Jesus never hid the cost of following Him. When He called fishermen from the shores of Galilee, His invitation was more than “come believe in Me.” It was, “Follow Me, and I will send you out…” Following Jesus meant leaving comfort behind, stepping into the work of ministry, and learning to trust Him through pruning, sacrifice, rejection, and perseverance. The same invitation still stands today. In a world where it’s easy to settle for comfortable Christianity, Jesus calls His people to something deeper—to remain in Him, bear much fruit, and join Him in His mission to seek and save the lost. The question is not simply whether we believe in Jesus, but whether we are truly following Him. And while the pruning can be painful, the life He produces through surrendered disciples is worth it. Join us this weekend as we open God’s Word together and re-think what it really means to follow Jesus. Come be encouraged, challenged, and reminded not to lose heart in the process God is using to grow lasting fruit in your life. -Pastor Ben Key Verses: Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV) - Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49597919

Discipleship is part of the DNA and heart of Mitchell Berean! It is deeply rooted in our history and remains one of the primary areas we feel called to emphasize as a church. While this is true of many healthy churches, when we look at the emphasis of Scripture, it becomes clear that discipleship is one of the central callings of the Christian life throughout the New Testament. Yet even with this clear direction from Scripture, why do we sometimes struggle to live it out? It may be because of busyness, fear, uncertainty, or simply not knowing where to begin. Whatever the reason, God’s Word not only gives us the command to disciple others, but also provides the wisdom, tools, and example we need to faithfully walk it out. We must resist the pull of a culture that keeps us consumed with things that only matter for the moment and instead fix our eyes on what will matter for eternity. Join us at 8 AM or 11 AM as we dive into Paul’s encouragement to walk alongside and learn from those who are further along in the faith. Together, we will also look to Jesus—our ultimate example—and explore what it practically looks like to disciple those around us, including within our own families. Excited to worship with you, - Pastor Brandon For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49597918

When most people hear the word “missions,” they immediately think about someone traveling overseas to reach unreached people groups with the gospel. While that is absolutely part of missions, the New Testament also shows us another side of it — a church that faithfully encourages, supports, prays for, and walks alongside those who have been sent out. In Philippians 4, Paul rejoices because the church in Philippi refused to let him become “out of sight, out of mind.” They showed concern. They shared in his troubles. They supported him in his needs. Their worship of God overflowed into tangible care for those serving on mission. This weekend in our Re-Think series, we’re going to examine what it means to rethink missions biblically. What if missions is not just about going, but also about faithfully sending, encouraging, supporting, and partnering by sharing the Gospel at home? Join us as we open God’s Word together and discover how every believer has a role in the mission of God. - Pastor Ben Key Verse - Philippians 4:10 (NIV) - "I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it." For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49597917

In Ephesians 4:11–16, we see a picture of the Church growing into maturity, each part doing its work, built up in love. And in Ephesians 2:10, we’re reminded that we were created for good works that God prepared beforehand. Missions isn’t something we add on—it’s what naturally flows out when we are living as we were designed. The question is: are we functioning the way God intended? Are we sending out missionaries, and lovingly walking with them through prayer and support as they go? Do we do missions from a “It’s what churches do” mindset, or from a realization that missions isn’t just a thing to do? Join us this weekend as we re-think missions through a biblical lens. Come ready to be challenged and encouraged as we hear from the head of our mobilization team, Travis Ray, and from one of our missionary couples, the McDaniels! It’s gonna be awesome! - Pastor Ben Key Verse: Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) - "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49595418

Every day we’re being shaped—by voices, headlines, conversations, and experiences. Without realizing it, our perspective is constantly shifting, like a small boat caught in waves with no anchor. And what’s most concerning is how easy it has become—even for the church—to live this way. We feel the instability, the confusion, the pull of competing "truths"… but what if the problem isn’t the noise around us as much as the foundation beneath us? This weekend, we’re opening up 2 Timothy 3 and stepping into a powerful reminder: God has not left us to figure this out on our own. His Word is not just ancient writing—it is living, active, and God-breathed. It doesn’t bend to culture; it stands above it. It doesn’t just inform our opinions; it transforms how we see everything. When Scripture becomes our filter, clarity begins to break through the chaos—and we start to stand firm in a world that feels anything but steady. But here’s the tension we’ll wrestle with: Are we allowing God’s Word to truly be in charge, or are we subtly reshaping it to fit the world around us? There’s more at stake than we often realize. Join us as we rediscover what it means to be anchored in truth—and why our worldview matters. - Pastor Ben Key Verse - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) - "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49591227

For 40 days after the resurrection, Jesus kept showing up. Again and again. To individuals, to groups… even to over 500 people at once. Some worshiped. Some doubted. All of them were trying to make sense of one overwhelming reality—Jesus is alive. But the story doesn’t end with an empty tomb… it leads to a throne. This weekend, we’re leaning into a powerful truth: Jesus isn’t just the risen Savior—He is the Enthroned King. The One who was mocked with a crown of thorns now holds all authority in heaven and on earth. But if that’s true… what does it mean for us? What does it mean for you? Before He ascended, Jesus gave a command, a promise, and a mission that is still unfolding today. The question is—are we just standing and looking up… or are we stepping into what He’s called us to? Join us this weekend as we finish our series “Knowing Him”! - Pastor Ben Key Verse - Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV) - "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed." For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49580751

This Easter weekend, we step into the tension of a story we all know—but often don’t fully feel. At Christmas, we celebrated “With Us”— Emmanuel! God drawing near in Jesus. But on Good Friday, everything shifts. In John 18–19, we walk through the betrayal, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus and see a wide range of responses: rejection, fear, indifference, and even quiet faith. What happens when the One who was with us is suddenly taken away? For three days, it seems like hope is gone—like everything is now without Him. But the story doesn’t end there. In John 20, we encounter the resurrection—and once again, we see different responses: confusion, doubt, awe, and belief. The empty tomb forces a question each of us must answer: What will I do with the risen Jesus? Easter moves us from without to with Him, inviting us not just to observe the story, but to step into it personally by realizing the joy of our relationship with Jesus! We’d love for you to join us for Easter as we explore these powerful moments together. And don’t come alone—this is the kind of weekend that people will come with you. Invite a friend, a neighbor, or a family member to experience the hope, the tension, and the joy of Jesus with you. - Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 20:29 (NIV) - Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” Easter's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49580738

This Easter weekend, we step into the tension of a story we all know—but often don’t fully feel. At Christmas, we celebrated “With Us”— Emmanuel! God drawing near in Jesus. But on Good Friday, everything shifts. In John 18–19, we walk through the betrayal, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus and see a wide range of responses: rejection, fear, indifference, and even quiet faith. What happens when the One who was with us is suddenly taken away? For three days, it seems like hope is gone—like everything is now without Him. But the story doesn’t end there. In John 20, we encounter the resurrection—and once again, we see different responses: confusion, doubt, awe, and belief. The empty tomb forces a question each of us must answer: What will I do with the risen Jesus? Easter moves us from without to with Him, inviting us not just to observe the story, but to step into it personally by realizing the joy of our relationship with Jesus! We’d love for you to join us for Good Friday and Easter as we explore these powerful moments together. And don’t come alone—this is the kind of weekend that people will come with you. Invite a friend, a neighbor, or a family member to experience the hope, the tension, and the joy of Jesus with you. -Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 19:30 (NIV) - "When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit." Good Friday's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49580733

This Sunday, we step into one of the most powerful and tension-filled moments in the life of Jesus—the Triumphal Entry. As news spreads that He has raised Lazarus from the dead, the crowds begin to swell with awe and expectation… while opposition quietly intensifies with deadly intent. Some are ready to crown Him as King, others are determined to see Him crucified. In this moment, one truth becomes unmistakably clear: there is no neutral ground when it comes to Jesus. Join us as we walk through John 12 and wrestle with the question—who do you say He is? From Mary’s humble act of worship as she anoints Jesus for burial, to the growing plot against His life, to His tearful and triumphant entry into Jerusalem, we’ll see Jesus as the Anointed One, the Dangerous One, and the Glorified One. Even as the crowd shouts His praises, the shadow of the cross looms—and Jesus remains fully surrendered to the Father’s will, declaring that everything ahead will bring glory to God. Come and discover the kind of King Jesus truly is—and why following Him will always require a response. - Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 12:13 (NIV) - They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!" For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49567374

This weekend, we’re diving into what it really means to know Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In John 10, Jesus draws a powerful contrast between false leaders who use and burden people—and Himself as the One who leads, protects, and gives life. He doesn’t trap people in religion… He is the Gate to freedom, the Shepherd who calls His sheep by name, and the One who leads them into something better. But Jesus doesn’t stop there—He makes a bold claim: “I and the Father are one.” He’s not just a teacher or a good example—He is the Son of God. And that leaves us with a question we all have to answer: whose voice are we listening to? Come join us this weekend as we explore what it looks like to hear His voice, follow Him, and experience the abundant life He offers. You’re invited—we’d love to have you with us. - Pastor Ben Key Verse - John 10:14 (NIV) - “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—" For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49567373

Philippians begins with an incredible expression of thankfulness from Paul and Timothy. Philippians 1:3–6 “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this: that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Paul and Timothy are filled with gratitude because of the Philippian believers’ partnership in the gospel. Their support and faithfulness encouraged them and sustained them throughout their ministry and travels. What a reason for joy—to know that you are united with other believers who are praying for you and caring for you out of the blessings God has given them! As a church, how are we doing in partnering together for the mission? Do we pray for one another? Do we care for and support each other? I know we do these things—but I also believe we have even greater opportunities ahead of us to grow in these ways and glorify Christ together. This weekend, we’re excited to explore what it means to partner in the mission of the gospel at MBC as we continue to grow in Christ and move forward for His glory. Join us this Sunday at 8:00 AM or 11:00 AM as we worship together as the body of Christ at Mitchell Berean Church! - Pastor Ben For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49567368