Chapter 9 of Isaiah was written to give hope to the oppressed people of Israel. It can also be a tremendous encouragement to the believer who has fixed their hope securely on Jesus. Indeed, the rulership of Christ, in the present and future kingdom of God, is the surest foundation of hope for the Christian.

Questions:

1, Isaiah tells us that “the people who walk in darkness will see a great light.” What are other places in Scripture where we see light and darkness contrasted?

2. It seems clear that Satan is the ruler of aspects of our world, but yet God is in control. What evidence do we have that this is true?

3. Why is it important that Jesus rule on the throne of David?

4. How would a government established by Christ look different than the governments of this world?

5. Can you explain how the names Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace can only be fulfilled by the God-man Jesus Christ?

In 735 BC, God’s people struggled to believe he was with them in times of trouble. We have the same struggle. It’s not that we struggle to believe that God exists; rather, we struggle to believe that he matters. As we face tremendous challenges and troubles in this world, what does it look like to push back on our unbelief and set our hope in the Lord?

Sermon Outline:

I. God is with us, therefore our enemies will not prevail over us.

II. God is with us, therefore we should fear only him.

III. God is with us, therefore we should rely on his word.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think it’s easier for us to place our hope in things like politics, military power, or our own wisdom instead of in God? How does this passage challenge your own sources of hope during times of trouble?

2. How does the idea of God being with us (especially in the person of Jesus) provide hope in your own life? In what ways do we sometimes fail to fully trust that God is with us, even when circumstances seem overwhelming?

3. How do we combat the temptation to fear the things that culture fears—whether it’s political instability, economic challenges, or health concerns? What does it look like for us to “fear God” in practical terms?

4. How can we make God’s word the primary source of our understanding and peace in a chaotic world?

5. Isaiah 9:1-2 foretells a great light that will shine on those in darkness, fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. How does the light of Christ bring hope in the midst of darkness, both in our personal struggles and in the broader issues facing the world? How can we actively share the light of Christ with those around us who are experiencing hopelessness or despair?

Fear has the ability to drive us into foolish, short-sighted decisions that have long-lasting consequences. Worse, fear in times of trouble can lead us into decisions that dishonor God. During this season of Advent, we will be considering how these passages in Isaiah 7-12 foretell the hope that brings comfort and courage in a world sorely needing it for a people who don’t deserve it. 

Sermon Outline:

I. In times of trouble, fear is normal.

II. In times of trouble, faith is firmness.

III. In times of trouble, hope is fitting.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. What are some common fears that can lead Christians today to make decisions that move us away from trusting in God? How can we recognize when fear is influencing our choices?

2. What does it mean to “stand firm in faith” during times of trouble? How can we practically strengthen our faith when faced with fear or uncertainty?

3. Why do you think Ahaz refused God’s offer for a sign? How does God’s willingness to provide signs for his people (like the birth of Immanuel and the Lord’s Supper) demonstrate his grace and desire for us to trust him?

4. How does the fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14 in the birth of Jesus change the way we view our relationship with God, especially in times of trouble? What practical difference does it make in our lives if “God is with us”?

5. How can the Advent season help us to cultivate a living hope in Jesus’ return, especially when facing trials? 

Even the most faithful servants of God need encouragement. Whether it's Paul leaning on fellow believers or Jesus being strengthened by a visiting angel, no one is meant to walk this journey alone. We will find out how Paul closes his letter to the Ephesians by encouraging them with the gospel

Outline:

Encourage one another in the fruit of the gospel

Encourage one another in the truths of the gospel

Encourage one another in the response to the gospel

Be encouraged by the gospel

Questions:

1. Why do you think people don’t encourage one another more?

Recall a time when you were encouraged? What made it an effective lift for your soul?

Reflect on the truths of Ephesians 1-3.

2. What truth particularly is encouraging to you in the season you are in right now?

3. Walking the Christian life is a natural outgrowth of a life with Christ. What is important to keep in mind as you encourage one another to live out the gospel truths in obedience?

4. Why is the benediction not just simply a closing statement or well wish at the end of the service? What function does it serve?

5. Who do you need to send an encouragement to this week?

We are all engaged in a spiritual conflict, whether we want to be or not. As God’s people, we are called to be strong in Christ and to stand firm under the onslaught. How can we do that?

Sermon Outline:

I. Stand Firm by Putting On the Armor.

II. Stand Firm by Taking Up the Sword and Shield.

III. Stand Firm by Bowing Down in Prayer.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. Reflect on Paul’s imagery of the armor. How do you personally “put on” the armor of God each day? Are there any areas in your life where you feel unprepared or vulnerable?

2. In a world full of lies and half-truths, how can you better align yourself with God’s truth?

3. What are some of the “fiery darts” (doubts, temptations, fears) that Satan launches at you in your spiritual walk? How can you raise the shield of faith to protect yourself from these attacks, and what promises from Scripture can help strengthen your faith in these moments?

4. How can you better equip yourself with the Word of God to fight against the enemy’s lies and temptations? How has the Bible been a tool for you in spiritual warfare, and how can you make it a more central part of your daily life?

5. Why is prayer so essential in spiritual warfare? How can we be more intentional in praying for others, especially fellow believers, and for those who preach and teach the Word? What are some practical steps you can take to make prayer a consistent part of your daily walk with God?

Our battle is a spiritual battle against spiritual enemies—the devil and fallen angels we commonly call demons. The spiritual war rages around us every day. If we’re going to fight well in this battle, we need strength, defense, and weapons that come from somewhere outside of ourselves.

Sermon Outline:

I. We Have an Enemy.

II. The Enemy Uses Schemes Against Us.

III. We Have a Strong Defense.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. Paul reminds us that our battle is against spiritual forces, not flesh and blood. How does recognizing this shift in perspective influence the way we approach conflicts with others in our lives?

2. We heard several examples of schemes the devil uses to cause us to fall such as temptation and deception. Can you share a time when you recognized one of these schemes in your own life? How did you respond?

3. Paul encourages us to be “strong in the Lord.” What practical steps can we take to cultivate spiritual strength and reliance on God in our daily lives?

4. We should not be ignorant of the devil’s schemes. What areas in your life do you find yourself most vulnerable to spiritual attacks, and how can Christian community help in these areas?

Many hearts are troubled today. From elections to wars to the economy to our personal health, it seems we have several good reasons for being troubled. But Jesus’ words in this passage show us a better way: the way of peace—the way of faith.

Sermon Outline:

I. Our hearts will not be troubled when we exercise faith.

II. Our hearts will not be troubled when we anticipate his return.

III. Our hearts will not be troubled when we remember who he is.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. What specific anxieties or troubles are weighing on your heart currently? How do you relate to the disciples’ feelings of trouble as described in the sermon?

2. Faith is not just something we possess, but something we actively exercise. Can you share a time when you actively exercised your faith and experienced peace in a troubled time?

3. How does the hope of Jesus’ return and the promise of a place in the Father’s house influence your perspective on current events?

4. We may be troubled by the wrong things. What are some issues or concerns that you personally are overly troubled by? What is an area where you may not be troubled enough?

5. How does knowing Jesus make a difference in troubling times? Spend some time in prayer over these things.

When work feels like a battle—employees doing the bare minimum, managers pushing too hard—we are missing the bigger picture. What if we remembered that the true boss isn't in the corner office, but the heavenly one? Seeing our work as service to the Lord will transform how we lead and follow.

Sermon Outline:

I. Service that Pleases God

II. Management that Pleases God

III. A Heart to Please God

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. In Ephesians 6:5-8, Paul encourages bondservants to serve their earthly masters “as to the Lord.” How does viewing your work as service to Christ impact your attitude and actions in your workplace or other areas of responsibility?

2. Both employees and managers can fall into ethical traps such as “faking work” or making unreasonable demands. What are some specific challenges you face in your work environment, and how can the biblical principles from this passage guide your response?

3. Paul reminds us that the ultimate reward for good work comes from God (Eph. 6:8). How can this perspective change the way you approach tasks that may feel mundane or go unnoticed by others? Share an example where this shift in thinking could make a difference in your daily work whether you are employed, retired, or working in the home.

4. The message highlighted the tension between managers who abuse power and employees who avoid responsibility. If you are in a position of authority, how can you ensure that you lead in a way that honors God? If you are under authority, how can you work with integrity even when the leadership may be difficult?

5. How will knowing Christ transform your work this week?

The primary issue we all face in marriage is that marriage works best when a husband and wife are not seeking their own interests, but that of their spouse. Unfortunately, due to our sinful condition, we all have a tendency to do the exact opposite, at least from time to time. In this passage, Paul sets out a radically different approach to marriage than the norm with a radically different result.

Sermon Outline:

I. The Command to Wives.

II. The Command to Husbands.

III. The Gospel Mystery.

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon encourages being “ruthlessly honest” during the dating process. What specific qualities or values should couples focus on during this stage to ensure they are making informed decisions about marriage? For those already married, how can we help our kids make good decisions in this area?

2. In the context of Ephesians 5, how does the call to both husbands and wives challenge current cultural assumptions or norms? How should married couples navigate disagreements in a way that honors the Lord and honors their spouse?

3. Husbands need to love their wives and wives need to respect their husbands. How might unmet needs for love or respect lead to conflict in a marriage? In what ways can couples actively demonstrate love and respect in their daily interactions?

4. A healthy marriage begins with “leaving and cleaving.” What practical steps can couples take to ensure they are prioritizing their marriage relationship over familial or external pressures? What practices or routines have you found helpful for “cleaving” as a couple?

5. How does the gospel provide the power for overcoming selfishness in marriage? Discuss ways in which reflecting on Christ’s unconditional love for us can transform our approach to loving and serving our spouse.

Jesus calls us to go make disciples by baptizing them. What is baptism? What does it mean? And how can it shape our approach to fulfilling the Great Commission in our own spheres of influence? Join us Sunday as we search the word for answers to these questions and more.

1. How do you suppose friends and neighbors who don’t share the Christian faith might feel about the great commission? Why?

2. Why do you suppose Jesus chose baptism as the sign and seal to mark a person’s entrance into the covenant community, and not some other rite, ceremony or credible profession of faith etc?

3. What does baptism tell us about God? What does baptism tell us about ourselves and our role in the world?

4. The bible never hesitates to put the weakness and dysfunctionality of the church on full display. Why do you suppose that is?

5. When you think about “personal evangelism” what kinds of thoughts and emotions does it raise in your mind and heart? Why?