Fellowship Baptist Church

STEADFAST: A Study in 2 Thessalonians (Lesson 1 - Steadfast Faith)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 2 Thessalonians 1 (2 Thessalonians 1:1-12; 2:1-3; Acts 16:19-27; James 1:3; Galatians 6:2; 2 Corinthians 4:4 & 6; Colossians 3:4; Revelation 19:11-14; 21:1-3)
 
This new church at Thessalonica is now growing and thriving, but they have a lot of questions. This new church is like a lot of us. When it comes to subjects like the rapture and the coming of the Lord, they were confused. Paul writes this second letter to help them understand and find peace in the promises of the Lord's return. Their job till Jesus comes was simply to be Steadfast in the Lord!
 
STEADFAST: A Study in 2 ThessaloniansLesson 1: Steadfast Faith
 
I. Introduction
1. Salutation
2. Greetings
 
II. Encouragement in persecutions
A. Thankful for their spiritual growth
B. Encouragement in trials in view of the Lord's return
III. The Big question: Is this speaking of the Rapture or The Second Coming of Christ?
A. Things to ask and consider
--- 1. When will this happen?
--- 2. Who is with Jesus?
--- 3. What will happen at the end?
B. What the Second Coming will look like?
--- 1. punish the lost
--- 2. rejoice with the saved
 
Handout

Selah (סֶלָה) — pause, reflect, praise (We pause & reflect)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Psalm 46 (Revelation 4:8-11; Psalms 3:4; 4:4; 46:1-3 & 8-11; 47:1; 146:1)
 
Here is an honest question: How do we worship God?We talk about worship all the time, but do we really know how to worship? Usually, the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about worship is to sing. This is definitely part of worship, but there is so much more! The book of Psalms is actually a book of worship. In some ways, it is a handbook on how to worship. Good thing, because we need help in this area. Throughout the book of Psalms, there is a word that is inserted quite frequently that helps us understand worship. This word is Selah! It means to pause, reflect, and praise! Let's take the next few weeks to learn how to pause, reflect, and praise our God!
 
 
Selah (סֶלָה) — pause, reflect, praise 
"We pause and reflect"
 
Created to worship!
1. We learn to pause
2. We take time to reflect
God reminds us...
--- A. I am your refuge
--- B. I am your strength
--- C. I am your help
 
Illustration #1: Musical note and rest chart
 
Illustration #2: Assyrian Tablet with pictures
 
Watch Video
Illustration #3: Bird covering her babies with her wings

UNSHAKEN: A Letter to the Thessalonians (Lesson 7 - Unshakable Peace)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 5 (1 Thessalonians 5:6-28; 1 Peter 5:8; Hebrews 10:25; Galatians 6:1-2; Romans 12:20-21; 15:1)
 
At the end of Paul's letter to this new church, he speaks to them about the God of peace. Then closes with this reminder that God has all things under His control. Our job is simple...to walk in truth, pray always, watch out for one another, and wait for the coming of the Lord. God's peace will steady our hearts during uncertain times in life. This was true for them and it is just as true for us today!
 
Series description:
During Paul's missionary journeys, God was doing some amazing things in the lives of new believers. The church was growing and spreading, but so was the opposition against the church. The church in Thessalonica was under extreme opposition, but they stood strong and continued to flourish.Paul writes them a powerful letter to encourage them and give them hope. This letter is called Thessalonians. It is a letter on how to hold on and remain unshaken in the midst of challenging times.
 
Unshaken: A Letter to the ThessaloniansLesson 7: Unshakable Peace
 
IV. Chapter 5
 
Notes

Face to Face: A Deeper Connection with God

Darnell Lewis (Pastoral Resident, Chicago West Bible Church + Student, Moody Bible Institute) - Exodus 33:11-23 (Exodus 33:11-23; Psalm 55:2; 1 Corinthians 13:12)
 
Face to face moments with God will help us to have a deeper connection with him. The challenge to this deeper connection is life’s interferences impeding our interactions with God. This can adversely affect our relationship with the Lord Jesus. Exodus 33:11-33 provides insights from one of Moses’ face to face moments with God and how he interacts despite his reluctant spirit. The prayer is that this sermon will encourage someone who  is hesitant to interact with God to connect in order to experience his grace and compassion.
 
 
Face to Face: A Deeper Connection with God
 
When you continually seek and encounter God's presence, it will lead you to a personal connection with God.
 
1. Bring your questions, worries and burdens to God.
2. Continue to seek God's guidance.
3. Ask God to personally show Himself.
 
If you need God, then seek Him!
 
Illustration #1: Facetime call.
 
Illustration #2: Searching for an item at the store.

UNSHAKEN: A Letter to the Thessalonians (Lesson 6 - Unshakable Hope)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 4 & 5 (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:1-13; John 5:28-29; 14:3; 1 Corinthians 15:52; Matthew 24:40-42; 1 Peter 5:8; Hebrews 10:25)
 
We have hope that cannot be described in words. No matter what happens or how things fall apart, nothing can take away our hope of heaven. Paul shares this hope with this new church to give peace in hard times. Jesus made them and us a promise that He is coming again and death would not be the end for us....this gives us HOPE!
 
Series description:
During Paul's missionary journeys, God was doing some amazing things in the lives of new believers. The church was growing and spreading, but so was the opposition against the church. The church in Thessalonica was under extreme opposition, but they stood strong and continued to flourish.Paul writes them a powerful letter to encourage them and give them hope. This letter is called Thessalonians. It is a letter on how to hold on and remain unshaken in the midst of challenging times.
 
Unshaken: A Letter to the ThessaloniansLesson 6: Unshakable Hope
 
III. Chapter 4
D. Walk in hope
--- 1. with no sorrow concerning those who have died
--- 2. for we will be rejoined with them when Christ returns
 
What will happen?
1. The Lord personally will return for the saved.
2. The saints will be called up to meet Him in the air (Rapture).
3. We will be called home with "the trump of God."
4. The dead in Christ will come with Christ and be "changed."
5. We will be together!
 
IV. Chapter 5
 
Notes

Faith that Endures

Pastor Joe Cotroneo (Lead Pastor, Doxa Bible Church) - 1 Peter 1:1-12
 
"Time under tension" - I'm sure if this phrase means anything to you, but when I recently asked someone at the gym how they were able to get in such good shape, their reply was "time under tension." The longer they were able to remain under the weight, the stronger they were able to become. Honestly, when this person explained this to me I felt discouraged because I'm not one that enjoys being under pressure or tension for that matter.
 
This week we are going to see that this principle of "time under tension" is true spiritually as well. The apostle Peter has some very encouraging words as he helps us learn how to hold onto faith amidst the trials of this life that make us want to give up.
 
 
Faith that Endures
 
How can you hold onto faith amidst the trials of this life?1. Think Backa. God has always wanted you.b. Jesus has already rescued you.2. Think Aheada. You have a secured inheritance.b. You have a surpassing joy.3. Think Nowa. God sent people ahead of you.b. God keeps angels in suspense of you.
 
God's promise to hold onto you is what helps you hold onto faith.
 
Illustration #1: Foggy Woods
 
Illustration #2: Emoji

UNSHAKEN: A Letter to the Thessalonians (Lesson 5 - Unshakable Purity)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 4 (1 Thessalonians 4:1-18; Romans 9:21; 2 Timothy 2:21; John 14:3; 5:28-29; 1 Corinthians 15:52; Matthew 24:40-42)
 
What comes to mind when you think about holiness? In reality as a Christian, we are called to holiness. Paul addressed a lot of issues concerning outside opposition, but Paul then turned the focus on the inward battle of purity and holiness. This church was challenged to have unshakable purity.
 
Series description:
During Paul's missionary journeys, God was doing some amazing things in the lives of new believers. The church was growing and spreading, but so was the opposition against the church. The church in Thessalonica was under extreme opposition, but they stood strong and continued to flourish.Paul writes them a powerful letter to encourage them and give them hope. This letter is called Thessalonians. It is a letter on how to hold on and remain unshaken in the midst of challenging times.
 
Unshaken: A Letter to the ThessaloniansLesson 5: Unshakable Purity
 
III. Chapter 4
A. Goldy Instructions
--- 1. to please God
--- 2. to abstain from sexual immorality
B. Walk in love
--- 1. as they are taught by God to love one another
--- 2. to increase more and more
C. Walk in diligence
--- 1. to work with their hands
--- 2. to walk properly toward those who are outside
D. Walk in hope
--- 1. with no sorrow concerning those who have died
--- 2. for we will be rejoined with them when Christ returns
 
What will happen?
1. The Lord personally will return for the saved.
2. The saints will be called up to meet Him in the air (Rapture).
3. We will be called home with "the trump of God."
4. The dead in Christ will come with Christ and be "changed."
5. We will be together!
 
Notes

MADE FOR THIS: The Church is a Family

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Acts 2 (Acts 2:41-47; 5:14; Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 12:14, 18 & 25; Hebrews 10:24-25; Ephesians 4:16)
 
To most people the church is a group of people that gather together on a Sunday. This is partially true, but the question is, "Why do we gather?" Acts 2 explains that this first church was connected in a special way! They cared for each other, shared life, prayed, and met each other's needs. The church is more than a group that gathers, the church is a family!
 
Series description:
Our hearts break every time we hear of a school shooting or another person that we love that is diagnosed with cancer. It reminds us that this world is hurting and broken. We are divided by politics, struggling with the economy, and searching for answers.
 
There is hope in the midst of all this, it's called the church! God has placed the church in the midst of this broken world to bring hope! The world is a mess, but remember, We were made for this!
 
 
MADE FOR THIS
"The Church is a Family"
 
The Church...
1. studied God's Word
2. had deep connection (fellowship)
3. prayed together
4. gathered together
5. cared for eachother
6. worshiped together
7. reached their community together
 
FAMILY...
1. Must be connected
2. Must take notice of each other
3. Must care for each other
 
Illustration #1a: Life Group
 
Illustration #1b: Life Group
 
Illustration #2: Primetimers
 
Illustration #3: Real Life Students
 
Illustration #4: Catalyst Young Adults
 
Illustration #5: Bible Study

UNSHAKEN: A Letter to the Thessalonians (Lesson 4 - Unshakable Love)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 3 (1 Thessalonians 3:1-13; 4:1-8; Hebrews 10:25; Ephesians 4:11-12 & 24; 6:12; Acts 6:4; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Romans 6:22; 12:10; 2 Corinthians 77:1; 1 Peter 2:9)
 
One of the most distinguishable characteristics of a Christian should be love. If God is love and we have God in our lives, then the love of God will show through our lives. Paul received the report about the church in I Thessalonians that they were known by their faith and love. This was their reputation and it was obvious. How are you known by others?
 
Series description:
During Paul's missionary journeys, God was doing some amazing things in the lives of new believers. The church was growing and spreading, but so was the opposition against the church. The church in Thessalonica was under extreme opposition, but they stood strong and continued to flourish.Paul writes them a powerful letter to encourage them and give them hope. This letter is called Thessalonians. It is a letter on how to hold on and remain unshaken in the midst of challenging times.
 
Unshaken: A Letter to the ThessaloniansLesson 4: Unshakable Love
 
II. Chapter 3
III. Chapter 4
A. Godly Instructions
--- 1. Walk in holiness
 
Notes

Our Defender

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Psalm 3 (2 Samuel 17:1-3; Psalm 3:1-8; Ephesians 6:16)
 
Sometimes life gets to be just too much! We can all handle a lot, but we all have a breaking point. King David faced a time like this in his life. It was so bad, that his enemies even stated that not even God can get him out of this situation. In the midst of this, God gave David overwhelming peace! David knew that God was his defender and as long as this was true, everything would be ok! We have a great defender and He cares about you!
 
Our Defender
Faith and Blue Sunday
 
Illustration #1: Police Shield
 
Illustration #2: Shield from Medieval Times

UNSHAKEN: A Letter to the Thessalonians (Lesson 3 - Unshakable Faith)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Thessalonians 2 & 3 (1 Thessalonians 2:1-20; 3:1-10; Acts 16:22-23; Romans 15:1-3; 1 Corinthians 3:1; Hebrews 10:25; Ephesians 6:12)
 
The church in Thessalonica was full of new believers and they were facing lots of opposition. What was so encouraging to Paul was that they were so unshaken in their faith. Even though they were facing trails, they were unwavering. Paul writes this letter out of love, like a father, and encourages them to stay strong! We can have unshakable faith even in the midst of great tribulation.
 
Series description:
During Paul's missionary journeys, God was doing some amazing things in the lives of new believers. The church was growing and spreading, but so was the opposition against the church. The church in Thessalonica was under extreme opposition, but they stood strong and continued to flourish.Paul writes them a powerful letter to encourage them and give them hope. This letter is called Thessalonians. It is a letter on how to hold on and remain unshaken in the midst of challenging times.
 
Unshaken: A Letter to the ThessaloniansLesson 3: Unshakable Faith
 
I. Chapter 2
B. Regarding His conduct
--- 1. the manner of his preaching
C. Regarding His concern
--- 1. for their faithfulness
II. Chapter 3
 
Notes

MADE FOR THIS: The Church Must Serve

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Acts 2 (Matthew 4:18-20; Acts 2:1-8, 14, 37 & 41; Romans 12:4-7; 1 Corinthians 12:7; 1 Peter 4:10; John 21:3-5 & 15-16)
 
Did you know that you are uniquely made and gifted by God? When God saved you, He placed His Spirit inside of you and equipped you to be part of the mission of God. You are more than just saved by the Spirit, you are equipped by the Spirit! You have a purpose! You play a huge role in the mission of the church.
This is all so amazing, but it gets even better. When you step into your role, you will find fulfillment in a way that you can't find doing anything else. The world needs hope and they need Jesus, but the good news is, You are Made for This!
 
Series description:
Our hearts break every time we hear of a school shooting or another person that we love that is diagnosed with cancer. It reminds us that this world is hurting and broken. We are divided by politics, struggling with the economy, and searching for answers.
 
There is hope in the midst of all this, it's called the church! God has placed the church in the midst of this broken world to bring hope! The world is a mess, but remember, We were made for this!
 
MADE FOR THIS
"The Church Must Serve"
 
The Church must...
I. Step into your role
A. we ALL have a role
B. we ALL have been equipped
--- 1. God gives us talents
--- 2. God gives us spiritual gifts
--- 3. stop making excuses
II. Start experiencing God's fulfillment