Bible Study

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

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

A Short Study in the Psalms: Praise the Lord - Covenant Hope in Psalm 148 (Lesson 4)

Dave Steger (FBC Deacon) - ​​​​​​​Psalm 148 (Psalm 148:1-14; 1 Samuel 2:1-10; Luke 1:46-55; Revelation 5:13)
 
In this lesson, we explore the sweeping call to praise found in Psalm 148 and how it fits into the grand finale of the book of Psalms. As part of the final collection (Psalms 107–150), Psalm 148 invites all creation—heavenly and earthly—to join in celebrating the faithfulness of God. This isn’t just poetic worship—it’s a powerful declaration that God’s covenant promises are being fulfilled. Join us as we unpack how this Psalm, positioned near the end of Israel’s songbook, echoes a deep hope for restoration and reminds us that everything in creation is called to respond to God’s goodness with praise.
 
Series description:
“A Short Study on the Psalms” is a 4-week journey through one of the Bible’s most beloved and honest books. In Week 1, we explore the overall structure and design of the Psalms, helping us see how this ancient collection works as a unified whole. Then, over the next three weeks, we zoom in on selected Psalms that speak to real-life emotions—lament, trust, and worship—revealing how these songs give voice to our hearts and lead us toward deeper faith. Whether you’re new to the Psalms or reading them with fresh eyes, this series will help you experience them as both timeless poetry and practical prayer.
 
A Short Study in the PsalmsLesson 4 - Praise the Lord: Covenant Hope in Psalm 148
 
​I. A call to praise from the HeavensII. A call to praise from the EarthIII. The reason for praise
 
Outline

A Short Study in the Psalms: Lament & Longing (Lesson 3)

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - ​​​​​​​Psalms 73:1-28; 74:1-23; 89:1-52; 137:1-9
 
In this lesson, we explore the third book of the Psalms (Psalms 73–89), focusing on Psalms 73, 74, 137, and 89. These powerful poems give voice to deep grief, righteous anger, and unresolved questions—showing us that God welcomes our honesty, even when it's messy. Whether it’s confusion over injustice, sorrow over loss, or rage over oppression, these psalms remind us that lament is a faithful response and that God not only hears us—He understands how we feel.
 
Series description:
“A Short Study on the Psalms” is a 4-week journey through one of the Bible’s most beloved and honest books. In Week 1, we explore the overall structure and design of the Psalms, helping us see how this ancient collection works as a unified whole. Then, over the next three weeks, we zoom in on selected Psalms that speak to real-life emotions—lament, trust, and worship—revealing how these songs give voice to our hearts and lead us toward deeper faith. Whether you’re new to the Psalms or reading them with fresh eyes, this series will help you experience them as both timeless poetry and practical prayer.
 
A Short Study in the PsalmsLesson 3 - Lament & Longing
 
I. Psalm 73—Asaph’s StruggleII. Psalm 74—Asaph’s SongIII. Psalm 137—Lament in ExileIV. Psalm 89—Faithfulness

A Short Study in the Psalms: Psalm 22 (Lesson 2)

Dave Steger (FBC Deacon) - ​​​​​​​Psalm 22 (Psalm 22:1-31; Matthew 27:41-43 & 46; John 19:24 & 30; Hebrews 2:12)
 
Psalm 22 is a prophetic psalm that vividly portrays the suffering of Jesus Christ centuries before the crucifixion. Taking a verse-by-verse approach, this lesson highlights how David’s cries of anguish, rejection, physical torment, and ultimate hope mirror the experiences of Christ on the cross. From the haunting words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (v.1) to the vivid descriptions of pierced hands and mocked trust (vv. 7–18), each verse invites us to see Jesus’ pain not only as fulfillment of Scripture but as a reflection of His deep love for us. As we walk through this psalm, we also discover that Christ’s suffering brings us comfort in our own trials, a pathway to hope, and the assurance that God turns suffering into victory.
 
Series description:
“A Short Study on the Psalms” is a 4-week journey through one of the Bible’s most beloved and honest books. In Week 1, we explore the overall structure and design of the Psalms, helping us see how this ancient collection works as a unified whole. Then, over the next three weeks, we zoom in on selected Psalms that speak to real-life emotions—lament, trust, and worship—revealing how these songs give voice to our hearts and lead us toward deeper faith. Whether you’re new to the Psalms or reading them with fresh eyes, this series will help you experience them as both timeless poetry and practical prayer.
 
A Short Study in the PsalmsLesson 2 - Psalm 22
 
​1. Structure & Analysis
2. Verses 1-2: Abandonment
3. Verses 3-5: Trust in God's past faithfulness
4. Verses 6-8: Public Humiliation
5. Verses 9-11: Lifelong dependence on God
6. Verses 12-18: Physical & emotional agony
7. Verses 19-21: Urgent plea for rescue
8. Verses 22-26: Transition to praise
9. Verses 27-31: Universal worship & future hope
 
Outline

A Short Study in the Psalms: An Introductory Overview (Lesson 1)

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - ​​​​​​​Genesis 9:1-7; 12:1-3; 15; 17; Exodus 19-24; 2 Samuel 7; Psalm 1;6; 3:7-8; 8:1 & 9; 19:7; 24:1; 40:3; 42:1; 74:13-14; 89; 119; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8
 
This lesson explores the overall structure and intentional design of the Book of Psalms, helping us see how this ancient collection functions as more than just a random anthology of songs and prayers. We’ll discover how the Psalms are organized, how themes like worship, lament, kingship, and trust unfold across the collection, and how literary elements—such as parallelism, imagery, and poetic devices—enrich their message.By looking at the Psalms as a unified whole, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for how they guide God’s people in honest prayer, faithful worship, and hopeful anticipation of the Messiah.
 
Series description:
“A Short Study on the Psalms” is a 4-week journey through one of the Bible’s most beloved and honest books. In Week 1, we explore the overall structure and design of the Psalms, helping us see how this ancient collection works as a unified whole. Then, over the next three weeks, we zoom in on selected Psalms that speak to real-life emotions—lament, trust, and worship—revealing how these songs give voice to our hearts and lead us toward deeper faith. Whether you’re new to the Psalms or reading them with fresh eyes, this series will help you experience them as both timeless poetry and practical prayer.
 
A Short Study in the PsalmsLesson 1 - An Introductory Overview
 
I. Poetic techniques in the PsalmsII. The Story of the Psalms in its structureA. Book 1 (Psalms 1-41)B. Book 2 (Psalms 42-72)C. Book 3 (Psalms 73-89)D. Book 4 (Psalms 90-106)E. Book 5 (Psalms 107-150)III. A list of the covenantsIV. What can the Psalms teach us:A. power of languageB. the range of human emotionC. stories of redemption
 
Poetic Techniques in the Psalms
The Story of the Psalms in its Structure
A List of the Covenants

Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old Testament — Suffering & Salvation (Lesson 4)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​Luke 24:25-27,44-47​ (Luke ​23:46; 24:25-27,44-47​; Psalm ​2:1-12; 16:10; 22:1, 7-8 & 18; 31:5; 34:19-22; 41:5-10​; 69:4​; 110:4; John 13:16-19​; 15:20-25​; 19:32-37; Matthew 27:35, 39-43 & 46; Exodus 12:46; Zacheriah 12:10; Isaiah 53:1-12; Acts 4:24-31; 8:26-35; 13:26-33; 1 Peter 2:21-25; Hebrews 1:1-6; 5:5-6; Revelation 2:25-27)
 
In this lesson, we’re going to step into the shadow of suffering. Through the Psalms, Isaiah, and the voices of the prophets, we’ll see that the cross wasn’t a tragic twist in Jesus’ story—it was an essential part of it. You can’t have resurrection without death. And when we reflect on His suffering, we’re also invited to see His victory—and the unshakable hope we have because of Him.
 
Series description:
This series explores how key Old Testament events, symbols, and figures pointed forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection. By seeing how God wove the gospel into Israel’s history, we’ll deepen our appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
 
Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old TestamentLesson 4–Suffering & Salvation
 
I. Suffering in the PsalmsA. Psalm 69:4–Senseless ​hatred & ​rejectionB. Psalm 41:5-10–The ​attacks of the ​enemies and the ​betrayal of JudasC. Psalm 22–The Crucifixion--- ​1. Pierced hands and feet​--- ​2. Divided garments and cast lots​--- ​3. Mocking and ridicule​--- ​4. The cry from the crossD. Psalm 31:5–Jesus’ ​final ​wordsE. Psalm 34:19-22–No ​broken ​bones
II. The “Man of Sorrows” in Isaiah 53
III. The “Anointed One” in Psalm 2A. The ​attacks of Jesus’ ​enemiesB.Jesus the ​Eternal Son of GodC. Jesus the Risen SaviorD. Jesus the King Ruling with a Rod of Iron
 
Lesson 4 - Handout

Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old Testament — The Gospel According to the Passover (Lesson 3)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​Exodus 12:1-14 (Exodus 1:13-14; 6:6-7; 12:1-14 & 29; Matthew 21:8-11; 26:26-28 & 30; John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18-21; 2:21-25; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 11:26; Deuteronomy 16:3;  2 Corinthians 5:21; Psalm 118:21-29; Acts 4:10-12; 1 Timothy 2:3-6)
 
In one of the most powerful foreshadows of the cross in all of Scripture, God paints the Gospel across the doorframes of Exodus 12. In this lesson, we explore how the Passover—rich with symbolism and steeped in redemptive meaning—points unmistakably to Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God. From the selection of the lamb to the unleavened bread and bitter herbs, every detail of that first Passover proclaims the hope of the Gospel.
 
Series description:
This series explores how key Old Testament events, symbols, and figures pointed forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection. By seeing how God wove the gospel into Israel’s history, we’ll deepen our appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
 
Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old TestamentLesson 3—The Gospel According to the Passover
 
I. The Triumphal EntryII. The Lamb “Without Blemish”III. The Passover MealA. The Passover LambB. The Unleavened Bread​ (matzah)C. The Bitter HerbsD. The Cup​(s​) of WineE Singing of Songs
IV. The Lord’s TableV. The Application of the Blood
 
Lesson 3 - Handout

Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old Testament — Jesus from Cover to Cover (Lesson 2)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​Luke 24:25-27 & 44-47 (Luke 1:67-75; 24:25-27 & 44-47; John 1:1-5 & 14-17; 2:19-21; 3:14-15; 5:39; 6:32-35; Genesis 1:1-3 & 26-27; 3:13-15; 22:18; 14; 49:9-10; Galatians 3:6-9; 4:4-5; Isaiah 11:1-4; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Romans 5:6-21; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 15:45; Exodus 16:35; 17; Leviticus 16:32-34; Hebrews 3:1-6; 7; 10:1-10; Colossians 2:17; Psalm 110; Matthew 12:40; Numbers 21)
 
Every great story has a hero—the main character who drives the action and brings hope. So who’s the hero of the Bible?
In this lesson, we’ll discover together that the entire Bible is one big story with one central hero: Jesus! From Genesis to Revelation, we’ll trace how Jesus is present—from the creation of the world, to the promises of a coming Savior, to the powerful pictures and previews of Him throughout Scripture. Come ready to learn how Jesus isn’t just part of the story—He is the story!
 
Series description:
This series explores how key Old Testament events, symbols, and figures pointed forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection. By seeing how God wove the gospel into Israel’s history, we’ll deepen our appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
 
Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old TestamentLesson 2—Jesus From Cover to Cover
 
I. Jesus in CreationII. Jesus in the Promises of a SaviorA. The “seed of the women” who will crush the serpent's headB. A descendant of Abraham who brings blessing to the nationsC. A king from Tribe of Judah and the Line of DavidIII. Jesus in Types
A. Adam
B. manna in the wilderness
C. the Day of Atonement
 
Lesson 2 - Handout

Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old Testament — The Gospel Promised & Realized (Lesson 1)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​Colossians 2:6-17​ (Colossians 1:16-17; 2:6-17; Ephesians 2:19-22; Romans 4:1-10; Galatians 3:6-9; Genesis 3:13-24; 12:1-3; Luke 2:41-47; 4:14-21; 24:25-47; Matthew 5:17-19; John 2:19-22)
 
In this lesson, we want to establish the relationship between OT and NT by considering how Jesus viewed the OT, and how his approach influenced the apostles. We also want to begin to see some of the examples of the Gospel in the OT, starting at the very beginning of time!
Together, we will be challenged to see the Bible as the incredible story of God’s grace and redemption!
 
Series description:
This series explores how key Old Testament events, symbols, and figures pointed forward to Jesus’ death and resurrection. By seeing how God wove the gospel into Israel’s history, we’ll deepen our appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
 
Shadows: Seeing the Gospel in the Old TestamentLesson 1—The Gospel Promised & Realized
 
I. The Old Testament in the New TestamentII. Jesus and the Old TestamentA. Jesus Identified the OT as the Word of GodB. Jesus Argues the OT Testified of HimIII. The Gospel in the Beginning
 
Lesson 1 - Handout

Justice & Mercy: A Study in the Book of Amos --- An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation (Lesson 6)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​Amos 1:1-3 (Amos 1:1-3; 3:13-15; 5:14-24; 9:1-5 & 11-15; 2 Timothy 3:16; 1 Kings 11-12; 14:23-27; Acts 7:37-43 & 51-53; 15:13-19)
 
How do we rightly interpret Scripture? In this lesson, we explore the foundational principles of biblical interpretation, focusing on the importance of context—literary, historical, cultural, and theological. Using Amos 1:1-2, we uncover how God’s Word speaks with authority and relevance, revealing His justice, mercy, and redemptive plan. Together we will learn how a proper understanding of Scripture equips us for obedience and deepens our passion for personal Bible study!
 
Series description:
In this 5-part Bible study, we will explore the powerful themes of justice and mercy in the book of Amos.
As we study, we’ll see how God’s justice and mercy work in tandem to fulfill His purposes in the world. We’ll also challenge ourselves to live righteously, advocate for justice, and extend mercy to those around us. Together, we’ll discover that when God’s people live in this way, we actively participate in His great plan of redemption and restoration. Join us as we dive into the call to reflect God’s heart for justice and mercy in our lives today!
 
Justice & Mercy: A Study in the Book of AmosLesson 6: An Introduction to Biblical Interpretation
 
I. ContextA. Literary ContextB. Historical ContextC. Cultural ContextD. Big Picture Context
II. ContentA. PurposeB. Main Ideas & Themes
​--- 1. God's Justice and Righteous Judgement
​--- 2. God's Mercy and Faithfulness
​--- 3. God's Heart for His People
 
Lesson 6 - Handout

Justice & Mercy: A Study in the Book of Amos --- "I Will Build!" - Resting in the Hope of Restoration (Lesson 5)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​Amos 9:8-15 (Amos 5:10-15; 9:8-15; Jeremiah 23:5-6; Romans 5:7-11; Titus 3:3-7; Matthew 3:7-12; Acts 15:1-19; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5; 1 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; John 14:1-3; 1 Peter 1:3-14; Titus 2:11-15)
 
In this lesson, we explore God's promise of redemption and restoration, fulfilled in part through Jesus' death on the cross, and ultimately realized in His return. Through this passage, we see how God’s justice and mercy work together, offering hope not only for Israel, but for all who trust in Him. In light of this hope, we are called to live with faithfulness, urgency, and perseverance—pursuing justice, sharing the Gospel, and living as people who reflect God's kingdom until He comes again.
 
Series description:
In this 5-part Bible study, we will explore the powerful themes of justice and mercy in the book of Amos.
As we study, we’ll see how God’s justice and mercy work in tandem to fulfill His purposes in the world. We’ll also challenge ourselves to live righteously, advocate for justice, and extend mercy to those around us. Together, we’ll discover that when God’s people live in this way, we actively participate in His great plan of redemption and restoration. Join us as we dive into the call to reflect God’s heart for justice and mercy in our lives today!
 
Justice & Mercy: A Study in the Book of AmosLesson 5: "I Will Build!" - Resting in the Hope of Restoration
 
I. Who is the One Who Restores and Rebuilds?II. Who Are the People That Are Redeemed and Restored?III. How is the Restoration Described?IV. What Does This Hope of Restoration Mean for Us ​i​n the Present?
 
Lesson 5 - Handout