John 3:1-21 (HCSB)Jesus and Nicodemus 3 There was a man from the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Him at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher, for no one could perform these signs You do unless God were with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “I assure you: Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 “But how can anyo...  Read More

Study the Word: Learners worship, trust, and obey Jesus, understanding He is fully God and fully man.Key Truth: Jesus was actively involved in creation (John 1:1-3).Key Truth: Jesus brought life and truth to the lost world (John 1:4-13).Key Truth:  Jesus was God in human flesh living among us (John 1:14-18).Family Connection: Continue the discussion after church! What are four things John 1 teache...  Read More

There is an incredible number of ways that John 1:1-5 declares Jesus as God. Compare the beginning of Genesis 1 with John 1:1-5. How are they similar? Genesis talks about God creating and bringing light to physical darkness. How does John 1:1-5 demonstrate Jesus’ ability to bring light to spiritual darkness?Jesus says that He and God are “One” in John 10:22-39. Why does this lead to the response o...  Read More

Hebrews 1:8-9 (HCSB)8 but to the Son: Your throne, God, is forever and ever, and the scepter of Your kingdom is a scepter of justice. 9 You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; this is why God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of joy rather than Your companions.Jennifer Kirkup In original context, this Psalm (Psalm 45: 6-7) is a marriage song written to celebrate the King of Isra...  Read More

2 Peter 1:1-4 (HCSB)1 Simeon Peter, a slave and an apostle of Jesus Christ: To those who have obtained a faith of equal privilege with ours through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 May grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. Growth in the Faith 3 His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness through ...  Read More

John 10:22-39 (HCSB)Jesus at the Festival of Dedication22 Then the Festival of Dedication took place in Jerusalem, and it was winter. 23 Jesus was walking in the temple complex in Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 Then the Jews surrounded Him and asked, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” 25 “I did tell you and you don’t believe,” Jesus answered them. “T...  Read More

John 8:48-49 (HCSB)Jesus and Abraham48 The Jews responded to Him, “Aren’t we right in saying that You’re a Samaritan and have a demon?” 49 “I do not have a demon,” Jesus answered. “On the contrary, I honor My Father and you dishonor Me.Jennifer Kirkup Be a light, not a “shade”.  True example of pettiness. Mocking and slurs taking the place of actual discussions. Calling Jesus a Samaritan mocked Hi...  Read More

John 1:1-18 (HCSB)1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created. 4 Life was in Him, and that life was the light of men. 5 That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome it. 6 There was a man named Joh...  Read More

Study the Word: Learners grow in knowing and living out God’s Word and help others (especially their children) to do so as well.Key Truth: Disciples learn God's Word, put it into practice and pass it along to others (Deuteronomy 6:1-3).Key Truth: Discipleship is for every day, not just Sunday (Luke 9:23).Key Truth: Discipleship begins with parents discipling their children (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)How w...  Read More

Deuteronomy 6:4-9 was written just before Israel entered the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering. It affirms the oneness of God and our need to both follow God and teach our kids to do the same. Why is it important to remind Israel of this BEFORE receiving God’s blessings? How does serving God with our whole being tie into teaching our kids about God?Deuteronomy 6:12 reminds us that being co...  Read More

Matthew 28:18-20 (HCSB)18 Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”TW Mitchell Years ago,...  Read More

John 13:34-35 (HCSB)34 “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” TW Mitchell “But Peter said, “I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene –walk!” (Acts 3:6 NASB) The Peter in John...  Read More