Fellowship Baptist Church

You Need Me! (BEFORE I GO — The Final Teachings of Jesus)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 15:1-8 (John 14:6, 26-27 & 30-31; 15:1-8; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Psalms 1:1-3; Hebrews 12:1)
 
On the way to the garden, in some of His final moments before the cross, Jesus gives His disciples a powerful picture: “I am the vine, ye are the branches.” In the Gospel of John 15:1–8, He teaches that real spiritual life doesn’t come from effort—it comes from connection.
The Spirit of God lives in us, changes us, and produces fruit through us. But Jesus makes it clear: without Him, we are lifeless and fruitless.
Join us as we discover what it truly means to abide in Christ. Jesus is teaching us how to live a fulfilled life that truly makes a difference.
 
Series description:
Jesus knew exactly when—and how—His life would end. On the night before the cross, He gathered with His disciples for one final meal. But this was more than a supper. It was a moment of preparation.Knowing the suffering that awaited Him, Jesus chose to spend His final hours teaching—not crowds, not strangers, but the ones He loved. These were not casual words. They were intentional. Urgent. Eternal.​ In John 13–16, we hear the heart of Jesus. His love, His compassion, His mission, and His promises. These are His final teachings before He took on our sin and endured the cross. And though spoken long ago, these words still speak powerfully today—shaping how we live, love, serve, and follow Him.Before He went to the cross, Jesus made sure we knew what mattered most.
 
BEFORE I GO: The Final Teachings of Jesus
You Need Me!
 
1. God created you to bear fruit
2. You must abide in Christ
A. "to stay" - be consistent in your walk
B. "be connected" - connect with what matters
3. God will pur​ge what doesn't belong
 
Illustration #1: Vineyard
 
Illustration #2: Fruit of the vine (cluster of grapes)

Salvation 101 — Foreknowledge, Predestination, Election & Free Will (Lesson 3)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​Romans 8:29-30 (Romans 8:28-30 & 38-39; 9:4 & 9-18; 10:9-10, 13-14 & 17: Ephesians 1:4-5 & 11; 2:1; 5:25; John 3:16; 6:37 & 44; 7:37; 10:11 & 28-29; 14:15 & 23; Acts 13:48; 16:31; Luke 14:26; Psalm 103:19; Daniel 4:35; Isaiah 42:1; 46:9-10; Genesis 2:9 & 16-17; Joshua 24:15; Matthew 11:28; 22:33-40; ​1 John 4:1; Joshua 24:15; Deuteronomy 7:6; 30:19; Acts 7:51; 10:34; Hebrews 12:25; Proverbs 1:24-25; 1 Peter 1:2; 5:10; 2 Peter 3:9)
 
Have you ever read words like predestination or election and felt unsure what they really mean? You’re not alone. These are some of the most misunderstood doctrines in the Bible.In this study, we’re not just going to define terms—we’re going to discover the heart behind them. When seen through the lens of God’s love, these truths are not cold or confusing…they are deeply comforting. Come learn how a sovereign God still gives real choice, and how His foreknowledge and love work together for His perfect purposes.
 
Series description:
Have you ever wondered how God can be perfectly just and yet show boundless mercy and grace at the same time?This lesson dives into the heart of God’s salvation, exploring key truths that change everything about how we see Him and ourselves. Let’s study how God is holy and just, and yet, He still gives mercy and grace!Get ready to see salvation not as something we earn, but as a gift that displays the amazing character of God!
 
Salvation 101Understanding the Doctrine of SalvationLesson 3: Foreknowledge, Predestination, Election & Free WillRomans 8:29-30Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor)
 
I. Calvinism (TULIP)
A. T-Total depravity
B. U-Unconditional election
C. L-Limited atonement
D. I-Irresistible grace
E. P-Perseverance of the Saints
 
II. Sovereignty 
 
III. Free Will
A. God created man with free will
--- 1. God created man able to choose
--- 2. Why free will? Because of love!
--- 3. Why love? Because we are made in His image and God is love.
--- B. Scripture repeatedly calls people to choose
C. Jesus invited people to come
--- 1. People resist God
--- 2. People refuse Christ
 
IV. Foreknowledge
A. God knows the future
B. God foreknew who would believe
 
V. Predestination
A. Did He predestinate who would be saved?
B. Did He predestinate that He would save us?
--- 1. believers are predestined to adoption
--- 2. predestination concerns inheritance 
 
VI. Elect
A. Israel was an elected nation
B. Christ is the chosen one
C. Believers are elect "in Christ"
 
Lesson 3 - Notes

You're Not Alone! (BEFORE I GO — The Final Teachings of Jesus)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​John 14-16 (John 4:24; 14:12-14, 16-18 & 25-27; 16:1-4, 7-11 & 13; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Genesis 1:1-2 & 26; 1 John 5:7; Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5; Matthew 7:16; 28:19; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:20; 12:3; Galatians 5:22; Acts 1:8; 2 Peter 1:21; Romans 8:11; Ephesians 3:20)
 
On the night before the cross, Jesus gathered His disciples and prepared them for what was to come. Though He was about to leave, He promised they would not be alone. He told them the Comforter—the Holy Spirit—would come to dwell within them, guiding them, convicting them, and giving them peace. What an incredible promise!
 
In John 13–16, Jesus reveals that God would not only be for us, but also with us and in us. Because of this, we are never alone.
 
Series description:
Jesus knew exactly when—and how—His life would end. On the night before the cross, He gathered with His disciples for one final meal. But this was more than a supper. It was a moment of preparation.Knowing the suffering that awaited Him, Jesus chose to spend His final hours teaching—not crowds, not strangers, but the ones He loved. These were not casual words. They were intentional. Urgent. Eternal.​ In John 13–16, we hear the heart of Jesus. His love, His compassion, His mission, and His promises. These are His final teachings before He took on our sin and endured the cross. And though spoken long ago, these words still speak powerfully today—shaping how we live, love, serve, and follow Him.Before He went to the cross, Jesus made sure we knew what mattered most.
 
BEFORE I GO: The Final Teachings of Jesus
You're Not Alone!
 
1. The Spirit gives new life
2. The Spirit gives peace
3. The Spirit brings conviction
4. The Spirit of God empowers us
 
I. A divine force
II. Miraculous power
III. Might​y work
 
Illustration #1: The Trinity
 
Illustration #2: Wind

Salvation 101 — Mercy, Justification & Grace (Lesson 2)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​2 Timothy 1:9; 3:16; Titus 2:1 & 11; 3:5; Genesis 3:2-4, 9, 15 & 21; Ephesians 2:1, 4-5 & 8; Romans 3:19 & 24-26; 5:1; Psalm 100:5; 103:8; 106:1; 107:1; Deuteronomy 32:4; Revelation 20:13-14; 21:8; Matthew 14:14; 18:21-22; 20:1-15; 25:41; John 1:14 & 16-17; Luke 4:22; Acts 15:11
 
Have you ever wondered how God can be perfectly just and yet show boundless mercy and grace at the same time?This lesson dives into the heart of God’s salvation, exploring key truths that change everything about how we see Him and ourselves. Let’s study how God is holy and just, and yet, He still gives mercy and grace!Get ready to see salvation not as something we earn, but as a gift that displays the amazing character of God!
 
Series description:
Have you ever wondered how God can be perfectly just and yet show boundless mercy and grace at the same time?This lesson dives into the heart of God’s salvation, exploring key truths that change everything about how we see Him and ourselves. Let’s study how God is holy and just, and yet, He still gives mercy and grace!Get ready to see salvation not as something we earn, but as a gift that displays the amazing character of God!
 
Salvation 101Understanding the Doctrine of SalvationLesson 2: Mercy, Justification & GracePastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor)
 
I. Mercy
A. why does God's mercy matter?
man's condition
1. spiritually dead
2. guilty before God
B. mercy comes from God's character
C. mercy does not cancel justice
 
II. Justification
A. God is just
B. God is holy
C. God judges sin
D. we are justified by the cross
 
III. Grace
A. grace is part of His character
B. Jesus is a visual of God's grace
C. His words displayed His grace
D. His works displayed His grace
E. grace is required for salvation
 
Lesson 2 - Notes

Better is Coming! (BEFORE I GO — The Final Teachings of Jesus)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​John 13 & 14:1-6 (John 13:17-18, 21, 27 & 33-38; 14:1-6; 1 Corinthians 15:26; Matthew 26:39; Revelation 21:3-5; Luke 13:5)
 
Our world is filled with people who walk through life with troubled hearts. Life brings heartaches, disappointments, and problems that can weigh heavily on us. In the Gospel of John, chapter 13, Jesus humbly washes the disciples’ feet and then begins addressing several difficult realities they will soon face. By the time we come to chapter 14, the mood has shifted, and Jesus speaks directly to their troubled hearts. What He says next brings incredible hope.
Maybe you are carrying a heavy heart today. If so, take comfort in the words of Jesus—there is hope, and things will get better.
 
Series description:
Jesus knew exactly when—and how—His life would end. On the night before the cross, He gathered with His disciples for one final meal. But this was more than a supper. It was a moment of preparation.Knowing the suffering that awaited Him, Jesus chose to spend His final hours teaching—not crowds, not strangers, but the ones He loved. These were not casual words. They were intentional. Urgent. Eternal.​ In John 13–16, we hear the heart of Jesus. His love, His compassion, His mission, and His promises. These are His final teachings before He took on our sin and endured the cross. And though spoken long ago, these words still speak powerfully today—shaping how we live, love, serve, and follow Him.Before He went to the cross, Jesus made sure we knew what mattered most.
 
BEFORE I GO: The Final Teachings of Jesus
Better is Coming!
 
Why troubled hearts:
1. because people will hurt us
2. because Satan will oppose us
3. because we lose people we love
4. because of the failures we carry
 
Better is Coming!
I. Heaven is Coming!
II. Jesus is the Way!
 
Illustration #1: Fellowship Baptist Church Logo

Salvation 101 — Introduction & Grace (Lesson 1)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​Ephesians 2:8 (2 Timothy 1:9; 3:16; 4:3; Titus 1:9; 2:1 & 11; 3:5; John 1:14 & 16-17; 3:3-7; 16; 8:32; Romans 3:10 & 23-24; 5:8 & 12; 6:23; 8:29-34; 10:9 & 17; James 1:15; Revelation 20:14-15; 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Ephesians 2:4-5 & 8-9; Acts 3:19; 15:11; 16:30-31; 1 John 5:11-13; Matthew 14:14; 18:21-22; 20:1-15; Psalms 106:1; 107:1; Luke 4:22)
 
We talk about being “saved.” But saved from what? Saved how? Saved by whom? Words like grace, mercy, repentance, justification, and sanctification fill our worship songs and prayers — but too often, they remain undefined.Salvation 101 is a deep dive into the doctrine of salvation — the foundation of the Christian faith. If salvation is the greatest gift we’ve ever received, shouldn’t we understand how it works? Before we go deeper, we go back to the basics. Because strong believers are built on solid foundations.
 
Salvation 101Understanding the Doctrine of SalvationLesson 1: Introduction & GraceEphesians 2:8Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor)
 
​I. Doctrine
II. Sound Doctrine
III. The Doctrine of Salvation
A. The sinfulness of man
B. The penalty and judgement for sin
C. God's love and provision
D. Christ's finished work
E. Salvation is by grace through faith (not works)
F. The required response: repentance and faith
G. Assurance of salvation
IV. Grace
 
Lesson 1 - Notes

Born Again

Gideon Sullivan (Student, Cedarville University) - ​​John 3-4 (John 1:33; 2:24-25; 3:1-5, 13-21; 4:39; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Acts 19:4; Numbers 21:6-9; Daniel 7:13-14)
 
"Born Again" will examine Nicodemus’ encounter with Christ and Christ’s puzzling response to Nicodemus’ statements. John 3 reveals integral truths about Christ’s role in the Biblical storyline and his atoning work through which believers lay hold of his covenant. It is in light of this encounter that we are given a life defining dilemma: believing in Christ’s Son or rejecting Him and accepting God’s condemnation.

How to Live with Gratitude Every Day (Living with Gratitude — Week 4)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Galatians 5:22-23; Philippians 4:4-7)
 
Living with gratitude is a daily spiritual discipline rooted in God’s will for us (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18). It is expressed through three daily practices: choose joy, practice continual prayer, and give thanks intentionally.Choosing joy means rejoicing in God’s goodness regardless of circumstances. Practicing prayer is living in constant dependence on Him. Giving thanks intentionally means recognizing that in every situation there is something about God to be grateful for.Gratitude is not just a feeling—it is a way of life that reflects trust in God and shines His grace to others.
 
Series description:
Living With Gratitude is an invitation to experience the joy that comes from a thankful heart. In a culture that constantly pushes us to complain, compare, and want more, God offers a better way—a way marked by peace, contentment, and joy.In this series, we’ll discover how choosing gratitude changes how we see our lives, strengthens our faith, and helps us enjoy God’s blessings without taking them for granted. This is a journey toward a lighter heart, a clearer perspective, and a deeper appreciation for all God has done and continues to do.
 
Living with GratitudeHow to stop complaining, break free from comparison, and reject discontentment.Week 4: How to Live with Gratitude Every Day
 
3 Daily Practices to Living with Gratitude
1. Choose Joy
2. Practice Prayer
3. Give Thanks Intentionally
 
Week 4 - Notes

Serve with Humility (BEFORE I GO — The Final Teachings of Jesus)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​John 13 (John 4:35; 10:17-18; 13:1-9 & 15-17; Matthew 20:28; Luke 22:24; Philippians 2:2-8)
 
Jesus knew exactly when—and how—His life would end. On the night before the cross, He gathered with His disciples for one final meal. But this was more than a supper. It was a moment of preparation.Knowing the suffering that awaited Him, Jesus chose to spend His final hours teaching—not crowds, not strangers, but the ones He loved. These were not casual words. They were intentional. Urgent. Eternal.​ In John 13–16, we hear the heart of Jesus. His love, His compassion, His mission, and His promises. These are His final teachings before He took on our sin and endured the cross. And though spoken long ago, these words still speak powerfully today—shaping how we live, love, serve, and follow Him.Before He went to the cross, Jesus made sure we knew what mattered most.
 
BEFORE I GO: The Final Teachings of Jesus
Serve with Humility
 
Serving like Jesus means:
1. We serve with humility
2. We take initiative
3. We point to Jesus
4. We show grace
 
Illustration #1: Dinner table in Bible days

Having Enough (Living with Gratitude — Week 3)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​Philippians 1:20-21; 2:14-15; 4:11-13; Romans 12:2; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Hebrews 13:5-6
 
We will explore what it truly means to live with biblical contentment. Walking through key passages in Philippians, we’ll see that contentment is learned—not natural—and that gratitude isn’t rooted in what we possess, but in who is with us.Paul’s words challenge us to stop complaining, stop comparing, and shine as lights in a crooked world. Whether in abundance or in need, we can live with peace because our strength comes from Christ. We’ll also confront the trap of materialism and be reminded of God’s promise to never leave or forsake His people.If Christ is with you, you have enough—and that truth reshapes how you live every day.
 
Series description:
Living With Gratitude is an invitation to experience the joy that comes from a thankful heart. In a culture that constantly pushes us to complain, compare, and want more, God offers a better way—a way marked by peace, contentment, and joy.In this series, we’ll discover how choosing gratitude changes how we see our lives, strengthens our faith, and helps us enjoy God’s blessings without taking them for granted. This is a journey toward a lighter heart, a clearer perspective, and a deeper appreciation for all God has done and continues to do.
 
Living with GratitudeHow to stop complaining, break free from comparison, and reject discontentment.Week 3: Having Enough
 
​1. Contentment is learned.2. Contentment is not tied to circumstances.3. Contentment is powered by Christ.
 
Week 3 - Notes

Give Me A Man

Pastor Bryce Copeland (Student Pastor) - ​1 Corinthians 16:13-14; 1 Samuel 17 (1 Corinthians 16:13-14; 1 Samuel 17:2-11, 23-29, 32-37 & 40-51)
 
“Give Me a Man!”
That was Goliath’s taunt echoing through the Valley of Elah—a giant challenging anyone brave enough to fight for their God, their people, and their future. Israel’s army stood frozen in fear… until one young man walked onto the battlefield with nothing but conviction and courage to fight in the name of the Lord.
This message takes you into that moment and calls men today to the same kind of battle-ready faith. Through 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 and the story of David and Goliath, we’re invited to discover what it means to be watchful, stand firm, be strong, and do everything in love—not in our own power, but in the strength of the God who fights for us.
The enemy is still active. The battle still rages.
And God is still calling: “Give Me a man.”
 
Give Me A Man
 
Give me a man who will...
1. Be watchful
2. Stand firm in the faith
3. Be strong
4. Do all things in love
 
Illustration #1: Image of Pastor Bryce Copeland
 
Illustration #2: AI generated image of Pastor Bryce Copeland as David
 
Illustration #3: AI generated image of Pastor Bryce Copeland as David next to Goliath
 
Illustration #4: Goggle Gemini AI (Nano Banana Pro) generated image of Pastor Bryce Copeland as David next to Goliath

Hangry in the Wilderness (Living with Gratitude — Week 2)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​Exodus 16 (Exodus 16:1-4, 7-8, 13-18, 21 & 35; Proverbs 30:8-9; Lamentations 3:22-23; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:9-11)
 
When life gets hard, it reveals what’s really in our hearts. In Exodus 16, Israel’s hunger exposed their complaining spirit—but the wilderness didn’t create ungrateful hearts, it revealed them. Even in their murmuring, God remained faithful.God is still good, even when life is hard.He provided manna daily—exactly what they needed, no more and no less—reminding us that His grace is sufficient and His mercies are new every morning. Gratitude in hardship is a declaration of trust. As we pray, “Give us this day our daily bread,” we choose to believe that God will faithfully supply all we need.
 
Series description:
Living With Gratitude is an invitation to experience the joy that comes from a thankful heart. In a culture that constantly pushes us to complain, compare, and want more, God offers a better way—a way marked by peace, contentment, and joy.In this series, we’ll discover how choosing gratitude changes how we see our lives, strengthens our faith, and helps us enjoy God’s blessings without taking them for granted. This is a journey toward a lighter heart, a clearer perspective, and a deeper appreciation for all God has done and continues to do.
 
Living with GratitudeHow to stop complaining, break free from comparison, and reject discontentment.Week 2: Hangry in the Wilderness
 
1. Hardship reveals our hearts2. God provides exactly what we need3. Gratitude in hardship displays our trust in God
 
Week 2 - Notes