Fellowship Baptist Church

Life Together

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Philippians 1:27 (Philippians 1:3-6, 9-11 & 27; 2:1-4; 2 Peter 1:1; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14)
 
We are in this together, and we need each other!
In this study of Philippians 1, we will explore some of the most vital aspects of our shared life as believers. We'll discover how fellowship fuels faithfulness, and how prayer, encouragement, and accountability keep us pressing forward. We'll also be reminded of the importance of unity and the profound impact it has on our lives. Finally, we’ll challenge ourselves to fully engage in the work, collaborating to fulfill our mission together.
God’s plan is for His people to live in community. We are in this together, and we truly need each other!
 
Life Together
 
I. Committed
--- A. prayer
--- B. encouragement
--- C. accountability
II. Unified
--- A. resolve conflicts
--- B. humble ourselves
III. Occupied

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!

PLANTED

Pastor Dave Liuzzo (Grace Baptist Church / Brunswick, OH) - Psalms 1:1-6 (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 23:7; Psalms 1:1-6; Colossians 2:6-7; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 6:13-14; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 2 Peter 3:18)
 
Life's challenges may come and go, but those firmly rooted in faith will weather any storm. Psalm 1:3 beautifully illustrates the Christian life as a tree planted by streams of water, drawing nourishment from God's truth. This deep-rooted connection to God is the foundation for a fruitful and enduring Christian walk. It’s time to dig deep and learn how to grow and it starts with deep roots! Are you ready to grow? 
 
PLANTED
 
1. Planted
2. Productive
3. Persevering
4. Prosperous
 
Illustration #1: 100 year old tree that had fallen during a storm
 
Illustration #2: 100 year old tree rotten and ate up by ants

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!

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