In life’s twisting journey, there are moments when God gives us mountain top experiences – moments when it feels like we taste heaven. While those moments never last long, they can give us the energy and strength to face the valleys of adversity. In this message, we unpack the powerful experience Peter, James, and John had on a mountain top with Jesus. Based on Mark 9:2-12

Journeys with Jesus, Part 3: Discussion Guide

When the disciples realized that Jesus is the Messiah, they hoped that he would bring about the full salvation and restoration of Israel immediately. They weren’t prepared for the truth that the true Messiah must first suffer the cross. And yet, as Jesus would teach them, the only way to experience a life fully redeemed is through the cross. In this message, we talk about the importance of self-denial and taking up on our cross as we journey to follow Jesus. Based on Mark 8:34-9:1

Journeys with Jesus, Part 2: Discussion Guide

This week we are kicking off a new series called “The Journey.” The series continues our year long journey through the gospel of Mark. The first message in the series is called “Turning Point,” and is based on Mark 8:27-33.

Journeys with Jesus, Part 1: Discussion Guide

Jesus’ visit with the Syrophonecian woman illustrates Jesus’ desire to include the Gentiles in his gospel mission. In his quest to proclaim the good news, Jesus is willing to go to the ultimate “outsiders.”

The conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees starts to come to a head, as the Pharisees criticize Jesus for not following ceremonial laws. Jesus responds with courage, accusing the Pharisees of elevating human traditions over God’s law. In this sermon, we talk about the pressure we often face to uphold the traditions and values of our culture over and against God’s values. Based on Mark 7:1-23

A special Father's Day message from Brian Barnett

Though he was sent by God, Jesus was treated like an outsider. As suspicions about Jesus spread among religious leaders, Jesus walked on water, demonstrating the truth of his identity as the Son of God. In this message, we learn that if Jesus can walk on water, then we can trust him to help us walk through any uncertainties we may face. Based on Mark 6:45-56

Jesus described the ever-present crowds that followed him around as “sheep without a shepherd.” They were outsiders in their own hometowns, often neglected and forgotten by their leaders. Yet Jesus had compassion on them, choosing to see them and care for their needs. In this sermon, we encounter Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the 5,000, discovering how God sees us when we feel forgotten and alone. Based on Mark 6:30-44

Outsiders, Part 2: Discussion Guide

Have you ever felt misunderstood – like despite your best efforts no one understands your intentions or your heart? John the Baptist came to bring good news, yet he was woefully misunderstood. In this sermon, we explore the martyrdom of John the Baptist and learn from it the importance of remaining faithful to God, even when the world misunderstands us. Based on Mark 6:14-29

Outsiders, Part 1: Discussion Guide

We often call the church the “Body of Christ” without thinking about what that statement means. Jesus literally calls us to be his hands and feet, and to extend the work that he does. In this message, we see how Jesus called his disciples and sent them out two by two to act on authority of his name. Based on Mark 6:6-13

Walking The Talk, Part 6: Called & Sent