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Eph 4.17-5.21 | Ps Alex Huggett | 25.10.2026 Sermon Summary: How to Dress Like a Christian Scripture: Ephesians 4:17–5:21 In psychological research, "enclothed cognition" shows that the clothes we wear subtly influence how we think and act. In Ephesians 4–5, the Apostle Paul uses a similar picture, urging believers to "take off" the old self and "put on" the new self created in God's likeness. However, unlike temporary external wardrobe changes, Christian transformation is an inside-out work of the Holy Spirit. It is crucial to read this passage through the lens of Ephesians chapters 1–3. Paul is not giving a list of rules to earn salvation; rather, he is describing how to live out an identity we already possess in Christ. Paul draws a stark contrast between two ways of walking: The Old Walk (Darkness): Driven by hardened hearts, moral ignorance, deceitful desires, greed, promiscuity, bitterness, foul speech, and uncontrolled anger. In ancient Ephesus—as in today’s culture of expressive individualism—such behaviors were normalized.The New Walk (Light): Marked by renewed minds, speaking truth in love, honest labor to share with those in need, words that build others up, kindness, forgiveness, purity, and thanksgiving.Living counter-culturally in Christ is not about self-righteous judgment or condemning the world. Paul highlights these vices to warn and protect believers, calling us to discern what pleases the Lord. Rather than seeking escape or temporary release through worldly vices like drunkenness, Christians are called to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit—overflowing with worship, mutual submission, and gratitude. Key Takeaway: "We don't embrace Christian morality to get saved; we embrace it because we are saved. If we belong to Christ, let us clothe ourselves with Him—not superficially, but as an expression of a transformed heart—so that God's glory and grace shine through us to a searching world." Small Group Bible Study Guide 1. Icebreaker Have you ever worn a uniform, formal attire, or a specific outfit that subtly changed how you felt or acted while wearing it? What was it, and how did it affect your behavior or mindset? 2. Discussion Questions Paul contrasts the "futile thinking" of the old life with being "renewed in the spirit of your minds" (v. 23). How does Paul describe the sequence of taking off the old self and putting on the new self? Why must spiritual transformation start with the mind and heart rather than external rules?Optional Deeper Digging: Compare verse 22’s "deceitful desires" with verse 24’s "righteousness and purity of the truth." How do deceitful desires trick us into slipping back into old patterns of living?Read Romans 13:12–14 and Colossians 3:12–14. As Pastor noted on Sunday, putting on Christ involves putting on specific daily "garments" of grace. What virtues do these passages instruct us to put on, and why is love described as the virtue that binds everything together in perfect harmony?Optional Deeper Digging: Colossians 3:13 highlights forgiving one another "as the Lord forgave you." Why is Gospel-centered forgiveness essential for maintaining unity in a diverse, multi-cultural church family?Paul outlines practical contrasts: lying vs. speaking truth, stealing vs. working to share, foul language vs. speech that gives grace, and bitterness vs. kindness. As Pastor shared, our everyday actions and speech reveal our underlying heart condition. Which of these practical contrasts feels most relevant or challenging to navigate in your workplace, family, or social circles?The sermon highlighted how modern culture promotes "expressive individualism"—the idea that personal authenticity means following our inner feelings regardless of external truth. How does Paul’s call to "walk as children of light" and "test what is pleasing to the Lord" challenge this worldly mindset?Paul contrasts getting drunk with wine (which leads to reckless living) with being filled with the Holy Spirit. What does a Spirit-filled life look like in everyday corporate worship, speech, and personal attitudes according to verses 19–20? How differs the release found in the Spirit from the temporary escapes the world offers?As Pastor reminded us, "It’s not our sameness that makes us salt, it’s our difference." What is one concrete area of your life this week—whether in speech, generosity, or response to conflict—where you can consciously "take off" an old habit and "put on" Christ-like grace?3. Personal Reflection Guide For quiet individual reflection during the week: When you honestly examine your private thoughts, speech, and daily habits, are there any "old garments" you are still holding onto out of comfort or habit?Pastor emphasized that conviction in Christ leads to life-giving repentance, not guilt or condemnation. Is there an area of sin or struggle you need to bring openly to Jesus in light of 1 John 1:9, receiving His forgiveness and grace?How can you intentionally cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and worship this week, allowing the Holy Spirit to fill and guide your daily routines?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 4.1-16 | Ps Fletcher Heyward | 18.10.2026 --- Sermon Summary: Building the Body in Unity and Maturity The Gospel story is one of radical grace—a free gift from God that invites us into His family. However, this grace requires a response. As the Apostle Paul urges in Ephesians, we are called to "live a life worthy of the calling you have received." This calling is not meant to be lived out in isolation; it is a corporate calling for the entire body of Christ. Just as a healthy childhood requires a strong foundation of belonging, our spiritual lives thrive when rooted in a healthy, unified community. Paul outlines the attitudes necessary for this unity: complete humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love. Our unity is grounded in the "seven ones": one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. This completeness is perfect in God and unifies us across all backgrounds. Furthermore, Christ has apportioned grace and spiritual gifts to each of us—including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—to equip the entire church for works of service. The ultimate goal of this unity and equipping is maturity. When we are unified, we are no longer spiritual infants tossed about by deceitful teachings. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we grow together into the mature body of Christ, with each part doing its work. Takeaway: "Let's build each other up intentionally so that we may be unified and mature in Christ. When we shape our story to look like the Gospel story, we start doing stuff together for His kingdom." --- Small Group Bible Study Guide ICEBREAKER If you could instantly master any skill to help a team (in sports, work, or a hobby), what would it be and why? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Read Ephesians 4:1-3. What does it look like practically to "bear with one another in love" in our modern context?The sermon emphasized that "we're meant to do it together." How does our individualistic culture make it difficult to fully embrace the corporate nature of the church?Read Ephesians 4:4-6. Why do you think Paul emphasizes the "seven ones" (one body, Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, God)? How does this list unify a diverse group of people?The sermon mentioned that "if you don't believe in something, you'll fall for anything." How does a strong, unified church community protect us from being "tossed back and forth" by false teachings?Read Ephesians 4:11-12. These verses list specific leadership gifts given to equip the church. How do you see your own gifts contributing to the "works of service" in our church?What is the difference between "calling someone out" and "speaking the truth in love"? How can we practice the latter more effectively in our group?How can our specific small group better "build itself up in love" this term?--- Personal Reflection Guide The Worthy Walk: In what specific area of my life (work, family, private thoughts) am I struggling to live a life "worthy of the calling" I have received?The Bond of Peace: Is there someone in my life right now toward whom I need to show more humility, gentleness, or patience?Doing the Work: How am I actively using my God-given gifts to serve the body of Christ, rather than just consuming what the church offers?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 3.14-21 | Ps Alex Huggett | 11.10.2026 When Paul wrote Ephesians, Christians were a tiny, vulnerable minority living under the shadow of dominant imperial cults like the Temple of Artemis. Yet Paul’s response to this overwhelming world was not despair, but a God-sized prayer for a God-sized reality: that believers might be filled with all the fullness of God. Key Pillars of the Message God the Source: Paul kneels before the Father from whom every family in heaven and earth receives its name. God is not merely the Father of the church, but the ultimate source of all creation and the ground of our unity.Strengthened through the Spirit with Resurrection Power: We pray for our inner being to be strengthened with divine power—not human power marked by control or domination, but the resurrection power of Jesus. This practical power enables us to surrender, lay down our lives, and comprehend what is otherwise humanly incomprehensible.Indwelled by Christ through Faith: Christ doesn't desire to be a casual guest sitting in the foyer of our lives; He wants to settle in, unpack, and rearrange the furniture as the rightful owner of our hearts. Intimacy with Him requires complete surrender of ownership.Comprehending the Boundless Love of Christ: God’s love is not merely a theological doctrine or historical fact—it is an experiential reality. Broad, long, high, and deep, His love is an ocean that feels overwhelming at first, yet becomes the very oxygen that gives us life.Filled with the Fullness of God: The ultimate goal is holistic fullness (Shalom)—experiencing God’s wisdom, power, fruit, and presence in the spiritual realm and manifesting it practically in the material world.Living in the Fullness Experiencing this fullness requires recognizing two things: there is more, and there is a cost. In an uncertain, declining world, we cannot coast on casual Christianity. We must move beyond surface-level feelings and anchor ourselves through persistent, earnest prayer. Furthermore, we must yield completely to the Holy Spirit, abandoning our fear of surrender or appearing "weird" to the world, and letting Him heal and align every corner of our hearts. Takeaway: "Whatever your experience of faith, of Christ, of church, of God – there is more." Small Group Bible Study & Reflection Guide Icebreaker If Jesus were to literally walk into your home today and redecorate or rearrange one room, which room would he start with and why? Discussion Questions Text & Context: Read Ephesians 3:14–21. Paul prays for the Ephesian church while they are living in the shadow of the impressive Temple of Artemis as a small minority. How does knowing their cultural context change the way you hear the scale and boldness of Paul's prayer?Resurrection Power vs. Worldly Control: The sermon contrasts world-style power (control and domination) with resurrection power (surrender and laying down one's life). Where do we see believers tempted to use worldly power today, and what does true resurrection power look like in practice?At Home in the Heart: The speaker noted the difference between inviting Jesus into the "foyer" as a guest versus letting Him settle in as owner. What are the common "rooms" or areas of life that Christians tend to keep locked off from Christ’s ownership?Experiencing the Incomprehensible: Verse 19 speaks of knowing a love that "surpasses knowledge." How would you explain the difference between knowing about God’s love intellectually and experiencing it in daily life?Persistence in Prayer: In Luke 18 (the parable of the persistent widow), Jesus emphasizes praying always and not giving up. What holds us back from praying earnest, "God-sized" prayers when life feels routine or circumstances look bleak?Embracing the Spirit: The sermon encouraged us to "embrace the weird" and stop holding the Holy Spirit at arm's length out of fear or shame. How can our group cultivate a culture where we feel safe to yield fully to the Spirit's work?Application: What is one practical step you can take this week to transition from "casual Christianity" to actively pressing into God's promises through persistent prayer?Personal Reflection Assessing the Heart: Is there an area of your life right now where you have allowed Jesus into the foyer, but haven't allowed Him to take full ownership or "rearrange the furniture"?Faith over Feelings: Are you currently in a season where you "feel" God's fullness, or are you in a dry season? How can you rely on God’s promises rather than your shifting emotions this week?Surrender & Freedom: What specific fears or distractions are holding you back from surrendering fully to the Holy Spirit's transforming work in your inner being?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 3.1-13 | Ps Alex Huggett | 27.09.2026 The Cosmic Mystery Revealed The Apostle Paul, writing from a Roman prison, does not view his chains as a setback. Instead, he sees his suffering as a share in Christ’s glory—a glory won through suffering. Paul’s primary mission is to reveal a "mystery" hidden for ages: that through Jesus Christ, God has created one new humanity out of both Jews and Gentiles. This mystery was not a "Plan B" devised after the fall of humanity. Before the foundation of the world, God knew the cost of redemption. While the Garden of Eden was "good," the ultimate destination for humanity—the New Jerusalem described in Revelation—is infinitely better. In Eden, humanity walked with God; in the New Jerusalem, God dwells in us, and we in Him. This profound union with the divine nature was made possible only because the Son of God shared in our creaturely nature. Jesus suffered what we suffer to transform our reality. Just as a musician’s glory is magnified by the blood, sweat, and tears of their practice, God’s glory is magnified through the immense cost of the cross. Furthermore, the church is not merely an audience to this redemption; we are the instrument. God’s multifaceted wisdom is displayed through the unity of the church to a cosmic audience of rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. The Eternal Mystery: The gospel was hidden in God from eternity, not as a backup plan, but as His ultimate design.From Eden to the City: God’s goal moves us from simply walking with Him (Eden) to a profound, spiritual union with Him (The New Jerusalem).The Cost of Glory: Christ’s suffering was the necessary path to our glory, demonstrating the immense love of God.A Cosmic Display: The unified church serves as a display of God’s wisdom to the spiritual powers of the universe."Suffering is not a detour on the path to glory; it is the path to glory. God entered into our world so that we could enter into His." Small Group Bible Study ICEBREAKER If you could plan a surprise party for anyone in history, who would it be, and what would the theme be? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Read Ephesians 3:1-6. Paul calls himself a "prisoner of Christ Jesus" rather than a prisoner of Rome. How does shifting our perspective on our circumstances change the way we endure hardship?The sermon mentions that the gospel was not God's "Plan B." How does knowing you were chosen "before the foundation of the world" impact your sense of identity and security?The speaker contrasts the Garden of Eden with the New Jerusalem. What is the difference between walking with God and having God dwell in us?Why was it necessary for Jesus to share in our human suffering in order for us to share in His divine glory?Read Ephesians 3:10. The church is meant to display God’s wisdom to "rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms." How does our unity as a church serve as a witness to the spiritual realm?The sermon suggests that "glory only comes because of the process." Where have you seen beauty or glory come out of a difficult process in your own life?How can we actively pursue the kind of deep, loving unity in our small group or church that displays God's wisdom to the world?PERSONAL REFLECTION In what areas of my life am I currently viewing suffering as a "detour" rather than a potential path to spiritual growth and glory?How deeply do I truly grasp the reality that God dwells in me, rather than just with me? How should this change my daily walk?What is one practical step I can take this week to foster unity and deeper love within my church community?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 2.11-22 | Ps Alex Huggett | 20.09.2026 Beyond the Dividing Lines: A Small Group Guide Text: Ephesians 2:11-22 Sermon Summary The ancient world was fiercely divided. In the Jerusalem temple, a physical wall known as the soreg separated Gentiles from the presence of God on pain of death. This division was carved into human flesh through circumcision, leaving outsiders without hope and without God. But Jesus took a blowtorch to the dividing wall. On the cross, He didn't just make a way for different groups to get along; He abolished the old system entirely to create "one new humanity." This new humanity is marked by three radical shifts: From Division to Unity: The categories that once divided us no longer define us. In Christ, there are not different classes of citizens—there are only Christians.From a Physical Temple to a Spiritual Presence: We no longer go to a temple to meet God; we are the temple. God makes His home in the gathered, diverse body of believers.From Hostility to Peace: The gospel destroys all forms of ethnic hatred and prejudice. When we harbor prejudice, we are trying to rebuild the very wall Jesus died to tear down.The world tries to create peace by forcing everyone to be the same. But Jesus creates peace by taking people who are radically different and binding them together in love. Takeaway Quote: "In Jesus, we are reconciled to one another. He makes us into one new humanity—not by erasing our cultural differences, but by redeeming them." Bible Study & Discussion Guide ICEBREAKER If you could instantly become fluent in any language and fully understand its culture, which one would you choose and why? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Read Ephesians 2:11-13. Why do you think Paul wants the Ephesians to "remember" what their lives were like before Christ? How does remembering our past alienation help us appreciate our current unity?Read Ephesians 2:14-16. Jesus "destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility." What are some modern "dividing walls" that separate people inside and outside the church today?The sermon mentioned that Jesus didn't just make a way for us to get along, but created "one new humanity." What is the difference between mere tolerance and true gospel unity?Read Ephesians 2:19-22. We are now "God's household" and a "holy temple." How does viewing the church as a temple (where God lives) change the way you view your fellow church members?The sermon stated: "When we have prejudice against Jewish people or anyone else, we’re rebuilding the very wall that Jesus has torn down." How can we actively tear down walls of prejudice in our own hearts and community?How does the gospel inform the way we view global conflicts, such as the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, differently than the evening news does?PERSONAL REFLECTION Take a few moments this week to journal or pray through these questions on your own. Are there any "dividing walls" I have built up in my own life against certain types of people?Do I view my salvation merely as "having my sins forgiven," or as being transformed into a "new kind of person with a whole new way of existing"?How can I actively be a peacemaker in a divided world this week?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 2.1-10 | Suresh Murthy | 13.9.2026 Here is a complete small group Bible study and personal reflection guide based on the third sermon on Ephesians, including a condensed summary of the message. But God Ephesians 2:1-10 presents the core of the Christian message through a clear problem-solving framework: the problem, the resolution, and the anticipated outcome. The Problem: Humanity's natural state is not merely "sick" or "flawed"—we are spiritually dead. We were trapped by the ways of the world, influenced by the enemy, and deserving of God's wrath. We were completely unable to save ourselves.The Resolution: The turning point of the entire passage (and human history) hinges on two words: "But God." Because of His great love and rich mercy, God intervened. He made us alive in Christ. This salvation is entirely a gift of grace, unearned by human effort. Just as King David invited the crippled Mephibosheth to sit at his table solely out of love for Jonathan, God invites us to His table solely because of Jesus.The Outcome: We are God’s handiwork, created to do good works. Our response to this incredible grace is to live lives of deep gratitude, putting God first, walking righteously, and boldly sharing the story of what He has done for us.Takeaway: "We could not save ourselves. But God reached down and took us out of the grave through His Son, Jesus Christ. How can we not live our lives giving honour and glory to this God?" --- Small Group Bible Study Guide ICEBREAKER If you were given a completely free, all-expenses-paid trip to anywhere in the world, where would you go, and how would you thank the person who gave it to you? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS The sermon emphasized that before Christ, we were "spiritually dead," not just "spiritually sick." Why is this distinction so important to our understanding of grace?Read Ephesians 2:1-3. What are some of the "ways of the world" that you see most heavily influencing our culture today?The phrase "But God" (v. 4) changes everything. Can you share a "But God" moment in your own life where He intervened in a difficult situation?How does the story of Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9) help you understand the way God views us?Why is it so hard for human nature to accept that salvation is a completely free gift, rather than something we have to earn?Ephesians 2:10 says we are God’s "handiwork" created for "good works." If we aren't saved by good works, what is their purpose in the Christian life?Which of the five practical outcomes (Worship, Putting God first, Righteousness, Obedience, or Sharing your faith) do you find most challenging to live out, and why?--- Personal Reflection Guide The Reality of the Rescue: Do I truly live as someone who has been rescued from "spiritual death," or do I sometimes take God's grace for granted?Earning vs. Receiving: Are there areas of my life where I am still trying to earn God's approval through my own efforts rather than resting in His finished work?My Response: How can I actively show my gratitude to God this week through my actions, my words, and my priorities?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Eph 1.15-23 | Ps Fletcher Heyward | 6.9.2026 Here is a complete small group Bible study and personal reflection guide based on the second sermon on Ephesians, including a condensed summary of the message. Joining the Symphony of Prayer In the second half of Ephesians 1, Paul shifts from outlining the grand story of the gospel to praying that the Ephesians would live out that story. Even though the Ephesian church was excelling in their faith and love, Paul still prayed for them to continually reestablish their identity in Christ. This passage highlights the power and necessity of prayer within the community. Often, we are intimidated by the idea of praying out loud. We fear we won't sound eloquent or profoundly spiritual. But prayer is not about perfection; it is about honesty. The sermon uses the metaphor of a symphony. God is the conductor, and He invites us to join in the music. You don't need to be a master musician to participate; you just have to be willing to pick up your instrument. When we pray for one another, we are simply joining in the tune that God is already playing in their lives. We are called to step past our insecurities and offer the simple, tangible gift of prayer to those around us. Takeaway: "You don't have to be a master musician. You just have to be willing to pick up your instrument and practice. God desires honesty, not eloquence." --- Small Group Bible Study Guide ICEBREAKER Have you ever tried to learn a musical instrument or a new skill that felt completely intimidating at first? How did it go? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Paul prayed for the Ephesians even though they were already doing well. Why is it important to pray for "foundational truths" over people who are already mature in their faith?What are some of the biggest insecurities you face when it comes to praying out loud or with other people?The sermon compared prayer to joining a symphony. How does this metaphor change the way you view your role in praying for others?Read Ephesians 1:18-19. What does it mean to have the "eyes of your heart enlightened"?The speaker suggested "praying on the spot" when someone shares a need. What holds us back from doing this, and how can we practice it this week?How does knowing that our righteousness comes from the Spirit—not our own perfection—free us up to be more bold in prayer?--- Personal Reflection Guide The Fear of Man: Do I worry more about what others think of my prayers than about connecting with the heart of God?The Gift of Prayer: Who in my life needs the simple gift of prayer right now, and how can I offer it to them this week?My Instrument: What is one practical step I can take (like journaling or praying out loud on my commute) to "practice my instrument" and grow in my personal prayer life?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Ephesians 1.1-13 | Dr Michael Kok | 30.1.2026 The Grand Vision of Ephesians When we read the Bible, we are essentially reading someone else’s mail. These letters were written to specific people in specific historical contexts. While they weren't written to us, they were written for us. The Book of Ephesians serves as a masterful summary of Paul’s theological vision, showcasing God’s plan to reconcile humanity to Himself and to one another. In this passage, we encounter three powerful images of our identity in Christ: Chosen: We are chosen as a corporate community to represent God’s purposes on earth. This is not a status of superiority, but a responsibility to love our neighbors, act justly, and care for the least of these.Redeemed: This metaphor from the ancient world of slavery reminds us that Christ has purchased our freedom. We are no longer enslaved to the "gods" of our age—money, power, or addiction—but are set free to live in His grace.Adopted: In the Roman world, adoption was a way to pass on an inheritance. God has adopted us as His sons and daughters, making us equal heirs to His kingdom. The Holy Spirit serves as the "down payment" of this promise.Takeaway: "You belong. You are chosen, you are adopted, and you are redeemed. Let this status not make us boastful, but rather drive us to fulfill God's purposes in the world." --- Small Group Bible Study ICEBREAKER If you could instantly be adopted into any fictional family or royal dynasty, which one would you choose and why? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS The sermon mentioned that the Bible "wasn't written to us, but it was written for us." How does understanding the original context of a letter like Ephesians change the way we read it today?What does it mean to you that being "chosen" is a corporate responsibility rather than just an individual privilege?In what ways do you see the modern "gods" (money, power, success) competing for our allegiance today?The concept of "redemption" implies being bought out of slavery. What are some practical things Christ frees us from in our daily lives?How does the Roman concept of adoption (securing an inheritance) deepen your understanding of what it means to be a "child of God"?The Holy Spirit is described as a "down payment" of our future inheritance. How do we experience that guarantee in the present?How can our small group actively live out the "chosen" responsibility to care for the least of these in our local community?--- Personal Reflection Guide Where do I find my belonging? Reflect on whether you are seeking your identity in your achievements, your social standing, or your status as "chosen" by God.What still enslaves me? Identify one area of your life where you are struggling to experience the freedom of Christ (e.g., a habit, a mindset, or an anxiety) and surrender it to Him.How am I stewarding my inheritance? Consider how you are using the gifts, time, and resources God has given you to further His purposes in the world today.© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Isa 56.1-8 | Ps Alex Huggett | 23.08.2026 Part of a series on Bentley Baptist's Values and Mission As a church, Bentley Baptist is situated in one of the most diverse suburbs in Western Australia. While this diversity could be seen as a happy accident of geography, we choose to embrace it as a core value. We aspire to be a community that is intergenerational, multicultural, and disability-friendly—reflecting the very heart of God. In Isaiah 56, we see God extending His covenant to eunuchs and foreigners, two groups historically excluded from the worship life of Israel. God’s heart has always been for the marginalized and vulnerable. This radical inclusion is fully realized in the Gospel, where our unity in Christ supersedes all our differences. However, true diversity is not a free-for-all. It is grounded in our shared covenant with Jesus. We are united by the Holy Spirit, which allows us to celebrate our differences rather than letting them divide us. Main Pillars of the Message: Intergenerational: We value the wisdom of the old and the energy of the young, actively reaching across generational divides to build relationships.Multicultural: We celebrate the various cultural expressions within our church, recognizing that our unity in Christ makes our diversity beautiful.Inclusive of All Abilities: We strive to be relationally accessible, ensuring that people of all physical and neurological abilities are fully embraced in our church family.“Healthy families are made up of generations living, loving, and laughing together. We embrace the mess because that's what healthy families do.” Bible Study & Reflection Guide ICEBREAKER If you could instantly become fluent in any language and fully understand its culture, which one would you choose and why? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Read Isaiah 56:1-8. Why was it so radical for God to include eunuchs and foreigners in the life of Israel at that time?The sermon mentioned that "diversity isn't a free-for-all" but is grounded in our covenant with Christ. How does our shared faith allow us to celebrate our differences rather than be divided by them?In what ways does our church currently reflect an intergenerational, multicultural, and inclusive community?What are some practical ways we can reach out across generational divides within our church?How might we make our worship services and small groups more reflective of the diverse cultures represented in our congregation?The sermon distinguished between having a physically accessible building and being a relationally inclusive church. What does relational inclusion look like in practice?How can we embrace the "messiness" of being a diverse family while still pursuing unity in the Spirit?PERSONAL REFLECTION Who is someone in the church who is different from me (in age, culture, or ability) that I can intentionally reach out to this week?Are there any personal preferences or biases I need to let go of in order to better welcome others?How can I actively contribute to making my church a place where everyone feels they belong?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

2Sam 9.1-13 | Ps Alex Huggett | 16.8.2026 Part of a series on BBC's Mission and Values Sermon Summary The story of David and Mephibosheth is a profound picture of the Gospel. To understand it, we must look at the background of David and the House of Saul. After King Saul’s death, David eventually took the throne. In the ancient world, a new king would typically eradicate any remaining rivals from the previous dynasty. However, David sought out any survivors from Saul’s family—not to harm them, but to show them kindness for the sake of his beloved friend, Jonathan. This search led him to Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s son, who had been crippled in both feet as a child while fleeing the chaos of war. When summoned, Mephibosheth expected death, referring to himself as a "dead dog." Instead, David restored his family lands and adopted him into the royal circle, inviting him to eat at the king’s table for the rest of his life. Main Pillars of the Sermon: Covenant Loyalty (Hesed): David’s actions were driven by his covenant with Jonathan. God’s actions toward us are driven by His eternal covenant of steadfast love and mercy.The Gospel Parallel: Like Mephibosheth, we were spiritually crippled, helpless, and separated from God. Like David, Jesus sought us out to show us kindness.Royal Adoption: We are not merely saved from death; we are adopted as sons and daughters who eat at the King’s table.Welcoming Outreach: Because we have received this grace, we are called to actively reach out and welcome others into the life of Christ.“The injury of sin no longer defines us. It's the story of utter grace that we get to be part of.” Bible Study & Reflection Guide ICEBREAKER If you could have dinner at the table of any historical figure (past or present), who would you choose and why? DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Read 2 Samuel 9:1-3. Why was David’s desire to show "kindness" (hesed) to the house of Saul so unusual for a king in the ancient Near East?Read 2 Samuel 9:6-8. Why do you think Mephibosheth referred to himself as a "dead dog"? What does this reveal about his self-image and his expectations of the king?How does Mephibosheth’s physical and political vulnerability mirror our spiritual state before we knew Christ?David didn't just spare Mephibosheth; he adopted him into the royal family. How does this reflect the difference between simply being "forgiven" and being "adopted" by God?The sermon mentioned that Mephibosheth’s injury no longer defined him once he was at the king's table. What are some "injuries" or past mistakes that people allow to define them today?How does the concept of hesed (covenant loyalty/steadfast love) change the way you view your relationship with God, especially when you fail?The sermon concluded with the value of "welcoming outreach." How can we, as a small group, extend the same kind of "table fellowship" to those who feel marginalized or spiritually crippled in our community?PERSONAL REFLECTION In what areas of my life do I still act like a "dead dog" (unworthy, fearful, or hiding) rather than an adopted child of the King?Who is one person in my life right now who needs to experience the hesed (steadfast love) of God, and how can I show it to them this week?When I sit at the "King's table" (in prayer, worship, or communion), do I truly believe I belong there? Why or why not?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Zech 4.1-14 | Ps Alex Huggett | 09.08.2026 Part of a series on BBC's mission and values Summary When the Israelite exiles returned from Babylon to rebuild the temple, they faced immense opposition, financial strain, and physical rubble. The project stalled for 18 years. It was against this backdrop that the prophet Zechariah received a vision of a golden lampstand continuously fed by two olive trees. The angel explained the vision with one of scripture's most famous replies: ‘Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of armies.’ The obstacles before the Israelites were a massive mountain, but God promised to level them. The work would not be completed by human strength, political power, or military might, but by the continuous, sustaining oil of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, this vision points to Jesus Christ—our true Priest and King—who fulfils these offices and pours out the Spirit to bring the light of God's presence into the world today. As a modern church, our vision of ‘God's kingdom transforming lives’ can feel just as overwhelming as rebuilding the temple. We face our own mountains of indifference, financial strain, and personal struggles. Yet, the promise remains the same for us. Spirit-empowered ministry and living look like four things: Prayer: A Spirit-empowered Christian is a praying Christian. We are called to persistently "pester" God—asking, seeking, and knocking—trusting that the Father desires to pour out His presence on us.Faith: There is often a terrifying gap between what we are capable of and what God calls us to. Faith steps into that gap, trusting that God will level the mountains before us.Obedience: While the work is achieved by the Spirit, it is not passive. The Israelites still had to lay the stones. We must still actively love, serve, and proclaim the gospel, stepping out so God can move.Holiness: We are now the temple where the Holy Spirit dwells. We must align our lives with the holy ways of Jesus, even in a profane world.Whatever mountain you are facing today—whether it is financial struggle, wayward children, health battles, or simply feeling ill-equipped for God's work—the answer is not looking at our own lack of resources. The answer is looking to the One who can do anything through us. The task is beyond us, but it is not beyond God. ‘Not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord.’ Reflection and Discussion Questions Icebreaker Share a time when you faced a task or obstacle that felt completely overwhelming. What was your initial reaction, and how did you get through it? Discussion Questions Context: Why do you think it was important for the Israelites to be reminded that the temple would be built by the Spirit rather than human strength?The Vision: In Zechariah's vision, the olive trees continuously feed the lampstand with oil. What does this imagery teach us about how we should be sustained in our daily lives and ministry?The "Mountains": The sermon mentions that the returned exiles faced "mountains" of rubble, opposition, and financial cost. What are some of the "mountains" our church or community faces today?Prayer: The sermon emphasizes "pestering" God in prayer (Luke 11). How does this challenge or encourage your current prayer life?Faith: Faith is described as stepping into the terrifying gap between what we can do and what God calls us to do. Can you share an area where you feel God calling you to take a step of faith?Obedience: We are reminded that "spirit empowered ministry is not a passive thing." How do we balance working hard for the kingdom while ensuring we aren't just relying on our own might and power?Holiness: The sermon notes that we live in a "profane world." What are some practical ways we can maintain our focus on holiness without burning out or serving out of guilt?Personal Reflection Identify Your Mountain: What is the biggest obstacle in your life right now that you are trying to overcome by your own strength? How can you surrender it to the Holy Spirit this week?Evaluate Your Source: Are you running on your own "oil" (human effort) or being continuously fed by the Spirit? What is one habit you can change to better connect with God's presence daily?Step of Faith: What is one specific, practical step of obedience you can take this week that requires you to trust God rather than your own abilities?© Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

2.8.2026 | Ps Alex Huggett Part of a series on BBC's mission and values © Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

26.7.2026 | Ps Alex Huggett Part of a series on BBC's mission and values © Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

19.8.2026 | Ps Alex Huggett Part of a series on BBC's mission and values © Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org

Ps Alex Huggett | 5.7.2026 Part of a series on the Apostle's Creed © Bentley Baptist Church Inc. www.bentleybaptist.org