Pastor Thomas
Carthage Campus Pastor
God uses our weakness and need for community to form us and reveal His glory because God’s power is perfected in weakness.
Listen + Watch the Message
(new sermons published every Monday)
Sermon Summary
God uses our weakness and need for community to form us and reveal His glory, and sometimes calls us to embrace our neediness. Just as Paul needed the earthly confirmation of others and begged for prayer despite his spiritual greatness, believers are taught that God’s power is perfected in weakness and that growth and “becoming” often involve suffering and pain, which shouldn’t be resisted, as it is part of God’s plan. This vulnerability is crucial not only for individual strength–because when one is weak, then they are strong–but also for true connection and submission within the church community, where relationships with Pauls, Barnabases, and Timothys are essential for navigating life’s hardships and ultimately finding joy and strength, because your calling requires community.
Scripture References from the Sermon
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 | 1 Peter 4:19 | 1 Peter 5:5b-7 | Ephesians 5:21 | Proverbs 27:6
Discussion Questions
- How is your community Block doing? Do you have at least one Paul, Barnabas and Timothy? What steps will you take to fill it?
- Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. What’s stuck out?
- How are you using your weaknesses to connect to God and His family?
- Where is God right now working in your life? Find Him in your story.
- Read 1 Peter 4:19, Romans 8:18, and Romans 8:28. How does this influence your understanding of suffering and hardship?
Event Highlight | Night of Worship
- Join us for a powerful Night of Worship and Prayer this weekend/ tonight!
- Southern Pines Campus – Starts at 6:30pm