Fellowship Baptist Church

Unexpected Message: Chapter 7 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - John 7 (John 7:1-9 & 14-39; 14:6; Leviticus 23:33-43; 1 Timothy 1:15-17; Isaiah 12:2-4)
 
In the middle of a joyful religious celebration, Jesus stood and made a startling announcement: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” His words weren’t just poetic—they were powerful. They revealed His divine authority, exposed the emptiness of religion without grace, and offered something entirely new: spiritual life through the Holy Spirit.
In this message from John 7, we trace the buildup to Jesus’ bold invitation and discover how it still speaks to us today. Whether you’re spiritually thirsty, weighed down by religion, or longing for more of God, Jesus offers you more than relief—He offers you Himself.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Message
 
I. A Claim to Divine Authority
II. A Confrontation with Sin
III. A Clarification of Identity
IV. A Call to Believe

Life Together — Embracing Community & Accountability (Find & Follow: Lesson 6)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​​1 Thessalonians 2:13; 5:11-15; Genesis 2:18; 1 Peter 3:8-11; 1 Corinthians 12:25-26; Romans 12:10-13; Ephesians 4:11-15; Acts 20:32; Hebrews 10:23-25; Matthew 28:19-20
 
What does it really look like to follow Jesus with your whole life? It’s more than just personal devotion—it’s learning to walk with others in community and accountability through the local church. In this episode, we dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:11–15 and explore God’s vision for a church where people care deeply for one another, speak the truth in love, and help each other grow.
You’ll discover why life together in the church isn’t optional for a disciple of Jesus—it’s essential. And you’ll be challenged to both give and receive the kind of support that helps us stay faithful, even when life is hard.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected, discouraged, or unsure how to grow spiritually—this episode is for you.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 6Life Together: Embracing Community and Accountability
 
I. CommunityII. AccountabilityA. Preaching & TeachingB. Life Groups & Ministry TeamsC. Personal Mentoring
 
Lesson 6 - Notes
 
Daily Life vs. Life Together Diagram
 
FBC Discipleship Pathway

Unexpected Provision: Chapter 6 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 6 (John 6:1-14 & 16-21; Mark 6:35-37, 42 & 52; Ephesians 3:20)
 
If you follow Jesus, you’ll discover that He has the answers to everything. The disciples were learning this as they walked with Him. Jesus didn’t just want them to know who He was—He wanted them to trust Him.Trusting is easy when everything makes sense and your needs are met. But what about when the situation feels impossible? Do you still trust God when nothing adds up?Sometimes, those moments of need are actually a set-up—for God to show that He always has a plan, and He always provides.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Provision
 
I. The testing of our faith
A. the need came out of nowhere 
B. the problem seemed impossible to handle
II. The applying of our faith
A. the solution often comes from the least expected places
B. it is not about what you have, but what are you willing to do with it
III. The results of our faith
 
Illustration #1: Darrell & Katrina Johnson
 
Illustration #2: Darrell Johnson after kidney transplant
 
Illustration #3: Darrell Johnson eating after kidney transplant

Follow Me — Discovering the Heart of Discipleship (Find & Follow: Lesson 5)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​​Matthew 4:18-22; Acts 12:2; Luke 6:46; 9:23-25; 14:25-30; Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 6:20; John 1:1 & 14; 8:31-32; 14:15; Psalms 19:7-10; 119:105; Mark 1:35
 
What does it really mean to follow Jesus?
In this lesson , we look at the first disciples—ordinary fishermen who left everything when Jesus said, “Follow me.” Their response marked the beginning of discipleship, not just for them, but for all who would come after.
Discipleship is more than belief—it’s a new direction, a daily decision, and a lifelong pursuit. You’ll discover how Jesus calls us to a new purpose, invites us into deep sacrifice, and demands significant commitment. We’ll unpack the cost of discipleship, the heart of self-denial, and the joy of surrendering everything to the One who gave everything for us.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 5Follow Me: Discovering the Heart of Discipleship
 
I. What is Discipleship?   II. Consider the Cost of DiscipleshipA. ​following Jesus ​includes ​self ​denialB. ​following Jesus ​includes ​surrender to GodIII. What Does ​a Disciple Do?A. ​continue in God’s WordB. ​spend ​time in ​prayerC. ​obey His ​teaching
 
Lesson 5 - Notes

Unexpected Authority: Chapter 5 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 5 (John 5:1-10, 14 16; Matthew 11:28)
 
When you’re in trouble, who do you turn to? Most of us would say, “Jesus,” but the truth is—we often run to everything but Him.In John 5, Jesus steps into a situation that catches everyone off guard. He performs an unexpected miracle for a man who was completely desperate. In doing so, He shows that He has power and authority over sickness. But Jesus wasn’t just a healer—He is God.And that miracle? It was just the beginning. It set the stage for what came next: Jesus intentionally stirred up the Pharisees to prove that His authority extends over everything.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Authority
 
I. Jesus holds authority over sickness
A. Jesus sees you
B. Jesus knows your pain
C. Jesus gives hope
II. Jesus has authority to define righteousness
A. we can trust in God's authority
B. we must submit to God's authority
 
Illustration #1: Pool of Bethesda

Walk the Walk — Living a Life that Reflects the Gospel (Find & Follow: Lesson 4)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​1 Thessalonians 1:5-10​; 2:1-​13 & 19-20; 5:21-24​; Acts 16:22-​24​; Matthew 5:14-16​
 
What gives your words weight when you talk about Jesus? In this episode, we explore how Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica demonstrates that credibility isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you live. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 1–2, we identify five powerful traits of a life that backs up the Gospel with integrity: courage, authenticity, humility, relational care, and consistency. If you want your witness to carry real impact, this lesson will challenge and encourage you to walk the walk—not just talk the talk.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 4Walk the Walk: Living a Life that Reflects the Gospel
 
I. BoldII. AuthenticIII. HumbleIV. RelationalV. Consistent
 
Lesson 4 - Notes

Unexpected Forgiveness: Chapter 4 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - John 4 (John 4:1-42; Romans 5:8; Luke 5:32; Matthew 11:28; 1 John 1:9)
 
We all carry something—regret, shame, secrets, or just the weight of being tired of pretending. But what if Jesus is sitting at the well, waiting for you?We’re diving into John 4—when Jesus intentionally walked miles through the heat to meet a woman no one else wanted. She had a past. So do we. But He met her with unexpected forgiveness… and it changed everything.If you’ve ever felt worn out, unseen, or unworthy—come hear how Jesus sees you, knows your story, and still wants you.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Forgiveness
 
I. The Long Walk
A. Jesus has priorities. (Souls over stomachs)
B. Jesus cares deeply. (must needs go through Samaria)
II. The Lonely Woman
What are we to learn from this interaction?
A. sin hurts
B. Jesus heals
III. The Living Water
A. Jesus offers living water
B. forgiveness is available if you will be honest with God
 
Illustration #1: Map of Samaria

Your Story, His Glory — Sharing the Gospel with Impact (Find & Follow: Lesson 3)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​John 9:1-27 (John 9:1-27; 14:16; 1 Corinthians 1:27; 3:6-7 Isaiah 6:5; Proverbs 18:16; 29:25; Matthew 10:28; 2 Timothy 1:6-7)
 
What if the most powerful tool for sharing the Gospel is your own story?
In this lesson, Your Story, His Glory: Sharing the Gospel with Impact, we explore how your personal story of faith can powerfully point others to Jesus. Using the story of the blind man in John 9, we’ll discover that you don’t need to be a Bible scholar to be an effective witness—you simply need to share what Christ has done for you.
If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t know how to share my faith” or “I’m not qualified”—this lesson is for you! You’ll be encouraged and equipped to make an eternal impact.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 3Your Story, His Glory: Sharing the Gospel with Impact
 
I. Overcome ExcusesA. ​imposter ​syndrome ​excuse—“​I’m not qualified”B. ​sin ​excuse—“​I’m not good enough”C. ​fear of ​man ​excuse—“​I’m afraid of what they’ll say or do”D. ​effort ​excuse—“I don’t know how”II. Start the ConversationA. ​the ​gift ​methodB. ​the ​prayer ​methodC. ​the ​news ​break ​method
​D. the salesman method
III. Use Your Tools
 
Lesson 3 - Notes

The Dad Challenge (Mike Matheny)

Mike Matheny (former MLB Player & Manager) - Psalm 23:4; Genesis 1:1; Romans 3:23; 6:23; John 3:16
 
Mike Matheny shares his inspiring journey of faith and leadership, urging us to reach those around us with urgency and eternal impact. Through the lens of growing in Christ, fighting the good fight, loving others deeply, and serving selflessly, Mike challenges us to live out our calling with boldness and purpose.
 
​Father's Day at Fellowship - 2025
The Dad Challenge
 
1. Urgency
2. Impact
A. Grow
B. Fight
C. Love
D. Serve

The Gospel — The Good News That Changes Everything (Find & Follow: Lesson 2)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​​​​​​Romans 1:16; 3:10 & 23; 5:8; 6:23; 10:9, 13-15 & 17; 1 Corinthians 3:6; 15:1-4; John 3:16; 6:68; 8:32; 17:17; 18:36; 8:44; 2 Corinthians 4:3; Revelation 2:13; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:26; Genesis 1:3; Hebrews 4:12; Acts 1:8; 2:37; Mark 1:15; 4:3-14; Isaiah 55:11; Psalms 126:5; 1 John 4:4; Matthew 28:20
 
How do we reach the hearts of those who seem so far from God?
In this lesson, we explore the spiritual battle behind sharing the Gospel and why our efforts alone can’t change hearts—but God’s Word can. You’ll be encouraged to trust the power of the Gospel, rely on the Spirit, and boldly speak the truth with confidence. Evangelism isn’t about convincing—it’s about planting seeds and watching God bring the increase. Tune in and be reminded: you’re not alone in this mission, the Gospel is enough, and we can be faithful!
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 2The Gospel: The Good News That Changes Everything
 
I. We Are In A Spiritual WarA. we are on enemy territoryB. Satan has an agenda- he is a liar- he is a deceiverII. The Gospel Changes EverythingA. the Gospel holds powerB. the Gospel speaks to the heartC. the Gospel is truthIII. We Deliver the Gospel to the WorldA. we are all "preachers" / we proclaim and speak the Good NewsB. we must speak the GospelIV. We Can Have Confidence in the Sufficiency of the GospelA. trust in the power of the Gospel (the seed)B. rely on the power and help of the Spirit
 
Lesson 2 - Notes

Unexpected Truth: Chapter 3 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 3 (2 Corinthians 4:3-4; John 2:19 & 23-25; 3:1-17; 14:6; 1 Corinthians 1:17; Romans 10:9-11 & 13; Matthew 7:21-23)
 
One thing we all strive to know is the truth. This sounds basic and simple, but in a world of lies, we seek out to know the truth. There was a man in John 3 that came to Jesus to ask some questions, but the conversation went in a very unexpected direction. Jesus turns the encounter into a heart to heart conversation about eternal life. This man simply wanted to talk to Jesus, but he left that day with the truth that would change his life.  In a world filled with confusion and lies, Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the life!
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Truth
 
I. THE LIE: Being moral can save me
A. my good works will save me
B. my religious beliefs will save me
C. my heritage will save me
II. THE TRUTH: You must be born again
III. THE TRUTH: Salvation means being born again
A. salvation starts with conviction
B. salvation requires confession
C. salvation comes through believing
 
Illustration #1a: AI Image - Little girl in flood, in a boat with puppy
 
Illustration #1b: AI Image - President Trump walking in flood waters
 
Illustration #1c: AI Image - Pope in a puff jacket
 
Illustration #2a: Moses with bronze serpent on a pole
 
Illustration #2​b: Moses with bronze serpent on a pole

The Great Commission — A Call to Make & Be Disciples (Find & Follow: Lesson 1)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46-48; Acts 1:6-8; John 3:16-18; 14:15; 20:19-23
 
What kind of church do we want to be? Friendly, generous, serving—all of these are good, but if we want to be faithful to Jesus, there's one thing we must be: a disciple-producing church. In this lesson, we explore the Great Commission as found in Matthew 28 and echoed across the New Testament. Jesus calls us to a life of mission—preaching the Gospel so others can find Him, and obeying His commands so we can follow Him. This is more than a church mission statement—it's the heartbeat of the Christian life. Whether you’re a longtime believer or just beginning to explore faith, this conversation will inspire you to take your next step in the cycle of discipleship that multiplies and transforms.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 1The Great Commission: A Call to Make & Be Disciples
 
1. Make Disciples by Preaching the Gospel
2. Be Disciples by Obeying Jesus' Commands
 
Lesson 1 - Notes
 
Illustration #1: FBC Mission Statement
 
Illustration #2: Discipleship