Harris Creek Baptist Church

In John 18:1–14, JP points out how Jesus doesn’t run from the moment—He steps up. Even though betrayal and arrest are coming, Jesus shows courage and chooses to follow God’s plan on purpose, not by accident. JP also reminds us that Jesus is still running the show—protecting His friends, staying calm, and speaking with authority. And in an incredible moment of grace, Jesus heals the guy who came to arrest Him, showing love to His enemies right in the middle of all the chaos.Jesus steps out in courageJesus is still in controlJesus shows compassion to his captors   Life Group Discussion:How does Jesus' courage challenge the way we respond to fear or opposition in our own lives?Why is it important for us to remember that God is in control, even when things feel chaotic or unfair?Can you think of a time when you were challenged to extend grace in a hard situation? What happened, and what did you learn?

In the Journey to the Cross series, Pastor JP highlights Jesus’ time in Gethsemane as a moment of deep surrender and trust in God’s plan. He reveals how Jesus, though in anguish, fully submitted to the Father’s will, setting the path for our salvation through His obedience. Jesus trusted the Father in His greatest sufferingJesus trusted the Father in His greatest temptationIn suffering and temptation, Jesus prayed and obeyed Life Group questions:1. In Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” What does this teach us about surrendering to God’s will in our own struggles and decisions?2. The disciples struggled to stay awake while Jesus prayed. How can we stay spiritually alert in our daily lives, and what are some distractions that keep us from seeking God in prayer?3. Jesus trusted the Father even in His deepest anguish. How can His example help us navigate seasons of suffering or uncertainty with faith?

In the "Journey to the Cross" series, Pastor John emphasizes Communion as more than a tradition but a transformative act of faith. He explains how Jesus is the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice brings salvation, connecting the Lord’s Supper to the biblical Passover.  Christ’s Life and Death: Our Passover LambChrist’s Body: Our Sinless SacrificeChrist’s Blood: Our New Covenant Life Group Discussion:What does it mean to apply Christ’s blood to the "door of your heart," and how does it impact your daily life?Why is it significant that Jesus’ body was given specifically "for you"?How can you use Communion as an opportunity to share your faith with others?

In his sermon, Nate reveals a side of Jesus we don’t often focus on — His righteous anger. Drawing from Matthew 21, he unpacks how Jesus was angered by fake faith and the exploitation of others, reminding us that true faith produces real fruit.  Jesus is angered when people are exploited Jesus is angered when we pretend to produceFaith in Jesus produces real fruit  Life Group Discussion:Jesus showed deep concern for the outsider — how can we intentionally care for those who feel marginalized or overlooked in our communities?In what areas of your life are you tempted to appear spiritually healthy while neglecting your relationship with God?What does it practically look like to remain connected to Jesus as the true vine in your daily life?

When Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday it forced the crowd to answer the question of "Who is He?". In the same way, we must answer that question today.  Christ is in controlThe crowd desired to control ChristYou must conclude who Jesus is  Life Group Discussion:In what areas of your life do you struggle to trust that Jesus is in control? How can you surrender those to Him?In what ways do people today try to fit Jesus into their own agendas instead of following Him as Lord?How does your view of Jesus impact the way you live your daily life? 

Sin gradually desensitizes us, making what once felt wrong seem normal, which is exactly how Satan works to separate us from God. Ephesians 4 warns that when we give ourselves over to sin, we become aimless, hardened, and blind to its destruction, ultimately giving the enemy a foothold in our lives. Nate reminds us that as Christians, we are called to reject sin, pursue sanctification, and immerse ourselves in God's truth to fully embrace the life He desires for us. Sin Makes you senselessChristians part with sin to pursue sanctificationSin gives Satan a space in Christ's place Life Group Discussion:What are some warning signs that you might be drifting toward spiritual numbness?How can accountability within a community help us in the process of sanctification?What steps can you take this week to remove sin’s foothold and invite Christ into every area of your life?

As we continue our series, “State of Warfare”, JP looks to 1 Timothy 4:1-10, explaining the enemy’s mission to “abandon the faith” by causing believers to doubt and turn away from God. He highlights the enemy’s method of replacing a genuine relationship with God with rigid rules, leading to spiritual emptiness. JP encourages believers to stay motivated by building a faith that lasts, rooted in gratitude, prayer, and steadfast trust in Jesus.  The enemy’s mission: Get you to “abandon the faith” The enemy’s method: Get you to replace relationship with rulesOur motivation: To build a faith that lasts  Life Group Discussion:Can you share a time when you felt tempted to give up on your faith? How did you respond?How can legalism affect your personal connection with God and others? How does gratitude play a role in strengthening your faith journey?

Pastor Nate emphasizes that true freedom is found in abiding in Jesus' teachings, as God's truth breaks the chains of sin. He warns that Satan, the father of lies, seeks to deceive and destroy, leading people toward spiritual death. Ultimately, Nate reminds us that who we listen to determines who we belong to—either we follow God’s truth and find life, or we believe Satan’s lies and remain in bondage. God’s truth leads to freedomSatan’s lies lead to deathWho you listen to is who you belong to  Life Group Discussion:How can we ensure we are actively listening to and applying God's truth daily?In what ways have you seen deception negatively impact relationships, faith, or personal growth?What influences in your life are shaping the way you think and believe?

Pastor John talks about spiritual battles, explaining that struggles—whether from life, our own choices, or Satan—challenge our faith. Using 2 Corinthians 12, he shows how Paul’s hardships made him rely on God even more. In the end, trusting God through tough times makes us stronger and brings Him glory. Satan seeks to destroy you through sufferingGod shapes you in suffering We glorify God by trusting in the suffering Life Group Discussion:How have you seen suffering challenge your faith or the faith of others?Why do you think God allows suffering if He loves us?How can our response to suffering be a testimony to others?

In our series State of Warfare, Pastor JP emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the need to wear the full armor of God. He calls believers to walk in truth, act righteously, share the Gospel, stand firm in faith, know their salvation, use God’s Word, and pray continually. Through this, Christians can resist deception and stand strong in Christ. Walking truthActing in righteousnessReady with The GospelFirm in FaithAware of your salvationResponding with The WordEngaged in prayer  Life Group Discussion:Have you ever struggled with believing lies about yourself or God? How did you overcome it?In what areas of your life do you feel the strongest temptation to compromise righteousness?Who in your life needs to hear the Gospel, and what steps can you take to reach them?What experiences or struggles have tested your faith the most?How would you explain salvation to someone who has misconceptions about it?What are the biggest obstacles to maintaining a consistent prayer life?

Adam and Eve broke their connection with God by choosing knowledge and convenience over obedience. As we wrapped up our “Removed” series, JP explains that our phones can act like the forbidden fruit, pulling us away from God with endless distractions, comparisons, and even harmful habits. True peace and purpose come from putting down our devices and prioritizing time with God over everything else Communion with God > Knowing more Communion with God > ConvenienceOur phones are costing us communion with God Life Group Discussion:What are some ways your phone distracts you from spending time with God?What are practical steps you can take to prioritize time with God over consuming news, social media, or other content?What would it look like for you to “fast” from your phone or social media to focus on your spiritual growth?

Have you ever stopped to consider whether your phone is drawing you closer to God or distracting you from Him? In his message, JP tackled this question, showing how technology has the power to be either a tool for spiritual growth or a stumbling block in our lives. Drawing from the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis, JP challenged us to set intentional boundaries, eliminate distractions, and embrace accountability so that our devices become tools for glorifying God and strengthening relationships, rather than turning into modern-day idols. Build boundariesRemove distractionsInvite accountabilityCultivate community Keep in touch Life Group Discussion:What specific times or situations in your day would benefit most from being phone-free?What’s one small step you could take this week to declutter your digital life?Who in your life could you trust to keep you accountable for how you use technology?What are some ways you could use technology to build up the people around you instead of distracting from them?Wh

Looking at Revelation 3, Nate encourages us to take a closer look at our spiritual condition. He warns that spending too much time on fleeting distractions, like endless scrolling or tech overload, can leave us feeling spiritually empty and distant from God. Instead of chasing instant gratification, we’re reminded to focus on eternal treasures—things that deepen our relationship with God and give lasting purpose. Through true repentance, we can reconnect with Him and experience the fullness of His love and the meaningful life He has planned for us. Tech consumption can cause spiritual povertyInvest in eternal over instantRepentance results in relationship   Life Group Discussion:Can you identify specific ways technology has become a distraction in your daily life?What are some “instant” gratifications in your life that may be hindering your investment in eternal priorities?How do you view repentance—as a burden or an opportunity for renewal—and why?

As we begin our new series, Removed, John encourages us through Romans 12:2 not to conform to the patterns of this world, like the way technology often overwhelms and distracts us. Instead, let God transform and renew your mind, helping you see life more clearly and embrace His perfect plan for you. By setting limits on tech use, you create space to focus on God’s will and discover the purpose He has for your life. Problem: Tech has rewired usSolution: So God must renew usApplication: By reducing tech, God’s will will be further revealed  Life Group Discussion:Do you ever feel like technology distracts you from deeper, more meaningful aspects of life? If so, how?What does it mean for God to "renew your mind," and how does that differ from simply taking a break from tech?What specific tech habits could you reduce or adjust to create more space for God in your life?

From His humble birth in Luke 2, where Jesus was wrapped in swaddling cloths as a sign of His ultimate sacrifice, to John 13, where He wrapped a towel around His waist to serve His disciples, Jesus embodied selfless love. In John 19, He was wrapped in burial cloths, fulfilling His role as the Savior who bore our sins and conquered death. Through every stage, Jesus demonstrated that His life, service, and sacrifice were all wrapped in purpose and love for humanity.Jesus was wrapped as a sacrificeJesus was wrapped as a servant Jesus was wrapped as a Savior

Jesus shows us how much God loves us by giving His life for us, proving that love is at the very heart of who God is. God is the source of all love, and He gives us the strength to love others in ways we couldn’t on our own. When we love each other, people can see God working in us, and His love becomes real and complete, showing the world what He’s like. Jesus shows us God’s loveGod is the source of our loveGod is seen when we love  Life Group Discussion:In what ways can you remind yourself of God’s love when you feel distant from Him?What are some ways you can actively depend on God’s love when relationships become challenging?What is one specific way you can show God’s love to someone in your life this week?  

John unpacks Luke 2:10-11 in our series, “Wrapped”, emphasizing the angel’s proclamation that Jesus is the ultimate good news, bringing salvation and hope to the world. This good news produces great joy, an enduring and internal blessing rooted in Christ rather than circumstances. Finally, John highlights the inclusivity of the gospel, reminding believers that Jesus came for all people, offering eternal life and joy to anyone who receives Him. Jesus Is The Good NewsJesus Brings Great JoyJesus Is For All People Life Group Discussion:What other sources of "good news" compete for your attention, and how can you keep Christ central in your life?Share a time when you experienced joy despite difficult circumstances. What role did your faith play?Who in your life might feel excluded from the good news of Jesus, and how can you intentionally share His love with them? 

 This week in our series, Wrapped, JP unpacks the message of Luke 1, reminding us where true peace is found. Peace comes when we trust in God’s promises, rely on His unlimited power, and align our lives with His purpose. As we embrace these truths, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence and discover the lasting peace that only He can provide. Our peace is wrapped in God’s promisesOur peace is wrapped in God’s powerOur peace is wrapped in God’s purpose Life Group Discussion:Have you ever struggled to believe in God’s promises? How did you overcome that doubt, or how are you working through it now? Can you share a time when you saw God’s power at work in your life or someone else’s? How did that experience influence your faith? How does knowing that God has a purpose for your life bring you peace during times of confusion or doubt? 

In this message from Romans 15:8-13, Nate reminds us that God is both a promise-making and promise-keeping God. Through Jesus’ birth, we see how God fulfilled His promises, not just to the Jewish people but to everyone. As we live our lives, we’re called to hold onto hope in what God has promised, because His faithfulness gives us reason to trust and live with joy and peace. Scripture shows we have a promise making God Christmas shows we have a promise keeping God Our life should show hope in what God has promised  Life Group Discussion:How do Old Testament promises, such as those to the Patriarchs, enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness? Does your life show hope to others? How can the Christmas story inspire hope in seasons of waiting or uncertainty? What are things you are hoping for in this season of your life? How does placing hope in God's promises affect your response to disappointments? 

As we wrap up our series, “Peace Talks,” JP challenges us to adopt a perspective focused on humility and wisdom from God, which sets the stage for real peace in our lives. JP looks to James 3:14-18 to encourage us to follow a pattern of peace by being kind, pure, and open to others, creating stronger and healthier relationships. Finally, we are reminded that peace is a team effort—when we work with God and each other, we can build a life filled with love and purpose. The perspective that leads to peaceThe pattern that leads to peaceThe partnership that leads to peace Life Group Discussion:Why do you think peace starts with a change in perspective rather than just actions?Which of the traits listed in James 3:17 (pure, peace-loving, gentle, willing to yield, etc.) do you find the hardest to practice, and why?Why is it important to partner with God in pursuing peace rather than trying to do it alone?