Stones River Church | Murfreesboro, TN

The Call of Jonah: Chapter 1

Pentecost: The Promised Spirit

On Pentecost Sunday, John explores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit as detailed in Acts 2. Regular engagement with scripture is a lifelong process meant to gradually realign and clear the lenses through which we view the world, uncovering truths we often overlook.

John challenges us to actively listen for God's prompting, highlighting that the ultimate goal of Pentecost is for a community to step out in faith, allowing the power of the Divine—rather than human adequacy—to lead the way.

Being Witnesses

Every Step of the Way

1st Peter

Jesus is the Good Shepherd

In this thought-provoking message, John explores the 10th chapter of John to define the characteristics of a true leader through the imagery of the Good Shepherd. He emphasizes that authentic leadership is built on relationship and sacrifice rather than seeking the spotlight, noting that a flock thrives only when it can clearly recognize its shepherd's voice. By contrasting the devoted shepherd with the disinterested "hired hand," King challenges listeners to adopt a "mind of Christ" that prioritizes the needs of others above their own.

What Do Shepherds Do?

Doubting Thomas

"Now a man named Lazarus was sick..."

In this week's message, Dean Dunning delves into the narrative of Lazarus from John 11, examining the complex emotions of Mary and Martha as they navigate the tension between their urgent request and Jesus' purposeful delay. Dunning emphasizes that while human perspective often focuses on the "if only" of missed opportunities, Jesus uses the situation to provide a radical revelation of Himself as the Resurrection and the Life. The sermon concludes with a powerful call to trust in divine timing, illustrating that what appears to be a hopeless ending is often the beginning of a greater display of God's glory.

 

The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength

John explores the significance of "Refreshment Sunday," using the biblical account of Nehemiah and the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge to illustrate how spiritual pruning leads to a radical, newfound joy. He emphasizes that while the season of Lent involves introspection and repentance, believers are ultimately commanded to find strength in God's forgiveness rather than wallowing in shame. By centering on Nehemiah 8:10, King highlights that the "joy of the Lord" is a communal strength meant to be celebrated and shared with those in need.

• What are some "old, brown growths" or habits in your life that might be choking out new spiritual growth right now?

• Why is it often difficult to allow God to "cut back" these areas of our lives close to the ground?

• How do you distinguish between healthy conviction that leads to change and "wallowing" in shame or guilt?

• How does humility actually provide us with more spiritual strength than pride does?

• How does sharing what we have with others—sending portions to those unprepared—reinforce our own spiritual strength?

• Who in your current circle—work, family, or community—needs you to point them toward the "joy of the Lord" this week?