The Well: Sermon Video: Recent Episodes
The Well Community Church, Fresno, CA
The Well generally teaches directly from Scripture in an expositional style. This feed is an archive of past sermons.
Wisdom is God's invitation to live well in His world. This summer, we are examining Proverbs that, when applied to our lives, inform how we live, not just what we know.
Wisdom is God's invitation to live well in His world. This summer, we are examining Proverbs that, when applied to our lives, inform how we live, not just what we know.
Wisdom is God's invitation to live well in His world. This summer, we are examining Proverbs that, when applied to our lives, inform how we live, not just what we know.
While we are called to love others, the love between believers is the best witness and testimony to the world. In John 13, Jesus says, "Love one another as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." This love was modeled by Jesus, is unconditional, and can be tangibly seen by the world.
Idolatry is one of the primary things that hold the American Church back from following Jesus. The rich young ruler is told to sell everything because wealth was his idol, and he ultimately could not relinquish it. Following Jesus isn't about discarding things we own, but breaking free of the things that own us. To be a disciple, no earthly possession, status, or comfort can come before our relationship with Christ.
Jesus explicitly states that whoever follows him must deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow him. But what is the cost of following Jesus? We see three instances where someone wants to follow Jesus, but instead decides that their earthly obligations outweigh their eternal ones. To be a disciple, no human relationship or responsibility can come before our relationship with Christ.
Jesus explicitly states that whoever follows him must deny themselves and take up their cross daily. But what does that mean? Before Calvary, the cross was merely an instrument of death, but it is now where Jesus offers newness of life. We too must daily die to our sin because the cross is not given; it is a choice to bear.
What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? In the gospels, there are seven instances where Jesus distinguishes what a disciple of his would look like. Jesus explicitly states that whoever follows him must deny themselves. Being a disciple means that you are no longer the chief controller of your life, but Christ, who lives in you.
This Easter, we celebrate the Good News of Christ's resurrection and the hope, unity, and peace that can only be found through Jesus.
What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? In the gospels, there are seven instances where Jesus distinguishes what a disciple of his would look like. His last "if...then" statement is that if you abide in my word, you will have everlasting life. He warns there will be a temptation to hold other voices above scripture and to choose which parts to obey. But Jesus says a true disciple will have no higher authority than His word.
What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus? In the gospels, there are seven instances where Jesus distinguishes what a disciple of his would look like. In this series, we investigate what Jesus called his followers to from his own words.
Jesus warns that being a follower of his will divide families. "Whoever comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he cannot be my disciple." The first trait of a disciple is that their love for Jesus is unparalleled and above anything or anyone else.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. To close his letter, Paul delivers a final warning reaffirming himself against false teachers and reminds the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. Paul's dreams and visions authenticate him as an apostle of Christ. Yet the thorn in his flesh, a possible physical ailment, was not removed so that he might not boast in himself. To close his letter, Paul reminds the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ.
The early church was very vulnerable to false teachings because the New Testament was still being written. The Corinthians fell victim to false apostles boasting in works and religion. In the third part of 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his apostleship among these false teachers and refutes their claims. Paul saw Jesus and was called by Jesus himself to preach the one true gospel and to boast in Christ alone.
The early church was very vulnerable to false teachings because the New Testament was still being written. In the third part of 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his apostleship amidst many false teachers. Paul saw Jesus and was called by Jesus himself to preach the one true gospel and boast in Christ.
Corinth is a wealthy city, and Paul is encouraged as the Corinthians put together an offering for the church in Jerusalem. In chapters 8 and 9, Paul gives encouragement for giving and reminds the Corinthians that generosity flows from the gospel. While the Old Testament and New Testament giving consists of tithes, offerings, and generosity, each has nuances. Wealth is relative, and cheerful giving is a sign of a mature believer.
The highest expression of love is not unconditional acceptance; it is inviting others to hold to the Word of God. Paul did just that when he wrote a "severe" letter that had the potential to offend and end relationships, as he called the Corinthians out of their sin. In 2 Corinthians 7, Paul is pleased to know that they have responded to his letter with sorrow by the Spirit rather than sorrow by the flesh. Sorrow in the flesh brings guilt and shame, whereas sorrow in the Spirit convicts and causes repentance.
Is Jesus an accessory we add to our life? Or does He completely take over and transform us? In chapter six, Paul writes to Corinthians who believe in a false gospel and are trying to live a changed life in the flesh. Paul implores them to come out of hiding, repent, and return. True believers' lives, affections, and behaviors are reoriented toward Christ.
From when they were just a prayer and a dirt lot to the thriving ministry centers our campuses are today, we celebrate our church body's generosity and God's faithfulness over the past six years. Hear the fruit of this campaign and join us in prayer as we consider the next steps.
Paul reminds the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ. We long for eternity, yet our bodies weren't meant to last forever. Believers should take courage that to be absent from the body is to be present with Christ. We are purposed toward reconciliation with Christ and are invited into a ministry of reconciliation.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends himself against false teachers in an unfiltered letter, reminding the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. In the third chapter of 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his credibility against false teachers and contrasts living under the Old Testament law with freedom in the Spirit. The law Moses brought down from Sinai was meant to highlight sin, whereas the Spirit of the Lord cannot be taken away and continually transforms us to be more like Christ.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians, Paul reminds the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ. In the second chapter of his letter, Paul shares his pastoral heart for the disobedient believer, sharing his grief over their struggle and encouragement to admonish and forgive biblically.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends himself against false teachers in an unfiltered letter, reminding the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ. In the first chapter of his letter, Paul reminds the Church in Corinth that his personal journey has not been easy, and to be comforted in suffering as trial brings us closer to God. Whatever we endure, we are with God.
Corinth is one of the cities Paul wrote to and visited the most in the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends himself against false teachers in an unfiltered letter, reminding the Church that joy and suffering highlight dependence and strength in Christ. Before we begin, we must look at the historical context surrounding the city of Corinth and the apostle Paul.
Advent is designed to slow us down and rejoice in Jesus' arrival. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus this Christmas, it also gives us hope for the next Advent, when Jesus will return to be Emmanuel, "God with Us," again.
Advent is designed to slow us down and rejoice in Jesus' arrival. As we look back on that first Advent, this season also gives us hope for the next Advent, when Jesus will return to be Emmanuel, "God with Us," again.
Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. This joy surpasses circumstance and feeling- it is a joy only found in the Lord.
Advent is designed to slow us down and rejoice in Jesus' arrival. As we look back on that first Advent, this season also gives us hope for the next Advent, when Jesus will return to be Emmanuel, "God with Us," again.
We continue this season by reflecting on the peace only found in Christ, who is the Prince of Peace.
Advent is designed to slow us down and rejoice in Jesus' arrival. As we look back on that first Advent, this season also gives us hope for the next Advent, when Jesus will return to be Emmanuel, "God with Us," again.
We begin this season by reflecting on the hope of the gospel and seeing God's revealed plan since Genesis.
In Acts 16, Paul and Silas worship God from prison. Through their worship, several people hear the good news of Christ, believe, and then get baptized. Baptism is not required for salvation, but it is commanded to demonstrate belief in the gospel.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. Purim is still celebrated to this day to commemorate the Israelite's deliverance and remember God's sovereignty.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence even when we can't see it working.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence even when we can't see it working.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence even when we can't see it working.
This week, our church body dispersed all over our city for Serve Fresno. By serving the tangible needs, we put the gospel on display. However, it is not our light that shines; we are reflecting the light of Christ that shines through us.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. As we see in Mordecai's role and all the coincidences that just so happened to bring about the salvation of the Jewish people, God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence even in the waiting.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence life or death.
In the Book of Esther, God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. The threat to Mordecai and the Jewish people is not unique to Esther's time, as we see antisemitism still present today. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence, even in injustice.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence through unlikely favor.
The Book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God by name, yet His hand is all over it. God uses unlikely characters in unlikely ways to bring about His purposes to preserve His people. God's silence does not mean his absence, and this story invites us to trust in God's providence even in an ungodly culture.
The book of Esther is the only book of the Bible that does not mention God. This story invites us to trust in God's providence even when we can't see it working.
Here at the Well, our mission is to help you connect to God and to each other in every neighborhood. We stay on mission with the five values of Biblical, Authentic, Restorative, Generous, and Engaged.
Here at the Well, we are all about life change. Our mission is to help you connect to God and to each other in every neighborhood. We do that by equipping you with gospel truth so that you can be transformed, and, in turn, help transform those around you. This week, we discuss spiritual formation and what it looks like to walk out this messy process of life with God.
Here at the Well, we are all about life change. Our mission is to help you connect to God and to each other in every neighborhood. We do that by equipping you with gospel truth so that you can be transformed, and, in turn, help transform those around you.
Theologically, meals are significant. The Bible begins and ends with a meal, starting with the tragic eating of fruit and ending with the redeeming marriage supper of the lamb. This summer, we are exploring people's various encounters with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
Theologically, meals are significant. The Bible begins and ends with a meal, starting with the tragic eating of fruit and ending with the redeeming marriage supper of the lamb. This summer, we are exploring people's various encounters with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
Theologically, meals are significant. The Bible begins and ends with a meal, starting with the tragic eating of fruit and ending with the redeeming marriage supper of the lamb. This summer, we are exploring people's various encounters with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
Theologically, meals are significant. The Bible begins and ends with a meal, starting with the tragic eating of fruit and ending with the redeeming marriage supper of the lamb. This summer, we are exploring people's various encounters with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
On the road to Emmaus, two disciples unknowingly encounter Jesus while discussing his recent death and disappearance. Instead of immediately revealing himself to them as resurrection evidence, Jesus discusses scripture. This highlights the importance of having faith based on God's word, not based on experiences. Experiences change and don't always reveal the whole truth but God's word is what lasts.
When Simon the Pharisee questions Jesus, Jesus tells a parable of debts and then forgives the sinful woman. We need to remind ourselves regularly of who Jesus is and respond accordingly.
When Jesus comes through town, Zacheus famously climbs a tree just to get a glimpse. Jesus invites himself to Zacheu's house, showing us that Jesus came to seek and save the lost.
Theologically, meals are significant. The Bible begins and ends with a meal, starting with the tragic eating of fruit and ending with the redeeming marriage supper of the lamb. This summer, we are exploring people's various encounters with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
This summer, we are exploring the various encounters people had with Jesus over food in a sacred meal known as Convivium.
The book of Jude exposes false teaching and compels readers to contend for the faith in light of false teachers. We must be faithful to the truth, and that faithfulness to the truth will inform how we live. Ultimately, the book of Jude raises our eyes to the beauty of a God who revealed himself in truth.
Jude compels readers to persevere in the truth even when the ungodly prosper more than the godly. He also admonishes becoming like the ungodly through grumbling and complaining as the Israelites in Moses' day did.
Jude is dealing with false teachers in the midst of the Church. He uses Old Testament references to warn against rejecting God's design and authority. We reap what we sow. Are folly and flesh being sown in your life? Or are you being influenced by wisdom and the Holy Spirit?
The book of Jude compels readers to contend for the faith in truth as he writes a message of judgment to people who are not truly believers. He references the Nephilim and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. We must be faithful to the truth, and that faithfulness to the truth will inform how we live. Ultimately, the book of Jude raises our eyes to the beauty of a God who revealed himself in truth.
Jude, believed to be Jesus's half-brother, is writing a message of judgment to people who are not truly believers. The book of Jude exposes false teaching and compels readers to contend for the faith in light of false teachers. We must be faithful to the truth, and that faithfulness to the truth will inform how we live. Ultimately, the book of Jude raises our eyes to the beauty of a God who revealed himself in truth.
In his third epistle, John writes a personal letter to Gaius to assure him of his integrity in supporting missionaries. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout all his writings and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.
John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writings and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.So what does it mean when John warns against receiving deceivers in your home? We must be tethered to the truth of God's Word, which calls us to unconditional love, not unconditional acceptance.
This Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, and the hope, unity, and peace only found through Jesus.
John writes to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. So what does John mean when he speaks of sin leading to death and sin that doesn't lead to death? While there are several interpretations of this passage, we can be assured that because we have done nothing to earn our salvation, we can do nothing to lose it.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is. In order to love others and John and Jesus command, we must be abiding in the Holy Spirit.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is. As Christians, we should love one another. Yet our love should not be religious compliance but an outpouring of God's love by abiding in Him.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is. John advises to "test the spirits" in order to discern false teachers and make sure they are from God. The real Spirit, the Holy Spirit, will keep with God's Word, exalt the person and work of Christ, and it will be affirmed by God's people.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is. John reveals that the key to the Christian life is abiding and fixing our hope on Jesus. If we are not abiding, we are trying to do that which can only be accomplished by God in our own strength.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.
John often refers to Jesus as light, and as followers of God, we are called to walk in the light. So how do we do that? By confessing our sins, Jesus came to restore us from darkness.
John, the gospel writer known as the beloved apostle, writes three epistles to the Gentiles to assure them of eternal life based on his eyewitness account. John touches on light, truth, and love throughout his writing and affirms the truth of who Jesus is.
1 John deals with false teachers twisting who Jesus was, but John was there and saw and knew the truth. He opens his epistles by ensuring the reader that he has an eyewitness account based on the details he provides.
The goal of Cultivate is to strengthen this generation and grow the next generation into a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. We are expanding our Clovis Campus with a dedicated student facility.
How do we agree to disagree? From tattoos, birth control, yoga, worship styles, and election years, the Church today tends to take amoral issues and dogmatize them. When Paul wrote to the Church in Rome, he wrote to a diverse list of believers working towards unity, not uniformity. However, Paul emphasized the responsibility of the stronger believer not to be a stumbling block to the weaker.
How do we agree to disagree? From tattoos, birth control, yoga, worship styles, and election years, the Church today tends to take amoral issues and dogmatize them. When Paul wrote to the church in Rome, he wrote to a diverse list of believers working towards unity, not uniformity. How do we walk through natural and good division in the church today?
Advent is an opportunity to rejoice in Jesus' arrival and to rejoice in the promises of God. As we look back on that first advent, this season can also help us learn to wait for the next advent when Jesus will return to be Emmanuel, "God with Us," again.
Advent is an opportunity to rejoice in Jesus' arrival and to rejoice in the promises of God. Unlike happiness, joy is not dependent on circumstance. As we look back on that first advent, we examine the joy of the Messiah at the beginning and the joy at the end of His life.
Advent is an opportunity to rejoice in the arrival of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. As we look back on that first Advent, this season also gives us peace with God, and the peace of God.
Embracing the gospel is a key foundational practice to a healthy spiritual life. Today, we discuss sanctification and what it looks like to embrace the gospel over time.
Embracing the gospel is a crucial foundational practice to a healthy spiritual life. Today, we discuss justification and what it looks like to embrace the gospel at a point in time.
We’re studying together 8 Foundational practices essential to pursuing ongoing health and wholeness in our relationship with Christ. These practices are not meant to be legalistic or spiritual checkboxes, but instead they are meant to give life as we walk in relationship with Jesus over time, Jesus can use these practices in our lives to help us become more and more like Him. Speaker: Brad Bell
We’re studying together 8 Foundational practices essential to pursuing ongoing health and wholeness in our relationship with Christ. These practices are not meant to be legalistic or spiritual checkboxes, but instead they are meant to give life as we walk in relationship with Jesus over time, Jesus can use these practices in our lives to help us become more and more like Him. Speaker: Brad Bell
Today we celebrate all the Lord has done and look forward to what will come. Hear what God is doing through small groups in our Students, Kids, Missions, and Life Group ministries. Join the movement and register for a Life Group as we launch our Foundations curriculum. Speaker: Brad Bell
The original church in Acts 2 was a church of three thousand members. The issue with modern churches is not size; it's intimacy. Here at The Well, life happens in groups. Like the first church, our heart is for our large church body to feel intimate through life groups. Speaker: Brad Bell
When Simon encounters Jesus, everything changes, including his name. Through his encounter, we see Jesus's grace and patience in shaping us as Christians, just as he shaped Peter into a rock for the church. Speaker: Jack Shiflett
Embracing the Gospel happens at a point in time and over time. This summer, we are examining encounters with Jesus and how they changed the people and situations around him. Speaker: Joe Buitrago
When Thomas doubts, instead of condemning, Jesus responds by coming nearer. Thomas's encounter with Jesus shows us that doubt is not unbelief. Doubts handled properly can be a catalyst to a stronger faith. Speaker: Josh Hawley
It is impossible to have an encounter with Jesus and not be transformed. When a demon-possessed man encounters Jesus, not only is he made clean, he is commissioned to tell others what Jesus did for him. No one is outside of God's reach or power. Speaker: Joe Buitrago
Nicodemus came to Jesus thinking that he already earned his salvation. Jesus reminded him that our salvation has nothing to do with the works of our hands, but everything to do with the saving work of Christ. Speaker: Ka'eo Yoshikawa
Embracing the Gospel happens at a point in time and over time. This summer, we are examining encounters with Jesus and how they changed the people and situations around him. Speaker: Jordan Hogue
Mary shows extravagant love and worship to Jesus through her act of sacrifice. While being ridiculed by some of the disciples present in the room, her response is what everyone else should have been doing. May we find the courage to love and worship in the same way. Speaker: Mike Slayden
On the road to Emmaus, we see who Jesus is and what he came to do. It shows us that we can't see Jesus for who he is until God reveals him to us, and ultimately, encounters with Jesus are meant to be shared. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
When Jesus encounters the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda, he asks him one question: Do you want to be healed? When we encounter Jesus, we must also be honest about our condition to find freedom.
The Well is a safe place to be broken. Come to re:gen any Monday night.
After conquering the land, the eastern tribes return home and build an altar. The rest of Israel assumes the worst and rallies in war against their brothers and sisters to guard against idolatry. Yet in the Book of Judges, these people who immediately rallied against kin don't even know the Lord just two generations later. Let us heed Joshua's final words and present our wills to stand against culture and prevent spiritual drift.
As for us and our houses, let us serve the Lord.
More than half the book of Joshua is devoted to dividing the land. After waiting for over 700 years for God to fulfill the Abrahamic Covenant, this allotment shows that God is faithful to his promises and it shows us that just like the Levites, our great inheritance is not land, but God.
Here at the Well, we are all about life change. Our mission is to help people connect to God and to each other in every neighborhood. We do that by living out our values of being biblical, authentic, restorative, engaged, and generous. By equipping you with gospel truth, you can be transformed and, in turn, help transform those around you.
Joshua waged war for a long time as he was faithful to God's commands. From the northern conquest, we see that it's not the knowledge of God that transforms but the spirit of God. God is the one who saves, and with Christ at the center, we can face anything that He has for us.
Joshua is on a military campaign where he bifurcates the land and conquers the southern half of the promised land. From Joshua, we see that our past does not define us, and we must walk faithfully with God after our failures. From the Gibeonites, we see God's character toward reconciled enemies. And in the battle, we see the power of God on display.
Yet again, Joshua is overconfident because of the season of victory that God allowed him to have. So when the Gibeonites deceive Joshua, he does not consult God and relies on his senses. But what the Gibeonites meant for evil, God uses for His good.
The Christian walk is not a linear upward trajectory. So how do we handle spiritual failure? The Israelites experienced spiritual failure when they were defeated at Ai. Before they try again, they first turn to God, obey God, and go back to God's word.
When contrasting it with their victory at Jericho, we see an implicit and explicit reason for Israel's defeat at Ai. Israel is defeated explicitly because of the hidden sin in the camp, and it is implied that they are defeated because of Joshua's arrogance in leading without consulting God.
When God gives the battle plans for defeating Jericho, He is clearly in control. The victory at Jericho shows us that the Lord is always accomplishing His purposes through the simple obedience of His people, even when it doesn't make sense.
Before we move on to chapter 6 of Joshua this week, we pause to examine biblical genocide. How do we reconcile God's command to "utterly destroy" in the Old Testament with the New Testament command to love others? Mike walks us through the three most common schools of thought.
When God calls for the circumcision of the Israelites, we see that He is more concerned with their hearts than with the conquest and victory of the land. Instead of training and preparing for battle, God's instructions are to make rock altars and get circumcised. Like the Israelites, God's main concern is for our hearts to be in Christ instead of battling the worldly circumstances surrounding us.
The Book of Joshua is about the conquest of the promised land, and it shows us that faith goes both ways. We see people's faithfulness as they wait on God to fulfill long-awaited promises, and we see God's unconditional faithfulness to us in fulfilling His sovereign plan.
God often places us in uncomfortable circumstances to remind us of who He is and to grow our dependence on Him. As God stacks the deck against himself by bringing his people the long way into the Promised Land and by crossing The Jordan during flood season, we see the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh remember promises of old and obey in faith to their faithful God.
The Lord does not invite us to be strong and courageous through our own willpower. Rather, our strength and courage come from the faithfulness of our God.
The Book of Joshua is about the conquest of the promised land. But who are the Israelites, how did they get there, and what does the promised land have to do with us? This introduction to Joshua examines the Israelites' journey from Egypt to The Jordan.
The Book of Joshua is about the conquest of the promised land. But who are the Israelites, how did they get there, and what does the promised land have to do with us? In this introduction to Joshua, we examine Genesis through Exodus.
Scripture calls us to stir one another toward love and good deeds. Here at The Well, we do that by serving in teams and doing life in small groups.
We all have a way of life. We say no to some things to say yes to others. What would it look like to say yes to the things that help us further our spiritual life? And what things might we need to say no to in order to have a deeper and more abiding relationship with Christ? As we continue our look into the new year, we examine the Rules of Life and ask whether Jesus had a Rule of Life too.
Resolutions apart from God are futile. God's intent from the beginning was for humankind to be with God. Thanks to the gospel, we are not left without hope; the Spirit of God is not only with us but in us. So as we enter the new year, how do we walk by the Spirit and not in the flesh?
Examining what the bible actually says about the birth narrative of Jesus gives us a different sense of hope for what the Christmas scene is supposed to be. As we examine the wise men, we better understand the hopeful expectation of coming to see the Christ Child and understanding God with us.
Brad explains what has happened with Cultivate so far, sharing how the First Fruit money is being used at City Center, showing the completed renovation at the Fig Garden Campus, and revealing blueprint and elevation plans for the Student Center at our Campus. How can you be part of what God is doing in our city?
Who should we pray to? When and how long should we pray? While scripture doesn't give right and wrong answers for what prayer should look like, it provides insight as we examine prayer in the Bible. Above everything, our prayer posture should be open to God.
There are three common expressions of motivation when it comes to the heart of prayer: being willless and closed off to the things of God; being willful and trying to control the things of God; and, as Jesus modeled, being willing and open to the things of God. Speaker: Brad Bell
Despite his efforts to walk faithfully with God, David still experienced great suffering. He writes Psalm 56 during one of the most challenging times in his life and leaves us six practical responses for when we find ourselves amid immense suffering. Speaker: Mike Slayden
In the closing words of Paul's last letter before his death, we see a list of names and instructions. Digging deeper, we see lessons from a life well lived in community as well as Paul's heart for the gospel and God's people to the very end. Speaker: Josh Hawley
As Paul reminisces on what it looks like to live a faithful life in his final epistle to Timothy, he reflects on discipleship and evangelism. A life worthy of being passed down is a life that has eternal significance attached to it. As followers of Christ, we should preach the word in any season and have discipling relationships with others. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
Paul affirms to Timothy that all scripture is breathed out by God and can be trusted for teaching, reproof, correction, and training. In both the Old and the New Testaments, the common theme of the Bible is the glory of God through the exaltation of the person and work of Jesus Christ. As we submit ourselves to The Word today, we can rest assured that it is authoritative, inerrant, inspired, and powerful. Speaker: Brad Bell
The local church puts the gospel on display. Just as Jesus modeled a life of service, so shall we. On Sunday, October 23rd, we are relocating all regularly scheduled gatherings to serve our city as one church body. Speaker: Brad Bell
The local church puts the gospel on display. Just as Jesus modeled a life of service, so shall we. On Sunday, October 23rd, we are relocating all regularly scheduled gatherings to serve our city as one church body. Speaker: Brad Bell
Paul walks Timothy through the qualities of false teachers who are leading believers astray. He warns of the dangers of following those who look like spiritual leaders. We must be students of the Bible to spot false teachers. Speaker: Mike Slayden
Paul walks Timothy through the qualities of false teachers who are leading believers astray. He warns of the dangers of following those who look like spiritual leaders. We must be students of the Bible to spot false teachers. Speaker: Mike Slayden
The Lord uses our flesh to remind us of our need for the gospel. As followers of Christ, we are free from the mastery of sin but not from its presence. Paul reminds Timothy that when faced with sin, it's not just what you flee from; it's about what you pursue. Speaker: Brad Bell
The Bible says what it means and means what it says. In Paul's final written words, Paul encourages Timothy to handle the word of truth rightly. So also, we need to study the Bible in a way that seeks an accurate interpretation. Speaker: Brad Bell
Hardship and sacrifice are expectations of being a soldier, athlete, or farmer. Paul uses the sacrificial conviction of a soldier, the driven focus of an athlete, and the faithful dedication of a farmer to admonish Timothy to endure hardship for the sake of a greater goal. Speaker: Mike Slayden
The gospel prepares us to endure the inevitable suffering that is to come as part of choosing to follow Christ. In his second letter to Timothy, Paul lists three means of grace to suffer well. Speaker: Brad Bell
Paul is on death row when he writes his second letter to Timothy. As Paul's final written words, the theme of 2 Timothy is faithful endurance to the Lord even amidst difficult circumstances. Speaker: Brad Bell
The first church was a church of three thousand, yet they cared for their individual members incredibly well. Here at The Well, we aim to do the same by doing life in small groups and by serving in teams. Join a group.Serve on a team. Speaker: Brad Bell
If God's design was male and female in a heterosexual, monogamous, till-death relationship, how did we get where we are today? Join Denny Burk as we navigate the tension of holding to the truth of God's word while responding in love. Speaker: Denny Burk
The Bible is clear as to the gender identities being male and female. How did we get to gender fluidity, transgender and gender confusion, and the departure from the Word of God and God’s original design? Speaker: Denny Burk
Join Denny Burk for a short history of the evolution of sexuality distancing itself from the plan of God and indulging in the flesh. We will explore Romans 1 and the rejection of the divine standard of the scriptures for the pursuit of flesh. Speaker: Denny Burk
What do we do when our interests don't line up with the Lord's? When Jesus asks, "Are you also going away?" he emboldens us to respond as Peter did- with a resounding confession that Jesus is the only way. Speaker: Jordan Hogue
Why are questions important in the Jewish context? This summer, we are examining why Jesus asked what he asked and what it revealed about the people and situations around him. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
Why are questions important in the Jewish context? This summer, we are examining why Jesus asked what he asked and what it revealed about the people and situations around him. Speaker: Brian Erickson
Why are questions important in the Jewish context? This summer, we are examining why Jesus asked what he asked and what it revealed about the people and situations around him. Speaker: Dave Obwald
The Bible tells us that we will walk through trials and that our faith will be tested. But storms always come with a purpose, and the Lord is always with us in the storm. Speaker: Joe Buitrago
We each have our own burdens. When Jesus asks the question "Who touched my clothes?" we see that he responds to pain and suffering with compassion. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
When Jesus asks "Who do you say I am?" He's asking a personal question that requires a personal answer. While the answer to this question has implications on our eternity, who we say Jesus is should affect our present day. Speaker: Joe Buitrago
When Jesus asks the question "Why are you weeping?" He doesn't rebuke our tears. Jesus is there with us in our grief. Speaker: Josh Hawley
The only one actually qualified to condemn someone is the sinless Jesus, yet He offers transformation instead. Grace is radical and transformative and should inform the way we view ourselves and others. Speaker: Jordan Hogue
The Bible does not promise the complete elimination of worry, but it does invite us to bring our worries and anxieties to God. When Jesus asks the question "Why do you worry?" He shows us how to deal with worry in lifegiving ways. Speaker: Josh Hawley
Jesus asks Peter "Do you love me?" three times, redeeming the three times that Peter denied Jesus. Jesus asks a simple and searching question to restore relationship and purpose. Speaker: Chris Schultz
Why are questions important in the Jewish context? This summer we are examing why Jesus asked what he asked, and what it revealed about the people and situations around him. We start by looking at the questions from Jesus' childhood: "Why is it that you were looking for me?" and "Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?" Speaker: Brad Bell
Why did Jesus institute the practices of communion and baptism? The ordinances of the church are expressions of identity and testimony in remembrance of the unifying work of Jesus. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
Paul's closing exhortation is for Timothy to guard the truth he has been entrusted with. The Bible is our authority, and just like Timothy, we need to guard what has been entrusted to us, even in a post-modern society. Speaker: Brad Bell
Wealth is relative, and we are called to steward whatever God has given us well. Let us fix our hope on God who richly supplies, and rethink what it means to be rich in good works. Speaker: Brad Bell
Paul warns Timothy against what is still prevalent today: the root issue of false teachers is that they use God and the Church for personal gain. Christ did not come to make our lives better; He came to set us free from the mastery of sin. Speaker: Mike Slayden
1 Timothy 6 is often misunderstood because of our context concerning slavery. However, this passage can help shape how we think about being a modern-day employee or employer, serving the Lord in all we do. Speaker: Brad Bell
Online Gathering - This Easter we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, and the hope, unity, and peace only found through Jesus. Speaker: Brad Bell
On Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem in the manner of a Roman Triumph, setting up expectations about what He was going to do. But disappointment follows unmet expectations. Jesus did not come to make us better or help us get through; Jesus came to deal with sin's root issue and save us from ourselves. Speaker: Brad Bell
Paul specifies what the elders do and how the relationship between the church body and the elders should look. Learn more about the elders at The Well. Speaker: Brad Bell
God created the family unit as an expression of grace. Paul specifies the biblical responsibility of the younger to care for the older, and the responsibility of all to care for the widows. Speaker: Brad Bell
A healthy spiritual life requires training and discipline. The end goal of spiritual training is not morality, but an abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. Speaker: Mike Cirricione
The gospel calls us to live differently. Paul specifies what we as believers should hold to and what we should reject. This common confession helps us discern what God wants of our lives amidst the heresy around us. Speaker: Mike Slayden
How do we live distinct in an ungodly world? Paul's list continues with the behind-the-scenes expectations of church leadership; the deacons. Speaker: Brad Bell
How do we live distinct in an ungodly world? Paul's list continues with the behind-the-scenes expectations of church leadership; the elders. Speaker: Brad Bell
How do we live distinct in an ungodly world? Paul's list continues with one of the most contested passages in the Bible; the role of women in the church. Speaker: Brad Bell
What are our individual functions in order to live distinct in an ungodly world? Paul makes a list beginning with the priority of prayer. Speaker: Brad Bell
When we adhere to the gospel, we are continually transformed. Paul instructs Timothy on dealing with false teachers who actively spread heresy and bring others down with them. May we lovingly hold to the word because we are empowered and familiar with the means of the gospel truth. Speaker: Mike Slayden
Paul opens his letter by challenging Timothy to hold to the word of God. Sound biblical teaching holds grace and truth in tension, broadening our understanding of God through His own definitions. Speaker: Brad Bell
In November of 2018, Cultivate began as our church body prayerfully committed to resource what God had chosen to grow. While we have taken a historic first step, we are called by God to continue to step out by faith into our city. We enter into a new season of Cultivate with 3 more goals in 3 years. Speaker: Brad Bell
The first epistle of Paul to Timothy is full of practical insights into how the gospel changes us and calls us to live differently. Today we explore the significance of Ephesus, the city where Paul is urging Timothy to remain. Speaker: Brad Bell
The first epistle of Paul to Timothy is full of practical insights into how the gospel changes us and calls us to live differently. Today we explore the significance of its addressee, Timothy. Speaker: Mike Slayden
The first epistle to Timothy is full of practical insights into how the gospel changes us and calls us to live differently. Today we explore the significance of its author, Paul. Speaker: Brad Bell
The gospel is for everyone, everywhere. No matter where you are, worship with the ones you love this Christmas - John 1:1-5 // Matthew 1:18-25 // Luke 2:1-21
The story of the prodigal son is really the story of the merciful father. As the son is off in his rebellion the father is longing for his return. As the son makes his way back home, the father sees him and runs to him. That is the story of Christmas.
Advent is a time of slowing down and reflection as we wait on the coming of our Christ. By reflecting on what it truly meant for Jesus to incarnate and dwell as God with us, we get a better picture of His love for us.
Advent is a time of slowing down and reflection as we wait on the coming of our Christ. When we look at the birth narrative, we see that the shepherds recognize Jesus' uniqueness and respond in worship.
Advent is a time of slowing down and reflection as we wait on the coming of our Christ. As we examine the magi, we see that their focus is entirely on Jesus.
Joseph finished what Jacob started by bringing Joseph's bones back to the promised land. Upon Joseph's death, he leaves his family with the same request.
In Jacob's final words to his sons, what he says to Judah stands out. Judah's life reveals that even a person steeped in depravity can turn to God to experience His redemptive hope and be a part of His greater purposes.
On his deathbed, Joseph’s father Jacob, reveals that he has grown into a man who trusts the promises of God even when they don’t seem real because he trusts the character of God. In response to the faithfulness of God, Jacob gives Joseph a double portion of inheritance through his two sons Ephraim and Manasseh.
Joseph's faithfulness and hard work set him apart no matter what occupation he had in Egypt. What does it look like for us to be set apart in an unholy world?