Great is Thy Faithfulness (Hymn #54)                                         ~ Worship Team

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                     ~ Elder Milton Parrish

Call to Worship                                                                               ~ Worship Team
      ~ “Holy Spirit”
      ~ “Awakening”
      ~ “Good Good Father”                              

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Discipleship Moment                                                                 ~ Elder Tom Noss

Sermon                                                                                         ~ Pastor Ryan Perry
       ~  From Self-Reliance to Jesus Reliant Sermon 4:
           Children of God: Relationship Restored, Mind Renewed, Life Reordered

Invitation and Prayer                                                                  ~ Pastor Ryan
        ~ "Goodness Of God"

Benediction & Dismissal                                                             ~ Elder Mark White 

Today:

• HAPPY FATHERS DAY!

Coming Up:

• July 11. SAVE the DATE for Tom and Patty Horn’s 50th Anniversary celebration 1-5PM at their home. See Tom or Patty for Questions.
• July 16-19. Youth Retreat. See Pastor Jeremy for Q&A. 
• Aug 2. Guest & Visitor BBQ Picnic 2PM at Parrish Home. An opportunity for guests to fellowship and have Q&A with Pastor and Leadership.

Parent–Child Discipleship Guide

What God Has Done, Where We Are, and Where We Are Going - 
One Year of Grace, Growth, and Mission

Big Idea to repeat each day: God has been kind to our church, and now He calls us to thank Him, serve others, and help make Jesus known.

How to Use This Guide: Read one day at a time with your child. Keep it simple. You do not have to explain everything perfectly. Read the Scripture, talk through the questions, repeat the truth, and pray together.

DAY 1 — God Has Been Good to Our Church
Scripture: Acts 14:27
“They gathered the church together and declared all that God had done with them.”

Parent Says:
The Bible tells us that when Paul and Barnabas came back from telling people about Jesus, they gathered the church and told everyone what God had done. They did not brag about themselves. They wanted the church to thank God.
That is what we are doing too. We are remembering how God has helped Good Hope Baptist Church. God has brought people. God has helped children hear about Jesus. God has helped families, youth, adults, and people who were sad or hurting.
When we remember what God has done, we should say, “Thank You, Lord.”
Ask:

• What are some good things God has done for our church?
• Why should we thank God instead of bragging?

Truth to Remember:
God has been good to our church.

Prayer:
God, thank You for loving our church and helping us this year. Help us remember that every good thing comes from You. Amen.

DAY 2 — Jesus Calls His People Salt and Light
Scripture: Matthew 5:14, 16
“You are the light of the world.”
“Let your light shine before others.”

Parent Says:
Jesus said His people are like light. Light helps people see. When a room is dark and someone turns on a light, people can see where to go.
Jesus wants His people to help others see Him. That does not mean we try to show off. It means we love people, serve people, tell the truth, and point people to God.
Our church wants the community to see Jesus through us. We want children, families, schools, neighbors, and hurting people to know that Jesus loves them.
Ask:

• What does light do in a dark room?
• How can we help people see Jesus?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus wants His people to shine His light.

Prayer:
Jesus, help our family and our church shine Your light. Help people see Your love through us. Amen.

DAY 3 — God Gives the Growth
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:6
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”

Parent Says:
Paul said that some people plant and some people water, but God makes things grow. That is true with plants, and it is also true in the church.
We can teach. We can invite. We can serve. We can pray. We can help. But only God can change hearts and grow His church.
When more children come, when people get baptized, when families come to church, when people learn about Jesus, we should remember that God is the One doing the real work.
Ask:

• Who makes plants grow?
• Who helps people grow in loving and following Jesus?

Truth to Remember:
We serve, but God gives the growth.

Prayer:
God, help us serve faithfully. Thank You for growing Your church and helping people know Jesus. Amen.

DAY 4 — Children Matter to God
Scripture: Psalm 127:3
“Children are a heritage from the LORD.”

Parent Says:
The Bible says children are a gift from God. That means children matter to Him very much.
When God brings children to church, the church has an important job. We are to love them, teach them about Jesus, help them understand the Bible, pray for them, and show them how to follow God.
You are not too young to matter in God’s church. You are not just waiting to be important when you grow up. You matter now.
God wants parents and the church to help children know Him.
Ask:

• Who made children important?
• How can our family help children know Jesus?

Truth to Remember:
Children matter to God and to His church.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for children. Help our church love children, teach them Your Word, and help them follow Jesus. Amen.

DAY 5 — Church Is Not Just for Watching
Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another.”

Parent Says:
Church is not supposed to be like watching a movie or a game. God’s people are not just supposed to sit and watch a few people do everything.
The Bible says God gives His people gifts so they can serve one another. Some people teach. Some sing. Some help with children. Some welcome visitors. Some cook food. Some pray. Some clean. Some visit people who are sick or sad. Some help behind the scenes.
Not everyone serves the same way, but every believer can ask, “God, how do You want me to help?”
Even children can serve. You can be kind. You can pray. You can welcome someone. You can help clean up. You can encourage someone who is sad.
Ask:

• What are some ways people serve at church?
• What is one way you can help someone this week?

Truth to Remember:
God gives His people gifts so they can serve.

Prayer:
God, show our family how to serve. Help us not just watch, but love and help others in Jesus’ name. Amen.

DAY 6 — We Make Room for People
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:2
“It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”

Parent Says:
A steward is someone who takes care of something that belongs to someone else. The church belongs to Jesus. The people belong to Jesus. The building, the rooms, the money, the land, and the gifts all belong to Jesus.
That means we should use what God has given us wisely.
When more people come to church, we may need more room. We need room for children to learn, for youth to grow, for adults to study the Bible, for people to pray, for people to worship, and for hurting people to be cared for.
Rooms are not the most important thing. Jesus is the most important. But rooms can help us care for people well.
Ask:

• Who does the church belong to?
• Why should we make room for people?

Truth to Remember:
We take care of what belongs to Jesus.

Prayer:
Jesus, this church belongs to You. Help us take care of what You have given us and make room for the people You send. Amen.

DAY 7 — Jesus Sends His Church
Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”

Parent Says:
Before Jesus went back to heaven, He gave His followers a mission. He told them to go and make disciples. A disciple is someone who follows Jesus, learns from Jesus, and helps others know Jesus, too.
The church does not exist only for itself. Jesus sends His church to love people, serve people, teach people, and tell people the good news.
We cannot do that in our own strength. Jesus promises to be with His people. The Holy Spirit helps us obey.
So when we think about where our church is going, we should remember this: we are going where Jesus sends us. We want more people to know Him.
Ask:

• What is a disciple?
• Who helps us do the mission Jesus gave us?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus sends His church to make disciples.

Prayer:
Jesus, help our church follow You and tell others about You. Help our family be part of Your mission. Amen.

Family Review
Ask these questions at the end of the week:

• What has God done for our church?
• Why does Jesus call His people light?
• Who gives the growth?
• Why do children matter to God?
• How can we serve instead of just watch?
• Why should we make room for people?
• What mission did Jesus give His church?

Memory Verse
Matthew 5:16
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Family Prayer for the Week
God, thank You for what You have done in our church. Thank You for the people who served before us and the people You are bringing now. Thank You for children, youth, families, adults, and everyone who needs to know Jesus. Help our family serve You. Help our church love people, teach Your Word, make room for others, and shine the light of Jesus in our community. Amen.






© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved.

Adult Devotional Companion

What God Has Done, Where We Are, and Where We Are Going
One Year of Grace, Growth, and Mission

Senior Pastor Dr. G. Ryan Perry PhD.
Good Hope Baptist Church
24 May 2026

Big Idea: This past year has not been about what we have built, but about what God has done. He has helped Good Hope become more visible in the community, added children, youth, and families, raised up leaders, and clarified the mission before us. Now we must respond with gratitude, faithfulness, unity, prayer, and room for the people He is sending.

DAY 1 — Remembering What God Has Done
Scripture: Acts 14:26–27; Philippians 1:3–6

When Paul and Barnabas returned from their missionary journey, they gathered the church and told them what God had done. They did not report ministry fruit, so the church could admire them. They testified so the church could recognize the grace of God.

That is a healthy way to remember. We do not look back so we can live in the past. We look back so we can see the faithfulness of God and move forward with trust.

This past year has not been about one person, one program, or one season of activity. Good Hope was here long before this year. People prayed, served, taught, gave, cleaned, cooked, visited, carried burdens, loved the church, and kept showing up through difficult seasons. The story did not begin recently.

Still, it is right to pause and give thanks for what God has done. He has opened doors. He has brought people. He has stirred faith. He has allowed the church to serve schools, children, youth, families, grieving people, and the community. He has made the witness of Jesus more visible.

Gratitude does not mean everything is finished. Thanksgiving does not require pretending. Paul thanked God for the church at Philippi while still knowing they had more growing to do. That is where a healthy church lives. We give thanks honestly, and we keep walking faithfully.

Reflection:
 Where have you seen God’s faithfulness in the church this past year?
 How can remembering God’s work help you move forward with greater trust instead of fear?

Prayer:
 Father, thank You for what You have done among us. Help us remember with humility, not pride. Teach us to see Your hand, give thanks for Your grace, and move forward with trust. Amen.

DAY 2 — Salt and Light in the Community
Scripture: Matthew 5:13–16

Jesus does not describe His people as hidden. He calls them salt. He calls them light. He calls them a city set on a hill.

That matters for the church. A congregation is not meant to exist only for itself. The church gathers for worship, teaching, prayer, fellowship, and discipleship, but it is also sent into the world as a witness to Christ. The light is not ours. The glory is not ours. Jesus says our good works should lead people to glorify the Father.

A year ago, the question was asked: if Good Hope did not exist tomorrow, would the community notice? That was not meant to shame the church. It was meant to awaken us to the calling of the church. Jesus did not save His people so they could become invisible. He made them His witnesses.

When students receive food, when grieving people are comforted, when children hear the Gospel, when families are welcomed, when schools are served, when the community sees love in action, the church is not just being busy. The church is letting the light of Christ become visible.

The danger is that we can make visibility about our name. Jesus makes visibility about the Father’s glory. We do not want the community to notice Good Hope because we are impressive. We want them to notice because Jesus is becoming more visible through His people.

Reflection:
 Where do you personally have opportunities to let the light of Christ become visible?
 How can the church serve the community without making the mission about its own reputation?

Prayer:
 Lord Jesus, make Your light visible through us. Keep us from pride, self-promotion, and inward focus. Help our works point people to the Father, not to ourselves. Amen.

DAY 3 — God Gives the Growth
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:6–9

Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” That sentence keeps the church honest.

We plant. We water. We plan. We organize. We teach. We invite. We serve. We prepare rooms. We hold events. We pray with people. We care for children. We sit with the grieving. We train leaders. We give. We work.

Still, God gives the growth.

That truth protects the church from two dangers. It protects us from pride when ministry is fruitful, and it protects us from despair when ministry is hard. If growth depended entirely on us, pride and panic would be our only options. Since growth belongs to God, we can labor faithfully without pretending we are the source of life.

The past year has included real fruit. Children and youth have come. Families have been added. People have been baptized. Leaders have stepped forward. Ministries have expanded. Local pastors have been encouraged. The community has been served. Those things matter.

Yet the point is not that we did a lot. A full calendar is not the same thing as faithfulness. The point is that God opened doors, and by His grace, we have tried to walk through them obediently.

The church is a field. The church is God’s building. We are workers, not owners. That should make us grateful, careful, and humble.

Reflection:
 Where are you tempted to take too much credit for what God has done?
 Where are you tempted to become discouraged because you cannot control the results?

Prayer:
 God, thank You for allowing us to plant and water. Keep us faithful in the work You place before us. Remind us that growth comes from You, and help us serve with humility and hope. Amen.

DAY 4 — Growth Is a Blessing and a Responsibility
Scripture: Psalm 127:1–5; Luke 12:48

When God adds people to a church, He is not just filling seats. He is entrusting souls.
Children are not decorations for a healthy church. Youth are not future members who only matter later. Families are not statistics. Senior adults are not leftovers from a previous season. New believers are not interruptions. Hurting people are not burdens to be managed. They are people God loves, and they must be cared for well.

Psalm 127 says children are a heritage from the Lord. That means the presence of children is not just a sweet blessing. It is a sacred stewardship. If God sends children, the church must disciple them. If God sends youth, the church must shepherd them. If God sends families, the church must strengthen them. If God sends grieving people, the church must comfort them. If God sends people who do not yet know Christ, the church must be ready to speak the Gospel with truth and love.

Growth brings joy, but it also brings weight. More people means more needs, more questions, more discipleship, more care, more space, more workers, and more prayer.
Jesus said that to whom much is given, much will be required. That is not meant to crush us. It is meant to sober us. God’s gifts come with responsibility. Good Hope must not receive God’s kindness lightly.

Reflection:
 Who has God placed near you that needs care, encouragement, discipleship, or prayer?
 How does seeing people as entrusted by God change the way you view church growth?

Prayer:
 Father, help us receive the people You send as a gift and a responsibility. Give us love for children, youth, families, the grieving, the lost, and one another. Make us faithful stewards of the people You entrust to us. Amen.

DAY 5 — The Church Is Not a Spectator Sport
Scripture: Ephesians 4:11–16; 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; 1 Peter 4:10

The New Testament does not picture the church as a room full of spectators watching a few people do ministry. The church is a body.

Christ gives leaders to equip the saints for the work of ministry. That means pastors, elders, teachers, deacons, ministry leaders, and volunteers all have important places, but the work does not belong only to a handful of people. The whole body is called to serve.

Some parts of the body are visible. Some are hidden. Some teach. Some encourage. Some pray. Some repair. Some visit. Some cook. Some welcome. Some work with children. Some help with youth. Some sing. Some run sound. Some clean. Some organize. Some give generously. Some quietly notice people who are easy to overlook.

No part is unnecessary.

That truth matters in a growing church. The same few people cannot carry everything forever. That is not guilt. It is reality. The body works best when the body works together.
Peter says each person should use the gift they have received to serve others as a good steward of God’s varied grace. God’s grace is varied. He does not give every person the same gift, the same capacity, or the same season of life. Still, every believer should be asking, “Lord, where do You want me to be faithful?”

Jesus came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. A church that follows Him cannot be content to sit back and watch.

Reflection:
 Where has God gifted you to serve the body of Christ?
 Is there a place where you have been watching when God may be calling you to step in?

Prayer:
 Lord, show me my place in the body. Keep me from comparison, passivity, and pride. Help me serve with the grace You have given me, for the good of the church and the glory of Christ. Amen.

DAY 6 — Making Room for the Mission
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:2; Psalm 127:1; Zechariah 4:6

Space is not the mission. Buildings are not the mission. Comfort is not the mission.
Still, space can serve the mission.

A building can become a hiding place where people gather inwardly and forget the world outside. It can also become a mission stronghold, a place where the Gospel is taught, children are discipled, youth are shepherded, adults are equipped, grieving people are comforted, families are strengthened, worship is offered, prayer rises, and the community encounters the love of Christ.

Good Hope’s building is part of the church’s story. Generations before us believed the Gospel mattered enough to sacrifice, build, gather, preach, pray, worship, and serve. Before the current building, there was another meeting place. Before that, there was a tent. The story has never been only about a structure. It has always been about a people willing to make room for the work of God in their generation.

Now it is our turn to steward the mission entrusted to us.

After the flood in the basement, the church had to reconsider how that space was being used. Making it a dedicated place for children was not just a practical decision. It was a discipleship decision. Since then, God has brought more children and young families. That does not mean the children’s ministry is the only ministry that matters. Every age group matters. Every service matters. Every ministry has its proper place.

We need room for the mission, but we need the right heart. Not pressure. Not preference. Not pride. Faithfulness. Unity. Prayer. Dependence on the Lord.

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build labor in vain. Not by might. Not by power. By His Spirit.

Reflection:
 How can conversations about space stay centered on mission instead of preference?
 What would it look like for you to steward the church’s resources with faithfulness and prayer?

Prayer:
 Lord, help us make room for the people You are sending. Keep us united, humble, and prayerful. Teach us to steward buildings, resources, gifts, and opportunities for Your mission, not our comfort. Amen.

DAY 7 — Where We Are Going
Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; Isaiah 40:31

The mission of the church begins with the authority of Jesus.
Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” That is why the church goes. We do not go because we are strong enough, organized enough, wealthy enough, or impressive enough. We go because Jesus is Lord, Jesus sends His church, and Jesus promises to be with His people.

Acts 1:8 reminds us that the church does not move outward by human energy alone. The Holy Spirit empowers the witness of God’s people. That matters deeply. Vision without the Spirit becomes ambition. Activity without prayer becomes exhaustion. Growth without dependence becomes dangerous.

The path ahead must be Jesus-reliant mission. We need deeper worship, stronger discipleship, faithful evangelism, visible charity, care for children and youth, support for families, compassion for the grieving, service to the community, more workers, more space, more unity, and more prayer. More than all of that, we need the Lord.

Isaiah 40:31 says those who wait for the Lord will renew their strength. Waiting on the Lord is not laziness. It is dependence. It means we obey without pretending we can carry the weight ourselves. It means we move forward while trusting God to supply what He calls His people to do.

A good year is not arrival. It is grace. God has opened doors. Now we keep walking through them faithfully.

May Good Hope be a church the community would notice if it were gone, not because the church’s name is great, but because Jesus has been made visible through His people.

Reflection:
 What step of faithfulness is God calling you to take as the church moves forward?
 Where do you need renewed strength from the Lord instead of relying on yourself?

Prayer:
 Jesus, You are Lord of the church and Lord of the mission. Fill us with the Holy Spirit. Renew our strength. Make us faithful, united, prayerful, and ready to serve. Let everything we do bring glory to the Father. Amen.

Closing Prayer for the Week
Father, thank You for one year of grace, growth, and mission. Thank You for the people who served faithfully before us and the people You are sending now. Thank You for children, youth, families, senior adults, grieving people, new believers, and those who still need to hear the Gospel. Give us wisdom for the days ahead. Give us workers for the harvest. Give us space for ministry to happen well. Give us unity so this does not become about preferences or pressure. Give us prayerful dependence because none of this can be done in our own strength. Most of all, give us more of Jesus. Make Good Hope Baptist Church a faithful witness in this community and beyond, until Christ returns. Amen.






© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved.

What God Has Done, Where We Are, and Where We Are Going –
One Year of Grace, Growth, and Mission

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
24 May 2026

Primary Texts: Matthew 5:13–16
Key Supporting Texts: Philippians 1:3–6; 1 Corinthians 3:6–9; Ephesians 4:11–16; Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Psalm 127:1; Zechariah 4:6
Additional Texts Used: Acts 14:26–27; Acts 2:42–47; Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Matthew 20:28; Matthew 25:14–30; Mark 10:45; Luke 12:48; 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; Galatians 6:9; 1 Corinthians 15:58; 2 Corinthians 9:8; 1 Peter 4:10; Isaiah 40:31

Big Idea
This past year has not been about what we have built, but about what God has done. He has made Good Hope Baptist Church more visible in the community, brought children, youth, and families among us, raised up leaders, strengthened ministries, and clarified the mission before us. Now we must respond with gratitude for His faithfulness, humility about our dependence, and faithful stewardship of the people, gifts, space, and opportunities He is entrusting to us.

Introduction — A Church Remembering God’s Faithfulness
Acts 14:26–27

• God’s people are called to remember and testify to His work.
• GHBC stands in a long legacy of Gospel ministry and faithfulness.
• The purpose of remembrance is renewed trust and future obedience.

Central Question: “If Good Hope Baptist Church did not exist tomorrow, would the community notice?”

I. What God Has Done
Matthew 5:13–16 — The Church as Salt and Light

Key Truth: The church exists to make Jesus visible in the world.

A. God Has Built Gospel Partnership {Philippians 1:3–6}

• Ministry is shared Gospel work.
• Faithful servants have prayed, given, taught, and persevered.
• God continues the work He begins.

B. God Has Given the Growth {1 Corinthians 3:6–9}

• We plant and water.
• God alone gives spiritual growth.
• Ministry success belongs to the Lord.

C. God Has Opened Doors for Ministry {Evidence of God’s Faithfulness}

• Community outreach and school partnerships
• Evangelism and baptisms
• Good News Clubs and discipleship ministries
• Care for widows and grieving families
• Growth in children, youth, and young families
• New leadership and ministry development

D. God Calls Us to Continue Faithfully {1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9; 2 Corinthians 9:8}

• Remain steadfast.
• Do not grow weary.
• Trust God’s sustaining grace.

II. Where We Are
Psalm 127:3; Deuteronomy 6:4–9

Key Truth: Growth is both a blessing and a stewardship responsibility.

A. The Church Is Being Strengthened {Ephesians 4:11–16}

• Christ equips His church through leaders.
• Ministry belongs to the whole body.
• Healthy churches mobilize every member.

B. The Church Must Steward Growth Faithfully {1 Corinthians 4:2; Matthew 25:14–30}

• Faithfulness matters more than comfort.
• Vision 2030 is about stewardship, not preservation.
• Buildings and resources serve the mission of Christ.

C. Every Member Has a Role {1 Corinthians 12:12–27; 1 Peter 4:10; Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45}

• The church is one body with many gifts.
• Jesus modeled servant leadership.
• Ministry is not spectator Christianity.

D. Dependence Upon God {Isaiah 40:31; Luke 12:48}

• Greater blessing brings greater responsibility.
• The church must move forward in humility and dependence on God.

III. Where We Are Going
Matthew 28:18–20

Key Truth: The church is sent by Christ to make disciples.

A. The Mission Is Spirit-Empowered {Acts 1:8; Zechariah 4:6}

• Ministry advances through the Holy Spirit.
• God’s mission cannot be accomplished through human strength alone.

B. Vision 2030 Priorities
Evangelism - Sharing the Gospel faithfully.
Worship - Glorifying God in spirit and truth.
Discipleship - Forming mature followers of Christ.
Charity - Demonstrating Christ’s love through service.

C. The Road Ahead

• Strengthen worship and discipleship.
• Raise up leaders and servants.
• Care for children, youth, and families.
• Expand ministry opportunities and outreach.
• Steward resources faithfully for future mission.

Conclusion
Matthew 5:16

Final Challenge: “May Good Hope Baptist Church be a church our community would notice if we were gone, not because our name is great, but because Jesus has been made visible through His people.”

Pentecost: The Spirit Within
Abiding in Christ. Walking in Power.

Maj. Tom Noss, DMin
Good Hope Baptist Church
31 May 2026

Introduction: God’s presence came down to man in stages

• Mount Sinai–Ex 19:16
• Tabernacle–Ex 40:34
• Solomon’s Temple–1Ki 8:10-11
• Promise of a New Covenant–Ezekiel 36:26-27
• The Last Supper–John 14:16-17
• God’s 7 Appointed Times–Lev 23

1. God abides in us
a. Acts 2:1-4
b. Ez 36:26-27
c. Acts 7:48 Stephen’s testimony
d. 1 Cor 6:19 Your body is now God’s temple

2. We abide in God
a. John 15:4-5 Abide in Me
b. 2 Cor 3:17 The Lord is the Spirit
c. Distractions
d. John 15:5 Apart from me you can do nothing

3. Abiding produces the fruit of the Spirit
a. Gal 5:23 the fruit of the Spirit
b. Prov 27:17 Iron sharpens iron
c. 1 Cor 3:16 You are God’s temple

ADULT DEVOTIONAL COMPANION
The Day Light Entered the World

Senior Pastor Dr. G. Ryan Perry PhD.
Good Hope Baptist Church
07 June 2026

Big Idea: Jesus is the true Light who created all things, entered our darkness, defeated sin and death, and now calls His people to walk as children of light.

Day 1 — God Spoke Light into Creation
Scripture: Genesis 1:1–5

Genesis does not begin with humanity trying to find God. It begins with God creating everything that exists. The heavens, the earth, the waters, the darkness, time, matter, and life do not stand beside Him as eternal realities. They depend entirely on Him. God is not one power among many. He is the living, self-existent Lord who gives existence, order, purpose, and future to all things.

When God says, “Let there be light,” creation answers His voice. Light comes because God speaks. From the first page of Scripture, light is connected to God’s word, God’s presence, God’s order, and God’s life-giving purpose. Darkness is real, but it is not equal to God. Darkness does not have the final authority. God speaks, and light appears.

That matters because we often treat darkness as though it is stronger than God. We look at confusion, suffering, sin, fear, and death and begin to think darkness is permanent. Genesis tells us something different. The God who creates is also the God who orders. Without Him, there is no existence, no life, and no flourishing. But when He speaks, darkness does not get the final word.

Reflection: Where are you tempted to believe darkness is stronger than God’s word? What would it look like to trust the God who speaks light into darkness?

Prayer: Lord, You are the Creator and Sustainer of all things. Speak Your truth into the dark places of my heart, and teach me to trust Your word more than what I can see.

Day 2 — The True Light Is Jesus Christ
Scripture: John 1:1–5

John opens his Gospel by taking us back to Genesis. “In the beginning was the Word.” He wants us to understand that Jesus did not begin in Bethlehem. The Son did not become God when He entered the world. The eternal Son entered the world because He is God. Everything that exists was made through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was made that has been made.

John says, “In him was life, and the life was the light of mankind.” This is more than physical existence. A person can be alive biologically and still be dead toward God. Christ gives the life humanity lost through sin. He gives the light by which we see God, ourselves, sin, salvation, and the purpose for which we were made.

The world tells us to look inside ourselves for truth, identity, and purpose. John confronts that lie. We do not have enough light in ourselves to explain life, fix sin, remove guilt, conquer death, or restore fellowship with God. The light we need does not rise from within us. The true Light comes from Christ.

Reflection: Where have you been tempted to look inside yourself for what only Christ can give? How does John 1 correct that way of thinking?

Prayer: Jesus, You are the true Light and the source of life. Forgive me for trusting my own understanding above You. Help me see everything by Your light.

Day 3 — The Light Entered a Dark World
Scripture: John 1:9–14

John says the true Light came into the world, but the world did not recognize Him. The Creator came to His creation, and His creation resisted Him. That is what sin does. Sin does not merely produce bad choices. Sin blinds the heart until we defend what should be confessed, hide what should be brought into the light, and resist the Savior we most need.

Even more sobering, John says Jesus came to His own people, and many did not receive Him. They had Scripture, worship, promises, sacrifices, and religious history. Yet being near the things of God is not the same as receiving Christ. A person can hear sermons, sing songs, attend church, own a Bible, and still refuse to come into the light.

But rejection does not have the final word. “To all who received him,” John says, “who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” New birth is not produced by family background, religious effort, or human decision alone. God gives life through Christ to those who receive Him and believe in His name.

Reflection: Are there ways you have been near the things of God without surrendering fully to Christ? What hidden place needs to come into His light?

Prayer: Father, thank You that You make sinners Your children through Christ. Bring me out of hiding, and teach me to receive Your Son with real faith.

Day 4 — The Word Became Flesh
Scripture: John 1:14–18

The Word became flesh. The eternal Son truly entered human life. He did not stop being God, and He did not merely appear to be human. He became one of us. He took on real weakness, hunger, grief, temptation, and pain. He entered our darkness without becoming captive to it.

John says Jesus “dwelt” among us. That language reaches back to the tabernacle, the sacred tent where God made His presence known among Israel before the temple was built. Now God’s presence has come near in Jesus. He is not merely a symbol of God’s presence. He is God the Son present with His people in flesh.

Jesus is full of grace and truth. He tells the truth about our darkness, but He does not tell it from a distance. He comes near in mercy. He exposes sin in order to rescue sinners. He gives Himself so people living in darkness can be brought back to God.

Reflection: Why does it matter that Jesus is both fully God and truly human? How does His nearness comfort you and confront you?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for coming near. Thank You for entering our weakness without sin and revealing the Father with grace and truth.

Day 5 — Jesus Delivers Us from Darkness
Scripture: John 8:12; Colossians 1:13

Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” He is not offering Himself as one spiritual helper among many. He is saying humanity cannot come out of darkness apart from Him. The light we need is not an idea, a feeling, a routine, or a better version of ourselves. The light is Christ Himself.

Paul says God has delivered believers from the domain of darkness and transferred them into the kingdom of His beloved Son. That does not mean the struggle is over the moment a person believes. Old fears, desires, habits, wounds, and patterns may still need to be brought into the light. But they no longer own the believer. Darkness may still fight, but it no longer has the right to rule.

The Christian life is not a fight to earn a place with Christ. It is the life of someone who already belongs to Him. Christ has claimed His people, and His Spirit works in them so that what belongs to darkness can be confessed, healed, corrected, and put to death.
Reflection: What old pattern still tries to rule you as though you belong to darkness? How does Colossians 1:13 speak truth to that struggle?

Prayer: King Jesus, thank You for delivering me from darkness. Bring every hidden place under Your rule, and teach me to walk as someone who belongs to You.

Day 6 — The Light Went to the Cross
Scripture: Matthew 27:45

At the cross, darkness covered the land. Matthew is not merely describing the sky. He is showing us that judgment has fallen at the place where Jesus hangs. The true Light came into the world, and the world rejected Him. The One through whom all things were made was nailed to wood He made. The Giver of life was treated as though He deserved death.

That darkness tells us sin was being dealt with. Jesus was not dying as a tragic victim who lost control of the moment. He was laying down His life and carrying the judgment sinners deserved so that those enslaved to darkness could be brought back to God.

The darkness at the cross was real, but it was not stronger than Christ. It did not master Him. He entered the place of sin, judgment, and death willingly. He bore sin fully. He gave His life to rescue those who could not rescue themselves.

Reflection: How does the darkness at the cross show both the seriousness of sin and the depth of Christ’s mercy?

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for bearing judgment in the place of sinners. Keep me from treating sin lightly, and help me rest in the mercy You purchased at the cross.

Day 7 — The Light Came Out of the Grave
Scripture: John 20:1; John 12:36; Matthew 5:14–16

John says Mary Magdalene came to the tomb while it was still dark. She did not yet understand what had happened. The disciples did not understand either. The morning light had not fully come, but the tomb was already empty. Jesus was already alive before anyone knew how to explain it.

That is what the resurrection declares. The darkness at the cross was real, but it was not final. Sin did not keep Him. Death did not hold Him. The grave did not have the last word. The Light of the world entered death and came out alive.

Now Jesus calls His people to believe in the light and walk as children of light. The church does not produce light from itself. Christ is the true Light. His people shine because His life has reached them. That matters in the home, in the church, and before the watching world.

Children, families, neighbors, and communities need to see people who do not pretend to be the light but faithfully point to Jesus.

Reflection: Where does your life need to bear clearer witness to the Light you have received? Who needs to see Christ’s light through your words, mercy, truth, and obedience?

Prayer: Risen Christ, You are the true Light, and the darkness has not mastered You. Let Your life shine through me so others may see and glorify the Father.

Closing Truth
At creation, God spoke light into darkness.
In the incarnation, the true Light entered the world.
At the cross, darkness fell when the world rejected the Light.
At the resurrection, the Light came out of the grave.

Jesus is the true Light, and the darkness has not mastered Him.







© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Personal use, family discipleship, classroom teaching, and local church ministry use are permitted unless otherwise stated.

PARENT–CHILD DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE
The Day Light Entered the World

Big Idea for the Week:
Jesus is the true Light. He made the world, entered our darkness, died for sinners, rose from the grave, and calls us to follow Him.

Memory Verse:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
 John 1:5

Day 1 — God Made the Light
Scripture: Genesis 1:1–5

Adult Teaching:
The Bible begins with God. Before there was light, land, sky, water, animals, people, or time as we know it, God already was. Nothing exists apart from Him. When God said, “Let there be light,” light came because His word has power. Darkness was real, but darkness was not stronger than God.

Child Truth:
God spoke, and light came.
Explain to the Child:
God made everything. He did not need help. When God spoke, creation obeyed Him. Light came because God is powerful and good.
Ask:

• What did God create?
• What happened when God said, “Let there be light”?
• Is darkness stronger than God?

Family Application:
When life feels scary, confusing, or dark, we remember that God is still Lord. He can bring light where we cannot.

Prayer:
God, thank You for making the world. Thank You that darkness is not stronger than You. Help us trust Your word.

Day 2 — Jesus Is the True Light
Scripture: John 1:1–5

Adult Teaching:
John tells us that Jesus did not begin in Bethlehem. Jesus is the eternal Word who was with God and who is God. Everything was made through Him. The life people need is found in Him. We do not have enough light in ourselves to save ourselves, fix sin, or know God rightly. The true Light comes from Christ.

Child Truth:
Jesus is the true Light.
Explain to the Child:
Jesus is not just a good teacher. Jesus is God the Son. He made everything, and He gives us the life we need with God.
Ask:

• Who is the true Light?
• Did Jesus begin when He was born in Bethlehem?
• Why do we need Jesus?

Family Application:
We do not tell children to “find their own truth.” We teach them to trust Jesus, because He is the truth and the light.

Prayer:
Jesus, You are the true Light. Help our family trust You more than our own ideas, feelings, or fears.

Day 3 — People Needed Rescue from Darkness
Scripture: John 1:9–13

Adult Teaching:
The Creator came into His world, but the world did not recognize Him. That is what sin does. Sin blinds people to God. A person can be near church, Scripture, songs, and religious activity and still not receive Christ. But John gives good news: everyone who receives Christ and believes in His name is given the right to become a child of God.

Child Truth:
Jesus came to save people from darkness.
Explain to the Child:
Sin is when we turn away from God and choose our own way. Sin makes our hearts dark. Jesus came so we can be forgiven and become God’s children.
Ask:

• What does sin do to people?
• What does it mean to receive Jesus?
• Who can become a child of God?

Family Application:
Do not only teach children to behave better. Teach them that they need Jesus Himself. Good behavior cannot make anyone a child of God. Only Christ can give new life.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus. Help us receive Him, believe in Him, and live as Your children.
 
Day 4 — Jesus Came Near
Scripture: John 1:14–18

Adult Teaching:
The Word became flesh. Jesus truly became human without ceasing to be God. He entered real hunger, weakness, grief, temptation, and pain. John says He came full of grace and truth. That means Jesus tells the truth about our sin, but He comes near in mercy to rescue us.

Child Truth:
Jesus came close to us.
Explain to the Child:
Jesus became a real man. He knows what it is to be tired, hungry, sad, and hurt. He came near so He could save us.
Ask:

• Did Jesus really become human?
• What does grace mean?
• What does truth mean?

Simple Definitions:
Grace means God gives mercy we do not deserve.
Truth means God tells us what is real and right.

Family Application:
Children need both grace and truth. They need loving correction, not harshness. They need mercy, not pretending sin is okay.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for coming near. Help our home be full of grace and truth.

Day 5 — Jesus Brings Us Out of Darkness
Scripture: John 8:12; Colossians 1:13

Adult Teaching:
Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” He is not one spiritual option among many. He is the only Savior who brings people out of darkness. Colossians says God delivers believers from the power of darkness and transfers them into the kingdom of His Son. Christians may still struggle, but darkness no longer owns them.

Child Truth:
Jesus brings His people out of darkness.
Explain to the Child:
When we trust Jesus, we belong to Him. Sin does not get to be our king anymore. Jesus is our King.
Ask:

• What does Jesus call Himself?
• What kingdom does God bring believers into?
• Does darkness still own people who belong to Jesus?

Family Application:
When someone in the family sins, we do not hide it or excuse it. We bring it into the light through confession, forgiveness, and obedience to Jesus.

Prayer:
King Jesus, thank You for bringing Your people out of darkness. Help our family walk in Your light.

Day 6 — The Light Went to the Cross
Scripture: Matthew 27:45

Adult Teaching:
At the cross, darkness covered the land. This was not only about the sky. It showed that judgment was falling as Jesus bore the sin of His people. The true Light entered the deepest darkness. He was not defeated. He willingly gave His life to rescue sinners.

Child Truth:
Jesus died to save sinners.
Explain to the Child:
Jesus never sinned, but He died on the cross for sinners. He took the punishment we deserve so we can be forgiven and brought back to God.
Ask:

• Did Jesus do anything wrong?
• Why did Jesus die on the cross?
• Was the darkness stronger than Jesus?

Family Application:
The cross teaches us that sin is serious and God’s love is great. We should not laugh at sin, hide sin, or make excuses for sin. We confess sin and trust Jesus.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for dying for sinners. Help us understand Your cross and love You more.

Day 7 — The Light Came Out of the Grave
Scripture: John 20:1; John 12:36; Matthew 5:14–16

Adult Teaching:
Mary came to the tomb while it was still dark, but Jesus was already alive. The darkness at the cross was real, but it was not final. Sin did not keep Him. Death did not hold Him. The grave did not win. Now Jesus calls His people to believe in the light and live as children of light.

Child Truth:
Jesus rose from the dead.
Explain to the Child:
Jesus died, but He did not stay dead. He rose from the grave. Everyone who belongs to Jesus has hope because He is alive.
Ask:

• What did Mary find at the tomb?
• Did death win?
• How can our lives point people to Jesus?

Family Application:
Children learn from more than lessons. They watch how adults speak, forgive, serve, tell the truth, confess sin, and trust Jesus. We are not the light. We point to Jesus, the true Light.

Prayer:
Risen Jesus, thank You that You are alive. Help our family shine Your light so others can see You.

Family Review
What did God say in Genesis 1?
 “Let there be light.”

Who is the true Light?
Jesus.

Why did Jesus come into the world?
To rescue sinners from darkness and bring them to God.

What happened at the cross?
Jesus died for sinners and bore the judgment we deserved.

What happened at the tomb?
Jesus rose from the dead.

How should Christians live now?
We should walk in the light and point others to Jesus.

Closing Family Prayer
Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the true Light. Thank You that darkness could not master Him. Help our family trust Christ, follow His Word, confess sin, forgive one another, and shine His light in our home, our church, and our community. Amen.






© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Personal use, family discipleship, classroom teaching, and local church ministry use are permitted unless otherwise stated.

The Day Light Entered the World

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
07 June 2026

Primary Texts:  Genesis 1:1–5; John 1:1–18
Supporting Texts: Matthew 5:14–16; John 8:12; John 9:5; John 12:36; Matthew 27:45; John 20:1; Colossians 1:13

Big Idea
Jesus is the true Light of the world, and the darkness has not mastered Him. (John 1:5)

I. God Spoke Light into Creation
Genesis 1:1–5
A. God is the self-existent Creator (Genesis 1:1)

• Everything exists because of Him.

B. Darkness existed where life had not yet been ordered (Genesis 1:2)

• Without God there is no order, life, or flourishing.

C. God spoke light into the darkness (Genesis 1:3)

• God's Word creates and gives purpose.

D. Light becomes a biblical picture of God's life and truth (Genesis 1:4–5)

• Light = life, truth, holiness, salvation.
• Darkness = sin, blindness, death, separation.

Key Truth: The Bible begins with God bringing light into darkness.

II. The True Light Entered His Creation
John 1:1–5
A. Jesus is the eternal Word (John 1:1)

• Christ existed before creation.

B. Jesus is the Creator of all things (John 1:3)

• Everything came into existence through Him.

C. Jesus possesses life in Himself (John 1:4)

• He is the source of spiritual life.

D. His life is the light of humanity (John 1:4–5)

• Christ reveals God, truth, and reality.

E. Darkness cannot overcome Him (John 1:5)

• Sin is real, but it is not victorious.

Key Truth: The Creator entered His creation as the Light of the world.

III. The Light Came to a World That Needed Rescue
John 1:9–18
A. The true Light entered the world (John 1:9)
B. The world failed to recognize Him (John 1:10–11)

• Sin blinds people to God.

C. Those who receive Him become children of God (John 1:12–13)

• Salvation comes through faith in Christ.

D. The Word became flesh (John 1:14)

• God came near to His people.

E. Jesus reveals the Father (John 1:17–18)

• Grace and truth come through Christ.

Key Truth: Jesus came not merely to teach about light but to rescue people from darkness.

IV. The Light Entered Death and Came Out of the Grave
Matthew 27:45; John 20:1
A. Darkness fell at the cross (Matthew 27:45)

• Christ bore the judgment of sin.

B. The Light willingly entered death

• The Holy One died in the place of sinners.

C. Resurrection morning proved darkness was defeated (John 20:1)

• The tomb was empty.
• Death could not hold Him.

D. The Gospel in one sentence

• At creation God spoke light into darkness.
• At the incarnation the Light entered the world.
• At the cross darkness fell upon the Light.
• At the resurrection the Light emerged victorious.

Key Truth: The darkness was real, but it was never stronger than Christ.

V. The Light Calls for a Response
John 12:36
A. Believe in the Light (John 12:36)

• Faith is trusting Christ with your life.

B. Follow the Light (John 8:12)

• Christ guides His people in truth and life.

C. Shine the Light (Matthew 5:14–16)

• Believers reflect Christ to the world.

D. Live as children of light (Colossians 1:13)

• The kingdom of darkness no longer owns us.

The Story of Scripture in Four Movements

1. Creation: God spoke light into darkness. (Genesis 1:3)
2. Incarnation: The true Light entered the world. (John 1:9,14)
3. Crucifixion: Darkness fell as the Light bore our sin. (Matthew 27:45)
4. Resurrection: The Light came out of the grave victorious. (John 20:1)

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Milton Parrish

VBS Illumination Station Show                                                   ~ VBS Children

VBS Puppet Show

Worship in Music                                                                            ~ Davy Thompson

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Ryan Perry
       ~ The Day Light Entered the World
           Genesis 1:1–5; John 1:1–18

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White 

Today:

• VBS Family Rally 

This Week:

• Jun 11. 6PM Combined Men’s and Women’s discipleship meeting with teaching by Pastor Ryan and music with Davy Thompson and our Worship Team. Snack Supper at 5:30 and Children and Youth discipleship at 6:00 as usual.
• Jun 11-13. 6-8PM nightly. Davy Thompson Worship Workshop for GHBC and surrounding churches. Pastor Ryan for Q&A.
• Jun 13. Parsonage Cleanup Day 8AM. Bring general tools for repairs and cleanup work.

Coming Up:

• July 11. SAVE the DATE for Tom and Patty Horn’s 50th Anniversary celebration 1-5PM at their home. See Tom or Patty for Questions.
• July 16-19. Youth Retreat. See Pastor Jeremy for Q&A.

PARENT–CHILD DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE
FROM SELF-RELIANCE TO JESUS-RELIANCE 
Week 2: Under the Father’s Voice

Scripture as Discipleship for Mission

Big Idea to Repeat Each Day:
The Bible is not a guilt assignment. The Bible is the Father’s voice teaching us what is true, showing us Jesus, helping us turn away from lies, and training us to follow Him.

Weekly Question for Families:
When we open the Bible, are we trying to prove ourselves, or are we listening for God’s voice?

DAY 1 — God Speaks Through the Bible
Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16–17

Parent Says:
The Bible is God’s Word. That means when we read Scripture, we are not just reading an ordinary book. God is teaching us. He shows us what is true. He shows us what is wrong. He helps us come back when we go the wrong way. He trains us to live like followers of Jesus.
God did not give us the Bible so we would feel bad all the time. He gave us the Bible because He loves His children and wants us to know His voice.
Ask:

•  What book did God give us to teach us?
•  Why does God correct His children?

Truth to Remember:
 God speaks to us through His Word.

Prayer:
 Father, thank You for giving us the Bible. Help us listen to Your voice and follow Jesus. Amen.

DAY 2 — Not Every Voice Tells the Truth
Scripture: Genesis 3:1

Parent Says:
In the garden, the serpent asked Eve, “Did God actually say?” He wanted Eve to doubt God’s Word. He wanted her to think God was not good and that she should choose her own way.
That still happens today. We hear many voices every day. Some voices tell us to trust God. Other voices tell us to disobey, be selfish, stay angry, hide the truth, or do whatever we want.
The Bible helps us know what is true so we do not follow lies.
Ask:

•  What did the serpent want Eve to doubt?
•  How does the Bible help us when we hear wrong voices?

Truth to Remember:
 God’s Word helps us know what is true.

Prayer:
 Lord, help us listen to Your voice and not follow lies. Teach our family what is true. Amen.

DAY 3 — Jesus Listened to the Father’s Word
Scripture: Matthew 4:4

Parent Says:
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, Satan tried to get Him to prove who He was. But Jesus did not listen to Satan. Jesus trusted the Father. Jesus answered with Scripture.
Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
That means we need God’s Word even more than we need food. Food helps our bodies live. God’s Word teaches our hearts how to live with Him.
Ask:

•  What did Jesus use when Satan tempted Him?
•  Why do we need God’s Word?

Truth to Remember:
 Jesus teaches us to live by God’s Word.

Prayer:
 Jesus, help us follow Your example. Teach us to trust the Father’s Word when we are tempted. Amen.

DAY 4 — God Helps Us Understand
Scripture: Nehemiah 8:8

Parent Says:
 God’s people gathered to hear the Bible read. The leaders did not only read the words. They also helped the people understand what the words meant.
Sometimes the Bible can feel hard to understand. That does not mean we should quit. God gives us parents, pastors, teachers, and mature believers to help us learn.
Asking questions is not bad. It is part of growing as a disciple.
Ask:

•  Who helped the people understand God’s Word?
•  Who helps you learn the Bible?

Truth to Remember:
 God gives us people to help us understand His Word.

Prayer:
 Father, help us understand the Bible. Thank You for people who teach us Your truth. Amen.

DAY 5 — The Bible Shows Us Jesus
Scripture: Acts 8:35

Parent Says:
 A man from Ethiopia was reading the Bible, but he did not understand what it meant. God sent Philip to help him. Philip explained the Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
That is one of the most important things to remember: the Bible shows us Jesus. The Bible teaches us who God is, what sin does, why we need saving, and how Jesus came to rescue us.
When we read the Bible, we should ask, “What does this teach me about God? How does this help me trust Jesus?”
Ask:

•  Who helped the man understand Scripture?
•  Who does the Bible help us see?

Truth to Remember:
 The Bible helps us see Jesus.

Prayer:
 Father, when we read the Bible, help us see Jesus clearly and trust Him more. Amen.

DAY 6 — God’s Word Brings Us Back
Scripture: 2 Kings 22:11

Parent Says:
 King Josiah heard God’s Word and realized the people had gone the wrong way. He was sad because they had not been obeying God. But he did not ignore God’s Word. He listened, humbled himself, and helped the people return to God.
Sometimes the Bible shows us that we have sinned. That can feel uncomfortable, but it is actually a gift. God corrects us because He loves us. He does not want us to keep walking the wrong way.
When God’s Word corrects us, we do not need to hide. We can return to Him.
Ask:

•  What did Josiah do when he heard God’s Word?
•  What should we do when God shows us we are wrong?

Truth to Remember:
 God’s Word helps us return to Him.

Prayer:
 Lord, when we go the wrong way, help us listen to Your Word and come back to You. Amen.

DAY 7 — God’s Word Trains Us to Follow Jesus
Scripture: Acts 2:42

Parent Says:
 After many people believed in Jesus, they kept learning together. They listened to the apostles’ teaching, prayed, shared meals, and lived as God’s people.
Following Jesus is not something we learn all at once. We grow little by little. God uses His Word to train us. He teaches us how to pray, forgive, tell the truth, love others, serve, and share Jesus with people.
The Bible is not only for church on Sunday. God’s Word belongs in our home, our conversations, our choices, and our daily life.
Ask:

•  What did the first Christians keep learning?
•  How can our family listen to God’s Word this week?

Truth to Remember:
 God’s Word trains us to follow Jesus.

Prayer:
 Father, train our family through Your Word. Help us follow Jesus at home, at church, at school, and everywhere we go. Amen.

Family Practice for the Week
This week, choose one short Bible passage to read together more than once. After reading, ask three simple questions:

1. What does this teach us about God?
2.  What does this teach us about people?
3.  How can we follow Jesus today?

Keep it simple. The goal is not to prove that your family is perfect. The goal is to listen for the Father’s voice together.

Closing Family Reminder
The Bible is not a guilt assignment. God does not give His children Scripture so they can feel like failures. He gives His Word because He loves us.

• God’s Word teaches us truth.
• God’s Word shows us Jesus.
• God’s Word helps us turn away from lies.
• God’s Word brings us back when we drift.
• God’s Word trains us to live as disciples.

When our family opens the Bible, we are listening to the Father’s voice.





© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Permission granted for personal use, family discipleship, classroom teaching, and local church ministry use. Not for resale, unauthorized commercial reproduction, or reposting as original content.

From Self-Reliance to Jesus-Reliance
Week 2: Under the Father’s Voice – Scripture as Discipleship for Mission

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
10 May 2026

Primary Texts: Acts 2:42; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Matthew 28:18–20; John 5:39–40

Big Idea
Scripture is the Father’s true witness that exposes deception, reveals sin, points us to Christ, and teaches us the way of God. But Scripture itself is not the source of life. Christ is our life, Christ is our righteousness, and the Holy Spirit works through Scripture to convict, awaken, renew, and equip God’s people for faithful living and mission.

I. Every Person Is Living Under a Voice
Key Scripture:  John 5:39–40 — “You search the Scriptures… and it is they that bear witness about Me…”

Main Thought: Every person is being discipled by something:

• Culture
• Fear
• Shame
• Social media
• Personal desires
• Or the Father’s voice

Key Truths:

• Scripture is not merely religious information
• The Bible is God’s true witness in a world of deception
• Scripture points us back to what is true
• Jesus is the source of life—not information alone

Supporting Scriptures:  John 5:39–40; Romans 10:17

Core Statement: The goal of Scripture is not merely knowledge. The goal is coming alive in Christ.

II. The Early Church Was Formed by the Word and the Spirit

Key Scripture: Acts 2:42 — “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…”

Main Thought: The Holy Spirit did not remove the need for teaching. The Spirit formed a people devoted to truth, fellowship, prayer, and mission.

Key Truths:

• Discipleship is more than emotional experience
• God forms His people through truth
• Scripture shapes the church into ambassadors of Christ
• The church learns together under the Father’s voice

Supporting Scriptures:  Acts 2:37–42; Matthew 28:18–20

Core Statement: Discipleship is learning to live under the Father’s voice with the people of God, by the Spirit, for the mission of Christ.

III. Scripture Points Us to Christ, Not Self-Righteousness

Key Scripture:  John 5:39–40 — “These Scriptures testify about Me…”

Main Thought: It is possible to know Scripture and still resist Jesus.

Key Truths:

• The Bible is the story of God’s redemptive plan fulfilled in Christ
• Scripture reveals:
  • Our need for salvation
  • God’s promises
  • Christ as Savior and King
• Bible knowledge alone cannot give life
• Jesus is the fulfillment of the Scriptures

Supporting Scriptures:  John 5:39–40; Romans 10:17

Core Statement: Scripture is not meant to replace Christ. Scripture is meant to reveal Christ.

IV. The Holy Spirit Uses Scripture to Bring Us Into the Light

Key Scripture:  John 3:17–19 — “The light has come into the world…”

Main Thought: The Holy Spirit uses God’s Word to expose darkness and bring God’s people into truth and freedom.

Key Truths:

• Sin survives in hiding
• Scripture exposes:
  • Pride
  • Control
  • Bitterness
  • Self-deception
• Conviction is different from condemnation
• God exposes darkness to heal, restore, and transform

Supporting Scriptures:  Hebrews 4:12; John 3:17–19

Core Statement: Condemnation pushes people away from God. Conviction brings people back to the Father through Christ.

V. Scripture Equips God’s People for Mission

Key Scripture:  2 Timothy 3:16–17 — “All Scripture is breathed out by God…”

Main Thought: The Holy Spirit works through Scripture to teach, correct, restore, and equip believers for faithful living and mission.

Key Truths:
Scripture is profitable for:

• Teaching truth
• Exposing error
• Correcting what is broken
• Training believers in righteousness

Supporting Scriptures:  2 Timothy 3:16–17; Matthew 28:18–20

Core Statement: God’s Word does not merely fill minds with information. God’s Word forms disciples and sends ambassadors.

VI. The Mission Is to Make Disciples Under Christ’s Authority

Key Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20 — “Go therefore and make disciples…”

Main Thought: The mission of the church is not merely gathering information or decisions.
The mission is making disciples who:

• Come to Christ
• Follow Christ
• Obey Christ
• Carry His life into the world

Key Truths:

• Jesus has all authority
• The Spirit empowers believers for mission
• God’s people are sent as ambassadors of Christ
• Scripture prepares us to bring heaven’s truth into a broken world

Supporting Scriptures:  Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:18–20

Core Statement: The Father still speaks through His Word, and the Spirit still sends His people into the world.

Closing Challenge

• What voice is discipling my life?
• Am I reading Scripture to gain information or to come to Christ?
• Am I hiding in darkness or walking in the light?
• Is God’s Word forming me for mission?

Final Declaration
Scripture is the Father’s voice that points us to Jesus, forms us by the Spirit, and sends us into the world as Christ’s ambassadors.

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Tom Noss

Call to Worship                                                                              ~ Worship Team
       ~ “Because He Lives (Amen)”
       ~ “At the Cross (Love Ran Red)”
       ~ “Trust in God”

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Commissioning Real-Life Disciples                                             ~ Pastor Ryan Perry

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Jeremy Phillips
       ~ From Self-Reliance to Jesus Reliant Sermon 2:
         Under the Father’s Voice - Scripture as Discipleship for Mission

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan
     ~   “Love of God”  

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White 

PARENT–CHILD DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE
From Self-Reliance to Jesus-Reliance Week 1:
The Freedom of Needing Jesus

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
10 May 2026

Big Idea to Repeat Each Day:
Jesus does not want us to try to live without Him. Jesus wants us to trust Him, talk to the Father, listen to the Holy Spirit, and tell others about His love.

DAY 1 — I Need Jesus
Scripture: Matthew 5:3
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Parent Says:
Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” That sounds like a hard phrase, but it means something simple.

Poor in spirit means I know I need God’s help on the inside.

Some people try to act like they do not need help. They try to look strong all the time. They may think, “I have to be perfect so people will love me.” Some people even start to think, “God will only love me if I do everything right.”

But Jesus says we do not have to pretend with God. We can come to Him and say, “Jesus, I need You. I cannot do this by myself.”

That is not bad. That is good. Jesus loves when His children come to Him honestly. We can tell Jesus when we are scared. We can tell Jesus when we are sorry. We can tell Jesus when we do not know what to do. We can tell Jesus when we need help obeying.

Jesus does not push away children who need Him. Jesus welcomes them.
Ask:

•  What is something you need help with?
•  Can you talk to Jesus when you need help?
•  Why is it good to tell Jesus the truth?

Truth: I need Jesus every day.
For Younger Kids: Jesus helps me.

Prayer: Jesus, I need You. Help me trust You today. Thank You that I do not have to pretend with You. Amen.

DAY 2 — Jesus Cares About My Heart
Scripture: Matthew 5:20
 “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Parent Says:
 Some people in Jesus’s day looked good on the outside. They prayed. They knew Bible verses. They followed rules. But Jesus knew that some of them did not have hearts that loved God.

Jesus teaches us that God cares about our hearts.

That means God cares about what is happening inside us, not just what people can see. A child can share a toy but still be angry inside. Someone can say, “I’m sorry,” but not really mean it. Someone can obey a parent but still have a grumpy heart. Someone can smile at church but be mean at home.

Jesus sees the outside, but He also sees the inside. He sees when we are angry, selfish, jealous, scared, or proud. He sees when we want our own way. He sees when we need help.

Jesus does not only want to change what we do. Jesus wants to help our hearts love God and love people. We cannot fix our hearts by ourselves. We need Jesus to forgive us and help us. We need the Holy Spirit to change us from the inside.
Ask:

•  Can God see our hearts?
•  What can we do when our hearts are angry, selfish, or sad?
•  Have you ever obeyed on the outside while having a bad attitude on the inside?

Truth: Jesus helps my heart.
For Younger Kids: Jesus helps me love God.

Prayer: Jesus, please help my heart love You and love others. Help me obey with my actions and with my heart. Amen.

DAY 3 — I Do Not Have to Show Off
Scripture: Matthew 6:1
 “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them.”
Parent Says:
Jesus talked about people who did good things only because they wanted others to notice them.

Sometimes we want people to clap for us, praise us, or tell us we are good. It feels nice when people notice good things. But Jesus says we should not do good things just to show off.

Maybe you clean your room and want everyone to know. Maybe you help someone but get upset if nobody says thank you. Maybe you pray loudly so people think you are very spiritual. Maybe you do the right thing only when someone is watching.

Jesus teaches us a better way. We can pray because we love God. We can help others because we care about them. We can obey because Jesus is good, not because we are trying to impress people.

God sees the good things no one else sees. God sees when you share quietly. God sees when you tell the truth. God sees when you are kind and nobody claps. God sees when you forgive someone. God sees when you choose not to say something mean.

You do not have to show off. God sees you, and God loves you.
Ask:

•  Have you ever wanted someone to notice something good you did?
•  Can we do good things even when no one claps?
•  What is one good thing you can do quietly for God?

Truth: I can do good things for God, not to show off.
For Younger Kids: God sees me.

Prayer: Father, help me do what is right because I love You. Help me obey even when no one is watching. Amen.

DAY 4 — God Knows What I Need
Scripture: Matthew 6:32
“Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.”
Parent Says:
Jesus knows that people worry. Kids worry too.

Children may worry about school, friends, family, sickness, storms, bedtime, being left out, or what might happen tomorrow. Some children worry when parents argue. Some worry when a friend is upset. Some worry when they make a mistake. Some worry when things change.

Jesus does not say, “Pretend you are never scared.” Jesus says, “Your heavenly Father knows what you need.”

That means God sees you. God knows you. God cares about you. You do not have to carry your worries all by yourself.

When you feel worried, you can talk to God. You can say, “Father, I am scared. Please help me trust You.” You can also talk to a parent, grandparent, teacher, pastor, or another safe adult. God often helps us through people who love us.

Self-reliance says, “I have to handle this all by myself.” Jesus-reliance says, “My Father knows what I need, and I can trust Him.”
Ask:

•  What is something kids sometimes worry about?
•  What can you say to God when you feel worried?
•  Who is a safe adult you can talk to when you feel afraid?

Truth: God knows what I need.
For Younger Kids: God takes care of me.

Prayer: Father, thank You for knowing what I need. Help me when I feel worried. Remind me that I am not alone. Amen.

DAY 5 — The Holy Spirit Helps Me Obey
Scripture: Galatians 5:16
“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Parent Says:
God does not tell His children, “Follow Jesus all by yourself.” God gives His people the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit helps us listen to Jesus. The Holy Spirit helps us say no to wrong things and yes to God.

Sometimes we want to do wrong things. We may want to yell, lie, be selfish, disobey, hit, talk back, or refuse to forgive. We may want to grab a toy, slam a door, blame someone else, or say something mean. When that happens, we can ask the Holy Spirit to help us.

We can pray, “Holy Spirit, please help me obey Jesus right now.”

If you want to yell at a brother or sister, the Holy Spirit can help you use gentle words. If you want to lie because you are afraid of getting in trouble, the Holy Spirit can help you tell the truth. If you want to be selfish, the Holy Spirit can help you share. If you feel angry, the Holy Spirit can help you stop, pray, and choose what is right.

The Bible says the Holy Spirit grows good fruit in God’s people. That means He helps us become more loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled.

We do not grow this fruit by pretending. We grow as we stay close to Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit to help us.
Ask:

•  What is one thing you need help obeying?
•  Can you ask the Holy Spirit to help you?
•  What can you do when you feel angry or selfish?

Truth: The Holy Spirit helps me obey Jesus.
For Younger Kids: God helps me do what is right.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me obey Jesus today. Help me use kind words, tell the truth, share, forgive, and do what is right. Amen.

DAY 6 — Jesus Is My Strong Rock
Scripture: Matthew 7:24
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”
Parent Says:
Jesus told a story about two houses.
One house was built on rock. One house was built on sand. Then a big storm came. The house on the rock stayed strong. The house on the sand fell down.

Jesus was teaching us that our lives need a strong place to stand. Trying to do everything by ourselves is like building on sand. Trying to impress people is like building on sand.

Trying to be perfect so people will love us is like building on sand. Doing whatever we want instead of listening to Jesus is like building on sand.

Jesus is the strong rock.
When we listen to Jesus and obey Him, we are building our lives on the rock. We obey Jesus because He loves us and knows what is best.

When you tell the truth, you are building on the rock. When you forgive, you are building on the rock. When you pray instead of worrying alone, you are building on the rock. When you obey your parents, you are building on the rock. When you are kind to someone who is left out, you are building on the rock. When you ask Jesus for help, you are building on the rock.

Jesus is strong enough to hold us when life feels hard.
Ask:

•  Which is stronger, rock or sand?
•  How do we build our lives on Jesus?
•  What is one choice you can make today that builds on Jesus?

Truth: Jesus is my strong rock.
For Younger Kids: Jesus is strong.

Prayer:  Jesus, help me listen to You and obey You. Thank You for being my strong rock. Amen.

DAY 7 — I Can Tell Others About Jesus
Scripture: Mark 5:19
“Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”
Parent Says:
 In Mark 5, Jesus helped a man whose life was very broken. The man could not fix himself. Other people could not fix him either. But Jesus helped him and showed him mercy.
Mercy means God is kind to us when we need help.

After Jesus helped the man, Jesus told him to go home and tell his friends what the Lord had done for him.

That teaches us something important. We do not have to be perfect before we tell people about Jesus. We can tell people Jesus loves them. We can tell people Jesus forgives sin. We can tell people Jesus helps us when we are afraid. We can invite people to church. We can pray for a friend. We can say, “Jesus helped me, and He can help you too.”

Children can tell others about Jesus in simple ways. You can be kind to someone who is lonely. You can tell a friend, “Jesus loves you.” You can say, “I prayed about that.” You can invite someone to Sunday school. You can tell your family something you learned from the Bible.

Our message is not, “Look how good I am.”
Our message is, “Look how good Jesus is.”
Ask:

•  What has Jesus done for you?
•  Who can you tell about Jesus?
•  What is one simple way you can show or share Jesus’s love this week?

Truth: I can tell others about Jesus.
For Younger Kids: Jesus loves me, and I can tell others.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for loving me and helping me. Help me tell others about You. Help my life show Your love. Amen.

FAMILY REVIEW
This week we learned that we need Jesus every day. We do not have to pretend to be perfect. We do not have to show off. We do not have to carry our worries alone. The Father knows what we need. The Holy Spirit helps us obey. Jesus is our strong rock. We can tell others about His love and mercy.

Family Truth to Remember:
 I need Jesus, and Jesus helps me.

Family Talk:

•  What was your favorite thing we learned this week?
•  What is one place where you need Jesus’s help?
•  Who can our family pray for this week?

Family Prayer: Father, thank You for sending Jesus. Help our family trust Jesus, listen to the Holy Spirit, and tell others about Your love. Amen.




© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Permission granted for personal use, family discipleship, classroom teaching, and local church ministry use. Not for resale, unauthorized commercial reproduction, republication, editing for redistribution, or reposting as original content without written permission.

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Milton Parrish

Call to Worship                                                                              ~ Worship Team
      ~ “Holy Spirit”
      ~ “Build My Life”
      ~ “It Is Well With My Soul”                              

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

IMGN Life                                                                                        ~ Stacey Brown

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Jeremy Phillips
      ~  From Self-Reliance to Jesus Reliant Sermon 1:
         How the Spirit Leads God’s Children from Self-Rule into Mission

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan
     ~   “I Speak Jesus”  

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White 

From Self-Reliance to Jesus-Reliance - Week 1:
The Freedom of the Poor in Spirit

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
10 May 2026

Primary Text:  Matthew 5–7 — The Sermon on the Mount
Supporting Texts:  John 15:5; Romans 6:14; Romans 8:13–15; Galatians 5:16; Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; Mark 5:19

Big Idea
Jesus exposes the exhaustion of self-reliance and invites us into kingdom life as poor-in-spirit children who depend on the Father, abide in Christ, walk by the Spirit, and live on mission.

I. The Entrance — Dependence, Not Performance
Key Scripture: Matthew 5:3 — “Blessed are the poor (ptōchos, someone destitute, someone empty-handed, someone who has nothing to bring and must receive from another) in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Main Thought: The kingdom of God is entered empty-handed, not self-sufficient.
Supporting Scriptures: Luke 18:9–14; John 15:5
Key Truths:

• Poor in spirit means spiritually dependent
• We cannot save or sustain ourselves
• Kingdom life begins with humility and need
• We never graduate from dependence on Christ

Core Statement: Jesus-reliance begins where self-reliance ends.

II. The Depth — Healing the Heart, Not Just the Hands
Key Scripture: Matthew 5:20 — “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees…”
Main Thought: Jesus exposes outward religion that hides inward self-rule.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 5:21–28; Romans 8:13–15; Galatians 5:16
Key Truths

• Self-repair can manage appearances
• Religious performance cannot heal the heart
• Sin is deeper than behavior
• Only the Holy Spirit can transform the inner life

Core Statement: God is not merely modifying behavior—He is transforming hearts.

III. The Motive — Religion Without the Ego
Key Scripture: Matthew 6:1 — “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them.”
Main Thought: Even spiritual practices can become self-reliant when disconnected from relationship with God.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 6:4; Matthew 6:6; Matthew 6:18
Key Truths

• Giving, prayer, and fasting are not performance tools
• The Father already sees, knows, and loves His children
• Spiritual disciplines flow from intimacy, not insecurity

Core Statement: Kingdom spirituality is rooted in relationship, not religious image management.

IV. The Security — Living as Children, Not Orphans
Key Scripture: Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…”
Main Thought: Anxiety often reveals where we are trying to carry life without trusting the Father.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 6:31–32; Romans 6:14
Key Truths

• Orphans feel like everything depends on them
• Children trust the Father’s care
• Self-reliance produces anxiety and control
• Jesus-reliance produces peace and kingdom focus

Core Statement: The Father’s care frees us to seek His kingdom instead of trying to save ourselves.

V. The Foundation — Fruit and Obedience Built on Christ
Key Scripture: Matthew 7:24–25 — “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them…”
Main Thought: Kingdom obedience flows from abiding in Christ, not self-effort.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 7:17; Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22–23; John 15:5
Key Truths

• Fruit reveals the source of life
• The Holy Spirit produces what self-reliance never can
• Grace does not remove obedience
• Obedience is the fruit of relationship with Jesus

Core Statement: A life built on Christ stands firm because Christ is the foundation underneath it.

VI. The Assignment — Restored and Sent
Key Scripture: Mark 5:19 — “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you…”
Main Thought: Jesus restores broken people and sends them with a testimony of mercy.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 1 Timothy 1:13–16
Key Truths

• Mission begins with mercy
• God uses restored sinners, not self-made performers
• Our testimony is about Christ’s grace, not our perfection
• The mission rests on Christ’s authority and the Spirit’s power

Core Statement: You are not sent to prove how impressive you are. You are sent to tell how merciful Jesus has been.

Closing Challenge - Questions to Ask

• Am I living from self-reliance or Jesus-reliance?
• Am I trying to repair myself or return to Christ?
• Am I building my life on performance or dependence?
• Am I living as an orphan or as a child of the Father?

Final Declaration
Christ has freed God’s children from self-reliance. The Holy Spirit now teaches us to live from Jesus instead of from ourselves.

PARENT–CHILD DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE
God and Suffering  Week 3
Loaves, Fish, and Faith: Trusting Christ When Human Systems Are Not Enough       

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
03 May 2026

Big Idea (repeat each day)
What we have may look small, but when we surrender it to Jesus, He is more than enough.

DAY 1:  JESUS SEES THE NEED
Scripture: John 6:5–6

Parent Says:
A large crowd came to Jesus, and the people were hungry. The disciples saw a problem that was too big for them. They did not have enough money, enough food, or enough strength to fix it. But Jesus already knew what He was going to do. That teaches us something important. When we face a need that feels too big, Jesus is not surprised. He sees the need before we know the answer.
Ask:

• What was the problem in John 6?
• Does Jesus know what our family needs?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus sees our needs before we know the answer.

For Younger Kids:
Jesus knew the people were hungry, and He cared about them.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for seeing our needs. Help our family trust You when we do not know what to do.
 
DAY 2:  WE ARE NOT ENOUGH WITHOUT JESUS
Scripture: John 15:5

Parent Says:
Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” That does not mean we never work, plan, save, or try. It means we cannot do God’s work in our own strength. The disciples had a hungry crowd in front of them, but they did not have enough to feed them. Sometimes we feel that way too. We may not have enough courage, patience, money, strength, or wisdom. Jesus teaches us not to pretend we are enough. He teaches us to depend on Him.
Ask:

• What does Jesus say we can do apart from Him?
• Where does our family need Jesus’s help right now?

Truth to Remember:
We need Jesus for everything God calls us to do.

For Younger Kids:
Jesus helps us when we are not strong enough.

Prayer:
Lord, help us stop trusting only ourselves. Teach us to depend on You every day.

DAY 3:  BRING WHAT YOU HAVE TO JESUS
Scripture: Matthew 14:18

Parent Says:
A boy had five loaves and two fish. That did not look like much beside thousands of hungry people. But Jesus said, “Bring them here to me.” That is faith. Faith does not say, “I have enough.” Faith says, “Jesus, I give You what I have.” Our little may look small, but Jesus is not limited by what we can count. He can use our prayers, our time, our kindness, our obedience, our gifts, and even our weakness when we place them in His hands.
Ask:

• What did the boy have?
• What can we give to Jesus this week?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus can use what we surrender to Him.

For Younger Kids:
The boy gave Jesus his lunch, and Jesus used it.

Prayer:
Jesus, we give You what we have. Use our family for Your kingdom.

DAY 4:  JESUS IS BETTER THAN BREAD
Scripture: John 6:35

Parent Says:
After Jesus fed the crowd, many people came looking for Him again. But Jesus knew their hearts. Some wanted more bread, but they did not really want Him as Lord. Jesus told them, “I am the bread of life.” Bread can fill a stomach for a little while, but Jesus gives life forever. Sometimes people only want God to fix problems, give blessings, or make life easier. But our greatest need is not just what Jesus gives. Our greatest need is Jesus Himself.
Ask:

• What did Jesus call Himself?
• Why do we need Jesus more than anything He gives us?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus is our deepest need.

For Younger Kids:
Bread feeds our bodies, but Jesus gives life to our hearts.

Prayer:
Jesus, help us love You more than the things You give. Be the center of our family.

DAY 5:  DON’T PRETEND TO SURRENDER
Scripture: Acts 5:4

Parent Says:
In Acts 4, the early church shared generously so people in need could be helped. Then Acts 5 tells us about Ananias and Sapphira. They wanted to look generous, but they were not honest. Peter said they had lied to God. The problem was not that they failed to give everything. The problem was they pretended to surrender while secretly trying to control how people saw them. God cares about the heart. He does not want fake faith. He wants honest surrender.
Ask:

• What did Ananias and Sapphira do wrong?
• Why does God care about honesty?

Truth to Remember:
God wants true surrender, not pretend faith.

For Younger Kids:
God wants us to be honest with Him.

Prayer:
God, give our family honest hearts. Help us obey You without pretending.

DAY 6:  FAITHFUL PEOPLE STILL FACE HARD THINGS
Scripture: Psalm 23:4

Parent Says:
Faith does not mean we never suffer. Joseph suffered in Egypt. David faced danger before he became king. Ruth walked through grief and poverty. Daniel lived in exile. The poor widow gave when she had almost nothing. Faith does not remove every valley, but faith knows the Shepherd is with us there. Psalm 23 does not say we will never walk through the valley. It says we do not have to fear because God is with us.
Ask:

• Does faith mean life will always be easy?
• Who is with us in the valley?

Truth to Remember:
Faith trusts God even in the valley.

For Younger Kids:
God stays with us when life is hard.

Prayer:
Father, help us trust You in hard places. Remind us that we are never alone.

DAY 7:  PUT OUR LOAVES AND FISH IN JESUS’S HANDS
Scripture: Romans 8:28

Parent Says:
God calls His people to live faithfully in a suffering world. That means we do not build our lives on fear, comfort, money, or control. We give Jesus what He has placed in our hands. As a family, we can give Him our time, our prayers, our home, our gifts, our suffering, our blessing, and our future. Our church must do the same. Vision 2030 is not about saying, “Look what we can do.” It is about saying, “Lord, this is what You gave us. Here are our loaves and fish. Take what we have, multiply what we cannot, and use us to help people know Christ.”
Ask:

• What has God placed in our family’s hands?
• How can we surrender it to Jesus?

Truth to Remember:
Jesus is more than enough for what He calls us to do.

For Younger Kids:
 We can give Jesus our whole life.

Prayer:
Jesus, our family belongs to You. Take our lives, our gifts, our time, and our future. Use us for Your kingdom.

FAMILY PRACTICE FOR THE WEEK
Choose one “loaf and fish” your family can place in Jesus’s hands this week. It could be praying together each night, encouraging someone who is hurting, giving to someone in need, serving at church, forgiving someone, or using your home to bless another family.

Say together:
 “Jesus, what we have may look small, but in Your hands it is enough.”

CLOSING FAMILY PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You that You see every need before we know the answer. Forgive us for trusting human systems more than we trust You. Forgive us for trying to control what only You can multiply. Teach our family to surrender what we have, not because it is impressive, but because You are Lord. Take our people, gifts, resources, prayers, time, testimony, suffering, blessing, and future. Use our family and our church for Your kingdom. Amen.




© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD | Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) | Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Permission granted for personal use, family discipleship, and local church ministry use. Not for resale or unauthorized commercial reproduction.

ADULT DEVOTIONAL COMPANION
God and Suffering Week 3
Loaves, Fish, and Faith: Trusting Christ When Human Systems Are Not Enough

Senior Pastor Dr. G. Ryan Perry PhD.
Good Hope Baptist Church
03 May 2026

The Big Idea:
Suffering is not only personal or circumstantial. Scripture teaches that evil has spiritual roots, but Christ has defeated the powers behind the pain through the cross, and believers now stand in his victory.

Day 1: The Battle Is Deeper Than What We See
Scripture: Ephesians 6:12
Paul tells believers that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood.” That does not mean people are never responsible for evil. Scripture is very clear that human sin causes real suffering. People lie, exploit, abuse, betray, neglect, oppress, and destroy. Yet Paul teaches that visible problems often have invisible roots.

There are lies underneath addictions. There is fear underneath control. There is pride underneath injustice. There is idolatry underneath greed. There is spiritual blindness underneath cultures that normalize evil. Some suffering is personal. Some suffering is natural. Some suffering is systemic. Some suffering is spiritual. Wisdom learns to tell the difference.

The enemy loves confusion because confusion keeps people fighting symptoms while ignoring roots. A marriage may look like it is only fighting over money, but underneath may be fear, selfishness, bitterness, or mistrust. A person may think they are only fighting stress, but underneath may be a false belief that they must control everything to be safe. Scripture teaches us to look deeper without becoming strange, suspicious, or obsessed with demons. The point is not fear. The point is discernment.

Christians do not deny evil. Christians diagnose it through Scripture. There is hostile opposition to God’s order, but there is also a greater King who rules over every power.

Reflection: Where might you be fighting only the visible problem while ignoring the deeper spiritual root? What lie, fear, or false agreement needs to be brought into the light?

Prayer: Lord, give me discernment. Help me see my struggles truthfully without fear or denial. Teach me to fight with wisdom, humility, and faith in Christ.

Day 2: Satan Works Through Lies
Scripture: Revelation 12:9
Revelation calls Satan “the deceiver of the whole world.” That word matters. The enemy’s first weapon is often not destruction but deception. He does not always begin by wrecking a life outwardly. Many times, he begins by planting a believable lie inwardly.

In Genesis 3, the serpent did not attack Eve with force. He attacked her trust. He questioned God’s word, distorted God’s character, and made rebellion look like wisdom. That pattern has never changed. The enemy still whispers, “God cannot be trusted. Sin will satisfy you. You are alone. Your pain defines you. Your past owns you. Forgiveness is impossible. Bitterness protects you. Obedience will cost too much.”

Lies rarely stay small. Lies become thoughts. Thoughts become habits. Habits become chains. Chains become suffering. This is why truth matters so deeply. Scripture is not merely religious information. Scripture is light in a dark room. It names what deception hides.

Jesus said in John 8:44 that the devil is a liar and the father of lies. That means spiritual warfare is not only dramatic confrontation. Much of it is truth replacing deception in the mind, heart, home, and church.

Reflection: What lie have you been agreeing with lately? What Scripture directly confronts that lie?

Prayer: Father, expose every lie I have believed. Replace deception with Your truth. Renew my mind and teach me to trust Your voice above every other voice.

Day 3: The Accuser Has Been Answered
Scripture: Romans 8:1
The enemy is not only a deceiver. Scripture also presents him as an accuser. The Greek word often translated “devil” is diabolos, meaning slanderer or false accuser. Satan does not merely tempt people into sin. He then accuses them after they fall.

Accusation sounds like this: “You are guilty. You are filthy. You will never change. God is tired of you. You have gone too far. You do not belong near God.” The accusation feels powerful because our sin is real. We have failed. We have rebelled. We have hurt others. We have chosen self-rule over God’s rule.

Yet Romans 8:1 declares, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” That does not mean sin does not matter. It means Christ has dealt with the guilt itself. He did not merely make guilty people feel better. He answered the charges. He paid the debt. He removed what gave accusation its power.

The enemy may still remind you of your past, but he cannot overturn Christ’s verdict. If you are in Christ, your battle is no longer to earn acceptance. Your battle is to stand in the acceptance Christ already secured.

Reflection: Where are you living under condemnation instead of conviction? How does Romans 8:1 speak to that place?

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for answering the accusation against me. Help me repent honestly, receive forgiveness fully, and stand in the grace You purchased.

Day 4: Jesus Entered the Battlefield
Scripture: John 1:14
John says, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” The word “dwelt” carries the idea of tabernacling, of God pitching His tent among His people. Jesus did not watch human suffering from a safe distance. He entered occupied territory.

Jesus stepped into a world filled with sin, sickness, oppression, fear, grief, and death. Mark 1 shows Him confronting demons. Luke 8 shows Him calming storms and casting out Legion. John 11 shows Him standing before a tomb and calling Lazarus out. Jesus did not come merely to offer moral advice. He came as King.

This matters for suffering because the Christian faith does not say, “Ignore evil.” It says Christ has entered the war. The Son of God took on flesh, walked among the wounded, touched the unclean, challenged false powers, forgave sinners, healed the broken, and moved toward the cross.

The cross was not an accident. It was the battlefield where the powers of darkness were defeated.

Reflection: How does it change your view of suffering to know that Jesus entered it personally? Where do you need to remember that Christ is not distant from your pain?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for coming near. Thank You for entering this broken world. Help me trust You as the King who has authority over sin, darkness, fear, and death.

Day 5: The Cross Was Victory
Scripture: Colossians 2:14–15
Many people see the cross only as suffering. Scripture reveals it was also victory. Paul says Christ canceled the record of debt against us and nailed it to the cross. Then he says Christ disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame.

The cross looked like defeat from the ground. Rome saw a condemned man. Religious leaders saw a silenced threat. Darkness thought it had won. Heaven saw something different. The debt was being canceled. The accuser was being disarmed. The powers were being exposed. What looked like Christ losing was Christ winning.

The enemy’s weapons were guilt, accusation, fear, deception, and death. At the cross, Christ answered them all. Satan uses guilt. Christ answers with forgiveness. Satan uses accusation. Christ answers with justification. Satan uses fear. Christ answers with peace. Satan uses death. Christ answers with resurrection.

The enemy still lies. He still tempts. He still harasses. Yet he no longer has a covenant claim over those purchased by the blood of Christ. He cannot undo the cross. He cannot reverse justification. He cannot reclaim what Christ has redeemed.

Reflection: Which weapon has the enemy used most against you: guilt, accusation, fear, deception, or death? How does the cross answer that weapon?

Prayer: King Jesus, teach me to see the cross as victory. Help me live as someone forgiven, purchased, freed, and secure in You.

Day 6: Submit First, Resist Second
Scripture: James 4:7
James gives the order clearly: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” The order matters. Submit first. Resist second.

Many people want authority without surrender. They want victory over darkness while still protecting compromise. They want peace while clinging to bitterness. They want freedom while feeding secret sin. They want power while refusing obedience. Kingdom authority flows from alignment with Christ.

Resistance is not panic. Resistance is not pretending temptation is not real. Resistance is standing under God’s authority and refusing agreement with darkness. It means confessing sin. It means closing open doors. It means replacing lies with Scripture. It means walking in community instead of isolation. It means choosing holiness when compromise looks easier.
You do not fight darkness with vibes. You fight evil with God’s truth. You do not defeat lies with feelings. You defeat lies with Scripture. You do not resist temptation by wishing. You resist by practiced obedience while abiding in the grace of Jesus.

Reflection: Where do you need to submit before you resist? Is there an open door that needs to be closed?

Prayer: Father, I submit myself to You. Search me, correct me, strengthen me, and teach me to resist the enemy from a place of surrender.

Day 7: The Church Pushes Back Darkness
Scripture: Ephesians 5:8–11
Paul says, “At one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” Notice what he does not say. He does not merely say believers have light. He says believers are light in the Lord.

That means the church does not respond to darkness by hiding. We respond by living as Christ’s holy people in the world. We push back darkness with truth, love, holiness, compassion, prayer, justice, discipleship, and mission. We disciple homes before darkness disciples them. We build mature believers, not passive attenders. We heal the broken with gospel truth and compassionate presence. We protect the vulnerable. We serve the community. We reach the lost.

Vision is not a slogan when it becomes obedience. Vision 2030 can become a church-wide response to suffering and spiritual darkness. It is not about building an institution. It is about bringing Christ’s order where chaos has spread.

Christ has defeated the powers behind the pain. Now the church stands in His victory and bears His presence in the world. We do not merely study darkness. We become light.

Reflection: Where is God calling you to push back darkness with truth and holy presence? In your home? Your church? Your workplace? Your community?

Prayer: Lord, make me light in the Lord. Use my life, my home, and my church to bring truth, healing, holiness, and hope where darkness has spread.

© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. Published in partnership with Good Hope Baptist Church (GHBC) and Cross+Walk Ministries. All rights reserved. Permission granted for personal use, family discipleship, classroom teaching, and local church ministry use. Not for resale or unauthorized commercial reproduction.

God and Suffering — Week 3
Loaves, Fish, and Faith: Trusting Christ When Human Systems Are Not Enough

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
03 May 2026

Key Verses:
John 6:5–6; Matthew 14:15; John 6:9; John 15:5: Matthew 14:18; Mark 6:37; John 6:9; Matthew 17:20; Philippians 4:19; John 6:10–15; Genesis 50:20; 1 Samuel 17:34–37; Mark 12:41–44; Romans 8:28; John 6:15; John 6:26; John 6:35; Acts 4:32–37; Acts 5:1–11; Mark 10:17–22; Romans 8:18–39; Psalm 23:4; Matthew 6:19–21; Matthew 7:24–27; John 15:5; Hosea 4:6; Proverbs 4:7; Matthew 13:18–23; John 17:3; James 1:22

Big Idea
In a suffering world, faith does not pretend we have enough. Faith brings what is insufficient to Jesus, trusts His lordship, and surrenders our lives to His kingdom purposes.

We ask the question: How do we live faithfully in a suffering world?

I. Suffering Reveals the Limits of Human Systems
John 6:5–6 - ‘Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?’
John 6 puts us in a familiar place. A large crowd, the day is getting late, and people are hungry. The disciples know they do not have enough money, enough bread, or enough ability to meet the need. Andrew points out a boy with five barley loaves and two fish, but even he knows how small that looks beside thousands of people.
Jesus is standing in the middle of the need.

Matthew 14:15 - This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.
Many have stood in that same kind of place, a need that is bigger than our ability, in human capability, an impossible task.

Jesus puts the disciples face-to-face with something they cannot do without Him. Jesus  tells them, “You give them something to eat.”

John 6:9 - There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?

What do we do when the need is real, but our ability is not enough?
Do we look at the crowd and say, Go home. We have nothing for you. Or do we take what we see as insufficient and give it to Jesus because it is all we have.

Human strength looks at what we have and says, this will never be enough.
Faith looks at what we have in the hands of Jesus and says, we are not on our own, and with Him, this can become more than enough.

Summary:
The disciples faced a real need that exceeded their resources: a hungry crowd, a desolate place, a late hour, and only five loaves and two fish. Their instinct was to send the need away or solve it through human systems. But Jesus placed them face-to-face with what they could not do without Him.

Human systems ask, “Do we have enough?”
Faith asks, “Is Jesus here?”

II. Jesus Calls Us to Bring Him What Is Not Enough
Matthew 14:18 - Bring them here to me.
Suffering touches both the faithful and the worldly. Blessing touches both the faithful and the worldly. But the worldly spend their lives trying to keep what time, death, and judgment will eventually take from them.

The faithful surrender what they have to Christ and receive what cannot be lost, stolen, corrupted, or taken by death.

John 6 begins with a large crowd following Jesus. They are searching for answers because Jesus has done what no human system could do. Some are sick. Some brought people they love who are sick. Some have already heard the usual answers: try harder, wait longer, pay more, go somewhere else, learn to live with it. But then they see Jesus heal, restore, and show mercy to people who had run out of options. So they follow Him, because in Jesus, they are seeing that suffering may not have the final word.

Matthew tells us Jesus saw the crowd and had compassion on them.

Mark tells us Jesus saw them as sheep without a shepherd.

The disciples look at the crowd and immediately feel insufficient. They do not have enough money, enough bread, or enough ability to handle what Jesus is asking.

But Jesus is not looking at the crowd through their limitation. He has compassion on them. He sees their hunger, but He also sees the sickness, weariness, confusion, and deeper need underneath it all.

Bread matters, and Jesus is going to feed them. But bread is not the final answer. They need the One who gives life. Jesus knows that what they need most is not somewhere in the villages. It is standing right in front of them.

Matthew 14:15 - “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.”

On the surface, their answer makes sense. The disciples are doing what humans do when the need feels too large. They are measuring the crowd by their own inadequacy. The day is late, the people are hungry, and their resources are small. They reach the only conclusion human strength can reach: We do not have what this situation requires.

The problem is not that they are far from Jesus. It is that the disciples spend every day with Jesus they have knowledge of all that He has done, and yet they still do not understand who He is.

So they start looking for answers in the same places everybody else looks. But apart from Jesus, every answer eventually comes up empty.

Human systems can offer relief for a moment, but they cannot redeem what suffering has broken.

If the disciples understood who was standing beside them, they would know the answer was not somewhere else. Jesus is the ultimate bread supplier, the bottomless bank account, and the conqueror of suffering.

Human systems teach us to think in only two categories: either we are strong enough to handle it ourselves, or it cannot be done. But God teaches us something different. Apart from Me, everything is impossible.

The world says, Be self-sufficient, or give up. Faith says, Be God-dependent, because what He calls us to do cannot be done without Him.

Jesus says, “Abide in Me.”

When we feel insufficient, like the disciples, we are thinking from a worldly perspective, reaching for practical answers that sound wise, but leave Jesus out of the solution.

We can have solutions that may sound reasonable, and may even contain some truth. But it still misses the point if it keeps us from bringing the need to Jesus.

Stewardship, planning, and being responsible are all good, Godly characteristics. But none of those can become a substitute for dependence on what only God can supply.

Human systems teach us self-sufficiency: either we can handle it ourselves, or it cannot be done.

Jesus teaches dependence: apart from Me, you can do nothing, but with Me, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.

Mark 6:37 - “You give them something to eat.”
The disciples' answer exposes their point of view. Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?

They immediately translate Jesus' command into human economic terms, counting bread, money, time, and people.

John says Jesus already knew what He was going to do. That matters because everybody else is trying to solve the problem from the ground up. Jesus already knows what He is about to do with what they think is not enough.

Philip answered with correct math, but his theology was too small.  He calculated the need without accounting for the presence of Christ.

That is what suffering often exposes in us. When something feels too big for us, we start counting. How much do we have? Who can help? What will this cost? Can we actually do this?

Those are not bad questions. But those questions cannot become lord.
The problem comes when we stop at what we can count and never bring it to Christ.
At that point, faith becomes management, and dependence gets replaced by calculation.

John 6:9 - There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?

Human systems teach us to trust what can be counted, managed, predicted, funded, and controlled. So when what we have looks small, we assume it is useless. But Jesus does not need us to possess enough before we obey. He calls us to bring what we have to Him.
The miracle did not begin with abundance in human hands. It began with surrendering all they had. Five loaves, two fish, and a boy willing to give all he had.

Matthew 17:20 - If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed… nothing will be impossible for you.

This is placing what we have in the hands of Jesus and knowing He can supply all of our needs.

Philippians 4:19 - And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Trust that Christ is Lord over what we cannot multiply. This miracle is not about the food, it is the suffering people behind the need for food. It is about Jesus being the answer to their suffering.

Faith does not say, I have enough strength. Faith says, Lord, I do not have enough, but I give You what I have.

Faith simply refuses to make limitation lord.

Jesus says in Matthew 14:18, Bring them here to me. The disciples wanted to move the need away from Jesus. Jesus moved the need closer to Himself.

Summary:
Jesus did not ask the disciples to possess enough before they obeyed. He asked them to bring what they had. The miracle began not with abundance, but with surrender.
Faith does not say, “I have enough strength.”
Faith says, “Lord, I do not have enough, but I give You what I have.”

III. God Multiplies What Is Surrendered for His Kingdom
Genesis 37-50 - Joseph was faithful in places that looked nothing like promotion. Joseph’s life did not look blessed from the outside. But Joseph did not wait until he had a platform to become faithful. He was faithful in the little, in the hidden, in the painful, and in the unjust.
Joseph consistently gave God all he had.

David was not a perfect man by all his actions but he was a faithful man.

1 Samuel 17:34–37 - David convinces King Saul he can defeat Goliath by recounting how God strengthened him to kill lions and bears to protect his sheep, asserting that the same God will deliver him from the Philistine.

When a giant came before David’s kingdom he was willing to risk everything, even the kingdom trusting God would prevail as he had done in the little things.
Putting what little we have in His hands and being faithful in giving to God.
Human systems ask, Is it enough?  Faith asks, Has God asked me to surrender it?
Human systems ask, What will I lose or what will I gain? Faith asks, What can God do with what I place in His hands?
Human systems say, Protect yourself. Faith says, Trust the Lord.
Human systems count scarcity. Faith counts God’s abundant presence.

The loaves and fish are not a principle for getting whatever you want from God. That is not faith. That is using spiritual language to prioritize self-rule, building one’s own kingdom and God being the wishing well.

Summary:
The loaves and fish are not a formula for getting whatever we want from God. They are a picture of surrender. God multiplies obedience, faithfulness, stewardship, and sacrifice when they are placed under the authority of Christ.
God’s multiplication is not for our self-made kingdom.
God multiplies what is surrendered for His kingdom.

IV. Consumer Faith Wants Bread Without Surrender
John 6:15 - the crowd wanted to use Jesus’ power for their version of kingdom. But Jesus refused to let His power be hijacked by human ambition.

God’s multiplication is not for our self-made kingdom. God’s multiplication serves His kingdom.

The issue is what has God placed in my hands that must be surrendered for what He wants?

In suffering, faith does not say, Lord, use Your power to protect my plan. Faith says, Lord, bring my life under Your plan.

Faith does not say, multiply my comfort. Faith says, Make me faithful in Your mission.
Faith does not say, give me enough to avoid dependence. Faith says, teach me to depend on You for what You have called me to do.

This is why Jesus moves from multiplying bread to declaring, “I am the Bread of Life.”

He refuses to let the miracle become a consumer transaction. The miracle was never meant to make people chase bread. The miracle was meant to make people see the power of God in His Son.

After Jesus feeds the five thousand, the people find Him on the other side of the sea. At first glance that sounds like faith. But Jesus exposes their motive.

John 6:26 - the people wanted bread from His hands, but they did not want to surrender under His authority.

They wanted Jesus’ provision or worldly sufficiency, but they did not want a personal relationship with Jesus as Lord of their lives.

The sign was supposed to point them to Christ as the Bread of Life.

That is still one of the dangers in suffering. Pain can drive us to God in faith, but it can also expose that we only want God to maintain the life we already built through striving.
Selfishness wants relief without the relationship, and provision without submission of control of one’s life.

We want God to supply our kingdom at the expense of His and everyone else’s.

In Acts 4, the early church is living in Spirit-filled generosity. Believers are giving freely so there is not a needy person among them. Barnabas sells a field and lays the money at the apostles’ feet.

Then in Acts 5 Ananias and Sapphira sell property and bring money. They appear to be generous. But they keep back part of the proceeds while pretending to give it all.
 Peter says in Acts 5:4, You have not lied to man but to God.
The problem was not that they failed to give everything. The sin was deception. The sin of Satan, they wanted the reputation of sacrifice without the reality of surrender. They wanted the appearance of kingdom contribution while secretly preserving control over their own kingdom.

That is the human system hiding inside religious activity. It still gives, but it gives for image. It still follows, but it follows for selfish benefit.  It still speaks spiritual language, but it is protecting self-rule underneath.

John 6 and Acts 5 are not identical situations, but they reveal the same kind of danger. The crowd in John 6 wanted to receive from Jesus without truly coming under Jesus’ authority.  Ananias and Sapphira wanted to appear surrendered to the Spirit while still managing the outcome for themselves.

Both are forms of false participation. One says, “Feed me, but do not rule me.” The other says, “Honor me, but do not expose me.”

We all come from a place of lack, every one of us. Even if human systems tell us differently.

Mark 10:17–22 - The rich man had much, but he lacked eternal life. He had possessions, morality, status, and religious concern, but Jesus said, “You lack one thing.” He had what the world system could provide, but he was missing what only Christ could give.
The man was broke and alone and didn’t realize it due to deception of the world system.

Summary:
The crowd wanted Jesus’ provision without His rule. Ananias and Sapphira wanted the appearance of surrender without the reality of surrender. Both reveal the danger of trying to use God’s power to preserve our own agenda.
False faith says, “Feed me, but do not rule me.”
Kingdom faith says, “Lord, bring my life under Your authority.”

V. Faithful Suffering Produces What Human Systems Cannot
Suffering happens on both sides, the worldly system and God’s faithful. The faithful suffer, and the worldly suffer.
The difference is what suffering produces in the hands of God.
Worldly suffering often produces fear, bitterness, control, self-protection, blame, appetite, deception, anxiety, worry, and hardness of heart.
Faithful suffering becomes a place where God supplies what the human system cannot produce.
God supplies presence, endurance, wisdom, provision, understanding, purpose, fruit, and hope.
Faith does not mean I never walk through the valley. Faith means the Shepherd is with me there.

Psalm 23:4 – does not say, “You will never walk through the valley of the shadow of death.” It says, “I will fear no evil, for you are with me.
That is the blessing through suffering. Not escape, but the presence of Jesus in relationship forever.

Summary:
Faith does not remove all suffering. The faithful and the worldly both suffer. The difference is what suffering produces in the hands of God. Worldly suffering produces fear, control, bitterness, and self-protection. Faithful suffering becomes a place where God supplies presence, endurance, wisdom, provision, purpose, fruit, and hope.
Faith does not mean we never walk through the valley.
Faith means the Shepherd is with us there.

VI. True Understanding Becomes Obedient Faith
Hosea 4:6 - “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
But knowledge there does not mean they had no religious information. The problem was not ignorance.

They had seen Jesus heal, restore, and do what no human system could do. The problem was that what they knew about Jesus had not course corrected their ambition for kingdom.
That is the difference between information and understanding. Understanding is knowledge that has taken root in a person's life.

Proverbs 4:7 - “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.”

Insight means understanding. It is the ability to see what something means, where it leads, and how to live in light of it.

John 17:3 - “This is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

Knowing God means more than knowing facts about God. It means we trust Him, follow Him, and let His truth shape how we live. That is the kind of knowledge that leads to life. That is worship.

James 1:22 - But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

Summary:
The crowd had knowledge of Jesus’ power, but they did not understand the sign. The bread was meant to point them to Christ, the Bread of Life. Biblical knowledge is not merely information; it is truth received, understood, trusted, and obeyed.
Understanding is knowledge in action.
To know the truth and not live it is to reject it.

VII. Vision 2030 Application: Put the Loaves and Fish in Jesus’ Hands
For Vision 2030, as a church, we have to put our loaves and fish in the hands of Jesus.
Our responsibility is not to make it happen in our own strength. Our responsibility is to surrender what He has already placed in our hands and watch in expectation what He does with it for His kingdom.

We put our people, our gifts, our resources, our land, our buildings, our prayers, our families, our time, our testimony, our suffering, our blessing, and our future in the hands of Jesus. We surrender it all to Him.

The human system says: keep what you have because it is not enough.
Faith says: give what you have to Jesus because He is more than enough.

Vision 2030 is not us saying: look what we can do. It is us saying, Lord, this is the vision You gave us. Here are the loaves and fish. Take what we have, multiply what we cannot, and use this church to feed people with the hope of Christ in Spotsylvania, in Virginia, in the U.S.A, and in the world.

We have seen God work. God has carried us through deafness, disease, sickness, pain, injuries, mental anguish, poverty, hunger, conflict, power struggles, money issues, and more than we can name.

He has preserved us because He wants to use us as His image bearers, His royal priesthood, His sons and daughters, in relationship with Him, to build His kingdom right here in Virginia for the glory of God.

Bring Him the little you have, and trust Him with what only He can do.

Summary:
As a church, Vision 2030 is not about proving what we can do. It is about surrendering what God has placed in our hands: our people, gifts, land, buildings, prayers, families, testimony, suffering, blessing, and future.

The human system says, “Keep what you have because it is not enough.”
Faith says, “Give what you have to Jesus because He is more than enough.”

Closing
Suffering is real, but it is not sovereign. Human systems are limited, but Christ is not. Faith brings the need, the lack, the grief, the resources, and the future to Jesus—and trusts Him to multiply what we cannot.

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Milton Parrish

Call to Worship                                                                              ~ Worship Team
      ~ “Lead On Good Shepherd”
      ~ “Made For More”
      ~ “Testimony”                              

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Testimony                                                                                       ~ Doni O’Connor

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Jeremy Phillips
     ~  God and Suffering Sermon 3: Loaves, Fish, and Faith:
         Trusting Christ When Human  Systems Are Not Enough

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan
     ~   “I Speak Jesus”  

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White 

PARENT DISCIPLESHIP GUIDE
God and Suffering
Week 2: What Is God Doing When Life Hurts?

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
26 April 2026

Purpose for Parents: Children notice pain, sadness, fear, sickness, and disappointment. They need biblical truth explained in words they can understand.

This guide teaches children:

• God is near when life hurts
• God hears our prayers
• Jesus Christ understands pain
• God helps us help others
• One day, God will make everything right

Main Truth for Kids: When life hurts, God does not leave His people.

Day 1 — God Is Near When We Are Sad

Bible Verse: Psalm 34:18 - “The Lord is close to people with broken hearts. He saves those who feel crushed inside.”

Teach Your Child: When we feel sad or hurt, God is not far away. He is close, and He cares.
Ask:

• Have you ever felt sad?
• How does it help to know God is near?

Activity: Put your hand on your heart and say: God is near me.

Prayer: God, thank You for being close when I am sad. Amen.

Day 2 — God Hears Our Prayers

Bible Verse: Philippians 4:6 - Do not worry about anything. Pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him.

Teach Your Child: You can talk to God anytime about anything.
Ask:

• What do you want to tell God today?
• When can we pray?

Activity: Start a prayer jar and place prayer requests inside.

Prayer: God, thank You for hearing me when I pray. Amen.

Day 3 — Jesus Understands Pain

Bible Verse: John 11:35 - Jesus Christ cried.

Teach Your Child: Jesus cried when others were hurting. He understands sadness.
Ask:

• Why do people cry?
• How does it help to know Jesus understands?

Activity: Draw a picture of Jesus comforting someone sad.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for caring when I hurt. Amen.

Day 4 — God Can Bring Good From Hard Things

Bible Verse: Romans 8:28 -  We know that God works all things together for good for those who love Him.

Teach Your Child: Hard things are real, but God can still bring good from them.
Ask:

• Can God help us in hard times?
• What good can we do today?

Activity: Describe one thing you can do for a person having a hard day. Describe what you would like done for you when you are having a hard day.

Prayer: God, help me trust You in hard times. Amen.

Day 5 — God Gives Us Helpers

Bible Verse: Galatians 6:2 - Help carry each other’s troubles.

Teach Your Child: God often helps people through family, friends, teachers, and church.
Ask:

• Who helps you when life is hard?
• How can we thank them?

Activity: Make a list of helpers and pray for them.

Prayer: God, thank You for people who help me. Amen.

Day 6 — We Can Help Others Hurt Less

Bible Verse: Ephesians 4:32 - Be kind to one another. Be caring and forgiving.

Teach Your Child: When others hurt, we can show kindness and love.
Ask:

• How can kids help others?
• What kind thing can we do today?

Activity: Make a card and pray for someone hurting.

Prayer: God, help me be kind today. Amen.

Day 7 — One Day God Fixes Everything

Bible Verse: Revelation 21:4 - He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or pain or crying.

Teach Your Child: Because of Jesus Christ, sadness will not last forever. God will make everything new.
Ask:

• What do you think heaven will be like?
• How does this give us hope?

Activity: Draw a happy world with no tears and no pain. Describe what you think Heaven is like.

Prayer: God, thank You that one day You will make everything right. Amen.

Family Discussion Questions

1. What should we remember when life hurts?
2. How do we know God is near?
3. Why should we pray?
4. How does Jesus understand sadness?
5. How can we help hurting people?
6. Why do Christians have hope?

Parent Help Section:
If Your Child Asks “Why Did God Let This Happen?”
Say: I do not know every reason, but I know God is good, God loves us, and God stays with us when life is hard.

If Your Child Feels Afraid…
Repeat together:
God is with me
God hears me
Jesus loves me
I am not alone

Weekly Family Challenge:
Choose one act of kindness:

• visit someone sad
• make a card
• help a neighbor
• pray for someone daily
• encourage a friend

 
Closing Blessing:




© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. All Rights Reserved.
Published in partnership with Cross+Walk Ministries and Good Hope Baptist Church.
No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without prior written permission from the author, except for brief quotations used in reviews, teaching, or ministry settings with proper attribution.
Scripture quotations adapted for children’s discipleship and educational use.
For ministry resources, teaching materials, or speaking inquiries, contact Cross+Walk Ministries.

 ADULT DEVOTIONAL COMPANION
God and Suffering
 Week 2: What Is God Doing in Suffering Right Now?

Senior Pastor Dr. G. Ryan Perry PhD.
Good Hope Baptist Church
26 April 2026

Theme Verse:
For those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Introduction
Pain often asks questions before faith has time to answer.

Where is God?
Why has He not stopped this?
Does He care?
Is this punishment?
Has He abandoned me?

Scripture never mocks those questions. The Bible is full of lament, tears, confusion, and prayers cried from dark places. Yet Scripture also refuses the lie that suffering means God is absent.

Week 1 taught us that suffering was never part of God’s original creation. God made order, goodness, life, and flourishing. Suffering entered through rebellion, sin, death, and a fractured creation. Now Week 2 asks the next vital question:

What is God doing right now while suffering still exists?

The biblical answer is clear: God is present, restraining evil, sustaining His people, forming holiness, extending mercy, and moving history toward restoration.

Day 1 — God Is Near in Pain
Scripture Reading: Psalm 34:18 - The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

Reflection: Pain often makes God feel distant. Yet feelings are not the final authority. Scripture says God is near. In Hebrew thought, nearness is not mere awareness. It means covenant presence, active involvement, and relational closeness. God does not stand far away studying your pain. He draws near within it. He may not always remove pain immediately, but He never abandons His people in it.

Application: Ask yourself honestly: Have I interpreted my pain more than I have trusted God’s promises?

Today replace “God left me” with “God is near me.”

Prayer: Father, when suffering clouds my vision, remind me that Your presence is closer than my fear. Amen.

Day 2 — Permission Is Not Approval

Scripture Reading: Job 1:12

Reflection: Many struggle here: If God allowed something, does that mean He wanted it? Scripture shows a distinction. God governs all things, yet He is not the author of evil. He may permit what He does not approve and overrule what He hates for higher purposes. Job suffered deeply, yet Satan could move only within the boundaries God established. Evil is real, but not autonomous. Darkness is active, but never sovereign. This means your suffering may be painful, but it is never outside God’s rule.

Application: Write this sentence somewhere visible: What hurts me is not above God.

Prayer: Lord, help me trust that even what I do not understand is still beneath Your authority. Amen.

Day 3 — God Works in What He Did Not Create

Scripture Reading: Genesis 50:20 - You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.

Reflection: Joseph did not call betrayal good. He called betrayal evil. Yet he also saw God’s hand above human evil. That is biblical maturity: refusing to rename evil while also refusing to deny God’s sovereignty. Not all things are good.  Cancer is not good.  Abuse is not good.  Betrayal is not good.  Death is not good. Yet God can work in all things for good. God does not need evil to be good. He is so good He can redeem what evil intended.

Application: Think of one painful chapter in your life. Ask: How has God sustained me, taught me, humbled me, redirected me, or used this season?

Prayer: Redeeming God, help me see that evil never gets the last word when You are present. Amen.

Day 4 — God Forms Strength Through Trials

Scripture Reading: James 1:2–4; Romans 5:3–5

Reflection: Trials do not automatically produce growth. Many become bitter, hardened, or hopeless. Yet surrendered suffering can become fertile ground for maturity.
Scripture says suffering can produce:

• endurance
• tested character
• deeper hope
• greater dependence
• spiritual steadiness

This does not mean pain is good in itself. It means God can cultivate life in ruined soil.

Application: Ask:

• What is this season trying to take from me?
•  What might God be trying to grow in me?

Prayer: Lord, if this trial cannot be removed yet, let it at least not be wasted. Produce Christlike strength in me. Amen.

Day 5 — Christ Entered Suffering

Scripture Reading: John 14:1, 27; Hebrews 4:15

Reflection: God did not answer suffering with distance. He answered it by entering it. Jesus knew betrayal, grief, rejection, injustice, pain, loneliness, and death. He is not a detached Savior giving advice from safety. He is the crucified and risen Lord who stepped into human agony. That means when believers suffer, they suffer before One who understands.
Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled.” He did not deny trouble. He denied trouble the right to reign in the heart.

Application: When pain rises today, say aloud: Jesus understands suffering, and Jesus is with me now.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for entering suffering and becoming a merciful High Priest for wounded people like me. Amen.

Day 6 — The Spirit Sustains Me Now

Scripture Reading: John 14:16; Romans 8:26

Reflection: The Christian life is not surviving pain through self-strength. Jesus promised “another Helper,” the Holy Spirit. Romans says the Spirit helps us in weakness. Sometimes the Spirit strengthens us.  Sometimes, He comforts us.  Sometimes, He convicts us.  Sometimes, He gives words when we have none.
 Sometimes, He simply keeps us from collapsing. You are not carrying suffering alone.

Application: Pause for two minutes in silence today and pray: Holy Spirit, help me in my weakness.

Prayer: Spirit of God, sustain what is tired, strengthen what is weak, and steady what is shaken. Amen.

Day 7 — Glory Is Coming

Scripture Reading: Romans 8:18; Revelation 21:4

Reflection: Christian hope is not a denial of pain. It is certainty that pain is temporary. Paul compares present suffering with coming glory and says they are not worth comparing. That is not because suffering is small, but because glory is immense.
Revelation promises:

• tears removed
• death ended
• mourning ended
• pain ended
• God present forever

The resurrection of Jesus Christ means suffering is real, but never ultimate.
Application: Finish this sentence in your journal: This pain is present, but it is not permanent because…

Prayer: Father, lift my eyes beyond this moment. Teach me to live with resurrection hope. Amen.
 
Weekly Summary: What is God doing in suffering right now?

• He is near to the brokenhearted.
• He is limiting evil.
• He is working redemption.
• He is forming endurance.
• He is sustaining by the Spirit.
• He is preparing glory.
• He is restoring all things through Jesus Christ.

Family / Group Discussion Questions

1. Which truth from this week challenged you the most?
2. Where have you mistaken pain for God’s absence?
3. How have you seen God redeem hard seasons before?
4. What does resurrection hope change about present suffering?

Closing Encouragement
© 2026 Dr. G. Ryan Perry, PhD. All Rights Reserved.
Published in partnership with Cross+Walk Ministries and Good Hope Baptist Church.
No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without prior written permission from the author, except for brief quotations used in reviews, teaching, or ministry settings with proper attribution.
For ministry resources, teaching materials, or speaking inquiries, contact Cross+Walk Ministries.

Suffering Series Sermon 2: What is God doing in suffering right now?

Pastor Ryan Perry
Good Hope Baptist Church
26 April 2026

Key Verses:
Psalm 115:3; Deuteronomy 32:4; Genesis 1:26; Genesis 9:6; James 3:9; Genesis 3:5; Romans 1; Romans 6:16; John 8:44; John 10:10; Colossians 1:15; Philippians 2; Romans 8:29; Colossians 3:10; Genesis 50:20; Acts 2:23; Romans 8:28; Romans 5:3–4; James 1:3; John 14:1; John 14:16; John 14:27; John 15:1–2; John 15:4–5; John 15:8; John 15:18; Romans 8:18; Revelation 21:4; Revelation 22:3–5; Ephesians 1; Psalm 34:18

I. God Is Sovereign and Perfectly Just
Psalm 115:3 –  God rules over all things—nothing exists outside His authority.
That means nothing exists outside his rule. Yet sovereignty must always be joined to character.

Deuteronomy 32:4 – His rule is never unjust—His ways are always justice (mišpāṭ).
The Hebrew word for justice is mišpāṭ, meaning righteous judgment, right order, things set rightly according to truth. God never rules crookedly. He never governs unjustly. He never acts with evil motives.

Today we ask the question: If suffering is happening right now, what is God doing?
Many assume suffering means: God is absent, or God is powerless, or God is just cruel.
Scripture says none of those are true. Instead, Scripture repeatedly illustrates that God is present. God is ruling, and God is restoring.

Today, we will walk through five biblical movements. To understand suffering, we must begin before suffering existed.

II. Humanity Was Created as God’s Image Bearers
Genesis 1:26 – Humanity was made in God’s image (ṣelem / eikōn) to reflect and represent Him.

The Hebrew word for image is ṣelem. It often refers to an image, representation, or visible figure. The Greek Old Testament, the Septuagint (LXX), translates it as eikōn, the same word later used of Christ in the New Testament.
Plainly spoken, this is what the Bible means when it says humanity was made in the image of God.

God is invisible, yet he chose human beings to visibly reflect his rule, goodness, wisdom, and care inside creation. That does not mean we are gods, equal to God, or worthy of worship. It means we were given a purpose and a calling, unlike the rest of creation.

So what is humanity? Humanity is the part of creation uniquely made to know God, love God, reflect God, and represent God on the earth.

Why were we created? We were created to live in relationship with God, live under his good authority, care for the world he made, love one another, and show what God is like through the way we live.

That is what it means to be image bearers of God.

We were made with purpose, not by accident. We were made to belong to God; we were made to reflect his goodness; we were made to carry responsibility; we were made to bring order, not chaos; we were made to worship the Creator, not created things; we were made to rule under God, not replace God. Humanity was meant to be creation’s royal servant race under the true King.

To an ancient Hebrew, worship meant rightly ordering your whole life under the God who made you. It was not mainly about a music set. It was about allegiance, trust, obedience, love, gratitude, and living in covenant relationship with Yahweh.

Worship meant recognizing who is truly God, knowing we are not God, receiving life as a gift, trusting God’s wisdom above our own, obeying God’s guidance, giving thanks for the provision God provides, structuring life around God’s presence, and refusing rival gods and false masters.

So when the Bible says humanity was made to worship the Creator, it means humans were made to live with God at the center of everything.
In Modern Language, we were made to have the right “center of gravity.” Everyone organizes life around something. Today, people may center life around: money, success, pleasure, politics, social media image, relationships, self-expression, technology, and or control.

The Bible says all of those make terrible gods. A Hebrew would say worship is what you build your life around.

If an ambassador ignores the king, serves another nation, and makes up his own laws, he has failed his purpose.

That is idolatry. Meaning, idolatry is not only bowing before a statue. At its deepest level, idolatry is giving ultimate loyalty, trust, obedience, and identity to something other than the true King.

It is the rejection of rightful rule and the transfer of allegiance to a false master.
So, in the image-bearer/ambassador picture, idolatry is: serving another throne, representing another kingdom, living by another authority, taking guidance from another source, and seeking life from what cannot give life.

Biblically, idolatry happens whenever creation takes the place of the Creator.
That can be a carved image, but it can also be: money as savior, power as security, pleasure as purpose, self as god, culture as truth, success as identity, or politics as hope.
So the deeper definition is: Idolatry is misdirected worship that reshapes a person away from God’s design.

If we faithfully represent the king/God, we fulfill our role and our purpose for existing.
That is worship. So a Hebrew would hear: You were made to represent Yahweh by living under Yahweh.

This is why idolatry is such a serious sin in Scripture. Humans were made to rule creation under God, not bow down to creation in place of God. When image bearers worship idols, everything is reversed. The steward kneels before the object he was meant to govern. The living person bows before a dead thing. The one made to reflect God begins reflecting what is beneath him instead.

That is why Psalms 115 says those who make idols become like them. Worship shapes the worshiper.

III. Sin Distorted the Image and Introduced Disorder
Sin did not erase the image of God in humanity, but it distorted it. People still possess dignity, value, and responsibility, yet instead of reflecting God clearly, humanity often reflects pride, selfishness, violence, lies, and rebellion.

That is why Jesus Christ is so important.

Colossians 1:15 says Christ is the image of the invisible God. He is humanity as humanity was meant to be. Where Adam failed, Christ obeyed. Where humanity bowed wrongly, Christ worshiped rightly. Where humanity ruled selfishly, Christ ruled through service and love.

Through salvation (God rescuing people from what is destroying them and restoring them to right life under him), therefore God is restoring broken image-bearers into the likeness of His Son, Jesus.

The word likeness is demût, meaning resemblance, correspondence, analogy.
Together with image-bearers, they teach this: Humanity was created to visibly represent the invisible God within creation. Not as little gods. Not as equals with God. But as creatures commissioned to reflect him.

Back to Scripture, the very next line in Genesis 1:26 states ...and let them have dominion.
The Hebrew word is rādâ, meaning to rule, govern, exercise authority. Notice the order. Image first. Rule second. Meaning our authority was never autonomous. It was a representative authority, so being an ambassador.

Genesis 2 places humanity in the Garden of Eden.
When God first made humanity, he did not create us for burnout, anxiety, violence, confusion, broken relationships, or meaningless work. He created people for a healthy, purposeful life.

The Garden of Eden represents the world as it was meant to be: close to God, safe, meaningful, abundant, peaceful, ordered, and full of life.

When the Bible says Adam was placed there “to work it and keep it,” it means people were created to contribute, build, care, protect, and make good things, things that were already created and planted to flourish.

So from the very beginning, humanity’s purpose was not to sit around doing nothing, nor to dominate everything selfishly. Humanity was created to help the world flourish under God’s rule

What This Means About Suffering: Suffering feels wrong to use because it is wrong. Deep down, people know pain, injustice, death, betrayal, and chaos are not how life should be.

That instinct exists because suffering was not in the original design.

Then Genesis 3 begins with a question: Did God actually say?

That matters because the first attack was not physical. The serpent did not begin by hurting anyone. He began by making people doubt God’s word.

The Israelites would understand something very important here: When trust in God’s voice is broken, everything else begins to break after it.

The serpent’s message was simple: God is holding something back from you, God cannot be fully trusted, you should decide good and evil for yourself, and you do not need to remain under God’s authority.

Then he says: You will be like God.

The irony is that humanity was already made in God’s image. They already had honor, purpose, dignity, and authority under God. The temptation was to seize independently what had already been given relationally.

That is still how sin works. People often reach the wrong way for what God made them for, rightly.

They seek identity without God, wisdom without God, power without God, freedom without God, blessing without obedience, and life without the giver of life.

Humanity chose autonomy over trust.

That means they chose self-rule instead of living under God’s wisdom. The result was distortion. What had been ordered became disordered.

Fellowship with God turned into hiding from God, truth became blame and excuses.
Meaningful work became a painful struggle against creation itself, and life became touched by death.

The curse in Genesis is the undoing of blessing. It is creation no longer functioning as smoothly as it was meant to under God’s order.

Was the image of God lost? No. The Israelites would understand that humanity still remained human and still accountable to God.

Genesis 9:6 – still speaks of humanity made in God’s image.
James 3:9 – says humans are still made in God’s likeness.
So the dignity remained, but the reflection was damaged.

Think of a mirror cracked but still showing an image. That is why people can do both great good and terrible evil.

We can build hospitals or battlefields, heal wounds or cause them, love faithfully or betray deeply, create beauty or unleash destruction.

The image remains. The alignment is broken.

God made creatures to live under his wisdom. The serpent embraced deception and imagined self-exaltation apart from God. Once corrupted, he spread the same lie to others.

That is how evil advances: truth is abandoned, pride rises, and deception presents rebellion as freedom.

Why this matters: the serpent could not create anything good. He could only twist what God made good.

That is always the nature of evil. Evil does not create life. It corrupts life. It does not create truth. It twists the truth. It does not create beauty. It distorts beauty.

Scripture teaches a deep principle: We become shaped by what rules us.
Romans 6:16 – You are slaves of the one whom you obey.

The Greek word is doulos, bondservant, one under mastery. Everyone serves some lord.

John 8:44 – Jesus says: You are of your father the devil.
He does not mean created by Satan. He means morally aligned with his desires.

Romans 1 says humanity exchanged the glory of God for images.

The Greek word for exchanged is allassō, to trade one thing for another.
Humanity traded worship of the Creator for created things. Then everything bends out of shape. False worship creates false humanity. That is why suffering spreads, greed devours, lust uses, pride crushes, hatred destroys, and deceit wounds.

IV. Two Kingdoms: Destruction vs. Life
John 10:10 – The enemy’s purpose: steal, kill, destroy.
But Jesus says I came that they may have life. Life is zōē, not mere breathing, but fullness of life as God intends.

This dichotomy illustrates two kingdoms, two directions, and two outcomes. God/Jesus has our best interests at heart; Satan, on the other hand, wants to sell it and destroy us in the process.

V. God Is Restoring His Image Through Christ
God did not abandon his image bearers. He entered the chaotic world that was hostile towards Him.

Colossians 1:15 – Jesus is the perfect image (eikōn) of God.
Jesus is the perfect visible revelation of the invisible God. Where Adam failed, Christ obeyed. Where humanity grasped, Christ humbled Himself.

Philippians 2 – Christ emptied himself and took the form of a servant.
That is true kingship. That is being an ambassador of God. That is worship.

Romans 8:29 – To be conformed to the image of his Son.

Conformed is symmorphos, shaped into the same form.
God is reshaping broken humanity into Christlike humanity, meaning true worshippers, image-bearers/ambassadors of the Most High God.

Colossians 3:10 – The new self… being renewed.

VI. God Works Through Suffering for Redemption and Formation
We have already established that suffering entered through the fall and through a creation now groaning under curse. We have already shown that pain was not the original design of Eden. Humanity was created for communion with God, meaningful work, ordered flourishing, and life under his reign. So let us move deeper now.

The question is no longer merely, “Where did suffering come from?” The question is, “What is God doing when suffering comes?”

Scripture does not teach that God stands distant, helpless, or absent. It also does not teach that God delights in pain for its own sake. It teaches that God is sovereign, present, wise, and able to bring holy purpose into what a broken world meant for harm.

Genesis 50:20 – Joseph said to the brothers who betrayed him, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”

Notice the text carefully. Their act was evil. God did not rename evil as good. God overruled evil for good. Human sin was real. Divine sovereignty was greater.
That same pattern reaches its highest point at the cross.

Acts 2:23 – Peter declared of Jesus Christ, This Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.

Lawless men acted wickedly. God accomplished redemption through the very event they meant for destruction.
This means the people of God never say evil is good. We say God is greater than evil.

Romans 8:28 – That is why Romans declares, For those who love God all things work together for good.
It does not say all things are good. It says God works in all things for good.                                                                           
Betrayal is not good. Disease is not good. Injustice is not good. Death is not good. Yet none of them are beyond God’s authority to redeem, transform, and overrule.

What good does God bring? Scripture gives substance, not clichés.
Romans 5:3–4 – Suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.

James 1:3 – The testing of your faith produces steadfastness.
Endurance means weight that once crushed you no longer rules you. Character means tested integrity instead of shallow religion. Hope means confidence in God that survives dark seasons.

John 14 and 15 take us even deeper, because Jesus does not explain suffering merely as something to endure. He explains it through relationship with him, the presence of the Spirit, and fruitfulness under pressure.

Jesus speaks these words on the night before the cross. He is preparing his disciples for grief, confusion, fear, and persecution. He knows suffering is coming, yet his message is not panic. His message is trust.

John 14:1 – He says, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me”
Christ does not deny pain. He commands that pain not become master of the heart.

John 14:27 – He says again, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid”
The world’s peace depends on circumstances being stable. Christ’s peace depends on his presence being stable. One disappears when life shakes. The other can remain while life shakes.

John 14:16 – Then Jesus gives this promise: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever”
In suffering, believers are not abandoned to private strength. The Holy Spirit is present as Helper, Comforter, and Advocate.

This means suffering for the Christian is never solitary suffering.

John 15:1–2 – Then Jesus says, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser… every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit”

Pruning is not punishment of a dead branch. Pruning is care for a living branch. The branch is already connected. The cut is not to destroy life, but to increase life.

Some pain in the believer’s life is not wrath. Some pain is the painful removal of what hinders fruitfulness. God may cut pride, false dependence, shallow loves, wasted habits, divided loyalties, hidden idols, or self-trust. The cut hurts, but the purpose is fruit.

John 15:4–5 – Jesus says, “Abide in me, and I in you… apart from me you can do nothing”

Many ask, “How do I survive suffering?” Jesus first asks, “Will you remain in me during suffering?” Abiding means continuing in prayer, obedience, trust, worship, and fellowship when emotions are unstable.

John 15:18 – Jesus also says, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you”

Some suffering comes not from failure, but from faithfulness. Truth has a cost in a false age. Holiness has a cost in a corrupt age. Loyalty to Christ has a cost in a rebellious age.
Yet even there suffering is not wasted.

John 15:8 – Jesus says, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit”
Fruit means love when wronged. Peace when shaken. Obedience when costly. Faith when confused. Witness when opposed. Perseverance when weary.

God is not the author of the ashes. God is the redeemer of ashes. What enters your life through a fallen world does not enter beyond the reach of a sovereign God.

The resurrection proves it. Death took Christ into the tomb. God raised him in glory. If God can turn a cross into salvation and a tomb into victory, then he can take what is wounding you now and make it serve a higher end.

Suffering may be real, but it is not ultimate. Pain may be present, but it is not sovereign. God alone is sovereign.

• Christ gives peace, presence, and purpose in suffering.
• The Spirit is our Helper.
• Pruning produces fruit.
• Abiding sustains life.
• Some suffering comes through faithfulness.

VII. God Is Moving History Toward Final Restoration
The present world is not the final world.

Romans 8:18 – he sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory to be revealed.

Glory is doxa, weight, splendor, radiant worth.
Creation waits for restored humanity.

Revelation 22:3–5 – No longer will there be anything accursed… they will see his face… and they will reign forever and ever.

Do you hear Genesis being healed? Curse removed, presence restored, servants serving, and reign restored.

His name will be on their foreheads. That means ownership, identity, and belonging.
The beast marks counterfeit humanity. God seals redeemed humanity.

Ephesians 1 – believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit.
The Spirit is the mark of belonging now.

Revelation 21:4 – He will wipe away every tear.
Pain has an ending. Death has an ending. Loss has an ending. Tears have an ending.

So what is God doing in suffering right now? He is doing what he has always done. He is reclaiming creation. He is restoring his image bearers. He is defeating evil through Christ.
He is forming saints in trials. Suffering is not good in itself, yet God can use hardship in a fallen world to build endurance, deepen faith, expose false trusts, and shape believers into the likeness of Christ.

He is moving history toward glory. Though evil and chaos are real, history is not random. God is guiding all things toward Christ’s return, final justice, resurrection, and renewed creation.

The cross proves God entered suffering. In Jesus Christ, God stepped into human pain, rejection, injustice, and death to redeem the world from within.

The resurrection proves evil will lose. Christ rose bodily from the grave, showing that death, sin, and darkness do not have final authority.

The Spirit proves restoration has begun. God gives the Holy Spirit now to renew hearts, strengthen believers, produce holiness, and bring future life into the present.

Glory proves the story ends well. The end is not endless suffering, but resurrection life, renewed creation, justice fulfilled, tears removed, and full fellowship with God.

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.
Near in Hebrew thought is covenant presence, not distant awareness.

Come to Christ today.
The perfect Eikōn restores broken image bearers.
Trust him.

Because salvation does not always remove suffering now, but it guarantees suffering will not have the final word.

Jesus will.

Conclusion: What Is God Doing Right Now?

• God is ruling — Psalm 115:3
• God is just — Deuteronomy 32:4
• God is present — Psalm 34:18
• God is restoring His image — Romans 8:29
• God is working through suffering — Romans 8:28
• God is forming His people — James 1:3
• God is bringing all things to glory — Revelation 21:4

Final Call

• Suffering does not mean God is absent.
• Suffering does not mean God is finished.
• Suffering means God is at work in a world He is redeeming.

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Milton Parrish

Call to Worship                                                                              ~ Worship Team
      ~ “How Good It Is”
      ~ “What A Beautiful Name”
      ~ “If I Got Jesus”                              

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Jeremy Phillips
     ~  God and Suffering Sermon 2: What is God doing in suffering right now?
          Ps 115:3; Deut 32:4; Gen 1:26; Gen 9:6; Jas 3:9; Gen 3:5; Rom 1;
          Rom 6:16; John 8:44; John 10:10; Col 1:15; Phil 2; Rom 8:29; Col 3:10;
          Gen 50:20; Acts 2:23; Rom 8:28; Rom 5:3–4; Jas 1:3; John 14:1,16,27;
          John 15:1–2,4–5,8,18; Rom 8:18; Rev 21:4; Rev 22:3–5; Eph 1; Ps 34:18

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan
     ~   “Greater Still”  

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White 

• Today
  • Youth Bowling 2:30-4:30PM. Two hours of bowling at Bowlero in   

             Fredericksburg with food, drinks and a $10 arcade. Meeting at the 
             church at 1pm. RSVP with either Jeremy or Jenn.

• Apr 26. Southern Gospel Singer Ivan Parker in Concert 6pm at Hebron Baptist Church. Admission is free but a love offering will be taken up.
• May 3. VBS Volunteers Meeting immediately following service. Q&A to Jordan.
• May 10. Baby Bottle Campaign Kickoff with IMGN Life Ministries from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day. Every Penny Counts: Fill a Bottle, Change a Life!
• May 31. GHBC hosting multi-church Pentecost community worship & prayer service and potluck fellowship 5PM. Please bring a dish to share.
• June 3-5. 6-8PM Illumination Stations VBS 2026. Ages Pre-K - 5th Grade. Q&A to Jordan.
• Jun 7. VBS Family Rally during 10:30 worship service. Details TBD.
• Jun 11-13. 6-8PM nightly. Davy Thomson Worship Workshop for GHBC and surrounding churches. Agenda TBA. Pastor Ryan for Q&A.

Welcome and Opening Prayer                                                    ~ Elder Milton Parrish

Call to Worship                                                                              ~ Worship Team
      ~ “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)
      ~ “Raise A Hallelujah
      ~ “Trust In God”  

Worship in Tithes and Offerings

Children 5th grade and under released to Children's Church

Testimony                                                                                        ~ Mrs. Ashley Phillips

Sermon                                                                                            ~ Pastor Jeremy Phillips
     ~  Suffering Series Sermon 1: Why Does Suffering Exist?
        Genesis 1:1–2; 1:31; 2:8–10; 2:15; 3:5; 3:17–19; 3:23–24; 6–9; Psalm 69:1–2; Isaiah 57:20;
        Rom. 8:20–21; Gen, 4; Gen. 11; Ex. 1; Gal. 6:7; Job 1–2; Psalm 115:3; Deut. 32:4;
        Eph. 1:4–5; Luke 22:31; Gen. 50:20; Rom. 8:22

Invitation and Prayer                                                                     ~ Pastor Ryan
     ~   “Help My Unbelief”  

Benediction & Dismissal                                                                ~ Elder Mark White