body of Christ who might be strugglingWorship Setlist: Psalm 150; Lord I Need You; Stand Firm; Behold Him

Continuing in Nehemiah, this sermon emphasizes how God accomplishes His work through the collective participation of His people rather than through individual leaders alone. God gives His people both an identity and an assignment, demonstrating that when believers are united in mission, God can accomplish incredible things. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall serves as a metaphor for church building today, showing that spiritual fruitfulness comes from God working through His people collectively. The sermon challenges the church to move from a “cruise ship mentality” (consumer-focused) to a “battleship mentality” (mission-focused), emphasizing that every member has a place in God's work regardless of their profession, past, or perceived qualifications.Main Points:God gives His people an identity – The wall provided security, which made Israel's identity as God's people possible. Through Christ, we are adopted as God's children with permanent belonging.Your believed identity determines your lived reality – What you believe about yourself shapes what you do. When we believe we are deeply loved by God, we can deeply love others.God works through His people – The wall was built with an “all-hands-on-deck” mentality. Everyone from perfumers to rulers to daughters participated.The church needs a battleship mentality, not a cruise ship mentality – We're called to ask, “Where can I serve?” rather than “How will this meet my needs?”Scripture Referenced:Nehemiah 3 (main passage); Psalm 127:1; Romans 8:15-16; Leviticus 26:11-12; 2 Timothy 2:3-4Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present.Discussion Questions:Part 1: Understanding Identity (Read Romans 8:15-16)How does understanding your identity as an adopted child of God, able to call Him ‘Abba Father,' change the way you approach daily challenges and relationships?The sermon stated: “Your believed identity determines your lived reality.” Where do you see this principle playing out in your own life? Are there areas where you struggle to believe what God says is true about you?Part 2: All-Hands-on-Deck Mentality (Read Nehemiah 3:8,12 and 3:5)What encourages you about seeing a perfumer and a ruler's daughters working on the wall? What excuses might they have made to avoid this work?In Nehemiah 3:5 the nobles “would not stoop” to do the work. Is there any area of need you've noticed where you've thought, “That's not the kind of work I want to do”? What would it look like to have a different attitude?Part 3: Grounding in Humility (Read 2 Timothy 2:3-4)Be honest: Do you tend more toward a “cruise ship mentality” (consumer mindset) or a “battleship mentality” (mission-focused)? What evidence supports your answer?The sermon mentioned that God often calls us to be faithful “right where we are” before calling us elsewhere. What does faithfulness look like in your current season—in your home, neighborhood, workplace, or church?What barriers (time, fear, insecurity, busyness) keep you from finding your place at the wall? How can this group help you overcome those barriers?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationPray daily: Use the phrase “Abba Father” in your prayer time this week, letting the reality of your adoption sink deeply into your heart as you cry out to the One who has called you His own.Encourage: Take time to acknowledge and encourage those you know who are being “faithful right where they are” within the church or our broader community.Identify: If you are currently serving, thank you! Spend some time praying and journaling through all the ways God has been at work in you and through you as you've faithfully stewarded your time and talents. Give Him thanks and ask Him to help you press on. If you are not currently serving, prayerfully ask God where He might desire to use you and take the next faithful step.Worship Setlist:There is a Savior; Cornerstone; Such an Awesome God; Worthy of it All; No Other King

This sermon explores Nehemiah chapter 2, teaching how prayerful dependence on God leads to faithful action. The message addresses the common struggle of knowing what to do when God seems to be moving slowly, warning against two spiritual ditches: giving up in passivity or taking control through manipulation. Instead, the sermon presents a third way—waiting on the Lord while remaining actively obedient. Using Nehemiah's example, the message shows how to step forward with courage, ground ourselves in humility and preparation, and stand firm against opposition and self-righteousness. The central teaching emphasizes that true faith involves both deep dependence on God and diligent action, summarized as "step, ground, stand."Main Points:Faith Steps Forward (2:1–8) Obedience in “waiting for the Lord” transitions to obedience in courageous and diligent action as the Lord leads.Vision Gets Grounded (2:9–16)Faithful leaders don't need fanfare; they humbly gather facts to help them discern faithful action.Leadership Stands Firm (2:17–20)God's servant puts to death any self-righteousness and invites God's people to move in unity toward God's promises.Scripture Referenced:Nehemiah 2:1-20 (main passage); Nehemiah 1; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Proverbs 21:1; Psalm 27:14; Lamentations 3:25; Isaiah 40:31; Proverbs 18:13; Proverbs 19:2; Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 31; Job 29 and 31; Ecclesiastes 3:1-5; Proverbs 28:1; Esther 4; Daniel 6; Genesis 16; Matthew 22:21Community Group Guide:Begin with Prayer - Begin by asking God to help your group share authentically and honestly in a way that encourages one another and pushes your group toward Christ.Discussion Questions:Part 1: The Two Ditches (Introduction)Which "ditch" do you tend to fall into when facing difficult circumstances?Giving up and becoming passive ("If God wants to fix it, He'll fix it")Taking control and moving ahead without God ("God helps those who help themselves")Part 2: Stepping Forward (Read Nehemiah 2:1-8)Nehemiah waited four months before acting. How do you distinguish between God's timing and your own procrastination or fear?Nehemiah's instinct to pray in the moment (v. 4) reveals a heart shaped by faithful waiting on the Lord. Often, when we wait on God seeking answers, He deepens relationship instead. Has there been a season where God Himself became more precious to you than the outcome you were hoping for?Part 3: Grounding in Humility (Read Nehemiah 2:9-16)Nehemiah gathered facts before announcing his plan. How does the principle "facts are our friends" apply to a decision you're currently facing?Nehemiah chose discretion over fanfare.Where in your life might you be tempted to seek recognition or justification rather than quietly trusting God with your faithfulness?Part 4: Standing Firm (Read Nehemiah 2:17-20)When opposition came, Nehemiah stood firm because he knew 'what time it is' - how does closeness with God help you define reality and discern when to stand against criticism?Practical Application:If you are waiting on the Lord in a particular area, take note of how many times this week you're tempted to either give up or take control.Journal about those instances and confess this to God, asking the Spirit to help you depend on His leadership as you faithfully wait.Share with someone in your Community Group if there is a tendency one way or another and ask them to join you in praying against it.Read Nehemiah 3 in preparation for Sunday's sermon.Personal Reflection:What am I waiting on God for right now?What faithful action can I take while I wait?Where do I need to ground myself in humility and preparation?Are there any facts I need to gather before I am ready to act?Are there any areas where I am looking for fanfare that I need to confess to God?Worship Setlist: Life Defined; Agnus Dei; All Hail King Jesus; Shout to the Lord; Build My Life; Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me

As we continue to make our way through the Minor Prophets, we arrive at the smallest book of prophecy, the book of Obadiah. In just 21 verses, we see God's determination to restore His people through judgment on display in the destruction of Edom. We also learn four important lessons for our lives today about the destructive nature of pride and the trustworthy sovereignty of God, our good and just Judge.Main PointsThrough judgment, God will restore His people. Lesson #1: Obadiah reminds us of the destruction of pride. Lesson #2: Obadiah reminds us that God's people are saved through judgment.Lesson #3: Obadiah reminds us that God is just and will judge; this is good news.Lesson #4: Obadiah reminds us that the eternal kingdom is the Lord's.Key TakeawaysNapoleon is known for his pride. His pride led to his destruction. Similarly, the book of Obadiah tells about the pride and fall of the Edomites. Yet it also contains a message of hope that through judgment God will restore His people.God's indictment against Edom (vv. 1-2) is sent among the nations as a warning against pride. Verses 3-4 describe the Edomites' problem: their arrogance. God promised to oppose Edom for their pride.The Lord declares total devastation will come to Edom (vv. 5-9).Verses 10-14 demonstrate how this pride from Edom has manifested toward the Israelites, their blood relatives. They should have allied with Israel but instead, they were violent toward them because of their pride. In doing so, they opposed both God and God's people.Verse 15 is a key verse. It describes a reversal of fortune. Essentially, in colloquial terms, “what goes around comes around.” God promises the Edomites will drink a cup of judgment, bringing about their own demise by their destructive actions even as God Himself judges them for rejecting Him. Thus we see the balance between human responsibility and divine sovereignty. Obadiah's prophecy was fulfilled, and quickly. The Nabateans overthrew Edom. This was the prophecy's immediate fulfillment.But the ultimate fulfillment will be Jesus' second coming when God judges all the nations—the righteous unto salvation and unrighteous unto judgment.Verses 17-21 transitions from a message of destruction to a message of hope and restoration. Though God judged His people (see the book of Amos), a remnant remains and God will restore them.God's ultimate objective is the realization of His eternal kingdom to bless His people forever.Lesson #1: Obadiah reminds us of the destruction of pride. The Noah Webster Dictionary of 1828 defines pride this way: “Pride is inordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one's own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank or office, which manifests itself in lofty airs, distance, reserve, and often in contempt of others.”The ultimate expression of pride is living without an understanding and declaration of our desperate need for God.The most severe manifestation is the willful rejection of the triune God and His Word. All pride leads to destruction.Yet it's inherent in our fallen nature. Even as believers, our flesh wrestles with our new self in Christ. But God in His love allows the destructive consequences of pride to humble us and bring us to repentance.Lesson #2: Obadiah reminds us that God's people are saved through judgment.We have all acted in the sin of pride in opposition to God. And we are saved through judgment—God's judgment of sin poured out on Christ in our stead.Lesson #3: Obadiah reminds us that God is just and will judge; this is good news.God will right all wrongs. And He is a better Judge than we are. Vengeance is His (Romans 12:19-21). Lesson #4: Obadiah reminds us that the eternal kingdom is the Lord's.Justice is coming. This world is not our treasure. As we sing, “Though the nations rage and kingdoms rise and fall, there is still one King reigning over all; and I shall not fear, for this truth remains—that my God is the Ancient of Days.”The greatest declaration of pride is, “Lord, I don't need You.” May our humble declaration be, “Lord, I need You.”Discussion Questions/ApplicationPersonal application:Spend some time asking the Spirit to help you identify pride in your heart. How do you see pride show up in your life on a weekly/daily basis? How do you live as though you don't need God? How do you see apathy toward God show up in your life? If you have trouble, think through a recent conflict. How did your pride play a role? Are you experiencing any destructive consequences of pride right now?Consider: Do you see a holy hatred of pride growing in your life? How? If not, how can you begin—through the Holy Spirit's power—to cultivate it more?Discuss with your community group:What wrongs are you struggling with right now, desiring to see justice prevail? How can you more fully embrace God as our Judge and trust His timing and plan in this? Share about a time when pride led to destruction in your life. What happened? How did God use the consequences of your sin to lovingly discipline you and draw you to Him? How did you see James 4:4-10 at work?Passages ReferencedJames 4:4-10; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Romans 12:19-21Worship Set List: The Passion, Firm Foundation (He Won't), Nothing Else, Death Was Arrested, Lord I Need You

This week, we continue our study of the minor prophets in the book of Joel. The book of Joel shows us that our Creator and Redeemer God is a God of judgment but also a God of mercy who stands ready to restore His people when they come before Him in repentance. This book also points to a time when the Spirit of God would be present in all God's people.Main Points:1. The Day of the Lord is a Day of JudgmentJoel 1–2:11A locust plague devastates the land.This is a covenant curse (Deuteronomy 28:38).It is a foreshadowing of an even greater judgment (Babylonian invasion).Israel is being treated like Egypt for covenant unfaithfulness.