A Seattle Church: Recent Episodes
Tyler Gorsline
A Seattle Church is a church plant in Downtown/South Lake Union. We dearly love our city and believe that Jesus is the hope for Seattle. We desire to share God’s love in and for our city, and to worship Christ in Spirit and truth. To see God make all things new. Visit aseattlechurch.com to learn more.
What does it really mean to discover God's calling for your life?
Barnabas and Saul aren't searching for their next assignment in Acts 13. They are worshiping, praying, fasting, and listening together when the Holy Spirit sends them out. Their story reminds us that we're called to Jesus first, before we're called to a place, a career, or a mission. As we learn to make space for God and listen together in community, we can trust Him to lead us into whatever comes next.
What do you do when there seems to be no way forward?
In Acts 12, Peter is sitting in prison, chained between guards and waiting for what feels like the inevitable. From every human perspective, the situation is hopeless. But while Peter waits, the church prays. They don't have a strategy or a backup plan. They simply come before God with desperate, expectant faith.
This message reminds us that prayer isn't our last resort. It's our first response. Whether you're facing anxiety, broken relationships, financial pressure, addiction, grief, or simply wondering if God is still at work, Acts 12 invites us to keep bringing it all to Him. The early church didn't watch Peter's chains fall off, but their prayers still mattered. And the same is true for us today. God is still listening, still working, and still inviting His people to trust Him with what feels impossible.
In Acts 10, we see how God was already at work long before Peter and Cornelius understood what He was doing. As their stories unfold, we're reminded that God often meets us in the middle of ordinary moments and unexpected interruptions. Rather than trying to force our own plans, we're invited to slow down, pray, and pay attention to where God is already moving. As we learn to trust His timing, we discover that He is often opening doors we never could have imagined.
The Bible is the bestselling book in history—but for many Christians, it's also the least understood.
Why does it feel so overwhelming? Why do so many people start reading it only to stop a few weeks later? And what if the problem isn't the Bible itself, but the way we've learned to approach it?
In this episode of the But I Tell You podcast, Tyler Gorsline sits down with author and Bible teacher Zach Windahl to explore how discovering the Bible as one unified story transformed Zach's faith—and how it can transform yours.
Together they discuss:
• Why reading the Bible deeply strengthened Zach's faith instead of dismantling it.
• Why so many Christians struggle to understand Scripture.
• The surprising Jewish context behind Jesus' invitation to "Follow me."
• How seeing the Bible as one story changes everything.
• Why spiritual formation requires both invitation and challenge.
• Practical ways to fall in love with reading Scripture again—even if you've tried before and quit.
Whether you've been following Jesus for decades or you're just beginning to explore the Bible, this conversation is an invitation to rediscover a more beautiful view of Jesus and the story He invites us into.
Connect with Zach Windahl
Instagram: @aseattlechurch
Website: zachwindahl.com
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Follow A Seattle Church:
Website: aseattlechurch.com
Instagram: @aseattlechurch
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Substack: https://tylergorsline.substack.com
Instagram: @tylergorsline
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Instagram: @butitellyoupod
In Acts 11, we meet the ordinary followers of Jesus who helped shape one of the most influential churches in the early Christian movement. The church in Antioch wasn't built by famous leaders, but by everyday people who faithfully shared the hope of Jesus, encouraged one another, and lived with remarkable generosity. As we reflect on their story, we're invited to consider what God might do through our own ordinary lives—and how He can use a community of faithful people to bring hope to our city.
In Acts 10, Peter and Cornelius each encounter God in ways that change not only their own lives, but the future of the church. As God challenges Peter's assumptions about who belongs, we're invited to consider the walls we've built between ourselves and others. This story reminds us that our identity is found first in Jesus—not our politics, preferences, or backgrounds—and that the gospel has always been about drawing people together, not pushing them apart. As we learn to see every person as someone made in the image of God, we become a church that reflects the welcoming heart of Christ to our city.
What keeps us from praying with confidence? In Acts 9, Peter prays for Aeneas to be healed and Tabitha to be raised from the dead to remind us that the Holy Spirit is still at work today. Too often we lower our expectations, relying on ourselves more than on God and settling for safe prayers instead of bold faith.
This message invites us to move from self-consciousness to God-consciousness, trusting God's character and joining Him in what He's already doing. As we surrender our lives to Him and step out in faith, we discover there's always more of the Holy Spirit than we've experienced, and that God still delights in doing the impossible.
In Acts 9, we witness one of the most surprising stories of transformation in Scripture as Saul goes from persecuting the church to proclaiming Jesus. Along the way, we're invited to consider our own blind spots and the ways God gently exposes what's keeping us from Him without condemnation. We also see that transformation doesn't happen in isolation. Through Ananias' courageous obedience and welcome, we're reminded that God often uses community to shape us. Whether we've followed Jesus for years or are just beginning to explore faith, this story challenges us to trust that God is still changing lives and invites us to take the next faithful step.
Through the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8, we discover that God cares more about people than platforms, more about roadside encounters than revival crowds. Philip is called away from a breakthrough revival in Samaria to a desert road where he meets a wealthy, powerful official who is simultaneously religiously marginalized. This Ethiopian treasurer had spent ten months of wages on a scroll of Isaiah, desperately hungry for spiritual truth despite being excluded from full temple worship. The passage reveals three transformative principles: we hear God's voice to be sent to hear others; those who feel heard are more likely to hear what we have to say; and the heard are more likely to share what they've heard. Philip's simple obedience didn't just change one life—it launched the gospel across an entire continent, establishing what would become the 50-million-strong Ethiopian church. The message challenges us to recognize that success in God's kingdom isn't measured by crowd size but by faithful obedience to His voice, even when it makes absolutely no sense to us in the moment. Sometimes God asks us to leave the revival to reach the one person waiting on a desert road.
We live in a world that constantly promises us shortcuts to power, transformation, and fulfillment. This message from Acts 8 confronts us with the story of Simon the Sorcerer, a man who wanted God's power without God's presence, who sought the gifts without the Giver. The passage challenges us to examine what paths we're taking in our spiritual journey. Are we following the well-trod path of surrender and intimacy with Jesus, or are we being seduced by the easier route that promises transformation without vulnerability, healing without repentance, and resurrection without death? The central revelation here is that every city and every person lives under a spell of some kind. For us in modern times, these spells might be individualism, scarcity mindset, workaholism, or the technological ease that promises instant answers without the hard work of formation. We're invited to recognize that we cannot gain God's power without His person and without His passion. True transformation requires us to die to ourselves, to surrender control, and to trust that the difficult path of discipleship is actually the good path. This isn't just about avoiding obvious sins; it's about recognizing how we've become consumers rather than disciples, how we want friendship with benefits from Jesus rather than covenant relationship. The call is clear: repent from the magic that manipulates spiritual forces for personal gain, and instead embrace worship that says 'I surrender' rather than 'I leverage.' We're reminded that we can be baptized and still not fully surrender, that we can join the movement and still seek the power of our old life. The invitation is to become transitional characters who break the curse in our families and our city, saying 'it ends with us' and stepping into the freedom that only comes through the Holy Spirit.
What happens when we do everything right, yet life still falls apart? Through the story of Stephen in Acts 7, we encounter a faithful servant who checked every box, served with integrity, and spoke truth with divine wisdom, only to face brutal persecution and death. His story shatters the formula fallacy we often cling to, the belief that right living plus hard work automatically equals desired outcomes. We've all been there, haven't we? The diagnosis that shouldn't have happened. The relationship that ended despite our best efforts. The job loss after years of integrity. The unanswered prayers for healing. Stephen's experience reveals a profound truth: faithfulness doesn't guarantee earthly success, but it does guarantee divine presence. In his final moments, Stephen sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God, the only time in Scripture where Jesus isn't seated. This legal posture of a witness advocating for another reveals that even when our stories don't end as we planned, Jesus stands with us, for us, as our eternal advocate. The invitation isn't to follow a formula, but to release our grip on outcomes and trust the One who never leaves us, even in crushing disappointment.
What if the most devastating moments in our lives are actually God's way of planting us exactly where we need to be? This message takes us deep into Acts 8, where we discover that persecution meant to destroy the early church became the very mechanism God used to spread the gospel beyond Jerusalem's walls. Through the powerful imagery of South Africa's King Protea flower, which requires fire to release its seeds, we see a stunning parallel: sometimes we need the heat of crisis to break open what God has locked within us. The scattered believers weren't running in defeat; they were being intentionally sown across new territories. Philip, a simple deacon who served tables, found himself in Samaria, a place Jews actively avoided for 700 years, yet this became the site of miraculous breakthrough and great joy. We're challenged to examine our own scattering seasons, those painful transitions we've interpreted as punishment or failure, and recognize them instead as divine planting. The grassroots church, the everyday believers, became the primary missionaries who shook the world. This isn't about waiting for official programs or perfect timing; it's about the overflow of an encounter with Jesus that we simply cannot contain. Wherever the Spirit plants us, whether in boardrooms or dark alleys, Christ has already been there before us, preparing the soil for harvest.
Continuing our Church on Fire series in Acts 6:1-7, we encounter a pivotal moment in the early church where Greek-speaking widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. This wasn't just a logistical problem but a moment of real injustice within a thriving, growing community. What makes this passage so relevant is its honest portrayal that even in revival, even when miracles are happening and the church is expanding, people can still slip through the cracks. The apostles' response teaches us something revolutionary: growth doesn't automatically mean health. They refused to either spiritualize away the problem or burn themselves out trying to fix everything alone. Instead, they chose wisdom, appointing seven men characterized not by talent or charisma, but by wisdom, character, and being full of the Spirit. This challenges our modern culture that celebrates giftedness over character. The message confronts our tendency to overachieve, to earn validation through endless work, and to carry burdens we were never meant to bear alone. It reminds us that God has always seen the overlooked, from Hagar in the wilderness to David in the fields. When we feel unseen despite our achievements, we're invited to remember that God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance. The call is clear: we must share leadership, empower others, and remember that some of our holiest work may never receive human applause, but God sees it all.
Guest Pastor, Brady Rector, Continues our Church on Fire series in Acts 5, as we witness a Church on Fire refusing to let fear, opposition, or suffering extinguish the work of God. The apostles are arrested, threatened, beaten, and publicly opposed, yet they continue proclaiming Jesus with courage and joy. This message challenges us to examine whether we’re living for the approval of people or the applause of God, reminding us that true discipleship isn’t about knowing more about Jesus, but actually following Him no matter the cost. Through the bold obedience of the early church, we’re invited to take our faith out from under the bowl, trusting that what God ignites cannot be put out. Even in suffering, God refines us, spreads His fire through us, and transforms our pain into deeper joy, mercy, courage, and intimacy with Christ.
We return to our Church on Fire sermon series in Acts 5. This passage confronts us with one of Scripture's most uncomfortable stories: the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira. With this difficult passage lies profound grace. We're invited to examine the deadly difference between image management and authentic integrity. The contrast is striking—Barnabas, whose very name means 'son of encouragement,' freely gives everything out of genuine joy, while Ananias and Sapphira, whose names ironically mean 'God is gracious' and 'beauty,' choose performance over honesty. The issue wasn't that they kept some money back—it was theirs to do with as they pleased. The tragedy was their decision to pretend, to seek honor for a sacrifice they didn't actually make. This passage challenges us to ask: Are we more concerned with being seen by others for who we pretend to be, or being known by God and community for who we truly are? The remedy isn't perfection but humility—the courage to confess our brokenness rather than curate our image. In a culture obsessed with virtue signaling and social media performance, this ancient story speaks powerfully to our modern struggle. God can work with our honest failure, but hypocrisy grieves His heart because it blocks the very vulnerability through which healing flows.
In our final sermon series, HUMAN, Pastor Tyler confronts us with an uncomfortable truth: we are all susceptible to deception, and our greatest enemy isn't the people around us but the spiritual forces working to steal our strength. Drawing from Ephesians 6:10-20, we're reminded that our struggle isn't against flesh and blood, but against rulers, authorities, and spiritual forces in the heavenly realms. The sermon challenges us to examine where we might be deceived—not by obvious lies, but by subtle distortions that feel true to our itching ears. Like sheep that fixate on a single blade of grass and wander away, we can become so focused on what we want to be true that we miss what actually is true. The call here is radical: true strength isn't found in self-sufficiency or invulnerability, but in weakness surrendered to Christ. When we try to love God by our own strength, we burn out and become disillusioned. But when we admit our need, confess our deceptions, and put on the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word—we discover that Christ's power is made perfect in our weakness. This isn't solitary Christianity; we need each other to battle deception. The 59 'one another' commands in the New Testament aren't suggestions—they're lifelines that keep us grounded in truth and protected from the schemes of the enemy.
How is your soul?
Not how was your week, not how you're feeling, but how is the very essence of who you are—the soil of your existence? Drawing from the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, we're invited to examine whether our souls are truly receptive to the transformative work God wants to do within us. The message challenges a common misconception: we don't have a soul, we are a soul. Our entire being—body, mind, emotions, and spirit—forms an integrated whole that God desires to cultivate. Like John Wesley discovered on his journey from religious striving to genuine transformation, many of us know all the right things and do all the right behaviors, yet our soil remains unreceptive. We may have been in church our whole lives, yet find ourselves stuck in the same patterns, the same struggles, the same spiritual plateau. The diagnosis is clear: we have the right beliefs and the right behaviors, but the wrong soil. God isn't looking for our performance; He's looking for our receptivity. He's sowing seeds of His kingdom into our lives constantly, but the question remains—are we hard-hearted, shallow-rooted, or overcrowded with the worries and wealth of this world? Or are we becoming good soil that produces fruit thirty, sixty, even a hundredfold?
In our hyper-connected world, we're constantly being shaped by forces we barely notice. From the 5,000 to 10,000 ads we encounter daily to the seven hours we spend on screens, our minds are being molded whether we realize it or not. Romans 12:1-2 calls us to a radical alternative: to offer our entire lives as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of our minds rather than conforming to the world's blueprint. This isn't just about behavior modification—it's about a metamorphosis from the inside out, powered by the Holy Spirit. The world has a schematic for our lives, telling us what success looks like, how we should appear, what we need to be happy, and how to respond when we're hurt. But Paul reminds us that if we truly understand what Jesus accomplished on the cross, the logical response is to present every faculty of ourselves—mind, body, soul—to God. The good news is that this transformation isn't something we accomplish through sheer willpower. It's the Holy Spirit doing the work within us as we intentionally position ourselves to be formed by Christ rather than culture. We're invited to audit what's teaching us, chew on God's Word like a lion with its prey, test everything against the truth of Jesus, seek wisdom rather than just information, and discern in community rather than isolation. When we do this, we begin to bear the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
In our new mini-series, HUMAN, we examine the divided nature of our hearts and invites us into wholehearted devotion to God. Drawing from Mark 12:28-31, we're reminded that Jesus calls us to love God with our heart, soul, mind, and strength - not just pieces of ourselves, but our whole true self. The sermon explores the tension many of us live in, wanting God in some areas while keeping Him at arm's length in others. Through the story of St. Augustine, we see a powerful example of someone who struggled with fragmented love, knowing what was right but unable to fully surrender. His famous prayer, 'Grant me chastity and self-control, but not yet,' captures our own resistance to complete surrender. The message reveals how we often create a false self to survive and adapt, hiding behind achievements, perfectionism, or people-pleasing rather than living from our true identity in Christ. We're challenged to recognize where our treasure lies, because where our treasure is, there our heart will be also. The sermon powerfully distinguishes between healthy conviction and toxic shame, reminding us that God's conviction is an invitation back to wholeness, not condemnation. Ultimately, we're called to bring that last 10% we've been withholding from God - whether it's our sexuality, our ambition, our relationships, or our pain - and surrender it fully to the One who loves us completely.
On Easter, we step into the story of Mary Magdalene, a woman standing in grief, convinced hope is gone. Yet in her darkest moment, the risen Jesus meets her with two questions: “Why are you crying?” and “Who are you looking for?”
This message reminds us that we often place our hope in things that cannot hold it, relationships, success, identity, or control. When those things fail, it feels like everything is lost. But Easter declares a greater truth: the resurrection of Jesus means the worst thing is never the last thing.
When Jesus calls Mary by name, everything changes. In the same way, He sees you, knows you, and invites you out of whatever grave you’ve been living in. Real hope isn’t found in what we’ve lost—it’s found in the One who conquered death.
This Easter, you are invited to leave the grave behind and step into new life: seen, known, and sent by Jesus into a living hope that can never be taken away.
This powerful reflection invites us to sit in the uncomfortable space of Good Friday, resisting our natural impulse to rush toward resurrection hope. We're challenged to truly enter the grave with Jesus, to understand that He didn't just die for us as a distant transaction, but became fully acquainted with every dimension of human suffering we experience. Drawing from Isaiah 53, we see Jesus as the man of sorrows who didn't sympathize from a distance but empathized by fully entering our pain. The sermon confronts our tendency to want resurrection without death, victory without surrender, and new life without letting go of our false selves. Through the lens of Jesus in Gethsemane and on the cross, we discover that the way out of our pain is actually through it. The cross reveals the great exchange where the unbroken became broken, the uncondemned became condemned, and the sinless became sin, all so we might find our true identity in Him. This isn't just theological abstraction but deeply personal reality addressing our shame, loneliness, anxiety, and fear. The invitation is clear: we must die to ourselves to truly live, taking up our cross daily just as Jesus commanded His disciples. Only by staying awake with Jesus in the garden, by not rushing past the death, can we truly experience the power of resurrection.
What if the things we hold onto most tightly are the very things keeping us from freedom?
Guest Pastor Scott Dudley invited into a different way of living, one marked not by “it’s mine,” but by open-handed generosity. Through both relational and financial generosity, we discover something deeper: joy, purpose, and a life shaped by Jesus.
This isn’t about guilt or obligation. It’s about transformation. As we loosen our grip on time, money, and control, we step into God’s bigger story—one that heals, restores, and changes lives.
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. So the question is: where do you want your heart to be?
This powerful exploration of Acts 4:1-13 challenges us to examine the source of our boldness in faith. We encounter Peter and John standing before the highest religious authorities in Jerusalem, the very council that condemned Jesus to death. These were unschooled, ordinary men without credentials or status, yet they spoke with such courage that even their accusers were astonished. The text reveals a profound truth: their boldness didn't come from education, eloquence, or earthly authority, but from one unmistakable quality - they had been with Jesus. This message confronts our modern struggles with fear and silence, asking where we've allowed intimidation to muzzle our witness. The transformation of Peter is particularly striking - from the man who denied Jesus three times to the one who boldly proclaimed Him before those who could end his life. What changed? An encounter with the risen Christ that fundamentally shifted his identity. We're reminded that boldness isn't a personality trait we either have or lack; it's the natural overflow of knowing whose we are. When our identity becomes rooted in Christ rather than in our circumstances, credentials, or the approval of others, fear loses its authority over us. The early church didn't pray for safety when threatened - they prayed for greater boldness. This challenges us to examine our own prayers and priorities in moments of uncertainty.
This powerful message takes us into Acts chapter 3, where we witness Peter and John standing in Solomon's Colonnade after healing a disabled man at the Beautiful Gate. What makes this moment so compelling is Peter's radical honesty: he refuses to take credit for the miracle, pointing instead to the explosive power of Jesus. The Greek word used here is 'dunamis'—the same root that gives us 'dynamite'—reminding us that true transformation comes from divine power, not human effort. We're challenged to examine our own lives and ask: what are we gripping so tightly that we believe will bring us security, happiness, or fulfillment? The message confronts our cultural obsession with control, our if-then thinking that says 'if I just do this, then I'll finally be happy.' But life rarely follows our carefully plotted graphs. The Jewish people had created their own narrative about who the Messiah would be—a powerful military figure who would overthrow Rome. Instead, God sent a servant who would die on a cross. Sometimes God's plan looks nothing like what we expected, and that's precisely the point. We're invited to repent, which simply means to reorient our thinking, to let go of our white-knuckled grip on control, and to breathe again in the refreshing presence of God.
In Acts 3:1–10, Peter and John encounter a man who has been lame since birth, begging at the temple gate. Instead of giving money, Peter offers something greater: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” The man is instantly healed, revealing the power and authority of Jesus at work through ordinary people.
This message explores how Acts continues the ministry of Jesus—proclaiming the Kingdom, healing the sick, and bringing restoration. Looking at Peter’s journey—from fisherman to disciple, from failure to restoration, and finally Spirit-empowered at Pentecost—we see how God forms ordinary people to carry His name into places of pain.
The invitation for the church today is simple:
Notice the pain. Carry the name of Jesus. Take the risk of faith.
A Spirit-filled church isn’t a perfect church—it’s a courageous one, willing to show up and trust God with the outcome.
Are we consumers of Christianity or committed members of Christ's community? Drawing from Acts 2:42-47, we're invited to examine the radical difference between treating church like a service that meets our preferences versus embracing the costly, communal life that characterized the early believers. The sermon identifies eight lies of consumer Christianity—from 'serve me' to 'not me'—each one revealing how we subtly center ourselves rather than Christ. The early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They shared everything in common, sold possessions to meet needs, and met daily with glad and sincere hearts. This wasn't an idealized fantasy but a messy, real community of imperfect people empowered by the Holy Spirit. We're challenged to move from asking 'What can I get?' to 'How can I give?' The call isn't to add Jesus as another slice of our busy lives, but to recognize Him as the whole pie—the center from which everything else flows. This means choosing depth over preference, belonging over autonomy, and reverence over comfort. It means being willing to be inconvenienced, to sacrifice financially and relationally, and to step into evangelism even when we feel inadequate. The beautiful truth is that transformation happens not through perfect arguments but through authentic witness—inviting people into our lives and letting them see us following Jesus.
We find ourselves in a pivotal moment in the book of Acts where a crowd witnesses something extraordinary and asks two profound questions that frame our entire spiritual journey: 'What does this mean?' and 'What shall we do?' These aren't just historical questions from curious onlookers at Pentecost. They're the very questions we must wrestle with when God moves in our lives. The sermon Peter delivers cuts through religious confusion and cultural noise to reveal a simple yet transformative truth: Jesus came, lived, died, and rose again so that we might have fullness of life through the Holy Spirit. But here's where it gets personal for us. We live in the space between what God has done and what we're called to do now. This is the 'already and not yet' of the kingdom. The danger isn't that God is absent in our lives. The danger is that we misunderstand His presence in the liminal spaces, the in-between moments. We settle for spiritual curiosity without spiritual clarity. We witness miracles, feel conviction, experience God's providence, yet we drift from the meaning of the message. We start making our own meaning instead of surrendering to the gospel. Peter's response to the confused crowd is both ancient and urgent: repent, confess, commit, and receive the Holy Spirit. This isn't about adding religious activities to our lives. It's about centering our entire existence on Jesus and allowing His Spirit to fill us with dreams, visions, and prophetic words that transform not just us, but our neighborhoods, workplaces, and cities. The normal Christian life isn't maintenance or manifesting. It's revelation.
In Acts 2, the disciples experience The Sound of Heaven and discovered how waiting, surrender, and obedience created space for the Holy Spirit to move, transforming ordinary people into powerful witnesses. It’s an invitation to move beyond noise and performance into God’s real presence, holy fire, and life-changing power.
This Sunday, we continued our Church on Fire series by hearing Jesus redefine what real power looks like: not control, not comfort, not having all the answers—but receiving the Holy Spirit and becoming His witnesses. In Acts 1:6–12, the disciples ask about restoring their own kingdom, but Jesus redirects them toward a greater calling: a Spirit-empowered life that bears witness to His Kingdom in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. We were reminded that God doesn’t always give us explanations—He gives us assignments. The power of the Holy Spirit isn’t for self-preservation, but for transformation, sending us into everyday spaces to tell the truth about what we’ve seen and experienced in Jesus. As a church, we’re being invited to stop waiting until we have it all together and step into our identity now as Spirit-filled witnesses—people who go with Jesus so others might be found.
This Sunday, we began our Church on Fire series by asking a simple but searching question: What is filling your life? Drawing from Acts 1:1–5, we were reminded that the life of Jesus cannot be lived on human strength alone—it requires an ongoing filling of the Holy Spirit. Too often, we settle for substitutes like control, comfort, or coping mechanisms instead of the power and presence God freely offers. Jesus invites us to wait with open hands, making room to be filled afresh, not for performance or hype, but for transformation. As a church, we are stepping into a year-long journey of becoming a Spirit-empowered people—rooted in identity, formed in community, and mobilized for God’s mission in the world.
Closing our Vision Series, Pastor Tyler examines how we experience Christian community—not as a nice social gathering, but as the very means through which God transforms us and reaches our city. Drawing from Ephesians 4:14-16, we're confronted with a crucial tension: the danger of 'love without truth' that keeps us stuck in shallow relationships, versus 'truth without love' that crushes people with harshness. Both extremes lead to toxic shame and isolation. The sermon uses a vivid personal story of a broken leg to illustrate how genuine love sometimes requires temporary pain for long-term healing—just as resetting a bone hurts but prevents permanent damage. We're called to be a church that embodies both high invitation and high challenge, like Jesus who invited Matthew the tax collector to follow Him while also calling him to leave everything behind. The central insight is profound: we are hurt in community, but the only path to healing is through community. When we remain isolated or make our feelings the center of everything, we rob both ourselves and our city of the transformative witness that comes from a healthy body of Christ. This isn't just about our personal growth—it's about becoming a visible gospel that compels our neighbors, coworkers, and friends to want what we have in Jesus.
Clair's message challenges us to move from being spectators in our spiritual lives to becoming active participants mobilized by the Holy Spirit. Drawing from Ephesians 4:11-13, we discover that Jesus didn't leave us with a brand, building, or business strategy—He left us with something far more powerful: a people filled with His Spirit. The tobogganing illustration reminds us that the price has already been paid in full; we don't need to stand on the sidelines with a spectator badge when Christ has already given us full access to participate in His mission. The passage reveals that apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers aren't meant to perform ministry on our behalf, but to equip us for the work we're already called to do. These grace gifts aren't earned positions or power roles—they're expressions of Christ's love, given to release the ministry already present within each of us. We're reminded that our everyday jobs, neighborhoods, and relationships aren't distractions from ministry; they are the very locations where our ministry happens. The question isn't whether we're called to ministry—we are. The real question is: where have we been holding back when Jesus is inviting us to move forward?
This week in our Becoming Who We Are Vision Series, we anchored ourselves in Ephesians 4 and the call for our church to be matured in identity and mobilized in impact. But maturity in Christ doesn’t come through striving harder or building a life on our own strength—it comes through grace. The central question we were invited to wrestle with was: Where are you going, and how are you growing?
We learned that in the Kingdom of God, growth looks like descending before ascending—the way Jesus Himself did. Jesus didn’t climb His way to greatness; He emptied Himself, served, surrendered, and gave His life away. And the truth is: we don’t grow by grasping—we grow by God’s grace, and we don’t grow by getting—we grow by giving.
The invitation for our church this year is clear: don’t settle for a life powered by hustle, control, or self-preservation. Instead, make room, take a faithful step downward with Jesus, and choose the hidden, humble, surrendered way—the way that leads to true life. Because the life we’re looking for isn’t found by holding on tighter… it’s found when we give it away.
In our hyper-connected world, we've mastered the art of feeling close to people we'll never truly know—celebrities, influencers, even AI chatbots. We know their pets' names, follow their daily lives, and feel genuine emotion when they experience milestones. Yet this phenomenon of 'parasocial relationships' reveals something profound about our spiritual lives: we can know about God without actually knowing God intimately. Ephesians 4:1-6 calls us beyond mere proximity to true intimacy, urging us to live worthy of our calling not through performance, but through embracing who we already are in Christ. The passage reveals that our identity flows from being 'bond servants'—not prisoners of obligation, but people who have found true freedom by being tethered to Jesus. When we're secure in being chosen, adopted, redeemed, sealed, raised, and seated with Christ, we stop grasping for significance and start living from it. The transformative invitation here is to move from trying harder to trying softer—to stop manufacturing worth and start receiving it. This journey from false identities rooted in what we do, what others think, or what we've experienced, to our true identity as beloved children of God, becomes the foundation for genuine unity in the body of Christ. When we know who we are, we can be humble, gentle, and patient with others because we're no longer defending a fragile sense of self. The Vision for 2026 isn't about doing more for God but becoming who we already are in Him—a shift that could transform our workplaces, neighborhoods, marriages, and city itself.
This documentary is a sacred reflection on ten years of God’s faithfulness in and through A Seattle Church. What began in living rooms and moments of uncertainty became a deeply rooted community committed to loving Jesus, one another, and this city. Through seasons of healing, growth, loss, and renewal—including the challenges of pandemic and transition—we see a church choosing depth over speed and presence over performance. These stories remind us that ASC was never built by strategy alone, but by people who kept showing up, trusting God, and refusing to give up on Seattle. On this Sabbath Sunday, we pause not to strive or produce, but to remember—bearing witness to what God has done and resting in the truth that He is still at work among us.
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This exploration of Revelation 12 shatters our cozy nativity expectations and confronts us with the raw spiritual warfare surrounding Christ's birth. We encounter a cosmic drama: a radiant woman adorned with sun, moon, and twelve stars—representing Mary, Israel, and the Church—standing vulnerable yet victorious against a terrifying seven-headed dragon. The passage reveals that images penetrate our hearts 60,000 times faster than words, which is why God chose to communicate through such vivid prophetic pictures. The dragon represents complete earthly power—wealth, strength, authority—yet this monster is defeated by a fragile newborn and a surrendered woman. This paradox becomes our greatest hope: surrendered weakness always wins. The accuser who prosecutes us day and night with evidence of our failures has been 'hurled down' six times over. His case is dismissed by the blood of the Lamb and our testimony. We're invited to survey our broken decisions and failures, then daringly declare, 'I am the disciple Jesus loves.' Between Christ's first advent and His return, we live in the gap where evil looks powerful but has already lost. Our calling is to remind ourselves and each other of what is 'true true'—not what appears true, but what is eternally real. When we know God's love is richer than our sin is strong, mercy can afford to laugh at judgment.
We all hear voices—some encouraging, some condemning, some tempting us away from who we truly are in Christ. This powerful exploration of 1 Peter 5:6-11 invites us into the reality of spiritual warfare, not as something sensational or terrifying, but as the everyday battle for our minds, identities, and hope. The passage reveals a crucial distinction we desperately need: the difference between conviction and condemnation. Jesus offers loving accountability that says 'you did wrong, but there's hope for restoration,' while the accuser whispers lies that say 'you are wrong, beyond repair, worthless.' Learning to discern between these voices becomes the battlefield where freedom is won or lost. Peter writes to scattered believers facing persecution, offering them seven practices for engaging spiritual warfare: embracing humility under God's mighty hand, casting anxiety on the One who cares for us, exposing the enemy's tactics, enduring through resistance, enlisting community support, employing the weapons of grace and truth, and experiencing the victory already secured in Christ. The message challenges our modern church's lack of discernment—we've become either obsessed with demons or completely dismissive of spiritual realities. Yet the truth calls us to a sober, steady faith that acknowledges the battle while remaining confident in the Victor. When we remember our identity as beloved children of God, when we confess our struggles to trustworthy community, when we fill our lives with worship, prayer, obedience, and Scripture rather than leaving empty space for darkness to return—we walk in the freedom Christ has already won for us.
This powerful exploration of James chapters 1 and 2 challenges us to move beyond passive Christianity into lived faith. We're confronted with a penetrating question: Are we merely collecting spiritual knowledge like unused gym memberships, or are we actually living transformed lives? The message cuts through the comfortable distance many of us maintain between belief and action, revealing that authentic faith isn't just intellectual agreement—it's embodied reality. James, the brother of Jesus who himself underwent radical transformation from skeptic to believer, refuses to let us settle for half the gospel. While we're saved by grace through faith alone, that kind of faith inevitably works itself out in tangible ways. The sermon uses the metaphor of signing up for guitar lessons but never actually playing—we didn't sign up for religious theory; we signed up for transformation. Through examining how we speak, how we care for the vulnerable, and how we pursue holiness, we discover that integrity is the intersection where our beliefs and our lives meet. This isn't about adding more religious tasks to our to-do lists; it's about becoming conduits of God's grace, allowing what we've received to overflow into action. The mirror question haunts us: What is the Spirit showing us that we keep walking away from? What would change in our world if we stopped debating 500-year-old theological arguments and simply lived out faith that works?
What if the greatest barrier to spiritual transformation isn't our city, our circumstances, or our busy schedules—but our own apathy? This profound exploration of 2 Timothy chapters 1 and 2 challenges us to reconsider what it means to be disciples who make disciples in a culture that tells us it's impossible. We're confronted with the reality that Jesus' final words—the Great Commission to go and make disciples—have often become our 'great omission.' The intimate relationship between Paul and Timothy reveals a beautiful pattern: discipleship flows in all directions. We need people to look up to, peers to walk alongside, and younger believers to invest in. The passage reminds us that genuine discipleship requires three essential elements that counter our spirit of timidity: power, love, and self-discipline. Like an acorn that must be completely broken open to become an oak tree, we're called to die to ourselves so that generations can find life through our faithfulness. The imagery is striking—for a seed to achieve its greatest expression, it must come completely undone. To someone who doesn't understand growth, it looks like destruction. But this is precisely how the kingdom advances: through our willingness to let our shells crack, our insides pour out, and our lives become seedbeds for others to grow deep roots in Christ.
We all know what it feels like when life starts to wobble—like a Jenga tower losing its pieces. Colossians 1:15–20 reminds us why: Jesus isn’t meant to be just part of our lives; He’s the center who holds all things together. When work, relationships, or even good causes become our foundation, we end up unstable and exhausted. But when Christ is supreme—sustaining every moment and anchoring every part of our lives—we find a stability that cannot be shaken and a rest our souls have been craving.
In this sermon, Pastor Tyler reflects on the incredible generosity and joy evident within the community. Sharing stories of transformation and commitment, he emphasizes the theme of choosing joy in the face of life's challenges, drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians. Tyler explores the concept of joyful partnership in the gospel, urging the congregation to see their role not as members of a church, but as active partners invested in its mission. He discusses the biblical significance of tithing and financial generosity, encouraging the community to trust God and prioritize giving as an act of worship. Through this message, Tyler calls the church to embrace a holistic, spirit-filled approach to life, rooted in generosity and contentment in Christ. Join us as we delve into the heart of joyful giving and explore how each of us can participate in the transformative work God is doing in our community.
What if the biggest barrier to experiencing God’s fullness isn’t our circumstances—but our unwillingness to reconcile what feels impossible? In Ephesians 2:11-22, Paul writes to a divided church in Ephesus—a bustling, diverse city not unlike Seattle—and reminds them that Jesus has already torn down every wall of hostility.
This message invites us to take an honest look at the walls we’ve rebuilt between “us” and “them”—over race, politics, theology, or past wounds—and consider what it means to live as one new humanity in Christ. Reconciliation isn’t just being nice; it’s choosing to make peace. It’s stepping into the hard, beautiful work of building a spiritual home where strangers become family and difference becomes strength.
The question is simple: what walls might Jesus be inviting you to cross today?
What if the freedom we've been chasing our whole lives isn't really freedom at all? Clair takes us on a journey through the entire biblical narrative and Galatians 5 to discover what true freedom actually means. We trace freedom from its origins in Eden's garden, where God's first command was 'You are free to eat from any tree,' through the Exodus, the prophets, and ultimately to Jesus Christ who fulfills the entire story. The message challenges our culture's obsession with personal autonomy and reveals that genuine freedom isn't found in the absence of boundaries, but within them. Like children who thrive under authoritative parenting with both high warmth and high boundaries, we discover that safety creates the space where freedom flourishes. Paul's passionate letter to the Galatians warns against two dangerous ditches: legalism, where we try to earn God's love through performance, and license, where we use grace as a hall pass for selfishness. Instead, we're invited into something far more beautiful: freedom from the slavery of sin and fear, freedom for loving and serving others, and freedom to be filled by the Holy Spirit Himself. This isn't about rowing harder with our own strength; it's about raising our sails and letting God's wind move us forward. When we understand that we're freed from saving ourselves, we're finally free to become who we were created to be.
Richard Taylor Jr. challenges us to dive deeper into the transformative power of grace. We explore how grace isn't just about salvation, but about ongoing transformation and growth. The key scripture, Romans 3:23-24, reminds us that we're all justified freely by God's grace. But the message doesn't stop there - it pushes us to see grace as more than a 'free pass.' Instead, we're encouraged to view it as a fresh start, a catalyst for change. The parallel between Paul's journey from religious zealot to apostle of grace serves as a poignant reminder that God's grace can radically change even the most unlikely hearts. This message is deeply relevant to our daily lives, urging us to not just receive grace, but to allow it to shape us, renew our minds, and empower us to overcome sin. It's a call to move beyond simply being 'saved by grace' to being transformed by it, growing in our faith journey, and extending that same grace to others.
As we return to the Year of Living Biblically, Pastor Tyler challenges us to examine our hearts and consider what we're truly waiting for in our faith journey. The story of Pentecost in Acts 1-2 serves as a pivotal moment, showing how the disciples transformed from fearful hiding to bold proclamation. We're reminded that closed doors often lead to closed hearts, but faithful waiting can open us to God's power. The parallel between the disciples' experience and our own lives is striking – how often do we let fear paralyze us instead of trusting in God's promises? This message encourages us to stop 'bracing for impact' from evil and instead anticipate God's transformative work in and through us. It's a call to move beyond mere belief to living out the story of God's power in our daily lives, impacting our communities and the world around us.
In the final part of the mini-series, Gifted, Pastor Tyler challenges us to reframe our understanding of strength and weakness through the lens of faith. The central scripture, 2 Corinthians 12:5-10, reveals Paul's profound insight: true strength comes from embracing our weaknesses and depending on God's grace. We're urged to resist the worldly temptations of boasting in control, condemnation, or comfort. Instead, we're called to boast in our dependence on Christ, our humility, and our surrender to God's will. This counter-cultural approach reminds us that our limitations and struggles – our 'thorns' – are actually gifts that keep us reliant on God's power. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to consider: How might acknowledging our weaknesses open us up to experiencing God's strength in new ways? This message invites us to find freedom in vulnerability and to trust that God's grace is truly sufficient in all circumstances.
We are joined by Jethro Lehane from our ASC Courses team, who reminds us of the beautiful gift of community within the body of Christ. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 12, we explore how the church is like a body - unique, interconnected, and designed to work together. Just as our physical bodies have many parts with different functions, so too does the church body consist of diverse individuals with various spiritual gifts. This diversity isn't a weakness, but a strength that allows us to support and complement one another. We're challenged to embrace our uniqueness while recognizing our interdependence, understanding that every member is indispensable. The message encourages us to move beyond our comfort zones, to connect deeply with fellow believers, and to use our God-given gifts to build up the church. It's a call to vulnerability, to shared experiences, and to loving one another as Christ loved us. By doing so, we not only strengthen our faith community but also become a powerful witness to the world around us.
Pastor Tyler kicks off a new sermon series: GIFTED
In this first of three parts, we're challenged to rethink our understanding of God's gifts and the Holy Spirit. The central theme revolves around 1 Corinthians 12, where Paul discusses spiritual gifts. We're reminded that God is a generous giver who delights in blessing His children. The greatest gift we've received is the Holy Spirit Himself, empowering us to live out our faith in extraordinary ways. This teaching encourages us to move from ignorance to revelation, from being easily influenced to discernment, and from impotence to impact. We're called to earnestly desire spiritual gifts, not for our own benefit, but for the common good of the body of Christ. This message invites us to open our hands and hearts, asking God to fill us afresh with His Spirit and to use the gifts He's given us for His glory and the benefit of others.
Guest Pastor Meiko Seymour (Uncommon City Church) challenges us to examine our hearts and confront the 'stones' we carry - those judgments, accusations, and condemnations we're quick to throw at others. The story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-12) serves as a profound reminder of God's mercy and grace. We're invited to see ourselves in both the accusers and the accused, recognizing our own need for forgiveness. The speaker beautifully illustrates how Jesus combines justice and compassion, offering mercy first, then calling for transformation. This order - 'mercy first, then formation' - is crucial for our spiritual growth and how we interact with others. We're reminded that God's grace is not a cover-up for sin, but the power that makes us new. As we navigate our complex world, we're called to be 'people of hope,' addressing injustice while fixing our eyes on Jesus. This message encourages us to drop our rocks, stand on Christ as our firm foundation, and walk in the light of life He offers.
As we continue through the Gospels in the Year of Living Biblically, we're challenged to examine our hearts and our approach to those who don't yet know Jesus in Luke 7:33-50. The story of the sinful woman anointing Jesus' feet serves as a stark contrast between self-righteous religiosity and genuine, transformative faith. We're reminded that Jesus came not for the righteous, but for sinners - and that includes all of us. The parable of the two debtors emphasizes that those who recognize the depth of their forgiveness will love more deeply. This message urges us to see others as Jesus sees them - with compassion and love, rather than judgment. It's a call to become true 'friends of sinners,' just as Jesus was, risking our reputations to reach those who are lost. We're encouraged to pray for the lost, to truly see them with love, and to be bold in offering to pray for others. This teaching invites us to move beyond our comfort zones and self-concern, reminding us that the one who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world.
As we continue to celebrate and bring the best (Luke 15:22), take a look back as Pastor Tyler shares stories of visible transformation this year.
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In our continued exploration of the Gospels, we're challenged to confront the most crucial question of our faith: 'Who do you say Jesus is?' This isn't just about theological knowledge, but about how we live our lives in response to Christ's identity. The passage reveals the paradox at the heart of following Jesus - to save our life, we must lose it. We're called to embrace 'cruciformity,' shaping our lives according to Christ's self-emptying love. This radical call to discipleship isn't about comfort or self-improvement, but about dying to ourselves so that we might truly live. As we grapple with this teaching, we're invited to examine our own lives: Are we truly following Jesus, or merely agreeing with Him to a point? The message urges us to find our true identity, calling, and assignment in Christ, reminding us that our greatest life is found in serving others, just as Jesus came to serve.
As we head into the New Testament in our Year of Living Biblically series, we're challenged to build our lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ. The central scripture, Matthew 7:24-27, paints a vivid picture of two builders - one wise and one foolish. We're called to be like the wise builder who hears Jesus' words and puts them into practice. This isn't just about belief, but about active, lived-out faith. The sermon emphasizes three key practices: raising a firm foundation by choosing the wisdom of Jesus, relying on that foundation especially in life's storms, and reinforcing it through consistent spiritual disciplines. We're reminded that Christianity isn't meant to be a comfortable, cultural experience, but a counterculture that's both offensive and attractive to the world. This message urges us to move beyond mere cultural Christianity and into a life of desperation for Jesus, where we're constantly stepping out in faith and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our everyday interactions.
Rich Villodas—pastor, author, and one of today’s clearest voices on spiritual formation—joins Pastor Tyler for a powerful conversation on how the Sermon on the Mount shaped his life.
From his early discipleship under the guidance of his grandfather to his current role as lead pastor at New Life Fellowship in Queens, Rich shares how he came to embrace Jesus’ words not as ideals, but as a way of life.
This conversation marks the one-year anniversary of his book The Narrow Path and offers deep insights into prayer, formation, and authentic discipleship.
You’ll hear reflections on success, power, presence, and what it means to follow Jesus with both depth and integrity—alongside practical insights for living out the Sermon on the Mount in everyday life.
Whether you're a spiritual leader or simply longing to follow Jesus more deeply, this episode offers a richer, more beautiful view of the Kingdom.
This week, Pastor Tyler challenges us to confront our disappointments and doubts head-on, using the book of Malachi as a guide. The central theme revolves around preparing the way for Christ's return, mirroring John the Baptist's role before Jesus' ministry. We're reminded that God welcomes our honest doubts but also lovingly corrects our perspectives. The message emphasizes four key ways to prepare: proclaiming, enduring, repenting, and offering. Through these, we're invited to move beyond mere disappointment to become a remnant committed to wholehearted worship. The imagery of refiner's fire and launderer's soap beautifully illustrates God's purifying work in our lives. This message encourages us to embrace a holy discontentment that propels us towards personal renewal and ultimately, revival in our communities. It's a call to action - to give our whole selves to God, not just our leftovers, and to believe in the possibility of thriving, not just surviving, in our faith journey.
Pastor Tyler delves into the profound book of Hosea. This Old Testament prophet's story serves as a striking metaphor for God's unwavering love for His people, even in the face of our unfaithfulness. We're challenged to consider how often we, like Gomer, chase after 'lovers' that aren't God - be it success, relationships, or worldly pleasures. Yet, the beautiful message of Hosea is that God's love pursues us relentlessly. He doesn't just judge our waywardness; He actively seeks to allure us back, offering mercy and renewal. This message invites us to examine our own lives: Where are we placing our priorities? Are we truly making God our singular focus, or are we distracted by the many options our culture offers? As we reflect on God's faithfulness, we're called to respond with our own faithfulness, allowing His transformative love to heal our waywardness and bear fruit in our lives.
Guest Speaker, Pastor Prentice Park, explores the book of Jonah and challenges us to confront our own prejudices and expand our understanding of God's mercy. The story of Jonah isn't just about a man and a big fish - it's a mirror reflecting our own struggles with extending grace to those we deem unworthy. We're reminded that God's love is scandalously inclusive, breaking down barriers and defying cultural norms. Just as Jonah was called to show mercy to his enemies in Nineveh, we're urged to view others through the lens of 'Imago Dei' - recognizing the image of God in everyone, even those who differ from or have hurt us. This perspective shift has the power to transform our relationships and heal divisions in our world. As recipients of God's boundless mercy, we're called to be 'first movers' in extending that same grace to others, no matter how uncomfortable or challenging it may be.
Clair challenges us to examine the true nature of our worship. The prophet Amos delivers a shocking message: God despises empty religious rituals when they're disconnected from genuine care for others. We're reminded that true worship isn't just about what happens inside church walls, but how it transforms our hearts and actions in the world. The imagery of justice rolling down like a river invites us to consider: Are our lives bringing nourishment and flourishing to those around us? Or are we like a dry riverbed, full of religious activity but lacking in true compassion? This message urges us to align our hearts with God's, moving beyond performance to a faith that actively seeks justice and righteousness in our communities.
Guest Pastor, Jess Gracewski, delves into the central themes of transformation and renewal as illustrated in Ezekiel 37, a profound biblical narrative that teaches us about God's power to breathe life into even the driest of bones. The vision of the valley of dry bones serves as a metaphor for the nations of Israel’s despair during the Babylonian exile, where spiritual and physical desolation were deeply intertwined. Yet, we're reminded that God meets us in these valleys and invites us to see beyond the immediate desolation. This passage encourages us to trust in God’s promise that He can restore and resurrect what seems lost. It speaks of His unwavering commitment to breathe hope, renewal, and life into our circumstances, asking us to wait faithfully for His spirit to move. This message is a poignant reminder that our dry seasons are not endpoints but are places from where God will lift us. We are urged to open our hearts to see what God sees and to allow Him to guide our restoration journey, living a life of faith and expectancy in His promises.
In this powerful exploration of grief, lament, and hope, we're invited to confront the raw emotions that often accompany our faith journey. The book of Lamentations serves as our guide, showing us that even in the depths of despair, God's faithfulness endures. We're reminded that lament isn't a lack of faith, but an act of profound trust - bringing our pain directly to God. The message challenges us to embrace the paradox of hope: it's both something we have and something we're waiting for. This tension mirrors our Christian walk, where we're saved yet still longing for full redemption. As we navigate our own valleys of grief, we're encouraged to remember that God's mercies are new every morning, and that true hope often emerges from our deepest sorrows. This message invites us to be honest with God, to protest against darkness, and to find hope as an act of spiritual rebellion against despair.
We're invited to rediscover the passionate, intimate love that God desires to have with us in the Song of Songs. This often overlooked book of the Bible uses rich poetry to depict a love that's not just romantic, but deeply spiritual. We're challenged to see how God's love for us is as intense and unquenchable as the love between spouses. The message reminds us that our relationship with God shouldn't be passive or distant, but active and fervent. Just as the lovers in the Song of Songs pursue each other with abandon, we're called to pursue God with that same passion. This isn't just about emotion, though - it's about a love that seals us to God, that's stronger than death itself. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to examine our own spiritual lives. Have we lost our first love? Are we longing for a deeper connection with God? The Song of Songs challenges us to rekindle that fire, to let God's love burn away our shallow pursuits and ignite a deeper, more meaningful faith.
In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, we're challenged to confront the complexity of life and faith. The passage reminds us that there's 'a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.' This isn't just poetic language; it's a profound truth about the human experience. We're encouraged to embrace the seasons of our lives, both joyful and difficult, recognizing that God is present in all of them. The sermon delves into the concept of 'hevel' or vapor, emphasizing life's fleeting nature and our lack of control. Yet, rather than leaving us in despair, this realization is meant to deepen our reliance on God. We're reminded that our ultimate calling is to 'fear God and keep his commandments,' finding purpose not in worldly success or longevity, but in faithful obedience to our Creator. This message invites us to radical acceptance of God's timing and a shift in perspective from building our own legacy to participating in God's greater story.
Clair, our Community Outreach and Prayer Ministry Director, delves into the book of Proverbs and the life of King Solomon. We're reminded that true wisdom isn't just about knowledge, but about applying God's truth in our lives. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but this 'fear' isn't about terror - it's about awe and reverence. We're challenged to consider: Are we seeking worldly wisdom or godly wisdom? The world tells us to climb higher, but God's wisdom often calls us to go lower and be humble. This countercultural approach to wisdom invites us to trust in God rather than ourselves, to boast in our weaknesses, and to recognize that Jesus is the hero of our story, not us. As we embrace this biblical wisdom, we're encouraged to ask God for it generously, knowing He gives without finding fault. This wisdom isn't just for our benefit, but for the flourishing of those around us too.
In our continuation of Living Biblically, Pastor Tyler invites us to rediscover the profound comfort and guidance offered by our Good Shepherd. Far from being just a funeral psalm, this beloved scripture is a roadmap for living wisely and finding true rest in God. We're challenged to see ourselves as sheep - not dumb, but nearsighted creatures prone to fixating on immediate concerns while missing the bigger picture. The psalm reveals eight key aspects of God's shepherding, including His provision, protection, and transformative presence even in our darkest valleys. As we learn to rely fully on God, rejecting all backup plans and false securities, we open ourselves to experience His refreshment and redirection. This message encourages us to bring our whole selves honestly before God, using the Psalms as a prayer book to express every human emotion. By doing so, we may finally hear God's voice clearly, finding resilience, reward, and our true home in His presence.
Guest Speaker, Josh Ryan Butler, invited to wrestle with one of life's most challenging questions: Where is God when it hurts? Through Job's story, we discover that suffering isn't always a result of our actions. Sometimes, life's storms hit even the most righteous among us. The key lesson here is learning to trust God even when we don't understand His ways. We're encouraged to move from a 'what if' faith to an 'even if' faith - trusting God even if the worst happens. This message reminds us that while God may not always provide explanations for our suffering, He offers us His presence. Just as God spoke to Job out of the storm, He desires to meet us in our darkest moments. The parallels drawn between Job and Jesus are particularly striking, showing how our sufferings can be redeemed and how we, like Job, can become intercessors for others. This teaching challenges us to choose to go through our sufferings with God, knowing that He is ultimately more powerful than any evil we face.
With special guests, Emily and Taylor Vickerman, we delve into the heart of Psalm 139, uncovering profound truths about our identity and security in Christ. The message challenges us to confront our attachment struggles and anxiety, reminding us that we are fully known and deeply loved by our Creator. We're encouraged to be honest with God about our fears, doubts, and pain, recognizing that He can handle our raw emotions. The beautiful imagery of God hemming us in and laying His hand upon us invites us to reimagine our proximity to Him as a source of comfort rather than fear. This message speaks directly to our struggles with shame, self-loathing, and hypervigilance, offering the transformative truth that we are 'fearfully and wonderfully made.' As we navigate our attachment wounds, we're called to bring our emotions to God, trusting Him to make sense of them and lead us into repentance and growth.
As we continue our exploration of Matthew 6:25-34, we're challenged to confront our deepest worries and anxieties. Jesus' teachings on worry aren't naive platitudes, but nuanced truths that speak to the core of our human experience. We're reminded that our value exceeds our basic needs - we are more than what we eat, drink, or wear. By looking at the birds of the air and the flowers of the field, we're encouraged to trust in God's provision and care. This message pushes us to examine where we place our security and hope. Are we building our lives on worry, or on trust in God's kingdom? The call to 'seek first His kingdom and His righteousness' invites us to shift our focus from earthly concerns to eternal priorities. As we grapple with our tendency to worry, we're challenged to embrace a life of daily surrender, courageous generosity, and present-moment living. This teaching isn't about ignoring real-life challenges, but about finding a deeper trust in God that can transform our approach to life's uncertainties.
Pastor Tyler kicks off a new sermon series! We're reminded that anxiety is a universal human experience, but it doesn't have to define us. The key scripture, Philippians 4:4-9, offers a roadmap for finding peace amidst our anxieties. We're called to rejoice always, pray with thanksgiving, and focus our thoughts on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy. This isn't about ignoring our struggles, but rather bringing them to God and allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds. The parallels drawn between Paul's circumstances and our own challenges are striking, showing that even in the midst of great hardship, we can choose joy and gentleness. As we navigate our anxieties, we're encouraged to remember our true identity as beloved children of God, shifting our focus from our circumstances to our secure attachment in Christ.
Guest speaker Dr. Manny Arango challenges us to reconsider what it truly means to be human in God's eyes. The central narrative of Cain and Abel, and subsequent generations, reveals a profound truth: we constantly face the choice between embracing our God-given humanity or succumbing to our baser, animal-like instincts. This message urges us to reject the lie that we're slaves to our passions and instead embrace the unique human ability to critically examine our desires. By doing so, we align ourselves with God's original design and reflect His glory. The parallels drawn between various biblical figures and Christ himself remind us that Jesus is the ultimate example of true humanity - one who perfectly balanced divine nature with human experience. As we navigate our faith journey, let's strive to emulate Christ's example, mastering self-control and allowing God's word, not our instincts, to guide our actions.
This Easter message challenges us to examine where we're searching for life and meaning. The central story of Jesus' resurrection in Luke 24 serves as a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual journeys. Are we, like the women at the tomb, looking for the living among the dead? This profound question invites us to reflect on the 'graveyards' in our lives - places of fear, shame, or false comfort where we mistakenly seek fulfillment. The message encourages us to step out of these tombs and embrace the abundant life Jesus offers. It reminds us that Christ's victory over death isn't just a historical event, but a present reality that can transform our daily lives. As we confront our fears and uncertainties, we're called to 'come and see' - to draw close to Jesus and experience His living presence. This Easter, we're invited to release our fear, draw near to God, step out in faith, and live in hope.
In this powerful message, we're challenged to see our city through God's eyes and join Him in rebuilding what's broken. The story of Nehemiah serves as our guide, showing us how to respond when faced with ruins – whether in our communities or our own lives. Nehemiah's journey from cupbearer to city rebuilder reminds us that God often calls ordinary people to extraordinary tasks. We're encouraged to slow down, pray, and discern God's specific call for us in our current context. The parallels drawn between ancient Jerusalem and modern-day Seattle are striking, reminding us that God's work of renewal is timeless. This message urges us to resist apathy and instead become 'repairers of the breach,' actively participating in God's redemptive work. It's a call to hope, even when circumstances seem dire, trusting that the God of heaven will give us success as we faithfully serve Him.
In this powerful exploration of God's dwelling place, we journey through the Bible's rich temple imagery. From Eden to the New Creation, we see God's unwavering desire to be with His people. The story of Solomon's Temple in 2 Chronicles 7 becomes a launching point to understand how God's presence has evolved throughout scripture. We're challenged to see beyond physical structures and recognize that through Jesus, we ourselves have become living temples. This shift from external to internal holiness invites us to reconsider our relationship with God. Are we fully embracing the reality that the Holy Spirit dwells within us? This message encourages us to surrender completely to God's presence, reminding us that true transformation comes not from religious symbols or buildings, but from allowing God to work in and through us.
In this powerful exploration of God's calling, we delve into the story of Elijah from 1 Kings 18 and 19. We're challenged to confront our own idolatry and division, recognizing that our true calling goes beyond our career or achievements. The narrative of Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal, followed by his moment of despair, mirrors our own spiritual journey. We learn that God speaks to us both through dramatic displays of power and in gentle whispers, reminding us that our calling is not fragile but sustained by God's faithfulness. This message encourages us to trust God's reality over our idols, His strength over our enemies, and His whisper over our expectations. As we navigate the highs and lows of our faith walk, we're invited to lean into a deeper connection with God, understanding that clarity isn't always guaranteed, but trust in Him is paramount.
In this powerful exploration of the Book of Ruth, we're challenged to confront our disappointments and trust God even when life doesn't go as planned. The story of Naomi and Ruth reminds us that God can use our darkest moments as setups for greater redemption. We're encouraged to see Ruth's radical decision to follow Naomi and her God as a model of faithful trust in times of crisis. The concept of 'hesed' - God's steadfast love - is beautifully illustrated through Ruth's actions and Boaz's redemption. This message invites us to reflect on our own responses to life's setbacks: Do we withdraw in bitterness like Naomi, or step forward in faith like Ruth? We're reminded that small acts of faithfulness can lead to big redemption, not just in our lives but in the lives of those around us. Ultimately, we see Jesus as our greater Boaz, our ultimate Redeemer who invites us into a covenant relationship that transcends our earthly struggles.
In this powerful exploration of faith, we delve into the book of Joshua and uncover timeless truths about courage and trust in God. The story of Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land serves as a mirror for our own spiritual journeys. We're challenged to confront three common barriers to faith: suffering, fragile security, and self-sufficiency. But just as God encouraged Joshua to 'be strong and courageous,' we too are called to embrace a faith that includes fear, relies on relational knowing of God, and dares to have confidence in His promises. This message reminds us that true faith isn't about eliminating fear, but about moving forward despite it. It's not just intellectual belief, but a lived experience with a personal God. As we reflect on our own faith journeys, we're invited to see how God has been present in both our highs and lows, shaping us through every experience. This overview of Joshua's story ultimately points us to Jesus, our ultimate Joshua, who leads us into the promises of God and assures us of His constant presence.
In this powerful exploration of the Shema from Deuteronomy 6, we're challenged to truly hear God's voice and center our lives around Him. The Hebrew word 'Shema' means more than just listening; it's about understanding, responding, and obeying. We're called to love the one true God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength - a holistic devotion that transforms every aspect of our lives. This message reminds us that faith comes through hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. In our modern world, filled with distractions and self-centeredness, we're urged to refocus on God's voice above all others. The parallels drawn between ancient Israel's journey and our own spiritual walk highlight the timeless struggle between God-centeredness and self-centeredness. As we navigate our own 'promised lands' and 'wildernesses,' this message challenges us to examine where we've allowed personal comfort or affluence to overshadow our devotion to God.
In this powerful exploration of Leviticus 16, we dive deep into the Day of Atonement and its profound significance for our spiritual lives today. The central theme revolves around God's provision for dealing with sin and guilt through the symbolic use of two goats - one sacrificed for the Lord, and the other sent into the wilderness as a scapegoat. This ancient ritual prefigures Jesus Christ's ultimate sacrifice, where He became both our sin offering and our scapegoat. We're challenged to consider: Are we truly allowing Jesus to be our scapegoat, carrying away our sins and guilt? Or are we still clinging to our burdens, refusing His gift of freedom? This message reminds us that God's holiness demands reverence, but His love provides a way for us to draw near. It's a call to examine our hearts, confess our sins, and embrace the radical grace offered through Christ's atonement.
In this episode of the "But I Tell You" podcast, host Tyler Gorsline welcomes Steve Ryan Carter, Lead Pastor at @christchurch.us and former co-lead pastor of Willow Creek Community Church. Join them as they explore Steve's profound journey through grief and transformation, focusing on his recent book, "Grieve, Breathe, Receive: Finding a Faith Strong Enough to Hold Us."
Steve opens up about navigating significant loss and change, sharing the lessons he's learned about grieving with hope and following a path of character and formation. From the impact of his personal and spiritual losses to the wisdom he's gained about living a life of integrity, Steve provides valuable insights for leaders and anyone facing grief.
Discover how slowing down and embracing the full spectrum of Holy Weekend—grief, waiting, and resurrection—can transform your journey and foster a more compassionate and empathetic approach to life. This conversation is rich with practical advice, spiritual depth, and a hopeful message for anyone seeking to live an authentic and grounded life.
Be sure to follow the "But I Tell You" podcast on social media @ButITellYouPodcast. Share this episode with a friend who might need encouragement on their own journey through grief and healing.
In this powerful exploration of Exodus 19, we dive deep into the story of God's people at Mount Sinai. This pivotal moment in biblical history isn't just about laws and commandments - it's about identity and purpose. We learn that God freed the Israelites from Egypt not just to rescue them, but to bring them to Himself. This idea of being 'brought to God' resonates deeply with our own spiritual journeys. Just as God called the Israelites His 'treasured possession', we too are valued beyond measure. The concept of being God's 'segula' - His special treasure - challenges us to see ourselves through His eyes and to live out our calling as His representatives in the world. This message invites us to reflect on our own purpose and identity in Christ, reminding us that our value comes not from what we do, but from whose we are.
In this powerful exploration of covenant, we dive deep into the heart of God's relationship with His people. The central focus is on Abraham's covenant, a pivotal moment in Genesis that shapes the entire narrative of Scripture. We're challenged to move beyond a contractual mindset with God, where we seek only benefits, to a covenantal relationship of full commitment. Just as Abraham was called to leave everything familiar and trust God completely, we too are invited into a journey of faith that requires our whole lives. The parallels between Abraham's story and our own are striking - God calls us to be blessed so that we can bless others, to be chosen so that we can choose others. This message urges us to embrace the transformative power of covenant, reminding us that in saying 'yes' to God's call, even when we can't see the future, we open ourselves to a destiny far greater than we could imagine. As we reflect on this, we're prompted to examine our own relationship with God - are we living contractually or covenantally? The answer to this question could radically reshape our faith journey.
Pastor Tyler kicks off our new sermon series, Year of Living Biblically, by sharing a personal commitment to read the Bible through in a year, highlighting how unfamiliarity with the Bible can often lead to assumptions that it’s unfruitful. He sets up the idea that our approach to the Bible matters, and the problem may not be the Bible itself, but how we read it.
We invite you to join the Bible reading plan through the ASC app and to engage in prayer, asking for God’s guidance in understanding the Bible not just as a text but as a living word that leads to transformation through Christ.
In this enlightening episode of the "But I Tell You" podcast, we dive into a transformative conversation with Joey Odom during our 28 Day Digital fast. Joey is the co-inventor of Aro—a groundbreaking technology designed to reshape how we engage with our phones and deepen our most important relationships. A One that many of you have been using to be more presence with God and others.
Joey shares his personal journey, including a pivotal moment that shifted his perspective on being present with his family. To discover how individuals and families can reclaim moments that matter most by addressing our compulsive phone habits.
Join us as we explore practical steps to enhance our intimacy with loved ones and our spiritual connection with Christ. Joey's insights offer a fresh perspective on the impact of technology on relationships and how we can regain control over our habits.
Whether you're a parent wanting to be more present for your kids or someone seeking a closer relationship with Jesus, this episode provides valuable encouragement and actionable steps to help you live more intentionally. A perfect way to finish our 28 day digital fast as a church.
Don't miss out on this inspiring discussion! Be sure to subscribe, share, and follow on Social at @ButITellYouPod (www.instagram.com/ButITellYouPod)
Explore the Aro app: Available on the App Store and Google Play.
Check out the Digital Fast 2025 initiative: Visit digitalfast2025.com to learn more.
Your presence matters. Let's reclaim it together.
In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of busyness and anxiety. This message challenges us to recognize the spiritual warfare at play in our distracted lives. Drawing from 1 Peter 5:7-9, we're reminded of the powerful truth that we can cast all our anxieties on God because He cares for us. The imagery of Satan as a prowling lion seeking to devour us serves as a wake-up call to be alert and sober-minded. But here's the good news: we're not left defenseless. By remaining in Christ, as beautifully illustrated in John 15's vine and branches metaphor, we find our source of strength and peace. This isn't about adding more to our already busy lives, but about holy subtraction - intentionally creating space to abide in Jesus. As we do this, we not only find personal transformation but become a witness to an anxious world, showing what it truly means to be disciples of Christ.
In our digital age, we're constantly bombarded with information, leading to what can be called 'incoming content overload.' This phenomenon not only affects our daily lives but also impacts our relationship with God. The scripture from Psalm 103:2, 'Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits,' reminds us of the importance of remembering God's goodness. We're prone to forget, constantly consuming new information without taking time to digest the blessings we've already received. This parallels the story of the Israelites in Exodus, who quickly forgot God's miraculous deliverance. By practicing gratitude and intentionally remembering God's benefits, we can shift our perspective and deepen our relationship with Him. It's crucial for us to create space in our busy lives to delight in God, not just consuming more content, but reflecting on what He has already done for us.
Clair dives into the timeless story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to explore sacred boundaries. This narrative reveals a profound truth: we were created for limits, not to restrict us, but to invite us into a deeper relationship with God. The serpent's temptation to 'be like God' mirrors our modern struggle with technology, as we strive to be all-knowing, all-present, and all-powerful through our devices. But what if these limitations are actually divine gifts? By embracing our human limits, we make room for God to move in our lives, freeing us from the exhausting pursuit of godlike status. As we consider a 'digital fast,' we're challenged to reexamine our relationship with technology and rediscover the beauty of being present in the physical world God has placed us in.
In this episode of the "But I Tell You" podcast, join us for a compelling conversation with Jay Kim, lead pastor of Westgate Church in Silicon Valley and acclaimed author of books like "Analog Christian," "Analog Church," and "Listen, Listen, Speak." Recorded live from the Practicing the Way conference in Portland, Jay opens up about his personal journey of faith and formation, challenging the conventional idea that discipleship is merely about getting better and doing more.
Discover how Jay's experiences in therapy, spiritual direction, and authentic friendships have led him to a deeper awareness and a more meaningful life focused on wholeness rather than endless self-improvement. He shares profound insights into living fully present with God, countering the cultural pressures of perfectionism and performance that pervade our lives.
Tune in to explore the transformative power of desiring what is already yours—God's love and presence—and learn how this perspective can free you to live more genuinely and joyfully in the here and now. Don't miss out on this inspiring dialogue that encourages us all to embrace our true selves and find real meaning in life's journey.
If you enjoy the episode, remember to like, subscribe, and share with friends. Follow us on social media at @ButITellYouPod for more content and updates! Likewise via subscribing to Tyler's Newsletter
Finally, This episode is produced with generous care by Sami Mititelu
More about Pastor Jay Kim: Jay serves as lead pastor at WestGate Church in the Silicon Valley of California. He is the author of Listen Listen Speak, Analog Christian, Analog Church, and Colossians: One Jesus, One People. He is also a contributing author to Faithful Exiles, Before You Lose Your Faith, and Red Skies. He has been featured in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Missio Alliance, Outreach, and Relevant Magazine. He is the host of IVP’s Digital Examen Podcast and Barna’s Making Space Podcast. You can email him at jay@jaykimthinks.com about just about anything. You can also connect with him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. He'd love to hear from you!
Pastor Tyler challenges us to confront our relationship with technology and its impact on our spiritual lives. The story of Mary and Martha from Luke 10:38-42 serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of choosing 'the better part' - sitting at Jesus' feet and truly listening. We're asked to consider: are we more like Martha, distracted and worried by many things, or Mary, focused on what truly matters? The parallel between Martha's distractions and our modern digital distractions is striking. Just as Martha was 'pulled away' and 'dragged in different directions,' so too are we by our devices. This message urges us to become what we behold most - and challenges us to behold Christ more than our screens. It's a call to intentional spiritual formation, to counter the unintentional formation that happens through our digital habits. We're reminded that 'attention is the beginning of devotion,' and invited to redirect our attention from our devices to the transformative presence of Jesus.
Take a look forward with us as we dream on God's faithfulness in Seattle and at A Seattle Church.
Take a look back with us as we reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in Seattle and at A Seattle Church.
In this special Christmas Eve sermon, Pastor Tyler explores the theme of "LOVE," reflecting on the deep connection between love and anxiety, particularly during the holiday season when we often ponder what we treasure most. The sermon weaves through the traditional Christmas narrative in Luke 2, emphasizing the varied responses of characters like Caesar Augustus, the shepherds, and Mary, each illustrating different ways of receiving the divine gift of Jesus.
Pastor Tyler invites us to find ourselves in these characters, considering how we can make space for Jesus in our lives. He challenges us to treasure Jesus as the greatest gift and embrace the transformation He offers. By pondering His presence, we are encouraged to move from reflection to actively sharing God's love with the world. This sermon calls us to let the transformative power of Jesus be born anew in our lives, inspiring us to treasure and praise Him throughout the Christmas season and beyond.
Clair, who leads our Outreach and Prayer Ministries, delves into the prophetic words of Isaiah 9, which foretell the coming of a child who would change everything. This isn't just any peace we're talking about – it's the deep, transformative shalom that only God can bring. We're challenged to move beyond our typical ways of seeking peace through escapism or numbing, and instead lean into the Prince of Peace himself. The four promises in Isaiah's prophecy – light shining in darkness, joy springing up in gloom, breaking the yoke of oppression, and burning the instruments of war – all find their fulfillment in Jesus. As we prepare our hearts this Advent season, we're invited to receive this child-king and allow Him to bring His peace into every area of our lives. It's a reminder that true peace isn't found in circumstances, but in a person – Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
In this episode, Pastor Tyler interviews Dr. Sharon Miller for a deep dive into the complexities of control in our spiritual journey. Dr. Miller is co-pastor of Bright City Church and author of "Free of Me," "Nice," and "The Cost of Control," She shares her incredible insights into how control and faith intertwine for Christians, especially in today's uncertain world.
🌿 What's Covered in This Episode:
--Discover how the pursuit of control can shape our relationships and spirituality.
--Learn about the "false gospel" of control and how to shift towards genuine faith.
--Gain practical tips on balancing influence within God's boundaries.
--Hear Sharon's personal journey through family, church leadership, and overcoming the societal pressures of control.
✨ Key Takeaways:
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The surprising link between anxiety and control.
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How to recognize the cost of control in your life and relationships.
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Embracing faith amidst uncertainty and the call to let God lead.
đź”— Connect with Sharon Miller:
--Follow her on Instagram: @SharonHMiller
--Tune into her podcast: "The Resilient Pastor" featuring delightfully insightful conversations.
If you find it helpful, share it with someone who needs encouragement today.
Thanks for tuning in! 🙏 Let’s journey together towards transformation and healing.
Pastor Brice takes a deep dive into the prologue of John's Gospel, uncovering profound truths about Jesus Christ. The message reveals how John artfully connects Jesus to both the Creation story and the Exodus, painting a picture of Christ as the Word, the Light, and the catalyst for new creation. We're challenged to consider the magnitude of these claims: Jesus as fully divine, eternally existent, and the source of all life. This isn't just ancient theology; it's a call to recognize that God hasn't abandoned us in our darkness. Instead, He's entered our world, offering us unshakable hope and a bright future. As we navigate the ups and downs of the Christmas season, we're invited to let our moments of despair serve as reminders of the glorious future God has prepared for us. This message encourages us to choose hope, not as mere optimism, but as a powerful act of faith and endurance.
Pastor Tyler delves into Philippians 2:5-11, uncovering the profound truth of Christ's self-emptying love. This passage, known as the 'Christ Hymn,' reveals how Jesus, despite being fully God, chose to humble Himself and become human for our sake. We're challenged to adopt this same mindset of Christ - one of selflessness and joy in serving others. The message reminds us that true joy isn't found in worldly power or success, but in following Jesus' example of radical self-surrender. As we navigate the sorrows and challenges of life, we're encouraged to choose joy deliberately, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a steadfast attitude rooted in our faith. This choice to embrace joy, even in difficult circumstances, becomes an act of faith and a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ in our lives.
In the final part of our Generosity series called GREAT GAIN, we are challenged to examine our relationship with money through the lens of faith. The central theme revolves around Jesus' teaching in Matthew 16:24-26, where He calls us to take up our cross and follow Him. This passage isn't just about spiritual devotion; it's a radical call to trust God with every aspect of our lives, including our finances. We're reminded that true contentment and 'great gain' come not from accumulating wealth, but from godliness and generosity. The message draws fascinating parallels between our financial habits and our spiritual health, suggesting that how we handle money reflects our trust in God. Are we clutching our purses tightly, or are we open-handed, ready to give as God leads? This perspective shift invites us to see generosity not as a burden, but as a path to freedom from anxiety and a way to participate in God's kingdom work. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to ask ourselves: Do our bank statements reflect a life of faith and trust in God's provision?
In part 2 of our newest series, GREAT GAIN, Pastor Brice challenges us to reexamine our relationship with money through the lens of Christ's teachings. The central theme revolves around Jesus' warnings about greed and the love of money, as found in Luke 12:15 and 1 Timothy 6:6-10. We're reminded that Jesus, as the Creator and owner of all things, speaks about money not to restrict us, but to free us from its grip. The message beautifully illustrates how our desire for wealth can become a 'special temptation,' opening doors to various other sins. By understanding Jesus' teachings as coming from the most generous being in the cosmos, we're invited to shift our perspective and find true contentment in Christ rather than in material possessions. This insight is particularly relevant in our modern world, where success is often equated with wealth. As we reflect on this message, we're encouraged to ask ourselves: Are we serving God or money? How can we cultivate a heart that values Christ above all else?
In our new series GREAT GAIN, we're challenged to examine our relationship with money and generosity through the lens of godliness. The story of the rich young ruler in Luke 18 serves as a stark reminder that possessions can possess us, hindering our spiritual growth. We're asked to consider: do we possess our possessions, or do they possess us? This narrative invites us to reflect on what we might need to 'lack' in order to fully embrace the kingdom of heaven. The message emphasizes that true godliness often requires us to loosen our grip on worldly security and trust more deeply in God's provision. As we contemplate this, we're encouraged to open our hands and hearts, asking God how He wants us to use the gifts He's given us for His kingdom purposes.
In the final sermon of the series "WITH", we're reminded of the profound importance of childlike faith and how it relates to our spiritual journey. The key scripture comes from Mark 10, where Jesus says, 'Let the little children come to me.' This isn't just about kids – it's about all of us embracing a childlike approach to faith. We're challenged to consider how our childhood experiences, especially trauma, can shape our perception of God and others. The message draws fascinating parallels between attachment theory and our spiritual lives, suggesting that our early relationships profoundly impact our ability to connect with God. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to allow Jesus to heal our inner child, transforming our faith journey. This isn't just theory – it's an invitation to experience deeper belonging, becoming, and blessing in Christ, potentially changing how we relate to God, others, and even the children in our lives.
In this powerful exploration of marriage, we're challenged to view our relationships through the lens of Christ's love for the church. The key message revolves around three choices we must make: to love, to sacrifice, and to heal. Drawing from Philippians 2, we're reminded that true joy in marriage comes from being like-minded, having the same love, and being one in spirit. This isn't about losing our individuality, but about choosing unity over being right. The sermon emphasizes that thriving in marriage is our choice - it's what we get by giving in God's grace. Just as Christ emptied himself for us, we're called to humble ourselves and value our spouse above ourselves. This perspective shift can transform our marriages from battlegrounds to holy grounds where God's love is manifested.
The sermon "With — Neighbors" emphasizes the importance of engaging in genuine, compassionate faith conversations rather than relying solely on traditional sermons. Drawing on the example of Philip the Evangelist, it highlights how Christians can overcome barriers to sharing their faith by challenging preconceived categories of who is deserving, prioritizing evangelism even amid discomfort, and being open to diverse methods led by the Holy Spirit. The core message is that effective evangelism starts with listening, understanding, and letting God’s love and Spirit guide interactions, reaching beyond boundaries to share the good news with all.
In our exploration of dating through a biblical lens, we discover that God's vision for our relationships transcends cultural norms. Romans 13:8-14 serves as our guide, reminding us that love is the fulfillment of the law. This passage challenges us to approach dating not as a self-serving pursuit, but as an opportunity to love others as Christ loves us. We're called to 'put on the armor of light' in our relationships, rejecting the world's casual dating culture and instead embracing intentional, Christ-centered connections. This message encourages us to view dating not as a means to complete ourselves, but as a way to grow in our faith and serve others. By clothing ourselves with Christ, we can navigate the complexities of modern dating with wisdom, discernment, and a heart that seeks to honor God and others above our own desires.
Pastor Tyler discusses sexuality from a Christian perspective, addressing how modern cultural views have deviated from traditional biblical teachings on sex. It emphasizes the belief that God created sex as a gift intended for marriage between a man and a woman, meant to foster intimacy, procreation, and symbolize a relationship with God. The conversation encourages acknowledging the misuse of sexuality, such as through pornography or casual sex, as distortions that impact real relationships.
The overarching message is that understanding and practicing sexuality should be grounded in God's design, and individuals are encouraged to align their sexual desires and actions with their faith.
Dr. David Bennett, a scholar and evangelist, shares his testimony about the journey through suffering and self-discovery, particularly in relation to his sexuality. Dr. Bennett speaks about his struggle with identity, desire, and his eventual transformation through a profound encounter with Jesus during a difficult period in his life. He reflects on how suffering and misaligned desires are opportunities for God’s grace to work in our lives.
Dr. Bennett emphasizes that sexuality and other challenges we face are not just ethical issues, but deeply connected to human suffering and spiritual transformation. He shares a vivid experience of feeling God's healing presence, which led him to realize that his identity and worth were found in Christ, rather than in societal or personal expectations. He encourages others to embrace their struggles as holy places where God reveals His glory, pointing to the inclusivity of the Gospel and the ultimate restoration that comes through faith in Jesus.
As a young gay man, David Bennett saw Christianity as an enemy to freedom for LGBTQI people, and his early experiences with prejudice and homophobia led him to become a gay activist. But when Jesus came into his life in a highly unexpected way, he was led down a path he never would have predicted or imagined.
This is the Q&R recording from our House of Learning event, October 6th
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Pastor Brice reminds us of our deep-seated need for genuine Christian friendships. Drawing from Genesis 2, we see that even in paradise, God declared it 'not good for man to be alone.
Brice challenges us to examine our own lives and ask: Do we truly value growing deep Christian friendships? Or have we settled for surface-level connections?
Through personal testimony and biblical insight, we're encouraged to see friendship as a divine reality, with Christ at the center.
God has chosen us for relationship with him. The question is if we will choose to love him back. If we will also love those God has called us to? In partnership with Pastor Don Lee from World Vision, Pastor Tyler encourages us to consider how God is inviting our church to "remember the poor." To begin afresh by sponsoring children together from 2 villages in Zimbabwe.
Pastor Tyler looked at the stories of Jesus healing Jairus’ daughter and the bleeding woman who touched his garment. He invited us to consider how we can live boldly in the healing ministry of Jesus. How we can bring our vulnerability to Christ for healing, as well as helping others to do the same. To take heart in Christ’s healing for us and others today and in the age to come.
Forgiveness involves four key relationships: from God to you, you to yourself, you to others, and others to you. Struggles often arise in believing in, receiving, and extending forgiveness, as well as accepting it from others. Drawing from Mark 2:1-12, which illustrates Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and heal, the sermon emphasizes that forgiveness is crucial for overcoming brokenness and fostering boldness in faith. Embracing forgiveness involves accountability, confession, repentance, and extending grace, reflecting the transformative power of Christ’s love and authority.
Pastor Tyler outlines six ways to take heart from Christ’s presence: Jesus’ intentional presence with His disciples, His reassuring words, His invitation for faith, His immediate rescue of Peter, His calming of the storm, and the disciples' recognition of His divinity. He emphasizes that Christ’s presence overcomes fear and doubt, urging believers to focus on Jesus rather than their worries. The sermon encourages the congregation to embrace bold faith and share their faith courageously, knowing that Jesus is with them in every challenge.
Pastor Chris Griffith explores the theme of unity within the church, particularly in the face of societal divisions and diverse opinions. It starts by highlighting the current climate of division and contrasts it with the idea of the church as a place of unity, as envisioned by God.
His message emphasizes that true unity goes beyond superficial slogans or labels; it involves genuine connection and harmony. The text uses the metaphor of musical harmony—different notes coming together to create a pleasing chord—to illustrate this concept. It concludes by underscoring that unity in worship should transcend differences and be rooted in a shared faith in Christ, rather than external distinctions.
Brice dives into spiritual warfare, emphasizing the reality of a spiritual battle that Christians face, highlighting the importance of unity and the need to "put on the full armor of God" to stand against evil forces.
This message explores various reactions people have towards spiritual warfare, ranging from excitement and skepticism to fear and anger. It stresses the importance of understanding biblical spiritual warfare, the enemy's strategies to divide and deceive, and how Christ helps believers overcome these challenges. The message concludes by encouraging believers to strengthen their commitment to truth, allegiance to Christ, and reliance on His power.
In the church, we often divide via our pleasures. We live in spite of one another because our lives are often defined by trying to “live the dream” in the eyes of others. Self-protective fears of not being happy enough lead us to chose ourselves over others. Instead, we are called to re-unite in the body of Christ. In needing and giving ourselves to one another to grow. Bearing with one another to remember that we only have true faith when it is shared. That we can unite with others under a shared mission, telos, and humility. Being restored a life worthy of th calling we have received. Becoming defined by our shared glorious identity in the Body more than simply our personalities as individuals seeking pleasure at all costs to community.
In the church, we often divide via our sources of power. We live in spite of one another because our lives are defined by the strength of our associations. We try to “make a life for ourselves” in natural ways that reflect the world. Defining ourselves by walking out-of-step from God’s presence. Self-protective fears lead us to trust our resumes, social acceptance, and bank accounts. Instead, we are called to re-unite in Christ’s Spirit. Not by our our way but by his might. Remembering that we have a loving Spirit inside of us. One we can trust and that unites with others in his sustenance, joy, and refreshing. Being restored to our intimate oneness with the trinity, we gain faith from “the power working within us.”(Eph 3:20 KJV). Becoming defined by our shared identity in the Spirit more than the dried-up wells that often promise but can’tl bring “springs of ever-living water.”
In the church, we often divide via our Preservation. We live in spite of our neighbors because our lives are defined by trying to fit in to Christian community. This self-protective fear of not being fed enough is insatiable. It leads us to never share our faith with those who don’t know Jesus. Instead, we are called to re-unite in our call to be one that the world would know who sent us. To our shared mission to reach the lost, and not just transform the found. To remember that we have are called to be “salt and light” in a dark world. To unite with believers in oneness “in the world” as our greatest means of sharing Jesus with those who don’t yet know him. To be agents of regeneration to a hurting world. Becoming defined as people of good news in a waiting world.
In the church, we often divide via our performances. We live in spite of one another because our lives are defined by trying to “justify ourselves” in the eyes of God and others. Self-protective fears of not being enough lead us to compete. Instead, we are called to re-unite in Christ’s sacrifice. Not by our our works but by his grace. To remember that we have a loving Savior in Heaven that we can trust. That we can unite with others under his mercy, salvation, and kindness. Being restored to our immeasurable worth in Christ (Philippians 3:1-3 ). Becoming defined by our shared identity in the Savior more than the performative ways we try to win, as if there isn’t enough of Jesus’s love to go around.
“The Father’s love is an all-encompassing embrace that creates unity amid diversity and draws us into the one family of God.” - Brennan Manning
We must seek healing of our relational wounds, if we want to be as spiritually united “as we are” in the One Body of Christ.
If we don't let God work on our inner life and trust structures, then our outer life will be one of defensive combativeness and disunity.
Grief is a fundamental part of the human experience. It’s the ever present reminder that we live in a broken world. It’s the ache from deep within us and the prevailing sense that things are not right. In the midst of our grief, if we’re honest, it can sometimes be hard to see God in it. To know he is there and to trust that he cares.
Like David, we believe you can find God’s strength in your grief as well.
A healing strength that you can help others to find in Jesus as well.
How do we come together in a world that’s coming apart?
Jesus has invited us to the party, to bring our lean, but submit our bow.
Pursuing Friendship in Christ is not just a Convenience. It’s a Command, but what does true biblical friendship look like?
Pentecost Sunday: Transformation by God’s Power is Possible. Pastor Tyler shares Three Upper Rooms found in scripture, one of fear, one of faith, and one filled with God's Power.
Who most provokes you to anger?
What do you do when someone angers you? How do you respond to being provoked?
With our Anger, we are faced with choices between Life and Death. Retaliation or Redemption, Frustration or Forgiveness. Groupthink or Growth.
David's Choices in 1 Sam 24 Point Us to Christ's Forgiveness
Grace is what David modeled. What Jesus would gave perfectly to us. His enemies. Jesus loves his enemies
What are you hyper-focused on?
What is the soundtrack of your life?
Problem isn’t that God isn’t speaking, but that we don’t have the capacity to notice.
Passivity is Easier….For Me, For You, For Now...
But when God is calling us to take full responsibility for our life and faith and the communities, he has called us to lead and serve
Hannah's trust in God's bigger and greater plan despite her immediate pain is worth considering. Where could we live like she embodied Christ's trust in the Father.
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Do I believe that learning to hear God's voice is the single most important thing we will ever learn to do? Explore hearing the Voice of God with Pastor Brice
How can we effectively share our story with others? Why is story telling important, and what can we learn about being a story teller for Jesus. Worship Director, Richard Taylor Jr. shares an inspirational message.
Being a Group Leader is being a guide, a type of spiritual parent.
Spiritual formation is:
A process
Of being formedÂ
In the image of Christ
For the sake of others.
-Robert Mullholland
The best gift you can give the people you lead is your transforming self.
-Ruth Haley Barton
What is our identity? What is servanthood, and how can we be more like Jesus in serving? Join our Admin Director, Amanda, as we continue our series, "More than me".
Have you been holding your gift? Pastor Brice dives into understanding our gifting, where it comes from, and what to do with it.
Group Leader, Jinnie, shares from Luke 24 how we can walk together this journey of life with Christ.
During your group, how many in the room are experiencing the enthusiastic LOVE that God has for us all?
Romans 8:38
I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love.
"The love of Christ is not a thing of the past, nor of the future, but of the present. It is not something that comes and goes, but something that stays." - A.W. Tozer
"Christ's love is not a sentiment, but a fact; not an emotion, but an historical reality." - J.I. Packer
"Self-rejection is the greatest enemy of the spiritual life because it contradicts the sacred voice that calls us the “Beloved.” Being the Beloved expresses the core truth of our existence." -Henri Nouwen
St. Ignatius of Loyola notes that sin is unwillingness to trust that what God wants is our deepest happiness.
“Daring to accept myself and receive love for who I am in my nakedness and vulnerability is the indispensable precondition for genuine transformation.” -David Benner
"Learn much of the Lord Jesus. For every look at yourself, take ten looks at Christ. He is altogether lovely. Such infinite majesty, and yet such meekness and grace, and all for sinners, even the chief. Live much in the smiles of God. Bask in His beams. Feel His all-seeing eye settled on you in love, and repose in His almighty arms. . . . Let your soul be filled with a heart-ravishing sense of the sweetness and excellency of Christ and all that is in Him."
-Robert Murray McCheyne
Pastor Tyler Gorsline opens up the Book of Haggai for a verse-by-verse look at 4 Questions for You: Seattle's Church Remnant.
Finding identity in Jesus’ Identity. Being shaped by the 8 "I AM" statements of Jesus in John's gospel,
Engage with courage with one another out of the power of the love of Jesus at work within us.
Jeremy Jernigan is the Lead Pastor of Abundant Life Church, a multisite church with campuses in Oregon and Washington. He’s a second generation preacher with a passion for studying and communicating truth.
The things we so easily tell ourselves and others, and what the words of Jesus have to say about them.
The things we so easily tell ourselves and others, and what the words of Jesus have to say about them.
The things we so easily tell ourselves and others, and what the words of Jesus have to say about them.
Here Pastor Tyler share the story about how God opened an opportunity for our community. About the 40 day journey ahead as we move in to the Collective Seattle on March 31st.
Jevon Washington, Pastor at Flourish Church Rainier Valley, joins us to share God's word talking about the heart for justice