Worship Service

Why PALM SUNDAY matters?

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Luke 19 (John 12:13; Luke 19:28-42; Exodus 12:3)
 
We know Easter Sunday is when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus—but what makes Palm Sunday so important?On this day, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, and the crowds welcomed Him by waving palm branches. Every detail of that moment pointed to something deeper: He came to conquer and to bring peace—but not in the way they expected.We celebrate Palm Sunday by praising God for sending us the King who conquered sin and brought us peace.
 
Why PALM SUNDAY matters?
Luke 19
Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor)
 
Illustration #1: Roman Coins
 

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Rock 'Em Sock 'Em — Learning to deal with conflict!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 4 (Jame 1:19; 3:18; 4:1-10; 1 John 4:20; Proverbs 16:7; Matthew 18:15-17 & 20)
 
If you have friends or are in a relationship, one thing is certain: conflict. We don’t always agree, and we don’t always get along. Sometimes, it feels like a battle, where we fight until we win. But the truth is, conflict is a natural part of life. The difference is, we don’t handle conflict the way the world does. We know that Satan seeks to divide us, as division goes against God’s plan. James teaches us that conflict is inevitable, but God has a plan for how to handle it. Our relationships don’t have to be a battle like Rock'em Sock'em robots!
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Rock 'Em Sock 'Em — Learning to deal with conflict!
James 4
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Rock 'Em Sock 'Em — Learning to deal with conflict!
 
I. Start with you
II. Reject the world's way
III. Make things right with God
A. humble yourself
B. submit to God
IV. Make things right with others
A. make the first move
B. use the power of humility
C. listen for their hurts
D. if they resist, bring someone with you
E. do what's right and leave the rest to God
 
Illustration #1: Building square tool
 

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Scrabble — Using the words that have the most value!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 3:8-18 (James 3:8-18; Luke 6:45; Proverbs 15:4; 18:21; Ephesians 4:29-30 & 32)
 
The goal of Scrabble is to create high-value words to win the game. Not all words carry the same weight—some have a greater impact than others. This principle applies to life as well. In James chapter 3, it is explained that we can use our words to bless or curse—meaning we have the power to either build up or tear down. Our words have the ability to either uplift or hurt others. God has given us the power to positively influence and change lives through our words. The question is: do we choose words that glorify God and encourage others, or do we give in to our flesh and use words that cause harm?
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Scrabble — Using words that have the most value!
James 3:8-18
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Scrabble — Using words that have the most value!
 
I. Your words reflect your heart
II. Your words hold power
III. Your words make a difference
A. use your words to build people
B. use your words to deliver grace
 
Illustration #1: The game Wordle
 
Illustration #2: The game Words with Friends
 
Illustration #3: The game of Scrabble

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Watch Ya Mouth — Controlling your mouth!)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - James 3:1-8 (James 3:1-8; Matthew 12:36; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Galatians 6:7-9; Proverbs 10:19; 17:27-28; Psalm 19:14)
 
Ever played the game Watch Ya Mouth? It’s hilarious when words get jumbled—but in real life, what comes out of our mouths is no joke! Words have power—they can build up or tear down, encourage or hurt. Let's dive into James 3:1-8 to talk about the impact of our words and how we can use them wisely. Don't miss this meaningful and practical message!
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Watch Ya Mouth — Controlling your mouth!
James 3:1-8
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Watch Ya Mouth — Controlling your mouth!
 
I. Respect the Power of Words
A. words bring judgement
B. words define us
C. words have exponential effect
II. Two Tips for Watching Your Mouth Wisely
A. you don't have to speak
B. but if you do, proceed with caution
 
Illustration #1​a: Pastor Chris Andrews & family on vacation in Chicago
 
Illustration #1​b: Pastor Chris Andrews & family on vacation in Chicago
 
Illustration #1​c: Pastor Chris Andrews & family on vacation in Chicago
 
Illustration #1d: Pastor Chris Andrews & family on vacation in Chicago
 
Illustration #2: Chicago Fire
 
Illustration #3: Close-up of a horse mouth
 
Illustration #4: Cruise ship rudder
 
Illustration #5: Fire

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Jenga — Faith in action!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 2:14-26 (James 2:14-26; Ephesians 2:8-9; Galatians 5:22; 6:10; Matthew 9:36; 1 John 3:16-1​8; Hebrews 10:38)
 
This is a direct question: Is your faith dead or alive? We’d naturally say our faith is alive, but James gives us a clear picture of what real faith looks like. Faith, or having Christ, always leads to action. It's more than just knowing about God or talking about Him; it's about living out the character of Jesus Christ. Faith means Christ is alive in you, and if He is, it will be evident! Faith is like playing Jenga. You can talk a big game, but winning requires action. You can’t just look at it—you have to make a move! Faith is action!
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Jenga — Faith in action!
James 2:14-26
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Jenga — Faith in action!
 
I. Is your faith dead?
A. do you talk about faith, but take no action?
B. do you respond to needs?
II. Is your faith real?
A. real faith obeys despite uncertainty
B. real faith challenges us all
 
Illustration #1: Someone playing Jenga
 
Illustration #2a: FBC Staff playing Jenga on a trip
 
Illustration #2b: FBC Staff playing Jenga on a trip
 
Illustration #2c: FBC Staff playing Jenga on a trip
 

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Chess — Every person matters!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 2:1-9 (James 2:1-9; 3:9; 5:13-14 & 16; John 15:12; Romans 2:11; 1 Peter 4:8-9)
 
Chess may not be everyone's favorite game. Honestly, most people probably prefer checkers. Chess requires thinking ahead, understanding the role and limits of each piece, strategizing, and being two steps ahead of your opponent. In our eyes, the queen holds more value because she has more power and mobility. We rely on our knights, so we protect them. But when it comes to pawns, we don't mind if they get taken. Sometimes, we even see pawns as obstacles in our way. We assign different values to our chess pieces based on what they offer us.But is this the same with the people in our lives? Do we value people differently? Of course, we have those we are closer to, but this isn't just about relationships or bonds. The reality is, God created us all, died for all, and loves us all. As Christians, our mission is to not play favorites but to ensure the world knows that every person matters to God.
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Chess — Every person matters!
James 2:1-9
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Chess — Every person matters!
 
I. It matters to God how we treat people
II. We are to treat people with value
III. People ought to experience Jesus through us
--- A. we look to Jesus as our example
--- B. we are to love like Jesus
 
Illustration #1: Logan Liuzzo playing chess
 
Illustration #2: Chess pieces

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Simon Says — Be a doer!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 1:19-22 (James 1:19-25; Romans 10:17; 2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12; Luke 6:38; Psalms 23:3; Matthew 7:26-29)
 
Many of us remember playing the game "Simon Says" as children. The rules were simple: follow the leader, Simon, only when he says "Simon says." If Simon didn't say it, we didn't do it. But today, we aren't talking about "Simon says" — we're talking about what God says. In the book of James, we’re given straightforward instructions for living a successful life: just do what God tells us to do. We may be good at going to church and hearing God’s word, but it only works if we actually put it into practice.
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Simon Says — Be a doer!
James 1:19-22
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Simon Says — Be a doer!
 
Being a doer:
I. Doing starts with hearing
A. the Word of God is our final authority
B. the Word of God is our instruction
C. the Word of God gives life
II. Doing is obedience
III. Doing brings blessings
 
Illustration #1: Facebook Marketplace ad for Treadmill
 
Illustration #2a: Man running on treadmill
 
Illustration #2b: Man running on treadmill
 
Illustration #3: Facebook Marketplace ad for ​Treadmill
 
Illustration #4: Man looking in a mirror
 

Children of Light

Pastor Bryce Copeland (Student Pastor) - Ephesians 5:1-21 (Ephesians 4:21-24; 5:1-21; Matthew 5:14)
 
Is there a more radical difference than the difference between light and darkness? -- Darkness hides, light reveals. Darkness is confusing, light is clarifying. Darkness is hopeless, light is hopeful. Darkness shows no path, light reveals the way. In Ephesians, Paul calls those who follow Jesus "children of light." What does this mean? Let's find out together!
 
Children of Light
 
3 ways to cover your light
1. sexual immorality and impurity
2. greed
3. inappropriate speech
 
12 ways to share your light
1. walk in love
2. practice goodness
3. practice righteousness
4. share the truth
5. abstain from fruitless works of darkness
6. shine light in the darkness
7. redeem the time
8. understand the will of the Lord
9. live spirit filled
10. worship God
11. practice thankfulness
12. submit to one another in the fear of Christ

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Angry Birds — Don't blow up!)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 1:19-21; 4:7-10; 5:16; Numbers 12:9; Ephesians 4:26; Proverbs 14:16-17; 29:22; 31:28; 1 John 1:9; Galatians 5:16, 19-20 & 22-23; Psalms 141:3
 
Did you know that anger isn’t a sin? It’s a natural, human emotion we all experience. The issue isn’t getting angry—it’s when we blow up. When we lose our temper, we say things we regret and hurt those around us. James addresses this issue directly, pointing out the damage it can cause, but also offering hope for overcoming it. It’s okay to feel angry, but let’s learn how not to blow up!
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Angry Birds — Don't blow up!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Angry Birds — Don't blow up!
 
How to stop blowing up...
I. See the damage you are causing
II. Humble yourself
--- A. confess your anger to God
--- B. make things right with others
III. Be controlled by the Spirit
IV. Make changes in your life
 
Illustration #1: ​Sketch of Angry Birds concept
 
Illustration #2: ​Angry Birds Game

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Battleship — Preparing of spiritual warfare.)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Peter 2:11; James 1:13-17; Psalms 37:23; Ephesians 6:12; Matthew 26:41; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:22; 1 John 1:9
 
Have you ever felt like you're under attack? If so, it's because you are. We are constantly engaged in a spiritual battle. Just like in the game Battleship, there are strategic attacks aimed at taking you down—and yes, you are a target. In this context, James offers wisdom on how to resist temptation and stand firm against the evil forces that oppose us. But it's important to remember, Satan isn’t the only enemy we face. The real question is: Do you know who you're fighting? You can experience victory by living out God’s Word and standing strong in His truth.
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Battleship — Preparing for Spiritual Warfare.
 
How to prepare for spiritual warfare...
I. Address the source of temptation
A. temptation will never come from God
B. Satan is behind the evil of this world
C. our greatest enemy with temptation is us
 
II. Know how temptation works
A. it captures our attention
B. we deceive ourselves
C. we decide to sin
D. sin runs its course
E. sin destroys
 
III. Embrace God's victory over temptation
A. abstain from temptation
B. choose God's way
C. if you mess up, there is hope

The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James (Trouble — Dealing with life's difficulties.)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - James 1:1-5 & 8; Job 14:1; Romans 8:28
 
Have you ever played the game Trouble? The goal is to make it around the board without running into trouble. Trouble happens when someone lands on your spot and sends your piece back to the start. Trouble is simply part of the game—and part of life. So, what do we do when trouble comes into our lives? Often, a spiritual battle breaks out in our minds, and we ask, "Why is God doing this to me?" The book of James not only explains the reason for trouble, but also shows us how to handle these difficult times. We need studies like this because the world is full of trouble.
 
Series description:
Who doesn’t enjoy playing board games? Many of us have fond memories of family game nights, filled with laughter, competition, and fun. At the heart of it, games are enjoyable because they often reflect real-life situations. We strive to win, get ahead, but like life, games come with ups, downs, setbacks, and challenges.
The book of James is full of practical wisdom for navigating everyday life. It addresses issues like trouble, conflict, the words we speak, anger, and how to live out our faith. In this study, we’ll use popular games as illustrations to explore the lessons James teaches. Come ready to take notes, follow along, and learn how to succeed in the game of life!
 
The Games of Life: A Study in the Book of James
Trouble — Dealing with life's difficulties.
 
How to deal with life's difficulties...
I. You must have the right mindset
II. Walk with God through the trial
A. don't quit
B. surrender to God
III. Ask God for understanding
 
Illustration #1: ​Mouse Trap
 
Illustration #2: ​Operation
 
Illustration #3: ​Perfection
 
Illustration #4: ​Frustration (version of Trouble found around the world)
 
Illustration #5: Headache
 
Kid Cries After Paying Monopoly Taxes
Illustration #6: Kid Cries After Paying Monopoly Taxes (@ChilloutJoy)

Missions 2025 :: Jesus for Everyone

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Acts 9 (Acts 9:1-2, 10-16, 20 & 31)
 
When you hear stats like 3.4 billion people live in unreached people groups, it can feel overwhelming. That's a huge number of people who don’t know Jesus! It’s easy to think, “This is just too much.” But here’s a reminder: your job isn’t to reach all of them. Our role is to take simple steps of obedience as God leads us. God has a plan, and we get to be part of it. Trust and obey—that’s our part. This isn’t just about missions; it applies to every area of our lives.
 
Missions 2025
The gospel isn’t just for you and your family—it’s for every person, everywhere. This month, join us for a special missions emphasis as we explore how to share the love of Jesus with the world. Together, we’ll learn, grow, and commit to taking His message to everyone we can reach.
 
Jesus for Everyone!
 
I. Involves You
II. Takes Obedience
III. Requires Action
IV. Takes Faith
 
Illustration #1: Map of Israel
 
Illustration #2: Map of Paul's Missionary Journeys
 
Illustration #3: Map of Paul's Missionary Journeys (circle around Jerusalem/Judea)
 
Illustration #4: Roman Road
 
Illustration #5: Roman Bridge