Locations & Times

Have you ever thought, "Is Jesus necessary?"  In this impactful message, Pastor Jim looks into the deeper meaning of Jesus' baptism and the beginning of God's Kingdom. Using insights from the Old Testament and the significant events at the Jordan River, he unfolds how Jesus, recognized as the beloved Son and true King, reshapes our understanding of God's grand plan. Whether you believe Jesus is unnecessary or out of reach, be prepared to encounter a Jesus who is vital, accessible, and poised to bring a deeper meaning to your life.

SETLIST

"Praise" Available on "Can You Imagine?" from Elevation Worship

"I Thank God TAG" Available on "Move Your Heart" from Tribl Records

"Who You Say I Am" Available on “There is More” from Hillsong Church

"Living Hope" Available on "Living Hope" from Phil Wickham

"God Problems" by Chandler Moore, Maverick City Music, and Naomi Raine

GROUP QUESTIONS

Upside Down

Jim Burgen

 Jan 7th, 2024

// Bible References
Isa 40:1-3, 54:17; Prov 18:10; Zech 4:6; Psalm 18:2; Eph 6:12; John 3:16; Matt 3:1-3,11-17; John 1:6-8,19,23,28

// Community Question: What makes “Disney the Magical Kingdom” a Kingdom?

// Discussion Questions:

1. Jim spoke about living our everyday lives within the Kingdom of God and being influenced by its values. How does the concept of the Kingdom of God impact the way we live and make decisions in our everyday lives? Can you think of a situation in your life where you could have made a different decision if you viewed it through the lens of the Kingdom of God?
2. The Jewish people expected a political or military leader, but Jesus came to restore the Kingdom of God through His sacrifice on the cross. In what way did Jesus fulfill the role of the Messiah differently from the expectations of the Jewish people? How can we recognize and accept Jesus as the true Messiah in our personal lives, even if He doesn't always meet our earthly expectations?
3. Jim quoted Ephesians 6:12, explaining that our fight is against spiritual forces of evil, not flesh and blood. What does Ephesians tell us about the spiritual battles we face? What are some spiritual battles you're facing, and how can you rely on God's power and authority to overcome them?
4. Read Matthew 3:11-17. Jim explained how Jesus's baptism includes God's voice proclaiming His approval, and the Spirit of God descending on Him as the start of His new Kingdom. How does the baptism of Jesus signify the beginning of His new Kingdom? How does Jesus's new Kingdom impact our relationship with God, others, and our understanding of His authority in our lives?
5. Jim spoke about two groups of people: those who think Jesus is unnecessary and those who think Jesus is unreachable. Jim challenged the first group to realize that their perceived goodness will fall short and assured the second group of Jesus's forgiveness and grace. How does acknowledging Jesus's necessary role in life and understanding He is reachable give us peace?

// Challenge: In the sermon Jim referenced God Problems as problems only God can fix. How can we recognize “God Problems” in our own life? Then turn those over to him and trust He will respond?