Christmas is all about Jesus, but what if I told you that Jesus’ beginning wasn’t in Bethlehem’s manger— or even Mary’s womb?  In John chapter 1, the Bible points us back to the beginning of beginnings, where Jesus existed in eternity past. What else does this famous passage of Scripture reveal about Jesus’ true identity? What does it mean for us that Jesus is “life” and "light”?   (Light of the World, part 2)

If you asked the average Christian about the good news of a Savior, they would probably point you to the Gospels, where we read about Jesus’ birth. But the first rays of gospel light actually started in Genesis 3, immediately following the rebellion of Adam and Eve.  What do we learn there about this Savior to come, and why is that first light still good news for us today?  (Light of the World, part 1)

Christians are more than just citizens of an earthly nation— we are citizens of heaven! Since that is true, then we should believe and behave accordingly with our everyday lives. So what are three everyday practices you should live out as a citizen of heaven? (Blueprint for Joy, part 11) 

In chapter 3, Paul explains that he isn’t satisfied with his present spiritual condition. Just like a highly-trained athlete, Paul wanted to go further and lay his hands on the ultimate prize. As we digest this Scripture, what will it take for you to experience similar spiritual growth and gains? What practical goals must you embrace for yourself? (Blueprint for Joy, part 10)

In Philippians chapter three, the Apostle Paul decided that nothing on earth could compare to the value and worth of knowing Jesus. When you let go of earthly treasures and religious efforts— and exercise genuine faith in Christ alone— what is it exactly that you stand to gain? (Blueprint for Joy, part 9)

In Philippians chapter three, Paul calls on Christians to steer clear of the false teaching that religious efforts can make people with God.  If anyone ever had a dynamic resume on religion, it was Paul— but he surrendered everything to know Christ. As you digest this powerful section of Scripture, how can you make Christ your everything? (Blueprint for Joy, part 8)

*Guest Speaker* This past Sunday, we heard a timely message on Martin Luther and the importance of Reformation Day from our Next-Gen Pastor, Jared Carline. Pastor Jared took us into Galatians chapter 1, and showed us a glimpse of Martin Luther’s life and how he rediscovered that the gospel of salvation isn’t by human efforts, but by faith alone in Christ alone. If this gospel is the only message that leads to forgiveness and salvation, then what does that mean for your everyday life?   (Jared Carline)

When a new restaurant or eatery opens, they typically share free samples to get customers excited. In Philippians two, the Apostle Paul highlights two men who were great samples of Christian service.  So how can you become a useful servant for Jesus? What steps can turn you from a spectator into a servant? (Blueprint for Joy, part 7)     

You and I live in a dark and confused culture, where anger and arguing and violence are the norm. If you want to be a Christian who shines the light of the gospel into the darkness, what practical actions does Jesus want you to carry out in your everyday experiences? (Blueprint for Joy, part 6)

In Philippians chapter two, the Apostle Paul holds out Jesus as the supreme model of humility, so that we might be humble in all our interactions and relationships at church. In what ways did Jesus demonstrate a humble attitude, and how should you adopt that attitude in your life?  (Blueprint for Joy, part 5)