This week at New Hope, Pastor Vicki continues our Christianity Explored series by asking a powerful and personal question: Why did Jesus come?

The answer goes straight to the heart—literally.

In Mark 7, Jesus tells us it’s not what’s outside of us that defiles us, but what comes from within. From our hearts come things like selfishness, envy, pride, lust, deceit, and greed. These are the things that break our connection with God and hurt our relationships with others.

Jesus doesn’t come just to teach good morals or inspire a better way of living. He comes to deal with sin—the sin that starts in each of us. He comes because we have a heart problem, and we can’t fix it ourselves.

This message might be hard to hear, but it’s good news. Because once we understand the depth of our need, we start to understand the depth of God’s love.

Jesus sees everything—every choice, every motive, every failure—and still chooses the cross. He gives His life not because we’ve earned it, but because we need saving. And that grace changes everything.

When we admit that we’re sinners in need of a Savior, we open ourselves up to the transformation only Jesus can bring. He doesn’t just forgive us—He gives us a new heart.

We invite you to watch the full message and take some time to reflect on what this means for your life. Below are the same discussion questions shared during the service. Consider praying through them on your own, or talking through them with your small group.

Discussion Questions:

Do you agree with the idea that “there is something wrong with the world because there is something wrong with us”? Why or why not?
How do you see Jesus’ description of the heart in Mark 7:20–23 reflected in the world today—or in your own life?
How would you define sin in your own words?
What is the connection between sin and our ability to love God and love others?
If Jesus watched a movie of your entire life, every single scene, how would you feel? What do you think He would say?
Do you believe you have a heart problem? Have you ever honestly admitted to God that you are a sinner?
What are you going to do about it?

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