First Christian Church of Brazil Indiana Sermons

Explore the importance of the Church through key passages in Matthew 16, shedding light on its role in building a community of believers.

Identifying Jesus' Identity:

An analysis of Matthew 16:13-17, emphasizing how Jesus affirmed Peter's declaration of Him as the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Foundation of the Church:

Delve into Matthew 16:18, examining the metaphor of Peter as the "rock" and its connection to the foundation upon which Jesus promised to build His Church.

Ekklesia: Unpacking the Term:

Examine the term "Ekklesia" and its profound meaning, highlighting its representation of a gathering or assembly of believers called out by God.

The Church as a Spiritual House:

Connect Ephesians 2:19-22 and 1 Peter 2:4-6 to illustrate how believers collectively form a holy temple and living stones, showcasing the organic growth of the Church.

Jesus as the Builder:

Emphasize the role of Jesus as the builder of His Church, drawing on Acts 2:47 to illustrate the continuous growth of the Church under His ownership.

Keys to the Kingdom:

Unpack the symbolism behind "the keys of the kingdom of heaven" in Matthew 16:19, exploring the concepts of binding and loosing in the context of Church authority.

Loving Jesus and His Church:

Highlight the inseparable connection between love for Jesus and love for His Church, quoting Franklin Clark Fry to emphasize the importance of regular church attendance.

Practical Application:

Encourage regular church attendance, emphasizing the priority of being part of the family of God as reflected in Hebrews 10:25.

Outreach and Inclusivity:

Stress the importance of inviting others to join the church family, adopting a quote that underscores the Church's role in both gathering and scattering for impactful service.

Generous Support:

Motivate believers to support the church with their time, talent, and treasure, reinforcing the idea that the church is not merely a place but a family to which they belong.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points, emphasizing the significance of the Church as a community of believers called by God, built by Jesus, and actively engaged in the world.

Join Jon Rhoades, Children and Family Minister, and CJ Muston, Student Minister, in this engaging FCC Talk where they delve into captivating topics.

Welcome and Introduction:

Meet your hosts and guest, Jon Rhoades and CJ Muston.

Don't forget to Like and Subscribe for more insightful conversations.

Discussion Segments:

Explore current events (non-political), ministry insights, personal life, and a touch of Bible without the sermon format.

PRE SELL: CJ Stroud's Faith, Christ’s Victory over Social Media, and Church Traditions:

Preview the exciting topics: C.J. Stroud's faith journey, Christ’s Victory over Social Media, and the debate on churches embracing tradition.

TOPIC 1: CJ Stroud's Faith and MVP Race:

Discuss C.J. Stroud's public expression of faith and his rise in the NFL MVP race.

Questions:

What are your thoughts on a new NFL player openly sharing his faith?

How crucial are sports role models who follow Jesus for today's youth?

TOPIC 2: Christ’s Victory over Social Media:

Explore the positive and negative aspects of social media.

Questions:

How have you seen social media used for good?

Do Christians have an obligation to be present online?

TOPIC 3: Embracing Tradition in Churches:

Examine the attractiveness of tradition for a younger audience.

Questions:

What makes traditionalism appealing to those under 60?

How should churches balance modern and traditional approaches in ministry?

Casual Chat Segment:

Explore personal interests:

What are you eating?

What are you watching?

What are you reading?

TRUTH TUESDAY: Bible Verses and Spiritual Reflections:

Share a Bible verse that resonates with you.

CJ will share a verse, sparking discussion with thoughts and questions.

Ending Segment:

Ask if CJ has any ministry announcements or updates.

GUEST PLUG:

CJ shares insights into his ministry, inviting support and attendance.

Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson, and a time for small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

Dan Stribling preaches on week 10 of Rooted.

Empowering Conversations and Celebrations: Recognizing Growth and Purpose

Approaching the culminating Celebration in week 10 of the ROOTED Experience provides a unique chance to acknowledge and appreciate the transformative journey each member has undergone. Seize this opportunity to express your observations of God's work in their lives through personalized cards and verbal affirmations during group sessions. Encourage the identification of individual giftings, character strengths, and passions worth exploring further.

For instance:

"Your remarkable compassion, especially in addressing racial tension, could make a significant impact. Consider joining our Impact team."

"People admire and look up to you more than you realize. Embrace the leadership opportunities God is calling you to right now."

"While forgiving yourself may be challenging, remember that God sees beyond your decisions. His unconditional love is shaping something beautiful within you. Continue letting Him replace self-perceptions with His truth."

Facilitate a space for each person to share their reflections on the ROOTED Experience and then guide the group in offering these uplifting truths to one another. Conclude by having someone, perhaps yourself, pray over each individual. Refer to the Facilitators Guide for guidance.

What's on the Horizon?

Conclude discussions about future plans with your group. Ensure a unanimous decision to avoid continuing reluctantly for another month or season.

Share your decision by completing the survey [Include survey link].

Prepping for the Celebration

To enhance the Celebration experience, prompt your group to contemplate one or two encouraging truths for each member. Encourage them to think of a word, phrase, quality, or passion associated with each person. Send a text or email beforehand to prepare them for this meaningful reflection and expression of affirmations.

📖 John 3:16 - God's Divine Generosity

God's extravagant love led to the ultimate gift: His Son. 🎁

💡 Be Like God: The more we give, the more we reflect God's generous nature. 🙏

🌟 The Positive Side of Generosity: Your giving impacts lives! 🤗

🗣 "You have it in your power to do tremendous good to others." - Stephen King

💼 Luke 16:1-9 - The Shrewd Manager Parable

Learn from the shrewdness of the manager to invest wisely.

💡 3 Actions for Generosity:

1️⃣ Be Wise: Give to efforts that lead people to faith in Jesus Christ.

2️⃣ Be Trustworthy: Are you managing God's money with integrity?

3️⃣ Be Devoted: Choose between serving God or money, and prioritize God.

🔍 Luke 16:13 - The Choice: God or Money

🤔 Which master has your devotion? God or money?

🪙 Widow of Zarephath: Prioritize God in your giving.

📝 3 Priorities for Giving:

1️⃣ Mission: Does the organization align with your values?

2️⃣ Staffing: Is the team dedicated and capable?

3️⃣ Accountability: Is your gift used responsibly?

📚 Stephen King's Wisdom on Generosity:

🎈 Life is short, and we can't take money with us. 💸

💡 Make your life a gift to others; all you have is on loan. 🎁

🌟 Three Men's Perspectives on Giving:

Find your unique way to honor God through generosity. 💰💝

Listen to this episode to explore the wisdom of generosity and become rooted in God's abundant love and grace. 🙌🎧 #Generosity #RootedInFaith

TOPIC: U.S. Church AttenChrisce Still Lower Than Pre-Pandemic | StoryQUESTION: What is it about church attendance continuing to be down since COVID?QUESTION: How has our church attendance done since th pandemic?TOPIC: It’s Not Magic: Understanding the Power & Pattern of Prayer (Asa and Hezekiah’s prayer models) | StoryQUESTION: Do you have a model in your prayer life you attempt to follow?QUESTION: The author talks a lot about making prayer about God and not us. Do you have any tips for how we can do that well?TOPIC: Religiosity linked to positive well-being outcomes | StoryQUESTION: What is it about Christianity that makes us better equipped for mental health?QUESTION: Do you agree that our world will continue to struggle with mental health issues and consistent negativity the less religious we are?TOPIC: What you eating? or What you watching? or What you reading?MENTION: Chris will share one thing he has been interested in lately (doesn't have to be religous or anything).TRUTH TUESDAY: What is a Bible verse that has been on your heart lately?MENTION: Chris will share just a quick verse he has been thinking about or praying about in his life. Jon will spark discussion with thoughts and questions.

📜 Episode Notes:🌟 How Can I Make the Most of My Life? Greatness?

• 💭 Defining Greatness: Are you the G.O.A.T? (Greatest Of All Time)
• 🌎 Greatness in the World vs. Social Media vs. Kingdom of God

📖 Scripture: Mark 10:42-45

• 🤴 The World's View of Greatness: Status and Authority
• 🕊️ Kingdom of God's View: Greatness is in Service
• ❤️ Love Jesus = Serve People

📖 Scripture: John 13:1

• 📆 The Feast of Passover: Jesus' Love to the End
• 🌌 "Eis telos" - Love to the Fullest Extent

🤲 Jesus' Love in Action:

• 🚶‍♂️ Got up
• 👘 Removed His Outer Garments
• 🛁 Poured Water in a Basin
• 🙏 Kneeled Down
• 🦶 Washed Disciples' Feet
• 🌬️ Dried Their Feet

🔥 Best Moments of Life: Get up, Make a Difference!👁️ What Others See Inside:

• 🌄 Jesus' Humility Shown by Removing Outer Layers
• 😇 God Cares About How You Serve

❌ Right Thing Done Wrong:

• 💔 Wrong Motives Make Actions Wrong

🍞 The Passover Context:

• 🙏 Celebrating God's Faithfulness, Forgiveness, and Goodness
• 🤔 Argument Over Who's the GOAT?

👁️ Jesus Saw Proud Hearts and Dirty Feet:

• 💡 Seeing Needs
• 🧼 Washing Dirty Feet as an Act of Love

❓ Why Didn't Disciples Serve?

• 💪 Pride Hinders Service
• 😞 Criticizing vs. Washing Dirty Feet

🌟 True Greatness:

• 🌟 Not About Status, But Service
• 🤝 Serving as an Act of Love

🙏 If You're Not Serving:

• 💫 Unmet Needs Are God's Calling
• 🙌 Serve Anyway, Regardless of Expectations

🤗 Serve Anyway:

• 👥 Some Will Take You for Granted
• 🤷 Some Will Expect It
• 😔 Some Won't Fully Appreciate It

🌟 Unlock the Path to True Greatness Through Service! 🌟