Harris Creek Baptist Church

JP reminds us that following Jesus means going all in. From the rich young ruler’s story, he shows that control, love of the world, and thinking we’ve “given up enough” hold us back. Real faith is letting go and trusting that Jesus offers something better. A need to control will keep you from going all in Loving the world will keep you from going all in Believing you have will keep you from going all in Life Group Discussion:Where in your life are you tempted to hold on to control instead of trusting Jesus?How do you see love for the world showing up in culture today?How does knowing the reward of eternal life change your perspective on sacrifice now?

September 7, 2025John Elmore Galatians 2:1-10 Pastor John reminded us that the Gospel that saves and transforms is unchanging, and we must be careful not to “paint over” grace with the law or our own efforts. True freedom and lasting impact come not from our striving, but from abiding in Christ and faithfully living out the role He’s entrusted to us. Do you run in vain?Do you have freedom?Do you run in your lane? Life Group Discussion:In what ways are we tempted to “paint over” the Gospel with rules, rituals, or personal effort?What areas of your life might still lack freedom, and how can the Gospel transform those places?Why do you think it’s easy to compare our calling to others instead of focusing on the lane God has given us?

When Jesus shows up, He doesn’t just adjust a few things, He changes everything. Paul went from fighting against Christians to preaching the Gospel, and our lives should reflect that same transformation. The Gospel changes who you are, where you’re headed, and what your life is all about. The Gospel changes peopleThe Gospel changes our plansThe Gospel changes our purpose    Life Group Discussion:How have you seen Jesus change someone’s life in a way that was undeniable?Why do you think it’s hard for us to trust God when He redirects our steps?Paul’s story went from “church persecutor” to “missionary.” What’s the “title change” the Gospel has brought (or could bring) to your story?

The Gospel isn’t about checking boxes or piling on rules. It’s about Jesus. He gave Himself to rescue us, and that alone is our hope. In Galatians, Paul warns that twisting this truth means losing the very thing that saves us. So don’t water it down or chase the approval of others. Instead, live with clarity, courage, and conviction that Jesus is the only way. Don’t distort The GospelThe wrath of God awaits anyone who doesPeople pleasing prevents clarity     Life Group Discussion:Why do you think it’s so tempting to make faith about rules, habits, or achievements instead of simply trusting Jesus?How does thinking about God’s justice (His wrath against sin) help us understand His love more clearly?When have you been tempted to stay silent about your faith because you didn’t want to offend or stand out?

Discover how seeking divine guidance can transform your life, especially in marriage and family commitments. Hear powerful stories that showcase the importance of prayer, even for the smallest concerns. Explore the journey from feeling spiritually orphaned to embracing one's identity in faith. The podcast also touches on themes of mercy and grace, illustrating that God’s presence is crucial during life's toughest challenges. It's a compelling reminder that prayer should be our first instinct, ensuring our faith remains bold and real.

This discussion highlights the dangers of pride through a humorous yet painful personal story, illustrating how it can lead to injuries and strain relationships. It contrasts Naaman's pride with a humble servant girl who helps him seek healing, emphasizing the transformative power of humility. The importance of surrendering to God's will for true healing is explored, alongside personal reflections on how pride can distort our perspectives in various aspects of life. A heartfelt prayer for courage and humility inspires listeners to embrace their faith.

In 1 Kings 19, Pastor John reminds us that when our faith is under fire, God meets us with compassion—not shame. He is faithful to His covenant and gently calls us back to His presence and purpose. No failure cancels His calling on your life. Your God is compassionateYour God is covenant keeping Your God has a call for you Life Group Discussion:When have you felt like Elijah—exhausted, discouraged, or done—and how did God meet you in that moment?What are some “mountaintop moments” in your life where you’ve clearly experienced God’s presence or promises?How can you be faithful to take the next step in the calling God has for your life, even if you don’t feel fully ready?

Many of us live with divided hearts—giving our worship to God and to other things that ultimately destroy us. In 1 Kings 18, we see that whole-hearted worship brings healing and restored relationship with God, while right worship—faithfully and fully given to Him—leads to God’s reward, not in prosperity, but in presence, peace, and purpose. True worship isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a daily surrender of everything—our time, desires, and devotion—to the only One worthy: God alone. Divided worship destroysWhole worship healsRight worship rewards Life Group Discussion:How can you identify the things in your life that are taking up space in your heart where only God belongs?What area of your life might God be asking you to fully surrender to Him right now?How have you seen God move in your life when you’ve persevered in prayer or obedience?

God often asks for our trust before we understand what He’s doing. Through the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 17, we saw that God can provide in unexpected ways, work through unlikely people, and is always doing something good—even when it doesn’t feel like it. Whether it’s ravens by a brook, a widow in a drought, or fleas in a concentration camp, God is still in control—and He’s 100% worthy of our trust. God is after our trustGod is able to provideGod is always working for our good Life Group Discussion:Have you ever seen God ask you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What happened when you obeyed (or didn’t)?When have you experienced God providing for you in an unexpected or “unlikely” way?Why is it hard to believe God is working for your good when things feel unfair or hopeless?

Sharing the Gospel starts by choosing to live for Christ—letting your daily life reflect who He is, whether you're at the gym, work, or just hanging out. It means shifting your mindset to see people the way Jesus does—not as interruptions, but as souls deeply loved by God. And finally, it’s about actually sharing Christ—because the Gospel is the real remedy, and you were never meant to keep it to yourself. Live for ChristHave the perspective of ChristShare Christ  Life Group Discussion:Can you think of someone in your life who truly lives for Christ? What about their lifestyle challenges or inspires you?What relationships in your life might God be calling you to see differently, with compassion and purpose?Have you ever had a moment where you shared Christ and didn’t see the outcome you expected? How did you process that?