Fellowship Baptist Church

Unexpected Illustration: Chapter 10 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 10 (John 10:1-9, 15 & 28; Psalm 23:4)
 
Most of us are visual learners—images help truth stick. A good illustration can make all the difference in how we understand and remember a message. Jesus knew this, and He often taught with vivid pictures that connected deeply with His listeners. One of His most powerful illustrations is that of a shepherd. This simple, relatable image not only moved the hearts of those who first heard it, but it continues to speak to us today—revealing both timeless truth and a beautiful glimpse into the heart of our incredible God.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Illustration
 
He is our Good Shepherd
1. He knows you and we know Him
2. He leads us
3. He is our peace (salvation)
 
Illustration #1a​: Community sheep fold
 
Illustration #1b: Community sheep fold
 
Illustration #1c: Community sheep fold
 
Illustration #2: Peter Barker
 
Illustration #3: Peter Barker & Jenny Liuzzo

​Lead the Way — Helping Others Follow Jesus (Find & Follow: Lesson 8)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - ​​​​​​Acts 2:41-42; 6:7; 9:10-19; 22:12; John 4:28-30 & 39-41; 15:15; 1 Peter 2:2; Matthew 4:19; Proverbs 27:5-6 & 17; Hebrews 10:24; Mark 5:37; 14:26, 32-35 & 37-39; Galatians 6:1-2
 
Discipleship isn’t just for pastors and teachers—it’s for all of us.
In this message, we explore what it really means to help others follow Jesus as part of the Great Commission. From the woman at the well to Ananias investing in Saul, we see how God uses everyday believers to make a lasting impact. Through scripture, stories, and practical insight, you'll be challenged to see discipleship not as a program, but as a personal, relational, and spiritual calling.
Who in your life needs someone to walk with them? Let’s go beyond attendance and activities—and lead the way.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 8Lead the Way: Helping Others Follow Jesus
 
I. Discipleship is All of Our ResponsibilitiesII. Discipleship Requires Us to Personally Engage ThemA. engaging means fellowshipB. engaging takes timeC. engaging means teachingIII. Discipleship Requires Faith in God's PlanIV. Discipleship is Simply Walking With Them Through LifeA. share everyday life with themB. push them to be betterC. challenge themD. confront them in loveE. be there when they fallF. face the hard times with them
 
Lesson 8 - Notes

Unexpected Healing: Chapter 9 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 9 (John 9:1-37 & 41; Mark 7:8-9; Matthew 9:36; 23:24-28)
 
John 9 begins with a miraculous healing—but not in the way anyone expected. It wasn’t the healing itself that was surprising, but how Jesus chose to do it and the ripple effect it caused.
In this story, Jesus restores the sight of a man blind from birth, yet the real blindness is exposed in the hearts of the Pharisees, who were outraged by what had happened. It is amazing how we too can become so blinded by our selfish desires, traditions, and opinions, that we become critical and bitter towards the work of God.
This message goes much deeper than a blind man, it addresses a struggle we all have in our hearts. It’s a powerful reminder that spiritual blindness is a condition we all must confront.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Healing
 
Are we blinded like the Pharisees?
1. Do you care more about traditions than what the Bible says?
2. Have you become hypocritical?
3. Have you become callused?
4. Do you have a critical spirit?
 
Illustration #1: The Pharisees

Rooted in Truth — Knowing Scripture to Teach Others (Find & Follow: Lesson 7)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​​2 Timothy 2:2 & 15; 4:3-4; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 1:1-6; 119:11; John 4:24; 14:26; Joshua 1:8; 1 Timothy 3:15; Matthew 7:24-27; 28:19-20; Ephesians 4:11-12; Mark 16:15
 
What does it mean to be rooted in truth—and why does it matter? In this lesson, we explore the call to know God’s Word deeply, live it out faithfully, and pass it on intentionally. Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:2 and other powerful passages, we walk through the biblical blueprint for discipleship and spiritual multiplication.You’ll be challenged to move beyond simply reading the Bible to studying, memorizing, and meditating on it—so that the truth can not only shape your life but flow through you to others.Don’t miss this call to build your life on the solid foundation of God’s unchanging Word.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 7Rooted in Truth: Knowing Scripture to Teach Others
 
I. What to Do with the TruthA. study the truthB. memorize the truthC. meditate on the truthII. The Cost of Not Being Rooted in the TruthA. we become vulnerable to false teachingB. the Church loses its purposeC. we lose our personal anchor in crisis
 
Lesson 7 - Notes

Unexpected Mercy: Chapter 8 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 8 (Genesis 6:8; Revelation 12:10; 22:21; Psalms 103:8; 145:8; John 1:14 & 17; 8:1-11 & 36; Ephesians 2:7-9; Deuteronomy 22:22; Exodus 31:18; Galatians 2:20; Romans 5:20)
 
Have you ever messed up?Maybe it was something small — or maybe it was a big deal. Mistakes have a way of bringing guilt, shame, and regret into our lives.
In John 8, we read about a woman who messed up big time — and got caught. The enemy tried to shame and condemn her, but then Jesus stepped in and did the unexpected. Yes, God hates sin — but He deeply loves us. And through Jesus, He offers mercy and grace that change everything.
This is a message we all need, because we all mess up. But here's the good news: Your failure doesn’t have to be the end — not when you have Jesus.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Mercy
 
I. The convicted sinner
II. The divine intervention
III. The surprising restoration
A. she was forgiven
B. she was restored

Unexpected Message: Chapter 7 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - John 7 (John 7:1-9 & 14-39; 14:6; Leviticus 23:33-43; 1 Timothy 1:15-17; Isaiah 12:2-4)
 
In the middle of a joyful religious celebration, Jesus stood and made a startling announcement: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” His words weren’t just poetic—they were powerful. They revealed His divine authority, exposed the emptiness of religion without grace, and offered something entirely new: spiritual life through the Holy Spirit.
In this message from John 7, we trace the buildup to Jesus’ bold invitation and discover how it still speaks to us today. Whether you’re spiritually thirsty, weighed down by religion, or longing for more of God, Jesus offers you more than relief—He offers you Himself.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Message
 
I. A Claim to Divine Authority
II. A Confrontation with Sin
III. A Clarification of Identity
IV. A Call to Believe

Life Together — Embracing Community & Accountability (Find & Follow: Lesson 6)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​​1 Thessalonians 2:13; 5:11-15; Genesis 2:18; 1 Peter 3:8-11; 1 Corinthians 12:25-26; Romans 12:10-13; Ephesians 4:11-15; Acts 20:32; Hebrews 10:23-25; Matthew 28:19-20
 
What does it really look like to follow Jesus with your whole life? It’s more than just personal devotion—it’s learning to walk with others in community and accountability through the local church. In this episode, we dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:11–15 and explore God’s vision for a church where people care deeply for one another, speak the truth in love, and help each other grow.
You’ll discover why life together in the church isn’t optional for a disciple of Jesus—it’s essential. And you’ll be challenged to both give and receive the kind of support that helps us stay faithful, even when life is hard.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected, discouraged, or unsure how to grow spiritually—this episode is for you.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 6Life Together: Embracing Community and Accountability
 
I. CommunityII. AccountabilityA. Preaching & TeachingB. Life Groups & Ministry TeamsC. Personal Mentoring
 
Lesson 6 - Notes
 
Daily Life vs. Life Together Diagram
 
FBC Discipleship Pathway

Unexpected Provision: Chapter 6 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 6 (John 6:1-14 & 16-21; Mark 6:35-37, 42 & 52; Ephesians 3:20)
 
If you follow Jesus, you’ll discover that He has the answers to everything. The disciples were learning this as they walked with Him. Jesus didn’t just want them to know who He was—He wanted them to trust Him.Trusting is easy when everything makes sense and your needs are met. But what about when the situation feels impossible? Do you still trust God when nothing adds up?Sometimes, those moments of need are actually a set-up—for God to show that He always has a plan, and He always provides.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Provision
 
I. The testing of our faith
A. the need came out of nowhere 
B. the problem seemed impossible to handle
II. The applying of our faith
A. the solution often comes from the least expected places
B. it is not about what you have, but what are you willing to do with it
III. The results of our faith
 
Illustration #1: Darrell & Katrina Johnson
 
Illustration #2: Darrell Johnson after kidney transplant
 
Illustration #3: Darrell Johnson eating after kidney transplant

Follow Me — Discovering the Heart of Discipleship (Find & Follow: Lesson 5)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​​Matthew 4:18-22; Acts 12:2; Luke 6:46; 9:23-25; 14:25-30; Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 6:20; John 1:1 & 14; 8:31-32; 14:15; Psalms 19:7-10; 119:105; Mark 1:35
 
What does it really mean to follow Jesus?
In this lesson , we look at the first disciples—ordinary fishermen who left everything when Jesus said, “Follow me.” Their response marked the beginning of discipleship, not just for them, but for all who would come after.
Discipleship is more than belief—it’s a new direction, a daily decision, and a lifelong pursuit. You’ll discover how Jesus calls us to a new purpose, invites us into deep sacrifice, and demands significant commitment. We’ll unpack the cost of discipleship, the heart of self-denial, and the joy of surrendering everything to the One who gave everything for us.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 5Follow Me: Discovering the Heart of Discipleship
 
I. What is Discipleship?   II. Consider the Cost of DiscipleshipA. ​following Jesus ​includes ​self ​denialB. ​following Jesus ​includes ​surrender to GodIII. What Does ​a Disciple Do?A. ​continue in God’s WordB. ​spend ​time in ​prayerC. ​obey His ​teaching
 
Lesson 5 - Notes

Unexpected Authority: Chapter 5 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Tony Liuzzo (Lead Pastor) - John 5 (John 5:1-10, 14 16; Matthew 11:28)
 
When you’re in trouble, who do you turn to? Most of us would say, “Jesus,” but the truth is—we often run to everything but Him.In John 5, Jesus steps into a situation that catches everyone off guard. He performs an unexpected miracle for a man who was completely desperate. In doing so, He shows that He has power and authority over sickness. But Jesus wasn’t just a healer—He is God.And that miracle? It was just the beginning. It set the stage for what came next: Jesus intentionally stirred up the Pharisees to prove that His authority extends over everything.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Authority
 
I. Jesus holds authority over sickness
A. Jesus sees you
B. Jesus knows your pain
C. Jesus gives hope
II. Jesus has authority to define righteousness
A. we can trust in God's authority
B. we must submit to God's authority
 
Illustration #1: Pool of Bethesda

Walk the Walk — Living a Life that Reflects the Gospel (Find & Follow: Lesson 4)

Pastor Matt Hodge (Discipleship Pastor) - ​​​​​​​​1 Thessalonians 1:5-10​; 2:1-​13 & 19-20; 5:21-24​; Acts 16:22-​24​; Matthew 5:14-16​
 
What gives your words weight when you talk about Jesus? In this episode, we explore how Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica demonstrates that credibility isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you live. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 1–2, we identify five powerful traits of a life that backs up the Gospel with integrity: courage, authenticity, humility, relational care, and consistency. If you want your witness to carry real impact, this lesson will challenge and encourage you to walk the walk—not just talk the talk.
 
Summer Teaching Series:
This is not just another series on the Great Commission—this is a challenge. Do we really want to be a disciple-making church? Are we willing to move beyond good intentions and take Jesus’ final command seriously?Find & Follow is a 9-week journey designed to help you step boldly into the Great Commission. In the first half of the series, we’ll explore how to share the gospel—from trusting its power to telling our personal stories and living as a witness. Then, we’ll shift our focus to discipleship—what it means to truly follow Jesus, grow in community, and invest in others.
 
Find & Follow :: Completely Obeying the Great CommissionLesson 4Walk the Walk: Living a Life that Reflects the Gospel
 
I. BoldII. AuthenticIII. HumbleIV. RelationalV. Consistent
 
Lesson 4 - Notes

Unexpected Forgiveness: Chapter 4 (UNEXPECTED — The Book of John)

Pastor Chris Andrews (Associate Pastor) - John 4 (John 4:1-42; Romans 5:8; Luke 5:32; Matthew 11:28; 1 John 1:9)
 
We all carry something—regret, shame, secrets, or just the weight of being tired of pretending. But what if Jesus is sitting at the well, waiting for you?We’re diving into John 4—when Jesus intentionally walked miles through the heat to meet a woman no one else wanted. She had a past. So do we. But He met her with unexpected forgiveness… and it changed everything.If you’ve ever felt worn out, unseen, or unworthy—come hear how Jesus sees you, knows your story, and still wants you.
 
Series description:
Have you ever experienced something that completely threw you off because it was so different from what you expected?When we read the Gospels, it's easy to wonder why so many people rejected Jesus. Why didn’t they recognize Him as the Messiah and worship Him?The truth is—everything about Jesus was unexpected. From the way He entered the world—born to poor parents and laid in a manger—to the way He loved and forgave sinners, outcasts, and even enemies.The Gospel of John is especially unique because it highlights the surprising, counter-cultural things Jesus said and did. It shows us a Savior who pursued personal relationships with the most unlikely people.Through John’s account, we’re invited to take a journey and experience the unexpected grace and love of Jesus—a love that still transforms lives today.
 
UNEXPECTED: The Book of John
Unexpected Forgiveness
 
I. The Long Walk
A. Jesus has priorities. (Souls over stomachs)
B. Jesus cares deeply. (must needs go through Samaria)
II. The Lonely Woman
What are we to learn from this interaction?
A. sin hurts
B. Jesus heals
III. The Living Water
A. Jesus offers living water
B. forgiveness is available if you will be honest with God
 
Illustration #1: Map of Samaria