Forest City Church Podcast: Recent Episodes
Forest City Church
In “The Gift of Lament (Part 2),” Pastor Leonard Davis continues our Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People? series by showing how lament shifts our focus from the weight of our circumstances to the character and presence of Jesus. As we behold Him in the middle of suffering, God gives us a new perspective, meets us with His companionship, and helps us discover that our greatest need isn’t always a change in our circumstances, it’s more of Him.
Go deeper: Use this week’s Sermon Reflection Guide to continue practicing lament, reflect on where God may be comforting, correcting, strengthening, or redeeming, and consider how He is growing your dependence on Him.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People Week 5- The Gift Of Lament (Part 2) Sermon Reflection Guide
In week four of Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?, Pastor Leonard Davis begins part one of “The Gift of Lament” by exploring how we can honestly bring our pain, grief, and unanswered questions to God without losing hope. Discover the four movements of biblical lament-turn, complain, ask, and trust-and learn how God’s unchanging character and Jesus’ understanding of suffering give us confidence to approach Him. Use the Sermon Reflection Guide to practice writing your own prayer of lament and go deeper into the message.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People Week 4: The Gift Of Lament Sermon Reflection Guide
What does it look like to truly belong to a church community? Through the covenant friendship of David and Jonathan, Pastor Leonard challenges us to build relationships rooted in a shared love for God, commitment to His mission, and faithful love for one another-even when it requires laying down our pride, preferences, or control.
Use this week’s Sermon Reflection Guide to explore how God may be calling you toward deeper relationships, greater commitment, and a more active role in the life of the church.
Knit Together Sermon Reflection Guide
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Guest Teacher Jackie Glass for this episode of The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
In week three of Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?, Angie Addy shares how we can face life’s fires with confidence, refuse to bow to fear, and trust that God is always with us—even when He doesn’t remove the struggle. Use this week’s Sermon Reflection Guide to go deeper into the message and consider how you can hold onto God’s faithfulness when life hurts.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People-Week 3: The God Who Entered the Fire Sermon Reflection Guide
Why does a loving God allow suffering? In week two of Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?, Pastor Leonard Davis explains how God’s decision to create a world defined by genuine love also made human choice—and the pain caused by sin—possible. Discover how we can hate what is destroying God’s world, grow in our love for Him, and anchor ourselves in the glory He is revealing even in the middle of suffering.
Use the Sermon Reflection Guide to continue processing the message and consider where God may be inviting you to trust Him more deeply.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People-Week 2: Love Is The Answer Sermon Reflection Guide
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Guest Teacher Angie Addy for this episode of The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Worship Director Andrea Davis for this episode of The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Worship Director Andrea Davis for this episode of The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Youth Director Isaias Cardenas for The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Worship Director Andrea Davis for this episode of The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Worship Director Andrea Davis for this episode of "The Return Unplugged", our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Join Pastor Leonard Davis and Youth Director Isaias Cardenas for The Return Unplugged, our weekly companion podcast to The Return: Rediscovering Christ’s Vision for His Church. Each episode takes a deeper look at the previous Sunday’s message, explores key themes and questions, and offers practical insights to help you continue the conversation throughout the week.
Pastor Leonard launches our new series, Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?, with “Enter the Story.” Through 1 Peter 4, he invites us to honestly name the fires we face, bring our pain and questions to God, and discover that what we have in Jesus is greater than anything we may lose in the fire.
Use the Sermon Reflection Guide to continue processing the message, explore the Scripture, and reflect on how God meets us in seasons of suffering.
Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People-Week 1: Enter The Story Sermon Reflection Guide
Following Jesus is not a solo journey. In From Attending to Belonging, Angie Addy invites us to become active, connected members of the body of Christ-building the kind of loving, committed community we all long to experience. Continue reflecting on the message with this week’s Sermon Reflection Guide.
The Return week 8: From Attending To Belonging Sermon Reflection Guide
In week seven of The Return, Pastor Leonard Davis explores how generosity reveals what has truly taken root in our hearts. Discover how the grace and sacrifice of Jesus can fill us with a joy that transforms the way we view our resources, our church, and the needs of others. Use the Sermon Reflection Guide to continue the conversation and consider your next step toward grace-shaped generosity.
The Return Week 7: The Generosity Test Sermon Reflection Guide
In Week 6 of The Return, Pastor Leonard Davis shares “The Heart of the Matter,” a message about the powerful connection between our treasure and our hearts. Through Luke 12:13–34, we’re challenged to consider what our spending, giving, and priorities reveal about where we place our trust and to find true security in God rather than our possessions.
Continue reflecting on the message with this week’s Sermon Reflection Guide, designed to help you process what God is saying and how He may be inviting you to respond.
The Return Week 6 - The Heart Of The Matter Sermon Reflection Guide
In this message from John 4, Pastor Leonard Davis challenges us to move beyond colorblindness and toward ethnicity awareness. Through Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, we see how He acknowledges differences, addresses brokenness, and brings healing that leads to reconciliation.
As followers of Jesus, we're invited to allow Christ to redeem our stories and use them as bridges for unity, witness, and mission.
Be sure to download this week's Sermon Reflection Guide to help you process the message and take your next step in obedience.
Beyond Colorblind Sermon Reflection Guide
In his message titled "Stewards Of God", Isaias Cardenas explores Jesus' Parable of the Talents for our week 6 message for The Return series and reminds us that everything we have has been entrusted to us by God. As we learn to steward our time, resources, and finances with faithfulness, we discover what it means to live for God's Kingdom rather than our own. Don't forget to use the Sermon Reflection Guide to help you process and apply this week's message.
The Return week 5: Stewards Of God Sermon Reflection Guide
In Week 4 of The Return, Jackie Glass unpacks 1 Peter 2 and challenges us to embrace our identity as God's chosen people living as exiles in the world. As we learn to trust God's provision over our need for control, we become a people who display His goodness through our lives.
Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide to help you go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
The Return Week 4: "Exiles Not Owners" Sermon Reflection Guide
Pastor Leonard Davis continues our series The Return with a message titled “The Drift: When Control Replaces Trust.” Drawing from 1 Samuel 8, this message reveals how subtle drift occurs when we choose control over surrender and conformity over trust in God’s leadership. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to deepen your understanding and apply this message throughout the week.
The Return Week 3- The Drift: When Control Replaces Trust Sermon Reflection Guide
Pastor Leonard continues our series The Return with a powerful message exploring Jesus’ vision for His church. In Christ’s Vision for His Church, we’re reminded that the church is not built around our preferences or comfort, but around the revelation that Jesus is the Christ—the One who tears down walls, makes strangers into family, and forms a people where His presence dwells. As Christ becomes our peace, we are invited to become the kind of people Jesus can build His beautiful, flourishing church with.Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
The Return week 2: Christ's Vision For His Church sermon reflection guide
Pastor Leonard launches our new series The Return with a powerful message titled A Beautiful Bride. In Ephesians 5, we’re reminded that the church is more than a place we attend—it is the people Jesus loves, is shaping, and is preparing to reflect His beauty to the world. This message challenges us to move from passive participation to active contribution through love, unity, service, generosity, and holiness. Listen in and consider this question: Are you helping reveal the beauty of Christ through the way you live and love within His church?
If you have questions about this series you can submit them here. Questions will be answered on The Return Podcast.
Use the linked Sermon Reflection Guide to pray, process, and apply this week’s message throughout your week.
The Return week 1: "A Beautiful Bride" Sermon Reflection Guide.
In today’s message, Angie Addy reminds us that while pastors play a vital role in our lives, hearing God’s voice is something each of us is invited into personally. Teaching from John 10, she unpacks how we grow in recognizing God’s voice through familiarity, time in Scripture, and the work of the Holy Spirit. This message challenges us to move beyond spiritual dependence and step into a faith that is active and self-fed. God is speaking—and you can learn to hear Him.
Be sure to check out the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to help you process and apply this message throughout your week.
Things you Don't need your Pastor For: Hearing God's Voice Sermon Reflection Guide
In “When Faith Walks,” Pastor Leonard Davis explores Gospel of Luke 17:11–19, showing that faith is revealed through obedience and gratitude. Ten were healed—but one returned.
Are we simply receiving from God, or are we responding to Him?
Use the Sermon Reflection Guide to reflect on what God is speaking and how you can walk it out.
When Faith Walks Sermon Reflection Guide
In “Presents of Presence,” Dr. Reverend Brandon Winstead explores how the risen Christ meets us in our fear, offering peace and empowering us through the Holy Spirit (John 20:19–29). This encouraging message challenges us to move beyond doubt and live out the reality of resurrection in everyday life. Don’t forget to access the Sermon Reflection Guide in the show notes to reflect and apply this week’s teaching.
Presents of the Presence Sermon Reflection Guide
Step into a powerful Easter experience as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the victory that changed everything. In The Ultimate Victory, Pastor Leonard Davis reveals that what looked like defeat was actually the moment Jesus overcame sin, shame, and death once and for all. Because of the resurrection, we don’t have to strive to be enough—we get to live from His victory. Be sure to use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked with this message to help you process what God is speaking to you and take your next step.
Easter Sunday: The Ultimate Victory Sermon Reflection Guide
Step into a powerful Good Friday journey as we remember the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus and the love poured out on the cross. In The Ultimate Sacrifice, Pastor Leonard Davis reveals the deeper “why” behind it all—not just forgiveness, but restored relationship with God. Behold the cross… and behold the lengths God went to bring you back to Him.
Week 12 of All I Do Is Win features a powerful message from Gabe Zammit titled The King We Wanted vs. The King We Needed. Through Palm Sunday and the story of Ernest Shackleton, we’re reminded that when our plans fall apart, God may be accomplishing something deeper than we can see.
This message challenges us to trust Jesus not just when He meets our expectations, but when He doesn’t—because the greatest victory didn’t come through power, but through the cross. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win week 12: The King We Wanted vs The King We Needed Sermon Reflection Guide
In Week 11 of our All I Do Is Win series, Isaias Cardenas reminds us that true winning isn’t instant, it’s a process that requires endurance. Walking through Joshua 11, we see that even with God’s power on display, victory often comes through long seasons of faith, testing, and perseverance. This message challenges us to stay faithful in the tension, trusting that God is working even when the outcome feels delayed-because endurance is where real growth and lasting victory are formed.
Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win week 11: Winning Is A Process Sermon Reflection Guide:
Pastor Leonard Davis concludes the All I Do Is Win series by exploring Book of Joshua 10 and the powerful moment when God fights for Israel and even causes the sun to stand still. This message challenges us to truly know God’s character so that in difficult moments we can trust Him, align our lives with His purposes, and step out in faith rather than staying stuck at “Gilgal.” Be sure to use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to process the message and take your next step.
Week 10 "All I Do Is Win" Sermon Reflection Guide: "All I Do Is Win"
Week 9 of the All I Do Is Win series, “The Discipline of Discernment,” looks at Book of Joshua 9 and the story of Israel being deceived by the Gibeonites. Pastor Leonard Davis reminds us that the enemy often works through subtle deception rather than obvious attack, and that spiritual discernment—seeking God before we decide—is essential to avoid unnecessary complications in our lives. As you listen, use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to prayerfully process the message and practice discernment in your own decisions. Week 9 "All I Do Is Win" Sermon Reflection Guide: "The Discipline of Discernment"
In week 8 of All I Do Is Win, Leonard Davis walks us through Overcoming Defeat, reminding us that failure is not final when we are held by God’s steadfast, covenant love. Drawing from Joshua 7–8, this message invites us to return to the place of defeat, confront the battle within, and rediscover courage through wholehearted devotion and faithful obedience. Victory may not always come as a sudden miracle, but often unfolds through God’s wisdom and daily faithfulness. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win week 8: Overcoming Defeat Sermon Reflection Guide.
In Week 7 of All I Do Is Win, Jackie Glass invites us to confront what we keep hidden in her message, Dealing With What’s Hidden. Teaching from Joshua 7, she reminds us that Israel’s only defeat came not from enemy strength, but from hidden disobedience—and that healing begins when what’s hidden is brought into the light. You can’t win outwardly when you’re compromised inwardly, but God reveals not to shame us, but to restore us.
Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win week 7: Dealing With What's Hidden Sermon Reflection Guide
In Week 6 of our All I Do Is Win series, Pastor Leonard walks through Joshua 6 and the fall of Jericho, revealing that God’s victories come through obedience, consecration, and trust in His presence—not human strength. Jericho was the gateway city, and God’s unusual strategy made it clear that the win belonged to Him alone. This message challenges us to resist cultural assimilation, hold tightly to God’s holiness, and love people best by loving God most, while reminding us through Rahab’s story that mercy is always within reach. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win week 6: Wholly Devoted Sermon Reflection Guide
In Consecration Before Conquest, Pastor Leonard teaches that before God leads His people into victory, He calls them to pause and prepare. As Israel renews their covenant through consecration, we’re reminded that obedience often feels costly and vulnerable, yet our security is found in trusting God rather than our own strength. God invites us to cut away anything that hinders wholehearted devotion before stepping into what He has promised. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week. All I Do Is Win week 5: Consecration Before Conquest Sermon Reflection Guide
In Salt and Light, Pastor Leonard Davis calls the church to live as a distinct, faithful people—shaped by love, trust, and mercy—whose public witness reflects the Kingdom of God in a divided world. Rooted in Jesus’ teachings and the call to Life Together, this message challenges us to embody a faith that preserves, illuminates, and crosses cultural lines. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
Grafted Message - Salt and Light Sermon Reflection Guide
In Week 4 of All I Do Is Win, Angie Addy teaches from Joshua 3, reminding us that winning in God’s Kingdom often means stepping into the impossible before we see the miracle. Through Israel’s crossing of the Jordan River, we’re challenged to grow a faith that believes God can, responds in obedience, and refuses to give up—even while waiting. Be sure to reference the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and continue the conversation throughout the week.
All I Do Is Win Week 4 Stepping into the Impossible sermon reflection guide.
In his message titled, Be Strong and Courageous, Pastor Leonard takes us to Joshua 1, a moment where God’s people stand on the edge of change, facing fear, responsibility, and an uncertain future. Drawing a powerful parallel to moments of courageous obedience throughout history, he reminds us that winning isn’t rooted in confidence in circumstances, but confidence in God’s promises and presence. True success, he teaches, flows not from self-effort alone but from strength, courage, and faithful obedience to God’s Word.
Use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and reflect this week's message
All I Do Is Win Week 3 Be Strong and Courageous sermon reflection guide.
In our 2nd week of Fighting to Win, Pastor Leonard unpacks Deuteronomy 6 in his message titled: "Fighting To Win". to show that God’s goodness is lavish and undeserved, leading His people into abundance they did not earn. Yet God’s promises are often met with resistance, reminding us that winning requires a fight—naming our resistance, staying focused, and responding to God’s goodness with intentional faith. Use the Sermon Reflection Guide linked below to go deeper and reflect on how God is inviting you to fight for what He has promised.
All I Do Is Win Week 2 Fighting To Win sermon reflection guide.
Week 1 of All I Do Is Win reframes what it truly means to win—not as comfort, ease, or success, but as faithfully moving toward God’s promises. In "Winning Through Obedience", Pastor Leonard teaches from Deuteronomy 6, showing that obedience is the pathway to flourishing and the way we take possession of what God has already promised. Rather than merely consuming God’s Word, we are invited to submit to it, allowing revelation to shape our lives through faithful obedience. Even in hardship, obedience positions us to live with confidence, courage, and trust in a God who wants it to go well with us.
Be sure to use the link to this week's Sermon Reflection Guide to prayerfully process the message and take intentional steps of obedience throughout the week.
In week three of The Promise Advent series, Jackie Glass reminded us that Christmas celebrates not only what God did—sending a Savior—but what God is still doing: keeping on saving. Through the stories of Simeon and Anna, she showed how seasons of silence are not signs of God’s absence, but sacred spaces where God is attuning our hearts for His saving work. As we wait, we’re invited to name both our longing and the God who meets us in it—our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
Pastor Leonard's final message of 2025, “Remember the Whole Way”, invites us to pause at the edge of a new year and reflect before rushing ahead. Drawing from Deuteronomy 8, Pastor Leonard reminds us that God calls His people to remember the whole journey—both blessings and hardships—as places of His faithful leading, shaping humility and trust. As a church and as individuals, we’re invited to remember what God has revealed, recognize His faithfulness, and carry His invitations forward into the year ahead.
Use this reflection guide along with your journal to help create space and lean in to what God has reveled to you this year and what God may be inviting you into in the upcoming year.
In His Christmas message titled “The Promise Fulfilled,” Pastor Leonard explores how the birth of Jesus marked the long-awaited fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel—and its expansion to all people. What was once experienced externally through kings, sacrifices, and systems is now made personal and internal through Christ, offering restored relationship with God, true peace, and abundant life. Christmas invites us to pause in wonder as we receive the good news of great joy: God has come near, and the promise is fulfilled in Jesus.
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In week two of our Advent series The Promise, Pastor Leonard walks us through Isaiah’s powerful image of a stump and a shoot—reminding us that God’s promises are not canceled by human failure. Even when Israel’s disobedience led to discipline and loss, God was still at work, bringing life from what looked dead. This message points us to Jesus, the promised King, and invites us to trust that God is still faithful, still restoring, and still growing new life in the places we thought were beyond hope.
In the first message of our new series The Promise, Pastor Leonard Davis shows how Advent is rooted in a covenant God made long before the manger in his message titled "The Promise Made". In a world of uncertainty, we anchor our hope in the One who keeps His word. God’s promise gives us confidence to move forward—even when we can’t see the outcome.
Angie Addy brings the final message in our Made For More series with Purpose in Community. She’ll remind us that God designed us to live out our purpose together—building one another up, multiplying our impact, and reflecting Jesus to the world.
Pastor Leonard Davis has Week 5 of our Made For More series with his message titled Overcoming Uncertainty. This week’s focus reminds us that God’s purpose isn’t only discovered in the big, life-changing moments—it’s found in our everyday faithfulness. The small acts of kindness, the unnoticed service, the steady love we show to others… all of it matters deeply to God.
In Week 4 of Made for More, Pastor Leonard teaches that while our purpose is to know and glorify God, the way we live it out is uniquely shaped by our gifts and experiences. God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called, empowering us to serve in the way He designed. Discovering purpose begins with discovering who we were made to be, and it’s never too late to step into the life God has planned for you.
In this week’s message titled "Holy Discontent", Pastor Leonard reminds us that when our hearts are transformed by truly knowing and enjoying God, we begin to see the world differently—and feel compelled to make a difference. Through Nehemiah’s story, we learn that the burdens on our hearts may actually be invitations from God to join Him in His work of restoration. Even in our insecurities, God chooses and equips ordinary people like us to bring change. Listen in as Pastor Leonard challenges us to stop waiting for perfect clarity and take the next faithful step forward.
Jackie Glass shares how true purpose isn’t something we design, but discover in Jesus in her message titled "The Call and the Stall: Purpose in Jesus", Through Paul’s story, she reminds us that God is present in both the call and the stall—shaping our purpose in every season.
Pastor Leonard and Andrea answer questions submitted by the congregation and give a summary of the importance of Life Together.
We all long to know that our lives matter—that we were made for something beyond survival or success. In every season of life, purpose brings clarity, direction, and meaning. This week, in Pastor Leonard Davis' message titled The Search, we’ll discover how God is at work in us—shaping our desires, guiding our steps, and inviting us to live out His purpose with confidence and joy. Because when we align our lives with His will, we find we were truly Made For More.
This week, Pastor Leonard Davis closes out our Grafted series with a powerful message on covenant, commitment, and community—reminding us that belonging to Christ means belonging to His people. Discover what it means to be truly grafted in and grow together as the body of Christ.
Pastor Leonard and Andrea answer questions submitted by the congregation and discuss how the forward and inward values make Forest City Church distinct.
This week on the Grafted podcast, Gabe explores the Life Together Journey and why community isn’t just a nice add-on—it’s where God does some of His best work in our lives. From the early church in Acts 2 to practical ways we experience connection today, we’ll talk about overcoming barriers, carrying one another’s burdens, and stepping into real relationships that transform us. Tune in to discover how you can live fully rooted in Christ and intertwined with others.
This week on the Forest City Church Podcast, Jackie Glass looks at our Forward and Upward core Values.
Pastor Leonard and Andrea discuss the transforming power of the inward value, the benefits of generosity, and the applications of the values.
Pastor Leonard focuses on the inward, backward and outward value. He emphasizes volunteering, generosity, and emotional health.
Pastor Leonard focuses on unity and the gospel. He explains how we need to orient our values with faith as the priority.
Pastor Leonard and Andrea discuss in depth what it means to be grafted, covenant, and the new mission of Forest City Church.
Pastor Leonard unveils the new mission of Forest City Church and explains how people can be grafted into community with God and each other through covenant.
Lindsay from World Vision speaks on how the miracle of seeing can be more impactful than the healing. Pastor Leonard emphasizes the importance of empathy and realizing the privileges we have.
We often measure our worth by the world’s standards, but God calls us to something greater. In his message titled, "The Voice That Matters" Pastor Leonard asks us to discover how God's truth renews our minds, transforms our lives, and reminds us that His voice is the one that truly matters.
In this week’s message, “Are You Ready For Every Good Work?” Isaias Cardenas teaches from Titus 3 on how to be available and easily obtainable for God to use.
In this week’s message, “The End Of Me” Pastor Leonard Davis teaches from Luke 15 on how we must learn to not rely on our strength, but be solely dependent on the Lord.
In this week’s message, “A Priceless Picture,” Brandon Winstead teaches from Genesis 16 and explains how humanity's desire to be seen can be met.
In this week’s message, “Value That Is Intrinsic,” Pastor Leonard Davis explains how human dignity and value is intrinsic through Genesis 1.
Welcome to the Forest City Church Podcast. In this week’s message, “Believe By Faith,” Pastor Leonard Davis challenges us to trust God beyond what we can see and to stand firmly on His promises. During the message, you’ll be invited to pause and reflect on two key questions:
- Where do you need to have more faith? Which promise of God do you need to trust more?
- What is the greatest obstacle to your belief? What do you need to do to overcome it?
Pastor Leonard will guide you through intentional moments of reflection, giving you time to write, pray, or simply sit with these questions. Lean in and allow God to meet you in the stillness.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Jackie Glass teaches from Mark 14 on how communion allows us to connect with Jesus in her message titled Dust, Bread, And A New Covenant.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis teaches from Mark 11 on how Jesus is both the Lion and the Lamb in his message titled Jesus-The Lion And The Lamb.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Angie Addy teaches from Mark 10 and explains why humility is important in her message titled The Greatest Seat In The Kingdom.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Tommy Nixon teaches from Mark 9 and gives four steps to build our faith in his message titled Growing Our Faith In Christ.
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In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis teaches from Mark 7 on why we should be desperate for more of Jesus in our lives in his message titled A Bold Approach.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis teaches from Mark 8 on how we can be secure in our identity in Jesus so that we are able to demonstrate Jesus' unconditional love to others in his message titled The King On A Cross.
In this episode of Forest City Church Podcast, Jackie Glass returns with the next installment of our series From Admiration To Adoration. Her message from Mark 7 is titled "Faith Without The Filters".
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis teaches from the Stranger God book by Richard Beck in his message titled A New Spiritual Discipline.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains how Jesus' timing and expectations are often different than ours in his message titled Paradigm Shifts.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains how we can defeat evil through the authority of Jesus in his message titled The Defeat Of Evil.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Jackie Glass explains how the storms of life can bring us closer to Jesus and move us from admiration to adoration in her message titled Where Is Jesus In The Storms Of Life?
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains the importance of Sabbath and rest in his message titled Rest For Your Soul
Pastor Leonard Davis has week 3 of our series From Admiration To Adoration in this week's Forest City Church podcast; his message is titled "Fully Healed"
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains why we don't have to live defeated but can experience victory through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains why the temple curtain tearing is symbolic of humanity's reunion with God and ability to have an intimate relationship with Him.
In this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Gabe Zammit gives four steps to move from admiration to adoration in his message titled Where Are You Kneeling?
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains why we need to detach from anything that might prevent us from putting Jesus first in his message titled The Nature of The Call
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis talks about baptism and why we should use every opportunity to testify about our faith in his message titled Will You Acknowledge Jesus.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis emphasizes how we need to bear the fruit of life together to become a church like in Acts 2:46-47 in his message titled Bearing LIFE TOGETHER Fruit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis conveys how repentance can lead to bearing good fruit in his message titled Seeds Of Repentance.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Jackie Glass emphasizes the important of abiding in God to bear fruit in her message titled Rooted To Remain.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis talks about how we should make every effort to sow seeds to produce Christ-likeness in his message titled The Ministry Of The Spirit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis says the root of our external actions is our internal attitude that can only be changed through the Spirit in his message titled The Ministry Of The Spirit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis explains why we can find freedom in the Spirit compared to living according to the law in his message titled The Game Has Changed.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Angie Addy breaks down the battle inside us between the flesh and the Spirit and how we can sow and reap from the Spirit in her message titled Sowing To The Flesh Or The Spirit?
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis breaks down Jeremiah 17 and how we can bear good fruit in bad circumstances in his message titled Good Fruit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis gives two steps to avoid the self-righteousness Jesus criticized in Matthew 23 in his message titled Bad Fruit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Lauren Scott explains how a person can fail to bear fruit despite engaging in religious activities in her message titled Discovering What Pleases The Lord.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Pastor Leonard Davis explains why Jesus should be our role model with his message titled You Were Made For This.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Pastor Leonard Davis starts our new series illustrating the principle of sowing and reaping with his message titled The Law Of The Harvest.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Pastor Leonard Davis gives three steps to live a life centered on God with his message titled Centered On God's Promises.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Jackie Glass continues our Advent series, Expect The Unexpected, with her message titled Return To Joy.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Angie Addy continues our Advent series, Expect The Unexpected, with her message titled Not So Ordinary Life.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Pastor Leonard Davis introduces our new Advent series, Expect The Unexpected, with his message titled Rahab's Redemption.
On this edition of the Forest City Church, Lead Pastor Leonard Davis has the final part of the Living Sent series with his message titled "Validation Through Unity"
On this edition of the Forest City Church, Lead Pastor Leonard Davis continues the Living Sent series with his message titled "God's Glory In The Ressurection?"
On this very special edition of the Forest City Church podcast, The Elders install new Lead Pastor Leonard Davis.
On this edition of the Forest City Church, Trevor McDonald continues the Living Sent series with his message titled "What Are You Waiting For?"
On this edition of the Forest City Church, Lead Pastor Leo nard Davis has a special message titled The Promise and The Prize.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Jackie Glass has week 3 of our Living Sent series with a special baptism message titled Let It Be Know and Let It Be Now.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Trevor McDonald has week 2 of our Living Sent series with a message titled Plant Trees You'll Never See.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Jackie Glass kicks off our new series titled, Living Sent with a message titled From Seated to Sent.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Steve Carter continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled Following The Cloud.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Steve Carter continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled By Water and By Spirit.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Steve Carter continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled The C.O.A.S.T.A.L Pathways To God.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled How To Tune Your Soul.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Teaching Pastor Leonard Davis continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled The Process of Detachment.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald continues our series entitled "Pursuing His Presence" with a message titled Remain Connected: What The Breaker Box Taught Me About God.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Teaching Pastor Leonard Davis continues our "Pursuing God's Presence" with a message titled Why we Pursue His Presence.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Teaching Pastor Jackie Glass continues our "Pursuing God's Presence" with a message titled The Missing Piece to Peace - Being Filled with the Holy Spirit
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Elgin podcast, Lead Pastor Steve Carter kicks off our new series "Pursuing Gods Presence" with a message titled The Pursuit!
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Lead Pastor Steve Carter closes out our Romans series with a message titled How the World Works!
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has part ten of the Romans series with a message titled Be The Good You Wish To See In The World
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Lead Pastor Steve Carter has part eight of the Romans series with a message titled Do So For The Lord.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has part seven of the Romans series with a message titled Going Into Debt!
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, guest speaker Tyler Burns has part six of the Romans series with a message titled Revenge is Not Radical Enough!
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Jackie Glass has part six of the Romans series with a message titled Next Level Is Low.
On this Father's Day edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter's message is titled What Makes A Good Man.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Leonard Davis has part four of the Romans series with a message titled An Amazing Opportunity.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has part three of the Romans serieswith a message titled Like A Good Neighbor.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter, Angela Lundin and Lauren Scott join Eric to say a happy farewell as Eric moves to Colorado.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Leonard Davis has part two of the Romans serieswith a message titled Real Love.
On this Mother's Day edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter's message is titled Past,Future, Present.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Jackie Glass has part one of the series Romans with a message titled Grip On The Gospel.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has part four of the series Open House with a message titled The Power of the Invite.
On this Baptism Sunday edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter has part three of the series Open House with a message titled What Are You Waiting For?
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has part two of the series Open House with a message titled Safety In Jesus.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has part one of the new series Open House with a message titled The Least of These.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Steve Carter has Easter 2024 message titled Alive In You.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, FCC Elgin Associate Pastor Leonard Davis has a Palm Sunday message titled The Way To Eternal Life.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Part 6 of the Livin' On A Prayer - Pray About Everything series with a message titled Don't Worry, Just Worship.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Elgin Associate Campus Pastor Leonard Davis has Part 5 of the Livin' On A Prayer - Pray About Everything series with a message titled Fasting and Prayer For Power.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter has Part 4 of the Livin' On A Prayer - Pray About Everything series with a message titled Thoughts and Embodied Prayers.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has Part 3 of the Livin' On A Prayer - Pray About Everything series with a message titled Bothering God.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Part 2 of the Livin' On A Prayer - Pray About Everything series with a message titled Prayers of Confession.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Part 1 of the continuation of Livin' On A Prayer called Pray About Everything with a message titled, Why Should I Forgive?
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter has part 5 of the series Livin' On A Prayer with a message titled, The Integration of the Soul.
On this edition of the Forest City Church - Rockford podcast, Co-Lead Pastor Eric Parks sits down with Worship Leader Lauren Scott with part 4 of the series Livin' on a Prayer.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has part 3 of the series Livin' On A Prayer with a message titled, With All Your Strength.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks continues the series Livin' On A Prayer, with a message titled, The Vowels of the Soul.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald starts the new series Livin' On A Prayer, with a message titled, We're Talking About Practice.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric parks has the message for New Year's Eve with a message titled There Is Something About Firsts.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric parks has the message for Christmas at Forest City Church.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Part Three of the new Songs of Advent series with a message titled Song of Peace.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Part Two of the new Songs of Advent series with a message titled Name That Tune.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Tyler Burns has Part One of the new Songs of Advent series with a message titled Mary's Song.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 45 in our Luke+Acts journey. Today, he helps us learn How to Walk It Out with a message titled, How to Worry Less.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 44 in our Luke+Acts journey. Today, he helps us learn How to Walk It Out with a message titled, Finding People Who Will Go To The Mat For You.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Lauren Scott has Week 43 in our Luke+Acts journey.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Week 42 in our Luke+Acts journey. Today, his message is titled, HowTo Walk It Out: The New You.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has Week 41 in our journey. Today, his message is titled, The Church.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 40 in our journey. Today, he teaches from Acts 12 with a message titled, Let God Do It.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Lauren Scott has Week 39 in our journey this year. Today, in her Baptism Sunday message, she teaches from John 3 with a message titled, He Can Make You New.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 38 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 13 with a message titled, Missing the Mark.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Week 37 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 13 with a message titled, Building Life Together.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Carrington Gaines has Week 36 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 12 with a message titled, I'm Covering You.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Guest Teacher Tyler Burns has Week 35 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 11 with a message titled The Unexpected God.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 34 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 10 with a message titled God's Plan.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Week 33 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 9 with a message titled Courage Is Calling.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 32 in the journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 8 with a message titled From Jerusalem to Rome.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Carrington Gaines has Week 31 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 8 with a message titled The Necessary Evil.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has Week 30 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, she continues the study of Acts in Chapters 6 & 7.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Laauren Scott has Week 29 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, she continues the study of Acts in Chapter 4 with a message titled, "Unity Over Uniqueness"
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Charmon Pittman has Week 28 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 4 with a message titled, "By Who?"
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Week 27 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 3.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 26 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 2 with a message titled Life Together.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lauren Scott has Week 25 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, she continues the study of Acts in Chapter 2 with a message titled This Outpouring Is For You.
On today's edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has Week 24 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he continues the study of Acts in Chapter 2. His message is titled Pentecost.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 23 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Today, he begins the study of Acts in Chapter 1. His message is titled Art of the Start.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Trevor McDonald has Week 22 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is titled What Are You Leaving Behind?
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has Week 21 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is titled Stuck on the Side of the Road.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Chad Bruegman has week 20 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is titled The Miracle Of Mercy.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Worship Leader Carrington Gaines has week 19 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message is taken from Luke 16.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Worship Leader Lauren Scott has week 18 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. Her message today is titled Where Are You?
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Eric Parks has the message and welcomes a special Panel of guests to discuss Mother's Day. Eric's message today is titled God of the Impossible.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter has week 17 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is from chapter 14 in Luke.
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Charmon Pittman has week 16 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is from chapter 13 in Luke and is titled "Are You WillingTo Be Exposed?".
On today's Forest City Church Podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has week 15 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is from chapter 12 in Luke and is titled Life By Design.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks has week 14 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is from chapter 11 in Luke and is titled "Change Your Life By..."
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks has the Easter Sunday 2023 message.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks has week 13 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts. His message today is from chapter 10 in Luke and is titled The ONE Thing.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Worship Leader Lauren Scott has week 12 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message from Luke 10 titled No Strings Attached.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks has week 11 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Best Meal of All Time.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has week 10 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Is This How It Ends?
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Charmon Pittman has week 9 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Reach Beyond the Break.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has week 8 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Pharisectomy.
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Lead Pastor Steve Carter has week 7 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Stars and Bucks.
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Worship Leader Lauren Scott has Week 6 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Do We Want New Wine?
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman is back with Week 5 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled He Saw Their Faith.
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Week 4 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled If You Are Willing.
Today, on the Forest City Church Podcast, Steve Carter has Week 3 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Calling All Disciples.
On today's Podcast, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has Week 2 in the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled What He Came To Do.
On today's Podcast, Eric Parks starts the year-long journey through the books of Luke and Acts with the message titled Greatest of All Time.
On today's New Year's Podcast, you'll hear a message from Steve Carter and worship songs from Forest City Worship. Happy New Year!
Today's podcast is the Good News digital Christmas experience from Forest City Church. There are Forest City Worship songs, the Christmas story read by Eric Parks, a teaching by Steve Carter, and Silent Night. Enjoy.
On today's Podcast, Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part Four of the series, Sounds of the Season. The message title is Love.
Today, Eric Parks has Part Three of the Sounds of the Season series with a message titled Joy.
On today's Podcast, Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part Two of the series, Sounds of the Season. The message title is Hope.
Today, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has Part One of the new series, Sounds of the Season. The message title is Peace.
Today's message by Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman is all about baptism at Forest City Church.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 14 - “Let’s Set a New Old Kind of Table… Together.”
Perhaps you remember family dinners at your grandparents' house like I do. The table was always set with the best silverware and Sunday dishes. It was a long table because we had a lot of people sitting around it. A special time with great food, friendly conversation, and the one "sure" event in our week.
But, although a very fond memory, when we talk about setting a new old kind of table together, it is not about the silverware or the dishes. It is about getting back to the type of radical hospitality that Jesus modeled and called us to, where extraordinary effort and emphasis are placed on making people feel welcome. Where our culture overflows with acceptance, is filled with generous grace, and is beautifully diverse around the person of Jesus Christ. What if we intentionally began to set a new old kind of table like that together?
It is so simple and profound and beautiful, and here is the cool thing: Every single one of us can do it! This is not a ministry reserved for those who have some kind of special training. It is what each of us is called and invited to. It is the people of God being the people of God and welcoming others into His family: Friends, neighbors; misfits; the marginalized; those like us, and those not like us. It is His new family - beautiful, messy, in process, broken, needy, unique, but all centered around Jesus!
At Forest City Church, we say that we have long tables and low walls. Long tables because we will always put another leaf in the table for the next person that wants to join us. Low walls as we make it easy for people to find their family among us. We won't put up barriers to people coming. Instead, we will introduce them to Jesus and a new family and encourage them and one another in our spiritual journey.
This is an invitation for you to join us in setting new old kinds of tables together. A culture of radical hospitality where anyone and everyone can find a home, a family, and a Savior. A place where Jesus is at the center and His Spirit pervades our relationships. It is where we grow in Him and create a home for the next one who needs a seat at the table. The table is His. We simply set the table.
So here is the prayer for today: God, you have been so good to us all through this time of devotion and learning. Would you never allow us to forget what seventh-floor community is and how we can participate in it. It is your Gospel, and we get to play a part in making radical hospitality normal! Lead us in this transformative journey of building new old kinds of tables centered around your person. In Jesus' name. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 13 - “Jesus and the Gospel above All Else.”
Remember, seventh-floor culture is a culture of radical hospitality where there is extraordinary effort and emphasis placed on making people feel welcome. It is hospitality that overflows with acceptance, is filled with generous grace, and is beautifully diverse around the person of Jesus Christ.
Why is this so rare today? I suspect it is because we have often substituted less critical issues at the expense of more important ones. Indeed, within the Christian community, we have allowed our politics, for instance, to color our whole worldview. In doing so, we have elevated our political views above our vision for Jesus and the Gospel, dividing us from fellow believers. And the same can be said for cultural issues.
Here is something to consider. Neither Jesus nor Paul said almost anything about politics. Instead, Jesus said much about himself, the Father, and the Kingdom of God that He ushered in. His focus was on the Gospel and what God was up to in our world. The same was true with Paul. In fact, he was unequivocal that our focus needed to be on what was essential to God's work and not on those things that would divide His people.
If we want to overflow with acceptance, it will mean that we are intentionally open to the views of others. Generous grace means that we will extend understanding and compassion to those who have very different backgrounds and experiences than we have. And a commitment to diversity will always test our ability to be flexible, open, and teachable by those whose story is not ours.
In each of these instances, we have a choice. Do we put our preferences, politics, or worldview first, or do we choose to prioritize the people we are with as Jesus did? His conversations were never around secondary things but always around primary things, namely what it meant to follow Him. He would not get pulled into secondary discussions even with the Pharisees who tried to trip Him up. For Jesus and the New Testament writers, the Gospel and people took precedence over other issues.
Again, Paul's words to us in Ephesians 4:1-6. "I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." These are the essential things. Let's focus on these and allow the other things to sort themselves out as we build a church of radical hospitality.
Our prayer for today: Dear God, thank you for your example through the person of Jesus. We pray today that your Spirit would help us to keep the main things the main things, forever holding peace and unity in the faith as priorities in our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 12 - “Reconciliation and Unity.”
Let's be candid. Diversity may be beautiful, but it is not always easy. For example, suppose you come from a large family like I do. In that case, you realize how challenging it can be to navigate all the different perspectives and personalities in your family. Throw in ethnic and cultural differences, and you have a real challenge.
What is the secret to making diversity work in the church? Remember what Paul said in Ephesians 2. In His death, Jesus came to create a new humanity and a new family around the person of Jesus Himself.
This is not about simply being accommodating to those different from us. Instead, it is a willingness to be in a relationship with people and, through the relationship, to be changed along with them into something new, more beautiful than we could have imagined. This is what the Holy Spirit does as He knits us together in relationship and fellowship with other believers who are different from us.
In His High Priestly prayer in John 17:23, Jesus says that through our unity, the world will know that He was sent by the Father and is one with the Father. The proof of His divinity would be the unity of His people.
This takes work. Paul told the Ephesians what it would take for this "new humanity,” this "new family" to be successful. "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
One of my life's great blessings has been working with people from over 60 nations (T.J Addington). In that process, I have learned the richness of each of those different cultures and perspectives. Each of those relationships has changed me in some way. That is what Jesus wants for us as we build a new community of beautiful diversity around the person of Jesus Christ.
So here is your prayer for today: Thank you, Jesus, for the blessing of diverse communities and mindsets. Please, equip us for the challenge of intentional diversification. Go before us. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 11 - “Beautiful Diversity.”
We live in an increasingly polarized world. We are divided by everything from tribes, politics, race, social groups, and even our football teams.
But into these divisions comes Jesus and the seventh-floor! Seventh-floor culture is a culture of radical hospitality where there is extraordinary effort and emphasis placed on making people feel welcome - all people. It is hospitality that overflows with acceptance, is filled with generous grace, and is beautifully diverse around the person of Jesus Christ. Why? Because Jesus died to make it possible for us to be at peace with God and at peace with one another.
Look back at the ancient world! They were divided as well; Jews were separated from Gentiles, slaves from free, men from women, and the list goes on. But Jesus came to destroy that animosity and hostility. "His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility" (Ephesians 2:17)."
Did you catch what Paul said? The purpose of Jesus was to create in himself one new humanity where peace reigns and hostility is put to death. This is Seventh-floor culture where all are welcome and have a seat at the table no matter their story, ethnicity, social class, or background. A new family rooted in Jesus is created, making us one through the cross.
In His family, diversity is intentionally cultivated because it is in our coming together that you and I are changed. Together, we become greater through Jesus and our relationship. This is our new humanity, our new family that Jesus died for. So, at Forest City Church, we embrace the whole family of God. He cared enough to give His life for that family, so we will spare no effort to make that family a reality. And, we won't be satisfied until our congregations look like the communities we live in: Beautifully diverse.
So here is the prayer for today: Heavenly Father, we pray that our church would reflect the beautiful cities it serves. And that no walls of division would stand to divide your people from one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 10 - “The Power of Your Table.”
Where does radical hospitality start? It starts around dozens of tables in dozens of homes as we invite friends, neighbors, co-workers, and others to the simple ritual of a meal together. Nothing fancy. Simply a gathering of friends and strangers around a table where Jesus and conversation are the common themes.
You may not realize this, but your table has power! When you invite someone into your home, you invite them into your life. The table is an intimate place where the opportunity to share and open your heart is more natural than elsewhere. Your home is part of who you are and to share food is to share the essence of life. And, because an invitation to your table is an invitation to your life, it is also an invitation to Jesus because He is part of your life.
Jesus knew this, which is why many of His most intimate conversations were at the table. In fact, at the table, you can speak with remarkable candor because that is what one does at home. And the table is not a place of hurry but of rest and slow pace. The Middle East, where Jesus lived, is a place of long dinners with laughter, sometimes raised voices around things of conviction, and an invitation for all to be who they are. The table is an invitation to a place of honesty and acceptance.
Everyone has a unique story; few places are better suited to hear those stories than the table. Growing up in Hong Kong, we had strangers at our table three to four times a week (T.J Addington), and the magic of those meals was terrific. Once on a plane as an adult, the lady sitting next to me saw my name on something and asked if I was related to Dr. Gordon Addington. I said, yes, he is my father. She said, my husband, Cory, spent Christmas with you in 1965 when he was in the service, and he will never forget that Christmas. That is the power of the table. It can be the power of YOUR table!
If you want to see lives changed - including your own, invite people to your table just as Jesus did. You will be amazed at what happens.
Here is your prayer for today: Dear God, thank you for the power of the table. I ask that you would lead me in opening my life to all those I encounter with the hopes of them seeing your goodness through me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 9 - “Reclaiming our Tables.”
Food and the table figured prominently in the life of Jesus. There is something special about inviting people into our homes for a meal. It is different from a cup of coffee at Starbucks because in your home, around your table, surrounded by your family, there is an intimacy shared that can not be obtained from a meal elsewhere. It is an invitation into your life.
In many parts of the world, there is nothing more central than a meal together. I have had meals in the Middle East, for instance, that start at 9:00pm and finish at 2:00am (T.J Addington). During that time, there is great food, loud laughter, major disagreements and debates, more food, more laughter, times of levity, and times of serious conversation.
Read the Gospels, and you find Jesus at dinner parties regularly. He knew many of the most significant conversations happened in someone's home. In fact, Jesus was regularly criticized by the company He kept at the table.
Hospitality is a lost art in some circles. We can be private and insular, focused on our own lives. But Jesus taught a new way: A way of radical hospitality. And who was there? Friends and strangers. Those who He wanted to spend time with and those who wanted to spend time with Him. Here is the God of the universe breaking bread and drinking wine with those many despised in society.
Why? Because in that intimate setting, the things of life get talked about. We realize that the struggles of others are our struggles as well. We also have the opportunity to develop deeper relationships which lead to deeper conversations.
How intentional are you in inviting people to your table? Not just close friends and family but others that you meet? No one who comes will ever forget your gracious hospitality. And, it may well open opportunities for eternal conversations. So, become a person of the table as Jesus was, and your life will be more prosperous as you enrich others.
Here is your prayer for today: Heavenly Father, thank you for your word. I pray that you would transform my heart and mind so that I might be a person of the table, opening my life and home to all those you send my way. In Jesus' name. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 8 - “Overflowing Acceptance.”
Our nation seems to know little about how to be accepting of people not like us. Think of the political divides that can separate families. Or the racial tensions that keep cities divided by attitudes, relationships, and even rivers. I am sure that each of us has personal stories of those who have judged us, didn't accept us, marginalized us, and treated us as less than they should have. And unfortunately, we may have even done the same to others.
Often, our attitude can be, "If you live up to my expectations, I will accept you." But, this reverses the order of Jesus, who came full of grace (first) and then truth. What drew people to Jesus was His tremendous acceptance of each individual: His love, mercy, and nonjudgmental attitude. He was always willing and ready to share the truth, but it was only in the context of overflowing acceptance and love. Grace always comes before truth. Overflowing acceptance of others is the key to living like Jesus.
We are probably familiar with the account of Jesus talking to the Samaritan woman at the well. The account is found in John 4. Jesus was in Samaria on purpose. Most Jews walked around Samaria, but Jesus chose to walk through Samaria because He was always about people. On that journey, He sat down at a well and asked a Samaritan woman for a drink. Jesus uses an ordinary conversation to bring her into a discussion regarding living water (spiritual things).
The conversation here is interesting. The woman said to Him, "Sir, give me this water so I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back." "I have no husband," she replied. Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true." "Sir," the woman said, "I can see you are a prophet."
Notice that there was no condemnation in Jesus' words. On the contrary, He was "matter of fact" without judgment, and she took no offense. She recognized that He must be a prophet, and she returned to her village and said, "Come see a man who told me everything I ever did. Can this be the Messiah?
The result was that "Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony. So when the Samaritans came to Him, they urged Him to stay with them, and He stayed two days. And because of His words, many more became believers."
Think about this. Would any of this have happened if Jesus had not led with grace and overflowing acceptance? Not a chance. When we follow the example of Jesus in our relationships, people are attracted to us. Many people don't respond to Jesus because they don't like the judgmental and insensitive attitudes of those who call themselves Christ followers. Seventh-floor culture takes its cues from Jesus, who came full of grace and truth and showed overflowing acceptance to those who came across His path.
So here is your prayer for today: Lord, thank you for your overflowing acceptance and love. Please teach me how to accept and honor all people as your image bearers. In Jesus' name. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 7 - “Where Acceptance and Grace Meet.”
There is a fantastic account of a dinner with Jesus in Luke 7, where grace and acceptance meet in an extraordinary way. Let's read it together.
When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, He went to the Pharisee's house and reclined at the table. A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee's house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at his feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and poured perfume on them.
When the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, He would know who is touching Him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner." So Jesus answered him, "Simon, I have something to tell you." "Tell me, teacher," he said.
"Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?" Simon replied, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven." "You have judged correctly," Jesus said.
Then He turned toward the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little." Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."
This is a beautiful example of radical hospitality that overflows with acceptance and is filled with generous grace. Simon found it hard to understand, but that is the magic of Jesus' love for people. We are quick to judge those we do not understand, but radical hospitality welcomes the broken and, like Jesus, offers them acceptance and grace. Can you imagine a church that looks like that? This is seventh-floor culture!
So here is your prayer for today: Jesus, thank you for being our ultimate example. Help us to open our hearts to offer acceptance to those we don't understand and shower them with generous grace that brings them nearer to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 6 - “Radical Hospitality”
Seventh-floor culture is a culture of radical hospitality where extraordinary effort and emphasis are placed on making people feel welcome. It is a hospitality that overflows with acceptance, is filled with generous grace, and is beautifully diverse around the person of Jesus Christ.
When you think about the tables Jesus graced, you see this radical hospitality in action. There was always room for the person who wanted a seat at the table. If they were a marginalized misfit in society's eyes, they were still welcome at the table with Jesus. Even people who were not comfortable with those in authority and the religious figures were at home with Jesus. They didn't have to prove anything to Him. They just needed to want to be with Him.
Most of these people were broken and needy. Yet, in the presence of Jesus, they found generous grace unlike any they had ever experienced. They came as they were, and He healed their hearts. And it was beautifully diverse. A woman who made her money on the streets, a tax collector, a blind beggar, fishermen, and commonfolk. At Jesus' table, all were welcome. His table cut across social status, reputation, economic circumstances, and all the conventions of society.
At Forest City Church, we say that we are a place with long tables and low walls. We will always put another leaf in the table to welcome a new person in our midst, and we will keep the walls to finding a home here low. Why? Because this is what Jesus did. We want our tables to overflow with acceptance, be filled with generous grace, and be beautifully diverse around the person of Jesus Christ.
So here is the prayer for today: Father, thank you for being a God of radical hospitality. Please help me to create a space where people find a home at my table just as they did yours, in Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 5 - “Making Time.”
We live in a hectic world. How many of us wish we just had room to stop and breathe? There is always something fighting for our attention, but Jesus didn't design us to live that way. In fact, if people are our priority, there must be space in our lives to accommodate opportunities to minister to them along the way. Sometimes, being like Jesus is simply being available to people who God brings across our path.
There are many examples of Jesus stopping and taking time to minister to hurting people. For example, take the story of Blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-52. "Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus ("son of Timaeus"), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"
Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." So they called to the blind man, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you." Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." "Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road."
I love this account because of the contrast between Bartimaeus, who believed in Jesus, the crowds around him who told him to shut up and go away, and Jesus, who called out to Bartimaeus and healed him. How often are we like the crowds who consider someone in need a nuisance or a hassle? After all, we have obligations to keep and things to do. But remember, sometimes, being like Jesus is simply being available to people who God brings across our path. The crowds were too busy with their own stuff to care about Bartimaeus. But Jesus was never too busy to take time with those who needed Him.
Do we have the margin to be available to those God brings across our path? Seventh-floor culture always takes the time to be with those in need. When was the last time you went out of your way to do just that?
So here is the prayer for today: Heavenly Father, thank you that you are a God that always takes time to tend to those in need. Help me remove the clutter in my life, so I have time to minister to those you lead my way. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 4 - “Everybody Matters.”
The life of Jesus was a life lived with people and for people. Almost every account of Jesus in the Gospels finds Him with people. The crowds who followed Him, the disciples with whom He lived and ministered, the curious like Nicodemus, the truth-seeking like the Rich Young Ruler, beggars, and those marginalized by society. Where there were needy people, you found Jesus.
Jesus came from the Father "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14) to give us His grace (John 1:16) so that we could have a relationship with God (John 1:18). In fact, John 1:14 says that “the Word (Jesus) became flesh and made his dwelling among us." The original language literally means, "He came to pup tent among us. He came to live with us."
Many priorities can rule our lives, but the priority of Jesus was always people. He wanted people to hear the Good News of forgiveness, experience the joy of His presence, and know the meaning of a life lived with Him. He invites us to join Him in His kingdom work and use the gifts He gave us for His purposes. He wants to see the marginalized lifted up, the sinner forgiven, the hopeless given hope, and all invited to a rich and meaningful life here and for all eternity.
Jesus came full of two powerful qualities. The first is grace. And, because of that grace, your past does not matter. Your social position does not matter. Your questions, doubts, struggles, and addictions don't matter. In Jesus, you met one who loves unconditionally, forgives freely, and has called you from your struggles and issues to a life of freedom in Him. His grace covers everything.
Jesus also came full of truth! Satan is the father of lies. He lied to Eve in the Garden, and he lies to us. But into this morass of lies and deception came the Son of God, full of grace and truth. And His truth sets us free and gives us life and abundance of life (John 10:10).
There are many priorities we can build our lives around. If we want to be like Jesus, we will build our lives around Him and the people in our lives who need Him. Our ambitions, achievements, and pursuits will one day vanish. But the lives we impact for Jesus will change everything for them in time and eternity. It all starts when we start to value people as Jesus did. And make Jesus and people our priorities.
So here is your prayer for today: Father, free me from the selfishness that causes me to be self-centered. Instead, help me to see those around me as precious and infinitely deserving of your grace. Help me to give space in my life to those around me as Jesus did. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 3 - “Anyone and Everyone.”
Being a new kid in a new town at a new school is difficult. I remember my first day in a new school during my sophomore year in high school (Eric Parks). It is seared in my memory like a bad sunburn. I walked into the lunch room, and it was as if the world had stopped, and everyone just stared at me. I had no idea what to do or where to go. I just stood there frozen like a deer in headlights.
And then someone finally said, "Hey, you can sit at my table." His name was Ty Thomison, and that little gesture endeared me to him for the rest of my high school career.
Ty made space for me at his table. Can you think of a time when someone made space for you at their table and how that made you feel? Here is the truth. We are all looking for acceptance and love. This world can be harsh, and we all long for someone to invite us to their table and just allow us to be ourselves.
Some might say that some of Jesus' best work was done at a table. And, if we reflect on scripture, I believe the phrase "Anyone and Everyone" is a perfect picture of the table Jesus set. He constantly associated himself with the sick, tax collectors, sinners, and even lepers. It did not matter who you were or what you had done; Jesus pulled out a seat for everyone.
There are several stories in the Bible where this is evident. For example, Matthew 9:10-11 says, "Later when Jesus was eating supper at Matthew's house with his close followers, a lot of disreputable characters came and joined them. When the Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company, they had a fit and lit into Jesus' followers. ‘What kind of example is this from your Teacher, acting cozy with crooks and misfits?’"
Why does this matter? Well, because too often, Christian circles send a message that you have to first have it all figured out for you to sit at the table. But the truth is, most people sitting with Jesus may not have even known they had something to figure out; they just knew Jesus made space for them and didn't require much in return.
We long to create a church of crooks and misfits. A church for black, brown, white, rich or poor, young or old, gay or straight. Not because it's easy, but rather because Jesus did. All that is required is a desire to sit.
So here is your prayer for today: Father, thank you for those who made space for me at their table. Now help me to make space for others at my table. Help me have the compassion and love that Jesus had and invite people to come and be as we explore Him together. Amen
DEVOTIONAL DAY 2: “We Can’t Become Whole… ALONE.”
Have you ever found yourself doing something you know you had no business doing? So you almost unconsciously find a secret corner or nook to hide in so no one will see you. Almost as if you made up your mind that if anybody caught you messing up, they'd immediately judge you?
I know this scenario all too well. At a young age, I learned to hide to protect myself from any chance of being judged (Eric Parks). Many of you, too, fear allowing people into your mess because “what if they don't like what they see?” We often think that if we can keep people out long enough, they will never figure out that we are not as put together as we appear to be.
The problem is that when we live our lives this way, we miss out on some of the best parts of it. We trap ourselves in a cycle of brokenness because the truth about human beings is that we can't fully grow into the best versions of ourselves alone. We need other people. We need relationships. And those relationships will only be as strong as we allow them to be. This means our transformation into what God intended us to be is proportional to how much we let people in versus keep people out.
There are 100 references in Scripture to "one another." For instance, in Romans 12:10, we are told to "be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:16 encourages us to "live in harmony with one another," and Romans 13:8 to "love one another." Romans 15:7 charges us to "accept one another, and "not judge one another" (Romans 14:13). In Galatians 5:13 we are told to "serve one another," "be kind and compassionate to one another," (Ephesians 4:32), and "admonish one another" (Colossians 3:16). We could go on and on.
There is no concept of a faith in Scripture that is not in community with other believers. In fact, as we will see, salvation impacts our relationship with God and our relationships with each other. We live, grow, and develop as Christians in community. Therefore, Christianity is not a solo sport but a team sport. The very picture of Jesus and the disciples makes this clear. Life with God was and is a life lived in community. It’s togetherness.
For some of us, togetherness is easy. We grew up in large families, have many friends, or are naturally social creatures. But for others, togetherness does not come as easy. Maybe you have been hurt by people in the past, you might be introverted by nature, or you might have a more challenging time opening up to others. Whatever the reason, or however you are wired, learning how to engage in meaningful Jesus-centered relationships is key to becoming God's best version of you.
The first step to letting people in is admitting that you need other people.
So here is your prayer for today: Father, open my eyes to my need for other people and make me aware of how I try to keep people out. Help me to see the people around me that you have placed in my life for my growth and development. I pray this in your name, Jesus. Amen.
DEVOTIONAL DAY 1: “A vision of wholeness”
"I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of." - John 10:10b (MSG)
Have you ever watched a child play make-believe? Isn't it amazing how easy it is for them to believe that anything is possible? For example, you'll rarely catch a child in a game of superheroes objecting to transforming into Thor or Captain Marvel because "it's not possible."
In their minds, it is possible. However, as we get older, many of us lose touch with that sense of wonder and possibility. Even as followers of Jesus, we can become bogged down by the "realities" of life and forget that, in Christ, anything is possible. In fact, if we are honest, most of us don't really believe "we can do all things in Christ." Instead, we say things like, "I am just too much like my father or mother, or not enough at all like Jesus to ever be anything other than what I am." Philippians 4:13 isn't a phrase most people really believe. Instead, we more likely relate to Popeye's catchphrase… "I am what I am, and that's all that I am."
But what if that isn't the way it is supposed to be?
The truth is, you were made in the Creator's image. That's right! You bare the image of our Creator! You may not fully realize this fact, but there is a version of you that is complete and whole, full of life, light, and delight. A version that is powerful, creative, and free! Wholeness is not only possible; it is God's "A" plan for anyone who is a follower of Jesus.
This is the life God wants for you! And it is within your reach! But while it is possible... it is also optional.
You see, we get to choose whether or not we take part in the complete transformative process God wants for us. We can allow the hang-ups and the hurt to have the last word in our lives, or we can believe that the better version of us is on the other side of belief and surrender. There is always more growth, more life, and more light available to you. In Ephesians 2:10, the apostle Paul says, "... we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."
Over the next 14 days, we will begin the journey toward that version of you. The best version of you.
Your prayer today: "Father, help me believe what you say about me. That I am beautifully and wonderfully made, made on purpose for a purpose. And may you open my eyes to the prospect of wholeness you desire for me this day. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Today's message by Lead Pastor Eric Parks is titled Weekend of Hope. Trevor McDonald, Lauren Scott and Carrington Gaines also join in the conversation.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has part 4 of the series The Seventh Floor with the message titled, Beautifully Diverse. Carrington Gaines, Lauren Scott, and Angie Addy also join Eric for a Seventh Floor discussion.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has part 3 of the series The Seventh Floor with the message titled, Filled with Grace and Overflowing Acceptance.
On today's podcast, Rockford Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has Part 2 of The Seventh Floor series with the message titled Hospitality.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks starts the new series, The Seventh Floor - The Forest City Church Origin Story.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has Part 1 of the series Teach Us To Pray. The message is titled, Why We Pray.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks' message today is titled, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego: "I'll Meet You There."
Lead Pastor Eric Parks and Providence Baptist Church Lead Pastor Bill Martin tag team the message during an historic combined church service.
Worship Leader Carrington Gaines has Part 5 of the series One Shot with the message titled The X Factor.
Worship Leader Lauren Scott has Part 4 of the series One Shot with the message titled Pursuing Presence.
Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has Part 3 of the series One Shot with the message titled Return to Rest.
Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part 2 of the series One Shot with the message titled 67 A.D.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has Part 1 of the series One Shot with the message titled What Does It Mean To Be A Christian?
Guest Teacher Susie Gamez has the 6th and final part of the series Life After with the message titled The Effort Required.
Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part 5 of the Life After series with the message titled Dancing With The Divine.
Forest City Church Lead Pastor Eric Parks has Part 4 of the Life After series with the message titled Everything We Need.
Forest City Church Care Pastor Angie Addy has Part 3 of the Life After series with the message titled Awe and Wonder.
Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part 2 of the Life After series with the message titled We Are Easter People.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has Part 1 of the series Life After with the message titled The Kingdom Is Now, And Not Yet.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has the Easter Sunday message titled, Imagine. Erin Schrader has the introduction.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks, with Carrington Gaines and the Worship Team, have Part 6 of the Lenten series with a message titled Palm Sunday: It Was Covered. Songs include Living Hope and Jesus Paid It All. CCLI 1519099
Teaching Pastor Chad Bruegman has Part 5 of the Lenten series with a message titled Death to Mine - Less Entitlement, More Generosity. Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald has the introduction.
Trevor McDonald has Part 4 of the Lenten series titled, Less is More. The title of his message is Less Envy, More Gratitude.
Chad Bruegman has Part 3 of the Lenten series titled, Less is More. The message is titled Death To Mine - More Sitting, Less Solving.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has Part 2 of the Lenten series titled, Less is More. The message is titled Death To Me. If you would like information on how you can participate with Food For The Hungry by sponsoring a child, click here. Thank you.
Chad Bruegman has part 1 of the new series for Lent titled, Less is More. The message is title is Divine Downgrade.
Susie Gamez has the 4th and final part of the series Subversive with the message titled, Collective Liberation, the Woman at the Well. Ebony Gaines has the introduction.
Lauren Scott and Aria Childers bring us part 3 of the teaching series Subversive with the message titled, Jesus, Our Example Not Our Excuse..
Eric Parks has part 2 of the series Subversive with the message, Unity is Not Uniformity. Eric is indebted to Dr. Bryan Loritts and Jemar Tisby for this message. Aria Childers has the introduction.
Chad Bruegman has part 1 of the series Subversive with the message, The Ministry of Reconciliation. Charmom Pittman has the introduction.
Trevor McDonald wraps up the series, This is My Worship with the message, Why We Worship Jesus.
Chad Bruegman has part 3 of the series, This is My Worship with the message, The Power of Music.
Eric Parks, Lead Pastor of Forest City Church, invites Worship Leader Carrington Gaines to join him for Part 2 of the This Is My Worship Series. This message is titled, Towdah (A Praise of Thanksgiving)
Eric Parks, Lead Pastor of Forest City Church, begins a new series titled This Is My Worship. Today, his message is titled, What Are You Willing To Give Your Worship To?
Join us for Christmas at Forest City Church. Eric Park, Lauren Scott, & Aria Childers bring a Christmas message titled Here & Now and Forest City Worship leads us in powerful worship
Eric Parks has Part 3 of the teaching series, The Road to Christmas. His message today is, Shepherds?
Chad Bruegman has Part 2 of the teaching series, The Road to Christmas. His message today is, First Impressions.
Trevor McDonald has part 1 of the new teaching series, The Road To Christmas. His message today is, A Paranoid King.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks continues the series, Chef's Table, with the message titled No Free Refills.
Guest Teacher Chad Bruegman begins the new series, Chef's Table, with the message titled A Masterclass in Hospitality. Scripture reference for today is John 13.
Trevor McDonald has part 5 of the Holy Spirit focused series, Redefining Ordinary. Today's message is title, You Are Brand New.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks has part 4 of the series, Redefining Ordinary. Today's message is title, The Power of the Spirit.
Teaching Pastor Steve Carter's message from the Redefining Ordinary series is titled, Three Stories, Three Prayers.
Chad Bruegman has part 2 in the Redefining Ordinary series with a message titled, Holy Spirit Has Your Best Interest in Mind.
Eric Parks kicks off the new series, Redefining Ordinary with the message titled, Where it All Begins.
In part 7 of the Sunday School series, Steve Carter teaches on how to make sense of your pain, to see God's purposes and plan for your life, and to experience God's provision for you and His people. He then introduces Lead Pastor Eric Parks to wrap up the series.
In part 6 of the Sunday School series, Aria Childers, asks the question, What's Your Response? From the book of Acts, see what Paul and Silas went through, how they responded to persecution, and ask, "What would my response be in similar circumstances?"
In Part 5 of the Sunday School series, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald teaches about Jesus calming a major storm. Trevor then helps us navigate through the storms in our own lives with the message titled, Stuck in a Storm.
In Part 4 of the Sunday School Series, Campus Pastor Trevor McDonald reintroduces you to Joseph in the book of Genesis. Trevor unpacks a few important truths you may not have heard in Sunday School. The message is titled, How to Repair Damaged Relationships.
Teaching Pastor Steve Carter's message title is also the title of his new book, The Thing Beneath The Thing.
Guest Teacher Susie Gamez continues the Sunday School series with a message about Abraham and Isaac.
Special Guest Chad Bruegman kicks off the Sunday School series with a powerful message about Jesus and his mercy for Matthew.
Eric's message is all about Baptism today. You'll also hear a couple of quick baptism testimonies from Shannon and Nicole.
Trevor McDonald has the 6th and final part of the Close Encounters series with the message titled, Never Settle For The Trees. You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Aria Childers has Part 5 of the Close Encounters series with the message titled, Where Are Your Accusers? You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Angie Addy has Part 4 of the Close Encounters series with the message titled, All In. You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Eric Parks has Part 3 of the Close Encounters series with the message titled, The Secret To Your Best Life. You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Eric Parks has Part 2 of the Close Encounters series with the message titled, There Are No Finish Lines. You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Charmon Pittman has Part 1 of the series Close Encounters with the message titled, "He Used What?" You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Jay Hewitt shares his testimony of how, against all odds, he became an Iron Man Triathlete while battling brain cancer and gaining the title IronDad. You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
On this edition of the Forest City Church Podcast, Teaching Pastor Steve Carter wraps up the iHeart series with the message, The Power Of Love. You can watch the online eversion of this message by clicking here.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks' message is titled Can We Survive Without Friends? You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
On this edition of the Forest City Church podcast, Lead Pastor Eric Parks' message is titled What's the secret to staying married? You can watch the online version of this message by clicking here.
Teaching Pastor Steve Carter has part 2 of the iHeart series. His message is titled How do we honor people who don't like us? Click here to watch the Digital Campus message.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks starts the new series iHeart. His message is Why Are Christians So Mean? Click here to watch the Digital campus message.
Guest Speaker Daylie Hunt has a special message for Forest City Church on Mother's Day.
Eric and Steve welcome co-founder Doug Thiesen to discuss the name change to Forest City Church. Steve then follows that up with a teaching on what's in a name.
Digital campus pastor Trevor McDonald has part 3 for the series For Everyone and Everyone.
Lead Pastor Eric Parks continues the series with part 2 of the series. This is the audio from the digital experience.
Steve Carter opened the For Anyone and Everyone Series online. Here is Part 1 of the series.
Today, Guest Teacher Josh Turner begins the news series, For Anyone and Everyone. Lead Pastor Eric Parks makes the introduction.
Guest Teacher Susie Gamez wraps up the Desert Sessions series with a Palm Sunday message titled Lord, Send Your Rain.
Teaching Pastor Steve Carter brings part 5 of the Desert Sessions series with the message Can We Enter the Promised Land Without Going Through The Desert?
Lead Pastor Eric Parks continues the Desert Sessions series with part 4, How Do You Hear God When Hope Seems Lost?
Trevor McDonald has Part 3 of the Series, Desert Sessions. This message is titled, What Are You Waiting For?
Charmon Pittman brings part two of the series, Desert Sessions. His message is titled, How Do We Find Our Identity In The Desert?
In the scriptures, the desert was a formative place, a character school. This message is part 1 in the series, Desert Sessions in which we will prepare our hearts and minds for Holy week, Good Friday and for Easter.
Guest Teacher Susie Gamez returns to Heartland with a message from John 6, Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand.
Welcome to the Heartland Community Church podcast. In this episode, Lead Pastor Eric Parks concludes the two part teaching series titled "This is Christmas??"