Fellowship Baptist Church

A NOT SO Picture Perfect Christmas

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​Luke 1:28-35 (Luke 1:28-35 & 46-49; 2:19; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Matthew 1:21)
 
One of the traditions we enjoy at Christmas is setting out a nativity scene. We love the imagery—it reminds us of the very first Christmas. In the nativity, Mary stands smiling behind baby Jesus, Joseph looks on as a proud father, and the newborn Christ is wrapped neatly in swaddling clothes, resting perfectly in the manger. The animals, of course, gather around in peaceful stillness.But the truth is, the first Christmas didn’t look perfect at all. Mary could tell you that while our modern nativity scenes are beautiful, the reality she lived was far from picture perfect. And the same is true for us today. We smile in family photos, but those pictures rarely reveal the burdens, fears, pain, and heartbreak hidden behind our smiles.The good news is that Jesus was born for exactly those things—our pain, our fear, and our brokenness. He is the peace and joy that changes everything. Our lives may not be picture perfect, but we have the gift of Jesus, and He brings us hope.
 
A NOT SO Picture Perfect Christmas
 
When life is not picture perfect...
I. Know that you are not alone.
II. Know that God has a plan.
III. Trust God through it.
 
Illustration #1: Nativity scene
 
Illustration #2: Morgan Liuzzo and Peter Barker at Christmas (Picture-Perfect)
 
Illustration #3: Behind the scenes of Christmas (NOT SO Picture Perfect)
 
Illustration #4: Logan, Morgan and Jordan at Christmas (Picture Perfect)
 
Illustration #5: Logan, Morgan and Jordan at Christmas (NOT SO Picture Perfect)
 
Illustration #6: A Family at Christmas

A Long-Expected Son (Long-Expected Jesus — Lesson 3)

Pastor Aaron Roberts (Worship Pastor) - ​​​​​Matthew 2:13-23​; Hosea 11:1-11​; Jeremiah 31:8-9​ & 12-16​ (Matthew 2:13-23​; 26:42; Hosea ​1:1; 11:1-11​; Jeremiah 31:8-9​ & 12-16​; Exodus 4:21-23; John 1:46; Isaiah 49:7; 53:3; Psalm 22:6; Daniel 9:26; Hebrews 4-5 & 9; 2 Timothy 1:9-10; Romans 8:14-17)
 
Matthew 2 contains three prophecies, all considered fulfilled in the events surrounding Herod’s attempted murder of the baby boy Jesus.
This week we investigate the origins and meaning of these prophecies and what they reveal about the nature of God’s true Son, Jesus.
 
Series description:
Each year, Christians around the world read the Christmas story and reflect on the incredible coming of our Savior, Jesus. At first glance, it might seem like a simple narrative, but the account recorded in the Gospel of Matthew contains numerous quotations and allusions to the Old Testament. Have you ever wondered why they are there? What do they mean, and what do they reveal about Jesus?In this three-week Bible study, we will explore the Old Testament prophecies referenced in Matthew’s Christmas narrative. Together, we’ll dive deep into what they tell us about Jesus, the mission he came to fulfill, and, ultimately, what these truths mean for us today.
 
Long-Expected Jesus
Prophecy Fulfilled According to Matthew
 
Lesson 3: A Long-Expected Son
​
​I. The Prophecies
A. Prophecy 1
B. Prophecy 2
C. Prophecy 3
II. The Old Testament Context(s)
III. The Fulfillment
IV. The Application
A. Jesus truly is the Messiah
B. Jesus is the Son of God
C. God truly is amazing and worthy of our praise
 
Lesson 3 - Notes

A Long-Expected Shepherd King (Long-Expected Jesus — Lesson 2)

Pastor Aaron Roberts (Worship Pastor) - ​​​​​Matthew 2:1-12​; Micah 5:1-6​ (Matthew ​1:1; 2:1-12​; 4; Micah​ 1:1; 5:1-6​; 2 Samuel 5:1-2; 7:12-16; 8; 1 Samuel 5; 13:14; 16:1 & 11; Acts 13:22; 2 Peter 1:4; John 10:11-18; 15; Revelation 19:11-16; Hebrews 13:20-21)
 
Matthew 2 contains the story of the wise men, and a prophecy foretelling the birth of a ruler in Bethlehem. But why is this story here at all? And what does it tell us about the person and ministry of Jesus Christ?
This week we ask what it means that Jesus is a Shepherd King, and how it should shape the way we view his working in our lives.
 
Series description:
Each year, Christians around the world read the Christmas story and reflect on the incredible coming of our Savior, Jesus. At first glance, it might seem like a simple narrative, but the account recorded in the Gospel of Matthew contains numerous quotations and allusions to the Old Testament. Have you ever wondered why they are there? What do they mean, and what do they reveal about Jesus?In this three-week Bible study, we will explore the Old Testament prophecies referenced in Matthew’s Christmas narrative. Together, we’ll dive deep into what they tell us about Jesus, the mission he came to fulfill, and, ultimately, what these truths mean for us today.
 
Long-Expected Jesus
Prophecy Fulfilled According to Matthew
 
Lesson 2: A Long-Expected Shepherd King
​
I. The Prophecy
II. The Old Testament Context(s)
III. The Fulfillment
IV. The Application
A. Jesus truly is the Messiah.
B. Jesus' coming is an invitation to all who would believe.
C. Jesus is both the Good Shepherd and King of Kings
 
Lesson 2 - Notes

Step into MORE

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​Philippians 3:13-16 (Matthew 9:36; John 4:35; Philippians 2:5-8; 3:13-17; Colossians 1:18; 3:2; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Revelation 3:19; Romans 12:1 & 11; 1 Corinthians 15:58; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Luke 6:38)
 
What comes to mind when you hear the word “RUN!”? It’s not a suggestion—it’s an action. Don’t stand still. Don’t hesitate. Move forward. Take action. Paul used this imagery often when describing the Christian life. He challenged the church to press on, refuse spiritual complacency, and pursue Christ with purpose.Wherever you are in your walk with God, Scripture reminds us: there is more. God is calling you to step up, push forward, and embrace the mission He has placed before you. So ask yourself: Are you running the race—or just watching from the sidelines? Are you ready to lean in, step up, and step into more?
 
Step into MORE
 
I. Step up to serve
--- A. Have you quit?
--- B. Have you lost your passion?
--- C. Are you ready for more?
II. Step up as a leader
III. Step up to giving (sacrifice)
--- A. We are called to live sacrificial lives.
--- B. We give because we are instructed to give.
--- C. We give because we invest in the Gospel.
--- D. We give because God blesses givers.
 
Illustration #1: Pastor Dinoff (Founding Pastor) on empty lot; FBC ground breaking
 
Illustration #2: FBC first building
 
Illustration #3: Article Headline - Over 1800 Housing Units Proposed for Winchester Pike Area
 
Illustration #4: Church Center App - Serve on a Team Button

A Long-Expected Sign (Long-Expected Jesus — Lesson 1)

Pastor Aaron Roberts (Worship Pastor) - ​​​​​John 15:12-15 (John 15:12-15; Galatians 6:1-2; Proverbs 17:17; 18:24; 27:17; James 5:16; 1 Peter 4:9; Philippians 2:3-5)
 
“Immanuel - God with us.” In Matthew 1, we read that Jesus’ birth fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy of a coming sign, a sign of God’s promise to be with his people. Over 700 years before his birth, the prophet Isaiah predicts a coming Immanuel - in what ways does Jesus fulfill what Isaiah foretold? In this study, we dig deep into the Immanuel prophecy and discover what it tells us about Jesus and our relationship with him.
 
Series description:
Each year, Christians around the world read the Christmas story and reflect on the incredible coming of our Savior, Jesus. At first glance, it might seem like a simple narrative, but the account recorded in the Gospel of Matthew contains numerous quotations and allusions to the Old Testament. Have you ever wondered why they are there? What do they mean, and what do they reveal about Jesus?In this three-week Bible study, we will explore the Old Testament prophecies referenced in Matthew’s Christmas narrative. Together, we’ll dive deep into what they tell us about Jesus, the mission he came to fulfill, and, ultimately, what these truths mean for us today.
 
Long-Expected Jesus
Prophecy Fulfilled According to Matthew
 
Lesson 1: A Long-Expected Sign
​
​I. The Prophecy
II. The Old Testament Context
III. The Fulfillment
IV. The Application
 
Lesson 1 - Notes

THE UNSEEN: PRAY (A Series in Spiritual Warfare)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​Ephesians 6:18 (1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 4:7; Ephesians 3:20; 6:10-18; Luke 22:31; Hebrews 4:16; Jeremiah 33:3; Matthew 7:7; James 4:2; 2 Chronicles 7:14)
 
Paul gives us a clear look at the armor of God—the equipment every believer needs to stand firm in the unseen spiritual battle we face. After describing each piece, he ends with something essential: a call to pray.
Prayer may seem basic, but Paul doesn’t treat it as optional. He gives intentional instructions for how to pray in the midst of spiritual warfare.
Prayer isn’t an accessory to the armor—it’s a weapon.
And if you feel defeated or struggling in your walk with Christ, it may be because you’ve been fighting without this vital part of the battle.
 
Series description:
We serve the living God—He is alive, active, and working in the world today! This is a truth we celebrate and stand on. But we must also acknowledge another reality: we have an enemy who is also alive, active, and at work.
There is an unseen war happening around us every day. Satan’s attacks aren’t always visible, but they’re deeply felt—through broken lives, damaged marriages, and chains of addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Do you know your enemy?Do you know who you are in Christ?Do you know what God has already given you to stand firm and fight back?
You don’t have to live in defeat. God has equipped you with everything you need to stand your ground and live in victory. The Unseen is real—but we are on the winning side.
 
THE UNSEEN: A Series in Spiritual Warfare
"PRAY"
 
I. Seek His help
A. ask God for help
B. seek His presence
C. desire more (knock)
II. Don't give up
A. keep fighting
B. stand with each other 

Thankful Together (FBC Family Thanksgiving - 2025)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​Luke 22:11-19 (Luke 22:11-19; Mark 14:26; Psalm 118:1 & 29)
 
There are many surprising moments in the Bible—stories that unfold in ways we wouldn’t expect. Before Jesus was arrested, mocked, beaten, and crucified, He chose to do one final, meaningful thing with His disciples: He gathered them around a table and shared communion with them.
This moment is rich with truth. It teaches us gratitude and reveals what truly pleases God. “Thankful Together” is more than a theme for a service—it reflects the very heart of God’s desire for His people.
 
Thankful Together
 
1. We remember
2. We give thanks
3. We worship
 
Illustration #1: Family at Thanksgiving
 
 
Illustration #2: The Last Supper

How to Be a Friend (How to Human — Week 4)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​​​​John 15:12-15 (John 15:12-15; Galatians 6:1-2; Proverbs 17:17; 18:24; 27:17; James 5:16; 1 Peter 4:9; Philippians 2:3-5)
 
Be the kind of friend you want to have.Jesus redefines friendship as sacrificial love. Friendship isn’t about convenience — it’s about commitment, honesty, and shared pursuit of God. True friends challenge and encourage each other to grow spiritually.
 
Series description:
Life would be easier if people were perfect — but God designed us to grow through relationships, not apart from them.How to Human is a four-week Bible study about learning to love people the way God does — through connection, grace, forgiveness, friendship, and hospitality.Each week takes a practical and biblical look at how to handle real-life relationships in a world full of imperfect people. Whether you’ve been hurt, frustrated, or just trying to be a better friend, this series helps believers rediscover God’s heart for human connection.
 
How to Human — Learning to Love, Forgive, and Get Along; God's WayWeek 4: How to Be a Friend
 
​I. What is Biblical Friendship?
A. willingness to sacrifice for each other's benefit
B. commitment to follow Jesus
C. openness and honesty
D. shared relationship with God
 
II. What is Worldly Friendship?
 
III. How Can I Make Friends
A. be a friend
B. practice hospitality
C. be intentional 
 
Week 4 - Notes

THE UNSEEN: Protect Your Mind & Fight with Truth (A Series in Spiritual Warfare)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​Ephesians 6:17 (Ephesians 6:10 & 17; John 3:6-7; Romans 1:16; 6:4; 8:1; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 5:17; John 5:39; Isaiah 40:31; Hebrews 13:5)
 
Did you know that salvation is about more than just going to heaven? Being rescued from hell is incredible—but that’s only the beginning. Salvation begins the moment you accept Christ and the Spirit of God comes to live within you. From that moment on, everything changes—you are no longer the same person!When we look at the Armor of God, the Helmet of Salvation represents more than simply knowing you’re saved—it reminds you that you’ve been transformed. And God doesn’t stop there—He places a sword in your hand. A weapon! The Word of God empowers you to stand and fight back. Yes, we’re in an unseen war, but we are not unarmed. We are equipped for victory!
 
Series description:
We serve the living God—He is alive, active, and working in the world today! This is a truth we celebrate and stand on. But we must also acknowledge another reality: we have an enemy who is also alive, active, and at work.
There is an unseen war happening around us every day. Satan’s attacks aren’t always visible, but they’re deeply felt—through broken lives, damaged marriages, and chains of addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Do you know your enemy?Do you know who you are in Christ?Do you know what God has already given you to stand firm and fight back?
You don’t have to live in defeat. God has equipped you with everything you need to stand your ground and live in victory. The Unseen is real—but we are on the winning side.
 
THE UNSEEN: A Series in Spiritual Warfare
"Protect Your Mind & Fight with Truth"
 
I. Protect Your Mind
A. Salvation places us in Christ
B. Salvation empowers us to change
C. Salvation defines who we are
II. Fight with Truth
A. GRAPHE (the written Word/sacred text/the book/the writings)
B. LOGOS (the Living Word/the message of the Bible)
C. RHEMA (the spoken Word of God)
 
Illustration #1: ​Soldier helmet
 
Illustration #2: ​Soldiers in Army camouflage
 
Illustration #3: ​Roman soldier in battle

When Someone Hurts You: Forgiveness (How to Human — Week 3)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​Matthew 18​ (Matthew 5:23-24; 18:11, 18-19, 21-22 & 28-35; Luke 17:3-5​; Romans 12:17-21​ & 23-27; Colossians 2:13-15​; 3:13; Ephesians 4:32​; Mark 11:25-26​)
 
Forgiveness is not easy, but it is possible because of the Gospel!In this lesson, we explore what forgiveness truly means, why it’s essential for our hearts and relationships, and how we can put it into practice in everyday life. Using Scripture as our guide, we’ll uncover how God calls us to release anger, bitterness, and vengeance, extend mercy to others, and trust Him with justice. Whether you’re struggling to forgive or want to understand the heart of God’s grace, this lesson will equip and inspire you to live a life marked by freedom, peace, and restoration.
 
Series description:
Life would be easier if people were perfect — but God designed us to grow through relationships, not apart from them.How to Human is a four-week Bible study about learning to love people the way God does — through connection, grace, forgiveness, friendship, and hospitality.Each week takes a practical and biblical look at how to handle real-life relationships in a world full of imperfect people. Whether you’ve been hurt, frustrated, or just trying to be a better friend, this series helps believers rediscover God’s heart for human connection.
 
How to Human — Learning to Love, Forgive, and Get Along; God's WayWeek 3: When Someone Hurts You (Forgiveness)
 
I. Forgiveness ​definedII. Forgiveness ​illustratedIII. Forgiveness ​explainedA. ​forgiveness ​acknowledges the ​offenseB. ​forgiveness ​seeks ​restoration & ​reconciliationC. ​forgiveness ​is ​committed to ​a ​resolutionIV. Forgiveness ​practicedV. Forgiveness ​demanded
 
Week 3 - Notes

THE UNSEEN: In the Public Square (A Series in Spiritual Warfare)

Ben Schettler (Co-founder & President, The Center for Truth in Love) - John 8:44; Romans 1:6 & 16; 1 Peter 3:14-16
 
Ben Schettler, Co-founder and President of The Center for Truth in Love, shares what it means to live with courage and clarity in the midst of spiritual battles—especially in today’s culture.
The enemy works through lies and shame to hold people back, but God’s truth brings real freedom. As followers of Jesus, we don’t have to live in fear or embarrassment—the Word of God gives us strength to stand firm and love well.
In the end, truth in love always leads to triumph.
 
Series description:
We serve the living God—He is alive, active, and working in the world today! This is a truth we celebrate and stand on. But we must also acknowledge another reality: we have an enemy who is also alive, active, and at work.
There is an unseen war happening around us every day. Satan’s attacks aren’t always visible, but they’re deeply felt—through broken lives, damaged marriages, and chains of addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Do you know your enemy?Do you know who you are in Christ?Do you know what God has already given you to stand firm and fight back?
You don’t have to live in defeat. God has equipped you with everything you need to stand your ground and live in victory. The Unseen is real—but we are on the winning side.
 
THE UNSEEN: A Series in Spiritual Warfare
"In the Public Square"
 
What are the enemy's tactics?
- The Devil is the Father of lies.
- The Devil shames those he cannot deceive.
 
The power of truth in love
 
Christians should not be ashamed
- Christians cannot be ashamed
- Christians who are not equipped will be ashamed
 
The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God
- God uses believers
 
In the Public Square - Slides

Resolving Conflict (How to Human — Week 2)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​​​​Matthew 5:9, 23-24 & 44; 7:3-5; 18:15; Ephesians 4:1-3 & 26-27 & 30-32; Proverbs 12:18; 13:10; 16:7, 18 & 20; 20:3; 29:23; 1 John 4:20-21; James 1:19; Romans 14:12-13; 15:1-2
 
You can’t avoid conflict, but you can honor God through it.Conflict reveals character. Instead of reacting with anger, believers are called to respond with humility, patience, and grace. The goal isn’t to win an argument — it’s to preserve unity and reflect Christ.
 
Series description:
Life would be easier if people were perfect — but God designed us to grow through relationships, not apart from them.How to Human is a four-week Bible study about learning to love people the way God does — through connection, grace, forgiveness, friendship, and hospitality.Each week takes a practical and biblical look at how to handle real-life relationships in a world full of imperfect people. Whether you’ve been hurt, frustrated, or just trying to be a better friend, this series helps believers rediscover God’s heart for human connection.
 
How to Human — Learning to Love, Forgive, and Get Along; God's WayWeek 2: Resolving Conflict
 
Fact #1 - Conflict is part of life
Fact #2 - Conflict turns to sin when it is resolved
Fact #3 - Unresolved conflict hinders your fellowship with God
Fact #4 - Unresolved conflict always gets worse
 
Steps to resolving conflict:
1. It starts with you
2. Make the first move
3. Use the power of humility
4. Listen for their hurts
5. Do what's right and leave the rest to God
 
Week 2 - Notes