Encounters with Jesus | December 22, 2024 - Fairfield Baptist Church - Texas

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Encounters with Jesus | December 22, 2024

December 22, 2024 • Daron Adkison

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Luke 23:22-43 tells the profound story of two thieves crucified alongside Jesus. These men, guilty of armed robbery, started by mocking Him. Yet, something changed for one of them during the crucifixion. In the final moments of his life, he repents and places his faith in Jesus—receiving the promise of eternal life.

This passage challenges us to reflect on the two possible responses to Jesus: rejection or repentance. The second thief had no opportunity to perform good works, attend church, or even be baptized—his salvation was secured solely by the grace and work of Christ.

Key takeaways from this encounter:

°Jesus' words on the cross fulfill prophecy. (Psalm 22, Psalm 69:20-21)

°The power of forgiveness. Even in His suffering, Jesus forgave His mockers

and tormentors (Luke 23:34).

°Salvation is by grace alone. The thief reminds us that it’s not what we do, but

what Christ has done, that secures our eternity.

The question remains: How will you respond to Jesus? Join us as we explore this life-changing moment at the cross, where grace triumphs over guilt.

Encounters with Jesus | December 29, 2024

December 29, 2024 • Doug Schoeneck

In a world where offense feels unavoidable, how do we respond in a way that reflects the love of Jesus? This message dives into practical truths about forgiveness, challenging us to evaluate our expectations of others and raise our level of grace. Key insights include: ° Forgiveness as a reflection of Christ's sacrifice. We forgive because we have been forgiven. (Mark 11:24-26) ° How to cancel the debt we feel owed. Forgiveness is not minimizing hurt but choosing freedom. ° Navigating common offenses: discrimination, family, the church, and more. Through scripture (Matthew 24:10; Luke 17:1; James 1:19-20), we explore how lowering our expectations of people and raising our capacity for forgiveness sets us free and mirrors the love of Jesus. Ultimately, if we aim to make disciples who make disciples, our actions must match our words. Are you willing to forgive and reflect Jesus in a world trained to hold onto offense? Join us as we explore this vital topic.

Encounters with Jesus | December 15, 2024

December 15, 2024 • Daniel Smith

Mark 5:1-20 contains one of the most detailed and dramatic accounts of demon possession and exorcism in the Bible. In this powerful passage, we see Jesus’ authority not only over nature, as He calms the storm, but also over the spiritual realm, as He frees a man possessed by a legion of demons. This sequence of events—from teaching about the Kingdom of God, crossing the Sea of Galilee, calming a storm, and encountering a demon-possessed man—demonstrates the unmatched power of Jesus. Key takeaways from this message: ° Jesus' authority is unmatched. He calms storms, both physical and spiritual. If Jesus says you’ll go over, you won’t go under! ° Spiritual maturity is measured by action. It’s not about how much you know but what you do with it. ° Jesus identifies with our pain. At the end of Mark, we see Jesus Himself naked, bleeding, crying out, and buried in a tomb—showing His compassion and love for humanity. Join us as we unpack this incredible story of transformation, revealing the power and authority of Jesus over all things, including the darkest forces in our world and lives. Are you ready to trust Him with your storms?

Encounters with Jesus | December 8, 2024

December 8, 2024 • Greg Despres

In this heartfelt message, Pastor Greg explores the powerful restoration of Peter in John 21. After denying Jesus three times, Peter is burdened by guilt and shame—but Jesus meets him right where he is, offering forgiveness and commissioning him for a renewed purpose. This encounter is more than just a personal story; it’s a profound illustration of how Jesus deals with our failures. Through Peter’s journey, we are reminded that: •We must own our part in our failures, just as Peter did when Jesus asked him three times, "Do you love me?" •God’s correction isn’t condemnation—it’s a moment of restoration and commissioning. •Jesus covers our past so we can live in freedom. When we invite Him into our brokenness, He transforms our weaknesses into strengths. If you’re struggling with guilt, shame, or a sense of unworthiness, this message will encourage you to let Jesus into your past, bringing healing and hope. Don’t miss this powerful reminder that you don’t walk away from an encounter with Jesus unchanged!