Brooklife Podcast: Recent Episodes
Brooklife Church
Join us weekly for inspiring messages on how to live out your faith and make a difference in this world. Brooklife Church is a community of Christ-followers located in Mukwonago WI who are committed to creating a place for everyone to experience the love of Jesus, find life-giving relationships, and pursue God-given purpose.
We have been praying and talking to God during the Beyond series, and on Sunday, we finally get to take a step of faith together! It's going to be an incredible Sunday as we go into BEYOND with God.
Key Verse: Hebrews 11:39 These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised.
As we explore what it means to have the faith to follow God into the Beyond, we deal with one of the realities that we all deal with: doubts. What do I do with my doubts? Can God use me if I doubt myself, the situation and Him? It’s going to be great to talk about it with you this Sunday at 8:45 or 10:30am.
Key Verse: Joshua 6:12 When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.”
We’re talking about the most unlikely person to be on the Hall of Fame of Faith list, but she has faith like you wouldn’t believe. You’ve just go to hear her story of how she followed God into the Beyond!
Key Verse: Hebrews 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.
We keep following God into Beyond Faith by looking at one of the most famous people in all of Scripture, Noah. He had faith to build an ark! The story everyone's heard has, at its heart, a kind of faith that should inspire us all.
Key Verse: Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.
Let's learn more about the kind of Faith that lands you in the God’s Hall of Faith as well as learn more about where God is leading us…into the Beyond!
Key Verse: Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead.
Today is Dream Sunday! We have been dreaming, preparing, and praying for a couple of years, and we are so excited to share with you how God has been moving in our hearts and where He is leading us these next years.
David ended his song with a bang! He has already taught us so much, but he’s still got a bit more for us this Sunday.
Key Verse: Psalm 18:49 Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O LORD; I will sing praises to your name.
We continue to be inspired by David’s song, but there’s a huge obstacle that’s going to come up in the middle of it. It’s something that has kept many from embracing God or at least the God of the Old Testament: God commanding the destruction of people. How can a good God do that? How can David sing a song celebrating that fact?
Key Verse: Psalm 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.
We look into a confusing claim David makes about himself. He claims to have always done what is right, when everyone knows he blew it in such a major way with that whole Bathsheba situation. Has David forgotten in his old age what he did? Is he rewriting history to his own liking? Or is there something way more beautiful and hopeful going on?
Key Verse: Psalm 18:28 You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.
We continue where we left off form last week to feel what it's like to have God come to your rescue.
Key Verse: Psalm 18:19 He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.
This series will invite you to reflect on your personal story with God, celebrating the moments where His faithfulness has shone through in your life. Drawing inspiration from David's heartfelt words in Psalm 18, we'll discover how remembering God's past provisions can fuel our trust for the future.
This series will offer a chance to pause and recognize the countless ways God has shown up for you. By celebrating His faithfulness, we'll strengthen our faith for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Your story matters, and it's part of a greater narrative of God's love and grace.
Key Verse: Psalm 18:1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.
We wrap up the series, Life of the Party, with the most fun party Israel got to celebrate: the Feast of Tabernacles. Sound like an incredible party, doesn’t it? (That’s sarcasm!) The truth is that once you understand what this party is all about, you’ll understand why it’s the most fun.
Key Verse: John 7:37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.
Sunday, we will learn from one of God’s parties called the Day of Atonement that no matter where you've been or what you've done, God offers a fresh start and a welcome home. Join us as we continue “Life of the Party” to explore how embracing God's love can bring healing, renewal, and life the way God intended it.
Key Verse: Isaiah 53:5, 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
So often, many of us live our lives with shame and regret over the choices we have made and the things we have done. We have a tendency to let those things create a barrier between us and God. But what if we could understand and accept that when we come to Him, because of His mercy, grace, compassion, and forgiveness, He is ready and eager to throw a party for you and celebrate that you are home?
We will be talking about the latest party that God had the nation of Israel throw!
Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.
We’ve got another big party God threw for Israel! As usual, God wants Israel to celebrate because of the rest they find in Him and pay it forward a bit as well.
Key Verse: Leviticus 23:22 “ ‘When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the LORD your God.’ ”
The third celebration we are going to unpack flows directly out of the first two that we’ve studied. The Feast of Firstfruits is a celebration of God’s incredible provision to His people. It foreshadows the great provision God offers us through His son Jesus.
Let's dive into the second celebration God created for the Israelites. At first glance, it might seem a bit unusual, but once you understand its significance, it all makes sense: The Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Key Verse: John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.
Join us this Sunday as we dive into Paul's powerful message to the Roman church. In a world often divided, Paul's words ring true today more than ever. This isn't just ancient wisdom - it's a roadmap for modern Christian living.
Many of us have this picture of God as a strict rule enforcer who’s all about limits and no fun. But what if I told you that couldn't be further from the truth? The God of the Bible is actually the ultimate Life of the Party! He’s the one who gave us a day of rest and commanded His people to celebrate – not just once, but at least seven times a year, for days on end!
Key Verse: Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
We wrap up the story of our Unacclaimed Hero Samuel. He’s been so impressive so far; how will his story end? What will his legacy be?
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 12:23 As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.
We pick the story back up with our Unclaimed Hero who finally got acclaimed but now will have to learn to once again play second fiddle. How will that look? Why would he do it? Why should we be willing to do it?
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 8:7 And the LORD told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.
This part of our Unclaimed Hero Samuel pretty much tells itself! It’s a great story packed with all kinds of truths about doing life with God as one of His heroes.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 7:15 Samuel continued as judge over Israel all the days of his life.
We continue talking about our Unclaimed hero, Samuel! This next part of Samuel’s story makes both no sense and all the sense in the world at the same time. We see it every day.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 4:22, 22 She said, “The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured.”
We talk about the day our "Unacclaimed" Samuel met God.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 3:10, 10 The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
We are going to start to see what kind of person Samuel actually is. He's still a kid, but we will already start seeing why he became the unsung hero of Israel. So much to learn from his example.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 2:26, 26 And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with men.
Do you often find yourself dwelling in the shadows, unnoticed and uncelebrated? Our world overlooks the unseen and applauds the visible. But in the Kingdom of God, the unseen holds significant value. True worth lies in character over gifts, and integrity over acclaim.
What if we embraced this perspective? What if we danced in secrecy, performing for an audience of One? God sees beyond the surface; He honors the sacrifices unheralded, the tears unseen. This is the heart of our new series, "Unacclaimed." We'll delve into the life of Samuel to see what it means to be truly valued in the eyes of God.
Key Verse: Ephesians 2:10, 10 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Have you ever messed up? Fallen short? Wondered if God could possibly have a plan for your life? Together with our guest speaker, Krista Heinen, we dive into the life of Peter. Peter was called to follow Jesus; he messed up, and Jesus chose to forgive and restore him. Through Peter, we will see that it is never too late to receive the grace that God offers us through Jesus.
This is the grand finale, and, believe me, it's a Grand Finale. Jesus goes off, and if you're like me, you want to know what would make Jesus this mad, because you never want to be on His bad side.
Key Verse: Matthew 24:44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
We are picking up where we left off with when Jesus says He will come back and make things right. Jesus really wants us to hear what’s most important, and He’s going overboard to try to help us get it.
Key Verse: Matthew 24:36, 36 “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
We finally start hearing what Jesus says will happen in the End. It's scary. It's real. It's coming. It's imperative that we are ready.
Key Verse: Matthew 24:4 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you
This Sunday, we learn Jesus' answer to the first big question, "When will the temple be destroyed?" His answer, and that He got it right, should change everything for us.
Key Verse: Matthew 24:4 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you.
We’ve all heard the wild and crazy stories… the apocalyptic tales of how and when the world is going to come to an end. The Bible gives us some things to look for and warning signs of when the end may be near, but it also says that no one knows when that day or hour will come. So what should we, as followers of Jesus, be looking for? How will we know when the end is getting close? What should we be doing to get ready? Those are some of the questions we will be looking at and talking about in our series, “In The End.” So, whether you're a seasoned believer or just curious about what the future holds, come join us! Let's explore the mystery of the end times, find hope in the chaos, and embrace the promise of Jesus' return
Key Verse: Matthew 24:3 As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”
We start our Holy Week Celebration, and we’re doing it by talking about how God has put together a plan to help us all come home. Everything God has been doing was leading up to this New Covenant, and it absolutely changes the game and brings us home to how things were always supposed to be.
Key Verse: Hebrews 8:7 For if there had been nothing wrong with that first covenant, no place would have been sought for another.
We continue our exploration of the connection of why we need the Old Testament God and the New Testament God. Why did we even need the Old Testament? Why couldn’t we just have Jesus? Great questions!
This Sunday, we pick right up where we left off last week looking at how God has been working one big plan to bring all of us home. The whole Bible - the Old and New Testament - is one grand story displaying the lengths God will go to bring you home. Wait until you see what God was up to with the Tabernacle!
Key Verse: John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
One of the reasons people find the Bible confusing is that the Old Testament and the New Testament just seem so different. How can they all be part of the same thing? This Sunday, we start revealing how one led to the other: If This Then That!
Key Verse: Hebrews 7:27 Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.
We wrap up our conversation about reDefining The Church, and we’re going out with a bang! God is putting a bow on how He said His church would operate.
Key Verse: Matthew 16:18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
We get to talk about one of the most fantastic stories of what God can do in someone’s life. To say his life was transformed somehow feels like an understatement! His story reminds us of why it’s so important for our church to be the church God says we should be.
Key Verse: Acts 1:8, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
As we check ourselves as a church and ensure we are being the church God has called us to be, it requires a heart check. Believe it or not, our good efforts will not always be welcomed. What happens when our good efforts get taken advantage of?
Key Verse: Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
We continue on our journey of making sure we are the church God’s called us to, and to be that church requires each of us to have certain characteristics. We get a real-life example of someone who personified that in the Scriptures. Join us this Sunday as we learn from him.
Key Verse: Acts 6: 8 Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.
We continue our journey to Redefine the Church. We want to be the church God wants us to be, and we won't settle for anything less. That desire in and of itself can sometimes be a problem when we think the church should just be what it should be, and it's not. How do we fix it? Why should we have to? Shouldn't the church just be what it should be?
Key Verse: Acts 6:7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
We continue our pursuit of reDefining the Church, and making sure who we are as Brooklife matches up with God's design. What is essential? What is extra?
Key Verse: Acts 5:41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.
We continue to look at what God says should define a church. Last week, we saw how the church started in such an amazing way, but already, we’ll see something happen that threatens to rip the whole thing apart.
Key Verse: Acts 5::11 Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
With so many different types and styles of church, how can you know which one is right? It's a question I'm sure you've had to struggle through and probably just went with your gut. I totally get that, but I want to give you more than just your gut to go on.
Key Verse: Acts 4:32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.
We pick up at the next major milestone in the life of Mary's Boy, Jesus. I absolutely love this part of Jesus' story, and it helps us understand just how human Jesus was even though He was completely God.
Key Verse: John 2:11 This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.
We continue to take a look at the human side of Jesus and actually think of Him as a middle-schooler. That’s a novel thought!
Key Verse: Luke 2:52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
It's Christmas at Brooklife, and this year, we want to look at Christmas through the lens of Mary. What must it have been like to watch God in the flesh grow up? What must it have been like to parent Him? We will be asking and trying to answer so many thoughts and questions while taking the time to celebrate that Jesus, our Emmanuel, came to be with us!
Key Verse: Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
This is Thanksgiving at Brooklife, and we are going to do it “family-style”! Taking time to stop and just celebrate our great God and His incredible gifts to us as a church family is so, so important. We are looking forward to sharing that with you as well as having the sacredness of all “meals” with you too.
Key Verse: Luke 17:15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.
This Sunday is a big-time celebration because it’s Baptism Sunday! We’ve got a bunch of people going public with their faith, and it’s not too late for you to join them! Simply respond to this email or come ready on Sunday. Also, we will be wrapping up our A Better Place series with the best part of heaven.
Key Verse: John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
We've talked a lot about the Better Place that heaven will be, but what's the alternative? Is there really a hell? If there is, how could a loving God send anyone there? Is it really as bad as they say?
Key Verse: Romans 1:21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.
As we continue our series on Heaven called "A Better Place" this week, we'll take on the question, "What in the world are we going to look like?" Do we have bodies? Do we just float around? Will we be recognizable?
Key Verse: Philippians 3:20-21 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Last week, we talked about the “feels” of heaven. Heaven is going to be a place overflowing with love. But now we want to ask, “What will we do in heaven?” There are so many misconceptions!
Key Verse: Genesis 2:3 And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
All of us at some point in our lives, when someone we know has passed away, have heard people try and bring comfort with the words, “They are in a better place.” But what does that mean? What is it that God promises us when we die? What is Heaven, and what are we going to do there? Do we get a mansion? Are we all in a choir? I mean…is it worth sacrificing my life here for life there? We'll discover the incredible promises that God has in store for us beyond our time here on Earth.
Key Verse: Colossians 3:2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Whoever coined the phrase “time flies” definitely knew what they were talking about. I don’t know about you, but for me, time seems like it moves so fast that I can’t keep up! What can happen to a lot of us is we forget that life is a precious gift, and we end up spending a lot of our time on things that may not truly matter. Verne Hagenbeck shares with us some powerful life-changing principles, and we learn how we can make every moment we are given count.
We conclude our You Dig series with a final thought about the value of people. What comes to mind is the potential of humankind. What is it that we are capable of? What could we be? What does God believe about us?
Key Verse: 1 John 3:2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.
I've got a cool concept I'd like to share with you called 'Bestowed Worth.' It's fascinating how this little concept plays such an important role in why the church exists and in what we are supposed to be and do as we prepare the way for God to do what only God can do.
Key Verse: Luke 15:32, But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”
Why do you matter? Why are you significant? Are you significant? And if you matter, doesn't that mean everyone matters? Again, why? That's what we are talking about as we continue to Prepare the Way for God to Do what Only He Can Do! You dig??
Key Verse: Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
The Dreaming continues as we resume from where we left off last week, focusing on our role to Prepare the Way for God to Do What Only He Can Do. It's essential not to overlook our significant part in this process. Join us this Sunday at 8:45 or 10:30am as we talk about the huge part we play.
Key Verse: Matthew 11:11 I tell you the truth: Among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist.
Dream Sunday is this Sunday, and you don’t want to miss it! Our fall kicks off, and with it, we dream of what God would have us do this next year! Be prepared for fun, excitement, and God’s presence here.
Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
We wrap up our series, Afraid to Ask, with someone who wasn't actually afraid to ask; he was so afraid he forgot to ask. It's a great story with a great lesson for each of us.
Isaiah 37:20 Now, O LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all kingdoms on earth may know that you alone, O LORD, are God.”
We continue the discussion of why we are Afraid To Ask God to do what only God can do. Sometimes the reason we are afraid to ask is because it means we have to let go of something we really, really want. Why is it so important that we do let go?
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 1:27-28 I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.”
Most of us believe in the power of prayer and have seen prayer work in our lives. So why is it then, that often times our prayers are inconsistent, rote and used as a last ditch effort to get God to do something for us? This week, we will be looking at a prayer that one of the super heroes of the faith prayed. A big, bodacious, bold prayer! A prayer that moved the heart of God and changed the circumstances around him. A prayer that seems like something we’d never be able to do, right? But what if I told you that you actually have the ability to pray more effectively than this spiritual giant? You may not believe it, but I’m going to try and prove it!
Why would we be Afraid To Ask God to do what only God could do? Well, I can think of quite a few reasons. We're talking about another one: Why wouldn't we ask God to help clean up our messes?
Key Verse: Galatians 6:8, 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
Why is it that we don't ask God to do what only God can do? What stands in the way of us asking God to show up? To do something incredible? To show off for us a bit? Why don't we ask? It's complicated.
Key Verse: Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
We conclude our journey with Saul and our series, Failing Faith. Saul's end is horrific. How do we keep from having a horrific end to our lives, and how do we keep others from having that kind of an end as well? I hope you'll join us this Sunday as we take the steps necessary to make sure our lives look nothing like Saul's.
Key Verse: Matthew 7:7-8 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Saul's story is so fascinating! This week, he goes to see a witch. Crazy! Saul's faith in God has failed even though he believes in God. How can you even do that? Perhaps you already know. There is a way home.
Key Verse: Proverbs 1:28-31 “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD, since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
Saul's world spirals. It's what happens when God isn't part of your life. Saul is a living example of what happens when someone's faith fails. The good news is that even though your faith might have failed, there is a way back.
Key Verse: Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
We continue watching Saul's unhealthy deconstruction. How does a guy start so well and then have his faith completely fail him? Two words: Unmet Expectations.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 15:26 But Samuel said to him, “I will not go back with you. You have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you as king over Israel!”
The moment in Saul's life we knew was coming has arrived. His Faith Failed. Why? How? How do you lose your faith in God? How can you prevent losing it?
We continue to discuss this concept of "Deconstruction" through the life of Saul. What happens when your Faith Fails? What do you do? Your Faith has carried you through so much, what do you do when it seems inadequate for what you are facing? A Healthy Deconstruction is the best way forward.
Do you have the same faith in God during tough times as you do when things are going great? This week’s sermon will help you navigate what it is you believe about God during times of complication and adversity.
We wrap up our series, “Following Jesus”, by talking about something that all of us wrestle with. In fact, if we don’t deal with it, it can severely impact our relationship with God and the people around us. By looking at the story of one of the heroes of our faith, we will be challenged and inspired to not let our past be what define us but walk confidently in who Christ says we are.
Discover why we seek Jesus, and how what He offers may not align with our wants, but fulfills our true needs.
Key Verse: Matthew 19:21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
What happens when you start Following Jesus? Well, the decision to Follow Jesus leads to more and more decisions about where to go next. The journey of following Jesus will end up with you needing to make decisions, but they'll be way more natural than you ever dreamed.
Key Verse: Matthew 16:15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
We start our new series, Following Jesus. What does that even mean? What if I'm not ready to believe everything about Jesus? What if I like Jesus but I don't believe in the rest of the Bible? Can I still follow Jesus with doubts? Those are just a few of the great questions to which we want to help you find answers.
Key Verse: Matthew 4:19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”
We seal the deal on the Fool's Gold series with what may not be the most important reason for believing in Jesus' resurrection but rather the one you need. This week is all about the "feels" so don't miss it!
Key Verse: Colossians 1:13-14 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Jesus’ death and resurrection are definitely not Fool’s Gold, and maybe the best evidence of that is the lives that have been transformed. You’ll hear the stories of lives transformed and see people going public with that faith in Jesus through baptism.
Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.
Last week, we started talking about whether the Resurrection of Jesus was Fool's Gold or the real deal. History can't deny it, but the big question is "Does it even make any sense?" That's what we'll talk about this Sunday.
Key Verse: Isaiah 29:14 Therefore once more I will astound these people with wonder upon wonder; the wisdom of the wise will perish, the intelligence of the intelligent will vanish.”
We pick right up where we left off on Easter! The Resurrection of Jesus is essential to everything it means to be a follower of God. You just can't get around it. So how do we get our heads around the reality of that event? Is Jesus then just Fool's Gold or the real thing? How can I know? Those are the questions we start answering.
Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.
He is Risen! Today is the celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection…new life for Him and us.
Key Verse: Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Palm Sunday represents what looked like Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem but resulted in His crucifixion. There's so much tension in that thought, and I think there's even more tension than we even know.
We wrap up the Esther story in grand fashion. God's plan has become obvious to all and so have the ramifications of the choices Esther, Mordecai, the King, and Haman have made. God has given you a huge opportunity; Use It or Lose it!
Key Verse: Esther 9:20-22 Mordecai recorded these events, and he sent letters to all the Jews throughout the provinces of King Xerxes, near and far, to have them celebrate annually the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration.
Esther takes her next big leap of faith, and God shows up everywhere. God is a god of details, and He never leaves anything to chance. God's hand is so obvious when you're looking and this week we'll be looking hard!
Key Verse
Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows
We get to the heart of Esther's story this week. God opens a massive door of opportunity that Esther never saw coming. From the story of Esther, there is so much to learn about what it means to truly follow God. Following God will cost you more than you ever thought but fulfill you in ways you never dreamed possible.
Key Verse: Esther 4:14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?”
This week, we get our introduction to Esther. She gets an unlikely, and likely unwanted, opportunity, and what she does with it is so beautiful and exactly what each of us needs to do.
Esther 2:15 And Esther won the favor of everyone who saw her.
Join us for a thought-provoking sermon series called, “Use It or Lose It”, where we’ll explore the power of using our God-given gifts and talents for His glory. Through engaging messages that walk through the story of Esther, we’ll discover how neglecting our abilities can result in missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential, while actively using them can lead to growth and blessings in our personal and spiritual lives. Don’t miss this inspiring series that will challenge you to step out in faith and make the most of what God has entrusted to you.
Key Verse: Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
We wrap up our Anatomy of Sin series by talking about one of the hardest questions we all have about sin. Why would a good God send anyone to hell for sinning? What is hell? Does God really do that? Does hell really exist? What's it like? Sunday is an incredibly hard conversation but one of immense importance.
Key Verse: John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
What is sin? Why is it such a big deal? Why is God so angry about it? We tend to divide sins into two different groups: big sins and little sins. And the little sins are what confuses us most. Why are little sins such a big deal to God? Well, small doesn’t mean insignificant. This is such an important conversation.
Key Verse: Genesis 11:4 Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves and not be scattered over the face of the whole earth.”
We start a topic that isn’t necessarily our favorite, but it is so essential because it sets the stage for just about everything that happens in our lives. That subject is "The Anatomy of Sin". What is it? Why is God so angry about it? Is it really that big of a deal? These questions are the “why” questions that are so fundamental to figuring out life with God.
Key Verse: Matthew 22:36-38, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.
The training wheels are coming off for Joshua and Israel today. If you've been reading through the book of Joshua with us, you might have noticed that there's a lot of violence. What is that all about? Why did God allow it? Why did God condone it?
Key Verse: Joshua 6:27 So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land.
We are getting into the action part of the story. We’ve talked about being bold and courageous, and now we're going to really start doing that. What does it look like when God starts leading us into unknown territory? What are the next steps to following God? How do we stay bold and courageous?
Key Verse: Joshua 4:24 He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God.”
We just love the idea of being 𝗯𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗼𝘂𝘀; it gets us all fired up. We get excited about the idea of it, but how do we actually accomplish it? That’s what we are talking about this Sunday cause we want this to be the year we actually are 𝗯𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗼𝘂𝘀 followers of God!
My observation is that there is something missing in followers of Jesus in our world today and that is a boldness and courage that says we are ready to stand for God and live out His purpose in our lives no matter the consequence. We need boldness and courage, and there’s a guy we can learn it from named Joshua.
Key Verse: Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
So you might have thought Chasing Christmas was over but it's just getting warmed up, and we've got an even bigger goal ahead of us than God making His temple in us. There's more, and it's glorious what God has planned for Christmas with us one day!
Gather the family and spend a moment with us as we ponder all that God has done for us.
We continue our series, Chasing Christmas. God has been Chasing Christmas with us from the beginning, and hopefully, we are now Chasing Christmas with Him. This week, we talk about a guy that’s pretty famous but not discussed much, Solomon. Solomon and God, are they both Chasing Christmas?
Key Verse: 1 Kings 11:11 So the LORD said to Solomon, “Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.
This Sunday, we continue our Chasing Christmas series talking about Emanuel...this name God calls Himself which simply means “God with us.” God wants to be with us and will do whatever it takes to make that happen! That’s what we’re talking about.
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 8:7 And the LORD told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.
We continue our series Chasing Christmas! God’s Chasing life with us. Join us for the next part of God’s great chase.
Key Verse: Exodus 40:34 Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.
There's something in each of our hearts that just loves the idea of Christmas, and as much as we do, I believe God wants that even more.
Key Verse: Genesis 3:6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
When we started this series “House Party”, we told you we had a big surprise coming. Well, this Sunday we are going to surprise you! It’s going to be incredible, AND we are also having over 20 people getting baptized!
We continue our House Party series by talking about something the Bible calls the Year of Jubilee. The Year of Jubilee is an invention of God to reset the clocks and give everyone a second chance. It's a way of living that God desired for people back then...and for us right now
Key Verse: Leviticus 25:10, Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; each one of you is to return to his family property and each to his own clan.
This Sunday, we are kicking off our new series, House Party. When you look at how God designed things, it is supposed to look like a house party. This series comes from the concept of the Jubilee. I want to teach you what it is, how it has been going on from the beginning of Scripture and that it is how we should live today. You don't want to miss it and the special gift you will be receiving on Sunday.
Key Verse: Acts 2:44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.
We finish up our Branded series with the truth that we are who God says we are, but what does that really mean? In a world filled with messages telling us we are whatever we feel we are, how does this even apply? This week is so important to living as God followers in our world today
Key Verse: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:27
One of the big questions we all have to address at some point in our lives is "Why are we here?" Why am I here? Why are you here? That question has a whole new meaning when you choose to embrace Jesus as your God. What does that mean? What does that look like?
Key Verse: God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”
Genesis 1:28
This Sunday, we start our new series, Branded. The way to have a life that is Built to Last is for it to be built on Jesus. So, now we look at the question of what does a life built on God look like? What can we expect? Those expectations make a world of difference and that's what we'll start discussing.
We wrap up our series OMNIGOD with what I believe is the most important Omni, Omnibenevolence. I think this is the question we all need answered about God: Is He good? Because a god that knows everything and can do anything but isn't good would be the scariest thing ever! So is God good?
Key Verse: Psalm 145:9, 9 The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
This Sunday, we continue on the journey of discovering just who Jesus claims to be in our series called OMNIGOD. Jesus says He knows it all, and He can do something with what He knows. Come learn about the power Jesus claims to have and see if He isn't worthy of choosing as the foundation of your life.
This Sunday, we start our new series called OMNIGOD, and we’re going on a journey of discovering if God is worthy of being the foundation of our lives. But it’s more of a discussion. I’m not looking to tell you if you should or shouldn’t follow Jesus, but I will tell you why I do, and why I trust Jesus with my life. Trust is a big deal and discovering if Jesus is trustworthy is what we’re talking about.
Key Verse
Psalm 139: 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
We continue sharing the dream God has given us this year of being people of God who are Built To Last! Last week, we discussed making sure our lives have the foundation of Jesus which is essential and the first step in building a life that lasts. But, there is more to it than just a foundation. We need a house! How do we build the right kind of house on the Rock of Jesus?
This Sunday is Dream Sunday and one of the most important Sundays of our entire year! It’s the Sunday we talk about God’s dream for our church and for each of us and what He wants to do through us in this community.
We wrap up our series Residuum series with a gut-check from James. He's been building up to this point for weeks, and now, he's going to ask the most important question you will ever have to answer. You need to have the answer to this question figured out.
Memory Verse:
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
-James 2:26
One thing I’m sure you’ve noticed about us humans is that we tend to “cherry-pick” in life. We pick some things that we like, and we leave other things behind. We listen to James as he is challenging us to make sure we are “cherry-picking” the right things! The right things we are supposed to “cherry-pick” is what we are talking about.
Memory Verse:
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
-James 2:10
This Sunday, we continue our series Residuum, where we discuss what residue we want to leave behind. For us Jesus-followers, it should look different than the rest of the world, which means that the way we treat people should look different than the way the world treats people.That’s a really interesting discussion because the church historically has not always done the best job at that.
Memory Verse Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. -James 1:27
As we continue our series Residuum, where we are looking at the Residue we are leaving behind, we are confronted with the question of what do you do when you look in the mirror and see something wrong? Obviously, you fix it. Unfortunately, James, Jesus' little brother, isn't so sure that's what we do. He's got questions for us. Questions we need to answer!
Memory Verse: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. -James 1:22
This week, we’re talking about listening and talking. I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage about God giving you two ears and one mouth so you should listen twice as much as your should talk. Something tells me Jesus would agree with that! We’ve got a lot to learn!
Memory Verse: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. -James 1:19
This weekend, we will be talking about the Tricky Trap of Temptation. As we explore this idea together, we will see that unpacking God's character, who He is and His goodness to us will help us overcome those temptations in life.
Memory Verse: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17
What residue are we leaving behind? What is our legacy? What determines what we leave behind are the priorities we have in our lives. What are our priorities? What should we take pride in? James has a strong opinion about this.
Memory Verse: Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Everywhere we go and on everything we touch, we leave a bit or residue behind. That’s a crazy thought! So here’s the question: what kind of residue are you leaving on this world? And especially as a Jesus-follower, what does your residue tell the world about Jesus?
Memory Verse: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5
We wrap it up our series, Cultivated, with one of my favorite stories in the entire Bible. It's a story from Joseph’s (that guy with 11 brothers) life that shows us what God wants to do in our lives. See ya here on Sunday at 8:45 or 10:30am!
We continue our series, Cultivated, and talk about Joy and Peace. Are there two more desired things in our world? Everyone wants Joy and Peace, and God says that’s exactly what He wants to give us, but it’s bigger than what we think.
Last week as we started our new series on the Fruit of the Spirit, we asked the question, “Who are you becoming?” When the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts, we start to cultivate characteristics that make us more like Jesus. Sunday, we are going to start looking at those characteristics. The first attribute is the most important one for us to get right because it is out of this one characteristic that the others flow. Not getting this one right will make it harder to get the rest right.
Our new series, Cultivated, is all about understanding who we are supposed to be becoming. If there aren't rules to tell us what we should and shouldn't do, how do we know if we are actually becoming who we are supposed to become? If this Holy Spirit is working in us, will we recognize something different? It seems so abstract to us, but for God, it is very concrete. God gives us clear definitions of who we are supposed to become, and that’s what this entire series is about.
This is a trip down memory lane. It's a very personal message for me and one I think we all need to hear and take to heart.
We wrap up our series Ruled Out, and we’re going out on a high. Paul really wants us to know it’s time to put on some new clothes! Join us this Sunday to find out what that means!
We come to a topic that isn't very popular but lies at the heart of what it means to be loved by God. And here it is: we, humanity, have a problem: we are cursed and can't fix it. Here's the second part of the conundrum: God's the One Who cursed us. Why would God curse us? How do we get rid of the curse?
So many times, we think being a God follower is all about rules and regulations, but Paul tries to make it really clear what it's all about by using a guy named Abraham. This amazing story is going to give you so much peace and confidence in your walk with God.
Have you ever found yourself in the position where you’ve done the best you can possibly do and it still wasn’t enough? Whether it’s at your job, in a relationship, at school, with a coach, or even with a religion, it’s frustrating and defeating trying to live up to standards and expectations that are unattainable. Thankfully when it comes to our relationship with Jesus, there is nothing we have to do to be accepted, loved and forgiven. Throughout this series, we want to show you that there is a better way to live your life and that with Christ, you are never ruled out.
It is Resurrection Sunday! We are so excited to celebrate that He is risen! This is the day to celebrate the amazing love that God has for us.
This week is one of the most exciting and meaningful weeks of our entire year; it's Holy Week! And, it all starts with Palm Sunday and a fig tree that was in the wrong place at the wrong time..
We go out with a bang with the last sermon in this series because this church in Laodicea is so repulsive to Jesus that He says they basically make Him want to vomit! We must learn a lesson from this church on what not to do.
Sunday, we are continuing our series called “Dear Church” where we are learning what Jesus says the church should look like. And I don’t know if you have been watching March Madness or not, but there is something that happens with the winning teams in March Madness that the church Jesus is speaking to this week has. It’s something we need!
God has really been showing up for us in this series, Dear Church. He is pushing us to be the church He created us to be, and this week, He gives us a challenge, but also, He gives us a different way to look at what it means to be a Jesus-follower. This different way is so life-giving and so revolutionary to the way we live.
This week as Jesus speaks directly to the church in Pergamum, He shares a message we find throughout all of Scripture. It is a principle essential to what it means to be a Jesus church; we must be in the world but not of the world. Why? What's that look like? How do we pull it off?
We continue our series, Dear Church, by looking at the letter Jesus sent to the second of seven churches in the first part of the book of Revelation. Jesus had nothing but good to say about this church. How do you become a church, a person, about which Jesus only has good to say? We'll learn from what Jesus said to the church in Smyrna–and to us.
With so many churches around - some old, some old Walmarts, some cool and trendy and some heavy on rituals, how do you know which is the right way to do church? Well, the only way to figure out what the church should be is for us to hear from the source: Jesus. Jesus founded the church so He is Who should say what it looks like and thankfully, He did.
Of all the parts of Daniel’s story including being thrown into the lion’s den, I believe this is his greatest moment. It's an example that will challenge us all and that we will inspired to replicate.
You’d really think this would be the end of Daniel’s story. King Nebuchadnezzar is dead. Daniel is now like 80 years old. What relevance does Daniel have? What purpose could he serve? God’s got to be done with him, right? Wrong! God still has big plans for Daniel’s life. Why?
Sunday instead of focusing on Daniel, we are focusing on King Nebuchadnezzar, and the thing about Nebuchadnezzar is that he has been flirting with disaster with God for a while. This week, he and God are going to have it out! I wonder who will win? There’s so many lessons we need to learn from this story.
We continue talking about Daniel and his heart of a lion, but this week, we’re not actually talking about Daniel; we’re talking about his three friends, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. We’re getting into a concept that is so huge in our world right now...tolerance. As Jesus-followers, how tolerant are we supposed to be? Is there an end to it? Are there some things we can’t be tolerant of?