Fellowship Baptist Church

ORIGINS: The Origin of Sin

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 3:16-13 (Genesis 2:25; 3:1-13; Isaiah 5:20; 1 Timothy 2:14; Romans 5:12; 10:9; James 1:15; 2 Timothy 1:7; Luke 19:10; 1 John 1:9)
 
If you catch a cold, you know you have a cold because of the side effects. You can get a stuffy nose, have difficulty breathing, and/or even develop a cough. The sickness has an effect on your life and it shows. The same thing is true with sin. When you have sin in your life, it has an effect on your life.
There are people that are simply unhappy and live with a constant feeling that something is wrong and they are miserable. Sin will make you miserable! We can learn a lot about the effects of sin when we study the fall of Adam and Eve.
 
Series description:
To understand life, we must understand where it all began. The question of, "Why are we here..." can be answered by, "Who made us." If we are here because of a cosmic accident, that means that we are part of a random accident that happened millions of years ago. But if we were created by a creator, then our life has purpose and meaning because we were planned and desired!To understand life, we must understand our beginning! Origins will be an in-depth study of the first chapters of the Bible that explains the foundations and purpose for everything!
 
ORIGINS: The Foundation of Life & Purpose
The Origin of Sin
 
Sin brings...
I. Shame
II. Fear
III. Blame
 
Illustration #1: Peter Barker (The Liuzzo Family dog)
 
Illustration #2: Guilty Peter Barker (The Liuzzo Family dog)

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!

Living Richly: The Power of Godliness & Contentment

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - 1 Timothy 6 (Romans 12:2; 1 Timothy 6:3-21; Matthew 6:19-21 & 33; Ecclesiastes 2:10-11; Luke 12:15; Ephesians 5:3; Hebrews 13:5)
 
In a world obsessed with accumulating more, we’ll dive into 1 Timothy 6 to uncover the true meaning of wealth and contentment in Christ. Discover how to break free from the comparison trap and embrace the incredible power of godliness and contentment. Don’t miss this empowering sermon that will transform your perspective and help you truly start "Living Richly!"
 
Living Richly: The Power of Godliness & Contentment
 
I. Redefine Wealth
II. Pursue Character over Covetousness
A. follow after God
B. be rich in good works
C. be prepared to give generously
III. Find Contentment in Christ
 
Illustration #1: Scene from Disney's Tangled

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!

ORIGINS: The Origin of Spiritual Warfare

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 3:1-5 (Genesis 2:9 & 16-17; 3:1-5; John 8:44; 14:15; 3:1; Revelation 12:7-9; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:10-11 & 16; Proverbs 23:7; 2 Corinthians 2:11; James 4:7; Philippians 4:8)
 
What comes to mind when you think of spiritual warfare? If you Google spiritual warfare, you'll find all sorts of images of demons, dragons, and the devil that would scare anyone. If you look at Satan's first attack on humanity, it looked nothing like any of these images. Satan is out to destroy all that God has labeled to be good and he is good at what he does! When we study Satan's attack on Adam and Eve, you will discover that his methods are way different than people might think!
 
Series description:
To understand life, we must understand where it all began. The question of, "Why are we here..." can be answered by, "Who made us." If we are here because of a cosmic accident, that means that we are part of a random accident that happened millions of years ago. But if we were created by a creator, then our life has purpose and meaning because we were planned and desired!To understand life, we must understand our beginning! Origins will be an in-depth study of the first chapters of the Bible that explains the foundations and purpose for everything!
 
ORIGINS: The Foundation of Life & Purpose
The Origin of Spiritual Warfare
 
I. Satan's Attack
A. Satan seeks us out
B. Satan's attacks are subtle
 
II. Satan's Method
A. Satan targets our minds
B. Satan uses lies
--- 1. Satan will always downplay sin
--- 2. Satan will leave out consequences
 
III. Satan's Defeat
A. know your enemy
B. resist the Devil
C. fight back with truth
 
Illustration #1: The Two Trees (Trees of the Knowledge of Good and Evil)
 
Illustration #2a: Zebras from Safari (Pastor Tony Liuzzo on Missions trip to Africa)
 
Illustration #2b: Lions from Safari (Pastor Tony Liuzzo on Missions trip to Africa)
 
Illustration #3a: Jesus & Satan Arm Wrestling (from Google search)
 
Illustration #3b: Man fighting a demon (from Google search)
 
Illustration #3c: Article Headline (from Google search)
 
Illustration #4: Banana Spider

Why Believe? — What Makes Christianity Different from All Other Religions? (Week 7)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Romans 1:18-25; 3:10-18 & 23; 5:6-11; John John 3:16-18; 14:6; 1 John 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Psalm 51:5; Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Timothy 1:12-17
 
Why are there so many different religions? Do they all teach the same thing? How can we know what is true and what is false?
 
In this lesson, we will see how the central message of Christianity is different from all other religions in the world! We will learn that while religion focuses on self and our own effort, the Gospel is all about what Jesus has done for us! We will be challenged to resist the temptation to embrace religious pluralism and compromise our faith! Ultimately, we will see how boldly proclaiming the exclusive truth of the Gospel is an act of love and compassion, and what is most needed in our world today!
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleWhat Makes Christianity Different from All Other Religions?
I. Christianity—Sin & SalvationII. Islam—Corruption & ObedienceIII. Hinduism—Ignorance & Divine ConsciousnessIV. Buddhism—Suffering & Freedom from DesireV. What Makes Christianity Different?
 
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!

ORIGINS: The Origin of Family - Part 2

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 2:24-25 (Genesis 2:24-25; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Mark 3:25; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Ephesians 5:3 & 25; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 7:1-2; Matthew 26:41; Psalms 127:3-4; Proverbs 20:7; 22:6; Philippians 3:13-14)
 
Big questions, Is sex before marriage ok? Does it matter to God to move in together before you get married? Does the Bible address these issues of sexuality? The answer is, yes! It all started in Genesis when God created marriage.Is it possible that many of our issues today are the result of getting away from God’s will and plan for marriage and sex? Rather than going by our opinions and feelings, let’s study God’s original plan for sex and marriage.
 
Series description:
To understand life, we must understand where it all began. The question of, "Why are we here..." can be answered by, "Who made us." If we are here because of a cosmic accident, that means that we are part of a random accident that happened millions of years ago. But if we were created by a creator, then our life has purpose and meaning because we were planned and desired!To understand life, we must understand our beginning! Origins will be an in-depth study of the first chapters of the Bible that explains the foundations and purpose for everything!
 
ORIGINS: The Foundation of Life & Purpose
The Origin of Family - Part 2
 
God's Will for...
I. Singles
A. walk with God
B. submit to God
C. walk with others
 
II. Dating
A. date the right person
B. date the right way
--- 1. sexual acts outside of marriage are sin
--- 2. God created sex as a bond for marriage
--- 3. sexual purity must be guarded
 
III. Marriage
A. grow and thrive
B. make spouse priority before kids
 
IV. Parenting
A. raise warriors for God
B. live out an example of marriage
 
Illustration #1: Passengers using oxygen mask on commercial flight

ORIGINS: The Origin of Family - Part 1

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 2:24-25 (Genesis 2:24-25; Psalms 119:9; 143:10; Proverbs 14:12; 27:17; Romans 12:2; Matthew 6:33)
 
Genesis describes God’s perfect plan for man, woman, marriage…well, everything! But when you step back and put all the pieces together you see God’s plan for family. It’s an awesome plan when it’s done God’s way! It not only works, but it’s incredible!Let’s clear away all the things that have distorted God’s plan and study God’s perfect will for family!
 
Series description:
To understand life, we must understand where it all began. The question of, "Why are we here..." can be answered by, "Who made us." If we are here because of a cosmic accident, that means that we are part of a random accident that happened millions of years ago. But if we were created by a creator, then our life has purpose and meaning because we were planned and desired!To understand life, we must understand our beginning! Origins will be an in-depth study of the first chapters of the Bible that explains the foundations and purpose for everything!
 
ORIGINS: The Foundation of Life & Purpose
The Origin of Family - Part 1
 
God's Will for...
I. Singles
--- A. walk with God
--- B. submit to God
--- C. walk with others
 
Illustration #1: Pastor Tony Liuzzo's Friends Then & Now
 
Illustration #2: Catalyst Young Adults Serving

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!

One Thing: Committed to the Pursuit of God

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Psalm 27 (Psalm 27:1-14; 119:126-131; 130:3-4; Romans 5:6-9; 1 John 4:9-10; 5:19-21; John 3:14-18; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Exodus 20:1-5; 32:1)
 
If you belong to God through faith in His Son Jesus, then the whole of your life should be concentrated on knowing God and living for Him.
In Psalm 27, we are given a powerful example of what a commitment to pursuing God looks like. This text reveals that a life dedicated to Jesus is filled with indescribable joy and confidence. It is marked by constant communication, where we listen to God and He hears from us. This life demands undivided devotion to God, making Him our ultimate desire. It is also a life of unwavering commitment. We have decided to follow Jesus and there is no turning back. 
This message is a call to all believers to embrace that “One Thing” ...commitment to the pursuit of God!
 
One Thing: Committed to the Pursuit of God
 
I. Joyful Confidence
II. Consistent Communication
--- A. Prayer (speaking to God)
--- B. Scripture and the Spirit (God speaking to me)
III. Fierce Devotion
IV. Faithful Endurance

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!

ORIGINS: The Origin of Marriage

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 2:18-24 (Genesis 1:31; 2:18-24; Psalms 33:20; Hebrews 4:16; Ephesians 5:28-29; 1 Peter 3:7; Philippians 2:4)
 
Why do so many marriages fail? Why do so many couples live out their relationship feeling unfulfilled and even unhappy. When God finished creating marriage on the sixth day, He said, "it is very good." If God said it is so great, why does it often not feel this way?
There is an answer and God spells it out in Genesis! There is hope for your marriage, if we go back to God's' plan!
 
Series description:
To understand life, we must understand where it all began. The question of, "Why are we here..." can be answered by, "Who made us." If we are here because of a cosmic accident, that means that we are part of a random accident that happened millions of years ago. But if we were created by a creator, then our life has purpose and meaning because we were planned and desired!To understand life, we must understand our beginning! Origins will be an in-depth study of the first chapters of the Bible that explains the foundations and purpose for everything!
 
ORIGINS: The Foundation of Life & Purpose
The Origin of Marriage
 
According to the Bible...
I. Marriage meets each other's needs
Basic needs we often neglect:
--- A. attention
--- B. appreciation
--- C. affection
II. Marriage was created to be intimately connected
--- A. doing marriage God's way creates a deep connection
--- B. intimate connection requires a consistent effort to meet their needs
III. Marriage was created to be permanent (to have an unbreakable bond)