The sermon reflects on why Christians gather for worship, centering the answer on Jesus rather than merely his moral teaching. Using Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter, pastor Scott explains how the crowds’ disappointed expectations of a political savior led to Jesus’ crucifixion, while God’s true plan was to defeat humanity’s deeper enemies—sin, death, and the devil—through the cross and resurrection. Drawing from King David’s story and Psalm 24, he contrasts living in the “mirror room” (self-worship and modern idols like success, beauty, and power) with the “window room” (seeing and worshiping the God who created and loves us). Because no one has “clean hands and a pure heart,” all stand unworthy before God except Jesus, the true King of Glory, whose righteousness is given to those who receive him. The message ends with an invitation to move from self-worship to worship of Christ and to receive him as Savior and Lord.

This powerful exploration of Mark chapter 4 invites us into the mystery of how God's kingdom unfolds in our lives. Using the vivid image of a Polaroid camera that requires patience to develop, we're reminded that God's kingdom doesn't reveal itself all at once. Jesus teaches through three compelling parables that challenge our expectations and comfort our uncertainties. The lamp parable calls us to step into the light rather than remaining comfortable in familiar darkness. We have unprecedented access to God through His Word, the Holy Spirit, prayer, and community, yet we often keep our distance. The seed-growing parable offers profound relief for those of us exhausted from trying to control outcomes. Like a farmer who plants and then rests, we're called to do our part and trust God with the results. Finally, the mustard seed reminds us that what appears insignificant in our hands becomes undeniable in God's. Our small prayers, humble obedience, and seemingly modest faithfulness are exactly what God specializes in using to change the world. The central invitation is clear: draw near to the light, rest in God's unseen work, and trust that your faithful obedience matters more than you can imagine.

This sermon explores Jesus's Parable of the Sower from Mark 4, addressing why people have different responses to the same gospel message. Using the framework of four types of soil, the message emphasizes that Jesus's good news does not land the same on every heart. The sermon encourages believers to continue faithfully sharing the gospel regardless of apparent results, trusting God for the harvest. It highlights that while we cannot control the condition of others' hearts, we are responsible for our own spiritual soil and for persistently sowing seeds of faith. The sermon concludes with hope that seemingly hardened hearts can change, and when the seed finally takes root, the harvest is extraordinary—producing fruit thirty, sixty, or one hundred times what was sown.

This powerful exploration of Mark 3:20-35 challenges us to reconsider what family truly means in the kingdom of God. We discover Jesus at a pivotal moment where both his biological family and religious leaders misunderstand his mission. His family thinks he has lost his mind, attempting to restrain him from his ministry, while the teachers of the law accuse him of being possessed by demons. Yet Jesus uses this tension to reveal something profound: he is on a rescue mission, invading Satan's territory to set captives free. The most striking moment comes when Jesus redefines family around allegiance to him rather than bloodline. This is not a rejection of biological family but an expansion of what belonging means. Through the story of Nabeel Qureshi, who left Islam to follow Christ despite the tremendous cost to his family relationships, we see that following Jesus sometimes means being misunderstood by those closest to us. The beautiful truth is that we gain a new family, one built not on the blood in our veins but on the blood Jesus shed on the cross. This message invites us to examine where our ultimate allegiance lies and reminds us that in Christ, we never walk alone.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? This powerful message from Mark chapter 3 dismantles the myth that discipleship is reserved only for spiritual elites. We discover that Jesus didn't call the qualified—He qualified the called. Through the diverse group of twelve disciples, including a tax collector who collaborated with Rome and a zealot who violently opposed it, we see that Jesus brings together the most unlikely people around one unifying factor: Himself. The message breaks down discipleship into three transformative elements: presence with Jesus, proclamation of His message, and participation in His mission to set people free. We're reminded that discipleship isn't about reaching some superhuman level of spiritual achievement before we can join the team. Instead, it's about ordinary people who simply keep showing up, trusting Jesus, and allowing Him to work through them. Whether we're serving coffee, holding babies in the nursery, or confronting darkness in our communities, we're participating in the kingdom of God. The beautiful truth is that Jesus wants everyone—not just the spiritual Navy SEALs—to be His disciples. He's calling us right now, not after we've cleaned ourselves up, but exactly as we are. The only question is whether we'll take that first step of trust and come to Him.

Jesus challenged the religious system of His day by revealing the true heart behind God's commands, particularly regarding the Sabbath. Through Mark 2:23-3:6, the message emphasizes that Jesus has the authority to reveal God's intended design for religious practices. The sermon addresses how religion can become burdensome when rules replace relationship and when mercy is forgotten in favor of strict observance. Jesus demonstrates that God's commands were designed as blessings for human flourishing, not burdens to bear. The central tension is between religious performance and genuine heart transformation, showing that Christianity is both a religious framework and a relationship, but the relationship must always come first. The sermon challenges listeners to examine whether their religious practices reflect God's heart of mercy and compassion or have become hardened rituals that miss the plot entirely.

Small Group Guide: Jesus Redefines Expectations
Series: Follow the King
Text: Mark 2:13-22
Speaker: Erica, Family Pastor

Opening Prayer & Icebreaker (10 minutes)
Icebreaker Question:
Share about a time when reality turned out drastically different than your expectations. Was it a good surprise or a challenging one?

Sermon Review (5 minutes)
Key Points:

• Jesus was disruptive everywhere he went, challenging people's worldviews
• Worldview = the lens through which we perceive everything around us
• The Pharisees struggled with Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners
• Jesus used the wineskin metaphor to explain why old rigid containers can't hold new life
• We need the Holy Spirit to soften our hearts to see Jesus at work

Discussion Questions (30-40 minutes)
Understanding Worldviews
1. What is a worldview? How would you describe your own worldview in a few sentences? What experiences or beliefs have shaped it most significantly?

2. The "Trading Spaces" analogy: Erica compared worldview disruptions to coming home and finding your house filled with sand or missing a wall. When has your worldview been challenged in a way that felt this disruptive? How did you respond?

Jesus and the Pharisees
3. Why were the Pharisees so upset about Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners? What were they trying to protect? Can you sympathize with their concerns at all?

4. "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." What does this statement reveal about Jesus's mission? How does it challenge religious expectations then and now?

5. Rigidity vs. Flexibility: The Pharisees added extra rules to protect themselves from breaking God's law. In what ways do we sometimes create our own "extra rules" in our faith journey? How can this lead to rigidity?

The Wineskin Metaphor
6. New wine in new wineskins: What does this metaphor teach us about the kingdom of God? Why can't the "old ways" contain what Jesus is bringing?

7. Old wineskins made new: Erica explained that old wineskins could be softened through water and oil (echoing baptism and the Holy Spirit). What does this process look like in our spiritual lives?

8. Personal reflection: In what areas of your life might you be operating with an "old wineskin" mentality—rigid, inflexible, unable to receive what God wants to do?

Application to Our Lives
9. Expectations vs. Reality: "When it comes to following Jesus, reality often looks drastically different than my expectations." When have you experienced this in your own faith journey?

10. Diversity in the Body: The sermon mentioned diversity in worship styles, Bible translations, age, nationality, etc. How comfortable are you with expressions of faith that look different from your own? What might God be inviting you to in this area?

11. Holy Spirit, Come: Erica's closing prayer was simple: "Holy Spirit, come. Soften my heart to see where you are at work." What would it look like for you to pray this prayer regularly this week?

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus doesn't fit into our expectations—He's far too marvelous to be contained by our worldviews
2. Rigidity prevents us from experiencing new life—We need flexible hearts to receive what God is doing
3. The Holy Spirit does the softening work—We can't muscle through this; we must surrender and invite Him
4. God is already at work around us—We need eyes to see where He's moving, even when it looks different than we expect
5. The kingdom of God is actively breaking in—Jesus continues to disrupt norms to bring His kingdom

Practical Applications (15-20 minutes)
This Week's Challenge:
Choose one (or more) of the following:

Daily Prayer Practice:
Each morning this week, pray: "Holy Spirit, come. Soften my heart to see where you are at work today." Journal about what you notice.

Worldview Examination:
Identify one area where your expectations about God, church, or faith might be limiting your experience of His kingdom. Bring it to God in prayer and ask Him to expand your perspective.

Embrace Disruption:
When something disrupts your expectations this week, pause before reacting. Ask: "God, what are you trying to show me through this?"

Study the Wineskin:
Do a deeper study of Mark 2:13-22 on your own. Look up additional context about tax collectors, fasting practices, and wineskins in biblical times.

Accountability & Prayer (10-15 minutes)
Pair up or stay as a group:

• Share which practical application you're committing to this week
• Share one specific prayer request related to today's discussion
• Pray for one another, specifically asking the Holy Spirit to soften hearts and open eyes

Closing Prayer:
"Holy Spirit, would you come? Would you do a softening work in our lives? Lord, we praise you that you are so much better than we could ever ask or imagine. Lord, would you help us to see where you are working, see where you are moving? We want to follow you. Would you go before us this week? We love you and we praise you. In Jesus' name, amen."

For Further Study
Related Scriptures: Matthew 9:9-13; Luke 5:27-32; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 12:2
Reflection Question: How does the concept of "new wine in new wineskins" relate to Paul's teaching about being "transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2)?

Leader Notes
Be sensitive to those who may be processing recent disruptions or challenges to their faith
Encourage honest sharing about struggles with rigidity or expectations
Celebrate testimonies of God working in unexpected ways
Create space for silence and reflection—not every question needs to be answered quickly
Remember: the goal is transformation, not just information

Small Group Guide: Breaking Barriers to Follow Jesus
Based on Mark 2:1-12

Opening Prayer
Begin your time together by asking God to open hearts and minds to His Word and to give your group courage to identify and break through barriers in your own lives.

Ice Breaker
Share about a time when you had to overcome a significant obstacle to get something you really wanted. What motivated you to push through?

Sermon Summary
This week we explored the story of four friends who literally broke through a roof to get their paralyzed friend to Jesus. Jesus responded by first forgiving the man's sins, then healing him—demonstrating His authority as both Messiah and God. The religious leaders accused Jesus of blasphemy, but Jesus proved His divine authority by doing what only God can do: forgive sins and heal the paralyzed man.

Key Takeaways

• Faith often looks like the courage to be a barrier breaker.
• The four friends didn't let obstacles stop them from getting to Jesus.
• They believed what was on the other side was worth any barrier they had to break through.
• Jesus addresses our deepest needs, not just our immediate wants.
• The paralyzed man came for physical healing, but Jesus first addressed his spiritual need.
• Our relationship with God matters more than our circumstances.
• Three types of barriers Jesus intends to break.
  • Any barrier that hinders a person's relationship with God.
  • Any barrier that hinders a person from recognizing the Messiah.
  • Any barrier that hinders a person from following the King.

Discussion Questions
Understanding the Text

1. Why do you think the four friends were so determined to get their friend to Jesus? What does their persistence teach us about faith?

2. Why did Jesus say "your sins are forgiven" before healing the paralyzed man? What was Jesus trying to communicate?

3. The religious leaders accused Jesus of blasphemy. Were they wrong in their theology? What were they missing about who Jesus really was?

Personal Reflection

4. The sermon mentioned three types of barriers. Which type of barrier do you most relate to right now?

• Religious barriers (wrong ideas about how God works)
• Theological barriers (difficulty believing something about God)
• Heart barriers (internal resistance to following Jesus)

5. Have you ever experienced "convenient faith" versus the kind of faith that pushes through obstacles? Share about that experience.

6. What's the difference between trusting Jesus for salvation and following Jesus as King? How does that distinction challenge you?

Application

7. The four friends worked together to get their friend to Jesus. Who in your life needs someone to help them break through barriers to get to Jesus? What role could you play?

8. Jesus said, "Which is easier to say: 'Your sins are forgiven' or 'Get up and walk'?" How does this challenge our tendency to focus more on changing our circumstances than on our relationship with God?

9. The sermon mentioned that "forgiveness is not something we earn or manage or maintain. It's something we receive." How does this truth free us from religious performance?

10. What specific barrier is Jesus inviting you to break through right now? What would it look like to take a step of faith this week?

Practical Applications
This Week's Challenge
Choose one of the following to practice this week:

Option 1: Barrier Identifier
Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal any barriers between you and Him.
Write them down and honestly assess what's keeping you from following Jesus more fully.
Share with one trusted person and ask them to pray with you.

Option 2: Barrier Breaker for Others
Identify someone in your life who needs to encounter Jesus.
Like the four friends, commit to doing whatever it takes to help them get to Jesus.
Take one concrete action this week (invite them to church, share your story, pray with them, etc.)

Option 3: Theological Honesty
Identify one belief about God that might be limiting your relationship with Him
Study what Scripture actually says about that topic
Be willing to let Jesus "break the box" you've put God in

Memory Verse
Ephesians 2:8-9 "For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift—not from works, so that no one can boast."

Prayer Focus
Pray for each other in these areas:
Courage to identify and break through personal barriers
Faith to believe that what's on the other side of obstacles is worth it
Wisdom to help others encounter Jesus
Hearts that are willing to follow Jesus as King, not just accept Him as Savior
Freedom from religious performance and embrace of grace

Looking Ahead
Next week we'll continue in Mark's Gospel as Jesus faces more opposition and breaks through additional barriers. Come prepared to discuss what barriers you've encountered this week and how Jesus met you in them.

Closing Prayer
Close by praying specifically for the barriers group members have shared. Ask God to give your group the same kind of persistent, barrier-breaking faith that the four friends demonstrated.

Small Group Guide: Authority | Prayer | Mission
Mark 1:21-45

Opening Prayer
Begin your time together by asking God to open hearts and minds to what He wants to teach through this passage.

Icebreaker
Share about a time when you experienced overwhelming demand on your time and energy. How did you respond? What did you prioritize?

Review the Key Scripture
Read Mark 1:21-45 together as a group. Consider having different people read different sections.

Key Takeaways from the Sermon
Jesus has authority over both the spiritual and physical realms - He drives out darkness and heals bodies

Jesus chose prayer and dependency on God over popularity - Even when exhausted, He prioritized time with the Father

Jesus chose obedience over popularity - He walked away from crowds to fulfill His true mission

Jesus didn't come just to remove symptoms; He came to make people clean - His mission was redemption, not just relief

Jesus moves toward our brokenness, not away from it - He touches the untouchable

Discussion Questions

Understanding the Text
1. What does it mean that Jesus taught "with authority" (exousia - supernatural authority)? How was this different from the teachers of the law?

2. Why is it significant that Jesus went to Peter's house for dinner immediately after the synagogue incident? What does this tell us about Jesus?

3. The leper asked, "If you are willing, you can make me clean" - not "if you are able." What's the difference? Why does this matter?

Personal Reflection
4. When have you experienced Jesus's authority over darkness or brokenness in your own life? Share your story.

5. The sermon emphasized "pray first." What typically prevents you from praying first when you face overwhelming situations? What would it look like to make prayer your first response this week?

6. Jesus walked away from unfinished ministry and crowds to fulfill His true mission. Have you ever felt God calling you away from something "good" to pursue something better? How did you respond?

Going Deeper
7. The leper was physically unclean and excluded from society. The demon-possessed man was spiritually unclean but included in the synagogue. In what ways do we sometimes "clean ourselves up" before coming to Jesus? Why do we do this?

8. "Even the healed will one day die again." How does this truth help us understand why Jesus sometimes doesn't heal in the way we ask? How do we hold both Jesus's power to heal AND His sovereign choice in tension?

9. The man at Costco had accomplished all his goals but still felt empty. What are the "Rolex watches" or "trips to Hawaii" that our culture says will satisfy us? How does Jesus offer something different?

Application
The leper came to Jesus saying, "If you will, make me clean." What area of your life needs Jesus's cleansing touch right now? Are you willing to come to Him as you are?

Jesus was "moved with compassion" (or indignation) at the brokenness sin caused. How can we cultivate this same righteous compassion for the broken world around us?

Practical Applications
This Week's Challenge (Choose One or More)

For Personal Growth:
Practice "Pray First": Before checking your phone, responding to a crisis, or making a decision this week, stop and pray first. Keep a journal of how this changes your perspective.

Solitude with God: Follow Jesus's example by waking up early (or finding a quiet time) to spend uninterrupted time with God. Start with just 15 minutes if needed.

Honest Assessment: Write down areas where you feel "unclean" or disqualified. Then read Mark 1:40-42 and personalize Jesus's words: "I am willing. Be clean."

For Community:
Touch the Untouchable: Jesus touched the leper when no one else would. Who in your life is isolated or excluded? How can you reach out to them this week?

Share Your Story: Like Peter telling Mark about his mother-in-law's healing, share with someone this week about a time Jesus demonstrated His authority in your life.

For Spiritual Discipline:
Memorize Mark 1:15: "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!"

Study Jesus's Authority: Throughout the week, read through Mark chapters 2-5 and note every time Jesus demonstrates authority. What patterns do you see?

Reflection Exercise
Take 5 minutes of silence for personal reflection:
"Everybody is looking for Jesus, even if they don't realize it."
What have you been looking to for satisfaction besides Jesus?
Where do you need to experience Jesus's cleansing authority right now?
What does it look like for you to come to Jesus "as you are" this week?
Share with one other person if comfortable.

Prayer Time
Prayer Prompts:
Adoration: Thank Jesus for His authority over darkness, disease, and death

Confession: Confess areas where you've sought satisfaction in things other than Jesus

Petition: Ask for cleansing in specific areas of your life

Intercession: Pray for those in your life who are "looking for Jesus" but don't know it yet
Consider praying in groups of 2-3, or have someone lead the group in prayer touching on each of these areas.

Looking Ahead
Next Week: Continue in the Gospel of Mark (Chapter 2)
Homework: Read Mark chapter 2 before next week's gathering. Note any questions or observations to discuss.

Closing Thought
"Jesus does not recoil from our brokenness. He reaches out and touches us and moves towards us and cleanses us. When we follow Him and trust Him as our Savior, we are not just helped, we are made clean."

Leader Notes
Be sensitive to those who may be struggling with unanswered prayers for healing.

Create space for honest questions about why Jesus heals some and not others.

Emphasize that doubt and hard questions are welcome.

Have tissues available - this topic may bring up emotional responses.

Consider having the prayer team available after the group for anyone who wants additional prayer.

Follow up during the week with anyone who shared something particularly vulnerable.

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Small Group Discussion Guide
The First Disciples
Mark 1:16-28

OPENING PRAYER & ICEBREAKER
Icebreaker Question: What's one thing you've committed to in your life (a job, relationship, hobby, etc.) without fully knowing what you were getting into? How did that turn out (could be good, bad, or both)?

RECAP & KEY SCRIPTURE
Main Passage: Mark 1:16-28
Central Message: The kingdom of God looks like apprenticeship to Jesus, a new purpose with Jesus, and leaving things behind for Jesus.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. On-Demand Jesus vs. Apprenticeship
Pastor Mike contrasted "Jesus on-demand" with true apprenticeship. Which approach do you think is more common in American Christianity today? Why?
In what areas of your life are you most tempted to treat Jesus as "on-demand" rather than as Lord?
What would need to change in your daily routine if you truly lived as an apprentice to Jesus?

2. The Call to Follow
Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John left everything "immediately" to follow Jesus. What do you think enabled them to respond so quickly?
How does knowing that "what you leave will never be as great as what you gain" change your perspective on sacrifice?

3. A New Purpose
Jesus said, "I will make you fish for people." How does this shift the focus from self to others?
What does it mean practically for your life to be "others-focused" in the kingdom of God?
Where has God placed you (work, neighborhood, family) to "fish for people"? What could loving others in Jesus’ name look like in those environments?

4. Trust Without Full Understanding
The disciples didn't know everything they would face when they said yes to Jesus. Why do you think Jesus chose not to disclose every detail before calling them to follow Him?
Share a time when you had to trust God without knowing the outcome. What did you learn?
What current situation in your life requires you to trust Jesus even though you don't have all the answers?

5. The Authority of Jesus
In the synagogue, Jesus demonstrated His authority over both religious systems and spiritual forces. How does knowing Jesus has ultimate authority affect how you face challenges?
What "authorities" in your life (cultural expectations, peer pressure, fear, etc.) compete with Jesus' authority?

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Apprenticeship to Jesus means learning to live like Him, not just learning about Him
A new purpose with Jesus shifts our focus from self-centered to others-focused living
Leaving things behind for Jesus is required, but what we gain far exceeds what we lose
The authority of Jesus means nothing we face is bigger than the One we follow

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
This Week's Challenge:
Choose ONE of the following to practice this week:

Option 1: Fish for People –– Intentionally engage one person this week with the love of Christ—through a conversation, act of service, or invitation to explore faith.

Option 2: Study Jesus' Teaching –– Read through Mark 1-3 this week and write down one thing Jesus says or does that challenges your current thinking or lifestyle.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS FOR PERSONAL JOURNALING
If I'm honest, is my relationship with Jesus more like "on-demand" or apprenticeship? What evidence supports this?
What am I afraid of losing if I fully surrender to Jesus as Lord?
What would my life look like if I truly believed Jesus' authority is greater than any challenge I face?

CLOSING PRAYER FOCUS
Pray for courage to follow Jesus fully, not just conveniently
Pray for clarity about what Jesus is asking each person to leave behind
Pray for opportunities to "fish for people" and share the kingdom of God
Pray for faith to trust Jesus even when we don't understand the full plan

LEADER NOTES
Be prepared to share your own struggles with "on-demand" Christianity to create a safe space for honesty
Emphasize that Jesus meets us where we are but loves us too much to leave us there
Remind the group that discipleship is a journey—we're all learning to follow more closely
Consider having the group memorize Mark 1:17 together: "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people"

For Next Week: Read Mark 1:29-45 in preparation for the next discussion

Small Group Guide: The Kingdom of God
Mark 1:14-15 | Gospel of Mark Series

Opening Prayer & Icebreaker (10 minutes)
Icebreaker Question:
Share a "kairos moment" from your life—a moment where time seemed to stand still because something significant was happening (wedding, birth of a child, major decision, etc.). How did that moment change you?

Scripture Reading (5 minutes)
Have someone read Mark 1:14-15 aloud:
"After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God. The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe this good news."

Key Takeaways 

Kairos Time vs. Chronos Time: Jesus announces a special moment in time—not just "what time is it?" but "what moment are we living in?"

The Kingdom of God: God's effective reign where His will is lived out in real people and real life—not a physical place, but wherever God's will is done.

The Crown Problem: We all try to be kings and queens of our own kingdoms, responsible for protection, provision, purpose, and meaning—which leads to exhaustion and conflict.

Repentance Redefined: Not feeling bad for a certain amount of time, but recognizing a bigger, better reality and changing your mind to align with it.

Grace-Based Invitation: Jesus invites us into His kingdom first; repentance is our response to remove whatever stops us from clinging to His good news.

Discussion Questions (30-40 minutes)

Understanding the Message
What stood out to you most from this sermon? Was there a phrase, concept, or idea that caught your attention?

Pastor Mike talked about the difference between chronos (clock time) and kairos (opportune time). Why do you think Jesus began his message with "the time is fulfilled"? What was he trying to communicate?

How would you explain "the kingdom of God" to someone who has never heard that phrase before? What does it mean practically?

Personal Reflection
Pastor Mike described how we all have our own "kingdoms"—areas where we want our will to be done. What does your personal kingdom look like? Where do you most want control in your life?

When you think about being king or queen of your own kingdom, which responsibility weighs on you most?

• Protection (seeing others as threats)
• Provision (stress, burnout, exhaustion)
• Purpose (searching for meaning and satisfaction)
• Expansion (competition with others)

Jesus says, "Repent and believe the good news." What is one thing you might need to "repent" of (turn away from or change your mind about) in order to fully embrace the good news of God's kingdom?

Going Deeper
The sermon mentioned that Jesus will never force us to follow Him—He invites us but leaves the choice to us. How does this understanding of God's character affect your relationship with Him?

Pastor Mike said that repentance isn't about feeling bad for a certain amount of time, but about seeing a better reality and adjusting to it. How does this definition change your understanding of repentance?

Read Ephesians 2:8-9 together.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."

How does grace relate to Jesus's invitation into the kingdom? What's the difference between earning entry and responding to an invitation?

Application

What "crown" might still be on your head that's stopping you from embracing God's kingdom? What would it look like practically to take that crown off this week?

As we continue through the Gospel of Mark, how can you read with "kingdom lenses"—watching for how people respond to Jesus's invitation and what obstacles keep them from following Him?

Practical Application (10 minutes)

This Week's Challenge:
Choose one of the following to practice this week:

• Option 1: Kingdom Inventory

Each day this week, take 5 minutes to journal about one area where you're trying to be king/queen of your own kingdom. Ask God to help you surrender that area to His reign.

• Option 2: Repentance Practice

Identify one mindset, habit, or pattern that's keeping you from fully embracing God's good news. Take one concrete step this week to turn away from it and toward God's kingdom reality.

• Option 3: Gospel Reading with Kingdom Lenses

Read Mark chapters 1-3 this week. Each time Jesus encounters someone, ask:
What is their "kingdom"?
What's stopping them from following Jesus?
Do they repent (change their mind) and believe?
What can I learn from their response?

Prayer Time (10-15 minutes)
Guided Prayer Prompts:

Thanksgiving: Thank God for being a good King who invites us into His kingdom with grace.

Confession: Confess areas where you've been trying to maintain your own kingdom rather than trusting God's reign.

Petition: Ask God to reveal what obstacles are keeping you from fully embracing His good news.

Intercession: Pray for each other regarding specific "crowns" or areas of control that need to be surrendered.

Closing
Memory Verse for the Week:
"The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe this good news." — Mark 1:15

Reminder: Come ready next week to discuss what you learned as you read Mark with "kingdom lenses."

Leader Notes
Be sensitive to the fact that "repentance" may be a loaded word for some group members. Emphasize the grace-based invitation aspect.

Encourage vulnerability but don't force anyone to share their personal "kingdoms" if they're not comfortable.

The concept of surrendering control can be threatening—create a safe space for honest wrestling with this idea.

Consider having extra time for prayer, as this topic often surfaces deep personal struggles with control and trust.

Small Group Guide: Follow the King (Mark 1:9-13)

Opening Prayer & Icebreaker
Icebreaker Question: Have you ever experienced something you waited a long time for? How did it feel when it finally arrived? How does that compare to how the first-century believers must have felt when Jesus came?

Introduction
This week, we're slowing down to focus on just five verses in Mark's Gospel—the baptism and temptation of Jesus. These verses are packed with meaning that first-century readers would have immediately recognized. Our goal is to put on "first-century eyes" and discover what Mark wants us to understand about who Jesus is before we dive into His ministry.

Key Scripture
Mark 1:9-13 (Read aloud together)
"In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. As soon as he came up out of the water, he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased. Immediately the Spirit drove him into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels were serving him."

Discussion Questions

Understanding the Text

The Torn Heavens (v. 10)
What does the phrase "heavens being torn open" signify? (Reference: Isaiah 64:1)
Why is this image so powerful for understanding Jesus' arrival?
What does it tell us about God's response to His people's prayers?

The Spirit Descending (v. 10)
The sermon referenced several Isaiah passages about the Spirit resting on God's chosen one. Why was this such an important sign?
What does it mean that Jesus was anointed by the Spirit at His baptism?

The Father's Declaration (v. 11)
God declares Jesus is His "beloved Son" with whom He is "well pleased." What does this tell us about Jesus' identity?
How does this connect to Psalm 2 and the promise of a coming King?

Going Deeper

The Hypostatic Union
The sermon explained that Jesus is 100% God and 100% human. Why is this important? What happens to our faith if Jesus is only one or the other?
How does understanding Jesus' full humanity help you relate to Him better?
How does understanding Jesus' full divinity strengthen your faith?

The Wilderness Temptation (vv. 12-13)
Why did the Spirit drive Jesus into the wilderness immediately after His baptism?
How does Jesus' temptation in the wilderness connect to Adam and Eve's temptation in the garden?
What does it mean that Jesus "won" where Adam and Eve failed?

Jesus Emptying Himself
The sermon mentioned that Jesus had "full access to God-like deity at all times, but He chose not to use it." Why would He do that?
How does this help us understand passages like Jesus calming the storm or His suffering on the cross?

Personal Reflection

The Journey Ahead
Mark invites us on a journey to discover who Jesus really is. What excites you about studying the Gospel of Mark?
What concerns or questions do you have as we begin this journey?

Sitting in Tension
The sermon encouraged us not to rush to fill in gaps or answer all questions immediately. Why is it important to "sit in the tension" as we read Mark?
What's challenging about this approach? What might be beneficial about it?

The Holy Spirit's Power
Jesus modeled what it looks like to live empowered by the Holy Spirit while trusting God the Father. How does this change your understanding of what's possible in your own life?
Where do you need to rely more on the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own strength?

Key Takeaways

Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy – Everything Israel had been waiting for came to pass in Jesus Christ.

Jesus is both fully God and fully human – This isn't a contradiction; it's essential to understanding His ministry and His sacrifice.

Jesus faced Satan and won – Where Adam and Eve failed, Jesus succeeded, crushing the serpent's head through His death and resurrection.

We're invited on a journey of discovery – Mark doesn't tell us what to believe; he shows us Jesus and invites us to decide for ourselves who He is.

The most important question of our lives is: "Who is Jesus Christ to me?"

Practical Applications

This Week's Challenge:
Choose one (or more) of the following to practice this week:

Read Mark in One Sitting
Set aside 60-90 minutes to read all 16 chapters of Mark straight through
Don't stop to analyze; just read it as a story.
Write down your initial impressions and questions

Study the Old Testament Connections
Read Isaiah 40:3, Isaiah 64:1-2, Isaiah 11:2, Isaiah 61:1-3, Isaiah 42:1, and Psalm 2:6-8
Journal about how these passages deepen your understanding of Jesus' baptism
Thank God for His faithfulness in keeping His promises

Reflect on the Hypostatic Union
Spend time this week thinking about what it means that Jesus is fully God and fully human
When you face temptation, remember that Jesus faced it too—and won
When you pray, remember that Jesus understands your human struggles completely

Practice "Sitting in Tension"
Ask questions and sit with them for a while
Journal your questions and revisit them later to see how God answers them through continued study

Answer the Question
Take time to honestly answer: "Who is Jesus Christ to me?"
Write out your answer and be specific
Share your answer with someone this week

Closing Reflection
Question for Silent Reflection: Mark begins with a staggering claim about who Jesus is and then invites us to walk with him just long enough to see if it's true. Are you willing to take that journey? What might hold you back? What might you discover?

Closing Prayer
Pray together, asking God to:
Open your eyes to see Jesus more clearly as you study Mark
Give you patience to sit in tension and not rush to easy answers
Help you rely on the Holy Spirit's power in your daily life
Reveal to each person who Jesus truly is
Transform your lives through this journey

Looking Ahead
Next Week: We'll continue in Mark 1:14-15, looking at Jesus' first message and the beginning of His ministry.
Homework: Read Mark chapters 1-3 before next week's meeting. Come prepared to share one thing that surprised you, confused you, or excited you about what you read.

Additional Resources
If you don't have a Bible, grab one from the resource counter at church
Consider getting a journal dedicated to your study of Mark
The digital notes from the sermon are available on the church app

Small Group Guide: The Gift Exchange
Exchanging My Regret for His Redemption

Opening Prayer & Icebreaker
Icebreaker Question: If you could go back and change one decision from this past year (big or small), what would it be and why?
This week's message explored how Christmas magnifies all our emotions—including regret. Just as the Christmas story begins with a genealogy full of broken, regretful people, God steps into our mess rather than waiting for us to clean it up first.
Main Theme: Exchanging my regret for His redemption

Key Takeaways from the Sermon

Christmas doesn't create regret, it reveals it - The holiday season slows life down enough for us to see what we've been avoiding.

If I don't own up to my past, my past will end up owning me - Hiding regret doesn't make it go away; it just delays when it shows up.

When I entrust my past to Jesus, regret's grip is no match for God's grace - God's grace is always stronger than our regret.

When I entrust my past to Jesus, my worst moments often become where God does His best work - God specializes in redemption, not erasure.

Discussion Questions
Understanding Regret

How would you define regret in your own words? What's the difference between regret and guilt?

The sermon mentioned that regret often "pops up" like a jack-in-the-box. When does regret tend to surface most in your life? What triggers it?

Read Matthew 1:1-6 together. What surprises you about the people included in Jesus' family tree? What does this tell us about the kind of story God chooses to enter?

Facing Our Past
The sermon said, "Keeping regret out of sight doesn't make it go away." What are some common ways people try to manage regret without actually healing from it? Which of these have you tried?

Read Psalm 32:3 & 5 and 1 John 1:9. What do these passages teach us about the importance of confession? Why is it so hard to acknowledge our failures to God when He already knows them?

How does the difference between "managing regret" and "healing from regret" play out in real life? Can you share an example (without oversharing)?

Embracing Redemption
Read Romans 8:1. Paul, who persecuted Christians, wrote "there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus." Why do we continue to condemn ourselves when Jesus doesn't condemn us?

Read Romans 8:28-30. The word "all" includes everything in our past. What makes it difficult to believe God can work even our worst moments for good? What would change if you truly believed this promise?
T
he sermon shared that Paul said his past displayed God's "extraordinary patience." How might your story of regret and redemption become a message of hope for someone else?

What's the difference between God "erasing" our past and God "redeeming" our past? Why can redemption actually be better than erasure?

Practical Applications
Personal Reflection (Choose 1-2 to commit to this week)

Identify and acknowledge: Take 15 minutes alone with God to write down one regret you've been carrying. Don't justify it or minimize it—just name it honestly before God.

Practice confession: Using Psalm 32 or 1 John 1:9 as a guide, confess your regret to God in prayer. Receive His forgiveness by faith, not by feeling.

Replace the narrative: Every time you think about your regret this week, immediately follow it with Romans 8:1: "There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus."

Share your story: If appropriate, share with one trusted person how God has redeemed something in your past. Let your story encourage someone else.

Seek reconciliation: If your regret involves hurting someone else, prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to seek forgiveness or make amends.

Group Challenge
Choose one person in your life who might be carrying heavy regret this Christmas season. Reach out to them with a call, text, or coffee invitation. You don't have to fix them—just be present and remind them they're not alone.

Scripture Memory
Romans 8:1 - "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."

Closing Prayer Focus
Break into groups of 2-3 for prayer. Consider praying for:
Courage to face regrets we've been avoiding
Faith to believe God's grace is stronger than our past
Freedom from self-condemnation
Hope that God's story with us isn't over
Specific regrets people are willing to share (maintain confidentiality)

Looking Ahead
Next week, we'll continue "The Gift Exchange" series. Invite someone to join you who might need to hear about God's redemptive work in broken stories.
Reminder: Christmas Eve services are coming up—a perfect opportunity to invite friends and family to hear the good news of Emmanuel, God with us.

Leader Notes
Be sensitive: Regret can be deeply personal. Create a safe space where people can share without pressure.
Avoid quick fixes: Don't minimize people's pain with clichés. Sometimes people just need to be heard.
Model vulnerability: If appropriate, share your own experience with regret and God's redemption.
Point to Jesus: Keep bringing the conversation back to Christ's finished work on the cross.
Follow up: Check in with anyone who shared something vulnerable during the week.

Small Group Guide: Exchanging Hurt for Healing

Ice Breaker Question: Share about a time this Christmas season when something unexpected brought up strong emotions—either positive or challenging. What caught you off guard?

Key Scripture
Primary Text: 1 Chronicles 28:9
"As for you, Solomon, my son, know the God of your father and serve him wholeheartedly and with a willing mind. For the Lord searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought."
Supporting Texts:
Jeremiah 17:14
Psalm 56:8
James 5:16

Sermon Summary
This sermon explored how our past hurts often form unstable foundations in our lives—like sinkholes beneath Rome's streets. Just as David invited God to search his heart, we're invited to allow the Holy Spirit to excavate our buried wounds. Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor and Yahweh Rapha (the Lord who heals), asks us the same question He asked the paralyzed man: "Do you want to get well?" Healing comes through confession and allowing God's light to break into the dark corners of our stories.

Discussion Questions

Understanding the Concept

The Sinkhole Metaphor: How does the image of Rome's sinkholes help you understand how buried hurts affect our present lives? Can you identify a "sinkhole moment" in your own life when something unexpectedly gave way?
David's Example: David was described as "a man after God's own heart" despite his serious failures. What does his example teach us about honesty with God? How does this challenge or encourage you?

Personal Reflection

The Searching Question: Jesus asked, "Do you want to get well?" Why do you think Jesus asks what seems like an obvious question? What might prevent someone from answering "yes" to that question?

Confession as Grace: The sermon stated, "Confession is an exercise in grace" and that "spiritual maturity doesn't mean needing to confess less, it means greater freedom to confess." How does this perspective differ from how you've thought about confession before?

Minimizing Wounds: The sermon mentioned how religious leaders in Jeremiah's time minimized people's wounds with phrases like "peace, peace when there is no peace." Have you ever minimized your own hurts or had others minimize them? What impact did that have?

Going Deeper

Hidden Foundations: The sermon suggested that "the content of the wound does not determine the impact." What "no big deal" moments from your past might actually be affecting your foundation today?
The Holy Spirit's Work: How comfortable are you with allowing the Holy Spirit to excavate buried hurts? What makes this process feel safe or unsafe to you?

Lies We Believe: The sermon mentioned common lies we believe: "nobody cares," "everyone leaves," "you're fundamentally annoying," "you need to be in charge." Which of these (or others) resonate with you? How have these lies shaped your behavior?

Key Takeaways

God Never Minimizes Our Wounds - He stores our tears in a bottle and calls it an abomination when leaders dismiss real hurts.

Nothing Is Hidden from God - The Holy Spirit already knows everything about us; excavation is for our benefit, not God's surprise.

Healing Requires Bringing Our Hurts to Jesus - We must actually present something to exchange—our hurt for His healing.

Confession Realigns Us with Truth - It's not about earning forgiveness but acknowledging lies and receiving God's truth.

This Is a Lifelong Journey - Healing one hurt doesn't remove all others; we're invited into ongoing partnership with the Holy Spirit.

Practical Applications

This Week's Challenge:
Choose one of the following practices to engage with this week:

Option 1: The David Prayer Pray Psalm 139:23-24 daily: "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Journal what comes to mind.

Option 2: The Jeremiah Prayer Pray Jeremiah 17:14 daily: "Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise." Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one specific hurt that needs His healing attention.

Option 3: Confession Exercise Set aside 30 minutes for honest conversation with God. Ask Him: "What lie am I believing about myself or about You?" Write down what comes to mind, then search Scripture for the corresponding truth.

Option 4: Trusted Conversation Identify one trusted friend, mentor, or counselor and share one hurt you've been carrying. Practice James 5:16: "Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed."

Accountability Questions:
What came up for you during the sermon that you kept trying to shake off?
What would it look like for you to invite Jesus into that memory or hurt?
Who in your life can you trust to walk with you in this process?

Group Prayer Time
Prayer Focus:
Thanksgiving: Thank God that He is Yahweh Rapha—the Lord who heals—and that nothing about us surprises or disgusts Him.
Petition: Ask the Holy Spirit to gently excavate the hurts that need healing in each person's life.
Intercession: Pray for anyone in the group who shared a specific hurt or struggle.
Closing: Close by praying together the Jeremiah 17:14 prayer:
"Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise."

Before Next Week
Complete your chosen practical application
Be prepared to share (if comfortable) what God revealed to you
Continue praying for one another throughout the week

Additional Resources
Consider reading: The Wounded Healer by Henri Nouwen or The Soul of Shame by Curt Thompson
For those dealing with significant trauma, consider connecting with a Christian counselor
Psalm 56, Psalm 139, and the Psalms of Lament for further study

CP Group Guide: The Gift Exchange - Exchanging My Grief for His Joy
Series Overview
Christmas has a way of magnifying both the magic and the mess in our lives. While we celebrate God's greatest gift—Immanuel (God with us)—this season also has a way of bringing difficult emotions to the surface. This week focuses on exchanging our grief for God's presence and comfort.

Opening Prayer & Icebreaker (10 minutes)
Icebreaker Question: Share one Christmas tradition from your childhood that you treasure. Has that tradition changed over the years? How does that make you feel?

Key Scripture
Matthew 1:23 "See, the virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel, which is translated, ‘God is with us.’"
Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Key Takeaways
Christmas magnifies both the magic and the mess - The same season that heightens joy also heightens what's heavy in life.
Joy is not the absence of grief - Joy is often discovered in God's presence amidst the grief, not by avoiding it.
Grief is not a problem to solve, but a road to walk alongside God - God designed us to process grief, not bury it.
We can choose joy while still walking through grief - These emotions can coexist when we trust God's presence.
Processing our own grief enables us to help others - When we allow God into our pain, we become equipped to compassionately walk with others in theirs.

Discussion Questions
Understanding Grief (15 minutes)
Pastor Mike mentioned that "Christmas has a way of magnifying both the magic and the mess." What resonates with you about that statement? What "mess" does Christmas sometimes magnify in your life?
Read Proverbs 18:14 together: "The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit, who can bear?" Have you ever experienced what the Bible calls a "crushed spirit"? What was that season like?
Why do you think American culture (and church culture) struggles so much with grief? What messages have you received about how to handle difficult emotions?
God's Presence in Our Pain (20 minutes)
The sermon emphasized that two-thirds of the Psalms are laments—prayers of mourning, anger, and questioning. Why do you think God included so many of these in Scripture? What does this tell us about how we can approach God?
Read Psalm 23:4 together: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger for you are with me." What difference does God's presence make when we're walking through grief rather than trying to get through it alone?
Pastor Mike shared vulnerably about burying his own grief rather than processing it. What are the common ways people avoid grief (burying, distracting, deflecting, numbing)? Which of these do you most relate to?
The sermon stated: "Joy is not the absence of grief. Joy is often discovered in God's presence amidst the grief." How is this different from what our culture teaches about happiness? Have you experienced a time when you felt both grief and joy simultaneously?
Practical Application (20 minutes)
The first practical point was: "Grief is not a problem to solve, but a road to walk alongside God." What would it look like practically to invite God into your grief rather than trying to solve it or get past it quickly?
When someone asks, "How do I give the gift of my grief to God?" the answer given was simply: "Trust it to Him." What does that mean to you? What might that look like in daily practice?
Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. How does our willingness to process our own grief with God's help enable us to better comfort others? Can you think of someone who has walked through pain and now uses that experience to help others?
Pastor Mike mentioned that his unwillingness to deal with his own pain prevented him from stepping into others' pain. How does avoiding our own grief impact our ability to show compassion to others?

Personal Reflection (10 minutes)
Take a few minutes of silence for personal reflection. Consider these questions:
Is there grief I've been burying, ignoring, or running from?
What would it look like to trust God with this grief rather than trying to handle it alone?
Is there someone in my life right now who is grieving and needs me to step into their pain with compassion?
Optional: Have group members journal their thoughts or share if they feel comfortable.

Practical Next Steps
Choose one or more of these action steps for the coming week:
Practice Lament Prayer: Set aside time this week to pray honestly with God about your grief. Don't edit your feelings—tell Him exactly what you're experiencing. Consider reading and praying through Psalm 42, 88, or another psalm of lament.
Identify Your Grief Pattern: Reflect on how you typically handle grief. Do you bury it, distract yourself, deflect with anger, or numb yourself? Confess this pattern to God and ask Him to help you process grief in a healthier way.
Reach Out: Think of someone you know who is experiencing loss this Christmas season. Reach out to them—not to fix their pain, but simply to acknowledge it and remind them they're not alone. A text, call, or coffee invitation can make a significant difference.
Create Space for Both: This Christmas, give yourself permission to feel both joy and grief. You don't have to choose one or the other. Practice saying, "It's okay to feel this right now" when difficult emotions surface.
Share Your Story: If you've walked through grief and experienced God's comfort, consider sharing your story with someone who's currently struggling. Your testimony of God's faithfulness could be exactly what they need to hear.

Closing Prayer (5 minutes)
Prayer Focus:
Thank God for being Immanuel—God with us—especially in our grief
Ask God to help group members trust Him with their pain rather than burying it
Pray for those experiencing fresh grief this Christmas season
Ask for compassion and courage to walk alongside others in their pain
Optional: Invite group members to share specific prayer requests related to grief or loss. Consider having the group gather around anyone who is currently walking through significant grief to pray over them.

Additional Resources
For Those Experiencing Grief:
Consider connecting with the church's prayer team or pastoral care
Look into grief support groups or Christian counseling
Read: "A Grief Observed" by C.S. Lewis or "Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering" by Tim Keller
For Group Leaders: This topic may bring up significant pain for group members. Be prepared to:
Hold space for tears and difficult emotions
Avoid trying to "fix" people's grief
Follow up individually with anyone who shares something particularly heavy
Have resources available for professional Christian counseling if needed
Remember that your role is to point people to Jesus, not to have all the answers

Memory Verse for the Week
Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Remember: The goal isn't to eliminate grief but to trust God's presence in the midst of it. Immanuel means God is with us—in our joy AND in our sorrow.

Small Group Study Guide
Series: The Gift Exchange
Week: What Have I Gotten Myself Into?
Message by: Pastor Scott McKinney

1. Opening Prayer & Icebreaker

Announcements can change everything — from “We’re having a baby” to “We bought a building.”

Share a time when you heard an announcement that changed your plans, your direction, or your emotions.

Opening Prayer:
Invite God to open your hearts to the ways He is speaking, leading, and announcing “new things” today. Pray for faith to respond with faith rather than fear.

2. Message Summary
Pastor Scott reshared the exciting news that CenterPoint has officially purchased the building for the future Payson campus — another unmistakable “Only God” moment. He reflected on past miracles in the life of the church, including how God provided financially, practically, and unexpectedly when building past facilities. The story shows that God moves when His people willingly sacrifice, link arms, and trust Him.
Pastor Scott then connected this announcement to the Christmas story — a story filled with God interrupting people’s lives with big new things that brought both excitement and real fear.

Zechariah, old and settled into his rhythms, is terrified when an angel tells him he will have a son — John the Baptist. His routine life will be disrupted by God’s plan.
Mary, young, faithful, and engaged, is told she will miraculously carry the Messiah. Her entire future with Joseph seems threatened. She is “greatly troubled,” and rightfully so.
Joseph, a Tsadiq — a righteous man with a reputation to maintain — learns that Mary is pregnant. He initially plans to separate quietly to preserve his status, but an angel appears and says, “Do not be afraid to take Mary home.”

Each person has the same human reaction: fear when God announces something new.
Each also faces a crossroads: Trust God, lose control, and risk the opinions of others
OR Cling to comfort, familiarity, and reputation.

Joseph models faithful obedience. He wakes up, believes God, and steps into a future that costs him his comfort and his social standing — but aligns him with God’s redemptive plan.

Pastor Scott’s point:
Whenever God is doing something new — in a church or in our lives — the right response is faith, even when fear is present.
God still calls His people to courage, sacrifice, partnership, and trust as He expands His kingdom.

3. Scripture Readings
Read together:
Luke 1:26–38 — Announcement to Mary
Matthew 1:18–25 — Announcement to Joseph
Isaiah 43:18–19 — “See, I am doing a new thing…”

4. Discussion Questions 
Understanding the Message

Pastor Scott described CenterPoint’s building opportunities as “Only God moments.”
What qualifies something in your life as an “Only God moment”?
Why do you think announcements from God often create fear first?
What does the Christmas story show about this pattern?

Joseph’s Story
Joseph’s identity as a Tsadiq shaped his initial plan.
How does your identity, image, or reputation shape your decisions more than you want to admit?

Pastor Scott mentioned that when we admit our fears, God gives us faith. Have you ever experienced this in your life?
Joseph risks being misunderstood and rejected to follow God.
Have you ever had to choose between pleasing people and obeying God? What happened?

Although Mary and Joseph were alone with Jesus in that stable, they weren’t alone for long. Pastor Scott acknowledged that when we are willing to stand alone for Jesus, it won’t be long before we are no longer alone. How does this look in our lives? Have you ever experienced this?


Pastor Scott said, “We get to do this.”
How does participating in God’s work deepen your faith and sense of purpose?
What new thing might God be announcing in your life or family right now?
What’s your biggest fear related to it?
What step of obedience — like Joseph waking up and acting — do you sense God inviting you to take?

5. Spiritual Practice of the Week
“Fear & Faith Inventory”
Each day, pray through these two questions:
Where am I feeling fear today?
What step of faith can I take in that exact area?
End by saying Mary’s words aloud:
“I am the Lord’s servant. May Your word to me be fulfilled.”

6. Prayer Time
Pray for:
The Payson campus, leaders, and future people who will meet Jesus there.
Courage to step into God’s new things personally and as a church.
Hearts to respond in faith like Mary, Joseph, and Zechariah.

Small Group Study Guide
Bearing Fruit – Week 3
“Jesus Cares About Your Heart” (Mark 4:1–20)
Opening Prayer & Icebreaker

Icebreaker:
If your spiritual life right now were a landscape (a desert, a forest, a beach, a mountain, a construction zone, a farm, etc.), what would it be and why?

1. Sermon Summary
This week Pastor Josh taught from the Parable of the Sower in Mark 4. Jesus is surrounded by crowds—some curious, some skeptical, some hungry for truth. To reveal who is truly listening, He tells a simple story: a farmer scatters seed, and the harvest depends on the condition of the soil.

Jesus explains that the seed is the Word of God, and the soils represent postures of the heart. The issue is never with the seed—God’s Word is always powerful. The issue is whether the heart is open, shallow, distracted, or receptive.

Josh made one central point that he repeated again and again:
Whatever season of life you are in—Jesus cares about your heart.
Spiritual formation is not a straight line. It’s a lifelong process of reorienting your life toward Jesus again and again. At times we feel close and fruitful; at other times we feel numb, worn, distracted, or dry. Jesus meets us in every one of those seasons.

In the parable, Jesus reveals four heart postures:
The Hardened Path – A heart packed down by disappointment, numbness, cynicism, or pride. The Word cannot penetrate.

The Rocky Soil – A heart that receives God with excitement but does not develop roots, so faith collapses under pressure.

The Thorny Soil – A heart where good things and anxious things choke out spiritual growth: worries, wealth, busyness, desires.

The Good Soil – A heart open, humble, teachable, receptive—one that hears, accepts, and bears fruit.

The good news: Jesus can transform any soil. The parable is not meant to shame but to reveal—and invite us into deeper connection with Him.

2. Scripture Reading
Read aloud together:
Mark 4:1–20
Optional supporting passages:
John 15:1–8 (abiding and fruitfulness)
Psalm 139:23–24 (God searches the heart)

3. Understanding the Passage

1. Why do you think Jesus chose to speak in parables instead of plain teaching?
(Consider the idea that parables reveal while also testing a listener’s openness.)
2. The disciples privately ask Jesus to explain the story. What does that teach us about spiritual hunger and humility?
3. What stands out to you about Jesus connecting the “soil” to the human heart?
4. What do you learn from the contrast between the crowds and the disciples in this passage?

4. Four Heart Postures: Reflection & Discussion Questions

The Hardened Path
The hardened heart is numb, cynical, self-protective, or spiritually disengaged.
1. What are common life experiences that can harden someone’s heart toward God?
2. Have you ever gone through a season where Scripture or worship seemed to “bounce off”? What caused it?
3. What might softening the soil of your heart look like in practical terms?

The Rocky Soil
The shallow heart has excitement without depth; it responds to God emotionally but cannot endure difficulty.
1. Why do you think emotional enthusiasm is not the same as spiritual maturity?
2. What kinds of “rocks” prevent roots from growing deeper in your life right now?
(Examples: busyness, lack of spiritual discipline, avoiding discomfort.)
3. When has your faith been tested by pressure or hardship? What did the experience reveal?

The Thorny Soil
The distracted heart wants Jesus but is choked out by worry, wealth, or desires for other things.
1. Which “thorns” are most likely to choke out spiritual growth in your season of life?

• Worry/anxiety
• The pull of finances
• Busyness
• Comparison
• The desire for comfort or success

2. Why do you think Jesus is so honest about the danger of distractions?
3. How do you see these thorns affecting your spiritual attention or affection?

The Good Soil
The receptive heart hears, accepts, obeys, and bears fruit.
1. What are signs that someone has “good soil” in their heart?
2. Who in your life models this kind of receptive, humble posture? What can you learn from them?
3. Jesus says good soil produces a harvest “30, 60, 100 times what was sown.” What might spiritual fruit look like in your life?
(Think: character change, compassion, patience, generosity, love, obedience.)

5. Living It Out
Choose one or two for the week:

• Soil Check (Daily)

Take two minutes each morning to ask:
“Jesus, what kind of soil is my heart today?”
Write one sentence of reflection in your phone or journal.

• Scripture Seed

Pick one verse from Mark 4 or John 15.
Read it slowly three times each day. Let the seed sink in.

• Remove One Rock / One Thorn

Identify a distraction, worry, or habit choking out growth.
Commit to one practical step (limit screen time, Sabbath hour, prayer walk, removing the noise, etc.).

• Invite Jesus to Your Season

Whatever heart posture you're in, pray:
“Jesus, you care about my heart. Meet me here.”
No pressure to fix yourself—simply open.

6. Group Prayer
Close by praying through these prompts:
Thank Jesus that He cares about each person’s heart and season.
Ask the Holy Spirit to soften hardened parts, deepen shallow parts, and reveal hidden thorns.
Pray for good soil to be formed in each person over the next week.
Pray that the fruit of the Spirit would flow naturally as we stay connected to Jesus.

Small Group Guide: What Does a Christian Look Like? (Week 3)
Series: What Does a Christian Look Like?
Message Focus: The Fruit of the Spirit – Starts with Love

Icebreaker Question:
When was a time in your life you were trying really hard to “be better” or “do better,” but later realized what you really needed was grace?

Scripture Reading

Galatians 5:22–23 (CSB)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The law is not against such things.”

Supporting Passages:
John 4:1–42 — The Woman at the Well
John 15:5 — “Remain in Me … you will bear much fruit.”
1 John 4:16 — “God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God.”

Sermon Summary
This week’s message reminded us that the Fruit of the Spirit isn’t something we climb toward—it’s something that flows from grace. For many of us, our instinct is to treat the Christian life like a ladder: “Be better. Do better. Maybe then I’ll reach love, joy, and peace.” But that approach leaves us exhausted and ashamed. We saw this in the woman at the well. She came to the well at noon—alone, empty, and hiding—and expected Jesus to hand her a list of what to fix. Instead, He offered her living water. She didn’t climb to Him; He came to her. That’s grace. The message challenged us to rethink our approach to spiritual growth: The Fruit of the Spirit doesn’t grow through grit or guilt, but through grace—the kind that flows from Jesus. When we start with love—God’s love for us—joy and peace begin to overflow naturally. Patience, kindness, and goodness follow as the Spirit works within us.
Grace roots us. The Spirit produces fruit.

Group Discussion

Reflect: Which “fruit” from Galatians 5:22–23 do you see most naturally in your life right now? Which one feels most difficult to cultivate?

Reframe: Have you ever viewed the Christian life like a ladder—trying to “be better” or “do better” to prove your love for God? How did that approach affect your relationship with Him?

Deep Dive: Read John 4:10 and 13–14. What do you notice about how Jesus interacts with the woman? What does His offer of living water teach us about God’s heart?

Real Talk: The woman left her jar behind after encountering Jesus (John 4:28). What “jar” might you need to leave behind—something that represents striving, guilt, or self-reliance?

Application: What would it look like this week to “start with love” instead of starting with effort? Where do you need to receive before you try to achieve?

Encouragement: Who in your life reflects the Fruit of the Spirit in a way that seems rooted in grace, not performance? What can you learn from their example?

Closing Reflection & Prayer
What is one “jar” you want to leave behind or one area where you want to begin by remembering God’s love.

Spiritual fruit is not proof of effort but the evidence of abiding.

“Jesus, thank You for meeting us at our wells—right where we are.
Teach us to stop striving and start drinking deeply of Your love.
Fill us with Your Spirit so that love, joy, and peace flow naturally from our lives.
Help us leave behind shame, guilt, and performance, and rest in Your grace.
May our lives reflect the fruit that only You can grow.
Amen.”

Icebreaker Question: If you could describe your spiritual journey as a type of path (straight highway, winding road, mountain trail, etc.), what would it be and why?

Key Takeaways

1. Spiritual formation is more inside-out than outside-in
Jesus cares more about transforming our hearts than managing our image. True growth starts on the inside.

2. Spiritual formation is more of a dance than a march
Following Jesus isn't a rigid, identical path for everyone. The Holy Spirit leads us uniquely while staying with us wherever we go.

3. Spiritual formation is more of a clinging than a climbing
Maturity in Christ means growing in dependence on Him, not independence from Him. We need Jesus more, not less.

4. Spiritual formation is more about the root than the fruit
When we take care of the root (our heart connection to Jesus), He takes care of the fruit (the outcomes in our lives).

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out to you most from this week's message? What made it memorable?

2. Have you ever felt pressure to "look like" a Christian on the outside while struggling on the inside? What was that experience like?

Inside Out vs. Outside In

3. Read Matthew 23:27-28 (Jesus' words to the Pharisees about whitewashed tombs). Why is it easier to focus on external behavior rather than heart transformation? What are the dangers of this approach?

4. What does it practically look like to "present your bodies as a living sacrifice" and be "transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:1-2)?

Dance vs. March

5. How does viewing spiritual growth as a "dance" rather than a "march" change your perspective on your relationship with Jesus?

6. The Apostle Paul went to Traos instead of staying in Macedonia, yet God still used him. Share a time when you felt like you "got off track" but God was still working. How does this encourage you?

7. What spiritual practices or rhythms (Bible reading, prayer, community, service) resonate most with how God uniquely made you? How can you lean into those more?
Clinging vs. Climbing

8. In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on your own strength rather than God's?

9. Paul said, "When I am weak, then I am strong" (2 Corinthians 12:10). How does this challenge our culture's view of strength and self-sufficiency?

10. What does "childlike faith" look like in your daily life? How is this different from childishness?

Root vs. Fruit

11. Looking at the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control), which ones do you see growing in your life? Which ones feel absent or underdeveloped?

12. Looking at the works of the flesh listed in Galatians 5:19-21, are there any that have been getting your attention lately? What might that reveal about where your heart is rooted?

Personal Reflection Questions
(Take 3-5 minutes of silence for personal reflection)
Where is my heart rooted right now? In Jesus, or in something else?
What would it look like for me to "remain" in Jesus this week?
Is there an area of my heart I've been withholding from God?

Practical Application
Choose ONE of the following to practice this week:

Option 1: Root Check
Set aside 15 minutes three times this week to honestly examine your heart. Ask God: "What am I rooted in right now? Where have I been finding my identity, security, or worth?" Journal what He reveals.

Option 2: Clinging Practice
Identify one area where you've been trying to be self-sufficient. Each day this week, intentionally pray about it in the morning, acknowledging your dependence on God. At night, reflect on how He showed up.

Option 3: Personal Dance
Explore how God uniquely made you to connect with Him. Try a different spiritual practice this week (worship through music, prayer walk, serving someone, reading Scripture in a new way, etc.) and notice what draws your heart closer to Jesus.

Option 4: Fruit Examination
Choose one fruit of the Spirit you'd like to see grow in your life. Instead of trying to manufacture it, spend time each day asking God to cultivate it from the inside out. Notice what He does.

Prayer Prompts:
Pray for hearts that are surrendered to Jesus, not just behavior that looks Christian.
Pray for freedom from performance-based spirituality.
Pray for greater dependence on the Holy Spirit.
Pray for the specific fruit of the Spirit that group members want to see grow.
Pray for anyone who needs to give their heart to Jesus (or back to Jesus).

Group Prayer:
Take time for group members to share specific prayer requests related to their spiritual growth. Have someone pray over each request.

Key Scripture
Galatians 5:16-25
Supporting Passages:
John 15:5 - "I am the vine, you are the branches"
Romans 12:1-2 - Transformation by renewing your mind
2 Corinthians 2:14 - God leads us in triumph

What's one thing you've overcomplicated in your life that was actually much simpler than you made it?

Sermon Summary
This week, Pastor Mike introduced a new series on what it means to bear fruit as followers of Jesus. Using John 15:4-8, he reminded us that bearing fruit isn't about striving harder or doing more for Jesus—it's about staying connected to Him and letting His life flow through ours. The central message: Bearing fruit is simply Jesus's life coming to life in my life.

Key Takeaways

1. The simplicity of "remain" - Jesus uses the word "remain" 11 times in this passage. It simply means "stay" or "don't leave."

2. The King Jesus Gospel - We were created to let God be King, not to be kings of our own kingdoms. When we try to provide, protect, and satisfy ourselves, we end up stressed, anxious, and burned out.

3. Connection over perfection - The goal of the Christian faith isn't perfection; it's connection. When we stay close to Jesus, fruit naturally grows.

4. We bear fruit by following, not just agreeing - It's in actually following Jesus that we discover He is who He says He is.

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Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you most from Jesus's vine and branches analogy? What makes this image powerful or meaningful?

2. Why do you think Jesus repeated the word "remain" so many times in this passage?

3. What does verse 8 tell us about the relationship between bearing fruit and glorifying God?

Personal Reflection

4. Can you relate to Pastor Mike's story of trying to be "bold enough," "spiritual enough," and "smart enough"? How have you overcomplicated following Jesus?

5. What "crowns" are you currently wearing—areas where you're trying to be king of your own kingdom instead of trusting Jesus? (Examples: finances, relationships, career, future, reputation)

6. Pastor Mike said, "Almost every issue that I find in my life comes down to a crown on the wrong head." Do you agree? What issue in your life right now might be connected to you wearing a crown that belongs to Jesus?

The King Jesus Gospel

7. How does the "King Jesus Gospel" illustration help you understand what it means to follow Jesus? What part resonated most with you?

8. What would it look like practically for you to let Jesus be King in one specific area of your life this week?

9. The sermon mentioned that when we let Jesus carry the weight, we suddenly have energy to love others. Have you experienced this? Share an example.

Application

10. Pastor Mike asked: "Are you staying close?" rather than "Are you doing enough?" How does changing that question change your perspective on your walk with Jesus?

11. What are practical ways you can "remain" or "stay connected" to Jesus this week? (Consider: prayer, Scripture, community, worship, obedience)

12. Jesus says in this passage, "Love one another as I have loved you." How does staying connected to Jesus enable us to love others better?

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Practical Applications

This Week's Challenge: Choose ONE of the following to practice this week:

1. Daily Connection - Set aside 10-15 minutes each day to simply be with Jesus (prayer, Scripture reading, silence, worship). Don't focus on doing; focus on connecting.

2. Crown Identification - Identify one "crown" you're wearing and take a practical step to surrender it to Jesus. Share this with one person for accountability.

3. Love in Action - As you experience Jesus carrying your burdens, intentionally look for one person you can love or serve this week as a result of the freedom you're experiencing.

4. Scripture Meditation - Memorize John 15:5: "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me, and I in him, produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me."

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Closing Thought

"The goal of the Christian faith isn't perfection, it's connection. Because when we stay close to Jesus, the natural fruit of our lives, what we were designed for, is going to come out."*

Summary
Pastor Josh concludes the “I Believe” series by exploring the final line of the Apostle’s Creed: “I believe in the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.” He reminds us that Christianity isn’t about escaping this world—it’s about God restoring it. Through the story of creation, fall, redemption, resurrection, and restoration, Josh highlights that our ultimate hope is not in temporary things like jobs, relationships, or abilities, but in the living hope of Jesus Christ. This hope is grounded in His resurrection, alive in us through His Spirit, and points forward to the restoration of all things.

Key Points

1. Christianity is a story of restoration, not escape. God’s goal isn’t to remove us from creation but to make all things new.

2. The Apostle’s Creed tells the story of God’s redemption—from creation and fall to resurrection and eternal life.

3. Our hope often drifts toward temporary things—career, family, health—but these cannot sustain us.

4. True, living hope is found in Jesus’ resurrection. Because He lives, we have new life now and forever.

5. Resurrection starts now. The same Spirit that raised Jesus is actively renewing our hearts and lives today.

Discussion Questions

1. Personal Reflection: What are some areas where you’ve unintentionally placed your hope—your abilities, work, or relationships? How do those hopes fall short?

2. Theological Reflection: How does understanding Christianity as a story of restoration (rather than escape) reshape the way you view eternity and daily life?

3. Biblical Exploration: Read 1 Peter 1:3–4 and Romans 8:11. What do these passages teach about the nature of our hope and the power of the resurrection?

4. Heart Connection: Pastor Josh mentioned the struggle to connect “head and heart” faith. What helps you move from intellectual belief to living, breathing hope in Christ?

5. Practical Faith: What would it look like for your daily routines—work, relationships, rest—to reflect a confidence in the resurrection and restoration story of Jesus?

Practical Applications

1. Identify and Release: Take time in prayer to name one temporary thing you’ve placed too much hope in. Ask God to help you transfer that hope fully to Christ.

2. Resurrection Practice: Look for one “dead” area in your life (a relationship, attitude, or habit) and invite the Holy Spirit to bring renewal and new life there.

3. Live the Restoration Story: Do one tangible act that reflects God’s restorative heart—encourage someone who’s weary, repair something broken, or reconcile a strained relationship.

Summary Paragraph

Pastor Mike reminds the church that followers of Jesus are united across all cultures, languages, and histories as one body under Christ. Drawing from Ephesians 4 and his experience worshiping in Kenya, he illustrates the beauty and power of a global, diverse church that reflects God’s kingdom. The Apostle Paul’s message to the early church still applies today: our differences are not threats but testimonies of the gospel’s unifying power. Jesus’s design for His church was always global, diverse, and redemptive—His plan A for revealing His kingdom on earth.

Key Points

1. Unity in Diversity – The Church’s diversity is not a weakness but the very evidence of God’s transforming power in all cultures.

2. The Church’s Calling – The Church exists to be the visible community of God’s kingdom, showing what life looks like when Jesus is King.

3. Jesus’s Global Plan – From the beginning, God’s plan was for the gospel to reach every culture, language, and people group—redeeming rather than erasing their uniqueness.

4. Historical Continuity – The Church’s global growth from Acts to today demonstrates that God has never stopped working through His people.

5. Living Worthy of the Call – Believers are called to reflect Christ’s character—humility, gentleness, patience, and love—as they pursue unity through the Spirit.

Discussion Questions

1. Paul urges believers to “walk worthy of the calling you have received.” What does that practically look like for you in your workplace, family, or community?

2. Pastor Mike said, “The Church’s diversity isn’t a threat to our witness; it is our witness.” What examples have you seen where diversity within the church has strengthened or challenged unity?

3. How does recognizing the Church as global and historic—beyond our own congregation—change your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus?

4. In Acts 15, the early church decided not to make it difficult for Gentiles to follow God. How might modern churches unintentionally make it difficult for others to belong or believe?

5. What are some ways we can cultivate humility, gentleness, patience, and peace within our own church community when disagreements arise?

Practical Applications

1. Connect Globally – Pray for and learn about believers in another culture or country this week; consider supporting a global mission or Compassion child.

2. Practice Unity Locally – Intentionally engage with someone in your church who has different perspectives, background, or preferences—listen and build connection.

3. Live the Kingdom – Choose one relationship or environment where you can actively display humility, patience, and love as a reflection of Jesus’s rule in your life.

Summary

In this message, Pastor Erica explores the meaning and power of Jesus’ ascension—an often-overlooked but essential part of the gospel story. Using The Lion King as an illustration of remembering one’s true identity, she connects Mufasa’s “remember who you are” to our call to remember who we are in Christ. Through Scripture, particularly Ephesians 2, she explains that when Jesus ascended, we were raised and seated with Him in the heavenly realms. This means we are held securely by Christ, empowered by His Spirit, and invited to live from a posture of hope rather than fear or shame. The ascension is not a distant event—it defines our identity, confidence, and daily access to the Father through the risen King.

Key Points

1. The Ascension activates our new reality — Jesus’ return to the Father unleashed the Holy Spirit and established our position with Him in heaven.

2. We are seated and held with Christ — Ephesians 2:6 reveals that believers are already spiritually united with Christ’s reign.

3. Our true identity is secure — We are no longer defined by shame, sin, or fear, but by being loved and held by the Savior.

4. Hope transcends circumstance — The ascension gives believers confidence that present troubles do not define our lives or future.

5. Jesus’ kingship brings peace and purpose — Knowing He reigns allows us to live courageously and carry His grace into the world.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to you personally that you are “seated with Christ in the heavenly realms”? How might that truth reshape the way you see your circumstances?

2. How does the image of being “held” by Christ challenge or comfort you?

3. Why is the ascension often overlooked in the Christian story, and how can recovering its significance deepen our faith?

4. In what ways does remembering who you are in Christ help you resist the lies or accusations of the enemy?

Practical Applications

1. Spend time remembering your identity — Each morning this week, declare out loud who you are in Christ (loved, secure, forgiven, held). Let this shape your mindset before anything else.

2. Practice release — Identify one area of your life where you’re trying to maintain control. Pray and consciously release it to God’s care, trusting that He holds you securely.

3. Live from your heavenly seat — Approach one challenge or relationship this week from the posture of being seated with Christ—responding not with fear, but with the confidence and peace of His presence.

New Leaders: Make sure you Download GroupMe, Download Planning Center Services, Read our Small Group Leader Guide and send a screenshot of page 12 to Nick to confirm you've read it. Our first YTH Night, 1/21, at 6:30, we will meet to discuss it. 

All Leaders: If you'd like access to our curriculum ahead of time, create an account with MinistryGrid here and you'll have access to all of the upcoming lessons. They'll still be sent in the GroupMe, but it could be helpful for you to have ahead of time.

For YTH Night on 1/21, here's the Leader Guide for reference. 

I Believe in the Resurrection Study Guide

This message reminds us of the central claim of Christianity: that Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death. Death is the unavoidable equalizer for every human being, and without hope beyond it, life becomes anxious, empty, and meaningless. While the world offers explanations that fall short, the resurrection of Jesus provides a framework of real hope, freedom from fear, and assurance of eternal life. The evidence—an empty tomb, eyewitness accounts, the bold transformation of the disciples, and the rapid growth of the church—points us toward the truth that Jesus truly is alive, and this truth changes everything.

Key Points

1. Death is universal — every person must face it, making it the most pressing question of life.

2. Worldly perspectives on death (atheism, stoicism, materialism) offer no lasting comfort or hope.

3. The resurrection of Jesus is the central claim of Christianity and the foundation of our hope.

4. Historical evidence (empty tomb, eyewitnesses, transformation of disciples, church growth) strongly supports the resurrection.

5. If Christ is not raised, our faith is meaningless—but if He is, we have eternal hope and freedom from the fear of death.

Questions

1. Why do you think fear of death is such a powerful influence in people’s lives today? How have you personally experienced it?

2. Which worldly explanation of death (e.g., atheism, stoicism, “nothingness”) do you see most influencing culture today? Why do they fall short?

3. What piece of evidence for the resurrection most strengthens your faith (empty tomb, eyewitnesses, disciples’ transformation, church growth)? Why?

4. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15 that if Christ was not raised, our faith is useless. How does the resurrection give meaning to both your faith and daily life?

5. How would your outlook on life change if you truly lived each day with confidence in the resurrection?

Practical Applications

1. Face your fears: Write down specific fears about death, loss, or the future and pray through them, asking Jesus to replace fear with hope.

2. Share the hope: This week, find one opportunity to share with a friend, coworker, or family member why the resurrection gives you confidence and peace.

3. Live with eternity in mind: Make one decision this week (how you spend time, use money, or treat someone) based not on short-term gain but on eternal perspective.