1. The primary theme is "following Jesus," which the speaker emphasizes as the "most important thing you can do with your life." A "Sunday believer" attends for a short time, while a "true believer" dedicates their entire life to making Jesus their focus and guide.
2. The speaker mentions that while he worships and has songs stuck in his head throughout the week, it's "so much more fun doing it with you guys" (communal singing). He also highlights the joy of "enjoy[ing] each other's opportunity to worship together."
3. The name of Jesus is described as holding power to "fight off whatever is your battle" and bring victory. Congregants are urged to be "willing to call upon it" to experience this power in their struggles.
4. John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus by baptizing people in the river and calling them to repentance. His purpose is to reveal Jesus to Israel and prepare people for His coming.
5. The religious leaders ask John if he is the Messiah, Elijah, or a prophet. John responds with "Not it" or "no" to all three, denying that he is any of these figures.
6. John the Baptist demonstrates extreme humility, diminishing his own standing in comparison to Jesus. He famously states, "I must decrease so that Jesus can increase," to convey that his mission is to point others to Christ.
7. During Jesus's baptism, John sees the Holy Spirit descend from heaven "like a dove and remain on him." This event serves as God's sign to John, confirming Jesus's identity as the Messiah.
8. The dove symbolizes God's mercy and new beginnings in both instances. In Noah's story, it signals hope after judgment; in Jesus's baptism, it signals the start of God's plan to redeem the world and empower a new creation through Christ, marking a transition from judgment to new life.
9. John the Baptist refers to Jesus as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." This title is deeply rooted in Jewish history, recalling the Passover lamb sacrifice that protected the Israelites from death and the sacrificial lambs used to atone for sins.
10. The calling on our lives as believers is to be humble, obedient, step out of the way, and point people to Jesus. The ultimate goal is to lead others on a journey of "living and being loved and glorifying God," as it's crucial not to keep the message of salvation to ourselves, because "somebody out there... needs to know desperately about Jesus."

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1. How does the sermon define the "reason to praise," and what is it NOT dependent on?
2. Explain the "Master Gardener" metaphor used in the sermon. What does God represent in this analogy, and what do "weeds" symbolize?
3. According to the sermon, what societal factors contribute to the rising rates of anxiety, particularly among younger age groups?
4. How does Paul's command to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4) relate to one's circumstances, according to the speaker?
5. What is the significance of "The Lord is near" in Philippians 4:5, and how does the speaker illustrate this point?
6. Describe the recommended approach to prayer outlined in Philippians 4:6, emphasizing the blend of "petition and thanksgiving."
7. How does the "peace of God, which transcends all understanding" (Philippians 4:7) function in a believer's life?
8. What is the practical challenge presented by Philippians 4:8 regarding one's thought life, and why is it particularly relevant today?
9. According to the sermon, what is the relationship between rejoicing and anxiety in the human brain?
1. Analyze the sermon's central theme: "Anxiety is real, but God offers peace." Discuss how this theme is developed through Paul's teachings in Philippians 4:4-9, the speaker's personal anecdotes, and the use of metaphors.
2. The sermon argues that some anxiety in modern culture is "designed." Evaluate this assertion, drawing on the examples provided by the speaker (e.g., tearing down heroes, questioning truths). How does this perspective influence the sermon's call to cultivate peace?
3. Discuss the role of worship and praise in confronting anxiety as presented in the sermon. How do the opening worship experience, the emphasis on God's nature ("Good Good Father," "God of the breakthrough"), and the final worship song "Jesus I Need You" reinforce the message of finding peace?
4. Examine the practical steps and spiritual disciplines suggested in the sermon for cultivating peace (e.g., blending petition and thanksgiving in prayer, thinking on good things, rejoicing). How do these practices work together to "guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus"?
5. Compare and contrast the speaker's portrayal of "two kinds of gardeners" with the sermon's overall message about addressing life's difficulties. How does this metaphor prepare the congregation to understand the relationship between human effort and divine intervention in overcoming anxiety?

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1. How does the sermon use the analogy of a plumb line to explain the role of scripture in a Christian's life?
2. Who are the "Judaizers," and what specific actions were they taking that Paul warned against?
3. Explain Paul's statement that his accomplishments were "rubbish." What attitude was he challenging, and where did he ultimately find his true confidence?
4. What two "very basic concepts" are essential for Christians to understand about their initial journey, according to the sermon?
5. What paradox does Paul present in his desire to "know Christ," specifically regarding suffering and resurrection?
6. The sermon states that Christians are "saved for something." What specific purposes are mentioned in this context?
7. How does the sermon address the common lie that past mistakes can prevent someone from accepting Jesus or living fully for Him?
8. Describe the analogy of the trucks driving on rumble strips in a snowstorm. What spiritual truth does this illustrate regarding guidance?
9. Define what it means to be "Called" in the context of the sermon, providing an example given by the speaker.
10. Explain the concept of "continuing" in the Christian faith, noting how it relates to the initial excitement of conversion.

Essay Questions:

1. Analyze the significance of the phrase "find ourselves in Jesus" in the sermon. How does this concept challenge common worldly notions of identity and self-worth, and what are the practical implications for a believer's life?
2. Discuss the speaker's emphasis on scripture as an "unchanging standard" in contrast to "my truth." How does this theological stance impact the understanding of morality, guidance, and authority for a Christian, according to the sermon?
3. Examine the tension between "knowing the power of the resurrection" and "participation in his sufferings" as presented in the sermon. Why does the speaker suggest one cannot fully grasp the former without embracing the latter, and what does this imply about the nature of Christian maturity?
4. The sermon uses the framework of "Called, Kept, and Continuing." Choose two of these concepts and elaborate on how the sermon defines and illustrates them. How do these three aspects collectively describe the holistic journey of a Christian?
5. Reflect on the analogy of "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead" as it relates to overcoming past struggles and the influence of Satan. How does the sermon empower believers to move forward, and what is the role of Jesus in this process?

Based on July 6th 2025 Sermon

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1. The Judaizers and Paul's Counter-Argument: Who were the Judaizers, what was their core belief that conflicted with Paul's message, and how did Paul use his own "pedigree" to refute them?
2. The Analogy of Galatia: Explain the analogy of Galatia as being "hooked" and "reeled in" by misleading teachings. How does this compare to Paul's warning to the Philippians?
3. Paul's Life Transformation (BC to AD): Describe Paul's life before his encounter with Jesus. What was his primary motivation and what did he consider valuable? How did his encounter with Jesus fundamentally change his perspective and values?
4. "Counting Things as Loss" - The Accountant Metaphor: Explain the sermon's use of the "accountant mode" metaphor to describe Paul's change in perspective. What is the distinction made between "worthless" and "loss" in this context, and how does it apply to Paul's pre-Christian life?
5. The Harsh Language Towards Judaizers: Paul uses strong terms like "dogs," "evildoers," and "mutilators of the flesh" to describe the Judaizers. What is the significance of this language and how does it emphasize the seriousness of their false teachings?
6. "We are the Circumcision": Paul contrasts the Judaizers with those who "are the circumcision." What does Paul mean by "we are the circumcision" in this passage, and what is the true basis of this spiritual "circumcision" according to the sermon?
7. The Seven Accomplishments of Paul: List the seven aspects of Paul's pedigree that he boasts in before declaring them as "loss." Why did he choose to list these specific accomplishments?
8. "Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ": What does the sermon mean by the "surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus"? How does this "worth" compare to worldly achievements and personal gain?
9. Benefits of Living in Christ (Beyond "Fire Insurance"): The sermon critiques the "fire insurance" mentality of salvation. What are the immediate, tangible benefits and graces mentioned that believers experience in their lives now by being in Christ?
10. Galatians 2:20 - "Crucified with Christ": Explain the meaning and implications of the statement, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me," as discussed in the sermon. How does this concept challenge modern cultural values of self-sufficiency and autonomy?
11. The Role of Personal Uniqueness in Relationship: The sermon touches on the uniqueness of each individual and how this affects relationships, including grief. Explain how our unique design, as knitted by God, means that relationships (and understanding others) are always unique and new.
12. Righteousness Through Christ vs. Through Law/Behavior: The sermon emphasizes that "if righteousness could be gained through the law, then Christ died for nothing." Explain this concept, contrasting righteousness based on human effort or "good behavior" with righteousness that comes through faith in Christ.
13. Redeeming Past "Wasted" Time: For those who regret "wasted" time before accepting Christ, what two comforting messages does the sermon offer? How can past experiences, even those of "loss," be re-contextualized in a believer's journey?
14. The "AD" Life and Overcoming BC Hang-ons: Describe the "AD" (After Deliverance) part of a believer's life. While freedom from sin is available, what does the sermon acknowledge about the lingering effects or "hanging on" of the "BC" life, and how does God address these over time?
15. Spiritual Parenting: What is meant by "spiritual parent" in the context of the sermon? How does this concept relate to the idea of growing in Christ and helping others to do the same?

Based on the sermon from June 29th 2025.

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1. What is the significance of the song "10,000 Reasons" in the service, according to the pastor's introduction?
2. Explain the concept of being "grace bought" as described in the sermon.
3. Why is community sharing and prayer for individual needs emphasized during the service?
4. According to the sermon, what evidence supports the belief that God is still performing miracles today?
5. What two key individuals from the book of Philippians does Paul send to the Philippian church, and what do they represent?
6. List three characteristics of the Philippian church that Paul celebrated, as mentioned in the sermon.
7. What does Pastor Chuck encourage believers to do when facing trials and hardships, based on Philippians?
8. How does the sermon explain how believers can live "blameless" despite their imperfections?
9. What is Pastor Chuck's primary reason for stepping down from his leadership role at Born?
10. Describe the process the pastor search team at Born is undertaking to find a new leader.
1. Analyze the role of community and mutual support within the "Worship at Born" service. How do the shared prayers and the pastor's reflections on the Philippian church illustrate the importance of fellowship in a Christian context?
2. Discuss the theological concepts of grace, works, and righteousness as presented in the sermon excerpts. How does the speaker use these concepts to reassure the congregation about their standing with God and their ability to live a "blameless" life?
3. Examine the challenges and opportunities associated with leadership transitions in a church setting, using the "Worship at Born" announcement as a case study. How does the church's leadership team attempt to ensure continuity and build confidence in the future?
4. Compare and contrast the characteristics of the Philippian church, as described by Pastor Chuck, with the aspirations for the Born church. What specific lessons or examples from Philippians are emphasized as foundational for Born's continued success and ministry?
5. The sermon places significant emphasis on "rejoicing always" and "praying with thanksgiving" despite difficulties. How do these practices, as explained by the pastor, contribute to spiritual strength and the ability to "bring heaven to earth now"?

Answer each question in 2-3 sentences.

1. What is the primary purpose of the church directory update mentioned at the beginning of the service? How is this information kept confidential from the survey results?
2. Describe the initial technical difficulties experienced during the worship service. How did the speaker respond to these challenges, and what message did they convey about God's presence?
3. The speaker asks for a show of hands for anyone who has experienced "chaos" in their life recently. How does the speaker suggest worship can help individuals cope with this chaos?
4. Beyond the initial prayer, what specific "announcement" does Judy make regarding the search for a new pastor? What action is requested of the congregation?
5. During the community sharing time, Jeff provides an update about Mary. What kind of assistance has the church family provided for Mary, and what ongoing needs are mentioned?
6. Identify two specific prayer requests made during the community sharing time related to physical health challenges. What is the overarching sentiment or desire expressed for those facing these difficulties?
7. What is the purpose of the grief group starting on Saturdays? What does the speaker emphasize about the nature of grief and how this group aims to help?
8. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, uses strong negative terms to describe those who oppose the true Christian faith. List three of these terms and briefly explain their negative connotations in that historical context.
9. Paul lists several impressive accomplishments and aspects of his "pedigree." Name at least three of these and explain why he ultimately considers them "loss" or "garbage."
10. According to the speaker, how does "rejoicing" act as a "safeguard" for believers? What is the core belief about Jesus that enables this safeguarding?

1. Analyze the role of community and shared experiences in the "Worship at Born" service. How does the structure of the service, particularly the community sharing time, foster a sense of family and mutual care among congregants?
2. Discuss the speaker's interpretation of "rejoicing in the Lord" as presented in the sermon. How does this concept connect to the idea of being "safeguarded," and what theological underpinnings are provided to support this connection?
3. Paul's transformation is a central theme in the sermon. Explain how Paul's shift in perspective regarding his "pedigree" illuminates the core message about salvation and righteousness. What is the significance of his willingness to consider his past accomplishments "garbage"?
4. Examine the speaker's use of metaphors and analogies to explain complex theological concepts. Discuss the effectiveness of the "wide-mouthed frog" story and the "dogs" metaphor in conveying the sermon's message about humility, false teaching, and discerning truth.
5. The sermon emphasizes the sufficiency of Jesus Christ for salvation and living a life of joy. How does the speaker use Paul's argument against the "Judaizers" to highlight the dangers of adding requirements to faith and to underscore the complete nature of God's grace?