Sermon Summary
The Gospel of John: Come and See the Power
What makes a towering 350-foot redwood stand strong through centuries of storms? Pastor David reveals the surprising answer lies not in individual strength, but in interconnected roots that spread 80 feet in every direction, locking together with neighboring trees to create an unbreakable foundation. Drawing from Galatians 6, David paints a vivid picture of how God designed us to be "rooted souls"—deeply connected believers who bear one another's burdens through life's storms. When someone stumbles into sin, we don't condemn but gently restore them, like a medical professional setting a broken bone with careful hands. David challenges us to shoulder the crushing burdens our neighbors cannot carry alone while humbly accepting help when we need it most. Through ministries like Stephen Ministers, Care Groups, the Restoration House, and the new Biblical Counseling Center, our church creates a forest of interconnected support. The call is clear: examine your own heart honestly, reject pride and self-deception, and step into authentic community. Who in your life needs gentle restoration today? Whose burden could you help carry this week? Don't let another moment pass in isolation—move toward the prayer corners now and let someone shoulder your burdens with you.
Sermon Questions
Come and See the Power | May 3, 2026
Pastor Bill Shepherd
What storms are you rowing through right now, desperately straining at the oars while getting nowhere? In John 6:15-21, we witness the disciples caught in a fierce storm on the Sea of Galilee, rowing for hours in darkness while Jesus seemed absent. Pastor emphasized how this story reveals a powerful pattern: Jesus arrives at just the right moment, reigns above what overwhelms us, speaks peace into our fear, and faithfully delivers us through. The disciples had just experienced Jesus multiplying loaves and fishes, yet when evening came and storms arose, they felt alone and abandoned. But Jesus came walking on water, declaring "It is I, do not be afraid" - revealing himself as the great I AM who stands above the forces that threaten us. Pastor reminded us that faith doesn't exempt us from life's storms, but when we're exhausted from trying to control the uncontrollable, Jesus shows up. The key moment comes when the disciples were "eager" to receive him into their boat - immediately arriving at their destination. This isn't just ancient history; it's our story too. Whether you're facing financial struggles, relationship storms, or overwhelming circumstances, the same Jesus who walked on water is walking toward you today. Are you willing to let him into your boat, into your heart? Stop rowing alone and receive the peace that only he can give.
1. In John 6:15-21, the disciples found themselves rowing hard against a storm for three or four miles, making little progress. What does this teach us about the difference between working in our own strength versus waiting for Jesus?
2. Think about a time when you tried to handle a difficult situation on your own instead of turning to God first. What was the result, and how might things have been different if you had invited Jesus into that situation from the beginning?
3. Pastor Bill described how Jesus arrives 'at just the right moment' even when it doesn't feel like perfect timing to us. How can we trust God's timing when we're in the middle of a storm and feel like He's taking too long to show up?
4. What current situation in your life are you waiting for God to act in? How can you practice trusting His timing while you wait, even when it's difficult?
5. When Jesus said 'It is I, do not be afraid' to the frightened disciples, Pastor explained this was more than just comfort - it was Jesus revealing His identity as the great 'I AM.' Why is it important to know who Jesus is when we face our fears?
6. What fears in your life would change if you truly believed that the same Jesus who walked on water and commanded nature is personally present with you in those situations?
7. The disciples were 'glad' or 'eager' to take Jesus into their boat once they recognized Him. What does it mean to be eager to let Jesus into your 'boat' or current life situation?
8. Is there an area of your life where you've been trying to 'row' on your own but haven't been eager to invite Jesus in? What would it look like to practically welcome His presence and guidance in that situation?
9. Pastor Bill shared that 'immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going' once Jesus entered. What does this teach us about what happens when we fully surrender control to Jesus?
10. Think about an area where you've been holding onto control instead of fully trusting Jesus. What steps can you take this week to surrender that area to Him and trust Him to bring you through?