"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Marathon Fellowship is a multi-generational group focused on Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and serving others—both at Stonebriar Community Church. and through missions around the world.
We meet weekly on Sundays at 10:45 a.m. in B219. Our current teacher is Dr. Stephen Kim, Professor of Bible Exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary. Previous teachers include Dr. Stanley Toussaint, Wayne Stiles, and Rhome van Dyck. You can explore archives of their lessons on this website.
For questions about our class or weekly activities, email us at Marathon@MarathonFellowship.org.
Scripture: Mark 1:41-2:12
Wayne Stiles teaches from Mark 1:41-2:12, showing how Jesus’ unconventional methods reveal God’s mercy, authority, and power to heal and forgive. Stiles encourages believers to trust God’s surprising ways, even when His direction seems unusual or counterintuitive.
Sep 17, 2017
Mark Lesson 2: How to Keep First Things First
Scripture: Mark 1:14-39
Wayne Stiles teaches from Mark 1:14-39, showing how Jesus models a life that keeps God’s priorities first through faithful proclamation, compassionate ministry, and intentional times of prayer. Stiles urges believers to center their lives on Christ’s mission, maintaining focus amid the many distractions that compete for devotion.
Sep 10, 2017
Mark Lesson 1: Let’s Begin with Good News
Scripture: Mark 1:1–13
Wayne Stiles opens the Gospel of Mark by highlighting how Jesus’ arrival fulfills God’s promises and brings the good news of salvation. Through John’s preparation, Jesus’ baptism, and His temptation in the wilderness, Stiles encourages believers to anchor their faith in Christ—the true Son of God who triumphs where humanity fails.
Sep 03, 2017
The Unity and Peace of Christ
Scripture: Ephesians 2:11–22
Chuck Vance teaches from Ephesians 2:11–22, emphasizing how Christ’s redeeming work brings unity and peace to God’s people. He explains how believers—once separated from God—are now reconciled through Christ, becoming one new community grounded in Him.
Lesson Outline
Introduction
- Paul continues the theme of the new creation introduced in v. 10.
- Shift of theme: from God as primary actor to Christ and His redemption.
- The Unity of God’s People (Ephesians 2:11–15)
- Peace with God (Ephesians 2:16–18)
- Implications of Christ’s Peace (Ephesians 2:19–22)
Conclusion and Application
Aug 27, 2017
It’s All About Grace: The Doctrine of Conversion
Scripture: Ephesians 2:1–10
Chuck Vance teaches from Ephesians 2:1–10 on the doctrine of conversion, highlighting the contrast between life before and after Christ. He emphasizes that salvation is entirely by God’s grace—not by works—and calls believers to live out their new identity by walking with God, rather than striving in self-effort.
Lesson Outline
Introduction
- The State Before Conversion (Ephesians 2:1-3)
- The State After Conversion (Ephesians 2:4-7)
- The Means of Conversion (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- The Purpose of Conversion (Ephesians 2:10)
Conclusion and Application
The grace-based Doctrine of Conversion challenges us to ask:
- Are you a sin- and works-focused Christian, or a God- and “walk”-focused Christian?
- Are you divided in your mind?
- Are you “saved by grace” but living by works?
Aug 20, 2017
Paul’s Prayer for Wisdom and Revelation
Scripture: Ephesians 1:15-23
Chuck Vance teaches from Ephesians 1:15-23, focusing on Paul’s prayer for wisdom and revelation. He emphasizes the magnitude of God’s power available to believers and encourages them to grow in intimate knowledge of Christ, understanding His resurrection, preeminence, and headship over the Church.
Lesson Outline
Introduction
Proposition: In this text Paul gives the facts / reasons for our intimate relationship with God.
- Fact #1 — Ephesians 1:18b
- Fact #2 — Ephesians 1:18c
- Fact #3 — Ephesians 1:19-23
- Note the “Power” words:
- Hdynamis
- Henergeia
- Hkratous
- Hischyos
- This magnificent accumulation of words for power shows the magnitude of God’s great power available to Christians.
- Note the “Power” words:
Key Truth: If God is for us, who can be against us.
Conclusion: Three manifestations of God’s power seen in Christ (Ephesians 1:20-23):
- Resurrection of Christ
- Preeminence of Christ
- Headship of Christ over the Church
Aug 13, 2017
The God of Our Salvation
Scripture: Ephesians 1:1-14
Chuck Vance teaches from Ephesians 1:1-14, highlighting the work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in bringing salvation. He emphasizes the fullness of God’s redemptive plan and encourages believers to rejoice in their spiritual blessings and identity in Christ.
Lesson Outline
Introduction
- Work of God the Father (Ephesians 1:3-6)
- Work of God the Son (Ephesians 1:7-11)
- Work of God the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14)
Conclusion and Application
Jul 30, 2017
The Problems With God’s Grace
Scripture: 2 Kings 5
Wayne Stiles explores God’s surprising grace in 2 Kings 5, showing how pride and expectations can keep people from receiving the Lord’s mercy. Through the story of Naaman, he highlights the humble faith required to embrace God’s gracious provision.
Jul 23, 2017
It’s Your Motive that Matters
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:10–15; 2 Corinthians 5:10
Wayne Stiles teaches that God judges not only what we do, but why we do it. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 3 and 2 Corinthians 5, he highlights how motives shape eternal reward, urging believers to pursue faithful service with sincerity, integrity, and a heart aligned with Christ.
Jul 16, 2017
Growing Deep with God Begins Here
Scripture: Proverbs 2:1–10; James 1:22–27
Wayne Stiles teaches that growing deep with God begins with a commitment to both hearing and living out God’s Word, emphasizing wisdom, obedience, and practical faith as the foundation for a mature relationship with Him.
Get started reading through the Bible today! Here are two recommended websites to help: oneyearbibleonline.com or dailyaudiobible.com