Trusting God through our Everyday Fears
Matthew 6:25-34 (ESV)
Nathan Finn

Living by Faith
Genesis 15
Main Thing to Know:
Faith in God makes me a friend of God
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
April 7, 2024
#fbcboro

Resurrection Day
Luke 24:1-12
- Easter day is resurrection day
- Our final day is resurrection day
- Every day is resurrection day

I am the way, the truth, and the life.
John 14:6
Main Thing to Know:
I can’t be right if I get Jesus wrong
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
March 24, 2024
#fbcboro

Where I am, there you may be also.
(John 14:3)
Main Thing to Know:
There is no absence of His presence
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
March 17, 2024
#FBCBORO

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself (John 14:3)
Main Thing to Know:
Jesus will come again for the born again
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
March 10, 2024
#fbcboro

I go to prepare a place for you.
John 14:2
Main Thing to Know:
He went where we could not go so that we could get what we did not deserve
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
March 3, 2024
#fbcboro

In My Father’s house are many mansions . . . John 14:2 Main Thing to Know: The problems of this life disappear in the next life (MULTILINE) 1. Focus on the eternal not the temporary This world: • Broken • Painful • Uncertain • Not our home (MULTILINE) For here we have no continuing city, but we seek …

You believe in God, believe also in Me . . .
John 14:1
Main Thing to Know:
What matters is not how we believe but who
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
February 18, 2024
#fbcboro

Be Still
Let not your heart be troubled . . . (John 14:1)
Main Thing to Know:
When problems increase I can still have His peace
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
February 11, 2024
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How We Got Our Bible (Part 2)
2 Peter 1:20-21
Main Thing to Know:
The Bible is God’s Word delivered in God’s way
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
February 4, 2024
#fbcboro

How We Got Our Bible (Part 1)
Hebrews 4:12
Main Thing to Know:
The Bible is God’s Word delivered in God’s way
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
January 28, 2024

How to Use the Bible to Make Decisions Psalm 119:105 Main Thing to Know: When the Bible informs me, it transforms me (MULTILINE) Five Filters for Decision-Making: (1) Have I prayed through this? (2) What does the Bible say? (3) What do godly people say? (4) What does wisdom say? (5) Do I have a peac …

How to Apply the Bible Personally
2 Timothy 2:15
Main Thing to Know:
The Bible’s inspiration demands correct application
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
January 14, 2024
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Spiritual Growth through Bible Reading
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Main Thing to Know:
A Bible unread leaves a Christian unfed
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
January 7, 2024
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Celebrating the Christ Child
Luke 2
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
December 24, 2023
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“Joshua’s Farewell Address”
Joshua 23-24
The Christ Connection:
The Covenant at Shechem—
Dr. John Waters
December 17, 2023
#fbcboro

On Mission with God
Matthew 28:16-20
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
December 10, 2023
#fbcboro

“Conflict among God’s People”
Joshua 22
The Christ Connection:
The Unity of the Israelites—
The Name of the Altar—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
December 3, 2023
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The Assignment of Cities
Joshua 20-21
The Christ Connection:
The Death of the High Priest
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
November 26, 2023
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The Faithfulness of God
Joshua 15-19
The Christ Connection:
The Twelve Tribes of Israel
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
November 19, 2023
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The Faith of Caleb
Joshua 14
The Christ Connection:
The Inheritance—
The Wholeheartedness of Caleb—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
November 12, 2023
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Ongoing Battles
Joshua 11-13
The Christ Connection:
The Land at Rest—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
November 5, 2023
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Deceit & Deliverance
Joshua 9-10
The Christ Connection:
The Deceit of the Gibeonites—
The Miraculous Victory—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
October 29, 2023
#fbcboro

The Sin of Achan
Joshua 7-8
The Christ Connection:
The King of Ai—
The Altar of Uncut (Unhewn) Stones—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
October 22, 2023
#fbcboro

The Battle of Jericho”
Joshua 6
The Christ Connection:
The Fallen Walls of Jericho
The “Whoever” of Rahab’s House
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
October 8, 2023
#fbcboro

“Obeying the Lord”
Joshua 5
The Christ Connection:
The Commander of the Army of the Lord
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
October 1, 2023
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Crossing the Jordan
Joshua 3-4
The Christ Connection:
The Ark of the Covenant—
Jordan River—
Memorial Stones—
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
September 24, 2023
#FBCBORO

“Rahab & the Spies” Joshua 2 1. Rahab was an unlikely person Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool. (Isaiah 1:18) 2. Rahab had uncommon faith By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not belie …

“Strong & Courageous Faith” Joshua 1   “Joshua” (Jesus) = God-is-salvation When do we need strong & courageous faith? —Times of Transition —Times of Uncertainty One of the greatest discoveries a man makes . . . is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do. —Henry Ford —Times o …

The Power of God’s Word Hebrews 4:12-13 Main Thing to Know: God’s Will is revealed in God’s Word How many Bibles does our pastor own?     71 The Bible as God’s Word: • Book to Read • Guide to Follow • Authority to Accept Personal Application Questions: Do I have a plan & pattern for reading the …

Two Kingdoms Colossians 1:10;13-14 Main Thing: In Christ, the War is over, but the Battle is not. There are Two Kingdoms One of Light.One of Darkness. Does the Power of darkness really exist? Do we still Desire the darkness? Have you been Rescued from the darkness? “Be Killing Sin, or Sin will be ki …

Jesus Changes Everything (Part 3) 2 Corinthians 5:17 Main Thing to Know: If Jesus changes anything, He changes everything 1. Jesus changes who I am 2. Jesus changes what I l 3. Jesus changes how I think 4. Jesus changes how I live 5. Jesus changes what I love “You shall love the Lord your God with a …

Jesus Changes Everything (Part 2) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (p. 1330) Main Thing to Know: If Jesus changes anything, He changes everything 1. Jesus changes who I am 2. Jesus changes what I live for 3. Jesus changes how I think Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mi …

Jesus Changes Everything (Part 1) 2 Corinthians 5:17 How can we expect to change the world for Christ if we ourselves are not being changed by Him?  —Peter Scazzero Main Thing to Know: If Jesus changes anything, He changes everything 1. Jesus Changes Who I Am Too often, we allow: Wrong moments to de …

Daily Choices to Live by Faith Psalm 37 The Main Thing to Know: Our daily choices are life-changing choices 1. Trust in the Lord (v. 3) • Is God trustworthy? • Is God trustworthy in all things? You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. (Isaiah 26:3) 2 …

A Call to Genuine Discipleship
John 15:1-8
What does a genuine disciple of Jesus look like?
Dr. Scott E. Sullivan
July 16, 2023

The God Who Satisfies
Psalm 63:1-8
Main thing to know:
When God is your main desire, He will be your true satisfaction.
Robbie Norman, Discipleship Pastor
July 9, 2023
#fbcboro

“Blessed are the Meek” Matthew 5:5 Steve Pennington   The Main Thing to Know: Meekness isn’t weakness it is strength under God’s control. It is founded in our trust in the Lord and it always denies self. 1 – Meekness requires submitting our will to the Master. “My sacrifice, O God is a broken s …

The Journey through Pain Psalm 3 The Main Thing to Know: The presence of pain is not the absence of God 1. Despair (v. 1-2) It is the most bitter of all afflictions to be led to fear that there is no help for us in God.  —Charles Spurgeon Questions we ask during pain: • Why me? • Why this? • Why now …

The Fatherhood of God Psalm 68 The Main Thing to Know: The Heavenly Father is the only perfect father 1. God Reveals Fatherhood “Father” depicts: • Intimacy & Involvement • Protection & Provision • Care & Compassion 2. God Redeems Fatherhood  

Coming Back to God (Part 2) Psalm 32 The Main Thing to Know: Forgiveness is the journey from guilt to grace Step 1: Conviction Step 2: Confession Step 3: Cleansing Cleansing Based on: • God’s Work “Transgression” is forgiven (v. 1) “Sin” is covered (v. 1) “Iniquity” is not imputed (v. 2) • God’s cha …

Coming Back to God (Part 1)
Psalm 32
The Main Thing to Know:
Forgiveness is the journey from guilt to grace
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
#fbcboro

Why Should I Trust God?
Psalm 91
The Main Thing to Know:
The character of God makes me trust in God
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
May 28, 2023
#fbcboro

Beliefs that Make a Difference
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Main Thing to Know:
What I believe is based on Who I believe
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
May 21, 2023
#fbcboro

God’s Plan for Christian Families Ephesians 6:1-4 Main Thing to Know: Godly families make godly choices 1. Make your family a place of faith 4 Key Commitments of a Christian Family: • Committed to the Scriptures • Committed to a healthy marriage • Committed to a local church • Committed to Christian …

Is Jesus Enough?
Revelation 1:8
Main Thing to Know:
When times get tough Jesus is enough
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
May 7, 2023
#fbcboro

Coming Back to Jesus (Part 2) John 21:1-19 When you have a setback, you do not take a step back, because God is already preparing your comeback. —Mark Batterson, All In Main Thing to Know: We come back to Jesus on His terms not ours 1. Does Jesus have priority? If anyone comes to Me and does not hat …

Coming Back to Jesus (Part 1)
John 20:1-19
Main Thing to Know:
When sin shames us, Jesus reclaims us
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
April 23, 2023
#fbcboro

What’s Different About a Difference Maker Acts 3:1-10 NKJV See the need (Verse 4) Get involved (Verses 4-6) Step Out in faith (Verse 7)

The Story of Mary Magdalene John 20:1-18 Main Thing to Know: The resurrection story changes my story 1. Jesus gives us a reason to hope Mary Magdalene faced: • Grief • Uncertainty When we cannot see the face of our God, [we] trust under the shadow of His wings. —Charles Spurgeon, Lectures to My Stud …

The Story of Pilate John 18 – 19 Main Thing to Know: My life comes from His death 1. The cross was a place of pain & punishment Pilate authorized the: •Scourging of Jesus (19:1) •Mocking of Jesus (19:2-5) •Crucifying of Jesus (19:17-18) He died a sinless death He died a substitute death The esse …

Encounters with Jesus
The Story of Judas and Peter
John 11:1-27
Main Thing to Know:
If we’ve been forgiven we should live forgiven
Dr. John Waters, Lead Pastor
March 26, 2023
#fbcboro

The Story of Lazarus, Martha, and Mary John 11:1-44 You turn mourning to dancing You give beauty for ashes You turn shame into glory You’re the only one who can Main Thing to Know: The Unchanging One can change anyone 1. He changes our pain into glory Questions during hardship: • Why me? • Why not m …

The Story of the Man Born Blind John 9:1-41 Main Thing to Know: Some have blind eyes; others have blind hearts 1. By circumstance, some people cannot see Suffering is not an embarrassment to the Christian faith. It is the thread with which Christ’s name is stitched into our lives  —Rebecca McLaughli …

The Story of the Adulterous Woman John 8:1-12 Main Thing to Know: Sin forgiven is to be sin forsaken 1. Woman: The shamefulness of outward sin Jesus did not condemn her broken life Jesus did not condone her sinful life As long as you and I call our sins by pretty names, they will not be forgiven. Th …

The Story of the Multitude John 6:1-71 I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please. Not enough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep, But just enough to equal a cup of warm milk or a snooze in the sunshine. I don’t want enough of God to make me love a black man or pick beets with a migrant. I want …

The Story of the Woman at the Well John 4:1-26 Main Thing to Know: Putting Jesus first satisfies my thirst 1. All people in all places need Jesus Happy indeed is that church whose members not only desire to reach heaven, but desire also to take others with them. —J.C. Ryle 2. Earthly things are empt …

The Story of Nicodemus John 3:1-17 Main Thing to Know: Believing takes us from curiosity to commitment I think many people have the mistaken notion that faith reduces uncertainty. Nothing could be further from the truth. Faith doesn’t reduce uncertainty. Faith embraces uncertainty. —Mark Batterson 1 …

Main Thing to Know:
Who has God ¬called and created me to be?
1. God has a plan unique for you
2. God’s plan involves spiritual gifts
3. God’s plan always requires obedience

Investing in a Church Acts 2 “I love Jesus but not the church.” Main Thing to Know: The benefits of a church outweigh the shortcomings of a church 1. It affirms your personal faith 2. It creates your community of faith “Cared for and Counted on” We were made for physical connection with people in re …

Engaging the Bible (Part 2) Hebrews 4:12-13 Golfers: “Drive for the show; putt for the dough” Main Thing to Know: When I read the Bible, the Bible reads me 1. Accept the authority of the Bible When I first began to read the Bible with an open mind as a young adult, I discovered that God and I though …

Engaging the Bible (Part 1) 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Main Thing to Know: To know God’s will I must know God’s Word 1. The Bible is inspired by God When we read the Bible, we are encountering God himself. —Brett McCracken (1) It is Enough (2) It is Clear What kind of God would reveal his love and redemption …

Four Foundational Facts of Spiritual Growth 2 Peter 1:2-8 Main Thing to Know: Spiritual growth happens by choice, not by chance 1. Spiritual growth is a personal responsibility Therefore, my beloved . . . work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) 2. Spiritual growth does …

Focus 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Main Thing: Unchanging things are usually Unseen things. What to Focus on: The Truth of the Bible. -Isaiah 40:8 -1 Peter 1:25 The Presence of God with us. -Deuteronomy 31:6 -Matthew 1:22-23 “The seasons change, and you change, but your Lord abides evermore the same, and t …

The Message of Christmas Luke 2:1-14 1. A MESSAGE OF GOOD NEWS . . . behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy 2. A MESSAGE FOR ALL PEOPLE . . . which will be to all people 3. A MESSAGE ABOUT JESUS CHRIST . . . born unto you this day in the City of David is a Savior  

What Do We Find in the Manger? Luke 2 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. (v. 16) The Main Thing to Know: The manger’s meaning is found in its message 1. We find a promise to believe Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into J …

The Coming Christ Child Isaiah 9:1-7  The Main Thing to Know: The promised Christ is a powerful Christ. 1. He is a Wonderful Counselor to guide us Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. (Proverb …

Giving Away the Gospel Romans 1:13-17 13 Now I don’t want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that I often planned to come to you (but was prevented until now) in order that I might have a fruitful ministry among you, just as I have had among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am obligated both to …

Thanksgiving Communion 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 The Main Thing to Know: There’s no communion without union “communion” = fellowship (Grk: koinonia) . . . they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. (Acts 2:24) 1. Give thanks for our un …

Finding the Freedom of Forgiveness 1 John 1:5-10 The Main Thing to Know: God’s faithfulness is greater than my sinfulness • Everyone needs forgiveness • Anyone can find forgiveness 1. Our Part: Confession No sin is: Too small Too great Too secret Too recurring As God did not at first choose you beca …

Living Your Best Life Now Galatians 2:20 The Main Thing to Know: What if my best life is found only in Christ’s life? 1. Live a crucified life If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his …

“My Spiritual Poverty” Revelation 3:17-20 I am RICH I am WRETCHED I am INVITED

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Do not lead us into temptation . . . The Main Thing to Know: Tempting times are growing times Do not lead us into temptation . . . Paraphrase:   “Help me to avoid temptation.” Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be temp …

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Forgive us our debts . . . The Main Thing to Know: Forgiven people forgive people 1. In Christ, we can receive forgiveness “debts” = something owed / unable to pay In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riche …

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Give us this day our daily bread . . . The Main Thing to Know: To ask for daily bread is to admit a daily need   1. Daily Remembrance Then the Lord said to Moses, “I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gathe …

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Your will be done . . . The Main Thing to Know: If I know God, I can know God’s will Hindrances to Knowing God’s Will: • Lack of personal saving faith • Lack of godly living • Lack of specific obedience • Lack of scriptural knowledge • Lack of biblical com …

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Your kingdom come . . . The Main Thing to Know: I’m part of the kingdom if God is the King   The Kingdom of God: Definition: rule & reign of God 1. Inclusive yet exclusive The Christian religion is at once the broadest and the narrowest in the wor …

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name The Main Thing to Know: To know the real God is to know the Father God 1. God is a Shared Father References to God as “Father”: Old Testament: 14 times New Testament: 452 times Two Results:      •Unity • Communit …

Our Identity in Christ Ephesians 1:3-6 What? The Main Thing to Know (Part 1): The Great I Am determines who I am (1) We are chosen (v. 4) The only thing you contribute to your salvation is the sin that makes it necessary —Unknown (2) We are holy (v. 4) (3) We are blameless (v. 4) (4) We are adopted …

Making a Fresh Start 2 Corinthians 5:14-17   The Main Thing to Know: A new start comes from a new heart 1. A fresh start is possible “Anyone” is: • Broad (in application) • Deep (in reach) The gospel declares that there is nothing that could ever be uncovered about you and me that hasn’t alread …

Living with Urgency John 9:4 The Main Thing to Know: Life is too short to be wasted 1. To whom does your life belong? Beginning Point: Salvation Continuing Point: Sanctification / Surrender Jesus, my Lord will love me forever, From Him no pow’r of evil can sever, He gave His life to ransom my soul; …

Is God on Our Side? Romans 8:31-32 The Main Thing to Know: The pressures of life don’t cancel the promises of God The simple statement “God is for us” is in truth one of the richest and weightiest utterances that the Bible contains . . . [it] is the hinge on which everything turns.—J.I. Packer, Know …

Going Back to the Gospel John 3:16 ———————- Main thing to know: For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NASB95) Are we willing to ask the real questions? Are we willing to receive t …

“Right Thinking about Righteousness!” Luke 18:9-14 1. The Nature of Unrighteousness 2. The Notions of Self-righteousness 3. The Need of God’s Righteousness.

Real Rest Psalm 23   Main Thing: God Changes our Restlessness into Restfulness We find rest: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”   -Saint Augustine, Confessions Jesus spoke about Rest: Matthew 11: 28-29  1   From Knowing God as shepherd a …

God’s Forgiveness Psalm 51 The Main Thing to Know: Forgiveness makes the regrettable forgettable 1. God’s forgiveness is based on God (v. 1-2) The living God . . . is the only Lord who, if you find him, can truly fulfill you, and, if you fail him, can truly forgive you. —Timothy Keller • His charact …

The Blessed Nation Psalm 33 The Main Thing to Know: Godly patriotism makes us humble not prideful Two Guardrails for Interpretation: • The promises of Israel do not apply to America • The principles of righteousness apply to any nation 1. Our nation has been blessed by God 2. Our nation has dishonor …

 Seeing the Cross Psalm 22   At the cross, we see sinlessness At the cross, we see suffering At the cross, we see substitution

Forgiving Yourself Psalm 69 The Main Thing to Know: Sin should humble me, not haunt me Questions about Forgiving Yourself: (1) Is my worth based on works? . . . to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved. (Ephesians 1:6) (2) Who is the Forgiver? For I ac …

The Faithfulness of God Psalm 37:23-25 The Main Thing to Know: If God is faithful I’ll not be forsaken 1. God is faithful to direct us “ordered” = established, prepared Your life is: • Not out of control • Not random • Not meaningless Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own u …

How to Pray during Distressing Times Psalm 17 The Main Thing to Know: God within me is greater than the stress around me 1. Hear me (v. 6) Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. (Psalm 130:1-2) Because God hear …

Does God Have a Plan for My Life? Jeremiah 29:1-13 The Main Thing to Know: What if God’s plan is better than my plan? 1. God’s plan requires trust (v. 11) Follow Jesus takes you to: • Unfamiliar Places • Inconvenient Places • Difficult Places • Best Places 2. God’s plan requires obedience (v. 12-13) …

Finding Joy in a Joyless World 1 John 1:1-7  The Main Thing to Know: I find God’s joy when I follow God’s will And these things we write to you that your joy may be full. (v. 4) 1. Know God’s Son (v. 1-2) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God . . . and the Wo …

ABCs of a Godly Family Ephesians 6:1-4 The Main Thing to Know: Perfect families don’t exist; godly families do A = Adults who are godly examples Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6) Growing in godliness is not about trying to achiev …

The Fruit of the Spirit Galatians 5:16-25 Main Thing to Know: The fruit comes from the root 1. The fruit of the Spirit is a Cluster The fruit: • appears together (interrelated)   • grows together (interdependent) 2. The fruit of the Spirit is a Contrast I believe that one reason why the church …

Faith that Changes You Isaiah 6 The Main Thing to Know: Real faith is transforming faith 1. Look above you “holy” = separated / set apart As He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) 2. Look within you “purged” …

“Because of Easter” Luke 24:1-12 The Main Thing to Know: The resurrection brings hope to the hopeless 1. God is Knowable I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me . . . He who has seen Me has seen the Father (John 14:7, 9) 2. Forgiveness is Possible Instead …

Father, into Your Hands I Commend My Spirt Luke 23:44-49 Main Thing to Know: Pain has a purpose if God has a plan 1. Do we trust who God is? We embrace the hand we’ve been dealt, because we know the dealer, and He never deals badly. —John Piper 2. Do we trust what God does? We dare not conclude that …

It is Finished John 19:28-30 Main Thing to Know: All that needed to be done has been done 1. Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures . . . knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said “I thirst!” (v. 28) 2. Jesus satisfied the Law “Do not think that I came to des …

I Thirst John 19:28-29 Main Thing to Know: The ugliness of the cross shows the loveliness of grace 1. His thirst shows His humanity • As God, He was willing to die • As Man, He was able to die • As God-Man, He was qualified to die 2. His thirst shows His suffering Nobody who ever saw a crucifixion e …

My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me? Matthew 27:45-46 I’m forgiven because You were forsaken I’m accepted; You were condemned I’m alive and well, Your Spirit is within me Because You died and rose again Main Thing to Know: He was forsaken so I could be forgiven “forsaken” = to leave, desert, abandon 1. …

Woman, Behold Your Son . . . John 19:25-27 THE POINT: Nobody provides better care than Jesus.           Jesus cares for us eternally. For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God.   1 Peter 3:18a Jesus cares for us daily. When we suffer, we fo …

Father Forgive Them . . . Seven Sayings from the Cross (Part 1) Luke 23:34 I went on, and my attention was next taken by these words : And Jesus said, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. I stopped: I was stabbed to the heart, as if pierced by a five-inch nail. What did the verse re …

The Evidence of God’s Love Romans 5:6-11 Main Thing to Know: When I see the cross I see God’s love He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. (1 Joh …

What Does God Expect from Us? Deuteronomy 10:12-22 Main Thing to Know: Does my heart desire what God requires? God’s Requirements: • Always non-negotiable • For our own good • Based on His character 1. To Fear (reverence) Him Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You …

Habits of Holiness 2 Peter 3:18 Main Thing to Know: Without holiness I won’t grow in holiness 1. Reading All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [c]instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equ …

Closer to Jesus: Living with Purpose Romans 12:9-21 Main Thing to Know: My purpose is found in a Person When I know who I am in Christ, then I know my place in this world and the purpose of my life. —Michael F. Bird, What Christians Ought to Believe   Purposeful Living: Living with purpose push …

Closer to Jesus: Living in Community Romans 12:3-8 Main Thing to Know: If I’m faithful to Jesus I’ll be faithful to a local church Experiencing Community within a Church: We have many members in one body (v. 4) • We have multiple backgrounds & varied perspectives All the members do not have the …

Fundamentals of Following Jesus Luke 9:23-24 Main Thing to Know: My daily choices become defining choices • Spiritual growth happens by choice not by chance • Spiritual growth happens daily not in a day 1. Put Jesus first If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and childr …

“MAINTENANCE REQUIRED!” FOUR THINGS YOU MUST DO AS YOU WALK YOUR DISCIPLE’S PATHWAY Mark 12: 29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with …

Bathsheba 2 Samuel 11-12 Main Thing to Know: What sin destroys God restores The Main Characters: • David— • Uriah— • Bathsheba— • Nathan— The Story: The Christ Connection: • Jesus provides forgiveness of sin If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us fro …

The Women of Christmas: Ruth Ruth 1-4 Main Thing to Know: Redemption cancels my past and changes my future   The Main Characters: • Naomi— • Ruth— • Boaz—   The Story: The Christ Connection: Boaz: Kinsman Redeemer Jesus: Eternal Redeemer When the fullness of the time had come, God sent for …

Rahab Joshua 2 Main Thing to Know: God’s grace goes deeper & farther than our sin The Main Characters: • Joshua— • Two Spies— • Rahab— The Story: The Christ Connection: Because of Jesus . . . • No one is unreachable • Sin is forgivable • Any life is redeemable   By faith the harlot Rahab di …

The Women of Christmas: Tamar Genesis 38 Main Thing to Know: Christ brings wholeness out of brokenness The Main Characters: • Judah— • Tamar— The Story: The Christ Connection: • Jesus brings justice to a world of injustice • Jesus provides hope when we face desperation • Jesus accomplishes His work …

Revelation: Demystified “The New Heaven and the New Earth” (Ch. 21-22) Main Thing to Know: God makes right what we make wrong 1. New Jerusalem: City of God (Ch. 21) • Uninterrupted Rest (v. 4) • Unspeakable Perfection (v. 12-16) • Unimaginable Beauty (v. 18-21) • Unhindered Presence (v. 22-23) • Unf …

Revelation: Demystified “The Marriage Supper and the Millennium” (Ch. 19-20) Main Thing to Know: What if the end times are actually the best times? (1) Marriage Supper = Redemption of Christ (19:5-9) (2) Millennium = Reign of Christ (20:1-6) Three Main Views of the Millennium: • Premillennial • Post …

Revelation: Demystified “The Fall of Babylon” (Ch. 17-18) Main Thing to Know: Worldliness & godliness can’t coexist 1. What is Babylon? The Scarlet Woman/Babylon = City of Rome Spirit of Rome Three Primary Tactics: (1) Seduction (17:3-6) (2) Deception (17:7-16) When Satan cannot get a great sin …

The Answer is Jesus Mark Galo, Minister to Students October 31, 2021 The Answer is Jesus” – His word gives us the platform to share. The Statements to know: I am the bread of life – John 6:35, 48 I am the light of the world – John 8:12; 9:5 I am the door – John 10 I am the good shepherd – John 10 I …

Revelation: Demystified “The Seven Bowls of Wrath” (Ch. 16) Main Thing to Know: All of humanity deserves the wrath of God wrath = righteous judgment 7 Bowls: • sores (v. 2) • sea becomes blood (v. 3) • rivers become blood (v. 4) • sun scorches (v. 8-9) • judgment on beast (v. 10-11) • Battle of Arma …

Revelation: Demystified “Christ’s Ultimate Victory” (Ch. 14-15) Main Thing to Know: The coming judgment will be fair and final • Jesus is coming again • Judgment is coming to all • The final verdict will be forever 1. Fate of Believers: Wheat Harvest (14:14-16) At the return of Christ, we will be: • …

Revelation: Demystified “The Mark of the Beast” (Ch. 13) Main Thing to Know: What if the mark of the beast is already here? The Two Beasts: • Deployed by Satan • Seek to destroy the church • Appear during the end times • Represent the antichrist And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you ha …

Revelation: Demystified “The Dragon and the Child” (Ch. 12) Main Thing to Know: The war on Christmas began in the Garden of Eden I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel. (Genesis 3:15) 1. The Woman: The …

Revelation: Demystified “The 7 Trumpets” (Ch. 8-11) Main Thing to Know: What if the _______________ of God reveals the ______________ of God?   — The Sequence of the 7 Trumpets — Trumpets #1-4 : _______________________________ (Ch. 8) Trumpet #5: __________________________________ (Ch. 9) Trump …

Revelation: Demystified “The 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse” (Ch. 6-7) Main Thing to Know: In a world of bad news we have the good news Guardrail for Interpreting Scripture: It can’t mean in this century what it didn’t mean in the first century. 1. What are the 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse? White Hors …

 Revelation: Demystified “The Throne Room” (Ch. 4-5) Main Thing to Know: If Jesus is worthy of anything He’s worthy of everything 1. Is He worthy of my worship? He is the Creator God He is the Holy God He is the Eternal God He is the Sovereign God Worship is designed to remind you that in the center …

Revelation: Demystified “The Letters to the 7 Churches” (Ch. 2-3) Main Thing to Know: What if the greatest threat to churches is from within? 1. Inconsistency Biblical belief is more than something we confess with our mouths; it’s something we confess with our lives. —Kyle Idleman 2. Immorality The …

Revelation: Demystified “The Unveiling” Main Thing to Know: Revelation is meant to prepare us, not to scare us “revelation” = unveiling 1. The Book of Revelation is a letter Guardrail for Interpreting Scripture: It can’t mean in this century what it didn’t mean in the first century. 2. The Book of R …

Red Letter Invitations: Follow Me Matthew 16:24-26 Main Thing to Know: To follow Jesus correctly, I must follow daily 1. Following Jesus requires denial There must be an emptying before there can be a filling . . . God sends no one away except those who are full of themselves. —D. L. Moody 2. Follow …

Red Letter Invitations: Abide in Me John 15:1-13 Living for yourself is too notoriously small an aim for any human soul. —Klaus Bockmuehl Main Thing to Know: The key to living for Christ is to live in Christ “abide” = remain / reside Abiding in Christ is a: • Fixed Reality• Growing Intimacy• Daily D …

Red Letter Invitations: Come to Me Matthew 11:28-30 Main Thing to Know: Jesus calls me to receive not to achieve 1. Submit to Jesus Deep down in our souls, there is a rebellion against the majesty of God and his all-sufficiency. We do not like to be utterly subject to his power or utterly dependent …

Red Letter Invitations: Believe in Me John 14:1-6 Main Thing to Know: Faith is believing in a person not a promise   1. Believe in Him as the Savior • Unique birth • Sinless life • Substitute death . . . the poor soul that would have pardon of sin is directed to place its faith not only on Chri …

Our Identity in Christ Ephesians 1:3-7 Main Thing to Know: Whose we are determines who we are 1. We are holy & blameless (v. 4) Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect. (Matthew 5:48) There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do …

First Baptist Statesboro Keith Hagan, Administrative Pastor July 18, 2021 “Choices” I Samuel 16:1-13 Main Thing to Know Spiritual maturity is not measured by our knowledge, but by our choices. 1 Samuel 16 is a monumental passage in the Bible. It is where we see God choose His king for the nation of …

FBC Statesboro Ray Sullivan SE Region Discipleship Consultant Georgia Baptist Mission Board July 11, 2021 What On Earth Are We Here For? Matthew 28:18-19 Matthew 28 is not only the mandate of Disciple-making, it also provides the method of Disciple-making. Two Commands Make disciples “go” – as you a …

The Light of Jesus. 1 John 1:5-7 Drew Felts, College Pastor 5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in him. 6 If we say, “We have fellowship with him,” and yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the trut …

The Height of God’s Love Should not perish but have everlasting life . . . For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) Main Thing to Know: Earthly choices have eternal consequences God is eternal …

The Depth of God’s Love Ephesians 3:18-19 That whoever believes in Him . . . For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) Main Thing to Know: Is God’s love deep enough to reach down to me? 1. Grac …

The Length of God’s Love That He gave His only begotten Son . . . For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) Main Thing to Know: What if the cross of Christ was about the love of God? 1. The cro …

The Width of God’s Love Ephesians 3:18-19 Could we with ink the ocean fill, And were the skies of parchment made, Were every stalk on earth a quill, And every man a scribe by trade, To write the love of God above, Would drain the ocean dry. Nor could the scroll contain the whole, Though stretched fr …

Bad Debt vs Good Debt Romans 8:12-14 Main Thing to Know: What if some debts are actually good for me? 1. We owe a debt as a nation World War I 116,516 World War II 405,399 Korean War 36,516 Vietnam War 58,209 War on Terror 7,057 2. We owe a debt as a church 3. We owe a debt as a believer You are not …

4 Life-Changing Choices Joshua 24 Main Thing to Know: We make choices; choices make us 1. Choose whom you will serve. You may be an ambassador to England or France You may like to gamble, you might like to dance You may be the heavyweight champion of the world You may be a socialite with a long stri …

Four Facts about Obedience Luke 5:1-11 Main Thing to Know: I’m not following Jesus if I’m not obeying Jesus Tell me not of your justification unless you have some marks of sanctification. —J.C. Ryle 1. Obedience does not require understanding 2. Obedience is based upon trust 3. Obedience cannot be p …

“Faith in the Family” 2 Timothy 1:3-7 Main Thing to Know: Is my spiritual life shown in my family life? 1. Visible Faith How to live out your faith in your family: Provide a personal example Parents [should be] a pattern of holiness that beat the path to heaven for us by their example. John Flavel ( …

“The Match” Genesis 32:24-30 “What was written in the past was written for our instruction that we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) God’s Promises Can Be Trusted (v.24) God’s Grace and Mercy Will Confront Me (v.25-27) God’s Presence Will Change Me (v.28-29) Questions/Decisions Am I choosing to live i …

“How to Avoid Being a Hypocrite” Matthew 23 Hypocrites are like the swan, which has white feathers but a black skin; or like the lily, which has a fair color but a bad scent . . . Lord, let me be anything rather than a hypocrite.  THOMAS WATSON, Puritan “hypocrite” = stage   Main Thing to Know: …

His Return Mark 13:24-36 Main Thing to Know: Am I ready today if Jesus returned tomorrow? 1. Unpredictable Event Mark13:32 Two Trends to Avoid: Sign-gazing Date-fixing 2. Triumphant Event Mark 13:26 His First Coming: Humility  Seen by few  Rejected His Second Coming: Majesty Worshiped by all Exalted …

The Easter story changes my story

His Agony Matthew 26:36-46 Main Thing to Know: What if God is at His best when I’m at my worst?   1. What happened in the Garden of Gethsemane? -We see His humanity   If the Mount of Transfiguration pulled aside the veil to reveal his divine glory . . . [in] Gethsemane the veil is pulled a …

His Transfiguration Luke 9:28-36 Main Thing to Know: The more we look to Jesus the more we look like Jesus 1. Jesus revealed God’s glory Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. (Matthew 17:1-2) “transfigured” = …

Come & See His Miracles Mark 2:1-12 Main Thing to Know: Do I long for miracles more than the Miracle Worker? 1. Why did Jesus perform miracles? The miracles of Jesus were:  Verifiable  Limited  Purposeful Purpose of Jesus’s miracles: To show the glory & uniqueness of Christ This beginning …

His Disciples Matthew 4:18-22 Main Thing to Know: By God’s grace, He chooses us & then uses 1. Jesus called them We are called: To be saved To be disciples Definition of a Disciple: Learning from Jesus Living for Jesus To be disciple-makers 2. Jesus changed them If anyone is in Christ, he is a n …

Come and See His Temptations
Luke 4:1-13

Main Thing to Know:
Temptation attracts; then it attacks

Come & See His Baptism Matthew 3:13-17 Main Thing to Know: Is baptism about me or about Jesus? 1. Why was Jesus baptized? To show who He was I came baptizing with water . . . [but] . . . this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God. (Joh …

Main Thing to Know:
My choices either strengthen or weaken my faith

“Telling Your Story” Acts 1:8 Main Thing to Know: God receives glory when I tell my story 1. Be Authentic God is not looking for an incredible person to use for His purposes; He’s looking for a credible one. —Bill Purvis, Make a Break 2. Be Intentional When did we start believing that God wants to s …

“The Story of Your Family” Ephesians 5:22 – 6:4   Main Thing to Know: What if my family story could tell God’s story? 1. Build your family with biblical roles Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it (Psalm 127:1) Biblical Roles for Today’s Families: Husbands: Love your …

“The Story of Walking with Jesus” Colossians 1:9-10 Main Thing to Know: The next step is always the right step Discipleship Pathway—a next step process that helps you grow in your personal relationship with Jesus 1. Live by faith Next Steps: Declare your personal faith Be baptized Commit to church m …

“Writing a New Story for a New Year” Romans 8:28 Main Thing to Know: Knowing God matters more than knowing the future 1. Do I believe that God is in control? God does not bring us into a future He has not already prepared for us. —Erwin Lutzer 2. Do I trust that God can bring good out of bad? God wo …

Hope for a New Year Colossians 1:13-20a Hebrews 1:1-3   The true hope in our lives today is that Triune God is primarily revealing Himself to us through His Son. I.                     Hope begins at redemption II.                   Hope continues through His kingship III.                  Hope …

The Christ Child as Savior Luke 2:1-14 For there is born to you this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (v. 11) Main Thing to Know: You can’t have Christmas without the cross [The cross of Christ] sets him apart from the founder of every other major religion. Their purpose w …

What Do We Find in the Manger? John 1:1-18 1. In the manger, we find God (v. 1, 14) Wrong places to look:  Within nature  Within spirituality  Within yourself The Christian religion is at once the broadest and the narrowest in the world. It is a faith that admits every possible kind of person. But i …

When Christmas Isn’t Easy Matthew 1:18-25 Main Thing to Know: Can the high point of Christmas be a low point of life? 1. What makes Christmas Difficult? (v. 18-19) Unexpected news Unwanted circumstances Unfixable problems 2. How should we respond? (v. 20-25) (1) Trust God’s Plans For My thoughts are …

“BY LOVE COMPELLED”   Anakee   =  for ancient Greeks it was the principle they thought dominated their whole universe… almost like a god.   PERSECUTION  is the pressure forcing one to be or do or feel or think or say, and that pressure rises up against one from the outside. COMPULSION  is …

Praying Together James 5:13-20 Main Thing to Know: Do I talk about prayer or do I practice prayer? 1. Praying together connects our lives (v.13-14) 2. Praying together expresses our faith (v.14-18) Ordinary prayers are extraordinarily powerful Dependence on prayer shows dependence on God Two Gnawing …

Learning Patience (James 5:7-12) “I wish I was as thin as my patience.” “I had my patience tested. I was negative.” “Lord, give me patience . . . because if you give me strength, I’m gonna need bail money to go with it.” Main Thing to Know: A lack of patience is really a lack of faith Patience vs. P …

Using Your Money Wisely James 5:1-6 NKJV Main Thing to Know: Does God give wealth to bless us or test us? 1. The Misery of Money (v.1-3) Possessions and wealth are: Tempting It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. Matthew 19:24 NKJV …

Making the Most of Today James 4:13-17 Main Thing to Know: Am I wasting today by waiting for tomorrow? 1. Am I living as if I’ll have a tomorrow? (v. 13-14) Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth. (Proverbs 27:1) Remember the: Uncertainty of life Man proposes but …

Submitting to God James 4:7-12   Main Thing to Know: If I’m not submitted then I’m not committed “submit” = to rank lower 1. Resist the devil. (v. 7) The devil is the Deceiving one Defeated one 2. Draw Near to God. (v. 8) Live by faith Live in community Live with purpose 3. Repent of sin. (v. 8 …

Avoiding Worldliness (James 4:1-6) Main Thing to Know: Worldliness & godliness never coexist. 1. Worldliness is based on pleasure (v. 1-3) Is pleasure wrong? Can pleasure be pursued wrongly? Wrong motives (v. 1) Wrong actions (v. 2) Wrong praying (v. 3) 2. Worldliness is spiritual unfaithfulness …

Walking in Wisdom
(James 3:13-18)
Main Thing to Know:
Godly wisdom enables me to know right and do right

Is God in control if my tongue is out of control?

September 27, 2020 Living by Faith (James 2:14-26)   Main Thing to Know: True faith is not what I know but what I show   Faith & Good Works: Some people have works without faith Some people have faith without works Some people have faith unto works   For by grace you have been sav …

everyday faith Defeating Discrimination & Prejudice (James 2:1-13) Main Thing to Know: Prejudice within me is worse than prejudice around me “partiality” = to receive the face James’s way of putting the matter makes clear that discriminating against people is inconsistent with true faith in Chri …