In this week’s episode of The Follow Up, Ryan fills in as host and is joined by Jack and new staff member Ben Mielke to explore John 7, a chapter full of tension, questions, and conflicting reactions to Jesus.

They unpack the three major scenes of division—among Jesus’ brothers, the crowds in Jerusalem, and the religious leaders—and show how each group responds differently to His identity. They also dive into the rich symbolism of the Festival of Shelters, the promise of living water, and the future outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Ryan, Jack, and Ben reflect on how Jesus’ exclusive claims naturally create division, why His mercy remains constant, and how believers can navigate modern-day tensions with humility, gentleness, and truth—especially around holidays and family gatherings.

A thoughtful, encouraging conversation for anyone wanting to understand Scripture more deeply and follow Jesus faithfully in a divided world.

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Spring Lake Church – Bellevue
Sermon: Divine Division
Teacher: Jack Guerra
Passages: John 7:1-52

In “Divine Division,” Pastor Jack Guerra teaches from John 7, showing how Jesus’ identity created division in His family, among the crowds, and with the religious leaders. Some dismissed Him, some debated Him, and some believed—but no one ignored Him. Jesus offers living water to all who come, yet His truth still confronts and divides hearts today. The question remains: How will we respond to Him?

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Spring Lake Church – Downtown
Sermon: Divine Division
Teacher: Ben Milkie
Passages: John 6:25-71

In “Divine Division,” Ben Milkie teaches from John 7, showing how Jesus’ identity created division in His family, among the crowds, and with the religious leaders. Some dismissed Him, some debated Him, and some believed—but no one ignored Him. Jesus offers living water to all who come, yet His truth still confronts and divides hearts today. The question remains: How will we respond to Him?

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In this week’s episode of The Follow Up, Jack sits down with Adam and Bill to discuss one of the most challenging moments in Jesus’ ministry—His teaching in John 6 that caused many to walk away. Together they explore what Jesus meant, why He leaned into the difficulty rather than softening it, and how this passage exposes our motives and expectations.

Jack leads the conversation into themes of spiritual maturity, surrender, religious performance, and what it means to build your life on Christ alone. Whether you’re a longtime believer or someone wrestling with big questions, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and encouragement.

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Spring Lake Church – Bellevue
Sermon: The Bread From Heaven
Teacher: Adam Jackson
Passages: John 6:25-71

In “The Bread From Heaven,” Pastor Adam Jackson teaches from John 6:25–71, where Jesus reveals Himself as the true bread that gives life to the world. Many sought Him for physical provision, but He calls us to believe in Him for eternal life. His words are Spirit and life—challenging, yet life-giving to all who receive them. Are we following the real Jesus or just our idea of Him?

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Spring Lake Church – Downtown
Sermon: The Bread From Heaven
Teacher: Bill Van Kirk
Passages: John 6:25-71

In “The Bread From Heaven,” Pastor Bill Van Kirk teaches from John 6:25–71, where Jesus reveals Himself as the true bread that gives life to the world. Many sought Him for physical provision, but He calls us to believe in Him for eternal life. His words are Spirit and life—challenging, yet life-giving to all who receive them. Are we following the real Jesus or just our idea of Him?

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Pastors Bill, Arlen, and Jack reflect on John 6:1–24, where Jesus feeds the five thousand and walks on water.

They unpack what these miracles teach about trust, surrender, and the power of God to work through weakness. From the boy’s small lunch to the disciples’ fear in the storm, the story reminds us that Jesus meets us where faith runs out.

Key takeaways:

• Jesus asks questions to grow our faith, not test our logic.
• Sometimes the storm we’re in is the one we’ve created.
• Inviting Jesus into the boat changes everything.
• Obedience shortens the distance between fear and peace.

Spring Lake Church – Downtown
Sermon: With or Without You
Teacher: Bill Van Kirk
Passages: John 6:1-24

In “With or Without You,” Pastor Bill Van Kirk walks through John 6:1–24, where Jesus feeds the five thousand and walks on water. These miracles reveal His power to provide and His presence in life’s storms. Jesus invites us to stop focusing on what we lack and to offer what we have, trusting Him to do more than we imagine. When we invite Him in, fear gives way to faith and fullness.

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