Dennis R. Wiles
First Baptist Arlington
September 6, 2026
2026: Flourishing Together:
Transformed on The Jesus Way
Gospel Guide: John
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
-Romans 12:1-2
FALL 2026: Gone Fishing!
September 6 – October 31, 2026
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
Gone Fishing!
Mark 1:16-20
Theme for Fall 2026: Gone Fishing!
CONTEXT: The setting for the calling of the disciples was the initiation of the earthly ministry of Jesus. The time had come to establish the Kingdom of God on earth! It called for a response: repent and believe!
CALLING: Jesus issued an invitation to these men to become His disciples. There are at least 3 aspects to this calling:
-Personal – Notice Jesus said, “Come, follow me!
-Powerful – The force of the call from Jesus compelled these men to immediately and unconditionally follow Him.
-Purposeful – Jesus called these men to join Him in establishing the Kingdom of God on earth.
COMMITMENT: These men were invited by Jesus to join Him in His mission. The invitation called for a holistic commitment to Jesus.
CONCLUSIONS: What do we learn about discipleship?
1. Jesus Christ is the Messiah, Savior, Son of God!
2. We must repent and believe the Gospel.
3. We must surrender in obedience to the calling of Jesus on our own lives.
4. We must join Him in His mission.
Prayer:
Father, place someone on my heart who needs to hear the Good News of Jesus. Give me the opportunity to share with them. Amen.