The Orchard Community Church: Recent Episodes
The Orchard Community Church
Today we are continuing our vision series with a word from Pastor Chip Parker. In last week’s message, we discussed the core values of The Orchard, and how we are are looking to grow deep in spiritual formation and wide in reach. Listen in to this week’s sermon on “Lasting Impact” focused on how we can impact our region and continue to share the good news of Jesus.
As we kick off a new series today, we are excited to share the vision for The Orchard Community Church over the next few years. We are a simple church who loves God and loves people, and as we look to the future, we are expectant for all that God is going to do in our communities. Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares a message in this "Lasting Impact" series.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today we are closing out our series "The Final Word" with a message focused on how The Bible is God's word IN us. Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares about the illumination that occurs from the word of God, and how the Spirit brings the word to life for us.Throughout this series, we hope you have felt encouraged and empowered to pick up your Bible, whether it be in a more consistent manner or for the first time in a while. The Bible is God's word TO us, FOR us and IN us, and through it our faith is revealed and strengthened.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today we’re continuing our series “The Final Word” with a message from Pastor Matt Pennington. Listen in as he shares about how The Bible is God’s word for us as it serves as inspiration for believers in our relationship with God.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today we are diving into week one of our new series “The Final Word.” In this message, Pastor Chip Parker lays the foundation for this series, discussing the importance of a strong foundation and what our faith is built on. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Have you ever experienced a hard season and longed for a time in the past? Maybe you dream of the good old days, or maybe you are anxious for what the future may hold. That’s where today’s message picks up. Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares a sermon “Longing for Egypt” focused on the topic of holiness. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we finish up our series “Transformed,” Pastor Eddie Blalock continues our conversation about conversion. Are we producing fruit or just tying the fruit to our branches to mimic what a believer looks like? Listen in as we unpack the parable of the sower and how to produce fruit and sow seeds as a believer.We are continuing to pray for those who are impacted by Hurricane Helene and ask you to continue to pray with us. If you need any help, please reach out and we can provide help where we can. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today, we're continuing our series "Transformed" with a word from Pastor AJ Stevens. Listen in as he breaks down what it means to be a new creation in Christ and what this transformation looks like.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Happy Sunday! Today, we’re diving into a new series called “Transformed.” Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker unpacks the true transformation and conversion that happens in our lives as we seek Jesus, and what it means to die to oneself as we pursue God.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares a message about the importance of baptism and the act of obedience we show by being baptized.*Please note that our O Day has been rescheduled due to weather. We hope you’ll save the date and join us for O Day on Sunday, September 22, from 2-6 PM at Camp Anderson Anchored!Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: theorchardcc.org/connect
As we dive into the last week of our sermon series "Answers from Jesus," we hope that this series has been helpful and impactful to you on your faith journey. Today's message is centered around the question "Are you going to wash my feet?"Join us as Pastor Chip Parker unpacks this question and the significance of the act of washing someone's feet as it relates to our salvation and humility with The Father.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we continue our series "Answers from Jesus," today's message focuses around the question "Where do you want to eat Passover?" Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares about depending on The Lord and walking with Him daily.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Listen in as Pastor Matt Pennington explores the answers Jesus gave to the questions: "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" and "Who is my neighbor?"Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Join us today as we continue our series Answers from Jesus. This week we focus on the answer Jesus gave to the question: Which is the greatest commandment? Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Happy Sunday! Today we are diving into week 1 of a new sermon series titled “Answers from Jesus.” While we may all have questions for Jesus, we’ll be looking at different questions that Jesus answered throughout scripture and what that means for us.Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares a message focused on the question “Are you the King?” as we reflect on what it means for us not just in eternity, but in our daily lives now.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Over the last few weeks, we have enjoyed hearing from each location pastor as they taught individual sermon series. Pastor Eddie Blalock shared his series “Known” online for the past three weeks, and today he is sharing the final message that rounds out this series.Listen in as Pastor Eddie dives into Psalm 139:19-24 as David looks within himself in this section of scripture. We hope this series leaves you feeling encouraged to have a heart fully devoted to Christ.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Have you ever felt out of place or like you needed a reminder of where your identity should come from? In today's message, Pastor Eddie Blalock shares a word from Psalm 139:13-18. Listen in as he shares about identity and how we are known and loved by the creator of the universe. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we continue our location pastor series this summer, Pastor Eddie Blalock shares a word from his “Known” sermon series. Listen in as he expands on Psalm 139:7-12 and the idea that God will never leave us.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
God knows you, but do you know Him? In this 3 week sermon series, "Known," Pastor Eddie Blalock will be going through Psalm 139. So, let’s dive into this intriguing song to the Lord as we get to know the God who knows you and answer the first question, Does God really know me?Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today, we hear a stand alone message from our Live Oak Location Pastor, Matt Pennington. This message, titled "Coloring Book Christianity," warns us of the lack of understanding that we could have from stories we learned as children in Sunday School. We must learn that these stories have greater theological implications, which teach us more about God.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today we are diving in to the last week of our series "Formed by the Spirit." In this last week, we are going to look at some of the big takeaways that Paul gives the Corinthian church for the “purpose” of their giftings. Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares a word with us today!Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Without love, none of the other gifts matter. Today as we continue our "Formed by the Spirit" series, listen in to Pastor Chip as he dives in to 1 Corinthians 13, known as the love chapter, and explains the necessity of love with your spiritual gifts. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
We are all part of one body and as we need each part of the body to function, they need us, too! Today, Pastor AJ Stevens continues are sermon series "Formed by the Spirit" and discusses our need for community.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Welcome to our first week of our new series on spiritual gifts. This series, “Formed by the Spirit,” focuses on how the work of the Spirit brings unity in the local church by empowering believers for ministry. We will be reading through 1 Corinthians 12-14 over the next 4 weeks, and we encourage you to read ahead each week. Our hope for this series is that you will be encouraged and impacted, seeing the full picture of the gospel and how the local church is to be in unity with one another. Let’s dive into week 1! Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
What do we do when our faith disappoints us? Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
“Lord, Help me!” A simple prayer that we can use at any time to send a request to the Lord, and the same statement a Canaanite woman persisted to Jesus.In the second week of our series "Lessons from Her," Pastor Chip Parker expands upon the story of The Faith of a Canaanite Woman. We see how her persistence and humility helped her receive the healing she was seeking for her daughter.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Happy Mother’s Day! Today we begin a new series “Lessons From Her” where we will be exploring lessons we can learn from women in scripture over the next three weeks.Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker shares about the story of Mary and Martha, two sisters who had very different ideas about serving and worshipping Jesus. We hope you’ll leave this message feeling inspired to love and help others by eliminating distractions and seeking to pour into what matters most.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Do you ever feel like the background noise has gotten so loud you’ve lost a sense of connection with God? This week, Pastor AJ Stevens unpacks one of the “I Am” statements made in John 15: I am the vine. Listen in to find out how we can help to silence the noise in our life and focus on God. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Too often, prayer is our last resort. The well known and well used phrase, “when all else fails, pray” sounds noble, but in fact misses a very important point. Prayer should not be a last resort, but rather a first response! Prayer is not intended to be a tool designed for certain tight spots in life, but a daily habit and vital part of our spiritual formation! Effective prayer will have a believer deliberately and regularly seeking the mind of God on matters of the heart. I hope you will join me as we think about the Priority and the Posture of Prayer!Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In today's sermon, Pastor Chip Parker closes out our "Prodigal" series with a message focused on the older brother in the parable. In the story of the prodigal son, we see not just one lost son, but two. We all need grace whether we are rebellious or obedient. We can all come to the Father for that grace. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
This week of our sermon series Prodigal, Pastor Matt explains the fathers response to his son coming home and what that mean to us. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
If you have studied The Bible, you may be familiar with the parable of the prodigal son. This story offers the chance to see the Gospel from a few different angles, all of which show us a deeper depiction of God's character and His faithfulness in our lives.Listen in today as Pastor Chip Parker unpacks the first week of this series, "Prodigal," focused on forgiveness.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Happy Easter Sunday! We are honored to have you join us online this morning as we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus together!In today's online experience, Pastor Chip Parker shares a message about Doubt and Faith. Listen in as he unpacks the story of Thomas, who upon hearing of the Resurrection, had some doubts. Much like many of us in our faith journey, Thomas had questions and doubts. So, how can we starve our doubts and feed our faith? That's what we are diving into on this Easter Sunday.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Why was Jonah so upset? As we round out this series on the book of Jonah, Pastor Matt Pennington shares the message that while Jonah was glad that God showed him grace, he was upset that God also gave grace to Nineveh.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
The storm wasn't God's judgement, it was His Grace. The fish that engulfed Jonah, wasn't God's Judgement, it was His Grace. Listen in as we see that the grace of God, not the judgement of God, is whatever God uses to bring us back to Himself, out of our sin and rebellion. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Welcome back to another Sunday at The Orchard! Today we are beginning a new sermon series called "Jonah" all centered around God's unexpected grace. Join us as we take a look at Jonah's life and see how God's grace pursues us in all circumstances.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
This week, we’re going to see one last set of excuses, this time not focused on “you” or “I” but on “they”, those external obstacles that feel like they keep us from what God is calling us to.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we continue our series "Excuses," this week we learn from the excuses Moses gave to God when being sent to face Pharaoh. God continues to promise Moses that He will be with Moses everywhere he goes. God is bigger than our excuses, and if He calls us to it, He will see us through it.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Excuses. We all hear them from others from time to time, and we have probably all have used them as well. Whether it's a simple "I'm too busy" or the common "I just can't do that," our excuses can hinder us. As we begin week 1 of our new series "Excuses," we are diving into Sarah and Abraham's story and the promise God gave them for a son. Because of their circumstances, Sarah did not believe that this could be possible... But with God, all things are possible and His promises are bigger than our excuses.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Most of us grew up singing the song "Jesus loves me," but do we truly grasp the depth of that love? In today's message, Pastor Chip Parker shares about God's love, which is the fullest extent of love. Listen in as we explore the ultimate sacrifice of God sending His son to atone for our sins, and what that means for us.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
The Lord's Supper is made to be a unifying act, one that brings us together. In this last message of our series, "The Table," we examine the communal nature of communion and why it is important. Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
This morning we are diving into Week 3 of our sermon series “The Table.” As we continue to unpack the topic of The Lord’s Supper, today’s sermon is focused inward as we examine and reflect upon what it means. While we all sin and fall short, Jesus’ sacrifice and grace invites us to the communion table. Here, we are able to reflect and give thanks, with the knowledge that all is forgiven and made new because of Jesus.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we continue with week 2 of our sermon series “The Table,” we are not only remembering what Jesus has done, but also what is to come. Listen is as we explore the promise of Jesus and the marriage supper of the Lamb. When we take communion, it is a tangible reminder of what we look towards and the promises of Jesus.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is far more important than we may realize. It’s not just something we “do” at church, it’s a physical, tangible reminder of what binds us together as the Church. The Lord’s Supper is a reminder of Jesus’s death and sacrifice on the cross. It is a promise of His future return. It is an opportunity for us to examine our hearts, lives, and posture before the Lord. It is a communal experience of grace with our faith family.Today, we will see how the The Table helps us look back, and remember the sacrifice of Jesus.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Why does my joy never last?As we celebrate the Christmas season, all of us will find ourselves in different seasons. Maybe this Christmas has felt full and joyful, or perhaps this season of your life has made joy feel like a distant memory. Today we are diving into the Christmas story in Luke 2. It is here that we see that the timing of the very first Christmas was terrible... However, the circumstances didn't dictate the joy: Jesus did. Joy came in spite of everything. So, as the holidays wind down and you wonder where your joy has gone, remember that real, lasting joy is found in Jesus and Jesus alone. We hope you are encouraged in this season and find joy in the true meaning of Christmas.Thanks for joining us today! We are always here to help you answer questions, to offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Today, we revisit Galatians 3 to explore the ultimate gift: Jesus. Paul addresses the Galatians, emphasizing that their salvation isn't rooted in adherence to the Mosaic law but in the profound LOVE Jesus demonstrated on the cross.Listen to a message from our lead pastor, Chip Parker. If you have any questions, need prayer, or want to get connected, reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Jesus was neither the first nor the only person to ever die on a Roman cross. In fact, Scripture tells us that He was one of three people crucified on the same day. So what is so significant about His death?This week, as we continue with Part 2 of our series “Far as the Curse Is Found” we’ll discover why Jesus’ death on the cross is both sufficient for and necessary for our salvation.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Join us as we explore what the Scriptures tell us about HOPE during this advent season. Hope is sometimes hard to find in this world, but Paul’s letter to the churches of Galatia tell us that there is indeed HOPE, even for a world under a curse!Listen in to a message from our founding pastor, Eddie Blalock. If you have any questions, need prayer, or want to get connected, reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
We’re back with the final podcast episode of 2023!This week, Pastor Chip Parker is joined by OCC Location Pastors Eddie Blalock, AJ Stevens and Matthew Pennington for a round table of final thoughts from our vision series, “Formed.”If you have any questions about this sermon series, or about The Orchard Community Church, we would love to hear from you! Visit our website at theorchardcc.org and fill out our contact form, or send us a message on Facebook (@IAmTheOrchard) or Instagram (@theorchard.cc). Until next time!
Formed in the Potter's HouseIn a world where everything competes for the center, let's explore what it looks like to have Jesus at the core of our hearts and our church. We will learn how to be vessels shaped by the Potter, reflecting the beauty, usefulness, pliability, and power of Christ in every aspect of our lives. Join us for a message from our founding pastor, Eddie Blalock. If you have any questions, need prayer, or want to get connected, reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
What does it mean to be formed in mission?As we finish out our sermon series “Formed,” today’s podcast episode is all about being formed in mission. Our goal as a church is to be fully formed by moving Jesus to the center of our hearts and lives, but how do we tangibly do this? Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker and Pastor AJ Stevens dive into the idea of loving God and loving people, and how we can live on mission for Jesus.If you have any questions about this sermon series, or about The Orchard Community Church, we would love to hear from you! Visit our website at theorchardcc.org and fill out our contact form, or send us a message on Facebook (@IAmTheOrchard) or Instagram (@theorchard.cc). Until next time!
What does it look like to be formed in mission?As we finish out our vision casting series today, our hope is that it moves each of us to become fully formed followers of Jesus. Our mission as a church is to impact lostness, and we are a church who loves God and loves people. In today's message, Pastor Chip Parker shares more about The Orchard's mission and what that means for us. We don't just love God and love people, we love God BY loving people. We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
What does it mean to be formed in life?As we continue to unpack our vision casting series "Formed: Moving Jesus to the center of our hearts and lives," we are diving deeper into Sunday's message about being Formed in Life. Listen in as Pastor Chip Parker and Pastor AJ Stevens discuss topics like boundary markers, bearing fruit, and rhythms and routines for life.If you have any questions about this sermon series, or about The Orchard Community Church, we would love to hear from you! Visit our website at theorchardcc.org and fill out our contact form, or send us a message on Facebook (@IAmTheOrchard) or Instagram (@theorchard.cc). Until next time!
What does it look like for our lives to be transformed?Last week, we explored the idea of being formed in faith. We know that the question is not are we being changed, but rather HOW are we being changed. Today we are diving into how are lives are being transformed, what that tangibly looks like, and the impact that change can have.In this sermon series, we are focused on spiritual formation, or moving Jesus to the center of our hearts and lives. Join us today for message two of the sermon series "Formed" as Pastor Chip Parker shares about spiritual formation in life and what it looks like to truly be transformed by Jesus.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team here: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
What does it mean to be formed in faith?In today's podcast episode, Pastor Chip Parker and Pastor AJ Stevens unpack Sunday's message and dive deeper into the idea of being "Formed in Faith." If you have been with us at The Orchard for awhile, you may know that November is a special month of the year. It's a time where we reflect on our values and mission as a church, all while celebrating all that God has done over the past year. This month's sermon series "Formed" is all about moving Jesus to the center of our hearts and lives. If you have any questions about this sermon series, or about The Orchard Community Church, we would love to hear from you! Visit our website at theorchardcc.org and fill out our contact form, or send us a message on Facebook (@IAmTheOrchard) or Instagram (@theorchard.cc). Until next time!
Join us this morning for the first message in our annual vision series!In this new series, Formed, our Lead Pastor, Chip, is going to share with us his heart for spiritual formation, and its importance for our growth in our faith.Whether this is your first time, or you’re just staying connected on a Sunday you couldn’t make it to your location, we think you’ll want to lean in to this conversation.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Israel and Gaza. You’ve seen the headlines, and you have questions. This week, in a very different type of conversation, Pastor Chip walks through the history of Israel and Palestine, the dynamics of the current conflicts, and the Biblical implications for us today. It’s going to be a little longer than normal, but we think it’ll be worth your time!We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
When Winter comes some plants and animals enter states of dormancy and hibernation. For many of us, we would probably like to be able to hibernate through the Winter seasons of our lives instead of feeling the emotions often associated with difficulty and loss. Join us as we discover how God works through Winter seasons in our lives to prepare us for what He has in store for us in days to come.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Fall is widely viewed as Americans season . Whether it’s the core memories, weather changes, or your favorite flavor of coffee coming back around, fall is the majorities fan favorite. More importantly though, fall is a time to reap the benefits of the seeds you’ve sown during summer.This is also true of the fall seasons in our lives. Spend time with us this week as we navigate a biblical approach to being in a season of harvest!We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Do you ever feel like you can never catch your breath? That no matter how much you do today, that there’s always more to be done tomorrow? That even when you get a “vacation”, when you get home you’re just as tired as when you left?If so, chances are, you’re smack dab in the middle of summer. Join us this week to find out how we can partner with God during the Summer seasons of our lives!We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In creation, God ordered the world by seasons. Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter come and go each year, according to God’s divine purpose and plan. In many ways, God has ordered all of our lives by seasons as well. We all look forward, with excitement, to Spring and it’s new beginnings. Each one of us has felt the relaxation of sweet Summer-time and the rest that it brings. We’ve gathered together and enjoyed the celebration that comes with the Fall and it’s harvest, and we’ve all embraced the dark night of Winter. It’s important that we understand each of these seasons that God brings into our lives, and how He desires to use them in our lives to grow and shape us. We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
When Jesus saves us He makes us new. But not only are we made new individually we are also made new corporately. In this last message of our "Who Is the Church?" series we examine this new reality for God's people.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In one of His most famous teachings, Jesus called His followers “salt and light.” This simple illustration has big implications for the Church today, specifically how we relate to the world around us. Join us for this week’s message as we continue our series “Who is the Church?” and dig in Jesus’s words from the Sermon on the Mount. Let’s learn together what it means for us to live as “salt and light."We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
We may be foreigners and temporary residents in this world, but that doesn't mean we lack purpose. We are called to be Ambassadors. This week we will focus on what makes us ambassadors and what it means to be an ambassador for Jesus.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
"Where do you go to church?" We've all heard that question, but according to Scripture, it just doesn't make sense. The New Testament Church isn't a location, it's a people. Join us as we learn to live with an eternal perspective, confess our identity as strangers in a foreign land, and put our treasure in the foundations of the heavenly city.Let's be the Church that walks with one another through life's challenges and points to the eternal hope we have in Christ.We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
As we round out our SINsitive series, today’s message really focuses on this question,
If Jesus’ death paid the penalty of our sin and we have experienced forgiveness, then
“What is our relationship to sin?”
This week, we look at Romans 6 where Paul answers that very question by reminding us of 2 spiritual truths that have freed us from the power of sin.
“If all sins are serious, why do some sins seem worse than others?”
“Doesn’t the Bible talk about one sin being unforgivable?:”
“What happens if I have unconfessed sin in my life when I die?”
If you’ve ever wondered about any of these questions, we’re going to talk about them ALL in today’s message!
We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
It's easy to focus on the shortcomings of others while neglecting our own, isn't it? We've often placed undue emphasis on certain sins while overlooking others that may be, whether we see it or not, equally damaging.
In today’s message, we’ll see how and why we overlook seemingly “respectable” sins that the Scriptures clearly condemn, and how by refusing to excuse these often-ignored sins we can begin moving towards a stronger faith and better reflecting the beauty of Jesus in our lives.
We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
“Sin” What does that word even mean? Is it still relevant? Why does it matter?
In a world broken by sin, even understanding sin can be difficult. In this new series, we will being understanding sin through a more culturally comprehensive and biblically consistent perspective, with the goal of seeing sin the way God sees sin. This week we’ll start with building an understating of what sin is.
We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Can you win alone? 🤔 Golfers and tennis players are screaming absolutely! But, can you win alone in the kingdom? Not consistently. Why? Because without community, there's no one to share joys, love, and truths with. No one to pray for you through life's tumultuous seasons, no one to pour out kindness or receive it.
We were made for community! We're here to affirm and build each other up. Take this opportunity now to step into community. Embrace the support, love, and strength that awaits you. Let's grow together in God's desire for joyful, thankful, and prayerful lives.
We are here to help you answer questions, offer prayer, and to help you step into community. Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if faith always came in a nice tidy package? Unfortunately, more often than not God doesn’t give us the “WHY” of life’s circumstances. Why did this relationship go bad? Why did I lose my job? Why cancer now? Why doesn’t anyone like me?
In the incredibly practical book we call Proverbs, we are given many short, pithy, sayings that bring us to the treasure of God’s wisdom. These proverbs don’t always answer the “why” of life’s circumstances, but they do offer these simple alternative questions: “What do you want me to learn?” and “What do you want me to do?” The answer is life changing!
Join us for a message from our founding Pastor, Eddie Blalock. If you have any questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
During his 3rd missionary journey, Paul revisited many places from his previous journey, but this time, the focus shifted towards discipleship rather than straight evangelism. His lengthy stay in Ephesus for two years was marked by "unusual miracles," unique and unrepeatable acts of God. These miracles, such as the use of handkerchiefs and aprons, were not a formula to be replicated at will, emphasizing that God performs miracles in His own timing.
Paul's ministry also exposed the reality of the demonic, a reminder of its existence, although not a common occurrence. Attention drawn to Paul's miracles led to imitators, like the Seven Sons of Sceva, who exploited exorcism as a business venture. However, they lacked the genuine power and were defeated, stripped of their pretenses. This story reflects the danger of pursuing God solely for His benefits rather than seeking a true relationship. It warns against mere familiarity with Christian language and culture without a genuine personal connection to Jesus. Both the church and individuals can fall into the trap of valuing methods over the God who employs them.
Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In 1400 BC, as Joshua prepared to lead the Israelites into Canaan, he faced the daunting task of conquering Jericho. Little did he know that a woman, a prostitute named Rahab, would play a pivotal role in this remarkable narrative.
One particular detail stands out: the mention of a scarlet rope. This symbolic thread, known as the Scarlet Thread of Redemption, weaves its way throughout Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation. It signifies the ultimate hero of the Bible, Jesus Christ.
Uncover the significance of the red rope as it points back to Israel's deliverance from slavery during the Passover and forward to the Cross, where our own deliverance from sin was secured.
You will enjoy hearing this message from our founding Pastor, Eddie Blalock. If you have any questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In the final week of our 'Unstuck' series, we've been following Israel's journey in the book of Exodus. They were initially stuck in Egypt, enslaved by Pharaoh. But God, delivered them and led them towards the Promised Land. They faced another 'stuck' moment when trapped between mountains and the Red Sea, with Pharaoh's army chasing them. However, God miraculously parted the sea, saving Israel and destroying their pursuers.
Witnessing this incredible display of power, Israel broke out in praise, declaring the glory of God. But their journey had only just begun. Despite being freed from Egypt, they still carried remnants of their past. After three days without water, they grumbled and complained.
At Marah, where they found bitter water, they grumbled again. Moses cried out to the Lord, who showed him a tree that made the water drinkable. In this moment, God revealed His heart for His people. He provided for their needs, demonstrating His faithfulness.
Israel's journey was not only physical but also spiritual. God tested them at Marah, making a covenant with them. He promised to heal them if they obeyed His commands. God wanted Israel to learn to trust Him and His character.
God's faithfulness sustained Israel on their journey. He led them from bitterness to a place called Elim, where they found twelve springs and seventy date palms. This journey was about learning to trust God in every circumstance, relying on His faithfulness to lead them to the Promised Land.
So if you ever feel stuck, remember that sometimes we're stuck in our circumstances to grow in our faith. Trusting God and His character will carry us through. Let's learn from Israel's journey and rely on God's faithfulness to guide us.
Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
In week 4 of Unstuck, we finally see the Red Sea parted. God will do new things that the people had never seen before. God never changes, but He will change His methods to bring glory to His name and draw people to Himself.
Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
The Miracle at the Red Sea and the Miracle at the Cross teach us valuable lessons.
In Exodus 14:10-15, the Israelites were trapped and terrified as the Egyptians pursued them. But Moses urged them not to fear, to stand firm, and witness God's salvation. Today, we face a battle for our souls, trapped in sin's grip. The good news is that God has fought the battle for us at the Cross. Salvation begins by standing still, trusting in His grace. It's time to step into faith, believing in what God has done for us. Just as God granted Israel safe passage, Jesus provides us safe passage from sin. Don't stay stuck - make your decision today.
Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Since the pandemic, an intriguing trend called "Main Character energy" has been gaining momentum on social media. MCE encompasses the idea of putting oneself first, taking control of our own narrative, and desiring attention and focus. But this concept isn't new; it's something we've all exhibited at some point.
The story of the Red Sea in Exodus 14 offers an interesting perspective. While we might assume Israel or Moses were the main characters, or even that the focus was on Egypt and Pharaoh, but God Himself is the main character of the Red Sea story. The miracle of parting the sea was for Israel, but primarily about displaying God's glory to Pharaoh and Egypt.
We need to embrace the role of supporting characters in other people's stories. Instead of being the main character, let's shine the spotlight on Jesus, the true main character of our lives.
Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
Do you ever feel like you are stuck? Maybe your spiritual life is stuck, just not going anywhere! Maybe you feel like you are stuck in a bad relationship, going nowhere! The good news is that God is very aware of where you are and often moves most powerfully in your life when you feel stuck. God wants us to get to “Unstuck,” but only after He has taught us the lessons, He deems necessary for our growth and development. Come along with us as we take a 5 week look into one of Israel’s incredible miracles of deliverance.Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
There's a battle for the next generation, and we need to step up and win it together! Last week, we emphasized the importance of living out and discussing our faith with our kids. These powerful tools, drawn from Paul's instructions to Timothy, are not just for parents but for every believer. The fight for the next generation belongs to the entire church!As we conclude this series, let's focus on two crucial tools that the local church possesses: commissioning and community. In 1 Timothy 4:14, Paul highlights the significance of Timothy's commissioning by the council of elders. They affirmed his calling to ministry, providing him with the vital support and encouragement he needed. We must follow this example and affirm the gifts, ministry, and leadership of young people in our church today.It's time to commission the next generation and stand shoulder to shoulder with them. We can't afford to lose any more time; our kids are growing up fast. Let's live out our faith, talk about it, and do it together. Time is precious, so let's make every moment count! 🙌🌟 Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect#NextGenBattle #CommissioningAndCommunity #TogetherWeWin
Christianity in America will rise or fall based on how well we pass the faith on to the next generation. We are losing ground, not just with outsiders, but in our own homes. We must turn the tide.Passing the faith on to the next generation is not an assignment for a select few, it is not even a task solely for those raising them. Passing the faith on to the next generation is mission critical for every follower of Jesus.As we start this series, we will focus on Paul’s letter to Timothy and see how we can begin effectively passing our faith on to the next generation.Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect
This week’s message might be considered an appendix to the series we just finished “Scars on the Soul: Overcoming some of life’s biggest struggles.”We know that when we struggle with anxiety, depression, and addictions, we find ourselves in a very dark place. None of us particularly like the dark and quite frankly, we are sometimes afraid of the dark.This week we will see that God is not afraid of the dark and we can have the peace of His presence, even indark places!Do you have questions, need prayer, or want to get connected? Reach out to our team: https://theorchardcc.org/connect