River City Community Church: Recent Episodes
River City Community Church
What is your vision for humanity? Do you think we are without hope? Maybe you are angry and confused. Many haven't given humanity much thought. But what if we allowed our feelings about humanity to be shaped by God?
Sharing the Gospel must be about more than our words. What else is left to share? What if our speech is only the starting point in effectively sharing our faith?
What does the Bible say about the gift of life? How is a follower of Jesus to help others understand the value of the unborn? The current climate demands a response.
We use our eyes to see. What if God had another use for our eyes? How might you grow in faith if you were able to see how He really sees you?
In a faithless world, what does faith in Jesus look like and how do we operate in faith? What if the Lord has an amazing way for us to confidently know how to put our faith into action?
What are we to do with our grief? The world has no good solutions, only hopeless despair. However, God has an unexpected and better answer. What if our grief opened our hearts to a deeper understanding of Him?
Saving grace, how sweet the sound! Jesus is our saving grace. What if there were something unexpected about Jesus that heightened this grace He offers you? How might this change the way you approach The King of Glory?
What is the deal about Jesus unexpectedly turning water into wine? Is He giving us license to get drunk? - Of course not! What if Jesus has a much more profound reason for this miracle that would revolutionize how we may experience His presence?
We are born into the world with sin. But God has such a wonderful plan to change that. How will you respond to this unexpected offering of grace and what will His grace do in you and for you?
Ever wonder about Jesus’ choice of friends? They weren’t the greatest people in the world. Prostitutes, tax-collectors, smelly fisherman, and other broken people. What if their very condition had a lot to do with WHY He chose them?
We can’t get away from this reality. Each of us are designed to follow someone or something. What if God had an amazing way for us to respond to Jesus that would improve our lives? How might this change the way we daily think and act?
An unexpected gift. An unexpected visit. An unexpected phone call. Little happies that make the world go around. Yet even more joyous, something unexpected happened that rescued the world and in an instant of belief could save you!
The birth of a child... A great new job... Graduating from college. Everyone loves to celebrate! But have you wondered about the greatest celebration in history? This event changed the world and can indeed change you!
Psalm 145 is the last poem of David recorded in the Psalms. What can we learn from this inspired work of poetry? Could it be that we are to steward our praises to our King?
Broken relationships and lost dreams. How do we avoid leaving behind this sort of legacy? What if God had a much better path planned for us? What if He wanted the end of our lives to be filled with hope and great expectation because of the way we lived?
What keeps someone from being charitable? Fear? Greed? Being self-centered? What if God had a way to change us from being stingy by nature into a community of generosity? How might this improve our ability to witness to the world around us?
Fear is crippling. But what if God had a wonderful way to turn your fear into faith? How might this change how you plan out your future and make decisions today?
The illusion of ownership will cause all kinds of frustrations, and the result will always lead to emptiness. What if God had a better way for us to steward His resources? How might this improve our spirit-filled life?
Look around. What do you see? Maybe all the troubles? Maybe you see hardship, sickness, or pain. God sees so much more! What if He is willing to share this unseen world with you? How might this change the way you approach what you see?
Look around. What do you see? Maybe all the troubles? Maybe you see hardship, sickness, or pain. God sees so much more! What if He is willing to share this unseen world with you? How might this change the way you approach what you see?
Every day is an opportunity to exercise your faith. What if we allowed the Lord to set our agenda and direction? As we enter a new year, let's consider how we can grow in our faith and ready ourselves for His Kingdom.
In case you haven’t noticed you're in the spiritual fight of your life! Every day those dark minions are coming at you like a freight train. What if God gave you the right tools for the battle? How might this change the way you approach the daily grind?
Being in charge or being under another person’s charge can create confusing and even negative experiences. Wouldn't you like to know God's wisdom to thrive through the great authority dance?
Unfaithfulness. Brokenness. Separation. Pain. Unfortunately, these words are used to describe marriages way too often these days. Yet God’s way is within reach. What if Jesus had a plan for marriage that ensured longevity, strength, and peace?
Our culture screams at us to walk our own path, to walk with our interests first, and to walk with egocentric intentions. But as followers of Jesus, there is a different way. Instead, what does it look like to really walk like Jesus?
Why pray? Seriously what is the purpose of prayer? What if you knew for sure God Had an incredible plan involving your prayer life? How might this change your point of view to pray?
Great vision. Double vision. Near-sided vision. Blurred vision. No vision at all! How well do you see God’s plan to save the world? What if your awareness to this question’s answer could catapult the purpose and meaning of your life from good to great?
These days, we are divided in so many ways. Rich vs. poor; vaccinated vs. unvaccinated; Democrat vs. Republican; one race vs. another; even the Christian vs. the non-Christian. How can we ever heal? What if God has a plan to help us find reconciliation? How might this change the way we relate and care for one another?
What does our journey to salvation look like? How can we know for sure that we are heaven bound? What if the Bible tells us exactly how to find redemption through God’s mercy and grace?
When you look into the mirror, what do you see? You can bet the culture, media, devil, and everyone in between want to influence how you’d answer. What if God had a wonderful truth to discover that could forever enhance your spiritual sight?
Have you ever thought, “What's the point of Jesus”? "Why did Jesus have to die?" What if our answer to these questions has everything to do with what we do with our future?
We wake up, go to work, come home, maybe watch some tv, and go to bed. And then we repeat. What if God had a better plan for you? What if you could find out what that plan is by simply reading and understanding the book of Ephesians? Journey with us as we unpack its truth step by step.
Do you ever wonder if you’re on the right path in life? Hearing God’s voice can be really challenging! But when you finally know that it’s His voice, what do you do next?
Do you ever wonder why your prayer life seems boring or lifeless? Do you feel like your prayers hit the ceiling and fall back down to the floor? What if God has an amazing gift to give you that would vastly improve your prayer life and increase its effectiveness?
When you can silence the noises around you, what voice do you hear? Or is it silence? What if God had something to say? How do you know if you are ready to receive it?
Kids crying. Angry voices. The traffic. New construction. A busy office. The echoes of a big city. The sounds around us can be intense and unsettling. So how do we hear God’s voice amid all the noise?
Today’s culture is full of confusion, conflict, and division. Staying on the path of God's truth seems elusive and at times unattainable. But what if God had the perfect solution? What if you could make sound decisions and choices no matter what situation you faced?
The worst thing we can do is try to cover up and hide our sin. What if God has a better way for us to get rid of the shame and guilt we carry? Learn how to say good-bye to sin and hello to freedom!
When Jesus had compassion for people, He always followed it up with an action. As His followers, what if He is asking us to do the same thing? What could this look like in your life?
We live in troubled places in need of redemption. In Titus, Paul gives us clues that help us answer the following questions: As we follow Jesus, what does it mean to do good works in the midst of these troubled places? How do we show the reality of Jesus’ love to a dark and dying world?
A perfect Father’s Day message! This world is a lost and chaotic mess. As followers of Jesus, how are we going to survive and thrive? What if God is leading us to break away from the patterns of the world and join Him in something grand and courageous?
What are you seeking after? Who's building the house of your life? If you've had enough of failure, are you ready to humbly seek to partner with the Lord in His work?
Pride month is a month-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. As more and more cities and businesses join in on the celebration, how are followers of Jesus to respond? In this week's message, we will unpack what the Scripture has to say as we navigate this challenging subject
What keeps you from listening to God? What if you could know for sure how to hear His voice? How might this change your life? The reality is that He is speaking -- now it's time to listen!
How have you handled change and transition? Bet you’ve been tested with this question this past year. Are you feeling alone and afraid? What if the Lord has a better way? What if He gave you something to hold on to that would give you strength for today and beyond?
When raising children, parents can fear so many things. "I might make mistakes." "They might get into the wrong crowd." "They might make a horrible decision." Guess what? You will make mistakes, at times they will get into the wrong crowd, and horrible decisions will happen. But what if that had nothing to do with raising awesome kids?
What fear is making you anxious these days? The covid isolation? Family or work problems? All the bad news in the world? Something else? What if there was a way to counteract your anxiety? What would you do to find it and what would this answer be worth to you?
What are you afraid of? Fear of criticism? Fear of judgement? Fear of abandonment? Fear of retaliation? Or something else? Did you know there is freedom of fear? It is now time to find out how!
The pandemic! The Elections! The riots! The economic meltdown! This last year was a fear fest! What if God has a different way for us to navigate our situations that would give us hope and strength to overcome?
Fear paralyzes. Fear robs us of community. Fear will ultimately lead to death. Find out how to overcome it. Find out that we are more than conquerors!
Have you ever wondered why God forgives us of our sins? What if you could know the answer? How might this change the way you approach God and respond to Him? Here's a hint: Easter is coming!
Wonder why you do the same sin repeatedly? Maybe you struggle with the reoccurrence of negative thinking or repetitive faithless living? What if God had a way out of this self-destructive loop and He used a story in Exodus to show us?
Do you have one toe in heaven and the other in the world? What if God had a better plan and purpose for your life? Are you ready for a new vision that leads to real and abundant life?
Are you tied down or currently in chains? Do you want to be free? Find out how to change the way you seek after God. How might you shift your thinking and actions to better align with His design?
Do you feel like you need to anchor your wandering life to something solid and true? What if there was a life-altering solution to the great spiritual drift you are feeling? Are you ready to secure your life to this firm foundation?
What do you trust? What can you count on in times of trouble? What if God already gave us something to stand on? How would this fact help you make better choices and seek greater wisdom?
Listen closely. What do you hear? Or maybe the better question is whom do you hear? Your answer to this makes al the difference between life and death.
What does Jesus say about The Word of God? What did Jesus do with The Word and what happens to us as The Word becomes the center of our life?
Humanity is lost without God. It's only through faith in Jesus can we be saved from the evil that wants to overtake us. Yet each day Jesus gives us great hope as we focus our freedom on this one thing.
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed." What if strength and character in times of trouble are responsibility and inheritance of the people of God? That's why we ought to consider whom we're rooted to.
How are you handling the added stress of a "COVIID" Christmas? Are you hunkering down in fear, easily angered by the smallest things, or maybe quick to fall into sadness? What if following Him this Christmas instead of the world’s madness could give you a better perspective of His plans for you – to bring you and yours great joy and hope?
As we look around, joy seems to be in short supply. What if we’re looking in all the wrong places? How would it change your thinking if you knew God‘s will was for you to be filled with joy?
As we bring our focus on Jesus during Christmas, let’s think about belonging to His church. Find out what it means for you to be a part of the family.
In trying times like these we may ask, “Where is the hope?” Hope is not found in our fortune, power, or fame. Instead, we find hope in Jesus and this one profound truth.
Some see God as the mighty Coke machine in the sky. Press the right button to receive a favorite spiritual gift. Yet our relationship with Jesus is much more complete when we accept this one simple truth from the Bible.
What is the most important quality to seek after in life? There's a lot competing for our affection. Maybe knowledge, power, security, or something else. God paints a beautiful picture that clearly answers this question.
Every believer is given at least one spiritual gift that we get to use for good to bring Glory to God! But have you ever wondered why and how you get your gift?
What if the Bible gives us a different perspective from the culture? Is there a way to seek to follow His truth and continue to engage the world? The answer is simple but never easy.
We are all racing because life is moving forward, like it or not. Are you running for fame, power, stuff, or something else? What if God had an even bigger prize for you to chase? Are you ready to find out what it might be?
When it comes to growing in my faith, how can I know for sure what God wants me to give up? Hint: If you're trapped in legalism or unconfessed sin, then something has to change. Find out how to take that first step to freedom.
Wonder why marriage is so difficult? Ever thought whether it's worth the effort? Let's consider how the Bible spurs us on to stronger and more fulfilling marriages.
What does God have to say about sex? How will you change your perspective to live a life of sexual purity instead of in shame or regret?
What does the Bible have to say about sin? How are we to help one another escape it's destructive consequences? Come and see how God provides a way out of sin's dark veil of deception.
Everyone seems to be trying to achieve something BIG. But have you ever thought you climbed the wrong ladder of success? Come and see what God really wants for you in this beautiful thing called life.
What does it take to go from a babe in Christ to a mature believer? What if the Apostle Paul mapped out the perfect strategy for us to follow? Are you ready to grow in the foundations of your faith?
What are you thinking about? What are you reading? Who or what is influencing your thoughts? What if Jesus had a gift for you that would enhance the way you relate to others, think about yourself, and fully live a real life with Him?
In 1 Corinthians, Paul paints a beautiful and real expression of the value of unity within the local church. It's time to decide how you will identify with its mission of leading people to follow Jesus.
What is your purpose? Is it to stay and be safe? Or is it to go?! What if God were calling you to walk through the obstacles holding you back, so that you could be what He wants you to be? How will you respond?
Are you locked up in sin? What if the Bible gives us the key to finding our way out? Find out how this beautiful perspective of being 'in Christ' changes us, making us better parents, spouses, and friends?
You had plans, but the virus changed things. What if you could find joy even in the midst of an unsure future? How would this change your attitude and give you new hope? What might this do for the people around you?
What are some of the lessons we are learning during this season of isolation? Is God shaping your vision for the rest of your life? What does it mean to be connected to the bigger reality of God's power as you seek to find out what is next?
God never wastes a situation or event to teach. What are you learning -- especially about your family? How are your foundations holding up in a broken world?
As our whole world has been asked to pause, consider what “slowing down” looks like, as God designed it as the Sabbath. What if you chose to regularly Sabbath with God? How could this simple habit change your life?
As our world is rocked by pandemic and chaos, some may ask, "Is the church relevant anymore?" What if the truth of that question was turned upside down? "Why is the church more relevant today than ever before?"
How would you define what is essential in life? What if we considered our daily conversations with the Lord as being essential? How might this change your perspective of life and response towards others?
In a world gone insane, how is Jesus calling us to be His peace? What if God is calling us to lay down our rights to take up His banner as peacemakers? How might this change the way we interact with our enemies and friends?
Racial strife and disunity are commonplace. Our society needs real healing right now. What if Jesus had the answer and gave it freely to His church to show the world what racial harmony and unity looks like?
What if you knew how much you'd gain from God if you really released your grip on the world and its attractions? How might this change your decisions and choices about what's really important in life? It might be time to take out the trash!
Who is really in charge of your life? Maybe you think it's a spouse, a parent, your work, or something else. What if God had a better plan and purpose for your life? Why not choose to follow Him instead?
We've all done foolish things. What if God wanted to give us excellent direction and wisdom so we could avoid being the fool? How might this change the way we approach God and apply His principles?
Have you ever had to take a seat and just listen? What if God were using our present circumstances to force us to slow down and listen? What might he be saying to you? How will you respond?
Who can really predict the future? Yet what if we could plant ourselves onto the One who does know the future? How might this shift our perspective and faith in God into overdrive?
Who can really predict the future? Yet what if we could plant ourselves onto the One who does know the future? How might this shift our perspective and faith in God into overdrive?
In a world that seems out of control at this moment, we helplessly watch, wait, and pray. What if we knew for certain that God was sovereign, and He caused all things to work for good for those who love Him. How might this shape your response to God and faith in Him?
Fear comes into our lives in such sneaky ways. What if what happened three days after the crucifixion had the power to wipe out our fear? What if God gave us the perfect response to fear? Wouldn’t you like to know what it is?
What if God is using the current challenge in our culture to call us back to His peace? What might that look like in your life? What might you need to give up as you let go of this world?
Uncertain times lead to fear, and fear can kill our faith. But what if you had a cure to your fear? What might happen to you and those around you when you begin to operate in this cure of fear?
In the middle of great needs, God shows up in miraculous ways. If God can turn five pieces of bread and two fish into a meal for 5000 hungry people, what could He do today? What could He do through you?
Do you live in fear? What if God had a different approach for us? Could we seek Him out as our refuge and strength and leave our fears behind? The solution is right before our eyes!
How do you find a spiritual voice amidst the present-day foolishness? How will your life stand out in a dark and tasteless world? What if Jesus had the perfect answer?
What are you holding onto right now? What if God could use it to change the world? How will you use what you have to help others fall in love with Jesus?
We all have problems. What if the solution was just a prayer away? What is really holding us back from experiencing real life with God through prayer?
What do you expect from God when you pray? What if we approached prayer anticipating change in us instead of Him? How would this change the way you pray?
What do you hear when it’s really quiet? Maybe a buzz, a painful memory, or nothing at all. What if God has given you the gift of hearing His voice? Would you like to know how?
Distractions, interruptions, aggravations, and irritations. What if you could create space where all the mindless noise became silent for a moment each day? How would you hear from God more clearly?
How effective do you feel your prayers really are? Ever think they are just hitting the ceiling and falling to the ground? What if your prayer life could be transformed by this simple response to His voice?
Why do we need to pray? What if God used our prayer life to show us His love? How would this change the way you pray?
New beginnings! What new vision has God given you? What new needs do you have within the different areas of your life? What if you begin this new year taking these to Jesus through prayer? Are you ready to find out how?
The Light of the world came into the darkness to shine brightly. What if we gave this Light access to all within us? How would we be changed? How would the people around us be influenced?
The struggle between the light and darkness is not just in comic books. As followers of Jesus, what if we knew the greatest source of light were already within us? How would this truth help us battle against darkness?
What if our gratitude to God was rooted in our hearts? How would this change the way we interact with Jesus and with others?
Do we really need to care deeply about others? What if we understood that compassion was the crucial ingredient for real community?
Jesus’ compassion for us is amazing! What if we were so captured by this, that we were compelled to follow His command to go out into the world?
Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched… What if you had the same reaction each time God stirred your heart? How would this change you? How would this change the world around you?
Your circle of influence begins with family. Together, your mission (should you choose to accept it) can change our world! Have you ever considered what’s love got to do with it?
What are you afraid of? What keeps you up a night? What if you had a way to cast out fear? How would that change your life? How would this help others around you?
Raising kids is a scary proposition. What if I mess them up? What if they mess me up? Good thing we have the Bible to help us flourish as parents.
A healthy marriage is foundational when building a strong family. What if husbands and wives deliberately placed their marriage under His constructive renovation? What would be torn down and what would be built up?
We are all impacted by our family of origin – in good and not so good ways. We didn’t choose our family, and yet it seems we are stuck with them! How we process our experience in our family of origin greatly impacts how we interact in our most important relationships.
Why is the family such an important part of society? What does a healthy family look like and what values do you want to embrace to make your family stronger?
What does a missional community look like? What if we linked arms together to build a bridge of hope to a lost world?
What if we recognized involvement in our church as the foundation to healthy living? How would this improve your life and others in your sphere of influence?
Are you connected with others? Are you yearning for real friendships? How would your life change if you decided to trust God enough to begin to have authentic community with others?
How do friendships last the test of time and weather storms? What if being together became more significant than the emptiness of being alone? What would you do differently to hold onto a good friend?
What if we went beyond just volunteering occasionally at church to being fully engaged in advancing God’s Kingdom together? How would this change the people and communities around us?
What if we saw ourselves as new creations being formed into Christ’s image? How would our lives be different?
What’s the big deal about Israel? What if you could spend an hour with someone who could take you on a journey of grand discovery?
Have you ever thought about how to measure your growth spiritually? What if your habits, behaviors, and conversations were the best indication?
What if God were more concerned with your heart than with what you’ve accomplished? How would this change the way you approach Him and interact with others?
How can we know if we are effective leaders? What if our leadership was evaluated by those who follow us?
We begin a series about the book of Titus. This short letter packs great truth. For example, what if we could understand the “whys” of life? How would this change our daily habits to help us focus more on spiritual growth?
“An eye for an eye!”: does the Bible really say that we can seek revenge? What would change in our lives if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible actually says instead of what we think it says?
Does the Bible really say that women shouldn’t be leaders in the church? What would change in our lives if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible actually says instead of what we think it says?
Does the Bible really say that our suffering is God’s punishment? What would change in our lives if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible actually says instead of what we think it says?
Does the Bible really say, “God helps those who help themselves?” What would change in our lives if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible actually says instead of what we think it says?
Does the Bible really say, “God lives in me”? What would change in our lives, if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible says instead of what we think the Bible says?
Does the Bible really say, “We are all God’s Children”? What would change in our lives, if our thoughts, actions, and feelings were based on what the Bible actually says instead of what we might think the Bible says?
What if developing peace in life has more to do with setting our mind on God’s Spirit than with worrying about things on this earth? How might this reduce your level of anxiety and even help those around you?
Loneliness is a choice. What if instead you chose to do life with others in community? How would that change your perspective? What might this do to bring you peace?
Fear is an immobilizing force in our lives. We are often bombarded by fear, both externally and internally. Fear is not our friend. How can we learn to live free from the tyranny of fear?
What if you developed habits centered around finding peace instead of those leading to more anxiety? How could this simple life adjustment improve your soul?
What if the resurrection of Jesus were true? How would this change your view of Him? What would your next move of faith be?
What if it took a community to help people come to Jesus? How would you identify with this approach of connecting with people far from God?
Who is really at the heart of Jesus? What if He already told us? How might that change how we relate to others far from God?
What if we could see others in the same way Jesus sees them? How would this change the way we reach out to people far from God?
What if we saw our church as a healing community for anyone in need of Jesus instead of a private club or retreat for the righteous?
What does it look like to be dynamically invested together as a church, sharing the hope of Jesus to a world in desperate need of Him?
What does generosity look like to you? What if you knew for certain that God would provide for your every need? How would that change the way you give to others?
What if contentment had less to do on how much we have and more to do with whom we belong to?
What if the journey to financial freedom intersects with trusting in the Lord for wisdom? Are you willing to take the necessary steps to gain His wisdom?
What if you decided to join God in His plan to set your heart free from the fear of financial worry? It all begins with TRUST.
What if you were trusting God with everything? How would your life be different if God were in first place ahead of money, possessions, and other resources?
What if God had a plan for you to STOP and enjoy His presence - instead of chasing empty dreams and false aspirations?
Do you want to be a person who gives up easily? Do you want to be a person who knows what’s right, but doesn’t have the inner strength to do what’s right? What if the Bible gave you a simple plan to be resolved to the complete of all that God leads you to do?
What if you found a group of people who helped you reach all that God had in store for you? What might be holding you back? Why not take the next move forward?
Spiritual growth doesn’t just happen. It takes discipline and action. What would your life be like if you focused on growing your faith?
Do you struggle to stay focused on the big picture as you establish your priorities? What if God gave you vision to determine your life’s direction?
What if you entered the new year with a fresh look of what it means to be fully devoted to Jesus…to be awake, sober, and enlightened by Him? How would that change your family, friends, and you?
What might peace in life really look like? Can peace be truly achieved amid the chaos, pain and suffering of this world?
Imagine if you could remain joyful through any circumstance. What would this look like and how can you obtain this attitude?
What if Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming Messiah could lead us to hope for today and for what is to come?
What if the compassion we gave to others were to bring them closer to Jesus? How could the simple act of compassion change the world around you?
What if you made your plans based on God’s plan for you? How might this change the way you think about your future and engage with others today?
Imagine if the whole church were equipped and willing to share the Gospel? How different might the world look? How might you fit into this process?
The world is becoming increasingly hostile towards anyone who speaks biblical truth. How will you respond to others who might persecute you?
What if you could lead others the way Jesus led? What might you give up? What might you begin to do?
When your faith in Jesus gets real, is perilous, and begins to cost you, how will you respond?
In a culture that has lost its understanding of God’s holiness, what if fearing Him actually leads us closer to His blessings?
Imagine if you could trust God with your cares and anxieties. How would this change in focus affect the rest of your life?
What if you decided to participate in a community of people that sought to live life together through the power of God’s Spirit? How might your life be different? How might you be changed?
Imagine if God’s Spirit were ignited within you? What would you do differently with your life?
What would happen if the church fully embraced the power of God while engaging the culture with the significance and beauty of Jesus?
What if the simple act of loving each other the way Jesus showed us could propel our church to influence the world?
What if we could see the connection between how engaged we are with our church family and how close we really are with Jesus?
For God so loved the world that He gave! What if you began to give others the same hope of eternal life that He gave to you?
What if an accurate understanding of your calling and purpose was directly related to being set apart from this present dark culture?
How would your future be improved if you knew for sure that your greatest need could be fulfilled by Jesus?
How do you see God? As a kind old man? Maybe as angry and judgmental? What if you instead built your perspective of God based on the truth of the Bible?
What if God is planning to use a unique event in your life to help make your faith bigger & stronger? Are you ready?
Do you ever feel alone in your suffering? What if you could know for sure that God was preparing you for an even greater purpose?
We live in a fear-filled society that keeps us anxious about our future. Our own hearts are prone to fear when we put our focus on people, circumstances, and events that are beyond our control. As Christ followers, God never intended for us to live in fear. But how do we break free from that bondage?
What if a group of people met together seeking Jesus’ grace and truth? How would this simple action benefit their life, family, and world? What if that meeting place included you?
Many of us might be on a spiritual journey of silence. We made the choice to follow Jesus, yet how do we hear His voice, so we can go deeper in our faith?
Being in the wilderness is lonely and rarely feels good. Discover how God uses those experiences in our lives to grow us in maturity.
A look back on the story of a Church For Real Life and the faithful way the Lord has blessed River City Community Church over the last 20 years.
What if learning about God's future blessings is tied to looking our past? Has God been faithful? Can we count on Him in the future?
What is leadership? Leadership is influence. Discover how God sets up leaders in church to reproduce Christ followers who have His heart for people.
What if your perspective of eternity were to guide the decisions you make? How would this alter the way you talk to others, the values you think are important, and how you anticipate the future?
Have you ever suffered for doing the right thing? What if we only viewed suffering as negative or something to be avoided? How would this affect the growth of our faith?
What can followers of Jesus do to lovingly help people far from God change their mind about Jesus?
Get a grip. Stand firm. Hold tight. We say these expressions to others as encouragement to remain on solid ground. Have you considered what type of foundation your life is built on?
Through our own efforts, the call to holiness seems daunting and unattainable. Yet as God transforms our cold hearts and dull minds, we can begin to tap into a sanctified life.
Jesus arrived in Jerusalem like a king, adored by the crowd. They expected Him to rescue them from the Romans, but Jesus had a different plan – a plan to save the world.
Families are being spiritually assaulted. Find out how you can not only survive, but thrive, in this godless culture.
Are you often frustrated and discouraged as a parent, grandparent or mentor? It's never too late to lean into God's way of building children. Discover what the Bible has to say about being involved in raising awesome kids.
The first institution that God created was marriage. This one-flesh, exclusive, permanent relationship provides the foundation for the family unit to flourish. The strength of this institution has a direct impact on the health of all other institutions within the family and our society as a whole.
Ever wonder how God designed you to fit into this fallen culture? In life, there are all sorts of trials and challenges to consider. The Bible gives us powerful eternal promises to cling to as we walk in faith.
Do you need a new template for family, friendships, and relationships in general? Let's start this series BIG by dealing with past hurts in light of God's present power.
Our world is so busy and fractured. Sometimes it's difficult to go deeper with others, yet the sweet spot of the Christian experience comes when we are sincerely connected to others in community.
Far too often our plans are messed up and mixed up because we are aiming at the wrong target. Consider how you will readjust your sights on the way to God's masterplan.
The journey to REAL LIFE is a wonderful vision for an abundant future. Take a few moments to consider where God fits into this vision as you set up your master plan.
Are you always in a hurry? Who was the last person to tell you to slow down? Do you feel guilty whenever you relax? Do you have to get sick to take time off? As you discern God’s master plan for your life, consider being still. Just breathe!
We have a choice to make when it comes to how we shape our lives. Do we build our life on the soft sand of this crazy world or upon the solid rock of God’s Word?
Before the rush of presents and dashing around to get Christmas dinner on the table take a few moments to gather the family together to give thanks.
Deception, blindness, and evil. Each of these are consequences of living in darkness. So how can we increase the light of Jesus in our dark places?
We are all hungry for something more. We long for it. We go to great lengths to try to fill the emptiness, and yet it remains. Find out what Jesus says will satisfy your hunger.
Is there a God? What is He like? What does God want from me? These may be the most important questions of your life. Do you have an answer?
Consider the best way to get through those tougher seasons of life. Whenever you need to recapture your faith – read through Psalm 107 and remain grateful.
Has your faith grown dry or stale? Are you caught in a rut? Do you have a sense that God wants to do something new? Learn how Jesus encouraged people at a party to chase after fresh faith.
Do you find yourself in some tricky situations? Are you traveling down long murky tunnels only to hit dead ends? Consider Jacob’s story and see how God can help you find a way out.
Do you find yourself powerless to help others? What would it look like if you could tap into a power that would be never ending? How could that change your life?
Have you wept over someone who was lost and destroying their life? If so, how is God inviting you to join Him in His plan of redemption?
Can’t sleep? Drowning in bitterness or anger? Is it difficult to breathe? It’s time to be set free and forgive.
No fuzzy love here. The parable of the Good Samaritan drills down on tangible love in action.
Some people just get on our nerves. The way they drive. The way they eat. The way they talk. Isn’t it nice Jesus doesn’t feel that way about you?
Do you ever feel cheated, victimized, or like you’re not being treated equally? We can change the way we respond when feeling resentful, so that God can grow us into His masterpiece.
Everyone loves a good story told by a great storyteller. Hearing Jesus tell stories can be compared to a seed taking root. Are you allowing Him to plant His truth deep within?
Hurricane Harvey’s effects will be felt for months to come. How will the Church respond to this catastrophic event? How will you respond?
Sin is serious. Achan and his entire family bore the full weight of his sin. Today, Jesus bears the weight of our sin for us. How will you respond? How will you choose to live differently because of God’s mercy?
When Joshua lead his people to march around Jericho, he had God with him. Still, going into a battle is scary. Discover a clear method of attack you can take when facing your enemy.
Life is filled with crossroads and dead-ends. Joshua is a model for how God uses obstacles to reveal Himself in powerful ways. What story might God be scripting for your life if you would answer His call?
God never intended the wilderness to be the final destination for the Hebrews. Instead, like Joshua, He wanted them to set their sights on His provision with a positive outlook and unwavering faith. Is your current frame of mind directing you toward the wilderness or the promised land?
Whether we thrive or fade depends on how we handle change. The historical figure Joshua provides a case study on how God helps us live confidently during challenging times. Like Joshua, are we ready to accept God’s direction so that we can sense the joy of His victory?
Do you think our world is in trouble when it comes to real love? Why does there seem to be a lack of love of everywhere we look? Jesus gives good insight about why we crave real love and how we can truly find it.
Beyond all the rules and rituals, a real life with God is captured by a real relationship with Him. Prayer is the key. How would focusing your mind and heart on what matters most to God renovate your life? Your family? Your work? Your church?
It’s ‘fake news’ to think that we can be our own boss. While submitting to others can be challenging, the Bible teaches us that we are under God’s protection as we yield to those in authority.
Some of us can get lost in the twists and turns of the journey. God gave us the Bible for when we are struggling with being lost and confused, and it contains the road map to a successful life.
We live in a culture that celebrates, cherishes and demands focus on the goals of human rights. Changing perspective, what goals need to be cut away, given up or laid down so Jesus can be the true focus in your life?
The creative process involves learning from and blending ideas from diverse sources. Why can't we do this with faith? What would be the impact if we blended religion and philosophies from around the world?
People want to know the truth, yet be aware of deception because ‘fake truth’ surrounds us. The best way to fight ‘fake truth’ is to follow Jesus with everything you’ve got.
Love is the highest, most beautiful value and intention we can have for one another. The greatest command Jesus gave us is to love God and to love each other. Therefore, with thankful hearts through the resurrected life, we can truly endeavor to accomplish this instruction.
Jesus believed in and lived in relationship to an unseen spiritual world. Why do some people believe and others don’t? How can we be awakened to unseen realities that have the potential to change our life forever?
The church family is given to us by God because no one ought to be alone. There’s beauty in doing life together with people who love Jesus and love each other well.
Did you know that God is working in ways you could never imagine - even in those tough situations. God is at work all around you! Our assignment is to find out what God is doing and get on board!
Are the conditions of the world making your love cold? The solution is tucked into the Book of 1 Peter. He gives some practical steps of how we can love others deeply within the context of Christian community.
If you keep doing what you are doing, you’ll keep getting what you are getting! That’s why we are all under construction, maturing in Christ, and learning to enjoy Him along the journey.
How do you know if the resurrection of Jesus is real? How do you know if His resurrection is real to you? The proof, promise, and power of the resurrection is in the Bible. Is it in you?
Regardless of our past, we all have reason to say, with absolute certainty, “I am loved.” Revisit the story of a death, and a resurrection, and embrace the hope that comes from the transforming power of love.
Have you ever been hated? Have you been hated because of your faith? What did Jesus mean when He said His followers would be hated? More importantly, what can we do to keep our faith strong when we love Jesus, but hate being hated?
Getting lost in unimportant things seems to be the mantra of today. Religious people can get lost in dogma and ritual. Materialistic people can get lost in their stuff. Distracted people can get lost in…anything. Jesus challenges all of us to evaluate what’s most important.
How do you want to be remembered? In His last seven days, Jesus gave us some wonderful insight as to how we are to remember Him. Jesus is King. Is it true? What makes this true? If true, what does it mean for you?
How do you know if you have abundant life? When have you arrived? The key is not in how much you get but in what you generously give. There is great freedom when we trust God enough to live generously.
We spend so much time at work. If the financial incentive was removed, what remains? Abundant life requires a vision of work that goes far beyond money.
Financial freedom is a result of wise financial decisions. You don’t need a financial degree to prosper, but you do need to make wise choices. This message will identify six wise financial behaviors that will lead to radical financial freedom.
Many of our financial woes come from our attachment to things. We want to own and possess but it doesn't make us happy. What if there is a simpler and more effective way to happiness?
When we focus on financial problems we often make them worse. What if the solution to our greatest financial worries comes not from fixing our problems but in being set free from the fixation?
Life requires money. Therefore, any discussion of abundant life must include a discussion about our finances. How does God view our financial affairs and what is His role? Do we trust Him? Avoid Him? Do we keep discussions of faith and money far apart? This series will challenge us to consider how we view God and our money.
Being filled is much more than what you take in. In fact, our bias toward consumption can get in the way of something far more satisfying. What if our desire for more is actually a misinterpretation of our desire to give?
In a society of speed, stress, and emotional demands, it’s easy to be running on empty. How can we replenish and be filled, so we can avoid the pitfalls of an empty soul?
Healthy, spiritual hunger can be suppressed. Yet, some of the best examples of people with a rich spiritual life are also those who were hungry. What can we do to renew a sense of healthy, spiritual hunger?
We live in a society of stuff. But, being filled is not the same as being satisfied. What does God offer to help us bring a healthy resolve to our deep longings for more?
A new year with new opportunities. What will you do to ensure this year is one to remember.
Joy is a major theme of the Christmas story--it’s sang and celebrated, but is it experienced? What did Jesus teach about joy and the secrets to experiencing joy in all circumstances and with all people?
The season of Advent remembers the longing of a difficult time long ago. How does the story of Jesus and the circumstances of His birth give us hope today. That despite our circumstances, we can find love for difficult times.
Many people today have a view that we are living in dark times and they carry with them a dark perspective. Yet, the message of Advent is a message of hope. What light can the story of Jesus share that might change our expectations about what the future holds for each of us?
There are many excuses to be without compassion and many reasons to avoid showing compassion on certain people. If God is a God of compassion, and He is calling us to have a heart of compassion, how can we, in a world that lacks compassion, cultivate that kind of heart?
The vision of a Church for Real Life is one that has the potential to impact thousands of lives. This is the mission and the responsibility of the church, which is us. The vision for a Church for Real Life depends on followers of Jesus stepping up and taking ownership!
As believers, we have a great responsibility and privilege to share how to find life and fulfillment through Jesus, yet we do not typically jump at the opportunity to share the Lord. What is it about sharing that seems to paralyze us in the midst of opportunity?
The Christian faith is too valuable not to be shared. What is the mindset and practices of a person who is effective at reaching more people with the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Our world is filled with brands, products, and services. We expect and demand high-levels of service and will rate them accordingly. But, a church for real life has a very different vision of service. We measure how well we are serving others, rather than how well they are serving us.
A metaphor for the Christian life is the maturing of an infant to an adult. What are the keys to Christian maturity? How do we be intentional to grow in our faith so that we become the people God designed us to be? This message outlines the third of our five key decisions on the journey to real life--grow.
We know that when the focus shifts to religion, tradition, being progressive or anything else, we have lost the purpose that has God intended for His church. What role does community and connections play within a biblically healthy church?
A Church for Real Life is centered on a mission which defines who we are and what we do. What is the mission that drives us? And, how do we understand what our role and what is God’s role in this journey to real life?
When Jesus was in the wilderness, He was tempted in the areas of provision, security, and ambition. Which of these temptations tends to impact you the most?
Independence is a quality that seems to be glorified in our modern world. Yet, the opposite is true with God. Dependence is the greater value. In a world encouraging independence, how do we find real life through dependence?
Sometimes we get too caught up in the routine of church—services, events, serving, songs, holidays--that we forget our mission. None of these things are necessarily bad things, but are pointless if we lose our purpose and why we are here. What is God’s vision for the church—a church for real life?
Sometimes we face difficult situations and do not know how to find peace during our trials. This can cause anxiety, worry and built- up anger and aggression. How do we find real peace during our unfortunate circumstances?
So many people try to live the Christian life without being Spirit-filled. The results are frustration, disappointment, or acceptance of a less-than-inspiring faith. What are the steps to living Spirit-filled and walking daily in unity with God?
Spiritual gifts, particularly gifts of speech, have seen abuses. However, the abuses do not invalidate the gifts or their role in private and community life. What role do spiritual gifts of speech play in a vibrant community seeking to love God and one another?
A casual reading of the Bible reveals a great deal of what we’d call supernatural activity. What is the modern reader to think of the supernatural accounts? What should be the expectations of Christians today? This message outlines a biblically balanced view that challenges us to believe and experience more.
One of the last statements Jesus made was that his followers would receive power. What did he mean? What does spiritual power look like in the everyday experience of followers of Christ?
Many people reject the idea of a devil or a spiritual enemy. The concept clashes with their scientific, modern worldview. But does rejection of a spiritual world come at a cost? This message outlines a worldview that includes a spiritual reality, a spiritual enemy, and what a person must do to be on the winning side.
Around the world, worship is practiced in many different ways by many different cultures. Jesus described a life of worship that is unique, powerful, and transcendent of culture and time. What is the point of worship and how can the Spirit-filled life transform how we practice worship?
The Spirit-filled life is a life of Spirit-filled prayer. The early followers of Christ valued prayer as a central aspect of their faith communities. In our busy, scientifically driven world, have we lost some of the power that prayer provides? This message will explore why prayer is vital and what it means to “pray in the Spirit.”
“This will change your life” is a standard marketing phrase, one that, because of overuse, and abuse, may be received with skepticism. What does the phrase mean in relation to the Christian faith? Is the claim of life-change true? And if so, how is it experienced?
The Christian life is, above all, a supernatural experience. What can we do to understand this life—a life so radically different than to what we’re accustomed? How do we move beyond what is touched, seen, and smelled, to the reality of God’s Spirit inside of us?
Some feel their role as an American citizen is reduced to a ballot that doesn’t reflect their values. Some people feel a sense of political hopelessness, while others respond with hyper-patriotism. What should be the proper role of a Christian citizen when the political climate doesn’t reflect their faith?
Some warning signs are obvious, or should be, but are still ignored. What are the warnings we need to heed regarding our faith? And, how can we practice greater awareness, making wiser decisions, so our relationship with God is healthy and secure?
We’ve all been told, “Do your best,” because we’ve all had times when we were tempted to give less. You may believe that your effort doesn’t matter, or isn’t noticed, or that “just doing enough” is okay. What if we’re wrong? How would life be different if someone is noticing, and our effort does matter, and doing our best is always the best approach?
How we view God and our perception of how He views us, has a huge impact on how we live our lives and how we view others. For a Christian, there is nothing more important than knowing “who we are in Christ.” This “knowing” affects our “seeing,” and changes everything!
We all have limitations. But, we are not affected in the same way by our limitations. Some people overcome and move forward, while others stand still. How can a right view of God frame how we see our limitations and our possibilities?
Some things are worth repeating. The topic “truth” is one that is repeated in the Bible. Jesus described himself as “the truth.” Are ideas that the Bible calls “truth” important today? Or, has culture progressed so that what was once called truth is no longer true? This message will explore a Christian’s relationship and responsibilities to truth.
We all go through phases. Whether we are aware of it or not, we were most successful when someone noticed us, and helped us, not according to what they wanted, but what we needed at the time. This message will look at how God faithfully attends to us and how we can reciprocate this love to others.
Everyone will face challenges to their convictions. Sometimes the challenges are actually threats which warn of severe cost. What do we do in these moments, particularly when our faith is the conviction being challenged? This message looks at an example of courageous living that ended with an inspiring result.
On Mother’s day we remember and celebrate the influence of moms. When at her best, mom is a person to be admired. However, she also is someone to be emulated. What can mom teach us about how to influence and build-up the people around us?
We live in a world where people struggle to find true fulfillment. The normal routes people try are roadblocks. But once in a while we hear those stories which remind us that it’s possible for our lives to have real meaning. What can we learn from the life of Jesus and the unique path He laid for true and lasting fulfillment?
Vision is about seeing. Vision can change you. Whether or not you consider yourself a visionary person, a vision of God can provide a person with incredible motivation and direction for living. It is the “So what?” of faith.
Fear is something we all experience. Fear is a powerful emotion and can also be a mindset that colors the way we see the world and limits our opportunities. What can a faith mindset teach us so we can break free of fear.
Regardless of the economic climate, money and finances are the top stressors facing most Americans. How should faith impact our relationship to money, and what can we do to find freedom to pursue that which matters most.
Do you have faith to move mountains? Jesus challenged his followers to believe for the impossible. What are the qualities of mountain moving faith and how far away are we from doing what we might consider impossible?
The Easter story is probably the best-told story in history. What does this Easter holiday mean to Christians and how does it intersect the real lives of those seeking to understand, and believe?
The struggle for power has been the root cause of many evils. The Scripture presents a model for power that is not destructive, but peaceful, transformative, and beneficial to all. What can we learn about this power and how God wants to use it to impact the world around us.
From its inception, Christianity was a movement that went viral. Early believers had certain qualities that led non-believers to change their mind and join the faith. What were the qualities of this infectious faith and how can we live consistent with those qualities today?
Christianity is a movement. From the beginning, the movement spread like a virus from person to person, through the sharing of stories. This message will describe what an infectious church looks like and how individual believers can influence people outside their circle.
What are the virtues that are important for our circles that make them life-giving? This message will help listeners assess how they are treating their circle and if they are loving them just as Jesus loved His circle.
Everyone has a circle. Your circle is made up of the important people in your life to whom you give your best. Did you choose yours carefully? Jesus chose his circle. They were a diverse group that Jesus brought together, and He commanded them to love each other. This message will help us assess our circle in light of Jesus’ call on our lives.
Can a definition of wisdom be complete without a discussion of prayer? Prayer affects our perception of life and life’s events. What can we be aware of regarding the enemies of prayer? What are the principles of prayer that lead to greater wisdom in our choices?
Our culture elevates passion as a desirable and noble trait. But, the Bible also describes a downside to unprincipled passion that can bring harm to those around us and to our relationship with God. Learn how wisdom can harness and channel passion in a manner that improves our life and our contribution to the world around us.
All of us have said things we later regretted. We can either downplay the consequences or take responsibility to speak with greater wisdom. What are the resources God has available to help those who are willing to have their words trained in wisdom?
Of all the urgent needs for wisdom, the need for wisdom as it is applied to money is one of the most desperate. Popular culture seems to feel that Powerball is “America’s Game” and the wise path toward wealth. Yet, ancient wisdom challenges this with a wholly unique view. What can the Bible teach us about being wise with our wealth?
Adversity and struggle come to everyone. How a person responds to struggle reveals the quality and strength of their wisdom. What perspective can we gain from the Bible so that we negotiate adversity well when it comes?
It may be that, today, foolishness gets more attention then true wisdom. Yet, the Bible lifts wisdom as the key for growing, building, succeeding, and experiencing real life. What can we learn about the nature of wisdom and how to get more?
The New Year is a season of resolutions. However, before the resolutions are the swarm of decisions we must make regarding an exponentially growing number of choices. Jesus presents us a decision tree that safeguards our peace, expands our opportunities, and preserves our freedom of choice.
We're going to look at a woman…and she's one of the more obscure people mentioned in scripture.
Have you ever been skeptical of faith? Have you questioned reports of the supernatural? What can we learn about faith and skepticism from one of the world’s most famous “doubters”?
In just a week we will celebrate 4th of July! We understand that this celebration came with a cost. That men and women who believed in the cause of freedom laid down their lives in order for our freedom to exist. These types of people don’t come along everyday. They are a rare bread with a deep level of conviction to face death with boldness all because of a belief in something that rises to a level greater than themselves! Today we are going to be looking at one of those men!
With self-help resources all around, many of us desire to improve ourselves in some area of life. What can we learn from one of the early Jesus followers that gives us focus on what we can do to truly be at our best.
Our lives are made up of millions of tiny decisions that make little to no difference in the long run. Some are good and some are bad, but only a few have the potential to leave a life changing mark. Timothy, trained by his mom in the scriptures, became a disciple of Christ. As a young man, Paul mentored him, and he left his mark on the early church.
What was it like to be one of the first followers of Jesus? How Jesus related to his first followers is a way to anticipate how He might relate to us. What can we learn about being faithful 21st century followers?