Hey, Fam! Sunday is going to be sooo good! This weekend we have the privilege of spending a morning with Marvin Walker, Campus Pastor of Watermark South Dallas.

If you don’t know Marvin, you are going to love him! He is a native Californian and long-time friend of North Highlands. He is married to his beautiful bride, Amber, and together they have three beautiful children. 

He is going to be sharing a message from Judges 3 titled “Fail the Test, Cease to Rest.” It’s going to be awesome!

We all know what it feels like to face an impossible challenge. But what if the One whom you have challenged is God Himself? In Acts 5:17-42, we see the religious leaders attempting to silence a movement of God, only to discover a sobering truth: the surest way to lose a fight is to pick a fight with the Most High God. Will we make the same mistake?

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Questions for Reflection & Discussion

In what ways does our culture elevate personal freedom and autonomy over submission to God? How does this mindset impact your own walk with Christ?

Jesus calls us to deny ourselves and take up our cross. What does that look like practically in your daily life? How do you navigate the tension between your desires and God’s will?

Gamaliel’s advice highlights the futility of resisting God’s plans. How does this perspective help you trust in God's timing and purpose, especially during difficult seasons? 

This Sunday we have the awesome opportunity to witness and celebrate the baptisms of NINE people in our church family!

There’s something so powerful about watching someone step into the waters of baptism and declare, “I have decided to follow Jesus—no turning back.” It's a bold step of faith, and it’s a reminder that God is still working powerfully in the world today.

This weekend we are talking about the power of bold witness. The reality is being bold doesn’t just attract attention, it changes lives. It was true then, it is true now. Can I get a witness!?

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Can you think of an example where someone’s bold witness influenced you or inspired you in your faith? Are there areas of your life where you feel called to be bolder in your witness for Jesus?

The early church experienced miracles regularly, and God's presence was unmistakable. How do you see God's presence at work in your life or your community today?

In the early church, some were hesitant to follow Jesus because of fear. What are some of the fears that people face today when it comes to following Jesus? What are some practical steps we can take to help others who may be fearful or hesitant about making a commitment to follow Christ?

This summer no less than eight pastors in the Dallas area resigned or were removed from their positions due to moral failure issues and no less than 50,000 people attend these churches every weekend. What is going on!?

Our passage this morning gives us an idea. Could it be that some of Satan’s best work is found within the Church? If so, how must we respond?

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Questions for Reflection & Discussion

Are there times when you’ve been tempted to present a more “spiritual” version of yourself to others than is real? What might be motivating that, and how can you pursue greater honesty before God and others?

If you were to evaluate your heart and actions, is there any area where you’re tempted to “hold back” like Ananias and Sapphira? What is a specific step you can take this week to live with greater honesty before God and others?

What is one tangible way you can live out the Spirit-filled generosity demonstrated by Barnabas this week? Whether it’s your time, resources, or encouragement, how can you give sacrificially for the sake of others?