We love to sing, O little Town of Bethlehem, but do we understand why Jesus was born there. Jesus’ birthplace wasn’t a random location but was pre-determined from ancient times. In this message, we talk about the significance of Bethlehem as the birthplace of Jesus, and see how his birth demonstrates God’s ability to bring great things from humble beginnings. Based on Micah 5:2-5a

Foretold, Part 3: Discussion Guide

Imagine spending your entire life in the dark, with no light at all. Over time you learn how to stumble around in the dark. The one day, light dawns. The sunshine begins to breakthrough. Suddenly you see a whole new world. Isaiah says that is what the birth of Jesus is like. A world that’s been stumbling around in the darkness of sin is suddenly able to see. In this message, we see how the coming of Christ enables us to see the world in a whole new way. Based on Isaiah 9:1-7

Foretold, Part 1: Discussion Guide

Jesus predicted it three times. He would go to Jerusalem, be arrested, be killed, and on the third day rise again. But that doesn’t mean anyone thought it would actually happen. Our year-long series on Mark comes to a crescendo as we celebrate the story of Easter – Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Based on Mark 16:1-8

Passion, Part 11: Discussion Guide

Funerals are meant to provide closure. The burial of the dead shows respect for the deceased, while also allowing loved ones to confront the immense grief that has befallen them. The death of Jesus brought as terrible grief to the hearts of those who loved him most. In this message, we talk about the burial Jesus and discuss how we can be honor and respect Jesus’ life and ministry. Based on Mark 15:42-47

Passion, Part 10: Discussion Guide

The death of Jesus marks the lowest moment of human history. As Jesus hangs on the cross, he is completed isolated from his family and friends, and he even feels isolated by God the Father. Yet, his death changes history. In this message, we discuss how the death of Jesus brings new meaning and hope to our own deaths, which we will all experience someday. Based on Mark 15:33-41

Passion, Part 9: Discussion Guide

The cross has become a sacred symbol visible all over the world. It adorns buildings, is a favorite piece of jewelry, and is seen by many as a sign of hope. But 2,000 years ago, the cross was little more than a symbol of torture and death. In this sermon, we talk about the history of crucifixion, and enter into the darkness of what Jesus experienced for us and our salvation. Based on Mark 15:16-32

Passion, Part 8: Discussion Guide

The accusations levied against Jesus were an internal Jewish squabble. Pilate, the Roman governor, was reticent to get involved in a strictly Jewish matter. Still yet, he chose to have Jesus crucified. Why? Because he wanted to satisfy the demands of the crowds. In this message, we uncover how Pilate’s story cautions us against trying to please the crowds, and in so doing surrendering our integrity. Based on Mark 15:1-15

Passion, Part 7: Discussion Guide

Peter is infamous for his three-fold denial of Jesus. Yet, who of us in the same situation would have had the courage to stand beside Jesus when it appeared all hope was lost? In this message, we talk about the great shame Peter felt and how Jesus’ helped people move past his shame into a redeemed life. For any of us who live with the weight of shame of regret, this is a message we need. Base on Mark 14:66-72

Passion, Part 6: Discussion Guide

The great irony of the passion of Jesus is that it was instigated by the Jewish religious leaders. The very people who were trained in God’s Word, and tasked with recognizing God’s Messiah, were incapable of seeing the truth of who he is. What did Jesus do that so deeply upset the religious leaders, and what can we learn from their mistakes? Based on Mark 14:53-65