Bible Study

Remember To Grow: Remember the Word of God (Lesson 2)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 2 Peter 1:16-21 (2 Peter 1:3-4 & 16-21; 2:1; 3:3-5a; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; 1 Peter 2:1-3; Matthew 17; 28:18-20; Mark 9; John 14:6)
 
The Word of God (the Bible) is absolutely necessary for our spiritual growth and formation.
In this lesson, we’ll explore three foundational doctrines of Scripture: inspiration, inerrancy, and sufficiency. We’ll discover that the Bible is the product of God’s working through ordinary people like you and me. We’ll learn that Scripture provides everything we need to know God and live in accordance with His will. We’ll also reaffirm that God’s Word is absolute truth, and we can trust it completely. Ultimately, we’ll see that prioritizing God’s Word is vital to our spiritual development!
 
Remember to Grow: A Study in 2 PeterRemember the Word of God (Lesson 2)
2 Peter 1:16-21
I. God’s Word is Divinely InspiredII. God’s Word is Completely SufficientIII. God’s Word is Totally Inerrant
 
Notes
 
Series description:
How can we grow spiritually and make progress in our Christian lives?
In this study of the book of 2 Peter, we will learn that spiritual growth and formation does not happen because we get some new revelation from God, or because we discover a hidden secret that unlocks the blessed life. Spiritual growth and formation happens when we remember the truth that has already been revealed to us, and respond to it with faithfulness and obedience. We do not need something new, but instead we need to renew our commitment to the way of Jesus!
We need to remember so that we can grow!

Remember To Grow: Remember that God is working (Lesson 1)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 2 Peter 1:1-15 (2 Peter 1:1-15; 3:1-2 & 18; Romans 3:19-27; 5:12-21; Philippians 2:12; 3:7-11; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 & 14-20; 13:13; Mark 12:28-31; John 13:34-35)
 
In this first lesson, we’ll explore how God is continually at work in our lives. We'll be reminded that salvation is entirely the result of God's love and grace—it is His work alone that saves us! Not only does God save us, but He transforms us from the inside out, making us new rather than just better. We’ll also see that God’s plan for us begins with inner transformation, leading to outward change. Ultimately, spiritual growth is the ongoing work of God, and He is always at work in our lives.
 
Remember to Grow: A Study in 2 PeterRemember That God is Working (Lesson 1)
2 Peter 1:1-15
I. God’s Work For Us—SalvationII. God’s Work In Us—Transformation
A. grace and peace
B. the knowledge of God
C. Jesus our Lord
D. divine power
E. called to glory and virtue
F. great and precious promises
G. divine natureIII. God’s Work Through Us—Formation
 
Notes
 
Series description:
How can we grow spiritually and make progress in our Christian lives?
In this study of the book of 2 Peter, we will learn that spiritual growth and formation does not happen because we get some new revelation from God, or because we discover a hidden secret that unlocks the blessed life. Spiritual growth and formation happens when we remember the truth that has already been revealed to us, and respond to it with faithfulness and obedience. We do not need something new, but instead we need to renew our commitment to the way of Jesus!
We need to remember so that we can grow!

Why Believe? — Answers to Tough Questions. (Week 9)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) & Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - Isaiah 45:5-12 & 20-22; Romans 11:33-36; Matthew 5:17-18; Luke 24:27 & 44; 2 Peter 1:16-21; 3:14-16; 1 Timothy 3:14-17; Acts 9:7; 22:9; Genesis 1:21, 24-25 & 27; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 15:25-26; 21:8; Ephesians 4:15; Proverbs 14:12; Jeremiah 17:9; Job 40:15-18; 41:1; Isaiah 27:1; Revelation 20:11-15
 
In this lesson, Pastor Matt Hodge and Pastor Chris Andrews will take some time to answer some questions that have been submitted throughout the summer. Included are questions like, “What is the ontological argument for God’s existence?” and “Are there dinosaurs in the Bible?”
We want to challenge ourselves to think deeply, and ask difficult questions!
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible“Answers to Tough Questions.”1. What is the ontological argument for God's existence?2. Why do we not recognize the Apocrypha, or the 'Gnostic gospels' as inspired Scripture?3. How do we address passages in the New Testament that appear to contradict each other, such as the story of Paul’s conversion?4. How can we address the issue of transgenderism from Scripture?5. Are there dinosaurs in the Bible? How do we account for the existence of dinosaurs in relation to the biblical account of creation?6. What does it mean when it says in Revelation 20:14 “….death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” Are death and hell two different places?
 
Notes
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — Has Science Disproved Christianity? (Week 8)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Psalm 19:1-3; 139:13-16; 150:6; Romans 1:18-20; Colossians 1:16-17; Genesis 1:1, 11-13 & 20-27; 2:7; John 1:1-3; Isaiah 42:5; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 1:1-3; 2 Peter 1:16-21; Ephesians 2:1-10
 
Has science disproved Christian beliefs, and do we have to choose between being a person of faith and person of reason and science?
In this lesson, we will explore the relationship between Christianity and science, providing a Scriptural perspective. By revisiting the doctrine of revelation, we will discover how scientific inquiry can reveal evidence of God's existence and power in nature. We will also address the major areas of tension between science and Christianity, demonstrating how our faith not only withstands the challenges posed by modern science but also offers the most compelling answers to some of life's most important questions.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible“Has Science Disproved Christianity?”I. The Relationship Between Christianity and ScienceII. The Tension Between Christianity and ScienceA. The Origin of the Universe and Life on EarthB. Miracles
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: John 5:19-21
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination? (Week 6)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - Deuteronomy 7:1-2; 10:17; 15:12-18; 19:11-13; Joshua 6:21; 1 Samuel 15:3; Psalm 97:10; Matthew 5:9 & 43-48; Luke 4:18; 6:27-36; Romans 2:11; 12:19-21; Exodus 21:1-11; Leviticus 25:39-46; Acts 10:34; 17:26; Galatians 3:28; 1 John 4:7-8; Genesis 1:26-27; James 2:1-4; 1 Timothy 2:11-12; 3:1-2; Titus 1:5-6; Proverbs 31:10; Ephesians 5:25-28; 6:9; I Peter 1:17; 3:7; Colossians 3:25
 
Have you ever heard someone say that the Bible teaches something hateful and bigoted? How do we respond to these types of attacks?
In this lesson, we will address some of the most common accusations of hate and discrimination that are directed toward the Bible and Christianity. We will see that these criticisms are often rooted in a fundamental misunderstanding of what the Bible says. Ultimately, we will be challenged to take seriously our responsibility to demonstrate the love of God through our words and actions!
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleDoes the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?
I. Does the Bible Promote Hatred and ViolenceII. Does the Bible Promote Slavery or Racial InjusticeIII. Does the Bible Promote Discrimination Against Women?
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: Matthew 22:37-39
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — Can We Trust the Bible? (Week 5)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - Genesis 3:1-6; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 12:6-7; 22:16-18; Isaiah 40:8; 53:3-5; Matthew 5:18; 28:19-20; 24:35; 1 Peter 1:24-25; Micah 5:2; Daniel 9:25-26; Zechariah 11:12-13; Romans 1:16-17; John 1:1-12; 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9; Joshua 24:15
 
The reliability of God’s Word is something that has been questioned from the very beginning when the devil tempted Eve in the Garden.
In this lesson, we will reaffirm our belief in the doctrine of divine inspiration. We will see how God miraculously preserved His Word throughout the centuries, and how its reliability is demonstrated through fulfilled prophecy, archaeological evidence, and the testimony of lives changed!
Can we trust the Bible? Yes we can!!
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleCan We Trust the Bible?
I. The Bible’s Divine Inspiration and Preservation
II. Historical and Archaeological Evidence
III. The Bible’s Prophetic Accuracy
IV. The Bible’s Transformational Impact
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: Psalm 12:6-7
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — How Can a Loving God Send People to Hell? (Week 4)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:15; Psalm 18:30; 34:8; 135:3; 1 John 1:5; 4:8, 10 & 16; 2 Timothy 4:8; Deuteronomy 32:4; Colossians 3:25; Revelation 5:9; 14:11; 20:1, 10 & 13-14; 21:8; Matthew 22:13; 24:51; 25:41; Luke 16:19-29; 19:10; James 3:6; Romans 1:20; 3:23; 5:9 & 12; 6:23; 10:9-10 & 13; 14:11; John 1:4-7; 3:16-18; 9:4-5; 14:6; Mark 9:43; 16:15; Genesis 2:9 & 16; 3:1, 6 & 23-24; 2 Peter 3:9; Acts 4:12; Hebrews 2:1-3
 
If God is so loving, why would He send anyone to Hell?
In this lesson, we will learn from Scripture that Hell is a real place and that those who do not know God will go there. We will explore how this represents a just judgment for our sins, but also how God’s love provides a path for forgiveness and eternal life with Him. Ultimately, God desires everyone to spend eternity with Him and does not want anyone to face the judgment of Hell.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleHow Can a Loving God Send People to Hell?
I. Why Was Hell Created--- A. Hell was created by God for Satan and the Fallen Angels--- B. Hell was created to deal with sin and suffering
II. What is Hell?--- A. Hell is a place of eternal punishment--- B. Hell is a place of pain--- C. Hell is place of eternal death--- D. Hell is a place of separation--- E. Hell is a place of falling--- F. Hell is a place of conscience--- G. Hell is a place of darkness--- H. Hell is eternal
 
III. Why Would a Loving God Send People to Hell?
--- A. Does God "send" people to Hell?
--- B. How could a "loving" God send people to Hell?
 
IV. What About People That Have Never Heard the Gospel?
--- A. God uses creation to open their eyes to God
--- B. God has saved us and given us the job of telling them about Jesus
--- C. People must call upon Jesus to be saved
--- D. Every nation is represented in Heaven
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 2 Peter 3:9
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — Why Would a Good God Allow Suffering and Evil in the World? (Week 3)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:15​; 5:7; Psalm ​18:2; 34:8​; 135:3​; 145:9​; Genesis 1:4​ & 26​; 2:9 & 16-17; 3:1, 6 & 17-19; 1 John 4:8​, 16 & 19​; Romans 5:12; 8:28; 10:9-10; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; John 3:16; 14:15 & 23; 15:10; 16:33; Joshua 24:15​; Matthew 10:1; 22:33-40; Acts 8:1-4; 9:31; 12:24; 14:27; 17:6; Philippians 1:20​; 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 1:3; Revelation 21:4-5; Isaiah 53:5; Hebrews 4:16
 
Have you ever found yourself asking, "God, why would you allow that to happen?"
In this lesson, we will explore how the sin and suffering in our world comes from the Fall of Man. We will also be reminded of God's enduring love and sovereignty as we navigate life's challenges. Lastly, we will discuss practical ways to support those dealing with the question of suffering.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleWhy Would a Good God Allow Suffering and Evil in the World?
I. If God is All Powerful, Good, and Loving, Why Did He Allow Sin?--- A. Why sin? Because of free will.--- B. Why ​free will? Because of love.--- C Why love? Because God is love.II. Why Does God Allow the Suffering to Continue, Even When I ​Pray for Help?--- A. God uses temporary suffering to do eternal work​.--- B. God uses suffering to change others​.--- C. God uses suffering to change ​us​.--- D. God’s ultimate plan for healing is heaven​.
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — How Can We Know God Exists? (Week 2)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Genesis 1:1 & 26-31; Psalm 19:1-2; 50:1-2; Romans 1:18-21; 2:14-15; Hebrews 1:1-3; Isaiah 42:5; John 1:1-3; Exodus 20:13; Revelation 4:11; Colossians 1:16-17; 1 Timothy 3:16
 
In this lesson, we will work together to address one of the fundamental questions of life, “Does God exist?” As we begin, we will consider the Christian doctrine of revelation and we will see that our belief in God’s existence is based on the fact that God has made Himself known to us.
 
We will then lay out several historical arguments for God’s existence based on philosophy, logic and Scripture, with the ultimate goal being to equip ourselves with compelling, Scriptural answers to this absolutely critical question.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleHow Can We Know God Exists?
I. The Doctrine of Revelation--- A. General Revelation--- B. Special RevelationII. Historical Arguments for God’s Existence--- A.The Cosmological Argument--- B. The Design Argument--- C. The Beauty Argument--- D. The Moral Argument--- E. The Uniqueness of Humanity ArgumentIII. Common Objections to God’s Existence--- A. The Naturalism Objection--- B. The “Hiddenness of God” Objection
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: Genesis 1:26-27
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Why Believe? — Introduction to Apologetics (Week 1)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:8-9 & 14-15; 5:5-9; Jude 1:3; Matthew 22:15-33; Luke 24:13-27; Acts 1:8; 17:1-4 & 16-34; Titus 3:2-9; Romans 1:15-16; Nehemiah 8:8; Ephesians 6:18-20; 1 Peter 3:8-9
 
In an age marked by growing skepticism, people are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves so that we can offer compelling answers to these questions.
One word historically used to describe engagement with difficult questions is apologetics. In this lesson, we will explore the concept of Christian apologetics, examine an example of this engagement from Jesus during His public ministry, and consider practical ways we can apply apologetics in our own lives
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleIntroduction to Apologetics
I. Apologetics DefinedII. Apologetics Exemplified--- A. Jesus the Teacher--- B. The Apostles--- C. The Priority of GospelIII. Apologetics Practiced--- A. Witnessing--- B. The Study of Scripture--- C. Prayer--- D. Humility
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 3:14-15
 
Series description:
In an age marked by growing skepticism, individuals are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves to provide thoughtful responses to these inquiries.
Join us this summer for a teaching series we are calling, "Why Believe?: Answering Big Questions About God & the Bible," as we embark on a journey to equip ourselves with Scriptural insights to help us give an answer for our faith. Each week will include engaging lectures, and opportunities to discuss the topics further in small groups!  
Together, we will explore big questions like, “Does the Bible Promote Hate and Discrimination?”, “Has Science Disproved Christianity?”, and “How Can A Loving God Send People to Hell?”. By facing these questions head on, we will prepare ourselves to engage an increasingly skeptical culture with Scriptural, and well-reasoned answers!

Gospel Change: A Gospel Centered Church

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 (1 Thessalonians 5:12-28; 1 Timothy 5:17; Mark 9:33-35; 16:15; Philippians 2:5-11; Matthew 28:20; 1 Peter 3:8-11; 1 Peter 1:8-9, Matthew 6:5a, Galatians 4:16, Hebrews 5:11-14)
 
As Paul brings the letter to a close, he challenges the believers to be a different kind of people. His words encourage us to prioritize servant leadership over mere talents and gifts. We are called to actively engage in the lives of others through discipling and mentoring, and to embrace a life of obedience to Jesus and His commands. The result is a local church that reflects the power and beauty of the Gospel!
 
Series description:
We believe the Gospel has the power to change lives, but how often do we see this transformational power in the lives of people we know?In this series, we will consider the example of Paul’s Gospel preaching ministry in the ancient city of Thessalonica. As we study 1 Thessalonians, we will see the difference the Gospel makes, and be challenged with practical steps that we can take to become more effective Gospel witnesses! Our world is desperate for real change—Gospel Change!
 
Gospel Change"A Gospel Centered Church"1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
Handout/Outline
 
I. Servant leadership is valuedII. Discipleship is practicedA. confront those who are doing wrongB. help those who are strugglingC. Be patient and forgiving toward everyoneIII. The sanctified life is pursuedA. what we should say yes toB. what we should say no toC. what we all need

Gospel Change: A Gospel Hope

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:1-11 (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; 4:13-18; 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 15:1-3 & 11-22; Luke 4:16-21; Hebrews 9:24-28; 10:23-25; Ephesians 4:1-3 & 21-32; John 11:32-36; Romans 10:13-14; 12:10-15; 13:10-13; Matthew 5:4; 1 Peter 1:3-9)
 
We have hope because of the Gospel!
 
In this study, we will see how a believer can have hope even in the face of the certainty of death, and the uncertainty of the future! We will be challenged to allow this hope to not only give us peace in our grief, but to motivate us to lives of continued faithfulness!
 
Series description:
We believe the Gospel has the power to change lives, but how often do we see this transformational power in the lives of people we know?In this series, we will consider the example of Paul’s Gospel preaching ministry in the ancient city of Thessalonica. As we study 1 Thessalonians, we will see the difference the Gospel makes, and be challenged with practical steps that we can take to become more effective Gospel witnesses! Our world is desperate for real change—Gospel Change!
 
Gospel Change"A Gospel Hope"1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:1-11
Handout/Outline
 
I. Comfort one anotherA. the Gospel is a message of hopeB. Our hope is reaffirmed in communityII. Edify one anotherA. the Gospel is the message that everyone needs to hearB. our hope should motivate us to action