The Trinity | Genesis 1:1-3

Starting in March 2025 Coastline began an eight-week sermon series called: Solid Ground. The series is based on Matthew 7 where Jesus encouraged the listeners to build their home on a firm foundation. For this series we're looking at some of the most important Christian Doctrines. It seemed like a great idea to share the small group questions here incase you'd like to study one of these topics more. 

Small Group Questions | The Trinity | Genesis 1:1-3 

Today we’re in week two of our eight-week sermon series called Solid Ground. This series is all about building our lives on a firm spiritual foundation. Our theme verse comes from Matthew 7, where Jesus teaches us to build our lives on the rock instead of the shifting sand. We live in a world filled with all kinds of ideas about God; some rooted in truth and others way off base. One of the most important doctrines of the Christian faith is the Trinity. The Trinity is the belief that God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. For some, this may be familiar, while for others, it feels like a confusing mystery. Take some time today to walk through the questions on the Trinity with your group. 

1) The sermon started explaining topics of conversation we are good at having vs. areas we know little about. As we approach the Trinity, quickly have your group share their confidence in being able to describe the Trinity.

2) The concept of the Trinity is present throughout Scripture but “The Trinity”, in written form like this, is never mentioned in Scripture. Read these passages and talk about the Trinity: Genesis 1:1-3, 26-27, Isaiah 6:8, and Matthew 28:18-20. 

3) We looked at Four words to help us understand the Trinity: One— There is only one God, Three— This one God exists as three persons, Diversity— Each person of the Trinity is distinct and Unity— The Trinity functions in perfect harmony. What part of this was most helpful to you? 

4) The Trinity is hard to explain and Christians have used human examples like: the egg, the shamrock, and water. Have you heard any other illustrations that would be helpful in explaining the Trinity to someone? 

5) All throughout the New Testament we see the unity of the Trinity. Read Matthew 3:16–17, John 14:16–17, 2 Corinthians 13:14, and Ephesians 2:18. How do these verses help us see the unity in the Trinity? 

6) In our Christian faith the Trinity matters. Read Romans 5:5–6, Galatians 4:4–6, Ephesians 3:14–19, and 1 John 4:13–14. Discuss how these verses show God expresses His great love to us. What stands out to you? 

7) Part of being loved by God is loving others. Come up with a list of five potential ways you can personally show the love of God to others this week. Next have everyone in your group one way they be intentional to work on this week.  

Close your time in prayer asking for God to help you understand His triune nature. 

Love Your Kids | Ephesians 6:1-4

The month of February is a time when love is in the air! "I love you" might be the most sentence in the English language... in any language. For the month of February we're focusing in on love. We're doing a sermon series titled: "I love you". In this series we'll look at four unique relationships: Loving God, loving others, loving our spouse, and loving our kids. It seemed like a great idea to share the small group questions here incase you'd like to study one of these topics more. 

Small Group Questions | Love Your Kids | Ephesians 6:1-4

This month, we’re dedicating our time to exploring Biblical love. On Sunday, we talked  about the role of love in parenting: a calling that requires patience, guidance, and grace. In Ephesians 6:1-4, Paul teaches that parenting is about both instruction and nurture, balancing discipline with encouragement. Just as God lovingly leads us, parents are called to lead their children with wisdom, consistency, and a heart that reflects Christ’s love. Parenting can look different for everyone. Our church includes people in various stages of life: parents, grandparents, future parents, and those who support families. As you discuss, please be mindful and sensitive to each person’s experiences.

1) What is one moment from your childhood when you felt deeply loved by a parent or guardian? What specifically made you feel loved? How can we apply those principles in our own parenting or relationships? 

2) Read Ephesians 6:1-3. Paul connects obedience to parents with enjoying long life.  Thinking about your relationship with your parents, how have you seen obedience their instruction in your life lead to blessings in your life?

3) The New Testament offers us a variety of examples of parenting. Read Matthew 3:16-17. At the baptism of Jesus we read about an affirming time for Jesus. Talk about the power of encouraging our children. 

4) Read Ephesians 6:4 and Colossians 3:21. Paul warns fathers not to exasperate their children. What are some ways that parents (or authority figures) can unintentionally discourage or embitter children?

5) In the sermon we learned about three ways to ruin a child: Being Overbearing, Being Permissive, or Being Inconsistent. How does your parenting impact your children? Have you modeled a consistent parenting style?

6) Read Deut 6:4-9. Moses instructed God’s people to impress these commandments on their children. What are ways we can enter into spiritual conversations this week? What one thing do you want to focus on this week? 

7) In Matthew 17:14-20 we learned about a father who was willing to do anything for his son and desperate for life change. What is one way you can bring your children to the feet of Jesus this week to be in His presence? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Serving Others | Matthew 25:31-40

The month of January seems like a great time to get our priorities straight again! For January Coastline Bible Church started a four-week sermon series called; "The Church." In this series we talked about how the church is a living, breathing, organism, on mission for God. We looked what makes the church unique and the role God's people play in the church. We had small group questions for two of the weeks and it made sense to keep sharing them here. 

Small Group Questions | Serving Others | Matthew 25:31-40

Throughout January we’re exploring four key aspects that make the church truly unique. One idea we’ve emphasized in this series is that the church is not merely an organization but a living, breathing organism—a unique community of people on mission for God. This week, we’ll focus on how serving sets the church apart. Think of serving like eating your vegetables: when you’re spiritually immature, you might resist serving because you see life as centered on yourself. But as you grow in your faith, serving others becomes something you eagerly look forward to. Together, we’ll explore an invitation to serve others, our responsibility to serve within the church, and the joy that comes from serving.

1) In the introduction to the sermon Neal gave us an example of how much he disliked eating his vegetables as a kid but learned to eat them as an adult. Thinking of this analogy, how do you feel about serving others? Is it a joy for you or difficult?  

2) Read Matthew 25:31-40. While sitting on the Mount of Olives Jesus taught on several things. One was what would happen when He returned to earth. How does this passage inspire you to live out your faith through serving? 

3) Serving is a practical way to live out our faith. But we live in a fast-paced, schedule paced, world. Take some time as a group to share what holds you back from serving others; it could be time constrains, fears, health issues, or more. 

4) Read Romans 12:6-8. Paul wrote to the church in Rome with this encouragement to serve others. Thinking back on your life, what do you think some of your gifts are to serve the church? Where have people affirmed these gifts in your life? 

5) Look over the entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 12. Paul teaches the early church about the different gifts God has given us. What do we learn about deploying our gifts to serve the church in these passages? 

6) Read 1 Peter 4:8-11. Peter taught the early church about the using whatever gifts they have to faithfully serve the church. Where would you like to grow in the understanding and use of your gifts? 

7) As a group, think of several ways you can serve others this coming week or month. Come up with a list to help you have several ideas and commit to doing those. 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Three Choices | John 13:18-38

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Three Choices  | John 13:18-38

Today we’re moving back into the Gospel of John. In John 1 we’re introduced to Jesus as the Son of God. These are some of the most elevated statements about Jesus in the entire New Testament. Next, in John 2-10 the primary focus is on the miracles, signs, teaching, and controversies surrounding Jesus. We see Jesus turn water into wine, feed the masses, and teach like no one has ever taught. Next, in John 11-12 we read that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Jesus puts Himself in harms way to heal His friends. It’s a selfless act of love. All of this leads us to John 13 where we start the upper room discourse where Jesus gives the disciples a new command to love. 

1) When you heard the story of the elementary boy who made his own T-shirt for the college color day at his school what did you think? Did the story bring up any emotion or thoughts for you about loving others and how to do that better? 

2) In John 13 Jesus gives the disciples a new command to love each other (Read John 13:34-35). This command was given to those who follow Jesus. What makes it easy to love some people and what makes it challenging to love others? 

3) As we think about loving others what are some lessons you’ve learned that have helped you love others? Read these passages and use them as prompt to help you love others (1 Corinthians 13:4, Romans 13:8, Philippians 2:3, and Mathew 5:43-48)  

4) The opposite of love is to betray a person. Judas had already struck a deal with the religious leaders to hand Jesus over (read John 13:18-30). What do you think are the small choices that Judas made to come to this big decision to betray Jesus? 

5) Being betrayed might be one of the most heart wrenching things that can happen to us in life. If you’re willing to share about a time you were betrayed and how you dealt with that. When betrayal happens, how can you turn to Jesus who also knows what it’s like to be betrayed? 

6) Near the end of our passage Jesus predicts Peter’s upcoming denial (read John 13:36-38). Peter is a man who is zealous for Jesus and can’t fathom this happening. What happens in our life that lead to us slowly walking away from Jesus? 

7) When you think about the entirety of this passage what stands out most to you? Do you think you’re in a spot where you would betray Jesus, are you considering denying Jesus? Where can you grow in your love for others this week?  

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

Spiritual Blindness | John 9

The Gospel of John is a unique and powerful account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written by John, one of Jesus' closest disciples, this gospel presents a deep and thoughtful perspective on the person and work of Jesus. Unlike the other three gospels, which are known as the Synoptic Gospels and focus on Jesus' actions and teachings, John's gospel emphasizes the spiritual and theological significance of Jesus' life and ministry. For this series I will write some of the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions | Spiritual Blindness | John 9

Last week Jesus gave another “I am” statement. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Today we’ll see that language continued in the Gospel of John. Today we’re looking at a story of a man who was born blind but healed by Jesus. It’s a story that should be encapsulated in joy. The man was blind and can now see! But the man is confronted by the religious leaders after his healing. He is interrogated instead of welcomed into the family of God. Finally the man gets to meet Jesus and learn about having spiritual eyes to see the truth around him. Today we’re going to see how Jesus can heal our eyesight but how Jesus makes blind men see.

1) We all have a story and Jesus came to earth to rewrite our brokenness into hope. Share with your group about when you met Jesus. Briefly talk about how you were once spiritually blind. What happened for your eyes to be opened to Jesus? 

2) The disciples asked Jesus a question about the man born blind (read John 9:1-5). So often we look for an easy to difficult problems. Can you think of a time where bad theology lead to you asking the wrong question? 

3) The healing of this man required obedience on his part (read John 9:6-7). In the Old Testament there is a story about Naaman who needed to act in obedience (read 2 Kings 5:13-15). Where is God asking you to act in obedience? 

4) We know how to act in obedience. We obey traffic patterns, follow the laws of the land, and listen to the instruction of our boss at work. Thinking about acting in obedience, what makes it so difficult to obey God in all areas of our lives? 

5) The Pharisees interrogated this man’s parents about his blindness (read John 9:18-23). His parents were afraid to answer this man because it would affect their status in the synagogue. Is there anyone you’re afraid to talk about Jesus with? 

6) The conclusion is that this man finds sight in Jesus and ultimately meets the one who healed him (read John 35-41). How first response is to worship Jesus. Where is a place where you’ve been withholding worship from Jesus? 

7) We talked about sharing our faith story with those around us by using the model in John 9 and Ephesians 4:22-24. Have you taken the time to write out your faith story? How do you feel about sharing your faith? What are some emotions that are invoked when you think about telling others about what Jesus has done in your life? 

Close your time in prayer. Pray for strength to invite a friend to meet Jesus. 

The Unforgettable Wedding | John 2:1-12

On April 30th, 2023 I preached a first person narrative sermon on John 2:1-12. I preached it from the perspective of the Father of the Bride. If you've ever wanted to preach that type of sermon, here is my manuscript that I wrote for the morning. I did not bring any notes on stage with me. 

The Gospel of John

The Unforgettable Wedding 

 

Big Idea: Jesus filled my life with joy


Welcome! My name is Neal Benson and I’m the lead pastor here at Coastline. I want to say a special welcome to those who are gathering with us online. One of my passions in life is preaching. I love preaching God’s word. Ever since I gave my life to Jesus sharing His word has been my passion. This morning we’re going to continue in our sermon series through the Gospel of John but we’re going to approach our text in a new way. I’m going to preach from John 2:1-12 as a first-person narrative sermon. That means I will be a character from the story and share with you what I saw that day when Jesus turned water into wine. 

This year I’m taking a preaching class for my doctoral studies and I’ve been reading more about first-person narrative sermons. Some people have never seen a first-person narrative sermon. Some people have seen it done well. And others have seen it done poorly. I’ve only preached a first-person narrative sermon the life of Gideon before, so this is something newer to me also. It’s a practice that I want to learn as a way for our church to hear God’s word in a different way. I’ve spent a lot of time studying the passage, the region where our story took place, and what it must have been like at that wedding when the wine ran out. 

To prepare us for the sermon I’m going to read the passage in John 2. Then I’ll move my Bible aside, take a couple of steps back, and reappear as the father of the bride at that wedding feast in Cana. Read John 2:1-12. 

Jesus invited to the wedding (vv. 1-2)

Let me introduce myself to you. My name is Baruch ברוך. My name means Blessed. For most of my life I felt like a blessed man. I grew up in Israel and worshiped the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I lived in Northern Israel in the city of Cana, it's near the Sea of Galilee. It’s a beautiful region (map). It’s the only place I ever lived and the only place I ever wanted to live. My family lived in Cana forever. My father grew up here, his father grew up here, and his father grew up here. Our city was never famous until the stories of Jesus began to spread. It was in Cana where Jesus preformed His first miracle. It was at my daughter’s wedding. Jesus’ first miracle took place at my house! 

In Jewish culture we are great story tellers. I want to tell you a story that I’ve shared thousands of times. I want to tell you the story of when Jesus came to my daughter’s wedding, saved my family from shame, and filled me with a new joy. I was a shop owner in my town. I had more money the rest of the people in our town because business was good. As my oldest daughter was preparing for marriage her mother and I had picked a husband for her. As we began talking about who we would pick she overheard us. She quietly walked into the kitchen as quiet as a mouse and told us that she was in fact in love with this man and would like to marry him. I was so happy for my little girl! She will always be my little girl. 

We began the preparations for the wedding. I will never forget all the hours our family put into that wedding… and neither will my pocket book! It was common in my culture for me, the father of the bride, to pay for the wedding. What you might not know is that our weddings would last for at least a week! Think of the joy for me; Baruch would be hosting his daughters wedding at his home. I was so excited for her wedding date. My village would come and celebrate with us. Our family would join as our daughter became a bride. The wedding was scheduled for a Wednesday. This was the typical day of the week when virgins would get married. My people would close their shops to come celebrate this joyful moment with us. 

The day of the wedding feast arrived and our friends began to arrive. People from our community showed up and began to celebrate. We even had guests travel from a far. One of those guests was my old friend Mary. I don’t have time to tell you about how we met and our years of friendship, that isn’t why I’m here. I will tell you that I asked for Mary to have a special seat near me during the wedding feast. When Mary showed up she brought her son with her but I wasn’t prepared for extra guests. I want to tell you more about Mary’s son in a minute. He also brought some of His friends but they called themselves His disciples. I thought He was following Joseph as a carpenter but I had a lot to catch up on with Mary. 

A problem occurred at the wedding (vv. 3-7)

The wedding was going great! We had been celebrating for a couple of days. The music was beautiful. My daughter was so happy. I loved seeing her dance with her husband. I loved the way he looked at her. I watched her talking with her friends and a great smile on her face. The wedding was going better than I had imagined it would. But then something bad happened; there was a big problem. Just like Mary brought her Son and His disciples, some of my other guests invited their family with them. When we planned the wedding I hadn’t planned for this many people to actually come to our home. We found homes for them to sleep in the village. Let me get to the main point; we didn’t have enough wine. 

It was a couple of days in to the feast when one of the servants came to tell me that we had run out of wine. I’m a very calm business man but inside I was troubled. It was my job to provide for all the guests during the wedding feast. It wasn’t like we could get in a car and run to Costco to get more wine. We had many people at our home and it was well into the evening. I wasn’t sure where I would find any wine at this hour. Even if I went to all my neighbors to ask for wine it would never be enough for the evening or the rest of the celebration. 

In addition to this, if my guests found out that I ran out of wine it would be an embarrassment. In my culture it was shameful to run out of wine at a wedding feast. If the guests found out we were out of wine I could bring shame on my family. I began thinking of all these horrible options in my mind. Our friends could bring shame on my family. My daughter’s husband could leave her. If he does stay with her, this could bring shame on their marriage. For the rest of their lives people would talk about how the blessed man wasn’t able to provide for the guests. This wasn’t just a case where the wine ran out, there are sociological layers at play in this wedding feast that could cause harm to my family. 

More than that, I wondered if I had embarrassed God. Throughout the holy Scriptures there was a connection with joy and wine. My people knew the Psalms. As I sat at my table I kept thinking about Psalm 4:7 and the connection between wine and joy. The wine had run out at my daughter’s wedding, would the joy run out of her marriage? Would the joy run out of my family? I had so many questions and I think Mary could tell that I was troubled. She leaned over to me and asked about my situation. She must have seen the servant come and whisper in my ear about this dire situation. Mary said she would talk with Jesus. I wasn’t sure what He could do but I will tell you this; that man was filled with Joy. I had never seen so much joy in a person. 

Most of the religious leaders in my region would have never attended a wedding. They would avoid a party like this, but not Jesus. Jesus was right there in the party. He was with the people and caring for them. I watched as Mary pulled Jesus aside and brought Him to our table. I was able to over hear every single word they said. She simply told Him: “They have no more wine.” Jesus was silent for a minute. I heard him respond to her: “Woman, why do you involve me? My hour has not yet come.” He wasn’t disrespectful to His mother. To call her: “Woman” was the most respectful name He could call her. I heard that while Jesus hung on the cross, later in His life, that He also called her: “Woman” during that time. The point of the story isn’t Mary, I’m sorry if I’ve made it seem that way. The point of the story is what happened next. 

Jesus walked to the back room where the wine was stored. We had a special place in our home where we stored our food, water, supplies, and wine. Jesus went back there and began to look at all we had. I followed Jesus because I wanted to see what He would do. I also wanted to be there in case He needed anything from me, as a business owner I’m very resourceful. I showed him the back room. He stood there and looked at the stone jars that we had back there. I had six of them that I inherited from my family. I don’t see many Jews in this room so let me explain the significance of the stone jars. Stone jars are not like pottery jars, they are considered ceremonially clean under Levitical Law. That was important for the religious part of my life. They were large stone jars that would each hold about two to three firkins of water. I knew you wouldn’t know that word. They would each hold 20-30 gallons of water for my family. 

Jesus stood in this back room and began to think. The servants stood at the doorway watching His every move. I could hear my heart racing. It was dark and I didn’t know what we would do. Jesus calmly asked the servants to fill the jars. He spoke to them with such a gentle voice. I was emotionally distraught and He was calm. Our servants were used to taking instruction but the way they listened to this man Jesus impressed me. Jesus spoke to them like He was one of them. It was like He knew what it was like to be a servant. The servants obeyed what Jesus asked. They went out and fetched water for the jars. We didn’t have what you call: running water. I’ve seen this running water from heaven and boy is it nice! 

Our servants began to fill the jars with water. It took a little time as they did it without alarming anyone. They just acted like nothing was wrong; they had such a great personal disposition. I’ve thought about how Jesus treated these people. Every time I tell my story I get distracted by this point. Jesus was so loving to them. Sometimes I would get upset or angry and yell at the servants. I didn’t want to be like that but it just came out. It normally happened when I had a bad day at the store. Maybe something would break and I would loose money. A shipment could have been delayed and I would loose money. I didn’t have an anger problem like King Saul; that guy would throw spears at David! In this moment I would have yelled at the servants to hurry but Jesus was so calm and loving. Ever since the wedding I couldn’t stop thinking about this. (Take a minute to think). I’m sorry for getting distracted, Jesus’ love for people really impacted me.

The best wine ever (vv. 8-10)

Where was I? Yes, the servants filled the jars with water all the way to the top. They put in twenty to thirty gallons of water in each jar. We had around 150 gallons of water in there. But we still had no wine. No wine. The problem that I shared with you still existed. We needed wine and we had no wine! Jesus asked everyone to leave the back room. I stayed because it was my home, my daughter’s wedding, and my reputation on the line. Once everyone left the room I stood by His side. He looked at me and gently asked me to leave also. I was hesitant but I could see this great compassion in His eyes. 

I left but I stood right outside the door and listened. My mind went back to the heroes of my childhood. I imagined Jesus crying out to God like King David in so many of his Psalms. I wondered if Jesus would pray like Elijah did on Mount Carmel when he battled the prophets of Baal. As a boy that was my favorite story. I wondered what Jesus would do. I sat outside the room for what felt like hours but it probably only four to five minutes. I listened carefully and it sounded like Jesus had a simple conversation with God… but He called Him Father. 

After a couple minutes Jesus slowly opened the door and invited the servants back in. He said these words to them: “Now draw some to and taking to the master of the banquet.” I was outside of the door when He walked out. Jesus gave me this look that said: “Everything will be fine.” But He said no words to me. He simply walked past me and went back to talking with the wedding guests. I was so surprised to hear the servants shout for joy. I knew my problem was solved. Jesus solved all the things I had been worrying about. I never went in that room to look at the jars. I just knew that Jesus had taken my shame and filled me with joy. 

Every time I tell this story the person or group thinks that I’m done here, but I’m not done. The servants brought the wine to the master of the banquet. I was sitting with my wife again by now and she could see my relief. The master of the banquet was a friend of mine that we hired. He had lead hundreds of weddings in our region. It was customary to hire my friend so that I could focus on my family and he could keep the wedding ceremonies moving. He was the one person in our region who held this role. I watched him drink the water. My eyes stayed on his every move. He began to smile. 

When he pulled his lips away from the cup he shouted for the music to stop. This was not how this was supposed to go. He shouted again and again for the music to stop. The joy of the evening was interrupted. I had never seen this happen at a wedding before. He began talking: “Normally the best wine was served first at the wedding feast. Then after a couple of days the families will switch the wine out for the poorer wine, wine of less quality. You know, the cheap stuff?” This might be like a box of wine for your culture. Then he went on to share: “Most people do this because after you’ve had a couple of glasses of wine no one really cares what it tastes like. But my friend Baruch has saved the best wine until the end of the wedding feast.” He looked at me and my wife Sarah and said: “My friend, this is the best wine I’ve ever tasted.” My wife and I were in utter amazement. 

My friend went on to bless my family, my daughter, and the day of this wedding. What should have brought shame on my family brought fame. We were the family who saved the best wine until the end. But it wasn’t me. I didn’t save the wedding. It was Jesus who saved the wedding. Jesus saved the wedding. I should have been filled with shame but I was filled with joy. I realized that day that Jesus filled my life with joy. That night I lay in my bed thinking about this whole story. I couldn’t fall asleep. My family almost fell into shame but Jesus saved my family. I went on to become a follower of Jesus. I couldn’t leave my family like Peter, James, John, and the others did but I was a believer. 

Apply the text for the people (vv. 11-12)

Jesus was so filled with joy. I wanted to invite Him to my other daughters wedding; who knows what could have happened! I’m an old man now. I lived a full life. I saw my children married. My grandchildren were placed on my lap. My life was filled with joy. From this point I can see that Jesus was the Lamb of God who came to save the world. At my daughter’s wedding I was so empty and Jesus filled me with true joy. 

Every time I tell this story I like to ask the people two questions. My first question is: Do you have joy in your life that only comes from Jesus? In my culture, joy was a defining marker of those who followed God. Joy was something that separated them from the rest of the people in the world. Sure we had people who said they followed God but you could tell if they had joy. I learned a lesson that day. I thought I had joy but when the wine ran out so did my joy. My joy was based on what I had not on what I was filled with. From that day on I made sure to be filled with the joy of God. 

If you are not filled with the joy of God, let me ask my second question: What are you filled with? Some people in my city were filled with a desire for money. Some were filled with too much wine. Some were filled with hate. Some wanted to shame others. It was tough because there are so many layers as to why that happens in the life of a person. Maybe you lost something special to you and you lost your joy. Maybe you have never trusted Jesus and today you can see that you need the joy of Jesus to transform you. Will you allow Jesus to fill you with His joy today? 

Conclusion 

I don’t have the time to tell you about all the stories of the life of Jesus of Nazareth. I know you can read them in the books written about His life. He changed my life at my daughter’s wedding and I think He wants to change your life too. This is my story of how Jesus showed up at my daughter’s wedding, took away my shame, and saved the day. Fill the jars with prayers 
Closing Prayer. 

The Gospel of John: In the Beginning, the Word, the Light, and the Glory

In the Gospel of John, the author introduces the readers to the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. The opening verses of John 1:1-18, known as the Prologue, serve as a beautiful drive that captivates our attention and reveals the nature of Jesus and His mission. This blog post will explore the three sections of the Prologue: Jesus as "The Word," "The Light," and "The Glory."

In the Beginning was The Word

John's primary goal in writing this gospel is for readers to believe in the Son of God, Jesus Christ. He starts by echoing the familiar words, "In the beginning," triggering thoughts of the opening verses of Genesis. Through profound and complex theological statements, John establishes the preeminent nature of Jesus, emphasizing that Jesus was with God and was God Himself. Jesus, referred to as "The Word," is the expression of God and the communication of His truth. John, who personally experienced the transformative power of Jesus, asserts that nothing in all creation was made without Him.

The Light Came to The World

Building upon the concept of Jesus as the Word, John now presents Jesus as "The Light." In a world engulfed in darkness, Jesus brings illumination, truth, and righteousness. Just as light sustains physical life, Jesus offers spiritual life to all who embrace Him. John highlights the role of John the Baptist, who pointed others to Jesus as the true Light. Although darkness opposes the light, it can never overcome it. The light of Christ continues to shine even in the darkest places, driving out sin and offering hope to those who embrace Him.

The Word Became Flesh

John concludes the Prologue by describing Jesus as "The Glory." Jesus left the glory of heaven to dwell among humanity and rescue us from ourselves. John draws a parallel between Jesus' dwelling among us and the glory of God descending on the tabernacle in Moses' time. The Law given through Moses brought freedom to Israel, but now Jesus brings "grace upon grace." Grace, defined as receiving what we don't deserve, is a core value of the church. Through Jesus' grace, lives are transformed, and people experience the powerful work of God.

Conclusion

The Prologue of the Gospel of John takes readers on a profound journey, revealing the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus is not merely a historical figure or a wise teacher; He is the eternal Word, the Light that overcomes darkness, and the embodiment of God's glory. Understanding the greatness of Jesus and His role in the world transforms lives, expands our perception of Him, and invites us into a deeper prayer life. Jesus offers us a life that is eternal and filled with His unfailing love and grace. If you're longing for light in the darkness or seeking a transformative encounter with the Word of God, Jesus Christ, He is ready to meet you and change your life forever.

A healthy marriage focuses on comforting each other

Last month Charity and I had the privilege of sharing on marriage at Coastline. It was a super fun morning to teach with Charity. This year we hit 18 years of marriage. We're the first to share that we're not perfect but we're also not quitters. We intentionally invest in our marriage. One of those ways is to comfort each other.

Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

    But how can one keep warm alone?

Ecclesiastes 4:11

When Solomon wrote this he was specifically thinking about the cold desert nights in Israel. He was thinking that if two people lie down together they can share their body heat and survive the cold desert nights. There is an aspect in this verse of the comfort that a marriage provides to people. 

Now, most guys read this verse and think that Solomon is talking about sex. I can assure you he is not talking about sex. Guys, almost anything can be sexual for you. Last night your wife said: “Can you help me load the dishwasher?” In your mind you thought: “You bet! I’ll help you load the dishwasher.” Your mind immediately went to sex and she just needed help in the kitchen. 

This passage is about comfort. I’ve found marriage provides an amazing comfort in a confusing world. Earlier I shared that marriage was God’s idea. God knew that we would face daily challenges and need someone to share the load of those challenges with. 

Some of you stay home with the kids all day long. When your spouse comes home you simply want to talk with someone about something else than Paw Patrol and dirty diapers. You want adult conversation. Marriage provides that comfort. Some of you work outside the home all day. You want to come home and ask your spouse for ideas on how to manage your team. You’re having an issue with your boss. He wants you to work on a project and it's all you’ve ever dreamed up but you want to discuss this with your spouse. We converse with our spouse because it provides us comfort in a confusing world. 

I appreciate what the Apostle Paul wrote to the early church in Ephesus (read Ephesians 5:33). I don’t think it’s my role to tell anyone’s wife that she must respect her husband. The Bible has clearly told you. But I do feel it’s my passion to help men to love their wife. I long to see more healthy marriages in our church and in our community. I’ve used this illustration for years in pre-marital counseling. When a husband attempts to move closer to his wife, he doesn’t get closer to God. But when he applies this passage and focuses on loving God and loving his wife, he gets closer to God. Hopefully she is focused on loving God and respecting her husband. The end result is a closer relationship to God and your spouse. I love this quote: "A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." —Mignon McLaughlin

Can we have some real talk here? Some of you are feeling beat up by the world right now. You’re struggling with rising food costs, kids tearing through shoes, your gas bill, your boss, and much more. You are exhausted with all the responsibilities you have. Some of you single parents are really struggling in this season of life. You might even want to quit. 

Instead of running away from your spouse, getting your head, or being silent, will you please let your spouse comfort you? She can’t fix your problems, you need to get on your knees and beg God for that, but she can comfort you in this time. This is for everyone. Here is a simple question that Charity and I ask in our home: “Do you want me to fix that or just listen?” There are times that guys go into solve mode when we simply need to listen. We show comfort in our relationships when we listen to each other. 

A healthy marriage focuses on teamwork

Earlier this month Charity and I taught on marriage. It was super fun because we've been married for eighteen years now! We have three children and have lived in a couple different cities together. We've traveled from California to Arizona, from Las Vegas to Africa, from Washington to Italy (and more). And in all that we still love each other! 

For our talk we looked at the words of Salomon in Ecclesiastes: 

9 Two are better than one,

    because they have a good return for their labor:

10 If either of them falls down,

    one can help the other up.

But pity anyone who falls

    and has no one to help them up.

11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

    But how can one keep warm alone?

12 Though one may be overpowered,

    two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV

When I think about married, the first thing that a healthy marriage focuses on is teamwork. The author starts out with a basic truth in life: two are better than one. If I asked you if you would rather have one dollar or two, you would take two. If I asked you if you would rather have one scoop of ice cream or two, you would most likely take two. The author is referring to people. The only thing that we don’t want two of is rattlesnakes on a hike. When two people are working together they have a better return. Two people can bring in more income, they can dream together, they can work better in their gifting and have a better return for the company they are working for. We all know that two are better than one, but we need to be reminded or this truth for a healthy marriage. 

For those who are married, you know that for your marriage to be healthy you have to work together. When a couple walks down the aisle they are madly in love. They stare into each others eyes. They see their future flash in front of them. This is the person they want to have babies with, buy a home with, travel with, and grow old with. 

When each person walks down the aisle they have an invisible team jersey on. That team jersey has their own name on the back. For twenty minutes they will stand in front of their family, friends, a pastor and God, and commit their lives to each other. When they walk away that day they have changed their team allegiance to work with the other for the rest of their lives. 

Most of us know what it’s like to work with others on a team. We played soccer when we were five years old. We worked with a group on a high school math project. Or in our office we’ve worked on a team project to develop a new initiative. Sometimes there is a person on the team that doesn’t pull their weight and does less than the rest of the team. This leaves the others on the team doing more work and carrying the other person’s slack. Most often this ends in bitterness. 

On a team, everyone needs to play their role plus some. When everyone on the team gives 100%, that is what makes the team function. 

When I think of teamwork, I’m drawn to what God spoke in creation (read Genesis 2:18). It is not good for man to be alone. Guys, can I get an: “Amen!” on that one! If you’re married but haven’t been focused on teamwork with your spouse, will you make a change today? 

I want to present the: Be something different principle to you. I find that when I’m home I can easily drift to being on my phone and neglect my kids. Charity saw this too but she didn’t shame me for it. Instead, Charity has modeled to our family that she is present. She doesn’t bring her phone to the dinner table and she isn’t constantly glued to a screen. Instead, she is engaged and focused on our family. She has modeled to me that there is a different way. What I want you to do is think about how you can be different in your marriage. Not how your spouse can be different but how you can be different. What you can do in your marriage that will focus on teamwork and involvement. 

The Tender Commandments Overview

This summer we preached through the Ten Commandments at Coastline. In my opinion it was the best sermon series we've ever done. I think the plurality of voices in the series was a huge win and the planning for this time was deep. 

One thing we do at Coastline is what I call: "Big picture sermon planning as a team." Let me explain this a touch more. We have about six different people who sit in the room for sermon planning. We use the white board to line out: sermon title, big idea, ideas, Scripture, songs, video clips, illustrations, books, and quotes for the sermon. 

I love the team dynamic that plays out in the room. We start each session in prayer and aim to line out four to five sermons. Sometimes we get more stalled and other times we are moving quickly. In every situation we trust that the Lord is leading the process. 

From there I take the white board notes and put them in a Google Doc that is shared with the team. Since we just finished the Ten Commandments I want to share all those notes with you! 

Here are the notes that came from our team planning. It's a way to show you what goes into the planning of a series:

June 20 | Exodus 20:1-3

Sermon Title- None Before Me

Big Idea- We put Him first because of who He is and what He’s done

Ideas-

Philippians 3:19

Isaiah 44

Mark 10:17-27

Teach about other gods that people worship 

Tie into previous sermon on how we can tell what matters in our lives 

Israel was called to be set apart (not set aside). Teach on Santification? 

God was concerned about getting the Egypt out of them. -Dave Roberts 

God’s brought us all out of something. We need to help fill in that blank. -Becky Shipe 

In the rich young ruler the commandment was put to the test 

God gave us the commandments in a desire to provide and protect us 

Illustration- What struggle do you put in front of God?

Core Value- We put God first 

I- Items

D- Duty

O- Others

L- Longings 

Songs:

Egypt 

Your great name 

June 27 | Exodus 20:4-6

Sermon Title- Don’t Reduce God 

Big Idea- Out thoughts about God determines our worship of God 

Ideas-

Exodus 32- Aaron and the golden calf

Psalm 115

John 4- the Woman at the well 

“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us. ... Worship is pure or base as the worshiper entertains high or low thoughts of God. - Tozer

Our image of God will have everything to do with our worship of God. -Dave Roberts 

Westminster Shorter Catechism- the chief goal of man is to worship God and enjoy Him forever 

The heart is an idol factory 

God is a jealous God. We have a negative connotation of jealousy in our culture 

Jealousy and love aren’t in opposition to each other

How does idol worship affect those around us: Family, spouse, kids, relatives, work?

Our concept of God determines our life before God 

Left to our own devices we will make anything into an idol. -Dave Roberts 

It’s so important we get our understanding of God correct 

Songs:

Egypt 

Your great name 

The Blessing 

July 04 | Exodus 20:7 (Blaze McEntee)

Sermon Title- His Holy Name 

Big Idea- Reverence for God’s name will lead us to represent Him well 

Ideas-

Mark 5- Demons flee at the name of Jesus 

The tribe of Korah didn’t understand the power of God’s holy name 

When Israel moved the ark from the Philistines the man who reached out his hand to stabilize the ark lost his life. 

Stories of taking God’s name in vain 

“The name Austin was being misrepresented.” 

We don’t understand how different God really is 

YWHW

Songs:

Break every chain

Your great name

No other name 

July 11 | Exodus 20:8-11

Sermon Title- Living Rested 

Big Idea- God knows I need rest to be my best 

Ideas-

Deuteronomy 5:15

Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath Matthew 12:1–8, Mark 2:23–28 and Luke 6:1–5

When Israel were slaves they didn’t have days off, there was no rest for them 

Explain the Jewish perspective on time- a new day started when the sun set

We wear busy as a badge of honor in our culture 

Research on rest, naps, sleep, and neuroplasticity 

Animals at the zoo get days off where they are not on display 

CF takes Saturday off and still makes more than other restaurants 

The sabbath is a time for restoration and recreation

Michael Yankoski’s book on Sababth enjoyment 

Lance Witt’s story about waking up in the middle of the night 

God didn’t have to rest but modeled rest for us--we are not following Satan’s example 

We are creating a rhythm of rest as a church body (no events on Saturday) 

I take days off and am not available, I shut down email, I have a vacation coming up 

Pastor who received a call about a failing marriage on Saturday. He asked a few questions to learn that the marriage had been failing for five years. She waited to meet later that week 

We rest to follow God’s example of rest. God knew we needed to rest 

Songs:

Egypt 

Your great name 

The Blessing

July 18 | Exodus 20:12

Sermon Title- Powerful Parents 

Big Idea- When you rightly honor your parents, all your relationships get better 

Ideas-

Colossians 3:20 

Luke 15

Ruth 1

John 19:25

Malachai 1:6

Honor parents who aren’t honorable 

Is it only to a set geographical location? 

What does it mean to prosper? 

People who have trouble of thinking of God as a Father 

Songs:

The blessing 

Break Every Chain 

Make Room 

July 25 | Exodus 20:13

Mike Lovato

August 1 | Exodus 20:14

Bert Alcorn 

August 8 | Exodus 20:15

Sermon Title- Caught red handed 

Big Idea- Do not take what rightfully belongs to others 

Ideas-

Malachi 3:6-10 

Acts 5

1 Kings 21

Deuteronomy 24:7 

Micah 6:8 

Story of stealing when I was 5 years old 

Story on Twitter of woman who stole hand sanitizer from Bath and Body works 

$970 or more is stealing CA 

Moving boundary stones to gain more power 

Employer taking wages, an employee stealing hours 

Aladdin steals to eat 

Movie example- Liar Liar with Jim Carey 

We write it down because we need to remember it 

Songs:

Clean Hands 

Egypt 

Jirah 

No longer slaves 

August 15 | Exodus 20:16

Sermon Title- Truth Teller 

Big Idea- The Bible teaches us how to tell the truth 

Ideas-

Acts 5

Matthew 26:57

Mark 14:53

Luke 10:36

Colossians 3:9-10

1 Kings 21

John 8:44

Matthew 5:33

Can’t be killed on the testimony of one witness 

US Judicial System- tell the whole truth, and nothing but the truth 

Examples of “white lies”- the check is in the mail 

Movies and TV shows that promote lying 

More than just morals 

We believe untruths and share them as truths 

Have so much integrity that people believe what you say 

Teach on how to apologize for lying 

Exaggeration- how to work on truth telling 

Making excuses

Using ‘Always’ and ‘Never’ statements  

Songs:

The blessing 

Break Every Chain 

Make Room 

August 22 | Exodus 20:17

Sermon Title- Facing Covetousness 

Big Idea- Coveting is an expression of our distrust of Jesus 

Ideas-

Romans 7 

Joshua 7 

2 Samuel 11

Psalm 51

James 1:13

Ephesians 5:5

Colossians 3:5

Proverbs 4:23

Philippians 4:11-12

Coveting starts with the physician 

Story of Christopher Duntsch (wanting to be a doctor and rich) 

This i the internal one

Covetousness is the motivation for many of sins 

Covetousness is hidden 

We covet thinking it will make us complete 

“Trust the Lord who is provider” -Ryan LaFata 

Why do I covet knowing the greatness of the Lord? 

“Coveting is a sinful belief that things will make me happy.” -Dave Roberts 

Gratitude and thanksgiving combat covetousness 

“This isn’t a uniquely American problem but we’ve perfected it.” Dave Roberts 

Songs:

Waymaker 

What would you change?

I heard a story a couple years ago about an older pastor who was leading a ministry to seniors. They were having a great evening together. They ate a meal and sang some of their favorite songs (hymns). The pastor then asked a couple questions: “How many of you would change your weekend plans to see your grandchildren?” 

Almost everyone raised their hand. 

His next question was: “How many of you would change your Christmas plans if your grandkids would join you?” Once again, almost everyone raised their hand. 

Then he asked: “How many of you would change your vacation plans if your kids would join you?” Nearly everyone. The audience was elated, you could tell they loved their family. 

The final question was: “How many of you would change your worship style so your grandchildren would know the Lord?” Only a few hands were raised; the joy was sucked out of the room. 

This story has always stood with me. How are we willing to change so much to spend time with our families but we are unwilling to sing a new song to the Lord? It doesn’t mean we can’t ever sing an old worship song. I'm grateful for the church I serve at and their willingness to sing a new song. 

So many people can get stuck wanting to hear that same song, that “oldie”, when God wants to do something completely new in our lives. When we sing a new song we can learn about the love of God. 

Singing a new song to the Lord would reflect a new orientation in our lives. 

Psalm 96

1 Sing to the Lord a new song;

    sing to the Lord, all the earth.

2 Sing to the Lord, praise his name;

    proclaim his salvation day after day.

3 Declare his glory among the nations,

    his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

As we lean in to worship, we are going to see that worship is active (read Psalm 96:1-3). 

The Psalm begins by setting up suspense for reader. It prompts our minds to think: “Why do we need to sing a new song?” This isn’t a song reserved for only the Israelites, this is a song for the entire world to sing. One thing we say here a lot is that the gospel is for everyone. Right here we read that other nations are starting to learn about the greatness of God. His renown is expanding so much so that the whole earth is encouraged to sing a new song to God. 

Singing a new song to the Lord reflects that there has been a life change in us. Think about a song that you once sang (tell us in the chat) and now you sing a new song. You might have loved to go to the clubs on Saturday night but since you met the Lord you are singing a new song. You used to listen to Bob Marley and smoke weed all week long but God put a new song in your heart. Now you praise the Lord. Look at what Paul said to the church in Ephesus (read Ephesians 5:8). You were once in darkness. When you lived in darkness you sang that songs that were played in the darkness. When you start to worship the Lord it changes your mind and your focus. You are walking in the light of the Lord. 

Lean in to Scripture- Small Group Questions

Coastline Bible Church is doing a five-week sermon series called: "Lean In" as we move into the New Year. There are so many parts of our lives that we don’t engage. We lean away from confrontation, difficult subjects, broken relationships, and things that require change. But what would happen if we began to lean in? What would change if we choose to lean in to God this year and see what He has for our lives? For five weeks we are going to lean in to different aspects of the Christian faith. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ::: Lean in to Scripture ::: Psalm 19

Today we’re starting a brand new sermon series at Coastline called; Lean In. There are three reasons that people avoid Scripture. First, we're not sure if God's word is trustworthy. In Psalm 19 we read that the Law of the Lord is perfect. We learn that God’s precepts are trustworthy. We learn how to have a reverent fear for the Lord. We are keen at seeing imperfections in others but fail to see the perfect value of the Bible. Second, we're not sure if it's practical. It is easy to think that because the Bible is so old that it's antiquated. We forget that Scripture transcends time and culture. There are practical lessons for us to learn today. Third, we don't know how to apply it to our lives. When we don't read the Bible we fail to learn how to apply it to our lives. We are so inundated with information that we rarely apply life change. We long for the easy life. Work through these questions either alone or with some others and grow in Scripture. 

1) Neal shared a story about a neighbor in college and how their conversation prompted him to read the Bible on a daily basis. What was a catalyst for your reading the Bible on your own? Where are you currently reading in the Bible? 

2) One reason people don’t read the Bible is that they don’t think it’s reliable. Read Psalm 19:7 and talk about how God’s words perfect. Share a story when reading the Bible was the perfect words you needed for that exact time. 

3) Thinking about the Bible being perfect, read Psalm 12:6-7. Share a time time in your life that you considered participating in sinful behavior. How did the word of the Lord protect you from participating in that wicked behavior? 

4) Another reason people don’t read the Bible is because they don’t think it’s practical. Read Psalm 19:8 and talk about God’s word can be our personal conduct. Share about how the Bible has been practical in a life situation you encountered. 

5) Read Hebrews 4:12. The author teaches us that the word of God is alive and active. He goes on to share that it judges our thoughts, attitude, and heart. Can you think of a time that God’s word impacted your thoughts, attitude, or heart? 

6) A final reason people don’t read their Bible is because they don’t know how to apply it to their life. Read Psalm 19:9. So often we think about fear as being scared. What does Psalm 19 and Proverbs 1:7 teach us about fearing the Lord? 

7) Read Psalm 119:11 and 105. the Psalmist teaches us how the word of God is applicable in our life when we apply it. Talk about ways that you have applied God’s word to your life and share what the outcome has been. 

Close your time in prayer. Talk about who you will invite to Coastline Online? 

Racism isn't Biblical

On Sunday June 28, I preached against racism. At the bottom of this post I'll share the entire worship gathering. This post isn't about that sermon but about resources that we all need to read to understand the deep seated racism happening in our world. Not just our world, but our nation. Not just our nation, but our cities. Not just our cities but our churches. Some people have allowed subtle and overt racism to take place in their life and we need to actively work to stop that.

Sunday June 28 follow up email

Hi Coastline,

This morning we kicked off a brand new sermon series. At the end of our worship gathering I shared that I would send an email with follow up resources. We want to engage our mind so we can apply what God asks of us in our actions.

Here are some links/ideas to books, videos, and resources to help us have a Biblical view of the harm of racism.

Scripture to read
Genesis 1:26-27
Galatians 3:28-29
Romans 10:12
Micah 6:8
John 3:16
Colossians 3:11

Books to consider 
Not all the books on my list are from Christian authors. Most are, but some are not. That means there might be language or stories told that you might not agree with. My hope has always been to read far and wide. Please note that not all thoughts represented in these books are the belief(s) of Coastline but are the authors own thoughts. We are seeking to grow and learn during this time from others. If you are curious about a certain book, reply to this email and let's talk about it.

Divided by Faith

Consuming Jesus: Beyond Race and Class Divisions in a Consumer Church

Be the Bridge: Pursuing God's Heart for Racial Reconciliation

Woke Church

Just Mercy 

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness

Small Great Things: A Novel 

A Movie to watch 
Just Mercy (Currently free for Amazon Prime customers)
https://amzn.to/3hYJfCA

For Families
ARTICLE: Four Questions to Ask Yourself Before Talking to Your Kids About Racism

Sermon:

1 Kings 19 Small Group Questions

Our church is doing a four-week sermon series called: "Questions from God." We are looking at times in the Old Testament where God asked questions from His people. The questions pertain to different subjects and situations (kind of like our lives). They take place in different time periods showing that questions from God are always relevant. In this series we are learning how to hear God's voice and follow His leading. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ::: Questions in the Cave ::: 1 Kings 19

Reading 1 Kings 19 must be done in connection with 1 Kings 18. The two chapters show us the highest of highs combined with the lowest of lows. The prophet Elijah has defeated the prophets of Baal and longing to see Israel return to the Lord their God. Jezebel, Israel’s murderous first lady, has other plans. She plays on the emotional fragility of Elijah and causes the prophet to flee Israel. Elijah leaves Israel altogether. It looks like Elijah has left his ministry position and resigned his fight for the Lord. At the lowest of his life is when God speaks from the soft wind and calls the prophet back to full-time ministry. 1 Kings 19 teaches us that when we think we are done with ministry might be the time that God is ready to redeploy us for a greater work!

1) Living during a pandemic can be frightening; fear of catching a virus, groceries, and more! What fears do you have right now that make you want to run and hide?

2) For three years Elijah had not made a move without hearing from the Lord (1 Kings 17:2-3, 8-9, 18:1). But now Elijah fled from Jezebel (read 1 Kings 19:1-4) How do you go about your decision making? What role does the voice of the Lord play?

3) From watching the news, reading the paper, and scrolling social media we are inundated with information. Our bodies become over-stimulated. Elijah needed to rest his body and be restored (read 1 Kings 19:5-7). How are you restoring yourself during this pandemic? (see Psalm 91:1, 118:6, and 127:2)

4) Read 1 Kings 19:7. Some scholars think the angel of the Lord is an Old Testament title for the second person of the Godhead, Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Read Genesis 16:7-10, Exodus 3:1-4, and Judges 2:1-4. What does Scripture teach us?

5) Elijah felt lonely in his service to the Lord (read 1 Kings 19:9b-14). How are you avoiding loneliness during this pandemic? (see Hebrews 10:24-25).

6) On Mount Sinai, God met with Elijah and asked him: “What are you doing here?” It seems that Elijah was there because of fear. How are you battling the feelings of fear this week? (see Joshua 1:9 and 1 Peter 5:7)

7) God gave the prophet a fresh vision and renewed service to the Lord (read 1 Kings 19:15-21). Where are you living like a minister of the Lord? How are you obeying the Lord during this time? (see 2 Corinthians 5:20 and 1 Peter 2:9).

Close your time in prayer. Talk about who you will invite to Coastline on Sunday.

Mark 9:30-50 Small Group Questions

Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ::: Preparing for Eternity ::: Mark 9:30-50

Throughout the Gospel Jesus came with a teaching ministry. Some of it has been taught with words, and other times with action. At the end of Mark 8 we saw Jesus turn His focus to Jerusalem and the cross. Jesus will have a good economy of His time on earth and help the disciples focus on eternity. In this passage we see a series of events that all connected through the theme of eternity. Jesus begins by addressing His upcoming death, moves to settle a dispute among the disciples, helps John learn about church unity, and reminds us about character. Work through these questions and talk about how you are preparing for eternity.

1) If you had been invited to one of he private sessions Jesus had with the disciples, what question(s) would you ask Him?

2) Jesus came with the intention to teach people about the Kingdom of God and new thing He was doing (see Mark 1:21, 2:13, 3:23, & 4:1). As Jesus taught the disciples about His upcoming death they really didn’t understand (read Mark 9:30-32). What made it hard for them to understand it?

3) The disciples began arguing about who would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (read Mark 9:33-34 and Luke 9:46). How come it is so easy for us to turn to our selfish desires and ambitions? When have you seen the selfish behavior of people hinder where God was working?

4) Jesus used a child to teach a lesson on humility (read Mark 9:35-37). Why do we so often try to avoid being as vulnerable as a little child? How come we have a hard time trusting that God will provide all our needs (read Proverbs 3:5-6).

5) For Jesus to embrace the little child and talk about welcoming children in His name is a big deal. Do you find yourself viewing children as a blessing or a burden? Where is God asking you to invest in the life of a younger believer?

6) All too often local churches can perceive another church as an enemy (read Mark 9:38-41). Pastor Neal talked about Coastline being a church where we talk up other churches and rejoice in kingdom advancement. What does that look like in your life?  

7) Our passage ends with a teaching on character & avoiding sin (read Mark 9:42-50). What have you set up in your life to help you avoid sin? How is it working?

Close your time in prayer and ask God to transform your life for Him in 2020.

Mark 9:14-29 Small Group Questions

Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. A big "Thank you!" to Joey Ross for preaching this week and writing these questions for us. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ::: Stick-to-itiveness ::: Mark 9:14-29

Coming down from a mountain top experience is never easy, even for Jesus.  As Marks gospel continues to unfold, we get a glimpse into the events that have taken place with the 9 disciples left behind when Jesus was away.  And while there are many incredible characters and themes found in this passage, including one of the most relatable prayers in all of Scripture, the main point Mark seems to want to drive home is the need for any disciple of Jesus to continually devote themselves to doing life with Jesus, that nothing should become merely mechanical.  It severs as a reminder to us, that life with God is about living in continual reliance upon him. Open up to Mark 9:14-29 as you read the story unfolding

1) All of us go through stages in our relationship with God.  Typically it goes something like committing ourselves to Christ, a time of exciting growth with Jesus, serving Jesus, etc…  For many of us though there are ruts we fall into at some point in our journey.  Periods where things maybe seem stagnant, or where we just start going through the motions.  Have you ever had an experience like that?  Share a little bit of the challenges you have experienced.

2) Read Mark 9:14-29.  What stands out to you in this passage as you read it together.  Maybe there is a character you can relate to, phrase that stands out to you, or something that seems confusing.  If you want maybe, even share what stood out to you in the sermon this week that impacted your understanding of the passage.

3) Jesus is constantly surrounded by injustice, often times taking on the form of sick and demonically oppressed children (Mark 5:23; 6:56; 7:26 to name just a few).  In our culture, we hear about injustices all the time and as a result it is so easy to start to experience “empathy fatigue,” but that’s not the case with Jesus. How does Jesus show empathy in this passage?  What things does he not only do but say? (Hint read Mark 1:41; 6:34; 8:2)

4) Read Matthew 17:19-20 which is a parallel passage and Mark 9:23; 28-29.  Sadly these passages can be misinterpreted that healing is contingent on the size of our faith (Matthew 17:20 should be translated disbelief, not little faith), rather than the object of our faith (even in the smallest faith in Jesus is enough).  Discuss the difference, and any damages you have seen because of misuse of this passage.

5) One of Marks favorite words in his gospel is immediately, three times it is used in this passage alone.  The term doesn’t mean in a hurry (Jesus was never rushed like we tend to live) but it carries the idea of without thinking, second nature, subconsciously.    Take note of each time the word is used here.  What are the immediate reaction of the crowd, the demonic spirit, and the father?  What is the natural reaction of your heart when you encounter Jesus?  Fear? Wonder? Desperation? Excitement?

6) Jesus tells his disciples about his coming death and resurrection in 8:31-33 and again in 9:30-32. Sandwiched between these passages is the Mount of Transfiguration as well as the healing of a boy in which he eventually gets worse (appears dead) before he gets better and is lifted by Jesus to new life (resurrected).  Why do you think Mark places these stories between Jesus prediction?  What is Mark trying to tell us.

7) Reread Mark 9:28-29. Jesus says the disciples were unsuccessful because they didn’t pray, but ironically this passage doesn’t record any prayer by Jesus either.  It seems that Jesus is not pointing to a ritualistic, eyes closed, hands together prayer, but a lifestyle of prayer.  Think of it like a lifestyle of prayer. Where in your life do you find yourself becoming self-reliant instead of relying on God? What are some ways/practices you can put into your life in order to become more aware of Jesus in your everyday life and remain in contact with him?

Close your time in prayer and ask God to continue to transform your life for Him in 2020.

Mark 9:2-13 Small Group Questions

Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ||| A Life Changing Experience ||| Mark 9:2-13

As Mark continues to document the life and ministry of Jesus we experience a phenomenal event in time; the day Jesus was transformed. Many authors call it “The Transfiguration of Jesus” and rightly so. Jesus brings three of the disciples up a high mountain where He is transfigured right before their eyes. There is debate on what mountain this took place on, but the location is not a high priority. The priority is what happened on that mountain and what the men saw. This story gives us a glimpse into what Heaven will be like: saints who’ve passed away, those who love Jesus, and God will be present. Open your Bible to Mark 9:2 and study this amazing passage.

1) Share a time when you were transformed by the mighty power of God. What changed in your life because of that experience with God? As you look back on that event, how has the course of your life been altered?

2) The transformation of Jesus in Mark 9:2-8. is also found in Matthew 17:1-8 and Luke 9:28-36. Read all three accounts and talk about similarities and any differences that are provided. What sticks out most to you about the different accounts?

3) Neal mentioned that on the mount of transfiguration we get a glimpse into heaven. When you think about heaven, what has shaped your knowledge of it most? Have we allowed media or Scripture to shape our understanding of heaven? Turn to those passages in Scripture and talk about the greatness of Heaven.

4) Read Mark 9:7, Exodus 19:9 and 40:34. In both accounts we read that God came in a cloud. In Exodus God used the cloud to guide, protect, and speak to Israel. What is the significance of God speaking from the cloud in this passage?

5) On the mountain top Jesus was transformed in the presence of the disciples. The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Rome and Corinth about the transforming work of God. Read 2 Corinthians 3:18 and Romans 12:1-2, then talk about the transforming work of Jesus that you see currently happening.

6) What are some areas that you would like to see the Gospel transform your life? Are they areas of relationship, goals, health, or spiritual transformation?

7) Near the end of our passage we read about a connection between Elijah and John the Baptist. Read 1 Kings 19:1-5 and Mark 6:21-25. Discuss the similarities.

Close your time in prayer and ask God to transform your life for Him in 2020.

Mark 4 Small Group Questions

Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ||| Growing the Kingdom of God ||| Mark 4

Jesus has been on the move and is once again teaching near the Sea of Galilee. A large crowd has come to hear Him. Mark presents a series of teachings from Jesus called “parables.” The word can also be translated as, story, proverb, lesson or illustration. Parables are a way to teach eternal truths through stories of everyday life that appeal to everyone. The first one is a secret but the more Jesus teaches, we begin to see the truth come to light in His teaching.

1) Think about the first time you heard the Gospel message. What was your response? Did you trust in Jesus or did it take a while for you to fully trust Christ? Think through how the love of Jesus was shared with you and how it impacted your life.

2) The parable of the soils (read Mark 4:3-9) illustrates, first, God’s lavish offer of salvation to all who believe and, second, the mixed reception of that offer. How is your life producing a harvest for the Kingdom of God?

3) In Mark 4:10-12 we read that the disciples and others stayed around to hear an explanation of the short sermon. What makes some want to hear more about Jesus while others are content to leave and keep living their lives? Do you ever find yourself getting bored with the message of Jesus?

4) In Mark 4:21-25 Jesus speaks about the hidden things we say and how they will be revealed one day. Read Luke 6:45. How does this impact the way you live your life? What measure are you coming to Jesus with to get filled up?

5) Jesus was beginning His public ministry and it had sprouted in Galilee, but the message of Jesus would eventually go global (Matthew 28:18-20). Talk about how Mark 4:26-29 is a hidden message about the power of the Gospel that would transform many.

6) Jesus used one final parable about the Kingdom of God (Mark 4:30-34). Although it seemed that what Jesus was doing was on such a small scale, one day it would be a great comfort for many. Who can you share the truth of Jesus with this week?

7) Mark tells us that Jesus explained everything to the disciples. How have you structured your life to be a learning disciple under the teaching of Jesus? What do you do to find alone time with Jesus?

Close your time in prayer.

Mark 2:13-22 Small Group Questions

Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone

Small Group Questions ||| Two Questions ||| Mark 2:13-22

The Nation of Israel is coming alive as the impact of Jesus slowly spreads throughout. In the middle part of Mark 2 we read about two questions that we’re asked to Jesus. Jesus has completely flipped the script. He is calling toll collectors to follow Him, eating with sinners, and not fasting when everyone else seems to be fasting. Jesus came not to just add some flavor to the food but to bring a whole new meal. Jesus tried to help the people see that they cannot simply add a little Jesus to their desires; He is doing a whole new thing. This was difficult for some people to grasp and understand.

1) Share about how you deal with change. Do you enjoy it when certain things change? Are you averse to change or is it something you welcome?

2) Read Mark 2:13-14. Jesus offers a new way of life to Levi as he sits at the tax booth. If you read Matthew 9:9-13 you will see that he also changed his name. Levi wrote the Gospel of Matthew. Talk about the new life Jesus offered to you.

3) What would you do if someone came to your workplace and told you to follow him and leave the job. Would you get up and walk away or think the person is crazy? Now imagine if it was following Jesus, what are you willing to give up to follow Him?

4) It seems the very night that Jesus called Levi to “follow me”, Levi threw a party for all his friends. Jesus chose to befriend the unloveable. How can we practice this in our personal relationships?

5) Read Mark 2:18-22. Jesus offered three ways that Kingdom of God was a new thing and not something that was supplemental to add to our current way of life. Have you tried to force Jesus fit your current lifestyle and rejected a complete transformation?

6) Read Colossians 3:9-10. Paul instructs us to put off the old self and be renewed in the image of Jesus. Talk about how Jesus has renewed your life during the time you’ve followed Him. Where is He currently renewing you?

7) What are some of the challenges of remembering that Jesus came to save sinners and not to please those who are already righteous?

Close your time in prayer. Take some time to intentionally pray for each other to grasp the new way of life Jesus offers.