FPC Bellingham

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live October 18, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Emily Huff.

Wisdom - Part I

Wisdom is valuable and is found in relationship with God.

• Why does the author compare wisdom to precious gems and gold?
• What do verses 13–22 reveal about the limitations of human knowledge?
• Why do Death and Destruction say they have only "heard a rumor" of wisdom (v. 22)?
• Who alone understands the way to wisdom (vv. 23–24)?
• Why do you think Job includes this reflection in the middle of his suffering?

Job 28:1-28

Message by our Intern Emily Huff, recorded live October 11, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Isla Louws.

Bathsheba

No single chapter has the final word. God keeps writing our stories.

• Where in your life are you tempted to let one chapter or one moment define your whole story?
• How does Bathsheba’s journey invite you to reconsider the ways you “freeze” others or yourself in a single story?
• Where might God be inviting your voice to return (through courage, advocacy, or truth telling) as Bathsheba’s did in 1 Kings?
• What hard chapter are you living through right now, and how might God be “still writing” beyond what you can see?
• Whose story in your life needs a long view of grace this week, and how might you offer that reminder?

2 Samuel 11:1-5, 1 Kings 1:11-17, 28-31

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live October 4, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Emily Huff.

David

Dance and live in freedom like only God is watching.

• What contrast exists between David's attitude and Michal's attitude toward worship?
• What can we learn from David's wholehearted worship?
• Are there times when concern about others' opinions limits our expression of devotion to God?
• What does this chapter teach about proper worship?
• How can we honor both the majesty and the nearness of God?

2 Samuel 6:1-10, 11-23

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 27, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Efton Park.

David: God Sees the Heart

God is not swayed by the outward appearance for God sees the heart,spend all your renovation time renovating your heart.

• What does God's statement, "People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart," teach us about God's values?
• What might David's occupation as a shepherd reveal about his character and preparation for leadership?
• What is the significance of the Spirit of the Lord coming powerfully upon David after his anointing?
• In what ways are we tempted to judge people by outward appearance?
• How can we cultivate a heart that pleases God?

1 Samuel 16:1-7, 8-13

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 20, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Jan Smith.

Hannah

Belonging means we can bring our big feelings to God, do not be cowed by the religious professionals.

• Why was Hannah’s inability to have children so painful in her cultural context?
• What does Hannah’s prayer reveal about her relationship with God?
• What is significant about the vow Hannah makes regarding her son?
• How does this passage portray God’s awareness of human suffering?
• What can you learn from Hannah about bringing deep emotions honestly before God?

1 Samuel 1:1-8, 9-20

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 13, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Eleanor Adams.

• How might Ruth’s commitment reflect loyalty beyond cultural expectations?
• What does Ruth’s loyalty teach about commitment in relationships?
• How can you support someone going through loss like Naomi?
• What risks did Ruth take by staying with Naomi?
• What role does this passage play in the larger story of the Book of Ruth? In the larger story of the Bible?

Ruth 1:1-5, 15-19, Matthew 1:5-6

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live September 6, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Andrew Verneuil.

• What does it mean to no longer be “strangers and foreigners” in God’s kingdom?
• Why might Paul describe the church as a building or temple rather than just a group of people?
• In what ways do people today still feel like “outsiders,” and how does this passage speak to that?
• How can you contribute to unity and growth within your church community?
• How does this passage shape your understanding of the church’s identity and purpose?

Ephesians 2:19-21

Message by Pastor Doug Bunnell, recorded live August 30, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Heather Barton.

Blessed are the Confrontive Peacemakers

• What changed in Peter's behavior when certain men came from James? (v. 11–12)
• Why did Paul refuse to compromise, even though compromise might have avoided conflict?
• Why was Peter's hypocrisy dangerous for the church?
• How can you lovingly confront another believer when necessary?
• What does "walking in step with the gospel" look like in our daily life? How can your church demonstrate both truth and grace to people from different backgrounds?

Galatians 2:1-14

Message by Pastor Greg Ellis of Cordata Presbyterian Church, recorded live August 16, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham.

Blessed are the Peacemakers: Making Peace While in Exile

Jeremiah 29:1,4-7

Message by Pastor Seth Thomas of St. James Presbyterian Church, recorded live August 9, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham.

Ministers of Reconciliation

• How is reconciliation different from simply being forgiven?
• What responsibilities come with the "ministry of reconciliation"?
• How does understanding reconciliation affect the way you approach evangelism?
• What does being a "new creation" look like in your daily life?
• Who needs to hear God's message of reconciliation from you, how can you actively participate in the ministry of reconciliation this week?

2 Corinthians 5:16-20