Chestnut Mountain Church

In The Word - 1 John | Love Like Jesus Loves

Mon, 18 May 2026 10:00:27 +0000

John reminds us that God is light and God is love, and because we belong to Him, we should love one another with agape love, a deep affection that moves beyond words into action. The longer we follow Jesus, the more we will bear the character of our Father and love people the way He loves people. This is how we know love: Jesus willingly laid down His life for us. The cross is where we see love most clearly. To experience His grace is to be radically changed forever, and that love should overflow outward into the way we serve, give, and care for others. John challenges us not to just talk about love but to live it out. Love radically because you have been loved radically by God. Believe in Jesus and love people the way Jesus loves.

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Walking Through The Valley | Jason Britt

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:00:51 +0000

This Mother’s Day, special guest speaker Jason Britt from Bethlehem Church reminded us that we are not staying in the valley — we are walking through it. Psalm 139 and Psalm 23 show us that God knows us fully, stays the same through every season of life, and walks with us through every mountain, valley, cave, and crown. The question “why” does not offend God. We can be honest with Him, feel deeply, and still trust Him at the same time. The Gospel is not our defense from pain; it is our rescue through pain. Psalm 139 points us to the presence of God, and Psalm 23 reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. If you remove the Shepherd from Psalm 23, all that is left is us trying to carry everything alone. But Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and He walks with us through every valley.

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How God Meets Us in Grief | Jared Cagle

Mon, 04 May 2026 10:00:08 +0000

What does it really mean to have all that you need, especially when you are grieving? Psalm 23 reminds us that the Good Shepherd does not remove the valley, watch from a distance, or lift us above it. He walks through the valley with us. Grieving is the appropriate response to life not being as it is supposed to be, and grieving is a gift from God on the pathway to healing. God the Father comforts us in our grief. He comes alongside us in our affliction, quiets us with His love, and reminds us that He is with us in the valley. God the Son understands our grief. Jesus stood at the tomb of Lazarus and wept with those who were hurting. He is the Man of Sorrows acquainted with grief, close enough to feel our pain and walk with us through it. God the Spirit intercedes as we grieve. On the days where we have no words, the Holy Spirit is already groaning on our behalf with groans too deep for words. We are never alone in the silence. We do not serve a God who watches from a safe distance. He gets all the way into the valley with us. Whatever the pit looks like for you today, you are not alone there. Jesus is our comfort, our hope, and the Good Shepherd who walks with us through grief.

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In The Word - 1 John | Against The Grain

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:00:39 +0000

John writes to help us have confidence in who we are and what it means to be a child of God. He uses contrast to make it clear. Either you are a child of God or you are not. Either you are walking in righteousness or living in sin. This is how we know where we stand and how we can have confidence in Him. Before Christ, our lives move with the grain of the world. Sin feels natural and smooth. But when we become a Christian, the grain reverses. Now when we move back toward old patterns, it feels rough. There is friction. That friction is not shame. It is conviction. It is evidence that God has changed our desires from the inside out. This does not mean we will never sin again, but we will not keep on sinning as a pattern. There will be a tension. There will be a fight. We just cannot go in that direction anymore. God’s seed abides in us, and He is shaping us through the process of sanctification as we become more like Him.

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In The Word - 1 John | Do You Know That You Know Jesus

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:00:10 +0000

Seasons of uncertainty can feel paralyzing, but John writes to move believers from not knowing to knowing, from uncertainty to assurance. His desire is that we would be confident in our salvation and the finished work of Jesus. If we get Jesus right, we can walk free and confident in Him. John makes it clear that talk is cheap. It’s not just about what we say, but how we live. If we truly know Jesus, not just know about Him but know Him by experience, there will be a desire to follow His commands. We won’t be perfect, but there will be conviction and a consistent pursuit of obedience. The assurance of our salvation is not based on how good we are but on a life that shows evidence. If we know Him, it will affect how we walk, how we love others, and how we respond to the world. There will be fruit. There will be growth. There will be a tension with sin, not a submission to it. The question is simple: do you know that you know Him? Are you growing, pursuing Him, and loving like He loves? Our confidence is not in what we have done, but in what Jesus has already done on the cross.

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In The Word - 1 John | Don’t Get Jesus Wrong

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:00:32 +0000

If we get Jesus wrong, we get our lives wrong, and we will live wrong. John writes to remind us that Jesus is not partly God or just a great teacher. He is fully God and fully man. He has always been and always will be, and what we do with Jesus is the most important thing for us to get right in life. Jesus is not a light. He is the Light. There is a difference between saying we know Him and actually walking with Him. If we say we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in darkness, we are not living in the truth. But when we walk in the Light, we have fellowship with God and with one another, and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. The Christian life is not about perfectionism but a consistent pattern of pursuing holiness. Sin is a big deal, but confession is the bridge from darkness to light. When we confess, God is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us. Will you believe, and will you walk in the Light?

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Easter | This Victory We Live In

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:00:03 +0000

Today we gather to acknowledge and celebrate the greatest victory in history. Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus did the impossible. He beat death. This is the victory that has brought people from all backgrounds together, and it is still the victory we are talking about today. This is more than an acknowledgment. God wants to transform our acknowledgment into a celebration. Through faith in Jesus, anyone can experience this victory. The resurrection is not just about eternal life later. It is the happy beginning. It is new life now. The resurrection is not just a past event to remember. It is a current reality to live in. We do not fight for victory. We fight from victory. The victory is still yours. The question is, do you believe this?

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NEXT | Commit to the NEXT

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:15 +0000

Today is a moment we will look back on as the day we said yes to what God has invited us into. Over the past month, we have walked through surrender, trust, generosity, and sacrifice, all leading to this moment of response. Don’t miss what God is doing or take for granted what we get to be a part of. Throughout Scripture, we see that our obedience is often the pathway to God’s promise. Like Noah, when God gave instructions, he chose to step out in faith, and through his obedience, God’s promise came to fruition. In the same way, God has given us a vision, and now we have a decision to make. We celebrate that God has spoken and invited us to be part of His plan. What He is calling us to may feel big, but whatever God reveals, He will accomplish. As we step into what’s next, the call is to respond with obedience, be open-handed, and trust God to do what only He can do.

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NEXT | A Life of Sacrifice for What’s Next

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:00:07 +0000

As we step into what’s next, we are reminded that a generous heart is cultivated by doing life with Jesus, not trying to do life for Jesus. We don’t give to get. We give because of what He has already done. In Exodus 35, God invited His people to be a part of His work, and they responded open handed, not because they had to but because they got to. They remembered His goodness, and their response was obedience. God is not concerned with the amount but with our hearts. As we look toward what’s next, the call is to remember what He has done and respond with sacrifice, trusting that He will provide everything needed.

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NEXT | Genuine Generosity for What’s Next

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:00:52 +0000

We often look at Christianity through a moral lens, creating a list of what we can and cannot do. When we live that way, we end up trying to do life for Jesus instead of doing life with Jesus. But when we spend time with Him, the lens shifts from moral to redemptive. The more time we spend with Jesus, the more grateful and surrendered we become, and that gratitude leads to a life of generosity. True generosity does not come from guilt or obligation. It comes from living a life with Jesus. We don’t give to get. We give because we already got. God does not need anything from us, but He invites us to be part of what He is doing. Like David, we are reminded that everything we have already belongs to God and that what He really wants is our heart. As we look toward what’s next, the invitation is simple: sit with Him, remember what He has done, and respond with obedience and generosity.

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NEXT | Trust God with the Next

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:00:01 +0000

Trust is the currency of every relationship. When we face major decisions or concerns, we go to the source we trust the most. Proverbs reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not rely on our own understanding, living in awe of God and looking to His Word for direction. Trust means patiently waiting on the Master, knowing He is our provider. But trust also requires obedience. Saul learned that good intentions cannot replace clear instructions, and partial obedience is still disobedience. The question becomes personal: what is God asking you to do in this season? Is He asking you to take a step of faith, reconcile a relationship, finish an assignment, or trust Him in a new way? Trust God and take the next step of faith.

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NEXT | Say Yes to What's Next

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:00:07 +0000

God is sending people to us. As His church grows, so does the responsibility and opportunity before us. Our responsibility is to steward the growth that is already here and the growth that is to come. God is entrusting us to disciple people and to send people. He is inviting us to be a part of His plan. There have been pastors and leaders who have put their yes on the table before us. Now it is our turn. To get where God is leading us, it will take finances, resources, and open handed obedience. We are sharing God’s vision for the next two years. We are building bridges to the next generation, the next season of missions, the next yes. If God keeps sending people, it is our responsibility to make room. In Acts 9, God accomplished His plan through unexpected people with unexpected assignments. Jesus got Saul’s attention and told him to go. Saul stepped into the unknown. Then God spoke to Ananias. He listened, even when it seemed scary and impossible. He did not rebuttal what God said. He simply obeyed. That obedience changed the world. All God wants from us is our yes. If we will say yes and keep listening, He will give us the details. What does next look like for you, your home, and our church? Turn your eyes and ears to Him. Respond to what Jesus is speaking. Say yes to what’s next.

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Seek First | When You Pray

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:16:05 +0000

Prayer is an invitation to meet with the Creator in a face to face exchange. Prayer is not a wishing well, magic 8 ball, or genie in a bottle. It is engaging with the Almighty God who humbles Himself and inclines Himself to listen as we pour out our hearts before Him. We can wrestle with Him, whisper, cry out, and tell Him all the struggles without needing perfect words. David reminds us that praise is not based on receiving an answer but on remembering who God is and what He has done. Jesus showed us this life of prayer, withdrawing to commune with the Father and teaching that when you pray, the reward is Him and the relationship with Him. Prayer begins by focusing on His holiness, His kingdom, and His will, then trusting how He is providing, forgiving, and giving freedom. The veil has been torn and the invitation is open to draw near, pour out your heart, and engage with Him.

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Seek First | Say No to Me and Yes to God

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:00:39 +0000

Fasting is us saying no to us and saying yes to Him. Jesus was getting ready to begin His ministry, and He had just fasted. Even when we are doing all the right things, it does not mean obedience will be easy. Obedience will always come with a challenge, and that challenge is our flesh. Satan tried to derail what God had for Jesus by appealing to His flesh. He knows when we are weak and wants us to take just one step off of God’s path. It only takes one misstep to cost us everything. Too often we listen to our flesh, make a mess, and then cry out for God to fix it. Our heart, our emotions, and our feelings will lie to us. Satan offers what is not his to give. When he offers joy, peace, or security, remember you already possess those through Jesus. The wilderness was not a setback. It was a display of Jesus’ superiority over the enemy and the beginning of a rescue mission. That mission began with a fast. It began with saying no to the flesh and yes to God. Fasting prepares us to make Spirit led decisions and to discern the perfect, pleasing will of God. Offer yourself as a living sacrifice. Learn to say no to you and yes to Him.

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Seek First | What Did Jesus Do

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:00:38 +0000

As a church, we are living in a season of anticipation for what God has next. But we cannot get so focused on growth as a church that we forget growth begins with individuals. At the end of the day, it comes down to how committed we are personally. The question is not just what would Jesus do, but what did Jesus do in preparation to be used by the Father? Before His public ministry began, Jesus took a step of obedience through baptism, publicly declaring His commitment to the Father’s plan. Then He was led into the wilderness where He prayed and fasted. If the Savior of the world practiced obedience, prayer, and fasting in preparation, it is imperative that we do the same. A fast is the discipline of saying no to our flesh. It is not a diet. It is not an attempt to impress God or get something from Him. We don’t fast to get God. We fast because we are God’s. Fasting is not about holding God hostage to our plans. It is about offering all of ourselves to Him in true worship. Through prayer, fasting, and obedience, we reset our minds, renew our thinking, and align our hearts with His will. Instead of asking God to join our vision, we join His. As we prepare for what God wants to do in our church, we must first allow Him to prepare us. What does obedience look like for you right now?

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Seek First | Fasting 101

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:00:02 +0000

As a church, we are being corporately called to a fast. Jesus never commanded fasting, but He assumed we would. In Matthew 6, Jesus does not say if you fast, but when you fast. People come to fasting from many different places, which is why we are fasting together as one body, pursuing unity and alignment. A fast is the practice of saying no to our flesh in a world that tells us to feed our desires. Fasting is not easy, and it is often misunderstood. A fast is not a diet, not a way to earn God’s approval, and not an attempt to get something from God. Jesus fasted after the Father declared that He was well pleased with Him. We fast because we are God’s. Fasting is an act of worship that aligns our hearts with God’s will. It shifts physical hunger into spiritual hunger and helps us say no to ourselves and yes to God. As we fast together, we seek first His direction and desire to be aligned with what He is calling us to do.

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By Faith | Don't Stop One Day Short of the Promise

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:00:11 +0000

After being rescued from Egypt, the Israelites stood outside the Promised Land and were told not to be afraid or discouraged. Instead, fear halted their obedience, and the consequence was forty years in the wilderness rather than stepping into the promise. At the end of those forty years, God raised up Joshua to lead His people forward. Standing on the brink of the Promised Land once again, God reminded Joshua to be strong and courageous, to stick to the plan, and to trust His Word. God was giving His people another shot, not because they deserved it, but because He is a God of grace who gives second chances. When they faced the walls of Jericho, what stood between them and God’s promise looked impossible. God gave instructions that did not make sense. They were to march around the city one day at a time, remain quiet, and walk in obedience. Day after day nothing happened. They were mocked, tested, and tempted to quit, yet they kept marching in silence. Faith required perseverance and patience, even when God seemed silent. On the seventh day, the walls fell. The very obstacle that once stood in their way became the path into the promise. Whatever wall stands between you and what God has for you, keep doing what God last told you to do. Do not stop one day short of the promise. Walk in obedience, trust God’s timing, and live with expectation that He will do the miraculous.

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By Faith | Standing on the Brink of God’s Promise

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 11:00:56 +0000

In 2026, God has an assignment for every one of us, and answering that call requires faith. Throughout Scripture, God’s promises are clear, but stepping into them often feels impossible and uncomfortable. The people of Israel experienced this as they stood at Kadesh, on the brink of the Promised Land. God had already delivered them from Egypt, parted the Red Sea, and promised victory, yet fear and uncertainty caused them to hesitate. Instead of trusting what God had said, they focused on what they saw. The evaluation of the land produced fear, not faith, and their response was disbelief. They said, “We can’t.” But faith sounds different. Faith says, “We can’t, but God can.” As we stand at the beginning of a new year, the call is to walk by faith and not by sight. Do not let the unknown or the lack of details keep you from obedience. Trust God’s Word more than what you see, and take the step of faith. Do not let 2026 be a place of missed opportunity. Don’t let 2026 be your Kadesh. Stand on the brink of God’s promise and move forward by faith.

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Lay It Down and Run the Race

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:30:06 +0000

A new year brings excitement and new beginnings, but it can also bring the temptation to add more to what is already heavy. Before picking up anything new in 2026, we lay down some old things from 2025. Hebrews 12 reminds us that before we fix our eyes on Jesus, there are things that must be laid aside. You cannot run the race God has for you while carrying what slows you down. We are told to lay aside every hindrance and the sin that entangles us. A believer cannot run freely when wrapped up in sin, shame, or old ways of thinking. Conviction is a gift from God, given because He loves us. Strength comes from fixing our eyes on Jesus, who gives the power to overcome and not pick it back up. Satan accuses and reminds us of failure, but Jesus is our advocate who has already paid the penalty. Lay down what is behind, fix your eyes on Jesus, and run the race God has set before you.

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How to Live Faith Forward in 2026

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:00:05 +0000

As we step into a new year, Scripture calls us to live by faith and not by sight. We live in a visually driven culture, but sight is factual and not always truthful. From the beginning, the enemy has worked to deceive through what looks good and seems desirable. If we are going to live faith forward in 2026, we cannot trust our eyes. We must ask a better question: What does God say about what I see? Hebrews 11 reminds us that faith is the proof of what is not seen, and without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith always stands in opposition to sight. Living faith forward means believing God’s Word and doing things that only God can do. Faith begins with understanding, but it must move us to action. Scripture gives clear examples of faith in action. Noah believed God and built an ark when it made no sense. Moses walked away from comfort and stepped forward at the Red Sea. By faith they understood, by faith they acted, and by faith they persevered. As we move into 2026, the call is the same. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus

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Christmas 2025 | Remember Why He Came

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 22:00:18 +0000

There has always been excitement and anticipation on Christmas Eve, along with an unexplainable peace. It is a night to pause, take a deep breath, and embrace the overwhelming peace that comes with remembering the birth of Jesus. As we reflect on the three gifts the wise men brought, gold, frankincense, and myrrh, we are reminded that these were not gifts for Jesus to use, but testimonies to who they believed Jesus was. Gold acknowledged how precious Jesus is. Frankincense pointed to Jesus as the one who came to seek and to save the lost. Myrrh, though it did not look like much, carried deep meaning. In Scripture, myrrh was used in burial and embalming, symbolizing suffering and death, yet it was also used as an anointing oil, recognizing royalty. This small gift acknowledged both the suffering and the kingship of the child they came to worship. As we celebrate His birth, we must also remember the purpose of His birth. Jesus was sent to lay down His life, to suffer, and to redeem. He was sent to rescue the lost and offer eternal life. On this holy night, we remember not only the baby in the manger, but the Savior who would give His life for us. As we are still and remember, we are reminded that Jesus loves us right where we are, and that He was sent so that we could have life, and have it everlasting.

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Christmas 2025 | Is Jesus Your One?

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:00:14 +0000

After their journey, the wise men came to Jesus and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While gold showed they were open handed with what was valuable, frankincense carried deep significance. In Scripture, frankincense was used by the high priest as an offering of prayer and intercession for sinful people. It was burned in the presence of God as a sweet aroma, representing prayers rising to heaven and the people being made right with a holy God. Frankincense was precious because of what it was used for. Its value was determined by its purpose. When the wise men brought frankincense to Jesus, they were not giving Him a gift to enjoy. They were acknowledging that Jesus was the gift. By offering frankincense, they declared Jesus as the great and perfect High Priest, the only one who could reconcile sinful people to God. The only acceptable offering before a holy God is Jesus. It has nothing to do with us and everything to do with Him. Who do you say that Jesus is? Is Jesus your one?

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Christmas 2025 | What Is Your Gold?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:00:20 +0000

As we walk through the Christmas story and the three gifts brought to Jesus, we are reminded of the danger of knowing the story without letting it reach our hearts. Gold was the first gift presented, and it carried deep meaning. In Scripture, gold represents value, kingship, security, and control. The Magi brought gold because they understood who they were coming to see. They believed the revelation and came prepared to worship, falling down before a child they recognized as King. Their joy came before they ever saw a miracle because revelation produced worship. They also brought gold because they held it lightly. Money did not master them. They came open handed, ready to give without expectation, worshiping Jesus simply because He was worthy. Gold represents the things we value most and the things we often trust for security and control. Jesus is not weighing how much is given. He is weighing the heart. When Jesus is seen rightly, earthly treasures are held lightly, freedom is found in surrender, and faith replaces control. What is your gold?

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Open Hands | Stewarding the Resources God Has Given You

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:00:45 +0000

God has set His children free for a purpose. God did not save anyone to sit. He saved and empowered His people to do what He has called them to do. Everything we have is a gift from God, and He will provide everything needed for what He asks us to accomplish. The children of Israel lost sight of this. Difficult circumstances led them to become self absorbed, and they failed to steward their time, their abilities, and their resources. They used what God had given for themselves rather than for the purpose God intended. Their paneled houses became a picture of taking the wealth and luxury God provided for His house and using it only for their own. However, peace and security are never found in what we hold onto but in what we let go of. Everything belongs to Him. The call is to be open handed with what God has given, expecting nothing in return, trusting that little is much when God is in it. When we walk in obedience, He will bless. Ask God what He would have you give to, and watch what God will do with your obedience as you experience the peace, security, and joy that come from living open handed with all He has entrusted.

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Open Hands | Using Your Talents and Abilities for God’s Assignment

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 11:21:44 +0000

Biblical stewardship is managing the resources and abilities God has given and using them to accomplish what He has ordained. Everything we possess is a gift from God, entrusted to us for His purpose. Like the children of Israel, it is easy to begin with excitement and then become distracted, using time, talents, and abilities to build our own kingdom instead of the Kingdom of God. Through Haggai, God calls His people to think carefully about their ways, to think carefully about their time, and to think carefully about the talents and abilities He has given. God had given Israel everything they needed, the ability to go, the skill to build, and the strength to complete His assignment, yet they used it for themselves and were never satisfied. When what God has entrusted is held tightly, it will not be blessed. When God’s people live with reverence and awe for the Lord, their dependence on His presence grows. Little is much when God is in it, and God desires His people to be open handed with what He has given so that He receives the glory.

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Communion | Remembering the Rescue

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:00:53 +0000

Communion is never about checking a box or doing something because it is what we do. It is a moment to slow down and remember the rescue. Scripture takes us back to Passover when God delivered His people and death passed over those covered by the blood of a spotless lamb. Jesus took that same meal and pointed it to Himself, His body given and His blood poured out so that eternal death would pass over all who believe in Him. Paul reminded the church in Corinth of the weight and seriousness of the Lord’s Supper. Before taking the bread and the cup, believers are called to examine their hearts, to confess sin, and to pursue unity with others so they do not take this moment lightly. The invitation is also extended to anyone who does not yet know Christ because everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Communion becomes a time to remember what Jesus has done, to give thanks for His sacrifice, and to sit in the presence of the One who offers forgiveness, freedom, and life.

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Open Hands | How Are You Using Your Time?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:00:26 +0000

God had promised to give the children of Israel everything they needed to rebuild the temple, including the gift of time. But when their priorities shifted, the first thing they failed to steward was that time. For 17 years, they did nothing with the assignment God had given them. Through Haggai, God calls them to “think carefully about your ways” and to evaluate how they had used their days. Time is one of the most overlooked gifts God has given us. Our days are numbered, and every one of them has a purpose. Like Israel, it is easy to let circumstances distract us and keep us from God’s presence and His work. When we face difficult times, we must choose whether we will run to Him or away from Him. When we give Him our time, He adjusts everything else. The dash between our birth and death is what God has entrusted to us. While there is still breath in our lungs, how will we use the time God has given us?

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Open Hands | Set Free for a Purpose

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:12 +0000

God has called His people to live with open hands—ready to release whatever He’s entrusted to us so He can use it for His glory. In Ezra, God’s people were given a specific assignment: return to Jerusalem and rebuild His temple. They were not only called but also promised everything they needed to complete the task. God will never lead us where He will not provide. At first, their obedience and excitement collided with God’s power, and they celebrated what He had done. But when opposition came, circumstances grew louder than God’s promises, and their hands began to close. For 17 years, they stopped building. Through the prophet Haggai, God spoke again: “Think carefully about your ways.” We’re not saved to sit. We’ve been set free to build His Kingdom. As we align our priorities and move together in obedience, God is preparing to do what only He can do. Whatever He asks of you—say yes. Trust Him with what seems impossible. When our obedience meets His power, He makes a way where there seems to be no way.

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In The Word - Jude | God Is Able

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:00:59 +0000

Jude closes his letter with a doxology, a word of praise. Giving God praise has more to do with who He is than what is going on around us. When we know who God is, we are able to worship and give Him the praise He is worthy of. We were made to know and enjoy God, and worship is due to Him at all times. In Jude 24–25, we see that God is able to save us, protect us, and present us. He is our Savior, the one who rescues us from danger and delivers us from wrath. Once He saves us, we are His forever. He is able to keep us from falling and to present us blameless and spotless in His presence. Jesus has done the work for us. Our response is to confess, believe, repent, and give all glory to the One who is able. Listen to this sermon in the final part of our In The Word series in the book of Jude.

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In The Word - Jude | Recognize the Danger

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:00:41 +0000

A parent will do anything to protect their child. Warnings come from love, not fear, because love sees danger and wants to keep others safe. In the same way, Jude gives a loving but serious warning to the church to be alert to the dangers that surround us. In Jude 12-23, he describes “these people” who slip into the church to cause division and spread deception. If the enemy cannot stop the church from the outside, he will try to weaken it from within. We must guard what God is doing in our homes, our children’s lives, and His church. Jude reminds believers that God will deal with all wickedness in His time. Our responsibility is to stay faithful, to keep growing in our faith, to pray for the power of the Holy Spirit, and to have mercy on those who have drifted. We have to be urgent about reaching people who do not know God, snatching them from the flames but using caution. Be careful not to be pulled into what you are trying to rescue someone from. Know your surroundings, know what you are stepping into, and ask God to reveal who these people are in your life. Listen to this sermon in third part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Jude.

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In The Word - Jude | Considering the Past, Contending for Today

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 10:00:38 +0000

To contend for the faith is to wrestle and endure in the daily walk of following Jesus. Jude reminds us that we must look to the past to understand how to stand firm today. From Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness to the examples of Cain, Balaam, and Korah, Scripture shows us the danger of turning from God’s truth and the importance of staying faithful to the calling He has given us. Contending for the faith requires endurance and focus. We run the race by looking to Jesus, the perfecter of our faith, knowing that He has already won the victory. As we follow Him, we are called to soak in God’s Word, beg for His will, and walk in His way, allowing what we believe to be visible in how we live. In a world filled with confusion and darkness, God calls His people to wake up, push back the darkness, and shine the light of Christ wherever they go.

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In The Word - Jude | Contend for the Faith

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:00:24 +0000

Jude opens his letter reminding believers who they are, called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ. We have been bought with a price, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. It does not matter how far you have gone or how much you have messed up. Jesus has called you to Himself. His love is perfect, permanent, and unchanging. Once you are in Him, you are always in Him. Because of that, we are not saved to sit still. Jude urges believers to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. In a world where truth is being twisted and false gospels creep in unnoticed, we must guard what is true, not opinions or preferences, but the gospel itself. Contending begins on our knees. It looks like prayer, surrender, and bold obedience. Jesus has called us, loves us, and keeps us. He does not need wimpy Christians, but bold ones, driven by His love, who stand firm and live out the truth of the gospel. You are called. You are beloved. You are kept. Now get in the game and contend for the faith.

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Who We Are | Grateful Generosity

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:00:55 +0000

Our culture at Chestnut Mountain Church is always going to be shaped by what we value. The early church in Acts had all things in common; they were together. They were open-handed with what God had entrusted to them and lived out grateful generosity. We should strive to be a generous people, not for recognition, but because we are grateful for how generous He has been to us. As we look at why we value grateful generosity, there are three steps we can take in being generous. The first step in generosity is taking a step toward God. He receives us no matter what condition we’re in. Before we can ever understand biblical generosity, we must take a step toward Him in surrender. God was the one who initiated generosity, the one who modeled it. Before we trust Him with our money, we must trust Him with our eternity. The next step is to know Him better, and the deeper we know Him, the deeper we understand how generous He has been. The third step is to trust Him, because generosity has nothing to do with the amount of money; it has everything to do with trust. God doesn’t need our money; He wants our hearts. When we live out generosity, we’re living out a reflection of who Jesus is. The goal is not for people to see Chestnut Mountain Church; it’s for people to see Jesus. Listen to this sermon about grateful generosity in our Who We Are series.

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Who We Are | Surrendered Obedience

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:00:54 +0000

We are shaped by surrendered obedience. The narrow gate Jesus calls us to enter is simple, but it is not easy. Following Him means making choices that set us apart from the broad road of the crowd. Trusting the Lord means doing what He asks even when it doesn’t make sense. God doesn’t need logical people; He needs obedient people. Surrendered obedience is seen in the prayers we pray, when we say, “Your will be done, not mine.” Take a step of obedience. Don’t hang the “do not disturb” sign on your faith—switch it to “available.” We are shaped by the paths we take, the choices we make, and the prayers we pray. Take a step towards obedience. Listen to this sermon about surrendered obedience in our Who We Are series.

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Who We Are | Persistent Prayer

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:00:44 +0000

Prayer is the life source of the believer. We have overcomplicated it, but prayer is simply a conversation with God. The beauty of saying “Good morning, God” is that He is never not there. Prayer is where we find peace, comfort, direction, and the wisdom of God. It is not the preparation for the greater work but is the greater work. Everything must begin in prayer. Jesus gave us the model, the outline, and the call to keep asking, keep seeking, and keep knocking. Prayer is not a “ding dong ditch” moment—it is persistence. Like the widow before the judge, we are called to keep showing up and to depend on the One who loves us. Hardship often drives us to prayer, but once we taste and see that the Lord is good, we realize we can’t live without Him. Persistent prayer is our display of dependency and expectancy. God’s ways are always better, His timing is always best, and He calls us to trust Him more. Listen to this sermon about persistent prayer in our Who We Are series.

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Who We Are | Biblical Teaching

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:49 +0000

Biblical teaching is the nucleus of everything we do. It is our life source, and it’s what God has entrusted to us as His church. When looking at why we value biblical teaching, we look at what we do, which is to preach the Word. Not part of it, but every God-breathed word in Scripture. The reason we preach the Word is that it teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains. It may offend our flesh, but that offense leads to brokenness over sin, and that brokenness turns us back to Him. When we preach the Word, when we live a life with the purpose of glorifying Him, the world hates us. The enemy wants to extinguish the very light that God has placed inside of you. We have to keep preaching the Word, keep living the Word, and keep sharing the Word no matter what the cost. Listen to this sermon about biblical teaching in our Who We Are series.

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Who We Are | Intentional Community

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:00:34 +0000

At CMC, our mission is to saturate the world by making disciples. We achieve this by helping people belong to the family of God, become mature disciples of Christ, and build the Kingdom of God together. That’s why our values matter: Biblical Teaching, Intentional Community, Persistent Prayer, Surrendered Obedience, and Grateful Generosity. They drive our behaviors and form the framework of how we want to be known. And intentional community is the glue that holds it all together. Looking to the early church in Acts, we see that intentional community is authentic, consistent, generous, and missional. Our prayer is that our intentional community would be a reflection of who He is and what He has done. Listen to this sermon about why we value intentional community in our Who We Are series.

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Within The Walls | When the Enemy Attacks Your Home

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:00:26 +0000

Every home has a purpose. God has entrusted our families and households to us so that His glory might be seen and His faithfulness displayed. But just as the Philistines formed against Shammah’s bean field in 2 Samuel 23:11–12, the enemy still surrounds what God has given us, trying to trample and destroy. Shammah could have fled like the others, but instead, he stayed attentive, stood in the middle, and defended the field God had given him. In the same way, God calls us to fight for our homes and families that He has entrusted us with. We must remain on guard, stand firm in the middle of what God has given us, and fight with the only weapon the enemy cannot overcome—God’s Word. In this battle, the most powerful posture of battle is prayer. As we stay attentive, take our stand, and defend what God has given us, we must continually cover our homes, our children, and our families in prayer. Listen to this sermon about how to protect our home when the enemy attacks in the final sermon in our Within The Wall series.

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Within The Walls | Passing Faith to the Next Generation

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 10:00:16 +0000

What if we lived our lives as if the faith of the next generation relied on us? Judges 2 reminds us that when God’s people stop walking in obedience, we are only one or two generations away from a people who no longer know Him. Faith has to be more than knowledge—it must affect the way we live. Deuteronomy 6 shows us three ways we can pass faith down: love God passionately, teach truth practically, and share testimony personally. We can’t force anyone to follow Jesus, but we can put kindling around their hearts and trust the Lord to ignite the fire. If we say yes to Jesus, He’ll use us to pass on faith to the next generation if we’ll let Him. Listen to this message about generational discipleship in the fourth part of our Within The Walls series.

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Within The Walls | The Foundational Piece of Your Home

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:11:37 +0000

Every home has a purpose, but in order to live out that purpose, it must be built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. When storms come, our homes can only withstand them if they are anchored to Him. Jesus must be the foundational piece of our homes. To do this, there are four building blocks that we can use in placing in our home so that we can live out what God has for us. The four building blocks include love, serving, forgiveness, and intentionality. What building block are you struggling with the most? Ask God to help you love, serve, forgive, and be intentional with your family. Let Him be the foundation of your home. Listen to this sermon in the third part of our Within The Walls series.

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Within The Walls | Let It Stop With You

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:00:29 +0000

We live in a world where the internet and social media plant false expectations that rarely match reality. The same happens in our homes—expectations of perfection weigh us down and blind us to the truth: every one of us has a sin nature. We are all sinners in need of a Savior. Even after salvation, we still mess up, face temptation, and battle sins that may have controlled generations before us, including deception, selfishness, jealousy, anger, addiction, or abuse. One lie in Abraham’s life set off a chain of sin that stretched across four generations. The enemy works by normalizing sin, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Joseph chose truth and forgiveness. His choice broke the cycle. Hebrews 12:1-2 calls us to lay aside the sin that entangles and run with eyes fixed on Jesus. Make the daily choice to lay it down. Let it stop with you. God wants you to win. Listen to this sermon in the second part of our Within The Walls series.

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Within The Walls | God’s Purpose for Your Home

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:00:52 +0000

Every home has a purpose. Satan wants to destroy that purpose, and God wants to restore what’s already been destroyed. No matter what you’re walking through, no matter what you’re dealing with, no matter what season of life your family and your home is in right now, God sees you, God loves you, and He wants you to win. We were created in the image of God to reflect His glory and His attributes. Our homes are meant to be a reflection of who God is, so that others become curious and we can point them to Jesus. Whether you’re in a season of victory or feel like your home is falling apart, God wants to continue growing what is already going good and revive what may seem dead. Satan’s tactic is to question the truth of God and to compromise the truth of God. The enemy wants to plant seeds of doubt and drive a wedge between us and God. But God has made a career of mending broken things. He calls us to stop hiding, to take a step toward Him, and to allow Him to fix what we have wrecked. God wants to clothe you in His love through His Son, Jesus, and He wants you to trust Him with the broken pieces. Take a step towards God. Listen to this sermon in the first part of our Within The Walls series.

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In The Word - Colossians | God Wants to Use You

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:00:33 +0000

It is humbling to watch what God is doing, but even more humbling to know that He invites us to be a part of it. God did not send you here to sit. He did not save you to sit. He wants to use you to build His Kingdom. In Colossians 4, we are reminded that God uses all kinds of people for His purposes. Some are steady and faithful, while others come from a painful past, some have experienced failure, and others are recognized for their prayer, generosity, or unique gifts. No matter who you are or what your story looks like, God has a plan for you. Your past does not disqualify you. It may be the very thing God wants to use for His glory. He wants to save you, redeem you, and use you. If you will make yourself available, God will open the door. There is a seat at the table, and God wants to use you to build His Kingdom. Listen to the final sermon in our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | Transformation on Display

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:00:53 +0000

As adults, we continue to change—our personalities, our characteristics—but the transformation Paul talks about in Colossians 4 is something much deeper. It’s the transformation that happens when we’ve been raised with Christ. Salvation is in Christ alone, through Christ alone, and by Christ alone. Anything added to that is not the gospel at all. False teachers were trying to add to the gospel, saying you had to do more to get more of God. If you’ve been saved by grace, you already have all of Jesus. This transformation isn’t about getting more of Him; it’s about Jesus getting more of us. He must increase, but we must decrease. In Colossians 4:2–6, Paul shifts the focus to how we live out this transformation in front of a watching world. When our lives are transformed, people notice. Every day is an open door for us to reflect His image. Every day is an open door for people to see the transformation that God has done in and through us. Do people see the transformation in you? Listen to this sermon about being transformed and putting it on display in the eighth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | Reflecting God's Design

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:00:01 +0000

Christ in you is the hope of glory. Because He dwells within us, He is changing us from the inside out—and that change should be visible. We are called to shine, to radiate His glory, to be a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. Every part of our lives—our marriages, families, work, and leadership—is meant to reflect the gospel to the world. Colossians 3 shows us that God has a divine design for our relationships, and all of it falls under the authority of Jesus. The challenge isn’t just admitting He’s Lord—it’s submitting to His Lordship in every area of our lives. As we focus and dwell more on Him, we begin to reflect Him even more to the world. Listen to this sermon about reflecting God’s design in the seventh part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | Seek and Set Your Mind on Jesus

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:00:26 +0000

Colossians 3 is a hinge chapter. After correcting theology, Paul shifts to this question: Now that you’ve been raised with Christ—what does that mean for how you live? Paul gives two clear commands: seek the things above (desire) and set your mind on things above (discipline). Seeking is about what you value. Setting is about the choices you make. This isn’t about resolutions—it’s about reordering your whole life around Jesus.

Paul says to put to death what doesn’t reflect that—sexual sin, impurity, idolatry, anger. And then, he calls us to put on what does: compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. This isn’t behavior modification; it’s about living a life that reflects your new reality. The Holy Spirit doesn’t want to visit your life; He wants to dwell in it.

What are the things that you need to put off and the things that you need to put on to represent and reflect your new hidden life in Christ? Listen to this sermon in the sixth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | The Power of Walking with Christ

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:26:23 +0000

Throughout Scripture, there is an invitation to walk with God. Paul echoes this in Colossians 2: “As you received Christ, walk in Him.” The invitation to walk with Him is an invitation God extends to us today. Walking with Jesus is simple but powerful; it’s how we grow, fight temptation, and become more like Him—one step at a time. It’s not perfect, but it’s the path to freedom. You can’t skip it. And you can’t stop. Paul’s letter to the Colossians reminds us that Jesus is sufficient. Legalism, mysticism, and self-denial won’t save you. Only Jesus can. The gospel is the answer to life’s biggest questions, and walking with Him transforms us. Colossians 2:6-7 states that this walk is characterized by being grounded in truth, growing in faith, and being grateful in heart. The more you know, the more you experience, the more you praise. There is power in walking with Christ. Listen to this sermon in the fifth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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True North VBS 2025 | What Are You Standing On?

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:00:32 +0000

We live in a world that offers false hope—success, image, money, status. But when the storms of life come, those things collapse. Matthew 7 reminds us that only those who build their lives on Jesus will stand. He is the only foundation that holds. So, ask yourself: What are you standing on? The world—or the Word? The gospel is simple: Acknowledge your way isn’t working. Turn from it. Declare your trust in Jesus. That’s the message kids will hear at our True North VBS—and the message we all need.

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Father's Day | Called to Provide, Protect, and Be Present

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In Psalm 23, David writes from experience, declaring, “The Lord is my shepherd.” He describes a God who provides, protects, and is always present. Fathers, if your children rewrote Psalm 23 based on their experience with you, what would they say? Though we’ll never lead perfectly, walking closely with the Good Shepherd helps us reflect Him more clearly. Every father can ask these three questions each day: Do I provide? Do I protect? Am I present? God didn’t equip your wife to lead your home—He entrusted that role to you. And as you follow the Good Shepherd, He will help you provide, protect, and be present the way your children need. Listen to this Father’s Day sermon based on Psalm 23.

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In The Word - Colossians | Better Together: Living in Unity & Partnership

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Paul is writing the letter to the Colossians from a place of love because he loves the bride of Christ. Paul wants the Colossians to know that he has been praying for them and specifically wants them to know what he’s been praying over them. The pulse of this prayer is all about unity. Paul is praying for this idea of togetherness. He consistently prayed for the church’s protection, the church’s unity, and the church’s strength. Any church, any local body of believers who are preaching and teaching the gospel is a high-value target for the enemy. Paul didn’t view the churches as competitors but as partners. As the church, we are not in competition but in a partnership to see people come to know Jesus Christ. Not only that, but it is imperative that we do life with people and surround ourselves with other believers because God didn’t create us to do life alone. Listen to this sermon about living in unity and in partnership in the fourth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | What Did God Save You For?

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Paul begins to talk about the mindset of “no pain, no gain” and how he has embraced the battle and responsibility of being a disciple of Christ. In Colossians 1:24-29, he shares his testimony to build credibility and inspire the Colossians, teaching that salvation is not the finish line but the starting line for a mission with God. Salvation means we have not only been saved from something, but we have been saved for something. Salvation marks the beginning of discipleship and the responsibility to proclaim, warn, and teach. Paul shows us that while our insecurities may make us hesitant, we must strive with God’s strength and not let them rob us of our obedience. Even in suffering, Paul reminds us to trust God’s plan and see our struggles as opportunities to know Him deeper. What has God saved you for? Listen to this sermon about in the third part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | See Jesus for Who He Is

Mon, 26 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Paul’s prayer for the Colossians is that they would be controlled by things of the Lord—by the beauty of who Jesus is. False teachings had infiltrated the church, but Paul begins with, “See Jesus.” He dwells on Jesus before addressing the false teaching. So, who is Jesus? Jesus is the image of the invisible God. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all. Everything is His. He sees you, He knows you, and He holds it all together. Everything exists for the praise and glory of Christ. There’s not even a single molecule outside of His control—and if He cares about a molecule, how much more does He care about you? Jesus is the true and only Redeemer because He is the only perfect sacrifice. It’s not your goodness—it’s Jesus’ sacrifice on your behalf. We were once separated from Him, but Christ reconciled you and justified you before God Almighty. Jesus is supreme. He is preeminent. See Jesus. Be reminded of who He is and what He’s done. Do everything you cannot to forget Him as you go throughout your day. See Jesus. Listen to this sermon about seeing Jesus for who He is in the second part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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In The Word - Colossians | What Are You Filled With?

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Paul writes to the church of Colossae—a group of new believers who have embraced the gospel, but false teachings have clouded the truth and simplicity of it. Paul reminds them of what they already know: salvation is through Jesus and Jesus alone. He encourages them to be filled with the knowledge of God’s Word, because whatever you’re filled with is the very thing that will control you. If you aren’t filled with the Word of God, you will be tossed around. There’s a world waiting to fill the empty spots. When you are filled with truth, you will walk worthy, please Him, grow, be strengthened, have endurance, and give thanks. True salvation is life change. Be filled with the Truth. Listen to this sermon about being filled with the Truth in the first part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.

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Mother's Day 2025 | Designed to Display God

Mon, 12 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Mother’s Day is a day we set aside to celebrate some of God’s strongest creation. When we think about moms, we think about comfort, courage, and consistency. But we also know this day comes with a heaviness for many—loss, longing, or weariness. In 1 Kings 17, we meet a widow—gathering sticks, with just enough for one last meal. She felt like she had nothing to offer. But Elijah gave her a word from God: The flour jar will not become empty, and the oil jug will not run dry. The Bible says: She proceeded. She stepped out in faith—and God proved His faithfulness through her and to her. God has uniquely created every woman to reflect Him. And when we trust how He’s designed us, He can use what we offer to make a lasting impact. Listen to this Mother’s Day sermon about how women are designed to display God and how He can use you.

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Wrestling With Doubts

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Are you wrestling with doubts? You’re not alone—and you’re not disqualified. Thomas had seen Jesus’ miracles, eaten at His table, and still doubted. Abraham doubted. Moses doubted. David doubted. Doubt isn’t new—and it doesn’t push God away. The enemy wants to use your doubts to isolate you. But Jesus moves toward you in your doubts, not away from you. He knows your questions, your struggles, your “unless you do this, God” moments—and He still says, “Peace be with you.” Faith isn’t about having all the answers. Faith is believing what we can’t see but know is true. Your doubts don’t disqualify you. They’re part of the journey—and Jesus is right there in the middle of them. Take a step toward Him. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just worship Him—even with your doubts. Listen to this sermon about wrestling with doubts.

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Easter 2025 | Removing The Stone

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The stone in front of Jesus’ tomb wasn’t just to keep Him in—it was meant to keep people out. It shut out the light, blocked the disciples, and stamped a seal on what looked like the end. But what if that stone could talk? It would tell the story of a battle between good and evil, life and death, darkness and light. It would tell you about the moment Jesus gasped for air and woke up—and how nothing could stop Him from coming for you. The enemy has made a career out of putting things between Jesus and the people He loves. But the stone didn’t roll away so Jesus could get out. It rolled away so we could see He’s not there. What’s the stone standing in your way? Your past? Addiction? Shame? Fear? Whatever it is—Jesus doesn’t need it gone to get to you. He’ll walk through anything to meet you right where you are. That’s the kind of Savior He is. Are you living like the tomb is still sealed…or like it’s already empty?

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Palm Sunday 2025 | The Humble Way

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Have you ever thought about how Jesus chose to enter the most important week of His life? What kind of king rides in on a donkey? What kind of Savior weeps over a city? In Luke 19, Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem sets the stage not with fanfare and dominance, but with gentleness, tears, and truth. In this Palm Sunday message, we see four powerful traits in Jesus—His pursuit, gentleness, humility, and victory—and the peace they make possible for us today. This Palm Sunday, we’re invited to follow His example. “If God in flesh, the King of kings and Lord of lords, can empty Himself and choose the humble way… so can we.”

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Return | How God Really Feels About You

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how God really feels about you? Do you feel like God loves you, accepts you, is angry with you, is disappointed with you, ashamed of you, etc? In Zephaniah 3, Zephaniah tells the remnant, the ones who have turned back to God, how God really feels about them. Focusing on Zephaniah 3:17, we see five implications of how God feels about us. Through Zephaniah’s words of delivering God’s message to His people, we are reminded that God is with us, He fights for us, He rejoices over us, He quiets us with His love, and He delights in us. We see these five things not only stated by Zephaniah but we see these five implications all throughout Scripture and applicable to us today. No matter the circumstance, no matter what we have done, no matter our current condition, God loves us and longs for us to turn back to Him. God will always welcome you home. Listen to this sermon about how God really feels about us in the sixth part of our Return series.

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Return | Embrace the Wait

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Waiting is never easy. It tests our patience, challenges our faith, and often leaves us wondering if God is even listening. In the book of Zephaniah, the prophet delivers powerful warnings to the people of God and the nations surrounding them. He pleads with them to turn from idolatry, to repent, and to return to the Lord before it’s too late. And yet, after the warnings and discipline, God calls the faithful remnant to do something most of us struggle with—He says, “Wait for me.” What do we do when we’re surrounded by chaos? When evil seems to be winning and everything inside us wants to quit? The remnant in Zephaniah’s day had to make a choice—to give in or to keep trusting that God was still working, even in the waiting. Listen to this sermon about embracing the wait in the fifth part of our Return series.

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Return | Be An Influencer

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

You’re either being influenced, or you are being the influencer. For Judah, their position was in the center of nations and kingdoms that were fully worshiping false gods. While Judah was in a position to influence the people surrounding them, they were allowing themselves to be influenced by idolatry. Zephaniah gathers the people together to warn them and tell them to return back to God. You may find yourself in the middle of negative influence and surrounded by darkness. Because of this, have you ever prayed for your position to be changed, thinking that it would be easier if God changed your place? We don’t need a change of position but a change of perspective. Oftentimes, God wants us to embrace our position so that we can discover our purpose. The dark and lost world that we are placed right in the middle of is the dark and lost world that we are called to be a light to. Are we going to allow the world to influence us, or are we going to influence the world? Listen to this sermon about embracing our position and influencing the world in the fourth part of our Return series.

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Return | Stop Living For Yourself + Seek God

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Zephaniah calls the Israelites together not to celebrate them but to give them a harsh label. He warns them of the consequences are coming if they do not turn back to God. As they have been claiming to worship God while worshiping idols, Zephaniah tells them to stop living this way and turn back to God. Zephaniah says not only to stop and turn away but to seek and turn towards the one who loves you. He is calling the children of God back to say that the only way you can hide and be concealed from the wrath and judgment of God is to place our faith in the concealment of Jesus Christ and what He has done. In the same way, we must quit living for ourselves and seek God. Once we realize we are concealed in Him, it compels us to live differently. It’s a response. Listen to this sermon about not living for ourselves and instead turning back to God in the third part of our Return series.

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Return | The Irreplaceable One

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Do you have things in your life that are irreplaceable? Do you have things in your life that you can’t imagine life without? In the time of Zephaniah, the Israelites would carve out idols to worship as false gods. They said they worshiped God and yet they still made these false gods above God. While you may not carve out actual idols to worship, you carve out other things such as wealth, success, careers, time, etc. that we place above God and make these things irreplaceable in our lives. If you have something in your life that is so important that if it leaves you have no reason to live, you’re building your life on the wrong thing. The problem is not that these irreplaceable things are bad; the problem is that you have made them irreplaceable. The problem is making replaceable things irreplaceable. There’s only one that’s meant to be irreplaceable and that’s God. Turn to Him, build your life on Him, and worship Him. Listen to this sermon about building your life on the irreplaceable one in the second part of our Return series.

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Return | The Call to Boldly Turn to God

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

The book of Zephaniah is a small book in the Old Testament that we often might overlook. While this was a prophecy given to the children of Israel at the time and a warning given to them by the prophet Zephaniah, this message is still applicable to us today. Zephaniah was bold to call out the Israelites for their idol worship. If they don’t return to God, Zephaniah lets them know the consequences if they don’t turn to God. Zephaniah called them out, warned them, but He also calls God’s children higher. We have to stop apologizing for raising the standard. It’s not our opinion but what God’s Word commands us to do. We are a reflection of God’s redeeming glory. Does our lifestyle show that? Zephaniah reminds them of what victory looks like if they will just turn back to God. God loves us enough that he gave us victory over His judgment through Jesus. We just have to boldly return back to God. Listen to this sermon about boldly turning to God in the first part of our Return series.

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Beauty for Ashes | Finding Courage to Take the Step of Faith

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

God will lead us to do things that seem impossible. When we step out in obedience, in that obedience, we will always face opposition because the enemy wants to keep us from walking in obedience. In this, we will feel unequipped or qualified and like we don’t have the ability to do what God has called us to do. Through the story of Jake and Diane Spengler, we see God’s unconditional love and how He equips those He calls. Jake and Diane share their story of being foster parents and adopting their daughter. Looking at their story and Jonah’s story in the Bible, we see that obedience is never to get something from God; obedience is a response to knowing God. Just as Jesus modeled, our compassion, pursuit, provision, and possession are what motivate us to be obedient. In the fourth and final part of our Beauty for Ashes series, listen to this sermon about how we can find the motivation to be obedient in response to God’s unconditional love for us.

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Beauty for Ashes | Finding Peace & Rest in Life's Inconsistencies

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Rollercoasters are full of inconsistencies; similarly, life is full of ups and downs. We long for consistency and stability in life. While the circumstances of life are always changing, the thing that never changes is the goodness of God. Through the story of Doug and Karen Banks, we see how the goodness of God shows up through the Word of God, the people of God, and the supernatural peace of His presence. As Doug describes, “Until you experience the presence of God, you can’t fully understand and even when you experience it you can’t explain.” Through their story and David’s words in Psalm 23, we’re reminded we see God’s peace and the rest that only He can provide. In the third part of our Beauty for Ashes series, listen to this sermon about how we can find rest and peace in the middle of life’s inconsistencies.

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Beauty for Ashes | Finding God, Community, and Hope in the Pain

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

As we continue our Beauty for Ashes series, we hear the story of Kylen. Throughout facing multiple physical and mental health struggles for most of her life, Kylen shares how God placed Coach Thomas, her high school basketball coach, and Kelsi, her school’s FCA missionary to walk with her in her journey. Seeing how Coach Thomas and Kelsi were living out their faith, Kylen wanted to know more of how to grow in her faith. Through Kylen’s story, we see the importance of doing life with others as followers of Christ and also how God can use our pain to reflect His glory. In the second part of our Beauty for Ashes series, listen to this sermon about doing life with others and God using us in the midst of our pain.

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Beauty for Ashes | Finding Refuge in Storms of Life

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

During our Beauty for Ashes series, you’re going to be introduced to four different families from our church that have extended an invitation for you to step into their lives and for you to be a part of the things they have walked through. Today, we hear the story of Brandon, Lauren, and Brooklyn Bridgefarmer. You’ll see in this story how Brandon and Lauren found hope, strength, and peace, not necessarily with the circumstances getting better or by avoiding the tragedy, but they were able to find it in the middle of it. God is our refuge and strength and a helper who is always found in the midst of the trouble and the middle of the storm. When the struggles and tragedies of life show up unexpectedly, where do you run? In the first part of our Beauty for Ashes series, listen to this sermon about finding refuge in the middle of life’s storms featuring the Bridgefarmers’ story about the loss of their daughter, Brooklyn.

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SEEK | How to Pray

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

We can often think of prayer as being intimidating because we don’t think we know how to pray. However, prayer is simply a conversation with God and us being close to Him. The one thing that the disciples asked Jesus to teach them was how to pray. To His disciples and those listening to the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches not only how not to pray but also how to pray. Through the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus gives an outline of how to pray. This outline includes five things we can pray about when we have a conversation with our Heavenly Father: trust, worship, surrender, dependence, and repentance. Listen to this sermon about how to pray in the final part of our SEEK series.

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SEEK | Pray with Persistence

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

When we talk about prayer, prayer can sometimes be very misunderstood and seem very intimidating and it sometimes seems pointless to us. Prayer is a conversation between you and the Father. Looking to Jesus’ life on earth, we see that prayer was His lifeline and He was persistent about praying to God during His ministry. We must be persistent in prayer. Even when it seems like God is not doing what we want, when we want it, and how we want it, we must trust God and submit to His plan, even in the waiting. It’s all about the motive of our prayer and being close to Him. Keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Listen to this sermon about praying persistently in the third part of our SEEK series.

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SEEK | The Influence of God's Word

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

If you are genuinely going to pursue the Lord and experience a closeness with Him, it is imperative that you do it by being in the Word of God. In addition to fasting and praying, we must focus on God’s Word. In Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, we see how God’s Word came to them, worked in them, and worked through them. Upon salvation, we have to continue to examine God’s Word, continue to be in God’s Word, and continue to read God’s Word. Salvation is the starting line of where to become a mature disciple begins. We can’t pursue God the way He desires without being in The Word of God and without submitting to Scripture. When we do this, we see the Word of God work through us. Just as the Word of God was ringing out those around the Thessalonians, the impact of the Word should be ringing out in our workplace, in our school hallways, grocery stores, and should definitely begin in your home. When we hear, read, and do the Word of God, it influences everyone around us. Listen to this sermon about seeing the Word of God work in and through you in the second part of our SEEK series.

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SEEK | Ask, Seek, Knock

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

It’s a new year, and with a new year comes new goals, new resolutions, and new commitments. As we enter 2025, has it crossed your mind to pursue God like you never have before? In 2025, we are praying that you and we, as a church, pursue God and see God move in a way that we never have before. Just as Jesus teaches in Matthew 7, if we want to see God and pursue God like never before, we have to commit to ask, to seek, and to knock. To pursue this commitment, we look to Scripture, prayer, and fasting. Fasting is one of the overlooked practices of the Christian faith because of the commitment and discipline it takes. However, it allows us the opportunity to align our hearts with God’s heart. Therefore, we are challenging our church family to a fast in January 2025. What would the Lord have you give up that hinders your closeness with Him? Ask, seek, and knock. Listen to this sermon as we begin our SEEK sermon series and prepare for our fast in January 2025.

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See Jesus

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

As we enter the end of 2024, we have all of these expectations of what a new year will bring. Maybe there are new habits or new resolutions you want to start in 2025. What if we challenged ourselves to truly see Jesus in 2025? you to see Jesus in 2025. When we see Jesus, everything changes. As we behold (see or observe) King Jesus, it will produce a reaction in us. To do this, we must first remember our salvation. Then beholding will produce holiness and will produce worship in song. When we behold Him, we will seek Him and we will find Him. Be expectant for what God will do. Listen to this sermon about seeing Jesus in the final sermon of 2024.

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Dwell: God With Us | The Gift

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

One of the biggest parts of how we celebrate Christmas is through gifts. While we can recall some of our favorite gifts we have received throughout our lives, the greatest gift is the birth of our Savior. The greatest gift ever is defined by the Savior, Messiah, and Lord. Looking at the announcement of the birth of Jesus from the angel to the shepherds, we see God choosing society’s most unlikely to go and share the news of Jesus’ birth, this gift that is for all people. Listen to this sermon about The Gift in the final part of our Dwell: God With Us series this Christmas season.

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Dwell: God With Us | The Committment

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Looking at the Christmas story from the lens of Joseph, we see the forgiveness, obedience, and trust that he displayed from discovering that Mary was with child to hearing from the angel that the child was from God and He would be called Jesus. Before knowing that the child was from God, Joseph was ready to forgive Mary and to set her free to withhold her from public shame and penalty because of what the public perception of her pregnancy would be. When the angel appeared to Joseph to tell him who this baby would be, we see the power of resting, giving God our yes, and trusting Him with our tomorrow. What do you need to say yes to? What do you need to be obedient with? How do you need to trust God? Listen to this sermon about The Commitment in the third part of our Dwell: God With Us series this Christmas season.

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Dwell: God With Us | The Promise

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Mary was a young lady, and she was engaged to be married. In this season of Mary’s life, there was so much anticipation. Then, out of nowhere, a messenger from God shows up and absolutely turns her plans upside down. As the angel delivered the message from God that Mary would carry and deliver Jesus, the relationship between God’s promises and your obedience is seen. At the time of her being deeply troubled by the angel’s appearance, you too can be reminded of the angel’s words that, as a child of God, you are favored by God; God is with you; do not be afraid. Similarly, there are things that God is going to call you to do in life that are going to be troubling for you because of how impossible it seems, but be reminded that nothing is impossible with God. Like Mary, we must exercise faith over fear. We must surrender and make ourselves available to Him. When we do, we see God use your yes as an opportunity for others to say yes to Him. Listen to this sermon about The Promise in the second part of our Dwell: God With Us series this Christmas season.

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Dwell: God With Us | The Hope

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

When the people of Judah were in their darkest valley, overwhelmed by their own failures and external attacks, God sent a message of hope through the prophet Micah: Help is on the way. This promise would be fulfilled through the birth of Jesus. While Micah delivered this message of hope to hurting people, they would have to wait for the coming of this Shepherd, but God continued to walk with them and be with them in their valley. He may not have delivered the promise when and how they wanted God to, but He was with them and delivered the ultimate hope, Jesus. Similarly, when we face tough seasons and valleys in life, we cry out to God for help, but He doesn’t always show up when and how we want Him to. However, He is always with us, protecting us, and providing for us because that’s what the Shepherd does. We must trust Him with the when and how. Listen to this sermon about The Hope in the first part of our Dwell: God With Us series this Christmas season.

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Communion | Remembering the Life & Sacrifice of Jesus

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

While we think about all the things that we have to be thankful for, there’s nothing that should surpass the thankfulness of the life, the death, and the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we’re coming up on a busy season in our lives with holidays, traveling, etc., it’s so easy to get distracted. We must remember, though, that Jesus has to stay central to anything and everything that we do. To do this, we take time to give thanks and remember Jesus’ life and sacrifice through partaking in the Lord’s Supper. Remembering the price that was paid for us is all that really matters. Listen to this sermon about remembering who Jesus is and what He did on our behalf as we take time to give thanks, remember, and partake in communion together as a church family.

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He Is | He Is Faithful

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

God is faithful. Since the beginning of time, God has remained faithful to His promises and in His pursuit of us. Even though we may have questions, doubts, and frustrations about our lives, God is faithful. Through how He took on the promise and the curse of the covenant to reconcile His people back to Him, we see how God is faithful to His promises, and He is faithful to His promises through Jesus. Even in our failures, Jesus still died in our place, and God still loves us, pursues us, and is faithful. Because He is faithful, we should be faithful. Listen to this sermon about how He is faithful in the tenth and final part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Light

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Lighting is important. In photography, for example, lighting can be the difference between a breathtaking photo and a terrible one. In the context of a human being, a life is only as beautiful as the light that illuminates it. In the Sermon on the Mount, in addition to Jesus calling believers to be the salt of the earth, He also commands believers to light their shine in the world. As followers of Christ, we are called to be the light in a dark world. Jesus is the Light of the World, and He changes everything. Light always changes the environment it’s in because it exposes the darkness. Because we are an extension of Jesus’ ministry as followers of Him, our responsibility is to be the light in the darkness. Our responsibility is to let His light shine through us, but the reality is that there is sin in us that affects the brightness of the light that shines through us. As the light shines through us, it is going to expose the very things that dim the light that shines through us and around us. Our conviction of our sin must lead to confession because sin can dim the brightness of how the light shines in our life. The light in us never changes because Jesus never changes, but the sin in our lives can affect the brightness of the light shining through us. Let your light shine in the darkness, and let it shine bright. Listen to this sermon about how He Is Light and how we are to let the light shine in the ninth part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Unity

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

We face choices and opinions where we are forced to pick sides. Often, these choices lead to clear division and separation. Similarly, there would be a dividing line in the room, a clear separation; before we place our faith in Jesus, there is a clear dividing line between us and God. God sent His only Son to provide a way for that gap to be closed so that we would be unified in Him, in Him alone. Therefore, He is unity. Not only was Jesus sent to be united, but Jesus also exhausted Himself modeling unity and how to achieve unity. We look to how Jesus modeled unity with his disciples to see how we, too, can model unity in a divided world. Through finding common ground, meeting people right where they are, and seeing others’ potential, we can be imitators of Christ to model unity and live it out. Listen to this sermon about He is unity in the eighth part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Patient

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus is patient. We think that God loves us when we are doing well and that He is disappointed when we fail. However, God loves us enormously on our best days and loves us the same on our worst days. He is patient with us. He displays His patience towards us through being a patient physician and patient shepherd. Looking at how Jesus healed people, how He led people, and who He said He was throughout His earthly ministry, we see that He wants to heal and lead us, too. Listen to this sermon about how He is patient in the seventh part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Generous

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Jesus always led and loved with generosity. As an imitator of Christ, because Christ is generous, we are to be generous too. Looking to Jesus’ teaching in the parable of the Good Samaritan, we see how being generous involves putting others’ agendas before our own, having compassion that leads to action, and being open-handed with what God has given us. We are generous because He was first generous to us. How do we need to be generous today? Listen to this sermon about He is generous in the sixth part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Authentic

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As followers of Christ, we are called to be authentic imitators of Him, not just in words but through our actions. Everything Jesus commands us to do, He has modeled it. Through this, we see, that He is authentic by how He loved, served, forgave, and was just real. How much different would our church, our homes, and our workplaces look if we were authentic through our love, service, forgiveness, and being real with one another? Listen to this sermon about He is authentic in the fifth part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Welcoming

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

On Jesus’ way to Jerusalem, as He approached what He knew would be the crucifixion, He had to Jericho. Through His journey to Jericho, he encountered Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector hated among the people, in a sycamore tree. Despite being hated, being in a hard-to-see place amidst the crowd, and Zacchaeus not really knowing Jesus but curious enough to catch a glimpse of Him, Jesus called Zacchaeus by name and invited Himself to Zacchauses’ house to dine with him. Through this encounter and dining with what the community deemed as the worst of these, we see how Jesus is welcoming. Jesus wanted to display that anyone, including the worst of the worst, who will seek Him and will find Him and He will welcome them in. Jesus will welcome anyone, and in the same way, so should we. Listen to this sermon about He is welcoming in the fourth part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Kind

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

When you think of kindness, you think of someone being nice to you or pleasant, gentle, patient, offering a helpful gesture. However, kindness is not just about being positive, helpful, and gentle, but it’s also acting on what someone needs. The kindness of God is one of the most fascinating and mind blowing qualities of God, that he, who is Yahweh, is kind. Looking to accounts of people being healed by Jesus throughout Scripture, we see how God’s kindness acts, goes first, and is selfless, ultimately, giving us a model that we can embody and emulate. Listen to this sermon about how He is kind in the third part of our He Is series.

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He Is | He Is Intentional

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Looking at the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4, we see how He is and still is intentional. Despite being despised by Jews and Samaritans, Jesus was still intentional in His interaction with the woman and provided true satisfaction to her thirst through a relationship with Him. This intentionality even compelled her to tell others, causing more to believe in Jesus. As imitators of Christ, we must live out this same intentionality to carry out the message of reconciliation to lost people. Listen to this sermon about Jesus’ intentionality in the second part of our He Is series.

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He Is | Being an Ambassador for Christ

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

We are called to be imitators of Christ, and it’s a responsibility of being a follower of Christ. Upon salvation, God not only calls you a child of God and calls you redeemed, but He also calls you an ambassador for Him. As an ambassador for Christ, we are given the message and ministry of reconciliation. Carrying this message and living out this ministry is the goal; how we accomplish this goal is the strategy. To learn how to accomplish the goal, we’ll look to Jesus and who He is throughout this new series entitled “He Is.” Listen to this sermon about being an ambassador for Christ in the first part of our He Is series.

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Stories | Finding the Unexpected Blessings in the Unexpected Events

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

We never know what we’re going to face every day. We will face unexpected, unwanted, and uncomfortable pain and circumstances in life. When it seems like life is falling apart, God is working on the brokenness. Looking at the parable of the hidden treasure in Matthew 13, Jesus teaches that unexpected blessings are often found in unexpected events. God will never waste the unexpected, but are we willing to surrender the very thing that is causing pain in our lives so that He can cover it with His grace and love? God wants to use your circumstances and He wants to use you to bring His Kingdom here to earth. Listen to this sermon about unexpected blessings in unexpected circumstances in the third and final part of our Stories series.

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Stories | God’s Unthinkable Plan to Expand His Family from Small Beginnings Person to Person

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

God has a plan for you in His family and in His mission. While He has proven His power through speaking everything into creation, making a way for His people, and wiping out evil in the great flood, He chose to expand His Kingdom differently through His people, including you. Looking to Jesus sharing the parable of the mustard seed and the leaven, be reminded that you are a seed in the hand of an ever-faithful Farmer. You are a seed and leaven in the world. Remember that God sees you, has a plan for you, and has an assignment for you. Listen to this sermon about God’s unthinkable plan to expand His family from small beginnings person to person in the second part of our Stories series.

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Stories | When Life's Storms Come

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In Luke 6, Jesus is speaking to His disciples and a crowd of people, and He shares the parable of the house built on the rock versus the house built on the sand. In His message, Jesus shares that the man with the house on the rock stood firm when the storm came, while the house on the sand was destroyed by the storm. Looking at this message shared to believers by Jesus, we see the importance of applying this to our own lives. We are going to face storms in our lives, whether we believe in Jesus or not. How is our foundation, though? Are we digging deep to make the foundation secure, or is there no foundation? If our lives are not built on Jesus, we will withstand the storms we face in live. Do you know Jesus? Listen to this sermon about checking the foundation of our lives in the first part of our Stories series.

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Belong, Become, Build (2024) | Build

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

When we belong to God, our salvation represents a brick in the Kingdom of God. It is our responsibility to go and gather more bricks to place in the Kingdom of God. What does it look like practically to build the Kingdom of God? Look to the children of Israel in the book of Ezra, whom God freed to build His temple; we see how we must keep building His Kingdom, even in the face of the enemy’s disruptions. Listen to this sermon about building the Kingdom of God in the third part of our Belong, Become, Build series, walking through how we seek to accomplish the mission God has called us to at Chestnut Mountain Church.

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Belong, Become, Build (2024) | Become

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

While the heart of the church is always going to be that we want people to belong to God and belong here, we have to have the same burning passion to want you to become a mature disciple of Christ. We want you to belong to Him, we want you to belong here, and we want you to mature and become a mature disciple of Jesus Christ. Why is it so important? We’re doing exactly what Jesus commanded us to do. Looking at Jesus’ model of invitation and discipleship, we see how we can fulfill the Great Commission He has commanded us to go and make disciples. Listen to this sermon about becoming a mature disciple of Christ in the second part of our Belong, Become, Build series walking through how we seek to accomplish the mission God has called us to at Chestnut Mountain Church.

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Belong, Become, Build (2024) | Belong

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Our mission here is to saturate the world by making disciples. We have three strategies, which are how we are going to accomplish saturating the world by making disciples, and these three strategies are belong, become, and build. We desire for people to belong to God and to belong to the family of God. The word belong embodies the heart of God. Looking back to Adam and Eve and how God desired for them to belong to Him, we see that God continues to pursue us and desires for us to belong to Him despite our sin. God wants you to belong to Him. Listen to this sermon about belonging to God and to the family of God in the first part of our Belong, Become, Build series walking through how we seek to accomplish the mission God has called us to at Chestnut Mountain Church.

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In The Word - 1 John | The Evidence of Salvation

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:41:32 +0000

John was writing his letter to believers because many believers had doubts. In 1 John 5, John writes that we can know that we will have eternal life because of how we are saved and the evidence of salvation. As believers, we may be through seasons of doubt as well. In these doubts, how can we know that we are saved, and what is the evidence of salvation? We are saved only by trusting in Jesus. God puts down the hand of grace while we put up the hand of faith. When we’re saved, our salvation compels us to love God, have a desire to keep His commands, and love others. We don’t have to live in doubt; we can live in victory because of Jesus. Listen to this sermon about the evidence of salvation in the final part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of 1 John.

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In The Word - 1 John | What is Love?

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

What is love? If you’re looking for what love is or about to give up on love, don’t give up on love, and John is showing us what love is in 1 John. God is love. Through Scripture, we see that God’s love is show and tell, God’s love is strong enough for the unlovable, and the presence of God is marked by love. Understanding what love is allows us to be loved and go out and share love by loving one another as we have been commanded. Listen to this sermon about what love is in the fifth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of 1 John.

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In The Word - 1 John | How to Live in the Love of God

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As followers of Christ, how do we live in the love of God? We need to embrace the world we live in and love people no matter what. What does it look like to live the way God wants us to? We look to Christ and His love for us; this is the same love we should show others. You can love people well, like Jesus, wherever you are or whatever you’re doing. It requires us to lay down our life. Listen to this sermon about how to live in the love of God in the fourth part of our In The Word series, walking through 1 John.

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In The Word - 1 John | Who You Are in Christ and How You Know

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As followers of Christ, how can we know who we are, and how can we be sure of this? If you are in Jesus, you are a son or daughter of the King. If we are born-again believers, this is our new identity. If we could focus and grasp the love of God, our lives would look vastly different. This is how we can be sure of our identity. We will be known by what we do and by how we love. Not only can you see that you are born again based on how you love others, but the people around you can, too. Listen to this sermon about our identity in Christ and being sure of it in the third part of our In The Word series, walking through 1 John.

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In The Word - 1 John | Reflecting Who You’re Related To

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 01:00:00 +0000

If you have a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ, you will look different than you did before you met Him. In his letter, John is saying it's not enough for us just to have Jesus all to ourselves. But our joy is ultimately made complete when we get the opportunity to tell others about the experience that we have. As a child of God, if you have truly experienced a relationship with Jesus Christ, it is not enough for you to keep it to yourself. You are commanded by the Word of God that once you have tasted and seen that the Lord is good, it is your responsibility to tell others about Him. Listen to this sermon about joy-giving principles in the first part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of 1 John.

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In The Word - 1 John | 3 Joy-Giving Principles

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

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Father's Day 2024

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Looking to Adam and Nehemiah, the importance of men taking a stand is seen. The devil will wait for the opportune time to step in and turn your life upside down. There is a danger in being only physically present but not emotionally or spiritually present. God has called you to lead your home, to love your home, to lead your spouse, to love your children. If He calls you away from doing that, it’s not of God. Don’t be lured away or distracted. Before you can lead your family, you’ve got to learn to lead yourself. Before you can lead yourself, you’ve got to learn to follow Jesus. Listen to this Father’s Day sermon about dads and husbands taking a stand.

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Stand | Sword of the Spirit

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The final piece of armor in the whole armor of God is an important piece of armor. It’s both a defensive weapon and an offensive weapon. The Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. The Sword of the Spirit is important because it equips the man and woman of God for every good work. The Bible is undefeated, the Bible is alive, the Bible is forever, and the Bible is the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. It is our battle weapon. It’s not just our battle weapon of choice. It’s the only one that we will ever need because it contains in it everything needed for every battle. Listen to this sermon about the sword of the spirit in the final part of our Stand series.

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Stand | Helmet of Salvation

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

For the Roman soldier, the helmet was important as it protected the head, but the design of the helmet still allowed for the soldier to have mobility to see the direction of the enemy’s attack. Paul is telling the Ephesians not to even engage in battle with the enemy until they have accepted or received salvation. Don’t even attempt to battle the enemy in your flesh. In the same way that a soldier would depend on the helmet to save their life, we have to depend on the gift of salvation to save our lives. We have to not only accept the helmet of salvation but we have to apply the helmet of salvation to our lives. Similarly to how the soldiers turn to their leader in the midst of an attack to lead them to safety, we have to turn our eyes to Jesus no matter the attacks and circumstances we face. Listen to this sermon about the helmet of salvation in the sixth part of our Stand series.

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Stand | The Shield of Faith

Tue, 28 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

After putting on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shoes of peace, Paul reminds believers to take up the shield of faith. Just as a shield protected Roman soldiers from arrows and flaming arrows being shot at them all around, the shield of faith can be taken up to protect us from the attacks of the enemy. But what is faith and how do we grow our faith to be able to take up the shield of faith? Listen to this sermon about the shield of faith in the fifth part of our Stand series.

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Stand | Shoes of Peace

Mon, 20 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The shoes that Roman soldiers wore were important so that they allowed them to be stabilized and mobilized. As Paul writes in Ephesians, he calls Christians to stand and put on the armor of God, including shoes of peace. You can’t afford to let life’s circumstances cause you to stumble. You are called by God to stand, and you are called to stand on the gospel of peace. The enemy wants to hinder that calmness, comfort, and confidence of where your peace is found. This is the very reason that your peace must come from the gospel and the gospel alone. Listen to this sermon about putting on the shoes of peace in the fourth part of our Stand series.

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Mother's Day 2024

Mon, 13 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Jochebed was the mother of Moses. Around the time discovered she was with child, it was the same time that Pharaoh had decreed that all Hebrew males born were to be killed. At the time of Moses’s birth until she placed him in the basket in the Nile to protect him from being killed, we see Jochebed go through three seasons of motherhood: nurture, preparation, and surrender. It’s in these three seasons of motherhood that moms can be encouraged to continue to walk in the role that God has placed them to be in for their children. Listen to this sermon of encouragement for moms on Mother’s Day.

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Stand | The Breastplate of Righteousness

Mon, 06 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Part of a Roman soldier’s armor was the breastplate. The purpose of the breastplate was to cover the torso of the soldier to protect the internal organs from being penetrated by the enemy. The most important thing it was to protect was the heart. In teaching a spiritual lesson through a physical representation of the armor of a Roman soldier, Paul is teaching believers to put on the armor of God. He refers to the breastplate as the breastplate of righteousness. The most important thing it was to protect was the heart. The enemy’s top two targets are to affect your mind and your emotions because he can’t touch anything else to pluck you from the Father’s hand, so he’s going to hinder your closeness to God. A righteous and holy lifestyle deflects the penetration of the enemy and his ability to influence your thoughts and emotions. Listen to this sermon about the breastplate of righteousness in the third part of our Stand series.

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Stand | The Belt of Truth

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In Ephesians 6, God gives a physical illustration of a soldier’s armor for Paul to use and communicate to the church of Ephesus, teaching them the spiritual elements of the armor of God. This is teaching us as Christians how to stand. The first thing we are to put on is the belt of truth. Like a solder’s belt, the belt of truth is to harness the schemes of the enemy to keep us from being hindered and entangled with the enemy’s lies. You have to put on the belt of truth every day. Listen to this sermon about who the enemy is and how we are called to stand as Christians in the first part of our Stand series.

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Stand | Called to Stand

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In Ephesians 6, Paul tells the church of Ephesus that the struggle and battle that we face as believers are not with flesh and blood but are much more about what we can’t see rather than what we can see. We have to comprehend the battle we can’t see. If we choose to ignore, we are playing right into the enemy’s hand. Satan understands that if he can’t have us then he can hinder us. Your assignment as a child of God is to stand. If God wants us to stand, then the enemy simply wants us to fall. Listen to this sermon about who the enemy is and how we are called to stand as Christians in the first part of our Stand series.

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In The Word - James | A Pathway to Wholeness

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

James doesn’t close his letter to believers with closing greetings or a prayer like other letters in the New Testament. Instead, he closes with a declarative letter. He is calling believers to a higher standard of living. James is teaching how to be made complete and whole. He is calling believers to a pathway of wholeness. There are four key points to obtain the pathway to wholeness as a Christian: prayer, praise, confession, and accountability. Listen to this sermon about prayer, praise, confession, accountability, and what these keys mean to a pathway of wholeness in the final part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | Responding to Tough Seasons

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

There is no secret recipe for how to avoid hardship or struggles in life. Tough times come not because God is mad or frustrated with us but because we experience tough times and heartaches in this life because we live in a broken world. However, James writes to believers about how to respond to tough seasons that are faced in life. As followers of Christ, we must respond to tough seasons with patience and endurance. While being patient and enduring is difficult, we obtain patience and endurance by clinging to the promises of God. Our hope and the promise is that Jesus is coming back and His return is near. We must focus on the promise by honoring God with what we can control and trusting Him with what we cannot control. Listen to this sermon about responding to tough seasons in the fifteenth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of James.

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Easter Sunday 2024

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, we look at how the disciples of Jesus scattered at the moment of His arrest and crucifixion but then were called to gather back in Galilee to meet Jesus after the resurrection. While the disciples had declared that they would never leave Jesus, prophecy and Jesus’ words were fulfilled as the disciples’ circumstances of what they were witnessing overwhelmed their courage. In our lives, there are often times that our circumstances will overwhelm what we have committed ourselves to, like the disciples. However, it doesn’t matter how far you’ve scattered; Jesus eagerly awaits you. Go back to your Galilee. Listen to this Easter sermon as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

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Palm Sunday 2024

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

As Palm Sunday is this start of Holy Week, it begins with the Triumphal Entry where the people went from being on top of the world that the King has arrived to making a turn when Good Friday gets here. The four gospels detail the account of Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, and today, we focus on Luke’s account of Jesus’ entry. Through the obedience of the disciples and the colt owner, we see prophecy fulfilled in the sacrifice of Jesus riding in seated on clothes covering a donkey. God used their availability, their resources, and what seemed insignificant to them. Similarly, God wants to use our availability, resources, and what seems insignificant to us. Our responsibility as a follower of Christ is to deliver the message of Jesus wherever it is that God leads us to be. Listen to this Palm Sunday sermon about what God can do with and through our obedience to deliver the message of Jesus.

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In The Word - James | Being Open-Handed

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In the first six verses of James 5, James is calling out the rich for taking advantage of the poor. It’s a call to us as believers to be open-handed with what God has given us. While God doesn’t need your money, God does, however, want your heart. If we will live fully surrendered to God’s vision, He will provide. God is not going to call us to do anything and not provide for it, but it’s going to take our obedience and our surrender. If God sends it, He’s entrusting us to spend it. If God gives it, He expects us to give it back to Him and trust Him. What is God calling you to give and be open-handed with? Listen to this sermon about giving in the fourteenth part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | Living Out God’s Will

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In James 4, James continues with reminding believers that life is fragile. We can make all the plans we want, and we can live like we are in control, but we don’t know because our life is short and fragile. While we want to control our lives, we need a life that says, “if the Lord wills,” because this statement declares God is in control, not us. We might not know what the future holds, but God does. We might not know what the next year looks like, but God knows. It can be easy to say, “my will; not Your will,” but we need to say, “Your will; not my will.” We must surrender and submit to God’s will. Listen to this sermon about what God’s will is and living in submission to His will in the thirteenth part of our In The Word series walking through James.

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In The Word - James | Loving One Another

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In James 4, James reminds believers of what it means to follow Jesus. When we declare Him as Savior, we also declare Him as Lord. Declaring Him as Lord means we surrender to His power, surrender to His authority, surrender to His influence, and submit to His commands. One of the commands we are to follow is to love one another. Because we are commanded to love one another, that means that we are not to criticize another child of God. Don’t tear other followers of Christ down. In Christ, we are all a part of the same family. Is the way we love each other inviting a lost world to follow Jesus or turning them away from Jesus? Listen to this sermon about not tearing down other followers of Christ and loving one another in the twelfth part of our In The Word series walking through James.

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In The Word - James | Who Are You Close To?

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000

It’s frustrating when we are watching a movie or a show, and the audio and video don’t align together. Similarly, in James 4, James is writing with concern that what the believers are saying isn’t lining up with how they are living. As Christians, we have to ensure that what we are saying aligns with how we are living. Many times, it doesn’t because, even though our spirit is redeemed, we still have our flesh that often pursues the passions and desires of the world. This is why it is important to ask ourselves the question: who are we close to? The answer to this question is important because what we are closest to influences us the most. No matter how many times we fall short though, God will never not want us. When we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. Listen to this sermon about being close to Jesus versus being close to the world in the eleventh part of our In The Word series, walking through James.

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In The Word - James | False Wisdom vs. True Wisdom

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Wisdom is referenced all throughout Scripture, and James writes about two types of wisdom in James 3, false wisdom and true wisdom. It is tough to define wisdom, but you will know it when you see it. True wisdom is not strictly intellectual but is mostly behavioral. How do we discern false wisdom from true wisdom? Listen to this sermon about false wisdom versus true wisdom in the tenth part of our In The Word series, walking through James.

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In The Word - James | Controlling Our Tongues

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In James 3, James writes about controlling our tongue. James alludes that we all have struggles and our struggles all look different, but the one struggle we have in common is that we have all stumbled or will stumble by our tongue. Humans have the ability to tame every single animal on Earth, but we can’t tame our tongues. We learn through James’s letter that the tongue is powerful, dangerous, and revealing. The only way we can control it is by walking closer to Jesus. Listen to this sermon about controlling our tongue in the ninth part of our In The Word series, walking through James.

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In The Word - James | Dead Faith vs. Saving Faith

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 11:00:00 +0000

As we continue our walk through James, we see in James 2, that James is teaching that faith without works is dead. This is not to be confused with James saying that our salvation is based on works. Instead, James is talking about two types of faith: dead faith and saving faith. Our salvation is not based on works. Saving faith produces works. If faith has no action, then this faith is dead. Faith without works is dead, but saving faith brings life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Listen to this sermon about dead faith versus saving faith in the eighth part of our In The Word series, walking through James.

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Welcome Home Sunday | Love, Honor, and Serve Each Other

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

We want to cultivate a culture where you can come home and just be you. We desire for everyone who steps on our campus to know that they can belong to God and feel they have a family they can belong to at CMC. As church attendance continues to decline in America, though, what is our role as the lighthouse in this community to change the trajectory of the church? Looking at the principles Paul writes about in Romans, if we will apply these simple principles that should be the evidence of a child of God, CMC will become a place where everyone will feel like they belong. Listen to this sermon from our Welcome Home Sunday.

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I Surrender All | The Price and Prize of Prayer

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Prayer is oxygen for the Christian. Prayer is our means for communing and communicating with the one who made us. Its importance cannot be overstated. There is a price and a prize of prayer. The price is persistence. The prize is His presence. When Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray, He continues and reminds them to keep on asking, to keep on seeking, and to keep on knocking. Jesus is teaching us to be persistent in prayer. The prize of the prayer is not getting what we are asking for. The prize is His presence with us always. Listen to this sermon about the price and prize of prayer in the third part of our I Surrender All series.

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I Surrender All | Fighting the Ways of the Enemy

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Satan tempts our flesh in order to hinder our spiritual. Jesus sympathizes with us because He knows the temptation we face each day; Satan did the very same thing to Jesus. In 2024, we are going to experience seasons of exhaustion. In those moments of weakness, the enemy is going to show up and try to appeal to our flesh to satisfy us temporarily. How do we fight the ways of the enemy? We look to what Jesus did when Satan tempted Him; we fight the ways of the enemy with the Word of God. As followers of Christ, we already possess everything we need in order to fight the enemy as we have the Holy Spirit in us. As we fast, pray, and read together, be empowered to discern what the enemy is doing in and around you and also have the confidence to know you have what it takes to fight the enemy. Listen to this sermon about facing temptation and fighting the ways of the enemy in the second part of our I Surrender All series.

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I Surrender All | Connecting to God Through Fasting

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:00:00 +0000

During the Christmas season, we focused on the first advent of Christ. When He first came, He was born, died, resurrected, and then ascended back to Heaven. However, Jesus promised that He would come again. The second advent of Jesus will be very different than the first. In the first advent, God poured out His wrath on His Son. When He comes again, God will pour out His wrath on the unbelieving people. While there are many things we may not understand about His second advent or have the answers to, we know that He is coming and there are reminders to us in His Word of His return. Listen to this sermon about the second advent of Christ.

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The Second Advent of Jesus

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

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With Us | Prince of Peace

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In Isaiah, it was prophesied that one of the names of the Messiah would be the Prince of Peace. As Jesus was preparing for the cross, He told His disciples that He was leaving them with peace and giving them peace. The peace that the world gives us is completely different from the peace that Jesus gives. The world teaches that peace is a life of no worries, a relief from pressure, problems, trials, difficulties, etc. This type of peace doesn’t last and is the exact opposite of what the Prince of Peace came to provide us. Man’s lack of peace is our inability to be made right with God. This peace is everlasting. His peace that Jesus gives us is what raises us above the storm. Just turn your eyes to Jesus, and He will remind you of the joy set before us. Listen to this sermon in the fourth part of our Christmas series, With Us.

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With Us | Everlasting Father

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Not only did Jesus come to display the attributes of God, but Jesus also came to talk about Him. Jesus preached. Jesus talked. He continued to talk about the attributes of who our Heavenly Father is. The reason Jesus speaks about the Father so much is because He wants us to understand what the Everlasting Father is all about. The enemy is at work because if he can break up our relationships with our earthly fathers, then he can create a stumbling block in an attempt to hinder us from coming to the Heavenly Father. To see what the Father’s love is for us, we look at Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son. The prodigal son was tired of living in submission to his father and living under his father’s rules. The father never kept the son hostage and prevented him from going to try his own plans. He gave the son the freedom to do what the son wanted to do. He let the son choose what he wanted to do. When the son returned though, the father was eager and desired his son’s return. This is the picture of grace and it’s the same for us with our Heavenly Father. He’s waiting for us to come home. Listen to this sermon in the third part of our Christmas series, With Us.

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With Us | Wonderful Counselor

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 11:00:00 +0000

We all have a name, and our names each carry weight because the lives that we live are building the meaning of our personal names. Names are a big deal, and the same goes for the names of Jesus. Immanuel defined the purpose and the mission of who Jesus is. Isaiah tells the children of Israel that this son that God will give to us will be called Wonderful Counselor. Jesus gives wisdom to His children. He gives direction to His children. As a child of God, are you utilizing what you have access to? As a child of God, you have the spirit of God living inside of you. Draw near to the Wonderful Counselor that you have access to. Listen to this sermon in the second part of our Christmas series, With Us.

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With Us | God is With Us

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

When the angel appeared to Joseph and told him that Mary was with child, the angel told Joseph not to be afraid and that this child was to be named Immanuel, which means God with us. This wasn’t the only time in the Bible that the Messiah was referred to as Immanuel, as this was prophecy fulfilled from what God conveyed to His people through the prophet Isaiah not to fear because He was sending Immanuel. God came to us through His Son and, eventually, the Holy Spirit. He is with us! Listen to this sermon about God being with us in the first part of our Christmas series, With Us.

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In The Word - James | Overcoming Favoritism

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000

James is calling out the believers he is writing to and calling them out over the guilt of showing favoritism. He writes of a situation between a rich man and a poor man in a synagogue and how the rich man would be favored. However, there is no room for favoritism in the House of God. When we stand in the presence of God in the context of showing favoritism to the rich and the poor, what we realize is that when we acknowledge His glory, there is no one who is rich, poor, divorced, married, black or white, an addict, an overcomer. We’re all sinners in need of a Savior. The way we avoid favoritism is very simple: always remind yourself of the glorious Lord Jesus Christ. Always remind yourselves of who He is. When we remind ourselves of who He is, we quickly understand who we are not. Let this empower us to love people right where they’re at, no matter how they’ve hurt us, no matter what’s going on. Listen to this sermon about overcoming favoritism in the seventh part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | Keeping the Heart and Mind of Christ

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000

James defines what true faith, true religion, and true Christianity should look like. In James 1:26-27, James is writing about two religions—one religion that is useless/worthless and one religion that is pure and undefiled. James tells us that if we can’t control our tongue, it is a religion that’s useless and worthless. Are we performing religion to get something from God or to get closer to God and be shaped into more like Jesus? The product of pure and undefiled religion is someone who becomes selfless and makes it about everyone else. The product of a pure and undefiled religion is to see people the way Jesus saw you. The product of a pure and undefiled religion is to keep oneself unstained from the world. We have to keep unstained. We have to keep the heart and mind of Christ. Listen to this sermon about the difference in the two religions James describes in the sixth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | Doers vs. Hearers of The Word

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000

James emphasizes the importance and weight of God’s Word. As a follower of Christ, there is a difference between being a doer of the Word and a hearer of the Word. It’s one thing to hear the Word, but it’s another thing to listen to it and do it. If you believe in the Word, you should be a doer. This involves submitting to the Lordship of Jesus and submitting to His authority. When we do, we will look different and prove to the world that we have a relationship with Him. We have to gaze intently at the Word with a desire for it to transform us. This is the difference between a hearer and a doer. Listen to this sermon about being a doer versus a hearer of the Word in the fifth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | Receive The Word

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:00:00 +0000

James moves from writing to believers about temptation to the danger of anger. He reminds us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to answer. This isn’t natural for us. This is something that has to be learned. How do we do it? It’s been modeled to us by the character of God, and He has given us His Word. We should walk in the righteousness of God. We have to learn to receive the gospel daily. Not to get saved daily but to fix our eyes on Jesus daily. Listen to this sermon about receiving the Word in the fourth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | When We Face Temptation

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

While trials are sent to cause us to run to God, temptations are used to pull us or lure us away from God. The two go hand in hand, but there is also a very distinct difference between trials and temptations. Temptation is the opportunity to choose something other than God. This idea of temptation and being lured away from the safety of God will be a constant war that we face every day. God will give us the strength to overcome and a way out. Listen to this sermon about facing temptations in life in the third part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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You Have a Purpose Here

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

If God has called you here to CMC, He has a purpose for you here. We want to help you find your direction. We want to help you find the lane and the place that God has called you. We want you to discover why God has sent you here. You have to make yourself available. When you say to God that you are here and ready to be used, God will provide the opportunity. He wants the posture of your heart to be “here I am.” God equips you to do His work, and He invites you to be a part of it. Listen to this sermon about finding your role of where you are building the Kingdom.

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In The Word - James | Asking for Wisdom

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As James continues his letter, he is giving instructions of what to ask God for and how to ask for it when facing trials. We have to acknowledge that God has something that we need, and that is wisdom. Once we acknowledge that we need it, we need to ask God for wisdom. When we ask God for wisdom, we need to trust that He is going to give it and that what He gives is right. God is going to give wisdom through His Word, prayer, and His people. When you use the wisdom that God gives you, you will receive the crown of life. The reason we are given the crown of life is so that we can one day take it off and lay it at His feet because He was the one who helped us through it. Listen to this sermon about asking for wisdom in the second part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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In The Word - James | When You Face Trials

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In his letter, James is writing to Jewish people who are recent Christian converts who are facing persecution and poverty from other Jewish people due to their recent Christian conversion. James writes them to encourage them. In the beginning of his letter, he immediately tells them that they are going to face trials but to count it as joy. This applies to us today as we are going to face trials and they are going to be unexpected and unpredictable in life. When trials come though, we must count it all joy. It doesn’t mean we’re happy, but it means we are going to trust God through it all despite the circumstances we are facing because He is still in control. It’s in our trials that He makes us strong. Listen to this sermon about facing trials in life in the first part of our In The Word series walking through the book of James.

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Communion

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In a special service, we take time to remember all that God has done through communion and celebrate all that God is continuing to do through worship and baptism. As we take time to remember and celebrate, we focus on what communion is and who it is for. Remember God’s faithfulness and what got us where we are today. Listen to this special message about communion as we take the Lord’s Supper as a church family.

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Truth | Merging Truth and Love

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

God has established truth and love together. They don’t exist apart. God has established a standard, and He does not shift. The standard is established in truth and in love. Love and truth exist in perfect harmony together. As Christians, we have to live our lives differently. Our willingness and discipline to operate within truth and love matters. Truth is who Christ is, and He does not change. God is love, and God does not change. God’s standard is that He has set it in truth and love, and we ought to live, speak, and operate within it. Listen to this sermon about bringing truth and love together in the final part of our Truth series.

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Truth | The Attack on Truth

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

According to the Scripture, it is deep within your soul to wrestle with what is right and wrong because that is how God created you. Satan simply wants to reprogram the way God has made us. He wants God’s creation to rebel against Him instead of surrendering to Him. That’s the enemy’s plan. That’s the enemy’s attack on Truth. The attack on Truth all began in the Garden of Eden when Satan came as a serpent to Eve and began to question the Truth. The Truth has been established to protect the heart and soul of God’s creation. What the enemy means for evil, God uses for good. Listen to this sermon about the attack on truth in the third part of our Truth series.

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Truth | What Is Truth?

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

When Adam and Eve were created, they were given God’s truth and given the standard of how to live. Because of man’s pride, they chose to step outside of God’s standard. Complete chaos ensued. The perfect relationship between God and man was severed, but God provided a way for reconciliation. God established the truth and the standard not to control us but because He loves us. He established the Word as truth. There is a God who loves you, and He wants you to operate inside of His truth and standard out of love. Listen to this sermon about defining what truth is in the second part of our Truth series.

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Truth | God's Word is Alive

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The Word of God will stand forever, and our number one core value at CMC is biblical teaching. Why do we value biblical teaching? Because we believe (1) the Bible is God’s Word, (2) God’s Word is Truth, and (3) God’s Word is alive. Listen to this sermon about how we know that the Bible is God’s Word, the Bible is Truth, and God’s Word is alive.

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Build | Build the Kingdom of God

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Our mission is to saturate the world with the Good News by making disciples. How we accomplish this mission is our strategy: belong, become, and build. The wider we go, the more people we can reach with the gospel. This is why we go out and build the Kingdom of God. We must make God’s priorities our priorities, and Jesus’ last words on earth were a command to the disciples to go; this includes us. Listen to this sermon about building the kingdom of God and the reasons why we keep ourselves from sharing our faith in the final part of our Belong, Become, Build series.

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Become | Become a Mature Disciple of Christ

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

After you belong to God, it is our desire that every child of God becomes a mature disciple of Christ. No matter where you are in your journey, we are all a part of the process and in the journey together in our faith to become a mature disciple. Even with Jesus’ own disciples during His earthly ministry, every disciple’s journey begins with an invitation from Jesus. Once you accept the invitation to follow Him, then you begin learning from other followers of Christ, and, then, you are commanded to also teach others to help others in the discipleship journey. Listen to this sermon about becoming a mature disciple of Christ in the second part of our Belong, Become, Build series.

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Belong | Belong to God and to the Family of God

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We all have a desire to belong. Since the beginning with Adam and Eve, they even had a desire to belong to God. God designed us to desire to belong. God created us with a God-sized hole in our hearts knowing that only He could fill it. Because of our sin, there is no way we could cover ourselves, so He began His rescue mission through His Son Jesus. God desires for us to belong to Him and to the family of God. This is why belonging is part of the heartbeat of our church. What does this look like to belong to Him and to belong to the Church? Listen to this sermon about belonging in the first part of our Belong, Become, Build series.

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Rebuild | What's the Sin That's Hindering You?

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0000

If Nehemiah had ended in chapter 12, it would have been like a fairytale ending. However, some time has passed between chapters 12 and 13. By chapter 13, Nehemiah has returned to his former cupbearer job and has requested leave from the king to return to Jerusalem. Upon returning, he finds the people and Jerusalem have turned from God and turned from what had been rebuilt. The people have even housed Tobiah, the one who in Nehemiah 2, was described as one who opposed the work of God, in the temple of the Lord. This has hindered the work of God. Similarly, just as the people had housed a hindrance in the temple of the Lord, as followers of Christ, we are now each the temple of the Lord because the presence of God resides in us. What is our Tobiah? What is the sin that is in our life that hinders us from accomplishing the work of God? Listen to this sermon in Nehemiah about sin hindering the work of God and the final account of Nehemiah in the twelfth and final part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Our Response, Placement, & Impact

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Life is full of responses. In Nehemiah 10-12, we are going to see a response to God’s love, the placement of God’s people, and the impact of God’s work through His people. In view of the children of Israel realizing their wickedness and seeing God’s faithfulness and love despite their failures, they take an oath and make a commitment to follow God. Listen to this sermon in Nehemiah about what we can learn from the children of Israel’s response to God’s love, the placement of God’s people, and the impact of His work through His people in the eleventh part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | God's Faithfulness Trumps Our Failures

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In Nehemiah 9, the children of Israel are preparing and gathering together for The Feast of the Booths to celebrate what God has done in the past and look forward to what God is going to do in the future. During this, they read the Word, confessed their sin, and they worshiped. Seeing what they did during this week, we see that reading the Word produces the conviction, the conviction produces confession, the confession leads to humility, and humility produces praise. Listen to this sermon in Nehemiah about it not being about God’s faithfulness trumping our failures in the tenth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | It's Not About a Wall

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

In Nehemiah 8, we see the wall completed and now the people gathering for the reading of the Law. While Nehemiah is mostly known for the building of the wall, what if it’s not just about the wall? Would God go to all the trouble just to bring people back into a right relationship with Him? Yes, because we see this in chapter 8. After the reading of the law and understanding it, Nehemiah reminds them that their joy is found in the strength of the Lord. God didn’t need a wall to protect these people but used the wall to point people back to Him. Listen to this sermon in Nehemiah about it not being about the wall but being about Him in the ninth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Where Do I Belong?

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Nehemiah 7 concludes with a long list of names that records the genealogy, the same genealogy recorded in Ezra too. While it may be easy for us to skim over these names, it reminds us that these names mattered to God. God knew them. It reminds us of the importance of belonging and that we were designed to belong. When we belong to God, we are known. How do we know that we are known by God, though? Listen to this sermon in Nehemiah about God knowing us in the eighth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Be Faithful, Fearful, & Watchful

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Nehemiah was a sturdy hero to the Hebrew people. Similarly, we have heroes in our country as we near Independence Day, and we also have generations of heroes within our Chestnut Mountain Church family. All of these heroes point to how it really matters in how we run our life race, and that everyone has an appointed place. In Nehemiah 7, when the walls were built, Nehemiah appointed people. There is an appointed place for us to serve in your local church. Every person has an appointed place. Step into what He has asked you to do. Nehemiah didn’t become a hero to the Hebrew people because he wanted to build a wall. Nehemiah worked in God’s work. If you want to continue in God’s work, you must be faithful, fearful, and watchful. Listen to this sermon about Nehemiah and how to continue in God’s work in the seventh part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Facing Temptation

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Nehemiah is a called man of God. He has been set apart by God. He has been given responsibility by God. Nehemiah prepares to do what God has called him to do. Nehemiah is unafraid to put forth effort to accomplish what God has called him to do. Even though the enemy continues to attack, the work of God is not hindered. In Nehemiah 6, the wall is nearly finished, and the enemy is looking for a way to hinder the work of God by tarnishing Nehemiah’s testimony. Throughout the chapter, we see the enemy invite, accuse, and deceive Nehemiah to try to get him to bow to the enemy’s way instead of moving forward with the work of God. In the same way, the enemy will try to ruin our testimony with the same temptations no matter how far along we are in our journey. Listen to this sermon about influence and temptation in the sixth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Overcoming Division for Unity

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 19:00:00 +0000

In Nehemiah 5, It appears that everything is getting knocked out, and the work is getting accomplished. However, the enemy has begun to attack from the outside to hinder God’s people and the work of God. With the outside attacks not working, the enemy moved to the inside. The enemy is attempting to use God’s people against God’s people to create division between each other to disrupt the work of God. Division is beginning to surface between God’s people. Nehemiah was upset that there was division among God’s people, and he knew it was his job to address the sin, the division. They were doing the work of God, but then the decision came among God’s people. Nehemiah called out their sin and the division in love. They repented. They committed to remain faithful to what God had called them to. They overcame the division to become unified, and they began to praise together. Listen to this sermon about division and the power in unity in the fifth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Ready for Battle While Building

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The people that God has assembled to be the builders are not the people you would think would be selected. They are engaging in mental warfare to be stopped from what God is calling them to do. The work of God will always be met with opposition. Nehemiah is praying for God not to let the people trying to stop His plan to prevail. Similarly, when we are walking in what God has called us to, we will face opposition. When God calls you to do something, and it seems impossible, and you’re met with opposition after opposition, it’s worth suffering. Suffering is part of being a follower of Christ. We have to be ready for battle and keep building. Listen to this sermon about being ready to battle while building in the fourth part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | Walking in the Valley

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000

After receiving instructions from God to rebuild the wall in Jerusalem, he goes out to inspect the wall, and he was introduced to the task that God had given him. He was introduced to, in his mind and his eyes as he observed, what seemed absolutely impossible. Nehemiah has literally gone from the mountaintop moment of watching God move, and now all of a sudden, he went from being obedient to God and being in this mountaintop moment to the valley. Similarly, we will face the mountaintop moments of our faith but then also find ourselves in valleys. It’s in these valleys that we must remember God’s faithfulness, surround ourselves with community, know that Satan is a liar, and be willing to go and build. Listen to this sermon about walking in the valley in the third part of our Rebuild series walking through the book of Nehemiah.

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Rebuild | What’s God Called Me to Do?

Mon, 29 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

We see Nehemiah, although devastated about the news in Jerusalem, although he’s in private clothing himself in sackcloth and ashes and praying and fasting, he’s still working unto the Lord in public as cupbearer to the king. Nehemiah knows what God has impressed on his heart to do. Nehemiah is also being faithful to where God has placed him in the here and now. He’s in a season of waiting. He’s working and he also praying and fasting while in turmoil. As we walk through Nehemiah 2, we see Nehemiah being faithful to his role as cupbearer to the king but also praying and planning as to what it is that God has called him to do to ultimately present it to the king. Listen to this sermon about finding our calling and putting in the work to walk in that calling through Nehemiah 2 in the second part of our Rebuild series.

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Rebuild | Commit to Pray and to Be Used

Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 +0000

As we begin our walk through the book of Nehemiah, we see that Nehemiah was the cupbearer to the king. He was to take care of the king. We don’t know a lot about him, but we know his role. He was hard-working, responsible, and trusting, and God was going to use him in a big way for Jerusalem. Just like Nehemiah, we all have a role in building the Kingdom of God. In Chapter 1, Nehemiah learns about the chaos happening in Jerusalem and commits to pray to God about it. In his prayer, he acknowledges who God is, begs God to listen, commits to continuing to pray until God moves, and makes himself available for God to use. Listen to this sermon about committing ourselves to pray and making ourselves available for God to use as we walk through Nehemiah 1 in the first part of our Rebuild series.

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Mother's Day | A Heart of Worship

Mon, 15 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we look to the Old Testament to learn from the example of a mother about having a heart of worship. Hannah was unable to have children, but despite this, Hannah continually ran to the Lord. As she ran to God, she ran to Him with persistence. She cried, begged, and pleaded with God to allow her to have a child. When we face difficult circumstances and storms in life, who do we run to? From Hannah, we can learn that when circumstances are tough, we know where to run. When we run to God, should be honest with Him and continue to worship God when things don’t change. Ultimately, we must also worship God in our victory as well. Listen to this Mother's Day sermon about having a heart of worship like Hannah in the hard times and in the victory.

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Start to Finish | Go and Testify

Mon, 08 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000

It’s easy to rally together around us against the world, but the danger in rallying together is taking on the mindset that we are going to hate the world more because the world hates us. Jesus came to save those people too. While it may be us against the world, we must go and continue to testify just as Jesus said. A testimony of Jesus and about Jesus is simply what Jesus has done in your life to alter your eternity. Tell people what He has done for you. Our responsibility is to testify about Him and preach Jesus. It is your responsibility to tell it. Listen to this sermon testifying in the seventeenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Us Against the World

Mon, 01 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that hope isn’t found in anything that this world has to offer but hope is found only in Him. Hope isn’t found in the temporary things of this world but found in the eternal things of Jesus. It is us against the world. We will face persecution in different forms. Our identity is not found in how much this world loves us but found in the shed blood of Jesus. Listen to this sermon about it being us against the world in the sixteenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Abide in God's Love

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The disciples’ hearts are troubled because their expectations are about to be shattered. However, Jesus reminds them to not let their hearts be troubled. Similarly, when our hearts are troubled, Jesus is ready to meet you in the midst of your uncertainty, your pain, and your frustrations. Jesus is our counselor. Jesus is able to meet your right where you are. God’s love for you is unconditional. God’s love for you is unending no matter what. Abide in His love and keep His commandments. He has so much more for you. Listen to this sermon about abiding in God’s love and keeping His commandments in the fifteenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Bearing Fruit

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As we continue our journey in looking at Jesus’ final words to His disciples, we look to John 15 where Jesus is still challenging His disciples to produce fruit so that God gets glory. Our purpose is to bring God glory. Jesus references the vine dresser as God the Father, He as the vine, and us as the branches. There are a lot of vines that we try to find our identity in, but Jesus is the true vine because He is our only life source. There will areas of your life that will bring attention to areas of your life that are bearing no fruit, but God is not done with you. We can’t just superficially attach ourselves to Jesus. Apart from Him we can do nothing. Listen to this sermon about being connected to the Vine and bearing fruit in the fourteenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Easter 2023

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The resurrection is astonishing and the resurrection is true. We all have a different response to the resurrection of what we come to celebrate today. There are those that believe in the resurrection but just reject it. When Jesus asks, “Do you love Me,” are you going to reject the invitation or are you going to repent? The resurrection is astonishing and true, but the question is, “What will you do?” Listen to this Easter service message.

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Start to Finish | The Uncommon Coronation

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As we enter the start of Holy Week on Palm Sunday, we look to Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. His entry was a coronation, but not like the lavish ones we are accustomed to for royal families across the world. This is a different one because our King is different. Jesus entered in on a donkey only to be crowned with thorns at the end of the week. This was an uncommon coronation because our King is uncommon. Through this uncommon coronation, we see Jesus’ unexpected humility and His unhindered love. Because of all that Jesus did, we look forward now to His unbridled victory. Listen to this sermon about Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in the thirteenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Finding Peace

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We all long for peace. Jesus' disciples and even Jesus Himself longed for peace. In light of their troubled hearts, Jesus told the disciples that He was giving them His peace. The way to His peace is through keeping His commandments. While the world does offer peace, The only peace that this world offers is circumstantial and temporary. The peace that the world offers will not last. Peace is not found when everything gets easy. Peace is only found when we are walking in obedience while things are hard. Peace is found in walking with God, not opposing God. Listen to this sermon about finding peace in the twelfth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Keeping His Commandments

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As Jesus is continuing to try and provide comfort, peace, and settlement to the hearts of the disciples, He reminds the disciples to keep all of His commandments in His absence. We, too, must heed this, but many times this piece of Scripture is misconstrued to two extremes of thinking that Christianity is just about following a lot of rules to earn God’s love or that it’s a pass to keep sinning. Keeping God’s commandments is not a stipulation to achieve salvation, but it’s a lifestyle produced in response to salvation. If you are walking with the Spirit of God living in you, there is nothing in you that can celebrate sin and celebrate a lifestyle that doesn’t honor and glorify God. Listen to this sermon about keeping God’s commandments in the eleventh part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Be a Part of the Greater Work

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

As Jesus continues talking with the disciples in John 14, He tells them that they are going to do greater works than Him in His absence. The goal that Jesus is trying to accomplish here is not make the disciples that they are going to be greater than Jesus. Jesus is saying that it’s the ministry location that is going to be bigger and broader for the disciples than what His was during His earthly ministry. Ministry is only made possible through the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within us. We can now go as messengers because the message now dwells in us. However, when we pray and are a part of the greater work, we must make sure that we are doing it for God’s glory and not our own. We must check the motive behind our prayer. It is His will, not our own. What greater work does Jesus want to do through you? Listen to this sermon about being a part of the greater work in the tenth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | To Know God

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000

After telling His disciples that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Jesus tells His disciples that by knowing Him, they have known God and have seen Him. Philip, one of Jesus’ disciples, begins questioning Jesus to show them the Father and to know God. Through Jesus’ words to Philip, we know that we, too, can know God. We can not only know about God but can also know Him personally and relationally. We know God by drawing near to Jesus. Listen to this sermon about knowing God and drawing near to Jesus in the ninth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Jesus is Coming Back

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000

We all face times in our lives when our hearts are troubled. When we acknowledge these troubles, struggles, and trials, we are giving God an opportunity to show who He is. After telling His disciples to not let their hearts be troubled, Jesus tells them that He is leaving to go Home but that He will return. When our hearts our troubled, we are to be comforted that He is coming again. These are words of comfort to us as believers. Jesus is the only way, so we must repent and believe. Be reminded that despite the trouble and trial that you are walking through Jesus will be right back. Listen to this sermon about Jesus’ final words to His disciples about Him coming back in the eighth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Don't Let Your Heart Be Troubled

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000

There are tough times in life, and there are times when those times keep getting tougher and more difficult. In the same way that way we go through difficult times, we look to Jesus’ words to His disciples at the Last Supper about not letting their hearts be troubled. During Jesus’ earthly ministry, there are many examples in the Bible of the disciples’ hearts being troubled despite already witnessing Jesus continuing to be faithful. All faithful men and women of God are going to face troubles. However, we need to remind ourselves of what God has done and that He will continue to be faithful. Listen to this sermon about Jesus’ final words to His disciples about not letting your heart be troubled in the seventh part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Love Exemplified

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000

How would you spend the last hours of your life? In Jesus’ final hours, He lived with urgency to give His disciples final instructions, and He exemplified what those instructions were. During the Last Supper, Jesus exemplified to His disciples what it meant to be a servant by washing His disciples’ feet. Through this act of service, love was exemplified. Moreover, love was exemplified when He told Peter that he was clean. It is only through Jesus and what He did on the cross that we are clean. Listen to this sermon about Jesus’ final words to His disciples and love exemplified in the sixth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Your Influence Matters

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000

We all have influence and we are also being influenced. Just as Joshua did with the children of Israel in his life, we each have a limited amount of time that we will have an influence on earth. In Joshua’s time as the leader of the children of Israel, we see how he influenced others and how his influence carried over into the next generation. Similarly, we will influence people to live for the Lord or live for themselves. Before Joshua could ever lead or influence anyone, he had to be surrounded by the right influence. We must do the same. Who are you being influenced by and whom are you influencing? Listen to this sermon about your influence in the fifth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | God’s Covenant with You

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Joshua wants the children of Israel to succeed. He wants them to accomplish what God has promised to them and he establishes a covenant for the children of Israel. In this covenant that was going to be established, it was going to be established so that they could remember their commitment to God. It was also setting the state to where they could hold each other accountable, where they could hold each other responsible for what they had committed to do. Joshua was hoping that this covenant would be set in place to motivate them on the days that they were ready to uncommit, on the days that they were ready to turn back and run to their old ways. For us, we still have a covenant with God, but through Jesus. Listen to this sermon about God’s covenant with His people in the fourth part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Remove Your Idols

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000

As the children of Israel declare that they will serve the Lord, Joshua reminds them that in order to be devoted to the Lord they must remove all idols and incline their hearts to God. With this reminder from Joshua, what are we elevating in our lives above God? What are we loving, trusting, and serving more than God? We are devoted to so many things today. We cannot make a transaction step of faith without any devotion. Being His follower, being His disciple, requires devotion. That devotion requires us to put away the idols of our lives. From self-image to fear to popularity to comfort to money, we must remove the things that are getting worship from us instead of God. Listen to this sermon about removing the idols in our lives and inclining our hearts to God in the third part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Make Your Choice to Serve God

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

We all have choices to make every day. What we eat, what we wear, whom we marry, where we’ll go to college, etc. Joshua is discussing choices that the children of Israel will have to face. Joshua is challenging the children of Israel of what they are going to do next. He is wanting them to remember where they had been so they could step in faith for where they were going. He is telling them when they remember the faithfulness let it take them to a place of awe. As a result of this awe and wonder, we ought to walk in obedience living for Him. Let what God has done be what propels us forward to what He is calling us to do. Even as a child of God and follower of Jesus, we believe that God provides everything we need. There is a world telling us the exact opposite. Are you going to run to the world’s ways or run to God? That’s your choice. There are choices that have to be made. What choice will you make? Listen to this sermon about making your choice to serve God in the second part of our Start to Finish series.

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Start to Finish | Remember God's Faithfulness

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In looking ahead to 2023, before we move forward, we are going to take some time to look back. The same God who is calling you in 2023 is the same God who was faithful in 2022. God is always faithful from start to finish. In looking to Joshua 24, we see that this is Joshua’s farewell letter to the children of Israel. He reminds In the beginning, he gathers them to Schecham, their holy ground. Joshua is taking them back to remind them of all that God has done so He can give them the instruction of what their assignment is as He departs. Before we move into 2023, take time to remember where God has brought us from, to remember what God has brought us through. Go to your Schechem and thank Him. Listen to this sermon about remembering God’s faithfulness in the first part of our Start to Finish series.

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New Year's Day | Make Us Uncomfortable

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000

As we enter into a new year, our prayer for us, as a church, in this upcoming year is that God will throw things at us that make us very uncomfortable. If God is calling us, as a church, to be uncomfortable, then God will call you as an individual to be uncomfortable and do extreme things because you are part of the team. In looking at Elijah and Elisha, we see how God called Elisha out of his place of comfort and his routine. For many of us, we need to be awakened from our routine in 2023. If we are pursuing what God has called us to do, we will be uncomfortable. Listen to this New Year’s Day sermon about God making us uncomfortable to accomplish His work in 2023.

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Prepare | Prepare for the Gift

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior on Christmas Day, we focus on the wise men and how God prepared them to meet the Savior. Through their knowledge of astronomy and Old Testament prophecies, God used the very things the wise men loved to show them the birth of the Savior that would change their lives. Upon meeting Jesus, they worshiped Him and offered Him gifts. Looking to the wise men’s response, we see how we should worship Him and how God can use the very things we love and surrender to Him to be used by God for His glory. Listen to this Christmas Day sermon about how God used the wise men in their journey to discover the Savior in the fourth part of our Prepare series.

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Prepare | Prepare to the Meet the Savior

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000

When the angels appeared to the shepherds, something changed that turned their world upside down as their response prompted the angels to tell the shepherds to not fear. God could have chosen the religious elite to be the messengers of this great news of Jesus’ arrival, but instead, He chose shepherds whom we don’t even know their name. We can relate to the shepherds’ response. God's pursuit of us was not based on how good we were, if we were favored, if we were righteous, or if we were rebels. God's pursuit of us was based on His love for you. Jesus came to save us all. Listen to this sermon about how to prepare to meet the Savior in the third part of our Prepare series.

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Prepare | Prepare to Respond in Love

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In looking at how Mary prepared to be used by God, we also look at how Joseph prepared to be used by God. Upon Joseph first learning about Mary’s condition, he didn’t know the full story. Joseph experienced hurt because this was Mary, whom he was engaged to be married to. However, Joseph responded in love and then in obedience to what he was called to do as the earthly father of Jesus, which was to train Jesus to be strong and spiritually wise. Listen to this sermon about how to prepare to respond in love and to train up your children in the second part of our Prepare series.

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Prepare | Prepare to Be Used by God

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000

As we talk about Christmas, it's almost like it's just a constant season of preparation. As we prepare for Christmas and look at the story of Christmas, we see the story of Mary. Looking to the story of Mary and how God used her to be the mother of the Savior of the World. As a young teenager engaged to be married from Nazareth, how did Mary prepare to be the mother of Jesus? How did the Lord prepare her to be used to accomplish His work, to accomplish what He was going to do through her? In the same way, How do we prepare to be used by God? How do we prepare for God to use us to be a part of His work and what He’s going to accomplish? Listen to this sermon about how to prepare to be used by God in the first part of our Prepare series.

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Response | Lift Up Your Eyes

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 11:00:00 +0000

As Christians, we have to make sure that we’re not just checking a bunch of boxes. We’ve got to understand why we are doing what we’ve been called to do. There is a field that is ready for harvest in this world, yet many of us do nothing and sit on the side maybe because of inconvenience, insecurity, or a lack of urgency. God has empowered the saved though to go to those who are not yet saved. We have to lift our eyes! Jesus never said it would be easy, but the reality is when we lift up our eyes, we recognize that we’re surrounded by people who are lost and on their way to hell. As followers of Christ, the reason we respond this way is because it’s how He responded for us. Listen to this sermon about lifting our eyes in the final part of our Response series.

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Response | How Our Generosity Is Affected By The Gospel

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 11:00:00 +0000

How is our generosity affected by the gospel? We can be generous with our time, our hospitality, our talents, our friendships, and also our possessions. Generosity has nothing to do with the amount that someone gives, but it has everything to do with the heart that’s behind what is given. When we truly understand the Gospel, we become excited to be generous. Giving is an opportunity to say thank you. As God continues to be generous to us, is the thankfulness of our hearts reflecting the fact that we understand this generosity? When we understand the generosity of God, it produces thanksgiving in us. Listen to this sermon focusing on generosity and thanksgiving in the third part of our Response series.

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Response | Our Gospel Response in Our Relationships

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 11:00:00 +0000

How does the gospel affect our relationship? The answer is that the gospel empowers us to love one another. We have been loved with the greatest of loves. Our only response is to love one another. However, the greatest obstacle to us being held together by love is forgiveness. There’s no limit to the forgiveness of God, so there should be no limit to your forgiveness of one another. Listen to this sermon focusing on our gospel response as it relates to relationships in the second part of our Response series.

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Response | Receive the Invitation

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Why do we do what we do as believers? We do not have the ability to earn God’s love through what we do. You being a follower of Jesus is not based on anything we have done but because of what Jesus has done. In looking at the story of Zacchaeus and the invitation that Jesus gave him, we see that Jesus is calling you by name and is inviting you down out of the tree into a relationship with Him. What is our response to the invitation, and what kind of response is produced once we receive the invitation? Listen to this sermon about our response to receiving the invitation in the first part of our Response series.

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Prayer | Persistence of Prayer

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In our prayer life, we must keep persisting. In looking through Scripture, we see examples from Paul, David in the Psalms, James, Jesus Himself, and more of why we should persist in prayer. Even when it seems like God is delaying in answering or prayer or not answering in the way we want Him to, our prayers are not wasted. God is working all the time. How can we be persistent in prayer though? We must stand on the promises of God. Listen to this sermon about the persistence of prayer in the third and final part of our Prayer series.

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Prayer | Posture of Prayer

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Have you ever prayed and simply acknowledged who God is? Even before the Son of God attempted to do the work of His Father, He asked for the power of His Father. God will allow circumstances in our life so that we will turn to Him. Sometimes God will take us to places where He is all we have so that we will realize He is all we need. In looking at David’s desperation in Psalm 51, we see the posture of prayer. God wants the sacrifice that comes from a place of humility and dependency. The posture of prayer is simply of a heart of humility and heart of full dependency. Listen to this sermon about the posture of prayer in the second part of our Prayer series.

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Prayer | Purpose of Prayer

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000

We all struggle with prayer. One of the biggest reasons prayer is underutilized is because we have complicated it. We have complicated the purpose of prayer. God created us in His image to have common ground with one another and Him. God has a desire to fellowship with His creation. The purpose of prayer is to fellowship with God. Prayer is all about desiring to be in the presence of the One you know who loves you. When we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. Listen to this sermon about the purpose of prayer in the first part of our Prayer series.

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Stand With and Fight For

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Today’s young people get a bad rap about what they are like and what they prefer. We believe that our children and students are our responsibility to stand with and fight for. We are called together to this place to do life together. This is part of belonging. Our children are a blessing from God, and God has called us to sharpen them as arrows to be used to change the world. It's time that we, as parents and as a church, get our hands back on what God has entrusted us to raise. Listen to this sermon about standing with and fighting for the next generation.

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Experience Chestnut Mountain

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Belong. Become. Build. These are not just three words. These are our three strategies. Everything we do is filtered through these three words because we believe that this is what God has called us to do. We all have a part in what God is doing here at CMC. In looking to the heart of Isaiah, we can take on this same heart of obedience in saying, “God, here I am; send me.” As a follower of Christ, have you said yes to what it is that He wants you to do, where He wants you to go, and what it may look like? We should always be engaged in what God has called us to do from now until He calls us home. Make yourself available to God to use you. If you will make yourself available, God will begin to shape you. He will begin to mold you, and He will begin to use you to make His name famous. Listen to this sermon about experiencing Chestnut Mountain and being a part of what God has called us to do in the final part of our Experience Chestnut Mountain series.

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Experience Chestnut Mountain | Build

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

God has called us all to build. He has invited us into His ministry to be builders of the Kingdom of God. If you are a part of the family of God, we have all been called to build the Kingdom of God. No one is left out of this calling. It’s not going to be easy though; it will require us to take steps of faith. While it will be difficult and uncomfortable to be obedient to what God has called us to do, the God who called you is the God who provides and will be with you. Take courage and do not fear because the Lord is going to be with you to do whatever He has called you to do. Get up as a follower of Christ and work to build the Kingdom of God. Listen to this sermon about building the Kingdom of God in the third part of our Experience Chestnut Mountain series.

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Experience Chestnut Mountain | Become

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

At Chestnut Mountain, we want every person to belong to God and also we every believer to become a mature disciple of Christ. What does being a disciple mean? What does the process look like of becoming a mature disciple in Christ? We look to the Great Commission that Jesus gave His disciples before ascending back to Heaven. In this, Jesus tells His disciples to make disciples. The process of discipleship is cyclical, and Jesus gives the model of discipleship that’s easy to follow and understand. Listen to this sermon about becoming a mature disciple of Christ and the discipleship process in the second part of our Experience Chestnut Mountain series.

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Experience Chestnut Mountain | Belong

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Our story is to saturate the world with the Good News by making disciples. This is the mission God has called us to you and God wants you to be a part of what He is accomplishing. The strategy that God has given us to accomplish this mission at CMC is to belong, become, and build. In the first part of this new Experience Chestnut Mountain series, we look at the first part of the strategy, belong. We all want to be a part of something worth while. There are two layers to belonging, belonging to God and belonging to the family of God, the church. God’s heart is for each of us to belong to Him and to belong to His family. Listen to this sermon about belonging in the first part of our Experience Chestnut Mountain series.

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In The Word | The Secret to the Christian Life

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0000

As Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians, he speaks to them about contentment. No matter how much money or things we have, there will always be the desire to have more, but how can we be content in this Christian life? The secret is that we can have joy-filled contentment because Christ is enough. Contentment starts with peace that only God can provide. Listen to this sermon about the six keys to contentment in living a Christian life in the final part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | What Being a Follower of Christ Means

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Who is influencing you? Who are you following? In Philippians 3:17-21, Paul is telling the Philippians to follow his example of following Christ. As a Christian, you have to follow somebody. There are going to be good examples and bad examples. The bad examples Paul gives are the false teachers that Paul continues to warn the Philippians about. Be careful of who is influencing you. Are the people influencing you teaching you to love the Lord or to love the world? Examine your circle. Examine who you are doing life with. Listen to this sermon about influencing others and being influenced as a follower of Christ in the thirteenth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Forget What Lies Behind & Keep Reaching Forward

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 3:12-16, Paul is remind the Philippians that salvation isn’t the finish line, but it is the starting line. As believers, we must work to reflect Christ and the work He has done in us. We aren’t doing works hoping that God will take hold of us but we are doing it in response of taking hold of us. The reason that we work for the Lord is not so that we earn His love but in response to say thank you to Him for loving us. Paul gives an action plan to the Philippians of doing these works as a response, and the plan includes evaluating our current condition, forgetting what lies behind, and to keep reaching forward. Listen to this sermon about living out this action plan as a response to what we have been called to and as a response to say thank you because of what God has done for us in the twelfth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | The Exchange of Religion for Relationship

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 3:1-10, Paul is warning them of the false teachers as from a Jewish mindset, they thought that they could earn God’s love and acceptance if they checked all the boxes and did what they were supposed to do. The false teachers are trying to reintroduce the idea that they have to earn God’s love. Paul is warning them not to go back to the bondage that they have been saved from because we are saved by grace through faith not works. God’s love for you has nothing to do with how good or bad you are. It's all about the finished work of Christ that He did on the cross for you. We can't get caught up in the cycle of thinking and making the lists of “God loves me; He loves me not” based on what we do good and bad. We must lay our religious list down and exchange it for this relationship that Jesus offers us. Listen to this sermon about the exchange of religion versus relationship in the eleventh part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | The Heart of a Servant

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 2:19-30, Paul speaks in high regard to the church of Philippi about Timothy and Epaphroditus. Through both of their lives, we see the importance of the local church pouring into people and the faithfulness of their serving for the advancement of the gospel. These were just ordinary men that God used to serve and spread the gospel. Through their humility, faithfulness, and obedience, we see what the heart of a servant should look like. In the same way, we must not let our past distract us from what God has called us to do and instead make ourselves available so that God can use us in the way that He wants to. This is the way the church, the body of believers, is supposed to be. Listen to this sermon about letting go of your past, making yourself available, getting poured into or pouring yourself out to have the heart of a servant in the tenth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Being Shaped & Molded by God

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 2:9-18, Paul is wanting to get out in front of a known conflict/disagreement before it trickles into the church. He reminds the Philippians that they have been called to represent the name of Jesus and they need to live in the harmony of the Lord. As Paul says, we must work out our salvation in fear and trembling. This doesn’t mean we work for our salvation but working as a result of it. This process begins with us being shaped and molded into the image of Jesus. It’s in our nature to look at life as a lot of ups and downs. However, Paul wants the Philippians to look at life as a bunch of ins and outs. Listen to this sermon about seeing life as ins and outs to allow God to shape and mold you in the ninth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | "It's Not About Me"

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul reminds the Philippians of the attitude and mindset that they should take on. The attitude Paul describes is that of Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, we must take on this same attitude and mindset of Jesus. When we realize that it’s not about us, everything changes. Serving God is not a temporary service; it is a lifestyle. In the moment of salvation, we stepped into a permanent of servitude to serve the Master who has rescued us and given us life. It’s time we have an attitude like Christ. Listen to this sermon about taking on the attitude and mindset of Christ in the eighth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Gospel-Focused Unity & Humility

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 2:1-5, Paul is talking about being unified with the same attitude. As citizens of Heaven, we are called to live lives worthy of the gospel, and that includes having the same mindset of the gospel so that we can serve one another humbly. If we want to walk in gospel unity, it is driven by the love of Christ. We must do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit. It’s not just taking care of yourself but taking care of others. Always have a lens on to see people the way Jesus sees people. Gospel unity apart from agape love can’t happen. Gospel service apart from the love of Christ means nothing. What is our focus on? Is our focus on ourselves or on Christ? What’s the driving motivator in our humility? If our focus is on Jesus, then gospel unity is possible, but we must have a gospel focus. Listen to this sermon about walking in gospel-focused unity and humility in the seventh part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | What On Earth Am I Here For?

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 20:45:00 +0000

What is your purpose in life? This question is one you probably often ask yourself throughout your life. To discover our purpose though, we must first discover Christ. Purpose in life begins with a relationship with Christ. As followers of Christ, our supreme purpose in life is to tell others about the gospel. The most meaningful gospel ministry takes place in your neighborhood, in your workplace, etc. In Philippians 1:27-30, Paul writes to the Philippians about how they are to conduct themselves in life. As Paul writes, you must conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel. You must live a life worthy of the gospel. Be consistent in your Christian journey. Listen to this sermon about our life purpose and living a life worthy of the gospel in the sixth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | To Live is Christ and To Die is Gain

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 10:00:00 +0000

What is our attitude when it comes to life and death? Paul’s attitude is unique. In his letter to the Philippians, he expresses his attitude towards life and death to remind the Philippians about what matters most. Living and dying are all about Christ. Paul writes that to live is Christ and to die is gain. This is the purpose of life. We have been crucified and our life is Christ now. This is how we walk through the gateway of death for it to be gain. A life lived for self is a life lost to die. A life lived for Christ is the only way. Listen to this sermon about our attitude toward life and death in the fifth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | The Motivation of Believers

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

What drives us to do what we do? What pushes a Christian to do what a Christian does? What motivates us? In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Paul addresses motivation among believers for those with pure motives and those without pure motives. Those with pure motives are preaching out of a heart of good will. This is the same kind of heart Paul has. In looking at these two groups of people, we see how we should respond as Christians and what our motives should be. The power of the gospel is greater than man, and God wants to and can use us if we will make ourselves available. Listen to this sermon about the motivations of believers in the fourth part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Your Response to Circumstances

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 1:8-11, Paul prays that the Philippians’ love may grow with knowledge and discernment so they may be able to approve what is right and what is best. We have all walked through experiences, trials, and tragedies that we never saw coming. Even though our circumstances change, our Savior never changes. God is using these terrible situations to clear the way to make it possible to step into new territory and share the gospel. Does how we respond to circumstances reflect what we believe about Him? God never wastes circumstances. Let our response be a reflection of what we know about Him. Listen to this sermon about our response to our circumstances and how God can use these circumstances in the third part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Grow in Your Love

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In Philippians 1:8-11, Paul prays that the Philippians’ love may grow with knowledge and discernment so they may be able to approve what is right and what is best. This love that Paul writes of is agape love meaning that is it unconditional, sacrificial love. In the same way that Jesus has called us to love, He met us with this kind of love when He saved us. If we want to grow in this love, we need to be saved and grow in our knowledge and discernment. Knowledge and discernment are our guides to grow in our love. Listen to this sermon about growing in love through knowledge and discernment in the second part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Make Yourself Available

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Paul’s obedience led to the birth of the Church of Philippi. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, we see that Paul takes this time to tell the Church of Philippi how much he loves them. Paul was the bright spot for the church and the church was the bright spot for Paul. Because of this joy, Paul thanked the church, remembered the church, and prayed for the church. The Church of Philippi was never in Paul’s plans but we see this church birthed out of Paul’s obedience. Because of this, we need to be reminded to die to our plans and trust Him. As Christians, we all have a part in the ministry and mission of the Church. God didn’t save you so you can attend church; He saved you to be a partner in the ministry of the Church. If you will make yourself available, He will reveal to you your responsibility. What is your part? Listen to this sermon about making yourself available in the first part of our In The Word series walking through Philippians.

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In The Word | Spiritual Habits in the Christian Life

Mon, 30 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000

As 1 Thessalonians 5 concludes, Paul speaks to the church of Thessalonica about the role of the Holy Spirit in their lives in terms of spirit habits they must have in relations to God. Our spiritual being requires exercise if it is going to be healthy and productive. It is the will of God that Christians express joy, prayer, and gratitude in all things. We also must not quench the work of the Holy Spirit as we are in this sanctification process. This is the goal of the Christian to be fashioned into the image of Christ, which is sanctification. We have everything we need including the presence of God inside of us, but we have not come to full growth yet. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead will sanctify the Christian because the same power lives in you. He who promised is faithful and He will surely do it. Listen to this sermon about spiritual habits and sanctification in the thirteenth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | The Good News vs. Bad News

Mon, 23 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul is switching from talking about the Good News and now is going to talk about the bad news. Paul talks about the day of the Lord. Everyone will know that Jesus is Lord one day. Which side of the coin will you be on? Will be a believer or an unbeliever? The unbelievers are consumed by darkness and the believers are consumed by light. While we were still yet sinners, Christ died for us. Christ died for you whether you were going to follow Him or not. That’s how much He loves you. Without Christ, there is no hope. As believers, if we don’t tell people about Jesus and the hope we have in Him, who is going to tell them? Listen to this sermon about the day of the Lord and the Good News vs. bad news as believers and unbelievers in the twelfth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Our Hope is in Christ Alone

Mon, 16 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000

The future is bright; there’s nothing to fear. In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul writes about the meeting in the air that we are promised as Christians to have one day with the second coming of Jesus. While we cannot comprehend what this meeting will be like and what all the details will be, we can read this passage of Scripture with hope as a Christian. Our hope is found in Christ and Christ alone. Listen to this sermon about how Christ is our only hope and about the future meeting in the air in the eleventh part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Empowered to Love

Mon, 09 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul teaches that not only does the Holy Spirit empower us to overcome temptation but also empowers us to love. The love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Because of the Holy Spirit pouring out love in our hearts, we are taught how to love. We are called to love one another the way a family loves each another. Now we are called to love each other no matter what. Love each other in spite of our sin. Love requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice while expecting nothing in return. As we learn how to love and allow the Holy Spirit to empower us to love, we see the three ways Paul points out how to love and then why we should love. When a Christian loves the way that God has called us to love, it is appealing to people, even to a lost world. Listen to this sermon about how to love and why we love so that we can be empowered to love one another in the tenth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Does the World See a Difference in You?

Sun, 01 May 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul reminds the Thessalonians as followers of Christ they are called to be set apart and to take advantage of the resource given to them, the Holy Spirit. As Christians, we have something living in us to help us overcome the temptations of this world, the Holy Spirit. Take advantage of the resource God has given you. Apart from Him we can do nothing. Someone who doesn’t know God lives a life influenced by the flesh. Someone who has been born again lives a life influenced by the Spirit of God living in them. Paul calls the Thessalonians that one way they can live a life set apart is by abstaining from sexual immorality and youthful lust. We have to be disciplined to pursue righteousness and holiness. We must flee from the desires of the flesh. Take advantage of the Holy Spirit living in you. Be disciplined enough to listen to the Holy Spirit. Does the world see a difference in you and how you live? Listen to this sermon about overcoming temptation and pursuing a disciplined life of righteousness in the ninth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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What Do We Do Now?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 10:00:00 +0000

As Christians, we have a mission, we have been given a message, and we have been given power to carry that message. In Luke 24, after the resurrection, we see Jesus meeting the disciples on their level. He recognized their emotion and response. We see the empathy of our Savior. He is patient with fear and doubts. He also gave them a mission though. Jesus is telling them to stay in the city until they have been clothed with power. Are you willing to wait until you are clothed with power? God has still power for us today. It’s the same power and it’s given in the same way. The pathway to power is intimacy with the Father. We will grow in our intimacy with Him the more we push the world away and the more we focus on Him. It changes everything. We need a fresh obsession with Jesus. Are we willing to wait on Him? Listen to this sermon as we look to what Jesus told the disciples to do after the resurrection as an example of what we are to do as Christians.

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Easter | Quit Looking in the Wrong Places

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 10:00:00 +0000

We have all lost something. We have all misplaced something in our life. There is nothing more frustrating than when you can’t find what you’re looking for. As we celebrate Easter, we look to the women who went to the tomb and became perplexed when they didn't find Jesus there. The angels told the women that they were perplexed because they were looking in the wrong place and they had forgotten God's Word. In the same way, we are looking in the wrong places for joy, peace, and contentment, and so much more in the world when we forget that Jesus is the only one that can fulfill this. You may find yourself discouraged, frustrated, or in a place of wondering if it’s worth it. Quit looking in the wrong places and be reminded of the truth of God’s Word. God can use your brokenness to open the eyes of others to Him. God is not hiding, and even in your discouragement, He is with you. Listen to this Easter sermon as we celebrate our Risen Savior.

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Take Time to Remember What Jesus Did

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 10:00:00 +0000

This week is what defines our faith. This week is our identity as believers in Jesus. On Palm Sunday, we take time to remember what Jesus did for us. Jesus desired to lay His life down because of His love for us. For the believer, if we have trusted in Jesus and placed our faith in the finished work of the cross, the Lord’s Supper is the most humbling thing we can participate in as a follower of Christ. Remember what Jesus has done and placed our faith in what He has done even though we have done nothing to deserve it. His body was broken and His blood was shed for you too. Listen to this sermon about taking time to remember what Jesus did through honoring the Lord's Supper as we begin celebrating Easter on Palm Sunday.

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In The Word | Running the Race of Holiness

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 4:1-3, Paul is talking to these new believers in Thessalonica about running and walking on this Christian journey. This journey with Christ is not about how fast we are moving but the fact that we are always moving forward. We always have to be moving forward. We should be walking in a manner to please God does not mean to earn his love but that we are living for Him. Paul is pushing them to a life of holiness and righteousness. God’s will for your life is your sanctification. Surrender to the hands of the Potter. Listen to this sermon about running the race of holiness in life in the eighth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Keep Praising + Praying

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 3:6-13, we see the selflessness of Paul. Paul was always about other people. If we could imitate the selflessness of Paul, this would change our church, this would change our community, and turn our world upside down. Paul is thanking and praising God for all God is doing in everyone else’s life. Paul is constantly being persecuted, ridiculed, and punished for his faith but he continues to pray for everyone else. Paul is constantly praying for the church of Thessalonica. Paul is continuously praising and praying. May we keep praising and praying always. May our worship be reflective of our gratitude to God and all that He has done. Listen to this sermon about imitating the selflessness of Paul in how we love, praise, and pray in the seventh part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Strengthen + Encourage Others

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5, we see that Paul wanted to be with his church. Paul wanted to be with other believers. Paul was missing his church family. When is the last time that you have been burdened about a church family member? When is the last time you have been in agony over a brother or sister in Christ? God has called you here to have relationships with people. When you have relationships with people, you begin to love people. When we begin to love and care about other people, it has everything to do with that we are being shaped and molded into the image of Christ. Because Paul couldn’t be in person with the church of Thessalonica, Paul sent Timothy. Paul made a huge sacrifice by sending Timothy. Paul was willing to sacrifice his comfort because of his love of the church. Paul sends Timothy so that he can strengthen, bring support, and stabilize the church of the Thessalonica. We are called to strengthen and encourage one another. Ask God to use you. Ask God to reveal to you who needs to be strengthened and encouraged. Listen to this sermon about strengthening and encouraging others in the sixth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | The Power of God's Word

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

God was doing what He was doing in and through the church of Thessalonica because of the emphasis the Thessalonians were putting on God’s Word. The power has always been, always will, always going to be found in the Word. There is unity in the Word of God. If we open our hearts and minds, the power of God will bring salvation and perform a work in all of us. There’s power in the Word of God not just for salvation but because it performs a work in the lives of those who believe. Are we letting God’s Word perform a work in us? The Word of God brings us together. The Word of God brings unity. The Word of God aligns hearts so that we can walk through life’s struggles together. Listen to this sermon about the power of God's Word in the fifth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Walk in a Manner Worthy of God

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Who were your childhood heroes? Why would they be considered your heroes? It wasn't just what they did but it was why they did it. In 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12, Paul is reminding the Thessalonians what they have done so that they would walk in a manner worthy of God. Everything Paul is doing in Thessalonica is so that the Thessalonians would walk in a manner worthy of God. Paul is saying he is coming alongside the Thessalonians to walk in the journey together. We are to walk alongside one another, pick each other up when they fall, and correct when we see someone going the wrong way. That’s accountability. Make yourselves available and let God do the rest. Listen to this sermon about walking in a manner worthy of God as a follower of Christ in the fourth part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Change Your World With The Gospel

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, we see Paul is speaking as a defendant. He is defending himself and their ministry because the people are questioning his motives. Paul points to his suffering to bring validity to his message. As we look back on Acts 16 and 17, we that these men turned the world upside down by sharing the gospel. Can the same be said of us as Christians? It starts here in your world. Change your world with the gospel of Jesus Christ on your lips and in your life. To shrink back from declaring this Good News, defies the plan that God has placed on your life. Are you thinking about the legacy and the purpose you are leaving? When you get to the end of your life, what will be the difference that you make? Only what is done for Jesus will last. The gospel is at the center of everything we do here. We have been entrusted with it. We don’t need to wait any longer to start sharing. Listen to this sermon about sharing the gospel to change the world and the legacy we are leaving behind as Christians in the third part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | But When God

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In 1 Thessalonians 1, Paul continues to thank the Thessalonians for be imitators of him and, ultimately, of Christ. The Thessalonians are now living out the faith and sharing the gospel. The Thessalonians were reproducing the gospel cycle. Paul was reproducing the gospel cycle himself. Look at the example of Paul who used to be Saul. Like Saul, you may have no desire to change but God has different plans and He will trump your plans. Paul was content living the way he was living as Saul BUT WHEN GOD showed up it changed everything. Can you remember those BUT WHEN GOD moments? What cycle are you stuck in that needs to be stopped? BUT WHEN GOD SHOWS UP, HE CHANGES EVERYTHING! Listen to this sermon about being imitators of Christ and 'but when God' moments in the second part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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In The Word | Let the Gospel Change Your Life

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000

1 Thessalonians is about a man ministering to a young group of believers who are starting to face persecution. Paul is telling this young group of believers, “Quit looking at your circumstances and be reminded that Jesus is coming.” Our hope is not in this world. Our hope and joy that keeps us moving forward is found in Jesus. God has chosen you. He wants to use you. The Creator of the Universe has placed us in places to use us to influence those around us. His choice was you. Quit running and trust in the finished work of Christ. Let the gospel change your life. Let the gospel transform who you are. Listen to this sermon about letting the gospel change your life in the first part of our In The Word series walking through 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians.

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Growing Smaller | God Wants to Use You

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 11:00:00 +0000

When we see a construction job site, everything that's on the job site is going to be used, has a role, and has been purchased by the owner. This is similar to us as Christians. God has purchased you through the blood of His Son, Jesus, and He has placed you on the job site to be used. You have a position, a job, and a responsibility as a follower of Christ. God came and rescued you out of the darkness so that He could use you to build His Kingdom. You have so much value that He sent His Son to die for you. God didn’t save us for us to just rot on the job site. He saved us to use us to build up the Kingdom, but there is a preparation process. God wants to cut away what’s not fit to use not because He’s mad at you but because He loves you. Do you want to be used? Listen to this sermon about God wanting to use you to build His Kingdom in the fourth and final part of our Growing Smaller series.

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Growing Smaller | You Are Not Alone

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

In Exodus, we see Moses having to grow smaller by him leading a group of people to pray and him having Joshua lead an army to fight. Both Moses and Joshua were needed to lead smaller groups and to claim victory. As a follower of Christ, we are all leading something. In leading, there will be days that we are exhausted. We see that even Moses became exhausted. However, we see that Moses was not alone and neither are we. You don’t have the strength to do this on your own. We weren’t meant to do this alone. In our journey of following Christ, there are going to be days we are going to need help. We have to be willing to let people help. Are you letting God’s people help you and let people walk with you on this journey? In Christ, victory always follows faithfulness. This victory was provided because they grew smaller. Listen to this sermon about not being alone and getting the right people around you in the third part of our Growing Smaller series.

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Growing Smaller | You Belong

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

At CMC, you hear us say, "You belong," and talking about belonging. As we biblically unpack this statement and why it's important to us, we see that this statement is more than a marketing tool but that it's a burden and prayer that we have for you. God designed each of us to have a desire to belong to something. Although belongingness in the world we live in has many boundaries and limits, belongingness in the Kingdom of God has no limits because of the finished work of Jesus Christ. When we belong to the Father, it doesn’t stop there because we also belong to the Church. By God’s design, the local church has been established so that we can have a place to call home. We can’t do this without each other and God; it’s the way we are designed. Listen to this sermon about belongingness in the second part of our Growing Smaller series.

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Growing Smaller | The Power of the Invitation

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

There are now less than 6% of churches in America that are growing. People have become stagnant and disengaged in the church. At this church, we are going to fight for the Church. In looking at the parable of the lost sheep that Jesus told, we see the parallel between sheep and us. There’s a reason a sheep ends up leaving a flock and a lot of times it is because they are internally sick. The church is the gathering of people. If God’s desire is for the church to be together, then the enemy’s desire for the church to be separated. There is power in togetherness. When is the last time we have invited someone to church? How many people are simply waiting on an invitation? Be willing to step outside of the comfort of the 99 to go after the ones who have gone astray. Listen to this sermon about the power of inviting someone to church in the first part of our Growing Smaller series.

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The Power of Togetherness

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 11:00:00 +0000

There’s things that just go together. We can't talk about peanut butter without jelly. We can't talk about salt without pepper. We can’t talk about the church and not talk about being together. The church is a gathering of believers. The church is a gathering of God’s people. God didn’t design the church for you to do this Christian life alone. God designed the church for us to be together. Listen to this sermon about the church and the power of togetherness in this first message of 2022.

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How Bright is the Light You Carry?

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Much like things we have anticipated this year in 2021, there was much anticipation to the Messiah being born as the arrival of the Savior had been prophesied for years. What does Jesus’ arrival mean to the world? Jesus says that He is the Light of the World. If you believe in Jesus, you will also live in that light. We are commanded by the Savior of the World to be the very light that He is. We are the only ones giving light in this dark world. How bright is the light you carry You are only going to be as bright as you are close. God wants to use you in dark places. You can’t be the light of the world without being with the Father to ignite your light. Listen to this sermon about carrying the light into the darkness in this final message of 2021.

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Prepare the Way | Jesus Came to Seek and Save

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

There is always meanings that go with names in the Bible. The definition of people’s names defined who they were and how they were going to be used. The name of Jesus: Rescuer and Deliverer. We celebrate Christmas because the Rescuer and Deliverer was sent as a baby to seek and save the lost. We don't have to straighten up because Christ sought us out, came to us, and draw us into Himself. We can’t fall far enough to fall out of the grace of God. Once you’re in His hand, there’s nothing the enemy can do to pluck you out. Listen to this sermon about Jesus coming to seek and save in the fourth and final part of our Prepare the Way series.

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Prepare the Way | Jesus Came to Us

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

As we continue to celebrate the why of Christmas, we took time to gather alongside two other local churches in worship together and then to go out to serve the community on what we call Send Sunday. On this special day and in this bilingual service, we celebrate that Jesus Jesus came to be the very presence of God. We should not overlook Emmanuel, God is with us. Jesus came to us. The Savior of the World is not hiding from you. He is waiting for you. He is coming after you. He is pursuing you because He loves you. If you have accepted that gift, you have been filled with the very presence of Emmanuel. The presence of God lives in you and as a result we are ambassadors for Christ to take that light into a dark world. Listen to this sermon about God being with us and being sent as ambassadors of Christ in the third part of our Prepare the Way series.

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Prepare the Way | Jesus Came to Serve

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells His disciples that He, the Son of Man, did not come to be served but to serve. He knew that His purpose was ultimately die for our sins on the cross and He still came and lived. Jesus was absolutely determined to serve people. Even though He has already died on the cross and paid our sin debt, He still wants to serve us. The Savior is still in our midst today and still wants to wash our feet. Jesus is saying come to Me. He is still here to provide us what we can’t provide ourselves. That is hope in a nutshell. Listen to this sermon about Jesus being sent not to be served but to serve in the second part of our Prepare the Way series.

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Prepare the Way | Our Identity in Christ

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

As we enter into the Christmas season, we take time to celebrate the why of Christmas. As we look to the why of Christmas, we ask: Why did Jesus come? He came to take away (remove) our sin. Jesus knew no sin and was still not a sinner but placed the object sin on Himself for us. He did that on our behalf. He did for us what we could not do for ourselves. He robed Himself with our mess. He received the punishment for what we’ve done. In exchange for Him removing our identity as sin, He gave us His identity. An identity of righteousness, holiness. Without that, there is no unity with the Heavenly Father. This is being born again. Have you trusted Jesus to give you His identity? Listen to this sermon about our identity in Christ in the first part of our Prepare the Way series.

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Being Thankful

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In Luke 17, we see the story of the ten lepers. We see Jesus is walking between God’s Chosen People (the Jews) and the very the Jews rejected (the Samaritans), and we see a Savior who is willing to meet people where they are. Through the story of the ten lepers, we see Jesus not only as healer but we also see how Jesus uses our obedience. It is so easy for us to take for granted how the Lord blesses and what He does for us. When we realize who we are and who is He, it requires a radical response. We all have the opportunity to be made well. That’s worth saying thank you to the Savior. Listen to this sermon about being thankful as we enter into this Thanksgiving season.

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Genuine Worship | Remain Ready

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

At the conclusion of the Old Testament in Malachi 4, God reminds the children of Israel to remember what He has commanded and He reminds them to remain ready for His return. God always provides a path of deliverance for His people to be delivered from sin. Jesus Himself affirms the prophecy of Malachi to be true and He points to the parallel of John the Baptist. The Gospel has made it possible to be a new blood line through Jesus’ sacrifice and we are in this lineage of grace now. This is the legacy of genuine worship passed down through the turning of hearts. Listen to this sermon in this final part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | This Is The Promise

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 4, we see the warning and the promise that God speaks to the children of Israel through Malachi. While we should feel this warning, we also see that our God is still in control and He has called us to share the light. We have been called into a Kingdom that has not been shaken. We serve a God who will not fall apart. Malachi is wanting us to feel the beauty of Jesus coming. This is a prophecy to be fulfilled. We carry the light because Jesus is the light and has called us to carry the light. Where the light is, darkness cannot exist. This is the promise. Nothing can separate us from Him. Carry the light because He is worthy. Listen to this sermon in this seventh part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | To Those Who Serve God

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 3, we see that the children of Israel are still oblivious to their disobedience. God desires something from His children. God desires that His children give their best. God wants us to serve and live for Him not because we have to but because we want to in response to what He has already done. The children of Israel are questioning why they should do and give more to God when they see the lost prospering around them in the world. When we hear the word fear, we think that’s how we are supposed to feel about God. That’s not what biblical fear is about. Biblical fear is not being scared but is having a reverence and awe of knowing who is in charged. God didn't call us to isolate either. He calls us to assemble together to stand in awe of who is He. Listen to this sermon in this sixth part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | Give God Your Best

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 3, God tells the children of Israel to return to Him and He will return to them. Through Malachi, God tells the children of Israel that they have robbed Him. The children of Israel withholding their offerings from God was showing what was worth more than their deliverance. They were saying that their comfort was worth more than their thank you to God. Their worth was found in their comfort instead of God. We cannot forget that everything we have is from God. God is calling us to give Him our best. God just wants His children to recognize that He is the Provider. This has nothing to do with money but it has everything to do with your heart. He just wants our best. Listen to this sermon on giving God your best in this fifth part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | Guilty or Not Guilty?

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 3, we see the children of Israel asking and wondering where God is yet they know they are not living fully for Him, but God tells them through Malachi that He wants their best. God has called us to holiness and He doesn't bless disobedience. Through Jesus, we are refined and then then we will be presented to God as holy and pure on Judgment Day. However, we are either in Christ or not. We are either saved or not saved. We are either guilty or not guilty. Listen to this sermon on the good news for those that are not guilty and the bad news for those that are guilty in this fourth part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | Where Are You Leading?

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 2, we see that the priests began giving less than their best to God so the children of Israel did too. It all started with leadership. One crack of compromise that led to disaster. If you have washed by the blood of the Lamb and trusted Jesus as your Savior, we all have the same responsibility as the priests. It is our responsibility to usher people into the presence of an Almighty God who loves them. However, does our lifestyle or our worship proclaim Jesus or is our lifestyle turning people from Jesus? Where are you leading? Are we leading people to stumble or leading people to Jesus? Listen to this sermon on leading people to Jesus instead of leading people to stumble in this third part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Genuine Worship | Don't Forget Your Why

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Malachi 1, we see that the children of Israel are focused on the performance and event of following God instead of being focus on the condition of their heart. One of the devil's biggest distractions for a Christian is to make you busy even if it is for church things. The devil loves to make you busy in the Kingdom so that you will be more busy and focused on the what instead of the why. Don't be so focused on what you are doing that you forget why you are doing it. If we forget why we are doing it, then we might as well not do it. Don't give God your leftovers; give Him your best. Listen to this sermon on giving God your best and not forgetting your why in this second part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Let's Go | Does God Love Me?

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Sunday's message as began our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi. Despite your sin, God has loved you, does love you, and will continue to love you. The Father is full of grace, mercy, and forgiveness. No matter how bad the world gets, we win. That’s our hope. That’s our promise. Don’t forget that. God loves you. Don't forget who you are in Jesus.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

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Genuine Worship | Does God Love Me?

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

God has given the children of Israel everything they need to thrive and continue the mission of God. Because of the circumstances of life, all of that excitement had begun to wear off among the children of Israel and have now started going back to some of the same sinful ruts and routines. Malachi’s job is to call them out on what they are doing. The first thing God tells the children of Israel through His prophet, Malachi, is that He has loved the children of Israel. God is saying “I have loved you, I do love you, and will continue to love you.” Despite your sin, God has loved you, does love you, and will continue to love you. The Father is full of grace, mercy, and forgiveness. No matter how bad the world gets, we win. That’s our hope. That’s our promise. Don’t forget that. God loves you. Don't forget that and don't forget who you are in Jesus. Listen to this sermon on God's love in this first part of our Genuine Worship series walking through the book of Malachi.

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Let's Go | Our Vision

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Sunday's message as Pastor Brian shared the vision for this next year that's all about adoption and families. As the church, we are called to hear the cry, have compassion, and provide. Our vision exists in three layers: (1) churches adopting churches, (2) groups adopting communities, and (3) families adopting families. We want to adopt 3 churches by the end of 2022. We want to adopt 10 communities by the end of 2022. We want to adopt 100 families by the end of 2022. What's our role? Acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your path. Also, listen for the cry, have compassion, and ask God how He would have you provide.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

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Our Vision | Families Adopting Families

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

On this Vision Sunday, we share the vision God has given us. This is just the beginning of what God wants to begin here in this CMC family. In looking at the story of Pharoah's daughter finding Moses in the Nile River and adopting him, we see that Pharoah’s daughter heard the cry, she had compassion, and, therefore, she provided. We must have that same mindset in the three layers of our vision. We unpack each layer of our vision moving forward of (1) churches adopting churches, (2) groups adopting communities, and (3) families adopting families. This vision is all about family adoption by hearing the cry, having compassion, and providing the need. This is about seeing the family of God grow. In 2022, our family is going to grow. The family of God is going to grow, but it’s going to take you for it to grow. It’s going to take you to live in surrendered obedience for it to grow. Listen to this sermon from Pastor Brian as he shares the vision of where God has called us to go.

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Let's Go | Having a Zeal for Jesus

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Sunday's message from Pastor Brandon Sloan about having a zeal for Jesus. The Church in Ephesus seemed to be like a church doing a pretty good job but they had lost their first love as revealed in the letter to them in Revelation. Similarly looking at the Parable of the 10 Virgins in Matthew, we can ask ourselves how many of us are just trimming our wicks in church and asking others for oil to light our lamps. Ultimately, we are all individually responsible for preparing ourselves for the coming of Jesus. Do we have a longing desire to come and dine with Jesus? In looking to the older son in the story of the prodigal son, are we a lot like the older son than we would like to admit? You are never too far gone because of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. How are you preparing yourself for Jesus? Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why it's important to have a zeal for Jesus.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

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Having a Zeal for Jesus

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In its letter in Revelation, the Church of Ephesus is warned of losing its first love. They are doing all the good things on the outside but they have lost their first love. They have lost their zeal for God. It seems this is how the majority of Christians are living in America today. We see the parallel in Jesus' teaching of the Parable of the Ten Virgins. How is our affection today for Jesus? How many people are going through the motions trying to blend in with the people who have oil? Do we have a longing zeal for the Bridegroom (Jesus) to come in the future and to come and dine with Him today? Listen to this sermon from in a standalone message from Pastor Brandon Sloan.

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Let's Go | Active Humility

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Sunday's message in the fifth and final part of our We Are series looking at our fifth value, active humility. Active humility involves a posture and position. It is a daily process and active pursuit. We have to be humble for Jesus to be able to use us. Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why active humility is important.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Active Humility" in our We Are series.

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We Are | Active Humility

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our fifth value at CMC is surrendered obedience. Humility is not just about thinking about yourself less but it’s about dying to yourself and emptying yourself so there’s room for God to fill you. Active humility is a daily posture and attitude of the heart. It's an active pursuit. It's about a posture and a position. He doesn’t need us to be able. He needs us to be empty. God must increase in our lives and we must decrease. This is active humility. Listen to this sermon from the fifth and final part of our We Are series.

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Let's Go | Surrendered Obedience

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the fourth part of our We Are series looking at our fourth value, surrendered obedience. When our obedience collides with God's power, lives are changed. Obedience can be a difficult thing. For every one door of obedience, there will be multiple doors of disobedience that Satan opens up. However, if we want to be obedient, we have to trust God. What does it look like when we tell God yes before we even know the assignment? Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why being surrendered obedience is important.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Surrendered Obedience" in our We Are series.

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We Are | Surrendered Obedience

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our fourth value at CMC is surrendered obedience. When God speaks, He will call us to obedience. How many of us have been called by God to do something and it scares us to death? Obedience to God is a scary place to be. God is never going to call you to do something that He isn’t going to provide for. Through the story of Jonah, we see the effects of Jonah's disobedience. However, we also see that God never quit pursuing Jonah just like He never quits pursuing us, even in the midst of our disobedience. Your disobedience does not forfeit your second chance with God. We are going to be a church who commits to surrendered obedience. Listen to this sermon from the fourth part of our We Are series.

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https://youtu.be/7vcIX6ePPY8

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Let's Go | Grateful Generosity

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the third part of our We Are series looking at our third value, grateful generosity. We give because He first gave to us. We want to be a church that is open-handed with what God has given to us. God has called us to be generous. God doesn't need our money, but He wants our hearts. If we are genuinely growing in Christ, it’s going to affect all areas of our life including being generous. Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why being generous is important.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Grateful Generosity" in our We Are series.

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We Are | Grateful Generosity

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our third value at CMC is grateful generosity. God has called us to be generous. We want to be a church that is open-handed with what God has given to us. We give because He first gave to us. Being generous isn't just about money though but it's about our hearts. What would it look like if CMC was a spirit-led giving church instead of a rules-based giving church? For us to be a generous church, we have to be made up of generous people. What is God calling us to be generous with? Listen to this sermon from the third part of our We Are series.

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https://youtu.be/KYHidOT_kgM

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Let's Go | Intentional Community

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the second part of our We Are series looking at our second value, intentional community. Community is something God created and He designed man to be in community. The fall of man though destroyed the puzzle of perfect community. However, God wants to reconcile these broken pieces back to Him and this hope is through Jesus. If we have been saved, we are a part of the community of God and we are empowered to go after the other lost puzzle pieces. Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why intentional community is so important for us to be a part of and how God designed community.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Intentional Community" in our We Are series.

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We Are | Intentional Community

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our second value at CMC is intentional community. Intentional community is not just something we thought of. Intentional community is the heartbeat of our Savior. From the point of creation of man, God created community. God did not want man to live in isolation. He wanted community. While the perfect community was destroyed with the fall of man, God sent His Son to die for us to reconcile us back and restore the puzzle of perfect community with Him one day. Listen to this sermon from the second part of our We Are series.

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https://youtu.be/KyLtrWpKzo4

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Let's Go | Biblical Teaching

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the first part of our We Are series looking at our first value, biblical teaching. We believe God's Word is the ultimate authority. Biblical teaching is our number one value at CMC and we are going to teach the Truth in love. Listen to this episode of Let's Go as we discuss why biblical teaching is so important and God's Word is crucial for the Christian in his/her daily life.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Biblical Teaching" in our We Are series.

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We Are | Biblical Teaching

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Our number one value at CMC is biblical teaching. We are going to preach the Bible because it is the truth. The number one reason we are going to preach the truth of God’s Word because we are commanded to. Scripture reveals to use who we aren’t and who Christ is. At CMC, we are going to preach and teach the Word of God because we love you. Listen to this sermon from the first part of our We Are series.

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https://youtu.be/H6aftypn6ck

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Let's Go | Your Role In Ministry

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the final part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. We are all called to ministry as Christians. What would it look like if everyone lived out the calling that God has placed on their life? Are you walking in what God has called you to? When is the last time you have thought about your calling as a gift from God? The only way we can fulfill our calling is if we are fully filled with Him. What has God entrusted you with that He wants you to serve Him with? What resource(s) has He given you that He wants you to let go of?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Your Role in Ministry" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Your Role in Ministry

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 4:7-18, Paul concludes his letter to the Colossians. Through the mentioning of ministry partners, we see that if you are saved by the grace of God, you are in ministry. All Christians have a role in ministry. Everyone of us that has been saved has an assignment from God. Stay faithful to what God has called you to do. Listen to this sermon from the final part of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/fegOniU6tgQ

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Let's Go | Pray for Open Doors

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Brandon and Brelynn look back on Pastor Jared's message in the sixteenth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. In Colossians 4:2-6, Paul is praying for boldness that Jesus may be made known. What does it look like to pray with passion and boldness that Jesus may be made known? This is the challenge for us as believers as we pray. What does our devotion to the Lord look like? Take time to spend quiet time with God and pray for Him to give you boldness and ignite passion within you to make His name known.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Pray for Open Doors" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Pray for Open Doors

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 4:2-6, Paul tells the Colossians how to pray, what to pray for, and how to act once these prayers have been answered. Prayer is not primarily about getting things from God. Prayer is primarily about coming one with God. Paul saw people as opportunities for God to intersect their life. What do we see when we see people? Pray for open doors that we may share the Good News of Jesus to others. In prayer, continue steadfastly, be watchful, and be thankful. Pray for open doors for the Gospel to be presented. Listen to this sermon from part sixteen of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/iCHzoOwrfmo

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Let's Go | For an Audience of One

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brandon's message in the fifteenth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. In Colossians 3:22-4:1, Paul reminds that we are called to work and serve for an audience of one. Our audience of one is God only. We are not to work and serve for the approval and applause of others. The motivation for how we work and serve matters because we are called to be faithful to God first.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "For an Audience of One" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | For an Audience of One

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 3:22-4:1, Paul tells the Colossians to do all things for the glory of God. As Christians, we are called to work or serve for an audience of one, God. Why we are motivated to work and serve for God is because we have an audience of one. We are called not to be faithful to others first but to be faithful to God first. The motive behind why you do what you do matters. Because of what Christ has done on our behalf, this allows us to work and serve with intentionality. We have a reward that is in Christ and a guarantee. That’s why we do what we do. Let our work be an overflow of the reality that we follow God. Listen to this sermon from part fifteen of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/Sy1pQtLM4_w

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Let's Go | How to Lead the Home

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the fourteenth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. In Colossians 3:18-21, Paul reminds about how God designed the home and family. We are all called to be obedient to God's Word regardless of what your role is in the family. God has placed men to be the head of the home and to bless and protect the home under God's authority. To lead them in the ways of the Lord, you must first start following Jesus. Surrender to God's authority and be obedient. Being obedient in all things being obedient even when you don't want to.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Whatever You Do" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | How to Lead the Home

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 3:18-21, Paul tells the Colossians how to lead a home by husbands leading their wives, wives submitting to the authority of their husbands, and children obeying their parents. God knows how the family is supposed to function and operate because He created and designed the family. When a family is operating the way God designed it, then it is a reflection of who God is. God has called men to lead. God has placed men to be the head of the home. You start leading your home when you first start following Jesus. Listen to this sermon from part fourteen of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/ODsWHaG3DqM

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Let's Go | Whatever You Do

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Brandon looks back on Pastor Jared's message in the thirteenth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. In Colossians 3:17, Paul reminds the Colossians that whatever it is they do to do it in the name of Jesus. As Christians, we must always do everything under the example of Jesus, in the authority of Jesus, in the power of Jesus, and for the glory of Jesus. Walk in that.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Whatever You Do" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Whatever You Do

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 3:17, Paul tells the Colossians that whatever they do to do it in the name of Jesus. To do everything in the name of Jesus is to be an ambassador for Him. As Christians, whatever we do, we must do everything (1) under the example of Jesus, (2) in the authority of Jesus, (3) in the power of Jesus, and (4) for the glory of Jesus. Listen to this sermon from part thirteen of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/0-sj1td2z5Q

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Let's Go | Things to Put On and Put Off

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Jason Lester's (one of our CMC Elders) message in the eleventh part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. What do you need to put off and put to death that is earthly in you? While we need to put off things, what do we need to also put on? We are to put on Christ and put on the things of Christ. Everyone needs to have a heart of gratitude. In all circumstances, we still have reason to praise God and be grateful for what He is doing.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Things to Put On and Put Off" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Things to Put Off and Put On

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 3:5-16, Paul is telling the Colossians things they need to put off and put on as Christians. We all have things we need to put off in our lives and things we need to put on. We all have a ton of reasons to worship Him and give Him thanks. As Paul lists what we need to put off and on as Christ followers, we see that's when we receive Christ's peace. What do you need to put off in your life and what do you need to put on? Do you have a heart of gratitude? Listen to this sermon from part twelve of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/v97PCfGKxqg

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Let's Go | Seek and Set Your Mind On Things Above

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the tenth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. Paul reminds the Colossians to seek and set your mind on things above. It's not just knowing who we are in Christ but walking in Christ. When we do this, the world will see the difference in how we live. Paul is teaching the Colossians how to overcome their sin. If we seek Jesus, we will find Him. If we are not seeking the things that are above, we are seeking the things of this world. Who and what are you seeking and setting your minds on?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Seek and Set Your Mind On Things Above" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Seek and Set Your Mind On Things Above

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 3:1-4, Paul tells the Colossians to walk in who they are in Christ. It’s not just about knowing who we are in Christ but now taking advantage of who we are in Christ. If we are in Christ, we should live like it. As Paul reminds the Colossians, we must keep seeking the things above and set our minds on the things above. The more we know about Him, the more we will look like Him. When our affections and love for our Savior grows for who He is, it produces obedience because we are being molded into the image of God. Once we are in Christ, there is nothing the enemy can do to take Christ from us. This is hope. This is victory. Watch this sermon from part eleven of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/VR1mOQbfGdU

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Let's Go | Don't Forget Who You Are

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the ninth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. Paul is reminding the Colossians of their identity. Being reminded of our identity in Christ is important to us too. Don't forget who you are. Don't forget that in Jesus you are complete. Your salvation has nothing to do with your performance but it has everything to do with what Jesus has already done on your behalf. What would happen if we would die to all the distractions we face and would focus on Christ? Worship God not to receive anything additional from Him but worship in response to what God has already done on our behalf. Focus more on Jesus than on your baggage and watch what He does in your life and in the life of others.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Don't Forget Who You Are" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Don't Forget Who You Are

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 2:16-23, Paul tells the Colossians to not forget who they are in Christ. The enemy’s mission is to distract, entice, and pull us away from our focus on who we are in Christ. The enemy wants to cast shadows to distract us, but the shadow doesn’t change the reality of who Christ is and who we are in Christ Jesus. As Christians, we cannot forget who we are in Christ and overlook the freedom we have in Him. Are we walking in the freedom of who we are in Christ? Listen to this sermon from part ten of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

Check out our video version of this episode:

https://youtu.be/JFjZ9FINaqc

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Let's Go | Remember Who Christ Is

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Sunday where we celebrated 13 more baptisms. We can never grow tired of celebrating new life in Christ and then we must remember who Christ is for us. We thank Christ for what He has done for us and we respond by living for Him. In a day of recalibration and remembrance, through baptism and communion, we remember who Christ is and what He has done for us to share this news and live for Him.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Remember Who Christ Is" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Remember Who Christ Is

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Remembering who Christ is and what He has done should birth a response in us as Christ followers. As we take time to remember who Christ is and who we are in Christ, we see that communion is remembering the covenant between us and God. We need to remember why God saved us to begin with. It was because He desired a relationship with us and Jesus' sacrifice was the reconciliation of this broken relationship. This is why we celebrate. Listen to this sermon from part nine of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/S13fOY3WoTI

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Let's Go | What It Means To Be Baptized

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the eighth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. Baptism is an outward expression of a spiritual event. It is the proclamation of your salvation. Baptism is not salvation. The moment we place our faith in Jesus. Jesus disarms the enemy with every accusation he has on us and the blood of Jesus covers us. Are you walking in this victory and are you celebrating in this victory with others?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "What It Means To Be Baptized" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | What It Means to Be Baptized

Mon, 31 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 2:12-15, Paul reminds the Colossians what it means to be baptized. Baptism is an outward expression of a spiritual event. Just as a wedding ring is an emblem of a marriage, baptism Is the emblem of salvation. Baptism does not save you but it is the proclamation of your salvation. The two questions are: (1) Have you gone public with your salvation? and (2) Have you ever trusted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Listen to this sermon from part eight of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/BeBBLMQ4o0E

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Let's Go | Receive and Walk in Jesus

Tue, 25 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the seventh part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. What does it mean to be in Christ? In order to step into Christ, we must step out of something and leave something behind. This is repentance. The only way to walk in Jesus is to trust in His finished work instead of your works. Walk in Him. Share your story.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Receive and Walk in Jesus" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Receive and Walk in Jesus

Mon, 24 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 2, Paul reminds the Colossians what it means and looks like to receive Christ and to walk in Him. In order to step in Jesus, we must step out of something and leave something behind. We don't have the ability to earn God's love. The only way to walk with Him is to trust in His finished work, not your works. At salvation, we are rooted in Christ. Once we are rooted in Christ, we are rooted once and for all. If we are rooted, the more built up and established we are to resemble Christ. The question is though...Have you been rooted in Christ? Listen to this sermon from part seven of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/gKTO6LwqG34

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Let's Go | That Our Hearts May Be Encouraged

Tue, 18 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the sixth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. Paul is calling for unity to the church in Colossae. When is the last time that we have prayed for the church like Paul prayed for the church? We are called to pray for the church, all local churches. We are called to be unified. God is calling us as the church to encourage and come alongside each other. God has given us an opportunity to grow in power and strength. When the church is welded together, the big c church is stronger. It starts with you and I to lock arms together. How are we encouraging one another for the sake of unity and for the sake of the gospel being spread in our community and world?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "That Our Hearts May Be Encouraged" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

Visit our YouTube channel and subscribe for more content here: youtube.com/chestnutmountainchurch

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In The Word | That Our Hearts May Be Encouraged

Mon, 17 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In Colossians 2, Paul is calling for unity. Paul doesn't want the church of Colossae to be an effective church turned to an ineffective church. Paul prayed that their hearts be encouraged and having been knit together in love. He's praying that the church be encouraged and be knitted together in love. Being encouraged means that we are united and doing life together. When the church is welded together, the big c Church is stronger. What are we doing today to encourage one another and come alongside each other? Listen to this sermon from part six of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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Let's Go | The Response to Knowing Jesus

Tue, 11 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the fifth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. As followers of Christ, there is suffering that we will have to endure and sacrifices that we will have to make. Being obedient is going to come with suffering. Are we willing to walk through the temporary for the sake of the eternal? Are we going to have an eternal mindset as we walk through the temporary struggles and sacrifices of life?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "The Response to Knowing Jesus" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | The Response to Knowing Jesus

Mon, 10 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

To close out chapter one of Colossians, we look at who Paul is, what Paul does, and why Paul does it. From looking at these three things in Paul's life, we see how we must submit to where God has called us and placed us. Even when feeling unqualified, God will equip those He has called. It is the responsibility as followers of Christ to preach and proclaim Christ. While it is expected for Christ followers to face suffering, the reason why we do what we do as Christians is because we want people to be presented to Christ in maturity. Listen to this sermon from part five of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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Let's Go | Reconciled Back to the Father

Tue, 04 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the fourth part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. We serve a God who is big enough to hold the universe together, and He's also big enough to hold you together. God is currently and presently holding it all together. No matter how discouraged or hopeless you may feel, you can always turn your eyes to Jesus and know that He's holding it all together. Could it be that Jesus is about to use what's falling apart in your own life to ultimately bring Him glory? Are you letting Him use your circumstances, your pain, your weakness?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Reconciled Back to the Father" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Reconciled Back to the Father

Mon, 03 May 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In his letter to the church of Colossae, Paul is not just praying that they be filled with the knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of who God is but he's also doing something about it. Paul speaks of Jesus being Creator, the head of the Church, and Savior. For you to step from darkness to light, it has nothing to do with you but it is only by the grace of Jesus. To step from darkness to light, it has nothing to do with you but it is only by the grace of Jesus. In that moment of salvation, we are adopted into the family of God. We are reconciled back to the Father. That's what salvation is. Listen to this sermon from part four of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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Let's Go | Walking in The Light

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Brandon and Pastor Chase look back on Pastor Jared's message in the third part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. As followers of Christ, we will continue to fall short, but being in Christ will drive us to continue to walk in Christ. We need to look to Jesus as our source of light and redemption. He has paid the full price for our sin and we get to walk in that. He has rescued us from the darkness. We must walk as free people and look to Jesus. May we look to Jesus as King and walk in the freedom He has given us.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Walking in The Light" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Walking in The Light

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

From an early age, we know that darkness is not good. It's natural for children to be scared of the dark. We were hardwired for the light. As Paul writes in Colossians, God has delivered us from the domain of darkness. If you are not in Christ, then you are in darkness.The world needs light. The only light is Jesus. As followers of Christ, we are called to carry this light to the dark world around us. We must walk as children of the light. Are you going to walk in the light or you going to walk away from the light? Listen to this sermon from part three of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/vcjbMpaYZbI

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Let's Go | Filling Our Minds With The Truth

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the second part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. We've been created to be fed by the truth of God's Word and be filled with it. In order to make room for the truth in our lives, we must empty out the lies. What are the voices that we are listening to throughout the day that are not true? What voices are speaking into our lives? We need to audit what voices we are listening to and make room for the truth. Walking with Him reveals His wisdom.

His wisdom reveals His will. His will leads to work, and His work produces His fruit. Are you allowing God to use you where you are?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Filling Our Minds With The Truth" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word | Filling Our Minds With The Truth

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Paul writes to the church of Colossae reminding them of the importance of the mind and tells them to fill their minds with the Truth. Paul is praying that their minds will be filled with the knowledge, wisdom, and the understanding of who God is so there isn't room for anything else. We need to empty the lies and junk of this world and fill our minds with God's Word. When our minds are filled with lies, there's no room for the truth. When are minds are filled with the truth, there's no room for lies. What are we filled with? What are we filling our minds with? Listen to this sermon from part two of our In The Word series as we walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/j26a1ZfkomA

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Let's Go | Protecting the Fellowship

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message in the first part of our In The Word series walking through the book of Colossians. What would we do if Paul wrote us a letter and said he had hear about our faith, love, and all what God is doing like he did to the church in Colossae? How would we respond? If that is being said in the community that our faith is strong and the way we are loving others is strong, then we need to be careful. The way we love has the power to draw people; the way we do not love has the power to repel people. This is a challenge for us as believers. Are we loving the way Christ has taught us to love?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Protecting the Fellowship" in our In The Word - Colossians series.

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In The Word (Colossians) | Protecting the Fellowship

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In the book of Colossians, Paul is writing a letter to the church of Colossae. Paul directs every bit of the attention to the head of the body, Jesus. Everything points back to Jesus. The three questions that must be asked are: (1) Are you in Christ?, (2) Are you allowing God to use us where He has placed us?, (3) Is God using you where He’s placed you? When a church body is in Christ and allows God to use them, then there are things to be careful of because the enemy wants to destroy what God is doing. A lost world is looking in and watching. Jesus was so passionate about protecting the fellowship. We have to be protective of the fellowship too. Listen to this sermon from part one of our In The Word series as we begin to walk through the book of Colossians.

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https://youtu.be/7oCienvGEnk

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Let's Go | The Day

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about The Day as we celebrated Easter. Everyone responds differently to the resurrection. When we meet Jesus wherever we are, He changes everything. He doesn't expect you to be a mile further in your journey before He will meet you. He meets you right where you are. The hope we have in His resurrection is everything. We have to slow down long enough to realize what God is doing. God is close to us but are we walking with Him. Are you slowing down long enough to recognize what He's doing? What are you doing with the resurrection?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "The Trial" in our The Trial, The Death, The Day.

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The Trial, The Death, The Day | The Day

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In looking at the Day of Jesus' resurrection, we see that everybody responds differently to the resurrection day. While looking through the Gospels, Matthew, Luke, and John, we see that, even on the actual resurrection day, everybody responded differently. How has the resurrection affected you? What have you done with the resurrection? Watch this sermon from Easter 2021 in our Easter series called The Trial, The Death, The Day.

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https://youtu.be/vRDX_0LAyTA

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Let's Go | The Trial

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about the Trial of Jesus in our Easter series called The Trial, The Death, The Day. The question we need need to be asking is, "What will we do with Jesus?" Are we going to choose Jesus or are we not going to choose Jesus? The influence of the world, the influence of evil, blinds us from the truth. It blinds us that we are guilty of our own sin. Are we going to stand on the truth or are we going to stand on what's popular? We can't just choose what the crowd is choosing. Ultimately, we have to decide if we are going to stand for the truth or stand for what's popular. Is Jesus everything for you? What will you do with Jesus?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "The Trial" in our The Trial, The Death, The Day.

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The Trial, The Death, The Day | The Trial

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In looking at the Trial of Jesus, we see we have more in common with Pilate, the governor of Judea, than we can imagine. As the crowd brings Jesus to Pilate for Jesus' trial, Pilate is faced with the question, "What shall I do with Jesus?" Pilate knows Jesus is innocent, but the crowd wants Jesus crucified. On the brink of a riot from the people, Pilate has to make the choice whether to stand on the truth or to stand on what is popular. Similar to Pilate, we have a decision to make every single day to choose whether we are going to stand on the Truth or stand on what's popular, what the world wants. What have you done with Jesus? Listen to this sermon from Palm Sunday 2021 in our Easter series called The Trial, The Death, The Day.

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https://youtu.be/bM98duiHOJQ

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Let's Go | Exercising Dependence

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about exercising dependence as we conclude The Lord's Prayer in our How To Pray series. God does not tempt us but He does lead us into tempting and trial. God loves us so much that He allows us to face trials and tests so that we will run and depend on Him. There is always a purpose for what He leads us to.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Exercising Dependence" in our How To Pray series.

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How To Pray - Exercising Dependence

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

To say we are dependent is one thing, but to exercise dependence is another thing. The Lord's Pray is showing us and putting us in a posture of exercise dependence. We can say we want to be dependent on God, but it's a whole other thing to actually exercise that dependence. As the Lord's Prayer ends, Jesus prays, "do not lead us into temptation." In this verse, we are reminded that being obedient to Christ and following Christ is not always going to be easy. However, When we follow our Father's lead, it's an opportunity for Him to prove His faithfulness. We are not strong enough to fight the enemy. We are not strong enough to overcome. When we can't do it, we serve a God who already has. We must dependent on Him though. Listen to this sermon in the fifth part of our How To Pray series.

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https://youtu.be/ghHToN54twk

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Let's Go | Surrender Leads to Dependence

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about praying "give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts." Forgiveness is such an important and difficult part of the Christian life. We are to forgive as Christ forgave us. Who do we need to forgive? If there are people that we are not forgiving in our life, we are creating a prison for ourselves. We aren't walking in freedom. Jesus has made it possible for us to be forgiven and for us to walk in forgiveness. We forgive because we've been forgiven.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Your Will Be Done" in our How To Pray series.

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How To Pray - Surrender Leads to Dependence

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 10:00:00 +0000

"Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." When Jesus prayed this in the Lord's Prayer, what did this mean of giving us our daily bread and forgiving our debts? In this part of the Lord's Prayer, we see the importance of surrender and how surrender leads to dependence. We must remember that God is our provider. Of all the many things He provides, we also see Him provide forgiveness. As a follower of Christ, when we ask God to forgive us, we are praying for Him to separate us from our sin. Because God has forgiven us, we must forgive others too. Listen to this sermon in the fourth part of our How To Pray series.

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https://youtu.be/PADOhsDvcvw

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Let's Go | Your Will Be Done

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about praying "Your will be done." It's one thing to say "Your will be done," but it's a different thing to walk in. The moment that we pray that His will be done and not our own, we are declaring war between our will and God's will. When we pray this prayer, we are bowing to God as Lord and saying for His will to be done. We must pray daily for God's will to be done. If we're truly praying that prayer, we are going to see immeasurably more in our lives, in our church, in our nation, in our world.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Your Will Be Done" in our How To Pray series.

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How To Pray - Your Will Be Done

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In the Lord's Prayer, after Jesus prays, "Your Kingdom come," He prays "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." There will be times when God directs, instructs, and convicts that will go against our plans. Our battle between our flesh and God's will is of what we want versus what God knows. Even Jesus had to pray for God's will to be done as He prayed before the crucifixion. We have to trust God's doing. As a follower of Christ with a heart of surrender, we are aligning our hearts with His. Listen to this sermon in the third part of our How To Pray series.

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https://youtu.be/WaDIXZzZwzQ

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Let's Go | Tearing Down Our Kingdom

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In week 3 of our Daniel Fast and in beginning our How To Pray series, Pastor Jared, Pastor Brandon, and Pastor Brandon talk about how this fast has torn down our kingdom and elevated God's Kingdom. Before we can pray for God's Kingdom to come, we have to be willing to pray for our kingdom to go. The purpose of this fast is not to advance ourselves for personal gain but to advance His Kingdom. We need to set aside our kingdom so that His Kingdom may come and grow. The world needs to see Jesus through us.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Visit our YouTube channel to see the video version of this episode along with more content: https://youtu.be/mjt3Q_iY5aQ

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "Your Kingdom Come" in our How To Pray series.

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How To Pray - Your Kingdom Come

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus prays, "Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Do we fully understand though what "Your Kingdom come" means though when we pray for that? We are inviting and begging for God's Kingdom would come in the here and now. In order for His Kingdom to come to fill the earth, it must first fill you. It first starts with us and it requires surrender. It's about His Kingdom coming and His Kingdom growing. The question though is are we willing to do what it takes for the Kingdom to grow. As we pray that we want to see God's Kingdom come and grow, we also have to live a life of surrender so that the Kingdom keeps coming and keeps growing. Listen to this sermon in the second part of our How To Pray series.

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https://youtu.be/ILRWpc9_IP8

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Let's Go | Disciplined In Our Walk With God

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In week 2 of our Daniel Fast and in beginning our How To Pray series, Pastor Jared, Pastor Brandon, and Pastor Brandon talk about the importance of living a disciplined life as a Christian. Freedom does not have to be separate from discipline. Discipline is a very freeing thing in terms of our walk with God.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Visit our YouTube channel to see the video version of this episode along with more content: https://youtu.be/sjxeu_xuhxI

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "How To Pray & Not To Pray" in our How To Pray series.

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How To Pray - How To Pray & Not To Pray

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave us an example of how not to pray and how to pray. Prayer should not be praying just so people can hear you or praying repetitive things just to check it off the list. Our prayer life is important and we must discipline ourselves in our prayer life. We must make an effort to set aside time and a place to pray. In looking to the Lord's Prayer as our model, we see in the first verse of the Lord's Prayer Jesus begins by acknowledging the relationship with God as His Father and by acknowledging God for who He is. Listen to this sermon in the first part of our How To Pray series.

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https://youtu.be/3Up8kKVIRdw

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Let's Go | Feast On The Word

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000

As we begin our church-wide Daniel Fast, Pastor Jared, Pastor Brandon, and Pastor Brandon look back on what God has taught us during our Reset series in the book of Haggai as well as how we move forward in this corporate fast together. We have to remember that fasting is not about us. We are fasting not for us to get more of God but for God to get more of us. During a time where the actual foods we intake may be limited throughout this fast, we need to focus on God and feast on His Word.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Visit our YouTube channel to see the video version of this episode along with more content: https://youtu.be/DOfCAx716ew

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "God Meets You Right Where You Are" in our Reset series.

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Reset - God Meets You Right Where You Are

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 11:05:00 +0000

In the last verses of Haggai, God spoke to Haggai for him to speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah. We see how God used a man of failure to fulfill His purpose, to fulfill His promise. Despite our failures that we have experienced in our past and present, God still meets us right where we are because He loves us. In our seasons of discouragement, there needs to be a reminder that God loves you and God is not finished with you. God will prevail and win. God is wanting to meet you right where you are. It has nothing to do with your past but it has everything to do with how much God loves you. Listen to this sermon in the sixth and final part of our Reset series in Haggai.

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https://youtu.be/PdTN3siLCPI

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Let's Go | What Is Your Motive

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 16:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message on why motive matters as we continue our Reset series in Haggai. As we prepare to launch our church-wide Daniel Fast in the next week and lean into this season of choosing obedience and sacrifice, we see that motive matters. We don't fast to get more of God or to get something from God. Our motive should be to give more of ourselves to God. The purpose of a fast is not for us to get more of God but for God to get more of us. This is not a diet but a heart posture. We need to check our motives.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Check out our previous episode on the podcast to hear the full sermon on "What Is Your Motive" in our Reset series.

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Reset - What Is Your Motive

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In Haggai 2, we examine the motives of the Jews as they rebuild the temple. Haggai was telling the Jews that their motives were wrong for how they were rebuilding the temple. They were trying to work their way back into the blessing and favor of God. Like the Jews were trying to work to make their good performances erase their bad mistakes, we too have to examine what our motives are for what we do. We cannot make our motives about us. As we prepare to begin our church-wide fast next week, we must look at what a fast is and examine our motives as to why we fast. Listen to this sermon in the fifth part of our Reset series in Haggai.

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https://youtu.be/sHUbpaKMtRo

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Let's Go | Take Courage. Keep Working. Don't Fear.

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 13:30:00 +0000

In this twentieth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared and Sam Roberts look back on Pastor Brian's message on how to take courage, keep working, and do not fear as we continued our Reset series in Haggai. As adults, we must empower the next generation. What we are doing has an impact on our children and our families. We don't have to know the exact thing to say but it's more about the work part, our actions, that influences our children. Once we take the courage to lead and keep working, we have no reason to fear because God is with us. What we say and what we do matters in our impact on the next generation. We must be an encouraging voice to the next generation and lead with our actions.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Reset - Take Courage. Keep Working. Don't Fear.

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

There's nothing wrong with talking about the past but when we are so locked on the past we don't recognize what God is doing in the present. In Haggai 2, the Jews of the current generation were becoming discouraged because of what had been seen in the past generations versus in the present for them. Just as the Jews couldn't let this discouragement stop them from doing what God had called them to do, we cannot let discouragement keep us from what God calls us to do. At the end of the day, it's all about obedience. What we are going to be responsible for is what God has called us to do. For us and for the next generation, we have to quit apologizing and start empowering. As God told the Jews in the book of Haggai, we have to take courage, keep working, and do not fear. Listen to this sermon in the fourth part of our Reset series in Haggai.

Let's Go | God Doesn't Bless Disobedience

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In this nineteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared and Marcus look back on Pastor Brian's message on how God doesn't bless our disobedience as we continued our Reset series in Haggai. While we can examine the disobedience we are seeing in our nation and culture today, we first need to examine and consider our ways in our own homes. Is Jesus priority in our house? Are we being obedient in our homes and in our individual lives? Is God the Lord of your home? Is God the Lord of everything you have? Are stewarding everything you have for the glory of God or for yourself?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Reset - God Doesn't Bless Disobedience

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In Haggai 1, we see that the Jews are living in disobedience to God. In comparison to our own world that we are living in today, we see that God will not bless disobedience. We often want the blessings of God without God, and it's not going to happen because God does not bless disobedience. In obedience, we have to surrender to the authority of who God is and lay down self. We cannot claim one life and then another way of life. Just like He told the Jews in the book of Haggai, God is telling us it's time to go and get back to work. Listen to this sermon in the third part of our Reset series in Haggai.

Let's Go | How God He Is

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 13:30:00 +0000

In this eighteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message on continuing to build the Kingdom of God as we continued our Reset series in Haggai. In the season and time that we are currently in, we have to realize that we must continue to build the Kingdom of God and not build our own kingdoms. It's time to continue to build His Kingdom because God's Kingdom never stops moving forward. We have all been gifted in unique ways but building the same Kingdom. God is proving to us how God He is when His strength works through us in our weakness. That's the God we serve. How are you stewarding what God has given you to build His Kingdom?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Reset - How God He Is

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

When God leads us to do things that don't make sense, this an opportunity for Him to prove who He really is. The Jews stepped out on faith with nothing. It was along the journey that God provided the Jews with what they needed to rebuild the temple as seen in the book of Haggai. When we step out, we will watch Him provide. God will provide everything to fulfill what He has called us to do. Are you using what God has given you to build His Kingdom? Listen to this sermon in the second part of our Reset series.

Let's Go | Consider Your Ways

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 17:00:00 +0000

In this seventeenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about considering our ways as we started our Reset series in Haggai. As we look into this new year and what's to come while also reflecting on 2020, the Lord is speaking over us, "consider your ways." Are we building our own temples or are we building the Kingdom of God? Considering our ways is a call to humble ourselves.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Reset - Consider Your Ways

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In the book of Haggai, the temple has remained desolate for sixteen years as the Jews received opposition to rebuilding it from the government. Haggai relays a message from God to the people that the time is now to begin rebuilding the temple. In 2020, we faced all types of opposition and obstacles. Many days it paralyzed us to the point that maybe we forgot the mission God has set before us. However, we must remember that we are the church, the people, and our job as a follower of Christ is that we are never to stop building the Church no matter what the world throws at us. As the big C Church, we need to push reset and refocus on what God has called us to do. Just as God told the Jews through Haggai, "consider your ways." We need to consider our ways and examine the direction we are headed in. Has our response to obstacle and opposition we have faced made us glorify Jesus or ignore Jesus? It's time to consider our ways and reset! Listen to this sermon about considering our ways in the first part of our Reset series.

Let's Go | The Heart of Jesus

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 14:30:00 +0000

In this sixteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brandon's message from Matthew 11:25-30 about the heart of Jesus and what it means for us as we enter into 2021. If you've been embraced by God, you want others to be embraced too because you know it's the most comforting place. Because we know the heart of Jesus and what it means for us, our response is that we go and share the love of Jesus. Let's move towards Jesus in prayer, worship, in Bible study, and in community with one another. As we move towards Him, we will move towards others.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

The Heart of Jesus

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In Matthew 11, we see Jesus express His heart. We get a glimpse of who He is. Jesus is saying, "Come to Me." In this new year of 2021, we need to lift our eyes. We need to look to Jesus. We need to go to Jesus. We need to run to Jesus. Jesus is saying, "Come to me and I will give you rest." Jesus is pulling us into His heart. Jesus is pulling us into His embrace. When Jesus is guiding us, this is what brings comfort to our soul. The heart of Christ is that He is gentle, humble, kind, slow to answer, steadfast. What this means for us is that we get rest that is an active rest. Our response to this is that we move towards Him and move towards others.

Let's Go | Remember, Keep, Repent

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 14:30:00 +0000

In this fifteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Brandon and Chase look back on Pastor Jared's message from Revelation 3 about the Church of Sardis and how it relates to today as we near the end of 2020. With everything that has happened in 2020, there are still things to be remembered about this year. We need to remember who God is and what He has done for us. We need to keep His Word. We also need to repent. It's not just about having a good reputation. Remember what you've received and heard, keep it, and repent.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Remember, Keep, Repent

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 14:00:00 +0000

As we near the end of the year, there are things to be forgotten in 2020 but there are things to be remembered in 2020. In Revelation 3, Jesus is saying, "wake up" to the church in Sardis because they are dead. Jesus reminds them to remember what they've received and heard, keep it, and repent. As we lean into the future and what we're going towards, it's not enough to say that this year was terrible and start looking to the next. We have to start plowing our soil and preparing the soil. We must allow God to prepare us in this season and not let this season destroy us.

Let's Go | His Name Shall Be

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 14:00:00 +0000

In this fourteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on our Pastor Brian's message from Isaiah 9:6 because we need to be reminded who our God is. His name shall be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. This is a beautiful picture of who our God is. The government will rest upon His shoulders and there will be no end to His rule. What a beautiful promise! Remind yourself daily who Jesus is and the point of this Christmas season! Don't be distracted by the little things in our life that are warring for our attention but there is only one is worthy, Jesus.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Christmas - His Name Shall Be

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 13:30:00 +0000

Jesus didn’t appear and didn’t arrive the way that people thought the Messiah should look and arrive. When we hear of the birth of Jesus being mentioned, this was to give hope to the nation of Israel that Emmanuel, hope, is coming. The fact that He is coming again should give hope to you and I. There’s coming a day when the Messiah will rule overall. In Him, there is no disappointment, no chaos, and no confusion. The government will rest upon His shoulders and He shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Listen to this message in the third part of our Christmas series as we unpack the meaning of these four names of Jesus.

Let's Go | We Go Because He Came To Us

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 21:21:17 +0000

In this thirteenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on our Send Sunday where we went as a church to deliver Christmas present boxes into our community to over 360 babies, children, and teenagers. We believe that Jesus came to us to seek and save the lost. He came to us and that's why we go. When we go, we take the message of Jesus to the people we go to. We choose to love first because He first loved us. We want to go like Jesus did and love first as we saturate the world with the Good News.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Christmas - We Go Because He Came To Us

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 21:16:28 +0000

As we celebrate Send Sunday where we went as a church to deliver Christmas present boxes to over 360 babies, children, and teenagers in our community, we look at why we go. We go because He came to us. We are taking the breath of God to people. It brings change. Once we realize that we are a carrier of a life changing element, this should be what compels each of us to go. The reason that we go is in response to Him coming to us. Listen to this message in the second part of our Christmas series.

Let's Go | Take Care and Be Calm

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 14:30:00 +0000

In this twelfth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on our message in from Isaiah 7 in the first part of our Christmas series. God doesn't waste words and when He told Isaiah to tell that Immanuel was coming was intentional. Immanuel means God with us. Immanuel is a reminder and the security for the believer to live our lives confidently that God is with us. If God is with us, what should we fear? This changes everything. For the nonbeliever, the promise of Immanuel is the invitation to come and have a relationship with God. Be reminded that God is with you. Go and share this Good News that don't know Jesus!

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

Christmas - Take Care and Be Calm

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Christmas is the story of hope. Christmas is all about hope coming to this world. In Isaiah 7, the people of Israel were in the peak of their oppression. In today's world, we are in a similar situation as the people of Israel were. It seems that we are in the peak of our oppression. Through Isaiah, God tells His people to take care and be calm because Immanuel is coming. In Israel's darkest hour, they are given hope by being told that God is coming to them. As a believer, the word 'Immanuel' should serve as a reminder why this Christmas season should be the most exciting Christmas season that you have ever experienced. What we are celebrating this Christmas is Immanuel. Listen to this message in the first part of our Christmas series.

Let's Go | Keep Yourselves From Idols

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 17:03:43 +0000

In this eleventh episode of Let's Go, Pastor Brandon and Chase look back on our message in 1 John 5:21 and how we must keep and guard ourselves from idols as Christians. Satan is sneaky in what he does. The enemy doesn't want our idols to be obvious so we don't realize it. An idol can be a good gift from God, but it is once it takes priority over our relationship with Christ that it becomes an idol. Surrender your idols to Christ and turn your eyes back on Him. What do you treasure the most? Do we treasure Jesus above all things or are we running to the things of this world?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - Keep Yourselves From Idols

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 16:57:38 +0000

In 1 John 5, John reminds believers to guard themselves from idols. When we rest in who Jesus is, this is when we find joy, peace, and contentment. We cannot get sucked back in by what we’ve been delivered from. When we realize who we are in Christ, we understand that what we have is worth protecting. Satan’s goal is not to get you to worship him; Satan’s goal is to simply cloud and distract your relationship with God. Don't let idols distract your relationship with God. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 5 in the eleventh and final part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | This Is How We Fight

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 16:21:57 +0000

In this tenth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared and Pastor Brandon look back on our message in 1 John 5:18-20 and how we fight our battles as Christians. We fight our battles by trusting in the fact of who God is. When we fight in truth, specifically in worship, we get to put truth to music. Worship your way through the battle. Whether its through music, prayer, or whatever you do, worship with the Truth. This is how we fight our battles.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - This Is How We Fight

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 16:15:08 +0000

In 1 John 5, John reminds believers about us knowing that we are of God. If we are of God, then the enemy cannot touch us. If we have trusted Jesus as our Savior, then we can declare 1 John 5:19. We can have confidence in knowing that what Jesus did was enough. What we need to be thankful for is that we eternity is set as a believer. There's nothing that can take that away as a follower of Christ. We are in this world but we are not of this world. The enemy doesn't stand a chance against God and His Word. We fight our battles by resting in Jesus. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 5 in the tenth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | That You May Know

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 15:00:00 +0000

In this ninth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on our message in 1 John 5:13-15 and how it is possible to know and be secure in your salvation. How does God want us to know that we are saved? We need to realize that it's all about Jesus and that gives us security. Rest in Jesus and what He did on the cross. Do you know Jesus? This is the most important thing to know in your life.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - That You May Know

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:00:00 +0000

In 1 John 5, John reminds believers that we can have confidence in knowing our salvation. John wants us to know that we can know. It's not what we do that qualifies our faith but it is who we place our faith in that qualifies it. God wants us to know that we are saved. God wants us to know that we can be saved and rest fully in that. May our prayer be from Mark 9:21-27, "God, I believe but help my unbelief." Listen to this sermon from 1 John 5 in the ninth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | The Power of Our Testimony

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 17:34:30 +0000

In this eighth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared and Chase look back on our message in 1 John 5:6-12 looking at the power of our testimony. Our testimony is this: that God gave us eternal life and this life is in His Son. This changes everything. It's important to take this truth with you everywhere you go and share it. We are called as believers to go and share the gospel until everyone around us hears the Good News.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - The Power of Our Testimony

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 17:15:46 +0000

In 1 John 5, John reminds believers to remember that the testimony of God is greater than the testimony of men. This is the testimony that God gave His Son for us and because of that we can have eternal life. Every time we do anything we are being led by the testimony that Jesus is God and He is our Lord and Savior. This testimony is personal and portable. It is distinctly yours and no one can take it away from you. There is power in this testimony. There is power in your testimony. What is your testimony? Let your testimony be His and have power in it. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 5 in the eighth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | We Are The Church

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 17:00:00 +0000

In this seventh episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on the final message in our We Are The Church series. When our obedience is combined with God's power, lives are changed. As a church, we strive to be a city on a hill that shines a light that others may see Jesus. We don't want to just leave a legacy but we want to leave opportunity. Will we leave an opportunity for our children's children? Will we be the ones willing and able to leave an opportunity for the generations to come? How can you open your hands and allow God to use you as a vessel?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

We Are The Church

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 15:00:00 +0000

As we conclude our We Are The Church series, we look back on and celebrate the 128 years of history at Chestnut Mountain Church. We see, as followers of Christ, the importance of not just leaving a legacy but leaving an opportunity for our children and our children's children to saturate the world with the Good News. We must let go of what God is trusting us with and give it back to Him. This is what brings life. This is what grows a community. This is what grows the Kingdom. We don't want to be a church that is only concerned with surviving, but we want to let go of what God gives us and give it back. This is when we thrive. When our obedience combines with God's power, lives are changed. Listen to this sermon as we look back on our history and look forward to what God has store in this fifth and final part of We The Church.

Let's Go | Sending Disciples for Christ

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 19:55:54 +0000

In this sixth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about our fourth pillar at CMC of sending disciples for Christ. Let's consider seating capacity versus our sending capacity. Every time we meet we need to focus on sending and looking at our sending capacity. We are to be sending disciples for Christ because the Great Commission is to GO. Sending disciples for Christ is a lifestyle. This is how we will saturate the world with the Good News. As we are being sent, does our obedience bring Jesus to His feet? Sending and going is usually uncomfortable, but will you step out and be obedient?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

We Are The Church - Sending Disciples for Christ

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 19:15:01 +0000

Sending disciples for Christ is the very way that we saturate the world with the Good News. Sending disciples for Christ is a lifestyle. We are being sent every day. God is giving each of us a platform and all our platforms look different. We are called to saturate the world with the Good News no matter what our platform looks like. If you know the Good News, you've got to tell it. Listen to this sermon as we look at our fourth pillar and what sending disciples for Christ means in this fourth part of We The Church.

Let's Go | Making Disciples of Christ

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 22:00:00 +0000

In this fifth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about our third pillar at CMC of making disciples of Christ. If we have truly experienced the grace of Jesus, how selfish are we not to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. The reason we make disciples is because we are disciples. Discipleship is inviting someone else to follow you as you follow Jesus. There is no discipleship without God's Word. It takes us all to make disciples.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

We Are The Church - Making Disciples of Christ

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 05:34:11 +0000

A disciple is one that accepts and assists in spreading the very thing that they accepted. If you've received Jesus as your Savior, then walk with Him. In being a disciple, if you've accepted it, then spread it. The reason that we saturate the world the Good News is because we are disciples. The reason we make disciples is because we are disciples. There's nothing more selfish than not sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. Are you fully vested in the discipleship process? Are you a disciple? Are you being a disciple maker? Listen to this sermon as we look at our third pillar and what making disciples of Christ means in this third part of We The Church.

Let's Go | Established on Christ

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:58:08 +0000

In this fourth episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about our second pillar at CMC of being established on Christ. Are we established on Christ? Are we rooted and built up in Him? What are you rooted in? Romans 8 tells us that when we are established on Christ there is nothing that can separate us. We can be rooted and established on Christ by gathering, going, and giving.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

We Are The Church - Established On Christ

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 13:28:31 +0000

Being found in Christ is where it all starts. However, salvation is not the end; it's just the beginning. Salvation is the launching pad into a surrendered life. Not only must we be found in Christ but we have to walk in our faith too. When we are found in and established on Christ, we are stable and securely in position. We have to be rooted in Christ. When we are firmly rooted in Him, we are more than conquerors through Him. To be firmly rooted in Him, means that we are stable and securely in position. The more established we are on Christ, the more thankful we become and the more we saturate the world with the Good News. Listen to this sermon as we look at our second pillar and what being established on Christ means in this second part of We The Church.

Let's Go | Found in Christ

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 20:18:45 +0000

In this third episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message about our first pillar at CMC of being found in Christ. Our hope is not found in a church. Our hope is found in Jesus. When we are found in Christ, everything else springs from that. In order to saturate the world with the Good News, we have to first recognize it as Good News. Is the gospel Good News to you? Have you been found in Christ?

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

We Are The Church - Found In Christ

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 20:15:13 +0000

In our We Are The Church series, it's an opportunity to share the vision, mission, and assignment that God has given CMC. In the New Testament, churches were being birthed in specific locations to have an impact on their community. We are called to influence our community. Our mission at CMC is to saturate the world with the Good News. There are four pillars that hold up our mission statement. CMC is to be a community of believers found in Christ, established on Christ, making disciples of Christ, and sending disciples for Christ. As we look at our first pillar, FOUND IN CHRIST, we see that what unites this community believers is the name of Jesus Christ. Listen to this sermon as we look at what found in Christ means and what it means to who God has called CMC to be in this first part of We The Church.

Let's Go | Because I Love You

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 16:52:13 +0000

In this third episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message from 1 John 5 about about why Christians should obey God's commandments. We have a Heavenly Father that doesn't just say to obey because He says so but because He loves us. What if we started to change the way we responded from 'because I say so' to 'because I love you.' We follow God's commandments by becoming more familiar with His love. The more familiar we become with His love the better we will be able to follow His commandments. Our proximity to God changes everything.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - Because I Love You

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 16:46:31 +0000

In 1 John 5, John has written this letter to confirm and check yes or no of whether we believe in Jesus. Salvation is achieved only through our confession, our repentance, and our surrender. As we examine our hearts, has there been a time where we have confessed, repentance, and surrendered to the lordship of Jesus Christ? As a follower of Christ, we will know that we love God by the way we love of others and observe His commandments. There's a reason God has a set of rules for us to follow because He knows what lies ahead and He loves us. We learn how to follow His commandments by knowing His love. The closeness to the Father changes everything. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 5 in the seventh part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | Overcoming Fear

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 13:18:50 +0000

In this second episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message from 1 John 4 about overcoming fear. When we don't know how something will turn out, we often create an outcome in our heads. However, the way we overcome fear is not becoming more familiar with what causes the fear, but it's actually becoming more familiar with the one who casts out fear.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - Overcoming Fear

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 13:12:44 +0000

In 1 John 4, John tells believers why they do not have to fear. Fear is a four letter word that's very small but has an enormous impact. We love to know how things will turn out before we jump in. When we don't know what the outcome is going to look like, we often create an outcome in our mind and fear sets in. Often times we think it's easier to not face the unknown. However, the closer we are to the Father the less fearful we are as the body of believers. The way to conquer fear is not becoming more familiar with what causes the fear but becoming more familiar with the one who casts out the fear, Jesus. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 4 in the sixth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

Let's Go | Fans to Followers

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 12:30:00 +0000

In this first episode of Let's Go, Pastor Jared looks back on Pastor Brian's message from 1 John 3 about going from fans of Jesus to followers of Jesus. We can't only talk about love but we have to show love. It's about the shift of moving from selfishness to selflessness. It's about saying no to yourself and saying yes to others.

Let's Go is a series of podcast episodes where we look back on the message from Sunday and take a look at how it applies to our life.

In The Word (1 John) - Fans to Followers

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 12:00:00 +0000

In 1 John 3:11-19, John tells believers to not just talk about love but to do it. Are we living a life that proves we love people? The more we look like the Son of God, the more the world will despise us. As a follower of Christ, we go from being selfish people to being selfless people through Christ. As followers of Christ, Christian love requires sacrifice and service. Jesus didn't just talk about love but He died to prove it. Quit being just a fan of what Jesus is doing and become a true follower that's working alongside Jesus. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 3 in the fifth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

In The Word (1 John) - A Family Resemblance

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 17:22:03 +0000

In 1 John 3:1-10, John tells believers that there are children of God and children of the devil. If you are a child of God, there will be a family resemblance. You will start to look like, act like, and love like your Heavenly Father as a child of God. The evidence of your blood-bought redemption shines through your family resemblance. Proximity to God will promote resemblance. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 3 in the fourth part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

In The Word (1 John) - Abide in Jesus, Not the World

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:29:38 +0000

In 1 John 2, believers are reminded to not love the world. We are called to love others but not the world meaning not to love anything in the world or of the world that leaves God out. The enemy wants us to love things of this world that God has nothing to do with. We have to put our hope in God's promises that are eternal, not the world because the world will not last. Don't listen to the lies of this world; just walk with the Lord. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 2 in the third part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

In The Word (1 John) - Jesus Is Our Advocate

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 19:54:47 +0000

In 1 John 2, John reminds believers that Jesus is our advocate if and when we win. Jesus is standing at the Father's right hand pleading our case. As believers, that is the greatest news we could hear. Even when we don't choose Him, He still chooses us, still loves us, and is still advocating for us. The more we understand His love for us, the more we're compelled to live for Him. We are called to love like Christ loves. Love is what we do; it is an action. The most impactful attribute of a follower of Christ is how we LOVE! Listen to this sermon from 1 John 2 in the second part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

In The Word (1 John) - Is Jesus Real To You?

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 17:26:56 +0000

1 John is a litmus test for believers. Believers can look at 1 John to see where they are as believers. A life committed to following Christ is going to look different from that of someone who is not following Christ. Has Jesus been made real to you? If He has, then we are proclaiming it and walking in the light. Listen to this sermon from 1 John 1 in the first part of our In The Word - 1 John series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Stewarding What God Has Given Us

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 17:53:42 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 16, Paul reminds the Corinthians that we have to steward what God has given us. In looking at what it means to steward what God has given us, we look at the three areas of finances, opportunity, and the people who God sends. We must be focused on the condition of our hearts when we are open handed with what God has given us. When your obedience is combined with God's power, that's when lives are changed. When we are open handed with what God has given us, it provides opportunity. Our responsibility is to be surrendered to God's agenda and not our own. Are we stewarding what God has given us? Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 16 in the seventeenth and final part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Darkness Doesn't Stand A Chance

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 19:42:34 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 15, we are reminded that, as believers, our hope is found in the resurrection of Christ. If you remove the resurrection, we have no hope, no life. Even in the midst of all the confusion and chaos, darkness doesn't stand a chance because of the hope we have in Jesus and His resurrection. Let's keep moving and keep our hands to the plow because of what's coming. Share your story of salvation. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 15 in the sixteenth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Our Pursuit Must Drive Our Desire

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 03:15:30 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 14, there is a lot of confusion going on in the Corinthian church. The Corinthians are using the gifts that God has given them to edify themselves instead of edifying God. When we as believers try to rob God of His glory, it creates chaos and confusion among everyone. Paul is calling the church to have our pursuit drive our desire. We have to pursue love. We have to pursue God before anything else. As followers of Christ, the more we are chasing after the things of God, the more He molds and shapes our desires into His. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 14 in the fifteenth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - The Way of Love

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 19:19:59 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul describes love and the way of love to the Corinthians. He describes love only with verbs because love cannot be described statically. As we look at how Paul described love to the Church of Corinth, we are reminded that love is absolutely necessary, personally characterized, eternally permanent, and entirely supreme. Love is the root of all healthy behavior, and we, as Christians, must be connected to the Vine, Jesus, at all times. We must abide in Him. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 13 in the fourteenth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Total Surrender - Take the Lid Off

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 15:50:49 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 12, the Corinthians were more concerned pursuing a spiritual gift rather than the spiritual giver, God. Paul Reminds the Corinthians that they are all part of the same team but they are pursuing the wrong thing. It is adamant that every member of the body walks in the spiritual gift that God has given each member. That is the only way the church will thrive. It's all the same Holy Spirit that fills us. When we're fully surrendered, the Holy Spirit wants to manifest Himself in and through us erupting Himself in our lives. We must be totally surrendered and willing to take the lid off to let God work in us and through us. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 12 in the thirteenth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - The Unified Church

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 15:18:30 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul reminds the Corinthians that it's about the church being unified with God and others. The purpose of us being together as the church is to honor and recognize the idea of being unified. The church can't have unity if there is not unity with God. If you're not in unity with God, then there cannot be unity with one another. When the church is one one mind, one accord, and one mission, the church will grow. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 11 in the twelfth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Circle of Influence

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 19:37:00 +0000

On Father's Day, we look at 1 Corinthians 11 as we continue our In The Word series. In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul writes to the Corinthians to examine their circle of influence. He calls them to be imitators of himself because he is imitating Christ. As a follower of Christ, you have a circle of influence. You are impacting people whether you know it or not. You are influencing people that God has placed around you. As believers, we have to be the loudest voice in our circle of influence because we are called to be imitators of Christ. Listen to this sermon from 1 Corinthians 11 in the eleventh part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - The Battle of Balance

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 19:42:52 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul discusses with the Corinthians about the battle there is between the balance of freedom and responsibility as a Christian. As Christians, we have all been given freedom through salvation. However, with that freedom, we have a responsibility. As Christians, we cannot abuse our freedom and forget our responsibility. Our responsibility as Christian is to grow the church and to prompt the growth of other believers. We must ask ourselves: Do our lives push someone else closer to the Church? Are our lives stumbling blocks or a building blocks? Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 10 in the tenth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Becoming All Things to All People

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 14:52:58 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul expresses to the Corinthians how he gave up His own freedom and liberty to reach both the Jews and teh Gentiles where they were. Paul had no selfish motive. The only reason that Paul was becoming all things to all people was he wanted to see people saved. He was getting back to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our duty as Christ followers is to become all things to all people because it's all about Jesus, not a political party, beliefs, race, or anything else. As Christ followers, we are to become all things to all people because Christ died for all. Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 9 in the ninth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Love Builds Up

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 13:33:49 +0000

As our country faces protests and riots against racism all across our nation, we are heavy hearted. It's time for the Church to take its place at the forefront and lead. We must love one another. When you love God, you love one another. In 1 Corinthians 8, Paul is pointing the Corinthians to Jesus. He's telling them that knowledge puffs up but love builds up. What is the work of love? Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 8 in the eighth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Paul's Marriage Advice

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:09:05 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul gives the Corinthians marriage advice. Paul isn't against marriage but reminds that there are challenges in marriages. Marriage is going to be hard enough; the last thing it needs is more difficulties. Your relationship with God has to trump everything else including your relationship with your spouse. We must be focused vertically on Him. Our focus in marriage has to be on the Lord. We can fix our relationships and marriages by fixing our eyes on Christ. Push your spouse to pursue a relationship with Christ. Are you creating distraction in your spouse's pursuit of the Lord? Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 7 in the seventh part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Washed, Sanctified, Justified

Mon, 18 May 2020 14:24:44 +0000

In 1 Corinthians, 6, Paul reminds the Corinthians that just because you are saved and a Christian does not mean you can live any way that you want. Before your faith in Christ, you willingly walked in sin and were owned by those things. However, through Christ, sin no longer has authority over you. As Christians, we are declared righteous in Jesus. As followers of Christ, we are washed, sanctified, and justified because Jesus was crucified and laid down His life for us. We cannot let our flesh rule our lives. Because of our new life in Christ, we are ruled by Christ who has washed, sanctified, and justified us. Be reminded that we are no longer slaves to sin through Christ. In Christ, we are washed, sanctified, and justified. Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 6 in the sixth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

Mother's Day - The Journey of Motherhood

Tue, 12 May 2020 13:24:31 +0000

On this Mother's Day, Pastor Brian invites his wife, Chelsea, along with Pastor Jared and Pastor Brandon and their wives, Kaylan and Abigail, respectively, to have a round table talk about the journey of motherhood. While there are great rewards and challenges of being a mother, motherhood is ultimately servanthood. Though the journey of motherhood may not be easy, our mothers are often the ones that are the glue holding our families together. Listen to this table talk about the journey of motherhood from Mother's Day at CMC.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Don't Become Calloused to Sin

Mon, 04 May 2020 18:30:53 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses church discipline and sexual immorality. As the church and Christians, have we slide back to where we have become calloused towards certain sins? Sin should hurt and our duty is to long what is best for the body of Christ! We are to love the Church the way Christ loves the Church! We must protect the Church as well. As Christians, we cannot become calloused to sin in our own lives and in the lives of others. Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 5 in the fifth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - God is the Captain of Our Ship

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:20:55 +0000

When the world is watching us as followers of Christ, there should be enough evidence to prove that we are guilty of being a Christian. In 1 Corinthians 4, Paul reminds the Corinthians that as followers of Christ we have been called to be servants and stewards. Being servants and stewards is evidence of us being Christians. We are the under rower and God is the captain of our ship. When we hear the voice of the Captain, Jesus, there's victory in that and comfort in that! We get to trust the Captain as He directs us where we are going. When we acknowledge Him, He WILL direct our paths! God, we'll paddle when You say, "paddle," and we'll rest when You say, "rest." Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 4 in the fourth part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - What Materials Are You Using

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 15:09:19 +0000

In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul tells the Corinthians it has to be all about Jesus Christ. It's all about God and what He is doing. We all have a role in building the Kingdom of God. However, we must be careful with what we build with. What materials are we using to build on the foundation of Jesus Christ in the Church, our local church, and our own individual lives? When tough seasons come, this is the time in which the materials we are using to build with will be exposed. What materials are you using? Listen to this sermon about from 1 Corinthians 3 in the third part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians) - Our Hope is Born (Easter)

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 18:52:15 +0000

We never thought our Easter Sunday would look like this as we are celebrating Easter in our homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even on Easter, we cannot get too caught up in the tradition. We have to remember what Easter is about. In 1 Corinthians 2, Paul tells the Corinthians that he is just going to share God's story. God sent Jesus to die on the cross to pay our sin debt so we wouldn't have to. When Jesus resurrected, our hope was born. The reason we don't need to be afraid is because of the hope we have. Our hope is not in our earthly circumstances; our hope is in our eternal glory that we have in Jesus Christ! That is why we celebrate Easter! Listen to this sermon about Easter from 1 Corinthians 2 and Isaiah 53 in the second part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (1 Corinthians 1) - The Church is All About Jesus

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 18:53:26 +0000

Everywhere we look there is division! Division is the first thing Paul addresses in 1 Corinthians, but Paul also always references Jesus. It's important that the Church remembers that the only thing that matters in the Church is Jesus Christ! That's what it's all about and that's what it always need to be about. When the mission and the vision of the Church is anything other than Jesus Christ, then we've missed it! Are local churches trying to make a name for themselves or for the Savior? God is challenging us to take our eyes off of a location and put our eyes back on Him and the Church! We have to quit worrying about our church names and starting focusing on the name of Jesus! God is unifying the Church like never before! Listen to this sermon about the Church from 1 Corinthians 1 in the first part of our In The Word - 1 Corinthians series.

In The Word (2 Peter 3) - Victory is a Promise

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 18:29:09 +0000

In 2 Peter 3, Peter reminds that victory is not a prediction; it's a promise! We have to focus on what's coming and what is coming is the day of the Lord! We have to stop listening to the predictions and we have to focus on the promise. We must have faith in the promise. Don't let the chaos and the circumstances distract you. What does the day of the Lord mean to you? Is it a victory? Listen to this full message in the ninth and final part of our In The Word - 1 & 2 Peter series as we unpack 2 Peter 3.

In The Word - Keep Focused, Connected, and Moving (2 Peter 2)

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 17:53:52 +0000

In 2 Peter 2, Peter warns against false teachers. We must be growing n our knowledge fo God so we can identify what is not true. We are in a season of uncertainty and we want answers and peace. The enemy wants to take advantage of our search of truth and answers. The enemy's number one tool is deception. We must keep focused, connected, and moving. God is preparing us for one of the biggest revivals our world has ever seen! Listen to this full message in the eighth part of our In The Word - 1 & 2 Peter series as we unpack 2 Peter 2.

In The Word - Growing as a Christ Follower (2 Peter 1)

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 17:30:58 +0000

In 2 Peter 1, Peter emphasizes the importance of knowing God and pointing the world to the knowledge of God. Peter is not concerned about whether is was remembered or not, but he is concerned that the world is pointed to the knowledge of God. As believers, we grow in the knowledge of God by reading and being in His Word that He has given to us. If there is no Word, there is no growth. If you're in the Word, it will not return void. You will grow. We need a change in our diet; we need to start feeding ourselves with the Word. What appetite are we feeding and growing? Listen to this full message in the seventh part of our In The Word - 1 & 2 Peter series as we unpack 2 Peter 1.

In The Word - Humbling Ourselves (1 Peter 5)

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 13:48:53 +0000

In 1 Peter 5, Peter tells his readers that they must humble themselves and that they can cast all their cares/anxieties on God because He cares for them. The same applies to us as Christians; we must set aside our pride and humble ourselves. We cannot attempt to do things only God can do. Admitting we can't do it is the first step in humility. Do we trust God enough for Him to tear up our mess and let Him fix it? Are we willing to submit to all of His plans, ways, and authority? Have we truly set aside our pride and humbled ourselves? Listen to this full message in the sixth part of our In The Word series as we unpack 1 Peter 5.

In The Word - Stop Sinning (1 Peter 4)

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 17:53:37 +0000

In Peter 4, Peter begins with punches to the face begging for people to stop sinning. It's time that saved people start acting like saved people and quit acting like lost people. Our salvation is not a license to sin. As Peter continues to write, not only does he reveal the need to stop sinning but he also reveals how we as believers must stay together and stay the course. Listen to this full message in the fifth part of our In The Word series as we unpack 1 Peter 4.

In The Word - Hope in the Midst of Suffering (1 Peter 3)

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 20:42:18 +0000

We live in a world where we're being watched. How we act should show the world what we believe and why we believe it. If we don't understand why we believe what we believe, it will be easy to give it up when things get difficult. In 1 Peter 3, Peter writes what we, as a Christians, are to do when suffering comes. Even in the midst of suffering, as Christians, we have a hope. This hope isn't something we just wish for, but this hope is a confident hope. A hope that is eternal. Listen to this full message in the fourth part of our In The Word series as we unpack 1 Peter 3.

In The Word - Living as Living Stones (1 Peter 2)

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 16:28:12 +0000

In 1 Peter 2, Peter writes that Christ left behind an example and a purpose for us. God placed Jesus as His Cornerstone to build His spiritual House on. As followers of Christ, we are living stones and are on display as a brick on the Cornerstone. There is a lost world watching us as Christ followers. Does your brick bring beauty to the God's House or does your brick look like it doesn't belong? Does our behavior match our belief? Does our walk match our talk? Does our confession match our character? Listen to this full message in the third part of our In The Word series as we unpack 1 Peter 2.

In The Word - Dead Hope to Living Hope (1 Peter 1)

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 21:22:12 +0000

In 1 Peter 1, Peter writes to the ones he is writing to not to be discouraged for the trials and persecution they are seeing. Instead, they should be praising God because they have a living hope. In 1 Peter 1, Peter reveals God's Promises, the Reality of Life, and the Challenge Moving Forward. God's promises that we have a living hope through His Son, Jesus. The reality of life when the fires, trials, and tribulations of life come, we have a hope as Christians that we can cling to. The challenge moving forward is how we will respond when the trials of life come our way. Listen to this full message in the second part of our In The Word series as we unpack 1 Peter 1.

In The Word - Why Should I Study The Bible?

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 20:43:05 +0000

We often ask the question as to why we should read or even study the Bible. We should study the Bible because it is the Word of God and God wants us to know Him. The Bible is not just another book, but it is the Word of God. His Word remains forever. God gave us His Word for relationship not for religion. God wants to be in a relationship with us. He wants to walk with us. Walk with Him and be close with Him. Studying the Bible allows us to get to know God and start walking with Him. Let's take a walk with God. Listen to this full message in the first part of our In The Word series about why we should study the Bible.

No Way - The Legacy of Giving

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 13:58:18 +0000

The Bible says that everything we have and see is all God's. In order to get our hearts right around the idea of generosity, we must first understand that everything is God's. In Luke 19, we see the colt owners give all they had because the Lord was in need of it. By giving up their colt, they were paving the way for Jesus to make his entry into Jerusalem. Their giving was contagious as the disciples gave up their coats and then the people gave up their coats as well to line the streets with coats and palm branches to pave the way for Jesus' entry. For us, we get to a be a part of the mission that God has called us to as well. If the Lord has need of it, we must give it. God is inviting us to be a part of His story. You never know the impact and legacy that you're giving and generosity may bring. Listen to this full message in the fifth and final part of our No Way series about the legacy of giving.

No Way - Where and Why We're Going

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 17:53:58 +0000

The Bible commands us as Christians to go and share the Gospel with others. As followers of Christ, we only go when and where God leads. God put Hosea in the middle of a no way situation when God told Hosea to go and marry Gomer. Even in the midst of Gomer rejecting Hosea, God tells Hosea to continue to pursue her. This is the way God treats us as well in His endless pursuit of us. We go where God calls us as a response with a heart of gratitude because Jesus came for us. Listen to this full message in the fourth part of our No Way series about the purpose of going.

No Way - Purpose in Groups

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 19:44:15 +0000

When Daniel was faced with entering the lion's den, his response was to run to his group of people. They prayed together and they stood together. When Shadrach, Eschach, and Abednego refused to bow and worship the King Nebuchadnezzar's gods or golden image, they were faced with entering the fiery furnace together. However, they went as a group. This group of three prayed together, stood together, walked through the fire together, and came out of the fire together that God had delivered them from. In both stories, groups were a priority to be able to face the fires of life together. There is purpose in groups and building community. Listen to this full message in the third part of our No Way series about the purpose of groups.

No Way - Trusting What You Can't See

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 19:23:01 +0000

Religion can be defined as the regular activity that you perform around your belief. Religion has caught a bad connotation in Christianity because we can tend to focus on the activity of the religion rather than the belief behind the religion. However, we as Christians should strive to be more religious because Christianity is activity produced by a relationship with Jesus. Christianity starts and begins with faith. Faith is simply trusting what you cannot see. In 2020, we are declaring that we will live by faith. Listen to this full message in the second part of our No Way series about faith.

No Way - Don't Let Your 'Buts' Get in the Way

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 19:10:34 +0000

In 2020, we have a No Way vision where we want to see God do the impossible. When God begins to give direction, we will have to say no way. While being obedient will come with obstacles, we must not allow our 'buts' (our excuses) to get in the way of our obedience to God. God wants us to see the impossibilities because He shows us who He is in the midst of impossibility. Listen to this full message in the first part of our No Way series about not letting your excuses get in the way of what God is calling you to do.

Christmas - Jesus Emptied Himself For You

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 14:43:02 +0000

At Christmas, we often empty our pockets to show others how much we care, but Jesus emptied Himself to show us how much He loves and cares for us. He took on the likeness of man, but it all started with a baby born in a manger. While Jesus did not give up His deity, He took off His robe of glory to put on the robe of flesh to take on the likeness of men. God left His glory in the form of a baby to rescue us. What is our response to this gift?

Christmas - For You a Savior Has Been Born

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 03:17:31 +0000

When the angel appeared to the shepherds during Jesus' birth, the shepherds were told that "for you a Savior has been born" along with the sign that God had given to know that Jesus was the child. The King of kings didn't enter into this world the way a normal could would. The way Jesus arrived was simple. Don't forget the simplicity of the Christmas story. Don't forget the simplicity of the Gospel. For you a Savior was born and for you He died for you so that you may have eternal life.

Love First - Sending into God's Harvest

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:45:56 +0000

On December 8, 2019, we celebrated our 2nd annual Send Sunday where we sent out our church to feed over 2500 people in our community. We were sent to love first because He first loved us. Loving and serving others is our way of saying thank you to our Savior. We must continue to see people the way God sees them for He has called us to love and serve one another. Listen to this full sermon about loving others and seeing people the way God sees them.

No Way - Vision

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 18:07:17 +0000

No matter how impossible or ignorant it may seem, when we are obedient God shows His power. As Christians, we too often get too comfortable and check cruise control too soon in our lives. However, when God speaks, we must obey even if it's seems impossible and that there is no way. We have to be okay with not understanding every detail or outcome of what God has called us to. When God appeared to Moses at the burning bush, it seemed that there was no way Moses could do what God was calling him to, but God made it possible. As we move into 2020, Pastor Brian lays out this No Way vision for our upcoming series in the new year and to begin preparing our hearts for how God will lead us as His followers individually and as a church in 2020.

Love First - Saying Thank You to God

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 04:23:53 +0000

In this week of Thanksgiving, we see how Paul declared "but thanks be to God" despite what he faced and went through. He declared this because he knew the promises of God and knew he would see the victory if he remained obedient. As believers, we must know that God is calling us to be a part of His victory parade. We must spread the fragrance of victory wherever we go in a lost and dying world. We must continue to say thank you to our Savior. Are you willing as a Christian to say thank you to your listen?

Even If - Changing Our Focus

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 21:16:35 +0000

As Habakkuk 3 concludes, we see Habakkuk declaring that he will worship God through this battle. Habakkuk settles that everything will not always turn out the way he wants and even if it doesn't turn out the way he wants he will still worship God for who He is. What started out as a journey filled with question marks in Habakkuk 1 ends with a big exclamation mark in Habakkuk 3. Throughout Habakkuk's journey, his circumstances never changed but what did change was his focus. He shifted his focus from his circumstances to focusing on God. Listen to this full message about changing our focus in the final part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Worthy of Faith

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 19:16:06 +0000

As Habakkuk's prayer continues in Habakkuk 3, we see Habakkuk declaring his faith and trust in God. Even if Habakkuk doesn't understand what God is doing or what He will do next, Habakkuk declares that he will trust God. We see Habakkuk move from asking why to declaring who. As believers, we must understand that faith supersedes understanding and is about trusting. When you know God, you can trust Him even if you don't understand because He is worthy of your faith. Listen to this full message about faith in the seventh part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Praying Differently

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 16:40:32 +0000

As Habakkuk 3 begins, we see that Habakkuk is beginning to see God through a different lens. From Habakkuk 1 to Habakkuk 3, we see the progression of how Habakkuk has changed the way he prays and his perspective of God. In chapter 1, Habakkuk prays that God isn't hearing him to praying to God that he will position himself differently to hear from God in chapter 2. Finally in chapter 3, Habakkuk is now praying that he has heard from God. Throughout Habakkuk's journey, we see that Habakkuk's circumstances never changed but what did change was Habakkuk spending time with God. Listen to this full message in the sixth part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Check Yes or No

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 18:06:19 +0000

As we continue in Habakkuk 2, we see that God answer Habakkuk as Habakkuk has positioned himself in a position to hear from God. God tells Habakkuk about what He sees and what could be stumbling blocks for people. We see that true satisfaction only comes through Him and not fulfilling the satisfaction of our flesh through worldly things. Jesus is the only one that will set you free. Listen to this full message in the fifth part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Running in the Waiting

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 19:58:35 +0000

As we continue in Habakkuk 2, we see that God answer Habakkuk as Habakkuk has positioned himself in a position to hear from God. God tells Habakkuk to record what He is saying on the tablets so that the one who reads it may run. While we are in this season of waiting for His return, it does not mean that we sit around to only wait for Him. We should turn our walking into running during the waiting to tell others about Jesus. Listen to this full message of running in the waiting to tell others about Jesus in the fourth part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Standing on Your Guardpost

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 18:00:00 +0000

In Habakkuk 2, we see Habakkuk enter into this time of watching and waiting for God. We see his first sign of surrender to God. In Habakkuk 2:1, he declares that he will stand on his guardpost. God has given us all a guardpost to watch over. However, are we willing to rise above the chaos of this world? Can the world see the difference between us and the lost? Listen to this full message of standing on our guardpost and rising above the chaos of the world in the third part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Truly Seeking God

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 14:45:00 +0000

In verses 1-4 of Habakkuk 1, we were able to see the imporance of having a confidence and ability to be honest with God and pray with emotion. As we continue in Habakkuk 1, we see that God answered Habakkuk even when Habakkuk was emotional and honest with God. In the rest of chapter 1, we see the God is always listening and what it means to truly seek what God wants instead of only seeking for our circumstances to be changed. Listen to this full message of truly seeking God in the second part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.

Even If - Being Honest With God

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 19:11:34 +0000

When we start to read Habakkuk's story, we see him begin by complaining and questioning God. In the first four verses of the first chapter of Habakkuk, he begins questioning God calmly and then gets angry with God as his conversation continues. In the midst of us feeling like God isn't there or He isn't listening, God wants us to talk with Him and be honest with Him, even if that means showing our true emotions to Him. Listen to this full message of being honest with God in the first part of our Even If series as we follow Habakkuk's journey.