Fellowship Baptist Church

BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world. (Priorities)

Pastor Bryce Copeland (Student Pastor) - Matthew 6 (Matthew 6:1-34)
 
In this series we’ve been looking at what it means to be light—working to lighten our souls to be lights in the world. In this episode, we will look at Matthew 6 and identify four more things that can weigh us down.
 
Series description: Christians are called to be salt and light. Salt is savory, light is seen and bright. When we are lighting the world as we are called to, the world around us sees our good works and is influenced to glorify God. Unfortunately, our souls can get heavy with sin and distractions that keep us from being the light.
In this three-week journey, we will explore how the burdens of life and the world have dimmed our light, hindering our ability to radiate the love and message of Jesus. Discover the wisdom Jesus imparts to lift the burdens of our souls, enabling us to shine brightly as beacons of hope in a darkened world. Rediscover how to lighten your soul and embrace your role as the salt and light of the world.
 
 
BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world.
Priorities 
 
4 Rocks of Matthew 6
1. Performance
— charitable/righteous deeds
— prayer
— fasting
2. Unforgiveness
3. Materialism
4. Anxiety
 
There are two paths to take:
— Keep your priorities straight. Seek God's Kingdom and let everything else fall in line.
— Seek first my kingdom, and my sinful desires, and culture's lies.
 
CHALLENGE
"Be bold enough to identify what is weighing you down, and humble enough to give it over to God."

Understanding Salvation and Eternal Security (Week 1)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - 1 Corinthians 16:19-20 & 22; Galatians 1:6-9; 2:16; 4:5-6; Romans 3:10-12 & 23; 5:1 & 12; 6:23; 8:30; Genesis 2:15-17; Isaiah 59:1-2; 64:6; John 1:12 & 29; 3:3, 16 & 36; 6:47; 10:27-29; 14:6; Luke 16:19-31; Matthew 16:24; 25:41; Revelation 21:8; 1 Peter 1:5; 3:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17 & 21; 1 John 2:2; 4:10; Hebrews 9:12 & 22; Acts 4:12; Ephesians 2:1 & 8-9; 4:30; Mark 1:15; 2:17; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Philippians 3:20-21
 
Welcome to the first episode of our summer teaching series, Discipleship Deep Dive. Today, Pastor Chris will teach us about salvation and eternal security in Christ. He will answer some vital questions, such as: Why do we need salvation? How can we be saved? What does salvation do for us? How can we be sure that we are saved forever? He will also show us some powerful scriptures and illustrations that will help us grasp the amazing gift of God’s grace. This series is for everyone who wants to deepen their understanding and appreciation of God’s love and grace. Don’t miss it!
 
Discipleship Deep Dive: Week 1"Understanding Salvation and Eternal Security"
1. Why is salvation necessary for mankind?2. How can a person be saved?3. What does salvation accomplish?4. How can we have confidence that our salvation is secure forever?
 
Family Guide
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: John 10:27-28
 
Series description:
Welcome to Discipleship Deep Dive! 
We are excited to offer this summer training program designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to grow in your faith and effectively share the Gospel with others. 
During each session, our pastors and leaders will provide engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and practical application opportunities to help you grow in your understanding of the Christian faith and develop the skills you need to share your faith with confidence. 
We are offering these summer equipping sessions as a way for the whole family to strengthen their faith. Adults, students, and kids will study the same topic every night this summer. And you will go home with a family discussion guide to aid you in quality family discussions. 
Commit to the training you need to be ready to be disciples of Jesus in today's world!

BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world. (Following Jesus in my lifestyle)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - Matthew 5 (Matthew 5:9 & 13-48; 16:24; Ecclesiastes 7:9; Romans 5:8; 12:19-21; Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9)
 
Let's explore what it means to be the light of the world! Discover how you can put Jesus’ teachings into practice in your everyday life. Come and learn about true Christian living in message #2 of our series called “Be Light”.
 
Series description: Christians are called to be salt and light. Salt is savory, light is seen and bright. When we are lighting the world as we are called to, the world around us sees our good works and is influenced to glorify God. Unfortunately, our souls can get heavy with sin and distractions that keep us from being the light.
In this three-week journey, we will explore how the burdens of life and the world have dimmed our light, hindering our ability to radiate the love and message of Jesus. Discover the wisdom Jesus imparts to lift the burdens of our souls, enabling us to shine brightly as beacons of hope in a darkened world. Rediscover how to lighten your soul and embrace your role as the salt and light of the world.
 
BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world.
Following Jesus in my lifestyle
 
The lifestyle of being light
— Leaves no room for hypocrisy.
— Requires a relationship with Jesus.
— Demands total commitment.
 
4 Lifestyle Rocks
1. Hatred (anger, hatred, ongoing conflict, bitterness)
2. Impurity (lustful looking, divorce, vow-breaking)
3. Dishonesty (commitments, faithfulness, honesty)
4. Indifference (retaliation, loving enemies, judgement)
 
MAIN POINT:
"Being light means that you live the lifestyle Jesus teaches with authenticity all the time."

BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world. (Being salt + light)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Discipleship + Missions) - Matthew 5:13-16 (Matthew 5:13-16; 11:28-29; 2 Corinthians 5:19-20; Colossians 4:6; 1 Timothy 4:12; John 8:12; 9:5; 14:6; Psalms 119:105; Ephesians 4:15; Acts 4:12; Hebrews 12:1-2)
 
Take a listen to this transformative sermon series titled "Be Light" where we dive into Jesus' teachings on the mountaintop. 
Christians are called to be salt and light. Salt is savory, light is seen and bright. When we are lighting the world as we are called to, the world around us sees our good works and is influenced to glorify God. Unfortunately, our souls can get heavy with sin and distractions that keep us from being the light.
In this three-week journey, we will explore how the burdens of life and the world have dimmed our light, hindering our ability to radiate the love and message of Jesus. Discover the wisdom Jesus imparts to lift the burdens of our souls, enabling us to shine brightly as beacons of hope in a darkened world. Rediscover how to lighten your soul and embrace your role as the salt and light of the world.
 
BE LIGHT: Lightening our souls to light the world.
 
Being salt + light
I. I am salt
— salt preserves
— salt enhances flavor
 
II. I am light
— light gives direction
— light displays the truth

Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 9

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - Revelation 21-22 (Revelation 21:1-27; 22:1-21)
 
Women riding many-headed beasts? Talking eagles? Many-faced creatures that sing on a sea made of glass? The Book of Revelation can be confusing, and even a little frightening.
Although we often focus on the prophetic nature of the Revelation, it is meant to give hope to believers in every age. Let's study this often-misunderstood part of the Bible.
 
​Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 9
Lesson Handout
 
Illustration #1: The New Jerusalem (Heavenly city) size compared to Americas.

Don’t Quit!

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Joshua 6 (Joshua 6:1-5, 10-16 & 27; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Proverbs 3:5-6; Hebrews 11:30-31; Galatians 6:9)
 
When life gets tough, we rise up and push forward! We face the challenges head on with a determination to overcome with the power of God. We know to do this because the Bible teaches us to do this!
But what do you do when you try, and you push, and you press on, but nothing changes? It is easy to get to the point where you simply want to quit. Maybe you have been there or you are there now. I know this might be hard to hear, but please, DON'T QUIT! You could be one step away from a victory, but Satan will do everything possible to get you to quit! Don't Quit! God is not finished!
 
Don't Quit!
 
Don't quit...
I. ...when things don't make sense!
A. we struggle with facts
B. we struggle with our feelings
 
II. ...when nothing seems to happen!
A. God is working in you
B. God is working in others
 
Illustration #1: Prayer for Logan Liuzzo in front of Children's Hospital
 
Illustration #2a: Pastor Tony Liuzzo speaking at Trinity Baptist College 2023 Commencement Ceremony
 
Illustration #2b: Pastor Tony Liuzzo speaking at Trinity Baptist College 2023 Commencement Ceremony
 
Illustration #2c: Pastor Tony Liuzzo speaking at Trinity Baptist College 2023 Commencement Ceremony
 
Illustration #3a: Pastor Tony Liuzzo & Deb
 
Illustration #3b: Deb's prayer page
 
Illustration #3c: Deb's prayer page dated Dec. 6th, 2021 (the day of Logan Liuzzo's failed surgery)
 

Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 8

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - Revelation 17-20 (Revelation 17:1-18; 18:1-24; 20:1-11)
 
Women riding many-headed beasts? Talking eagles? Many-faced creatures that sing on a sea made of glass? The Book of Revelation can be confusing, and even a little frightening.
Although we often focus on the prophetic nature of the Revelation, it is meant to give hope to believers in every age. Let's study this often-misunderstood part of the Bible.
 
​Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 8
Lesson Handout

A Mom’s Secret Weapon

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 2 Timothy 1:5 (2 Timothy 1:2-5; 3:14-17; 4:12; Deuteronomy 6:5-7; Colossians 1:18)
 
At the heart of every mom is the desire to see their kids succeed in life. As parents, we do everything in our power to prepare them for life. We put them in school, bring them to church, teach them the basics of life, give them responsibilities and do our best to instill character as they grow up.All of these things are great, but you actually have a secret weapon that is very powerful in molding their lives. This secret weapon can be used by everyone, not just moms. What is it? Well, it is a secret, but we will share it with only you! Take a listen now.
 
A Mom's Secret Weapon
How to have life changing influence:I. Live out genuine faithII. Live out spiritual priorities
Illustration #1: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #2: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #3: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #4: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #5: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #6: Pastor Tony Liuzzo and the puppet ministry growing up
Illustration #7: Pastor Dave Liuzzo and puppet ministry at FBC

Secret Place: The transformative power of spending time with God.

Pastor Bryce Copeland (Student Pastor) - Mark 3:13-16; Matthew 6:5-6 (Romans 7:14-20; Mark 3:13-16; Matthew 6:5-6; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Philippians 4:6; Daniel 6:10)
 
Many Christians know that one of the most important things you can do is have a consistent walk with God. The Bible refers to this oftentimes as a “closet” or a secret place. Let's look at the importance of walking with God and then get practical about putting this into practice in your own life.
 
Secret Place
The transformative power of spending time with God.
 
What does it mean to spend time with God?
1. It’s being alone with God
2. It’s a personal commitment to God. 
3. It’s allowing God to speak to you and speaking back to God. 
 
Application
1. Have a specific time. 
2. Have a specific place. 
3. Make it the most important part of your day. 
4. Be creative.
 
My Plan to Spend Time with God (Handout)

Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 7

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - Revelation (Revelation 7:1-17; 9:7-21; 10:1-11; 11:1-6 & 15-20; Exodus 39:37)
 
Women riding many-headed beasts? Talking eagles? Many-faced creatures that sing on a sea made of glass? The Book of Revelation can be confusing, and even a little frightening.
Although we often focus on the prophetic nature of the Revelation, it is meant to give hope to believers in every age. Let's study this often-misunderstood part of the Bible.
 
​Reading Revelation Responsibly - Week 7

BRAVE: Faith that conquers fear! — For God’s glory!

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Daniel 6 (John 15:4; Ephesians 6:10; Daniel 6:1-11, 16-17, 19-23 & 25-27; James 1:2-3)
 
When we think about the story of Daniel, we often go straight to his encounter with the lion's den. This part of the story is definitely inspiring, but we should be asking the question, "Why?" Why did God allow Daniel to go through so much after he was so faithful? The truth is, the lion's den was not the end, but a set up for the glory of God!
 
Series description: How can we live faithfully in the midst of so much opposition? How can we stand strong in our faith when doubt seeks to devour us? We love the story of Daniel because it inspires us to be brave in the midst of overwhelming circumstances.  We know the story of the lion's den, but God did a lot in Daniel's life before he faced the lions! We too can be brave when we learn how to stand firm in our faith!
 
BRAVE
Faith that conquers fear!
For God's glory!
 
I. Your convictions will be tried.
II. God works through our faith.
III. Bravery sets the stage for the glory of God!
 
Illustration #1: Jenny Liuzzo sharing their story (Logan Liuzzo's Cancer Battle) at Dare for More Ladies Conference
 
Illustration #2: Pastor Tony Liuzzo sharing their story (Logan Liuzzo's Cancer Battle) at FCA in a Public School
 
Illustration #3: Sharing their story (Logan Liuzzo's Cancer Battle) at Liberty Christian School
 
Illustration #4: Students and staff gather around Logan Liuzzo to pray for him at Liberty Christian School
 
Illustration #5: Pastor Tony Liuzzo in Zambia, West Africa recording lion.

BRAVE: Faith that conquers fear! — Walking with God.

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Daniel 6:10-11 (Ephesians 6:10-11 & 17-20; Daniel 1:8-9 & 17-21; 2:1-3, 13 & 15-19; 6:10-11; James 1:8-9; Joshua 24:15; 1 Timothy 4:8; 2 Timothy 2:15; Psalms 119:165; Matthew 6:16; 17:21; Hebrews 10:25; John 15:4-5)
 
Where does our inner strength come from to face the lion's den? There must be more to our faith than just knowing God. We are called to walk with God. If our strength comes from God, then we can't take a step in life without Him! What does it mean to walk with God? Daniel lived out a clear example that demonstrates what it truly means to walk with God.
 
Series description: How can we live faithfully in the midst of so much opposition? How can we stand strong in our faith when doubt seeks to devour us? We love the story of Daniel because it inspires us to be brave in the midst of overwhelming circumstances.  We know the story of the lion's den, but God did a lot in Daniel's life before he faced the lions! We too can be brave when we learn how to stand firm in our faith!
 
BRAVE
Faith that conquers fear!
Walking with God!
 
— Bravery comes from faith.
— Faith comes from conviction.
— Conviction comes from your walk with God.
— Your walk with God starts with your identity in Christ.
 
Bravery requires walking with God.
I. We must have spiritual disciplines.
A. prayer
B. Bible reading
C. fasting
D. church
 
II. We must make a priority to pray.
 
III. We must develop a passion to pray. 
 
— Daniel got alone with God.
— Daniel turned his attention to God.
— Daniel humbled himself before God.
— Daniel faithfully walked with God.
— Daniel thanked God.
 
Illustration #1: Popeye
 
Illustration #2: Popeye with Spinach