Experiencing God's Word: Recent Episodes
Matthew Broxterman
Bible based messages recorded live each week at First Christian Church - Atchison, Kansas.
Pastor Matt Broxterman offers words of encouragement and insights into the Bible's message for ALL of us - that God loves us deeply and has a profound plan for each of our lives.
Feel free to visit our website at www.fccatchison.net
In his final message as Minister of First Christian Church, Pastor Matt explores three lessons that Jesus (the Best of the Best) taught us about how to live for something greater than ourselves.
Primary texts are Luke 2:47, Luke 5:16, and John 6:38.
This "tag-team" message (featuring Pastor Matt & Pastor Paul) explores the importance of nurturing our souls and trusting that God is at work in us at all times - especially during difficult & challenging times.
Primary text is 2 Corinthians 4:17-18.
Moses led one of the most fascinating and challenging lives of anyone we read about in the entire Bible. God asked Moses to do many things, but He only asked for one "yes" at a time.
This message explores a timeless spiritual principal that can help us navigate even the most difficult and overwhelming circumstances.
Primary text is Exodus 15:22-26
A stranger walked into my office 17 years ago and taught me a lesson I will never forget.
Those who have the courage to follow his example will never forget it either.
Primary text is 2 Chronicles 7:14
What do Muhammad Ali and the Book of Revelation have in common? More than you might think!
It turns out that both have a tried and true strategy for OVERCOMING the attack of our enemy.
This message explores God's surprising one-two punch and some of the ways we can use it in our own lives today.
Primary text is Revelation 12:11
FEAR is something that EVERYONE experiences - ESPECIALLY in this day and age!
This message explores what may be THE SINGLE GREATEST TRUTH to help us overcome those fears.
Primary text is Romans 8:15.
Whether we are talking about PHYSICAL or SPIRITUAL FREEDOM the same holds true - Freedom Is Not Free.
Many have given their lives and many will continue to pay the ultimate price to establish & defend the freedom we enjoy today.
The question it raises is this - What will we choose to do with the freedom we have been blessed with. This message explores 3 options.
Primary text is Galatians 5:13-14
What does living a spiritual life have in common with flying a 1950's fighter plane? You might be surprised!
This message explores ways we can find God's path and plan for our life. It also explores how we can stay there once we find it.
Primary text is Proverbs 3:5-6
Every day is an opportunity to start fresh and start over - to find JOY in this life that God has blessed us with!
In addition, there are some (VERY RARE) moments in our lives when everything seems to slow down - just enough for us to catch a glimpse of a bigger picture. I believe we are living in such a time.
These are opportunities to reevaluate and even reorient the direction our lives are heading - to make sure we are making the most of every 24 hours we are given.
Primary text is Psalm 118:19-24.
In 1973, Dr. Billy Graham spoke in Johannesburg, South Africa - to a crowd of TENS of THOUSANDS!
On that day, he talked about something he never had before (at least publicly) and over 3,000 people gave their lives to Christ!
This message contains words spoken by Graham in that famous sermon. It also explores parallels between the reality he confronted, the reality that confronts us today, and the ministry of Jesus Christ.
Primary text is Luke 4:16-20.
In the history of our country we have seen multiple health pandemics come and go. We have also experienced (and recovered from) multiple seasons of economic crisis.
One crisis that our nation has yet to overcome, however, is that of racism. This message is a call to action and a word of hope. It is also a reminder that our past does not (and cannot) dictate the future of God's people.
Primary text is James 3:13-18.
"Every man dies, but not every man truly lives."
Bonus points if you can name the movie that quote comes from!
This message celebrates those who have given their lives to protect our freedom & invites us to consider what kind of difference these heroes can continue to make in our lives today.
Primary text is Romans 5:6-11
Trying to RUN THE SHOW - those of us who have tried it can tell you that it rarely works out well. It can also be very stressful!
Fortunately God's Word provides us with another (much better) alternative!
Primary text is Proverbs 3:5-6.
HOW ARE YOU DOING?
It's a question we hear so often that we rarely take time to think before we respond.
This message takes a closer look at the question and also encourages us to realize the profound significance of our daily decisions.
Primary text is Matthew 16:13-18.
This "mom inspired message" celebrates all of the incredible women who have made a difference in our lives.
Join us as we explore the story of Mary (the mother of Jesus) and find encouragement from her example of courage and a trusting relationship with The Father.
Primary text is Luke 1:26-38
These past few weeks have felt strange & uncertain and I know I'm not the only one who feels that way. We are not the first followers of Jesus who have had to navigate strange situations though.
This message explores Luke's account of Jesus' last appearance to his disciples before he returns to his Father in heaven. The words that Jesus spoke to them were very powerful & they are just as true for us today.
Primary text is Luke 24:36-49.
This message picks up where we left off last week - after Thomas had his LIFE-CHANGING experience with Jesus.
As we explore some similar experiences (with other followers of Jesus), we are reminded that God wants to reveal himself to each of us.
God knows what we need and He ALWAYS comes through - especially when we go looking for Him.
Primary text is Matthew 28:16-20.
What do we learn from the EVENTS of EASTER & what can it all mean for us - in our lives today?
This message explores these timeless questions as we take a look at Thomas & pick up the story where we left off last week...
Primary text is John 20:24-29.
As Mary made her way to the tomb on the first Easter morning, John tells us, "it was still dark outside."
The sun (in the sky) had not yet risen, but the Son (of God) already had!
Sometimes it takes a little time for the rest of the story to unfold - even when God's work is done and the war is already won. This, of course, is still true today...
Primary text is John 20:1-18.
Dr. Daniel Valle (our guest speaker in this episode) explores the rich history of the Passover meal and a few things that made The Last Supper that Jesus shared with his disciples so incredibly unique and significant.
Dr. Valle (a former medical doctor from Barcelona, Spain) currently pastors a Messianic Jewish congregation in Houston, Texas. He and his family are preparing to move to Sydney, Australia - where they will serve as Christian missionaries to the Jewish people through Chosen People Ministries.
The story of Joseph and his brothers is an incredible example of how God can create profound blessing - even through the most adverse and difficult of circumstances.
This is a message about the importance of family, the power of forgiveness, and making the most of trying times.
Primary text is Genesis 50:14-21
As we reflect on stories of scripture (where God comes through for His people) & as we reflect on times in our own lives (where God has come through for us), we can be confident that God will bring us through our present circumstances.
The real question is HOW we will navigate the days ahead. This message is for anyone who is interested in doing so with GRACE, with PEACE and with NO REGRETS.
Primary text is Isaiah 7:3-4
SO MUCH has changed in the past few weeks - it almost seems like a DIFFERENT WORLD.
This encouraging message reminds us that (no matter what is happening) we need not fear - because God has promised to be with us - always.
With that said, God does not call us to stand idly by in challenging times & expect him to do everything for us. We have a part to play too.
Primary text is Isaiah 41:10
Of the BILLIONS of people who have been born into this world - there has NEVER been a person like Jesus Christ.
This message series explores a few aspects of Jesus' life, death and resurrection that make him SO INCREDIBLY UNIQUE.
The focus of this message is on the unique ability of Christ to COMFORT us in times of trial & seasons of suffering.
Primary text is Matthew 5:4
Of the BILLIONS of people who have been born into this world - there has NEVER been a person like Jesus Christ.
This message series explores a few aspects of Jesus' life, death and resurrection that make him SO INCREDIBLY UNIQUE.
The focus of this message is on the indisputable knack that Jesus has for coming through - even when all the odds on the planet seem to be stacked against him.
We also examine some of the Old Testament prophecies (written hundreds of years before he was born) that Jesus fulfilled.
Primary text is Luke 4:16-21.
When it comes to growing deeper in our relationship with God - a little bit (more) really can go a LONG WAY!
This message series explores actions we might add to what we are already doing (as little as 45 MINUTES a week) that can make all the difference in the world.
The focus of this message is on specific ways we can put our Beliefs INTO ACTION.
Primary Text is Matthew 7:21-23
When it comes to growing deeper in our relationship with God - a little bit (more) really can go a LONG WAY!
This message series explores actions we might add to what we are already doing (as little as 45 MINUTES a week) that can make all the difference in the world.
The focus of this message is TIME IN PRAYER.
Primary Text is Matthew 6:9-13
When it comes to growing deeper in our relationship with God - a little bit (more) really can go a LONG WAY!
This message series explores actions we might add to what we are already doing (as little as 45 MINUTES a week) that can make all the difference in the world.
The focus of this message is TIME IN GOD'S WORD.
Primary Text is John 15:11
The Right People, In the Right Places, Doing the Right Things. It's pretty amazing to see - It's even more amazing to be a part of a Team where it is happening.
This message explores our uniqueness and importance as individuals in God's Big Game Plan. It also touches on the relevance of our faith fundamentals.
Primary Text is 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
God has a VISION for every one of us - whether we can see it or not. God has a plan and a purpose for our lives and it is BIGGER than anything we could come up with on our own!
In this message we explore one thing that is common to every one of God's plans - the importance of building on a Firm Foundation. We also walk through the 2nd part of our 2020 VISION "survey."
Primary text is Matthew 7:24-27
God has a VISION for every one of us - whether we can see it or not. God has a plan and a purpose for our lives and it is BIGGER than anything we could come up with on our own!
In this message we explore 3 KEY INGREDIENTS to SPIRITUAL GROWTH (and making this year better than the last). As we return to the story of the EXODUS, we see just how important these 3 INGREDIENTS are for anyone interested in experiencing a GOD-SIZED VISION in their life.
Primary text is Exodus 12:31-39.
God has a VISION for every one of us - whether we can see it or not. God has a plan and a purpose for our lives and it is better than anything we could come up with on our own!
Pastor Brad recalls the story of the Israelites as God led them out of slavery in Egypt and into the Promised Land. He also shares a few ways we can tell whether the VISION in our hearts is an "Us-Sized Vision" or a "God-Sized Vision."
Primary text is Joshua 1.
God has a VISION for every one of us - whether we can see it or not. God has a plan and a purpose for our lives and it is better than anything we could come up with on our own!
Join us in this series as we explore the concept of VISION and prayerfully seek God's guidance - together.
This message is about two simple, but profound realities - God's GOODNESS & God's BIGNESS.
Primary text is Matthew 11:28-30
Series finale brings the real star of the show to center stage. The star, of course, is Jesus Christ. Most of us know a fair amount about who Jesus was as a person, but what do we know about Jesus as God? Exploring this side of Jesus offers a whole new level of depth to the greatest story of all time - the story of Christmas.
Primary text is Galatians 4:4-7.
Everyone knows who the STAR of Christmas is, but there where a few other characters in the story who had their moment to shine as well.
This message explores the character and courage of Mary (the mother of Jesus).
Mary's story is one that can still inspire and encourage us today - especially when God calls on us to do something that defies logic or frightens us to death.
Primary text is Luke 1:26-38.
Everyone knows who the STAR of Christmas is, but there where a few other characters in the story who had their moment to shine as well.
This message explores the character of Joseph - someone who played an important role in the Christmas story, but who isn't talked about very often.
Joseph's story is one that can still inspire and encourage us today - especially when God calls on us to do something that defies logic or frightens us to death.
Primary text is Matthew 1:18-25.
It's hard to believe that 3 simple words could save a life and alter the course of history forever, but they did. We pronounce these words differently today, but they still possess the same power they did 3,000 years ago.
This practical & inspiring message examines a pivotal moment in David's life - long before he became King of Israel. If you have ever felt overwhelmed or discouraged - this message is for you...
Primary text is Psalm 143:1-6.
Message series concludes with an exploration of what awaits us - Beyond the Love of God. We also examine common issues that can prevent us from experiencing God's love.
Primary text is Romans 8:33-39
What could we ever experience that goes BEYOND the Love of God? This message begins to explore possibilities as we return to Paul's iconic passage from Romans 8.
We also discuss the importance of POSTURE in our spiritual journey.
Primary text is Romans 8:33-39.
The first installment of this two-part mini-series wrestles with a question that we are all bound to ask ourselves at some point in our life - DOES GOD LOVE ME ?
The answer to that question is, of course, YES. But you don't have to take my word for it...
Primary text is Romans 8:33-39.
Pastor Russ Cooper explores some answers to the question we were all thinking, but were afraid to ask - What's in it for Me?
Whether we have been faithfully ON MISSION for decades or we are still ON THE FENCE about the whole FAITH THING, the same Biblical Principals (shared in this message) still apply.
Primary text is John 15:8
This message (the most important in the series) dives into the difference between Belief & Faith.
Many people use these words interchangeably, but in truth they are very, VERY different.
Pastor Matt shares personal testimony about how this discovery not only changed his life - it actually saved it.
Primary text is Hebrews 11:1-3.
Guest speaker Dr. Jose Martinez explores three essential "postures" of missional living. Learning these principals and putting them into practice quickens our faith and leads to incredible blessing - in the lives of others and in our own hearts as well.
Primary text is Matthew 25:34-40.
It's easy to get overwhelmed when we talk about the BIGNESS of God's call on our lives. Fortunately God meets us where we are and as we are. And he never goes too fast for us to keep up.
Occasionally we encounter growth spurts in our spiritual walk, but they are rare. More often than not, he simply asks us to take Baby Steps.
This message explores the call of the first Disciples and what we can learn from their decision to follow Jesus.
Primary text is Matthew 4:18-25
God is On A Mission - to bring Hope & Help & Healing to his people. God entrusted this Mission to Jesus and Jesus, in turn, entrusts that same Mission to us.
This new mini-series opens with a look at the moment Jesus commissioned his Disciples to carry on and carry out this important task. The events of the story unfold in a surprising (but encouraging) way...
Primary text is John 20:19-22
Salt & Light - Jesus used these images to paint a picture of the kind of life God created us to enjoy (and share with others). This message explores the significance of each image (one odd & one familiar), celebrates those who choose to make a difference in the world around them, and reminds us that EVERYONE is welcome to join the party!
Advancements in technology continue to change the way we communicate with each other. Scripture reveals some pretty amazing breakthroughs in the way we can communicate with God as well. This message explores practical advice that Jesus gave on the most important form of communication of all time - PRAYER.
Pastor Matt shares personal testimony (where he's been and where he is now) in the area of stewardship.
Stewardship (the way we manage the gifts God has entrusted to us) was the 3rd most frequent topic of Jesus' teaching - so it must be pretty important!
Primary text is Matthew 6:19-21
This message (the most important in the entire series) dives into truths Jesus shared in a very intimate & private conversation with his closest friends and followers.
Primary Text Is John 14:1-6
Why did Jesus teach in Parables? The answer to this question opens the door to understanding just about every spiritual truth we can ever hope to. It's not found in a classroom or a laboratory or even a sanctuary though.
This look at one of Jesus' most famous parables (the one about the Good Samaritan) shows us what that door looks like. Whether or not we will choose to walk through it is our decision.
Primary Text is Luke 10:25-37
Jesus did not give specific instructions for every situation we might encounter - instead he taught VALUES & PRINCIPALS that we can use to navigate our unique circumstances.
The Beatitudes (from Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount) cover some of the principals that God values. These are very different from the things the world around us tells us are important.
Because our lives are so short (compared to eternity) having the right values to guide us is absolutely crucial.
Primary Text is Matthew 5:1-12
This message launches a brand new series (Jesus: Greatest Hits) that will explore six of Jesus' most famous teachings.
We begin with Jesus' Debut (his very first sermon in Nazareth). Only 9 words of what he said that day were recorded in the Bible, but they are 9 words that altered the course of history and still possess the power to change lives today.
Primary Passage is Luke 4:16-21
When it comes to storms in life - it's not a matter of "if" it's a matter of "when." This message explores three truths that are essential to building and maintaining a strong foundation - one that will stand even when the waters rise and the winds begin to blow.
Primary Text is Luke 6:46-49
As we wrap up our Bible 101 Series (and our look at the Book of Revelation) we explore three KEYS to living an abundant & successful life.
These three KEYS are emphasized as we review some of the highlights of our study.
Primary text is - Revelation 21:1-7
This message gets into the heart of some of the most controversial images found in the entire Book of Revelation.
The Dragon and the Beasts (just to name a few) can be incredibly frightening, but there is an amazing message of hope and encouragement to be found for those who are willing to look for it.
Primary Text is Revelation 8:1-19:9.
Pastor Brad Greene (our new Director of Youth and Children's Ministries) reflects on the journey that brought him (and his family) from Central California to FCC Atchison.
Parallels are drawn with the story of Jonah as we are reminded that GOD'S PLAN FOR OUR LIFE is always better than anything we could ever come up with!
Primary text is Jonah 4:1-4.
Action and suspense continue to build in Chapter 6 as the hidden scroll of Daniel (sealed up for 700 years) is opened in the Throne Room of Heaven.
In this message we begin to explore some of the most infamous images in the book: The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, The Rapture, The Tribulation, and The Millennium. We also touch on what the whole Pre-Trib vs. Post-Trib debate is all about.
Primary text is Revelation 6:1-14
Our study of the Book of Revelation continues with a closer look at chapters 4 & 5. Here John is granted a glimpse into the Throne Room of Heaven - Central Command for the entire universe! What he sees there might surprise you...
Primary text is Revelation 4:1-8 & 5:1-8.
Revelation is the most notorious book in the entire Bible. In fact, when it comes to inspiring fear, misinterpretation and bad movies - no other book even comes close.
This episode of the mini-series explores the letters that were written to the seven churches in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) through the interpretive lenses that were introduced in the first episode - Historical, Prophetic, and Symbolic.
This mini-series serves as the conclusion of our larger Bible 101 series, but can it can be listened to and studied on its' own as well.
Primary text for this message is Revelation 1:4-11 & Revelation 2-3.
Revelation is the most notorious book in the entire Bible. In fact, when it comes to inspiring fear, misinterpretation and bad movies - no other book even comes close.
This episode of the mini-series introduces basic tools for navigating Apocalyptic writing that can help us make better sense of Revelation and lead us to the message of hope and encouragement that lies beneath the enigmatic web of numbers, colors and symbols.
This mini-series serves as the conclusion of our larger Bible 101 series, but can it can be listened to and studied on its' own as well.
Primary text for this message is Revelation 1:1-3.
What does the Bible actually say about the Holy Spirit? More to the point, what does it say about being "filled" with the Holy Spirit? What about Spiritual Gifts and the whole Speaking in Tongues thing ??
These can be frightening topics, but they don't have to be... In this message, Pastor Matt shares personal testimony, scripture references, and an encouraging invitation to open our hearts to new experiences and new depths in our relationship with God - all through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Can you imagine what it would be like to stumble upon a box of letters that were almost 2,000 years old? What a treasure that would be!
The letters at the end of the New Testament are exactly that - we just find them bound in an ancient book - instead of stuck in a box.
In a world that is flooded with a million means of communication - these letters are a tangible reminder that God still speaks to us today.
The letters examined in this message are timeless - full of life, full of truth and full of encouragement for anyone who takes the time to see what they have to say.
Stay in your lane, Bro! This is essentially Peter's response to Jesus the first time they met. Peter begins to realize rather quickly, however, that following the advice of Jesus (in every area of his life) has very positive results.
In this message, Pastor Russ Cooper follows Peter as he learns to trust Jesus more and more. He reminds us that God has a BIG plan for each of us as well - it will probably mean letting him into our lane though...
Primary Text is Luke 5:4-8
As Paul pursued his mission to share the message of the gospel with the rest of the world, he encountered odds and obstacles that rival a modern Avengers movie - shipwrecks, snakebites, floggings and one narrow escape after another...
Despite the challenges he faced, Paul managed to start 14 new churches and (more or less) write half of the books in the New Testament. Paul had some help though - which is good - because he could have never done this on his own...
This message offers a brief overview of Paul's life, his missionary journeys and the letters of the Bible that are attributed to him.
Primary text is 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
This week we cover what remains in the Book of Acts by focusing on its' main character - the Apostle Paul (a.k.a. Saul of Tarsus).
This message also explores our susceptibility to feelings of SHAME & GUILT and how we might begin to overcome these (as Paul did) and begin to ENJOY our relationship with God and His call on our life.
Primary passage is Acts 9:1-22.
This week we begin a two-part look at the Book of Acts.
Jesus promises his followers the gift of the Holy Spirit to encourage and empower them and He delivers - in a POWERFUL way!
This message outlines the events of Acts 1-8 and explores modern misconceptions about Independence, Individuality and the Stuff that everyone tells us we need.
Primary passage is Acts 2:43-47.
This message concludes our time in the Gospels by looking at three important events that occur between the Resurrection and the Ascension of Jesus...
The Road to Emmaus. The Great Commission. And the moment that changed Peter's life - FOREVER (one of my favorite stories) - Peter's Confession on the Beach.
What Peter FINALLY figured out can be life-changing for us as well...
Primary passage is Matthew 28:16-20
Most of us have heard the INCREDIBLE story of the first Easter before, but what does it mean for our lives today?
This message explores the question through the lens of two LIFE-CHANGING realities – God’s Love and God’s Power.
The invitation is extended to each of us to enter into the greatest story of all time.
Many people don't realize that the public ministry of Jesus only lasted about three years. Those three short years, however, would altar the course of history AND eternity.
This message dives into the two most important aspects of Jesus' ministry - his teaching and the miracles he performed. We also explore what these might mean for our lives today.
Primary text is Matthew 4:23-25
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message briefly revisits each aspect of Jesus’ response to this incredible question and offers a summary or overview of the five messages in The Greatest Commandment series.
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message explores the final aspect of Jesus' response to the question and marks the fifth installment of The Greatest Commandment Message Series.
One challenge this message explores is the difficulty many people have accepting love - which, in turn, hinders our ability to love others and keeps us from experiencing the depth of joy that God desires for us.
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message explores another aspect of Jesus' answer to the question and marks the fourth installment of The Greatest Commandment Message Series.
In this message we look at the way our own strength factors into our walk with God. What the Bible has to say about this might surprise you.
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message explores another aspect of Jesus' answer to the question and marks the third installment of The Greatest Commandment Message Series. In this message we explore the ways we use (or don't use) our minds and what it might look like to love God with more of ours.
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message explores Jesus' answer to the question and marks the second installment of The Greatest Commandment Message Series.
In this message we examine the nature of the Soul and what it might look like to love God with all of ours.
Mark 12:28-31
If you could ask Jesus ANY question - what would it be? The man in this passage had that exact opportunity and he picked a pretty good one...
"Which commandment is the most important of all?"
This message explores Jesus' answer to the question and introduces the Greatest Commandment Message Series.
We jump right into exploring what it might look like to love God with our whole heart and also examine some common "heart conditions" that can hold us back.
The spiritual principals we are so intentional about during Lent (forty days of preparation to celebrate Christ's resurrection) can benefit us profoundly in ALL seasons.
This message introduces a series entitled, "This Lenten Journey." In it we will explore a variety of spiritual practices that can help us grow deeper in our relationship with God.
The invitation to join Jesus on this incredible journey is extended to all and it's one we can begin TODAY!