Reverberate: A Berean Bible Church Podcast | Knoxville, TN

Title: John 21:15–25
---
John 21:15–25
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”
Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them, the one who also had leaned back against him during the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” So the saying spread abroad among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?”
This is the disciple who is bearing witness about these things, and who has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true.
Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. (ESV)
---
In his sermon "Feed and Follow," Jed Gillis explores the profound conversation between Jesus and Peter in John 21:15-25. The passage captures a pivotal moment where Jesus gently yet firmly reinstates Peter after his earlier denials. Jesus asks Peter three times, "Do you love me?" Each time, Peter affirms his love, and Jesus responds with a command to "feed my sheep." This exchange emphasizes that true love for Christ is demonstrated through caring for others and guiding them spiritually.
Gillis points out that Jesus does not dwell on Peter's past failures but instead focuses on his current devotion. This teaches us that our past mistakes do not define our ability to serve God now. What matters is our present love for Him and our willingness to follow His commands. Furthermore, Gillis highlights that Jesus' instructions to Peter—feeding His sheep—are about more than just showing love; they involve actively nurturing others in their faith.
The sermon also addresses the human tendency to compare ourselves with others, as seen when Peter asks about John's fate. Jesus' response, "What is that to you? You follow me," reminds us that our focus should remain on our personal relationship with Him rather than on comparing ourselves with others.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

In his sermon on John 21:1–14, Lynn Kohler delves into the post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. The passage recounts how Peter and several disciples, returning to their familiar occupation of fishing, encounter a fruitless night. At dawn, an unrecognized Jesus instructs them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. Their subsequent catch is so bountiful that they struggle to haul it in.
The sermon emphasizes Jesus' sovereign control over nature and His compassionate provision for His followers. Kohler draws a parallel between this miraculous catch and an earlier instance when Jesus called Peter to be a "fisher of men." This repetition underscores Jesus' lordship over all creation and His intimate involvement in the lives of His disciples.
Kohler also highlights Peter's impulsive leap into the sea upon recognizing Jesus, symbolizing his eagerness to reconnect with his Lord despite past failures. The breakfast prepared by Jesus on the shore signifies fellowship and restoration, reinforcing that Jesus meets us where we are, providing both physical sustenance and spiritual renewal.
The sermon concludes that recognizing "It is the Lord" in our lives leads to a deeper understanding of His love and provision. It calls believers to trust in Jesus’ guidance and embrace the fellowship He offers, even in moments of uncertainty or perceived failure.

Title: John 20:24–31
---
John 20:24–31
Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. (ESV)
---
In the sermon "Believe," Lynn Kohler dives into the story of Thomas, one of Jesus' disciples, as depicted in John 20:24-31. Thomas, often labeled as "Doubting Thomas," initially refuses to believe in Jesus' resurrection without physical proof. When Jesus appears to the disciples a week later, He invites Thomas to touch His wounds. This encounter transforms Thomas' doubt into faith, leading him to declare, "My Lord and my God!" Kohler emphasizes that this story isn't just about Thomas' doubt but also about his deep loyalty and eventual belief. Jesus’ response to Thomas highlights a broader message: blessed are those who believe without seeing. The sermon encourages believers to confront their doubts and grow their faith, trusting in Jesus’ grace and compassion.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 20:11–23

---
John 20:11–23
But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.” (ESV)
---
In his sermon, "Peace Be with You," Jed Gillis explores the transformative impact of the resurrection of Jesus Christ as depicted in John 20:11–23. The resurrection signifies that Jesus did not remain in the tomb but ascended to be at the right hand of the Father, promising to send another Comforter, the Holy Spirit. 
Mary Magdalene's encounter at the empty tomb illustrates her initial grief and confusion, thinking someone had taken Jesus' body. Her sorrow turns to joy when Jesus calls her by name, revealing His resurrected form. This personal interaction highlights how Jesus meets us in our brokenness and offers hope.
Later that evening, Jesus appears to His fearful disciples, offering them peace and showing His wounds as proof of His sacrifice. He commissions them by saying, “As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you,” and breathes on them to receive the Holy Spirit. This act empowers them for their mission—sharing the message of forgiveness and embodying Christ's love.
The sermon emphasizes that Jesus provides peace amid turmoil, power through the Holy Spirit, and purpose in life as His ambassadors. Believers are called to rest in this peace, act in divine power, and pursue their God-given purpose with confidence and joy.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 19:38–20:10
---
John 19:38–20:10
After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went back to their homes. (ESV)
---
In this sermon, Jed Gillis delves into the aftermath of Jesus' crucifixion and the profound reality of His resurrection. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, once secret disciples, boldly care for Jesus' body, signifying their transformed faith. This passage underscores the importance of the resurrection as a historical fact rather than just an inspiring story. Gillis challenges listeners to confront their skepticism by examining the evidence. The empty tomb witnessed by Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John serves as a cornerstone of Christian faith, emphasizing that Jesus truly died and rose again, transforming lives forever.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 19:17–37
---
In his sermon on John 19:17-37, Jed Gillis delves into the crucifixion of Jesus, emphasizing the profound significance of Jesus' final words, "It is finished." This passage recounts Jesus bearing His cross to Golgotha, being crucified alongside two others, and the inscription placed by Pilate declaring Him "King of the Jews." Despite Pilate's mockery and the soldiers' actions in dividing Jesus' garments, these events fulfilled Scripture, highlighting God's sovereignty even in suffering.
Gillis points out that while human authorities like Pilate and the Pharisees believed they wielded power, their actions unknowingly aligned with divine prophecy. The sermon underscores that true glory was displayed through Jesus’ obedience and sacrifice. The seamless tunic symbolizes priestly purity, reinforcing Jesus as the ultimate high priest who mediates between God and humanity.
The tender scene where Jesus entrusts His mother to John exemplifies His formation of a new spiritual family bound by faith. Gillis emphasizes that believers are united not by earthly ties but by their connection to Christ. 
Gillis explains that "It is finished" signifies the completion of a debt owed to God—not merely suffering or death—but honoring God's infinite worth. Jesus' sacrifice fulfilled this debt entirely, disarming Satan and ensuring eternal security for believers. This means Christians are freed from guilt and motivated by love and joy rather than fear.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 19:1–16
---
John 19:1–16
Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him. And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe. They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.” The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God.” When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid. He entered his headquarters again and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer. So Pilate said to him, “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?” Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin.”
From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, “If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.” So when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Stone Pavement, and in Aramaic Gabbatha. Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” They cried out, “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.” So he delivered him over to them to be crucified.
So they took Jesus, (ESV)
---
In this sermon, Jed Gillis explores the profound narrative of Jesus' trial, suffering, and crucifixion as described in John 19:1-16. Pilate's interactions with Jesus reveal a man tormented by fear and confusion, unable to grasp the divine authority before him. Pilate's attempts to appease the crowd through mockery and flogging only escalate their demand for Jesus' crucifixion. The Pharisees’ hatred blinds them to Jesus' true identity, leading them to declare allegiance to Caesar over their rightful King.
Gillis emphasizes that the story's significance lies not in moral lessons or practical principles but in its historic reality. The events truly happened, marking a pivotal moment in God's redemptive plan. He challenges listeners to see beyond their pride and self-reliance, which obscure the glory of Christ. Instead, they should behold Jesus as both the suffering servant and sovereign King, whose sacrificial death offers freedom to all who believe.
The sermon calls believers to recognize their likeness to Barabbas—the guilty set free by Jesus' sacrifice. It underscores that while humanity's sin is immense, God's love is even greater, offering redemption through Christ’s ultimate act of love on the cross.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 18:28–40
---
John 18:28–40
Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor’s headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor’s headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. So Pilate went outside to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” They answered him, “If this man were not doing evil, we would not have delivered him over to you.” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” The Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death.” This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die.
So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?” Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” Pilate said to him, “What is truth?”
After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews and told them, “I find no guilt in him. But you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” They cried out again, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber. (ESV)
---
In today's sermon, Jon Farra delves into John 18:28–40, where Jesus stands trial before Pilate. The scene is set with Jesus being led from Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters early in the morning. The Jewish leaders avoid entering to maintain ceremonial purity for Passover. Pilate questions the accusations against Jesus, but the Jews insist they cannot execute anyone, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy about his death.
Pilate interrogates Jesus, asking if he is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds that his kingdom is not of this world, highlighting a spiritual reign rather than a political one. Pilate remains skeptical and famously questions, "What is truth?" Despite finding no guilt in Jesus, Pilate offers the crowd a choice to release either Jesus or Barabbas, a known criminal. They choose Barabbas.
Farra contrasts this with the story of the rich young ruler from Mark 10. Unlike Jesus, who fully relies on God’s grace, the rich young ruler clings to his possessions and walks away sorrowful when asked to give them up. This comparison underscores the theme of reliance on divine grace versus worldly attachments.
The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives. Are we fully relying on God’s grace? Do our actions show that we believe God's ways are worth it? By examining these questions, Farra encourages believers to align their lives with Christ's example of complete surrender and trust in God’s plan.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 18:15–27
---
John 18:15–27
Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.
The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.” When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.
Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, “You also are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed. (ESV)
---
In this sermon from John 18:15-27, Jed Gillis delves into the profound story of Peter's denial of Christ. As Peter follows Jesus into the high priest's courtyard, he faces a series of confrontations that test his loyalty. Despite his earlier bold declarations of unwavering support for Jesus, Peter denies knowing Him three times. Gillis explores the underlying reasons for Peter's denial, suggesting it stems from a mix of fear and confusion.
Peter's journey reveals a tension between his recognition of Jesus as the source of eternal life and his reliance on his own strength. This inner conflict becomes evident when Peter tries to assist Jesus with a sword in Gethsemane, only to be corrected by Christ. The sermon underscores that self-reliance ultimately leads to failure, as seen in Peter’s actions.
Gillis contrasts Peter’s denials with Jesus' steadfastness during His interrogation by the high priest. While Peter falters outside, Jesus boldly upholds His teachings inside, demonstrating true discipleship. The message encourages believers to abandon self-reliance and trust wholly in Jesus' redemptive work. Even in moments of weakness and doubt, there's hope for restoration through Christ's unwavering grace.
This passage highlights the importance of relying on Jesus rather than our own abilities. It calls for humility and faith in His ultimate sacrifice and resurrection, which offer redemption even when we fall short.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.

Title: John 18:1–11
---
John 18:1–11
When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (ESV)
---
In this sermon, Jed Gillis delves into the profound moment in John 18:1-11 where Jesus, fully aware of His impending betrayal and suffering, steps forward with authority and love. This passage marks the beginning of Jesus' darkest hour—the Passion—highlighting His ultimate sacrifice for humanity. Gillis explores the setting in the Garden of Gethsemane, drawing parallels to the Garden of Eden, where humanity first fell.
The sermon emphasizes Jesus’ divine knowledge and His deliberate act of stepping forward to meet His captors. By stating, "I am he," Jesus not only identifies Himself but also demonstrates His divine nature, causing those who came to arrest Him to fall back. This act reveals both Jesus' power and His willingness to fulfill His mission.
Gillis contrasts Jesus’ divine heroism with Peter's misguided attempt to defend Him by force. Peter's action symbolizes a misunderstanding of Jesus' purpose—to drink the cup of wrath meant for humanity. The sermon underscores that Jesus' path to victory is one of sacrificial love and submission to God’s will, not human force.
Ultimately, Gillis calls listeners to recognize that, like Peter, we are not sidekicks but beneficiaries of Jesus’ saving work. He invites us to trust in Christ’s sacrificial love and step forward in faith to display His glory and love in our lives. Through this narrative, we see a savior who steps forward with divine authority and love, offering eternal life to all who believe.
---
Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.