Below the Surface

Big Idea: Spiritual depth is not measured by how far we’ve traveled, but by how much of our lives has come under the influence of Christ.

1. What Is Depth?

• A puddle, a pool, and the Pacific all have a surface.
• The difference is what lies beneath.
• Every person has a surface:
  • Emotions
  • Opinions
  • Reactions
  • Personality
• Depth is measured by what exists beneath the surface.

2. The Problem with Surface-Level Faith

• Driven by appearances
• Image over substance
• Reactive instead of reflective
• Centered on self
• Easily shaken

3. Growing Deeper

2 Peter 1:3-11

• God has given us everything we need.
• Peter calls us to continually grow.
• Faith → Virtue → Knowledge → Self-Control → Steadfastness → Godliness → Brotherly Affection → Love

Truth: Depth is not measured by distance traveled, but by the distance beneath the surface.

4. Depth of Mind (Knowing God)

Colossians 1:9-10

Hebrews 5:14

John 17:3

• Read Scripture
• Study theology
• Learn biblical context
• Know God’s character
• Develop discernment

Immature: “I know a lot about the Bible.”

Mature: “I know God’s Word well enough to recognize His voice and His ways.”

5. Depth of Heart (Loving God)

Matthew 22:37

Ephesians 3:14-21

Psalm 73:25-26

• Prayer
• Worship
• Communion
• Trust
• Repentance
• Joy in God’s presence

Agapaō: Love that descends beneath emotion into devotion.

6. Come Deeper

• Not deeper into religion.
• Deeper into knowing Jesus.
• Deeper than convenience.
• Deeper than emotional highs.
• Deeper than Bible trivia.
• Deeper than performance.

The deeper you go with Jesus, the less the surface gets to tell you who you are.

Reflection: What carries the most weight in your life?

Contact Info