Primary Scripture: Matthew 13:1-23Summary: Jesus told a parable about a farmer scattering seed and what happened to the seeds in different soils and environments. The disciples ask why He used parables. Then Jesus explained what the parable meant.Key Themes: Parables, Responses to the Good News, ProphecyDesired Outcomes: People would understand that the Good News requires a response. Believers would feel joyful that God has opened their eyes and ears to “the secrets of the kingdom of heaven.” Believers would share the Good News with others and trust God with the results.

Primary Scripture: Matthew 12:46-50Summary: Mary and Jesus’ brothers asked to speak with Jesus. In response, Jesus asked who His family was? “Pointing to his disciples,” Jesus answered His own question.Key Themes: Family, Obedience to GodDesired Outcomes: People would see that God is a believer’s first and greatest love. Believers would want to walk in alignment and obedience to God. Believers would praise God that they are a part of His family be grace through faith and not by works.

Primary Scripture: Matthew 12:15-37Summary: Matthew quoted Isaiah 42:1-4 showing that Jesus was God’s “chosen servant” prophesied about hundreds of years in advance. Immediately following is the account of the Pharisees attributing Jesus’ miraclesto the power of Beelzebul (Satan). They missed it.Key Themes: Miracles, Prophecy, Spiritual Realm, Jesus’ IdentityDesired Outcomes: People would learn to discern between works of God and works of Satan. People wouldwant to read the OT to see how it points to Jesus. people would take time to discover who Jesus truly is.

Primary Scripture: Matthew 12:38-45Summary: The Pharisees asked Jesus for a sign (though He had just healed a demon-possessed man). Jesus promised them the “sign of Jonah.” The Pharisees stood in the presence of One greater than the prophet Jonah or the wise Solomon. They stood in the presence of God… and they missed it.Key Themes: Death and Resurrection, Judgment, Spiritual PossessionDesired Outcomes: People would discover that repentance is the way to genuine faith. The Holy Spirit would be pleased to set people free from sin and bondage. People would turn to faith in Jesus as the Son ofGod.

Primary Scripture: Matthew 12:1-14Summary: The Pharisees were hyper-focused on Jews keeping the law, especially the Sabbath. Twice, it seems like Jesus broke the Sabbath and led people into unrighteousness. In reality, it was religion that kept peoplefrom truly experiencing God.Key Themes: Sabbath, Law-keeping/Religion, Divinity of JesusDesired Outcomes: People would learn the origins and purpose of Sabbath. The Holy Spirit would open eyes to the truth that Jesus is God. People would throw down religion and step into genuine faith.

Primary Scripture: John 15:26-16:15Focus: Jesus told the disciples that the Holy Spirit would come and lead them in truth. Then He made this profound statement, "It's for your good that I'm going away and the Holy Spirit comes." Why? Jesus was passing ministry on to the disciples and gave them a glimpse into their future. We can do the same thing for the people of Bluffton Community.Desired Outcomes: That people would have a better understanding of the direction of ministry at Bluffton Community. That believers would feel equipped because they have the Holy Spirit living inside of them. That believers would step into ministry, whether with a ministry team at Bluffton Community or through ministry in their personal lives.

Primary Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30Focus: The goal of this message is to remind Bluffton Community that our rest is found in Jesus and as we head into fall, work schedules getting regular after summer, kids going back to school with all of it's activities we must resist the busy life that leaves God behind, and remember to be intentional finding rest in the one whom rest is found.

Thank you for joining us as we take a look at the importance of Small Group ministry at Bluffton Community by hearing from individuals in the church that have personally witnessed the impact of intentionally connecting with others at the church has had on their lives! At Bluffton Community we devote ourselves to the Apostle's teaching, to fellowship, breaking of bread (including the Lord's Supper), and the prayer every Sunday morning and throughout the week in our homes in small groups! Thank you for watching, we hope to see you on Sunday morning at 9am and 11am!

Primary Scripture: Luke 7:20-23

Focus: John the Baptizer’s disciples came to Jesus asking a question on behalf of their rabbi, “Are You the Messiah?” Jesus’ response, “Look at the evidence for yourself.” Jesus was actively involved in the lives of people. This is part of what made His ministry so remarkable (aside from the fact that He is the Son of God in the flesh). As our churches grow, we don’t see ourselves moving away from people, but just the opposite, moving closer to people.

Desired Outcomes: That people would see themselves as joining God in His rescue mission and using their gifts to grow God’s kingdom.

Primary Scripture: Luke 9:23Focus: Sometimes, Jesus’ invitation to become one of His followers is remarkably different than invitations that are made in churches today. Deny yourself. Take up your cross daily. Follow me. Three short phrases and yet such depth that they challenge us still today. What does this mean and how do we help each other walk with God?