Grace Christian Fellowship

Grace Christian Fellowship
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  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

God treasures us. God loves people! Forgiven by God, we get to love him back. One way we do this is through loving other people in Jesus' name. After all, Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." We are leading our people to become the best neighbors ever where they live, work and play. Our church leaders’ job is to encourage, equip and empower our people to do this each week starting at home and working outward from there. Our aim with this podcast is to encourage, equip and empower our people to become the best neighbors ever where they live, work and play for this reason. We believe God is on the move in Charleston. It is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the country and we are blessed to be in the middle of it!

  1. 4D AGO

    What are the Key Ingredients to the Life God Calls Us to Live? | Genesis 14:1-24

    Series: God's Promises, Our Journey Title: "What are the key ingredients to the life God calls us to live?" Scripture: Genesis 14:1-24 NIV Hebrews 7 Bottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be. God reveals himself as our rescuing King and eternal Priest and calls us to wholehearted allegiance. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES OUTLINES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS MAIN REFERENCES USED My opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION Free the Hostages "ON JUNE 27, 1976, armed operatives for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) surprised the twelve crew members of an Air France jetliner and its ninety-one passengers, hijacking it to a destination unknown. The plane was tracked heading for Central Africa, where indeed it did land under the congenial auspices of then Ugandan President Idi Amin. And there it remained apparently secure at Entebbe Airport, where the hijackers spent the next seven days preparing for their next move. The hijackers were by all estimations in the driver's seat. However, 2,500 miles away in Tel Aviv three Israeli C-130 Hercules transports were secretly boarded by a deadly force of Israeli commandos who within hours attacked Entebbe under cover of darkness. In less than sixty minutes the commandos rushed the old terminal, gunned down the hijackers, and rescued 110 of the 113 hostages. A few days later, July 4, Israel's Premier Yitzhak Rabin triumphantly declared the mission "will become a legend"—which it surely has.' Israel's resolve and stealth in liberating her people is admired by her friends and begrudged by her enemies. Actually, Israel's resolve is nothing new because the same quality can be traced all the way back to the very beginning of the Hebrew nation in the prowess of their father Abraham. The kidnappers in his day (the Middle Bronze Age) were an international coalition of four eastern kings headed by King Chedorlaomer who attacked the Transjordan, defeating the city states of Sodom and her neighbors, carrying off a large number of hostages That included Abram's nephew Lot." -Hughes, p. 213 CONTEXT We've gone from Promises of blessings to failure to rest in those promises to returning to the original promise keeper through repentance and faith. Abram went down to Egypt but returned to between "House of Bread" and "Ruin". It is here he and Lot part ways. He watches Lot choose what he thinks is best for him and yet outside of God's promised land. No doubt he knows this. He just doesn't believe it or realize it. Genesis 13 contrasts Abram’s faith-shaped restraint with Lot’s sight-driven ambition—and places both under the canopy of God’s covenant faithfulness. In Genesis 14 we see the first recorded battle in scripture. We meet Melchizedek, and we see Abram draw encouragement from Melchizedek and rest in what God has said. There's a powerful lesson for us here. SERMON Review from Genesis 12:1-3: God Is the Initiator of Redemption God Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand Him God’s Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is Missional God Promises to  Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & Places God’s People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and Witness Bottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be. Outline (help from Outline Bible): I. THE COURAGE OF ABRAM (14:1-16) A. The villains (14:1-11) The rebellion (14:1-4): Five Canaanite city-states rebel against Kedorlaomer of Elam. The retaliation (14:5-11): Kedorlaomer and his allies defeat the armies of the five city-states, plunder their cities, and carry many people away as slaves. B. The victim (14:12): Lot, now living in Sodom, is taken away as a slave. C. The victory (14:13-16) Abram's army (14:13-14): Upon learning of Lot's capture, Abram and his 318 trained servants ride out to rescue Lot. Abram's attack (14:15): Abram divides his men and initiates a surprise attack at night. Abram's achievements (14:16): Kedorlaomer is defeated, and Lot is rescued. II. THE COMMUNION OF ABRAM (14:17-24) A. The godly and priestly king of Salem (14:17-20): As he is returning from battle to his home in Hebron, Abram meets Melchize-dek, who blesses him. Abram offers him a tenth of all the goods he has recovered from Kedorlaomer. B. The godless and perverted king of Sodom (14:21-24): In stark contrast, Abram refuses to have any fellowship with Bera, king of wicked Sodom. My notes on Gen 14: This sermon is sort of a part 2 to last week. Abram rescues Lot and co.--people, possessions and all. And he's met by two kings upon his return: Melchizedek and the King of Sodom. (Name?) Sodom's king can only see that his losses are back and he can get back at least some of them, thanks to Abram, who rightly deserves the spoils of war. He is consumed by what he can see. So he asks for some of it back, though he deserves none of it. Melchizedek, however, is a mystery. He is there for Abram at a moment when he's tempted to also get seduced by what he can see. But he finds in Mel a kindred spirit of sorts. Actually, he finds a type of Christ. This type of Christ behaves very much like Christ. He blesses Abram in the name of El Elyon and praises El Elyon for what he did. He honors the greater even as he blesses the lessor. He also blesses Abram and his men with bread and wine. Could this be a whisper to a future Last Supper? Lot, fresh off his rescue, could easily be taking all of this in. He's no doubt glad to be alive. He is thinking of all his losses. He believes that Abram will restore his fortunes. He's focused on what he lost...what he could see and some of it he can still see. We know this because he follows the king of Sodom back to the city. He doesn't rest in what God has said. He's now further from that than he's ever been. Abram, inspired by another person who knows El Elyon, rests in the promises of God and eludes the temptation to dwell on what he can see. He tithes 10% of it to Mel, tells Sodom to give his allies their portion for helping, and surrenders the rest back to Sodom, with the possible invitation for any of the rescued people to join him in his growing clan. It appears none take him up on it. We're back to the contrast between Abram and Lot; a promise of God and a pile of possessions. Abram chooses well, helped by a mysterious king of righteousness, king of peace and priest of a different priesthood. This mysterious priest shows up right when Abram needs him. He leads with generous gifts followed by blessings to Abram and adoration to El Elyon. This is where we are as well. But we don't have a type of Christ showing up to help us right when we need him. We have Christ himself. And he showed up on a Roman cross and shows up for us every day at the right hand of the Father interceding for us in our need. So the next time you're tempted, like I have been for over a week, to feel sorry for yourself, remember that it only would have been worse if he'd not been praying for you. Chat GPT notes: Abram rescues Lot. (Temp salvation) Abram meets a Priest-King. (Melchizedek appears) Abram worships through giving. (Recognizes divine favor and responds) Abram refuses King of Sodom. (Allegiance clarified) Jesus is the better Melchizedek: Ultimate rescue Eternal priesthood Calls for total allegiance Closing illustration How many of you heard/saw last week's message? I've never gotten so much positive feedback on a message in my life. It's just like God to take someone battling the temptation to have his own pity party to do something like that. God is faithful. What's sad is that there were people online and on-site who heard the message last week and yet didn't get a thing out of it. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. How can that be? Life-changine for one--Apathetic sigh for the other. Who's that on? Abram and Lot were a part of the same war and rescue. But one of them turned away from what God said and went back to the wicked city that was defeated just days before. Like a dog returning to his vomit. The other turned towards the God of promise: El Elyon. The God Most High. No, not high on a joint--high on his holy hill; holy throne; in his holy temple. What about you? CONCLUSION Bottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be. "Abram rescued Lot from four kings. Jesus rescues us from sin and death. Abram met a priest who blessed him. We have a Priest who intercedes forever. Abram gave a tenth. We give our whole lives. Abram refused Sodom’s reward. We refuse a kingdom that is passing away. Because our King is also our Priest." -ChatGPT INVITATION Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do _

  2. FEB 15

    What Happens When We Rest in God's Unshakable Promises? | Genesis 13:1-18

    Series: God's Promises, Our Journey Title: "What happens when we rest in God's unshakable promises?" Scripture: Genesis 13:1-18 NIV Matthew 6:33 1 Corinthians 2:14-3:3 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 James 3:13-4:10 2 Peter 2:7-8 Bottom line: When God’s people trust His promises, they can release what they see and rest in what He has said. Or Faith chooses promise over possession. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES OUTLINES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS MAIN REFERENCES USED My opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION When I was in high school, I was encouraged by my dad to go to a good college to get a good job. A noble endeavor, as I saw it. In college I chose an engineering degree that would provide for that vision. I was focusing on what I could see. I wasn't focused on what I could not see. When God called me into the ministry, he called me out of a career of engineering. I'd been practicing civil engineering as a consultant for five years, and had finally found my footing and was beginning to be productive in the eyes of the company. I finally felt like I belonged. God called me out of that into full-time ministry and I never really questioned the money piece. In other words by God's grace, I was able to look past the money to the Ministry that God was calling me too. I was able to walk by Faith instead of my sight. In this passage today, Genesis 13 we'll see a contrast between Abram and Lot. Lot will choose based on what he sees. Abram chooses based on the promises of God. When we trust in God's unshakable promises, we will release what we see, and rest in what he has said instead. What are some of those promises? God is able God hears God sees God is with us God cares God satisfies God approves These are just some of the many promises throughout scripture that you and I have to bank on when we rest in him. Let's look at the life and the contrast of Abram and Lot and see how it plays out in chapter 13. CONTEXT We've gone from Promises of blessings to failure to rest in those promises to returning to the original promise keeper through repentance and faith. Abram went down to Egypt but returned to between "House of Bread" and "Ruin". It is here he and Lot part ways. He watches Lot choose what he thinks is best for him and yet outside of God's promised land. No doubt he knows this. He just doesn't believe it or realize it. Genesis 13 contrasts Abram’s faith-shaped restraint with Lot’s sight-driven ambition—and places both under the canopy of God’s covenant faithfulness. SERMON Review from Genesis 12:1-3: God Is the Initiator of Redemption God Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand Him God’s Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is Missional God Promises to  Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & Places God’s People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and Witness My notes on Gen 13: God is.../God does... Merciful / forgives, restores West, spiritually (10) / Draws his people west, spiritually (10) Holy, just judge (10) / judges righteously (10) Permissive / allowed us to make mistakes and even sin Faithful (14-17) / kept his promise (14-17) Omnipotent (14-17) / able to deliver on his promise (14-17) Worthy of our worship (18) / Receives our worship w/ pleasure when by grace through faith (18) People are.../People do... Can be faithful, humble (3-4) / repent, return to the Lord (3-4); call on the name of the Lord (4) Tempted by riches (5, 10-11) / Pursue riches over God and end up in dark places (5, 10-11) Divided, greedy (6-7) / Quarrelsom (6-7) A witness to the world (7b) / A good or poor witness (7b) Gracious; magnanimous (8-9) / yield to the underserving (8-9) Brothers & sisters of humanity & sometimes in Christ (8) / Care about each other (8) or not Lost; citizens of this world; born sinners (10-13) / Pursue the things of this world (10-13) Faithful (at times), blessed (14-17) / Obedient, humble, grateful, faithful, believing (14-17) Content for, yearn for God's presence (18) / Seek, pursue, rest in the Lord (18) CONCLUSION Bottom line: When God’s people trust His promises, they can release what they see and rest in what He has said. "Fellow believers (Abram's spiritual seed), when we truly believe the promises that are ours in Christ, when we truly understand and believe that we are seated right now in him in the heavenly places, when we understand that all things are ours in Christ, we will cease our grasping. As Alexander Maclaren put it: The less of our energies are consumed in asserting ourselves, and scrambling for our rights, and cutting in before other people, so as to get the best places for ourselves, the more we shall have to spare for better things; and the more we live in the future, and leave God to order our ways, the more shall our souls be wrapped in perfect peace.'" -Hughes, pp. 200-201 INVITATION Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don’t have to get too specific to give him praise. Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage. Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future) Pray NOTES The Apostle Paul talks about 3 kinds of people in the world somewhere in 1 Corinthians I think. Lost people, carnal Christians, and spiritual Christians. I think I read this in a Warren Wiersbe commentary pointing to Lot as a carnal Christian when considering 2 Peter 2:7-8. Does Paul say this? Short answer by ChatGPT: Yes, Paul does describe three kinds of people in 1 Corinthians 2–3 — but he does not present them as three permanent classes of Christians. He contrasts unbelievers with two conditions of believers. That distinction matters. Where Paul says this 1 Corinthians 2:14–3:3 (flow of thought) Paul uses three Greek adjectives: ψυχικός (psychikos) — natural / unspiritual πνευματικός (pneumatikos) — spiritual σάρκινος / σαρκικός (sarkinos / sarkikos) — fleshly / carnal These form the three categories you’re remembering. The Three Types Explained 1. Natural person — unbeliever (2:14) This person: does not receive the things of the Spirit considers them foolish lacks spiritual discernment This is clearly outside Christ. Paul is describing someone without the Spirit. So this one is not debated. 2. Spiritual person — mature believer (2:15–16) This person: discerns spiritual realities has “the mind of Christ” is walking under the Spirit’s influence This is what we might call: mature Spirit-led growing responsive to God This is Paul’s goal for every believer. 3. Fleshly / carnal believer — immature believer (3:1–3) This is the key text: Paul says to the Corinthians (paraphrasing): I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but as fleshly people, as infants in Christ… you are still fleshly… there is jealousy and strife among you. Notice carefully: He still calls them “in Christ.” So they are: saved but immature behaving like unbelievers dominated by worldly patterns This is not a third ontological class — it’s stunted growth. So what is Paul actually teaching? Here’s the most accurate way to state it: Not: ❌ Three fixed types of people But: ✅ Two groups (unbelievers vs believers), with believers living in two possible conditions (spiritual or fleshly) In other words: Category Spiritual Status Condition Natural Unregenerate Cannot understand Carnal Regenerate Immature / worldly Spiritual Regenerate Mature / Spirit-led Where Wiersbe and others get “three kinds of people” Teachers like Warren W. Wiersbe simplify Paul’s language pedagogically. It’s a teaching framework, not Paul’s formal taxonomy. Helpful for preaching. But not meant as rigid categories. Your Lot connection (2 Peter 2:7–8) This is actually a good biblical illustration. Peter calls Lot: “righteous” yet compromised distressed living foolishly in Sodom So: justified positionally but practically worldly That fits the carnal/immature believer concept very well. So Wiersbe’s use of Lot is pastorally reasonable. Theologically important clarification Some traditions mistakenly build a doctrine like: “There are three kinds of Christians: saved, carnal, and spiritual.” Paul does not teach that. His point is corrective: “You should be spiritual by now — but you’re acting fleshly.” It’s rebuke, not classification. He expects growth. Bottom line Yes — Paul does describe: natural people fleshly believers spiritual believers But he is describing spiritual maturity levels, not permanent types. The “carnal Christian” is: not a category to settle into but a condition to repent from. If you want, we can next: look at the Greek terms more closely compare with Romans 8 (flesh vs Spirit) or explore whether “carnal

  3. FEB 8

    Where Do You Go When You Fail God? | Genesis 12:10-13:4

    Series: God's Promises, Our Journey Title: "Where do you go when you fail God?" Scripture: Genesis 12:10-13:04 NIV James 1:2-6 Bottom line: When we fail God, we return to the place where we left his presence and start again. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES OUTLINES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS MAIN REFERENCES USED My opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION Many of you know that last week we were online only due to the snow and hazardous roads. I was super encouraged by the number of people who tuned in as well. However, the most common feedback I got was interesting. Apparently, it looked like I was reading from the back of my Bible. But I was reading Genesis which is in the front of our Bibles. So, just to set the record straight, I was reading from the front of my Bible while my iPhone live-streamed the mirror-version of me reading. Some of you figured that out by looking at my rings or some other thing. I thought that was funny:-). So "Hero to zero" is a term that athletes sometimes use to describe when a player follows an amazing play with a boneheaded play. I see this in Ultimate Frisbee a lot. (And have done it too) You make an amazing, diving catch. The sidelines erupt with sounds of awe and groans of opposition. Then the player jumps up and instead of dropping it to the open handler poised to throw a scoring strike, they act on their inflated confidence and make a poor throw that ends up in the other teams hands. Hero to zero. The psychological term is overconfidence effect. I don't know if Abram is dealing with that but he definitely goes from a very high confidence in God to a very high confidence in himself. Let's read this together now. Shorter- God initiates redemption, calls us to trust Him without all the details, blesses us for the sake of the world, anchors us with His promises, and forms a people who respond with obedience, worship, and witness. Longer- God is the One who initiates redemption. He calls people before they understand all the details, inviting them to trust His voice and follow His lead. God’s blessing is never merely personal—it is always meant to flow outward for the sake of others and ultimately for the nations. Along the way, God anchors His people in uncertain places with unshakable promises. And when God calls, His people respond—not perfectly, but faithfully—through obedience, worship, and public witness as they walk with Him step by step. CONTEXT **Genesis 12 marks a decisive turning point in the biblical story, as God initiates His redemptive plan through one man and one family, promising land, descendants, and blessing that will ultimately extend to all nations. God’s promises are spoken clearly and graciously at the outset, calling Abram to leave what is familiar and trust God with an unknown future. Abram responds in faith, worship, and obedience, yet the chapter quickly reveals that walking in God’s promises does not mean a flawless journey. Famine, fear, and failure follow obedience, exposing Abram’s weakness and need for grace. Throughout the chapter, God remains faithful to protect His promise, preserve Sarai, and continue His purposes despite Abram’s missteps. Genesis 12 therefore holds together both realities of our series, God’s Promises, Our Journey: God’s promises are unshakable, while the journey of faith is marked by growth, testing, and restoration rather than perfection. SERMON (influenced by W Wiersbe, Kent Hughes, and Bethancourt) Review last week: God Is the Initiator of Redemption God Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand Him God’s Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is Missional God Promises to  Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & Places God’s People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and Witness Truth 1: Tests often follow triumphs. Moses gets Israel delivered from Pharaoh after the 10th plague followed by Pharaoh abusing the entire arm after them and trapping them against the Red Sea. God brought them through the Red Sea only to test them with no water in the desert. Then no bread. Then no meat. God's tests often come after triumph when we're tempted to think the victory was because of us--not God. We quickly forget God. Of course, God doesn't have us face the tests alone. He allows them for our good* and for his glory. God is with us so we don't have to be afraid. *James 1:1-12 Application: So after a faith victory, expect a trial or test. Humble yourself instead of swelling with pride by thanking God and asking him to not let you forget who made that happen or who the source of that grace and provision is. Truth 2: Tests tempt us to run. Ex. People travel up and down I-95 from NY to FL asking for $$$ from people and churches because they're running from crisis only to travel back a year later. Ex. People move from one town to another trying to start over as if all their problems will stay behind. 12:10 Instead of staying (or even just asking God), Abram schemes his own plan. A plan with dangers and risks. We go "down" to Egypt not just topographically (elevation is lower in Egypt) but spiritually, in the Bible. (Abe, Mo, Joe) We go "up" to Jerusalem (where God lives) not just topographicaly (elevation is high) but spiritually, in the Bible. Application: When testing occurs, stay put until God tells you to go. Now, I've met with a lot of people who say God told them to go, even though their sitting in front of me in crisis. So this requires great discernment and prayer. Faith moves towards peace and hope. Unbelief moves towards restlessness and fear. Truth 3: God is great! Therefore, he's in control so I don't have to be; he is able. I am safer in a famine IN HIS WILL that in a palace OUT OF HIS WILL. "The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you." (A saying) Abe failed his test with God. This lead to more problems! "When you enroll into the 'school of faith' you can't just drop out because of failure." -WW It was the first nine weeks of my freshman year in high school. I'd just moved to Summerville 3 months before. And I just failed the first nine weeks of Alebra 1. I'd never failed any class or nine weeks before. I was scared to go home that day. My parents were concerned by supportive. We worked harder and I finished the year with a C average. I might have felt it was a little unfair since my teachers name was Mr. Phailer. But I digress... Abram went down to Egypt moving from trust to scheming/grasping. No altars built in Egypt. No calling on the name of the Lord in Egypt. No worship of God in Egypt. When we stop trusting God's word, we start leaning on man's wisdom. -WW Half-truths are used to deceive. In the 10 commandments, it says do not commit false witness. Do not deceive others. Abram did that. Abram... Moves from trust to scheming or grasping Moves from confidence to fear ("I will" to "they will") Moves from "others" to self Moves from bringing blessings to bringing judgment Truth 4: God keeps his promises. God graciously brought him (them) through it all. Mainly because it would have ruined his promise. God rescued them from Pharaoh and sent them home well-provisioned. This foreshadowed the fleecing that would occur when Moses led Israel out of Egypt and through the Red Sea. Truth 5: Repentance leads to New Beginnings. When you stop trusting God's word and disobey, the only right thing to do is to go back to where you left him and make a new beginning. (1 John 1:9) Abram went back to his tent and altar in the Promised Land; to his life as a sojourner and stranger in this world. What was the big deal?! He came out well-provisioned and safe. It led to other problems with Lot Sarai paid a price Application: Never abandon your altar. Stay in fellowship with the Lord and his people no matter the crisis. Resist the temptation to run or isolate. Rest in his provision and protection found in his community. This is part of his covenant relationship we made with us. And he is faithful! CONCLUSION Bottom line: When we fail God, we return to the place where we left his presence and start again. A new beginning. God's promises are unshakable. They are for Abraham and they are for us through Jesus Christ. Will we have times of fear and doubt? Yes. Will God be there for us no matter what? Yes! How do we minimize the times of fear and doubt? We humble ourselves and review God's promises thanking God for them and resting in them. We continue our journey by grace through faith. When we get off track, we return to where we got off track and make another new beginning. We remember these truths and receive his blessings by obeying God's word, worship God himself, and being a blessing in word and deed daily. INVITATION Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what

  4. FEB 1

    Will You Trust God Without Knowing the Details? | Genesis 11:27-12:9

    Will You Trust God Without Knowing the Details? Genesis 11:27–12:9Series: God’s Promises, Our JourneySermon by Darien R. Gabriel (https://DarienGabriel.com)What do you do when God calls—but doesn’t give you all the details?In Genesis 11:27–12:9, God calls Abram to leave what is familiar and follow Him into an unknown future. There is no map, no timeline, and no explanation—only God’s voice, His promises, and a direction to move. This moment becomes a turning point not only in Abram’s life, but in the story of God’s redemption for the world.In this message, we explore how God initiates redemption, calls His people to trust Him before they understand everything, and blesses them not merely for themselves but for the sake of the nations. God’s promises anchor us in uncertain places, and true faith responds with obedience, worship, and public witness, even when the journey is unclear.This sermon launches a series through the life of Abraham called God’s Promises, Our Journey (Genesis 12–25) and invites us to wrestle with a question every follower of Jesus must answer: Will you trust God without knowing the details?Key Themes: Trusting God before clarity comes God’s promises and global mission Faith expressed through obedience, worship, and witness Being blessed to be a blessing Living as channels, not reservoirs, of God’s grace

  5. JAN 19

    What Happens When Jesus Shows Up? Part 2 | John 21:1-25

    Series: Signs & Glory Title: What happens when Jesus shows up? Part 2 Scripture: 📖 John 21:1-25 NIV Matthew 26:33-35 Preacher: Darien Roger Gabriel Bottom Line: Jesus shows up to meet us where we are, restore what is broken, and send us where He is going. We love, feed and follow. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT 📖 SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 🎥 YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED ⸻ Opening Prayer Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in Him and leading others to do the same. Amen. ⸻ INTRODUCTION When did Jesus show up for me? When I trusted Christ, I was in a Christian concert with my Christian friends who thought (like I did) that I was a Christian. I'd grown up on the church, finished confirmation class, baptized as an infant, active in youth choir, youth group, Sunday school, an acolyte and even handbells. But I didn't know Jesus yet. I knew about him but I didn't know him personally yet. Jesus showed up for me at the end of that concert when Roger Brailand stood up and shared the simple gospel with everyone in the room. He shared how Jesus lived a sinless life showing us what it looks like when we walk fully and faithfully with God. He shared how Jesus died on the cross for my sins so that God could forgive me, if I would just believe and receive his forgiveness. He challenged me to stand publicly in front of hundreds of people unashamed to call Jesus my savior and lord. And I did stand up that day. Since then I've been growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord. I've been reading his word, journaling my thoughts and prayers, meeting with other Christians in different kinds of bible groups and studies, and gathering for worship each week. I've been serving people within the walls of the local church and sharing the gospel outside the walls around the corner in my neighborhood and around the world in places like Mexico, Kaz, China, Uganda and Curaçao. And God has been faithful to grow me into the follower I am today. Far from perfect but becoming the person God created me to be. He wants this for you too. And he did show up...for you. 2,000 years ago he showed up, lived, died and rose again...for you and me. In short: I knew about Jesus, but I didn’t know Jesus. That day, Jesus showed up—not because He had just arrived, but because I finally recognized Him. And that’s how it always works. Jesus shows up first. Recognition comes later. He's showing up for you right now. Do you recognize him? CONTEXT It's part-way into the 40 days that Jesus reveals his resurrected self to his followers in Israel. He's making appearances to individuals and to groups as large as 500 at one time. He's encouraging, comforting and strengthening his Church--body and bride--and sending them out as his ambassadors to a world starving for the truth that sets us free. John 21 is not an appendix—it is an epilogue. It shows us what resurrection faith looks like when the excitement fades and ordinary life resumes. That helps listeners understand why fishing matters. We pick it up on the beach of the Sea of Galilee not far from Capernaum.... SERMON OUTLINE I. When Jesus showed up for the 7 (21:1-14) He asked them if they'd caught anything He suggested they try again after all night of nothing He miraculously blessed them with a huge catch & revealing who he was to them He invited them to join him for a meal that he prepared He kept their net from tearing He asked them to contribute to the meal from their miraculous catch He reminded them of their calling to fish for people II. When Jesus showed up for Peter (21:15-25) Jesus restored Peter. 3 questions "Do you love me..." 3 answers 3 times "Feed/take care of my lambs/sheep" Jesus recommissioned Peter. Sends him like a sheep among wolves; you will suffer in the mission too "Follow me" into this mission and future III. When Jesus shows up for you: He will bring his abiding presence close so that you will be reminded of his presence His power His Spirit His guidance His provision His protection His mission for where you live, work, learn and play He will bring his calling and command Fish for people Follow me Don't worry about or compare yourself to others; be you--do you Comparison distracts from obedience. Curiosity about others delays faithfulness in ourselves. CONCLUSION Bottom Line: Jesus shows up to meet us where we are, restore what is broken, and send us where He is going. We love, feed and follow. So what happens when Jesus shows up? For me, he opened my eyes to the need to trust and follow Jesus for myself. To graduate from my parents faith into my own faith where I stand unashamed to trust and declare Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. In short: I knew about Jesus, but I didn’t know Jesus. That day, Jesus showed up—not because He had just arrived, but because I finally recognized Him. And that’s how it always works. Jesus shows up first. Recognition comes later. Do you recognize him at work in your life yet? If so, respond to his attempt to save you; to restore you to a real, personal relationship with him. Then go and live sent--like Jesus would if he were in your shoes. So let me ask you: Are you paying attention? Will you recognize Him when He shows up? What happens when Jesus shows up? I hope you’ll be ready to tell that story too. To close the entire Signs & Glory series, let's circle back: In John 1, Jesus says, “Come and see.” In John 20, He says, “Peace be with you…as the Father sent Me, I am sending you.” In John 21, He says, “Follow Me.” Closing question becomes unavoidable: The question is no longer whether Jesus has shown up. The question is whether we will recognize Him—and follow. INVITATION What about you? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don’t have to get too specific to give him praise. Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage. Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future) Pray NOTES The 4 G's God is great. Therefore, we don't have to be in control, for God is able. God is gracious. Therefore, we don't have to prove ourselves to other people, for God loves us just as we are. God is good. Therefore, we don't have to find satisfaction anywhere else. For God is more than enough for me. QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER What do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it? What do I want them to do? Why do I want them to do it? How do they do this? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Discovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/ Read the passage together. Retell the story in your own words. Discovery the story What does this story tell me about God? What does this story tell me about people? If this is really true, what should I do? What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down) What are you going to do about it? (Write this down) Who am I going to tell about this? Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcast Alternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage: Who is God? What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do? Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2) What do I do? (In light of who I am) How do I do it? Final Questions (Write this down) What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it? YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION What Happens When Jesus Shows Up? (John 21) After the resurrection, Jesus meets His disciples—not in the temple, but on a beach. In this final message from the Signs & Glory series, we explore how the risen Christ restores discouraged disciples, recommissions a broken leader, and calls each of us to follow Him without comparison or fear. 📖 John 21:1–25 👉 Restoration after failure 👉 Belief that leads to mission 👉 Following Jesus in everyday life MAIN REFERENCES USED “John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent Hughes Exalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg The Gospels & Epistles of John, FF Bruce John, RC Sproul John, Köstenberger The Gospel According to John, DA Carson Let's Study John, Mark Johnston The Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC) The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW) “Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB) “The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC) “The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC) Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB) Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB) NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/ Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT) ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.org The Bible Project https://bibleproject.com Nicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersion ChatGPT AI John Foxe, Foxe's Book of Martyrs (FBOM)

  6. JAN 11

    What Happens When Jesus Shows Up? | John 20:1-31

    Series: Signs & Glory Title: What happens when Jesus shows up? Scripture: 📖 John 20:1-31 NIV Preacher: Darien Roger Gabriel Bottom Line: Peace like Jesus gives can only come from belief in who Jesus is and what he did. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT 📖 SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 🎥 YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED ⸻ Opening Prayer Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in Him and leading others to do the same. Amen. ⸻ INTRODUCTION In 2003, I accepted an invitation to fly to East Asia to encourage and see the mission work being done by a young man from our church in North Carolina. He was serving with Cru on a college campus in central East Asia. His work was simple—friendship evangelism that led to intentional discipleship over time. I believed I was supposed to go. So I bought the plane ticket. I got my passport in order. I packed my bags. I drove to RDU. All evidence of belief. The first leg of the trip was from Raleigh to Detroit. That’s where I was supposed to meet up with about fifteen others from all over the country—people going to the same place, for the same reason, led by the same group leader. But when I arrived in Detroit… there was no group. No leader. No gathering crowd. No familiar faces. Boarding started. And suddenly belief met resistance. If I got on the plane and was wrong, I would land alone in East Asia without language, contacts, or a plan. If I didn’t get on the plane and was wrong, I would waste thousands of dollars and miss what I genuinely believed God had called me to do. I was afraid of going. But I was also afraid of not going. So I prayed. And I got on the plane. After we were airborne, I asked a flight attendant if anyone else was part of a group headed where I was going. She said yes—the group leader had missed the connection, but another leader was already on the plane. Relief. Peace. Joy. Looking back, the clearest evidence that I truly believed I was supposed to go wasn’t what I felt—it was what I did. I got on the plane in Detroit. And in the middle of that crisis of belief, Jesus showed up—not visibly, but powerfully—through a stewardess with good news of great joy. So I want to ask the question John 20 presses on every one of us: What happens when Jesus shows up? ⸻ CONTEXT It’s Sunday morning. The third day. Still early—just after sunrise. The disciples are not celebrating. They are grieving. Several women make their way to the tomb expecting to tend a body… …but nothing about this morning will go the way they expect. ⸻ Takeaways for today: Peace always precedes mission. When Jesus shows up, grief does not get the final word. Transition: What happens when, in our moment of need, Jesus shows up? Let’s answer that question by looking at 3 times this happened on the first Resurrection Day: SERMON I. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene (John 20:1–18) Mary comes to the tomb while it’s still dark—both literally and emotionally. The stone is rolled away. The body is gone. Her grief deepens into despair. She weeps. She assumes the worst: someone has taken Jesus’ body away. Even when angels speak to her, grief clouds her vision. Then Jesus speaks one word. Her name. “Mary.” And everything changes. The risen Christ meets her personally. She recognizes his voice. Recognition leads to belief. She sees more clearly. Belief leads to obedience. Jesus sends her to tell the others what she has seen. She goes. When Jesus shows up, grief does not get the final word. ⸻ II. Jesus Appears to the Ten Disciples (John 20:19–23) That evening, the disciples are together—but not in confidence. The doors are locked. Fear fills the room. Then Jesus shows up. He doesn’t rebuke them. He doesn’t shame them. He says, “Peace be with you.” Twice. He shows them His wounds—proof that the same Jesus (fully human) who was crucified now stands alive before them. (Fully alive) Then He breathes on them and gives them the Holy Spirit. (Fully divine) And only after He gives them peace does He give them purpose: “As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you.” Jesus never sends fearful disciples. He sends peaceful ones. Peace always precedes mission. When Jesus shows up, grief does not get the final word. ⸻ III. Jesus Appears to Doubting Thomas (John 20:24–29) Thomas isn’t there the first time. When the others tell him they’ve seen the Lord, he refuses to believe. He wants more than words. He wants proof. And Jesus does not reject him for that. A week later, Jesus shows up again. This time, Thomas is there. Jesus invites him to examine the wounds. To see. To touch. And Thomas responds with the strongest confession in the entire Gospel: “My Lord and my God!” The doubter becomes a worshiper. But Thomas’s story doesn’t end in John 20. Church history tells us that Thomas carried the gospel east—into Persia and India—boldly proclaiming the risen Christ. According to early tradition preserved in Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, Thomas was eventually pierced with spears and killed for his faith. The man who once doubted died a witness. The ultimate evidence that Thomas truly believed wasn’t just his confession—it was his faithfulness to the end. ⸻ TRANSITION — John 20:29–31 At this point, John steps forward and tells us exactly why he wrote this Gospel. Jesus says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John recognizes that this is where we enter the story. Some believed because they saw. We believe because of their testimony. John then tells us that Jesus did many other signs—far more than he recorded. This Gospel is selective, not exhaustive. And then John gives his purpose statement: “These are written that you may believe…” That Jesus is the Christ—Messiah, King, Lord. That Jesus is the Son of God—fully divine. And that by believing, you may have life in His name. Jesus truly lived. Truly died. Was buried. And rose again—bringing abundant and eternal life. John wants belief to lead to life—Life lived like his was: Sent. ⸻ IV. What Happens When Jesus Shows Up? We see a clear pattern throughout the chapter. People move from grief, fear, and doubt… to seeing and believing… to peace and joy… to awe, worship, and a desire to live sent. Belief in John’s Gospel is never merely intellectual—it is embodied trust. Peace is not the absence of trouble. Peace is the presence of the risen Christ. And Jesus always gives peace before He gives purpose. ⸻ CONCLUSION So what happens when Jesus shows up? He replaces grief, fear, and doubt with peace—and a willingness to live sent. Peace always precedes mission. When Jesus shows up, grief does not get the final word. That’s what He did for Mary. For the disciples. For Thomas. That’s what He did for me in Detroit. And He still does it today. So let me ask you: Are you in the middle of a crisis of belief? Are you carrying grief right now? Are you living with fear about the future? Are you struggling with doubt? Jesus sees you. Jesus knows. Jesus cares. And Jesus is able. Are you paying attention? Will you recognize Him when He shows up? What happens when Jesus shows up? I hope you’ll be ready to tell that story too. INVITATION What about you? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don’t have to get too specific to give him praise. Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage. Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future) Pray NOTES The 4 G's God is great. Therefore, we don't have to be in control, for God is able. God is gracious. Therefore, we don't have to prove ourselves to other people, for God loves us just as we are. God is good. Therefore, we don't have to find satisfaction anywhere else. For God is more than enough for me. QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER What do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it? What do I want them to do? Why do I want them to do it? How do they do this? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Discovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/ Read the passage together. Retell the story in your own words. Discovery the story What does this story tell me about God? What does this story tell me about people? If this is really true, what should I do? What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down) What are you going to do about it? (Write this down) Who am I going to tell about this? Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcast Alternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage: Who is God? What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do? Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2) What do I do? (In light of who I am) How do I do it? Final Questions (Write this down) What is God saying to you ri

  7. JAN 5

    Why Obey God in Uncertain Times? | John 19:28-42

    Series: Signs & Glory Title: Why Obey God in Uncertain Times? Scripture: 📖 John 19:28-42 Preacher: Darien Roger Gabriel Bottom Line: Obedience doesn't depend on knowing the future. Obedience depends on knowing the One who knows the future. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT 📖 SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 🎥 YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED Opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION A graduated from college with a civil engineering degree in December of 1987. I began working with a civil engineering consulting firm (KHA) and immediately realized I was on an All-Star team--but I was only a bench warmer in ability. I graduated with a BS in civil engineering with a C average--the players on this team, in this company, were A students with masters degrees in civil engineering or business. I struggled for the first 3 to 4 years. Many times I would go home to Anita and say I don't know that I can hack this or if this is what I really wanna do. I was always wrestling with the temptation of "the grass is greener over there" syndrome so each time I would say, "Well I guess I'll give it another year" and I would. Around year four several good things-positive things-happened to me. First, I passed the PE exam. Second I was transferred interoffice to work for a friend of mine who was a great mentor to me. I began to thrive under his leadership. The third thing, I was asked to help pursue a project in the Tampa area of Florida and we won the project. As a result of winning the project, I got my first project to lead. Long story short things were coming together finally. Ironically, about that time, I got a nudge to reconsider my career choice. But this time it was when things were going good. In response to a companywide memo sent to every employee in the company from the new president of the company, we were each asked to answer the question, "What do we have a burning desire to do or what is my passion." Assuming he wanted a company man answer I gave him one. But God used that memo to provoke me to answer that question more honestly. That day I went home and said to Anita that I don't think I'm supposed to do this long-term. It was the first time I was saying that when things were going well. It was also the first time she said, "OK I'm ready." The rest is history. We worked a one year plan and 13 months later we were at seminary beginning my schooling for a new career in full-time ministry. The reason I share that story with you is because I got to a place--a fork in the road, if you will,--where I had to make a decision to obey, trust and follow...or not. You see, I believe God was calling me into the full-time ministry at that point. I had a choice, obey and change careers and walk away from all the schooling and experience (and money)I had in any civil engineering. Or disobey. I didn't know the future. I didn't know how it was gonna play out. There were lots of questions and fears and doubts. But I didn't base my obedience based on what I knew about what. I did or didn't know about the future. I based my obedience on the One I know, knows the future, because I trust Him. This is the point I want to make today. This is what the sermon is all about. We're going see two men who didn't know the future either but chose to trust and obey anyway. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus both were secret Christians who came out of the dark into the light in the wake of the cross of Christ. When they had the most to lose, they stood willfully in the light and revealed themselves as followers of Jesus. They stand as great examples of those who will obey God, even though we don't know the future or even if it seems risky. CONTEXT It's the day Christ dies on the cross. We pick it up with Jesus dying and then being buried. It's a dark time in the history of the world. SERMON OUTLINE I. "It is finished" 19:28-30 Here we see Jesus say it's finished. Not just he's dead but it's completed. The debt of sin has been paid in full. It's what we want to see stamped on our mortgage paperwork so we never have to make another house payment again. So what? God keeps his word down to the littlest details. Fulfilled prophecy shows up again right here. "I am thirsty." (Ps 69:21) The work is finished. Sin is paid for Judgment satisfied Scripture fulfilled Redemption complete Christianity isn't about what must be done for God. It's about what has already been done by Christ for us. II. More scripture fulfilled 19:31-37 "Not one of his bones will be broken" cf. Exodus 12:46 which says that the Passover lamb must not have any broken bones. Jesus is the lamb that the Passover lambs were pointing to. "They will look upon the one they have pierced." Zechariah 12:10 mentions this. So what? God is in control even in the smallest details even when it seems like he isn't Jesus is the true Passover lamb Salvation is finished--but our response is still required you can trust God when things look out of control III. Secret disciples from dark to light 19:38-42 Both have a lot to lose coming into the light They will likely lose their position in the Sanhedrin. Therefore they will lose financially, religiously, and socially. They will could lose their lives being that they follow someone crucified for sedition and blasphemy going against Rome and the Jewish leadership respectively Did they know the future? No. Even if they knew and believed that Jesus would be resurrected, they didn't know how that would impact them even in general terms, though it likely wouldn't go well. So what? They stepped out obediently by faith despite not knowing the future except that doing so would be extremely risky. This is what God calls us to do each day. INVITATION What about you? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don’t have to get too specific to give him praise. Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage. Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future) Pray NOTES The 4 G's God is great. Therefore, we don't have to be in control, for God is able. God is gracious. Therefore, we don't have to prove ourselves to other people, for God loves us just as we are. God is good. Therefore, we don't have to find satisfaction anywhere else. For God is more than enough for me. QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER What do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it? What do I want them to do? Why do I want them to do it? How do they do this? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Discovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/ Read the passage together. Retell the story in your own words. Discovery the story What does this story tell me about God? What does this story tell me about people? If this is really true, what should I do? What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down) What are you going to do about it? (Write this down) Who am I going to tell about this? Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcast Alternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage: Who is God? What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do? Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2) What do I do? (In light of who I am) How do I do it? Final Questions (Write this down) What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it? MAIN REFERENCES USED “John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent Hughes Exalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg The Gospels & Epistles of John, FF Bruce John, RC Sproul John, Köstenberger The Gospel According to John, DA Carson Let's Study John, Mark Johnston The Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC) The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW) “Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB) “The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC) “The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC) Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB) Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB) NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/ Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT) ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.org The Bible Project https://bibleproject.com Nicky Gumbel bible reading plan a

  8. 11/23/2025

    Why Does Jesus Lead Us Into Dark Places? | John 18:1-14

    Series: Signs & Glory Title: Why does Jesus lead us into dark places? Scripture: 📖 John 18:1-14 NIV Preacher: Darien Roger Gabriel Bottom Line: Jesus is fully in control even when everything looks out of control. Our best response is FOLLOWING King Jesus over FIGHTing or FLEEing. INTRODUCTION CONTEXT 📖 SERMON OUTLINE CONCLUSION NOTES QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 🎥 YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED Opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION "With the rise of global terrorism, world leaders have spoken a great deal about vanquishing evil. But, as one writer in the *Guardian* pointed out, ‘Their rhetoric reveals a failure to accept that cruelty and conflict are basic human traits.’ As Albert Einstein said, ‘I do not fear the explosive power of the atom bomb. What I fear is the explosive power of *evil* in the human heart.'" -Nicky Gumbel Dark evil in the human heart is why we have murder abortion, human trafficking, genocide, rape, betrayal, abandonment, terrorismand war. Why does Jesus lead us into dark places when he could lead us to places that are less dark because those are the very places that need his light. Light that exposes the truth and reveals reality for what it is. Light that speaks of a Hope that comes as light, life and love. And his name is Jesus. BOTTOM LINE: Jesus is fully in control even when everything looks out of control. Our best response is FOLLOWING King Jesus over FIGHTing or FLEEing. Our best response is to follow Jesus into our dark circumstances instead of fighting those circumstances or fleeing those circumstances. Let me show you where that comes from in this passage today. CONTEXT Jesus is now moving from active obedience to passive (surrendered) obedience. But this doesn't mean he isn't still in control. He's choosing to drink from "the cup" of God's wrath out of love for his Father and compassion for us. This is the beginning of his deep drink of God's wrath for our sake and God's glory. BOTTOM LINE: Jesus is fully in control even when everything looks out of control. Our best response is FOLLOWING King Jesus over FIGHTing or FLEEing. The call of the passage is clear: Follow Jesus by surrendering to the Father’s will, even when it’s painful, confusing, or costly. SERMON OUTLINE (with help from ChatGPT and several commentaries) Why does Jesus lead us into dark places? Because we’re in a war against the kingdom of darkness. Because we, as children of light, are how Jesus rescues people from darkness. ⸻ 1. Jesus Displays Sovereign Power and Authority in the Dark (vv. 1–9, 12–14) What the text shows: • He leads the disciples into the garden (18:1). • He knows exactly what is coming (18:4). • He steps forward, not backward (18:4). • He declares “I AM,” and the soldiers fall (18:5–6). Strong winds (ultimate Monday night) and bright lights. • He protects His disciples (“Let these men go”) (18:8). • He submits to arrest not because He is overpowered but because He is obeying the Father’s plan (18:12). • He is taken to Annas, yet remains the real authority in the room (18:13–14). 2. How We Respond in Dark Circumstances (vv. 10–11 + implied vv. 1–9) A. Two wrong responses (the disciples): 1. Fight – Peter’s misguided zeal (vv. 10–11) • He acts in fear, not faith. • He tries to take control rather than trust God’s plan. • “Put your sword away”—Jesus rebukes him. 2. Flight – the disciples’ fearful abandonment (implied v. 8; explicit in Synoptics) • Jesus protects them… yet they still run. • They panic and scatter in different directions. • They trust their instincts, not their Savior. B. One right response (Jesus): 3. Follow - by surrendering to the Father’s will • “Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” (v. 11) • Jesus models the response His disciples fail to give. CONCLUSION “Imagine a father walking beside a railroad track with his three-year-old son. There is danger at hand, so the father holds the child’s hand. If the boy’s safety depends on the strength of his grasp on his father’s hand, he is in grave danger—he could lose his grip and wander into the path of a train. What keeps the child from destruction is not the boy’s grip on his father’s hand but the father’s grip on the child’s hand. That is what Jesus was asking the Father to do—to keep His grip on the disciples.” -Nicky Gumbel What a great picture of why we can feel good about following Jesus into dark places. We trust him to hold on to us no matter what. BOTTOM LINE: Jesus is fully in control even when everything looks out of control. Our best response is FOLLOWING King Jesus over FIGHTing or FLEEing. INVITATION What about you? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon: ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬ How do we respond? Answer 2 questions: Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now? What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________. [my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result. Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don’t have to get too specific to give him praise. Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage. Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future) Pray NOTES When Jesus prays that believers “may be one,” He is asking the Father to create a deep, spiritual unity among His followers—a unity patterned after the perfect oneness of the Father and the Son. This unity is not primarily institutional or organizational; it is the supernatural, Spirit-given unity that flows from our shared union with Christ. Because we belong to Him, we belong to one another. This oneness is: 1. Spiritual Rooted in the new birth and the indwelling Spirit. All who are in Christ share one life, one love, and one purpose. 2. Relational Marked by love, humility, forgiveness, and mutual care—the same love the Father and Son share. 3. Missional This unity shows the watching world that Jesus truly came from God. Visible love among believers makes the invisible gospel credible. In short: “Being one in Christ” means sharing in the life, love, and mission of the Father and Son—so that the world sees Jesus through His people. QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER What do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it? What do I want them to do? Why do I want them to do it? How do they do this? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Discovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/ Read the passage together. Retell the story in your own words. Discovery the story What does this story tell me about God? What does this story tell me about people? If this is really true, what should I do? What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down) What are you going to do about it? (Write this down) Who am I going to tell about this? Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcast Alternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage: Who is God? What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do? Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2) What do I do? (In light of who I am) How do I do it? Final Questions (Write this down) What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it? 🎥 YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION Description: What matters most to Jesus’ heart? In John 17, we overhear the Son of God praying—for His glory, for His disciples, and for every future believer. Just hours before the cross, Jesus prays that we would live for God’s glory, be sanctified by His truth, and be united in His love. This is the prayer that still shapes the world today. Bottom Line: Jesus prayed for His glory, our sanctification, and our unity—so the world would know His love. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction 2:45 – Jesus Prays for His Glory (John 17:1–5) 10:20 – Jesus Prays for Our Sanctification (John 17:6–19) 19:45 – Jesus Prays for Our Unity (John 17:20–26) 28:50 – How We Live as the Answer to Jesus’ Prayer YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION 📖 Sermon Title: Why Can You Trust Jesus Even When Life Goes Dark? 🕊️ Scripture: John 18:1–14 🎙️ Pastor Darien Gabriel | Grace Christian Fellowship When Jesus enters the Garden of Gethsemane, everything around Him looks out of control—an armed mob approaches, Judas betrays Him, and His closest disciples fall apart in panic. Yet John shows us something stunning: Jesus is the only one who remains calm, composed, and completely in control. In this message, we look at how Jesus displays sovereign power in the darkness and how His followers often respond with fight, flight, or faithful surrender. When life gets confusing, frightening, or heartbreaking, this passage answers one core question: Why can you trust Jesus even when your world feels like it’s falling apart? Whether you’re facing uncertainty, fear, or the weight of difficult circumstances, this passage offers hope and courage for anyone learning to follow Jesus in the dark. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Jesus’ arr

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God treasures us. God loves people! Forgiven by God, we get to love him back. One way we do this is through loving other people in Jesus' name. After all, Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself." We are leading our people to become the best neighbors ever where they live, work and play. Our church leaders’ job is to encourage, equip and empower our people to do this each week starting at home and working outward from there. Our aim with this podcast is to encourage, equip and empower our people to become the best neighbors ever where they live, work and play for this reason. We believe God is on the move in Charleston. It is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the country and we are blessed to be in the middle of it!

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    Grace Christian Fellowship
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    75
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