Questions for Reflection: Sunday, June 21, 2026

On Sunday, June 21, 2026, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’ message is “Marks of Maturity: Cultivating Godly Wisdom”. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.

  1. Who in your life has modeled Godly wisdom well?  What characteristics did they model?
  2. Colossians 2:8 (NLT) says, Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.  What types of ‘empty philosophies’ and sounding nonsense’ do we see today both in our culture and the church?
  3. Bruce emphasized that wisdom is commonly equated with knowledge.  How is wisdom at its core different from mere knowledge?  What verses emphasize this truth?
  4. If we wish to display more wisdom from above (peaceable) rather than wisdom from below (contentious), how should that affect our use of social media, messaging, etc.?
  5. James says wisdom from above is ‘full of mercy.’  Also, Jesus said Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy (Matthew 5:7). What does being merciful look like in everyday practice?  Who is our model for being merciful?
  6. If one manifestation of true wisdom from above is being ‘pure’ (vs. 17), what does that mean for our relationships with the opposite sex? With what music we listen to?  With the types of things we watch?
  7. In 3:17, James says another manifestation of Godly wisdom is being ‘sincere’ (the NASB says ‘without hypocrisy’).  What are some ways we tend to ‘put on masks’ around others?  How can we avoid such tendencies?
  8. As you reflect back on James 3:13-18, what changes do you sense that God wants you to make?
  9. Read out loud Proverbs 2:1-11.  What stands out to you from this passage?
  10. Take some time in prayer before the Lord.  Tell Him of your desire to have Philippians 1:27 be true in your life.

Sneak Peek for Sunday, June 21, 2026

Hey Wildwood Family!

It has been a fabulous several months for Janet and me as we have been able to have our daughter Jennifer, husband Zac, and our three grandkids (Summer, Max, and Kaylie) in town from their ministry in Mexico. The family came back for Kaylie’s birth.  They packed up and flew back to Mexico on Wednesday.  We got word they arrived well and in a timely fashion, PTL!  We look forward greatly to the next time we can be together.  They are great people!

A few things to note:

  1. Baptism classes are scheduled for a week from Sunday on June 28 at the 11:00 am hour. If you would like to declare your faith by being baptized, you can get more information at wildwoodchurch.org/baptism
  2. I jumped the gun somewhat last week talking about some of our global outreach partners being here at Wildwood. It is actually THIS week as two sets of our Global Outreach partners will be with us (their pictures can be seen on the wall in the downstairs south hallway). There is a reception scheduled for both couples at 11 am this Sunday in Room 6 downstairs. (Note: the bulletin insert incorrectly lists the place as the Fellowship Hall, however, we don’t yet have official occupancy there!).

This Sunday we will be presenting the third message from our three-part series entitled, Marks of Maturity. This message focuses on the second mark of maturity from James chapter 3,  “Cultivating Godly Wisdom” from James 3:13-18.  I encourage you to read through that passage before Sunday.  This a great section of God’s Word!!

See you on Sunday!

Bruce

Questions for Reflection: June 14, 2026

On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’ message is “Marks of Maturity: Controlling Our Tongue, part 2”. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.

  1. James mentions being a teacher in James 3:1.  Share briefly about a teacher of God’s Word who had a significant impact in your spiritual life. Part of James’ counsel includes a caution about becoming a teacher.  Why does he do that and how should we process his warning?
  2. Verse six states that the “tongue is a fire.” Bruce said that the misuse of our tongue could be considered “spiritual arson.” What are some examples of damage that our tongues can do?
  3. How is our culture reinforcing and promoting this human tendency to put people down? How does James’ counsel on the tongue apply to SnapChat, Instagram, FaceBook, X, YouTube and other social media?
  4. When you think of controlling your tongue, what type of speech is more difficult for you to avoid?  Sarcasm? Gossip? Criticism? Vulgarity? Complaining?  Why?
  5. Bruce stated that our flesh holds to an ‘unspoken belief’: we reserve the right to put people down.  Why is that?  How do we avoid doing that in our spiritual walk?
  6. “No human being can tame the tongue.” Unpack some truth here about our need for the Holy Spirit in our spiritual walk.
  7. What are some verses from Scripture that encourage us to unleash the positive power of the tongue (to encourage, affirm, comfort, build up, etc.).
  8. Proverbs 10:11 in the NLT says, The words of the Godly are a life-giving fountain. Spend some moments in prayer asking the Lord to help make your words a life-giving fountain.
  9. Consider memorizing Psalm 19:14, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.​​​​​​​

Senak Peek for Sunday, June 14, 2026

Hey Wildwood Family!

It’s been an exciting week around the Wildwood facility.  More doors are being put in place and the AV technical team from out of state has started to install AV to our new areas.  This will take a couple of weeks. You should see some evidence this Sunday.

Men’s bible study has begun and the Women’s bible study starts this next Thursday June 18 at 7pm. Gals can sign up at wildwoodchurch.org/wow.

If you have been considering water baptism as a public testimony of having trusted in Christ, make note that the baptism classes are scheduled for Sunday June 28 at 11am,  Questions?  Go to wildwoodchurch.org/baptism.

Some of our global outreach partners will be present with us this Sunday.  Hope you can meet some of them!

​​​​​​​Also, this Sunday we will be continuing our 3-week series entitled, Marks of Maturity, by looking at part 2 of Controlling our Tongue from James 3:1-12. James sure knows how to touch us where we need it most. I’m excited!

See you on Sunday!

Bruce

Questions for Reflection: Sunday, June 7, 2026

On Sunday, June 7, 2026, Teaching Pastor Bruce Hess’s message is “Marks of Maturity: Controlling Our Tongue, part 1”. Below are some questions for your personal or group reflection.

  1. Share any memorable experiences you may have experienced facing a serious fire, or in controlling a horse.
  2. What would you imagine were common things that James stated openly about his older brother Jesus prior to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection?
  3. In James 1:26-27, James mentions both “religion that is worthless,” and “religion that is Pure and undefiled.”  What does James mean by the term “religion?
  4. Believers often don’t associate their speech as indication of their spiritual maturity. Why is that?
  5. What is the connection biblically between our heart and our speech?
  6. Proverbs 18:21 states that death and life are in the power of the tongue. Make a short list of words that might be understood as “death words,” and do the same with what might be understood as “life words.
  7. Who is someone whose words consistently encourage and build you up?  What makes their words so impactful?
  8. What specific type of affirming “life” words most encourage and refresh you?
  9. Read Colossians 3:12-14 out loud.  What stands out to you from those verses as potential areas where you might need to grow?
  10. Pray for God to lead you when it comes to honoring God with your words.

Sneak Peek – Sunday, June 7, 2026

Hey Wildwood Family!

What an exciting week it has been with Wildwood’s VBS, You’re invited to Follow Jesus! Around 600 kids attended, with just under half of them from non-Wildwood families.  What a great outreach!

I was especially excited that my grandchildren (who are normally in Mexico) were able to attend, Max in mini-VBS and Summer in regular VBS. It was amazing to see 325 volunteers serve the kids all week. To add to that, the VBS offering that was taken will be able to purchase 32 pediatric wheelchairs to be donated to disadvantaged kids around the world through the Joni and Friends ministry.  Praise the Lord!

Two other special things to note:
1) Men’s and women’s Bible studies are about to start. The men this Monday at 7 pm and the women on Thursday, June 18 at 7 pm. You can sign up at wildwoodchurch.org/next
2) Starting Point (learning about Wildwood) begins this Sunday at 9:45 in Room 4. If you know someone (or even yourself) who would like to learn more about our church history, beliefs, etc., Starting Point is a great opportunity!

On Sunday, I will be launching a three-part series from James chapter 3, which I’ve entitled Marks of Maturity. James is a highly practical book that highlights for us what true, authentic, Godly living looks like. The first mark of maturity that we will look at beginning this week is Controlling our Tongue, part one. Frankly, we ALL need to learn from James on this subject. Right?! I’m excited.

See you on Sunday!

Bruce

Launch Day (part 8) Sermon Audio, Video, and Questions

On Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Wildwood Community Church I preached a sermon based on Luke 5:1-11, 27-32; 6:12-16.  This message was part 8 of our series, “Launch Day.”  Below you will find questions related to the message for personal reflection or group discussion.  You will also find audio and video of the message to listen to/watch, download, or share.

Sermon Questions:

  1. Pray
  2. Read Luke 5:1-11, 27-32; 6:12-16
  3. We are familiar with the idea that Jesus selected 12 Apostles.  Why do you think He decided to choose the 12?  What does the selection of the 12 imply about His mission? 
  4. In Luke 6:12-16 it indicates that Jesus “prayed all night” before selecting the disciples.  Why do you think Jesus dedicated such time in prayer before calling these men to their new roles?
  5. Have you ever felt like you were not gifted enough, had made too many mistakes, lacked enough formal training, etc. to be useful for Jesus in His mission?  How does reflecting on the selection of the Apostles encourage you?
  6. Peter and his friends left their fishing business to follow Jesus, and Levi left his tax collector’s booth to follow Jesus.  Do you think they made a good choice (even knowing the persecution each would face)?  Do you think it is worth it to follow Jesus no matter what may come in this life?  Why or why not?
  7. What stands out to you most from this message?  Any particular takeaway?

To access these questions in pdf format, click here!

 

To listen offline click link below:

Launch Day 8

 

To listen online use media player below:

 

To watch the stream, use YouTube online:

 

 

 

Launch Day (part 8) Sermon Preview

How many of His followers did Jesus call to be apostles during His earthly ministry?

The answer … twelve.

Many of you already knew that.  But here is another question … WHY did Jesus call apostles at all?

In our study of the Gospel of Luke, we have already seen Jesus do some AMAZING things.  Over the first 5 chapters of the Gospel of Luke, Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary, celebrated by angels, prophesied over by Anna and Simeon, celebrated by John the Baptist, triumphed over Satan in the hour of His temptation in the wilderness, demonstrated His authority over disease (with many, many healings), demons (by casting out demons from those oppressed), and sin (offering forgiveness), and He taught with authority (correcting the errors of the religious leaders of that day).  These demonstrations of power and revelations of His identity had drawn crowds of thousands, many of which were wondering, “could He be the Messiah?”

Jesus had done ALL OF THAT without calling a single follower onto a special team of Apostles.  Looking ahead, Jesus will go to the cross alone, for only He, the spotless Lamb of God, could offer His life to pay the penalty for our sins.  So, if Jesus could accomplish the events of Luke 1-5 without Apostles, and if Jesus would go to the cross in Luke 23 without the Apostles, WHY does Jesus call the 12 in Luke 6:12-16?  After all, He seemed to be doing fine without them!

Well, it was no accident that Jesus called the 12 … Jesus did NOTHING accidentally, for He was God after all!  It was according to God’s will that Jesus called the 12 – He did so after spending a night in prayer before calling them onto this special team.

So, why did Jesus call the Apostles?  Because they would be His plan to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth.  He trained them during His earthly ministry, He equipped them with the power of His Spirit at Pentecost, He commanded them to go to the ends of the earth, and He sovereignly pushed them forward through prompts and world events.

He certainly did not HAVE to accomplish His work this way.  He could have played a film of His life, shining it on the clouds around the world every night so that everyone would hear.  He could have simply tuned people’s hearts to His frequency and whispered the truth to their souls without human assistance.  He could have done it this way … but He didn’t.  The primary way the Gospel of Jesus Christ is ordained by God to go from here to there is through the testimony of His people … and His Apostles were the first to be sent out in His name to accomplish this mission.

This Sunday, May 31, 2026 at Wildwood Community Church, in our 8th and final installment in the “Launch Day” sermon series, we will look at Luke 5:1-11, 27-32, and 6:12-16 as we see the calling of the 12.  Along the way, we will see what all this means for you and me.  Hope to see you Sunday in our 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 service … and bring friends!

Launch Day (part 7) Sermon Questions, Audio and Video

On Sunday, May 24, 2026 at Wildwood Community Church, I preached a sermon based on Luke 6:1-11.  This message was part 7 of the “Launch Day” sermon series.  Below you will find questions related to the sermon for personal reflection and group discussion.  You will also find the audio and video of the message to listen to/watch, download, or share.

Sermon Questions:

  1. Pray
  2. Read Luke 6:1-11
  3. What do you know about the Sabbath?  What has been your life experience with its practice?
  4. Jesus describes Himself as the “Lord of the Sabbath.”  In other words, He is the One who created it and gave it to His people.  It was intended to be a gift and not a burden.  In the New Covenant in which we now live, there are a variety of changes to “sabbath practices” from that which was done in the Old Covenant.  Based on what we talked about this morning, did any of these changes help clarify things for you?  Any questions you still have?
  5. Though not commanded in the New Testament, the practice of rest is still a healthy rhythm for life.  What does “rest” look like for you in your life today?  Are you creating margin to rest your body and refocus your soul on your Savior?
  6. Jesus practice as the Lord of the Sabbath included compassion for people.  This is a great reminder that true religion in the eyes of our God both loves God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, but also loves our neighbor as ourself.  If we are to follow the Lord of the Sabbath we will also live a life of compassion for others.  What does that look like for you in your life today?
  7. What stands out to you most from this message?  Any particular takeaway?

To access these questions in pdf format, click here.

 

To listen offline, click the link below to download:

Launch Day 7

 

To listen online, use the media player below:

 

To watch stream of service, use YouTube online:

 

Launch Day (part 7) Sermon Preview

We were made to work … but we were not made to work all the time.

This goes all the way back to the beginning of all created things.  Our Eternal God created the world in six glorious movements, then rested on the seventh day.  This created a pattern for people created in His image.  Work six, rest one.

And what are we to DO with this day of rest?  Well … rest!

Let’s examine the example of the Israelites who lived under the law in the Old Testament.  God used groupings of seven to reinforce the need for rest among His people.  God instructed them to let the land “rest” every seventh year by not farming it (a Sabbath year of rest for the soil.)  God also instructed His people to rest on every seventh day.  This rest accomplished a number of things:  it allowed them to remember the God who created this world and to worship Him, it also allowed the people to rest and trust in His provision AS THEY rested, and it also allowed sufficient margin in their lives to rest their perishable bodies and not wear them out.

What does all this add up to?  The day of rest was a gift given by God to the people.  This day of rest was modeled by and created for them by a loving God.

What was this day called?  The Sabbath.  (The English word “sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word “shavat” which means “to stop”).  The Sabbath was celebrated each week on the seventh day (from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday).  On this day the people were not to work, but to rest and to worship.

Fast forward to the first century A.D. … the days when Jesus lived out His public ministry in the land of Israel.  By this time, the religious elite had taken God’s gift of the Sabbath and made it into another form of a religious score card.  They added 39 specific categories of things that were not allowed to be done on the Sabbath. The public nature of these prohibitions and their regular occurrence (Saturday came around every week!) made them a particularly favorite marker of one’s religious reputation as judged by the first century Pharisees.

What God had created as a gift FOR His people, the Pharisees had tricked up (like Frankenstein’s monster) something that had some resemblance to the Sabbath, but with scary self-righteous consequences.  They certainly would not have characterized it like this, but (in some ways) they made their rendering of the Sabbath their god and they lived to serve that lesser ideal!

Proof positive of this flip was their use of their understanding of the Sabbath to regularly judge Jesus.  Imagine that … Jesus CREATED THE SABBATH and GAVE IT TO THE PEOPLE who so misunderstood its purpose that they used their 39 rules as a way to condemn Jesus to death on more than one occasion!!!

Now, why do I go into all this?  Well, I say this today because on Sunday, May 24 at Wildwood Community Church in our 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 services we will be looking at Luke 6:1-11 in part 7 of our “Launch Day” sermon series.  In these verses we will investigate what the Pharisees got wrong about the Sabbath, what Jesus clarified about the Sabbath, and what this means for you and me.

Do you have questions about the Sabbath?  Questions like, “is this why Chick-Fil-A is closed on Sundays?”  “Why do we primarily gather to worship on Sundays and not Saturdays?”  “Why is the fourth commandment (about the Sabbath) the only one of the ten commandments NOT repeated in the New Testament?”  “Is there any application on the Sabbath for followers of Jesus today?”  If so, this passage and message may prove helpful for you!

Also, we will be celebrating the Lord’s Supper together in our services this Sunday.  Hope you can make it Sunday … and bring friends!