Fellowship Baptist Church

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)

Why Believe? — How Can a Loving God Send People to Hell? (Week 4)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:15; Psalm 18:30; 34:8; 135:3; 1 John 1:5; 4:8, 10 & 16; 2 Timothy 4:8; Deuteronomy 32:4; Colossians 3:25; Revelation 5:9; 14:11; 20:1, 10 & 13-14; 21:8; Matthew 22:13; 24:51; 25:41; Luke 16:19-29; 19:10; James 3:6; Romans 1:20; 3:23; 5:9 & 12; 6:23; 10:9-10 & 13; 14:11; John 1:4-7; 3:16-18; 9:4-5; 14:6; Mark 9:43; 16:15; Genesis 2:9 & 16; 3:1, 6 & 23-24; 2 Peter 3:9; Acts 4:12; Hebrews 2:1-3
 
If God is so loving, why would He send anyone to Hell?
In this lesson, we will learn from Scripture that Hell is a real place and that those who do not know God will go there. We will explore how this represents a just judgment for our sins, but also how God’s love provides a path for forgiveness and eternal life with Him. Ultimately, God desires everyone to spend eternity with Him and does not want anyone to face the judgment of Hell.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleHow Can a Loving God Send People to Hell?
I. Why Was Hell Created--- A. Hell was created by God for Satan and the Fallen Angels--- B. Hell was created to deal with sin and suffering
II. What is Hell?--- A. Hell is a place of eternal punishment--- B. Hell is a place of pain--- C. Hell is place of eternal death--- D. Hell is a place of separation--- E. Hell is a place of falling--- F. Hell is a place of conscience--- G. Hell is a place of darkness--- H. Hell is eternal
 
III. Why Would a Loving God Send People to Hell?
--- A. Does God "send" people to Hell?
--- B. How could a "loving" God send people to Hell?
 
IV. What About People That Have Never Heard the Gospel?
--- A. God uses creation to open their eyes to God
--- B. God has saved us and given us the job of telling them about Jesus
--- C. People must call upon Jesus to be saved
--- D. Every nation is represented in Heaven
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 2 Peter 3:9
 
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 Woman

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 2:18-23 (Genesis 2:7-8 & 18-23; Proverbs 18:22; Ephesians 5:28-29)
 
The only time in creation that God said that something was not good, was when man was without woman.  God did not forget to create Eve, He was doing things in a specific order to help us understand His plan and purpose! We learn some valuable lessons when we study how and why God created woman.
 
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 Woman"
 
According to the Bible...
1. Women were created to be the partner of man.
2. Women were created uniquely by God.
3. Women were created to be valued by men.
 
Illustration #1: Pastor Tony & Jenny Liuzzo

Why Believe? — Why Would a Good God Allow Suffering and Evil in the World? (Week 3)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:15​; 5:7; Psalm ​18:2; 34:8​; 135:3​; 145:9​; Genesis 1:4​ & 26​; 2:9 & 16-17; 3:1, 6 & 17-19; 1 John 4:8​, 16 & 19​; Romans 5:12; 8:28; 10:9-10; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; John 3:16; 14:15 & 23; 15:10; 16:33; Joshua 24:15​; Matthew 10:1; 22:33-40; Acts 8:1-4; 9:31; 12:24; 14:27; 17:6; Philippians 1:20​; 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 1:3; Revelation 21:4-5; Isaiah 53:5; Hebrews 4:16
 
Have you ever found yourself asking, "God, why would you allow that to happen?"
In this lesson, we will explore how the sin and suffering in our world comes from the Fall of Man. We will also be reminded of God's enduring love and sovereignty as we navigate life's challenges. Lastly, we will discuss practical ways to support those dealing with the question of suffering.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleWhy Would a Good God Allow Suffering and Evil in the World?
I. If God is All Powerful, Good, and Loving, Why Did He Allow Sin?--- A. Why sin? Because of free will.--- B. Why ​free will? Because of love.--- C Why love? Because God is love.II. Why Does God Allow the Suffering to Continue, Even When I ​Pray for Help?--- A. God uses temporary suffering to do eternal work​.--- B. God uses suffering to change others​.--- C. God uses suffering to change ​us​.--- D. God’s ultimate plan for healing is heaven​.
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
 
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 Man

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 2:5-17 (Genesis 1:1 & 27; 2:7-8 & 15-18; 3:8-9; 1 Timothy 5:8; Ephesians 5:23-24; 6:1 & 4; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22)
 
After six days of creation, God changed His method of creation when He created man. He did not speak man into existence, but He formed man in His image. He did not create man and woman at the same time, but created them at different times on purpose.Before God introduced Adam to Eve, He prepared Him for his role. Do you know the role of a man? Do you know why God created men and women differently? Let's study God's plan for making man!
 
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 Man"
 
According to the Bible...
1. Men must walk with God.
2. Men must work and care for his family.
3. Men must be the spiritual leader.
4. Men will answer to God for their families.

Why Believe? — How Can We Know God Exists? (Week 2)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - Genesis 1:1 & 26-31; Psalm 19:1-2; 50:1-2; Romans 1:18-21; 2:14-15; Hebrews 1:1-3; Isaiah 42:5; John 1:1-3; Exodus 20:13; Revelation 4:11; Colossians 1:16-17; 1 Timothy 3:16
 
In this lesson, we will work together to address one of the fundamental questions of life, “Does God exist?” As we begin, we will consider the Christian doctrine of revelation and we will see that our belief in God’s existence is based on the fact that God has made Himself known to us.
 
We will then lay out several historical arguments for God’s existence based on philosophy, logic and Scripture, with the ultimate goal being to equip ourselves with compelling, Scriptural answers to this absolutely critical question.
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleHow Can We Know God Exists?
I. The Doctrine of Revelation--- A. General Revelation--- B. Special RevelationII. Historical Arguments for God’s Existence--- A.The Cosmological Argument--- B. The Design Argument--- C. The Beauty Argument--- D. The Moral Argument--- E. The Uniqueness of Humanity ArgumentIII. Common Objections to God’s Existence--- A. The Naturalism Objection--- B. The “Hiddenness of God” Objection
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: Genesis 1:26-27
 
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 Creation

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 1 (Matthew 7:24-29; Genesis 1:1-28; 2:1-3 & 7; 2 Timothy 3:1; Psalms 14:1; 19:1; Romans 1:20-22)
 
It is not surprising for us to hear that the world was created by God. The Bible is very clear about this! Most people know that God created the world in six days, but have you ever wondered why? God could have created everything in a moment, but He chose six days for a reason. God does everything for a reason, so what is the reason for six days of creation? What is God teaching us that is so important?
 
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 Creation"
 
Creation shows us...
1. The power of God
2. The order of God
3. The proof of God
 
Illustration #1A: Construction of Dinoff Hall Foundation
 
Illustration #1B: Construction of Dinoff Hall Foundation
 
Illustration #1C: Construction of Dinoff Hall Foundation
 
Illustration #1D: Construction of Dinoff Hall Foundation
 
Illustration #2: Bob Ross (artist/painter)
 
Illustration #3: Abstract artwork
 
Illustration #4: Bob Ross' Painting of Mountains
 
Illustration #5: Solar Eclipse (April 8, 2024)
Illustration #6: Northern Lights (Columbus, OH; May 10, 2024)

Why Believe? — Introduction to Apologetics (Week 1)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - 1 Peter 3:8-9 & 14-15; 5:5-9; Jude 1:3; Matthew 22:15-33; Luke 24:13-27; Acts 1:8; 17:1-4 & 16-34; Titus 3:2-9; Romans 1:15-16; Nehemiah 8:8; Ephesians 6:18-20; 1 Peter 3:8-9
 
In an age marked by growing skepticism, people are increasingly seeking answers to profound questions. As believers, it is imperative that we equip ourselves so that we can offer compelling answers to these questions.
One word historically used to describe engagement with difficult questions is apologetics. In this lesson, we will explore the concept of Christian apologetics, examine an example of this engagement from Jesus during His public ministry, and consider practical ways we can apply apologetics in our own lives
 
Why Believe?  — Answering Big Questions About God & the BibleIntroduction to Apologetics
I. Apologetics DefinedII. Apologetics Exemplified--- A. Jesus the Teacher--- B. The Apostles--- C. The Priority of GospelIII. Apologetics Practiced--- A. Witnessing--- B. The Study of Scripture--- C. Prayer--- D. Humility
 
Notes
Homework
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 3:14-15
 
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 Foundation of Everything

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - Genesis 1 (Genesis 1:1 & 16-18; John 1:3; Colossians 1:17; Psalm 139:14; Jeremiah 1:5; Deuteronomy 10:14)
 
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 Foundation of Everything"
 
1. God is author of everything
— God is the source of everything
— God created everything with purpose
— God is the owner of all