Fellowship Baptist Church

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

Unexpected Confrontation: Chapter 2 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 2 (John 1:4; 2:1-21; 10:10; 15:11; Exodus 30:19-21; Leviticus 11:32; Titus 3:5; Revelation 7:14; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
 
The beginning of the public ministry of Jesus was not what you would expect. John chapter two does not begin with a giant crowd, a public miracle, or a deep message from Jesus. It begins with John telling us the heart and mission of Jesus, but in an unexpected way. It begins at a party...a wedding celebration with friends and family. This story usually gets told from the perspective of the miracle of turning the water into wine. Yes, this is definitely a miracle, but the reason for this miracle is the real message. Before Jesus confronts the disorder of the temple worship, He teaches the disciples a powerful message about His purpose and mission. Then, Jesus steps into a crowd and confronts some issues in a way that they would never forget.
 
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 Confrontation
 
I. He came to cleanse
II. He came to fill us
III. He came to transform us
IV. He came to confront
A. you are the temple of God
B. you belong to God
C. God confronts what is not right

Continue: Just Do It! (AWANA Closing Program - 2025)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 2 Timothy 3:14-17
 
In a world full of distractions and detours, God’s Word calls us to one thing: continue.In this episode, we dive into 2 Timothy 3:14–17, where Paul urges believers to stay the course — to keep living the truth, learning the Scriptures, and leading others in faith. Whether you're tired, uncertain, or just need a push, this will challenge you. The mission isn’t over — so don’t quit now. Just do it.
 
Continue: Just Do It!1. Continue to live it2. Continue to learn it3. Continue to lead it
 
Illustration #1a: Adidas logo
 
Illustration #1b: Amazon logo
 
Illustration #1c: Apple logo
Illustration #1d: Beats logo
Illustration #1e: Chick-fil-A logo
Illustration #1f: Pepsi logo
Illustration #1g: Pringles logo
Illustration #1h: Spotify logo
Illustration #1i: Target logo
Illustration #1j: Xbox logo
 
Illustration #2: Nike Logo
 
Illustration #3a: 1988 Nike Commercial - 80 year old man running
 
Illustration #3b: Walt Stack - "Just do it"
 
Illustration #4: Chuck Stanfield at 5K finish line

Unexpected God: Chapter 1 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 1 (John 1:1-5, 10, 14 & 46; 2:11; 3:16; 6:13-14; 7:52; 10:30-31; 13:23; 19:26; 20:30-31; 21:7; Matthew 1:22; 1 John 4:7-8)
 
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 God
 
I. Jesus is God
II. Jesus is life
III. Jesus is love
 
Illustration #1a​: FBC Staff at Old Man's Cave (Hocking Hills)
 
Illustration #1b​: FBC Staff at Old Man's Cave (Hocking Hills)
 
Illustration #1ac: FBC Staff at Old Man's Cave (Hocking Hills)
 
Illustration #2: String Quartet
 
Illustration #3: A movie set with multiple camera shots
 
Illustration #4: Bios, Psuche & Zoe meanings

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

How can I know God's will? — BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions about life.

Pastor Bryce Copeland (Student Pastor) - Colossians 1:9-10; Romans 12:1-2; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Psalm 119:105; Mark 3:35; James 4:13-17
 
Ever feel like figuring out God’s will is like trying to solve a giant mysterious puzzle? The good news is—it’s not that complicated. God’s will isn’t a secret destination you have to unlock with the perfect job, relationship, or five-year plan. It’s a daily journey of walking with Him, guided by His Word and shaped by small, faithful steps. In this message, we dive into how God reveals His will as we obey what He’s already shown us, why we can’t follow both the world’s ways and God’s way, and how choosing Him leads to a life that actually brings purpose and satisfaction. 
 
Series description:
Did you know it’s totally okay to ask, “Why?”We all have questions—about life, suffering, God, and the hard stuff we go through. You’re not alone in that.
The amazing thing is, God isn’t afraid of our questions. In fact, He invites them—and He has real answers waiting for us in His Word. Let’s dig into some of life’s Big Questions and discover honest, hope-filled truth from God’s Word.
 
BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions About Life
"How can I know God's will?"
 
1. God's will is a journey, not a destination.
2. God's Word is our guide.
3. God reveals His will as we follow His revealed will.
4. You must choose between God's will and the world's way.

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

How do I make an impact? — BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions about life.

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Exodus 2:1-10 (Proverbs 9:10; 22:6; Exodus 1:17-22; 2:1-10; 15:20-21; Numbers 26:59; Hebrews 11:23)
 
There’s an unsung hero in the Bible who lived a simple life but made a profound difference. Her name is Jochebed. Do you know her story?
One of the biggest questions we face in life is this: “How can I make an impact?” Jochebed gives us a powerful example of how to do just that—even in the most difficult of times.
 
Series description:
Did you know it’s totally okay to ask, “Why?”We all have questions—about life, suffering, God, and the hard stuff we go through. You’re not alone in that.
The amazing thing is, God isn’t afraid of our questions. In fact, He invites them—and He has real answers waiting for us in His Word. Let’s dig into some of life’s Big Questions and discover honest, hope-filled truth from God’s Word.
 
BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions About Life
"How do I make an impact?"
 
I. Have a personal walk with God
A. fear the Lord
B. live with conviction
II. Live out your faith
III. Lead them to steps of faith

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

Do I really need the church? — BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions about life.

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Ephesians 2:19-22 (Ephesians 2:1-9 & 19-22; 4:1-3, 11-16 & 32; Matthew 16:13-19; 18:15-17; Revelation 7:9-10; Acts 2:6-8 & 41-42; Hebrews 10:23-25; Genesis 2:18; 1 Peter 1:22; Galatians 5:13; 6:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; James 5:16)
 
With so many ways to access faith content and explore spirituality on your own, the local church can start to feel unnecessary—or even burdensome. But is that really true? In this message, we unpack why the local church still matters deeply and why belonging to one is essential for every follower of Jesus. If you’ve been hurt, grown disconnected, or just feel unsure about its value, this message offers more than guilt or pressure—it paints a biblical, hope-filled vision of what the church is meant to be: a spiritual family, a holy temple, and a place where God dwells among His people.
 
Series description:
Did you know it’s totally okay to ask, “Why?”We all have questions—about life, suffering, God, and the hard stuff we go through. You’re not alone in that.
The amazing thing is, God isn’t afraid of our questions. In fact, He invites them—and He has real answers waiting for us in His Word. Let’s dig into some of life’s Big Questions and discover honest, hope-filled truth from God’s Word.
 
BIG QUESTIONS: Answering Big Questions About Life
"Do I really need the church?"
 
I. Church is Jesus' idea
II. We need ​'the together​'
III. Jesus is still building His Church

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