Woodland Christian Church Sermons | Biblical Teaching

Luke 7:28 Greatness in the Kingdom of God

Lesson 1: (NOTE: Parts I through III from last week’s sermon) John was more than a prophet because:

(Part I) He saw the Messiah (Luke 7:26; Matt 13:16-17).

(Part II) There were prophecies about him (Luke 7:27; Mal 3:1; Isa 40:3).

(Part III) He was the forerunner of the Messiah.

(Part IV) He was the greatest man ________ of __________ (Luke 7:28a).

Lesson 2: Greatness is related to:

(Part I) ________________ (Matt 18:1-4; John 3:26-30).

(Part II) ______________ (Matt 20:25-28).

Lesson 3: The least in the kingdom of God has greater spiritual:

(Part I) __________________ than John (Luke 7:28b).

(Part II) ________________ than John (Matt 3:2; Luke 16:16; John 3:3 cf. Luke 7:28; Gen 47:7-10 cf. Heb 7:7).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: Proverbs 1:10

Day 1: Read Luke 7:24-28 & Matt. 18:1-4 and discuss: How does the world define or describe greatness? What does the Bible say about greatness? What are the key characteristics of Biblical greatness?

Day 2: Read Luke 7:24-28 & Matt. 18:1-4 and discuss: How does the world define pride? Is it a good thing or a bad thing? How does it define humility? Considering the quote Pastor Scott shared from Donald Whitney, how could we test ourselves to determine whether pride or humility is rooted in our hearts?

Day 3: Read Genesis 47:1-12 & Matt. 20:25-28 and discuss: Why was Jacob able to bless Pharaoh? In what ways was Jacob greater than him? Consider yourselves – your present situation in life, or a situation from your past. Describe how you were more concerned about being great, or being first, or being right, than you should have been. What were the consequences of that sort of attitude? How should you change your attitude regarding service in light of this sermon?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Doug (Elder) and Jesse Studt (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Andy & Gwen Stephenson, Isaac Studt, Jesse & Mary Studt, Carl & Audrey Templin, Ellie Templin, Diane Tompkins

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland Mayor Will Finn; State - State Rep. Ed Orcutt; Nation – Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Andy & Karina Smith (Uganda)

An Unreached People Group: Sonar (Hindu, in India)

Luke 7:24-27 Our Advocate

Lesson 1: John was more than a prophet because:

(Part I) He saw ______ ______________ (Luke 7:26; Matt 13:16-17).

(Part II) There were prophecies __________ ______ (Luke 7:27; Mal 3:1; Isa 40:3).

(Part III) ____ ______ ______ forerunner of the Messiah.

Lesson 2: The Lord is ______ ________________ (1 John 2:1).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: Isaiah 46:9-11

Day 1: Read Luke 7:18-26 and discuss: Why did the people come out to see John the Baptist? What was the purpose of Jesus asking these questions?

Day 2: Read Luke 7:18-26 and discuss: Why was John the Baptist not like a “reed shaken by the wind”? Explain your answer citing passages that describe his actions and personality. Was John the Baptist an Old Testament prophet or a New Testament prophet? Explain your answer. What did he get to see that no other prophet saw?

Day 3: Read 1 John 2:1, Rom 8:34, Heb 7:25 and discuss: What does it mean when someone advocates for someone else? Have you ever had someone advocate for you? How did it make you feel toward that person? What does it mean that Jesus advocates for us? How should it make us feel toward Him?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Scott (Elder) and Randy Hanson (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Allan & Kandie Schmitz, Malyna Schmitz, Paul & Erin Seidel, Matt & Beth Snyder, Gary & Linda Sprague, Scott & Summer Steenbarger

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Cowlitz Co. Board of Commissioners; State - State Rep. Richard Debolt; Nation – Senator Patty Murray

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: James & Christina Post (Wycliffe)

An Unreached People Group: Bairagi (Hindu, in India)

Luke 7:20-23 When We Doubt

Lesson 1: Unbelief is an ________ ____________ (John 20:25; Mark 16:14, 6:5-6; Heb 3:12).

Lesson 2: Doubt often comes from __________________ (Luke 7:18-19; Jam 1:6, 8).

Lesson 3: We should ________ ______ ____________ to the Lord (Luke 7:18-19; John 2:24).

Lesson 4: Sometimes the best response to doubt is hearing truth ____

______________ ________ (Luke 7:22 cf. Luke 7:18; Eph 2:4; 1 John 1:9; 1 Cor 10:13; Matt 28:20).

Lesson 5: Don’t let your doubt lead ____ ______________ (Luke 7:23).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: Isaiah 64:4

Day 1: Read John 20:24-25, Mark 16:14, 6:5, Heb. 3:12, & Jas. 1:6, 8 and discuss: What is unbelief? What is doubt? How would you describe the differences so that even a younger child could understand?

Day 2: Read Eph. 2:4, 1 John 1:9, 1 Cor. 10:13, & Matt. 28:20 and discuss: What are some common doubts you’ve experienced as a believer? What are common doubts you’ve heard others experience? What are some additional references you could use to comfort those who have certain doubts?

Day 3: Read Luke 7:23 and discuss: Considering the way this is phrased, describe why this statement is actually a beatitude. What is the significance of this being a beatitude? If we are not careful, what could doubt lead to?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Jim Donald (Elder) and John LaPierre (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Lori Newburn, Don & Chris Oswald, Scott & Kovi Patterson, Betty Pender, Tim & Wendy Petta, Marshall & Christina Pile

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland Police Chief Phillip Crochet; State - State Rep. Liz Pike; Nation – Vice President Joe Biden

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Sarah Kane

An Unreached People Group: Ghirath (Hindu traditions, in India)

Luke 7:18-19 When Jesus Doesn’t Meet Our Expectations

Lesson 1: John was struggling because Jesus didn’t meet His expectations as:

(Part I) ________ (Luke 3:3-6; Matt 3:2; Luke 17:20-21).

(Part II) __________ (Matt 3:12; Luke 3:7-10; John 3:17, 12:47 cf. John 5:22, 27).

(Part III) ________________ (Luke 2:36-38, 24:16-21).

(Part IV) __________________ (Luke 4:18 [quoting Isa 61:1]; Psa 46:7; Isa 42:7).

Lesson 2: We can ________ the ________ ______________ as John when we feel like Jesus isn’t meeting our expectations (John 1:29; 1 John 3:5; Acts 16:25).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Day 1: Read Luke 7:18, Matthew 3:14-16, John 1:15, 29, 35 and discuss: Up to this point in the gospel of Luke, describe John’s interactions with Jesus. What affirmations of Jesus’ Messiah-ship did John witness? Who affirmed Jesus was the Messiah, to John? What then is the significance of John’s confusion about Jesus now?

Day 2: Read John 3:17 and John 12:47 and discuss: What was the purpose of Jesus’ first coming? How does this correspond with the fact the Bible says that he is the judge? Explain why this is not a contradiction.

Day 3: Read Luke 4:18, Psalm 46:7, and Isa. 42:7 and discuss: What part of Luke 4:18 was probably most prominent in John’s mind? Did Jesus fail as redeemer? Or was there a different redemption Jesus was focused on, than physical redemption? In what ways - if you were honest - has Jesus “failed” to live up to your expectations? What is the solution - how can we change our thinking about Jesus and understand how he really is our redeemer?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Doug (Elder) and Dave Zumstein (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): John & Dyan McCamish, Mike & Cheryl Mercurio, Steve & Terri Moeller, Ethan Miller, Dick & Tricia Moss, Jake & Kelli Motzkus

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland City Council; State State Rep. Brandon P. Vick; Nation – President Barack Obama

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Rick Terrazas (Rock of Ages)

An Unreached People Group: Romani, Balkan (Muslim, in Turkey)

Luke 7:13-17 Victory Over Death

Lesson 1: There’s a ____________________ the Lord feels toward women who have lost children (Heb 4:15-16; Luke 7:13, 15b cf. Matt 9:36, 14:14, 15:32; Isa 53:4a).

Lesson 2: Jesus ______________ the __________ of the Gospel (Luke 7:14 cf. 5:12-13, 7:38-48; 1 Cor 6:9-10; Eph 2:1-5; Col 2:13).

Lesson 3: Jesus gives us ______________ over __________ (Heb 2:14; Ecc 3:11).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: 2 Corinthians 9:8

Day 1: Read Luke 7:3, 4, 6, 9, & 13 and discuss: Why does Luke switch from referring to Him as “Jesus” to referring to him as “Lord”? Considering the action happening in 13ff what is the significance of this switch?

Day 2: Read Luke 7:13-17 and discuss: Define compassion. How would you help younger children understand the word? What are some examples from your everyday life of compassion?

Day 3: Read Luke 7:13-17 & Heb. 2:14 and discuss: Why do some people fear death? Have you ever met someone who professes to be a Christian yet fears death? Explain why this should not be the case. What part should you play in proclaiming Jesus’ victory over death to others? Who, in your sphere of influence, needs to hear this explained to them? Pray now for these people and the opportunity to explain it to them.

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Scott (Elder) and Steve Moeller (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Steve & Tammy Martel, Andy & Wendy MacFarlane, Don & Sharee MacKay, DJ & Molly Malinowski, Peggy Mars

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland Mayor Will Finn; State - Lt. Governor Brad Owen; Nation – Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Andy & Karina Smith (Uganda)

An Unreached People Group: Hani (Ethnic Religions, in China)

Lesson 1: Providence is God’s ______________ over ________________ to direct events according to His will (Psa 115:3; Pro 16:9; Acts 17:26; Rom 8:28).

Lesson 2: We see God’s providence when:

(Part I) Isaac ____________ a ________ (Gen 24:10-15).

(Part II) Joseph’s ________________ ____________________ him (Gen 42:21 cf. 50:20).

(Part III) Ruth ____________ a ____________ (Ruth 2:2-6).

(Part IV) David and his men ____________ to ________ their wives and children (1 Sam 30:11-14).

(Part IV) Jesus ______________ ________ (Luke 7:11-12)

Lesson 3: God’s providence is your ________ __________.

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

Day 1: Read Ps. 103:19, 115:3, 139:16; Pro. 16:9; Jer. 1:5b; 2 Chr. 20:6; Gal. 1:15; Acts 17:26; & Rom. 8:28 and discuss: What does providence mean? What are some synonymous terms for this doctrine? What practical effects should this doctrine have in our everyday lives?

Day 2: Read Gen 24:10-15, 42:21, 50:20, Ruth 2:2-6, 1 Sam 30:11-14 and discuss: Explain how we see God’s sovereignty in each of these situations. Consider an example from your own life, or in the life of someone you know. Describe how God’s sovereignty was at work in this situation and the results of waiting upon God to act on your behalf (or on the behalf of the person involved in the situation.)

Day 3: Read Luke 7:11-12 and discuss: How is God’s providence or sovereignty displayed in this situation? What do we learn about Jesus, in this situation, in relation to this topic of sovereignty?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Gary Sprague (Elder) and Tim Zumstein (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Danny & Jill Lee, Robby & Shelly Lehtonen, Austin Lehtonen, Mitch & Judy Lindeken, Matthew & Jessica Lindeken

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Cowlitz Co. Board of Commissioners; State - Governor Jay Inslee; Nation – Senator Maria Cantwell

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: James & Christina Pose (Wycliffe)

An Unreached People Group: Kinnaura (Hindu, in India)

Lesson 1 (NOTE: Parts I-V are from the previous sermon on verses 1-8): The Roman centurion sets a wonderful example through:

(Part I) His compassion (Luke 7:2-3; Gal 6:2; Jam 2:15-16; Matt 9:36-38, 14:14).

(Part II) His love (Luke 7:5).

(Part III) His consideration (Luke 7:6-7 cf. John 18:28, Acts 10:28, 11:2; Phil 2:3).

(Part IV) His humility (2 Kings 5:9-11 cf. Luke 7:6-7).

(Part V) His spiritual understanding (Luke 7:8 cf. John 4:34, 5:30, 6:38).

(Part VI) His __________ (2 Kin 4:16-30; Heb 11:1; Rom 7:7; 2 Kin 5:11, 1 Kin 18:26-29; Psa 107:20).

Lesson 2: Jesus marvels at our:

(Part I) __________ (Luke 7:9; Heb 11:6).

(Part II) ________________ (Mark 6:6).

Lesson 3: Our faith affects __________ ________ in our lives Luke 7:10; Mark 6:5; Matt 17:20; Luke 17:5; Mark 9:24).

 

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: James 1:12

Day 1: Read Luke 7:2-8 and 2 Kings 4 and discuss: Describe the situation in each passage: what’s going on? What’s the plot? What’s the drama or conflict? What are the differences between the woman in 2 Kings 4 and the centurion in Luke 7? What is the significance of these differences?

Day 2: Read Luke 7:9 & Hebrews 11:6 and discuss: What was the significance of Jesus commending a Roman centurion to Jews? What could Jesus have commended about the centurion? What did he commend? What then should we commend in the lives of those around us? Describe a recent situation where someone’s faith impressed you. What was the outcome? What was your response to their display of faith?

Day 3: Read Mark 6:1-6 and discuss: What were some of the criticisms leveled against Jesus? What, specifically, did people seem to have a problem with regarding Jesus? What was Jesus’ response to criticism? What are some possible sinful responses to criticism? What are some potential godly responses to criticism?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Jim Donald (Elder) and Jesse Studt (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Pat Knecht, Jerry & Julie Kiekow, John & Donna LaPierre, Scott & Katie LaPierre

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Cowlitz Co. Sheriff Mark S. Nelson; State: State Senator John Braun; Nation – Senator Patty Murray

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Rick Terrazas (Rock of Ages)

An Unreached People Group: Mahratta (Hindu, in India)

Lesson 1: We can escape the snare caused by the fear of man by:

Part 1: Being ______________ to take a stand for the __________  (Gal 2:11, 1 Pet 3:15, Rom 1:16, Eph 4:15, Acts 4:18-20).

Part 2: Putting our ____________________ in God’s Word, instead of men (Matt 24:35, Psa 118:8-9, Jer 17:5-8, Matt 10:28, Pro 3:5).

Part 3: Recognizing that ______________ speak louder than __________ (Jam 1:22-25, Gal 2:14, 1 John 3:18, Luke 43-44).

 

Lesson 2: Our part is ________________________, but the ______________ belongs to the Lord (Matt 10:28, Matt 10:32-33, Rom 8:28, Psa 115:3).

 

Lesson 3: We embrace the safety of the Lord by trusting His plan of __________________ (Rom 3:19-22, John 3:16, Rom 10:8-11, Gal 3:24, Eph 2:8-9).

   

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verse: Psalm 20:6-8

Day 1: Read Galatians 2:11-16 and discuss: What did Peter do wrong? Why did he do it? Why was it necessary for Paul to “rebuke him before all”? Do you think Paul’s actions took courage? How so?

Day 2: Read Jeremiah 17:5-8 discuss: Describe the man who trusts in man. Describe the man who trusts in the Lord. What are the differences between them? What practical steps can we take to become people who trust in the Lord? What steps can we take when we find ourselves trusting in (or fearing) man?

Day 3: Read 1 Samuel 17:45-46, Daniel 3:16-18, and Acts 7:51-53 discuss: What do David, Shadrach, Mechach, Abed-Nego, and Stephen have in common? How is Stephen’s situation different than the account with the others? What does this mean for us that even though Stephen was faithful and courageous he didn’t experience “victory” as we would expect when someone is obedient?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Doug (Elder) and Randy Hanson (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Jeff & Tamy Hicks, Steve & Keri Johnson, Randi Johnson, Cary &Vennessia Johnson

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland Police Chief Phillip Crochet; State Governor Jay Inslee; Nation – Senator Maria Cantwell

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: James & Christina Pose (Wycliffe)

An Unreached People Group: Aweer (Muslim, in Kenya)

The Roman centurion sets a wonderful example through…

Lesson 1: His ____________________ (Luke 7:2-3; Gal 6:2; Jam 2:15-16).

Lesson 2: His ________ (Luke 7:5).

Lesson 3: His __________________________ (Luke 7:6-7 cf. John 18:28, Acts 10:28, 11:2; Phil 2:3).

Lesson 4: His __________________ __________________________ (Luke 7:8 cf. John 4:34, 5:30, 6:38).

Lesson 5: His ________________ (2 Kings 5:9-11 cf. Luke 7:6-7).

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: Matthew 11:28-30

Day 1: Read Luke 7:1-3 and discuss: Describe the general relationship between the Jews and the Romans during this time. Based on this description what is significant about those the centurion sends to Jesus? What do we learn about the centurion’s character, that we should emulate?

Day 2: Read Galatians 6:2 and discuss: Describe why the centurion is a good example of the command given in this verse. Consider the last time you had an opportunity to fulfill Gal. 6:2. What happened? What was the situation? What did you do or not do? What was the outcome?

Day 3: Read Luke 7:1-6, Phil. 2:3-4 and discuss: In what specific way was the centurion ‘considerate’? Cite specific verses in your answer. When was the last time you were acting in conceit or rivalry? What was the situation? What was the outcome?

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Pastor Scott (Elder) and Steve Johnson (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Matthew & Mariya Farnell, Derrek Fitzgerald, Randy & Melanie Hanson, Cindy & Rex Hapala, Joan Harshberger

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland Police Chief Phillip Crochet; State - State Senator Dean Takko; Nation –Vice President Joe Biden

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: Andy & Karina Smith (Uganda)

An Unreached People Group: Gurung (Buddhist, in Nepal)

Lesson 1: Good fruit is the ________________ of salvation (Luke 3:7-9; Matt 13:23; Col 1:5-6; Heb 12:11; Matt 7:19; John 15:5-6; Jam 2:17-26; 1 John 5:13).

Lesson 2: Our ____________ and ______________ (aka “fruit”) reveal our hearts (Luke 6:43-45; Matt 2:11, 12:34; Pro 4:23; Psa 51:10).

Lesson 3: We must ________________ the __________ that characterizes your life (John 15:8; Phil 1:11; Gal 5:19-21; 2 Cor 13:4-5

Family Worship Guide

Memory Verses: Romans 1:16-17

Day 1: Read Luke 6:43-45 & Luke 3:7-9 and discuss: What was John’s point in saying what he said? What does it mean to bear fruit in keeping with repentance? What might be common examples of such fruit?

Day 2: Read Jas. 2:10, Titus 2:14, Gal. 5:19-21, Col. 1:5-6, & Matt.23:18-23 and discuss: What is the evidence of salvation? Explain why “good works” don’t save us. Explain what the actual significance of good works is.

Day 3: Read James 2:17, 26 and discuss: How can you tell if someone’s ‘faith’ is dead? Pastor Scott gave two examples of people in the Bible who had living faith – who were they? Using these examples as models, consider the people you know. List examples of “living faith” you’ve seen in the lives of people around you.

Pray for those who lead, feed, and care for the flock, and their families (Col. 4:3, 2 Thess. 3:1): Gary Sprague (Elder) and John LaPierre (Deacon)

Pray for these church members/families (1 Tim. 2:1, Eph. 6:18, Col. 1:9): Laura Donald, Jimmy & Becca Donald, Ricardo & Tanya Duarte, John &Stacey Durrah, Jamison & Rachel Dye

Pray for “kings” and those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2): Local – Woodland City Council; State - State Senator Ann Rivers; Nation – President Barack Obama

Pray for the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38): Those we directly support: James & Christina Post (Wycliffe)

An Unreached People Group: Changpa (Buddhist, in India)