Grace Church Eden Prairie: Recent Episodes
Grace Church
Pastor Troy explores Paul’s trials before Festus and King Agrippa, showing how God can transform false accusations, political corruption, imprisonment, and suffering into opportunities to testify about Jesus Christ. Though Paul faces hostility and is treated unjustly, he boldly presents the gospel, defends the historical reality of the resurrection, and explains that Christianity fulfills God’s promises throughout Scripture. Paul’s witness demonstrates that the gospel calls every person—regardless of status or influence—to repent, turn to God, and respond decisively to Jesus. This message encourages believers to view hardship as a platform for faithful witness, confidently proclaim the truth of the resurrection, and recognize the spiritual danger of being almost persuaded without fully surrendering to Christ.
Pastor Troy explores Paul’s trial before Governor Felix, highlighting how faithful Christians should expect false accusations, misrepresentation, political pressure, and seasons of unjust suffering while trusting that God’s sovereign purposes cannot be delayed. Though Paul’s opponents distort the truth, he responds with courage, integrity, and unwavering confidence in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, demonstrating what it means to remain faithful under pressure. He contrasts Paul’s bold obedience with Felix’s tragic decision to delay repentance, reminding believers that postponing a response to God’s truth is spiritually dangerous. This message encourages Christians to stand firm in biblical truth, trust God’s justice over human systems, and respond immediately to the gospel.
In Acts 23, Pastor Troy explores God's providence through one of the most chaotic moments in Paul's life. Though Paul faces false accusations, violence, an assassination plot, and imprisonment, God is quietly directing every event to fulfill His promise of bringing Paul to Rome. The message reminds us that God's purposes are never threatened by closed doors, ordinary circumstances, or human opposition. Because Jesus stands with His people and keeps His promises, believers can trust that their lives are not random, their suffering is not wasted, and their story is not finished until God says it is.
In Acts 21–22, Pastor Troy highlighted how Paul turned a hostile confrontation into an opportunity to proclaim the Gospel. Rather than defending his reputation, Paul shared how Jesus radically transformed his life, pointing the crowd to Christ instead of himself. Even when faced with false accusations, rejection, and the threat of suffering, Paul faithfully used his testimony, background, and circumstances to advance the Gospel. Pastor Troy challenged believers to remember that every Christian testimony is powerful because it showcases God's mercy and grace, not our own accomplishments. He also encouraged us to keep our testimonies centered on Jesus, grounded in Scripture, and focused on God's goodness rather than glorifying our past. Ultimately, the message reminded us that when we face opposition or difficult circumstances, our greatest goal is not to defend ourselves but to faithfully declare Christ and use every opportunity to share the Gospel.
In Acts 21, Paul continued toward Jerusalem even after repeated warnings that suffering, arrest, and persecution awaited him. His resolve showed that faithful obedience to God is not determined by comfort or safety, but by a willingness to follow Christ regardless of the cost. Once in Jerusalem, Paul humbly set aside his personal preferences and participated in a purification ceremony to preserve unity among Jewish and Gentile believers. Although false accusations led to mob violence and his arrest, Paul remained committed to the gospel, demonstrating it through deep relationships, sacrificial humility, and courageous obedience. Like Paul, believers are called to embody the gospel relationally, pursue unity within the church, and obey Jesus even when it costs comfort, freedom, or reputation.
Pastor Troy highlights Paul's emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders, emphasizing what it means to live a faithful Christian life. Paul challenges believers to finish the race God has given them, remain committed to the whole counsel of God's Word, and passionately love and protect Christ's Church, even in the face of hardship and false teaching. Through Paul's example of humility, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ, the message reminds Christians that faithfulness is measured not by comfort or success, but by finishing well for God's glory.
Pastor Troy explores the riot in Ephesus to show that while the gospel transforms individual lives, it also creates unavoidable collisions with culture by exposing humanity's idols. Rather than advancing through force, politics, or violence, the gospel spreads through the faithful preaching of Jesus Christ, changing hearts in ways that ultimately reshape families, communities, and even economies. Pastor Troy challenges believers to expect cultural friction, reject mob mentality by embracing the mind of Christ, and remain confident that the gospel is powerful enough to confront false worship and change the world without compromising its message.
Acts 19 reminds us that the power of God is not found in formulas, rituals, or simply using the name of Jesus—it is found in a genuine relationship with Him. Through the failed attempt of the seven sons of Sceva and the extraordinary miracles performed through Paul, God demonstrated the authority of Christ and exposed counterfeit faith. Pastor Troy challenged believers to neither ignore nor obsess over spiritual darkness, but instead to revere Jesus above all else. True repentance is more than feeling sorry for sin; it is turning away from the old life because Jesus has become greater than anything we once trusted or desired. Ultimately, the passage calls us to worship Jesus, not use Him, and to let genuine repentance produce visible life change.
Pastor Troy Dobbs' sermon from Acts 18 focused on how God helps His people stay the course when they are weary, discouraged, or tempted to quit. After years of hardship, opposition, and exhausting travel, Paul arrived in Corinth worn down, yet God strengthened him through five key means: community (Aquila and Priscilla), timely encouragement (new believers coming to faith), divine assurance ("Do not be afraid, for I am with you"), unexpected provision (Gallio protecting the church), and a renewed sense of mission. The sermon emphasized that God often sustains us through relationships, small victories, His Word, and circumstances we never would have planned ourselves. Pastor Troy reminded the church not to overlook the importance of deep spiritual friendships and godly partnerships that help us endure difficult seasons. He also highlighted that God's work continues beyond any one person, as seen when leaders like Apollos carried forward the ministry Paul began. The central takeaway was that endurance in the Christian life comes from trusting that God's mission belongs to Him, not us — and He always provides what we need to keep moving forward.
Pastor Troy Dobbs examines Paul's ministry in Athens, highlighting how his heart was deeply stirred by the city's idolatry and motivated him to share the gospel with courage and wisdom. Paul engaged both religious and secular audiences, using the Athenians' altar to the "unknown god" as a bridge to proclaim the one true God — Creator, Sustainer, Judge, and Savior. This message emphasizes the importance of understanding culture without compromising biblical truth, calling believers to avoid apathy, isolation, and a shallow worldview while faithfully proclaiming repentance and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, Paul demonstrates how Christians can make the unknown God known in a world still searching for meaning through modern idols.
In Acts 17, Pastor Troy explores Paul and Silas’ ministry in Thessalonica and Berea, emphasizing the power of faithfully proclaiming Jesus through the Scriptures. Paul reasoned from God’s Word, explained how Jesus fulfilled God’s promises, and remained steadfast despite opposition and persecution. The message highlights the example of the Bereans, who eagerly received the Word while carefully examining the Scriptures daily to discern truth. Pastor Troy encourages believers to pursue both eagerness and discernment, reminding us that lasting impact comes not from chasing influence but from faithfully exalting Christ and grounding our lives in God’s Word.
Paul and Silas’ story in Acts 16 reminds us that following God does not exempt us from suffering, but God often uses painful situations for His greater purpose. After being falsely accused, beaten, and imprisoned for freeing a demon-possessed girl, Paul and Silas responded with prayer and worship instead of fear and bitterness. God shook the prison with a miraculous earthquake, leading the jailer and his household to hear the gospel and place their faith in Jesus. This sermon challenged us to trust God in difficult seasons, because our response to suffering can strengthen our faith and point others toward Christ. Genuine salvation produces real transformation, and Christians are called to live in a way that encourages others to follow Jesus.
Pastor Steve Harrison taught from Acts 15:36–16:15, showing how God advances His mission through conflict, concession, calling, and conversion. He began by examining the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark, emphasizing that even godly leaders experience conflict, yet God can still work through difficult situations to accomplish His purposes. The sermon highlighted the eventual reconciliation between Paul, Barnabas, and Mark as a picture of Christian forgiveness, humility, and restoration. Pastor Steve then explained why Paul had Timothy circumcised, clarifying that Paul was not compromising the gospel but removing unnecessary barriers that could hinder ministry among Jewish people. He also explored how the Holy Spirit guided Paul and his team through both closed and open doors, ultimately leading them to Macedonia and expanding the gospel into Europe. Finally, the message focused on Lydia’s conversion in Philippi, reminding believers that while Christians are called to faithfully share the gospel, it is God alone who opens hearts and transforms lives. Pastor Steve concluded by encouraging the church to engage boldly in God’s mission, remove unnecessary hindrances to gospel witness, and trust the Holy Spirit to save people through the message of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy taught from Acts 15, showing how the early church gathered to address a major question: whether Gentile believers needed to follow Jewish law to be saved. He explained that false teachers were adding requirements to the gospel, saying “Jesus plus works” instead of salvation by grace alone through faith alone. Peter responded by affirming that both Jews and Gentiles are saved the same way - through faith in Christ and the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit. James confirmed this by pointing to Scripture, showing that the inclusion of the Gentiles was always part of God’s plan. The council ultimately agreed that salvation is by grace alone, not human effort or religious rule-keeping. However, they also encouraged Gentile believers to live in ways that promoted unity and avoided unnecessary offense to Jewish believers. The sermon emphasized that grace must both be defended as sufficient in Christ and displayed in how Christians love and live with one another.
Pastor Troy highlights the importance of gospel conviction, Christian perseverance, and faith under trial, drawing from Acts 14 to show how Paul and Barnabas remained bold despite opposition, persecution, and suffering. He emphasizes that tribulation in the Christian life is not abnormal but part of God’s plan, requiring believers to stand firm in biblical truth and unwavering faith. The message also warns against both fear of rejection and the danger of seeking human approval, calling Christians to pursue God-centered living and spiritual endurance. Ultimately, it encourages believers to develop strong Christian convictions rooted in Jesus Christ in order to faithfully navigate hardship and advance the gospel.
Pastor Troy walks through Acts 13 as a turning point where the church shifts from gathering to actively sending. In Antioch, the Holy Spirit sets apart Barnabas and Saul through prayer and fasting, launching an intentional gospel mission. As they go, they encounter both eager belief and strong opposition. Paul proclaims Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises and the only source of salvation. Though some reject the message, others respond with joy, showing the gospel’s power to divide and transform. Through it all, God’s mission advances, calling believers to faithful obedience in both success and hardship.
Pastor Troy walks through Acts 12 as a powerful story of God’s sovereignty unfolding through persecution, rescue, and judgment. Acts 12 begins with deep loss as James is killed and Peter is imprisoned, reminding us that following God does not mean avoiding suffering. With no worldly power, the church responds through earnest prayer, placing its trust fully in God. God then miraculously rescues Peter, even as the believers struggle to believe their prayers are being answered. In contrast, King Herod’s pride leads to his sudden and humbling death, showing that human authority cannot stand against God. Through it all, God’s Word continues to grow and multiply, calling us to trust His goodness and sovereignty even when outcomes don’t make sense.
The sermon from Acts 11 teaches that a healthy, Spirit-led church balances deep fellowship with an outward mission, welcoming all people God saves rather than becoming inward-focused. Through Peter’s defense of Gentile inclusion and the growth of the church in Antioch, we see that the gospel breaks cultural and religious barriers and forms one united family centered on Christ. A faithful church is marked by welcoming unexpected people, clearly reflecting Jesus, and living out generosity and unity as evidence of the gospel at work.
In a world marked by deep division—across politics, race, culture, and belief—Acts 10 reveals a defining moment in the early church: God makes it clear that the gospel is for everyone. Through Peter’s encounter with Cornelius and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Gentiles, God shatters long-standing barriers between Jews and Gentiles and declares that He shows no partiality. Salvation is not based on ethnicity, background, or status, but is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
Peter proclaims the core truths of the gospel: Jesus is Lord of all, was crucified and raised from the dead, and offers forgiveness of sins to everyone who believes. God confirms this message by giving the Holy Spirit to Gentiles just as He had to Jewish believers, demonstrating that they too are fully included in God’s family.
This passage challenges believers to stop viewing people through worldly categories and to reject assumptions that anyone is beyond God’s grace. It also reminds us that true unity cannot be achieved through human effort or cultural strategies, but only through reconciliation in Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus breaks down every dividing wall and creates one new humanity, united by a shared need for salvation and a shared identity in Him. The hope for a divided world is not found in better solutions, but in the transforming power of the gospel.
Juan Cuevas describes how, in Acts 10, God begins breaking down the barrier that had long separated the Jewish people from the rest of the world. Through the story of Cornelius and Peter, we see that the gospel is truly for everyone. Although Cornelius was an honorable and devout man who sincerely sought God, he still needed to hear the message of Jesus to be saved. This reminds us that being a good person or practicing religion is not the same as salvation. God prepares both men for this moment. While Cornelius is instructed by an angel to send for Peter, Peter receives a vision showing that what was once considered unclean is now made clean. This vision reveals that God is opening the door for the Gentiles to hear and receive the good news of Jesus. Anyone who trusts in Christ becomes part of God’s family. Acts 10 invites us to recognize our need for Jesus, because no amount of good works can remove the barrier between God and us. It also encourages believers as they share their faith. God often works in people’s hearts before we ever meet them, reminding us that the pressure to change hearts is not ours to bear. As we build genuine relationships and trust God’s timing, we can faithfully share the hope of the gospel.
Pastor Troy’s sermon from Acts 9:32–43 highlighted two powerful miracles performed through Peter that demonstrated the authority of Jesus. In Lydda, a paralyzed man named Aeneas was healed when Peter declared the power of Jesus’ name, leading many in the surrounding region to turn to the Lord. In Joppa, Peter prayed and raised Tabitha (Dorcas), a beloved disciple known for her generosity and service, from the dead. These miracles showed that Jesus has power not only over disease but even over death. Pastor Troy explained that miracles in Scripture are meant to point people to the Gospel and lead them to faith in Christ. Ultimately, the message reminded us that turning to Jesus brings true hope, transformation, and eternal life.
Pastor Troy’s sermon centered on our love for dramatic transformation stories and how that same “big reveal” is at the heart of the Gospel. Using Acts 9:1-31, he walked through Saul’s conversion, showing that this wasn’t a self-improvement story but a radical intervention by the risen Christ—turning a persecutor into a preacher through sheer grace. Referencing 2 Corinthians 5:17, he reminded us that in Christ we are made new: the old is gone, and the new has come. Saul’s encounter on the road to Damascus revealed that God’s grace is not earned but freely given, opening blind eyes and redefining both identity and purpose. Pastor Troy highlighted four features of grace: it magnifies God’s kindness over human goodness, opens spiritually blinded eyes, gives us a new purpose and family, and often makes us a target of opposition. Ultimately, the story ends not just with Saul’s transformation but with the church strengthened and multiplied—proof that God’s grace brings life, peace, and boldness to His people.
Pastor Troy gave his sermon on Acts 8:26–40 and focused on how evangelism is central to the Christian mission and how the story of Philip the Evangelist and the Ethiopian eunuch shows the gospel breaking barriers. Many believers fear evangelism, but it simply means sharing the good news of Jesus with others, often through everyday conversations and relationships. Philip’s obedience to God, attentiveness to one person, and willingness to ask and answer questions demonstrate practical ways Christians can share their faith. The Ethiopian’s immediate belief and baptism show the power of Scripture, explained clearly, and the importance of responding to the gospel without delay. The passage also highlights that evangelism is Spirit-led and can reach across cultural, geographic, and personal boundaries. Ultimately, believers are called to grow closer to Christ, so their witness becomes natural and courageous. The sermon challenged listeners to trust God, love the one person in front of them, and actively share the message of Jesus.
Pastor Troy describes how, in Acts 8:9-25, the gospel spreads into Samaria, breaking cultural and spiritual barriers as many believe in Christ and are baptized. Among them is Simon the sorcerer, who appears to respond to the message but is later confronted about the true condition of his heart. When the apostles arrive and the Holy Spirit is given, Simon attempts to buy the power of God, revealing a misunderstanding of grace. Peter rebukes him, making clear that salvation cannot be purchased or manipulated. This passage highlights the difference between outward religious activity and genuine heart transformation. Ultimately, it reminds us that true faith is marked not by appearance or performance, but by repentance and a surrendered relationship with Jesus.
Pastor Troy Dobbs teaches from Acts 8, showing how the early church experienced rapid growth despite intense persecution. Drawing from church history, he explains that the church’s expansion was driven by believers’ deep conviction in Jesus’ resurrection, the empowering work of the Holy Spirit, and, unexpectedly, persecution itself. Rather than silencing the gospel, persecution scattered believers into new places, spreading the message and bringing joy to entire cities, including Samaria. Pastor Troy highlights how God sovereignly uses suffering to advance His mission, honor faithful witnesses like Stephen, and even prepare future leaders such as Saul. The sermon emphasizes that ordinary believers, not just apostles, carried the gospel wherever they went. Ultimately, encouraging Christians to remain hopeful, flexible, and vocal, trusting that God turns hardship into victory for His unstoppable mission.
Pastor Troy breaks down Stephen's delivery of the longest recorded sermon in the New Testament, using Israel’s history to show how God has always been pointing His people toward Jesus. Rather than defending himself, Stephen boldly proclaims Christ and exposes how Israel repeatedly resisted God’s Word and rejected the Messiah. He reminds his listeners that God is not confined to buildings, rituals, or laws, but is the God of people, working everywhere through history. Even as he is unjustly condemned and stoned, Stephen forgives his enemies and entrusts his life to Jesus. His death becomes the first martyrdom in the church and marks the beginning of a powerful gospel legacy that would continue through others, including Saul, who later becomes Paul. His life shows that true legacy is faithfulness to Jesus, even when it costs everything.
Pastor Troy's message highlights how Stephen — full of the Holy Spirit, grace, and power — was used by God in extraordinary ways, yet quickly became a target of fierce opposition. When Stephen’s enemies couldn’t defeat his Spirit-filled wisdom, they turned to deception by secretly stirring up accusations, inciting violence, recruiting false witnesses, and twisting his words. He reminds believers that faithful godliness can provoke hostility, but Christians are called to speak with Spirit-given wisdom and keep the bigger picture in mind. Even in unjust moments, God is at work, and our steady, Christlike witness can impact others in ways we may never see.
Pastor Jim Erickson’s message highlighted how God grows His church not only through the proclamation of the gospel but through faithful organization, unity, and shared responsibility. As the early church experienced explosive growth in Jerusalem, new challenges emerged. Rather than allowing division or complacency to take root, the apostles addressed the issue directly, prioritizing both the ministry of the Word and compassionate care for those in need. By appointing seven qualified, Spirit-filled leaders to serve, the church adapted to growth while preserving unity and mission. The result was renewed momentum: the Word of God continued to spread, the number of disciples multiplied, and even many priests came to faith. Pastor Jim challenged believers to enter 2026 ready to adapt, protect unity, step into service, and trust that God uses faithful obedience to advance His unstoppable work.
Pastor Sam Houston's message reminded the church that while some entered 2026 easily and others through great difficulty, opposition has always been a reality for followers of Christ. Drawing from Acts 5, he demonstrated that opposition to Christianity has taken many forms throughout history; yet, two truths remain constant: the gospel of Jesus Christ is unstoppable, and God empowers His people to carry out His mission. Even when the apostles were imprisoned, beaten, and threatened, God used an unlikely voice—Gamaliel—to protect them and advance His purposes. Rather than being silenced by suffering, the apostles rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Jesus’ name. Their response revealed a supernatural joy rooted in Christ’s death and resurrection. The sermon concluded with a challenge for believers to reject fear and complacency, live boldly for Christ, and trust that nothing can hinder the power of the gospel. That the gospel of Jesus Christ is truly unstoppable.
Pastor Troy's message from Acts 5:1–11 tells how Ananias and Sapphira pretended to be fully generous while secretly holding back, leading God to judge their hypocrisy in a dramatic and immediate way. Their deaths brought a deep sense of awe and reverence to the early church, reminding everyone that God cares about honesty, purity, and the condition of the heart, not appearances. Pastor Troy emphasized that while this passage is sobering, it’s meant to purify believers, not terrify them, and to call us toward authenticity, integrity, and a worshipful fear that draws us closer to God.
This sermon teaches that God’s grace doesn’t just save us—it actively shapes every part of our lives. Using Acts 4:32–37, Pastor Juan shows how the early church was transformed by grace into a community marked by supernatural unity, deep love for others, bold gospel witness, and radical generosity. Their shared belief in Jesus created a powerful unity across cultural and social differences, and their new identities in Christ drove them to care for one another sacrificially. Grace also empowered them to proclaim the resurrection with courage, letting their transformed lives become their testimony. Ultimately, the passage calls believers today to examine how God’s grace is shaping their unity, their stewardship, their boldness, and their everyday identity. The grace that saves us is also meant to reshape us into people who reflect Jesus to the world.
Pastor Troy Dobbs contrasts theory and reality, demonstrating that while many Christians view persecution as theoretical, the early church and many believers today experience it as a daily reality. In Acts 4:23–31, after being threatened, the disciples responded by praying not for safety, but for boldness to keep proclaiming Jesus. Their prayer began with recognizing God’s sovereignty, was rooted in Scripture, and reflected deep confidence in His control over all things. God answered by shaking the place where they prayed and filling them with the Holy Spirit, strengthening them to speak with courage. The message reminds us that God’s sovereignty means nothing is random or beyond His power, even in the midst of suffering. Because of this, we can rest in His control and, like the early church, pray for strength and courage rather than comfort and ease.
Pastor Troy Dobbs discusses how the Holy Spirit inspires boldness in believers. Drawing attention to the fact that because John and Peter were in close proximity to and believed in Jesus, they had the Holy Spirit within them. Pastor Troy Dobbs also encourages believers to reflect on what contributes to their silence when it comes to sharing their faith and the gospel with others. He encourages them to spend time with the Lord so they, too, can speak with boldness.
Pastor Steve Harrison’s message for ENGAGE Sunday reminded us that nothing can stop the power of Jesus’ name. He walked us through Acts 4, where Peter and John boldly preached about Jesus’ resurrection even after being arrested — and how the Holy Spirit gave them the courage to stand strong. Pastor Steve encouraged us to expect challenges when we live out our faith, but to keep trusting that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. At the heart of it all, he reminded us that Jesus is our cornerstone — there’s no other name that saves, and He’s worth sharing with the whole world.
Pastor Troy’s sermon compares binge-watching long TV series to the unfolding story of the early church in Acts, both draw people in through growth, depth, and development. He highlights how Peter healed a lame man not by his own power but through Jesus’ name, showing that miracles exist to point people to Christ, not to glorify humans. Peter’s message to the amazed crowd centers on three truths: Jesus’ glory, humanity’s sin, and the call to repent. He boldly declares Jesus as the promised Messiah, the Holy and Righteous One whom the people rejected and crucified, yet whom God raised from the dead. Though the crowd was guilty, Peter offers hope: if they repent, their sins will be wiped away, and they will experience spiritual refreshing. Pastor Troy concludes that ignorance won’t excuse unbelief; God has revealed Himself through creation, Scripture, and Christ, and the only right response is to repent, believe, and be renewed by Jesus.
Pastor Troy Dobbs discusses the story of the beggar at the front of the temple who was miraculously healed when Peter the apostle spoke the name of Jesus Christ over him. Even though the beggar had no faith, God used Peter's faith to showcase His incredible power. Pastor Troy Dobbs also cautions Christians against various false gospels, such as the prosperity gospel and the word of faith movement.
Pastor Troy Dobbs speaks about the biblical example for how churches should operate. He emphasizes that the early church’s growth and spiritual life came from their devotion to God’s Word, fellowship, prayer, generosity, and evangelism. Faithful churches today must follow the same model, anchoring everything in Scripture, living in community, worshiping and praying together, and sharing resources freely out of love, not obligation. The church should be a place where lives are transformed, and Jesus is continually lifted.
Pastor Troy Dobbs talks of Peter’s first sermon in Acts 2 showing that Pentecost fulfilled Joel’s prophecy as God poured out His Spirit on all people. This means everyone, young and old, men and women, rich and poor, can know God personally and share His gospel boldly. Peter declares that the Spirit’s arrival also marks the beginning of the last days as we await Christ’s return. He points to the finished work of Jesus: His life of miracles, His death according to God’s plan, His resurrection that death could not hold, and His exaltation at God’s right hand. The people are cut to the heart, and Peter calls them to repent, be baptized, and receive forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit. That day, about 3,000 believed, reminding us that Pentecost was not the finish line but the starting line for the Spirit’s ongoing work through us.
Pastor Troy Dobbs explains Pentecost as a historical event, occurring 50 days after the ascension of Christ. On this day, the Holy Spirit came down upon the ten dozen Christ followers and allowed them to speak in various foreign languages so that those who came to Jerusalem could understand the gospel and bring it back to their home countries. He then goes on to describe the polarizing nature of the gospel and how it is written that those who believe in it and share it will be hated and persecuted.
Pastor Troy continues the Acts series with a message that highlights what it means to wait well on God. He explains how after Jesus' ascension, the disciples stayed united, devoted themselves to prayer, and trusted God’s sovereignty — even in the fallout of Judas’ betrayal. When choosing Matthias to replace Judas, they modeled how decision-making should flow from Scripture, prayer, reason, decision, and trust in God. The message reminds us in a very practical way that prayer not only deepens our relationship with God and one another, but also keeps us aligned with His unstoppable mission and greater plan.
Pastor Troy kicks off the Acts series with a message on Jesus’ ascension, and how it wasn’t the end of His story but the beginning of our mission. Before returning to the Father, He promised the Holy Spirit to empower believers with boldness, guidance, and spiritual gifts. Instead of getting sidetracked by speculation about timing, we’re called to stay focused on the mission—being His witnesses to carry the Gospel to our neighborhoods to the nations. And while Jesus now reigns from heaven, we live with confidence and hope, knowing He will one day return.
Pastor Sam Houston unpacks how Satan’s main weapon is deception, just like he used with Adam and Eve in the garden. He walks through the different ways the enemy tries to trick us — by planting doubt, offering empty promises, pulling others into our sin, and shifting blame — and reminds us how God’s Word gives us the tools to recognize and resist those lies
Pastor Troy Dobbs explains that salvation comes through Christ alone, not our works, and that we cannot mock God. What we sow, we will reap. Paul contrasts living for the flesh, which brings destruction, with living by the Spirit, which leads to eternal life. He urges believers to care for one another and reminds them to boast only in the cross of Christ, not in rituals or personal achievements.
Pastor Troy Dobbs discusses the importance of sharing the weight of burdens with other Christians. He walks through the scriptures and highlights how Paul is urging the Galatians help in spiritual restorations of their fellow Christians by standing with them and guiding them through trials.
Pastor Troy Dobbs explains how Paul warns the Galatians against gratifying sinful desires, contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, and instructs them to live in alignment with the Spirit’s guidance - avoiding the “acts of the flesh” and cultivating the “fruit of the Spirit.”
Pastor Jim Erickson continues the Galatians series with an emphasis that Christ has set believers free—not for legalism or self-indulgence, but for love and service. He discusses how Paul warns the Galatians against returning to the "yoke of slavery" under the law, stressing that salvation comes by grace through faith alone, not by works or rituals like circumcision. Pastor Jim challenged listeners to submit to Christ daily, use freedom to love others, and build up the church rather than tear it down.
Pastor Troy Dobbs emphasizes that true identity is found not in personality labels or social categories, but through faith in Christ, which makes us adopted sons and daughters of God. This new identity unites all believers, transcending race, class, and gender, and calls the church to live out diversity, equity, and inclusion according to God’s design. He warns against secular distortions of these concepts and urges believers to live out a love and truth that is rooted in God's Word.
Pastor Troy continues the Galatians series with an emphasis that salvation comes by faith alone, not by works or adherence to the Law. He unpacks Paul's rebuke of the Galatians for turning back to legalism, reminding them that even Abraham was justified by faith before the Law or circumcision existed. Pastor Troy highlights that relying on the law places us under a curse by our inability to meet the standard, but Christ redeemed us by fulfilling the Law and becoming a curse for us.
Pastor Troy Dobbs differentiates and warns Christians about following the false gospels of Legalism and License.
Pastor Troy unpacks the confrontation between Paul and Peter, highlighting the danger of compromising the gospel through hypocrisy and legalism and emphasizing that justification—being declared righteous before God—is a gift received through faith, not earned by human effort.
Pastor Troy continues the Galatians series by emphasizing that sharing the gospel isn’t enough — we must also stand firm in defending the truth that salvation comes by grace through faith in Christ alone. He highlights how Paul’s meeting with the apostles affirmed this message and modeled the importance of gospel-centered unity and conviction.
Pastor Troy kicks off the Galatians series with a message on how saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone is the only true Gospel, and any addition, subtraction, or distortion of that is not truly the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy wraps up the Proverbs series with a message on how to seek true wisdom by deferring to and acknowledging our omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent God in all areas of our lives.
Pastor Troy Dobbs walks through the biblical guidelines of “How to Stay Sexually Pure”, the impacts of sex outside of marriage, and the hope we have in Christ when we fail.
Pastor Troy Dobbs discusses the doubt that Christians can face, and how God can be trusted.
Pastor Troy continues the series in Proverbs by unpacking how to maneuver through the enticing nature of temptation by choosing your friends wisely and minding the counsel of your parents and elders in your church family.
The beginning of the new series "Uncommon Sense" Pastor Troy Dobbs preaches on Proverbs.
In the final message from Daniel, Pastor Troy Dobbs reminds us of how we can look forward to the promises of God, like Daniel.
Pastor Troy continues to unpack Daniel's prophecies and how they point to Israel's past, present, and future, the impending Tribulation, the preservation of the Church, and our eternal life and resurrection unto life or into judgment.
Pastor Michael unpacks Daniel's prophetic warnings about the Antichrist and how God's people can remain obedient and submit to our sovereign, omnipotent God.
Pastor Troy breaks down Daniel's detailed, accurate 70-week prophecy and how we should respond today.
Pastor Troy continues the Daniel series with a message on the accuracy of Daniel's prophecies and the importance of remaining faithful in the waiting.
Pastor Troy explores the prophecy of the antichrist's earthly rule, and how God's rule will be eternal.
Pastor Troy recounts the harrowing story of Daniel and the Lions' Den. Examining the power of prayer and faithfulness to God in the midst of a hostile world.
Pastor Troy resumes the Daniel series with a message on the dangers of pride in our life, and how it led to the fall of King Belshazzar and the Babylonian empire.
Pastor Troy shares a message on how we can stand firm in our convictions and trust in God's sovereignty as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did when faced with the fiery furnace.
Pastor Troy Dobbs discusses the nature of Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the future, and the implications of Daniel's interpratation from God.
Pastor Troy Dobbs studies the danger Daniel and his friends faced after Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the future, Daniel's prayer in response to their situation, and what we can learn from it today.
Pastor Troy Dobbs kicks off the Daniel series studying the exile of Isrielites to Babylon, the methods the Enemy can use to break down our spiritual defenses, and how we can defend against it.
Pastor Rob Rienow shares a message on the importance of sharing the gospel across generations.
Pastor Troy wraps up the A List series with a message on how we can battle our flesh and break free from addiction in Christ alone.
Pastor Troy continues the A-List series with a message on where anxiety comes from and how we can battle it biblically.
Pastor Troy Dobbs kicks off the series "the A List" discussing anger, its dangers if not dealt with properly, and what Christ says to do with it.
Guest Pastor Chris Holck examines the call of God to run the race set before us, what that means amid our life on earth, and how we must finish well.
In the final message from our Revelation series, Pastor Troy looks back at the story of Revelation, its reliability, and the excitement we can have saying, "Come, Lord Jesus."
Pastor Troy continues to unpack the features of believers' future home with Christ in the New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem.
Pastor Troy discusses the new home of Believers with Christ in the New Jerusalem and 10 truths about our home in Heaven.
Pastor Troy discusses the final judgment before God for both believers and nonbelievers.
Pastor Troy discusses the final judgment before God for both believers and nonbelievers.
Pastor Troy continues the study in Revelation 20, with the promise of Christ's thousand-year Kingdom on earth, the conclusive victory over Satan, and the final resurrection.
Pastor Troy discusses how Jesus Christ will defeat all who rebel against Him in the Battle of Armageddon and how we can keep our focus set on his second coming.
Pastor Michael shares a special Father’s Day message on how we can find all we need in Christ, our shepherd.
Pastor Troy teaches on the coming Wedding Feast in Heaven, and how we as the Church are called to prepare for it.
Pastor Troy examines the fall of the great city, Babylon and how we put our faith and confidence in Christ, not the world around us.
Pastor Troy unpacks the false religion described in Revelation 17 and explains how we are called to prioritize worship and remain faithful to God’s Truth.
Pastor Troy examines the final two bowls of God's judgment and His victorious sovereignty in the midst of evil days.
Pastor Troy teaches examines the coming wrath fo God and the response the world should have.
Looking at the compassion of Jesus as an example of the type of heart we should have, Pastor Steve encourages us to engage in God's mission to intentionally share the gospel with those around us.
Pastor Troy finishes chapter 14 of Revelation, examining the coming return of Jesus, and how it will differ from His first coming.
Pastor Troy teaches on the Mark of Christ on the 144,000 of Zion, exemplifying a new call to worship God as worthy.
Pastor Michael teaches us how to spot the false prophet and reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus.
Pastor Troy discusses how believers will be able to identify the Antichrist, and reminds us how Jesus will ultimately defeat evil.
Pastor Troy teaches on the War in Heaven and the spiritual realm, and how our confidence is in Christ, the Victor.
Pastor Troy discusses the call to share our testimonies as believers in a chaotic world, and God's will in the midst of it.
Pastor Michael discusses the delay between the sixth and seventh trumpet that God will allow in His mercy to allow unbelievers another opportunity to repent.
Pastor Troy discusses the second woe in Revelation and how we can see God's grace even in His judgment through His gift of the Gospel.
Pastor Jim Erickson walks us through Revelation 8 as the final Seal is broken and God's judgment is initiated, reminding us of the gift of prayer in the midst of chaos.
Pastor Troy reminds us that God is always in control and working, even if it doesn't always feel like it.
Pastor Sam resumes the Revelation series by unpacking the fifth and sixth seals and how the Tribulation will unfold.
Pastor Troy begins to unpack how God's wrath will unfold in the Tribulation for unbelievers.
Pastor Troy discusses the incredible worship demonstrated in Revelation. Will we join in giving glory to Jesus, who is worthy?
Pastor Troy explores the answer to the question, "is anyone worthy?". He also calls us to anticipate Heaven and the worship we are called to there.
Pastor Troy reminds us that God is in control and on the throne. He also reminds us of the importance of worship.
Pastor Troy preaches on the message to the church of Laodicea, challenging those who are lukewarm and who find self-sufficiency in wealth.
Pastor Troy preaches on the message to the church of Philadelphia, and how Jesus' promises to them hold true and apply to us today.
Pastor Troy continues the Revelations series by dissecting the warning to the church of Sardis as "the dead church" and how we can avoid becoming spiritually dead — as a church and as individuals.
Pastor Troy Dobbs continues in the book of Revelation by unpacking the message of warning to the church in Thyatira and how it applies to us today as we navigate culture and tolerance.
Pastor Troy Dobbs continues in the book of Revelation by unpacking the warning to the church of Balaam and how it applies to us today as we navigate culture and tolerance.
Pastor Troy Dobbs continues in the book of Revelation by unpacking Jesus' message to the church of Smyrna and how it applies to us today as we face suffering and persecution.
Pastor Troy Dobbs continues in the book of Revelation by unpacking the warning to the church of Ephesus and how it applies to us today as we must continually return to the first love we had for Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy Dobbs continues in the book of Revelation by walking through John's description of seeing Jesus for the first time in his vision.
Pastor Troy Dobbs begins a new teaching series in the book of Revelation by discussing how it should point us to Jesus and what He has done and is doing.
Pastor Sam preaches on the purpose of suffering for righteousness to advance God's kingdom.
Pastor Troy continues the marriage series with a message on discerning biblical singleness and biblical marriage and how we can help equip the next generation with this wisdom.
Pastor Troy kicks off a series on marriage with a message on the foundational building blocks of God’s design for marriage and how we are to live it out (in marriage or singleness).
Dr. Jeff Myers with Summit Ministries shares how the truth of Jesus set the standards for human dignity, science, education, and politics.
Pastor Troy wraps up the Contend series by giving an overview of what we've learned from Jude, and by celebrating three truths about God that culminate in our earthly victory and eternal security as Christians.
Pastor Troy teaches us how to remain strong and keep building our faith and common reasons why people fall away from Christ.
Pastor Troy teaches how we can discern those have abandoned the gospel and divide the church versus those who truly have been born again in Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy preaches a sermon on the false teachers, God's judgement, and what we should do about it.
Pastor Troy teaches on how to identify false teachers and stand strong on God's authority.
Pastor Troy continues the Contend series with a message on God's judgment and our call to remain obedient to His never-changing Word, not conform to cultural norms.
Pastor Troy begins a new sermon series through the book of Jude. He discusses being aware of the spiritual battle we are in and knowing the right way to fight it.
Pastor Troy preaches on the humbling message of Christ's death on the cross and how we are called to continue sharing it with others for their salvation.
Pastor Troy kicks off Holy Week with a Palm Sunday message on our sin nature and how Christ's death on the cross saved us from God's wrath to a life lived for God's glory.
Sin, Salvation, Cross, Jesus Christ, Sin Nature, Imputation, Separation, Death, God's Wrath, Justification, Propitiation, Reconciliation, Sanctification, Adoption
Pastor Troy teaches on the first chapter of Proverbs with a message on the keys to gaining godly wisdom.
Wisdom, Wise, Truth, Knowledge, Understanding, Learning, Decision-Making, Godly, Fear, Reverence, Acknowledge, Parents, Friends, Mistakes, Warning
Pastor Michael Crawford delivers a message on keeping joy, hope, and faith in the midst of life's struggles.
Struggle, Trial, Storm, Pain, Strong, Strength, Endurance, Hope, Faith, Joy, Trust, Patience, Waiting
Greg Stier preaches on how God uses unlikely fighters to face unbeatable giants so He can accomplish unimaginable victory.
Pastor Troy concludes the “Walk in Light: The Epistles of John” series with a message on the differences between those who make the church better in truth and love and those who make trouble for the church.
Pastor Troy continues with “Walk in Light: The Epistles of John” with a message on truth out of 2 John.
Pastor Troy ends our study of 1 John by exploring the main point of the book and looking at the benefits of having the assurance of salvation.
Pastor Troy reminds us that those who place their faith in Jesus Christ can have assurance in their salvation and will have the ultimate victory over life and death.
Pastor Troy continues the Walk in Light series with a message on how we must look to the Word and the Holy Spirit to discern God’s truth from false teachings and prophets.
2023, Discernment, Discern, True, Truth, False, Prophets, Teachers, Teaching, God’s Word, Antichrist, Culture
Former Grace Church Senior Pastor Daniel Henderson continues the Walk in Light series with a message on experiencing doubt and what it looks like to trust God through it.
Pastor Troy preaches on how we can assess our Christian lives to know if we have truly passed from death to life through Christ.
Pastor Troy continues in the Walk in Light series by discussing the severity of sin and how a genuine believer should view and interact with it.
Pastor Sam Houston discusses how life changing and valuable the Gospel is and shares four things that we are given as believers because of it: God's love, God's identity, the promise of the Image of Christ, and hope in Christ.
Merry Christmas from Grace Church! Celebrate the birth of Christ at home with worship, scripture, and reflections on our Savior’s birth.
Pastor Troy gives a lesson on what it means to be truly blessed.
2022, Blessing, Blessed, God's Plan, Mary, Christmas, Purpose, Presence, Promise, Success, Wealth, Suffering, Persecution, Magnificat
Pastor Troy preaches on the foundational truths of Jesus's divine conception and what the Virgin Birth means for Christians today.
2022, Christmas, Virgin Birth, Jesus, Divine, Doctrine, Virgin Mary, Original Sin, Deity, Sinless Life
Pastor Sam does a deep dive into the Old Testament and teaches on why God sent Jesus to the World.
Pastor Troy delivers a message of how to find hope and encouragement in Christ amidst the struggles of life.
2022, Hope, Prayer, Trials, Struggles, Encouragement, Desperation, Passion
Worship, testimony, teaching, communion and baptism in advance of Thanksgiving.2022, Thanksgiving, communion, faithfulness, baptism
Pastor Troy shares a message on the dangers of worldliness and how we can fight against it.
Pastor Troy shares a message on believers' three different maturity levels and the importance of assessing where you are and continuing to grow.
Pastor Troy shares a message on what it looks like to live a genuine Christian life through daily love and obedience to God’s Word.
Pastor Troy preaches on Christ’s propitiation for our sins on the cross and the balance of being challenged and encouraged when it comes to our sins.
Pastor Troy explains what it means to "walk in light" and reviews eight things Christians do that reveal they’re Christians.
Pastor Troy kicks off the Walk in Light series with a message on the history of the heresy of Gnosticism and its current impact on cultural views of identity.
Pastor Troy preaches a special message underscoring the importance of family and sharing our faith with the next generation and introduces Re:New - A Vision for Future Generations. 2022, Moses, Family, Parenting, Children, Next Generation
Pastor Troy shares the final message in the Did God Really Say? series on the reliability of Scripture.
Pastor Troy shares another message in the “Did God Really Say?” series with a a discussion on why Jesus is the only way and Christianity the only true religion.
Pastor Troy shares message three in the “Did God Really Say?” series with a lesson on being pro-life.
Pastor Troy shares message three in the “Did God Really Say?” series with a lesson on biblical marriage and homosexuality.
Pastor Troy shares message two in the “Did God Really Say?” series with a lesson on sex, gender, and gender identity.
Pastor Troy begins a new series called, “Did God Really Say?” with a lesson on the Biblical truth of Creation vs. the cultural counterfeit of evolution.
Pastor Rob Rienow talks about what it means to honor your parents and how to show honor to parents who are difficult to honor.
Pastor Troy concludes his 2 Corinthians sermon series with the four basic truths that Paul leaves the Corinthians with to continue their growth and edification.
Pastor Troy discusses cultural pressure and how it can create an internal conflict within us: a flesh vs. spirit battle.
Pastor Troy lays out three ways that people are being led astray by Satan and how to combat them.
Pastor Troy preaches on the dangers of comparison. 2022, Criticism, Comparison, Manhood, Pride
Pastor Troy preaches on the importance of generosity and the right motive in giving.2022, Generosity, Grace, Giving
Pastor Troy preaches on the importance delivering truth and confronting, but doing do with a soft heart and tender tone.
It’s Spring Missions Sunday! Special guest Brian Alarid lays out steps to evangelizing: Pray, Care, Share.2022, Missions, Prayer, Evangelism
Guest speaker, Sean McDowell, discusses how Christians should respond to cancel culture 2022, Culture, Apologetics, Truth, Love
Jesus alone is Sufficient in Life and Death! Pastor Troy preaches out of James 4:13-16 for Easter Sunday. 2022, Easter, Jesus, Resurrection, Eternal Life
It is finished! Reflect upon the death of our Savior with us at Grace with worship, teaching from God's Word, and a live crucifixion element.
Pastor Troy reveals four things that Palm Sunday shows us about Jesus. 2022, Palm Sunday, Holy Week, Jesus
Pastor Troy shows how the judgement seat of Christ should change us and motivate us as believers.
Pastor Sam continues our series through 2 Corinthians by examining chapter 5 verses 1-10 and showing us how to face death with confidence.
Pastor Troy examines 2 Corinthians chapter 4 and identifies nine decisions Paul made to not lose heart.
Pastor Troy continues his sermon series on 2 Corinthians examining how the New Covenant makes us more hopeful and bold.
Pastor Troy continues his sermon series on 2 Corinthians by looking at four ways we can grow in confidence as a follower of Christ.
Pastor Troy continues his sermon series on 2 Corinthians by looking at the five keys to a triumphant Christian life that the Apostle Paul lays out.2022, Peace, Anxiety, Gratitude
Pastor Troy continues his sermon series on 2 Corinthians by examining Paul’s 2nd Letter to the Corinthians.
Pastor Troy continues his sermon series on 2 Corinthians by examining how the Apostle Paul handled interpersonal conflict being misunderstood as a mature believer.
Pastor Troy begins a new sermon series on 2 Corinthians by discussing the theology of suffering and the hidden blessings that can come from it.
Pastor Daniel Henderson takes a look at Acts 4 to show how the disciples were obedient to the way Jesus taught them to pray.
Pastor Troy Dobbs concludes the two-week series entitled “Vital Signs” with a message centered on Christ’s Great Commission and the meaning of discipleship.
Pastor Troy helps us appraise our spiritual health and provides seven indicators of a healthy relationship with Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy wraps up the Judges series by looking at what happened to Israel when they began to ignore God's commands.
Pastor Jon digs into Judges 17 and 18 to learn what happens when humans do what is right in their own eyes instead of being obedient to God.
Pastor Jon examines the story of Jesus raising the young girl from the dead and healing the bleeding woman while answering the question of why Jesus is worthy of our trust.
Pastor Troy explains the significance of Jesus coming to Earth in relation to our salvation. He explores the freedom we have in Christ from sin.
Pastor Troy explores the significance of Jesus being called "Immanuel" - God with us - and gives us eight reasons that we can be sure God will never leave us.
Pastor Troy begins a Christmas series by looking at the implications of the incarnation.
Pastor Troy Dobbs examines the last chapter of Samson's life to glean some valuable lessons: a warning against sin and a call to wisdom in choosing a spouse.
Examining the life of Samson, Sam Houston warns us of the dangers of questionable commitment and the consequences it can have on not only our lives, but the lives of those around us.
Examining the life of Samson, Pastor Troy warns us of two decisions that can derail our lives: consistently choosing to disregard wise counsel and choosing to be dominated by our appetites.
Nader Maurice from our sister church in Cairo, Egypt, challenges us to go "outside and far" from our comfort zone to Pray, Give, and Go to help fulfill the Great Commission.
Aaron Pierce of Steiger International challenges us to ask God to open our eyes to the state of the world and what breaks His heart, to pray like never before, and then respond courageously to God's call.
Pastor Troy takes a look at the early years of the life of Samson, one of the best-known characters in the Bible. From his life, we'll see that godly parents do not always produce godly children.
This week Pastor Troy looks again at Jephthah and the values the Church can bring to today's culture to help stop the hatred, division, and conflict.
What are the values the Church can unleash in culture that will actually help stop the hatred, division, and conflict? • Humility. • Verbal restraint. • Truth and facts matter.
Pastor Troy continues the series in Judges with the challenge to consider our legacy and to end life well, using Gideon as an example of what not to do.
Pastor Troy uses the life of Gideon to show that God doesn’t need the majority to win. God is the majority!
Pastor Sam Houston describes the importance of godly leadership within our lives and following the true leader, Jesus Christ.
Pastor Troy continues the Judges series with an emphasis on the importance of obedience to God, even in our limitations.
Pastor Troy speaks on the vital importance of sharing the Gospel of Jesus with the next generation in our families.
Pastor Troy draws uses the book of Judges as a warning to obey God's Word rather than compromise or conform to culture.
Pastor Troy preaches about what godly submission looks like, especially during a time of political conflict.
Pastor Troy speaks about the Christmas story from the perspective of Jesus' earthly father, Joseph. He outlines the selflessness, leadership, and conviction Joseph displayed leading up to the birth of Jesus.