June 22, 2025
Hometown Reject
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

Psalm 118:22
The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.

Mark 6:1-6
He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.

I. Rejection of the Familiar

We cannot come to Jesus on our terms. We must see Him for who He truly is.

II. The Power of Unbelief

Next Steps

• I confess I have rejected Jesus because of past hurt or disbelief.
• I come to Jesus and trust Him with my life as Lord and Savior.
• I renew my faith in Him by reflecting on what He has done for me.

Deep Dive

1. Read Hebrews 11:6. How does this verse speak into our understanding of faith and unbelief?
2. What practical steps can we take to move from doubt to faith, especially in seasons of spiritual dryness or skepticism?
3. In what ways can our church help each other recognize and respond to Jesus rightly?

Springboards

1. What does it mean to be sent with Jesus’ authority, and how does that impact your daily decisions?
2. Read Mark 6:7-13. Why is it important that Jesus sent the disciples in pairs?
3. What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ instruction to travel light and stay with whoever receives us?