Nucleus (https://www.nucleus.church) https://feeds.nucleus.church/e63c589b552541dfbc1ebdfd7d5b8aa5 yes 54808d81877b4e9ba16e25be5fa310da © 2026 Trinity Church We long to love God COMPLETELY and love others SELFLESSLY. Listen in on our weekly teachings and join us online or in person in Frewsburg, NY. en Tue, 4 Mar 2025 15:20:57 -0400 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:04:02 -0400 https://www.trinityfrewsburg.com https://cdn1.nucleus-cdn.church/church_60bf06305afd4e16bd00f45cf96841c7/file_813f69419a264cbb9ad0937e2cc69d96/2025-03-04T19:07:39.093Z/Trinity_Podcast_Cover.png https://www.trinityfrewsburg.com episodic Trinity Church - Pastor PJ Pasieka We long to love God COMPLETELY and love others SELFLESSLY. Listen in on our weekly teachings and join us online or in person in Frewsburg, NY. We long to love God COMPLETELY and love others SELFLESSLY. Listen in on our weekly teachings and join us online or in person in Frewsburg, NY. church, jesus, christianity, gospel false false Trinity Church worship@trinityfrewsburg.com Acts 2:1-8, 12 full podcastepisode_271d883dc5734e78ab154f33ebf4fe60 Sun, 21 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Acts 1:6-9 full podcastepisode_dc797bd4363f4245a65c3efd9f34c231 Sun, 14 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Here’s a link to our Father’s Day video! Thanks DADS!
]]>
Here’s a link to our Father’s Day video! Thanks DADS!
]]>
Here’s a link to our Father’s Day video! Thanks DADS!
]]> false Acts 1:1-3 full podcastepisode_5fb45b8819bd4c1aaf0579309ce19a2e Sun, 7 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 false Participation full podcastepisode_97f5fae340bf4ba1a26a954b839ee759 Sun, 31 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Missional Prayer full podcastepisode_3a698b1f2b8a4280ad598808d5ae0041 Sun, 17 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 https://youtu.be/3MUFPKMhO88?si=yrLrHhH5s )]]> https://youtu.be/3MUFPKMhO88?si=yrLrHhH5s )]]> https://youtu.be/3MUFPKMhO88?si=yrLrHhH5s )]]> false Persistent Prayer full podcastepisode_66dd1df5c8cd49068a8f2f2f6e8b6d2e Sun, 24 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 Questions for Small Group or Personal Reflection:Read Luke 18:1-8- What initial reactions/observations/questions do you have on this passage?- What do you think is the main reason that Jesus explicitly teaches us to “always pray and not give up”?Read Mark 14:36- How does Jesus’ experience with unanswered prayer affect our view of prayer and/or our relationship with God?- What do we share in common with the Widow in the parable? How is God different from the Judge in the parable?- How might it change our view of this parable when we understand that it comes right after Jesus teaching about the coming of the Kingdom of God (Luke 17:20-37) ?Read Matthew 7:7-8 (preferable from the NLT)- How does “Ask…seek…knock” as a process of prayer help us develop deeper trust in God?]]> Questions for Small Group or Personal Reflection:Read Luke 18:1-8- What initial reactions/observations/questions do you have on this passage?- What do you think is the main reason that Jesus explicitly teaches us to “always pray and not give up”?Read Mark 14:36- How does Jesus’ experience with unanswered prayer affect our view of prayer and/or our relationship with God?- What do we share in common with the Widow in the parable? How is God different from the Judge in the parable?- How might it change our view of this parable when we understand that it comes right after Jesus teaching about the coming of the Kingdom of God (Luke 17:20-37) ?Read Matthew 7:7-8 (preferable from the NLT)- How does “Ask…seek…knock” as a process of prayer help us develop deeper trust in God?]]> Questions for Small Group or Personal Reflection:Read Luke 18:1-8- What initial reactions/observations/questions do you have on this passage?- What do you think is the main reason that Jesus explicitly teaches us to “always pray and not give up”?Read Mark 14:36- How does Jesus’ experience with unanswered prayer affect our view of prayer and/or our relationship with God?- What do we share in common with the Widow in the parable? How is God different from the Judge in the parable?- How might it change our view of this parable when we understand that it comes right after Jesus teaching about the coming of the Kingdom of God (Luke 17:20-37) ?Read Matthew 7:7-8 (preferable from the NLT)- How does “Ask…seek…knock” as a process of prayer help us develop deeper trust in God?]]> false Petition full podcastepisode_f5313747873e4030a5445c0c816ee037 Sun, 10 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 Questions for SG and Reflection:

How do you respond to the claim “Jesus loves to be asked”?
How might this affect our approach to prayer?
How might this affect our understanding of God’s love?

How does asking deepen relationships?
Can you think of an example of this in your own life?

Read Exodus 32:12-14
Did God really change his mind? If so, does that mean that our prayers can control God? Why/Why not?
What is the difference between being in control and being empowered through prayer?

Read Luke 11:3
Is this really an instruction to be praying “all of the time” and “for everything we need”? Why/Why not?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

How do you respond to the claim “Jesus loves to be asked”?
How might this affect our approach to prayer?
How might this affect our understanding of God’s love?

How does asking deepen relationships?
Can you think of an example of this in your own life?

Read Exodus 32:12-14
Did God really change his mind? If so, does that mean that our prayers can control God? Why/Why not?
What is the difference between being in control and being empowered through prayer?

Read Luke 11:3
Is this really an instruction to be praying “all of the time” and “for everything we need”? Why/Why not?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

How do you respond to the claim “Jesus loves to be asked”?
How might this affect our approach to prayer?
How might this affect our understanding of God’s love?

How does asking deepen relationships?
Can you think of an example of this in your own life?

Read Exodus 32:12-14
Did God really change his mind? If so, does that mean that our prayers can control God? Why/Why not?
What is the difference between being in control and being empowered through prayer?

Read Luke 11:3
Is this really an instruction to be praying “all of the time” and “for everything we need”? Why/Why not?
]]> false Intercession full podcastepisode_af8d244b626a4e7ab5d45108cc88adc4 Sun, 3 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 Questions for SG and Reflection:

Richard Foster writes: “In the ongoing work of the kingdom of God, nothing is more important than intercessory prayer.”
Agree/Disagree?
How do you feel about Pastor PJ’s comment on this quote that:
“We may truly want to believe this…but most of the time, we don’t”

The three requirements for intercessory prayer stated in the sermon were:
Trust, Humility, and Love.
Why are these required in order to engage in intercessory prayer?
Which of these three do you feel is most lacking in the church?
Which of these three would you say you personally have the hardest time with?

Have different group members take turns reading the following passages: Luke 11:9, Mark 11:24, John 14:13-14, John 15:7, Matt 21:22.
How do we reconcile these verses when our earnest intercessory prayers are not answered in the ways we had hoped?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

Richard Foster writes: “In the ongoing work of the kingdom of God, nothing is more important than intercessory prayer.”
Agree/Disagree?
How do you feel about Pastor PJ’s comment on this quote that:
“We may truly want to believe this…but most of the time, we don’t”

The three requirements for intercessory prayer stated in the sermon were:
Trust, Humility, and Love.
Why are these required in order to engage in intercessory prayer?
Which of these three do you feel is most lacking in the church?
Which of these three would you say you personally have the hardest time with?

Have different group members take turns reading the following passages: Luke 11:9, Mark 11:24, John 14:13-14, John 15:7, Matt 21:22.
How do we reconcile these verses when our earnest intercessory prayers are not answered in the ways we had hoped?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

Richard Foster writes: “In the ongoing work of the kingdom of God, nothing is more important than intercessory prayer.”
Agree/Disagree?
How do you feel about Pastor PJ’s comment on this quote that:
“We may truly want to believe this…but most of the time, we don’t”

The three requirements for intercessory prayer stated in the sermon were:
Trust, Humility, and Love.
Why are these required in order to engage in intercessory prayer?
Which of these three do you feel is most lacking in the church?
Which of these three would you say you personally have the hardest time with?

Have different group members take turns reading the following passages: Luke 11:9, Mark 11:24, John 14:13-14, John 15:7, Matt 21:22.
How do we reconcile these verses when our earnest intercessory prayers are not answered in the ways we had hoped?
]]> false Adoration full podcastepisode_a655e10d27f4431d95584a72b8370c41 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400 Questions for SG and Reflection:

Do you agree that our common approach to prayer is for problem solving and/or productivity?
How is that a good thing?
What might we be missing/neglecting by keeping our prayers to these two approaches?
How else can/should we be approaching prayer?

Read Matthew 17:1-8
How is Peter’s mindset a picture of how we sometimes approach prayer?

The main point of the sermon was:
“The starting point for prayer is Adoration”
What does “Adoration” mean to you?
How does beginning with adoration affect us and our other prayers?
Should adoration ALWAYS be our starting point for prayer? Why/Why not?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

Do you agree that our common approach to prayer is for problem solving and/or productivity?
How is that a good thing?
What might we be missing/neglecting by keeping our prayers to these two approaches?
How else can/should we be approaching prayer?

Read Matthew 17:1-8
How is Peter’s mindset a picture of how we sometimes approach prayer?

The main point of the sermon was:
“The starting point for prayer is Adoration”
What does “Adoration” mean to you?
How does beginning with adoration affect us and our other prayers?
Should adoration ALWAYS be our starting point for prayer? Why/Why not?
]]> Questions for SG and Reflection:

Do you agree that our common approach to prayer is for problem solving and/or productivity?
How is that a good thing?
What might we be missing/neglecting by keeping our prayers to these two approaches?
How else can/should we be approaching prayer?

Read Matthew 17:1-8
How is Peter’s mindset a picture of how we sometimes approach prayer?

The main point of the sermon was:
“The starting point for prayer is Adoration”
What does “Adoration” mean to you?
How does beginning with adoration affect us and our other prayers?
Should adoration ALWAYS be our starting point for prayer? Why/Why not?
]]> false Confession full podcastepisode_f2f6d68bcdae45099f98ea90d0ffebc8 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Easter: Jesus Won full podcastepisode_2f83970ac66a43d88644a9f438dbb9c3 Sun, 5 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
For a look at the intro video about Ohio State Football revival, CLICK HERE
]]>
For a look at the intro video about Ohio State Football revival, CLICK HERE
]]>
For a look at the intro video about Ohio State Football revival, CLICK HERE
]]> false Talk to God & Sit in Silence full podcastepisode_7096ee950ded48b288f28b1fba330fae Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
What is the most difficult part of having a relationship with God that goes beyond Sunday morning faith to a “Tuesday afternoon” faith?

We often know about God without knowing Him personally. Have you ever had a "moon" moment—where something you heard about God finally became a personal discovery or experience? Explain.

Does prayer ever feel "risky" or uncomfortable to you? Why is it often easier to stay busy than to be still and exposed before God?

Read Phil 4:6-7 - Have you ever experienced this kind of peace that can’t be explained?

“Who one believes God to be is most accurately revealed not in any credo but in the way one speaks to God when no one else is listening.” - Nancy Mairs

If someone recorded your private prayers this week, what would they conclude about who you believe God is?

We’ve moved from seeing time as a gift to seeing it as a commodity. How does the pressure to be "productive" or "efficient" interfere with your ability to simply be present with God?

Dallas Willard suggests we must "ruthlessly eliminate hurry" to be spiritually healthy. What is one specific "hurry" or distraction in your life that feels almost impossible to give up right now?

How is your Challenge Going?
Talking to God (in quiet, on paper, out loud)
Daily practice of silence & stillness for 2 minutes
]]>
What is the most difficult part of having a relationship with God that goes beyond Sunday morning faith to a “Tuesday afternoon” faith?

We often know about God without knowing Him personally. Have you ever had a "moon" moment—where something you heard about God finally became a personal discovery or experience? Explain.

Does prayer ever feel "risky" or uncomfortable to you? Why is it often easier to stay busy than to be still and exposed before God?

Read Phil 4:6-7 - Have you ever experienced this kind of peace that can’t be explained?

“Who one believes God to be is most accurately revealed not in any credo but in the way one speaks to God when no one else is listening.” - Nancy Mairs

If someone recorded your private prayers this week, what would they conclude about who you believe God is?

We’ve moved from seeing time as a gift to seeing it as a commodity. How does the pressure to be "productive" or "efficient" interfere with your ability to simply be present with God?

Dallas Willard suggests we must "ruthlessly eliminate hurry" to be spiritually healthy. What is one specific "hurry" or distraction in your life that feels almost impossible to give up right now?

How is your Challenge Going?
Talking to God (in quiet, on paper, out loud)
Daily practice of silence & stillness for 2 minutes
]]>
What is the most difficult part of having a relationship with God that goes beyond Sunday morning faith to a “Tuesday afternoon” faith?

We often know about God without knowing Him personally. Have you ever had a "moon" moment—where something you heard about God finally became a personal discovery or experience? Explain.

Does prayer ever feel "risky" or uncomfortable to you? Why is it often easier to stay busy than to be still and exposed before God?

Read Phil 4:6-7 - Have you ever experienced this kind of peace that can’t be explained?

“Who one believes God to be is most accurately revealed not in any credo but in the way one speaks to God when no one else is listening.” - Nancy Mairs

If someone recorded your private prayers this week, what would they conclude about who you believe God is?

We’ve moved from seeing time as a gift to seeing it as a commodity. How does the pressure to be "productive" or "efficient" interfere with your ability to simply be present with God?

Dallas Willard suggests we must "ruthlessly eliminate hurry" to be spiritually healthy. What is one specific "hurry" or distraction in your life that feels almost impossible to give up right now?

How is your Challenge Going?
Talking to God (in quiet, on paper, out loud)
Daily practice of silence & stillness for 2 minutes
]]> false Names of God: Advocate full podcastepisode_71ee4db1123840bbaa254ea75291e44d Sun, 22 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Names of God: Alpha and Omega full podcastepisode_c1a031fe33d64f7f86e94035607f7e0a Sun, 1 Mar 2026 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Names of God: Adonai & Jehova full podcastepisode_6013b264a665413cbd011caef78df9fb Sun, 18 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400 LORD in Scripture is different from Lord.

Listen to learn more.

Questions for Small Group:

Read Exodus 20:7
What do you think it means to misuse God’s name?

Is saying “Oh my God!” breaking this commandment? (especially since God’s name is Yahweh and not “God”)


Do you tend to view God more as “LORD” (Yahweh/Jehovah): Familiar, Faithful, Friend or as “Lord” (Adonai): Caring, Control, Commander?

Why is it vital to keep these in balance?


Does “Adonai” have less meaning/significance since it is a title meaning “Lord” and not a name? Why/Why not?


Read John 15:15, then John 15:14
How do you understand Jesus seeing his disciples as friends not servants (v.15), but also commands his friends to obey him (v.14) as if they are his servants?

Does this mean if we fail to obey Jesus that we are no longer his friend? Why/Why not?
]]> LORD in Scripture is different from Lord.

Listen to learn more.

Questions for Small Group:

Read Exodus 20:7
What do you think it means to misuse God’s name?

Is saying “Oh my God!” breaking this commandment? (especially since God’s name is Yahweh and not “God”)


Do you tend to view God more as “LORD” (Yahweh/Jehovah): Familiar, Faithful, Friend or as “Lord” (Adonai): Caring, Control, Commander?

Why is it vital to keep these in balance?


Does “Adonai” have less meaning/significance since it is a title meaning “Lord” and not a name? Why/Why not?


Read John 15:15, then John 15:14
How do you understand Jesus seeing his disciples as friends not servants (v.15), but also commands his friends to obey him (v.14) as if they are his servants?

Does this mean if we fail to obey Jesus that we are no longer his friend? Why/Why not?
]]> LORD in Scripture is different from Lord.

Listen to learn more.

Questions for Small Group:

Read Exodus 20:7
What do you think it means to misuse God’s name?

Is saying “Oh my God!” breaking this commandment? (especially since God’s name is Yahweh and not “God”)


Do you tend to view God more as “LORD” (Yahweh/Jehovah): Familiar, Faithful, Friend or as “Lord” (Adonai): Caring, Control, Commander?

Why is it vital to keep these in balance?


Does “Adonai” have less meaning/significance since it is a title meaning “Lord” and not a name? Why/Why not?


Read John 15:15, then John 15:14
How do you understand Jesus seeing his disciples as friends not servants (v.15), but also commands his friends to obey him (v.14) as if they are his servants?

Does this mean if we fail to obey Jesus that we are no longer his friend? Why/Why not?
]]> false Names of God: YHWH full podcastepisode_13d489cba2044fe8b18a9197e60a86ef Sun, 11 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Names of God: Intro & Why? full podcastepisode_7b0f604992004384b6117ac17861f66e Sun, 4 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Resolute Why? full podcastepisode_d7b76c4db2f94eb483c9ae7882cca1ce Sun, 28 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
1. Looking Back / Looking Forward
As you reflect on the past year, what is one joy and one challenge that stands out in your walk with God? How do those shape what you hope for in the coming year?

2. Resolutions vs. Direction
Andy Stanley says, “Direction, not intention, determines destination.”
Where do you see a gap between what you intend spiritually and the direction your life is actually moving?

3. Why Matters
Think about a spiritual habit you’ve started and stopped before (Bible reading, prayer, serving, etc.). What do you think caused it to fade—distraction, motivation, difficulty, comparison, or a weak WHY?

4. Personal Motivation or God Motivation
What’s an example of a goal that started as a personal motivation but could be reframed as a God-centered calling? How does that change the way you approach it?

5. The Mindset of Christ (Philippians 2:5–11)
Which part of Jesus’ humility and obedience stands out to you the most in this passage? Why do you think that’s significant for your life right now?

6. Resolute WHY #1 – Jesus Died for Me
How does remembering that Jesus willingly died for you affect the way you view obedience, sacrifice, or daily faithfulness?

7. Resolute WHY #2 – Apprentice to Jesus
What does being an apprentice to Jesus practically look like in your everyday life (work, home, relationships)? Where is denying yourself hardest right now?

8. Resolute WHY #3 – Jesus Is Lord
Hudson Taylor said, “He is Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.”
Are there areas of your life where Jesus feels more like a consultant than Lord? What makes surrender difficult there?

9. Hope That Can Be Explained (1 Peter 3:15)
If someone asked you why you have hope, what would you honestly say today? How could clarifying your WHY strengthen your witness?

10. Living Out Trinity’s Mission
Trinity resolves to: Encounter God through Worship, Grow as Disciples in Small Groups, and Serve Others.
What is one concrete step you feel God calling you to take this year to live that out—personally or as part of this group?

]]>
1. Looking Back / Looking Forward
As you reflect on the past year, what is one joy and one challenge that stands out in your walk with God? How do those shape what you hope for in the coming year?

2. Resolutions vs. Direction
Andy Stanley says, “Direction, not intention, determines destination.”
Where do you see a gap between what you intend spiritually and the direction your life is actually moving?

3. Why Matters
Think about a spiritual habit you’ve started and stopped before (Bible reading, prayer, serving, etc.). What do you think caused it to fade—distraction, motivation, difficulty, comparison, or a weak WHY?

4. Personal Motivation or God Motivation
What’s an example of a goal that started as a personal motivation but could be reframed as a God-centered calling? How does that change the way you approach it?

5. The Mindset of Christ (Philippians 2:5–11)
Which part of Jesus’ humility and obedience stands out to you the most in this passage? Why do you think that’s significant for your life right now?

6. Resolute WHY #1 – Jesus Died for Me
How does remembering that Jesus willingly died for you affect the way you view obedience, sacrifice, or daily faithfulness?

7. Resolute WHY #2 – Apprentice to Jesus
What does being an apprentice to Jesus practically look like in your everyday life (work, home, relationships)? Where is denying yourself hardest right now?

8. Resolute WHY #3 – Jesus Is Lord
Hudson Taylor said, “He is Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.”
Are there areas of your life where Jesus feels more like a consultant than Lord? What makes surrender difficult there?

9. Hope That Can Be Explained (1 Peter 3:15)
If someone asked you why you have hope, what would you honestly say today? How could clarifying your WHY strengthen your witness?

10. Living Out Trinity’s Mission
Trinity resolves to: Encounter God through Worship, Grow as Disciples in Small Groups, and Serve Others.
What is one concrete step you feel God calling you to take this year to live that out—personally or as part of this group?

]]>
1. Looking Back / Looking Forward
As you reflect on the past year, what is one joy and one challenge that stands out in your walk with God? How do those shape what you hope for in the coming year?

2. Resolutions vs. Direction
Andy Stanley says, “Direction, not intention, determines destination.”
Where do you see a gap between what you intend spiritually and the direction your life is actually moving?

3. Why Matters
Think about a spiritual habit you’ve started and stopped before (Bible reading, prayer, serving, etc.). What do you think caused it to fade—distraction, motivation, difficulty, comparison, or a weak WHY?

4. Personal Motivation or God Motivation
What’s an example of a goal that started as a personal motivation but could be reframed as a God-centered calling? How does that change the way you approach it?

5. The Mindset of Christ (Philippians 2:5–11)
Which part of Jesus’ humility and obedience stands out to you the most in this passage? Why do you think that’s significant for your life right now?

6. Resolute WHY #1 – Jesus Died for Me
How does remembering that Jesus willingly died for you affect the way you view obedience, sacrifice, or daily faithfulness?

7. Resolute WHY #2 – Apprentice to Jesus
What does being an apprentice to Jesus practically look like in your everyday life (work, home, relationships)? Where is denying yourself hardest right now?

8. Resolute WHY #3 – Jesus Is Lord
Hudson Taylor said, “He is Lord of all, or He is not Lord at all.”
Are there areas of your life where Jesus feels more like a consultant than Lord? What makes surrender difficult there?

9. Hope That Can Be Explained (1 Peter 3:15)
If someone asked you why you have hope, what would you honestly say today? How could clarifying your WHY strengthen your witness?

10. Living Out Trinity’s Mission
Trinity resolves to: Encounter God through Worship, Grow as Disciples in Small Groups, and Serve Others.
What is one concrete step you feel God calling you to take this year to live that out—personally or as part of this group?

]]> false Advent 2025: PEACE full podcastepisode_8c5f6b0307554d368b318e10bb2a8dc8 Sun, 21 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Advent 2025: LOVE full podcastepisode_99e8aa9cb53641ac8189703307756302 Sun, 7 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Main Passage: 1 John 4:7-10

Read together 1 John 4:7-10
- Aren’t there people who love their family/friends but do not have any kind of faith or relationship with God? If that’s the case how is it that “Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (v.7)
- What are some notable instances in the Gospels of God showing us His love in/through the life of Jesus? (v.9)

Read Zephaniah 3:17
- What word or phrase stands out to you?
- What would you say you delight in? How might that shape your understanding of how God feels about you?

For someone who is not a Christian, how would you define what it means to “follow” Jesus?

It was said in the sermon “God is the initiator.” What does that mean in terms of our salvation and life with God?
Why is that statement so important?
]]>
Main Passage: 1 John 4:7-10

Read together 1 John 4:7-10
- Aren’t there people who love their family/friends but do not have any kind of faith or relationship with God? If that’s the case how is it that “Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (v.7)
- What are some notable instances in the Gospels of God showing us His love in/through the life of Jesus? (v.9)

Read Zephaniah 3:17
- What word or phrase stands out to you?
- What would you say you delight in? How might that shape your understanding of how God feels about you?

For someone who is not a Christian, how would you define what it means to “follow” Jesus?

It was said in the sermon “God is the initiator.” What does that mean in terms of our salvation and life with God?
Why is that statement so important?
]]>
Main Passage: 1 John 4:7-10

Read together 1 John 4:7-10
- Aren’t there people who love their family/friends but do not have any kind of faith or relationship with God? If that’s the case how is it that “Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (v.7)
- What are some notable instances in the Gospels of God showing us His love in/through the life of Jesus? (v.9)

Read Zephaniah 3:17
- What word or phrase stands out to you?
- What would you say you delight in? How might that shape your understanding of how God feels about you?

For someone who is not a Christian, how would you define what it means to “follow” Jesus?

It was said in the sermon “God is the initiator.” What does that mean in terms of our salvation and life with God?
Why is that statement so important?
]]> false Advent 2025: HOPE full podcastepisode_6592084738094462aab52bc4872e3567 Sun, 30 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400 Main Text: Jeremiah 29:11-14

Pastor PJ shared some of his hopes for Trinity in 2026 including: better prioritizing prayer, sending out mission teams to Florida (Hoops on Mission) and Uganda (Dayspring School), and growing our small group ministry.
- Discuss these as a group. What are some ways we can start to put these hopes into action? (Please share your ideas with Pastor PJ)
- What hopes do YOU have for our church going forward?

It was said in the sermon “The Advent season points us to our greatest, most significant hope” What does that mean?

Has there been a time where you had to lean on your hope in Jesus to get you through a difficulty/challenge? If so, share with the group.

Given the difficulties of the days prior to Jesus’ return (see Luke 21) Jesus tells us to “Stand firm” (Luke 21:19). What do you think that practically looks like?

Read out loud Jeremiah 29:11-14. What words or phrases stand out? What emotions do you feel as this passage is read?
]]> Main Text: Jeremiah 29:11-14

Pastor PJ shared some of his hopes for Trinity in 2026 including: better prioritizing prayer, sending out mission teams to Florida (Hoops on Mission) and Uganda (Dayspring School), and growing our small group ministry.
- Discuss these as a group. What are some ways we can start to put these hopes into action? (Please share your ideas with Pastor PJ)
- What hopes do YOU have for our church going forward?

It was said in the sermon “The Advent season points us to our greatest, most significant hope” What does that mean?

Has there been a time where you had to lean on your hope in Jesus to get you through a difficulty/challenge? If so, share with the group.

Given the difficulties of the days prior to Jesus’ return (see Luke 21) Jesus tells us to “Stand firm” (Luke 21:19). What do you think that practically looks like?

Read out loud Jeremiah 29:11-14. What words or phrases stand out? What emotions do you feel as this passage is read?
]]> Main Text: Jeremiah 29:11-14

Pastor PJ shared some of his hopes for Trinity in 2026 including: better prioritizing prayer, sending out mission teams to Florida (Hoops on Mission) and Uganda (Dayspring School), and growing our small group ministry.
- Discuss these as a group. What are some ways we can start to put these hopes into action? (Please share your ideas with Pastor PJ)
- What hopes do YOU have for our church going forward?

It was said in the sermon “The Advent season points us to our greatest, most significant hope” What does that mean?

Has there been a time where you had to lean on your hope in Jesus to get you through a difficulty/challenge? If so, share with the group.

Given the difficulties of the days prior to Jesus’ return (see Luke 21) Jesus tells us to “Stand firm” (Luke 21:19). What do you think that practically looks like?

Read out loud Jeremiah 29:11-14. What words or phrases stand out? What emotions do you feel as this passage is read?
]]> false Ponds & Streams full podcastepisode_1462a0455c0349a6be59afce473cae34 Sun, 23 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Questions for Small Group or Reflection:
What setting is your “happy place”, where you could sit for a while and be at peace?

It was said in the sermon: “From the spring of Jesus’ living water he is creating us into his spring-fed ponds and streams.”
- What characteristics of a pond might we connect with our spiritual formation?
- What characteristics of a stream might we connect with our spiritual formation?

In your Christian walk, do you view yourself as more of a pond or a stream? In what ways?

Why is it essential to allow Jesus to form us into both a pond and a steam?

Read Luke 10:29-37
Why was it significant that the helper was a samaritan? (feel free to do a little group research)
Who, in our context, might be the people we would rather avoid than love?

If we have a season of feeling more like a stagnant pond or dried up river bed, how do we reconnect with our source, Jesus’ spring of living water (John 4:14)?
]]>
Questions for Small Group or Reflection:
What setting is your “happy place”, where you could sit for a while and be at peace?

It was said in the sermon: “From the spring of Jesus’ living water he is creating us into his spring-fed ponds and streams.”
- What characteristics of a pond might we connect with our spiritual formation?
- What characteristics of a stream might we connect with our spiritual formation?

In your Christian walk, do you view yourself as more of a pond or a stream? In what ways?

Why is it essential to allow Jesus to form us into both a pond and a steam?

Read Luke 10:29-37
Why was it significant that the helper was a samaritan? (feel free to do a little group research)
Who, in our context, might be the people we would rather avoid than love?

If we have a season of feeling more like a stagnant pond or dried up river bed, how do we reconnect with our source, Jesus’ spring of living water (John 4:14)?
]]>
Questions for Small Group or Reflection:
What setting is your “happy place”, where you could sit for a while and be at peace?

It was said in the sermon: “From the spring of Jesus’ living water he is creating us into his spring-fed ponds and streams.”
- What characteristics of a pond might we connect with our spiritual formation?
- What characteristics of a stream might we connect with our spiritual formation?

In your Christian walk, do you view yourself as more of a pond or a stream? In what ways?

Why is it essential to allow Jesus to form us into both a pond and a steam?

Read Luke 10:29-37
Why was it significant that the helper was a samaritan? (feel free to do a little group research)
Who, in our context, might be the people we would rather avoid than love?

If we have a season of feeling more like a stagnant pond or dried up river bed, how do we reconnect with our source, Jesus’ spring of living water (John 4:14)?
]]> false Renovating Strength full podcastepisode_3f17d8bf55f6485b88529014c4dbc84a Sun, 16 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Strength was defined in the sermon as our passions and abilities
- Do you agree with that definition? What other ways can/should we think of strength?

Who is the most passionate person you know? How have they used their passion as an act of love for God?

How have you been blessed by the abilities of others? (Consider: physical, spiritual, mental, emptional…)

Read these 3 passages: Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 59:9, and Philippians 4:13-14
- What are the similarities and differences in these strength experiences?

Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
- What does “For when I am weak, then I am strong” mean?
- Have you experienced that? How?


]]>
Strength was defined in the sermon as our passions and abilities
- Do you agree with that definition? What other ways can/should we think of strength?

Who is the most passionate person you know? How have they used their passion as an act of love for God?

How have you been blessed by the abilities of others? (Consider: physical, spiritual, mental, emptional…)

Read these 3 passages: Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 59:9, and Philippians 4:13-14
- What are the similarities and differences in these strength experiences?

Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
- What does “For when I am weak, then I am strong” mean?
- Have you experienced that? How?


]]>
Strength was defined in the sermon as our passions and abilities
- Do you agree with that definition? What other ways can/should we think of strength?

Who is the most passionate person you know? How have they used their passion as an act of love for God?

How have you been blessed by the abilities of others? (Consider: physical, spiritual, mental, emptional…)

Read these 3 passages: Nehemiah 8:10, Psalm 59:9, and Philippians 4:13-14
- What are the similarities and differences in these strength experiences?

Read 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
- What does “For when I am weak, then I am strong” mean?
- Have you experienced that? How?


]]> false Renovating the Soul full podcastepisode_1fa007e276c34966bd7d68c66a78d0d1 Sun, 9 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400 Main Text: Matt 11:28-30

Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is the Soul?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

Dallas Willard writes: “someone’s soul is…the ultimate depths of his or her being”
- What do you think that means?

Read Matt 16:24-26
- What does Jesus mean by “lose your own soul”?

Read Genesis 1:27
- How might being made in the image of God inform our understanding of the Soul?
- Do you think animals have souls? Why/Why not?

Read Matt 11:28-30
- Share a time when you felt your soul was at rest.
- What are some factors that get in the way of your soul being at rest? How might you avoid them?

What does it look like for Jesus to give us rest (v.28)?

]]> Main Text: Matt 11:28-30

Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is the Soul?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

Dallas Willard writes: “someone’s soul is…the ultimate depths of his or her being”
- What do you think that means?

Read Matt 16:24-26
- What does Jesus mean by “lose your own soul”?

Read Genesis 1:27
- How might being made in the image of God inform our understanding of the Soul?
- Do you think animals have souls? Why/Why not?

Read Matt 11:28-30
- Share a time when you felt your soul was at rest.
- What are some factors that get in the way of your soul being at rest? How might you avoid them?

What does it look like for Jesus to give us rest (v.28)?

]]> Main Text: Matt 11:28-30

Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is the Soul?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

Dallas Willard writes: “someone’s soul is…the ultimate depths of his or her being”
- What do you think that means?

Read Matt 16:24-26
- What does Jesus mean by “lose your own soul”?

Read Genesis 1:27
- How might being made in the image of God inform our understanding of the Soul?
- Do you think animals have souls? Why/Why not?

Read Matt 11:28-30
- Share a time when you felt your soul was at rest.
- What are some factors that get in the way of your soul being at rest? How might you avoid them?

What does it look like for Jesus to give us rest (v.28)?

]]> false Renovating the Mind full podcastepisode_bdf8bcecfc7344e6965b30383cb69510 Sun, 2 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Renovating the Heart full podcastepisode_25c7337c115e4219aa154910e565753e Sun, 26 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Intro to Spiritual Formation full podcastepisode_df10a24107ef463c90a8461f9042d920 Sun, 19 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is Spiritual Formation?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

What are some things that have formed you that you are thankful for? What are some things that have formed you that you wish never did?

Author Dallas Willard defines Christian Spiritual Formation as: “The Spirit-driven process of forming the inner world of the human self in such a way that it becomes like the inner being of Christ himself.”

What does it specifically look like for this to be a “Spirit-driven process”?

How will we know if/when that process is effective?

Compare/Contrast Jeremiah 2:13 and John 4:14.

How do you respond to what John Mark Comer writes about Spiritual Formation: “Formation into the image of Jesus isn’t something we do as much as it’s something that is done to us, by God himself, as we yield to his work of transforming grace. Our job is to make ourselves available.”

Is this view of our spiritual formation too passive? Why/Why Not?

Read Psalm 139:23-24

Is this passage consistent with Comer’s quote above?

How does someone practically welcome God to search, test, and lead them?
]]>
Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is Spiritual Formation?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

What are some things that have formed you that you are thankful for? What are some things that have formed you that you wish never did?

Author Dallas Willard defines Christian Spiritual Formation as: “The Spirit-driven process of forming the inner world of the human self in such a way that it becomes like the inner being of Christ himself.”

What does it specifically look like for this to be a “Spirit-driven process”?

How will we know if/when that process is effective?

Compare/Contrast Jeremiah 2:13 and John 4:14.

How do you respond to what John Mark Comer writes about Spiritual Formation: “Formation into the image of Jesus isn’t something we do as much as it’s something that is done to us, by God himself, as we yield to his work of transforming grace. Our job is to make ourselves available.”

Is this view of our spiritual formation too passive? Why/Why Not?

Read Psalm 139:23-24

Is this passage consistent with Comer’s quote above?

How does someone practically welcome God to search, test, and lead them?
]]>
Prior to listening to the sermon, if someone were to ask you “What is Spiritual Formation?” what would you have said? Is your answer any different now?

What are some things that have formed you that you are thankful for? What are some things that have formed you that you wish never did?

Author Dallas Willard defines Christian Spiritual Formation as: “The Spirit-driven process of forming the inner world of the human self in such a way that it becomes like the inner being of Christ himself.”

What does it specifically look like for this to be a “Spirit-driven process”?

How will we know if/when that process is effective?

Compare/Contrast Jeremiah 2:13 and John 4:14.

How do you respond to what John Mark Comer writes about Spiritual Formation: “Formation into the image of Jesus isn’t something we do as much as it’s something that is done to us, by God himself, as we yield to his work of transforming grace. Our job is to make ourselves available.”

Is this view of our spiritual formation too passive? Why/Why Not?

Read Psalm 139:23-24

Is this passage consistent with Comer’s quote above?

How does someone practically welcome God to search, test, and lead them?
]]> false SEEK FIRST full podcastepisode_490b26ba4b83443895c5ff353087868a Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400 “Seek First” (Matthew 6:31–33)

What stood out to you most from Sunday’s message or from Matthew 6:31–33?

Jesus connects worry with what we seek. Why do you think seeking God first is the antidote to anxiety?

What does it practically mean to “seek” God’s Kingdom — not just believe in it?

When is it hardest for you to put God first instead of fitting Him in around other priorities?

How would you describe the Kingdom of God in your own words?

Where do you see glimpses of God’s Kingdom in your life, community, or relationships?

The sermon said, “To seek first the Kingdom means prioritizing love over survival.”
– What might that look like for you this week?

What’s the difference between my righteousness and His righteousness?

How can trusting God’s provision (“all these things”) bring peace even when life feels uncertain?

What’s one practical way you can seek God’s Kingdom first this week?
]]> “Seek First” (Matthew 6:31–33)

What stood out to you most from Sunday’s message or from Matthew 6:31–33?

Jesus connects worry with what we seek. Why do you think seeking God first is the antidote to anxiety?

What does it practically mean to “seek” God’s Kingdom — not just believe in it?

When is it hardest for you to put God first instead of fitting Him in around other priorities?

How would you describe the Kingdom of God in your own words?

Where do you see glimpses of God’s Kingdom in your life, community, or relationships?

The sermon said, “To seek first the Kingdom means prioritizing love over survival.”
– What might that look like for you this week?

What’s the difference between my righteousness and His righteousness?

How can trusting God’s provision (“all these things”) bring peace even when life feels uncertain?

What’s one practical way you can seek God’s Kingdom first this week?
]]> “Seek First” (Matthew 6:31–33)

What stood out to you most from Sunday’s message or from Matthew 6:31–33?

Jesus connects worry with what we seek. Why do you think seeking God first is the antidote to anxiety?

What does it practically mean to “seek” God’s Kingdom — not just believe in it?

When is it hardest for you to put God first instead of fitting Him in around other priorities?

How would you describe the Kingdom of God in your own words?

Where do you see glimpses of God’s Kingdom in your life, community, or relationships?

The sermon said, “To seek first the Kingdom means prioritizing love over survival.”
– What might that look like for you this week?

What’s the difference between my righteousness and His righteousness?

How can trusting God’s provision (“all these things”) bring peace even when life feels uncertain?

What’s one practical way you can seek God’s Kingdom first this week?
]]> false Sin of Achan full podcastepisode_d95666495d6f479db29818072907a7ad Sun, 28 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400
1. Why do you think God was angry at all of Israel because of one man’s sin? (See Joshua 7:1)
2. Achan did one stupid/selfish thing. Did he and his whole family really deserve to be killed? (see Joshua 7:25) How do we reconcile this with our own sin?
3. Quote from sermon: “That’s essentially what sin is!….when we take the things that are of God, from God, and for His glory and say no no no…that’s going to be about me”. Thoughts? Agree/Disagree? What are examples of this?
4. What other definitions of sin have you found helpful?
5. In addition to prayers of confession/repentance, what are other ways we experience/access God’s grace which is always available to us?

]]>
1. Why do you think God was angry at all of Israel because of one man’s sin? (See Joshua 7:1)
2. Achan did one stupid/selfish thing. Did he and his whole family really deserve to be killed? (see Joshua 7:25) How do we reconcile this with our own sin?
3. Quote from sermon: “That’s essentially what sin is!….when we take the things that are of God, from God, and for His glory and say no no no…that’s going to be about me”. Thoughts? Agree/Disagree? What are examples of this?
4. What other definitions of sin have you found helpful?
5. In addition to prayers of confession/repentance, what are other ways we experience/access God’s grace which is always available to us?

]]>
1. Why do you think God was angry at all of Israel because of one man’s sin? (See Joshua 7:1)
2. Achan did one stupid/selfish thing. Did he and his whole family really deserve to be killed? (see Joshua 7:25) How do we reconcile this with our own sin?
3. Quote from sermon: “That’s essentially what sin is!….when we take the things that are of God, from God, and for His glory and say no no no…that’s going to be about me”. Thoughts? Agree/Disagree? What are examples of this?
4. What other definitions of sin have you found helpful?
5. In addition to prayers of confession/repentance, what are other ways we experience/access God’s grace which is always available to us?

]]> false Jericho full podcastepisode_85105266f35b46118c52070d0c59465c Sun, 14 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400 Main Text: Joshua 6:1-21

1. Read Joshua 5:13-15. What about this strange interaction informs our understanding that “The battle is the Lord’s”?
2. How can/should we approach our battles today with that mindset?
3. Read, silently to yourselves, Joshua 6:1-21. What word/phrase/sentence stood out most to you? How did this passage make you feel?
4. In the sermon it was said that when it comes to the violence of the Old Testament, the reasoning for it boils down to two words: Promise and Protection. What does that mean?
5. What do we do with the uneasiness we may feel about passages like Joshua 6:21?
6. Two prayers of trust were mentioned in the sermon: Lord, I trust in your power when the challenges are way bigger than me….Lord, I trust in your goodness when I don’t have all the answers. How can we practically live out that trust?

]]> Main Text: Joshua 6:1-21

1. Read Joshua 5:13-15. What about this strange interaction informs our understanding that “The battle is the Lord’s”?
2. How can/should we approach our battles today with that mindset?
3. Read, silently to yourselves, Joshua 6:1-21. What word/phrase/sentence stood out most to you? How did this passage make you feel?
4. In the sermon it was said that when it comes to the violence of the Old Testament, the reasoning for it boils down to two words: Promise and Protection. What does that mean?
5. What do we do with the uneasiness we may feel about passages like Joshua 6:21?
6. Two prayers of trust were mentioned in the sermon: Lord, I trust in your power when the challenges are way bigger than me….Lord, I trust in your goodness when I don’t have all the answers. How can we practically live out that trust?

]]> Main Text: Joshua 6:1-21

1. Read Joshua 5:13-15. What about this strange interaction informs our understanding that “The battle is the Lord’s”?
2. How can/should we approach our battles today with that mindset?
3. Read, silently to yourselves, Joshua 6:1-21. What word/phrase/sentence stood out most to you? How did this passage make you feel?
4. In the sermon it was said that when it comes to the violence of the Old Testament, the reasoning for it boils down to two words: Promise and Protection. What does that mean?
5. What do we do with the uneasiness we may feel about passages like Joshua 6:21?
6. Two prayers of trust were mentioned in the sermon: Lord, I trust in your power when the challenges are way bigger than me….Lord, I trust in your goodness when I don’t have all the answers. How can we practically live out that trust?

]]> false Look at what God is Doing full podcastepisode_506648aeabc2423da8fb2dc6d3f5d1be Sun, 31 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Be Strong and Courageous full podcastepisode_87b90f63abaf4ecb87a1df077c5dbe0a Sun, 24 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Read Joshua Chapter 1 out loud

When you try to put yourself in Joshua’s place, how do you feel? (Excited, motivated, intimidated, confused…)

In what ways did God prepare Joshua in advance for this role/calling?

Share a time when you had to take up a position of leadership. How did you feel? How did God prepare you in advance for it?

What similarities do you see between Joshua’s calling and the calling of the Church?

Take some time and share some of your personal experiences with God’s: Promises, Provision, Presence, and People.
In what ways have these enabled you to be “Be Strong and Courageous” ?

Read Psalm 127:1. How does this passage relate to Joshua’s calling and the Church’s calling?
]]>
Read Joshua Chapter 1 out loud

When you try to put yourself in Joshua’s place, how do you feel? (Excited, motivated, intimidated, confused…)

In what ways did God prepare Joshua in advance for this role/calling?

Share a time when you had to take up a position of leadership. How did you feel? How did God prepare you in advance for it?

What similarities do you see between Joshua’s calling and the calling of the Church?

Take some time and share some of your personal experiences with God’s: Promises, Provision, Presence, and People.
In what ways have these enabled you to be “Be Strong and Courageous” ?

Read Psalm 127:1. How does this passage relate to Joshua’s calling and the Church’s calling?
]]>
Read Joshua Chapter 1 out loud

When you try to put yourself in Joshua’s place, how do you feel? (Excited, motivated, intimidated, confused…)

In what ways did God prepare Joshua in advance for this role/calling?

Share a time when you had to take up a position of leadership. How did you feel? How did God prepare you in advance for it?

What similarities do you see between Joshua’s calling and the calling of the Church?

Take some time and share some of your personal experiences with God’s: Promises, Provision, Presence, and People.
In what ways have these enabled you to be “Be Strong and Courageous” ?

Read Psalm 127:1. How does this passage relate to Joshua’s calling and the Church’s calling?
]]> false Do you WANT to be a Disciple? full podcastepisode_b893226712304db5ae068f06e79682ff Sun, 10 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Opening Reflection
Over the past three weeks, we’ve asked:

How much have you been forgiven?
What kind of soil are you?
Is it personal?

Which of these questions has challenged you the most, and why?

In your own words, what do you think keeps people from becoming more like Jesus?

How have you experienced that in your own life?

Scripture Engagement
Luke 9:23–26
What does “deny yourself” mean in your daily life?
How is that different from simply saying “no” to certain behaviors?

Jesus uses “If… then…” statements in this passage. Which one hits you the hardest right now? Why?

Luke 14:26–33
Why do you think Jesus uses such strong language (“hate” family, “give up everything”)?
What was He really trying to get across to His hearers?
How do you “count the cost” of following Jesus in your own cultural context?

Psalm 27:4
What would it look like for this to truly be the one thing you seek?

How can this verse guide your focus away from self and toward God?

Cultural Context & Challenge
In 2 Timothy 3:1–5, Paul describes a self-focused culture.
Where do you see these traits showing up in our society—and even in the Church?

How does our culture’s focus on self (comfort, pleasure, possessions) compete with Jesus’ call to “deny yourself”?

The sermon shared a story about a little girl giving up fake jewelry for real pearls. What’s one “fake pearl” in your life that God might be asking you to surrender?

Personal Application
Jesus says, “Take up your cross daily.”
What does “daily” look like for you—not just in crisis moments, but in your ordinary routine?

Which is harder for you:
Denying yourself
Following Jesus wholeheartedly
Giving up your possessions or priorities

Why do you think that is?

What’s one specific step you could take this week to shift your focus from yourself to God and others?

Prayer & Response
How can we pray for one another to have the courage to “count the cost” and follow Jesus fully?

Let’s spend time praying Psalm 27:4 together—asking God to make Him our “one thing.”


]]>
Opening Reflection
Over the past three weeks, we’ve asked:

How much have you been forgiven?
What kind of soil are you?
Is it personal?

Which of these questions has challenged you the most, and why?

In your own words, what do you think keeps people from becoming more like Jesus?

How have you experienced that in your own life?

Scripture Engagement
Luke 9:23–26
What does “deny yourself” mean in your daily life?
How is that different from simply saying “no” to certain behaviors?

Jesus uses “If… then…” statements in this passage. Which one hits you the hardest right now? Why?

Luke 14:26–33
Why do you think Jesus uses such strong language (“hate” family, “give up everything”)?
What was He really trying to get across to His hearers?
How do you “count the cost” of following Jesus in your own cultural context?

Psalm 27:4
What would it look like for this to truly be the one thing you seek?

How can this verse guide your focus away from self and toward God?

Cultural Context & Challenge
In 2 Timothy 3:1–5, Paul describes a self-focused culture.
Where do you see these traits showing up in our society—and even in the Church?

How does our culture’s focus on self (comfort, pleasure, possessions) compete with Jesus’ call to “deny yourself”?

The sermon shared a story about a little girl giving up fake jewelry for real pearls. What’s one “fake pearl” in your life that God might be asking you to surrender?

Personal Application
Jesus says, “Take up your cross daily.”
What does “daily” look like for you—not just in crisis moments, but in your ordinary routine?

Which is harder for you:
Denying yourself
Following Jesus wholeheartedly
Giving up your possessions or priorities

Why do you think that is?

What’s one specific step you could take this week to shift your focus from yourself to God and others?

Prayer & Response
How can we pray for one another to have the courage to “count the cost” and follow Jesus fully?

Let’s spend time praying Psalm 27:4 together—asking God to make Him our “one thing.”


]]>
Opening Reflection
Over the past three weeks, we’ve asked:

How much have you been forgiven?
What kind of soil are you?
Is it personal?

Which of these questions has challenged you the most, and why?

In your own words, what do you think keeps people from becoming more like Jesus?

How have you experienced that in your own life?

Scripture Engagement
Luke 9:23–26
What does “deny yourself” mean in your daily life?
How is that different from simply saying “no” to certain behaviors?

Jesus uses “If… then…” statements in this passage. Which one hits you the hardest right now? Why?

Luke 14:26–33
Why do you think Jesus uses such strong language (“hate” family, “give up everything”)?
What was He really trying to get across to His hearers?
How do you “count the cost” of following Jesus in your own cultural context?

Psalm 27:4
What would it look like for this to truly be the one thing you seek?

How can this verse guide your focus away from self and toward God?

Cultural Context & Challenge
In 2 Timothy 3:1–5, Paul describes a self-focused culture.
Where do you see these traits showing up in our society—and even in the Church?

How does our culture’s focus on self (comfort, pleasure, possessions) compete with Jesus’ call to “deny yourself”?

The sermon shared a story about a little girl giving up fake jewelry for real pearls. What’s one “fake pearl” in your life that God might be asking you to surrender?

Personal Application
Jesus says, “Take up your cross daily.”
What does “daily” look like for you—not just in crisis moments, but in your ordinary routine?

Which is harder for you:
Denying yourself
Following Jesus wholeheartedly
Giving up your possessions or priorities

Why do you think that is?

What’s one specific step you could take this week to shift your focus from yourself to God and others?

Prayer & Response
How can we pray for one another to have the courage to “count the cost” and follow Jesus fully?

Let’s spend time praying Psalm 27:4 together—asking God to make Him our “one thing.”


]]> false Is it Personal? full podcastepisode_4f2c2ed5e90d45de98da8169ed7d18cf Sun, 3 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
🏈 1st Quarter: Is Your Walk with God Personal?
Scripture: Galatians 2:20, Matthew 5:14, Hebrews 13:8
What does it mean to have a personal relationship with Jesus?

How do you know if your faith is personal or just part of your routine?

What areas of your life reflect that Christ is living in you?

“Krispy Kreme faith” means only living for Jesus when the light’s on. Where are you tempted to be like that?

God’s love is personal and never-changing. How does that truth impact your daily walk?


🏀 2nd Quarter: What Are You Willing to Do for the Gospel?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
What stood out to you about Paul’s willingness to become “all things to all people”?

Have you ever given something up to reach someone for Jesus?

What’s one comfort or habit that could be keeping you from living out your faith fully?

What does your faith currently cost you?

What would it look like for you to make your faith more personal through action?


🏆 3rd Quarter: What Does “Personal” Feel Like?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:45, 1 Corinthians 9:20
What’s something you’ve felt deeply about — like a sports team or a cause?

Why do we sometimes get emotional about things like sports, but not about our faith?

When has your walk with God felt personal?

David faced Goliath because of his deep trust in God. What’s your “Goliath” right now?

What does it look like for your faith to stir real emotion, boldness, and connection?


⏳ 4th Quarter: What Are We Going to Do?
Scripture: Galatians 1:10
“It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.” What needs to change in how you’re finishing?

Are you more afraid of rejection or disobedience? Why?

What is currently holding you back from going all in with Jesus?

What is one thing you could do this week that would show your faith is personal — not just on Sunday, but every day?

Finish this sentence: “If my faith was personal, I would…”

✍️ Weekly Challenge
Take one bold, personal step of faith this week:
- Invite someone into a spiritual conversation.
- Pray with your family or friends.
- Share your testimony.
- Serve where it's inconvenient.
- Start a new spiritual habit — and stick with it.

Reflection Verse:
“I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
— 1 Corinthians 9:22
]]>
🏈 1st Quarter: Is Your Walk with God Personal?
Scripture: Galatians 2:20, Matthew 5:14, Hebrews 13:8
What does it mean to have a personal relationship with Jesus?

How do you know if your faith is personal or just part of your routine?

What areas of your life reflect that Christ is living in you?

“Krispy Kreme faith” means only living for Jesus when the light’s on. Where are you tempted to be like that?

God’s love is personal and never-changing. How does that truth impact your daily walk?


🏀 2nd Quarter: What Are You Willing to Do for the Gospel?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
What stood out to you about Paul’s willingness to become “all things to all people”?

Have you ever given something up to reach someone for Jesus?

What’s one comfort or habit that could be keeping you from living out your faith fully?

What does your faith currently cost you?

What would it look like for you to make your faith more personal through action?


🏆 3rd Quarter: What Does “Personal” Feel Like?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:45, 1 Corinthians 9:20
What’s something you’ve felt deeply about — like a sports team or a cause?

Why do we sometimes get emotional about things like sports, but not about our faith?

When has your walk with God felt personal?

David faced Goliath because of his deep trust in God. What’s your “Goliath” right now?

What does it look like for your faith to stir real emotion, boldness, and connection?


⏳ 4th Quarter: What Are We Going to Do?
Scripture: Galatians 1:10
“It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.” What needs to change in how you’re finishing?

Are you more afraid of rejection or disobedience? Why?

What is currently holding you back from going all in with Jesus?

What is one thing you could do this week that would show your faith is personal — not just on Sunday, but every day?

Finish this sentence: “If my faith was personal, I would…”

✍️ Weekly Challenge
Take one bold, personal step of faith this week:
- Invite someone into a spiritual conversation.
- Pray with your family or friends.
- Share your testimony.
- Serve where it's inconvenient.
- Start a new spiritual habit — and stick with it.

Reflection Verse:
“I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
— 1 Corinthians 9:22
]]>
🏈 1st Quarter: Is Your Walk with God Personal?
Scripture: Galatians 2:20, Matthew 5:14, Hebrews 13:8
What does it mean to have a personal relationship with Jesus?

How do you know if your faith is personal or just part of your routine?

What areas of your life reflect that Christ is living in you?

“Krispy Kreme faith” means only living for Jesus when the light’s on. Where are you tempted to be like that?

God’s love is personal and never-changing. How does that truth impact your daily walk?


🏀 2nd Quarter: What Are You Willing to Do for the Gospel?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
What stood out to you about Paul’s willingness to become “all things to all people”?

Have you ever given something up to reach someone for Jesus?

What’s one comfort or habit that could be keeping you from living out your faith fully?

What does your faith currently cost you?

What would it look like for you to make your faith more personal through action?


🏆 3rd Quarter: What Does “Personal” Feel Like?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:45, 1 Corinthians 9:20
What’s something you’ve felt deeply about — like a sports team or a cause?

Why do we sometimes get emotional about things like sports, but not about our faith?

When has your walk with God felt personal?

David faced Goliath because of his deep trust in God. What’s your “Goliath” right now?

What does it look like for your faith to stir real emotion, boldness, and connection?


⏳ 4th Quarter: What Are We Going to Do?
Scripture: Galatians 1:10
“It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.” What needs to change in how you’re finishing?

Are you more afraid of rejection or disobedience? Why?

What is currently holding you back from going all in with Jesus?

What is one thing you could do this week that would show your faith is personal — not just on Sunday, but every day?

Finish this sentence: “If my faith was personal, I would…”

✍️ Weekly Challenge
Take one bold, personal step of faith this week:
- Invite someone into a spiritual conversation.
- Pray with your family or friends.
- Share your testimony.
- Serve where it's inconvenient.
- Start a new spiritual habit — and stick with it.

Reflection Verse:
“I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
— 1 Corinthians 9:22
]]> false How Much Do You Love? full podcastepisode_c0f9117964fc4a20acae336eb4365c49 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 06:30:00 -0400 Listen in to find out.


Ice Breaker:
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with God during warm weather months? Is it any different from the rest of the year?

What does it look like to respond to Jesus with PRIDE versus responding with WORSHIP?

Why is it impossible to understand God’s GRACE without first understanding the depths of our own sin nature?

Do you think it’s enough to admit your sin to God, or does there need to be a human element? Why or why not?

Is it ever difficult for you to receive forgiveness from someone? Why or why not?

What does “worship” mean to you?

As a group, take a look at the closing challenge questions and see what, if any, resonate with you:
- Have I truly received the forgiveness Jesus offers?
- Is there any pride or judgment in me that keeps me from seeing my need for forgiveness?
- Am I responding with worship that flows from a heart of gratitude?
]]> Listen in to find out.


Ice Breaker:
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with God during warm weather months? Is it any different from the rest of the year?

What does it look like to respond to Jesus with PRIDE versus responding with WORSHIP?

Why is it impossible to understand God’s GRACE without first understanding the depths of our own sin nature?

Do you think it’s enough to admit your sin to God, or does there need to be a human element? Why or why not?

Is it ever difficult for you to receive forgiveness from someone? Why or why not?

What does “worship” mean to you?

As a group, take a look at the closing challenge questions and see what, if any, resonate with you:
- Have I truly received the forgiveness Jesus offers?
- Is there any pride or judgment in me that keeps me from seeing my need for forgiveness?
- Am I responding with worship that flows from a heart of gratitude?
]]> Listen in to find out.


Ice Breaker:
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with God during warm weather months? Is it any different from the rest of the year?

What does it look like to respond to Jesus with PRIDE versus responding with WORSHIP?

Why is it impossible to understand God’s GRACE without first understanding the depths of our own sin nature?

Do you think it’s enough to admit your sin to God, or does there need to be a human element? Why or why not?

Is it ever difficult for you to receive forgiveness from someone? Why or why not?

What does “worship” mean to you?

As a group, take a look at the closing challenge questions and see what, if any, resonate with you:
- Have I truly received the forgiveness Jesus offers?
- Is there any pride or judgment in me that keeps me from seeing my need for forgiveness?
- Am I responding with worship that flows from a heart of gratitude?
]]> false Galatians 6:1-10 full podcastepisode_b3e72c6de75e4ad7bc0b2fa34b52d56c Sun, 13 Jul 2025 06:30:00 -0400
It was said in the sermon: “It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict. It is the Church’s job to support.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How do we practically support someone who has felt convicted of sin?

How would you describe what it means to be “grounded”? Who has been a good example of this in your life?

In what way(s) does comparing ourselves with others hurt us? How can it hurt the church?

It was said in the sermon: “A church’s health is better measured by how many they send, rather than how many they retain.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How can basing the health of a church only on the numbers (attendance, budget, etc.) be potentially harmful?

Of the 5 “G” Words (Gracious, Genuine, Grounded, Generous, and Going) which do you feel Trinity does the best at? Which one could we use some work? What could help us improve in that way as a church?
]]>
It was said in the sermon: “It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict. It is the Church’s job to support.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How do we practically support someone who has felt convicted of sin?

How would you describe what it means to be “grounded”? Who has been a good example of this in your life?

In what way(s) does comparing ourselves with others hurt us? How can it hurt the church?

It was said in the sermon: “A church’s health is better measured by how many they send, rather than how many they retain.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How can basing the health of a church only on the numbers (attendance, budget, etc.) be potentially harmful?

Of the 5 “G” Words (Gracious, Genuine, Grounded, Generous, and Going) which do you feel Trinity does the best at? Which one could we use some work? What could help us improve in that way as a church?
]]>
It was said in the sermon: “It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict. It is the Church’s job to support.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How do we practically support someone who has felt convicted of sin?

How would you describe what it means to be “grounded”? Who has been a good example of this in your life?

In what way(s) does comparing ourselves with others hurt us? How can it hurt the church?

It was said in the sermon: “A church’s health is better measured by how many they send, rather than how many they retain.” Agree/Disagree? Why? How can basing the health of a church only on the numbers (attendance, budget, etc.) be potentially harmful?

Of the 5 “G” Words (Gracious, Genuine, Grounded, Generous, and Going) which do you feel Trinity does the best at? Which one could we use some work? What could help us improve in that way as a church?
]]> false Galatians 5:16-26 full podcastepisode_06c8eaf3d330417388d06c1dc8c30a99 Sun, 6 Jul 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Main Text:
Galatians 5
16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.
19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

- Have you noticed the “Eeyore” mentality (“Im just a sinner, what are ya gunna do?”) in others and/or yourself? What leads us to be in that mental/spiritual place?

- What is your response to the phrase “Sin is not inevitable” ?

- What does it practically look like to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of God?

- What is your response to the phrase “Holiness is not inevitable”? Does it change your view of the Fruit of the Spirit to view them as “Fruit of Holiness”?

- Read Luke 22:42. What has helped you live this out?

- What can our small group do to help one another to keep in step with the Spirit?
]]>
Main Text:
Galatians 5
16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.
19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

- Have you noticed the “Eeyore” mentality (“Im just a sinner, what are ya gunna do?”) in others and/or yourself? What leads us to be in that mental/spiritual place?

- What is your response to the phrase “Sin is not inevitable” ?

- What does it practically look like to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of God?

- What is your response to the phrase “Holiness is not inevitable”? Does it change your view of the Fruit of the Spirit to view them as “Fruit of Holiness”?

- Read Luke 22:42. What has helped you live this out?

- What can our small group do to help one another to keep in step with the Spirit?
]]>
Main Text:
Galatians 5
16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.
19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

- Have you noticed the “Eeyore” mentality (“Im just a sinner, what are ya gunna do?”) in others and/or yourself? What leads us to be in that mental/spiritual place?

- What is your response to the phrase “Sin is not inevitable” ?

- What does it practically look like to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of God?

- What is your response to the phrase “Holiness is not inevitable”? Does it change your view of the Fruit of the Spirit to view them as “Fruit of Holiness”?

- Read Luke 22:42. What has helped you live this out?

- What can our small group do to help one another to keep in step with the Spirit?
]]> false Galatians 5:5-6, 13-15 full podcastepisode_7d7e0d1a88ad450ba5cfaf4434c1b1d9 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Galatians 4:1-7, 21-31 full podcastepisode_9cc22294f8ea471abaf9f85df9186b2c Sun, 22 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Galatians 3:18-29 full podcastepisode_50ca2e70bed64ecf8b7481e0485e634f Sun, 8 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -0400
In what way(s) did the Old Covenant Law act as a Tutor/Babysitter for Israel until Christ came?

Read Galatians 3:25. Does this mean that the Law is now irrelevant?
Why/Why Not?

How might my thoughts, words, actions, and attitude reflect that I belong to Christ? (Get specific)

Is there anything I am allowing to act as a barrier between myself and others who belong to Christ?

]]>
In what way(s) did the Old Covenant Law act as a Tutor/Babysitter for Israel until Christ came?

Read Galatians 3:25. Does this mean that the Law is now irrelevant?
Why/Why Not?

How might my thoughts, words, actions, and attitude reflect that I belong to Christ? (Get specific)

Is there anything I am allowing to act as a barrier between myself and others who belong to Christ?

]]>
In what way(s) did the Old Covenant Law act as a Tutor/Babysitter for Israel until Christ came?

Read Galatians 3:25. Does this mean that the Law is now irrelevant?
Why/Why Not?

How might my thoughts, words, actions, and attitude reflect that I belong to Christ? (Get specific)

Is there anything I am allowing to act as a barrier between myself and others who belong to Christ?

]]> false Galatians 3:5-14 full podcastepisode_1dbdd516c29b47faa81a2515c31f7a1a Sun, 1 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -0400
It was said in the sermon “The Church will be unified and effective through the pouring out and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.”
What does that mean?
How do we seek out the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our church?

Can/Should we be more unified with other Christian faith traditions? Why/Why not?

Read Romans 4:4-5. What is your reaction to this text?

Who has been an example of faith for you personally? In what way(s)?

Other than Abraham, who in Scripture inspires/informs your faith?

How might we best serve as an example of faith to others?
What does that specifically look like?

]]>
It was said in the sermon “The Church will be unified and effective through the pouring out and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.”
What does that mean?
How do we seek out the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our church?

Can/Should we be more unified with other Christian faith traditions? Why/Why not?

Read Romans 4:4-5. What is your reaction to this text?

Who has been an example of faith for you personally? In what way(s)?

Other than Abraham, who in Scripture inspires/informs your faith?

How might we best serve as an example of faith to others?
What does that specifically look like?

]]>
It was said in the sermon “The Church will be unified and effective through the pouring out and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.”
What does that mean?
How do we seek out the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our church?

Can/Should we be more unified with other Christian faith traditions? Why/Why not?

Read Romans 4:4-5. What is your reaction to this text?

Who has been an example of faith for you personally? In what way(s)?

Other than Abraham, who in Scripture inspires/informs your faith?

How might we best serve as an example of faith to others?
What does that specifically look like?

]]> false Galatians 2:17-21 full podcastepisode_84319148f895455a8ded24736b0a0b43 Sun, 25 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Galatians 2:11-16 full podcastepisode_06ea1caaf1fd47e19490a725d13260b5 Sun, 18 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Read Galatians 2:11-16
What word/phrase stands out to you in this passage?
How do you feel about Peter’s actions? Have you ever found yourself acting differently around different groups of people?
How were Peter’s actions hurting the church?

What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done healthy/faithfully? What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done in an unhealthy/unfaithful way?

What is the danger in avoiding/neglecting confrontation when it is necessary?

How is Paul’s confrontation with Peter similar or different to Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 18:15-17?

What are some ways to make sure we keep conflict/confrontation constructive and not use it to be destructive (tearing someone down)?

Why is it so crucial to start with prayer before engaging in a confrontation with someone?
]]>
Read Galatians 2:11-16
What word/phrase stands out to you in this passage?
How do you feel about Peter’s actions? Have you ever found yourself acting differently around different groups of people?
How were Peter’s actions hurting the church?

What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done healthy/faithfully? What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done in an unhealthy/unfaithful way?

What is the danger in avoiding/neglecting confrontation when it is necessary?

How is Paul’s confrontation with Peter similar or different to Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 18:15-17?

What are some ways to make sure we keep conflict/confrontation constructive and not use it to be destructive (tearing someone down)?

Why is it so crucial to start with prayer before engaging in a confrontation with someone?
]]>
Read Galatians 2:11-16
What word/phrase stands out to you in this passage?
How do you feel about Peter’s actions? Have you ever found yourself acting differently around different groups of people?
How were Peter’s actions hurting the church?

What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done healthy/faithfully? What are some characteristics of conflict you have witnessed or experienced conflict done in an unhealthy/unfaithful way?

What is the danger in avoiding/neglecting confrontation when it is necessary?

How is Paul’s confrontation with Peter similar or different to Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 18:15-17?

What are some ways to make sure we keep conflict/confrontation constructive and not use it to be destructive (tearing someone down)?

Why is it so crucial to start with prayer before engaging in a confrontation with someone?
]]> false Daily Practice of Peace full podcastepisode_c2620d6ae9884e77a244310174f630d0 Sun, 11 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400 Is it even possible?

Questions for SG or reflection:
1. What comes to mind when you think of the most PEACEFUL time and location?
2. Why do you think we have a natural bent toward anxiety and fear?
3. The time of teaching pointed out that “Anxiety Reveals what I value” and “Anxiety Reflects my view of God” - agree or disagree and why?
4. Do you feel the pace of life you are living is healthy & sustainable? Why or why not?
5. Lk. 10:38-42 - How would you have responded if you were Martha?
6. In what ways does growth in Christ sound/feel boring to you? How do you practically push back against that?
7. What of the slowing down practices do you find the hardest: prayer, sabbath, solitude, fasting? Why?
8. How do I know if someone is just “with” me, or actually “present”? What is the difference between us being with Jesus (Martha) and being present at Jesus’ feet (Mary)?

]]> Is it even possible?

Questions for SG or reflection:
1. What comes to mind when you think of the most PEACEFUL time and location?
2. Why do you think we have a natural bent toward anxiety and fear?
3. The time of teaching pointed out that “Anxiety Reveals what I value” and “Anxiety Reflects my view of God” - agree or disagree and why?
4. Do you feel the pace of life you are living is healthy & sustainable? Why or why not?
5. Lk. 10:38-42 - How would you have responded if you were Martha?
6. In what ways does growth in Christ sound/feel boring to you? How do you practically push back against that?
7. What of the slowing down practices do you find the hardest: prayer, sabbath, solitude, fasting? Why?
8. How do I know if someone is just “with” me, or actually “present”? What is the difference between us being with Jesus (Martha) and being present at Jesus’ feet (Mary)?

]]> Is it even possible?

Questions for SG or reflection:
1. What comes to mind when you think of the most PEACEFUL time and location?
2. Why do you think we have a natural bent toward anxiety and fear?
3. The time of teaching pointed out that “Anxiety Reveals what I value” and “Anxiety Reflects my view of God” - agree or disagree and why?
4. Do you feel the pace of life you are living is healthy & sustainable? Why or why not?
5. Lk. 10:38-42 - How would you have responded if you were Martha?
6. In what ways does growth in Christ sound/feel boring to you? How do you practically push back against that?
7. What of the slowing down practices do you find the hardest: prayer, sabbath, solitude, fasting? Why?
8. How do I know if someone is just “with” me, or actually “present”? What is the difference between us being with Jesus (Martha) and being present at Jesus’ feet (Mary)?

]]> false Galatians Introduction full podcastepisode_6a176bf00fb54a2fbb7a9e019c05b264 Sun, 4 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Easter 2.0 full podcastepisode_99cfde3720ce46d7a5ebb7160164a483 Sun, 27 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
John shares his testimony of God at work in his life and PJ describes how Easter People live 😀

Questions for Reflection:
What specific part of John Eckert’s testimony were you most impacted by? How is Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20 (“surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”) reflected in John’s testimony?

In addition to John’s healing, are there other miracles that you have witnessed?

Read Psalm 105:1-2. What are some ways we can “Let the whole world know what He has done”?

What does it mean to “live expectantly”? What does that practically look like in our worldview, attitude, relationships, prayers, etc…?

It was shared in the sermon that “Feed mt sheep” wasn’t just Jesus’ mission or Peter, it is Jesus’ mission for all of his followers.
In what way(s) do you feel God calling you to “Feed my sheep” ?

What is your reaction to this quote from Conference Superintendent, Steve Taylor: “...don’t just celebrate Easter—live it. Live in the power of the risen Christ. Share that hope with someone who needs to hear it—maybe for the first time, or maybe for the first time in a long time. Invite them into worship. Share your story. Be ready to speak about the hope you carry, because it’s not just a memory—it’s the power of God, alive in you.”
]]>
John shares his testimony of God at work in his life and PJ describes how Easter People live 😀

Questions for Reflection:
What specific part of John Eckert’s testimony were you most impacted by? How is Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20 (“surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”) reflected in John’s testimony?

In addition to John’s healing, are there other miracles that you have witnessed?

Read Psalm 105:1-2. What are some ways we can “Let the whole world know what He has done”?

What does it mean to “live expectantly”? What does that practically look like in our worldview, attitude, relationships, prayers, etc…?

It was shared in the sermon that “Feed mt sheep” wasn’t just Jesus’ mission or Peter, it is Jesus’ mission for all of his followers.
In what way(s) do you feel God calling you to “Feed my sheep” ?

What is your reaction to this quote from Conference Superintendent, Steve Taylor: “...don’t just celebrate Easter—live it. Live in the power of the risen Christ. Share that hope with someone who needs to hear it—maybe for the first time, or maybe for the first time in a long time. Invite them into worship. Share your story. Be ready to speak about the hope you carry, because it’s not just a memory—it’s the power of God, alive in you.”
]]>
John shares his testimony of God at work in his life and PJ describes how Easter People live 😀

Questions for Reflection:
What specific part of John Eckert’s testimony were you most impacted by? How is Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20 (“surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”) reflected in John’s testimony?

In addition to John’s healing, are there other miracles that you have witnessed?

Read Psalm 105:1-2. What are some ways we can “Let the whole world know what He has done”?

What does it mean to “live expectantly”? What does that practically look like in our worldview, attitude, relationships, prayers, etc…?

It was shared in the sermon that “Feed mt sheep” wasn’t just Jesus’ mission or Peter, it is Jesus’ mission for all of his followers.
In what way(s) do you feel God calling you to “Feed my sheep” ?

What is your reaction to this quote from Conference Superintendent, Steve Taylor: “...don’t just celebrate Easter—live it. Live in the power of the risen Christ. Share that hope with someone who needs to hear it—maybe for the first time, or maybe for the first time in a long time. Invite them into worship. Share your story. Be ready to speak about the hope you carry, because it’s not just a memory—it’s the power of God, alive in you.”
]]> false Easter Sunday '25 full podcastepisode_917de2ddad8e41b99ebcadbf1c6adc18 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
]]>
]]>
]]> false Palm Sunday full podcastepisode_103a1acd0da24960a017cf4ef5d3ecb3 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400 What is it and what does it mean for the Church today?
]]> What is it and what does it mean for the Church today?
]]> What is it and what does it mean for the Church today?
]]> false Membership Sunday 2025 full podcastepisode_0a5c215eb98d44019a12eaf6522b1b38 Sun, 6 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Rule of Life full podcastepisode_fbdc84f1eaef489299147071b7d8a6e6 Sun, 30 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

In John 15, Jesus tells us “Remain in me”. What are other things that are drawn/tempted to remain in?

Pete Scazzero, in his book: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, writes: “Nurturing a growing spirituality with depth in our present-day culture will require a thoughtful, conscious, intentional plan for our spiritual lives.”
- Do you agree?
- Why do you think so many Christians NOT have a plan for their spiritual lives/growth?

Comer writes, “A Rule of Life is a schedule and set of practices and relational rhythms that create space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did, as we live in alignment with our deepest desires. It’s a way of intentionally organizing our lives around what matters most: God.”
- What are some of your daily, weekly, monthly/seasonally practices and relational rhythms that create space for you to be with Jesus?
- What practices/relational rhythms do you feel God calling you to incorporate into your life?
- What might be some things you let go of to make room for daily, weekly, monthly/seasonal practices that connect you with Jesus?

Consider and discuss the six tips for building a Rule of Life and how to practically implement them:
1. Start Small
2. Think Subtraction, not Addition
3. Take a balanced approach
4. Consider your personality and season of life
5. There is no formation without repetition
6. Do this in community

SEE RULE OF LIFE BUILDER
]]>
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

In John 15, Jesus tells us “Remain in me”. What are other things that are drawn/tempted to remain in?

Pete Scazzero, in his book: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, writes: “Nurturing a growing spirituality with depth in our present-day culture will require a thoughtful, conscious, intentional plan for our spiritual lives.”
- Do you agree?
- Why do you think so many Christians NOT have a plan for their spiritual lives/growth?

Comer writes, “A Rule of Life is a schedule and set of practices and relational rhythms that create space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did, as we live in alignment with our deepest desires. It’s a way of intentionally organizing our lives around what matters most: God.”
- What are some of your daily, weekly, monthly/seasonally practices and relational rhythms that create space for you to be with Jesus?
- What practices/relational rhythms do you feel God calling you to incorporate into your life?
- What might be some things you let go of to make room for daily, weekly, monthly/seasonal practices that connect you with Jesus?

Consider and discuss the six tips for building a Rule of Life and how to practically implement them:
1. Start Small
2. Think Subtraction, not Addition
3. Take a balanced approach
4. Consider your personality and season of life
5. There is no formation without repetition
6. Do this in community

SEE RULE OF LIFE BUILDER
]]>
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

In John 15, Jesus tells us “Remain in me”. What are other things that are drawn/tempted to remain in?

Pete Scazzero, in his book: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, writes: “Nurturing a growing spirituality with depth in our present-day culture will require a thoughtful, conscious, intentional plan for our spiritual lives.”
- Do you agree?
- Why do you think so many Christians NOT have a plan for their spiritual lives/growth?

Comer writes, “A Rule of Life is a schedule and set of practices and relational rhythms that create space for us to be with Jesus, become like Him, and do as He did, as we live in alignment with our deepest desires. It’s a way of intentionally organizing our lives around what matters most: God.”
- What are some of your daily, weekly, monthly/seasonally practices and relational rhythms that create space for you to be with Jesus?
- What practices/relational rhythms do you feel God calling you to incorporate into your life?
- What might be some things you let go of to make room for daily, weekly, monthly/seasonal practices that connect you with Jesus?

Consider and discuss the six tips for building a Rule of Life and how to practically implement them:
1. Start Small
2. Think Subtraction, not Addition
3. Take a balanced approach
4. Consider your personality and season of life
5. There is no formation without repetition
6. Do this in community

SEE RULE OF LIFE BUILDER
]]> false Following Christ Together full podcastepisode_9a1bb41cdce2495c9e0f5396d74c414e Sun, 23 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:

The Church, like an apple, has three main layers:
Outside Form Layer: Congregation
Inside Nourishment Layer: Small Groups/Bible Studies
Core Transformation Layer: Our Inner Circle.
Do you agree with this comparison?
What might be off base or missing?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our congregation and the crowds that followed Jesus?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our small groups and Bible Studies and Jesus’ 12 disciples?

Why do you think Wesley and the early Methodist leaders required people to be a part of a class meeting (small group) in order to join the larger worship gathering?

Do you or have you had a core with which you could be vulnerable, go deep, and be committed to transformation?

Read Mark 3:32-35
In what specific ways is Trinity a church family?
What could we be doing better? How?
]]>
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:

The Church, like an apple, has three main layers:
Outside Form Layer: Congregation
Inside Nourishment Layer: Small Groups/Bible Studies
Core Transformation Layer: Our Inner Circle.
Do you agree with this comparison?
What might be off base or missing?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our congregation and the crowds that followed Jesus?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our small groups and Bible Studies and Jesus’ 12 disciples?

Why do you think Wesley and the early Methodist leaders required people to be a part of a class meeting (small group) in order to join the larger worship gathering?

Do you or have you had a core with which you could be vulnerable, go deep, and be committed to transformation?

Read Mark 3:32-35
In what specific ways is Trinity a church family?
What could we be doing better? How?
]]>
Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:

The Church, like an apple, has three main layers:
Outside Form Layer: Congregation
Inside Nourishment Layer: Small Groups/Bible Studies
Core Transformation Layer: Our Inner Circle.
Do you agree with this comparison?
What might be off base or missing?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our congregation and the crowds that followed Jesus?

What similarities and/or differences do you see between our small groups and Bible Studies and Jesus’ 12 disciples?

Why do you think Wesley and the early Methodist leaders required people to be a part of a class meeting (small group) in order to join the larger worship gathering?

Do you or have you had a core with which you could be vulnerable, go deep, and be committed to transformation?

Read Mark 3:32-35
In what specific ways is Trinity a church family?
What could we be doing better? How?
]]> false Healing from Sin full podcastepisode_d6e2c1a22e0e427d90833fbd89941fb3 Sun, 16 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false God Meets Us full podcastepisode_6e264659ffd149d28526ece7f4948590 Sun, 9 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Practicing Generosity and Community full podcastepisode_2ce19fcad13f471a8f1232a122f7f6f7 Sun, 2 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Generosity = people over preferences

Community = embodied grace and peace

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:
Over the past few weeks we have looked at 9 practices modeled after Jesus’ way of life:
Prayer, Scripture, Sabbath, Solitude, Fasting,
Service, Witness, Generosity, and Community.

Which of the 9 are you drawn to the most?
Which do you find most daunting/intimidating?
What is your understanding of the purpose of living out these practices?

What is an example of generosity that you have seen or personally experienced?
How were people prioritized over preferences in that situation?

Read Proverbs 11:24-24 and Acts 20:35. How have you been blessed by a willingness to show generosity?

Comer writes: “We simply are not meant to follow Jesus alone…it’s in relationships that we are formed and forged.”
- Who has been an influential and formational voice in your walk with Jesus?

In what ways is Trinity Church a strong community?
In what ways can Trinity Church improve/deepen as a community?


If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]>
Generosity = people over preferences

Community = embodied grace and peace

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:
Over the past few weeks we have looked at 9 practices modeled after Jesus’ way of life:
Prayer, Scripture, Sabbath, Solitude, Fasting,
Service, Witness, Generosity, and Community.

Which of the 9 are you drawn to the most?
Which do you find most daunting/intimidating?
What is your understanding of the purpose of living out these practices?

What is an example of generosity that you have seen or personally experienced?
How were people prioritized over preferences in that situation?

Read Proverbs 11:24-24 and Acts 20:35. How have you been blessed by a willingness to show generosity?

Comer writes: “We simply are not meant to follow Jesus alone…it’s in relationships that we are formed and forged.”
- Who has been an influential and formational voice in your walk with Jesus?

In what ways is Trinity Church a strong community?
In what ways can Trinity Church improve/deepen as a community?


If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]>
Generosity = people over preferences

Community = embodied grace and peace

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions:
Over the past few weeks we have looked at 9 practices modeled after Jesus’ way of life:
Prayer, Scripture, Sabbath, Solitude, Fasting,
Service, Witness, Generosity, and Community.

Which of the 9 are you drawn to the most?
Which do you find most daunting/intimidating?
What is your understanding of the purpose of living out these practices?

What is an example of generosity that you have seen or personally experienced?
How were people prioritized over preferences in that situation?

Read Proverbs 11:24-24 and Acts 20:35. How have you been blessed by a willingness to show generosity?

Comer writes: “We simply are not meant to follow Jesus alone…it’s in relationships that we are formed and forged.”
- Who has been an influential and formational voice in your walk with Jesus?

In what ways is Trinity Church a strong community?
In what ways can Trinity Church improve/deepen as a community?


If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]> false Practicing Service and Witness full podcastepisode_2bf64537385c424e95e2755a3487b492 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false I Will Make You Fish For People full podcastepisode_2e720d1256ad48dea6a1016fb83cae7a Sun, 16 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Being a follower of Jesus is a response to the promises of Jesus, as offered and proven by the actions of Jesus. It’s not something we initiate, but something Jesus has already done for us.

Discipleship is relational, transformational, and commissional. If you lost everything in your life, would you still be a follower of Jesus?

If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]>
Being a follower of Jesus is a response to the promises of Jesus, as offered and proven by the actions of Jesus. It’s not something we initiate, but something Jesus has already done for us.

Discipleship is relational, transformational, and commissional. If you lost everything in your life, would you still be a follower of Jesus?

If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]>
Being a follower of Jesus is a response to the promises of Jesus, as offered and proven by the actions of Jesus. It’s not something we initiate, but something Jesus has already done for us.

Discipleship is relational, transformational, and commissional. If you lost everything in your life, would you still be a follower of Jesus?

If you would ever like to support Trinity and our ministries locally, nationally, or internationally, CLICK HERE.
]]> false Practicing Sabbath, Solitude, and Fasting full podcastepisode_a6bffa7991fd4d66956b4b48a36f5636 Sun, 9 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400
How do you react to the statement “The practices are not a measure of spiritual maturity”? Agree/Disagree?

Share your past and current experience with the practice of Sabbath? Is it something you are currently prioritizing? If so, how? If not, what has made keeping a Sabbath challenging?

Discuss Jesus’ practice of solitude described in Luke 5:15-16.
Jesus was God, so why did he need time in solitude to pray?
Would it have been better for Jesus to be more available to people and their needs instead of regularly going off alone? Why/Why Not?
How have you been blessed by the practice of solitude?

What is one word that comes to mind when you consider the practice of fasting?

How have you been blessed by the practice of fasting?
]]>
How do you react to the statement “The practices are not a measure of spiritual maturity”? Agree/Disagree?

Share your past and current experience with the practice of Sabbath? Is it something you are currently prioritizing? If so, how? If not, what has made keeping a Sabbath challenging?

Discuss Jesus’ practice of solitude described in Luke 5:15-16.
Jesus was God, so why did he need time in solitude to pray?
Would it have been better for Jesus to be more available to people and their needs instead of regularly going off alone? Why/Why Not?
How have you been blessed by the practice of solitude?

What is one word that comes to mind when you consider the practice of fasting?

How have you been blessed by the practice of fasting?
]]>
How do you react to the statement “The practices are not a measure of spiritual maturity”? Agree/Disagree?

Share your past and current experience with the practice of Sabbath? Is it something you are currently prioritizing? If so, how? If not, what has made keeping a Sabbath challenging?

Discuss Jesus’ practice of solitude described in Luke 5:15-16.
Jesus was God, so why did he need time in solitude to pray?
Would it have been better for Jesus to be more available to people and their needs instead of regularly going off alone? Why/Why Not?
How have you been blessed by the practice of solitude?

What is one word that comes to mind when you consider the practice of fasting?

How have you been blessed by the practice of fasting?
]]> false Practicing Scripture full podcastepisode_dc501957abae4adc862ac320643262ce Sun, 2 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Do you have a favorite passage and/or book of the Bible? What is it? Why is it so meaningful to you?

How did the church tradition you grew up in or were saved in teach you to engage with Scripture?

Read Matthew 5:17-19. How would you describe Jesus’ view of Scripture?

What does it look like to engage with Scripture for “transformation” not just “information”?

What are some obstacles you’ve experienced in trying to develop a regular Scripture practice? What might help overcome them?
]]>
Do you have a favorite passage and/or book of the Bible? What is it? Why is it so meaningful to you?

How did the church tradition you grew up in or were saved in teach you to engage with Scripture?

Read Matthew 5:17-19. How would you describe Jesus’ view of Scripture?

What does it look like to engage with Scripture for “transformation” not just “information”?

What are some obstacles you’ve experienced in trying to develop a regular Scripture practice? What might help overcome them?
]]>
Do you have a favorite passage and/or book of the Bible? What is it? Why is it so meaningful to you?

How did the church tradition you grew up in or were saved in teach you to engage with Scripture?

Read Matthew 5:17-19. How would you describe Jesus’ view of Scripture?

What does it look like to engage with Scripture for “transformation” not just “information”?

What are some obstacles you’ve experienced in trying to develop a regular Scripture practice? What might help overcome them?
]]> false The Practices and Prayer full podcastepisode_d540df67ea804ddc96bfdac60fbd0ba5 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Spiritual Formation Pt. 2 full podcastepisode_b07568eb90644c0c8fdfc8e3aaba1c1e Sun, 19 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
What might be some implications to the early Christians being called “The Way” (Acts 9:2, 19:23, 24:14)?

How is that different from being called “the Church” or “Christians”?

Read Matthew 7:13-14
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transaction”?
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transformation”?

John Mark Comer writes: “For Jesus, salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you…It’s less of a transaction and more of a transformation. It’s not just about what he has done for us but also about what he has done, is doing, and will do in us if we apprentice under him.”

What do you think “salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you” means?

Do you agree that, to Jesus, Salvation is “less of a transaction and more of a transformation”?

What is a skill you have practiced extensively in order to grow/improve in?
How is growing/improving in our walk with Jesus different or similar?
]]>
What might be some implications to the early Christians being called “The Way” (Acts 9:2, 19:23, 24:14)?

How is that different from being called “the Church” or “Christians”?

Read Matthew 7:13-14
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transaction”?
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transformation”?

John Mark Comer writes: “For Jesus, salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you…It’s less of a transaction and more of a transformation. It’s not just about what he has done for us but also about what he has done, is doing, and will do in us if we apprentice under him.”

What do you think “salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you” means?

Do you agree that, to Jesus, Salvation is “less of a transaction and more of a transformation”?

What is a skill you have practiced extensively in order to grow/improve in?
How is growing/improving in our walk with Jesus different or similar?
]]>
What might be some implications to the early Christians being called “The Way” (Acts 9:2, 19:23, 24:14)?

How is that different from being called “the Church” or “Christians”?

Read Matthew 7:13-14
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transaction”?
What does it mean to understand this passage as “Salvation as Transformation”?

John Mark Comer writes: “For Jesus, salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you…It’s less of a transaction and more of a transformation. It’s not just about what he has done for us but also about what he has done, is doing, and will do in us if we apprentice under him.”

What do you think “salvation is less about getting you into heaven and more about getting heaven into you” means?

Do you agree that, to Jesus, Salvation is “less of a transaction and more of a transformation”?

What is a skill you have practiced extensively in order to grow/improve in?
How is growing/improving in our walk with Jesus different or similar?
]]> false Spiritual Formation Pt. 1 full podcastepisode_fd27d00e4f014cc2baf2af548b667222 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper:

Formation Audit - What is Forming Me?

Habits — What habits make up my everyday life?
Morning routine, Daily activities or responsibilities with work/school, Evening routine, Typical weekend activities

Relationships — What relationships make up most of my life?
Family, Friends, Work/School, Community, Other

Stories — What are the “stories” I have come to believe?
Believe about: God, Yourself, Happiness, Meaning of life

Environment — What are the cultural distinctives of my environment?
Town/Community, Nation, Generation, Media/Social Media, Ethnicity/Culture

Experience — What life experiences have most shaped me into who I am today?
Family/upbringing, Traumatic events, Pivotal experiences, Spiritual events
]]>
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper:

Formation Audit - What is Forming Me?

Habits — What habits make up my everyday life?
Morning routine, Daily activities or responsibilities with work/school, Evening routine, Typical weekend activities

Relationships — What relationships make up most of my life?
Family, Friends, Work/School, Community, Other

Stories — What are the “stories” I have come to believe?
Believe about: God, Yourself, Happiness, Meaning of life

Environment — What are the cultural distinctives of my environment?
Town/Community, Nation, Generation, Media/Social Media, Ethnicity/Culture

Experience — What life experiences have most shaped me into who I am today?
Family/upbringing, Traumatic events, Pivotal experiences, Spiritual events
]]>
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper:

Formation Audit - What is Forming Me?

Habits — What habits make up my everyday life?
Morning routine, Daily activities or responsibilities with work/school, Evening routine, Typical weekend activities

Relationships — What relationships make up most of my life?
Family, Friends, Work/School, Community, Other

Stories — What are the “stories” I have come to believe?
Believe about: God, Yourself, Happiness, Meaning of life

Environment — What are the cultural distinctives of my environment?
Town/Community, Nation, Generation, Media/Social Media, Ethnicity/Culture

Experience — What life experiences have most shaped me into who I am today?
Family/upbringing, Traumatic events, Pivotal experiences, Spiritual events
]]> false Apprenticeship to Jesus full podcastepisode_499ecdcd8f3943fbb12f6dd714ded479 Sun, 5 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper.

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

Prior to hearing this sermon, how would you have defined the word “disciple”?

How do you react to the statement: “Disciples weren’t just students learning from a teacher or a mentor. Disciples were apprentices, learning how to be like their rabbi.”

Describe your own discipleship journey. In what ways are you striving to be an apprentice of Jesus? In what ways do you need/want to grow?

Consider this quote from the“Practicing the Way” book:
“Simon and Andrew were fishermen…they didn’t make it into an apprenticeship program. They weren’t the best of the best; they were the ones who got sent home…But Jesus invited them to become his apprentices…Before they believed in Jesus, he believed in them.”
- What is your initial reaction to this quote?
- What does it tell us about Jesus that he didn’t seek the best of the best to be his disciples? What does that tell us about ourselves?

It was said in the sermon that many people who call themselves Christians view becoming a disciple of Jesus as optional? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

As we enter this sermon series on intentional discipleship, what questions do you have? What are you looking forward to?
]]>
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper.

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

Prior to hearing this sermon, how would you have defined the word “disciple”?

How do you react to the statement: “Disciples weren’t just students learning from a teacher or a mentor. Disciples were apprentices, learning how to be like their rabbi.”

Describe your own discipleship journey. In what ways are you striving to be an apprentice of Jesus? In what ways do you need/want to grow?

Consider this quote from the“Practicing the Way” book:
“Simon and Andrew were fishermen…they didn’t make it into an apprenticeship program. They weren’t the best of the best; they were the ones who got sent home…But Jesus invited them to become his apprentices…Before they believed in Jesus, he believed in them.”
- What is your initial reaction to this quote?
- What does it tell us about Jesus that he didn’t seek the best of the best to be his disciples? What does that tell us about ourselves?

It was said in the sermon that many people who call themselves Christians view becoming a disciple of Jesus as optional? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

As we enter this sermon series on intentional discipleship, what questions do you have? What are you looking forward to?
]]>
Click here to purchase John Mark Comer's book and go deeper.

Small Group/Personal Reflection Questions

Prior to hearing this sermon, how would you have defined the word “disciple”?

How do you react to the statement: “Disciples weren’t just students learning from a teacher or a mentor. Disciples were apprentices, learning how to be like their rabbi.”

Describe your own discipleship journey. In what ways are you striving to be an apprentice of Jesus? In what ways do you need/want to grow?

Consider this quote from the“Practicing the Way” book:
“Simon and Andrew were fishermen…they didn’t make it into an apprenticeship program. They weren’t the best of the best; they were the ones who got sent home…But Jesus invited them to become his apprentices…Before they believed in Jesus, he believed in them.”
- What is your initial reaction to this quote?
- What does it tell us about Jesus that he didn’t seek the best of the best to be his disciples? What does that tell us about ourselves?

It was said in the sermon that many people who call themselves Christians view becoming a disciple of Jesus as optional? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

As we enter this sermon series on intentional discipleship, what questions do you have? What are you looking forward to?
]]> false