Harris Creek Baptist Church

The story of Abraham's test of faith reveals deep themes of commitment and obedience. It highlights how personal sacrifices can strengthen one's relationship with God. Emphasis is placed on trusting in God's character during trials. A touching real-life story inspires listeners to take action and embrace the call to serve others. The podcast draws parallels between Isaac's near sacrifice and Jesus' ultimate act of love, encouraging reflection on the transformative power of grace in one's life.

Dive into the intertwining stories of Adam and Eve and the promise of redemption through Jesus. The discussion highlights how Adam's failures set the stage for Jesus' authority and the removal of shame. Humorous holiday decorating mishaps add a relatable touch, illustrating the challenges of parenting during festive traditions. Hear how biblical history foreshadows Christmas, emphasizing that every struggle points toward the Savior. This engaging exploration reveals God's ongoing faithfulness, even amidst our shortcomings.

Take Time To Pray1) Pray with Gratitude2) Pray for Wisdom3) Pray for Your PartThank you, Jesus, for all you have done in 2023!2023 Highlights

Are you content with what you have been given or do you groan and grumble? Do you live a generous life looking for opportunities to share with someone in need? Nate looks to Exodus 16 to show us how much God loves us and wants to provide exactly what we need for our tomorrow. For God so loved us He provided His son, Jesus, for us. He is Jehovah Jireh; the Lord will provide.  Exodus 16       1) We doubt that God will provide what we need       2) God desires to provide for His children       3) We take more provision than what we needLife Group Questions:       1) I’d be happier if I had _______________.       2) What are you overindulging in?        3) Do you take more than you need because you fear God won’t provide?       4) What has God provided for you this year?

As we wrap up our series, “Forged,” JP shows us three unavoidable obstacles that are found in Scripture and how to combat them. JP looks to 1 Peter to show us how anxiety, temptation and suffering can be combated with a Kingdom first mindset. 1 Peter 5:6-10       1) In anxiety, humble yourself       2) In temptation, resist the devil       3) In suffering, practice patienceLife Group Questions:       1) When faced with anxiety, how can you effectively cast those burdens on the Lord knowing how much He cares for you?       2) Was there a time when you were hesitant to bring sin to the light out of fear that others wouldn’t understand? What is a verse that you have clung to when faced with temptation?       3) What is a way that you can help others practice patience in times of suffering? Explain a time where you were shown grace in the midst of suffering. 

Humility is the glue that binds a healthy church community. Leaders must serve with a heart attuned to the needs of their congregation. When members embrace a humble mindset, it cultivates unity and strengthens relationships. Personal anecdotes reveal the impact of humble leadership on church dynamics. The discussion prompts reflection on consumerism and encourages members to contribute more. Overall, it's a call to prioritize service and love, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive spiritually.

As we continue in our series, “Forged,” JP reminds us that Christians must lean closer to God in times of suffering because He is sanctifying us. JP looks to 1 Peter to show us five things we should not do in suffering. As we seek to become more like Christ, we must rejoice in suffering because our Savior suffered for us on our behalf.1 Peter 4:12-19       1) Do not be surprised in suffering       2) Do not be discouraged in suffering       3) Do not be guilty in suffering       4) Do not be ashamed in suffering        5) Do not suffer outside of God’s will because our Savior suffered for us on our behalf.Life Group Questions:1. JP shared that approximately 13 Christians are killed each day for sharing their faith. How can you be diligent to pray for those who are being persecuted for their faith? How can you grow in sharing your faith with others?2. What is a spiritual discipline that you have seen growth in after experiencing a time of suffering?3. Has there been a time when you suffered because of sin? How have you experienced God’s grace as you’ve fully surrendered your sufferings to the Lord?

As we continue in our series, “Forged,” JP reminds us that we are called to live as though Jesus is returning in our lifetime. JP looks to 1 Peter to show us how we should use our gifts to serve the body of Christ with sacrificial love. If we are truly living on mission for Christ, we wouldn’t have the desire to change how we live our lives on the day He returns. 1 Peter 4:7-11       1) Pray with perspective       2) Love without lamenting       3) Glorify God with your giftsLife Group Questions: 1. As believers we are called to pray with a sense of urgency. How can you improve your prayer life in a way that is others focused?2. Paul reminds us in 1 Peter to meet the needs of everyone around you with a sacrificial love. How have you shown hospitality to others even when it is inconvenient for you?3. Each of us have been equipped with spiritual gifts that are essential to the body of Christ. What is a need that you have seen within the church and how can your gift be illuminated in that ministry?

Where do we find peace? As we continue in our series, “Forged,” Dale reminds us that peace is found with God. Dale looks to 1 Peter to remind us that our job as believers is to tell everyone the good news despite experiencing worldly bad news.1 Peter 3:18-4:6       1) Christ has triumphed over evil       2) No matter the suffering, we do God’s will       3) Everyone will give an accountLife Group Questions: 1) When you come to a difficult or "bumpy" passage in the Bible, how do you approach the text?2) In the context of recent events, how do you hold on to the peace of knowing that Christ has already achieved victory?3) In what ways have you suffered or been persecuted for your beliefs? How has that impacted your faith?

As we continue in our series, “Forged,” JP reminds us that dealing with conflict must be handled in a way that reflects Christ. JP looks to 1 Peter to remind us that the mark of a spiritually mature person is one who loves God, understands how they are loved by God, and is a conduit of God’s love toward others.1 Peter 3:8-181) Love each other2) Repay evil with blessing3) Christ is the goalLife Group Questions: 1. 1 Peter 3:9 says to repay evil with blessing. Discuss a time when you were called to show kindness to someone who wronged you.2. How can you be better about asking for forgiveness? By extending grace to someone else, how would you incorporate this as an opportunity to share the gospel?3. The mark of a spiritually mature person is loving God, understanding how you are loved by God, and being a conduit of God’s love toward others. What are some ways that you can grow in your spiritual maturity?