Jesus Feeds 5000+ People

Gary DeLashmutt
John 6:1-68

Jesus multiplies food provided by a small boy to feed thousands of people, illustrating that if we make ourselves available he will nourish us spiritually and meet the world's needs. Jesus claims he is the bread of life who can give eternal life to any who believe in him and accept his gift. The reactions of the crowd and the disciples to Jesus' teaching show that as followers of Jesus we often have selfish expectations. Our spiritual life and closeness with Jesus hinge on whether we accept these hard teachings or not.

Parable of the Soils

Ryan Lowery
Luke 8:4-15

According to the parable of the soils, there are four possible responses to the gospel: 1) allowing God's enemy to snatch it away, which does not result in salvation; 2) receiving it and allowing temporary change, but falling away into temptation; 3) receiving it, but failing to prioritize it over the world; and 4) letting it sink deep and flourish, resulting in perseverance and fruitfulness. It is entirely up to the individual what kind of soil they will be.

Jesus' Life-Giving Authority

Gary DeLashmutt
John 5:1-47

Jesus heals a paralyzed man and tells him to get up and carry his mat home. When challenged for breaking the Sabbath, Jesus says he is always working and obeying his Father and has the authority to forgive sins and grant eternal life. These polarizing claims can be supported by trustworthy witnesses like John the Baptist, witnesses who have been changed or healed by Jesus, and by God's Word through scripture. Two common reasons for rejecting Jesus are given: 1) seeking other people's approval over God's approval; 2) belief that good works are enough and Jesus' forgiveness is unnecessary.

Who Is Jesus?

Jeff Gordon
John 5:1-47

The religious leaders of Jesus' day confront him for working on the Sabbath by healing a disabled man at the Pool of Bethesda. By breaking the sabbath, Jesus claimed equality with God the Father. These leaders rejected Jesus, refused to believe his claims, and warned Jesus that Moses would accuse him. They did not accept his offer to make them well too.

God's Building Project

Scott Risley
1 Peter 2:4-10

Peter uses the analogy of a building to explain that a believer is to live in community with other believers. Christ is the cornerstone and believers are living stones that are part of the spiritual house God is building. God says the cornerstone (Christ) is choice and precious: some choose to believe in Him, leading to salvation; for others Christ is a stumbling block and rejecting Him leads to destruction. God wants us to willingly play our part in the spiritual community he is building rather than live autonomous individualistic lives.

Jesus in Samaria

Jeff Gordon
John 4:1-42

Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman at a well. He offers her living water that will forever quench her thirst and reveals to her that he is the Messiah. His compassion, knowledge and patience for this woman leads her to believe in him, as well as many other Samaritans.

Living Water

Gary DeLashmutt
John 4:1-41

Jesus initiates a conversation with a Samaritan woman drawing water out of a well and tells her about "living water". Living water is a synonym for salvation that comes from Jesus, it is abundantly available to whoever asks and is essential for spiritual life. The woman accepts Jesus and immediately shares the news with her village. Our greatest privilege is sharing this living water with others and the act of sharing is very important for a vibrant spiritual life.

The Power of God?s Word

Scott Risley
Isaiah 55:1-3

Peter exhorts his audience by telling them of the importance and power of God's Word. The Word of God: gives us life and lasts forever; sustains and stimulates our growth; renews our minds; convicts our hearts; nourishes our souls, and stirs our emotions. Peter says we should crave the word the same way a newborn baby craves milk.

Nichodemas & John the Baptist

Jeff Gordon
John 3:1-36

Jesus refers back to an event in the Old Testament when Moses lifted up a snake in the wilderness to be looked upon for personal salvation. Jesus likens himself to the snake, in such a way that he too will be lifted up and looked upon for personal salvation. We need spiritual rebirth which can only come through humble faith in Jesus Christ.