sermon
discussion
questions
utilize these discussion questions to dive deeper
into the sermon each week!
they are perfect for Life Groups, personal reflection
or family discussion around the dinner table
into the sermon each week!
they are perfect for Life Groups, personal reflection
or family discussion around the dinner table
30 August 2026 - Giving Relationally
Sermon Discussion Questions for August 30, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “Relational Aspects of Giving”
1. “God is not interested in us doing religious things without a relationship with Him.” Read Matthew 7:22-23. What is included in a relationship that might not be involved in doing religious things?
2. Trace the history of the concept of “testing God”:
A. Deuteronomy 6:16 –
B. Matthew 4:6-7 –
C. Malachi 3:10 –
How might God be tested by tithing?
3. Read Deuteronomy 26:1-2. When should a person present the tithe? First, before paying other things? Or later, when you know you will have enough?
4. What should our attitude be when giving? Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-11.
What is the reward for giving with a good attitude?
Conclusion: “Tithing is a shared journey that God takes with His people. God loves to be generous, and you will, too.”
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “Relational Aspects of Giving”
1. “God is not interested in us doing religious things without a relationship with Him.” Read Matthew 7:22-23. What is included in a relationship that might not be involved in doing religious things?
2. Trace the history of the concept of “testing God”:
A. Deuteronomy 6:16 –
B. Matthew 4:6-7 –
C. Malachi 3:10 –
How might God be tested by tithing?
3. Read Deuteronomy 26:1-2. When should a person present the tithe? First, before paying other things? Or later, when you know you will have enough?
4. What should our attitude be when giving? Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-11.
What is the reward for giving with a good attitude?
Conclusion: “Tithing is a shared journey that God takes with His people. God loves to be generous, and you will, too.”
23 August 2026 - Figure Out the Rest (Pastor Emma Swank)
Sermon Discussion Questions for August 23, 2026
Pastor Emma Swank – “Figure Out The Rest”
1. What are some enemies of “rest”?
According to science, what is the biggest enemy of rest?
2. What would you sacrifice sleep for?
Pastor Emma said, “What you sacrifice sleep for is what you love”.
3. Read Psalm 127:1-2. What speaks to you from this passage?
4. “Sleep reminds us that we as humans have limits in a world that tells us to defy our limits.” What tends to push you beyond your limits?
5. Liturgies help us rest. What is there about the liturgies in our church worship services that helps you to rest?
6. What would it be like if we were notorious for embracing rest and welcoming our limitations with enthusiasm?
Pastor Emma Swank – “Figure Out The Rest”
1. What are some enemies of “rest”?
According to science, what is the biggest enemy of rest?
2. What would you sacrifice sleep for?
Pastor Emma said, “What you sacrifice sleep for is what you love”.
3. Read Psalm 127:1-2. What speaks to you from this passage?
4. “Sleep reminds us that we as humans have limits in a world that tells us to defy our limits.” What tends to push you beyond your limits?
5. Liturgies help us rest. What is there about the liturgies in our church worship services that helps you to rest?
6. What would it be like if we were notorious for embracing rest and welcoming our limitations with enthusiasm?
16 August 2026 - Giving Covenantally
Sermon Discussion Questions for August 16, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “What They Don’t Know Won’t Hurt Them”
1. Describe a time when something you didn’t know DID hurt you.
2. Read Deuteronomy 10:14. What difference would there be if we understood that we don’t really own anything, that everything belongs to God
3. Read Malachi 3:6-12. This offers two possible benefits of tithing:
A. “That there may be food in My house.” In Old Testament times the tithe was often given in the form of food from their harvests. This provided for the Priests and the Levites (other Temple employees).
B. So that God can bless us. Genesis 7:11 is the story of Noah’s food where the storehouses of heaven (rain) flooded the earth. The same language is used for God’s blessing in response to faithful tithing.
Are these two enough motivation for you to be a faithful tither?
4. Pastor Cliff offered cornerstone principles for a nation to be blessed by God:
A. No other gods
B. Sanctity of human life
C. Godly sexuality
D. Stewardship
How do you think our nation is doing in these areas?
What curses do you see in our nation that might be a result of our lack of obedience?
5. Does Jesus support the concept of tithing? Read Matthew 23:23 or Luke 11:42. “Tithing is God’s plan for the provision of everything His Church and His people need.”
Conclusion: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “What They Don’t Know Won’t Hurt Them”
1. Describe a time when something you didn’t know DID hurt you.
2. Read Deuteronomy 10:14. What difference would there be if we understood that we don’t really own anything, that everything belongs to God
3. Read Malachi 3:6-12. This offers two possible benefits of tithing:
A. “That there may be food in My house.” In Old Testament times the tithe was often given in the form of food from their harvests. This provided for the Priests and the Levites (other Temple employees).
B. So that God can bless us. Genesis 7:11 is the story of Noah’s food where the storehouses of heaven (rain) flooded the earth. The same language is used for God’s blessing in response to faithful tithing.
Are these two enough motivation for you to be a faithful tither?
4. Pastor Cliff offered cornerstone principles for a nation to be blessed by God:
A. No other gods
B. Sanctity of human life
C. Godly sexuality
D. Stewardship
How do you think our nation is doing in these areas?
What curses do you see in our nation that might be a result of our lack of obedience?
5. Does Jesus support the concept of tithing? Read Matthew 23:23 or Luke 11:42. “Tithing is God’s plan for the provision of everything His Church and His people need.”
Conclusion: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”
9 August 2026 - Living In Covenant With People Like Me: Peacemaker
Sermon Discussion Questions for August 9, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Living In Covenant With People Like Me: Peacemaker
See the book “Peace Maker” by Ken Sando.
1. When in a conflict situation, author Ken Sando says to ask yourself, “What does my heart really want: To win over my brother? Or To win my brother over?” Describe the difference between the two options.
2. Matthew 18:15-18 offers a 3-step plan to restore peace:
A. Vs 15 – Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
B. Vs 16 – Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
C. Vs 17 - Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
3. At each step, what should the goal be?
4. What did Pastor Cliff mean by quoting his dad, “Like water off a duck’s back”?
5. God may be using conflict in my life in order to train my heart for forgiveness. What conflict are you currently experiencing? What will you do about it?
A. Proverbs 19:11 – Overlook it.
B. Matthew 18:15 – Go in person and talk with the other person.
C. Matthew 18:16 – Take one or two neutral Christians to help us work it out.
D. Matthew 18:17 – Take it to the church. Talk with a Pastor or Church Board member about what to do next.
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Living In Covenant With People Like Me: Peacemaker
See the book “Peace Maker” by Ken Sando.
1. When in a conflict situation, author Ken Sando says to ask yourself, “What does my heart really want: To win over my brother? Or To win my brother over?” Describe the difference between the two options.
2. Matthew 18:15-18 offers a 3-step plan to restore peace:
A. Vs 15 – Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
B. Vs 16 – Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
C. Vs 17 - Keep the circle of conflict as small as possible. What is involved in this step? What should we NOT do?
3. At each step, what should the goal be?
4. What did Pastor Cliff mean by quoting his dad, “Like water off a duck’s back”?
5. God may be using conflict in my life in order to train my heart for forgiveness. What conflict are you currently experiencing? What will you do about it?
A. Proverbs 19:11 – Overlook it.
B. Matthew 18:15 – Go in person and talk with the other person.
C. Matthew 18:16 – Take one or two neutral Christians to help us work it out.
D. Matthew 18:17 – Take it to the church. Talk with a Pastor or Church Board member about what to do next.
2 August 2026 - Peace in Covenant
Sermon Discussion Questions for August 2, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell: Peace in Covenant – Establishing Unity
1. Living in covenant relationship with each other can be difficult. But relationships will last for generations and forever. Give an example of how American culture treats relationships as disposable.
2. God’s design is that covenant relationships endure. Exceptions do not redefine God’s intentions. Describe a time when a relationship should end.
3. Unity is the highest priority of every covenant relationship. Describe what unity is and what it is not.
4. Serve the well-being of the other, rather than getting your own way. People who know their worth willingly lay aside their rights for the good of others. When have you pledged support for something that you didn’t agree with every detail? We want to go along to get along.
5. Read John 17:20-23. How highly does Jesus prize unity among His people?
6. When you could be offended, what might it mean to go “1911”?
7. Which of these do you need the Holy Spirit’s help with?
A. Don’t bring it back up.
B. My preferences are not as important as the well-being of the covenant people as a whole.
C. When you are tempted to leave, stay and work on restoring healthy unity instead.
Pastor Cliff Purcell: Peace in Covenant – Establishing Unity
1. Living in covenant relationship with each other can be difficult. But relationships will last for generations and forever. Give an example of how American culture treats relationships as disposable.
2. God’s design is that covenant relationships endure. Exceptions do not redefine God’s intentions. Describe a time when a relationship should end.
3. Unity is the highest priority of every covenant relationship. Describe what unity is and what it is not.
4. Serve the well-being of the other, rather than getting your own way. People who know their worth willingly lay aside their rights for the good of others. When have you pledged support for something that you didn’t agree with every detail? We want to go along to get along.
5. Read John 17:20-23. How highly does Jesus prize unity among His people?
6. When you could be offended, what might it mean to go “1911”?
7. Which of these do you need the Holy Spirit’s help with?
A. Don’t bring it back up.
B. My preferences are not as important as the well-being of the covenant people as a whole.
C. When you are tempted to leave, stay and work on restoring healthy unity instead.
26 July 2026 - In Christ
Sermon Discussion Questions for July 26, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – “In Christ” Romans 6:1-11
1. The Covenant representative went through the ceremony that included all of his community as well as future generations. What he received from the ceremony, everyone in the community received. Describe what Jesus did as our covenant representative.
2. How should we live within a covenant relationship with God? Should we sin more and more so God’s grace will flourish?
3. We were baptized into Christ Jesus. What happened to Jesus happened to us. We died with Him and rose from the dead with a new kind of life. Do you feel dead to sin?
4. Read Romans 6:11. Using this verse, what strategy might you develop to retrain your mind in order to live by this truth ?
5. The enemy will never quit trying to get you to believe you are nothing more than a sinner. His strategy is to repeat this lie so often that you will believe it. How might we use that same strategy to help us believe the truth, that we are dead to sin?
Conclusion: Re-program your mind. Remind yourself of the truth that you are dead to sin. Write it on a card and carry it with you. Read it often. Hear, see and say the truth, “I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Read Romans 6:1-11 every day for a month.
Pastor Cliff Purcell – “In Christ” Romans 6:1-11
1. The Covenant representative went through the ceremony that included all of his community as well as future generations. What he received from the ceremony, everyone in the community received. Describe what Jesus did as our covenant representative.
2. How should we live within a covenant relationship with God? Should we sin more and more so God’s grace will flourish?
3. We were baptized into Christ Jesus. What happened to Jesus happened to us. We died with Him and rose from the dead with a new kind of life. Do you feel dead to sin?
4. Read Romans 6:11. Using this verse, what strategy might you develop to retrain your mind in order to live by this truth ?
5. The enemy will never quit trying to get you to believe you are nothing more than a sinner. His strategy is to repeat this lie so often that you will believe it. How might we use that same strategy to help us believe the truth, that we are dead to sin?
Conclusion: Re-program your mind. Remind yourself of the truth that you are dead to sin. Write it on a card and carry it with you. Read it often. Hear, see and say the truth, “I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Read Romans 6:1-11 every day for a month.
19 July 2026
Sermon Discussion Questions for July 19, 2026
1. Covenants have penalties for violations of the covenant, including death. A covenant is not a casual relationship with the Almighty. Betrayal results in punishment, death, or forgiveness. Describe how Jesus paid the penalty of suffering and death for our violations of the covenant.
2. Who would want a relationship with God if they were aware of their character and track record?
It’s a good thing God is a merciful God. How might we define “mercy”?
3. God is faithful and loyal, but if you ultimately betray Him by choosing another God, (or by choosing to be the god of your own life,) God will bring the curse of the blood covenant upon you. What other “gods” might Americans choose to worship and serve in place of the One True God?
4. God’s covenant with us has a goal and a plan:
Goal – Getting all of God’s family reconciled together and live together with:
1) total peace -
2) secure love -
3) uninterrupted joy forever -
How might we describe each of these?
Read John 13:7 and 14:2-3. These are not just for funerals, but describe God’s goal for his people.
5. God Plan – Follow the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles. These include some “thou shalts” and some “thou shalt nots”. What are you doing regularly to acquaint yourself with the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles? What are you learning and putting into practice?
Conclusion: “Covenant is God’s way of loving us. Relationship is His way of saving us. And His teachings are His plan to gather us into the eternal experience that can only be described as heaven!”
1. Covenants have penalties for violations of the covenant, including death. A covenant is not a casual relationship with the Almighty. Betrayal results in punishment, death, or forgiveness. Describe how Jesus paid the penalty of suffering and death for our violations of the covenant.
2. Who would want a relationship with God if they were aware of their character and track record?
It’s a good thing God is a merciful God. How might we define “mercy”?
3. God is faithful and loyal, but if you ultimately betray Him by choosing another God, (or by choosing to be the god of your own life,) God will bring the curse of the blood covenant upon you. What other “gods” might Americans choose to worship and serve in place of the One True God?
4. God’s covenant with us has a goal and a plan:
Goal – Getting all of God’s family reconciled together and live together with:
1) total peace -
2) secure love -
3) uninterrupted joy forever -
How might we describe each of these?
Read John 13:7 and 14:2-3. These are not just for funerals, but describe God’s goal for his people.
5. God Plan – Follow the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles. These include some “thou shalts” and some “thou shalt nots”. What are you doing regularly to acquaint yourself with the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles? What are you learning and putting into practice?
Conclusion: “Covenant is God’s way of loving us. Relationship is His way of saving us. And His teachings are His plan to gather us into the eternal experience that can only be described as heaven!”
12 July 2026 - How Do We Know Salvation Is A Covenant?
Sermon Discussion Questions for July 12, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – How Do We Know Salvation Is A Covenant?
Theme – Getting you into heaven isn’t God’s goal for you. Having a relationship with you is. You and God are not partners or fishing buddies, but in a covenant relationship. Salvation is a covenant relationship.
1. Read Genesis 3:8-11, 16-19, 14-15, 21.
A. Vs 8-11: What did God do on a regular basis?
B. Vs 16-19: What were the consequences of Eve's and Adam’s disobedience?
C. Vs 14-15: Instead of a death sentence for their sin, what did God promise?
D. Vs 21: What did God do for them that marks this as a blood covenant?
God’s response to the first human failure was not abandonment, but covenant.
2. God rescued Abraham’s descendants from Egypt and then met with them at Sinai. Describe the steps involved in God renewing His covenant with Israel:
A. Exodus 24:1 -
B. Exodus 24:4-8 -
C. Exodus 24:9-11 –
D. Exodus 25:8 –
E. Exodus 25:10 –
F. Exodus 25:16 –
3. God focused the covenant with David in 2 Samuel 7:11b- 16.
A. What is the message of this passage and Psalm 89:3-4?
B. What will God be to David’s descendants?
C. What if they sin?
D. Read Jeremiah 23:5-6.
4. The New Testament begins in Matthew 1 with a long genealogy of Jesus, demonstrating God’s faithfulness across many, many generations. What is there about this list of people that gives each of us today great hope?
5. Read Matthew 27:50-51 and Hebrews 10:19-23. What is there about the curtain in the Temple being torn in two that benefits us? What does God want with us?
Conclusion: For generation after generation God has demonstrated a willingness to forgive, renew, and restore a relationship with those who sin against Him. Salvation doesn’t rest on my perfection, but on God’s faithfulness. Our choices matter, but they don’t stop God’s covenant. Our poor choices might include consequences and change the blessings of the covenant. But God invites us into an eternal relationship.
Pastor Cliff Purcell – How Do We Know Salvation Is A Covenant?
Theme – Getting you into heaven isn’t God’s goal for you. Having a relationship with you is. You and God are not partners or fishing buddies, but in a covenant relationship. Salvation is a covenant relationship.
1. Read Genesis 3:8-11, 16-19, 14-15, 21.
A. Vs 8-11: What did God do on a regular basis?
B. Vs 16-19: What were the consequences of Eve's and Adam’s disobedience?
C. Vs 14-15: Instead of a death sentence for their sin, what did God promise?
D. Vs 21: What did God do for them that marks this as a blood covenant?
God’s response to the first human failure was not abandonment, but covenant.
2. God rescued Abraham’s descendants from Egypt and then met with them at Sinai. Describe the steps involved in God renewing His covenant with Israel:
A. Exodus 24:1 -
B. Exodus 24:4-8 -
C. Exodus 24:9-11 –
D. Exodus 25:8 –
E. Exodus 25:10 –
F. Exodus 25:16 –
3. God focused the covenant with David in 2 Samuel 7:11b- 16.
A. What is the message of this passage and Psalm 89:3-4?
B. What will God be to David’s descendants?
C. What if they sin?
D. Read Jeremiah 23:5-6.
4. The New Testament begins in Matthew 1 with a long genealogy of Jesus, demonstrating God’s faithfulness across many, many generations. What is there about this list of people that gives each of us today great hope?
5. Read Matthew 27:50-51 and Hebrews 10:19-23. What is there about the curtain in the Temple being torn in two that benefits us? What does God want with us?
Conclusion: For generation after generation God has demonstrated a willingness to forgive, renew, and restore a relationship with those who sin against Him. Salvation doesn’t rest on my perfection, but on God’s faithfulness. Our choices matter, but they don’t stop God’s covenant. Our poor choices might include consequences and change the blessings of the covenant. But God invites us into an eternal relationship.
5 July 2026 - Parenting in the Covenant
Sermon Discussion Questions for July 5, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Covenant or Contract – Parenting the Covenant
Basic Premise: God works through our family for many generations to come. God deals not merely with isolated individuals, but with families and generations.
1. God is jealous for your kids and will never stop pursuing them. However, there are no guarantees. Read Numbers 32:13. What is God’s response to people who do not keep their covenant with Him?
Pastor Cliff encouraged parents to formally induct their children into the covenant through dedication or infant baptism. How might this affect the personal identity of a child?
2. God requires of parents that we intentionally walk our children toward a personal faith in Him. Read Deuteronomy 6:6-7. How might a parent “impress God onto our children?
3. Parents are covenant representatives to their families, so we are to make decisions for the whole family. Read Joshua 24:14-15. What kind of decisions could we make to include our children in the family of God?
4. There are consequences for not teaching our kids. Read Judges 2:7, 11-15. What were the consequences for Israel? What might the consequences be for our children if we do not teach them about God?
If you raise your children as perpetual spiritual free agents, you will leave them vulnerable to whatever identity the culture glorifies next. Let them know they belong to God! Demonstrate that by not making the church an add-on to life, but a primary value in the family schedule. What activities might a parent put in a lower priority to church activities and being involved with the church family? Pastor Cliff said, “What you involve your kids in most often is what will form them.”
5. What should we do now if our kids are grown and we didn’t raise them in covenant faithfulness?
Read Psalm 37:5. God is jealous for your children and grandchildren and will pursue them for a lifetime!
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Covenant or Contract – Parenting the Covenant
Basic Premise: God works through our family for many generations to come. God deals not merely with isolated individuals, but with families and generations.
1. God is jealous for your kids and will never stop pursuing them. However, there are no guarantees. Read Numbers 32:13. What is God’s response to people who do not keep their covenant with Him?
Pastor Cliff encouraged parents to formally induct their children into the covenant through dedication or infant baptism. How might this affect the personal identity of a child?
2. God requires of parents that we intentionally walk our children toward a personal faith in Him. Read Deuteronomy 6:6-7. How might a parent “impress God onto our children?
3. Parents are covenant representatives to their families, so we are to make decisions for the whole family. Read Joshua 24:14-15. What kind of decisions could we make to include our children in the family of God?
4. There are consequences for not teaching our kids. Read Judges 2:7, 11-15. What were the consequences for Israel? What might the consequences be for our children if we do not teach them about God?
If you raise your children as perpetual spiritual free agents, you will leave them vulnerable to whatever identity the culture glorifies next. Let them know they belong to God! Demonstrate that by not making the church an add-on to life, but a primary value in the family schedule. What activities might a parent put in a lower priority to church activities and being involved with the church family? Pastor Cliff said, “What you involve your kids in most often is what will form them.”
5. What should we do now if our kids are grown and we didn’t raise them in covenant faithfulness?
Read Psalm 37:5. God is jealous for your children and grandchildren and will pursue them for a lifetime!
28 June 2026 - The Covenant Time Machine Part 2
Sermon Discussion Questions for June 28, 2026.
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Covenant or Contract
The Covenant Time Machine part 2
1. Read Genesis 2:18-24. Pastor Cliff said, “Christian Marriage is a covenant between one man, one woman, and God. It is to be witnessed by the covenant community who love, encourage, and hold them accountable to their covenant.” How is this different from the world’s view of marriage?
2. Read Ephesians 5:15-17, 21-33.
A. “Wives, submit to your husband.” Notice that he did not say for all women to submit to all men. In the home God established order, but in the church there is neither male nor female, but we are all one in Christ. Women are not second class citizens.
B. “Husbands, love your wives in the same way and to the same extent that Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her.” Husbands are to live their lives for the benefit of their wives. Their’s is a submission of self-giving love.
How do these compare with the modern thought that a marriage partner’s purpose is to make me happy, and if I’m not happy, then I need to change marriage partners?
3. For marriages that are not all they could be, there is good news. We can heal, grow, and change. How? Pray together, worship together, and put God at the center of our home and our schedule. Forgive daily. Be patient, kind, gentle, and refuse to keep score. “Keep no record of wrongs”. Pursue reconciliation quickly.
What can you do to help your marriage be better than it is?
4. Would you take your marriage covenant more seriously if you thought that people in your world would believe that God loves them based on way they see you and your marriage partner love each other?
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Covenant or Contract
The Covenant Time Machine part 2
1. Read Genesis 2:18-24. Pastor Cliff said, “Christian Marriage is a covenant between one man, one woman, and God. It is to be witnessed by the covenant community who love, encourage, and hold them accountable to their covenant.” How is this different from the world’s view of marriage?
2. Read Ephesians 5:15-17, 21-33.
A. “Wives, submit to your husband.” Notice that he did not say for all women to submit to all men. In the home God established order, but in the church there is neither male nor female, but we are all one in Christ. Women are not second class citizens.
B. “Husbands, love your wives in the same way and to the same extent that Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her.” Husbands are to live their lives for the benefit of their wives. Their’s is a submission of self-giving love.
How do these compare with the modern thought that a marriage partner’s purpose is to make me happy, and if I’m not happy, then I need to change marriage partners?
3. For marriages that are not all they could be, there is good news. We can heal, grow, and change. How? Pray together, worship together, and put God at the center of our home and our schedule. Forgive daily. Be patient, kind, gentle, and refuse to keep score. “Keep no record of wrongs”. Pursue reconciliation quickly.
What can you do to help your marriage be better than it is?
4. Would you take your marriage covenant more seriously if you thought that people in your world would believe that God loves them based on way they see you and your marriage partner love each other?
21 June 2026 - The Covenant Time Machine Part 1
Sermon Discussion Questions for June 21, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – The Covenant Time Machine Part 1
1. Covenants span time, so ancient covenants still affect us today. In Genesis 12:2-3 God promised blessings to Abraham. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 lists many blessings for Israel if they keep God’s covenant. In what ways have you experienced God’s blessings?
2. Returning from a war, Abraham gave 1/10th of the plunder to the king/priest of Salem, Melchizedek. 600 years later God commanded the Israelites to support the priestly tribe of Levi by giving a tithe. Today we continue to support the church by tithing. What is your attitude toward tithing?
3. Read Hebrews 7:1-10. Levi was included in the covenant with Abraham. Future generations are included in the covenant. The Apostle Paul sees us, today, as included in the covenant when he says we are “in Christ” or “with Christ” or “together with Christ”. How does knowing that you are included in the covenant affect your life today?
4. When we enter a covenant relationship with God, we enter that covenant with His people,the Church. If I love Jesus, I must also love His Church. Pastor Cliff said we need a higher view of the Church. What would it mean to you to make the Church the central component of your life? How would that affect your time, your priorities, and your schedule?
5. Because the Church is made up of faulty people, we should not expect it to be cozy and neat. All of us get hurt.
· What past hurts do you still need to forgive?
· What hurts have you caused that you still need to make right?
Pastor Cliff Purcell – The Covenant Time Machine Part 1
1. Covenants span time, so ancient covenants still affect us today. In Genesis 12:2-3 God promised blessings to Abraham. Deuteronomy 28:1-14 lists many blessings for Israel if they keep God’s covenant. In what ways have you experienced God’s blessings?
2. Returning from a war, Abraham gave 1/10th of the plunder to the king/priest of Salem, Melchizedek. 600 years later God commanded the Israelites to support the priestly tribe of Levi by giving a tithe. Today we continue to support the church by tithing. What is your attitude toward tithing?
3. Read Hebrews 7:1-10. Levi was included in the covenant with Abraham. Future generations are included in the covenant. The Apostle Paul sees us, today, as included in the covenant when he says we are “in Christ” or “with Christ” or “together with Christ”. How does knowing that you are included in the covenant affect your life today?
4. When we enter a covenant relationship with God, we enter that covenant with His people,the Church. If I love Jesus, I must also love His Church. Pastor Cliff said we need a higher view of the Church. What would it mean to you to make the Church the central component of your life? How would that affect your time, your priorities, and your schedule?
5. Because the Church is made up of faulty people, we should not expect it to be cozy and neat. All of us get hurt.
· What past hurts do you still need to forgive?
· What hurts have you caused that you still need to make right?
14 June 2026 - The Covenant Exchange (Dr. David Mowry)
Sermon Discussion Questions for June 14, 2026
Rev. Dr. David Mowry – Covenant or Contract – Romans 5:12-21
1. “Every Christian needs support and accountability.”
· Who provides you with support?
· Who provides you with accountability?
2. A Contract is transactional and performance based. A Covenant is relational and grace based. Which would you prefer to live in?
How are the marriage vows like a covenant rather than a contract?
3. Read Romans 5:12. The Adam Family is contractual and performance based. It is individualistic, “what’s in it for me”, self-love, with disposable relationships. It leads to death, with little deaths along the way. Give an example.
4. Read Romans 5:15. The Jesus Family is based on blood covenant and Christ alone. It is based on God’s values, sustained by grace, motivated by unbreakable love, and is focused on the needs of relationship. While you can’t do anything that will break God’s love for you, there are still house rules that God uses to teach us to follow Christ. You deny yourself, die to yourself and your desires, and leads to life. Give an example.
5. Read Romans 5:19. A covenant exchange is possible: Exchange Adam’s dead end for Jesus’ abundant life. Adam’s sin spreads through a culture and affects others. Jesus changes us and the ripple affect spreads out to others. How has this expressed itself in your life?
· My sinful actions have affected others by …
· The change Jesus has made in my life has affected others by …
Rev. Dr. David Mowry – Covenant or Contract – Romans 5:12-21
1. “Every Christian needs support and accountability.”
· Who provides you with support?
· Who provides you with accountability?
2. A Contract is transactional and performance based. A Covenant is relational and grace based. Which would you prefer to live in?
How are the marriage vows like a covenant rather than a contract?
3. Read Romans 5:12. The Adam Family is contractual and performance based. It is individualistic, “what’s in it for me”, self-love, with disposable relationships. It leads to death, with little deaths along the way. Give an example.
4. Read Romans 5:15. The Jesus Family is based on blood covenant and Christ alone. It is based on God’s values, sustained by grace, motivated by unbreakable love, and is focused on the needs of relationship. While you can’t do anything that will break God’s love for you, there are still house rules that God uses to teach us to follow Christ. You deny yourself, die to yourself and your desires, and leads to life. Give an example.
5. Read Romans 5:19. A covenant exchange is possible: Exchange Adam’s dead end for Jesus’ abundant life. Adam’s sin spreads through a culture and affects others. Jesus changes us and the ripple affect spreads out to others. How has this expressed itself in your life?
· My sinful actions have affected others by …
· The change Jesus has made in my life has affected others by …
7 June 2026 - A Friend He Didn't Know He Had
Sermon Discussion Questions for June 7 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Covenant vs Contract
2 Samuel 9 – “A Friend He Didn’t Know He Had”
1. A blood covenant is a binding relationship that binds both to an inseparable relationship for the rest of their lifetimes and also to their families. Can you think of anything like this in our American culture today?
2. Read 2 Samuel 9:1-4. Explain Mephibosheth’s story.
3. Read 2 Samuel 9:5-7. What did King David do for him?
4. Read 2 Samuel 9:9-11a. Who did King David appoint to enable Mephibosheth?
5. Read 2 Samuel 9:8, 11b. How did Mephibosheth respond to King David’s actions?
6. What did Pastor Cliff mean when he compared each of us and Jesus, to Mephibosheth and King David. Describe God’s commitment to us based on the blood covenant.
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Covenant vs Contract
2 Samuel 9 – “A Friend He Didn’t Know He Had”
1. A blood covenant is a binding relationship that binds both to an inseparable relationship for the rest of their lifetimes and also to their families. Can you think of anything like this in our American culture today?
2. Read 2 Samuel 9:1-4. Explain Mephibosheth’s story.
3. Read 2 Samuel 9:5-7. What did King David do for him?
4. Read 2 Samuel 9:9-11a. Who did King David appoint to enable Mephibosheth?
5. Read 2 Samuel 9:8, 11b. How did Mephibosheth respond to King David’s actions?
6. What did Pastor Cliff mean when he compared each of us and Jesus, to Mephibosheth and King David. Describe God’s commitment to us based on the blood covenant.
31 May 2026 - No Ordinary Friendship
Sermon Discussion Questions for May 31, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Covenant, Not Contract
1. Read 1 Samuel 18:1-4. What does it mean that Jonathan loved David as he loved himself?
2. What do the gifts that Jonathan gave David represent?
Robe –
Tunic –
Bow and Sword –
Belt –
How do these illustrate the covenant they were making?
3. Read 1 Samuel 20:14-17. In verse 15 Jonathan includes his family in his covenant with David. This part of the story is about King Saul’s issues with David. Why do you think Jonathan’s mind turns to his family?
4. God’s covenant love is described with the Hebrew word “chesed”. A translation of this word to English can include many concepts. Give an example of each:
· loving kindness -
· mercy -
· steadfast love -
· covenant faithfulness
· loyalty -
· grace –
5. Read Psalm 63:3. You have a covenant with a covenant-keeping God! What does that mean to you
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Covenant, Not Contract
1. Read 1 Samuel 18:1-4. What does it mean that Jonathan loved David as he loved himself?
2. What do the gifts that Jonathan gave David represent?
Robe –
Tunic –
Bow and Sword –
Belt –
How do these illustrate the covenant they were making?
3. Read 1 Samuel 20:14-17. In verse 15 Jonathan includes his family in his covenant with David. This part of the story is about King Saul’s issues with David. Why do you think Jonathan’s mind turns to his family?
4. God’s covenant love is described with the Hebrew word “chesed”. A translation of this word to English can include many concepts. Give an example of each:
· loving kindness -
· mercy -
· steadfast love -
· covenant faithfulness
· loyalty -
· grace –
5. Read Psalm 63:3. You have a covenant with a covenant-keeping God! What does that mean to you
24 May 2026 - Blood What?
Sermon Discussion Questions for May 24 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – COV NOT CON. A Different Kind of Relationship
Read Jeremiah 31:31-34.
1. Describe what happens in a blood covenant:
A. Definition – A blood covenant is a binding agreement in which two parties pledge lifelong faithfulness to one another.
B. Covenant Representative –
C. Symbolic Actions –
D. Blessings –
E. Curses –
2. What would happen if the covenant was broken?
3. God’s covenant with us:
A. Our part: love God and love people. How are you doing these?
B. God’s part – Jesus:
The cross was the fulfillment of the covenant. We are an imperfect people who are continually loved by a covenant-keeping God!
Pastor Cliff Purcell – COV NOT CON. A Different Kind of Relationship
Read Jeremiah 31:31-34.
1. Describe what happens in a blood covenant:
A. Definition – A blood covenant is a binding agreement in which two parties pledge lifelong faithfulness to one another.
B. Covenant Representative –
C. Symbolic Actions –
D. Blessings –
E. Curses –
2. What would happen if the covenant was broken?
3. God’s covenant with us:
A. Our part: love God and love people. How are you doing these?
B. God’s part – Jesus:
The cross was the fulfillment of the covenant. We are an imperfect people who are continually loved by a covenant-keeping God!
17 May 2026 - A Sign That I Am Growing
Sermon Discussion Questions for May 17, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell
1. How do you mark your growth as a follower of Jesus? Can you tell if you are growing?
2. Read 1 Corinthians 6:12. The Corinthians treated God’s grace like a “get out of jail free card.” How does Paul respond to that in this verse?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 10:23. We tend to justify whatever we’ve decided to do. What does Paul remind them of in this verse?
4. Our hearts tend to ask, “What can I get away with and still keep my relationship with God?” Pastor Cliff suggests we ask this:
a) Would God love to see this in me?
b) Would it put a smile on God’s face?
Would these questions change your mind?
5. Pastor Cliff suggested that we be brutally honest with ourselves. Admit that this is a broken part of me. Are you tired of trying to follow Jesus AND hanging onto your favorite sins?
6. Nazarenes believe that we can be changed by God by inviting Him to “entirely sanctify” us – make us set-apart exclusively for God’s purposes, wholly and completely living in God’s forgiveness and cleansing. Why is "inviting" God a key part of this?
Pastor Cliff Purcell
1. How do you mark your growth as a follower of Jesus? Can you tell if you are growing?
2. Read 1 Corinthians 6:12. The Corinthians treated God’s grace like a “get out of jail free card.” How does Paul respond to that in this verse?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 10:23. We tend to justify whatever we’ve decided to do. What does Paul remind them of in this verse?
4. Our hearts tend to ask, “What can I get away with and still keep my relationship with God?” Pastor Cliff suggests we ask this:
a) Would God love to see this in me?
b) Would it put a smile on God’s face?
Would these questions change your mind?
5. Pastor Cliff suggested that we be brutally honest with ourselves. Admit that this is a broken part of me. Are you tired of trying to follow Jesus AND hanging onto your favorite sins?
6. Nazarenes believe that we can be changed by God by inviting Him to “entirely sanctify” us – make us set-apart exclusively for God’s purposes, wholly and completely living in God’s forgiveness and cleansing. Why is "inviting" God a key part of this?
3 May 2026 - Spiritual Seeds and Rhizomes
Sermon Discussion Questions for May 3, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 6:7-10, Spiritual Seeds and Rhizomes
God is involved in the Law of Sowing and Reaping. “Doing whatever we want” is mocking God. Read Galatians 6:7-10.
1. Pastor Cliff described the meaning of the word “mock” with "A Tale of Two Noses." Defiance (looking down your nose) and consequences (getting a bloody nose). Think of instances where you have seen each of these in someone’s life.
2. God will not be mocked. Obedience is required of each of us. How does the idea of "mocking God" change your perspective on the small choices you make throughout the week?
3. God isn’t the only one bringing a harvest. Our lower nature turns us and force feeds us things we don’t want. Nobody is capable of not reaping what they sow. If you sow to please your sinful desire, some part of you will commit itself to destroying you. How does that reality influence the way you view your personal habits or secret thoughts?
4. God invites you to form a farming partnership with the Holy Spirit. Sowing to please the Spirit leads to a harvest leading to eternal life. Planting some seeds yields one product. But planting wheat results in 18-28 kernels in each stalk, and some plants can have up to five stalks, meaning a harvest of 30, 60, or 100 times what was planted. Obeying the Spirit is like planting grain. Share about a time when your "small" act of obedience resulted in a much larger blessing than you expected?
5. How do we sow to please the Spirit? Don’t give up. Keep planting. Do good to all people, especially God’s people. Do many little things that help other people. What kind of “little things” might the Holy Spirit want us to be doing?
6. Ask the Holy Spirit for insight:
A. What have I been sowing into my life recently?
B. What have I been sowing repeatedly so that it is becoming my character?
C. What has been under the surface that I have allowed to grow unnoticed?
D. Where would You like me to sow this week?
* An action –
* A word –
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 6:7-10, Spiritual Seeds and Rhizomes
God is involved in the Law of Sowing and Reaping. “Doing whatever we want” is mocking God. Read Galatians 6:7-10.
1. Pastor Cliff described the meaning of the word “mock” with "A Tale of Two Noses." Defiance (looking down your nose) and consequences (getting a bloody nose). Think of instances where you have seen each of these in someone’s life.
2. God will not be mocked. Obedience is required of each of us. How does the idea of "mocking God" change your perspective on the small choices you make throughout the week?
3. God isn’t the only one bringing a harvest. Our lower nature turns us and force feeds us things we don’t want. Nobody is capable of not reaping what they sow. If you sow to please your sinful desire, some part of you will commit itself to destroying you. How does that reality influence the way you view your personal habits or secret thoughts?
4. God invites you to form a farming partnership with the Holy Spirit. Sowing to please the Spirit leads to a harvest leading to eternal life. Planting some seeds yields one product. But planting wheat results in 18-28 kernels in each stalk, and some plants can have up to five stalks, meaning a harvest of 30, 60, or 100 times what was planted. Obeying the Spirit is like planting grain. Share about a time when your "small" act of obedience resulted in a much larger blessing than you expected?
5. How do we sow to please the Spirit? Don’t give up. Keep planting. Do good to all people, especially God’s people. Do many little things that help other people. What kind of “little things” might the Holy Spirit want us to be doing?
6. Ask the Holy Spirit for insight:
A. What have I been sowing into my life recently?
B. What have I been sowing repeatedly so that it is becoming my character?
C. What has been under the surface that I have allowed to grow unnoticed?
D. Where would You like me to sow this week?
* An action –
* A word –
19 April 2026 - Helpful Hints & Humility
Sermon Discussion Questions for April 19, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “How to Live Together Well” Galatians 5:24 - 6:4
1. What does it mean that we are made in God’s image but are not “better” than others? How should that shape the way we treat people?
2. Read Galatians 6:3–4, how can we honestly evaluate ourselves without falling into either pride or discouragement?
3. Why is it important to have a close relationship with someone before addressing sin in their life?
4. How does recognizing your own struggles and weaknesses change the way you approach correcting someone else?
5. The sermon mentions that Satan is called the “accuser.” How can we make sure our words bring restoration instead of accusation?
6. What does gentleness look like when confronting sin? Can you think of examples of both gentle and harsh approaches?
7. Have you ever been corrected in a way that helped you grow? What made that experience effective?
Pastor Cliff Purcell, “How to Live Together Well” Galatians 5:24 - 6:4
1. What does it mean that we are made in God’s image but are not “better” than others? How should that shape the way we treat people?
2. Read Galatians 6:3–4, how can we honestly evaluate ourselves without falling into either pride or discouragement?
3. Why is it important to have a close relationship with someone before addressing sin in their life?
4. How does recognizing your own struggles and weaknesses change the way you approach correcting someone else?
5. The sermon mentions that Satan is called the “accuser.” How can we make sure our words bring restoration instead of accusation?
6. What does gentleness look like when confronting sin? Can you think of examples of both gentle and harsh approaches?
7. Have you ever been corrected in a way that helped you grow? What made that experience effective?
12 April 2026 - Four Days Late (Pastor Bob Ogden)
Sermon Discussion Questions for April 12, 2026
Pastor Bob Ogden – John 11-12 Four Days Late
1. Pastor Bob is afraid of snakes. Jesus’ disciples were fearful for Jesus to go back to Jerusalem. What are you afraid of?
2. Katherine Marshall’s book, “Adventures in Prayer” was quoted. Respond to each of the quotes. How might they apply to your situation?
A. “I’m tired of asking,’ was the burden of my prayer. I’m beaten, finished. God, You decide what You want for me.”
B. Gradually, I saw that a demanding spirit, with self-will as its rudder, blocks prayer.”
C. “Why should I doubt the goodness of God?”
D. “Fear is like a screen erected between us and God so that His power cannot get through to us. So, how does a person get rid of fear? We stop hiding our eyes, force ourselves to walk up to the fear and look it full in the face – never forgetting that God and His power are still the supreme reality – the fear evaporates. God’s best will be accomplished.”
E. “The Prayer of Relinquishment is the child dropping his rebellion against being a child, placing his hand in the big protective hand of the Father, and trusting Him to lead us even in the dark.”
3. God often follows a death with a resurrection! What is there in your life or in your spirit that has died and needs a resurrection?
Conclusion: Oh, what God can do with people who are willing to face their fears and trust Him! Why should I doubt the goodness of God! I can give this fearful situation to Him! I trust in a God who can bring good out of the worst possible situation!
Pastor Bob Ogden – John 11-12 Four Days Late
1. Pastor Bob is afraid of snakes. Jesus’ disciples were fearful for Jesus to go back to Jerusalem. What are you afraid of?
2. Katherine Marshall’s book, “Adventures in Prayer” was quoted. Respond to each of the quotes. How might they apply to your situation?
A. “I’m tired of asking,’ was the burden of my prayer. I’m beaten, finished. God, You decide what You want for me.”
B. Gradually, I saw that a demanding spirit, with self-will as its rudder, blocks prayer.”
C. “Why should I doubt the goodness of God?”
D. “Fear is like a screen erected between us and God so that His power cannot get through to us. So, how does a person get rid of fear? We stop hiding our eyes, force ourselves to walk up to the fear and look it full in the face – never forgetting that God and His power are still the supreme reality – the fear evaporates. God’s best will be accomplished.”
E. “The Prayer of Relinquishment is the child dropping his rebellion against being a child, placing his hand in the big protective hand of the Father, and trusting Him to lead us even in the dark.”
3. God often follows a death with a resurrection! What is there in your life or in your spirit that has died and needs a resurrection?
Conclusion: Oh, what God can do with people who are willing to face their fears and trust Him! Why should I doubt the goodness of God! I can give this fearful situation to Him! I trust in a God who can bring good out of the worst possible situation!
5 April 2026 - What's the Big Deal About Jesus?
Sermon Discussion Questions for April 5, 2026
Easter – Pastor Cliff Purcell – What’s the big deal about Jesus
1. Read Acts 10:34-43.
The standard for a relationship with God includes (verse 35): fear God and live a righteous life.
How does Pastor Cliff define the concept of “fearing God”?
What’s the problem with us attempting to live a “righteous life”? (See Romans 3:10)
2. What does Acts 10:42 say about Jesus?
In what way is Jesus a different kind of judge than the judges in the legal system?
3. When someone decides to believe in Jesus, these four things happen:
A. You get forgiveness of sins and the love of God.
B. Something inside of you comes to life – born again. A spiritual newness. A second chance at life with spiritual life alive.
C. Peace with God and peace about life’s difficulties.
D. God will guide you through life. This is a real relationship.
Which of these means the most to you at this point in your life?
4. What should a person do if, after choosing to believe in Jesus, they don’t feel different and still have doubts?
5. How might a person go about “finding out what makes Jesus’ heart beat faster”?
Easter – Pastor Cliff Purcell – What’s the big deal about Jesus
1. Read Acts 10:34-43.
The standard for a relationship with God includes (verse 35): fear God and live a righteous life.
How does Pastor Cliff define the concept of “fearing God”?
What’s the problem with us attempting to live a “righteous life”? (See Romans 3:10)
2. What does Acts 10:42 say about Jesus?
In what way is Jesus a different kind of judge than the judges in the legal system?
3. When someone decides to believe in Jesus, these four things happen:
A. You get forgiveness of sins and the love of God.
B. Something inside of you comes to life – born again. A spiritual newness. A second chance at life with spiritual life alive.
C. Peace with God and peace about life’s difficulties.
D. God will guide you through life. This is a real relationship.
Which of these means the most to you at this point in your life?
4. What should a person do if, after choosing to believe in Jesus, they don’t feel different and still have doubts?
5. How might a person go about “finding out what makes Jesus’ heart beat faster”?
29 March 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 8
Sermon Discussion Questions for March 29, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Galatians 5:22-23, What are your symptoms? Part 8
1. Which of the following options might be described as “the catch” of the fruit of the Spirit?
A. We want to get by with what we really want to do.
B. “Self control” is what we have to do in order to make the others work.
C. We have to have “self control” in all these areas for God to love us.
2. How might these examples of wrong thinking produce feelings of shame and guilt?
3. Pastor Cliff said that self control is not something God is trying to get from you. It is something He would love to give you. God’s nature is passed to us. How does this work?
4. In answer to the question, “Why don’t we automatically have all of the fruit of the Spirit?”, Pastor Cliff directed us to John 5:1-15. A man had suffered for 38 years. Jesus asked him if he wanted to get well? For us, Pastor Cliff asked if we want the Holy Spirit to gift us self control, or would we rather indulge in sin from time-to-time and ask for forgiveness? Jesus broke the power of sin over us. Do you want to get well?
5. Read Jeremiah 29:13-14a. If there are some symptoms that are missing in your life, ask God “why?”. The Holy Spirit is willing to inhabit God’s people and get His life tangled up with ours.
Pastor Cliff Purcell, Galatians 5:22-23, What are your symptoms? Part 8
1. Which of the following options might be described as “the catch” of the fruit of the Spirit?
A. We want to get by with what we really want to do.
B. “Self control” is what we have to do in order to make the others work.
C. We have to have “self control” in all these areas for God to love us.
2. How might these examples of wrong thinking produce feelings of shame and guilt?
3. Pastor Cliff said that self control is not something God is trying to get from you. It is something He would love to give you. God’s nature is passed to us. How does this work?
4. In answer to the question, “Why don’t we automatically have all of the fruit of the Spirit?”, Pastor Cliff directed us to John 5:1-15. A man had suffered for 38 years. Jesus asked him if he wanted to get well? For us, Pastor Cliff asked if we want the Holy Spirit to gift us self control, or would we rather indulge in sin from time-to-time and ask for forgiveness? Jesus broke the power of sin over us. Do you want to get well?
5. Read Jeremiah 29:13-14a. If there are some symptoms that are missing in your life, ask God “why?”. The Holy Spirit is willing to inhabit God’s people and get His life tangled up with ours.
22 March 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 7
Sermon Discussion Questions for March 22, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 5:22-23, “Goodness”
1. Is it possible to know if someone is a “good Christian”?
2. How can I know for certain that I have a saving relationship with God?
A. Read 1 John 2:2 – Sin can’t count against me.
B. Read 1 John 1:9 - If we confess, He forgives. He takes care of our past and changes us for the future.
C. Read John 3:16 – He gave up His kid for us.
D. Read Romans 8:1 – “No condemnation”.
In all of these there is nothing about us not being good enough.
3. Describe the different phases of a relationship with God:
A. Infant –
B. Adolescent –
C. Mature Christian –
4. Pastor Cliff said, “Getting to heaven is not the point. Salvation is a relationship with God. That relationship changes us. God isn’t changing us so He can like and love us. He already does. We become like the company we keep.”
What is your motivation for being a Christian:
A. Avoiding hell
B. Getting to heaven
C. A relationship with God
5. Read Matthew 4:17. “Repent” means to change your mind. God’s goodness causes us to lean toward God. When our heart and mind has changed, our will changes to want what honors God and blesses other people.
Are you willing to allow God to change your heart and let His “goodness” to rub off on you?
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 5:22-23, “Goodness”
1. Is it possible to know if someone is a “good Christian”?
2. How can I know for certain that I have a saving relationship with God?
A. Read 1 John 2:2 – Sin can’t count against me.
B. Read 1 John 1:9 - If we confess, He forgives. He takes care of our past and changes us for the future.
C. Read John 3:16 – He gave up His kid for us.
D. Read Romans 8:1 – “No condemnation”.
In all of these there is nothing about us not being good enough.
3. Describe the different phases of a relationship with God:
A. Infant –
B. Adolescent –
C. Mature Christian –
4. Pastor Cliff said, “Getting to heaven is not the point. Salvation is a relationship with God. That relationship changes us. God isn’t changing us so He can like and love us. He already does. We become like the company we keep.”
What is your motivation for being a Christian:
A. Avoiding hell
B. Getting to heaven
C. A relationship with God
5. Read Matthew 4:17. “Repent” means to change your mind. God’s goodness causes us to lean toward God. When our heart and mind has changed, our will changes to want what honors God and blesses other people.
Are you willing to allow God to change your heart and let His “goodness” to rub off on you?
15 March 2026 - Youth Breakthrough
Sermon Discussion Questions for March 15, 2026
Northwest District NYI Breakthrough – Kenton – The Great Adventure
1. Review the themes from the three other messages of the Breakthrough weekend:
A. Small stuff can be big when you do it out of love.
B. Do big jobs and small jobs with a good attitude.
C. Use whatever gifts you have received to help those around you.
Which of these do you most need to put to use?
2. Read 1 Peter 4:11. The theme of this message is, “If anyone serves, they should do it with the strength God provides.” What opportunity to serve has God provided for you?
3. “Serving – There is no magic. Say yes to what God put in front of you. Keep saying yes.”
What advice would you give a young person on the subject of “serving”?
4. How did the stories of the Kenya adventure and “The Shoe That Grows” affect you?
5. See the website: becauseinternational.org. that gives information about “The Shoe That Grows”. Scroll down to the suggestion of purchasing for our Christmas shoeboxes. Is this something you might consider?
8 March 2026 - Worship in God's Throne Room
Sermon Discussion Questions for March 8, 2026
Pastor Bob Ogden – 2 Chronicles 26 and Isaiah 6
Worship in God’s Throne Room
1. What got your attention from King Uzziah’s reign in 2 Chronicles 26?
A. He followed the mentorship of God’s prophet Zechariah.
B. His organization and equipping of the military and their many victories.
C. His building projects in Jerusalem and many other towns.
D. The irrigation systems he constructed to enable crops to grow in desert areas.
E. Something else.
2. The king began to think so highly of himself, as if he was accomplishing all of this on his own, that his pride led to his downfall.
A. Read 2 Chronicles 26:16-20.
B. Read Proverbs 16:18.
C. Read Isaiah 26:12. What can you do to remind yourself of this?
3. Why might the people of Judah been uncertain and anxious for their country when King Uzziah died?
Why might we be uncertain and anxious for our country today?
4. When Isaiah felt this kind of uncertainty and anxiety, he turned to God, who gave him a vision of Heaven’s throne room.
A. Read Isaiah 6:1-4.
B. What is there in his vision that might help you today?
5. Read Isaiah 6:5-7. How would you feel if a huge, powerful angel took a hot coal from the altar in heaven and approached you, to touch that hot coal to your lips?
Aren’t you glad Jesus has made atonement for our sin on the cross!
In what area of your life is God currently at work making changes to your character and/or lifestyle?
6. Read Isaiah 6:8-9a.
A. “True success in any endeavor can only come when the Father has initiated the activity and invited our participation.” (Discerning The Voice of God, by Priscilla Shirer, page 168,)
B. What activity has God initiated that He is asking you to participate in?
C. Will your response be similar to Isaiah’s, “Here I am, send me” ?
Pastor Bob Ogden – 2 Chronicles 26 and Isaiah 6
Worship in God’s Throne Room
1. What got your attention from King Uzziah’s reign in 2 Chronicles 26?
A. He followed the mentorship of God’s prophet Zechariah.
B. His organization and equipping of the military and their many victories.
C. His building projects in Jerusalem and many other towns.
D. The irrigation systems he constructed to enable crops to grow in desert areas.
E. Something else.
2. The king began to think so highly of himself, as if he was accomplishing all of this on his own, that his pride led to his downfall.
A. Read 2 Chronicles 26:16-20.
B. Read Proverbs 16:18.
C. Read Isaiah 26:12. What can you do to remind yourself of this?
3. Why might the people of Judah been uncertain and anxious for their country when King Uzziah died?
Why might we be uncertain and anxious for our country today?
4. When Isaiah felt this kind of uncertainty and anxiety, he turned to God, who gave him a vision of Heaven’s throne room.
A. Read Isaiah 6:1-4.
B. What is there in his vision that might help you today?
5. Read Isaiah 6:5-7. How would you feel if a huge, powerful angel took a hot coal from the altar in heaven and approached you, to touch that hot coal to your lips?
Aren’t you glad Jesus has made atonement for our sin on the cross!
In what area of your life is God currently at work making changes to your character and/or lifestyle?
6. Read Isaiah 6:8-9a.
A. “True success in any endeavor can only come when the Father has initiated the activity and invited our participation.” (Discerning The Voice of God, by Priscilla Shirer, page 168,)
B. What activity has God initiated that He is asking you to participate in?
C. Will your response be similar to Isaiah’s, “Here I am, send me” ?
1 March 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 6
Sermon Discussion Questions for March 1, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell,
Galatians 5:22-23, The Fruit of the Spirit is Faithfulness”
1. Why did Pastor Cliff say Toyota and a good arrow are “reliable”?
2. How does God expect His people to be “faithful”:
A. To God?
B. To our Spouse in marriage?
3. How do we become faithful to God and to others?
We are not automatically faithful. The fruit of “faithfulness” comes because the faithful God lives in us. Faithfulness is the symptom of the Holy Spirit developing it in us.
How reliable to God are you? Can He count on you when He has a mission you can help with?
4. Examples of “faithfulness” are the ones sitting behind the tables at the Ministry Fair. These are some of God’s reliable ones. What ministries at the Ministry Fair did you connect with?
5. Kids First Soccer is a way our church reaches out to the community. We are short on people signing up to help with this ministry. It may be a symptom of a lack of faithfulness among our people. Are you willing to be involved?
Conclusion: Pray Luke 10:2, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.”
22 February 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 5
Sermon Discussion Questions for February 22, 2026
Pastor Cliff, Galatians 5:22-23 “Kindness”
1. Pastor Cliff said that God doesn’t call us to be merely “nice.” Why do you think he made that distinction?
2. Kindness can be defined as a gracious disposition - a heart that leans toward grace. Grace gives people permission to be imperfect and still be loved. How is that different from simply being “nice”?
3. True kindness seeks restoration rather than severity. When someone hurts us, our instinct may be to hurt them back or match their harshness. But that response often causes even more damage to the relationship.
What practical steps can help you remember that restoring the relationship is more valuable than the temporary satisfaction of retaliation?
4. We weaken the urge to retaliate when we honestly acknowledge our inner reactions—such as revenge, assuming negative motives, or replaying the hurt. When we confess these responses, the Holy Spirit can replace superficial “niceness” with genuine “kindness”.
What inner attitudes or desires might you need to confess?
5. Read Epistle to the Romans 5:8. Consider what God’s kindness moved Him to do. Kindness begins as a gracious, restorative posture, but it also leads to action that benefits and helps others flourish.
A. Define benefit -
B. Define prosper -
What specific actions could you take to benefit or help someone flourish—even someone who has hurt you?
6. Pastor Cliff said that God desires kindness rather than a combative spirit—something our nation and world desperately need.
Can you share an example of how kindness might accomplish more than simply “fighting for what is right”?
Pastor Cliff, Galatians 5:22-23 “Kindness”
1. Pastor Cliff said that God doesn’t call us to be merely “nice.” Why do you think he made that distinction?
2. Kindness can be defined as a gracious disposition - a heart that leans toward grace. Grace gives people permission to be imperfect and still be loved. How is that different from simply being “nice”?
3. True kindness seeks restoration rather than severity. When someone hurts us, our instinct may be to hurt them back or match their harshness. But that response often causes even more damage to the relationship.
What practical steps can help you remember that restoring the relationship is more valuable than the temporary satisfaction of retaliation?
4. We weaken the urge to retaliate when we honestly acknowledge our inner reactions—such as revenge, assuming negative motives, or replaying the hurt. When we confess these responses, the Holy Spirit can replace superficial “niceness” with genuine “kindness”.
What inner attitudes or desires might you need to confess?
5. Read Epistle to the Romans 5:8. Consider what God’s kindness moved Him to do. Kindness begins as a gracious, restorative posture, but it also leads to action that benefits and helps others flourish.
A. Define benefit -
B. Define prosper -
What specific actions could you take to benefit or help someone flourish—even someone who has hurt you?
6. Pastor Cliff said that God desires kindness rather than a combative spirit—something our nation and world desperately need.
Can you share an example of how kindness might accomplish more than simply “fighting for what is right”?
8 February 2026 - Faith Promise, Tahmina Martelly
Sermon Discussion Questions for February 8, 2026
Talimina Martelly – Faith Promise – Stateside Ministries
1. Talimina described her flight from Bangladesh. She said that people don’t volunteer to be displaced. Something happened that pushed them out. Have you ever heard some of the stories of people who have immigrated to our area from other countries? What prompted them to leave their home country and move to the Yakima Lower Valley?
2. Leviticus 19:33-34, “Do not take advantage of foreigners who live among you in your land. Treat them like native-born Israelites, and love them as you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners living in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” How did refugees prompt Telimina to start a goat ministry in Utah?
3. 1 Peter 2:9, “… for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” As a layperson, Talimina believed God wanted her to represent God in her new community of Kent Washington. Have you thought about God’s requirement for each of us to represent Him in the neighborhood we live in
4. James 1:19, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” Talimina encouraged us to talk with our neighbors and listen to what they feel is the deepest need in their community. At Hillside Church of the Nazarene in Kent, Washington, she heard from Afghanistan refugees and others the desire to sew and raise food. What do you think your neighbors would say is their deepest need? Have you asked and listened to them?
5. God told the Old Testament Jeremiah to buy a field, even though an enemy army was about to destroy his country and relocate the people of his community. God did this to demonstrate that there would be a future there for His people. What kind of vision for the future has God given you for the Lower Yakima Valley?
Conclusion: Our job is to smell like Jesus. Let’s smell good, by listening and paying attention to the people around us.
Talimina Martelly – Faith Promise – Stateside Ministries
1. Talimina described her flight from Bangladesh. She said that people don’t volunteer to be displaced. Something happened that pushed them out. Have you ever heard some of the stories of people who have immigrated to our area from other countries? What prompted them to leave their home country and move to the Yakima Lower Valley?
2. Leviticus 19:33-34, “Do not take advantage of foreigners who live among you in your land. Treat them like native-born Israelites, and love them as you love yourself. Remember that you were once foreigners living in the land of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” How did refugees prompt Telimina to start a goat ministry in Utah?
3. 1 Peter 2:9, “… for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” As a layperson, Talimina believed God wanted her to represent God in her new community of Kent Washington. Have you thought about God’s requirement for each of us to represent Him in the neighborhood we live in
4. James 1:19, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” Talimina encouraged us to talk with our neighbors and listen to what they feel is the deepest need in their community. At Hillside Church of the Nazarene in Kent, Washington, she heard from Afghanistan refugees and others the desire to sew and raise food. What do you think your neighbors would say is their deepest need? Have you asked and listened to them?
5. God told the Old Testament Jeremiah to buy a field, even though an enemy army was about to destroy his country and relocate the people of his community. God did this to demonstrate that there would be a future there for His people. What kind of vision for the future has God given you for the Lower Yakima Valley?
Conclusion: Our job is to smell like Jesus. Let’s smell good, by listening and paying attention to the people around us.
1 February 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 4
Sermon Discussion Questions for February 1, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 5:22-23: “Gentleness”
1. Pastor Cliff defined “Gentleness” as “Strength applied with restraint. Applying only enough strength to accomplish something good.” How does our culture often define this word? What is the difference between our culture’s definition and the Bible’s definition?
2. One fear some men have of allowing the Holy Spirit to produce gentleness in their lives is that He might take away their strength. Pastor Cliff said “God intends for men’s strength to be used to help women and children know they are safe.” What fear might you have about allowing the Holy Spirit to produce gentleness in your life?
3. Women have more power than they realize, especially the power of their words. Pastor Cliff said, “God intends for women’s strength – especially the power of their words – to build up their husband’s and children’s hearts.” Do you believe that what you say really matters that much? Are your words more about defending yourself, or building up the other person?
4. When dealing with difficult people, Pastor Cliff suggested the following:
A. Bite your tongue before words come out.
B. Ask the Holy Spirit to change the way you think, giving you compassion for people even as they hurt you. You may find yourself caring about the person as much as the issue.
Are you willing to let go of your right to verbally fight back and let the Holy Spirit change the way you think about difficult people?
5. Conclusion:
A. When you experience gentleness coming from you, thank the Holy Spirit for what He’s doing in you. God has always dreamed you would be powerful and gentle.
B. If you don’t see His gentleness, invite the Holy Spirit to move in and change you. Surrender your power to God.
Pastor Cliff Purcell – Galatians 5:22-23: “Gentleness”
1. Pastor Cliff defined “Gentleness” as “Strength applied with restraint. Applying only enough strength to accomplish something good.” How does our culture often define this word? What is the difference between our culture’s definition and the Bible’s definition?
2. One fear some men have of allowing the Holy Spirit to produce gentleness in their lives is that He might take away their strength. Pastor Cliff said “God intends for men’s strength to be used to help women and children know they are safe.” What fear might you have about allowing the Holy Spirit to produce gentleness in your life?
3. Women have more power than they realize, especially the power of their words. Pastor Cliff said, “God intends for women’s strength – especially the power of their words – to build up their husband’s and children’s hearts.” Do you believe that what you say really matters that much? Are your words more about defending yourself, or building up the other person?
4. When dealing with difficult people, Pastor Cliff suggested the following:
A. Bite your tongue before words come out.
B. Ask the Holy Spirit to change the way you think, giving you compassion for people even as they hurt you. You may find yourself caring about the person as much as the issue.
Are you willing to let go of your right to verbally fight back and let the Holy Spirit change the way you think about difficult people?
5. Conclusion:
A. When you experience gentleness coming from you, thank the Holy Spirit for what He’s doing in you. God has always dreamed you would be powerful and gentle.
B. If you don’t see His gentleness, invite the Holy Spirit to move in and change you. Surrender your power to God.
25 January 2026 - Faithfulness (Alyssa B)
Sermon Discussion Questions for January 25 2026
Alyssa Boogert – Faithfulness
1. Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
In what specific ways have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this past week?
2. Psalm 86:11, “Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.”
Why might we need an undivided heart in order to rely on God’s faithfulness?
What has God been teaching you lately?
3. Psalm 119:90, “Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”
As you look back at your family tree, where and when do you see God’s faithfulness toward your family?
How can you be involved as God’s instrument in extending God’s faithfulness to your children and grandchildren, and your other relatives?
Alyssa Boogert – Faithfulness
1. Lamentations 3:22-23, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
In what specific ways have you experienced God’s love and faithfulness this past week?
2. Psalm 86:11, “Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.”
Why might we need an undivided heart in order to rely on God’s faithfulness?
What has God been teaching you lately?
3. Psalm 119:90, “Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”
As you look back at your family tree, where and when do you see God’s faithfulness toward your family?
How can you be involved as God’s instrument in extending God’s faithfulness to your children and grandchildren, and your other relatives?
18 January 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 3
What are your symptoms? Part 3
1. Who is the hypochondriac “weird relative” in your family?
Read Galatians 5:22-23
2. Cliff mentioned that when we as believers have a genuine desire to follow the Holy Spirit we will have symptoms of the Holy Spirit in our life. After reading the scripture in Galatians which fruits of the spirit do you see in your life right now and which ones do you sense the Lord showing you to work on?
3. He asked the question, “who do you have a deep desire to have a healthier relationship with? Who is someone that you would desire this with?
As the Spirt gains greater influence, He will make you better and better at making relationships healthy and holy.
4. Has this happened to you? How has the Spirit helped you in this?
Sometimes as Christians we are hesitant to pray for patience because we don’t want to walk through learning patience. Waiting can be hard when we want our circumstances to change.
In Galatians 5 Paul is talking about the far more difficult kind of patience. Patience with difficult people. The patience Paul is talking about is a steadfast endurance of others in the face of provocation, irritation, or harm, a patient restraint that refrains from retaliation.
Cliff shared a story or an older couple that seemed to be “difficult people” but eventually led to a respectful relationship. How did this story impact you?
We can have conflicting desires in how we deal with difficult people. One we can desire to be a Godly man or woman and ask the Holy Spirit to help us. Or we can say goodbye, I don’t want to deal with you.
What is your initial response with a difficult person? How have you seen the Holy Spirit help you have patience with a difficult person?
Do you want to be better at relationships?
1. Who is the hypochondriac “weird relative” in your family?
Read Galatians 5:22-23
2. Cliff mentioned that when we as believers have a genuine desire to follow the Holy Spirit we will have symptoms of the Holy Spirit in our life. After reading the scripture in Galatians which fruits of the spirit do you see in your life right now and which ones do you sense the Lord showing you to work on?
3. He asked the question, “who do you have a deep desire to have a healthier relationship with? Who is someone that you would desire this with?
As the Spirt gains greater influence, He will make you better and better at making relationships healthy and holy.
4. Has this happened to you? How has the Spirit helped you in this?
Sometimes as Christians we are hesitant to pray for patience because we don’t want to walk through learning patience. Waiting can be hard when we want our circumstances to change.
In Galatians 5 Paul is talking about the far more difficult kind of patience. Patience with difficult people. The patience Paul is talking about is a steadfast endurance of others in the face of provocation, irritation, or harm, a patient restraint that refrains from retaliation.
Cliff shared a story or an older couple that seemed to be “difficult people” but eventually led to a respectful relationship. How did this story impact you?
We can have conflicting desires in how we deal with difficult people. One we can desire to be a Godly man or woman and ask the Holy Spirit to help us. Or we can say goodbye, I don’t want to deal with you.
What is your initial response with a difficult person? How have you seen the Holy Spirit help you have patience with a difficult person?
Do you want to be better at relationships?
11 January 2025 - What Are Your Symptoms? Part 2
Sermon Discussion Questions for January 11, 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – “What are your symptoms” part 2
1. How is “happiness” different from “Joy”?
2. Pastor Cliff described “joy” as, “A deep seated, durable, resilient, gladness of spirit, that lasts and works well through normal wear.” Which of these have you experienced?
3. Joy comes from, “fixing my eyes on God and His promises, and the fact that God knows the end of the story.” What specific promises from God bring you joy?
4. “Peace” is more than a cease-fire, the end of hostilities. Pastor Cliff says that the peace the Holy Spirit brings is durable because its source never changes. God rebuilds us bringing harmony, wholeness, and calms our racing minds, with a sense of quiet confidence. This in turn leads us to live in harmony with other people. How might you describe this sense of peace to someone who doesn’t have God’s Holy Spirit living in them?
5. Joy and peace come from the presence of the Holy Spirit living in a person, and are available to everyone who will submit to Him and welcome Him into your life. Have you invited the Holy Spirit to come into your life?
6. If you are experiencing these, there is good news. God’s Holy Spirit is living in you. Thank God for His love, joy, and peace!
Pastor Cliff Purcell – “What are your symptoms” part 2
1. How is “happiness” different from “Joy”?
2. Pastor Cliff described “joy” as, “A deep seated, durable, resilient, gladness of spirit, that lasts and works well through normal wear.” Which of these have you experienced?
3. Joy comes from, “fixing my eyes on God and His promises, and the fact that God knows the end of the story.” What specific promises from God bring you joy?
4. “Peace” is more than a cease-fire, the end of hostilities. Pastor Cliff says that the peace the Holy Spirit brings is durable because its source never changes. God rebuilds us bringing harmony, wholeness, and calms our racing minds, with a sense of quiet confidence. This in turn leads us to live in harmony with other people. How might you describe this sense of peace to someone who doesn’t have God’s Holy Spirit living in them?
5. Joy and peace come from the presence of the Holy Spirit living in a person, and are available to everyone who will submit to Him and welcome Him into your life. Have you invited the Holy Spirit to come into your life?
6. If you are experiencing these, there is good news. God’s Holy Spirit is living in you. Thank God for His love, joy, and peace!
4 January 2026 - What Are Your Symptoms?
Sermon Discussion Questions for January 4 2026
Pastor Cliff Purcell – What are your symptoms?
1. Pastor Cliff suggested we memorize Galatians 5:22-23, “The Fruit of the Spirit”. Can you quote it”
2. When you invite Jesus to come into your life, He will not leave you alone. You are now His partner. He is working in and through you. You are the way He gets things done. This is the normal Christian life. What do these verses say about the Holy Spirit’s involvement in our lives?
A. Galatians 5:16 –
B. Galatians 5:18 –
C. Galatians 5:25 –
3. The “Fruit of the Spirit” are not commandments we are supposed to do. What does Galatians 5:1 have to say about this?
4. Pastor Cliff described “The Fruit of the Spirit” as symptoms. What are they symptoms of? When we see fruit on a tree, what does that tell us about the tree?
5. The first fruit is “Love”. How is this defined?
Closing statement:
“Holy Spirit, come live in me. Take my stubborn will and reshape me. I surrender all of me to you. Remake me in your image.”
Pastor Cliff Purcell – What are your symptoms?
1. Pastor Cliff suggested we memorize Galatians 5:22-23, “The Fruit of the Spirit”. Can you quote it”
2. When you invite Jesus to come into your life, He will not leave you alone. You are now His partner. He is working in and through you. You are the way He gets things done. This is the normal Christian life. What do these verses say about the Holy Spirit’s involvement in our lives?
A. Galatians 5:16 –
B. Galatians 5:18 –
C. Galatians 5:25 –
3. The “Fruit of the Spirit” are not commandments we are supposed to do. What does Galatians 5:1 have to say about this?
4. Pastor Cliff described “The Fruit of the Spirit” as symptoms. What are they symptoms of? When we see fruit on a tree, what does that tell us about the tree?
5. The first fruit is “Love”. How is this defined?
Closing statement:
“Holy Spirit, come live in me. Take my stubborn will and reshape me. I surrender all of me to you. Remake me in your image.”