Is There Absolute Truth?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor John Mark delivered a powerful message about the existence of absolute truth amidst a culture increasingly rejecting it. He highlighted how truth is essential in the face of societal lies and personal deceptions, emphasizing that while truth may sometimes hurt, it ultimately leads to freedom and salvation. Citing scripture, he reminded the listener of the importance of standing firm in truth and not succumbing to cultural pressures to compromise. The message concluded with a call to engage with truth through God’s Word, conscience, doctrine, and the example of Jesus.
Ice Breaker 🧊
What would you choose if you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a food you disliked?
Discussion Questions 💬
According to John 8:44, what does it mean that 'Satan is a liar'? How does this understanding help us navigate life's challenges?
In the sermon, Pastor explained that Satan, as the father of lies, uses deception to lead us away from God, and recognizing this is crucial for believers.
Can you identify areas in your life where you might be tempted to believe lies? What steps can you take to stay grounded in truth?
What does it mean when people say 'there is no absolute truth'? How can we respond to this idea based on what Pastor shared?
Pastor discussed how many people in today's culture believe that there is no absolute truth and emphasized the importance of recognizing at least one truth to argue that more exist.
In your own life, can you think of a situation where you might have heard someone say something similar? How did you respond or how could you respond differently?
John Mark mentioned that truth can sometimes hurt us before it sets us free. What are some examples of truths that might be difficult to accept but ultimately help us grow?
Truth can sometimes make us uncomfortable, like Pastor's examples about reading scripture that challenges us or facing difficult personal issues.
Reflect on a time when you faced a hard truth in your own life. How did it affect you then, and how do you see its importance now?
Why does Pastor emphasize the need for believers to know the truth in a world filled with lies? How can this knowledge impact our actions?
John Mark stressed that understanding truth is vital because culture is full of deception, and we need to stand firm in truth to withstand these challenges.
How can knowing the truth guide your decisions or how you interact with friends who may believe differently?
John Mark spoke about the importance of speaking 'the truth in love.' How can we balance being truthful without being hurtful when discussing difficult topics?
This concept was mentioned as a way to address hard truths and ensure we maintain relationships while standing firm in our beliefs.
Think of a recent conversation where there was a disagreement. How could you apply this principle in future discussions to foster more understanding?
Prayer 🙏
• Pray for the courage to share truth in love within our communities.
• Ask God to help us recognize and stand against lies in our culture.
• Seek guidance in knowing how to love others while maintaining our commitment to truth.
• Lift up any prayer requests shared by the group for support and healing.
Rewatch the sermon 📼
What is the Purpose of Government?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor John Mark focuses on the importance of understanding the role of government from a biblical perspective, especially during the election season. He emphasizes that while we are to submit to governing authorities, our ultimate authority lies with God, and our obedience to the government should never compromise our faith. He explores the primary responsibilities of the government: to protect the innocent and punish the guilty, and encourages Christians to engage actively in political discourse while maintaining respect and prayerfulness. Ultimately, he calls for believers to participate in the political process, vote, and uphold their dual citizenship in both heaven and earth.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a food that starts with the same letter as your name, what would you choose?
Discussion Questions 💬
What do you think it means for Christians to have dual citizenship in both heaven and earth, as mentioned in Philippians 3:20?
Pastor talked about how Christians have a responsibility to both their heavenly citizenship and earthly citizenship, emphasizing that both are important.
How can you balance your responsibilities as a citizen of heaven and a citizen of your country in your daily life?
According to Romans 13, what is the government's primary responsibility, and why is this important for society?
Pastor mentioned that the government’s primary responsibility is to protect the innocent and punish the guilty, stating that this is essential for maintaining law and order.
What are some examples of how good government can protect citizens and promote peace in your community?
Pastor emphasized the importance of obeying the government unless it conflicts with our faith. Can you think of a situation where this might happen?
He mentioned that obeying the government is important, but Christians should disobey if it means compromising their faith.
How would you respond if the government asked you to do something that goes against your Christian beliefs?
How do you feel about the idea of paying taxes as a way to support government services, even when you might not agree with how the money is spent?
Pastor pointed out that paying taxes is necessary to help the government function and protect the people, even if one may have mixed feelings about it.
In what ways can supporting government through taxes impact your community, even if not everything aligns with your personal beliefs?
What does it mean to be 'salt and light' in the context of engaging with politics and government as Christians?
Pastor used the metaphor of being 'salt and light' to describe how Christians should influence culture and government positively.
What practical ways can you be 'salt and light' in your school or community when discussing political issues?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for clarity in understanding the role of government in our lives.
• Ask God to give us courage to speak the truth in love.
• Pray for opportunities to be salt and light in our communities.
Rewatch the sermon 📼
Can’t I Just Follow My Heart?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor John Mark discussed trusting our hearts and illustrated that all hearts are spiritually diseased due to sin. He referenced the biblical perspective, particularly from Jeremiah, highlighting that the heart can be deceitful and lead us down destructive paths. John Mark also emphasized the importance of turning to God's Word and faith in Jesus for healing and salvation and the necessity of conducting ourselves in alignment with these truths. Finally, he offered practical strategies for overcoming our sinful nature, including engaging with Scripture, worship, and fellowship, aiming for an undivided heart devoted to God.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a dish you’ve never tried before, what would it be?
Discussion Questions 💬
Why do you think Pastor emphasized the importance of God's word as the cure for our spiritual heart disease?
The talk highlighted that the 'cure for a diseased heart is God's word, God's way,' indicating that scripture is crucial in guiding our decisions.
How can you incorporate reading the Bible into your daily routine to help guide your choices in life?
How can we find and follow God's path instead of our deceitful hearts when making important decisions?
Pastor warned that following deceitful hearts can lead us down rough and damaged paths, urging us to turn to God's guidance instead.
Think about a major choice you need to make. What steps can you take to ensure you follow God's way rather than just what feels right?
What does it mean for our hearts to be 'deceitful' as described in Jeremiah 17, and how can understanding this concept help us in our daily lives?
John Mark discussed how Jeremiah defines the heart as deceitful and desperately wicked, which shows that we can’t always trust our feelings or desires.
Can you think of a time when your heart led you to make a poor decision? How might you approach things differently now, knowing about the deceitful nature of the heart?
How can we apply the concept of 'conduct matters' to our choices?
Pastor John Mark mentioned that although conduct doesn't determine salvation, it does matter in how we live after being saved, showing how our actions reflect our beliefs.
Reflect on a recent decision you made. How did your beliefs influence your actions in that situation?
Why is it important to prioritize corporate worship according to the sermon, and how does it help us overcome our divided hearts?
John Mark emphasized the necessity of gathering together for worship, which can encourage us to resist our hearts' temptations.
How has participating in corporate worship helped you in your personal faith journey, and how can you make it a priority in your life from now on?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask God to help us recognize areas where our hearts may be deceitful.
• Pray for the strength to rely on His Word over our feelings.
• Request guidance in making choices that reflect His truths throughout the week.
• Give space for any prayer requests from the group.
Rewatch the sermon 📼
Should the Church and Christians Stay Out of Politics?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
In the message below, Pastor John Mark emphasized the importance of Christian involvement in politics, especially during an election season, arguing that while both candidates may be flawed, the party platforms significantly influence governance. He urged the congregation to approach voting with biblical values, highlighting the responsibilities that come with the privilege of voting in a democratic society. Pastor addressed common objections to political engagement, such as the separation of church and state, pointing out that Christians are called to be active participants in shaping their society. Concluding on a note of encouragement, he reminded the congregation that voting is not only a right but also a vital opportunity to stand for moral and biblical principles.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
Why do you think Pastor John Mark emphasizes that Christians should be involved in politics?
Pastor believes that being involved in politics is vital for Christians, as they can influence the government in ways beneficial to society based on their values.
How can you get involved in political issues reflecting your beliefs?
What is your understanding of the statement 'we must obey God rather than humans' from Acts 5:29, and how does it relate to Christian participation in politics?
John Mark quotes this verse to highlight that Christians should prioritize their faith and values above human authority regarding voting and political involvement.
Have you ever felt torn between obeying your faith and following a governmental law? How did you handle that situation?
How does Pastor's perspective on the Constitution reflect the importance of moral and religious values in governance?
Pastor mentions John Adams' view that the Constitution is made for a moral and religious people, which ties to the belief that good governance relies on shared values.
What values do you think are essential for good leadership in government? How can you encourage those values in your community?
What are some of the reasons Pastor gives for his belief that voting is a responsibility for Christians?
John Mark outlines several reasons, including the blessing of having the right to vote and the importance of representing biblical values in government.
Do you think voting is a responsibility for everyone or just for those with certain beliefs? Why or why not?
Reflecting on Pastor's statements about community issues, which political issues concern you the most, and why?
John Mark discusses various political issues such as religious freedom, the definition of family, and the importance of law in society as areas of concern for Christians.
How can you engage with others in your community to discuss these issues constructively?
Prayer 🙏
• Please share any prayer requests you have.
• Ask God to guide us in applying the lessons about being involved in politics to our lives this week.
• Pray for the courage to stand for our biblical values in political conversations.
• Ask for wisdom in discerning which issues matter most to the community and how we can address them.
Rewatch the sermon 📼
Am I Saved Through Faith or Works?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
In today's sermon, Pastor John Mark discusses the concept of salvation, emphasizing that it is based on grace received through faith, not on works. He introduces the importance of the five M strategy for spiritual growth: Membership, Maturity, Ministry, Missions, and Magnification, comparing it to a baseball diamond. Using the story of the Philippian jailer, Pastor highlights that salvation comes simply by believing in Jesus Christ and encourages everyone to embrace this gift. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that while good works cannot earn salvation, they are the natural response to it, stemming from a transformed life in Christ.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it had to be a food you absolutely disliked as a child, what would it be and why?
Discussion Questions 💬
What does it mean to say that salvation is a gift by grace, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9?
John Mark emphasized that grace is the foundation of our salvation and that it's not something we can earn through works.
In what ways do you see people trying to earn God's favor or salvation, and how can you encourage them to understand grace?
According to this talk, how do the concepts of faith and works relate to each other?
Pastor explained that good works are not what saves us but are a response to being saved through faith.
Can you think of specific good works that you've done as a response to your faith? How did those acts influence your relationship with God?
Why do you think the Philippian jailer asked, 'What must I do to be saved?' and how does this question reflect the universal search for salvation?
Pastor shared the story of the jailer seeking salvation after witnessing the faith of Paul and Silas in prison.
How can you share the message of salvation with others who might be asking similar questions in their lives?
What is the significance of baptism in the journey of faith, as highlighted in the message?
John Mark mentioned that baptism is an essential part of membership in the church and follows the act of believing in Jesus.
If you have been baptized, how did that experience shape your faith journey? If you haven't, what are your thoughts about taking that step?
How does understanding that we cannot earn our salvation influence how we live our daily lives?
John Mark indicated that recognizing salvation as a gift affects our attitude towards sin and how we treat others.
Think of a recent situation where you might have struggled with feelings of inadequacy. How can the truth of grace change your perspective in similar situations?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask for prayer requests within the group.
• Pray for courage to share your faith with others this week.
• Ask God to help you identify specific ways to serve in your community.
• Seek His guidance to strengthen your relationship with Him through worship and study.
Rewatch the sermon 📼
Do I Need To Go To Church If I’m a Christian?
The "Reality Check" series looks at some of the issues and topics of today, seeing what they look like, and then comparing that to how the Bible says those topics should be lived out and fleshed out.
Group Leader Guide
Sermon Recap 🎬
Pastor John Mark spoke about the importance of the church within Christian life, emphasizing that attending church isn't about being perfect but about seeking improvement and community among others who are also flawed. He highlighted the historical and biblical foundations of the church, pointing out that Jesus attended and established the church, showing his love for it despite its imperfections. The talk outlined key principles for selecting a church, such as a passion for lost and hurting people, strong biblical teaching, and fostering community. Ultimately, John Mark encouraged the listener to view the church as essential for spiritual growth and mutual support.
Ice Breaker 🧊
If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, but it couldn't be pizza or ice cream, what food would you choose?
Discussion Questions 💬
According to Pastor John Mark, some people say they love Jesus but don't like church. Why do you think this idea has become common among Christians today?
John Mark mentioned that many people say they are Christians but choose not to attend church, often citing reasons like hypocrisy.
Reflect on your own experiences. Have you ever felt this way? What events or discussions contributed to your feelings toward church?
Pastor referenced Hebrews 10:24-25, which encourages believers not to give up meeting together. Why do you think it is important to gather with other Christians?
The scripture emphasizes the need to encourage one another and not avoid meeting together, which was a challenge in both the first century and today.
How do you experience encouragement in your life? Can you think of a time when being part of a gathering made a difference for you?
What does John Mark say about Jesus' relationship with the church? How does this impact how we view the church?
He explains that Jesus attended church, established it, and loves it, demonstrating its importance.
How does knowing that Jesus loves the church change your perspective on attending or being part of a church community?
John Mark shared that a healthy church is passionate about lost and hurting people. What role do you think the church should play in addressing the needs of the community?
He mentioned the importance of the church sharing the gospel and supporting those in need, showcasing outreach efforts.
Can you identify ways your church or a community organization is making a positive impact? How could you get involved?
In the sermon, the Pastor John Mark highlights the importance of worship in church. Why is worship an essential part of the church experience?
He emphasized that worship has always been a key component of the church throughout history.
What does worship mean to you personally? How do you feel during worship, and what helps you connect with God in that moment?
Prayer 🙏
• Ask God to help you recognize the importance of church in your life.
• Pray for opportunities to share the message of hope with someone who may feel distant from church.
• Ask for guidance on how you can contribute to your church community this week.
• Seek God's help in applying the lessons learned from the sermon into your daily actions.