23 - Greatness (Luke 9:37-50)

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God’s greatness is demonstrated in power over evil, in love for the weak, and those who humbly serve others.

  1. God’s Greatness in Power (vv. 37-43a)

    1. The Weakness of the Disciples (vv. 37-41)

    2. The Greatness of Jesus (vv. 42-43a)

  2. God’s Greatness in Love (vv. 43b-46)

    1. What True Greatness Looks Like (vv. 43b-44)

    2. When You Can't Recognize Greatness (vv. 45-46)

  3. God’s Greatness in Us (vv. 47-50)

    1. Receiving the Least (vv. 47-48)

    2. Receiving Competition (vv. 49-50)

    3. Tasting Greatness

Discussion Starters

  1. Monday—How is Jesus’ greatness shown in his power over the demon? What are some ways that God has shown his greatness in power in your life? How should you respond?

  2. Tuesday—How is Jesus’ greatness shown in his love for the church? Why is this sometimes hard to recognize? When was the last time you thanked him for dying for you?

  3. Wednesday—Why were the disciples afraid to ask Jesus questions (v. 45) about his statement in verse 44? What keeps you from asking more questions? Why don’t you need to be afraid?

  4. Thursday—What does it mean to “receive the least”? (v. 48) Why is it so hard for us to bring ourselves low for others?

  5. Friday—What are some lines that you drawn that the Lord hasn’t? What have been the effects to the church? Is there anyone from whom you need to seek forgiveness?

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Brett McNeill

Brett McNeill has been our pastor since we began in 2004. He and Jen have been married since 1998 and have four wonderful daughters. Brett is a graduate of Westminster Seminary in California (Masters in Divinity, 2003). His desire is to clearly proclaim Jesus Christ from all of Scripture in a way that is clear, convicting and encouraging.

15 - Behold the Man (1 Samuel 9-10 | John 19:1-15)

/ Reformation OPC/

God's grace is so profound that, on the third day, he provides a king and savior for the very people who reject him. 

  1. The People’s Sinful Demand (1 Samuel 8:4-18; 9:1-6; 10:19)

    1. The Desire for a King (1 Samuel 8:4-18; 10:19; Genesis 49:9-10; Deuteronomy 17:14-20)

    2. It all Started with Some Donkeys (1 Samuel 9:1-6; Genesis 49:11)

  2. God’s Gracious Response (9:14-20; 10:1-2, 9-10)

    1. Behold the Man (1 Samuel 9:14-20; 10:1-2)

    2. The Third Day (1 Samuel 10:9-10)

  3. God’s Amazing Provision (John 12:13-15; 18:40; 19:5, 15)

    1. Years Later… (John 12:13-15; 18:40; 19:5, 15)

    2. An Unimpressive Meal


Discussion Starters

  1. Monday—What does Paul mean that Jesus was raised on the third day “in accordance with the scriptures”? (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) Where does the Old Testament say that the Messiah would be raised on the third day?

  2. Tuesday—Was it sinful for Israel to desire a human king? (Genesis 49:9-10; Deuteronomy 17:14-20) What was sinful about their request to Samuel? (1 Samuel 8:5)

  3. Wednesday—How is God’s provision of Saul an act of mercy and grace to his people? What does that tell you about God’s character?

  4. Thursday—What are some key elements of Saul’s story that are echoed in Jesus’ life on earth? Is that a coincidence? What do you think God wants you to learn from Saul’s story?

  5. Friday—How can 1 Samuel 9-10 comfort you when your conscience accuses for all the times you have rejected God’s rule in your life and sought to be like the world? What can you do with confidence when your conscience tells you that you are beyond forgiveness?

/ Reformation OPC/ /

Brett McNeill

Brett McNeill has been our pastor since we began in 2004. He and Jen have been married since 1998 and have four wonderful daughters. Brett is a graduate of Westminster Seminary in California (Masters in Divinity, 2003). His desire is to clearly proclaim Jesus Christ from all of Scripture in a way that is clear, convicting and encouraging.