Harvester Christian Church: Recent Episodes
Harvester Christian Church
Welcome to the weekly audio podcast of Harvester Christian Church in St. Charles, MO where our mission is to lead others to find & follow Jesus. Visit us at www.harvester.cc
How we view God shapes how we live. Many see Him as restrictive or punishing, but from Eden to Jesus, God’s actions have always been rooted in protection and love. His commands aren’t about control—they’re about inviting us into abundant life and shielding us from harm.
Fear has a way of paralyzing us, convincing us that our inadequacies disqualify us from God's call. But freedom comes when we realize it's not about our strength—it's about God's power working through our weakness. Our limitations aren't obstacles; they’re the very place where God displays His strength.
Are you feeling completely overwhelmed by life's challenges? The secret to facing your giants might be simpler than you think. It's not about the size of your giant—it's about your perspective.
Jesus flips tables in your life. He doesn't just add new blessings—He removes old distractions. Anything that pulls your focus from God has become your god. What tables in your heart need flipping today?
Ever wonder why some prayers seem to work while others don't? The answer might surprise you - it's not about God changing his mind, but about prayer transforming our hearts.
Discover why the claim that all religions lead to the same truth faces logical difficulties, and examine what makes Jesus unique among religious figures.
The Bible remains the most sold (and most stolen) book in history, with physical copies actually increasing by 22% from 2023 to 2024. As more people engage with Scripture, questions naturally arise about its trustworthiness. Join us as we unpack the reliability of the Bible.
How could a loving God allow suffering? Suffering begins with God's gift of free will to humanity. Love demands free will - forced love isn't real love.
How can the darkest day in history be called good? Because it was the day love chose sacrifice, and hope broke through despair. An innocent man's death changed everything—and it's still changing lives today.
Can anyone ever be too far gone to be forgiven? In his final moments, a dying thief found out the answer, and it changed everything. His story proves that it’s never too late for a fresh start.
What would you do if you knew the right choice but felt pressured to do the opposite? We all face moments when doing what's right isn't easy. In the heat of the moment, it's hard to stand firm. However, knowing the truth helps us make the right choice when it matters most.
True faith isn't blind but built on remembering God's past faithfulness while trusting His present guidance.
Feeling overwhelmed by life's uncertainties? God's command to be strong and courageous isn't just about bravery - it's a promise of His presence in every step of your journey. What would change if you truly believed God was walking beside you through every challenge?
Discover the four levels of generosity and how to develop a more generous heart. This message explores biblical principles of sacrificial giving, financial stewardship, and trusting God’s provision.
Are you prioritizing things over people? The Prodigal Son lost everything chasing after money instead of valuing relationships. But there is hope in returning home. Discover how gratitude can transform your life and deepen your connections with others and with Jesus.
Jesus saw the lost with deep compassion, like sheep without a shepherd, and He calls us to do the same. But are we merely offering casual prayers, or are we crying out with desperation for those far from God?
What if every person you meet is like a precious lost coin, waiting to be found? God's relentless pursuit of the lost challenges us to see others through His eyes.
What if the church went beyond just welcoming people in and actively pursued those far from God? For The One challenges us to move from passive acceptance to boldly seeking the lost—because no one is a lost cause to Jesus.
How can you stay strong in your beliefs while still showing love to those who disagree with you? 🤔 Join us as we explore how to stand firm in faith while treating others with compassion and respect.
Understand Jesus' blueprint for making a lasting impact through genuine hospitality, meaningful relationships, and practical service.
Truth and love are inseparable in God's nature, yet our culture often views truth as subjective. To reflect God's character, we must live authentically by embracing His truth, sharing it with love, and balancing both in our daily lives.
Bold faith means seeing God's promises as present possibilities rather than distant dreams, even in the face of obstacles.
As we enter 2025, are your plans aligned with God's? Discover how to find hope and redemption even in the face of discouragement and distractions.
Feeling overwhelmed by the darkness in the world? This Christmas, discover a light that transcends all circumstances. Are you ready to embrace the true hope that Jesus offers?
Aslan's resurrection brings hope and peace to Narnia, mirroring Jesus's resurrection, which offers us eternal life and transformation. Explore the biblical prophecies of Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor and Prince of Peace, and understand how His sacrificial love can bring peace to our chaotic lives.
Discover the power of transformation through the stories of Gru from Despicable Me and the Apostle Paul. See how both find love and acceptance after life-changing wake-up calls.
Struggling with indecency and self-worth is a challenge we all face in life. Both the story of King David and the story of Spiderman reflect this shared struggle. In Christ we can discover even in our moments of adversity and guilt, God offers us forgiveness and the strength to overcome.
Setbacks are inevitable, but they can lead to significant breakthroughs if approached with faith and reflection. Drawing from the stories of Willy Wonka and Moses, we learn that challenges shape our paths to success.
Reflect on how we sometimes judge others, and strive to show Jesus' love and kindness instead. Let’s create welcoming spaces in our homes, workplaces, and churches for those who feel marginalized.
Who in your life deserves compassion and forgiveness? We explore how a simple act of grace towards others can inspire us to extend grace and create spaces of hope.
What kind of faith are you passing down to the next generation? Psalm 145 guides us to shape a lasting, God-centered legacy.
Feeling stuck in your comfort zone? Explore how welcoming discomfort can turn trails into triumphs.
We can have a limited view to what it looks like to share the gospel with someone. What if there is a better way to share the good news that speaks directly into what is affecting our neighbors right now? We have the greatest message of hope to give - will you share it?
Are you settling into a spiritual comfort zone? Jesus calls us to go further! Who in your neighborhood needs to hear about Jesus? Let's challenge ourselves to unleash the hope of Jesus with everyone we know!
The three steps to a life-changing faith: believing in Jesus, declaring it, and trusting Him fully. It’s not just about saying the right words—it’s about living them. For those who feel lost, this is an invitation to take that step today. For believers, it’s a call to lead others to the hope you’ve found. Life change is possible, and it can start right now. Are you ready?
Judgment is coming, and the choice is yours. How will your actions today shape your eternity?
Jesus calls us to stay faithful and ready for His return, even during life's long waiting periods. Don’t miss the promise—He’s coming back!
A faith that does not care for God and people is desolate and blind. Jesus not only calls us to love him, but to love and care for each other.
Jesus opens the door to sacred spaces where people can be invited into the Kingdom of God regardless of their past.
When deciding on your vote this year, consider that God's political platform is built on two pillars: liberty and justice, which can also be seen as grace and truth. Ultimately, God aims to free those held captive by sin and is passionate about caring for the lost and wounded through justice.
God's vision encompasses all nations and extends far beyond American elections. As Christians, God has chosen us to act as his ambassadors, responsible for spreading his kingdom throughout the earth.
When we embrace our limits and set our boundaries, we actually increase our capacity to love Jesus and love like Jesus.
Jesus went away to be with the Father - for no other reason than to be with the Father. It was important, in fact critical, to his being. He set boundaries on people, his schedule, and other's expectations. In Luke 10, Jesus tells us that it's better to be with him over just working for him.
What boundaries do you need to set in order to be with Jesus more for no other reason than to be with him?
Jesus didn't choose inaction. He knew what needed to be done, was obedient, and had a compassionate attitude. He asks the same of us. Jesus rescued us so that we might join him in rescuing others. That's what becoming a great church is about.
If we are going to become servants, we have to become available to God too (Here I am, send me). After all, God works more through the available than the able.
We need to make sure our minds have the right attitude. If we are going to become like Jesus we need to have the same attitude as Jesus. The motivation behind what you do is just as important as what you do. What is your motivation?
Explore the importance of trust in giving, including trusting in God's provision, church leadership, and our own ability to handle blessings responsibly.
the motives and biblical practices behind intentional generosity. From avoiding debt to practicing tithing and wise investing, learn how to align your actions with your faith to foster a lifestyle of generosity.
We explore the fundamental truth that all our possessions belong to God. See how embracing stewardship as a divine responsibility leads to a changed heart and unleashes hope into the world.
Why do bad things happen to good people? What we know is that the bad things that happen to us don't hinder the good things that God desires to do in us. It’s possible to grow in the dark.
Many people have been affected by suicide in some way, yet it is not often discussed in churches. So, how can we support each other during such a dark time? Dr. Leroy Lawson will share his family's experience and offer guidance on how to approach this difficult situation with compassion and the light of Jesus.
Let's come together to honor and uplift mothers by sharing real stories and engaging in meaningful conversations to help them navigate through challenges with Jesus right by thier side.
Worry strangles the life out of us, but the bible reminds us not to be anxious about anything; instead, we should turn our troubles over to God.
Death is a sacred moment for those who have put their trust in Jesus. This is counterintuitive because death doesn’t feel sacred; it feels sad. How can something never meant to exist, be called “precious/sacred?” You’re right. It makes no sense…unless you understand who Jesus is and what Jesus did. God has taken a tragic moment and turned it into a triumphant moment.
When we view marriage as an opportunity to live out Biblical teachings of love, respect, and submission to God and each other, we benefit from a transformational experience that shapes our hearts and minds.
Communion becomes sacred when we stop to remember his death. Why? It’s a reminder that our sins had real consequences. We remember that even still, Jesus’ love, grace, & forgiveness have victory over sin.
Baptism is a sacred act ordained by Jesus. It demonstrates faith in him and immerses us in his teachings. It centers Jesus in the moment and is not about us, our knowledge, ability, or past. When Jesus is at the center, something sacred happens.
Showing how different Jesus Barabbas and Jesus the Messiah are. Jesus Barabbas is all about worldly force, while Jesus the Messiah is all about giving up everything for others. It's all about how Jesus' sacrifice is what brings redemption to everyone. We are Barabbas.
We acknowledge the reality of external evil but also celebrate the power of Jesus over worldly oppression. Today, we are reminded that He continues to liberate us from the grip of evil, offering hope and redemption.
Looking to Jesus for health and wealth may lead to disappointment. But finding satisfaction in Him brings freedom and healing.
The beauty of Jesus’ gospel is that you do not have to be good enough. Jesus was good enough for you. Jesus was strong enough for you. You are the saved, and He is the savior.
Young people are filled with hope and determination, and we need to support them to lead us towards revival. We cannot have revival without them, as the next generation is crucial. Join hundreds of people who have discovered Jesus and let him transform your life too. Awaken and let Christ shine on you.
Join us as we uncover the timeless truths of this ancient tale that reminds us that no matter how far we stray, God's love remains steadfast, offering a path to restoration and salvation.
Join us as we explore the highs and lows of life, from victorious mountaintop experiences to soul-crushing meltdowns, and discover how to navigate these storms with faith and grace.
The world is waiting for hope. They are starving for it. Where is hope going to come from? God is waiting for us to unleash the hope of Jesus to the world.
God’s desire is not just to find you, but to form you. Becoming like Jesus is more than a spiritual experience, it involves a complete transformation of the mind and spirit. Both personal reflection and community are important for spiritual growth. To achieve this, one must slow down and align themselves with the pace of Jesus.
At Harvester, worship is an encounter with Jesus through song, sermon, and sacrament, each element guiding us closer to the truth and grace of Jesus.
We dissect the notion of viewing 'wicked people' as 'wounded people', and how this shift in perception can lead to a world where compassion triumphs over judgment.
As we say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one, we experience a mix of emotions, including excitement for new resolutions, nostalgia for the past year, and the realization that January 2nd can feel like the ultimate Monday. In the midst of all these emotions, it's easy to fall into the "comparison trap". However, what if we focused instead on imitating Jesus in our daily lives by considering others more significant than ourselves? Let's challenge ourselves to embrace the concept of "lowering oneself" in 2024 and make it a powerful resolution. May this New Year be filled with growth, humility, and meaningful connections. Happy New Year!
As we age, we tend to forget the true meaning of Christmas. The greatest gift of all - Jesus, the embodiment of hope and salvation. The holiday's true magic lies not in material gifts, but in His presence.
Sometimes, we tend to believe that the challenges we face in our lives determine our worth. We may have high expectations that remain unfulfilled, leading us to feel hopeless and insignificant. However, it's essential to remember that God loves us unconditionally, and His grace is a precious gift. Our problems don't define who we are; instead, it's God's love that shapes our identity.
Our hearts are powerful instruments that shape who we are. They have the potential to fill us with joy and meaning, but when empty, they consume us from within. Jesus is the only one who can transform our hearts and fill them with love and purpose.
Christmas comes with its own set of dysfunctions, and it's not uncommon to feel like you want to get rid of your family during the holidays. However, even Jesus, understands this feeling all too well. Instead of avoiding family dysfunction, you can find hope and healing in the midst of it. Remember, it wouldn't be Christmas without a little dysfunction!
Abraham did his giving while he was living. After holding on tightly to what he had earlier in life, he experienced the generosity of God. He learned that the person who gives is never without. When his life came to an end, he was satisfied because he had given his all to God's plan.
God’s promise is not in our hands. It is in God’s hands. And nothing can stop him from fulfilling it, not even death. Death is eventually what fulfills his promise. But it’s a death he pays, not us.
God demonstrates patience and mercy. But he also demonstrates another key quality: justice. Everyone appreciates that God is loving, gracious, and kind. However, it’s in his justness that embarrasses us.
We've all been let down by broken promises before, but we can't let that stop us from moving forward. We gotta trust that God's got our back and that His timing is perfect. He always keeps His promises, no matter what.
God’s promise is in His hands, we don’t have to take it in ours. When we do, things go wrong. Thankfully, God is merciful and will always take care of us.
Do you struggle to believe in God's promises for your life? In Genesis, Abraham doubted God's promises of offspring and land. Yet, his unwavering faith transformed him into a symbol of righteousness.
We'll explore the significance of Abraham's call and God's promise to him. We'll also dive into what Abraham's story teaches us about God's pursuit of us and his faithfulness in fulfilling his promises.
Prayer is personal, but it is also corporate. We don’t just pray alone, we pray together. We pray for one another. We pray that God’s will impact all people, not just ourselves.
What do we bring into the equation when we pray? We are bringing ourselves, a person who is both loved by God and flawed. We bring our sin, selfishness, and limited perspectives. That's why it's important to approach prayer humbly.
Prayer is something we all desire to do, but often find difficult. We will explore two of the most important questions about prayer: How do we pray? and who do I pray to? If you are looking to improve your prayer life, then this message is for you.
We are discussing the importance of discipleship in the Christian life. Discipleship is not just about learning about God, but about learning how to live like Jesus.
It is not a surprise that since the beginning of time, the devil has been trying to create a rift between people in relationships. Unfortunately, his tactics can lead to a broken and dysfunctional relationship, causing pain and suffering. However, we can overcome these attacks and build healthy and loving relationships that represent the love of Christ.
Whether you are single, married, or in any other type of relationship, this podcast will help you understand the enemy's plans and equip you to build stronger and healthier relationships.
The Devil may have caused conflicts and tore our relationships apart, but we can find peace in knowing that God's plans are more powerful. Through forgiveness and restoration, we can work together to rebuild our connections with each other and with God.
Deception manifests itself in various ways, such as hiding, lying, or blaming, within relationships. However, integrity is the only cure for the pain caused by deception. With Jesus as our mediator, we can attain self-awareness, honesty, and integrity, rather than resorting to deceit.
Distractions in relationship are appealing to our flesh but destroy our relationships. When we allow Jesus between us, we become fully present to one another, and God becomes fully present to us. In a world filled with distractions, being intentional is key.
Do you feel like your feelings and opinions are often dismissed in your relationships? If so, you're not alone. Dismissiveness is a common way that the devil tries to ruin relationships. We discusses how to identify and deal with dismissiveness in your relationships. Even when the world dismisses us, God does not. The cross of Jesus is an emphatic statement that we matter, but importantly we matter to God.
Realizing God's purpose can bring a sense of fulfillment to our lives. Unfortunately, our focus can be disrupted by various distractions, which can prevent us from discovering our true calling. By surrendering to His will every day, we can unlock blessings and experience transformation.
A transformed mind involves asking questions, accepting God's will, and maintaining humility. We believe humans are rational beings, created with free will purpose to discern the will of God. However our thinking is in need of salvation by God as well. God intends to save our bodies, our souls, and our minds. In doing so we are truly able to discern what is right and wrong.
The soul is not just a spiritual entity but also the center of our emotions, desires, and experiences. When our souls are wounded, it can lead to a variety of problems, including emotional pain, unhealthy relationships, and even physical illness. However, Jesus is the one who can heal our wounded souls. Jesus can bring us peace, healing, and wholeness through His truth and His Spirit.
Our bodies aren’t something to be ashamed of or to be overcome, but rather something to be celebrated and redeemed. Through the example of Jesus, we understand that the body is a gift from God, and that it has eternal value.
We explore the two different views of hospitality—the world's view and the biblical view—highlighting the importance of loving others for their benefit. We also uncover the true essence of hospitality and how it extends to all people, regardless of our differences. Discover how you can seize the opportunities presented by God to show love and hospitality to those around you, even when it's inconvenient or unexpected.
Join us as we explore the essence of leadership and its significance in our lives, regardless of our perceived positions. Through a captivating story of King Solomon's wisdom, we uncover valuable lessons on leading through chaotic and difficult situations. Discover how seeking God's justice, wisdom, and glory can transform your approach to leadership and empower you to make a lasting impact in your world of influence.
Life is sustained through the act of worshiping God. When we direct our attention towards Him, we distance ourselves from death. The reason behind this is that God represents life itself, and any divergence from Him ultimately leads to death.
In the book of Proverbs speaks of fearing God, which entails holding Him in deep reverence and worshiping Him. Our worship arises from being aware of His presence, acknowledging His creation, and having a true understanding of God's nature.
Proverbs speaks to the importance of the next generation, and the job of those of us leading them is to do so with grace, love, and truth and without shame or disrespect. Dedicating to this kind of leadership, following the way of grace, will bring about the best benefit to our young people and guide them through the generations to come.
Join us as we explore the transformative power of shifting trust from our heads to our hearts and surrendering our plans to God. Through inspiring stories and practical insights, we'll learn how to fully rest in His direction and experience the straight paths He has prepared for us.
Join us as we explore the power and role of the Holy Spirit, examining its ability to unite a confused and divided people, provide clarity to the Word of God, and fulfill the ceaseless promise of transformation. If you're curious about the Holy Spirit's influence in your life and desire to experience the power of Jesus' resurrection, this podcast is for you.
We embark on a heartfelt exploration of Jesus and His significance in our lives. Get ready for a thought-provoking episode as Pastor Doyle invites us to embrace the profound truth that Jesus is more than just a human figure; He is undeniably God, the Messiah, and our ultimate Savior. Prepare to be transformed as we uncover the awe-inspiring power of embracing Jesus for who He truly is.
Discover the truth about knowing God. In a world where Gen Z is increasingly drawn to spirituality, it's time to challenge cultural assumptions and seek the unknown. Drawing from Acts 17, Pastor Nikomas shares how our perceptions of God can be limited and how questioning our assumptions can lead to a profound understanding. Uncover the journey of finding God, realizing that He is closer than you think. Don't miss out on the opportunity to know and experience the fulfillment of calling upon Him.
We're diving into biblical authority and what it means for our lives. We believe that the Bible is not just any book but the inspired Word of God, with absolute authority and without error. Join us as we explore why the Bible is unique and how it reveals Jesus, and discover how the Holy Spirit helps us understand its message.
Darryl Strawberry, a former Mets baseball player turned Christian speaker shares his impactful testimony of how the Lord has been working in his life.
Being wealthy can come with risks and opportunities, but we can navigate them with wisdom and purpose. We can use our wealth to do good and be generous! Our goal isn't to denigrate God's good gifts but to productively and joyfully apply them in Godly ways. Let's learn how to build roads that lead to Jesus and discover the joy of generosity.
Greed promises us everything we could ever want, but in the end, it only leaves us empty and unfulfilled. And on top of that, it can create distance between us and the people around us. However, contentment is the key to bridging the gap caused by greed. When we learn to be content with what we have, we can experience true abundance and fulfillment!
On this day of celebrating Jesus' resurrection, Nikomas reveals how we build walls around ourselves and how Jesus tears down those walls, opening access to the Father through Him. We can walk with Him even when we struggle with perfection, anxiety, doubt, and even death, because Jesus is alive!
It’s trendy these days to put yourself first. The truth of Jesus is to deny ourselves and to put God and others first. If we’re honest, we rarely put others first. Our bodies, it’s needs and desires, should always be founded on what glorifies God first.
We take pride in hustling. Working hard is good! God tells us to work. But then he calls us to rest. Jesus has done everything you need, let him carry the burden, and you get some rest.
It’s trendy to update your beliefs and lifestyle to match those of the world. “Things are changing. Society is evolving. Just go with the flow!” The truth is often, going with the flow can lead to destruction. Life is not found in following the masses, but it’s found in following Jesus.
Culture wants us to believe that we don’t have to be right; we have to be real to ourselves. And your truth might be different than my truth. But Jesus tells us that he is the truth, and living His truth is where we find a life for ourselves and others.
Our freedom in Christ allows us to live fruitful lives. When we decide to follow the Holy Spirit steadily, day in and day out, we are bound to reap a harvest that blesses us not only but also allows us the opportunity and strength to carry someone else’s burden.
Freedom takes some getting used to. Some of us tend to be drawn to rules and regulations; for others, the temptation is to use freedom to indulge in our desires. Paul encourages us to let the Holy Spirit guide us in our newfound freedom starting with the guiding principle of love.
How we view God determines the path of our walk with Him. Many consider him a God who tries to restrict us through laws and morality. Instead, God has freed us from the things in this world that hold us back. When we recognize that, we are welcomed into His family of faith.
We are all in need of a Savior, and we are all equally as welcome at the table of our Savior Jesus Christ. The promise of freedom in Christ is a gift offered to everyone, from every background, who believes and trusts in Jesus.
We often think that we have to do more and be more to be in the family of Christ; However, true freedom in Christ is found when we can rest in the fact that all we need is Jesus and the cross.
Many things get in the way between God and us. Sometimes people’s disapproval, wrong beliefs, or even our past can keep us away from God. Paul tells the church in Galatia (and us) that through Christ, God has rescued us, that we may seek him and live in his purpose for our lives.
Are you nervous about returning to past relationships due to hurts and offenses? It can be painful, but Jesus teaches us how to love, and he risked it all for us so that we may be in community together. Whoever loves God must risk it for one another.
Loneliness is so rampant because we have a pathological avoidance of conflict. The first step in dealing with conflict is not to avoid it, but instead to lean in and confess our imperfections.
If you are alone, you can’t fully experience everything God has for you. We are saved by Christ alone; we are not saved to BE alone. Our faith becomes stronger when we are with other people.
The new year opens doors for opportunity, change, and shift. We want to be better, but sometimes goals and resolutions die off. However, when we move our focus away from ourselves and put Jesus at the center, we can start proclaiming God’s Kingdom through the Rule of Life.
The message of Christmas is don't fear because Jesus changes our fear into joy. Immanuel, God is with us!
What do you do when your expectations come crashing down? We often try to hide it or think we can save the day. However, when we do this, we work ourselves to death. The reality is we don't have to do this. We serve a God whose grace is sufficient.
Remember to give yourself and those around you forgiveness and grace in all the business and fullness this season offers. Jesus came into a messy world to bring salvation, peace, and hope to us and our messy lives.
The good news is for all people, and our problem is we pray for God to make Jesus known, but he left that to us. Its time to invite the people in your life to receive the good news.
Do you ever feel like your Christmas To-Do List is stealing the joy out of Christmas? What would it look like this Christmas to reprioritize your list? Leaving more room for rest and Jesus and less of things to do.
The word "good" is subjective; however, when we talk about the goodness of God, we recognize that His goodness isn't based on our character but rather that God is the source of all good in this world. Remembering His goodness leads to a humble heart and a gratitude-filled life.
On November 16th, 2022, Ben Merold answered one final call from Jesus: to come home. Our prayers are with Pat, their family, and their loved ones.
This is a special podcast release in honor of the life and legacy of Ben Merold at Harvester Christian Church.
Who are we called to serve? As servants of God and when we serve others, we serve Jesus. We serve people in need, people cast aside, and people who love Jesus.
Most people operate from a scarcity mindset, where it always feels like it's never enough. However, what if we shift our hearts to operate under the abundance mindset where there is always enough?
We want to share the life God has for us, but we must be willing to reject our own comfort. It’s not easy, and it sure isn’t comfortable. How do we become bolder about sharing Jesus?
We live in a lost and wounded world, but what does that mean for us? As Christians, we should be known for our love. It’s time to shift our faith from an inward faith to an outward faith.
What is keeping you from Jesus? All that death in you, around you, you can put it in the grave and through Jesus you can rise up in victory.
When Jesus comes again, what kind of body will rise up? God created all of heaven and earth, and He saw that it was good. That includes us! Even after sin and death entered the world, God made plans to transform us so we could reconcile with Him.
Who sits on the throne of your life? We often allow our desires and pleasures to take complete devotion to our lives, but the truth is that Christ reigns above all things in our life.
Jesus' resurrection has massive implications for humanity. We have hope for today, tomorrow, and forever through his resurrection. All who have died in Christ will rise in Christ at his return.
Wouldn't we all love a second chance?
Jesus' resurrection means that we have that second chance, third, or fourth. We are studying 1 Corinthians 15 and learning that the resurrection gospel is good news for anyone, any time, for any failure.
That's grace. And THAT is good news.
Do you believe the end is near? We are told to be prepared and to be patient. But in that patience, we also need to be urgent! Because the end is coming.
God fills you with the Spirit so you can be sent by the Spirit. Often we send people away that the Spirit sends us. Living in the spirit isn't just for inward growth, it's also for outward growth as well.
Amidst the loud chaos in our life, we often find it hard to get away and sit with God. However, listening to the spirit means getting away so you can hear the still, small voice.
What would your life look like if it was driven by the spirit inside of you, not by the lifestyle outside of you? If we want to be spirit led we have to learn how to meditate on God’s word.
In your baptism, we are filled with power and called a child of God. Sometimes we get caught up in waiting for the perfect time, but it's when we fall under the submission of the Holy Spirit that the Spirit can do work in our hearts.
During the most painful moments in our life, we often ask God if he is even there. However, even in the darkness, God is present and at work.
Sure, all things work out for the good, but that doesn’t make it any easier to go through. Even Jesus who knows the future, and knows the joy that lay ahead, became distressed at what came before the joy.
Being dismissed is hardest when it’s by those who know you best. However, Jesus empathizes with your pain and promises security in his presence.
Don’t let disappointment steal the hope you have in God. In His last days, Jesus experience disappointment when what was best was traded for what is less. However, these disappointments can create divine appointments with God.
God uses wealth as a measure and demonstration of our faithfulness to Him. In this teaching, we explore how 90% of the blessings of God are better than 100% without, and how we can put our trust in God.
Often, the attitude we bring to money is that we tell God, “You need to mind your business and get out of mine.” However, in His word we are reminded that our wealth comes from God. If it comes from Him, it belongs to Him.
Risk either invites fear or faith, but when we lean on our faith the reward is always worth it.
Have you ever been tempted to hide your faith? Sometimes we feel embarrassed to share our faith, however, Jesus calls us to not live a hidden faith but an unleashed faith!
Jesus’ plan for his church is that it would both gather and disperse. Too often we get leashed to our gatherings, and never unleash into the world. The church was meant to be a church on the move, and unleash hope on the world.
Does the church love people with differences in race, sexuality, worldview, etc.? If so how? We do so by being peaceable, wise, and filled with grace.
Why are we here? Do we have a purpose? or Is life random? We are called to love God and love people, however what does that mean for our individual purpose?
Is the root of all evil Christianity? In this sermon, we discover how Jesus left us a beautiful tune/melody called the gospel message, and often the problem isn’t Christianity, the problem is the heart that plays the tune.
When you encounter the resurrected Jesus you realize that he’s more than the black and white version you thought he was. The crucifixion and resurrection bring him into full color.
Good Friday isn’t good for all. But for those who believe, for those who cling to the cross, it’s everything.
The proximity of Jesus is no replacement for following Jesus. Do we obey Jesus or are we just near Jesus? Maybe God is calling us to do more.
Mary's journey to Jesus involved construction, deconstruction, and reconstruction. What happens when we pull apart and examine the truth of our faith versus what we are raised to believe.
Mary was the first to tell a bold story of Jesus to those who would then believe in Him, follow, and share the good news to everyone. This message changed the world, and it can change your life.
Mary's courageous faith led to a bold yes to carry the son of God. It meant choosing to trust God over having clarity about what God called her to.
We are all called to pour into others, even when we don't have all the answers, but as you are becoming like Jesus, naturally, you will help others encounter Him.
We all have someone to whom we can pass the baton of faith. However, we often do things that make us drop the baton before passing it on. How we lead our faith can affect someone else's origin story.
Our Origin Stories have brought us to where we are today. And, as Nathanael learned after he accepted the invitation to follow Jesus, greater things are still to come!
Are you ready to move from "come and see" to "follow me"?
Opening our eyes to the goodness of God might be the way to experience absolute joy even during the hardest of times.
Shame is a good way-finder, but it's a horrible destination. Living in our shame can separate us from God; however, we can find freedom from our shame through honest prayers with God.
How do I find comfort during a time of grief or loss? It can be hard to find hope during pain and discouragement. However, prayer can be the key to unlocking hope back into our lives.
It's a lot easier to complain than to be grateful. Our ungratefulness often leads us to forget just how blessed we are. However, expressing gratitude might be the thing that can help bring optimism back in our lives.
We all have moments of screaming our angry prayers to God and asking him to fix the offenses bothering us. However, we must evaluate if we are offended or mad because our pride shakes us. We can only explore this when we take a setback and start having honest, open, and transparent conversations with God.
Anxiety can be crippling, but peace starts by believing that God is sound and in control. Sometimes we view anxiety as an identity and not an enemy. However, transformation happens when we say, "I put my trust in God, and I will not be afraid."
New year, new goals, and a new you. The new year is always filled with expectation and anticipation, but how do we focus our goals and vision towards Jesus. In this message, we explore how 2022 can be your best year if it's your best year in Jesus.
Starting over may seem daunting, but that doesn't mean it's the end. Starting over sometimes means a fresh start and a new beginning.
How long does Christmas joy last for you? Sometimes after Christmas, everything goes back to normal. Back to life's troubles, disappointments, and dark times. In this message, we dive into how we can find the light of hope even when the darkness begins to creep in.
The Christmas season can be a difficult time filled with disappointment. How do we walk in the light when everything around us feels so dark? Check out this message as we explore how God's grace teaches us how to walk in light and love.
Sometimes Christmas isn't a joyful time for all people, and it is often a reminder of what we lack. However, what if that lack is a blessing? In this sermon, we will dive into how to let your light shine in the darkest moments of life.
When God created the earth, it was formless, dark, and empty. This is sometimes how our own lives look before we have the light of Jesus. How do we deal with emptiness and darkness that may feel overpowering?
Where does unleashing hope start? Not locally or globally, but it begins right in the heart of our homes - it begins with family. In the message, we explore how we can honor God by opening up a door of hope for the lost and wounded that are the closest to us.
Unleashing the hope of Jesus means talking about the hope of Jesus. In this message, we explore how we shouldn't keep the hope of Jesus to ourselves but why inviting our friends and family to faith is wise and essential.
The Hope of Jesus is for EVERYONE to experience. It's our duty to not gatekeep it, but to unleash it to the world! Check out this episode to find out how we can unleash the hope of Jesus around us and who can receive it.
As we journey through the wilderness, there are enemies against us rising up trying to derail us. However, just like he did for Israel, God even today protects us and has unraveled a plan to redeem humanity through his son Jesus. Check out this episode to see what God is doing with you through the wilderness.
The common assumption is that God is unjustified when dealing with rebellion. However, during our times of wandering none of us are really as innocent as we would like to think and our sins are a bigger deal than we think. What do we do with this reality check? Check out this episode to find out how God shapes our hearts during sin.
In life we may often feel like the whole weight of the world is on us and no matter what we do we can't seem to lift it. In this message we explore how to seek freedom from the things that hurt us and how to navigate through life while leaning on God during the season of wandering.
Sometimes we tell ourselves that we are not enough so many times that we start believing the lies. In the message, we learn how to shut down the lies and conquer the period of wandering to experience the true taste of freedom.
We want to continue moving forward, but when it gets hard, we remember the past and how the past was so sweet. It might feel more convenient to look back on the past, so much that we forget that goal of our future. In this message, we will be learning how to not drift into the past, when the journey gets hard.
We often mistake our faith Journey as a straight path, but in reality, it is filled with highs and lows. When we find ourselves in the wilderness it doesn't mean God has abandoned us but it means that we are about to experience God's presence in our life. In this message we are learning that we are not alone in the wandering and in fact, God is with us.
Once we have started building a relationship with Christ we have a tendency to hyper involve ourselves in disciplines and forget to release them into the world. In this message, we explore how to unleash the hope of Jesus both in generosity and justice, but also how to live in the tensions that both of them bring.
During this week's message, we are diving into how we can become like Jesus. How do we do that? By spending time with Him. We go deeper on ways we can spend time with Jesus communally and contemplatively and what it means to make room for Jesus in the center of it all.
God's vision church didn't start with the church building, or even with Christian environments: it started with the world! In John 3:16 we learn that "For God so loved the WORLD...". Many times we view the world as broken, but they are lost and wounded. We do not have to fear the world but instead live in a place where we have compassion for the world. Remembering that while yes we need truth, we equally need grace.
We have all heard the common phrase, "Family is everything" and unlike most things in life family is the one thing we don't get choose.
However, in this message we are challenging this phrase and seeking wisdom on how can we honor God with our families.
Life and Love on the vines not painless. The world hated Jesus, and we are promised that persecution will come to us as well. But we have a greater promise: a HELPER.
This Helper will not remove us from the pain, but he will keep us strong, bearing witness to Jesus, bringing more glory to the father, and preserving our life on the vine. John 16:1 says, “I have said all these things (not to make life easier), but to keep you from falling away.
The helper helps us stay faithful, he helps us abide, he helps us remain.
From John chapter 15 we see that if we are attached to the vine there are two joys that we will experience: the joy of being loved and the joy of loving one another.
We will find that we are not just Jesus' servants. Rather, we are his friends, chosen by him and given a purpose.
This loving community is a group of people loved, chosen and purposed. And if I’m loved, they must be loved too.
Pain isn't always about punishment. Sometimes it is about God saying, "I see that you love me. But do you mind if I take care of this issue?" Pruning the things that don't look like Jesus, that don't glorify Him.
We are to remain on the vine, abide in Jesus. Life is not found by working hard to accomplish, it is found by connection to the Savior, not production in our own strength.
Most people in our culture believe in a God. And they believe that he’s nice like a grandfather who wants to give good gifts. But though he’s nice, they don’t really believe that he has any sway over improving the world.
People believe God wants things to be better, but it’s up to us to do it on our own because he’s powerless and distant.
A look at the story of Job reveals God's true nature: powerful, just and good.
A common cultural belief is God is a bad Dad. A look at Luke 15 shows us God as the greatest Dad there ever was.
Many think that God looks like me, sounds like me, and thinks like me. And if you disagree with me, then you disagree with God.
Instead of being formed into his image, we are forming God into our own.
We live in an “upgrade” culture and some think God could use an upgrade too.
But we serve a God who does not change, and that is actually for our good!
In the early church, everyone played a role in the mission of the church. It wasn’t a place to attend, it was a community to attend to. When they saw a need, they met the need.
This mission and it’s fulfillment wasn’t just the job of one spirit-filled person. It was the job of every spirit-filled person.
When the mission advances, participation grows, tension grows and ultimately through this, the church grows.
The early church had grit. They were courageous, passionate and persevering even in the face of trial. In Acts 5:17-42, the world around the apostles was telling them to stop talking about Jesus, even in the face of prison and persecution.
Yet, they refused to stop. They were determined to obey God and fulfill their calling, no matter what that meant for themselves.
In the early church there was an overwhelming culture of sacrifice. There was an assumption that the needy should be cared for, and it was our job to do so. It wasn’t the role of politicians or city policies.
And they believed that what the Church could do together was more powerful than any one individual, could do. Ananias and Sapphire are an example of loving self above loving God and loving their neighbor. It’s easy to make a commitment to sacrifice, until you start to feel the sacrifice.
Then we want to crawl off the altar, but still get the praise.
A modern day Christian might say that “Faith is personal”. I read alone. Study alone. Pray alone. And now I can even attend church alone.
In the book of Acts we see that the Church is deeply communal! While each person owned their faith, they owned it in community.
Like an old-time potluck, they brought their gifts and food to share with each other. The result was gladness, generosity, and growth of the community.
Critical Race Theory & Intersectionality have been hot button topics in our culture today. But what do these things really mean & how do we engage in dialogue well with others?
As we continue our discussion, Dr. Don Sanders joins us to talk about what it means to think critically as Christians as we embrace nuisance, humility and patience in these important conversations.
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The Color of Compromise – Jemar Tisby
How to Fight Racism – Jemar Tisby
Reading While Black – Esau McCualley
Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria - Beverly Daniel Tatum
The Merold Institute
Pass the Mic Podcast
Follow Harvester on Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
What is Juneteenth, why is it celebrated and how do we love each other as we honor differences in race?
Join Jeffrey Woodson ll and John Williams II as they discuss the Juneteenth holiday, what freedom means from the black Christian perspective and how to walk with Christ towards racial reconciliation.
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The Color of Compromise – Jemar Tisby
How to Fight Racism – Jemar Tisby
Reading While Black – Esau McCualley
Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria - Beverly Daniel Tatum
The Merold Institute
Pass the Mic Podcast
Follow Harvester on Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
It is a common theme: We need help. Our world is hurting and needs help. And we often seek it through TED talks and self-help books.
When Peter preached his first sermon, he emphasized that Jesus came to do what we cannot accomplish on our own. No self-help can can replace Jesus' victory over sin. That's not just an Old Time Religion thing, that's a promise all generations to come!
In our hurry to be accepted by culture, have we lost the power of what is supposed to set us apart from the culture? The power of the church isn't in degrees or pastors or business strategies, it is in the Holy Spirit.
If we're going to be a 21st century church that leads people to find and follow Jesus, we may need to bring back "That Old Time Religion," meaning that we look at the exciting growth and example of the 1st century church as we see it in Acts.
Are we seeing the mission field right outside our front doors?
A quick look at the story of the Good Samaritan and we realize following Jesus is crazy and countercultural. In order for us to love our city well and move past the divides, we must act.
In humility, we seek past our self interests to love the "they" in our lives.
Are we satisfied with the way things are?
Maintaining the status quo keeps us in the crowd - Jesus calls us out of the crowd into discipleship of crazy faith. When we do this we commit to counting the cost and giving it all over to him.
Generosity starts where sacrifice begins. As challenging as it may be to accept, how we use our money is our reflection of our heart.
Jesus asked his disciples to consider the Widow, in Mark 12:41-44, as an example of what crazy generosity looked like. There are opportunities for us also to join God in living out a blessed generous life!
Our culture, tired of injustices, is saying, “Enough prayers. More actions.”
While action is always important, the Persistent Widow, in Luke 18:1-8, reminds us that change must always starts with praying like a crazy person.
Prayer aligns our heart with Jesus'. Before we jump into action, we need to make sure our hearts are aligned with his.
The wisdom of the world says: “Get ahead at all costs.”
In Mark 10:35-45, James and John tried that when they asked Jesus for a promotion: “When you take your throne, can we have thrones on each side of you?”. Jesus confronted their worldly attitudes by teaching them a crazy strategy for success: Instead of “Get ahead at all costs” Jesus told them to “Serve no matter the cost.”
God has a plan for the future. We can honor the past but we also look to the future with hope!
Joshua was faced with leading a nation in time of uncertainty as they traveled to the promise land. God's encouragement to Joshua is the same to us today: God is greater than what Satan throws at you.
God uses unconventional tactics and the most unlikely people in his story.
We each have a part to play with the hand we've been given. Are you ready to step up into the situation God has in you or are you just praying for a new hand?
Active opposition to Jesus is noticeable, but is it possible that even followers of Jesus could be passively opposing Jesus? Are we telling Jesus, "No, not yet"?
Paul's story begins by him actively opposing Jesus. However, Jesus shows up to give him a new vision, a new mission and a new calling. By the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul is able to move into a ministry of suffering and a life of "Yes, Jesus."
He knows YOU by name.
On Easter Sunday, Jesus and the story of resurrection is a personal one to each one of us. As reflected in the life of Mary Magdalene, Jesus has compassion and tenderness for us all.
You may know where you are, but do you know WHO you are? You are not your labels. You are not your failures. You are not your career. Jesus says, “You are mine.” The story of Jesus' encounter with Zachaeus reminds us that Jesus comes after us when we take a step towards him, no matter who we are or where we've been! There is grace for all of us.
Getting caught up in emotion, we can become vengeful or bitter towards one another because of differences.
In the encounter with the Samaritan woman, Jesus Christ crosses barriers of division and differences to show deep levels of compassion and love. Followers of Jesus are called in obedience to do the same.
It can be easy to be interested in Jesus privately, to hide behind the "we" of corporate worship and church experiences.
But as Nicodemus' one on one encounter with Jesus reveals, you can't just be near Jesus, you have to believe in Jesus to be saved!
Do you realize that Jesus is looking for broken messed up people who will humble themselves and follow HIM?
No matter where you have wandered off to, Jesus sees you, and He wants to cover you with his Love and Grace. He gave His life for you. And He wants to welcome you into His love. He will forgive. He will heal. He will give you a future with Him.
(See and hear more of Matthew's story at TheChosen.tv)
Have riches and blessings blinded us from our dependence on God?
Jesus warns the church in Laodicea, and to our churches today, a lukewarm faith has no place in the kingdom of God. Instead, Christ calls us to let him into every part of our lives, to experience his victory and love.
Everybody want to be an influencer these days…but does Jesus have something more important in mind for us?
Philadelphia was a small church. They had little influence, but Jesus promises them a HUGE reward. After all, Christianity isn't about influence...it's about endurance.
We’ve all experienced it. Drifting off to sleep can be so easy when we are comfy.
The same can happen in our spiritual lives & in the body of Christ.
It can be easy to think tolerance to sin in our faith journey will go unnoticed or unchecked.
Jesus has a strong word for the church in Thyatira and their tolerance of the immoral prophetess Jezebel. "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Revelation 2:29
One of the greatest temptations as Christians is to hold up Jesus and culture on the same level.
Raising anything, whether it be good or bad, to the same level as Jesus is compromise. For fear of not belonging, we compromise the power & truth of the gospel.
But standing out doesn't mean you stand alone!
Pain is lonely. In times of suffering and grief it can feel like no one understands what you are going through.
Jesus address tribulation & suffering in the church of Smyrna and tells us that he knows our pain intimately.
He encourages us to wait for the crown of life and promises that if we can stay faithful to the end, it will always be worth it.
Sometimes our passions change and our relationship with Jesus drifts away.
Jesus has a word for us in the book of Revelation to return to him, our first love.
Sometimes, we feel so burden and tired that we seem to be stumbling through life. We struggle as we live in the flesh & focus on the hopelessness of this world.
As God's people, we are called to so much more! He invites us to be renewed by his spirit, to run with his strength, to place our hope in his plans.
If you want to experience blessings in 2021, find a way to exchange the chains of overworking for a regular day at rest.
In doing so you’ll discover that your worth is not found in what you create but found in the one who created you!
A special Christmas reading from Pastor Doyle and his family.
Because of Jesus we have a peaceful home!
Why does God allow us to go through trials and times of pain while we await our future home?
God is working on us in the waiting & through it our faith is proved genuine.
No matter what home we come from, we can have hope this Christmas season. The family of God is a place for belonging, healing & love.
Because of Jesus we have a new home!
Christmas, the story of Immanuel, was an invitation to a people in exile to come together as a family again. God became flesh to dwell among us in order for us to be at home with Jesus.
In this season, our invitation from God is to come back home.
Our lives can be full of bitterness, anger and unforgiveness. However, our call as Christ followers is to allow God to transform our hearts to become love & light.
In Christ, our anxieties around division can be changed with His peace from unity.
No matter what background, political party or demographic, God came to destroy the dividing wall and bring us together as one.
In this election season there is panic, fear and hopelessness. But in the church, we can't lose sight of Jesus, whose power and reign isn't limited by any country or government.
Jesus is casting a brand new vision for the entire world, therefore we can pray, we can vote and we can work WITH hope.
Jesus is inviting us away from worry and into his rest. But we so often allow the things of this world to burden us.
When it comes to our money, time and resources do we have a heart of self pleasure or a heart that is seeking God?
Having money isn't the problem. Instead, we run into trouble when we invest only into earthly accounts and not heavenly ones.
Opportunities to invest into heavenly accounts are all around us, both in individual needs & a collective mission. When we make this sacrifice, true joy & desire in our Almighty is found.
What are Godly expectations when it comes to sex and touch?
In our relationships, both in and out of marriage, it's important to learn & give appropriate touch that both honors God and loves others well.
Commitment can be difficult over the long haul, for it requires us to lay down our lives for another. But it is critically important for healthy relationships. Thankfully through the power of God's grace & love, commitment is possible.
Is independence really the pinnacle of life? Our culture claims so but according to scripture, the self-reliant, independent life doesn't work. Maybe we need a crutch after all.
We all need help with trust issues - whether it's with other people or with God! But we are not without hope. There are ways to increase & sustain trust in all of your relationships.
What does it mean for us to really KNOW each other and KNOW God?
Everyone needs help in relationships - whether you’re married, dating or single! Kicking off our series, It's Complicated, Pastor Doyle explores the foundation of all good relationships.
What does it look like to give & receive mercy? A look into Matthew 18:21-35 and the parable of the unforgiving servant.