DISCIPLESHIP MOMENT

Engaging in a discipleship community is essential for spiritual growth and development. Whether you’re connecting with friends and family or participating in one of the FBCG ministries, the Discipleship Moment offers a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into Sunday messages. This initiative is dedicated to strengthening our journey of faith as we grow together as a church family. To maximize your experience, be sure to carve out time in your meet ups to collectively walk through the Discipleship Moment.

Message of the week:

The Non-Negotiables

Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr.

Scripture: Matthew 1:18-23


Summary:

Pastor Jenkins taught that Christmas should be rooted in non-negotiable truths of the Christian faith—not endless debates about secondary issues. From Matthew 1, he focused on three core “P’s” that cannot be compromised: the Pregnancy (Jesus’ miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit), the Purpose (Jesus came to save His people from their sins, and the door of salvation was opened to Gentiles through faith), and the Person (Jesus is Emmanuel—God with us). The message emphasized that what we believe about Jesus shapes how we live, how we handle guilt and shame, and how we endure trials with confidence that God is with us.


Reflective Questions:

  1. Question: The Pregnancy — Miraculous Conception (vs.18–20) Mary was found with child “of the Holy Spirit,” before she and Joseph came together. Why does the miraculous conception matter to the Christian faith? How does it set Jesus apart from every other person in history?

  2. Question: Faith That Transforms (vs. 20) - Pastor Jenkins stressed that Christianity isn’t just agreeing something happened—it’s believing “to the core” in a way that changes how you live. What’s the difference between acknowledging truth and living from conviction? Where do you need deeper conviction about Jesus?

  3. Question: The Purpose — Saved From Sin (vs. 21) The angel said Jesus would “save His people from their sins.” Why is this purpose still essential today? How have you seen sin (big or small) affect your life, and what does it mean to trust Jesus as Savior in real, practical ways?

  4. Question: “His People” and the Open Door (John 1:12; John 1:11–12). Pastor Jenkins explained that when Jesus was rejected by many of His own people, salvation was extended broadly—welcoming Gentiles into God’s family through faith. How does this truth affect your gratitude and your identity as part of God’s family?

  5. Question: The Person — Emmanuel, God With Us (Matthew 1:23; John 1:14). What does “God with us” mean for your everyday life (stress, fear, trials, decisions)? Where do you most need to remember that Jesus is present with you right now?

  6. Question: Confidence Over Anxiety - Pastor Jenkins reminded the church not to be overwhelmed by political leaders or worldly instability because God is greater and fights our battles. What situations tempt you to panic or obsess? What would it look like to respond as someone who truly believes “God is with us”?

Prayer of Personal Transformation:

Father God, thank You for Jesus—miraculously conceived, sent with a saving purpose, and present with us as Emmanuel. Forgive us for treating holy truths like casual facts. Strengthen our faith, cleanse us from sin, and anchor our lives in Your presence. For anyone who is unsaved, backslidden, unsure, or disconnected, draw them close and make them secure in Your family. Help us live boldly, worship sincerely, and walk confidently because You are with us. In Jesus’ name, amen.