SummitPA Sermon Audio: Recent Episodes
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Throughout the month of July, Summit is rebroadcasting Prepare the Way — the series that set the theme for 2026. This year the rebroadcast comes with something new: for each week of the series, Pastor Mel, Pastor Joel, and Michael Baun sat down for an hour-long unedited conversation starting right where the sermon ends. These discussions have never been seen before and will premiere during the rebroadcast. Tune in at normal service times — Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 9 and 11 a.m. — on Facebook, YouTube, or live.summitpa.church. Note that At the Movies, Summit's in-person July series, will not be streamed due to copyright restrictions.
and that there's a gospel in you — your own two-minute story of who you were before and who you are after. Who is one specific person God is putting on your heart? What is one concrete step this week to give, go, pray, or send toward them?
This week Pastor Aaron Holt preached Romans 9. If you have been following along with us in the book of Romans, you know that Romans 8 ends with one of the most powerful declarations in all of Scripture. Nothing can separate you from the love of God. And then you turn the page to chapter 9 and the mood shifts completely. Paul is in anguish. He is grieving. Because the question he is sitting with is: if God's promises are so good and nothing can separate us from his love, then why have most of the Jewish people rejected Jesus as the Messiah? Have God's promises failed?That question is the engine that drives all of Romans 9, 10, and 11. And Pastor Aaron gives you the interpretive keys you need to read these chapters well -- chapter 9 is about Israel's past, chapter 10 is about Israel's present, and chapter 11 is about Israel's future.He works through the whole chapter and surfaces three major promises. God's grace is greater than your failures. God's mercy is greater than your understanding. And God's purposes are greater than your circumstances. Each one is unpacked carefully, and he does not shy away from the hard parts -- election, predestination, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart, the potter and the clay. He handles all of it with clarity.
This week Pastor Mel takes us through the second half of Romans 8. The sermon opens with a reframe that sets the tone for everything that follows. When Paul talks about glory in Romans 8, Mel argues he is not primarily talking about heaven. He is talking about God's Spirit tabernacling in believers -- the same dwelling presence that was in the wilderness with Israel -- and about the goodness of God's Spirit being manifest through us for dominion in a broken world. Psalm 8 comes in here, and the connection between crowned with glory and given dominion over creation is one of the most striking moments in the message.That leads into the central question Mel keeps returning to throughout: what if God is not saving us from the world, but for the world? Creation is groaning like a woman in childbirth, waiting for the sons and daughters of God to be revealed. And Mel makes the case that every time Summit does teacher appreciation or shows up for first responders, something is happening in the spirit -- the sons and daughters of God are being revealed and a little of the brokenness of the world gets relieved.From there he works through the Holy Spirit interceding for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words, and makes a careful distinction between this and tongues -- these are sighs, the same word used in Luke 10 when Martha asks Mary to come help her. The Holy Spirit is not waiting on God to work. He is waiting on us.Mel handles the suffering question honestly: suffering is not evidence that God does not love you. It is part of what it means to be co-heirs with Christ.
-- and what it means to be in agreement with the flesh versus in agreement with the Spirit. Mel connects it to the word amen, and the application is practical and pointed: where does your mind go in the still, quiet moments of your day?Next week Mel picks up in Romans 8:18 and gets into what it means to share in Christ's glory -- and his suffering.
This week Pastor Mel continues the Romans series with Week 13, and he lands in one of the most personally honest passages in all of Paul's writing -- Romans chapter 7.The big question Paul is answering is one that every honest Christian has probably asked: if grace covers our sin, does that mean we can live however we want? Paul's answer is emphatic. Of course not. And Mel walks through exactly why, using the striking image of marriage. When we died with Christ, we died to the law -- and now we are free to marry someone new. Not the law, but Christ himself. And just like any healthy marriage, that relationship means we don't only ask what we want. We ask what he wants.From there, Mel moves into the wretched man passage, where Paul confesses that he does what he hates and cannot do what he wants. Mel makes the case that this is not a passage about spiritual failure. It is a passage about spiritual honesty, and about the difference between being called to perfection and being called to a lifelong process of being perfected.
This week Pastor Mel continues our series through the book of Romans, picking up in the second half of Romans chapter 6 where Pastor Kim left off. Using the vivid historical reality of slavery in the Roman Empire — including an actual slave tag discovered in Rome — Mel unpacks Paul's powerful argument that every one of us is a slave to whatever we choose to obey. He walks through what it means to be freed from sin's dominion, why so many believers find themselves returning to old masters, and what it looks like to surrender wholeheartedly to God rather than simply going through the motions of religious duty. It is a challenging and deeply practical message about freedom, identity, and the incredible gift of grace found in Romans 6:23.
In week 11 of our Romans series Pastor Kim teaches on Romans 6 showing the shift from what God has done for us to what He is doing in us. She unpacks our union with Christ in His death and resurrection, declaring that we have died to sin and been raised to new life so sin no longer rules over us. Kim uses powerful illustrations like the rope lowered into a well, the removal of Lazarus's grave clothes, and the Israelites who crossed the Red Sea yet still thought like slaves preferring familiar bondage. She challenges believers to reckon themselves dead to sin and alive to God, to stop dressing in old identities and to present every part of their bodies as instruments of righteousness under grace. The message ends with a powerful invitation to surrender fully to Jesus, to experience true freedom and declare we are no longer slaves. The Holy Spirit empowers daily resurrection living.
in the Parable of the Talents. Ultimately, he presents heaven as God's restorative plan through Christ to reconcile and renew all creation.
In week one of our series called Asking For a Friend, Pastor Mel directly confronts seven common questions about same-sex attraction and behavior by firmly placing biblical authority above personal feelings or cultural context. He begins by outlining four views on rules versus context (and Bible versus feelings), rejecting the first three positions that allow feelings to override Scripture and affirming the fourth: the Bible is God’s unchanging, authoritative Word, so any apparent conflict is resolved by submitting our context to it, not vice versa. Addressing the frequent objection that “Jesus never mentioned homosexuality,” Mel shows that Jesus explicitly upheld and intensified the moral law on sexuality—condemning lust as heart-adultery, restricting divorce, and reaffirming God’s creation design of male and female in marriage. He further cites the moral law in Leviticus, the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah for “unnatural desire”, and Paul’s clear listing of homosexuality alongside other sins that exclude people from the Kingdom of God. Mel points out the immediate hope: “such were some of you” but you were washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ.
Pastor Mel interviews 4-time Super Bowl champion Jon Kolb. Kolb played with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1969 to 1981. Mel and Jon discuss the role faith has played at various points in Jon's career. Jon overcame adversity and unlikely odds to become one of the most decorated offensive linemen in Steelers history. This conversation reveals our common humanity even with those who live special lives. Our common humanity reminds us of our universal need for a Savior. Jon competed at the highest levels for over a decade, and he brings this same tenacity to his faith. Enjoy the wisdom and witticisms of Jon Kolb as he walks us through his remarkable faith story.
In his Easter sermon on Romans 5:12-21, Pastor Mel explained how Adam’s one act of disobedience introduced sin and death as a universal problem into the world, as seen in the Genesis 3 account of the Fall, affecting all humanity—even before the law was given—with Adam serving as a symbol of the coming Christ. Christ’s righteousness offers forgiveness, the gift of righteousness, new life, and a restored friendship with God to everyone who receives it, even those we disagree with. Mel defined grace as getting what we don’t deserve (unlike mercy, which spares us from what we do deserve). He noted that the law was given to reveal our sinfulness; yet where sin abounded, God’s grace abounded even more, allowing believers to triumph over sin and death as grace now reigns, resulting in eternal life. He closed by reminding listeners that no one is beyond God’s redeeming covering—illustrated by the animal skins God provided Adam and Eve.
In Pastor Mel's sermon on Romans 5:1-11, he teaches about God’s transformation of humanity. Because we have been made right by faith, we now enjoy peace with God through Jesus (and therefore peace with ourselves). We stand in undeserved grace, and confidently rejoice in the hope of sharing God’s glory. Even trials produce endurance, character, and an unshakeable hope that never disappoints, since God has poured His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit—the true evidence of His affection that so many opt out of. At just the right time, while we were utterly helpless sinners and enemies of God, Christ died for us, reconciling us, saving us from condemnation, and restoring friendship with God. Much like Abraham was called God’s friend, Jesus declares His obedient followers to be His friends rather than slaves.
Pastor Kim’s sermon on Romans 4:13–25 unpacks the Big Idea that God’s promise has always been received by faith, not performance—and that same faith available to Abraham is still available to us today. She opens by showing in Point 1 that the promise cannot be earned: the law only brings wrath and curse (Romans 4:15; Galatians 3:10–11), so trying to obey it to earn what God freely gives is pointless and exhausting. In Point 2 she declares the promise is for everyone—a free gift (Romans 4:16; Ephesians 2:8–9) that makes Abraham the father of all who believe, granting new status, new family, and new future in Christ regardless of background. Point 3 celebrates Abraham’s persevering faith: he anchored himself in the God who raises the dead and creates out of nothing (Romans 4:17), chose God’s word over what his eyes could see (vv. 18–19), and let his faith grow stronger until it glorified God (vv. 20–22), proving that imperfect faith in a perfect God still counts. Finally, in Point 4 she shows that this story was written for us (Romans 4:23–25), so that by believing in the God who raised Jesus our Lord, we too are counted righteous—fully convinced that what God promises, He performs. The sermon closes with a clear altar response: receive the free gift for the first time, stop striving and start receiving, and believe against all hope in every dead situation.
a principle Paul uses to show that justification is a gift, not earned wages—contrasting it with the wages of sin being death (Romans 6:23). Pastor Mel highlights David's description in Psalm 32 of the joy that comes from sins forgiven without reliance on personal merit, then addresses the timing of Abraham's righteousness: it occurred before his circumcision, making Abraham the spiritual father of both uncircumcised Gentiles and circumcised Jews who share his faith. Ultimately, the message underscores that true fulfillment of the law and right standing with God come through faith, as illustrated by Abraham's obedient trust in God's promises despite uncertainty, positioning him as the model for all believers—Jew and Gentile alike—relying on God's grace rather than their own deeds.
In his sermon on Romans 3:21-31, Pastor Mel explains how God has revealed a new way of righteousness apart from the law, a righteousness manifested through faith in Jesus Christ and available to all—Jews and Gentiles alike—who believe. He emphasizes the universal reality that all have sinned and fall short of God's glory, yet through God's grace, believers are justified as a free gift, made right in His sight because Jesus was presented as a propitiation (hilasterion) by His blood, satisfying divine justice and demonstrating God's fairness in both forgiving past sins and justifying present believers. This sacrifice underscores that no one can boast in works or law-keeping for acceptance before God; salvation comes solely by faith, not by obeying the law. Pastor Mel highlights the inclusive nature of the gospel—one God justifying both Jews and Gentiles through faith alone—while affirming that faith does not nullify the law but truly fulfills it, echoing Jesus' own words about fulfilling rather than abolishing the Law and the Prophets.
Paul then levels the playing field by citing multiple Old Testament passages to prove that all people—Jews and Gentiles alike—are under sin's power, with no one righteous, wise, or seeking God on their own; humanity's universal corruption is evident in deceitful speech, violence, misery, and a total lack of fear of God. Ultimately, the law's purpose is not to justify anyone but to silence excuses, expose the whole world's guilt before God, and reveal human sinfulness, making it clear that no one can be declared righteous by works of the law—pointing forward to the need for righteousness through faith in Christ, as developed later in Romans.
Pastor Mel's sermon on Romans 2:17-29 challenges those who rely on external religious identity and privileges—particularly the Jews in the Roman church who boasted in their knowledge of God's law, their special relationship with God, and circumcision—while failing to live in obedience to it. He highlights Paul's pointed confrontation: they teach others yet fail to teach themselves, condemning sins like stealing, adultery, and idolatry while secretly committing them, thereby dishonoring God and causing Gentiles to blaspheme His name. Drawing modern parallels, Mel equates outward circumcision or church attendance with having value only when accompanied by genuine obedience; otherwise, it offers no advantage. True Jewish identity (and by extension, true belonging to God's people) is not outward or merely physical but inward—a heart transformed by the Spirit, producing real righteousness through faith rather than legalistic performance. This inward change seeks God's praise alone, underscoring Paul's call for authentic, heart-level faith that unites a divided church rather than relying on cultural or ritualistic superiority.
Pastor Mel's sermon on Romans 2:1-16 challenges listeners not to hypocritically judge others for the sins listed in Romans 1:29-32—such as wickedness, greed, envy, gossip, and heartlessness—while committing the same things themselves, as this self-condemnation leaves no excuse before God's impartial justice. He emphasizes that God's kindness, tolerance, and patience are intended to lead people to repentance, yet a stubborn, hard, and impenitent heart stores up wrath for the coming day of righteous judgment, where God will render to each person according to their deeds rather than mere intentions or hearing the law. Good actions, pursued in seeking God's glory, lead to eternal life, honor, and peace for both Jews and Gentiles alike, while self-centered wickedness brings anger and calamity, with no favoritism shown. Even Gentiles without the written law demonstrate an innate moral awareness through conscience, proving God's law is written on human hearts. The sermon concludes by underscoring that on the day of judgment through Christ Jesus, all secret lives and hidden motives will be revealed, echoing Jesus' warning in Luke 12 about hypocrisy and the exposure of what is whispered in darkness.
In his sermon on Romans 1:18-32, Pastor Collin explains why humanity desperately needs the righteousness and salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Although God has clearly revealed Himself through creation, people suppress the truth, refuse to worship or thank Him, and instead turn to idols and foolish thinking. As a result, God’s wrath is revealed—not primarily as direct punishment, but by “giving people over” to their sinful desires, allowing them to reap the consequences of their rebellion. This leads to widespread moral breakdown, including sexual immorality, idolatry, greed, hatred, gossip, and all kinds of wickedness. Pastor Collin emphasizes that these sins are not just targeting one group, but reveal the universal brokenness of humanity when we exchange the truth of God for lies. The solution is to repent, reject our idols, humbly acknowledge our sin, and return to wholehearted worship of the Creator, finding hope and healing through the righteousness of Christ.
Pastor Mel's sermon on Romans 1:1-17 serves as an introduction to the book of Romans, highlighting Paul’s identity as a willing slave of Christ Jesus, called and sent as an apostle to proclaim the gospel—the long-promised Good News about God’s Son, Jesus Christ, descended from David and powerfully declared Son of God through His resurrection. Paul establishes common ground for the divided Roman believers by emphasizing the gospel’s universal scope, extending grace and apostolic authority to bring Gentiles to faith and obedience for God’s glory, reaching “across the street and around the globe,” including his planned mission to Spain. He expresses deep gratitude for the Roman Christians’ renowned faith, his constant prayer for them, and his longing to visit—not as a stranger, but to impart spiritual gifts, strengthen them, and be mutually encouraged—while fulfilling his obligation to preach the gospel to all people, educated and uneducated alike. Unashamed of the gospel, Paul boldly declares it to be God’s saving power for everyone who believes, Jew and Gentile, revealing the righteousness of God that comes through faith from first to last, giving life to the righteous.
from God's people, modeled by the disciples who immediately left their nets and boats to follow Jesus' call in Mark 1, and reinforced by Jesus' words in John 5 that the Father is always at work, prompting His followers to join Him. The sermon culminates in encouragement from Philippians 1:3-6, affirming that God, who begins a good work in believers, will faithfully complete it.
for blessed or happy), he contrasts it with Luke 11:27-28, stressing that true blessing comes from hearing and practicing God's word rather than mere rituals or good intentions, warning that disguising disobedience with spiritual excuses or fear of people leads to regret and loss, as seen in Saul's downfall (1 Chronicles 10:13-14). He concludes with John 14:15-21, urging that loving Jesus manifests in obeying His commandments, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and that partial obedience equals complete disobedience, blocking the revelation of God's glory and favor.
by prioritizing what pleases God—rejoicing over lost sinners coming to repentance, offering praise and thanksgiving, and delighting Him through the lives of His humble, obedient people. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to make straight paths in their hearts so that every obstacle is removed, the ground leveled, and the glory of the Lord fully revealed in their lives.
statements in Paul's ministry—such as being sorrowful yet always rejoicing, poor yet making many rich, and having nothing yet possessing everything—emphasizing that true Christian hope is the joyful anticipation of good in Christ, even amid hardship, suffering, and misunderstanding. He contrasts the dysfunctional yet beloved Corinthian church's worldly values of wealth, eloquence, and success with Paul's countercultural defense of authentic ministry marked by patient endurance (hypomone), purity, kindness, sincere love, and faithfulness regardless of honor or slander. Mel encourages listeners to find lasting hope not in comfortable circumstances or material blessings, but in God's goodness and sufficiency alone, culminating in a gospel invitation for salvation and an affirmation that genuine joy and purpose are found in surrender to Christ, no matter the trials faced.
In the third message of our series called Even Though, Pastor Mel preaches a Christmas Eve sermon centered on the biblical meaning of hope as a joyful anticipation of good that is future-oriented and rooted externally in God's unfailing promises, distinct from mere wishing and closely tied to faith in the person of Jesus. Drawing from Isaiah 54:10, Mel emphasizes God's unbreakable covenant of peace (beriyth shalom)—an alliance of completeness, welfare, and well-being—that remains steadfast even if mountains shake or hills are removed, assuring God's compassionate, unfailing love for His people despite Israel's exile and judgment. This covenant promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, as announced in Luke 2:10-14, where the angels proclaim good news of great joy, a Savior born in Bethlehem, and peace on earth among those with whom God is pleased—echoing the hope that, because of Christ's coming, believers can confidently anticipate God's goodwill and covenant faithfulness.
faith: trembling at God's power but quietly waiting and rejoicing in Him as the God of our salvation, no matter what comes.
—has come to bring peace and great joy. Ultimately, he acknowledged the honest struggle that even though we know God is with us, fear can still arise, yet the presence of the Shepherd remains our source of unshakable comfort and hope.
—knowing that opposition will come the moment gaps begin to close, yet God’s covenant promises and prospering power far outweigh every mocking voice. Ultimately, the sermon is a stirring call for every person in the room to return to the wall, take their assigned place alongside their family, and partner with Jesus in rebuilding lives so that disgrace is replaced with the salvation, praise, and restored dwelling place only God’s grace can bring.
In the eighth message of our series called Feasts, Pastor Stef taught that the Sabbath is not merely a rule to obey but a profound gift from God designed to expose and heal our areas of distrust. Drawing from the Israelites’ grumbling in Exodus 16, she showed how their complaints about hunger revealed a deeper lack of trust in God’s provision, and how God responded by giving the Sabbath—with double manna on the sixth day—as a weekly opportunity to practice dependence on Him. The Sabbath, Stef emphasized, declares our trust in God’s care when we deliberately cease work, rest, and play, reminding us that we are loved not for what we produce but for who we are. Ultimately, as Jesus declared in Mark 2, the Sabbath was made for our good, inviting us to stop striving, renew our minds, and experience transformation by living in the reality that the Son of Man is Lord even over the Sabbath.
In his sermon on the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), Pastor Mel teaches that this joyful seven-day biblical festival, celebrated each fall after the harvest, was designed by God to remind Israel of His faithful provision during the wilderness years when they lived in temporary shelters, while also pointing forward to greater spiritual realities fulfilled in Christ. Drawing from Leviticus 23, he highlights the command to dwell in booths, rejoice with branches, and rest on the first and eighth days, noting how Jesus Himself attended this feast and, on its climactic last day, stood in the Temple and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink,” promising rivers of living water—the Holy Spirit—who would later be poured out at Pentecost and, as Joel prophesied and Peter confirmed, continues to be poured out upon all flesh in the last days. Mel connects the temporary tents of Sukkot to Paul’s imagery of our earthly bodies as tents awaiting an eternal house from God, encouraging the congregation to live in joyful expectation of the ultimate ingathering when Christ returns and we tabernacle forever with Him.
In the sixth message of our series called Feasts, Mel teaches about the Feast of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This message centers on the profound significance of atonement as described in Leviticus 16 and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Drawing from Leviticus 23:26-32, Mel explains the ancient rituals of Yom Kippur, where the high priest, Aaron, entered the Most Holy Place to offer sacrifices for the sins of Israel, including the scapegoat that symbolically carried the people's sins into the wilderness. He highlights the gravity of approaching God’s presence, referencing the deaths of Aaron’s sons and the massive veil separating the Holy of Holies. Mel connects these Old Testament practices to the New Testament, emphasizing Hebrews 9:11-15 and 10:19-22, which portray Jesus as the ultimate High Priest and Lamb of God, whose sacrifice tore the veil and opened direct access to God’s presence. He underscores that Christ’s blood, unlike the temporary animal sacrifices, provides eternal redemption, inscribing believers’ names in the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 3:5), inviting all into a reconciled relationship with God through faith.
In the fifth message of our series called Feast, Pastor Mel explains the Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah), a biblical holy day outlined in Leviticus 23:23-25 and Numbers 29:1-6, emphasizing its significance as a time of solemn rest, remembrance, and spiritual renewal, marked by the sounding of the shofar (ram’s horn). He highlights its role as Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, initiating the 10 Days of Awe for introspection and repentance, and explores its multifaceted biblical symbolism—calling Israel to renewal, obedience, gathering, war, submission, worship, and repentance, as seen in scriptures like Exodus 19:16-20, Numbers 10:1-4, Joel 2:1, and others. Mel connects the feast to New Testament eschatology, particularly in 1 Corinthians 15:50-55 and 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18, where the trumpet blast signifies the transformation and gathering of believers at Christ’s return, portraying Yom Teruah as both a historical observance and a prophetic foreshadowing of God’s ultimate redemption and judgment.
which points to the reality of God's own preeminence. God is first whether we believe He is or not. Putting God first in our lives will facilitate a proper affection for everything else which is important to us. Like Abel in Genesis chapter 4, we must give our first and our best to God because we are our best selves when we put God first.
Don’t you realize that this sin is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough? Get rid of the old 'yeast' by removing this wicked person from among you. Then you will be like a fresh batch of dough made without yeast, which is what you really are. Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed for us. So let us celebrate the festival, not with the old bread of wickedness and evil, but with the new bread of sincerity and truth.
In week one of our series called Feasts, Pastor Collin preaches about the most notable of all Judaic feasts, the feast of Passover. Collin explains how the Sabbath helped posture the peoples' spirits for participating in the Passover celebration. Christians should observe a Sabbath today because intentional rest helps prevent us from becoming distracted from the most important spiritual matters. The Passover commemorated the night when God's Spirit took all of the firstborn of Egypt, passing over the houses whose doorframes were marked by the blood of the lamb. As Christians, we celebrate Jesus Christ as our Passover Lamb, and because of His blood we are saved from our sins.
Guest speaker Pastor Eran Holt shares an important message about identity. He carefully deconstructs the culture's ingredients for a false identity: feelings, attraction, achievement, and approval. Eran explains why this kind of identity is incoherent, resulting in instability and idolatry. Instead we should build our lives on biblical truth, love, serving others, belonging, and God-ordained purpose. Building a proper identity is necessary if we expect to withstand the trials of life.
Anything we exalt above biblical truth becomes idolatry which corrupts us and prevents us from embodying these values each day.
In the third message of our series called Welcome Home, Pastor Mel addresses the realities of spiritual war. Humanity has existed in the midst of spiritual conflict since the original sin. This conflict has expressed itself in different ways throughout history, with its most recent expression coming in the form of cultural warfare in the West. Mel explains why we are called to fight the good fight. We make war on Hell and we make war on the flesh. We make ourselves hard to kill by praying everyday, reading scripture everyday, getting in community, and serving the kingdom of God. In the final analysis we must have faith enough to remember who God is and that He fights for us.
In the second part of our series called Welcome Home, Pastor Kim preaches about knowing Jesus and reaching the lost. She explains how there's a difference between cognitive knowledge of God and a personal relationship with Him. We are designed to participate with God at every level of human experience: mind, body and spirit. A life centered in Christ naturally becomes a sent life to reach the lost. The abundance of our intimacy with God spills over into a desire to be Christlike to others. Kim reminds us that reaching the lost is the heart of Jesus. We can't claim to love God if we don't love those whom God loves. As Christians we are called to be salt to preserve that which is good and light to guide the world.
In the first message of our series called Welcome Home, Pastor Mel explains what it means for every life to be made different in Christ. At Summit Church our vision is to see Every Life Made Different. Preaching through the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19, Mel reminds us the gospel is for everyone. Jesus Christ came to save the lost and that includes people who we sometimes mistake as being irredeemable. Everyone is lost without Christ. To be made different means to be made into a new creation. Jesus will confront our affections in order to transform our affections. Since we have been set free from our transgressions, the Church is under obligation to preach the gospel in all places.
In the final message of our series called One Another, Pastor Mel explains the importance of honoring one another. Honor is rooted in biblical love and therefore bears consequences for the condition of our hearts. Practicing dishonor corrupts a person's heart and limits his relationship with God. Familiarity breeds contempt and too much familiarity can lead to a lack of reverence for God. Scripture instructs us to honor our parents, our pastors, and even people we dislike. A Christian is able to honor others with right actions, words, appropriate times of silence, and sacrificial love from an authentic heart. God wants us to honor our enemies, but doing so is only possible when Jesus changes us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
including: encourage one another, exhort one another, build one another, and meet with one another. The major theme of this message is predicated on small groups. The Christian life is designed to be lived in community with one another. We need encouragement because we live in a broken world and we are prone to negative thinking. The purpose of going to church is not about being religious, it's about being rooted. Summit Church offers a variety of small groups and core classes, all of which can be found at groups.summitpa.church.
Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
Preaching through Matthew chapters 9 and 18, he reminds us that God doesn't simply recommend we forgive our brothers and sisters - rather He commands it. Gilbert uses the Rwandan Genocide as an example of people being called to forgive what seemed unforgivable. When we forgive others, we reopen intimacy with God. When we forgive others, we find freedom. As Christians we're able to forgive those who have transgressed against us not because the transgressions don't matter, but because the righteousness of Christ and His atoning work on the cross is sufficient to cover them.
In the first message of our series called One Another, Pastor Mel explains the biblical meaning of love. Using 1 Corinthians 13, among other scriptures, Mel shows how love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, boastful, proud or rude. It does not demand its own way and it's not irritable. Love keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice at injustice but rejoices whenever the truth stands. Perhaps most importantly, love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Mel reminds us that loving people is not optional if we want to be followers of Jesus.
Preaching through Luke 5, Pastor Collin explains the biblical metaphor of being fishers of men. While some of Christ's disciples were actual fishermen by trade, Jesus told them to follow Him and He would make them fishers of men. Collin reminds us why we should not allow our fear of our sin to inhibit us from obeying Jesus. We've been invited to join Christ in the Great Commission to preach the gospel and save souls. Collin preaches that our mission is to find, disciple, and set free those who are lost. The message finishes with a simple, 3-step method for sharing the gospel: introduce with Jesus' story, illustrate with your own story, and invite with their story.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Christina makes the case that a consecrated life begins in our hearts, and those who live consecrated lives understand what they've been redeemed from. Such a life is not lived in part, but is entirely given over to God. The message finishes with Christina encouraging us to trust God even when His plan doesn't seem to benefit us.
In the sixth and final week of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Kim examines the final verse of the prayer which reads: and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Kim makes the case that God tests us to strengthen us, the enemy tempts us to destroy us, but God delivers us. A test is meant to prove or improve your character. A temptation is meant to entice you to sin and destroy your faith. Kim explains why God Himself never tempts us in this way. In order to navigate tests and temptations properly we must pray for protection, perceive the real battle, and pursue Jesus' example. Jesus overcame temptations by quoting scripture, trusting His Father, and staying in prayer.
In the fifth message of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Mel details what it means to forgive and be forgiven. Preaching through the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15, Mel explains how the father extended unwarranted grace and forgiveness to him. The prodigal was prepared to confess his abuses and his worthlessness when his father stopped him and readily took him back into the family with celebration. The father showed love and grace by bringing his son a robe. He gave him a ring which symbolized restoration to the family. He also gave him shoes which represented a renewed sense of meaning and purpose. God forgives us quickly and completely, so we should be ready to do the same for others who repent.
In the fourth message of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Mel discusses a twofold expression found in verse 11: Give us this day our daily bread. God knows we need bread for today and we also need bread for tomorrow. Mel explains the tradition of unleavened bread representing freedom from slavery, humility, and purity. He goes on to point out how God wants us to trust Him for provision each day. There is prudence in stewarding your resources well, but we must resist allowing our trust in the storehouse to replace our faith in God's provision. The message finishes with the understanding that it isn't wrong to pray for what we want and need, so long as those prayers are couched within the context of praying for God's kingdom.
In the third message of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Mel focuses on the petition: your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. This part of the prayer is made up of two requests, the first being that God's kingdom should advance on earth. Mel explains what it means for Jesus to be King of Kings and why this indicates God's sovereignty over Satan, despite Satan being called the ruler of this world. The second part of the prayer is a request that God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Jesus gives us an archetypal example of submission to God's will in the Garden of Gethsemane. Paul explains the importance of God renewing our minds so that we might learn His will for our lives - which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Pastor Collin preaches through The Lord's Prayer and focuses on the first part of the opening line: Our Father in Heaven. Collin poses the question, "Who can claim that God is their Father?" Those who do not receive Christ are not sons of God. Sons and daughters of God have access to the Father through the Holy Spirit. Collin reminds us that while God is our Father, He is also our Heavenly Father and should be revered. Too much familiarity is inappropriate, but we should pursue closeness with God as mediated by the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Collin preaches about idolatry. Idolatry is making anything but God the ultimate thing. Collin explains how addressing sin is less about treating symptoms and more about determining the root cause, and this cause is often idolatry. One pernicious form of idolatry is the seduction of success. Collin tells the story of Naaman being healed in the Jordan River, and explains how this story illustrates the simplicity of following Christ. The simplicity of following Christ challenges our idolatry of achievement and success.
In the second week of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Mel focuses one the second part of the opening line which reads: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. A hallowed name means a holy name - a name which is set apart from profanity. Mel explains the importance of names and reminds us that honoring God as holy doesn't change God - but it changes us. We make God's name "hallowed" in our lives by studying scripture, praying, praising, and expressing gratitude. As Christians we should aspire to be holy as God is holy so that we can accurately reflect Jesus to those around us. God cares about your holiness because He has a holy purpose for your life.
In the first message of our series called The Lord's Prayer, Pastor Mel breaks down the opening line of this most famous of prayers: Our Father in Heaven. Preaching through Matthew 6, Mel makes the case that Christ gave us the Lord's Prayer not for mindless recital, but as a template for how we should pray. Understanding God as our Father brings the temptation to filter how we see God through the image of our earthly fathers. Mel poses the question, "What 'baggage' do we bring to our relationship with God. He explains why every child needs acceptance, affection, and affirmation. He shows in scripture how God the Father gives these things to Jesus Christ. Since we are children of God and co-heirs with Christ, we must foster our relationships with God so that they are both honoring and intimate.
Pastor Kim preaches about our longing to take up residence with God. God desires intimacy with us, which is why we see Him dwelling in the midst of His people throughout scripture. God's desire to dwell among us is most prominently displayed through the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. Despite our need to be with God, it's possible to live our entire lives missing this connection - continually chasing things which never satisfy. Kim explains how God doesn't merely invite us in, He actually moves in Himself and dwells within us. His presence isn't just around us, it is also within us.
In the fifth week of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel recounts the most famous story of idolatry in scripture: Israel and the golden calf. Preaching through Exodus 32, Mel explains the revelry among the people as Aaron fashioned the golden calf. When Moses saw the people given over to idolatry he shattered the tablets inscribed with God's law on the ground. Moses made the people of Israel burn the statue, grind it into powder, and drink it. The lesson of this practice was to teach them that idols must be completely removed. The message closes with Mel instructing the importance of replacing the void left by idols with faith and affection for Jesus.
In the fifth week of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel conducts an interview with our special guests Aaron and Jaimie Smith. Aaron Smith is a former professional football player for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Smiths talk about what life was like leading up to the NFL, how they met, and a little about Aaron's upbringing. They discuss the temptation of creating false gods out of success and control. Aaron and Jaimie recount the harrowing story of their son being diagnosed with leukemia at four years old. For several years they experienced challenges and gut-wrenching pain as they watched their son go through chemotherapy. The Smiths talk about how they relied on their faith in Jesus to carry them through. Their son Elijah made a full recovery and is cancer-free today.
In the fourth message of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel explains the dangers associated with idolizing dreams. This is in reference to ambitions, not dreams you have when you sleep. Preaching through Genesis 22, Mel highlights how the story of Abraham taking Isaac to be sacrificed foreshadows the gospel of Jesus sacrificing Himself on the cross. Abraham had always hoped and dreamed for a son and so Isaac represented a threat of idolatry for Abraham. Once God showed Abraham the wisdom of fearing Him instead of idolizing Isaac, God provided a sacrifice to stand in the place of Isaac, saving him and redeeming him for Abraham. It's good to embrace your loved ones and have aspirations for your future, but these things can become idols if we fail to subordinate them to God.
In the third message of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel details the dangers of idolizing success itself. Part of the key to this message is understanding you don't need to actually be a successful person to be guilty of idolizing success. Anyone who views success or achievement as the ultimate thing holds success as a counterfeit god. Mel preaches through the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5 to explain how the commander had faith in his own success to solve an unrelated problem like leprosy. Drawing a juxtaposition between the prophet Elisha and commander Naaman, Mel shows us the differences between a person who trusts in success over against a person who trusts in God.
In the second message of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel preaches about the dangers of idolizing love. Idolatry is making anything other than God the "ultimate" thing. If we look to love or romantic relationships as the thing that will make us feel whole, then we know we have idolized love. No person or relationship was designed to bear the weight of standing in for God. We're comfortable with being loved but not known, and being known but not loved is one of our greatest fears. To be fully known and truly loved is what it's like to be loved by God. Mel preaches through Genesis 29 and makes the case that Jacob's brokenness made him vulnerable to the idolatry of love.
In the first message of our series called Counterfeit Gods, Pastor Mel gives a detailed teaching on idolatry and why it's so dangerous. As human beings, nearly all of our sin is rooted in some form of idolatry. Idolatry is when we make anything other than God the "ultimate" thing in our lives. Tim Keller said, "We think that idols are bad things, but that is almost never the case. The greater the good, the more likely we are to expect that it can satisfy our deepest needs and hopes. Anything can serve as a counterfeit god, especially the very best things in life." Scripture uses three basic metaphors to describe how we relate to idols in our hearts: we love them, we trust them, and we obey them. Idols enslave us because we believe life without them is meaningless.
In the fourth message of our series called Kingdom Builders, Pastor John Nuzzo teaches what it means for a Christian to be recklessly generous. He begins by explaining how Jesus Himself modeled reckless generosity. It's impossible to be a follower or disciple of Christ without being generous. The humiliation of Christ, His voluntary descent into humanity, His suffering, and His death all exemplify generosity. John unpacks why the principle of the tithe is about faith more than it is about money. Financial generosity is a training ground that reveals whether or not you will trust God with the greater things like marriage, loss, and advancing God's kingdom.
In the third message of our series called Kingdom Builders, Pastor Mel explains the importance of missions. Jesus Christ is missionary in character and His Church is a missionary society. Mel articulates the support for missionaries as threefold: why we pray, why we give, and why we go. The harvest is great but the workers are few, so we pray to the Lord of the harvest and ask Him to send more workers into His field. We give to support missionaries so that we can be their partners as they teach the truth. We go because Jesus, who has all authority in Heaven and on Earth said, "As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you." This message also features an interview with Pastor Brian Kelly from Hope Centre in Ireland.
In the second message of our series called Kingdom Builders, Pastor Mel explains what the tithe is and why we should be faithful to do it. At Summit Church one of our core values is radical generosity. We believe God is radically generous and we want the world to see that in how we live and how we give. In a most general sense, scripture recognizes two types of giving: tithes and offerings. Tithing is a principle, not a law, and the tithe is made up of your first 10% of income. Offerings are above and beyond your tithe and are your response when God prompts you to give. Mel preaches through selected scriptures and shows us why the tithe is for today. We should tithe because God says the tithe is important, the tithe teaches us to honor God, and the tithe teaches us to trust God.
In the first message of our series called Kingdom Builders, Pastor Mel explains what we know about the character of God's kingdom. God's kingdom is not of this world and it is mysterious. Despite the mystery, there are certain things we can know about the kingdom because the kingdom is also principled. We know the order of God's kingdom is unshakable. Scripture also teaches us the kingdom demands obedience, affection, and multiplication. John Stott said, “We must be global Christians with a global vision because our God is a global God.” We should seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and depend on Him for everything we need.
In the fourth and final message of our series called Inevitable, Pastor Mel explains the best way to leave a church. Two common reasons why a person chooses to leave a church are misunderstandings and misalignments. Misunderstandings occur when two or more people fail to have proper "Matthew 18 conversations" aimed at reconciliation. Mel points out how we see what we look for: if we look for the best in a church we will see the best, and if we look for the worst we will see the worst. Misalignments are untrue because all churches share a common vision: to honor God and reach people for Christ. This message culminates in Mel giving a step-by-step process for how to leave a church properly.
Pastor Mel teaches about biblical masculinity at the inaugural Men's Gathering for 2025. What qualities make for a godly man? How does the Bible say we should conduct ourselves as men? When does it make sense for men to run away as if their lives depend on it? Mel answers these questions and explores further which things a godly man should pursue. Six characteristics of biblical masculinity include righteousness, a godly life, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Which of these qualities do you or your loved ones struggle with? If you're a man this message will explain who God wants you to be according to scripture, and if you're a woman you'll hear useful information to help the men you love.
In the third message of our series called Inevitable, Pastor Mel teaches how we should prepare for death and how the reality of death should impact our perspective. The unknown scares us and so part of how we prepare for death is focus on what we know. We know death is assured and we know eternity is assured. We know Hell is real but we also know Heaven is real. Seneca said, "The day which we fear as our last is but the birthday of eternity." When thinking about death we must remind ourselves that God's presence is also assured. Despite our impending deaths, we can live our lives without regret if we steward our health well, steward our finances well, steward our time well, and steward Christ well. We must live our lives with an eternal perspective.
In the second week of our series called Inevitable, Pastor Mel teaches how Christians should walk through health setbacks. Proverbs says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength." A positive outlook as you endure health crises doesn't mean you're denying what's happening, it means you're trusting God. Mel unpacks several of Christ's healing miracles and explains why God wants us to confess our lack and our need to be healed. Being healed is an invitation to change, and we don't like change even if it's healthy change. Are you so comfortable with the broken life that you are leading, that you would rather stay this way? The message finishes with Mel explaining why Jesus is more interested in fixing our hearts than fixing our problems.
In week one of our series called Inevitable, Pastor Mel talks about the inevitability of financial setbacks and how we should strive for a godly relationship with money. He explains how a large number of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, even those who have a relatively high income. Scripture warns us that our lives are not measured by how much we own, but that we should seek first the kingdom of God rather than building our own temporary kingdoms. Mel points out how the two words Jesus uses to describe how we feel when we ignore God in our finances are "fear and anxiety." The message finishes with an encouragement for us to tithe our first-fruits and how doing so is a reminder that God is responsible for our provision.
In the fourth and final week of our series called Meet God Here, Pastor Mel teaches about the characteristics of God's presence. Preaching through selected scriptures in Exodus, Mel shows how the presence of God provides rest. Moses was a great man of faith and he didn't want to enter the Promised Land without God. Moses understood it's better to be in the wilderness with God than to be in the Promised Land without God. God's presence is more important than the promise. Mel explains how in the absence of God's presence, we will find alternative gods. In this message you'll learn why God's presence is greater than success, wealth, and happiness. The message concludes with Mel making the case that God's presence is what differentiates His people.
In the third message of our series called Meet God Here, Pastor Mel explains the role of holy places in our worship. Throughout history, both inside and outside the faith, people have considered high places to be holy. Elevations like mountains and hills have frequently been considered holy locations. Mel talks about several locations in scripture which God's people privileged as being holy. These include Shiloh, Jerusalem, and Mount Gerizim. It's easy for the faithful to become attached to specific places like churches or cathedrals as unique venues where one must go in order to meet God. In the final analysis, the sole factor for determining holiness is the presence of God - so any location where God is present becomes a holy place.
In the second part of our series called Meet God Here, Pastor Kim teaches how we meet God in community. Western culture has made individualism an ideal by promoting freedom, rights, and satisfaction of our own desires. Kim explains how human beings are created as image bearers of God with an inner need to connect with each other. Preaching through Acts 2, Kim presents four marks of a healthy Church and a healthy follower of Christ. The Church should be devoted to the teachings of scripture, to fellowship, to sharing meals together (including taking Communion), and to prayer. The Spirit of God brings followers of Christ into intimate relationship with Himself, but He also brings followers of Christ into abiding relationship with each other.
Pastor Mel teaches systematically through a passage in Romans 8 to explain what it means for God to cause everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. This passage is often misquoted or misunderstood because the intention of the text and the meaning of the text is skewed by its interpreters. Mel works through Romans 8:28 nearly word-by-word to ensure each definition and nuance within the famous doctrine is captured. Most Christians believe God is good, but proper understanding of this passage in Romans may lead you to a conclusion that God is even better than you first believed.
Summit Church's theme for 2025 is: Meet God Here. Our first series of the year kicks off this theme and part one focuses on fasting. What does it mean to fast in a way that honors God? What happens when you fast? What are some common mistakes you might make when attempting a fast? Pastor Mel answers all of these questions and more as he carefully works through Isaiah 58. This passage in Isaiah presents a look at God's people Israel participating in religious rituals while their hearts are far from God. Mel explains why God is primarily interested in the transformation of your heart and mind and how rituals like fasting are meaningless unless these more fundamental modes of obedience are first faithfully adopted.
In a special Christmas message, Pastor Mel preaches through John chapter 1 that Jesus is the light of the world. He explains why it's fitting for us to celebrate the birth of Christ near the winter solstice because Jesus is the light who came into a darkened world. Mel draws out the analogy to light by reminding us that light energizes, light attracts, and light reveals. He teaches why all of these attributes are common to Jesus as well. The message finishes with an encouragement for each of us to carry light into the world - even if we feel like our own light is insignificant.
In the final message of our series called In the Meantime, Pastor Mel teaches why weeping is both acceptable and to be expected while you wait. Often we don't get to choose whether we wait, but we always get to choose how we wait. Preaching through 2 Corinthians, Mel talks about Paul's famous thorn in the flesh and how Paul begged the Lord three times to take it away - yet the Lord didn't. He also tells Mary's story and how she stood near the cross when her son Jesus was crucified. He explains how tragic this scene must have been and how crushed Mary must have felt. The message finishes with a reminder of the salvation we have in Jesus. Christians are set free to weep with hope because they don't need to grieve as those who have no hope.
Mel and Michael talk about succession plans. Why is it important for every organization to have pre-drafted succession plans? Should these plans take on the character of advance directives in case the leader is no longer around to execute them? You can also expect to learn about staff development. Should staff development fall on the shoulders of the leader or should it be delegated to managers? Do succession plans need to be in place for each employee you bring onto the team? Is there a right time or right way to make the successor aware that they are the planned replacement as leader? When you’re leading an organization how do you balance the wisdom of a proper succession plan with the value of being needed by the organization since you’re the only one trained to do your work?
In the third part of our series called In the Meantime, Pastor Kim teaches what it means to work while you wait. Waiting without working leads to apathy, laziness, bitterness, and hopelessness. The apostle Paul had plenty of opportunities to slip into these kinds of issues throughout his imprisonment but he chose to work while he waited. Paul worshipped, wrote prison epistles, and kept doing everything he could to spread the gospel. Kim also tells the story of Joseph and how remained diligent while he waited for the brith of Jesus.
In the first message of our series called In the Meantime, Pastor Mel explains what to do when we're in the space between our expectations and results. What do we do in the meantime? Preaching through Acts 9, Mel explores what it must have been like for Paul while he was waiting to find out whether he would ever see again. During this time Paul worshiped, and we too must worship while we wait. Mel explains why worship redeems the waiting periods in our lives. Time spent waiting is not time wasted if you are worshipping during the waiting. The message finishes with Mel working through a passage in Luke 2 and showing us how Anna and Simeon long-awaited the birth of Christ.
In the second message of our series called In the Meantime, Pastor Mel teaches that we get to choose how we wait. We get to choose what we do in the meantime as we are awaiting results. Mel explains how Paul was made to wait at several points throughout his missionary journey, and that Paul chose to watch while he waited. He was watching to see how the churches were doing and watching to see what was needed. The wise men also watched with anticipation as they awaited the birth of Christ. In the first message we learned how worship redeems waiting periods, and in this message we learn how watching with expectation for God's next move can make our waiting periods more productive.
Pastor Collin unpacks what it means to be a disciple and explains why there's more to the Christian life than initial conversion. Every next step we take with Jesus leads us to a deeper relationship with God. Brother Lawrence said, "The More we know Him, the more we will desire to know Him. As love increases with knowledge, the more we know God, the more we will truly Love Him. We will learn to love him equally in times of distress or in times of great joy. Let us occupy ourselves with knowing God." Every next step we take with Jesus leads us to a life of freedom and a role in God's greater mission.
Pastor Christina preaches through Matthew 26 and shows how Jesus exemplified godly obedience in the Garden of Gethsemane as well as throughout His Passion. Obedience means choosing to submit to and trust God's heart. Christina explains how obedience means choosing to be faithful and submitted in the mundane and in the painful. She finishes the message by challenging us that Christ's obedience calls for us to obey Him. How do we do this? Christina teaches that obedience truly begins with knowing the heart of God and abiding there.
In part two of our series called Absurdity of Generosity, Pastor Mel teaches how trusting in the providence of God is crucial to being generous. We can be generous with others because we know that God is generous with us. Generosity begins with the question, "What can God do with what I have in my hand?" Contentment is a key part of learning to be generous because if you're not content then you'll always be looking for the next gain. Preaching through Mark 6, Mel reminds us of the power of God's providence by unpacking the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. This message includes a special surprise of radical generosity given to a service-worker in our community.
In the first message of our series called Absurdity of Generosity, Pastor Mel explains what it means to be radically generous. At Summit Church we believe God has been radically generous with us and we want the world to see that in how we live and how we give. Mel dispenses with three myths when it comes to generosity: that you must be rich to be generous, that you only have to give if you can afford it, and that if you give God will make you rich. Mel uses the story of the Widow's Mite found in Mark 12 to explain how the amount of money in your bank account will not change the amount of generosity in your heart. The message finishes with two challenging questions: what can God make possible with what I have in my hand? What would it look like if the people of Summit Church began to live lives that are radically generous?
The fifth and final message of our series One Nation Under God brings Pastor Mel teaching about Christian generosity as well as the tithe. The thematic idea for this series is that political transformation is easy while spiritual transformation is hard. Mel begins by explaining the differences between how Romans and early Christians viewed money. Romans were stingy and self-serving, while Christians were open-handed and generous. Mel explains the distinctions between The First Tithe, The Festival Tithe, and The Poor Tithe. What does the Bible say about the spiritual significance of tithing? Mel finishes the message by challenging us that we fail to find peace with our finances because we fail to trust in God. The world will not be changed by our spare time and our spare money, but authentic Christian generosity has the power to change everything.
In the fourth message of our series called One Nation Under God, Pastor Mel helps us understand the truths about idolatry. The running theme for this series is that while political transformation is easy, spiritual transformation is hard. We often think of shrines and statues when we think about idolatry, but idolatry normally takes on a different form for us today. Mel explains how idolatry may not mean loving evil things, but loving good things too much and making them supreme over God. Some commonly idolized facets of life include success, fame, and identity. Mel provides two tests for our hearts to determine whether we have idols: where do we spend our money and where do we spend our time? The message finishes with a personal story from Mel's own life to illustrate what biblical repentance looks like.
In the third week of our series called One Nation Under God, Pastor Mel unpacks what the Bible teaches us about sex. He begins the message by contextualizing the Scripture through a comparison of the Roman view sex with the Christian view of sex. Scripture prohibits sexual sins including adultery, fornication, homosexuality, bestiality, and incest. Mel breaks down the neurological processes which occur during sex and explains how they are both helpful and motivating in the context of marriage - but destructive in the context of sexual sin. He finishes the message by reminding us of God's grace shown to the adulterous woman in John 8.
In week two of our series called One Nation Under God, Pastor Collin teaches about the Judeo-Christian values concerning the sanctity of life. The main idea for this series is that nations are changed when followers of Jesus give their lives for other people. Part of understanding this is the reminder that "we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Collin explains Summit's unashamedly pro-life position by preaching through Psalm 139 and John 3. He finishes his message by encouraging us to make sacrifices by seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.
In the first message of our series called One Nation Under God, Pastor Mel explains some critical distinctions between church and government. Part of the reason our political conversations have become so contentious is because we've made our politics as sacred as the church. We idolize our politicians instead of remaining focused on Jesus. Political transformation is often easier than spiritual transformation. The early church thrived under political persecution because it offered a direct relationship with an intimate God. The first century church was countercultural, and they understood eternal life came by grace through faith - not by works. Through Romans 12 Mel encourages us not to copy the behavior and customs of this world, but to let God transform us into new people by changing the way we think.
In the fourth and final message of our series called More Than Christians, Pastor Mel explains the final phase of a disciple's development: to do as Jesus did. We should be baptized in water because Jesus was baptized in water. We should be led by the Spirit of God because Jesus was led by the Spirit of God. Jesus also prioritized prayer and being with God, even if it meant withdrawing from others for a time. We also see that Jesus went to church regularly and he preached the gospel boldly, which further solidifies the reasons for why we should not forsake the gathering of the saints. Perhaps most importantly, Jesus suffered in this world and he also loved sacrificially. Walking well through suffering and pouring yourself out to love others are the most difficult projects in doing what Jesus did. Under normal circumstances we cannot do it on our own, but by the power of the Holy Spirit we can live a life like Jesus lived.
In part three of our series called More Than Christians, Pastor Mel explains what it means to become like Jesus. He reminds us of the three goals of a disciple: to be with your rabbi, to become like your rabbi, and to do as your rabbi did. God's purpose for his people is for them to become like Jesus Christ. A disciple of Jesus is anyone who intentionally organizes their life around Jesus (being with him, becoming like him, and doing what he did). A non-disciple of Jesus is anyone who intentionally organizes their life around anything else. Becoming like Jesus means imitating him and surrounding yourself with an environment which promotes Christlikeness. Whether we're aware of it or not, we are busy becoming like something. We are being spiritually shaped and influenced at all times. Mel helps raise our awareness to this reality by reminding us our lives are perfectly designed to shape us into who we are at this moment. If we want to be shaped into something different, we need to change the way we do life.
In the second part of our series called More Than Christians, Pastor Mel explains how real disciples commit themselves to be with Jesus. John Mark Comer said, "This is the first and most important goal of apprenticeship to Jesus: to be with him, to spend every waking moment aware of his presence and attentive to his voice. To cultivate a with-ness to Jesus as a baseline for your entire life." Disciples abide in Jesus, rooted in connection to him by the Holy Spirit. Mel maps out a threefold strategy for cultivating connection to Jesus: gathering with God's people, prayer, and transformed thinking. To be disciples of Christ we must choose to live a life that is always attentive to God.
In the first message of our series called More Than Christians, Pastor Mel explains some background behind the usage of the term "Christian." Jesus never used the word "Christian" but in the Bible it means "little Christ." Followers of Christ were probably called "Followers of the Way" before they were called anything else. To give us some insight into what a true Christian should look like, Mel walks through what life was like for disciples who studied under a rabbi. Your life as a disciple had three goals: to be with your rabbi, to become like your rabbi, and to do as your rabbi did. Discipleship isn't a class, rather it's a way of life. Mel presents data suggesting while 63% of Americans identify as "Christians", only 4% are actually following Christ. He finishes the message with a challenge by asking us the question: Is this what Jesus died for?
In the fourth and final message of our series on the parable of the sower, pastor Mel delivers a sermon discussing the divine purpose of seed and fruit. In the first three messages we learned how a hardened heart, shallow roots, and the cares of this world all detract from our positive response to the gospel. In this message Mel teaches us what it looks like for a Christian to receive the seeds in fertile soil and yield a crop thirty, sixty, and even a hundred as much as had been planted. He discusses the fruit of the Spirit as markers for spiritual maturity. He also explains how some lost people will reject the preaching of the gospel while accepting the fruit of a life lived for Jesus. This phenomena reveals God's design for the seed and the fruit: the seed's purpose is to bear fruit, but the purpose of the fruit is to spread more seed.
In the third message of our series on the parable of the sower, Pastor Mel teaches about those who hear the gospel but are drawn away by the worries of this world and the lure of wealth. Often these people are racked with anxiety concerning temporary things like their career or even their familial relationships. Those who choose to serve wealth instead of serving Jesus have swallowed the lie that every problem is fixed with money. Sir Francis Bacon said, "Money is a great servant but a bad master." Mel preaches through selected scriptures and explains Christ's teachings on the cares of this world, the cost of discipleship, and seeking the kingdom of God above all else.
In the second sermon of our series called The Parable of the Sower, Pastor Mel explains the importance of being rooted in Christian community. What you are rooted in determines what your life is producing. People who are rooted in the love of Christ will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. A good question to ask ourselves in order to reveal where our roots are is, "What do we hold tightly when we find ourselves in crisis?" Aspen trees grow in community as their roots spread below the earth's surface and spring others to life to form a group. They are interconnected by their root system and share nutrients and resources to support each other. Resilient Christians are the same way as they join small groups and sacrifice for the community.
In the first message of our series called The Parable of the Sower, Pastor Mel teaches what it means to have a hardened heart. Preaching through Matthew 13, Mel explains why having a hardened heart prevents you from seeing and hearing God. The factors which contribute to a hardened heart are often associated with repetition. Repetition of pain can harden a person's heart, and repetition of performance can result in routines which make church mechanical instead of meaningful. Mel expresses how our hearts grow hard to beauty when beauty becomes routine. If you are unimpressed with God, if you are cynical of life, or if you see God as transactional, then this message is for you.
Pastor Kyle Hammond joins us for a special message on what it looks like to be a follower of Jesus. What do Christ followers know? What do Christ followers do? Kyle explains why, while we get to decide whether to be disciples of Jesus, we don't get to decide what a disciple of Jesus does. Disciples of Jesus are called to turn the other cheek, give the shirts of their backs, go the extra mile, help those in need, and give more than expecfted. Authentic belief must transform the way we behave because faith without works is dead. Pastor Kyle finishes his message with a challenge for us to decide whether Jesus is merely the Lord of our lips or truly the Lord of our lives.
This message features Pastor Jim Hennesy, who leads a vibrant church in Cedar Hill, Texas. Jim explains what it looks like to step up and be bold in your identity as a follower of Jesus. Repentance is an indispensable step in the process of overcoming sluggish faith. Jim teaches about the mysterious biblical character Melchizedek and reminds us that he was both a priest and a king. To be a priest and a king means to embrace the gifts of the Spirit while also living a life engaged in practical ministry. Scripture says the peace of God which goes beyond understanding will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This peace is a key attribute of a Christian who is living as both a king and a priest.
In the final week of our series called Origin Story, Pastor Mel walks us through the major moments in Paul's life and ministry. The apostle Paul is broadly considered the most significant contributor to Christianity apart from Jesus himself. The biblical account of Paul begins before his conversion when he is named Saul and is a high-ranking member of the Pharisees. During this stage of his life he persecuted Christians and sought to have them killed. At one of the most famous inflection points in recorded history, Paul (then called Saul) encountered the risen Christ on the road to Damascus and his entire worldview was transformed in a moment. He ceased persecuting Christians and instead became the most influential apostle in scripture. Paul called himself the worst of sinners, but by the power of the Holy Spirit and with the encouragement of fellow believers like Ananias and Barnabas, Paul's life was redeemed. If God can glorify himself through someone like Paul, what could he do in your own life?
In week 3 of our series called Origin Story, Pastor Mel examines the life of Hannah - who was the mother of the prophet Samuel. In week 2 we learned how Samuel lived a life of faithfulness, and this week we see that his mother was faithful as well. Hannah struggled with infertility and chose to take her suffering to the Lord. God granted her a son, who she then surrendered back to God by taking a Nazirite vow on Samuel's behalf. Hannah left Samuel with Eli the priest when Samuel was just four years old. On first pass Hannah's decision to give Samuel to the priesthood might seem cold or harsh, but in the final analysis it's one of scripture's most renowned acts of faithfulness. Godly parents teach their children how to worship, how to pray, how to trust God, and how to leave the home. Hannah is sometimes criticized for giving Samuel to the priesthood, but modern parents still give their own children to things like athletics, career paths, talents, and more. What are you giving your children to?
Week 2 of our series called Origin Story explores the life of the prophet Samuel. The name Samuel means "heard of God" which is appropriate considering Samuel's position as a prophet. Samuel lived a life of faithfulness which provided stark contrast to King Saul's record of disobedience. The prophet obeyed God in the anointing of Saul as king of Israel, and he continued to obey God when Saul's kingship was taken from him and given to David. Mel explains how God spoke to Samuel because Samuel was first obedient. God will not give us that which we refuse to steward well. Samuel's faithfulness resulted in him having a reputation of honesty and integrity. The words Samuel spoke were reliable and true. Mel goes on to point out how delayed obedience is disobedience, and partial obedience is disobedience. He finishes the message with a challenge to Christians concerning the priesthood of all believers: you don't have to be a prophet to live a faithful life like Samuel did.
In the first message of our series called Origin Story, Mel walks us through the story of King Saul. Mel explains how Saul was everything the people thought would make for a good king. The prophet Samuel told Saul he was the hope for all of Israel. Despite this fantastic start and these royal qualities, Saul disobeyed God and this disobedience undermined his authority and caused him to lose the kingdom. Mel explores the series of inflection points which corrupted Saul's heart and ultimately resulted in his death. Saul's life is a case study on bad leadership. Mel distills these lessons to three principles: we should fear God primarily, worship God supremely, and obey God completely.
6 for 6 is a fun set of mini-sermons preached by a rotation of our pastors here at Summit Church. Each preacher has 6 minutes to deliver his or her sermon and if they are not done when the timer hits 0:00, a buzzer sounds and they must walk off stage. While it was sometimes a frantic speed and not all of our communicators finished, expect to learn about the core values which define us as a church. Knowing Jesus means we center our lives around Him and His good news. We value reaching the lost, so we know that to reach people no one is reaching, we have to do things no one is doing. We also value freedom, big faith, healthy relationships, and radical generosity.
Pastor Mel preaches a special message on Pentecost Sunday about the power of the Holy Spirit and how this power enables every life to be made different. At Summit Church, the central focus of all our core values is to see every life made different. Mel explains the history behind what occurred on the day of Pentecost and why it matters for us today. Preaching through Acts 1 & 2, as well as other scriptures, Mel makes the case for why the spiritual gifts are meant for believers today. He unpacks the gift of tongues, explaining the difference between a public gift and a private grace. The message finishes by explaining how praying in the spirit speaks to God, builds up the person praying, and is Paul's desire for all believers. Mel invites us to be baptized in the Holy Spirit so that we might become powerful witnesses for the gospel.
Pastor Kim Masengale preaches a special Mother's Day message about being made whole. Spiritual healing is found in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Preaching through John 5:1-15, Kim explains why many of us come up with reasons and excuses for resisting spiritual healing. Being a victim can feel safe because we're no longer responsible for our own shortcomings. At the pool of Bethesda, Jesus healed a man who had been sick for 38 years. It was an impossible healing performed miraculously in a single instant. Before the healing, the man presented reasons for why he has not yet been made whole, but Jesus countered by bluntly telling him to pick up his mat and walk. Jesus has the power to heal you right now, so if spiritual healing hasn't happened in your life then it's worth trying to discern the reasons why - your own biggest detractor might be yourself.
In the final message of Paul's letter to Titus, Pastor Mel teaches through chapter three. This chapter is prescriptive for what the Church should do when a person is acting on malevolence. Someone doing bad in this context might be subversive, divisive, or quick to engage in petty arguments over secondary issues. Mel encourages us to do good by explaining how doing good is not the same as not doing bad. Asking yourself whether a certain action is sinful becomes the wrong question because this indicates you're just trying to get away with as much as possible. A properly ordered heart would desire to praise and honor God, not merely avoid His wrath.
In this edition of Leadership Night, Mel recounts various situations from his 25 years of leadership experience and teaches us the lessons he's learned. One of the main themes of this lecture is that a career in leadership seldom turns out how you expect it to. A good leader with a lot of experience will have endured incredible amounts of stress, the pressure of stewarding his or her employees' well-being, and the betrayal of those he loves. Despite the seriousness of these challenges, there are strategies a leader can develop to maintain a positive outlook, a positive impact, and a healthy life. Mel presents these strategies along with Q&A at the end.
In the second week of our series covering Paul's letter to Titus, Pastor Mel teaches through chapter two which discusses wise living. Wise living entails a positive ambition for godliness, rather than a mere avoidance of sin. This chapter specifically addresses older men, older women, and then later younger men and younger women. Mel talks about the importance of older men exercising self-control and possessing sound faith. A man who has these qualities will engender respect from others as a consequence of prudence. Older women should resist gossip, avoid heavy drinking, and be diligent as they teach others what is good. For all Christians, humble submission to spiritual authorities as well as a commitment to wise living are necessary requirements for walking in righteousness.
This sermon was preached live by Pastor Collin McKnight to the congregation at Summit Blairsville. While Collin was preaching on the same text as Pastor Mel for week 1 of our series on Titus, Collin's sermon is entirely distinct from Mel's. In this message you should expect to learn some of the history behind Paul's letter to Titus, as well as what it means to be a bondservant of Christ. Collin focuses on the character of Paul as he explains what it means to find purpose and perspective as you follow Jesus.
In the first message of our series on Paul's letter to Titus, Pastor Mel preaches an expository sermon on chapter 1. This chapter is all about which virtues to embrace and which vices to avoid as a proper Christian. Paul encouraged Titus to appoint elders who lived a blameless life. The elder's own house must be in order if he can expect to be a shepherd in the house of God. An elder must be faithful to his wife, and his children must be followers of Christ who don't have a reputation for being wild and rebellious. The elder enjoys having guests in his home, loves what is good, and he lives wisely and justly. Perhaps most importantly, the elder has a strong conviction in the scriptures and maintains a commitment to sound doctrine while rebuking false teachings.
In the final message of our series called Win By Losing, Pastor Mel teaches about the value of being bold about your faith. Jesus said, "If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the holy angels." The key to being bold about your faith is to understand that God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. The apostle Paul suffered in prison for his work in the gospel, but he was not ashamed of it because he knew the One in whom he trusted. When you know Jesus and when you trust Jesus, there is no need to be ashamed.
In part three of our series called Win By Losing, Pastor Mel interviews special guest Sgt. Shilo Harris. Shilo survived an IED blast in 2007 that left major burns on his body. Three of the five soldiers in Shilo's Humvee were killed in the explosion. Throughout the interview Shilo tells a story of resilience and dependence on God as he overcame seemingly impossible odds. So much of life, especially for a Christian, is characterized by the endurance of tragic suffering. The testimony of Sgt. Harris will give you hope and encouragement that by the grace of God you can make it through almost anything.
On Leadership Night Mel often presents information on how you might lead others well, but in this episode he teaches us how to lead ourselves. He explains why being a good leader requires that you own your mistakes. He talks a little about how to foster an atmosphere where leaders and employees aren't afraid to admit their mistakes. Being an effective leader also requires that you establish good boundaries. You need to know what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate relationships. Furthermore, every good leader needs to be able to respond well to adversity. Mel also talks about how a leader might recover lost credibility after a leadership failure. Q&A follows.
In the second installment of our series Win By Losing, Pastor Mel walks us through the four things we must lose in order to follow Jesus. Using selected scriptures, Mel argues that being faithful requires us to lose our minds. Romans 12:2 admonishes us not to copy the behaviors and customs of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Then we will learn God's will for us, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Being faithful also requires that we lose our own way. Jesus said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me." Taking up our cross also means we must be willing to lose our lives. The fourth, and often most difficult, loss we must accept to be followers of Jesus is our loss of control. Accepting God's will for your life means submitting your own will, and thus your control, to God's purposes.
In the third part of his lecture series on Purpose, Dr. John Stanko teaches us why it's important to face reality when trying to discover your purpose. While we should be courageous and ambitious, it's important to accept honest feedback when others provide it for us. In the pursuit of purpose we should be prepared to embrace change. The apostle Paul experienced radical change when he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. An important part of finding your purpose is following your joy. Does this thing make you happy? Life is difficult and growing in your purpose will be difficult, but constant misery while you work is certainly and indication that something is wrong and you may be pursuing the wrong things.
In the first message of our series called Win By Losing, Pastor Mel makes the case for reorganizing what you prioritize as valuable. Jesus said, "If you cling to your life you'll lose it, but if you give up your life for me you will find it." Our world teaches us to make sacrifices in an effort to win, but Mel explains why winning by itself is an improper motivation. Preaching through Philippians 3, Mel outlines the perspective which views everything else as worthless compared to the infinite value of knowing Jesus Christ. The message finishes with an illustration of the famous statue called, "The David" which Michelangelo carved from marble. The illustration teaches how God wants to shape us into something immeasurably valuable by subtracting the things which are not fitting to the image of Christ.
Special guest Pastor John Nuzzo joins us for an encouraging message called Pick Your Punctuation. John explains how inflection points in our lives can either drop a "period" or a "comma" in our stories. He makes the case that a "period" can be devastating because we allow terrible moments to define us. If we look to Jesus and trust in Him, then we can find power to turn major life events into "commas" which lead us into a better future. A "comma" reveals how God is not done using us if we should choose to remain faithful. John makes the case that God wants to give us good things, but we need to be steadfast in our posture to receive what He has for us.
In the second sessions of his three part series on Purpose, Dr. John Stanko teaches us how to define our purpose. The first step in defining our purpose is to seek God. Proverbs chapter 2 instructs us to cry out to God for discernment and lift our voices for understanding. Scripture teaches us that discerning the fear of the Lord leads to discovering the knowledge of God. Dr. Stanko also explains why in search of your purpose you should not overlook the simple things, you should be willing to work, and have the courage to face your fears. Believing that God wants you to do something is much different than wanting to do something yourself.
In the sixth and final message of our series on The Temple, Pastor Mel teaches how to cultivate an overcoming worship. What happens to your faith when trouble comes? Preaching through Revelation chapter 4, Mel explains how a durable faith requires worship, and how this kind of worship relies on a revelation of God. The less you know about God the less you will want to worship, while the more you know about God the more you will want to worship. Mel makes the case that your perception of God is incubated in your worship. The defining characteristic of God's people is God's presence, and faithful worship is vertical, horizontal, and reflective.
In a special edition of Leadership Night, our guest speaker Dr. John Stanko teaches how to identify your purpose. Teaching through Acts 6, John explains how being effective means being full of power to achieve results. He goes on to make the case that in order to be effective you must know your purpose. Dr. Stanko supports his claim by walking us through the personal purpose of several key figures in scripture. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Paul was charged with bringing the gospel to the Gentiles. Peter was entrusted with preaching to the Jews. John the Baptist had the duty of preparing the way for Jesus. What's your purpose?
In the fifth week of our series called The Temple, Pastor Mel examines seven different Hebrew words which are used in the scripture to describe worship. Working primarily through the Psalms, Mel explains the reasons why we worship the way we do. Raising hands during worship is an expression of surrender to, vulnerability towards, and dependence on God. Being physically expressive in your worship of God is not necessary, but it's a natural way to intensify the inner exultation which is at the heart of worship. The message concludes with Mel quoting A. W. Tozer who said, "The goal of every Christian should be to live in a state of unbroken worship."
In the fourth week of our series called The Temple, Pastor Mel preaches about the ark of the covenant which was stored in the innermost sanctum of the temple - the holy of holies. The holy of holies was a place only accessible by the Israelite High Priest, and even the High Priest did not enter lightly. Teaching through Leviticus 16, Mel describes these particular parts of the temple and he explains the processes the priesthood had to observe to maintain it. The message resolves with Mel showing how reverence for this part of the temple is symbolic of the reverence we should have for God today. He explains how the Jewish law was demanding, why God deserves great attention, and how our being intentional raises our awareness.
In the third week of our series called The Temple, Pastor Todd supplies a teaching on the altar of incense. The altar of incense was the last pass before entering the holiest part of the temple. Todd walks us through the Levitical process of sacrifice and explains what it means for our worship today. He talks about why God emphasized certain placement of the altar when designing the structure of the temple, as well as stringent particularity in the design of the altar itself. Todd traces the chain of possession of the sacrificial fire through the various rituals in the temple and shows that it originates from God Himself. The message culminates in the idea that God provides all that we need to worship and the means of sacrifice is not sourced within ourselves.
In the second week of our series on The Temple, Pastor Mel teaches all about the symbolic significance of gates and how they translate to your relationship with God. Gates serve a variety of purposes including protection, authority, and control of access. Psalm 100:4 teaches that we should, "Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name." As Christians we should be mature enough that we come into worship with expectancy and we don't need to be stirred up. Holy worship should result in holy obedience, because worship without obedience is little more than a superficial opiate numbing us against the pressures and pains of life.
In this edition of Leadership Night, Mel explains the hallmarks of a high-capacity leader. A high-capacity leader is someone who understands the vision. This kind of person advances the vision because they take ownership through their own expectations rather than from expectations set upon them by a manager. A high-capacity performer will draw the best out of his peers and knows how to win in a healthy way. Mel presents these descriptions and more to help you identify high-capacity leaders. Q&A follows.
In the first message of our series called The Temple, Pastor Mel gives a thorough explanation of what the Temple was, its layout, functions, and rules. He explains how the structure of the Temple was used to denote the holiness of God and our restricted access to God before mediation through Jesus Christ. Preaching through Ephesians 2, Mel goes into detail about how the gospel of Jesus Christ reconciles us to God. Access demands intimacy, and through Jesus Christ we have intimacy with God much like the high priest had in the innermost sanctums of the Temple.
In the final installment of our Jesus Over Everything series, Pastor Jake Schwertfeger from Overland Missions preaches on the sufficiency of Jesus. He presents a thesis that one of the greatest deceptions plaguing the body of Christ today is that we are begging God to receive what Jesus has already freely given and established in us. His message is one of encouragement to embrace what Jesus has already given us and trust Him to work in the most challenging areas of our lives.
In the third message of our series Jesus Over Everything, Pastor Mel explains what it looks like when the Church is in submission to Jesus. When we put Jesus over everything as a church, conflict decreases, health increases, and God's kingdom advances. Mel teaches why the key to healthy relationships is to love sacrificially and resolve conflict biblically. He points out how church health is measured by generosity, salvations, and baptisms. The sermon finishes by highlighting how Jesus was a church planter, Paul was a church planter, the apostles were church planters, and the Great Commission calls on us to be church planters.
In the second message of our series Jesus Over Everything, Pastor Stef preaches a verse-by-verse expository sermon on Colossians 3:1-4. She recalls some of the lessons Mel unpacked from the previous two chapters, and then makes the case for why Jesus should be Lord of our lives. Stef presents a practical dichotomy of what an earthly minded person might say and think over against what a heavenly minded person might say and think. She also explains why the greatest barrier between ourselves and God is not our sin but is our focus. Sin is a barrier, yes, but fundamentally our relationship with God is predicated on our aim. Idolatry is a sin with denotes aim because to have an idol means to allot worshipful focus on someone or something other than Jesus.
"Jesus Over Everything" is our theme as a church for this year. In the first message of our series Jesus Over Everything, Pastor Mel makes the biblical case for the supremacy of Christ. He argues that Jesus is supreme over our lives and over all creation even if we don't accept that He is. Through exposition of Colossians chapters 1 and 2, Mel teaches how Christ is the head of the Church, is the ruler of all kingdoms and all authority, and how Jesus alone is entirely sufficient for us. This section of Colossians also contains the famous warning against being captured by empty human philosophies crafted apart from Jesus, because in Jesus resides all the fullness of God.
In this episode of Leadership Night, Mel walks us through a handful of important lessons we've learned from one of history's great leaders - Martin Luther King Jr. He talks about the wisdom of taking action even when fear makes inaction seem rather tempting. A good leader is a leader committed to both intellectual and character growth. Effective leadership involves reading and learning on a daily basis. Mel fields questions in the second half of the episode, and one of the questions is whether ignorance or wickedness leads to worse leadership decisions.Check out the Back40 Session Mel references here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4PVWYgMWfE
Preaching through Matthew 11:28-30, Pastor Gilbert teaches us how we can find the deepest form of rest. Rest for our souls comes from doing God's work and daily presenting ourselves as a living sacrifice for His purposes. Doing God's work involves surrendering yourself to the yoke of Jesus Christ and learning from Him. If we try to arrive at spiritual rest without Jesus we will come up empty and be left feeling dissatisfied. The pathway to this much-sought-after peaceful condition has already been laid out by God, we just need to see it, understand it, and practice the faith necessary to walk it.
In the most challenging message of this series, Pastor Mel brings a short sermon on Christ as the suffering servant. It's human nature to want to be powerful and even if we don't seek prestige most of us still want the freedom which comes from being in control. Teaching through selected scriptures, Mel explains how the Christian life is about downward mobility rather than upward mobility. We are called to a narrow path marked out by Jesus as one characterized by powerlessness, humility, and suffering. Only once we deny ourselves and accept this truth do we find real freedom in submission to God.
In the third message of our series "It's a Wonderful Life", Mel discusses the human desire to be seen. Using selected scriptures including the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4, he teaches why it's better to honor God than seek glory for yourself. Mel explains what it means to be a servant of Christ and reminds us that we are a slave to our source. Towards the end of the message, he shows a video of a little boy who demonstrates what it looks like to take your role seriously - even if your role isn't glorified by others. The conclusion of the sermon is that it's better to be loved by God, be a child of God, and be seen by God than to be famous here on earth.
In the second part of our series called It's a Wonderful Life, Pastor Mel looks at the worldly perspective on wanting to be rich. Generally, the desire for material wealth stems from either wanting to live a life of leisure or not wanting to worry about money. Mel makes the case that what we're really after is freedom and we try to acquire freedom through wealth. It's very common for people to worry about who is going to take care of them, and Pastor Mel explains why we become slaves to those who provide for us. He finishes the message by showing how true freedom comes when we understand that God is our provider.
In a special edition of Leadership Night, Mel teaches principles he has learned from time spent working on his Jeep. Working through a list of ten points, he explains how these principles apply to leadership in business and in your personal life. The ideas include being careful to invest in critical infrastructure before spending on flashier, more attractive purchases: "lockers before light bars", as the Jeep community puts it. He also talks about ways to keep your employees happy at the middle of the pay-scale, how to learn from leaders without merely imitating them, and the danger of starting too many projects at one time. Q&A follows.
In the opening message of our series It's a Wonderful Life, Pastor Mel investigates the meaning of biblical love. He talks about the problems associated with the culture's fantastical infatuation with being "in love." He explores the self-sacrificial love of called agape, and then he explains why it's a bad idea to follow your heart when it comes to loving others well. Preaching through 1 John 4, Mel shows us that love is not about chasing a feeling, but choosing a discipline.
Pastor Christina tells a personal story explaining the negative consequences of envy. Preaching through James chapter 3, she teaches us what we should do if we discover that jealousy is a problem in our own lives. Christina makes it clear jealousy is not an attractive vice, and that it is the product of earthly, unspiritual, and demonic tendencies. She contrasts these attributes with godly wisdom which is pure, peace-loving, gentle, and willing to yield to others.
In the third and final message of our series on Habakkuk, Pastor Mel walks us through the prophet's song detailing the wrath of God. Habakkuk's song inspires fear, awe, and confidence in the glorious power of God. Mel explains the Hebrew term "selah" to indicate a moment of pause and praise. So we get to see the moments when the prophet reflected on the movement of God which adds another dimension of interest to the text. The message includes a powerful testimony from Kathy Eshbaugh, she tells us how her trust in God helped her through unthinkable grief. Mel closes with encouragement for us to take worship seriously because it is our weapon of war.
The second message in our series on Habakkuk brings us exposition of chapter 2. Pastor Mel teaches that it is through faith that a righteous person has life. He draws a distinction between righteousness and pride, citing that righteousness results in firmness, steadiness, fidelity, and steadfastness. Habakkuk cried out to God wondering how long before He will help. The prophet also faces frustration when it looks like the wicked are getting away with their deeds longer than they should. This chapter also presents prophetic warnings against those who build with ill-gotten money as well as those who practice idolatry.
Pastor Mel begins our series on the book of Habakkuk, who was one of the minor prophets of the Old Testament. This oft-neglected book teaches us invaluable wisdom concerning how we should receive God's correction. Habakkuk's prayer presented in the first chapter comes in the form of a complaint. Mel explains to us why it's okay to complain to God when facing difficulties in life. Complaining to God instead of to our neighbors helps preserve us against sins like gossip. In this message Mel teaches why it's better to be corrected by a friend than an enemy - although even correction by an enemy can be a mercy of God. This message concludes with hopeful words from Jesus Christ in Matthew 11, encouraging us to bring everything to God so He can give us rest.
Mel gives strategies for how to lead your team well through an internal crisis. It's important that you gather as much information as possible during the discovery phase. Once you know what's happening, proper communication throughout your team is critical. Bad behaviors like gossip and dishonesty should be struck down as soon as you notice them. One of the most challenging aspects of navigating an internal crisis is terminating someone, and Mel explains the best way to do it. Q&A follows.
Our guest speaker and keynote from She Is Transformed, Andi Andrew, preaches a message about preparation. Teaching through the parable of the ten virgins, Andi explains why we should be prepared for anything. She argues that the unwise walk in presumption while the wise walk in anticipation. Andi also teaches that we should not live on borrowed oil, meaning we should look to Jesus as our source rather than deriving a second-hand source from other people who look to Jesus. The message finishes with a warning to stay alert and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus as your life and our world continue to change.
Pastor Mel finishes our series on 2nd Peter with exposition of chapter 3. This chapter takes a look at end-times prophecy and discusses how we should act as Christians who are expecting the return of Jesus. There will be scoffers who mock the truth of Christ's return and there will be hypocrites who claim themselves to be the saviors of mankind. A proper Christian should understand that God exists outside of time and that one day is as a thousand years to the Lord. Any perceived delay in Christ's return is not a consequence of unfulfilled promises, rather it's a display of God's grace and His desire that all people should come to the knowledge of truth.
The second week of our series on 2nd Peter brings a message explaining the dangers of being driven by your feelings and desires. Mel goes to the Greek to explain the subtleties of illegitimate desire and sensuality. He also discusses the meaning of greed and cautions us against false teachers who love to make personal gains by teaching bad doctrine. Mel explains how false teachers are like unthinking animals, and how they can lure you in with charisma and a clever use of words. The message closes with an antidote to the poison offered by false teachers. This remedy includes living a life of confession and repentance as well as living a life governed by truth and not by your own feelings.
What makes a good leader? What are the character traits of a good leader? What are some skills we can learn to develop our leadership? Mel teaches about these topics and more in this episode of Leadership Night. Mel and the audience discuss the importance of self-awareness, the necessity of asking for feedback, and the value of delegation. They also explore the importance of leaders taking on new responsibilities in order to avoid stagnation and promote growth. Q&A follows.
In the first message of our series on 2 Peter, Pastor Mel teaches about qualities you should develop as followers of Jesus. These qualities are: moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, patient endurance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love for everyone. Mel's exposition of 2 Peter 1 explains how lacking these qualities makes you ineffective, unfruitful, shortsighted, and blind. The message concludes that standing firm in the truth and working hard are indispensable features of a life characterized by these qualities.
In the fifth and final part of our series on the five solas of the Reformation, Pastor Mel teaches about the doctrine of Soli Dec Gloria (which means glory to God alone). Christians are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, as revealed by Scripture alone, to the glory of God alone. The essence of Soli Deo Gloria is that everything is done for God's glory alone to the exclusion of man's self-glorification and pride. Mel explains how we can bring God glory by living honorably, praising God with our mouths, being obedient to God, producing much fruit in our lives, living generously, avoiding sexual sin, and living a glory focused life.
In part four of our series on the five solas of the Reformation, Pastor Mel teaches about the doctrine of Sola Scriptura (which means scripture alone). Christians are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, as revealed by Scripture alone, to the glory of God alone. Mel sets up the message by arguing that if the Bible is true, then any claim in conflict with what it says is false. He takes us on a tour of the holy books of various world religions and explains why the Bible is distinct from them. He then makes an apologetic defense of scripture by answering common complaints about it. He finishes the message by explaining the real-world benefits of daily reading the word of God.
n the third installment of our series on the five solas of the Reformation, Pastor Mel teaches about Solus Christus, which means Christ alone. The thesis for this series is: Christians are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, as revealed by Scripture alone, to the glory of God alone. Mel explains who Jesus is in various world religions like Buddhism and Islam, and then he points out why the distinctions between these religions and Christianity matter. Mel presents the gospel through exposition of Romans 10, as he teaches how confession in Christ as Lord and faith in him as Savior is necessary for salvation.
Pastor Todd teaches about the second of the five solas of the Reformation: sola fide. Sola fide means "faith alone" and Todd explains how we are saved entirely by grace through faith in Jesus. He also makes the case that while we are saved by faith alone, that faith itself is never alone but always expresses itself in demonstration. Using selected scriptures, Todd shows three ways faith should demonstrate itself in the lives of believers: through transformations in our cognition, our confession, and our conduct.
In a special edition of Leadership Night, Pastor Todd walks us through what means to elevate the limitations of our leadership. He explains how intentionally including others in your workflow can expand the limits of your productivity. If you work for a boss or a manager, you should try to work with them rather than work for them. If you are a boss or manager, you should be quick to take on the dirty jobs yourself in an effort to relieve the pressure on your employees. Todd also explains how choosing meaningful milestones can help ensure you remain consistent in your productive routines.
In the opening message of our series on the five solas of the Reformation, Pastor Mel explains the meaning of Sola Gratia (by grace alone). He teaches the difference between justice, mercy, and grace as well as why all three are important elements of God's character. Contrasting Christianity with other world religions helps define biblical grace as an unmerited gift from God. Mel cautions against the casual view of sin associated with antinomianism which is a reaction to cheap grace. He finishes the message by discussing how our good works should be a natural result of what Jesus has done, not our effort to earn what Jesus has done.
In the third issue of our Milestones series, Pastor Mel explains the keys to "homothunadon" or unity in the Holy Spirit. Through the early Church in the book of Acts, Mel shows how the disciples achieved unity by devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching, to fellowship, to sharing in meals, and to prayer. He explains how the outcomes of unity are awe of God, signs and wonders, radical generosity, and salvations. The message closes with an exhortation to leave secondary issues behind and be willing sacrifice yourself for the greater unity.
In a special service commemorating Summit Church's 75th anniversary, Pastor Mel interviews John Blaniar, Jonathan Mack, and Don Hezlep - each of whom have been a part of Summit for a long time. This discussion takes you on a tour of Summit's history and gives you a better understanding of how the church became what it is today. They talk about the big faith it took to change locations and construct the facility Summit calls home. Each of the men agree that what God has done with Summit has stretched beyond anything they imagined. Summit's story is not over, and Mel finishes the evening with encouragement to move forward into what God has planned for the church next.
In the second installment of our Milestones series, Pastor Mel teaches about the gifts of the Spirit. Through exposition of both 1 Corinthians 12 and Acts 2 - 4, Mel explains how the gifts of the Spirit are deeply practical. He talks about the difference between a public gift and a private grace, and he shows what happened to the early church in Acts after the day of Pentecost. Mel notes that God wants His glory to disrupt your normal life and that - like the apostles - you don't have to be specially qualified to live an obedient life in Christ.
In the opening message of our Milestones series, Pastor Mel teaches about Pentecost and the baptism of the Holy Spirit through Acts 1 & 2. He explains how God accelerates His glory through Christian unity. He also talks about how the Holy Spirit isn't weird, and how the gifts of the Spirit are given to encourage the Church and draw unbelievers.
Through verse-by-verse exposition of Psalm 23, Pastor Rob teaches how the Bible illustrates humanity as sheep and Christ as the Good Shepherd. He reminds us how sheep are defenseless without the shepherd. Our only job as Christians is to stay close to the Shepherd. The message finishes with an explanation of the Hebrew variants for the name of God which detail important elements of His character.
Mel explains the importance of adding value to your organization. Whether as an employee or a manager, there are likely undiscovered or underutilized ways you might contribute to the success of your company. From saving money by being creative in your operational efficiency to being excellent at the specific role you were hired to do, Mel outlines several time-tested strategies to make yourself more valuable.
Pastor Kim finishes our series called Much Fruit with a discussion of the fruit of self-control. Kim explains how the road to self-control runs through remembering who we belong to. Self-control is cultivated by nailing the passions and desires of our sinful nature to the cross of Christ. Features of self-control include reminding ourselves that everything's not about us and doing our best to live by the Spirit.
Week 5 of our Much Fruit series brings a message on biblical gentleness. Pastor Mel explains the difference between meekness and weakness, and how gentleness is actually restrained power. Jesus is gentle and yet He is also the most powerful. Mel uses the story of the woman caught in adultery to showcase the gentleness of Jesus and he encourages the Church to exercise gentleness as a feature part of their Christlike disposition.
Through Romans 8, Pastor Jim Hennesy teaches about understanding your purpose in the Christian life. He encourages us to be bold and to step out in faith to answer God's call. Jim explains how God worked His purpose through biblical characters like Moses, Abraham, and others. Even when things seem difficult, we can be certain God chose us to be the ones to advance His kingdom on earth at this moment.
The fourth week of Much Fruit brings a sermon on faithfulness. Pastor Mel explains what faithfulness is according to scripture. God is not looking for people of great faith, He's looking for common people to trust His great faithfulness. Mel explains how gifts are given while fruit is cultivated. He also reveals how the faithfulness God invites us into is a reflection of God's own faithfulness.
In the third installment of our Much Fruit series, 5 of our pastors each bring a sermon no longer than 5 minutes in length. You'll learn about peace, kindness, goodness, and more in this exciting, fast-paced delivery of messages.
In the second installment of our series Much Fruit, Pastor Mel focuses on love. Love is the first and most fundamental fruit of the Spirit. Through 1 Corinthians 13 and 1 John 4, Mel details the biblical definition of love and how it is different from cultural understandings. He explains how obedience to Jesus reveals our affection for Jesus. The message finishes with encouragement for Christians to be the ones who put on display the full expression of God's love.
This message begins a new series called Much Fruit. Through exposition of Galatians 5, Pastor Mel explains what spiritual fruit is, where it comes from, and why it is required. He talks about the difference between good fruit and much fruit, and explains how God is the one who cultivates spiritual fruit in our lives. This cultivation process is not easy and is analogous to turning soil and pruning, but the outcome is worth the sacrifice.
In the fifth installment of Rubicon, Pastor Mel teaches about the importance of healthy relationships. Using selected scriptures, he explains the benefits of healthy relationships and details the commitment necessary to make them happen. He also discusses three major facets of the self which inhibit our commitment to healthy relationships: our pleasure, our lack, and our pain.
Mel teaches strategies for good customer service and explains why these principles scale between a wide variety of organizations. Citing industry leaders in hospitality, Mel explains why treating your staff and customers properly fosters strong internal relationships and boosts productivity.
Pastor Stef continues the Rubicon series by teaching what it means to be committed to freedom in Christ. Freedom from shame, pain, and even illness are possible with God. To walk by faith means fixing your focus on Jesus. Looking unto Jesus means life, light, guidance, encouragement, and joy.
In a special baptism service, Pastor Mel brings a sermonette on Christian maturity. Through Romans 6 and Ephesians 4, Mel outlines the differences between immature and mature people. He explains how maturity leads to unity in the faith which is not a lack of conflict but an abundance of love.
Pastor Mel continues the Rubicon series by interviewing special guest Chad Williams. Chad is a former Navy SEAL whose harrowing story of life on the SEAL teams includes both tragedy and challenge. Chad recounts the road he walked which led to his relationship with Jesus and how this relationship changed everything.
Pastor Mel begins a new series called Rubicon. The theme of the series is making a decision for Christ in such a way that you are all in and there is no turning back. This first installment details the things which Jesus Himself was totally committed to: people, the cross, the resurrection, and you. What are you totally committed to?
Mel dissects the various elements of discouragement, what causes discouragement, and how to handle discouragement effectively. Q&A Follows.
Pastor Mel finishes the First Peter series with this final installment. Through 1 Peter 5, Mel teaches about how God's grace always leads to God's glory. The closing of this chapter reminds you that after you've suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
Pastor Kim continues the First Peter series with an expository sermon on 1 Peter 4. The theme for this series is resilience in persecution and in this message Kim teaches about suffering. She explains how what suffering costs us now here on this earth as followers of Jesus pales in comparison to what we gain for all of eternity. The message finishes with an articulation of the wisdom of accepting suffering willfully because of your trust in Jesus.
Pastor Mel continues the First Peter series with an expository sermon on 1 Peter 3. The ongoing theme of resilience in persecution continues in this message. Mel also teaches a godly dynamic between husbands and wives. The message finishes on the symbolic relationship between Noah's flood and baptism, and what it means to submit to God's authority in order to be conformed to the image of Christ.
Through an expository sermon of 1 Peter 2, Pastor Mel teaches how to be resilient in persecution. He also explains the value of submission in maintaining healthy relationships. Where submission is lacking, conflict is abundant. Mel makes the case that this is true across all relationships including those in politics, at work, and in marriage.
Pastor Mel preaches an expository sermon on the first chapter of 1 Peter. He explains how being repentant, knowing God's word, praying without ceasing, and staying in godly community make up the pathway to remembering the joy of your salvation.
Mel explains how building a healthy culture is critical to the success of your organization. Your employee's cultural fit is more important than his or her performance. He outlines some common mistakes leaders make when building culture, and he also lays out strategies you can try at home. Q&A follows.
Through the story of Noah's Ark beginning in Genesis 6, Mel teaches how righteousness can seem absurd in the midst of a reprobate culture. He explains some interesting details about the Ark and talks about why rainbows are symbolic of God's faithfulness to forgive us.
Pastor Mel unpacks three themes which run through the story of Jonah. These include the fact that Jonah was a prophet, that he was called to Gentiles, and that God loves "bad" people. Mel discusses how sin in our lives results in tribulation, although not all tribulation is connected to sin. He also teaches why we need to stop shaping God into our image and allow God to shape us into His.
Through the story found in Daniel 6, Collin teaches how Daniel was a man of character, consistency, conviction, and conscience. He also explains the value of practicing the presence of God and understanding God's promises.
Through Matthew 14, Pastor Kim tells the story of Peter stepping out of the boat toward Jesus. She explains how Jesus can be your peace during turbulent times and how we can't truly know Jesus until we have faith to step out of the boat.
Mel teaches strategies for how to lead yourself, your family, and your organization through times of crisis. He also explains some common mistakes people make when facing crises. Q&A follows.
Using the story of Jesus on the road to Emmaus found in Luke 24, Mel teaches about the difference between knowing Jesus and simply being around Jesus. He points out that while church ministries are great, all of them depend on the ultimate value of intimacy with Christ.
Jacob Schwertfeger from Overland Missions explains what it means to give your entire self to the things of God. He discusses how you are the vehicle by which the kingdom of God is going to be established.
Kyla Kassis from Overland Missions offers a clear evangelism training determining who is called to share the Gospel and who the Gospel is for. This teaching is both empowering and practical as Kyla breaks down what normally feels intimidating about sharing our faith.
Preston Sheldon from Overland Missions shares testimonies of how God has worked in his life. He also explains the importance of evangelism and why you should have the faith to go do it right now.
Through Christ's teachings in Luke 14, Luke 9, and Matthew 28, Mel explains what it means to make sacrifices in order to sit at God's table. Mel teaches about denying one's self and what it means to pick up your cross daily.
Through Psalm 23, Mel teaches what it means to find rest in God. He explains how God is responsible for our provision and protection - as well as the importance of observing the Sabbath.
Through the story of Mephibosheth found in 2 Samuel 9, Mel teaches how belonging to a community can change a person's life. He explains why Christians have a responsibility to reach out to others to befriend them, and how shouldering this responsibility is good for your own spirit.
Mel discusses strategies to recession-proof your businesses including where to invest, how to maintain long-term vision, and how to improve operational efficiency. Q&A follows.
Using the story of the Exodus, Mel teaches what it means to remember what God has done. He explains how remembering God's previous work in your life has profound effects on your spirit as well as your future.
Using selected scriptures from the gospels of Matthew and Mark, as well as Paul's writings in 2 Corinthians 8, Mel teaches why we should use what God has blessed us with in order to be a blessing to others.
Through Mark 10, Mel teaches about why you should grow in your generosity. A fun and impactful surprise comes at the end.
Mel discusses strategies employees can use to extend their influence and leadership even when they are in subordinate roles.
Through Matthew 6, Mel teaches the difference it makes when you put God first in your life in terms of your affections, your finances, and your sacrifices.
Through Paul's salutations in Romans 16, Mel teaches about women in ministry and how to find strength in Christ.
Through Romans chapter 15, Kendall explains Christian unity and how to live a full life under God.
Through Romans chapter 14, Mel explains christian liberty as well as how to exercise it in a way that honors God.
Through Romans 13 Mel teaches what it means to honor authority and why submission to authority is a biblical principle.
Mel Masengale of Summit Church in Indiana PA talks about rebooting your leadership after coming out of a tough season.
We begin our May series on honor. Pastor Mel Masengale talks about God's fixed value and understanding our worth.
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Fox Sports NBA analyst, Chris Broussard shares his story of faith and how he's using his platform to help men to be formed in the way of Jesus.
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In this series, we are taking a look at the Armor of God in depth & how it's designed to protect us.
Through the month of December, we are taking a look at the Old Testament prophecies about a future king and kingdom. Then, we will show how these prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus.
Through the month of December, we are taking a look at the Old Testament prophecies about a future king and kingdom. Then, we will show how these prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus.
Through the month of December, we are taking a look at the Old Testament prophecies about a future king and kingdom. Then, we will show how these prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus.
In this series, we are going to be looking at the values that determine the culture of our church. We will look at the ideas Summit values, the things that we care about, and the things that God has called us to do as a church.
In this series, we are going to be looking at the values that determine the culture of our church. We will look at the ideas Summit values, the things that we care about, and the things that God has called us to do as a church.
This week, we have five different speakers giving five minute messages. It is a chance to learn from our leaders in a unique way. We hope you enjoy 5 for 5.
This week we are excited to have Pastor Steve preach. We hope that you enjoy the message that he brings.
This week, pastor Mel talks about what it means to be mission minded. We can begin to foster a heart for missions by partnering with Feed ONE. If you are watching and want to partner with Feed ONE please visit their website
https://feedone.com/summitchurch/
All the money raised for feed one through this site goes directly to the program to help supply meals to these kids. Summit doesn't handle any money or receive money because of your donation. As a church we believe in this organization wholeheartedly and want to help them impact as many children as possible.
We are excited to have another good friend of Summit with us this week, Peter Haas. We hope his message inspires you this week.
Some of us have amazing relationships with our dads. Others have experienced pain, disappointment, and brokenness. This brokenness from our past can hinder us from fully knowing our heavenly father in a way that He desires us to. Join us for this series as we study what it means to have a dad who loves us unconditionally and has good intentions for us.
Some of us have amazing relationships with our dads. Others have experienced pain, disappointment, and brokenness. This brokenness from our past can hinder us from fully knowing our heavenly father in a way that He desires us to. Join us for this series as we study what it means to have a dad who loves us unconditionally and has good intentions for us.
Join us as we walk through the book of Ruth together. Over the next few weeks we will learn about the redemption that took place in Ruth's life and see how God wants that same redemption to take place in our lives.
Join us as we walk through the book of Ruth together. Over the next few weeks we will learn about the redemption that took place in Ruth's life and see how God wants that same redemption to take place in our lives.
In this sermon series from SummitPA, we discuss what it means to thrive in a culture that is often at odds with the values and beliefs we hold. We'll explore the life of Daniel to see how his life can be an example for today.
In this sermon series from SummitPA, we discuss what it means to thrive in a culture that is often at odds with the values and beliefs we hold. We'll explore the life of Daniel to see how his life can be an example for today.
In this sermon series from SummitPA, we discuss what it means to thrive in a culture that is often at odds with the values and beliefs we hold. We'll explore the life of Daniel to see how his life can be an example for today.
In this sermon series from SummitPA, we discuss what it means to thrive in a culture that is often at odds with the values and beliefs we hold. We'll explore the life of Daniel to see how his life can be an example for today.
In this sermon series from SummitPA, we discuss what it means to thrive in a culture that is often at odds with the values and beliefs we hold. We'll explore the life of Daniel to see how his life can be an example for today.
Five time Olympic Medalist, Marion Jones shares about her journey from the heights of athletic stardom to the lows of federal prison and God's faithful presence through it all.
In the book of John, Jesus makes many "I am" statements that not only describe who He is, but reflect our identity that is found in Him. Let this series transform how you see yourself in Christ!
In the final week of Sweet Dreams, Pastor Mel Masengale takes a look at how fear can drive us to idolatry, and how faith is the remedy for fear. What keeps you up at night?
In week 2 of our Sweet Dreams series, Pastor Mel Masengale continues looking that "The Things That Keep You Up At Night"
Week 1 of our Series Sweet Dreams takes a look at the things that keep us up at night. This we Pastor Mel discusses the fear of the unknown.
In the final week of our series, Pastor Mel Masengale takes a look at how pride destroys us.
We all have the uncanny ability to deceive ourselves. In week 3 of our series, Pastor Mel Masengale explores how this assassin destroys us.
One big decision isn't typically what destroys our character. Instead, it's a series of small things that eventually lead us far off path. In week 2 of our series, Pastor Mel Masengale examines the Assassin of Character Creep.
Week 1 of Deadly Viper Character Assassins - in this sermon Pastor Todd Stanley talks about the Assassin of Amped Emotions
Pastor Mel wraps up our At The Movies series with a message on Hope. This week we look at The Pursuit of Happyness.
Pastor Mel discuses Sacrifice using Shindlers' List to illustrate what scripture describes we aught to strive toward.
In week 1 of At The Movies, Pastor Mel looks at what unity does for us as God's people, and how those truths are illustrated in McFarland USA.
Pastor Mel finishes up our When You... series with When You Fast, a message on why God instructs us to fast and how we should approach it.
Pastor Mel Masengale continues our walk through The Sermon On The Mount with When You Pray. Part 2 of the series When You...
Kyle Hammond - Philippians Part 2 "Live or Die, May God Be Glorified" by summitpa.church