First Assembly of God Freehold: Recent Episodes
First Assembly
This is the place to check out Sunday sermons & weekly podcast discussions from First Assembly Freehold! Christian church based in Monmouth County, NJ. Reaching out to all with the hope and healing of Jesus Christ. Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram!
9.28.25 | Joshua 3
How Do I Take The First Step?
Stepping out in faith isn’t always easy—but it’s where miracles begin. This week, we’ll look at what it means to move forward even when the path isn’t clear, trusting God to meet us as we go.
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9.21.25 | Joshua 2
Am I Too Far Gone For God?
Can someone like me be accepted by God? Rahab’s story proves that no past is too dark for God’s grace. This week is about unexpected faith, simple trust, and the welcome God extends to every heart that turns to Him.
9.14.25 | Joshua 1:9
What Do I Do When I’m Afraid?
Fear and uncertainty don’t disqualify us—they’re often where God begins. In Joshua 1, we’ll see how God meets His people with a call to courage, reminding us that His presence is what makes us strong.
9.7.25 | Romans 12:2
How faithful are we to God and His Gospel?
Sometimes it is tough to do so and we end up looking more like the world than we do Jesus.
Romans 12:2 says , “So not be conformed to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Let’s be transformed by remaining faithful to God and His Gospel and practicing solitude - being in His presence!
8.24.25 | Romans 12:18
This week in our Summer Reflections, Pastor Bonnie dives into Romans 12:18 and reflects on what it truly means to live IN PEACE with everyone by allowing the Holy Spirit to use our disappointment in others as motivation to BE the change that we want to see in the Church!
8.17.25 | Romans 8:26-27
Prayer isn’t about having perfect words—it’s about connecting with the Spirit of God. Pastor Matt teaches on how to pray when you don’t know what to say, including praying in the Spirit, using the Psalms, and letting worship fuel intercession. Whether you’re new to prayer or needing a fresh spark, this message will deepen your walk and lift your voice.
8.10.25 | Nehemiah 8:10
This week, Pastor Matt reminds us that joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a weapon. In seasons of weariness or discouragement, the joy of the Lord gives us strength to endure, overcome, and move forward. When our joy is rooted in God’s presence and promises, it can’t be shaken.
8.3.25 | 2 Corinthians 5:17
This Sunday, we welcomed the Walter Hoving Home Choir as they led us in worship and shared powerful testimonies of God’s healing and restoration.
Walter Hoving Home is a Christ-centered addiction recovery program for women, offering hope and transformation to those overcoming substance abuse and other life-controlling issues. Through biblical discipleship, structure, and spiritual renewal, the Hoving Home helps women rebuild their lives on the foundation of God’s love and truth.
7.27.25 | Isaiah 43:15-21 + Psalm 27:13-14
Pastor Emily shares a faith-filled message from Isaiah 43 and Psalm 27, reminding us that even when we can’t see it yet—God is already at work. In the midst of waiting, hoping, or questioning, He’s preparing a new way forward. The challenge? To see with eyes of faith and trust that God’s promises still stand.
7.20.25 | 1 Samuel 24, 30 + 2 Samuel 9
This week, Pastor Bonnie shares a powerful message on leaving a godly legacy, drawing from the life of David in 1 Samuel 24 & 30 and 2 Samuel 9. Through loyalty, compassion, and faithfulness, we’re reminded that the choices we make today shape the legacy we leave tomorrow. It’s not about fame—but about faith, love, and obedience that impacts generations.
7.13.25 | Exodus 35:5, 36:7
This Sunday, we welcome Pastor Brian Campbell from FireBible, a global ministry equipping leaders with Spirit-filled study Bibles in their heart language. Pastor Brian encourages us to live generously and invest in God’s Kingdom beyond our walls.
Together, we gave toward the FireBible project—fueling Bible translation and discipleship around the world.
7.6.25 | John 20:19-29
Doubt is normal. We all have moments where we have questions or are struggling to gain clarity regarding our faith. But Jesus isn’t afraid of those questions - and neither should we.
Our Guest Speaker, Carl Nalbandian, walks us through John 20 and the story of Thomas - Jesus gave to Thomas the answer he asked for, and Thomas went from doubting to proclaiming that Jesus was God. We also can bring our questions to Jesus, and our faith can be strengthened and deepened, even if our clarity doesn’t come right away.
6.29.25 | John 13:1-17
We don’t just attend - we serve. Every person has God-given gifts that grow the church and impact the world when we put them to work.
6.22.25 | 1 Corinthians 9:19-23; Acts 17:16-34
God’s truth never changes, but our world does. We communicate the timeless message of Jesus in ways that speak to people today.
6.15.25 | Matthew 28:19-20; Colossians 1:28; Ephesians 4:11-16
Discipleship isn’t accidental. We grow by taking next steps — becoming more like Jesus and helping others do the same.
6.8.25 | Acts 1:8; Romans 8:14; Galatians 5:25
We don’t move on our own — we follow the Holy Spirit. His power leads, equips, and sends is where we are meant to go.
6.1.25 | Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:4
Faith is not just for us - it’s for those who come after us. We invest in the next generation by building faith in students and equipping parents to lead at home.
5.25.25 | Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:4-8
The mission isn’t optional — it’s the heartbeat of God. We are called to reach the world through prayer, giving, and going.
5.18.25 | 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:105
The Bible is our guide for life. In a noisy world, we return to God’s Word as our foundation for truth, wisdom, and direction.
5.11.25 | Colossians 1:15-23
Jesus is the center of everything. We begin by anchoring ourselves in the truth that knowing Christ and making Him known is our ultimate purpose.
05/04/2025 | Celebrating the Past, Building the Future
God has been so faithful to First Assembly—and the story isn’t finished yet! On Vision Sunday, we celebrate the incredible legacy that has been built over decades of ministry, and we look ahead to all that God is calling us to next.
Today we launch our new Vision Statement at First Assembly:
Connect to God. Love Others. Reach the World.
—along with our eight Core Values that will guide everything we do.
We believe the harvest is still plentiful, and God is still moving! Together, we’re building His Kingdom, reaching our community, and stepping boldly into the future He has prepared for us. Join us for this exciting day of celebration, vision, and commissioning as we carry the torch forward for generations to come.
4.27.25 | John 21:1-25
Failure isn’t final. Jesus meets us in our worst moments—not to condemn, but to restore. Join us this Sunday as we talk about redemption, grace, and the power of a second chance.
4.20.25 | Matthew 28:1-10
Jesus is alive—and that changes everything. Join us this Easter Sunday as we celebrate the resurrection of hope, healing, and new life. You’re invited!
4.13.25 | Matthew 27:11-26
Our biggest regrets aren’t the things we couldn’t control—they’re the choices we made when we should’ve known better. Pilate had power but still made the wrong decision. This Sunday, we’re talking about regret, redemption, and the choice you still have today.
4.6.25 | Matthew 26:6-16
What do you do when life feels unfair? Some take control. Others run. But one woman chose to worship in the darkness. Join us this Sunday as we continue From Darkness to Dawn.
3.30.25 | Matthew 20:17-28
Jesus had all authority—yet chose to serve. As we begin our Easter series, discover why true strength in God’s Kingdom looks like surrender, and how Jesus’ suffering wasn’t just an example… it was the way He saved us.
3.16.25 | Acts 8:30-40
The Gospel is too good to keep to ourselves! In Acts 8, Philip didn’t just step out and speak up—he shared the truth about Jesus. As believers, we are called to do the same. This week, we’ll discover how to confidently own the Gospel message, name-drop Jesus in everyday conversations, and invite others to take their next step in faith. Will you share the truth?
3.9.25 | Acts 8:29-35
God calls us to speak up - testifying to what we’ve seen, heard, and experienced about Jesus. In Acts 8, Philip stopped and had a conversation with the Ethiopian official when he overheard him reading from the book of Isaiah. Being invited to help the official understand what was being read, Phillip had the opportunity to speak up and simply talk about what he knew about Christ.
This week, we’ll explore what it means to speak up by initiating spiritual conversions, engaging people who are different from us, developing tact and relationships, and by guiding people closer to Christ.
3.2.25 | Acts 8:25-40
God calls us to step out in faith, even when it feels uncomfortable. In Acts 8, Philip followed the Holy Spirit’s leading to approach the Ethiopian official—trusting that God was already at work, even without knowing the outcome. This week, we’ll explore what it means to step out by following God’s calling over our comfort, breaking the routine, and stepping into what He is already doing.
2.23.25 | 1 Samuel 17:17-50
God can do the impossible when we live out our faith - not from our head, but from our heart. As Pastor Bonnie walks us through the story of David and Goliath, we see how David put his “heart” faith into action - and how we can follow in his example.
2.16.25 | 2 Corinthians 8-9
Generosity isn’t just about giving—it’s about sharing in something greater than yourself. This message will challenge us to go beyond the baseline of tithing and embrace a lifestyle of generosity, sharing in God’s work, character, blessings, and family. When we live generously, we reflect Jesus, experience joy, and participate in God's mission in a powerful way.
2.9.25 | Matthew 6:21
Tithing isn’t just about money—it’s about trust. In this message, we’ll explore how tithing reveals our heart, shapes our heart, and follows God’s pattern for His people. When we put God first in our finances, we acknowledge His Lordship, trust in His provision, and participate in His Kingdom work.
2.2.25 | 1 Samuel 15: 17-24; 2 Samuel 12:7-13
Failure is inevitable—but how you respond to it determines your future. In this final message of Flightpath, we’ll look at the lives of King Saul and King David. Both were chosen by God, both made mistakes, but only one course corrected.
Will failure make you rigid and resistant like Saul, or moldable and teachable like David? Discover how small adjustments, a teachable spirit, and faithfulness in the little things can keep you aligned with God’s purpose.
1.19.25 | John 15:1-5
As we move forward on our FLIGHT PATH, we must stay connected to Christ. Being disconnected from Christ can bring devastating consequences. But when we stay connected to Christ, staying connected to mission control, spending time abiding with him, he will bring us significance, satisfaction, and stability.
But how can we stay connected? Through abiding in him, inviting God into the everyday moments, and being in Christian community.
1.12.25 | Jeremiah 17:10
As Pastor Matt kicks off a new series, FLIGHT PATH, we’re talking about how our decisions today determine our direction tomorrow. As we look at where we are today, evaluating/examining ourselves can be uncomfortable - but is needed to move forward in life.
1.5.25 | 1 Corinthians 9:24
What is God’s dream for your future? Maybe you have some dreams. Maybe you don’t. But in order to get to God’s dreams, we must run the race in order to get to the prize as the Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:24.
To run the race, it requires humility, perseverance, and keeping God as the center so that we can get to our prize, Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of our life.
12.29.24 | 1 Kings 19:1-13
In between Christmas and New Years, we tend to reflect on the past year as we head into the future. As we reflect on the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19, we’re reminded of that trials will come after victories, and although we may respond as humans, because we are, we’re reminded that we serve a supernatural God. Regardless of the voices we’re surrounded by in the midst of our trials, we need to focus on God’s voice. His voice will reassure us, restore us, bring peace to us, and will guide us through our trial into our next victory.
12/01/24 | Isaiah 26:1-4
As we enter the Christmas season, it's essential to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the peace that Jesus brings. While money, success, and happiness are common desires, they don't offer lasting peace. True peace is found in the presence of God. By fixing our thoughts on Him, speaking truth to our hearts, and calling out to Christ, we can experience the perfect peace that surpasses all understanding.
11/24/24 | Matthew 20:25-26
We are excited to welcome Pastor Frank Reitzel, the New Jersey Ministry Network Executive Secretary for the Assemblies of God, as our guest speaker. Pastor Frank shares an inspiring message on how Jesus calls us to live differently. Because the Holy Spirit lives in us and the Bible is our guide, our lives are meant to stand out. Using powerful examples of leadership from Scripture—both positive and negative—he challenges us to pray for our nation’s leaders, develop godly leadership within the church, and live lives that influence others for Christ.
11/17/24 | 1 Corinthians 14
What is speaking in tongues? This biblical gift has often been misunderstood due to varying interpretations and occasional misuse. Pastor Matt explains what Scripture teaches about speaking in tongues, focusing on 1 Corinthians 14. He clarifies the difference between private tongues, which edify the individual, and public tongues, which build up the church. The message emphasizes the importance of order in worship, evaluating spiritual gifts by Scripture, and seeking the Spirit’s guidance for personal and corporate edification.
11/3/24 | 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Spiritual gifts are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the common good. These gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, and prophecy, are meant to glorify Jesus and guide us in our spiritual journey. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 12, emphasizes the importance of being Spirit-led rather than just spiritual. The Assemblies of God, rooted in the Pentecostal movement, values these gifts and their role in the church. Applying these gifts in daily life helps us serve others and glorify God.
11/10/24 | Matthew 8:14-17
Divine healing is a wonderful privilege of having faith in Jesus. When it comes to a theology of healing, we must remember that Jesus is the healer. His miracles serve as signposts pointing to His authority and power to save. Healing can be physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, or social, and can occur immediately or gradually. Trusting in God's timing and faithfulness is key, even when healing doesn't come as expected. Ultimately, all earthly healing is temporary, pointing us to the ultimate, eternal healing found in Jesus Christ.
10/20/24 | Matthew 7:1-12
Pastor Matt explores Jesus' teachings on judgment from the Sermon on the Mount. He addresses common misconceptions about Christians being judgmental and hypocritical. Jesus' words in Matthew 7:1-5 emphasize self-examination before judging others. The sermon contrasts worldly judgment with kingdom discernment, urging believers to offer counsel instead of criticism and to assume the best in others. Practical steps include self-inspection, offering constructive counsel, and practicing generous judgment.
10/13/24 | Matthew 6:21-34
Anxiety is a prevalent issue in today's society, but Jesus' teachings offer timeless wisdom on how to manage and overcome it. By shifting our focus to God's kingdom and His righteousness, we can find peace and freedom from inner turmoil. Jesus reminds us that worrying adds nothing to our lives and encourages us to seek God's ways over our worries. Prioritizing God's mission and values helps us trust that He will provide for our needs.
10/06/24 | Matthew 6:1-13
Jesus wants us to move beyond surface-level prayers and dive deeper into a genuine relationship with God. Jesus shows us that prayer is not just about asking for things, but about aligning with God's will and experiencing His Kingdom Life. Pastor Matt encourages believers to use the Lord's Prayer as a guide to deepen their connection with God, emphasizing that prayer is as essential as breathing for a vibrant spiritual life.
09/29/24 | Matthew 5:38-48
Loving your enemies—can we really do that today? It feels upside-down, but throughout history, Christians have been known for this radical love. Jesus teaches us to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively, to pray for our enemies, and to show compassion, all while trusting in God's perfect plan.
09/15/24 | What does it mean to live a truly blessed life? In American culture, the "good life" often means independence, self-sufficiency, and personal privacy. We pride ourselves on being self-made and not needing help from others. However, Jesus presents a radically different view in the Beatitudes. He redefines who is truly blessed and what it means to live a good life with God.
09/08/24 | In Week 1, we explore what it means to live as Kingdom People in a world that often prioritizes self-fulfillment and worldly success. We focus on Jesus’ call to His first disciples and the transformative power of the Gospel, with an invitation to live authentically in faith and share the Kingdom of God with others.
07/21/24 | Tests prove who we are, show what we know, and help us grow. You can overcome times of testing with resurrection faith.
07/14/24 | How do you react when you’re hurt? In our pain, God pursues, provides, prescribes, and promises. When conflict hurts, learn to come to Christ with your pain.
06/09/24 | There are times when believers must stand up for what’s right. Rather than battling the way the world does, we must battle according to God’s Way.
05/26/24 | Our human ways often hurt others. When faced with uncertainty, let God be your guide.
05/19/24 | When we walk in obedience, God confirms His call. When we say “Yes” to God’s call, He brings blessings to us and through us.
05/12/24 | Happy Mother’s Day! Pastor Bonnie shares about several people who have been Spiritual Mothers in her own personal life. She talks about the importance of both having spiritual role models, as well as being a spiritual role model for those around us. We need the family of faith!
4/21/24 | As Pastor Jeff preaches his last sermon as the Lead Pastor of First Assembly, he reminds us how the best days are ahead for our church.
4/14/24 | Through transition, our purpose as a church will not waver. Our purpose is to know Christ and make Him known.
4/7/24 | We all go through transitions in life, but we don’t have to go through them without a plan. There’s a biblical strategy to successfully navigate life’s transitions.
03/31/24 | Today we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus and the boundless hope that He has given us because of His victory of death, sin, Hell, and the grave! Thank you, Jesus!!
03/24/24 | If you were taught to believe in a personal God who is all-knowing and all powerful, how can you not turn your frustration on him when life gets difficult?
03/17/24 | In the Easter story, Judas tried to get Jesus to do what he wanted, without regard for Jesus’ ministry and mission. That may seem ridiculous, but there’s a little Judas in all of us.
03/10/24 | In the days and weeks preceding the first Easter, the high priest Caiaphas stood in the presence of Jesus, the Savior of the world. But he refused to abandon his quest for control and surrender to his Creator. It's easy to dismiss Caiaphas as a fool, but what have we put in the place of God?
03/03/24 | We’re excited to have the National Director of Speed the Light, Eric Hoffman, with us this morning for our Missions Convention! Eric challenges us to live for the cause of Christ in everything we do, which includes giving generously above and beyond to the cause of missions.
02/28/24 | Today is a very unique Sunday, where we hear a special announcement from Pastor Jeff.Connect with us!https://freeholdag.com/connect Stay Connected:Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/freeholdagInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/freehold_ag/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu4D...Website | https://freeholdag.com/Giving | https://www.freeholdag.com/give
02/18/24 | Feeling tired, worn out or dry? In Week 3, Pastor Matt shows how God is not interested in replacing, escaping, or pretending in our walk with Him: He wants to Renew our spirit and our strength. When we Remember and Remain in Jesus, we will experience the refreshing power that comes from Christ.
02/11/24 | In Week 2, Pastor Jeff talks about how we are to Remain in Christ. Jesus says that He is the vine, and we are the branches. Pastor Jeff’s advice to all of us is: “Just be a branch!” From the branch we receive life, purpose, and fullness.
02/04/24 | In Week 1, Pastor Jeff talks about the importance of Remembering both Jesus’ sacrifice, as well as His work in each of our personal lives, to fill us with faith for what we’re facing today.
01/28/24 | In Week 3, Pastor Matt reminds us through the story of Jonah that God is more interested in our character than our comfort, and that often God’s greatest blessings come out of His greatest breakings.
01/21/24 | In Week 2, Pastor Jeff talks about stillness before God so that we can effectively hear His voice. The only thing more dangerous than praying this prayer is not praying it!
01/14/24 | In Week 1, Pastor Jeff reads from the Book of Acts and talks about how boldness is not a personality trait, but a quality that the Holy Spirit empowers us with when we intentionally live for His mission.
01/07/24 | We’re excited to have our guest speaker, Rev. Ston George with us this first Sunday Morning of the New Year! He shares from his own personal testimony, and then talks about how we now have access to the personal presence of God through what Jesus has done. We are no longer separated by religion, rites, or anything else - it's simply our personal sin that we must continually confess to Christ in order to experience fullness and intimacy with Him!
12/31/23 | How can we pass on faith to our families, friends, and loved ones? More than any material thing we can leave behind, the legacy of faith in Jesus is the greatest thing we can pass on. Looking at the life of Abraham, we see that authenticity, intentionality, and praying scripture are key principles to help our loved ones own their faith in God.
12/24/23 | Pastor Jeff talks about how the names of the Messiah in Isaiah 9:6 describe the character qualities of Jesus, and inform our relationship to God. He is our Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
12/17/23 | In Week 3, Pastor Matt looks at the life of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. Reminding us that the Bible works like a mirror, we learn that Joseph’s life of action is meant to be reflected in our own lives, no matter what age or life circumstance we find ourselves in.
12/10/23 | In Week 2, Pastor Jeff looks at Mary’s story and her response to the angel’s message. Mary was “highly favored” and “chosen by God,” and how her stable characteristics of passion and purpose are examples for us to follow as God wants to work in our lives.
12/03/23 | In Week 1, Pastor Jeff highlights the story of Elizabeth, and how her relationship with God and with her husband is a stable example for us today. God can always re-enlist us no matter our situation. We are stable to bless others, and to see the working of the Holy Spirit.
11/26/23 | Gratitude is not merely just a response, but a transformative perspective. As we survey scripture in this series, we’ll see how gratitude is an essential attitude for members of Christ’s Kingdom.
In Week 3, we see how Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life that Jesus promises us. Reading about ten lepers who were miraculously healed by Jesus, we learn that in order to live the divine life, we need to “find the fibs” and “replace with grace.”
11/19/23 | Gratitude is not merely just a response, but a transformative perspective. As we survey scripture in this series, we’ll see how gratitude is an essential attitude for members of Christ’s Kingdom.
In Week 2, we learn how “Grumbling” is the nemesis of Gratitude. Just like the Israelites grumbled in the wilderness, we tend to focus on the negative. Pastor Jeff shares how to be different.
11/12/23 | Gratitude is not merely just a response, but a transformative perspective. As we survey scripture in this series, we’ll see how gratitude is an essential attitude for members of Christ’s Kingdom.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff defines gratitude, and shows from the Book of Genesis how Noah’s attitude after the Flood is an example for us. Scripture instructs us to be thankful not for all circumstances, but in all circumstances.
11/05/23 | We’re thrilled to have Evangelist Rev. Greg Hubbard with us for our Spiritual Emphasis Weekend! Greg talks about how God wants to work in our lives, just like He worked in the heart of a Pharisee named Nicodemus. In John 3, John 7, and John 19, we see God work in Nicodemus’ life.
1) A Searching Nicodemus (John 3)
2) A Stirred Nicodemus (John 7)
3) A Surrendered Nicodemus (John 19)
When we are searching for God, sense God stirring us, God is giving us the opportunity to respond do Him! Don’t delay or wait until another day, God’s desire is to save us and make us whole in Him. This is only through the power and person of Jesus Christ and His work on the cross to save YOU from your sin! Thank you Lord!
10/29/23 | Our church home is a unique place of prayer, place of outreach, place of miracles, place of vision, place of redemption, and so much more. No matter where you’ve been or where you're headed, we’ve got a seat for you at the table, and you’re right on time. Welcome Home.
Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing pottery by mending broken pieces with a golden lacquer. The result is a beautiful work of art that is more valuable than the original piece of pottery by itself. In Week 5, Pastor Jeff talks about God’s similar redemptive work in our lives. He reads from Jesus’ longest conversation recorded in scripture: John 4, the Woman at the Well. God can take our brokenness, our past, and our sin, and redeem it for His purposes.
1) Jesus breaks down barriers
2) His story is prophecy
3) Jesus offers life
4) He confronts our past
5) He turns pain into purpose
10/22/23 | Our church home is a unique place of prayer, place of outreach, place of miracles, place of vision, place of redemption, and so much more. No matter where you’ve been or where you're headed, we’ve got a seat for you at the table, and you’re right on time. Welcome Home.
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff talks about how God gives us divine dreams, or goals/vision, for our lives! Jesus’ “dream” of spreading the gospel from twelve original disciples seemed impossible, yet when it’s from God, anything is possible. Pastor Jeff also acknowledges this reality: “What do you do when your dreams are shattered?” We see from the scripture in Joshua 7 that God restores broken dreams, even when they are broken because of our own disobedience. No matter who you are, God can restore new vision and dreams to you if you place your life in His hands!
10/08/23 | Our church home is a unique place of prayer, place of outreach, place of miracles, place of vision, place of redemption, and so much more. No matter where you’ve been or where you're headed, we’ve got a seat for you at the table, and you’re right on time. Welcome Home.
In Week 2, Pastor Jeff & Pastor Matt team-teach the message, sharing about how our church is a House of Outreach. While there are many functions and responsibilities to the Church, the main purpose of the Church is to fulfill The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Reading from Acts 13, we see that the first missionary movement was birthed from the Local Church.
1) The Church is the Incubator for Missions
2) The Holy Spirit is the Initiator of Missions
3) Believers are Investors in Missions: Prayer, Pockets, Participation
Think Globally, Act Locally.
10/01/23 | Our church home is a unique place of prayer, place of outreach, place of miracles, place of vision, place of redemption, and so much more. No matter where you’ve been or where you're headed, we’ve got a seat for you at the table, and you’re right on time. Welcome Home.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff reads Mark 11 when Jesus enters the Temple in Jerusalem, where he quotes the prophet Isaiah saying, “‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.” (Mark 11:17). Pastor Jeff challenges us to do our own, “Temple Inventory,” and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us.
09/24/23 | When you overfill your coffee cup the result is a sticky mess, or a nasty burn, yet we often live our lives this way! In this 4-week series, we look to the Scripture for God’s design on how to live life with room. That could be having money left over at the end of the month, a night of the week when there’s nothing going on, or it could even be the distance between you and temptation.
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff surveys the scriptures on how we can live with room in our finances. Specifically, we trace the biblical principle of tithing throughout the Bible and what that means for us today. Knowing that God is the source of all our resources, we are stewards of God’s property, our most important investments are heavenly, and that we trust God to provide for all our needs, as Christians we have an attitude of gratitude, faithfulness, vision, and faith. Surveying scripture for the tithe, we see:
Abraham Commenced it (Genesis 14:20)
Jacob Continued it (Genesis 28:22)
Moses Commanded it (Leviticus 27:30)
Malachi Confirmed it (Malachi 3:10)
Jesus Commended it (Matthew 23:23)
God’s blessings don’t consume more room, they create more room!
09/17/23 | When you overfill your coffee cup the result is a sticky mess, or a nasty burn, yet we often live our lives this way! In this 4-week series, we look to the Scripture for God’s design on how to live life with room. That could be having money left over at the end of the month, a night of the week when there’s nothing going on, or it could even be the distance between you and temptation.
In Week 3, Pastor Jeff reads from James 1 about how we are to put “room” between us and temptation. We do not want the “hook” of the enemy to overtake us. How do I put room between me and temptation?
1) Be realistic
2) Accept responsibility
3) Be ready —
(Be ready) Step 1: Desire
(Be ready) Step 2: Deception
(Be ready) Step 3: Disobedience
(Be ready) Step 4: Death
4) Refocus
08/27/23 | “Be still and know that I am God,” (Psalm 46:10). In this summer series, we’ll hear from each of our pastors on staff in what God has been speaking to them recently in their lives.
In Week 7, Pastor Matt shares about his missions trip to the Navajo Nation in Arizona. While many people may feel overlooked by God, Pastor Matt shares from 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 how God is the God of the Underdog.
07/09/23 | We have RULES for everything. There are rules of the road, rules for the games we play, rule of law. Spiritually speaking, a RULE OF LIFE consists of core values, core beliefs, and core practices. It’s a CODE OF CONDUCT—rituals and routines, decisions and disciplines—by which we live our lives.
07/02/23 | We have RULES for everything. There are rules of the road, rules for the games we play, rule of law. Spiritually speaking, a RULE OF LIFE consists of core values, core beliefs, and core practices. It’s a CODE OF CONDUCT—rituals and routines, decisions and disciplines—by which we live our lives.
How does one become an enemy of God? James writes: "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble," (James 4:6). In Week 5 "Rule of Humility," Pastor Matt shows that PRIDE, or being full of self, is what makes us an enemy of God. Yet God will generously give grace to those who admit their need for Him. As C.S. Lewis writes, “True humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.” Reading from James chapter 4, we see that:
False Humility is:
1) Thinking Less of Yourself
2) Talking More of Yourself
True Humility is:
1) SERVICE: Thinking of Others More
2) WORSHIP: Thinking More of God
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6/25/23 || We have RULES for everything. There are rules of the road, rules for the games we play, rule of law. Spiritually speaking, a RULE OF LIFE consists of core values, core beliefs, and core practices. It’s a CODE OF CONDUCT—rituals and routines, decisions and disciplines—by which we live our lives.
6/11/23 || We have RULES for everything. There are rules of the road, rules for the games we play, rule of law. Spiritually speaking, a RULE OF LIFE consists of core values, core beliefs, and core practices. It’s a CODE OF CONDUCT—rituals and routines, decisions and disciplines—by which we live our lives.
06/04/23 | We have RULES for everything. There are rules of the road, rules for the games we play, rule of law. Spiritually speaking, a RULE OF LIFE consists of core values, core beliefs, and core practices. It’s a CODE OF CONDUCT—rituals and routines, decisions and disciplines—by which we live our lives.
In Week 1, Pastor Matt explores the “Rule of Joy.” The Christian life promises us peace, freedom, and joy even when we go through difficult times, although it seems like so few of us actually experience it. Starting the series off in James 1:1-4, we see that God is the source of joy, not perfect circumstances, and that even though we may not choose our trials, joy is a choice that we can make. Following James’ advice in his letter, to have joy in a trial:
1) Look in the mirror (James 1:3)
2) Choose Your Transformation (James 1:3-4; 1 Peter 1:7; John 16:33)
3) Ask for Wisdom (James 1:5)
4) Have a Divine Perspective (Philippians 2:12-13; Romans 5:1-5)
05/14/23 | This Mother’s Day, we’re honored to have with us our missionary guest, Missionary Wendy Wright.
05/07/23 | If Jesus was editing your life, What Would Jesus Undo? We tie ourselves in knots going through the motions to meet the world’s expectations. But we weren’t created for that. Whether you’re struggling to find a new start or looking for a place to grow, it’s time to get real about who you’re meant to be.
04/30/23 | If Jesus was editing your life, What Would Jesus Undo? We tie ourselves in knots going through the motions to meet the world’s expectations. But we weren’t created for that. Whether you’re struggling to find a new start or looking for a place to grow, it’s time to get real about who you’re meant to be.In Week 3, Pastor Jeff & Pastor Matt tag team the message and talk about how Jesus would undo "hypocrisy.” Reading from Jesus’ words in Matthew 23, we see that Jesus’ harshest words in all of scripture were towards hypocrites. While we understand that no one is perfect, we see that there is a difference between sin and hypocrisy; hypocrisy is about the gap between what we show and who we are. In other words, hypocrisy is all about “the show.” Jesus was so critical of this because hypocrisy hurts people and fakes faithfulness.Yet even though Jesus has harsh words, He also offers hope for the hypocrite! He has unlimited grace for a sinner in need of forgiveness.1) Let Jesus wash the inside (Matt. 23:26)2) Be honest with God (Proverbs 28:13)3) Commit to Grow (Psalm 139:23-24)Connect with us!https://freeholdag.com/connect Stay Connected:Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/freeholdagInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/freehold_ag/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu4D...Website | https://freeholdag.com/Giving | https://www.freeholdag.com/give
02/26/23 | How do we find the courage to step up when God calls us to do so? The Book of Esther serves as our guide in this series as we study the different characters in the story, how God was at work behind the scenes, and how each player in the story found the courage to step up and step out as God called them to.
02/19/23 | How do we find the courage to step up when God calls us to do so? The Book of Esther serves as our guide in this series as we study the different characters in the story, how God was at work behind the scenes, and how each player in the story found the courage to step up and step out as God called them to.
02/12/23 | How do we find the courage to step up when God calls us to do so? The Book of Esther serves as our guide in this series as we study the different characters in the story, how God was at work behind the scenes, and how each player in the story found the courage to step up and step out as God called them to.
02/05/23 | How do we find the courage to step up when God calls us to do so? The Book of Esther serves as our guide in this series as we study the different characters in the story, how God was at work behind the scenes, and how each player in the story found the courage to step up and step out as God called them to.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff talks about the Courage of Conviction. A “conviction” is a firmly held belief or opinion. “Conscience” is an inner feeling or voice viewed as an acting guide to the rightness or wrongness of one’s behavior. Courage is the place where conviction meets passion. Starting right in Esther 1:12, we see Queen Vashti stand with courage:
1) Vashti lived according to her conscience.
2) Vashti refused to compromise her convictions.
01/29/23 | Pastor Bonnie shares from the Word of God what God has placed on her heart. Reading from 2 Corinthians 3:18, and using object lessons and some powerful stories, Pastor Bonnie challenges us to “Be a Reflector” of the presence of God. Just as in photography, a reflector is something that reduces shadows. In this world, Pastor Bonnie shows how we are to do this:
1) Live
2) Love
3) Let it go
01/08/23 | Pastor Jeff dives into the life of Joseph, but probably not the one you’re thinking of. In the New Testament, we are introduced to Joseph who was also known Barnabas, meaning “Son of Encouragement”, so named for his personality and presence among the Early Church. Pastor Jeff unpacks what we know of Barnabas from scripture, and challenges us to grow relationally this New Year to be like Barnabas:
1) Generous
2) Optimistic
3) Open-Minded
12/18/22 | The Christmas story didn’t begin with shepherds watching over their flocks, wise men following a star, and a young couple that couldn’t find a place to have their baby. It began much earlier than that, and it was more epic than anyone could have imagined.
The Christmas story didn’t begin with shepherds watching over their flocks, wise men following a star, and a young couple that couldn’t find a place to have their baby. It began much earlier than that, and it was more epic than anyone could have imagined.
The Christmas story didn’t begin with shepherds watching over their flocks, wise men following a
star, and a young couple that couldn’t find a place to have their baby. It began much earlier than that,
and it was more epic than anyone could have imagined.
11/27/22 | Pastor Jeff reads the powerful words of Paul found in his letter to the Philippian church about living in the power of the resurrection of Christ. Living within this power is a lifelong pursuit, and Pastor Jeff challenges each of us to look at our lives and grow to the next level in our walk with the Lord.
11/20/22 | “Thanksgiving” is defined as the ability to give thanks to God. It’s an essential spiritual attribute that is all too absent from our society and our personal lives. This series is all about three “thieves” that can steal thanksgiving from our lives.
Today we will begin by looking at the Third Thief - Bitterness.
Pastor Jeff unpacks the story of Esther, and takes a special look at the villain named Haman. Considering the biblical history around this character, Pastor Jeff shows how Haman’s hatred of the Jews was rooted in bitterness & unforgiveness that he allowed to take root in his life. Pastor Jeff talks about:
1) The Root of Haman’s Bitterness
2) The Consequence of Haman’s Bitterness
3) Freedom from Bitterness
11/13/22 | “Thanksgiving” is defined as the ability to give thanks to God. It’s an essential spiritual attribute that is all too absent from our society and our personal lives. This series is all about three “thieves” that can steal thanksgiving from our lives.
Today we will begin by looking at the Second Thief - Envy & Jealousy.
Pastor Jeff reads from about envy & jealousy that took place between Moses and his siblings in Numbers 12, and talks about:
1) Miriam’s Envy & Jealousy
2) The Dangers of Envy & Jealousy
3) The Consequences of Envy & Jealousy
4) The Remedy
11/06/22 | We are so privileged to have Rev. Andrew Colón here with us for our Homecoming Weekend! Andrew preaches a timely message on how our faith can make us unshakable. Reading from Jesus’ words in Luke 6 about obeying His teachings, Andrew shows us how our faith can be unshakable:
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Listen & Act
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Dig Deep
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Expect the Storm
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Stand Firm
10/30/22 | “Thanksgiving” is defined as the ability to give thanks to God. It’s an essential spiritual attribute that is all too absent from our society and our personal lives. The next three Sundays are all about three “thieves” that can steal thanksgiving from our lives.
Today we will begin by looking at the first thief - Comparison.
10/23/22 | This series is all about how to ADVANCE in our walk with God. While many of us wish we could know Him more deeply, we may struggle to find how to make this an actual reality in our lives. In this series, we’re learning practical ways to grow in our relationship with God.
In Week 4, Pastor Matt teaches on practical ways to pray. He starts by showing how prayer is about connecting with God instead of simply communicating, as well as about being filled with God, not simply being emptied of anxiety. The four ways to pray are:
1) The ACTS Prayer Model (adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication) (Matthew 6:7)
2) The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)
3) Silence / Solitude (Ecclesiastes 5:2)
4) Led by the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18; Romans 8:26-27)
Check out “Prayer Sparks,” a 21-Day Devotional with twenty-one different ways to pray to help you connect with God in deeper ways.
10/16/22 | This series is all about how to ADVANCE in our walk with God. While many of us wish we could know Him more deeply, we may struggle to find how to make this an actual reality in our lives. In this series, we’re learning practical ways to grow in our relationship with God.
In Week 3, Pastor Jeff teaches practically on the subject of fasting, a topic we don’t hear much about today in preaching. He does a biblical overview of fasting, including the reasons to fast, some examples of fasting, as well as spiritual and health considerations when fasting. If you’d like to advance in your walk with God, incorporate fasting into your spiritual diet!
10/09/22 | This series is all about how to ADVANCE in our walk with God. While many of us wish we could know Him more deeply, we may struggle to find how to make this an actual reality in our lives. In this series, we’re learning practical ways to grow in our relationship with God.
In Week 2, we are honored to have missionary guests Mark & Kim Gardner share about how we can experience breakthrough through worship. They share from scripture, as well as some powerful personal stories, about how worshiping God despite circumstances leads to the miraculous. Mark describes the difference between praying in “hope” and praying in “faith” and challenges us to set aside weekly time to worship God both publicly and privately.
Follow us on Spotify and listen to our weekly worship playlist.
10/02/22 | This series is all about how to ADVANCE in our walk with God. While many of us wish we could know Him more deeply, we may struggle to find how to make this an actual reality in our lives. In this series, we’re learning practical ways to grow in our relationship with God.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff shares how reading scripture is at the core of our relationship with the Lord. In 2 Kings we learn about King Josiah who rediscovered the scriptures during his reign and the value of God speaking through His Word. Pastor Jeff then takes the pressure off and shares some easy, practical ways on how to read and understand God’s Word more effectively in our day-to-day lives.
Check out BibleGateway here.
Check out Bible Plans from YouVersion here.
You haven’t finished your life story. What will you do with the blank pages? The choices you make today will lead you one way or another—but when you know who to trust, you'll always be headed in the Divine Direction.
You haven’t finished your life story. What will you do with the blank pages? The choices you make today will lead you one way or another—but when you know who to trust, you'll always be headed in the Divine Direction.
You haven’t finished your life story. What will you do with the blank pages? The choices you make today will lead you one way or another—but when you know who to trust, you'll always be headed in the Divine Direction.
You haven’t finished your life story. What will you do with the blank pages? The choices you make today will lead you one way or another—but when you know who to trust, you'll always be headed in the Divine Direction.
09/7/22 | Welcome to our special study in the Book of Revelation! In this study, Pastor Keinath goes verse by verse through the Book of Revelation.
07/31/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive!
Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive
07/24/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive!
Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive.
07/17/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive!
Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive.
07/10/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive! Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive.
07/03/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive! Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive. In Week 2, Pastor Jeff reads from Philippians 4:4-8 and talks about how gratitude is the cure for complaining, and that ultimately, gratitude is the gateway to peace.
06/26/22 | You can discover a whole lot to smile about if you know where to look. And we can help you find it! Don’t let life get you down. Stay joyful. Stay hopeful. And Stay Positive! Cynicism and negativity may be the easy choice, but they're not the best choice. If you seek what’s good, you’ll see what's good. Let's embrace the way we're created to think and Stay Positive. This six-week series will help your attenders learn to be thankful and excited in spite of all the negativity we experience in this world. Weekly topics include optimism, gratefulness, encouragement, generosity, enthusiasm, and confidence.
06/19/22 | Humble shepherd. Giant-slayer. Gifted poet. Mighty warrior. Flawed man. Legendary leader. In this series, our church is exploring the life of one of history’s most famous kings.
05/29/22 | Humble shepherd. Giant-slayer. Gifted poet. Mighty warrior. Flawed man. Legendary leader. In this series, our church is exploring the life of one of history’s most famous kings.
The way of God isn’t appealing when someone else has wronged us. Our natural urge is to try to get even. We want to wrong the people who wrong us as a way of getting payback. That seems just. It seems fair. But does it solve anything? Maybe there’s a better way.
05/29/22 | Humble shepherd. Giant-slayer. Gifted poet. Mighty warrior. Flawed man. Legendary leader. In this series, our church is exploring the life of one of history’s most famous kings.
Happy Pentecost Sunday! Both King Saul & King David had the Spirit of the Lord upon them for authority & leadership, but it was the way they responded to God’s Spirit that determined their greatness. So how can we lead well with the power, influence, and authority that God gives to us?
05/22/22 | Humble shepherd. Giant-slayer. Gifted poet. Mighty warrior. Flawed man. Legendary leader. In this series, our church is exploring the life of one of history’s most famous kings.
The way of God is least appealing when we are angry, isolated, or afraid. That’s when we consider things we would never otherwise consider. It’s when we feel compelled to do something . . . anything. But maybe there’s a better way.
05/15/22 | Humble shepherd. Giant-slayer. Gifted poet. Mighty warrior. Flawed man. Legendary leader. In this series, our church is exploring the life of one of history’s most famous kings.
David went from humble shepherd to national hero to great king. But he wasn’t great because of his reputation or military prowess. He was great because of where he’d learned to place his hope. We can learn to follow his example.
To the dead man, Jesus was life. To the prostitute, He was a second chance. To the searching, He was the long-awaited answer. Discover what it means when He says, "I Am Jesus."
04/17/22 | To the dead man, Jesus was life. To the prostitute, He was a second chance. To the searching, He was the long-awaited answer. Discover what it means when He says, "I Am Jesus."
Happy Easter Sunday! This week, Pastor Jeff preaches a powerful message on Jesus’ words in John 11. He tells us that Jesus sets us free from our doubts, discouragement, and despair. The resurrection is not an event — it’s a person!
04/10/22 | To the dead man, Jesus was life. To the prostitute, He was a second chance. To the searching, He was the long-awaited answer. Discover what it means when He says, "I Am Jesus."
In Week 2, we explore Jesus’ incredible words, “I Am The Light of the World” (John 8:12). As Pastor Jeff goes over the backdrop of this passage, we see how powerful Jesus’ statement is, and how comforting it is to us today knowing that He shines a light in every dark area of our lives.
04/03/22 | To the dead man, Jesus was life. To the prostitute, He was a second chance. To the searching, He was the long-awaited answer. Discover what it means when He says, "I Am Jesus."
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff unpacks Jesus’ words, “I Am The Vine” (John 15:5). These are part of Jesus’ last words to his disciples. From looking at this passage, we see:
1) Jesus is the Vine
2) God the Father is the Gardner
3) I am a Branch
4) I only bear fruit as I remain in the Vine
03/27/22 | We love missions! This is such a special Sunday here at First Assembly, as we celebrate what God has done through missions, and how we are so expectant for him to do more than we can hope for or imagine.
We are privileged to welcome Rev. Jeff Hartensveld this Sunday morning, the AGWM Regional Director for Asia Pacific, who also originally hails from the great state of New Jersey! You’ll be blessed and challenged as you listen to today’s message. Rev. Jeff Hartensveld shares from the Assemblies of God World Missions 2022 theme verse, Revelation 5:9, talking about how:
1) He is Worthy of Praise
2) He is Worthy of Sacrifice
3) He is Worthy of Riches
03/20/22 | Our church loves missions! God is worthy of our praise at all time and in all places, and his name will be glorified despite how our current culture may live. Unpacking Jesus’ words in Luke 17:26-30, Pastor Jeff talks about what it is like “in the days of Noah,” which motivates our church to make missions a priority:
1) An Acceleration of Sinfulness
2) An Approaching Storm
3) An Active Savior
4) An Able Spokesperson
03/13/22 | Thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits. What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts? Learn how to take your thoughts captive and win the war in your mind.
In Week 4, Pastor Bonnie shares how to calm our anxious mind. Starting with the physical process of what's going on in our minds when we face anxiety, she then moves to the spiritual significance, and talks about how the scriptures give us "The Prescription of Prayer." From unpacking Paul's words in Philippians 4:8, Pastor Bonnie gives an incredible perspective on how praying and using scripture has already been designed by God to calm our anxious minds.
03/06/22 | Thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits. What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts? Learn how to take your thoughts captive and win the war in your mind.
In Week 3, Pastor Jeff gives some amazingly practical tools to do this as he talks about Filters, Framing, & Fortitude.
1) Filters: impact how we see things (Numbers 13:30-32).
2) Reframing: is creating a different way of looking at a situation (Philippians 1:12-14).
3) Fortitude: is a strength of mind that enables a person to encounter danger or bear pain/adversity with courage (1 Samuel 30:1, 6; Hebrews 12:2).
02/27/22 | Thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits. What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts? Learn how to take your thoughts captive and win the war in your mind.
In Week 2, Pastor Matt builds upon the concept of “taking every thought captive” (2 Cor. 10:5) from Week 1. Winning the War in your Mind isn’t something that will happen by accident. Reading from Romans 12:2, we see that to take your mind back, you need to retrain your mind.
1) Identify the lies (2 Timothy 1:7a)
2) Replace it with truth. (2 Timothy 1:7b)
3) Meditate on God’s Word. (Philippians 4:8)
4) Count on the power of God. (2 Timothy 1:7)
02/20/22 | Thoughts are powerful. They change our perspective, impact our decisions, and influence our habits. What do we do when we become trapped by our thoughts? Learn how to take your thoughts captive and win the war in your mind.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff starts the series by sharing how most of life’s battles are won or lost in your mind. Our lives are always moving in the direction of our strongest thoughts. Reading Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 10:1-5 and throughout more of the New Testament, we see that when it comes to the thoughts in our minds:
1) You Have A Choice (Rom. 8:5)
2) The Thoughts You Embrace Drive Your Behaviors (Rom. 8:5)
When it comes to the Battle of the Mind: “Feed what you want to grow, and starve what you want to die.”
Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
02/06/22 | Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
In Week 5, Pastor Jeff reminds us that how you view a situation can change your entire life. Looking at 2 Kings 6, we see a miraculous story of God not only sparing Elisha from an enemy army, but avoiding the loss of life altogether, all because Elisha recognized the spiritual forces at work around him.
01/30/22 | Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff reads from the incredible (and slightly obscure) story of the floating axehead in 2 Kings 6:1-7. Whether you've lost your spiritual edge, or you feel like you're swinging at a tree with no axehead, we learn from this story that God knows how to help you find what you didn't mean to lose:
1) Admit that you have a problem.
2) Be honest about where you lost it.
3) With God's help, take back what you lost.
01/23/22 | Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
In Week 3, Pastor Jeff reads Elisha’s famous miracle of the woman pouring oil until all her jars were full (2 Kings 4:1-7). Pastor Jeff reminds us that even if you feel insignificant, you’re not insignificant to God! Going through the story, we see these principles emerge for our lives today:
Principle #1: When you don’t have what you really want, God is what you really need.
Principle #2: Stop waiting for what you want and starting working with what you have.
Principle #3: Offer God what you have and trust him to give you what you need.
01/16/22 | Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
In Week 2, Pastor Matt asks, “How do I have faith in a ridiculous situation?” Sometimes it feels like we’re digging a ditch in the middle of the desert. By looking at Elisha’s example in 2 Kings 3, where we see God instruct his people to do just that, we see the answer is to “Catch what God is doing,” knowing that being willing to do the menial is what prepares us for the miracle. In order to “catch” what God is doing, we need to:
1) Recognize God (Romans 1:20)
2) Consult God (Isaiah 30:18)
3) Focus on what’s in front of you (Matthew 23:12; 2 Tim. 4:2)
01/09/22 | Can you imagine what could happen if we gave control of our life to God? It’s scary, but the benefits are world-altering. The story of Elisha challenges us to answer God’s calling and take the risks that are necessary to do His will. Come see what life can look like when we let go…when we decide to have Ridiculous Faith.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff looks at the call of Elisha in 1 Kings 19:19-21. We see three principles from this moment in Elisha’s life:
Principle #1: Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with very much.
Principle #2: You don’t have to understand fully to obey immediately.
Principle #3: Those God uses the most are those who hold on the least.
01/02/22 | In the Gospels, Jesus quotes from Isaiah 56:7 saying that God’s house will be a house of prayer. In this first sermon of the New Year, Pastor Jeff looks at three prayers of Old Testament figures that serve as examples for us as we focus on prayer entering the this year:
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The Prayer of Joshua - Posture in Prayer (Joshua 5:13-15)
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The Prayer of Abraham - Persistence in Prayer (Genesis 18:23-32)
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The Prayer of Jabez - Petitions in Prayer (1 Chronicles 4:10)
12/26/21 | Pastor Jeff closes out 2021 with some reflective biblical advice as a new year is upon us. By looking at both the good and bad aspects of the life of King Saul, Pastor Jeff encourages us to:
1) Seek God for Guidance
2) Dodge the Comparison Trap
3) Be honest with Yourself
12/19/21 God is with us – in answered promises, realized dreams, and refreshed hope. How could we help but sing? This December, we're exploring the songs born from our joy that Christ has entered the world.
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff unpacks this carol first written over 1200 years ago. Originally functioning as a responsive chant, each line of this carol is about an Old Testament prophecy fulfilled at the birth of the Messiah.
Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd discuss Christmas pageants, context & accuracy of the nativity scene, and our honesty in approaching God. We talk about how in order to receive joy from God, we must be in honest & sincere relationship with him, which involves removing the masks and elephants we put in the way.
12/12/21 God is with us – in answered promises, realized dreams, and refreshed hope. How could we help but sing? This December, we're exploring the songs born from our joy that Christ has entered the world.
In Week 3, Pastor Matt focuses on a line, “the little Lord Jesus” in the famous children’s carol, “Away In A Manger.” While sometimes the meaning of the manger can feel cute, childish, or ambiguous, we see from scripture that from the moment of his birth, Jesus is Lord (Luke 2:11). Pastor Matt unpacks what this means for us:
The manger is about mission (Matt. 1:21-23)
The manger is about humility (Phil. 2:5-11)
The manger is about life-service, not lip-service (Matt. 7:21-23)
When I surrender to the Lordship of Christ, I experience joy, peace & purpose (John 10:10).
12/05/21 God is with us – in answered promises, realized dreams, and refreshed hope. How could we help but sing? This December, we're exploring the songs born from our joy that Christ has entered the world.
In Week 2, Pastor Jeff talks about the origins and theology of the famous carol, "O Come All Ye Faithful.” Noting that the song is a call to worship, often times we feel that we don’t measure up to the call of “faithful” and “triumphant.” Instead, Jesus calls the weary, the burdened, and sinners. Thankfully, Jesus transforms us from that state and helps us to become more faithful, joyful, and triumphant.
Did you know "Jingle Bells" was originally meant to be sung on Thanksgiving? Or that "Joy To The World" was meant for Easter Sunday? Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd go through some fun Christmas Song Trivia, then jump into the message discussing biblical hope. We talk about the difference between viewing Christ as "insurance" versus "hope", and the amazing reality that Christmas is meant to remind us about: that we have Emmanuel, God with us.
11/28/21 God is with us – in answered promises, realized dreams, and refreshed hope. How could we help but sing? This December, we're exploring the songs born from our joy that Christ has entered the world.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff talks about the origins and theology of the famous carol, "O Holy Night," what many believe to be the first song ever played over radio waves in the United States. It's sobering line, "a weary world rejoices," gives us hope for what we're facing this Christmas season. Reading the prophet Jeremiah's words from Lamentations 3, Pastor Jeff shows us that:
1) A new day with Christ brings exactly what you need (v. 24)
2) A new day with Christ brings you hope to keep going (v. 25)
3) A new day with Christ, it brings the help you're seeking (v. 26)
11/21/21 | With Thanksgiving upon us, Pastor Jeff reminds us to be giving glory to God in everything that we do. This is best accomplished through thankfulness. Reading from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthian church, we see that:
1) Grace Motivates Thankfulness (2 Cor. 4:15)
2) God Merits Thankfulness (2 Cor. 4:15)
3) The Goal - Multiply Thankfulness (2 Cor. 4:5)
11/14/21 We’re excited to have Rev. Jermel Mayo with us this weekend! For our Sunday morning service, Pastor Jermel shared about The Holy Spirit’s role in Jesus’ life, and his role in our lives as well. Be encouraged as you hear from God’s Word today!
11/07/21 When we're pushed to our limit, we have a choice to make. Will we choose the path of least resistance or will we have the courage to take a Stand?
In Week 5, Pastor Jeff talks about how a faith that’s tested is a faith that can be trusted. Looking at the story of Daniel’s friends in Daniel chapter 3, we see:
1) Faith obeys God instead of following man (Dan. 3:16)
2) Faith believes in spite of what it sees (Dan. 3:17)
3) Faithful obedience is our responsibility, the outcome is God’s (Dan. 3:18, 24-25)
How do you know when God has spoken something just for you, and when is it right to share that with someone else? Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd talk about this in more detail from Daniel 10:7, along with persistence in prayer, and discuss the depiction of Christ in Revelation chapter 1. We talk about how our view of God must include a deep reverence, respect, and a healthy fear as we approach him humbly.
10/31/21 When we're pushed to our limit, we have a choice to make. Will we choose the path of least resistance or will we have the courage to take a Stand?
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff asks the question, "How do we Stand in Faith when we're praying and nothing seems to be happening?" Many of us have been waiting for breakthrough in a circumstance, relationship, or other areas in our lives. Instead of giving up hope, however, Pastor Jeff reads from Daniel 10 and encourages us with these three facts:
1) God cares more about you than you do (Dan. 10:10-11).
2) God is doing more than you understand (Dan. 10:12-13).
3) God's strength is made perfect in your weakness (Dan. 10:17-19).
10/10/21 | We are so grateful to Pastor Jamal and his family for 13 years of faithful and incredible ministry here at First Assembly as our beloved youth pastor! We love him and his entire family and we celebrate all that God has done through them.
On his final Sunday morning with us, Pastor Jamal preaches a sermon titled: "Gospel Fluency." Reading from 2 Timothy 4:1-5, he takes us through some of Paul's final words to his protégé Timothy. Pastor Jamal challenges us to be proponents of the gospel, because it is the gospel that makes people come alive (John 4:13-14); we need to make the case how Jesus is better! Pastor Jamal's words to us are clear: Daily Allow the Gospel to Measure You First. In order to do this well:
A. Be honest with yourself.
B. Encourage yourself in Christ.
C. Be patient with yourself.
D. Immerse yourself within the process.
Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd dive deeper into some of the historical and cultural context surrounding the Book of Daniel. We talk about if Nebuchadnezzar's madness in chapter 4 could be classified into a particular mental illness that exists today, and discuss some archeological finds that have helped to confirm the historicity of the book. We also talk more about prayer and confrontation.
10/24/21 When we're pushed to our limit, we have a choice to make. Will we choose the path of least resistance or will we have the courage to take a Stand?
In Week 3, Pastor Matt reads the famous story of Daniel in the Lion's Den. Although we often learn this story when we're young, there are some amazing truths in this story for us today. There will be times when God calls us to Stand Strong in our walk with him, and Pastor Matt shows from Daniel 6 to Stand Strong:
1) When God raises you up (v. 1-5).
2) By kneeling down to pray (v. 10-11).
3) By trusting God with the results (v. 21-23).
4) So that others will see God working in you (v. 26-27).
10/17/21 When we're pushed to our limit, we have a choice to make. Will we choose the path of least resistance or will we have the courage to take a Stand?
In Week 2, Pastor Jeff continues the story of Daniel, who is serving in a country hostile to God. There will be times in our walk with God where God calls us to Stand Up for what's right. Reading from chapter 4 where Daniel confronts King Nebuchadnezzar, and studying Paul's words about restoration in Galatians 6, Pastor Jeff shows us what godly confrontation looks like, and offers this perspective:
1) God, help me to confront with the goal of restoration.
2) God, help me to confront with caution.
How do I manage the tension that's between what I believe in my head, and what I feel in my heart? Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd discuss Pastor Jamal's Sunday sermon, "Gospel Fluency", and how scripture is the ultimate tool that anchors us, even when we find it difficult to apply what we believe to what we're personally going through.
This weekend we had missionaries to Cambodia, Troy & Lisa Tabor, at our church for both a Buddhism Seminar on Saturday, as well as for Missions Sunday Service. Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd discuss some highlights from the Buddhism Seminar (the differences between worldviews, how to share the gospel with a Buddhist, etc.), as well as Rev. Troy's Sunday sermon on the Book of Jonah, and his challenge to us to live out God's calling now instead of pushing it off.
10/03/21 When we're pushed to our limit, we have a choice to make. Will we choose the path of least resistance or will we have the courage to take a Stand?
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff sets the stage for the story of Daniel, a young Jewish man who was exiled with his friends to a foreign, godless country. Whilst being recruited for the king's service and his identity stripped, Daniel resolved "not to defile himself" and chose to Stand Out among those around him as God's servant.
Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd discuss the "I'm In" sermon series, talking about how our faith doesn't need to be perfect for God to use us. We talk about the tension between recognizing we're imperfect, yet also recognizing the need holiness. We also ask: "Is it wrong to be friends with an agenda?"
09/26/21 | Today is Missions Sunday! We’re excited to have missionaries to Cambodia, Troy & Lisa Tabor with us this morning. Troy walks us through the story of Jonah, and challenges us: will we be like Jonah, begrudgingly answering the call, or willingly participate in what God is doing around the world? Give it a listen, and then walk in the calling God has for your life!
09/19/21 | You have a God-given purpose waiting to be discovered. You have people around you ready to encourage you. And you may not know it yet, but you have everything you need to chase your passion. We just have one question: Are you in?
In Week 4, Pastor Jeff has one main point to remember: God has created us to pour not store! Jumping off from Jesus' words in Matthew 6:19-21, Pastor Jeff talks about the "Scarcity Mindset" and the "Generous Mindset", and how generosity is an attitude of the heart that Jesus calls us to. Our problem is not so much a lack of resources, but a proper appropriation of our resources. Instead of saying, "When...then...", we can give generously like Jesus calls us to. God has created us to pour, not store!
09/12/21 | You have a God-given purpose waiting to be discovered. You have people around you ready to encourage you. And you may not know it yet, but you have everything you need to chase your passion. We just have one question: Are you in?
In Week 3, Pastor Matt talks about how whether or not you have a platform, each of us are influential, and Jesus calls us to use our influence for the gospel (Matt. 5:13-16). Reading from John 4, we see Jesus show us that gospel influence is about:
1) People before platforms (John 4:4)
2) Potential over problems (John 4:16-19)
3) Purpose over perfection (John 4:34)
Pastor Matt encourages us that you don't have to have your life altogether to influence someone for Jesus, because it's all about Jesus, not about me. You have no idea how one moment can change someone's life. So the question is: Who has God placed in front of you?
09/05/21 | You have a God-given purpose waiting to be discovered. You have people around you ready to encourage you. And you may not know it yet, but you have everything you need to chase your passion. We just have one question: Are you in?
In Week 2, Pastor Jeff talks about how all of us are invaluable to God, and also to one another. Each of us play a part in the Body of Christ; each of us have something to offer. Reading from 1 Corinthians 12, Pastor Jeff shows us how:
1) Each member is Interdependent (1 Cor. 12:19-20)
2) Each member is Indispensable (1 Cor. 12:21)
3) Each member is Interconnected (1 Cor. 12:26-27)
08/29/21 | You have a God-given purpose waiting to be discovered. You have people around you ready to encourage you. And you may not know it yet, but you have everything you need to chase your passion. We just have one question: Are you in?
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff talks about how “I’m Invited.” Jesus invites people that others reject - and that’s the Good News of the Gospel! No matter who you are, you are invited to be part of the family of God.
Is God in control, or do we have free will? How do we navigate the tension of these two truths? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal and Pastor Todd discuss this, Calvinism vs. Arminianism, and more as we unpack God's sovereignty based off of Pastor Jeff's message from the day before.
08/22/21 | Understanding the Sovereignty of God causes a deep humility, reverence, awe, and dependency on the Lord. No one came to know this more intimately than King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Full of pride and arrogance, he was humbled for seven years by God before being restored to his former glory as king. After reflecting on his unique experience, he came to proclaim God as the only one truly worthy of worship (Daniel 4:34-37). Pastor Jeff takes us through this story and through the doctrine of God's Sovereignty, and teaches what it means for each of our lives today.
If God is omnipresent, then what do we mean when we pray that his presence would be with us? Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd discuss God's omnipresence, the comfort it brings, and the important conviction it brings as well. We also talk about how worship and prayer don't have to be relegated to one specific moment, but still emphasize the importance of having those times set aside.
*Note: We [accidentally?] turned extra reverb on Pastor Matt's mic...in case it sounds a little different than normal.
08/15/21 | Three attributes that are part of God's nature are his omniscience (all-knowing), his omnipotence (all-powerful), and his omnipresence (all-places). Reading from Psalm 139:7-12, Pastor Jeff talks about the comforting, and also convicting, power of God's omnipresence. He closes by giving us five ways that we can be Presence Driven:
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Begin your day with intentionality
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Turn your complaints into cries of praise
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Turn suffering into surrender
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Turn the mundane into a holy moment
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Lead yourself in worship
The Lord himself says, "Be holy, because I am holy." (1 Peter 1:15). The Lord is holy, separate, set apart, from sin and the world. Peter, quoting from holy scripture, then instructions Christians to be different than those around them. Pastor Jeff highlights why many times, we seem to de-emphasize holiness in Christian circles, and then gives us some wise counsel on how to know right from wrong by asking:
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Is it helpful physically, mentally, and spiritually? (1 Cor. 6:12)
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Does it bring me under its power? (1 Cor. 6:12)
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Does it hurt others? (1 Cor. 8:13)
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Does it glorify God? (1 Cor. 10:31)
Do you find yourself in need of hope today? There's such a wonderful hope that we have in the Lord, knowing that despite our circumstances, how we feel, or what we've done, God is still faithful towards us! Pastor Jeff gives context to the prophet Jeremiah's life and calling from God. Jeremiah finds himself in a place of despair, from both the world and from the fruit of his own life, but then he writes: "Yet I call this to mind and therefore I have hope." (Lamentations 3:21). Thank you, Lord!
Happy Summer! It's been pretty busy for everyone at First Assembly, but the staff finally sit down to discuss our July sermon series called, "Emotions." With both Sawyer and Gianna interning this summer, they add their thoughts to the discussion as well, as Pastor Matt, Pastor Todd, and Pastor Bonnie break down into more detail some of the points from Sunday Sermons. Some things we discuss in more detail: anxiety, systems that keep people from God, and we each answer the question: are you more the Rebel or the Rule Follower? The answers might surprise you!
07/25/21 | Joy. Sadness. Anger. Compassion. God has given each of us the capacity to feel deeply. And when we can better process our powerful emotions, we can start to understand how He will use them for His good.
How do I experience joy in my walk with God, even when I'm going through something difficult? Reading from Luke 15:11-32, Pastor Matt shows how when we know what brings Jesus joy, it enables us to walk in that joy as well. And when it comes to the concept of joy, Jesus didn't answer with a statement, but instead told an emotional story to show the depth of God's love. In order to experience joy with Jesus:
1) Take one step towards your Father (v. 20)
2) Enjoy a relationship over rules (v. 20, 31-32)
3) Bring someone with you (v. 23-24)
07/18/21 | Joy. Sadness. Anger. Compassion. God has given each of us the capacity to feel deeply. And when we can better process our powerful emotions, we can start to understand how He will use them for His good.
Jesus Himself needed anxiety relief. And when He despaired, He gave us the blueprint for how to deal with worry, stress, and fear (Mark 14:32-36). If you need anxiety relief, Pastor Bonnie helps us discover the three things Jesus leads us to do in to find peace in our hearts and align the feelings we experience with a faith that never fails:
1) Talk to your Friends
2) Talk to your Father
3) Talk to your Feelings
07/11/21 | Joy. Sadness. Anger. Compassion. God has given each of us the capacity to feel deeply. And when we can better process our powerful emotions, we can start to understand how He will use them for His good.
Jesus felt many emotions—and anger was one of them. But there are a few things we can learn about why Jesus got angry, and what He chose to do when He felt strong emotions. Pastor Jamal talks about how when we focus our anger on the right things and channel our emotions the right way, we can start to unite a divided world. Reading from Matthew 21:12-14, Pastor Jamal shows that:
1) Jesus is known for his love, not his anger
2) Jesus was angry on behalf of those who were mistreated
3) When Jesus was angry, he flipped tables, not people
4) When Jesus was angry, he loved and healed those who were hurting
07/04/21 | Joy. Sadness. Anger. Compassion. God has given each of us the capacity to feel deeply. And when we can better process our powerful emotions, we can start to understand how He will use them for His good.
Where is God when you hurt? Sometimes we feel like God is old, cold, and in the sky. However, Pastor Matt reminds us that Jesus feels compassion for people who hurt. Looking at Jesus' response to a widow's grief in Luke 7:11-16, Pastor Matt shows us that: God cares for you, he loves you, he comes to you, and he's with you. Where is God when you hurt? He's right there.
06/27/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In this final week, Pastor Jeff says that our vertical love for God is reflected in and defined by our horizontal love for one another. Reading from Matthew 25:31-36, he talks about:
1) Sins of Commission vs. Omission
2) Caring for One Another
3) The Hallmark of Jesus’ Ministry
If your faith journey was a movie, who would be on the credits list at the end of the film? Pastor Matt, Pastor Todd & Sawyer Matthews discuss why sometimes it can be hard to be vulnerable and ask someone to help us, and also talk about who has been on their "credits list" for their faith journey. We also talk about the importance of listening, and how that is simply the baseline when it comes to serving someone else.
06/20/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 6, Pastor Jeff reads the story of the four friends and the paralytic Jesus healed (Luke 5:17-26), and shows us that:
1) Friends carry the mat
2) Friends activate faith
Pastor Jeff challenges us with these questions: "Who's carrying your mat today?" and, "Whose mat are you carrying?"
If we've experienced the amazing grace of God, why can we so easily forget it? Pastor Matt asks Pastor Todd and Pastor Jamal to weigh in, and also discuss how as Christians, we often can relate more to the Pharisees in Jesus' parables, and what kind of attitude we should have to make sure that we don't suffer from Pharisee Syndrome.
06/13/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 5, Pastor Jeff challenges us to live out Moses’ psalm of prayer to God, that we would learn to “number our days” (Psalm 90:12) and live with a sense of perspective, and a sense of priority.
06/06/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 4, Pastor Jamal shares from Jesus’ parable of the Banquet (Luke 14:15-24), and the importance of stewarding our tables well so that they would be avenues of grace for people to meet Jesus.
05/30/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 3, Pastor Todd unpacks Jesus' well-known instructions to his followers to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).
How is a church community united without being uniform? How do we speak to issues we're individually passionate about without creating disunity in the church? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd discuss these questions, and then spend some time talking about what we mean by Baptism In The Holy Spirit. We talk about what scripture says of this experience, why some don't believe in this today, and what a proper attitude looks like no matter what our background or experiences might be when it comes to this subject.
05/23/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 2, with it being Pentecost Sunday, Pastor Jeff shows from Acts 2 how a Pentecostal Church:
- Is A United Church (2:1; 2:46-47)
- Is A Praying Church (1:14)
- Is A Spirit-Filled Church (2:4)
- Is A Harvesting Church (2:9-11)
05/16/21 | What does it mean to be a good neighbor? It involves more than simply waving "hi" across the street or across the aisle. Being a good neighbor involves Loving Your Neighbor, Crossing Culture, Changing the Narrative, Coming to the Table, Creating Space to Engage Our Neighbors, Tenacious Friendships, and Living Differently.
In Week 1, Pastor Jeff asks, "How Do I Neighbor Well?" By looking at Jesus' Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Pastor Jeff challenges us to:
1) Cross the street.
2) Share your life.
3) Don't look to one as a mission to accomplish, but a relationship to cultivate.
What does it mean to "deconstruct" our faith, and should we be doing it? What negative role has the church played in this conversation? What perspective should we have if we find ourselves personally going through deconstruction?
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd discuss these questions and offer their insight into this conversation. In this episode, we talk about how deconstruction should mean having the ability to have a nuanced conversation about faith. We talk about the tension of grace vs. justice, how others outside the church might perceive that concept, and talk about the difference between childlike faith (that Jesus describes) and childish faith (immature faith). Wherever you might find yourself in this conversation, your own attitude matters: are you seeking answers, or excuses?
Further resources to check out:
- Alisa Childers Podcast (Deconstruction, Progressive Christianity)
- RightNow Media and check out Sean McDowell or J. Warner Wallace (you can make a free account through our church here)
- Holy Post Podcast
- Reasonable Faith (YouTube)
- Cross Examined (YouTube)
- Ask your Pastor!
- Invite God into your deconstruction
Have a question you'd like to submit? You can send us a voice recording here! https://anchor.fm/freeholdag/message
What does it mean to "deconstruct" our faith, and should we be doing it? What negative role has the church played in this conversation? What perspective should we have if we find ourselves personally going through deconstruction?
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd discuss these questions and offer their insight into this conversation. In this episode, we talk about how the global church needs to be a place that allows questions, doesn't overemphasize morality, and doesn't align itself politically, but rather align itself biblically.
05/09/21 | We're excited to have missionaries to Costa Rica, Tim & Nicole Strange, with us on this Mother's Day! Nicole gives such an encouraging word in this Mother's Day message to moms everywhere. And whether you're a mom or not, Nicole shares spiritual truths from scripture that she's learned through tremendous hardships in her own life that will speak to you today.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd talk about how to tell the difference between a distraction and a God-given opportunity (some answers: a cultivated prayer life and discernment from the Holy Spirit). We talk about having the right perspective when it comes to what others may think of us, and how to guard against having an attitude of entitlement. Pastor Jamal also spends a few minutes at the start talking about Matthew 24 & 25, how to be an "End Times Church", which is what he preached on while at River of Life Church this past Sunday.
05/02/21 | Each one of us has a good work to do. We may not see it yet, but it’s often right there in front of our eyes. For Nehemiah, it was a crumbled wall. For you, it could be an injustice in the world, or a need you see what no one else does. During this series, we will learn how Nehemiah responded to his own calling and learn how we can change our own world just by leaning into the unique calling that God has put in front of each of us.
If we could only stay focused, there’s no telling what we could accomplish together! But distractions always seem to get in the way. This week let’s learn how to shut the door on distractions as we chase the calling God has in our lives.
What is "The Good Work"? How do I discover a burden God is placing on my heart?
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd discuss these questions, and talk about the discovery process in their own lives when it comes to God's call. We talk about when things don't go according to plan, and the difference between receiving a critique and ignoring a criticism.
Spoiler warning! We end the discussion talking about The Falcon & The Winter Solider season finale.
04/25/21 | Each one of us has a good work to do. We may not see it yet, but it’s often right there in front of our eyes. For Nehemiah, it was a crumbled wall. For you, it could be an injustice in the world, or a need you see what no one else does. During this series, we will learn how Nehemiah responded to his own calling and learn how we can change our own world just by leaning into the unique calling that God has put in front of each of us.
When God calls us to do good, we’ll face opposition. How do you stand strong when you face trials? This week learn with us how to keep your eyes on the prize as we continue our message series, The Good Work.
04/18/21 | Each one of us has a good work to do. We may not see it yet, but it’s often right there in front of our eyes. For Nehemiah, it was a crumbled wall. For you, it could be an injustice in the world, or a need you see what no one else does. During this series, we will learn how Nehemiah responded to his own calling and learn how we can change our own world just by leaning into the unique calling that God has put in front of each of us.
What’s your purpose? What’s the good work God is calling you to do? If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference in your world, Pastor Matt walks us through Nehemiah's example of how we can make a difference to honor God with the passion he's placed in our hearts.
04/11/21 | Each one of us has a good work to do. We may not see it yet, but it’s often right there in front of our eyes. For Nehemiah, it was a crumbled wall. For you, it could be an injustice in the world, or a need you see what no one else does. During this series, we will learn how Nehemiah responded to his own calling and learn how we can change our own world just by leaning into the unique calling that God has put in front of each of us.
When you look in the Bible, you’ll find countless instances of God using ordinary people to do incredible things. If you’ve ever thought “God could never use me,” this weekend’s message is for you! Pastor Jeff kicks off our series, The Good Work, and takes a look at what it means to be an ordinary world-changer.
What do we believe about Jesus rising from the dead? What does the Bible say about the physicality of Jesus' resurrection? What does the Bible mean when it talks about "glorified bodies"?
On this Monday after Easter, Pastor Matt starts off with some Easter Trivia for Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd, and then asks these questions based off of Pastor Jeff's sermon on Easter Sunday.
During the last few minutes, we nerd out and talk about Falcon & Winter Solider, and the DC Cinematic Universe.
04/04/21 | On this day, we celebrate that the story doesn't end with the grave. Today, we celebrate Jesus' resurrection from the dead!
Pastor Todd talks about the aftermath of the Wings and a Prayer fundraiser, after eating all 10 hot wings! He and Pastor Matt talk about Jesus being the answer for the world's problems, the how gentleness is a mark of strength, and having a passion to reach those around us who don't yet know Christ.
03/28/21 | Rev. Don James challenges us on the last Sunday in March to dream big and give generously for the cause of missions. He reminds us that God is an all-inclusive God, and that missions is at the core of Jesus' heart. Pastor Don reminds us, "It's the purpose of the church to own the mission of God and to take the gospel to the whole world."
Don James currently serves as the Superintendent of the New Jersey Ministry Network (NJMN) located in Burlington, NJ. Prior to this position, he had served 44 years in pastoral ministry, while also serving 17 years as the Assistant Superintendent of the NJMN. Over the years he has served (and currently serves) on multiple boards having to do with world missions. Anyone who has spent time in Don’s presence knows that he has one of the biggest hearts for missions.
03/21/21 | When the crowds accused the apostles of "turning the world upside down," what was meant as an accusation really turned out to be a compliment (Acts 17:6). Reading from the Apostle Paul’s summary of his own ministry, Pastor Jeff points out 7 traits that Paul writes that led to this “compliment” while they were in Thessalonica. The last three are:
5) A Sacrificial Heart (1 Thess. 2:8-9)
6) A Clean Life (v. 10)
7) An Urgent Appeal (v. 11-12)
03/14/21 | When the crowds accused the apostles of "turning the world upside down," what was meant as an accusation really turned out to be a compliment (Acts 17:6). Reading from the Apostle Paul’s summary of his own ministry, Pastor Jeff points out 7 traits that Paul writes that led to this “compliment” while they were in Thessalonica. The first four are:
1) Faithful despite opposition (1 Thess. 2:1-2)
2) A Trustworthy Message (v. 3-4)
3) A Clear Conscience (v. 5-7)
4) A Gentle Spirit (v. 7)
Who does God want me to "see beyond" for, how should I praying for them, and how do I identify a God-given burden for something? Pastor Matt asks these questions to Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd based on Pastor Jeff's Sunday sermon. Each of them share their own burden for people in each of their unique roles, what makes it tough when you're following God's call, and why it's worth it to press on. As Pastor Jeff shared, "May we never lose sight that God's heartbeat is always for souls."
When the crowds accused the apostles of "turning the world upside down," what was meant as an accusation really turned out to be a compliment (Acts 17:6). Reading from Matthew 9, Pastor Jeff shows how first God shakes us up, then he uses us to shake our world! Pastor Jeff encourages us to see people how Jesus did; to see beyond society's labels, misconceptions or our pre-conceived notions and to have true compassion for others. "May we never lose sight that God's heartbeat is always for souls."
What kind of zeal should we have for the Lord, and how should that translate into our politics and into our actions? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd discuss this thought while unpacking more of Pastor Jamal's sermon on King Josiah. We also ask: "Is there a difference between confession and repentance?", "Are we currently living in a theocracy?", and we briefly discuss Jesus' roles as prophet, priest, and king.
Bonus: at the end of the episode, we about our theories for the WandaVision finale.
02/28/21 | All throughout The Book of Kings, people’s hearts were far from God. Yet even though people were divided, God still chose to move among them. In Week 5, Pastor Jamal shows how King Josiah modeled a rekindled heart by:
1) Repenting
2) Renewing
3) Removing
4) Reinstituting
Pastor Jamal then goes on to show how ultimately, these were not effective enough to change people's hearts; it is only by the power of Jesus that our hearts can be truly transformed and rekindled towards God. When we allow ourselves to "die daily", we are able to repent, renew, remove, and reinstitute as Josiah modeled for us and Jesus empowers us to do.
As we get the opportunity to dive a little deeper than the sermon typically allows, Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd read King Hezekiah's response to being miraculously healed in Isaiah 38, an event reference in Pastor Jeff's sermon. We also further unpack Manasseh's legacy, and discuss the idea of a "godly heritage", the pressures of parenting, and how God can redeem anything we feel shame over.
02/21/21 | All throughout The Book of Kings, people’s hearts were far from God. Yet even though people were divided, God still chose to move among them. In Week 4, Pastor Jeff unpacks the story of King Manasseh (2 Chronicles 33). Although his father Hezekiah knew God, Mannaseh:
1) Parted ways from the faith of his father
2) Polluted the temple of the Lord
3) Played the people of God
4) Paid no attention
5) Put off his surrender to the Lord
Thankfully, it's never too late to come to the Lord. In the last years of his life, Mannaseh repented and was forgiven by God. Yet Pastor Jeff admonishes us not to sit by idly, and instead encourages us to make the most of every opportunity that God places in front of us.
Happy President's Day! Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd dive deeper into some context of The Book of Kings, further develop what Pastor Jeff said about idolizing religious experiences, talk about our response to the reports about Ravi Zacharias, and discuss how to understand political prophets and prophecies.
02/14/21 | All throughout The Book of Kings, people’s hearts were far from God. Yet even though people were divided, God still chose to move among them. In Week 3, Pastor Jeff unpacks the story of King Hezekiah (2 Kings 18-19). Although his father did evil in the eyes of the Lord, Hezekiah changed the legacy of his father and modeled a godly life. From his life, we see:
1) Turnaround
2) Held Fast
3) Trust
Pastor Jeff reminds us not to make idols out of religious experiences, to place our faith in The Lord alone, and warns of how no long lasting good comes from a rebellious spirit.
02/07/21 | All throughout The Book of Kings, people’s hearts were far from God. Yet even though people were divided, God still chose to move among them. In Week 2, Pastor Jeff unpacks the story of King Joash. Even though God set him up for success, his heart still strayed from God as he:
1) Had a "follow the leader" faith
2) Neglected the strongholds
3) Surrendered what was sacred
4) Ignored the call to repentance.
Pastor Jeff encourages us to see his story as an example that would cause us to rekindle our hearts!
01/31/21 - All throughout The Book of Kings, people’s hearts were far from God. Yet even though people were divided, God still chose to move among them. In the first week of this new series, Pastor Jeff shows how the Lord will draw near to us if we choose to draw near to him. Looking at Deuteronomy 30:1-9, we see that if we follow The Lord’s Requirements to remember and return, The Lord’s Response is: restoration, renewal, and rejoicing.
How exactly does Jesus want us to grow beyond our "tribes" without elevating ourselves above others? Also, are Mormons Christian? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd discuss these questions, and also talk about how Freehold KidMin & Novation Youth foster an amazing community where your kids and students can grow to become more like Jesus, and make lifelong friendships in the process.
01/24/21 | No matter who you are, we all know that being with someone different than us can sometimes be difficult; said another way, we’re tempted to be tribal. However, Jesus wants us to grow beyond our tribes; he prayed for this kind of unity in his church (John 17:20-21).
Reading from Ephesians 2:11-22, Pastor Matt reminds us that the goal isn’t to become like each other; it’s to become like Jesus. Peace & unity aren’t found in uniformity, but are the product of Christ’s constant transformation. And in a Life Group, not only is my life is transformed, but someone else’s life is transformed as well.
Sign up for a Life Group at freeholdag.com/lifegroups!
01/17/21 | How can we make the most of 2021 without knowing entirely what the future holds? Thankfully, we can find timeless wisdom in God’s Word that will always be true no matter what may be coming next. Pastor Jeff pulls 10 principles from Proverbs chapter 3, and this week talks about principles #8 - #10:
8) Do Not Withhold Good From Those Who Deserve It (v. 27-28)
9) Do Not Plot Harm Against Your Neighbor (v. 29-30)
10) Do Not Envy Others (v. 31-32)
"What are some things you're hoping for in the New Year?" Pastor Matt asks this question to Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Missionary Tara Matthews before they discuss the Sunday Sermon. We talk about biblical generosity, the challenge & joy of the Lord's discipline, and what it would be like to be in Solomon's shoes where God said He would give Solomon anything he asked for (1 Kings 3). We then shift to talk about what is happening next with Tara before she leaves for Paraguay.
01/10/21 | How can we make the most of 2021 without knowing entirely what the future holds? Thankfully, we can find timeless wisdom in God’s Word that will always be true no matter what may be coming next. Pastor Jeff pulls 10 principles from Proverbs chapter 3, and this week talks about principles #4 - #7:
4) Honor the Lord with Your Wealth (v. 9-10)
5) Do Not Despise the Lord's Discipline (v. 11-12)
6) Find Wisdom & Preserve It (v. 13-24)
7) Have No Fear (v. 25-26)
Happy New Year!
Does faithfulness always have to be a grind? Could we be living from a place of joy in our relationships with God and with others? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd discuss the Sunday sermon and talk more about faithfulness, putting our trust in the Lord, and being "wise in our own eyes" (all from Proverbs chapter 3). Pastor Todd shares about the time when he shook hands with the president!
01/03/21 | How can we make the most of 2021 without knowing entirely what the future holds? Thankfully, we can find timeless wisdom in God’s Word that will always be true no matter what may be coming next. Pastor Jeff pulls 10 principles from Proverbs chapter 3, and focuses on the first 3 this week:
1) Let Love & Faithfulness Never Leave You (v. 3-4)
2) Trust in the Lord with all your Heart (v. 5-6)
3) Do Not be Wise in your Own Eyes (v. 7-8)
How do we stay active when we find ourselves in a time of waiting? What might God be revealing in our lives during this time? Pastor Matt sits down and discusses these thoughts with Missionary Tara Matthews and with [guest appearance!] Sawyer Matthews, talking about our own lives and how we've seen God work through these times in our lives.
12/27/20 | With December 25th behind us, now what? Even though many of us are eager to embrace a new year, Pastor Todd shares the perfect “post-Christmas” story about a man named Simeon, an example for us in Luke 2 about what it means to wait well. Pastor Todd encourages us through looking at Simeon’s example that in order to wait well, we must:
1) Be Active
2) Widen Your View
3) Let Your Heart Be Revealed
12/20/20 | Join us for Christmas services! It won’t be the same without you and yours, so find a time to attend together!
Pastor Matt quizzes Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd on some more Christmas Trivia, and then we talk about the Sunday Sermon in more depth. While the sermon emphasized God's holiness and Mankind's sinfulness, we also highlight scriptures that talk about how we are to be holy as a result of what Christ has done for us. We also talk about how even though God's presence is always with us through the Holy Spirit, we want that to motivate us to spend time with the Lord, and not to become oblivious to God's working in our lives.
12/13/20 | Gifts bring us closer to one another. A gift is a sign of love and respect, a symbol of intimacy and connection. This weekend, come experience the gift that will lift your spirits, strengthen your relationships, and bring you closer to your Creator.
Quiz time! Pastor Matt asks Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd, and Missionary Tara Matthews some questions about the original Christmas Story. We then talk about aspects of the Christmas story that have stood out to us over the years, and then discuss more of the Sunday sermon: myrrh, Jesus' sacrifice, and how he continues to function as our Savior.
12/06/20 | A good gift has value. We cherish what we’ve been given when we know it comes at a high price or a steep cost. But the most valuable gift of all is already paid for—and it was bought for you. Week 1, Pastor Jeff shows how the gift of myrrh represents Jesus as the Suffering Servant, and ultimately, our Savior.
How can someone understand the gospel, yet not be "fluent" in it? Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Missionary Tara Matthews discuss this concept in greater detail. We talk about ways that we can unintentionally distort the gospel in our own lives, and having the right perspective when it comes to placing our hope in Jesus versus things in this world.
11/29/2020 | This year, many of us have found clarity when it comes to our how we manage our time and relationships. The most essential point of clarity, however, must be about the gospel. Pastor Jamal talks about how as Christians, we must gain Gospel Clarity so that we can be great at Gospel Fluency; being able to speak the gospel in any and every situation. It's one thing to understand it, but it's another thing to be fluent in it. Reading from Galatians 1:6-10, Pastor Jamal shows that we must:
1) Assess Your Loyalty to the Gospel of Christ (v. 6-7)
2) Affirm Your Confidence in the Gospel (v. 8-9)
3) Assert Yourself as a Servant of the Gospel of Christ (v. 10)
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd, & Missionary Tara Matthews discuss Pastor Jeff's message "Beyond Thanksgiving." Pastor Matt starts off with a History of Thanksgiving Quiz, and then we move the discussion into thankfulness and the Sunday message. We talk about the difference between praise & thanksgiving, and the difference between a "formula" and a "principle," with Pastor Jamal differentiating that a formula focuses on a product, while a principle focuses on a person.
Want to join the discussion? Go to anchor.fm/freeholdag/message to submit an audio message!
11/22/20 | It’s one thing to say what you’re thankful for; it’s another to answer why you’re thankful for it. Reading from Psalm 100, Pastor Jeff distinguishes between thanksgiving and praise, noting that “Thanksgiving gets our foot in the door, but praise takes us higher and further into God’s presence.” This Thanksgiving, let’s go beyond thanksgiving.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Missionary Tara Matthews talk about their own personal devotional lives, as Pastor Jeff gave a window into his devotional life for the Sunday message. We talk about how seasons of life affect it, as well as some other tools that we use to enhance our devotions. We also talk about Pastor Jeff's sermon, specifically discussing the part of Acts 27 when the "experts" went against Paul's advice to sail, because it seemed right to them. For us, we talk about what sometimes may seem like godly advice, but actually proves not to be helpful.
11/15/20 | How do you stay calm, confident & courageous during a storm? Pastor Jeff gives a window into what his personal devotional life looks like; how he approaches the scriptures and pulls out spiritual truths for what we face today. Looking at Acts 27, Pastor Jeff reminds us to:
Remember God's presence (Acts 27:23)
Remember God's purpose (Acts 27:24)
Remember God's promises (Acts 27:25)
Remember to pray (Acts 27:30)
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Missionary Tara Matthews try to describe 2020 in one word. We talk about managing vs. solving tension, how Christians are more affected by society than the other way around, and allowing the gospel to pierce through and change us.
11/08/2020 | It's tough to describe what 2020 has been like in just one word: unprecedented, hellacious, even apocalyptic. Considering the state of tension our nation is in right now, Pastor Jeff looks at what the Hebrews writer says about Moses in Hebrews 11:24-27. Moses' life is an example for us to live by in what can feel like a wilderness type of experience. Moses resolved these tensions early in his life, and Christ enables us to as well:
1) Who Am I?
2) Who Do I Want To Be?
3) What Is Important In My Life?
4) How Am I Going To Live?
Knowing that we are in a tense political climate with Election Day approaching and even a possible waiting period, Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Missionary Tara Matthews read and discuss key scriptures that talk about Christians, the government, and what our response must be. Scriptures we read:
-1 Timothy 2:1-4
-Romans 13:1-7, 14
-1 Peter 2:12-17
We then move the discussion to talk about Greg Hubbard's messages for the Spiritual Emphasis Weekend.
11/01/2020 | Evangelist Greg Hubbard was with us for our Spiritual Emphasis Weekend. For our Sunday morning service, he shared from Ephesians 2:19-22, focusing on where the scripture says that Christ is our cornerstone. Expanding further on the text, Greg shows us that:
1) Jesus is our Cornerstone
2) Jesus is our Keystone
3) Jesus is our Capstone
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Missionary Tara Matthews have some fun nerding out about bible translations, and then move the discussion to the value of having others in your walk with God. We share of times when people have helped us to grow in faith, and about how true Christianity involves a community of faith, not simply an individualistic one.
10/25/2020 | How do we take our relationship with God from the shallows into a deeper place? In Week 4, Pastor Jeff talks about how there are some things that we shouldn't do alone, and our faith is one of them. We > Me. If you want to go deeper, your faith needs a friend. Reading from Hebrews 10:22-24, Pastor Jeff shares three factors that are better as "we" instead of just "me":
1) We draw near to God together (v. 22)
2) We hold on to hope together (v. 23)
3) We change the world together (v. 24)
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Missionary Tara Matthews talk about the types of experiences we collect as Christians and how to keep them in the appropriate perspective. We also talk about stepping out and growing in our expressions of worship, and being obedient to God when he calls us to do something.
10/18/2020 | How do we take our relationship with God from the shallows into a deeper place? In Week 3, Pastor Matt talks about how going deeper in our faith involves doing something. Just like our physical diet consists of calories in and calories out, our spiritual diet must consist of both calories in and calories out. Reading from Philippians 2:12-16, Pastor Matt challenges us to "Work out what God is working in."
Pastor Matt & Pastor Jamal talk about what Pastor Jeff called, "signs of spiritual infancy" in greater depth. We talk about how & why we can fall prey to being unchanged in a church atmosphere, as well as being unchanged by God's Word. We talk about the mission and purpose of the church, how to know when you're ready to teach someone else, and each of us share something that recently God has spoken to us personally.
10/11/2020 | How do we take our relationship with God from the shallows into a deeper place? In Week 2, Pastor Jeff challenges us from Hebrews 5:11-14, where the writer talks about what Pastor Jeff refers to as "symptoms of spiritual infancy":
1) Slow to learn / dull to hear (v. 11)
2) Ought to be teachers instead of being taught (v. 12)
3) Milk over meat (v. 12)
4) Unskilled in the Word (v. 13)
Pastor Jeff warns against being in a place where nothing that is said impacts our lives. Learning is good, but there is nothing more exciting than sharing your faith with someone who needs to know about Jesus.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd talk about "going deeper" in our walk with God. We define what is meant by "deeper", we talk about our need for and dependency on God, and we talk about navigating the tension of trusting in God and his provision when it seems like He isn't providing for us in the tangible ways that we may need.
10/04/2020 | How do we take our relationship with God from the shallows into a deeper place? In this first week, we look at Jesus' personal encounter with Peter in Luke 5:1-11. We see that:
1) Jesus is never too busy to meet with just you,
2) When Jesus meets us, it is to take us from shallow faith to deeper faith,
3) Jesus turns what we are concerned about into what He is concerned about.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd talk about the "Better Together" September teaching series. We talk about the dangers of being in isolation, how relationships can take work, humility in community, and knowing that we're working towards unity instead of being self-focused and keeping others from God.
09/27/2020 | It is almost impossible to be an ally and an advocate for people who are different than us, without being in relationship or having a significant experience with them. Pastor Jeff unpacks the Early Church's struggles with accepting those who were different from them in Acts 15:5-12. He reminds us that when it comes to belonging and including others:
1) We were all created in the image of God.
2) Jesus set the example.
09/20/2020 | Being in community is how we can grow past our blind spots. Tough love is the right combination of “grace-giving” + “truth-telling,” which we see embodied perfectly in Jesus (John 1:14), and tough love is how we overcome those blindspots. Pastor Matt gives some helpful tips when it comes to giving and receiving tough love:
1) Know thyself (2 Timothy 1:7)
2) Consider the source (Proverbs 27:17)
3) Choose your battles (John 16:12)
4) Catch people doing right (Proverbs 25:11)
09/13/2020 | As we gear up for the launch of Life Groups, Pastor Jeff talks about the importance of being in community with other Christians, specifically when it comes to small groups. Looking at the Early Church in Acts 2:41-47, Pastor Jeff shows us that:
1) Community is not simply found; it is formed.
2) Connection involves gathering in both large (communal) and smaller (relational) ways.
Pastor Jeff encourages us with Hebrews 10:24-25; to not neglect meeting together, but to encourage one another instead.
09/06/2020 | Pastor Jeff reads from Philippians 2 and talks about how we must have the same attitude as Christ Jesus, who humbled himself and gave himself up for us. We need to exemplify a Christ-like attitude to everyone around us, especially in community with our brothers and sisters, because we're Better Together.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Tara Matthews talk about God's anointing. What do we mean by anointing? Is it the same as God's calling? What about being empowered by the Holy Spirit? We talk about how our attitude matters when it comes to the fruit we bear, and that intimacy with God isn't a formula you make up, yet it is the ultimate answer when it comes to living out God's call.
08/30/2020 | In Exodus 30:23, scripture details the recipe for anointing oil. Pastor Jeff breaks down this recipe, showing the symbolism for Christians today who want to receive from God. From the passage, we see how each ingredient has spiritual significance for us to live out today:
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Liquid Myrrh = dying to self
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Cinnamon = full of sweetness & grace
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Fragrant Cane (sweet calamus) = made better by the trials of life
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Cassia = going higher with God
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Olive Oil = The Holy Spirit
On this episode Missionary Tara Matthews joins Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd on the podcast to talk about the previous two Sundays: Pastor Matt's "Drop The Rock" sermon and Pastor Jeff's "Do You Love Me?" sermon. We start off by talking about deeper context of John chapter 8 which Pastor Matt discussed in his Sunday sermon, and the significance of where it is placed in John's Gospel. We talk about if there is a difference between judgment & condemnation, and move the discussion to Pastor Jeff's sermon about how love produces obedience.
08/23/2020 | Pastor Jeff shares from Jesus' words to Peter, "Do you love me?", and talks about how love is followed with obedience. By looking at Jesus' words in John 14 & 15, Pastor Jeff goes on to show that: obedience proves our salvation, transforms our lives, springs from our love, and characterizes our walk. He then talks about the striking promise from obedience: that God himself dwells within us.
08/16/2020 | Pastor Matt shares a timely message about our tendency to judge others, which we do to shift the blame and to feel better about ourselves. Giving the contextual history of John chapter 8, Pastor Matt reads from the story of the woman caught in adultery, showing Jesus' example when it comes to judging others: Drop The Rock. Jesus always extends grace, and he expects his followers to do the same. How do we do this? We need to:
1) Stop Measuring Sin (Matt. 5:27-28)
2) See the Story (Matt. 7:12)
3) Focus on You (Matt. 7:3-5)
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd talk about the sermon from the day before. We unpack more context of the Book of Hebrews, and spend some time talking about Pastor Jamal's words: "our faith isn't tethered to a building," and "we've equated a health crisis with persecution."
Buildings are a great blessing, but make a terrible god. We understand that our faith is anchored in the person and work of Jesus, not a physical location; yet it is important to also heed the advice that Hebrews 10:24-25 gives, "not to neglect meeting together as some are in the habit of doing." Sometimes what we call persecution is really a matter of inconvenience, and how having that perspective is important in helping us navigate through and be a light in the midst of a pandemic.
08/09/2020 | Pastor Jamal preaches about how Christians can and should be leading the way when it comes to being unshakable in the midst of a pandemic. Reading from Hebrews 12:25-29, Pastor Jamal shares how if you want your faith to be pandemic-proof, then it must be rooted in the things that are unshakable. He says that we have equated a health crisis with persecution because we've been rooted in the wrong things; tethering our faith to a building, or complaining about masks. Pastor Jamal shows how being rooted in the Unshakable Kingdom of God enables us to be a light to those around us.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Pastor Bonnie discuss the issues of Greed. We talk about how this week might be the easiest for us to simply dismiss because it is so counter to how we think as American Christians. We talk about the many forms that Greed can take, and what it looks to like to have Greed be the boss of you. We end with talking about practical ways to make sure that we don't become blinded by Greed.
08/02/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 6, Pastor Jeff finishes the series by talking about Greed. He first looks at Jesus' warning about Greed in Luke 12:15, and then goes through the life of Lot from the Book of Genesis. From looking at Lot's life, Pastor Jeff shows how 1) Greed is often the downfall of godly people, 2) Greed is a danger that can guide you to greater sins, & 3) The object of your Greed will be destroyed. He ends by reading from 1 Timothy 6:10-11, where Paul talks about what we should be pursuing instead.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd discuss legitimate fears, irrational fears, fearing God, and how these compare with our faith in Jesus. We talk about how perhaps the limits of the English language require us to use more descriptive words when it comes to this topic. We also talk about how it's a relationship that we have with Jesus that enables us to not let Fear be the boss in our lives. As Pastor Todd said during the Sunday sermon, it's the person and presence of Jesus that we need to help us overcome Fear.
07/26/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 5, Pastor Todd talks about different reasons that we may experience fear. Sometimes it's legitimate, sometimes it's made up, and other times we don't know where it comes from. Pastor Todd shows from Matthew 8:23-27 where Jesus calms the storm that Fear is a Liar, and that we can choose one of three responses to Fear: 1) Let Fear be our boss, 2) Try to be your own boss, or 3) Trust in Jesus.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Bonnie talk about the different types of anger that Pastor Jeff talked about the Sunday before. We talk about what it looks like to control sudden anger, how to direct anger at sin instead of an individual, identifying when our own anger is sinful, and what sanctified or righteous anger looks like in the life of a Christian.
07/19/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 4, Pastor Jeff talks about four different types of anger, and what our responses should be to them:
1) Sudden Anger...needs to be Controlled (Pr. 16:18)
2) Sinful Anger...needs to be Condemned (Matt. 5:22)
3) Stubborn Anger...needs to be Conquered (Eph. 4:26-27)
4) Sanctified Anger...needs to be Channelled (Eph. 4:26-32)
On this episode, the pastoral staff talk about the results of allowing envy and jealousy to be motivation, and whether or not we should understand dealing with envy as "a tension to manage." We talk about how we need to have personal ownership of our actions, yet the gospel makes it clear that we have no ability in and of ourselves to change anything about our sinful nature; it's all by the power of Jesus. We end the discussion by talking about what this looks like in the life of a believer.
07/12/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 3, Pastor Matt talks about how envy & jealousy are the opposite of peace. From looking at Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes 4, Pastor Matt says that there's no "win" in Comparison, Envy isn't a problem to solve but a tension to manage, and that Contentment is found where God has called you. We then change gears and look at Paul's letter in Philippians 2, and see that in order for Envy not to be the boss of us, we must 1) adjust our thinking, 2) stay in our lane, and 3) celebrate others.
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd, and Pastor Bonnie talk about our response when it comes to guilt. Sometimes it comes from what we've done, and other times it may come from someone placing that guilt on us. We talk about spotting the difference between condemnation and conviction, the purpose of forgiveness, and placing our identity in what God says about us.
07/05/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 2, Pastor Jeff talks about how we don't have to be condemned by our guilt. Our past reminds us, but it doesn't define us. When we've come to faith in Christ, there is no condemnation (Romans 8:1-4). He talks about how we need to: 1) Compare Condemnation and Conviction, 2) Comprehend what Jesus did for us (Rom. 8:3-4), and 3) Commit to living by the Spirit (Rom. 8:4).
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd talk about You're Not The Boss of Me Week 1. We discuss "monitoring behavior", how traditions can be both good and bad, how to spot the difference, and how to follow Jesus' invitation to not just monitor our behavior, but to monitor our hearts.
06/28/2020 | How do you say No to the emotions that compete for control? Guilt, Envy, Anger, Fear...they have a way of controlling us. But in this series, we'll see how Jesus invites us to live a better way, where these emotions won't be the boss of us.
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In Week 1, Pastor Jeff reads from Matthew 15:18 where Jesus says that what comes out of your mouth reveals what's in your heart. We all monitor our behavior to some degree, but Jesus invites us to take monitoring to a whole new level - to look inside our hearts. As Pastor Jeff put it, "How do you put a smile on God's face? By how we treat each other."
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, and Pastor Todd talk about memories, experiences & lessons their fathers have instilled into them. They also talk about the tensions of reflecting the fatherhood of God when it comes to parenting, and about the significance that as Christians, we are able to refer to God as our Father.
06/21/2020 | This Father's Day, Pastor Jeff unpacks The Lord's Prayer, showing Jesus' relationship that he had with the Father, and how that extends to us as well. Through looking at Matthew 6:9-13 we see that:
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He has respect and honor for his Father (v. 9)
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He knows his Father has a spiritual plan (v. 10)
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He knows his Father will take care of him (v. 11) (Matt. 7:9-11)
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He learns from his Father what forgiveness really means (v. 12)
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He knows his Father will lead him the right way (v. 13)
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He is willing to follow wherever his Father leads (v. 13)
06/14/2020 | This Sunday we honor the Class of 2020, especially because of what a unique situation we find ourselves in. Pastor Jeff shares principles from scripture for graduates and for every one who is listening:
1) Face Your Fears (2 Tim. 1:7)
2) Forget [Learn From] Your Failures (Phil. 3:13-14)
3) Follow Your Faith (Heb. 12:1-3).
Welcome to another episode of the Monday Morning Recap! Pastor Matt & Pastor Todd sit down with Chanelle Dunn, MaryAnne Galloway, and Pastor Tim Schley, who offer a different perspective than the voices we normally hear on the weekly podcast. They share some of their own thoughts and experiences of racial tension when it comes to the Body of Christ.
We're all encouraged to empathize with those who have different experiences than us, especially those within the Body of Christ; we're family, and we need to be there for each other! We want to thank Chanelle, MaryAnne, and Pastor Tim for joining us this week and for being so transparent about their feelings and experiences.
06/07/2020 | Pastor Jamal shares a powerful, timely word considering racial tensions & conversations that are taking place in our nation right now. His message, "On Earth As In Heaven," challenges Christians to allow the gospel to continually transform them through the power of the Holy Spirit, and specifically applies it to issues of race. He quotes Rick DeBose, the Assemblies of God General Assistant Superintendent, saying, "The church has lost its influence, so it's trying to gain its influence through political means." Pastor Jamal shares how:
1) We cannot hitch a movement to the Gospel (Matt. 28:19),
2) The Gospel is not just informational, it is transformational (Luke 10:36),
3) The Holy Spirit must be the fuel for our Kingdom movement (1 Cor. 2:4-5).
"The church needs to be the leader in the pursuit of reconciliation." -Pastor Jamal Fletcher.
This week the pastoral staff sit down and talk about Pentecost Sunday, but more specifically, its implications for what our culture is currently going through today. We believe the Gospel is culturally relevant, and that the event we celebrate on Pentecost Sunday is an everyday experience that God wants to use to heal a broken world.
We briefly discuss the event of Pentecost and speaking in tongues, as well as some aspects of the Pentecostal Movement at the beginning of the 20th Century. We then move the discussion to talk about tensions of race, even within the Pentecostal Movement over the decades. We talk about how the "empowerment of the Holy Spirit" is not simply an experience for ourselves, but is about God empowering us to intentional action to love others. We end by talking about how even though we are different, that is the beauty of the Body of Christ; we have the opportunity to set the example for the world around us on how to be both diverse and united.
05/31/2020 | Our church met outside for a Sunday Morning Drive-In Service amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic for Pentecost Sunday 2020. It was an exciting day together! Pastor Jeff shared timely words for our church and for our world, especially in the wake of the tragic death of George Floyd. Pastor Jeff compared The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) and Pentecost (Acts 2:1-8), and spoke about how:
1) The Church Must Have An Atmosphere Where God Can Move (2 Chronicles 5:11; Acts 2:1)
2) The Church Must Draw the Attention of People Who Are Outside the Church (Acts 2:6)
3) The Church Must Open Their Doors To Everybody (Acts 2:6).
He also shared powerful words by Martin Luther King, Jr., and challenged us to be a people to live by the Spirit. In the words of Pastor Jeff, "That which unites us [Jesus] must be greater than that which divides us."
05/24/2020 | Pastor Jeff finishes the second half of Acts Chapter 1 in preparation for Pentecost Sunday. He shares how Jesus' disciples were entering a new season, and they set an example for us to follow. Finding ourselves similarly entering a new season of "new normals" as we begin to move past the COVID-19 / Coronavirus Pandemic, Pastor Jeff shows from scripture that we must 1) Carry out the Lord's Commands, 2) Pray with Passion, 3) Believe the Bible, 4) Enlist & Equip More Help, and 5) Accept the Lord's Assignment.
Pastor Matt sits down with the rest of the pastoral staff and discuss Pastor Jeff's sermon, Preparing for Pentecost. We briefly talk about the significance of the event of Pentecost, and then discuss what "convincing proofs" we have of Jesus working in our lives today (Acts 1:3), and how to make sure that we are staying focused on the things Jesus sees as important, instead of "majoring on the minors."
05/17/2020 | Reading from Acts chapter 1 in preparation for Pentecost Sunday, Pastor Jeff talks about how the entire Book of Acts is outlined in this first chapter. Starting in chapter 1 and continuing throughout the entire book, Jesus wants us to see: 1) the importance of his work, 2) the importance of his words, and 3) the importance of his witnesses.
We've got a special episode this week for Mother's Day, featuring the staff wives! Pastor Matt sits down with Pastor Bonnie, Stephanie Huff, Phyllis Fletcher, and Heather Philhower as they talk about parenting, motherhood, and Pastor Jeff's Sunday sermon.
05/10/2020 | Pastor Jeff shares about how the mother of two of Jesus' disciples, Mrs. Zebedee, approached Jesus on her sons' behalf. While she often gets a bad rap for her boldness, Pastor Jeff highlights this mother's heart. She wanted her sons to 1) Be a part of His Kingdom, 2) Be actively involved in the works of His Kingdom, and 3) She had high expectations. Pastor Jeff offers some great advice when it comes to expectations for our children, and how we can continually commit them to the Lord no matter what life phase they are at. Scripture: Matthew 20:20-23.
05/03/2020 | Pastor Matt finishes our Mission: Possible series by asking the question, "How do we live on mission when life is subject to change?" From looking at the life of Joseph in the Book of Genesis, we see that even though Life Changes, The Mission Doesn't. God's Word challenges us to See The Opportunity: 1) Walk with God, 2) Work with God, and 3) Embrace the Season. Scripture: James 1:2-4, Genesis 50:20.
This week, the pastoral staff discuss The Book of Jonah chapter 1 from Pastor Jeff's Sunday sermon. We talk about how just like Jonah had prejudices and excuses, Christians can as well, and we need to allow God to work on our hearts in those areas. We also discuss the difference between acting like a Christian and reacting like one, how to understand biblical stories that can, at first glance, feel far-fetched, as well as answer the question: "Who is a missionary?"
04/26/2020 | Pastor Jeff continues Week 2 of our Mission: Possible series by reading from The Book of Jonah, chapter 1. He talks about The Problem, The Solution, and The Results of the story that transpired. Pastor Jeff's life lesson for us is that we never sin alone; our sin always affects other people, which we see happen in this chapter. Thankfully, God is always able to use our shortcomings for his glory. Pastor Jeff points out how the sailors in the story didn't know the One True God (Jonah 1:6), but because of the storm that took place, came to a knowledge of Him, and now would be a people who go about proclaiming His name (Jonah 1:16).
The pastoral staff discuss Week 1 of our series, Mission: Possible. Looking at a famous story of Jesus in Luke 5:17-26, Pastor Jeff talked about how People Matter to God, even more than theology, buildings, and our personal comfort. We talked about some of the tension that exists in those spaces, how to find a healthy balance, and talk about the importance of our church staying on mission even at a time like this.
04/19/2020 | This Sunday Pastor Jeff begins a new series called, "Mission: Possible." Pastor Jeff talks from a famous story of Jesus healing the paralytic man in Luke 5:17-26, and talks about how People Matter More to God Than: 1) Our Own Personal Plans, 2) Meetings & Crowds, 3) Buildings, 4) Sermons or Theology, and 5) Personal Comfort & Feelings. He ends the message with a challenge for our church to be part of a community project we're calling, "The Kelsey Project," inspired by our very own Kelsey Maloney.
The pastoral staff sit down and discuss [through Zoom] the last reading from the Bible Reading Plan for Easter Week 2020; Luke 24:36-48. We talk about Jesus' post-resurrection appearances, the important distinction that it was a physical, bodily resurrection, the Holy Spirit's role in using us to share this news with others, and how because of the resurrection, we can experience the peace that comes from Jesus.
Link to the Bible Reading Plan can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YDYyYtQdt1TN0aSPsdti4DEkQBD2oHW7fIXOmnnAFKQ/edit?usp=sharing
04/12/2020 | Happy Easter Sunday! It looks different than what we'd normally do, but that doesn't change the fact that Jesus has RISEN from the dead, and we can still celebrate that together! Pastor Jeff talked about how the Resurrection of Jesus leads to: LIFE, HOPE, and LOVE. Awesome message to share with a friend.
Continuing our discussion for Easter Week, the pastoral staff discuss the passage of scripture where Jesus says that one of his disciples will betray him (John 13:21-32). All week long our church is reading different passages of scripture leading up to Easter, and this was the reading for today, with the Prayer Focus being God's Sovereignty. We talk about Jesus' divinity & humanity, Judas' free will, and how knowing that God is in control can give us peace, especially during the current Coronavirus crisis going on around us.
Link to the Bible Reading Plan can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YDYyYtQdt1TN0aSPsdti4DEkQBD2oHW7fIXOmnnAFKQ/edit?usp=sharing
On today's podcast, Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd, and Pastor Bonnie sit down and discuss the story of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with oil (John 12:1-11). As we're beginning Easter Week, our church is reading through Easter passages about Jesus' life leading up to Easter, and this is the passage for Monday.
Link to the Bible Reading Plan can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YDYyYtQdt1TN0aSPsdti4DEkQBD2oHW7fIXOmnnAFKQ/edit?usp=sharing
04/05/2020 | Pastor Jeff reads from the famous passage of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, also known as Palm Sunday, beginning the Holy Week of Easter. He points out how the crowds cheered praises when Jesus rode in (Matthew 21:9), yet days later, crowds shouted, "Crucify him!" (Matthew 27:21-22). Pastor Jeff talks about the difference between a casual faith and a committed faith, and shows that a Committed Faith:
1) Is Not Self-Centered, It Is Christ-Centered
2) Is Relationship-Driven
3) Does Not Waver in Personal Trials or Crises.
He closes by asking the question: "Do you have a casual or a committed faith?", and extends the invitation for anyone to pray a prayer of salvation and to accept Jesus as the Lord of their life.
03/29/2020 | Pastor Jeff talks about the importance of continually praising God, especially in times of uncertainty. Reading from Hebrews 13:15 which tells us to "continually offer a sacrifice of praise," Pastor Jeff shows us that: 1) Praise keeps our FOCUS on God, 2) Praise increases our UNDERSTANDING of who God is, and 3) Praise helps build your CONFIDENCE in God.
03/22/2020 | Pastor Jeff brings us the truth of God's Word in the midst of uncertainty, and emphasizes that "every crisis is a call to seek God." This was the first Sunday of our church not being able to physically gather due to the COVID-19 crisis and the government recommendations which prohibited public gatherings. Pastor Jeff answered the question, "As Christians, what should we personally do about the current crisis?":
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Exercise Caution & Care (Numbers 14)
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Seek the Lord (2 Chronicles 7:13-14)
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Trust the Lord (Isaiah 26:3-4)
Pastor Jeff then prayed the same prayer that Paul prayed over the Christians in the Roman church who were facing persecution: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13 NIV).
03/22/2020 | The pastoral staff sit down and discuss the sudden change to American life due to the COVID-19 Crisis. At the time of this recording, the state of New Jersey had recommended all public gatherings to refrain from meeting, and our church followed these recommendations. As a result, our church decided to stream a Sunday service, and the staff discussed this change of events as the opening part of the service.
03/15/2020 | This Sunday, Pastor Dave Greco came and preached in honor of Pastor Jeff's 25th Anniversary of being at our church! We're so glad we were able to celebrate him on this special occasion. From Matthew 9:37-38, Dave shared an inspiring message called, "Anyone," and talked about how God can: 1) Reach Anyone, 2) Use Anyone, and 3) Send Anyone.
This is a shorter version of his message from first service. For the longer version, check out the Facebook Live video of second service from the same date: https://www.facebook.com/freeholdag/videos/1303101706557677/
Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd discuss Pastor Jamal's sermon on Waiting Well. We talk about the tension of continually bringing something to God without complaining about it, the importance of being faithful where you are, and unpack the idea of Christian Hope, and how conversations in Christian circles can change in a positive way.
03/08/2020 | Pastor Jamal shares that with services like Amazon Prime in our fast-paced culture, waiting isn't something that many of us enjoy. However, we shouldn't take our "Prime attitude" into the Throne Room of God; we can't expect God to operate like Amazon Prime, moving at whatever pace we want him to move. Pastor Jamal looks at scripture and talks about what it looks like to Wait Well. We must:
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Wait Prayerfully (Daniel 10)
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Wait Faithfully (1 Samuel 17:15)
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Wait Hopefully (1 Peter 1:3, John 10:18)
No matter what you're waiting on in your season of life right now, you can Wait Well knowing that Christ is with you!
03/01/2020 | For our Sunday Evening Service, the Pastoral Staff sit down and have a live panel discussion on the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues. This topic that can be difficult to talk about sometimes because of differing beliefs or past experiences, so our goal is to take the pressure off by simply having a conversation about it.
We start by defining terms, establishing a theology of the Holy Spirit, and then examining the scriptures that talk about Spirit Baptism and speaking in tongues. Throughout the discussion we answer previously submitted questions. Towards the end, each pastor talks about their personal experience, as well as some advice for anyone seeking this in their own walk with God.
Scriptures for further reading:
- Acts 2, 8, 10, 19
- 1 Corinthians 12, 13, 14
- Romans 8:26, 27
- Ephesians 5:18; 6:18
03/01/2020 | Pastor Jeff talks about the ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives by going over six symbols that the Bible uses to describe the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Starting with Leviticus 6:8-13, Pastor Jeff explains that in scripture the Holy Spirit comes as:
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Rain = refreshing (Joel 2:23-24; Acts 2:17)
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Rivers = overflowing for counsel & encouragement (John 7:37-39)
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Wind = powerful guidance (John 3:8, Acts 2:2, Acts 2:6)
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Oil = reveals truth (2 Corinthians 1:21-22; 1 John 2:20)
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Fire = purifies (Acts 2:3; Isaiah 4:4)
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A Dove = brings peace (Matthew 3:16)
02/23/2020 | Pastor Jeff finishes our Anonymous series with Week 4: Behind Every Name Is a Story (Part 2). He continues to go through the significance of each name from Romans 16, why they were important to Paul, and how God sees each of us where we are at. And even though Paul knew each of their names, he encouraged them to know each other's names ("Greet each other" v. 16). Paul's words admonish us to not only serve in God's church, but also to know each other's names, and see each other with the same value that God does.
This week, Pastor Bonnie joins the crew again as we discuss Pastor Jeff's sermon, Anonymous: Week 3. From looking at Romans 16, we see that many of the important people who served the Early Church equally alongside the Apostle Paul were women. We spend a lot of time talking about the topic of Women in Ministry; why this is controversial, what the Bible says about it, and what our perspective as a church is on this topic. We are reminded of the words of scripture:
"No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
*‘In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.'"*
(Acts 2:16-18 NIV; Peter quoting from Joel 2:28-29).
02/16/2020 | Pastor Jeff continues our series called "Anonymous" with Week 3: Behind Every Name Is a Story (Part 1). He reads a list of names that were important to the Apostle Paul from Romans 16, and shows how each one of these people, many of whom are women, are known and valued by Paul, and more importantly by God. Even if you feel like a nobody, you're a somebody in God's eyes. Pastor Jeff reminds us that, "You're not anonymous; God has a purpose for each of us in His church," and encourages us to serving and to community in the church.
This week Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal and Pastor Todd discuss Week 2 of our Anonymous Series. We talk about labels we sometimes identify with, how to have the right perspective when it comes to our new identity in Christ, and how we can positively influence those around us and begin to change the perception of of the name "Christian."
02/09/2020 | Pastor Matt continues our Anonymous Series with Week 2: God Changes People's Names. He talks about how our names determine our identity, and our identity determines our destiny, which is why God changes people's names. From reading 1 Peter 2:9-10, we see Peter's encouragement to live up to our new name in Christ. Pastor Matt shows how it's a community (v. 10), it's a process (v. 5), and it's a daily decision (v. 4). When we live up to our new name, others can receive their new name.
This week we're excited to have Pastor Bonnie join us on the Monday [Tuesday] Morning [Afternoon] Recap! We talk about Week 1 of "Anonymous," and how we aren't anonymous to God; we are known, loved, and valued. When we believe we're anonymous, we live without accountability and look to find meaning in our sin. But when we know and are known by God, that changes everything.
02/02/2020 | We start a new series at church called Anonymous. Pastor Jeff says that we aren't anonymous to God; prisoners have numbers, but children have names. He reads from Isaiah 43:1, and talks about 1) The Darkness & Danger of Not Knowing or Being Known by God, and 2) The Light & Life of Being Known by and Knowing God. Satan wants you to think that you're a statistic, that you're just a number, so what you do doesn't matter. But Jesus says that he is the Good Shepherd that knows his sheep by name. "If God knows your name, then you matter; and if you matter, fear not! He's redeemed us."
It's two recaps in one! We're glad to be back this week after missing last week, so we talk about Pastor Jeff's past two sermons, We Value: The Local Church (03:47 - 33:58), & We Value: People (40:10 - 1:05:57). Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd talk about the idea of holiness: how the church has been set apart, but also that we need to have the right perspective when it comes to this. We also talk about how the church has a unique opportunity in the world right now to see past the labels we place on one another, and instead can set the example in valuing PEOPLE for who they are, just as Jesus did.
01/26/2020 | Pastor Jeff finishes this series with Week 3: We Value People. From looking at the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10, we see that Jesus met Zacchaeus with unconditional love & acceptance, and that this unconditional love has a transforming power. "We have a name, we have a heritage, we have an identity. We are valuable to God. Go out and live it." -Pastor Jeff.
01/19/2020 | Looking at the Early Church in Acts 2:42-47, Pastor Jeff shares about how the Local Church is God's vehicle to accomplish His mission to reach the world. "Ekklesia," Greek for "church," means to be called out from the world, and then to be sent back into it to shine the light of Jesus. As the Local Church, we are: 1) To Be an Agency of God for Evangelizing the World, 2) To Be a Corporate Body in which People May Worship God, 3) To Be a Channel of God's Purpose to Build a Body of Saints Being Perfected in the Image of His Son, and 4) To Be a People Who Demonstrate God's Love & Compassion for all the World.
This week, Pastor Matt, Pastor Jamal & Pastor Todd discuss why We Value Missions based off Pastor Jeff's sermon from the day before. We talk about a brief history of our fellowship the Assemblies of God, why it's important that we share our faith, and how to have the right emphasis when it comes to talking to others about Jesus.
01/12/2020 | Over the next 3 weeks, Pastor Jeff is sharing about how as a church, We Value: Missions, The Local Church, and People. We Value Missions because 1) The Command From Above (Mark 16:15; Matt. 28:18-20), 2) The Cry From Below (Luke 16), 3) The Call From Afar (Acts 16:9-10), The Compelling From Within (2 Cor. 5:14-15).
Happy New Year! This week, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Pastor Matt talk about New Years Resolutions, some new Bible resolutions you can make, and discuss Pastor Jeff's sermon from the day before, "Rooted."
01/05/2020 | Pastor Jeff starts off the New Year with a messaged called, "Rooted," and talks about the idea of being biblically rooted in 2020. He also shared his life principles on how to trust God even when you find it difficult to. Remember that: 1) He's Conscious (Matt. 6:8), 2) He's Concerned (1 Peter 5:7), 3) He's Consistent (1 Cor. 1:9), and 4) He's Capable (Eph. 3:20). Scripture: Jeremiah 17:7-8.
This week, Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Pastor Matt talk about God With Us Week 5: Tell Someone. We talk about some practical ways to share your faith with those around you. Happy New Year everyone! See you next decade!
12/29/19 | Pastor Matt closes out our Christmas Series, "God With Us," with Week 5: Tell Someone. From looking at the Road to Emmaus, a story in Luke 24, we see that Jesus wants those who have experienced the truth of "God With Us" to go out and tell someone. Pastor Matt shows from this story that in order to tell someone, you 1) Walk With Them, 2) Say Something, and 3) Know Your Story. Scripture: Luke 24.
This week, Pastor Todd, Pastor Matt & Tara talk about God With Us Week 4: Always. And although we bring up Star Wars, we promise there are no spoilers in this episode. Merry Christmas everybody!
12/22/19 | Pastor Jeff continues our Christmas Series, "God With Us," with Week 4: Always. When you realize that God is with you, it causes you to live a lifestyle of worship. Mary & Joseph's lives are perfect examples of this. Pastor Jeff shows us that Joseph worshiped through obedience, and Mary worshiped through submission. Obedience is an outward action, while submission is an inward attitude. Scripture: Matthew 1:24; Luke 1:38.
On this episode, Tara Matthews joins us to discuss God With Us Week 3: In the Storm, with Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Pastor Matt. Tara gives some updates of her time at Language School in Costa Rica, and then we talk about some of the points based of Pastor Matt's sermon from the day before.
12/15/19 | Pastor Matt continues our Christmas Series, "God With Us," with Week 3: In the Storm. From looking at some people in the Bible who were in a physical storm, we learn that we can find peace and purpose in the storms that we face in life. Never let the presence of a storm cause you to doubt the presence of God. Real peace isn't found in the absence of a storm, but in the presence of Jesus. Because of this, we can place our faith not in what we see around us or feel inside us, but in what God says. Scripture: Acts 27:20-25; Psalm 46:1-3.
Pastor Jamal, Pastor Todd & Pastor Matt sit down and discuss God With Us Week 2: In the Desert. Discussion points based off of Pastor Jeff's sermon from the day before. Due to this episode's length (51 minutes), try listening at 1.2x speed.
12/08/19 | Pastor Jeff continues our Christmas Series, "God With Us," with Week 2: In the Desert. He talks about how if we focus on whose we are instead of where we are, we can have victory even if we are in a desert experience. From looking at Psalm 63, Pastor Jeff talks about how David's past experiences in the sanctuary equipped him for his desert experience. No matter what you're facing, the truth is that you are still a child of God, and he is with you. Scripture: Psalm 63:1-11.
Pastor Jamal & Pastor Matt sit down and discuss Pastor Jamal's sermon from the day before, God With Us Week 1: In the Valley.
12/01/19 | Pastor Jamal kicks off Week 1 of our Christmas Series, "God With Us." He reminds us that we can enjoy God in the mountaintops, but we get to know God in the valleys. From looking at the words of Psalm 84, we see that when it comes to valleys, 1) Our strength comes from God, 2) The valley is temporary, and 3) We need to make room for rain (provision). Scripture: Psalm 84:5-7; 116:1-9.
11/24/19 | "The person who complains finds comfort in nothing. The person who gives thanks finds comfort in everything." Pastor Jeff shares on the importance of giving thanks and the toxicity of complaining to orient our hearts before Thanksgiving 2019. Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:6-10.
11/17/19 | Pastor and Evangelist Jermel Mayo speaks about how Jesus' first miracle, turning water into wine, took place at a wedding that he was invited to. He challenges us with the truth that Jesus goes to places that he's invited to. For us, we must invite Jesus 1) Into Our Hearts, 2) Into Our Problems, and 3) Into Our Lives. Scripture: John 2:1-11.
11/10/19 | Pastor Jeff talks about how in the Old Testament, Elijah knew that if he could bring Israel back to the altar, he could bring Israel back to God. Pastor Jeff talked about how the altar is a place of promise, surrender, and sacrifice, and challenges us to live with the attitude that Elijah had during this story. Scripture: 1 Kings 18:30.
10/27/19 | Pastor Jeff talks about 1) The Identity of the Holy Spirit, 2) The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and 3) The Impact of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our Counselor, Comforter and Friend. He is in us, with us, and is a deposit of our salvation. He teaches us and empowers us. Scripture: John 14:15-17.
10/20/19 | Pastor Jeff talks about the woman who anointed Jesus' feet with oil, and how she is an example for us today. Even though there were negative outside influences, critical inside influences, and it cost her something, she gave Jesus everything that he deserved. Let's come to God with the same reverence as this woman did. Scripture: Mark 14:1-11.
10/13/19 | Pastor Jeff talks about how "Worship creates an atmosphere to hear the voice of God." From Joshua 5:13-15 we see that: 1) Worship is a powerful offensive weapon, 2) Worship helps us see from God's perspective, and 3) Worship is something we need to do everyday. Pastor Jeff reminds us that, "Through worship, he prepares us for the battles that come our way."
10/06/19 | Sermon by Pastor Matt about living our lives with purpose. Where we're going matters, so we want to end up somewhere on purpose. Thankfully, Jesus has given us the direction: to live on mission for him (Matt. 28:19-20). In order to do this we must: 1) Stay connected to Mission Control, 2) Do life together, and 3) Be willing to make adjustments. Scripture: Acts 8:26-38.
09/22/19 | Week 5 of Pastor Jeff's series, "Putting on the Brakes," in order to hear God more clearly.
09/15/19 | Week 4 of Pastor Jeff's series, "Putting on the Brakes," in order to hear God more clearly.
09/08/19 | Week 3 of Pastor Jeff's series, "Putting on the Brakes," in order to hear God more clearly.
09/01/19 | Week 2 of Pastor Jeff's series, "Putting on the Brakes," in order to hear God more clearly.
08/25/19 | Week 1 of Pastor Jeff's series, "Putting on the Brakes," in order to hear God more clearly.