Fellowship Church Poplar Bluff: Recent Episodes
Fellowship Church
Adoption & Intimacy with God - Galatians 4:1-11 | Adam Fears | August 2, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Galatians 3:19-29 | Cody Morgeson | July 26, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Galatians - Do You Know What Time It Is? | Sloan Parker | June 7, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - The Lord's Prayer | Cody Morgeson | May 31, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Temptation | Byron Beck | May 24, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Daily Bread Adam Fears | May 10, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Thy Will Be Done | Byron Beck | May 3, 2026 | Fellowship Church, Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Hallowed | Byron Beck | April 26, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Our Father in Heaven | Byron Beck | April 19, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Pray Like This - Calling Upon the Name of the LORD: A Theology of Prayer | Sloan Parker | April 12, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Easter 2026 - Death to Life | Byron Beck | April 5, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
The Home as God's Primary Discipleship Strategy | Adam Fears | March 29, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Shema - Soul & Strength | Byron Beck | March 22, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Shema - Hear, O Isreal | Adam Fears | February 22, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Shema - Undivided: A Call to Shema | Sloan Parker | February 15, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
New - New Attitude | Byron Beck | February 8, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
New - New Devotion to God | Byron Beck | February 1, 2026 | Fellowship Church Poplar Bluff, MO
New - New Connection | Byron Beck | January 25, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
New - New Commandment | Byron Beck | January 18, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
New - New Identity | Byron Beck | January 11, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
New - A New Creation | Cody Morgeson | January 2, 2026 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Christmas 2025 - The Rescue | Byron Beck | December 28, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Christmas 2025 - Expectations | Byron Beck | December 21, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Christmas 2025 - Expectations | Byron Beck | December 21, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Christmas 2025 - Joseph's Example | Byron Beck | December 14, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Christmas 2025 - For All Kinds | Byron Beck | December 7, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Brain Washed - Renewing the Imagination | Sloan Parker | November 16, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Brainwashed - Peaceful Mind | Byron Beck | November 2, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Brain Washed - Angry Mind | Byron Beck | October 26, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Brain Washed - The Mind | Byron Beck | October 19, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
4PB 2025 - A Particular Joy | Adam Fears | October 5, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Polar Bluff, MO
Missions Sunday 2025 | Adam Fears, Kay Fox, Chester Hurt | August 31, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
2 John - Drifting | Byron Beck | August 17, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Security | Byron Beck | August 10, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - God's Love and Ours | Adam Fears | July 27, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Test the Spirits | Nico Cuevas | July 20, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Love One Another | Byron Beck | July 13, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Guarding Against Deception | Cody Morgeson | June 29, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Who You Love Matters | Byron Beck | June 22, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1 John - Marked by Obedience | Adam Fears | June 15, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, Missouri
1 John - The Word of Life | Sloan Parker | June 1, 2025 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
1st Peter - Father's Day | Byron Beck | June 16, 2024 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Changed - What You Believe | Byron Beck | April 14, 2024 | Fellowship Church | Poplar Bluff, MO
Sermon for Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri for Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022.
Sermon from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri for Sunday, September 26, 2021.
Sermon from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri for Sunday, September 19, 2021.
Sermon audio from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, on Sunday, May 23, 2021.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, April 18, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, April 11, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, April 4, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, March 28, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, March 21, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, March 14, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Sermon audio for worship on Sunday, March 7, 2021, from Fellowship Church in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Matthew 5:4- “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
Message: Byron Beck
Message - Byron Beck
Worship - Kaitlin Morgeson, Erin Edington, Rhonda Phillips, Kathy Beck, Matt Whitworth, Josh Osborn & Taylor Burnett
Guest missionary describes how God is orchestrating a movement around the world. The challenge is given to be the one telling the amazing stories.
Do you deal with those around you through the prism of Jesus? Our relationship with Jesus should effect our relationship with others.
Since the start of the church in Apostolic times, Jesus has had a powerful effect on mankind. The impact and influence of Christianity has changed our world forever. Even today, the Jesus effect is prevalent. Are you part of the movement? The message is first of the series.
To magnify Christ with our lives is to find purpose. We can lift the name of Jesus through our testimony, our sacrifice, and our care for others and find true fulfillment. Based on Philippians 1:19-26.
As followers of the greatest example of love, we are called to live constantly paying on our debt of love. Based on Romans 13:8-10
A critical piece to real transformation, responding to God's grace and power, is our choice to act.
Those that are around us that seem annoying are actually opportunities for our spiritual growth and transformation.
Good decisions are at the heart of transformation in Christ. Because of freewill, we are given choices. Are you choosing in resonse to grace?
We are challenged to change into the likeness of Christ. This is a followers response to God's grace.
Ignoring sin will bring about some horrible consequences. Based on the story of Amnon and Tamar, David's children.
We will eventually come to points in life that are potentially defining moments. What we do in the midst of these "crossroads" is critical. Message built upon the story of David and Bathsheba.
Which word defines your life - yours or mine? The truth is that a generous life is one that is most fulfilling.
Are you in a cave of discouragement like David was so long ago? This is a critical time when God can do great work in you.
Courage is not an automatic attribute. David exhibited this when he faced Goliath. We learn that it exists because of fear, a natural human reaction. We can draw our courage from the Lord.
First message in the series "David's Heart". God is primarily concerned about our hearts - what's inside of us.
A commitment to God shapes who we are and what we do. If we are fully devoted to God, we will serve Him in all that we do. This will require us to make sacrifices and deny ourselves. At the same time, this kind of life will be the most fulfilling.
Taken from Ecclesiastes. A look at real fulfillment and resolutions that matter most. Message given by Associate Pastor Adam Fears.
Following the Magi, we find that any vision compels us to sacrifice and involves facing obstacles. The pursuit is full of them but is worth it in the end.
Are you susceptible to disappointment? What sway does it have over you? We all will deal with this aspect of life. The foundation you have in Christ is vital for making it through these seasons.
Two-fold sermon on a new mission opportunity for Fellowship Church and a Christian perspective on the 2016 election.
Parents are to train up their children. This is not the responsibility of the school or church. What are you training your kids to be like?
We must be unashamed of the Gospel that saves us.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Associate Pastor, Adam Fears
Baptism is a secondary component to the salvation experience. It is the first act of obedience and symbolizes being buried with Christ and raised into a new life.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Senior Pastor, Byron Beck
No one comes to God except through Jesus.
Sunday, September 4, 2016
Senior Pastor, Byron Beck
We represent and live for the Creator of the universe - God Almighty. We must bring excellence to all that we do as working for the Lord. Just as Malachi called his people back to the standards, we are called too.
Hearing the truth is sometimes difficult. If the truth comes from somebody who loves you, it should be received as constructive. We need to consider James 1 in our lives - to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to be angry. We must keep a soft heart and learn how to hear the truth well.
We should always seek to be truthful. However, we must do it in a way that is loving and not self serving. We also must steer away from gossip - even if the story we share or listen to is true.
As followers of Christ who embodies truth and sets us free through it, we must live our lives in truth. We must work to change our culture that lies everyday.
Blind spots in our lives about our problem areas can destroy us and those around us. We need to be honest about the areas in which we need work and healing. Confession and the allowance of the Holy Spirit to work in our lives is vital for this to happen.
An unbeatable force is Christians willing to follow Jesus even through suffering. How devoted are you to the cause of Christ? This message takes an inner view of the growing numbers of Christians in China.
So many times followers of Christ can get distracted by convictions that seem like the most important. But, these can cause us to lose focus on the core of it all - Jesus. In the end, He matters most. For, He is the One who redeems us to live for His glory.
The concept of Out should be a way of life for those who truly follow Jesus. For, we are to be fishers of men and we must share our faith with those around us everyday.
God can use the ordinary and do extraordinary things in this world. You can be used in powerful ways. Will you submit to His plan?
God has designed us in such a way to serve a specific purpose for His sake. Are you serving?
In the walk of faith, there are decisions that we make that shape who we are and what we are about in this life. Good decision making is a process that takes time and a willingness to stick with it.
Living a life of faith means we are not interested in "self" as much as being used by God to please God. Narcissism has become a cultural phenomenon that challenges the concept of being sacrificial.
The term ADOPTION is used when it comes to being a follower of Jesus. We are children of God. This is both inspiring and challenging.
Who are you living to impress? People or God. As Christians, we should only be concerned about God's approval.
One of the most freeing aspects of faith in Jesus is the fact that we are forgiven and released from our guilt. He loves us this much!
Believing in Jesus means so much more than believing He exists. It means you trust in Him. And trust is living this life dependent on Him.
Easter is all about Jesus' death bringing us life. The question in response to this is, "Will I die to myself to follow Jesus?".
Ever know all of the powerful details behind Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem? Palm Sunday illuminated.
When the church is as it ought to be, it is a body of believers that are known for being overcomers of trials in this world. We serve a God that makes it possible.
New Community. When the church is as it ought to be, it is a community of people that accept and love.
To truly be the church of Christ, we must serve as Christ served. For, this is the way the world will know that we are followers and experience His love in us.
A message about wounded healers. We are all broken in some way. The church is about using people who are broken because God uses imperfect people.
This message begins the series looking at the essence of a church. The church is not a place or a building. The church is the people and exists to disciple and serve other people.
An in depth look at the story of the bleeding woman that touched Jesus' garment. From this impromptu encounter we can find out what real faith looks like and how we can exercise it.
Final sermon in the HEART SERIES. A heart of love is a willful heart. The description of love in 1 Corinthians 13 is all about the will of the heart. The description is not based in feeling as much as it is based in the will of a person that conveys love.
Many are looking for contentment, but go about finding it in the wrong way. Scripture tells us that this is only found through Christ. We must learn to be content as Paul says. And, as a result, peace will come.
What does a loving heart really look like? If we are Chrsitians, we must love like Christ loved.
The heart is at the root of all things for us - how we act, what we say, what we love, what and who we worship. This message kicks off the HEART SERIES and starts to look deeply into the matters of the heart and how this affects the Christian walk.
God is all about taking away disgrace and shame. At Christmas we celebrate this in the baby Jesus. Ultimately, He came to give us another chance. He came to redeem us and give us hope. This message is largely built upon the story of Zecariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1. God grants them a child late in life called John the Baptist.
What is Christmas really about? In Philippians 2 we can find what it really means. Jesus came to empty Himself for us. We should do likewise, living for Him.
Do you consider the redemption of your sins at Christmas a gift from God? We are ONLY justified through Christ. It is because of His grace rendered upon us. A deeper more powerful way to consider celebrating this Christmas!
We live in a country that is filled with pleasure. We may fall prey to seeking all kinds of pleasure that, in the end, do not fulfill us. Our choices regarding this affect us everyday. Do your personal pleasures rob you of pleasure in the Lord?
Have you lost the joy? Studies have shown that joy in the midst of trials and disease can improve your health and even add years to your life. But, more significant than this is God's glory through you in this world.
What does it take to truly make Jesus smile? Jesus delights in His followers loving in extraordinary ways just as He did.
A message based on the storyline of the book of Esther. Don't you want to be in the middle of God's providence? As followers we should be willing, trusting and courageous to step foot into His plan and purpose to experience and witness God's providence in our lives. As a result, we can be blessed and ultimately, God will be glorified.
As God's people we have so much to look forward to. There will be a day when we will be glorified for being His. This is a gift and a goal of ours.
Sanctification occurs when we surrender our minds and our hearts to God. It should be our endeavor as followers.
Justification is all about allowing Christ to redeem you. Because of what He did on the cross, we can be justified. When we ask Him to forgive we should leave behind the guilt associated with what we did.
Everybody's got a vineyard. The question is, "What does yours look like?". God wants to assist us with this life so that we can flourish for Him. He wants us to fight entropy that sets in and causes us to deteriorate. He wants us to tend to what matters in this life and is ready to help us. Is your vineyard unkept or maintained? Message is based in Proverbs 24.
The heart is at the center of it all. The condition of the heart is at the root of who we are and what we do with our lives. When we trust in the Lord with all of our hearts, we yield to Him and are open to His instruction.
Our reactions say a lot about our inner discord. According to Proverbs, we must consider putting off a quick, emotionally charged response to someone or something. A wise person is careful about their reactions.
Proverbs 5 is all about guarding your heart and focusing on what can bless your spouse. If we learn to make this our way of handling our marriage, we will flourish.
Introductory message to the series. This message sets forth the basic components of being wise. Those who are correctable are wise, but those who refuse correction are foolish. We must be moldable before the Lord and others.
For those who are in the Lord, is there really anything to fear at all? Scripture tells us time and time again that He will take care of us and that He can be trusted. We must not let fear control us in our lives.
What is your flat tire? What is your problem that needs to be dealt with now? We need to be "real" about what is keeping us from fully living for God. Just like the prodigal, we may need to experience bad circumstances to realize we need to make a change. The kind of change that takes humility, self-awareness and total commitment.
Failure is a good thing. When we expose our problem of sin, we finally realize that we need change. Secret sin is too easy to jusify. We need so desperately to be open to failing so that we can move forward in our "change" process with God. What do you need to be honest about?
Change cannot happen until we admit and believe that we are not our own. Scripture states that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. We must submit ourselve FULLY to God so that He can transform us inside and out.
The people who are going to experience real change in their life are the people who overcome problems and failure. God is ready to help when we are willing to try. Change is waiting for you.
The presence of hardship is the environment where God does good things and exciting things. Hardship could be a powerful opportunity for God's people to bring glory to His name.
Burdens realized can be the start of something wonderful if given to God. If we are sufficiently bothered by injustice, sin, or needs, we can change our world. What bothers you about this world that you belive God can change through you?
The most critical step for real change in your life is admitting you have a problem. Much like addicts in a 12-step program, we need to admit we are sinners (confess) and be healed.
We find that our culture is placing the importance of dad lower and lower. The truth is that a dad is a significant part of leading a family. Dads are needed and dads are important.
Jesus ministry was characterized by embracing the kinds of people that the regular religious folk of his time did not want to embrace. With this message, pastor Byron concludes the A.D. series by challenging us to open our hearts to people in our culture who are difficult to embrace.
In the book of Acts, Jesus' words and the teaching of the Apostles were transformative. The church grew exponentially. New converts were won every day because of the Word. Since then, it has become quite apparent that of all the books you could have, the Bible is most valuable.
One of the most powerful stories in the New Testament regarding conversions and great change is that of Saul's experience on the road to Damascus and then his very different life thereafter. This is a message stemming from the A.D. series based on the book of Acts.
One of the most amazing qualites about God is that He is so personal, knowing us fully, and, at the same time, so powerful. Jim Sanders sets forth this message about what God is truly about.
When we look at the book of Acts, we find how God intervened in amazing ways. But, just as amazing and effective were His noninterventions. God sometimes allows events to transpire without any action and we find out that there was a reason. We can find several clues to answer the question, "Why did God allow this to happen?". May we trust God with our lives no matter the circumstances.
Looking at Barnabas, we can see how encouragement is vital for a movement of God. Are you an encourager?
To be authentic in the midst of others can bring about a great movement of God. When we are sincere and honest with others, God can do a great work in us and through us.
Many today sum up any afflictin or sickness as persecution of faith. Literally being persecuted because of your faith is a very differnt experience. Persecution of the early church was far greater than most of us will ever know. May we know the difference and be ready to stand when the forces around us truly persecute us for our faith in Christ.
Waiting is a lost art in today's world. We don't want to wait for anything. Sometimes God wants us to wait on Him. And, it's in the waiting that God develops our faith in Him.
The people that God will bless and use the most are those who listen to the Spirit and respond with, "yes". What is the Spirit of God saying to you today?
The message of Easter is one of transformation. Jesus didn't just die on the cross for our forgiveness, but for our heart to be transformed. This message starts the series following A.D. on NBC.
What are you doing with the time you've been given? As disciples of Jesus, the greatest concern we should have is one of 'what we are doing with our time'.
The message of Easter is one of transformation. Jesus didn't just die on the cross for our forgiveness, but for our heart to be transformed. This message starts the series following A.D. on NBC.
We live in a world where truth is bendable. Promises are empty. Words are cheap. Jesus calls us to be people of integrity and follow through with our promises. We are the light in a dark and untruthful world.
We are so blessed when we allow God control. We are blessed when we surrender to one another as well. The world will see Jesus in us when we do.
When Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive, He was uncovering the secret to fulfillment. To be blessed is in direct relation to what is sown.
When Jesus said, "The Kingdom of God is like a pearl...", he was explaining real commitment. Commitment requires loyalty and perseverance. And, commitment is indicative of what is on the inside. What do you value the most in life?
There's a particular story in the New Testament where Jesus sets the record straight between two figures. It serves as a showcase for the proud and the humble. Jesus regards honesty and humility higher than proclaimed piety.
How well do you take criticism? It would do us all some good to listen and consider. Sometimes, criticism is helpful. We must not allow pride to get in the way of being helped.
We don't usually like to lose. All that is within us seems to scream, "Go for it!" and "Win at all cost!". However, scripture is explicit about losing ourselves to gain eternity. Jesus taught that humility and losing "self" was key to the kingdom. Losing can not only usher in the love of God, but can teach us many things about who we are in relationship to God.
Humility is truly the greatest while pride is destructive. As we submit to the Lord in our living we are open to His leadership. While we view ourselves as children of God and important to His plan, we must be careful not to raise our view of ourselves too highly.
Kickoff to the series Pride & Humility. We can be either extreme in our behavior. We can think of ourselves more highly than we shold or think too low of ourselves as well. We should seek meekness in all that we do.
This message is based on the book of Haggai and draws parallels between the Israelites of those days to us today. The prophet's message is clear that we should tend to the highest priority - glorifying God with our lives.
We can tend to drift in our walk with the Lord. This message examines King Solomon's tendency to drift away from his commitment to God and gives instruction for us to avoid this problem with a set of reference points for our lives.
The Christian life is all about how you live out your faith. Mary was a prime example of this with her strong faith regardless of cricumstances. May Christmas be a reminder of great faith when we peer into the storyline about the birth of the Savior.
Christmas is really about a gift. That gift is Jesus. He came as a humble servant to all. Since the beginning of time, the root of sin has been pride. Jesus was the example of humility and taught us to live just as He did. Christmas is not only a reminder of the gift of salvation, but a signal to live our lives in humility just as Jesus did.
Our world has changed so much and it does not show signs of stopping. In fact, futurists say that change will become even faster as we progress through the next twenty years. What can we depend on anymore? What never changes? Christ is the ONLY constant in our world.
What kind of adventures does God have in store for you? When we walk with God, fully trusting and following in His direction, we will experience the amazing things God will do through us.
We tend to do just as the Isrealite people did in Exodus. Just like the people of God who made the golden calf because they were impatient with Moses being on top of Mt. Sinai for so long, we can lose patience and look for replacement gods too. We are asked to wait on Him no matter what the circumstances. If we are close to God and spend time with Him, we will trust Him and keep the faith.
What are you hindered by in your pursuit of hope? We need to deal with the issues in our life that keep us from the fulfillment that Jesus brings us. This message encourages us to "shake it off" and "step up into truth".
Together is a proven method of success. We know that much can be achieved when we help one another. This is certainly true when it comes to our spiritual journeys. God has placed individuals in your life to help you, so utilize the resource. God may have a plan to use you to help someone else get back on track, so follow through. We can find "hope" together.
What possibilities does God have for you? Regardless of your challenges and circumstances, He has a plan and purpose for you. The future is full of hope for those who love the Lord.
Are you bored in your spiritual life? The walk with Christ is not supposed to be dull. If you are over committed and busy with no priority given to your spiritual life, you will experience this. We need to spend time with God in prayer, bible study and worship. Hope is found in a close walk with Him that is properly fueled.
Hope is critical to our survival. It is one of the main aspects of our faith in Christ. This message is the launch of the series JOURNEY TO HOPE.
We are, in essence, to be like fat cells to this world. We should nurture, comfort and help those around us. We should be storehouses of generosity.
Junk in, Junk out. We must be diligent in our efforts to monitor what we allow into our minds and hearts. Does your pursuit of being like Jesus include such an endeavor? Paul warns that what is put in will eventually come out.
The Christian life is one that requires us to give up something to gain something. We must give up that which is in the way of our commitment to Christ in order to gain Him in our lives. In Philippians 3, Paul writes about the old gains of the flesh he now considers loss for the sake of Christ. What do you consider gain in your life? What needs to be given up?
One of the lessons of Philippians is the humility of Christ. We should consider others better than ourselves. Paul was trying to teach a proper attitude to the church at Philippi. If we are in Christ, we must act just as He did.
Paul knew what it meant to match mindset with heart condition. If we are truly followers and love the Lord, our lives will be reflective of that and our attitude about death will be different too. A life of Christ extends beyond this earthly experience. Our time here is one that should point heavenward. What is your life really about?
God is God of all. He uses all kinds for His plan to be fulfilled. Many times, we shy away from those who require a bit more grace than others. Yet God uses those types to develop certain characteristics within us. We should never dismiss what God can do through those around us regardless of what we think.
Raising a child can be tough. Their happiness is so important to us as parents. However, if we teach them that they are the center of the universe, we will fail them. Loving our kids has to include doing what is best for them. A powerful and practical message for parents.
Are you a credible Christian? If we are truly devoted to living for Christ, we will love just like Him and the world around us will believe.
What is courage? For some, it is letting go of something that is getting in the way of devotion to God. For some, to be devoted, it is hanging on regardless of fear, struggle or temptation.
What is courage? Being a follower of Christ means being bold in our lives. For you, what courageous acts do you need to set forth to be a real follower?
This message looks at two core types of sin nature modeled in the story of the woman caught in adultery. Recognizing how these sins can play out is critical in striving to live a life committed to the Lord.
The gospel message is one of hope for all. Through Christ we are redeemed and will face no condemnation for our wrongdoing. We can find security in Him. Based on Romans 8:1.
Are you obsessed with saving your own life? If so, you will lose it. There is a Savior that finished the task for us all. We need to accept it and let go of trying to work out our own payment for salvation. Don't fall prey to PERFORMANCISM.
Where do you find your identity? Many times we have identity problems and don't know it. We may become obsessed with what others want from us to the point that we toil with changing who we are to fit what's expected. With God, we become what He designed us to be and what glorifies Him. Our source for life and reason must be rooted in God.
Martin Luther was one of the most pivotal figures of our time, revolutionizing modern Christianity with the advent of the protestant movement and the reformation. His conviction about being saved by grace and not by works changed everything for him and changes everything for us. Our futures are secure and we find our motivation to live for Christ because of this great gift. What does the gift of salvation mean for you? Have you received it?
We are not to push people to change their ways with regards to following Christ and living for Him. We are only to love people with the love of Christ, so much so that they want to live for Him. Do you look at people with the eyes of a judge or a doctor?
A Mother's Day message about setting boundaries.
Many times we can overload ourselves to the point that we are ineffective with the most important duties we have. We may have our reasons for always saying "yes", but God wants us to be careful how much we commit to. Jesus was a good example of balancing commitments and guarding from manipulation by others. We all are given the gift of being able to say "no" when necessary.
Many times life can kill our dreams, but Jesus can bring the dreams back to life. He can provide resurrection because of His resurrection. Hope is Jesus.
Message focuses on the account from the gospel of John about Mary Magdalene at the tomb and her own experience with Jesus.
We tend to avoid suffering whenver we can. Pain is not acceptable in our culture. Yet, as Christians, we are called to be living sacrifices for the One who sacrificed it all. This message takes a deep look at the problem of suffering and what our standard should be as followers of Christ.
The fact that Jesus came back from the dead means that He has power over sin and death. This changes everything for us. Powerful message on Resurrection Sunday - Easter.
The scripture is clear in giving us the proper attitude we should have as we work. We are working for the Lord. This perspective changes everything!
Stop spending money you don't have! God wants us to live free from our debts. What are some ways you can transform how you deal with your finances?
The Christian life is one of submitting. You surrender to God fully and you surrender to others in relaitonships. An attitude of wanting to win and getting your way is not healthy for relationships. God wants us to transform the way we treat relationships.
We need to learn how to question our emotions. Just because you feel something is right doesn't make it right. God wants us to transform our lives to keep from having our feelings dictate our direction.
To be the people God wants us to be, we must allow Him to transform our thinking. We must not allow mental strongholds to dominate our lives. God wants to change our core process from the inside out.
At the heart of so many problems with our health is stress. From deadlines and schedules to unrealistic expectations - our world is full of tense moments. When we look at Psalm 23, we find that trusting in God and abiding in Him will help us with our stress and anxiety thereby improving our health.
There are forces in this world that will continue to keep you from becoming more like Christ. Yet, the charge for us is to continue to learn, improve, deepen and strengthen our faith. Is your faith any better than it was five years ago? Transforming your heart takes a commitment to grow in Christ.
Jesus said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me." If we are really followers of the Lord, we will listen and follow after Him. Listening to God is so critical if we want to be a disciple.
Are you a fan or a follower of Jesus? There's a big difference between the two concepts. Jesus promises life to those who truly follow. And, following means that sacrifice, submission and obedience will be required.
Idolatry is a systemic problem we all share in our lives. The key to seeing idolatry correctly is to understand what idols do to us in our relationship with God. Anything that detracts from our focus and devotion to God is an idol. Final message in the series RESOLVE 2014.
You can know a lot about God, but not truly know Him. This message challenges us to fully experience God in our lives. To be real is to be all in - relying on God, talking to God and centering all things on God. Make a resolution today to fully engage with Him this year.
Real commitment takes two things: Positive steps towards a goal and dealing decisively by burning up anything that can take you away from that goal. We must leave behind and get rid of those things that draw us back into our old ways. A message on moving forward and making changes in our lives as we walk with God.
When our identity is wrapped up in our possessions, our sexuality, our nationalism or our relationships, we fail to follow Christ and make Him our identity. To follow Him, we must let go of things that captivate our passion. Just as the young ruler experienced, we are faced with sacrificing ourselves to be a real disciple. Where do you find your identity?
The mind is amazing. You can decide to be pure or not in all that you think, feel and do. Your life is tied to these decisions. And even those around you can be affected by your choices that all start in your mind. It is a battlefield where resolutions begin and end. What will you choose to do this year?
So much of what Jesus is all about is the opposite of the way our world works. The gospel works from the inside out as it changes people in this manner.
We usually don't address the question of why Jesus came to earth as a baby so long ago. The words, "For unto you a Savior is born", is so important for all of us. Why did He come? A unique Christmas message.
We are all born needing a Savior. The depravity of man is something that is part of our reality. Jesus being born into this world means that God has given a way for us to deal with this depravity or brokenness.
A message on trust. God is the most trustworthy One we can depend on in this life. Message deliverd by Dr. Ron Black.
Meekness is often confused with a whimpy kind of term. It really is power under control. Jesus taught and even exemplified being a servant with much power to convict those around him. Many times, one cannot argue with goodness. If we are to be like Jesus and become a strong witness, we must submit ourselves to serving others. Our goodness will point to our God. Meekness is a challenging characteristic to put on, but extrememly effective in winning souls for Christ and loving as Jesus would have us love.
One of the most convicting stories from the Bible regarding Jesus was when He stopped accusers from stoning an adultress woman. The powerful statement He made at that time was, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her". This confrontation is disturbing even today when we think about how unworthy we are of making judgment on others. A great message that points once again to the power of Jesus and His words.
First installment of the series Jesus Says. One principle that Jesus stood for and talked about was for us to treat others as we would want to be treated. This behavior is many times backwards to how the world would commonly treat others.
Mask wearing isn't just something we do for fun this time of year. Mask wearing is all too often the common thing to do. We pretend to be something we're not to compensate for something deep inside or we conceal because we're afraid of being found out. The truth of the matter is that God knows us. And, He wants us to be authentic before Him and those around us. What kind of mask could you be wearing? Are you needing to confess some wrongs and become restored through Christ? End the hypocrisy and tear down the barriers between you and God.
We're seeing our culture in this world shift from seeing Christianity as positive and real to less significant and negative. The need to be an influence and truly be the light in this world is greater than ever for us in this country and is increasingly becoming needed. Are you ready for a test? Are you willing to stand up for your faith? In Christ there is hope for those who love Him.
For some reason, we are all hard wired to think that we've got to work to be right with God. The truth is that the work has already been done by Jesus. We are saved by grace. And, it's out of this wonderful grace that we should want to make sacrifices and serve the Lord.
A look at two unique types of families. One, being a minister and teacher led family and the other, being a blended family as a result of divorce. Both share their highs and lows and give perspective on how they have handled these with the help and leadership of God. The final installment of Healthy Families.
The raising of a family is so important to God. Does discipleship enter into the home with you and yours? The first of a series with interviews of families about this subject matter.
If you are a follower of Jesus, you are in the body of Christ. The church is the body of Christ. We must act like it, loving the world around us just as Jesus did. A special day of worship on THE NATIONAL BACK TO CHURCH SUNDAY at Fellowship Church.
In a world of cynicism and negatvism, there's still hope for the church. God's not done yet. We can still be A CITY ON A HILL that shines for all to see. This message is all about living for Christ in such a way that the world takes notice and, in the end, worships Him as a result. Are you living like a city on a hill?
What is a real man like? Many do not seem to fully know. The Bible tells us a lot about the qualities of a real man - a man that God is pleased with. Some men are over-manly yet some are under-manly in the context of what our culture defines one to be. Yet, meekness, gentleness, kindness and humbleness are not the most manly of qualities in our culture. This message lays out the dangers of an ill-defined manliness and challenges us to take on Godly characteristics.
There is a tendency for men to revert back to boyhood with certain activities and judgment especially when that man has a lack of vision for his life. This message is a call for men to be Godly and lead their families. It is a message that exposes a problem and challenges all men to be real men of God. Based on the research and teachings of David Murrow.
The start of a series to evaluate and understand better why our churches are seeing fewer men attend and serve. This message looks at how awkward and negative we have made our church experience for men. It poses the question, "What should we do at our church to be more effective in reaching and retaining men?" and makes a challenge to make strides to do so. Based on David Murrow's research and teachings.
We live in a culture where we learn the wrong definition of love. God has created something much more valuable than we make it. This message is all about Getting Love Right.
Humility is similar to meekness. Despite the more popular meaning of the word meekness, it also refers to surrendering to a higher power and allowing that power to direct you. If we are to be REAL about our faith in Christ, we must humble ourselves and allow Him leadership.
Real submission is letting God take control and trusting Him in all things. In order to follow, we must allow Him to lead.
Who is your daddy? A Father's Day message aimed at asking where you store up your treasures. What is most important in your life? A powerful sermon from an International Missions perspective. Delivered by Sean Warren, General Baptist International Missions Director.
You have not lived until you've been able to give to someone else. Our generosity will bring blessings beyond our imagination. This audio file is also a report on our recent well-digging mission to El Salvador through Living Water International.
If we are to build community and do what Jesus commanded of us, we must love beyond our selfishness. To love even our enemies the way Jesus would do.
Relationships need honest communication continually. God desires for us to talk about what is on our hearts. This is one of the core foundations of any good realtionship.
Honesty is always the best policy. The scripture tells us to confess - be honest with God and one another. The truth is that if we live REAL like this, we will find that our lives are so much more free, peaceful and fulfilling. First of the series REAL.
The subject of submission gets distorted by culture, opinion and difference in gender. Scripture tells the wife to submit to their husband, but it also tells the husband to treat his wife as Jesus treats the church with deep love, sacrifice and honor. This submission really applies to both genders. Real submission is out of a heart of love for one another.
We need not constantly seek approval from others. All we ever need is God's approval. The last message in the EGO series.
One who is easily offended is sometimes dealing with their broken soul. Something has hurt them causing their response to every little mishap to be over-blown. There is a need to look more closely at their ego and diagnose the root of the problem. Reactions tell volumes about one's soul. Another great message from the EGO series.
Those that are controlling are those that have broken souls. They might be broken and shaped by a past experience. Controllers squeeze the life out of those around them. God wants for us to rely on Him only in life and stop trying to control all things and all people. Are you a control freak?
When we are infected with pride, we will believe that some things are true when they really aren't. If we have a false sense of self, we can think we never need help from people, from the church and even from God. We must walk humbly and in truth with the Lord. This message is the second installment in the series EGO.
We would never treat people the way we sometimes treat ourselves. When we are so unloving with ourselves, we lower our self-esteem and cause problems with how we live our lives and interact with others. We need to see ourselvers the way God does. We are loved and believed in to the point that we are deemed part of a royal priesthood. The first of a series of messages regarding the ego.
The story of Easter and your story. What is your story? Are you looking for victory over a struggle? Are you about to throw in the towel? Jesus' story is one of never giving up and claiming victory in the end. Do you need resurrection from something?
From Religion to Relationship. When Jesus entered Jerusalem, conflict started building behind the scenes. We learn that Jesus' mission was all about relationship not religion. This message helps us understand what a life of relationship with Jesus looks like.
A Clear-Cut Resolve. Many times we flirt with the edge regarding our sin-nature. When we look at Daniel, we find a man who was determined to be faithful to God no matter what. He constantly steered away from darkness and stayed pure in the midst of adversity and temptation. Sin can easily creep into our lives little by little. We must stay true in our walk.
God's Surprising Ways - God's journey for you into His promised land (future) is not a straight line. We must endure the valleys before we get there. In our following of Him, it's much like the Israelites many years ago. He is more concerned about who we are becoming along the journey as He is our getting to the endpoint.
First of the series, this message centers around the story of Abraham and Isaac - a story of extremem faith and devotion. As we look at the altar that they approached, we realize the power of what happened at the cross two thousand years later.
Jesus called everyone to missions. You don't have to be an ordained minister to fulfill this. Everyday He gives us simple opportunities to carry out His mission.
Commitment can be about endurance, sacrifice and dedicaiton. When one is committed to a family, they will stay the course even when it's tough. They will stay the course no matter what. In a time and a culture that has less and less commitment, God is calling us to be the examples of His plan.
Commitment to God takes sacrifice. It takes selflessness. Sometimes it is challenged by pain, suffering and disappointment. How committed are you to God?
God could be calling you to a field of mission. And, just like Nehemiah encountered, with change there's opposition or obstacles you will encounter. How willing are you to follow His leadership in your life?
There's a metaphor in the Bible regarding a banquet table in God's house. All are invited to this special gathering, not just a few "elect". The metaphor should show us how we must look at those around us without discrimination. We should show the love of Christ and bare witness to the good news to all regardless of class.
Influence can be powerful. The Word of God says that if we confess to one another, we can be healed. We should seek community with others for this to happen.
Christ has a claim on our lives. This life is much more than just believing in Him. He has a plan and purpose for each of us. What is it that He is calling you to do starting this year? Maybe it is to start with serving in small ways. Maybe it is something that requires you to make a bold change in your life. Regardless, He is calling all of us for something.
Sometimes God needs to put us in "timeout". All throughout the Bible, there are stories of exile - a sort of "timeout" experience. This does not mean that God is abandoning us. We may need to learn something from a poor decision that we've made or it may be a wakeup call to draw close to Him.
Many times we adapt and adopt traditions over time. Sometimes these traditions replace the truth of the story. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but the story of what took place there has been skewed over time. We need to know what truly happened. Christmas can mean so much more to all of us this time of year as we celebrate a special baby's birth.
The news of Christmas first came to the most unlikely of them all - shepherds. This is how God works. He is interested in the lowest of our societal ladder. The message of this should open our eyes to sharing the gospel (good news) to anyone, even the outcasts.
Sometimes great blessings and miracles come from the most unexpected places. Learn more about the place where Jesus spent most of his life waiting to become the fulfillment of redemption. Learn how important it is to humble ourselves and wait on God.
Do you have the kind of faith that when things are bad and outcomes look shaky, you are secure in God? Faith is only faith when it is tested and stands up in the test. How strong is your faith today?
There's so much more to life than politics. During this season when we point fingers about who or what's to blame for our financial status in America, we must pause and think about ourselves. How responsible are we with our own money? What have we done with God's blessings in our own lives?
There's so much more to life than politics. In this season of elections we must remember that politics are not the means by which we change the world for Christ. It is the way we live that transforms our world not our selection at the polls. First of two installments on BEYOND POLITICS.
Outreach is part of Christ's command for those who love Him. We must be the hands and feet of Jesus to our world. How else will they hear? How else will they know? Our love and service to those around us is critical for the kingdom to be built.
God has called us to more than just giving when it's convenient. He has called us to sacrifice for others and, ultimately, for Him. There should be no limitations when it comes to our generosity.
Are you willing to grow from your experiences on your path of following Christ? The fool ignores or disregards learning from mistakes or trials in life. Are you growing spiritually?
It is entirely possible to have two very different perspectives from two people who are at the same place watching or experiencing the same thing. Based on the story of David and Michel, this message delves into the real reason for worship and how we can be ill-prepared for meeting God. So many times our view is skewed by attitude or negative circumstances. How close are you to God? Regardless of how you worship, do you ready yourself to meet Him?
To pose the question WHY JESUS truly begs for an answer. The answer is rooted in the mission that Jesus completed - redemption. A powerful message about forgiveness and salvation.
God does not approve of people manipulating. This selfish act is contrary to all that God wants for His people. Are there difficult people around you that need your love and care? Are you being a difficult person?
We truly have security in the One who secured our redemption. We only need to trust Him for it and live a life according to this faith. For, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. The last installment in the series called The Faith - Romans 8.
What is your calling? God is more interested in each of us fulfilling a life that is striving for a powerful testimony not a title. So many live for the title and not the testimony. We are all called to live for Him in all that we do which includes loving others and loving God. If we do these things with our moments, having a title will not be our passion.
Many times, we lack hope. We are troubled and even paralyzed by our pasts. Jesus came to make a way for us to gain hope in Him. Forgiveness and release is just a prayer away. There is real HOPE in the cross. This message is based on Romans 8.
Romans 8:5-13 describes how we are indebted to Christ for all the sacrifice on our behalf. These passages also describe how we have been given a life to live for Him. We should want to live for Christ because of all that He has done for us. It's all about DEBT and LIFE.
Held back by guilt? Satan is a master at placing guilt on us. We may feel that there's no way to be redeemed. Jesus came not to condemn but to save. Part of a series based on Romans 8.
A father's day message that reminds us of the importance of honoring our parents. That this is really a basic mirroring of honoring God as well. Regardless of our experiences regarding being parented, we must seek to honor God.
We can't just put our Christian life into autopilot, rolling through life without any regard for our sin nature. Many times, we can grow too comfortable with things in our life that need not be there. And, when you're in darkness its hard see the sin and it's destruction. We need to stay close to Christ and pursue holiness. We need to be honest and deal with those secret sins that can eventually destroy our relationship with God and quite possibly destroy us.
Being a Christian is relative depending on who you talk to. There were only three mentions of it in the Bible - all contemptuous or negative. To merely believe like one is not much in the eyes of God. But, when we go by the title of Disciple, a whole new meaning comes into play. A true follower of Christ is not merely a Christian, but a disciple of Him. Which are you?
In life, we deal with essentially two types of sin - sins of ommision and sins of commission. In order to be in the presence of God, we must keep in check our sin nature. What are you having trouble with the most? Sins where you don't do what you ought or sins where you do what you shouldn't? We must go through some spiritual exercises in our pursuit of holiness in order to be in the presence of God.
The only way we can draw close to God and abide with Him is if we confess our sins and truly come clean. Many times, we rationalize our sin and deny what really happened. This drives a wedge between us and God. Largely based on the story of David and Bathsheba.
Attitude is so critical when it comes to abiding in God daily. When we focus on self, we tend to get disatissified and acquire horrible attitudes. Conversely, when we focus on every little blessing daily, we tend to live a more joyful and satisfied life - a life that lives in the presence of God.
A life of following Christ is more than a decision at the alter. The Christian life is one that requires us to truly abide in Him every day. How much time are you devoting to living in the presence of God? A WITH GOD life is so much more than a single event of surrender and salvation. This message is the first of the series.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck tells the story of Elijah from the miracle of Mt. Carmel to the fleeing after Jezebel's death threat. Elijah shows us how disappointed he was after he fled. A message about how to deal with disappointment and turn to God for our hope and joy.
Sermonettes delivered by Associate Pastor Nathan Coleman and Senior Pastor Byron Beck. These talks outline what being FOUND really means and what we need to lose to be found. This particular Sunday was centered around commissioning a team to El Salvador to work on a water well with Living Water International. Messages were on the topics of DENYING SELF, SURRENDER and SALVATION.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck defines real resurrection in today's world. Easter represents the powerful event of Jesus' resurrection - overcoming sin and death. Easter also represents resurrection that can happen in our lives at any point.
The second in a short message series - The Bridge. This message focuses on the solution to our problem of sin. With live props, Senior Pastor Byron Beck demonstrates what happens when we accept the free gift of salvation. Because of the cross, we can make it over the casm that separates us from God.
1 of 2 messages in a series laying out the bridge illustration. This first sermon deals with the problem of sin - what it is, why it's there and how it is a part of our human existence. We cannot solve the problem on our own.
Our mission is not to pressure people into following Christ. Rather, we are to share our faith of what God has done for us. Our gratefulness for God and our love for others is contagious and can influence so many in our circle of influence.
Context is everything. If you really want to understand the Word of God, you have to find context. What the words really mean, why the words were written and the historical context. These elements are critical to fully understanding what is written in our Bible. If we can gain context, we can apply it more effectively into our lives. This message is the last in the series 40 Days in the Word. The topic of fruit is used to help us understand why context is everything.
Continuing the series 40 Days in the Word, Senior Pastor Byron delivers this message that is all about placing high value on scripture. When we take in the Word of God, it transforms us in so many ways. We, in turn, live out the Word. Many of us are spritually mal-nourished and need to be nourished to live the life God wants us to live.
Another message in the series 40 DAYS IN THE WORD. Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about applying the Word to our lives - one of the hardest things to do. This message is largely about how Christians should handle disputable matters. We must accept people who think differently about topics of life regardless of our disagreement, we must not judge one another, one's convictions must be that person's convictions - between that person and God and we must be patient / not selfish in ALL things. In our lives, God is the respecter of persons and the judge of all people and all matters.
As we picture the stories of the outcasts in the Bible, how do we apply this to our lives today? The Lepers of the time were essentially outcasts because of the unclean and disfigured effect of this disease. Yet, Jesus healed one and actually touched him. We must accept others just the same as we love like Christ loved - picture the same situation in our lives. This message is part of the 40 Days in the Word series.
Sometimes we judge what the Word is for us instead of allowing the Word to direct our lives. In order for the Word of God to change our lives, we must submit to Him.
Introduces a series 40 DAYS IN THE WORD. This opening message is all about the need for the Word in our lives as we prepare to face life and walk this journey.
Hear Tony tell a story of how God changed his criminal heart. This audio will both inspire and challenge you. For more information on his ministry, go to freeinchristministries.com
There is so much brokenness in our world over being rejected or "dumped". The hurt is deep and quite destructive. God wants to adopt us regardless of who we are. He wants to call us His and pour grace on us through redemption.
All of us have experienced being the outcast in some form or another. We must know that God through Christ wants to love us, accept us and redeem us.
When we lift the vision of those around us, we are being a powerful witness for Christ. To instill in others their significance and their worth is to give life. We ALL need to raise our vision a bit as well and know that God can use us in incredible ways.
The Gospel is only effective and well received if we are living it before others. Words are not enough to convince somebody that Christ can save their soul. We must demonstrate His love through our love for others to truly reach the world around us.
One of the greatest miracles of Christmas is the fact that God became more than the Almighty - He became Emmanuel, God with us. God is so loving that He made a way to be on our level. He is, indeed, God WITH US.
For many, Christmas is a time of utter brokenness. It seems to remind us of what's wrong. The real story of Christmas is one of chaos, murder and evil. King Herod was on a rampage and wanted full control. A miracle unfolded as the baby Jesus was born and escaped the pursuits of this evil tyrant. Heaven had an awesome plan to provide the world with a Savior to help us not just feel better, but get better in our sufferings. A dynamic and meaningful message as part of the series Christmas 2011.
At Christmas we read about Jesus being our Prince of Peace. What does this really mean? How do we really experience peace in our lives? Find out what it means to truly live out Sar Shalom.
It was once said, the best argument for Christianity is Christians and the best argument against Christianity is Christians. Our role in making faith in Christ real and valid is critical. If we live our lives with the love of Christ we will make the greatest impact for Christianity. Conversely, if we claim to be Christians but live our lives without the love and hope of Christ, we destroy the witness and any community possible for the kingdom of Christ. REAL COMMUNITY is achieved through our authenticity as followers of Christ living just as He would want us to live.
Reports from various groups at Fellowship Church. This Sunday highlighted ways for us to have real community.
God wants us to love the people around us just as He has loved us. In order to have REAL COMMUNITY, we must accept those that are hard to love and consider them to be spiritual growth helpers for us. We need these type of people (EGRs - Extra Grace Required) to build in us character and maturity. We also need to consider that we might be, at times, the EGR type person. Real Community happens when we realize our need for others and others need for us to make this journey.
One major problem for many is getting so consumed by effort put into complaining. Our discontent can be directly related to our spiritual health. We need to stop excessive complaining and handle the major problems we have with people directly and privately. In general, we are blessed and need to consider all that has been done for us through Jesus. Another great message in the QUITTING FORWARD series.
Looking at the story of John the Baptist and Jesus, we can learn a lot about unhealthy comparisons. At the root of comparing is envy, jealousy and discontent. We must be careful to not compare ourselves with others. In the end, we will find that our spiritual growth is slowed.
Fear can grip us in our tracks. Maybe you have fears that are holding you back from moving forward in your spiritual growth with God. Sometimes we need to be bold and rely on God for those times when we are overcome by fears.
What do you need to quit in order to move forward in your relationship with Christ? Whatever impedes your ability to carry out what God's desires are for you, needs to go away. Is it an addiction? Is it being focused on self? Is it living a double life? We need to come to grips with the truth and have no excuses when living a life according to His will and purposes. This message is the first in a series QUITTING FORWARD.
When we get to heaven, it will be ALL about the ONE who made it possible - God Almighty. Nothing about heaven will be about us or our achievements. The focus will be the throne of God - to Him, glory, honor and praise!
The reality of heaven is far greater than the symbols that represent it. The classic symbols of a crown, a robe and a great city are mere attempts at characterizing the experience. When you think about heaven, what do you picture? Perhaps a better question for us is, do you believe in it's reality to the point that it alters your perception of dieing or death? Are we really ready? For many, heaven is so lofty and "unreal" that it doesn't alter or effect their lives here on earth. This message is the third in a series on Heaven's Images.
The bible refers to an image that means so much more than it seems at first. The table is mentioned as an image that holds deep meaning. Even though it's hard to fathom, sitting with our greatest enemy and dining is something that is implied as part of our experience in heaven. Heaven is going to be a place where we love all and are loved as well, regardless of our past or who we are.
The question for the present is, "Why can't we start loving everyone now regardless of who it is we are loving?". We are called to reconcile with eachother just as Jesus has loved without condition. The image of the table is powerful. This is the second of the series on Heaven's Images. Enjoy!
So many have reported near death experiences and described going and then coming back. One of the most common images reported is the experience of LIGHT. We read in the Word that when we come into the presence of God, we will encounter a great time of knowing. Our lives will be brought to bare - a truth telling experience. This is the light that uncovers all things. Knowing this will happen, we are encouraged to seize our opportunity in this life to do what God commands of us. This message is the first of the series Heaven's Images - stay tuned for more!
It's one thing to know about Jesus, but an entirely different thing to have Jesus in your heart. His spirit within you is truly needed to have the heart of Jesus. For us to really move the world for Christ, we must have Him within us in our lives.
The greatest inspirer was Jesus. He still holds this position today. We can model our own lives after Him by being a person that lifts others / inspires others. Everyone needs encouragement and inspiration in this life.
Forgiving can be hard to do. But, forgiveness can be just as beneficial for the forgiver as the forgiven. If we want to have the heart of Jesus, we must strive to forgive even the vilest offenders.
God loves all of us greatly. There is no difference from person to person. Our worth to Him is high regardless of who we are. We must treat eachother with the same kind of overall love that is not tied to who we are or what we have done. If we are to have the heart of Jesus, we will love unconditionally everyone around us.
When faced with hardships in life, we often wonder, why am I going through this? What good could possibly come from this? The scriptures tell us that God is working out a plan through us and in us. Our response in times of hardship could save souls for the kingdom - we could make history. We must trust in Him as we journey through it all.
In order for us to really BE like Jesus through our missional life here on earth, we must practicie humility. It is putting self last and considering your neighbor as yourself. A critical element to a life following after Christ's example.
We are part of God's plan. We must realize that we shouldn't seek to live our lives the way we want without any regard for God's purpose in us. Part of living missional is understanding that this life is not for ourselves - it is for God.
It's dangerous when we as Americans hold freedom as the ultimate value above all things. To be free for our own gain is not good. We are free so we must use this wonderful opportunity to serve with all that we have. In essence, we must give up self in the midst of our freedoms to gain the most.
General Baptist Ministries National Missions Director Don Key continues our series on PRAYER looking at the One we pray to. If we have a better understanding of the One we are conversing with, we can become better at praying and communicating with God.
There are several elements of prayer that we must consider when approaching God. Confession, Intercession, Petition and Thanksgiving are the main ones covered in this message. We should understand what these mean and utilize them in our conversations with God.
All of the pastors at Fellowship help us understand more fully what prayer really is. Prayer tends to become something that is disregarded or used in the wrong way as we approach God. What is is for you? We need so badly to understand that God wants us to come to Him broken and honest. He's looking for the right heart, not a bunch of information that He already knows. This is the first installment on the subject of prayer.
We tend to follow the same process with our lives before God that the story about the Pharisee and Tax Collector shows. We think, "at least I'm not as bad as those guys...". If we think getting into heaven only requires us to be a little better than the other guy, we are gravely mistaken. We MUST learn that we should be about honesty and humbleness before God. He wants us to be broken before Him for Him to really use us for His glory. Our goal isn't all about getting into heaven, but doing all we can to glorify God with our lives.
In the American culture, we acclimate ourselves into a mindset that getting the latest gadget or product will enhance our lives greatly. That even these things will help us through our times of despair. We seem to get a "high" off of buying the brand names and obtaining those things that bring us great status. In what ways do you think these desires we have impede our spiritual progress? Listen and find out.
Jesus really broadens the definition of family. Today, we've made our homes to be very "closed doored" instead of "open doored". Another words, we do not allow this space to be an extension of God's love for others outside our family unit. We can be so effective for the Kingdom if we would open our lives up more as families.
Looking at the story of followers in Moses' time, we learn much about getting consumed by idols. God wants our full devotion and commands us to give Him highest priority. This message is a call to "true" discipleship that can only be done by getting rid of your idols.
An Easter Sunday message. Using the parable of the sparrow and the worms, we learn how we can be lured into enslavement. We eventually can give away ourselves to any number of idols in life. We can focus on and devote ourselves to many other gods, yet in the process of trying to gain what satisfies us temporarily, our lives are given away to dark forces. What things are you giving your life away to today? There is a resurrection awaiting you today.
We can easily be caught up in the activity of Christianity by praying, reading the Word and attending our local church that these become our idols in life. What about our focus on God? Are we keeping His central commandments to love Him and love others? What are our 'real' goals as followers?
This message kicks off a series on real DISCIPLESHIP. What does it mean? Where does it come from? In our culture today, it is often easy to develop the wrong discipleship in the name of a real Jesus. This message uses the story taken from the popular cartoon The Simpsons where Homer becomes a missionary in the name of Jee-bus! An interesting look at how many are living a life of Christ with no real connection to the One who called us to be His disciples.
Sean Warren and Will Gillean share their experiences from a visit to Haiti. The calling is vivid in this informal report about a realm that has been devastated. What can you do to share blessings with Haiti?
Is it possible to be too salty, too bright? Sometimes we can force feed the world with Jesus, so much so that they wince and want to run away. The gospel is attractive to the world if it truly takes root in our hearts and causes us to love and serve those around us. The world is looking for hope and love, not condemnation. This message is part of a series on being Salt and Light
Salt that stays on the shelf doesn't do any good at all. We must serve those around us and truly season the world with Jesus to make a difference for His kingdom.
We are called to season this world and show the light of Christ. For you, what would that take to accomplish? This message is a rally cry for Fellowship Church to engage in another Sunday full of service and love to the community of Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
If we only love those who love us, we are not doing anything extraordinary. God calls us to a higher level of loving. We have to learn how to love the unlovely without expecting anything in return.
You have to really love to be loved. So many people roam the earth their whole lives trying to find love when the problem is possibly within them. Do you truly love? We have a lot to learn about really loving and really being loved. God is the greatest example of real love. Includes the inspiring story of Dr. Robertson McQuilkin's devotion to his wife.
A role-play styled sermon by Ernie Rogers. A creative story told from the perspective of a tax collector. All about really fully knowing Jesus and allowing Him to work in your life.
Taking the Greek word "Doulos", we find the Bible describes a Christian as a servant or slave of God. But, we also learn that it is not a situation of "having to" serve. Rather, it is a commitment because we want to serve. This message is all about our commitment to God and His church.
What defines our denomination? It's more than just some organizational attribute. Benoni Stinson felt very convicted about the scripture that tells that Christ tasted death for ALL man. Taking John Calvin's beliefs and going a step further, the General Baptist movement was born. More than describing a denomination, this central truth is so critical for everyone to behold. We are ALL accepted by Christ and given the gift of salvation.
What we do in response to hardships in life can either contribute to our growth spiritually or possibly make us bitter and run far away from God. Submitting to God's plan to make us into something great is hard but part of the plan.
Salvation is more than insurance from hell. He came to save us so that we would "want" to be more like Him. Do you have a passion to live for Christ? Is your devotion to Him a lifestyle or a license to get to heaven?
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how God can make all things new again. New in a spiritual sense not in a timeline sense. Taking the words of 2 Corinthians 4:16, Byron delivers a message about not losing heart and allowing God to give us His power to conquer this life for Him.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues his coverage of the book of Ezekiel. There are many interpretations of what Ezekiel meant in his encounters. Bright, awesome, grand and weird only begin to describe what Ezekiel experienced and then wrote about in the beginning of his writings. Exiled and hopeless describe the people of God at this time. One lesson we can take from the writings is that God is everywhere and still exists. He will be with us even if we don't deserve His love. He will be with us after those conflicts in life. God is here!
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about the blaming of others for your plight in life. God wants us to take responsibility for our own lives. It's often too easy for us to avoid dealing with reality in life. We love to blame other people or factors for our predicaments. The words found in Ezekiel resonate with us even today.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks to wrapup the series of SERVING and notes the remarkable experience the Fellowship family had on the previous Salt and Light Sunday where many acts of service were carried out in the community of Poplar Bluff. Communion is an acknowledgment of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus carried out and should be the example for us all seeking to be like Him.
The final installment of the SERVE series. Senior Pastor Byron Beck concludes the series with a rallying message for our day of service "We Are Fellowship" blitz in the community of Poplar Bluff. We are always called to be imitators of Jesus. He would love unconditionally, He would serve sacrificially, He would give fully. And, we do this NOT for brownie points or blessings, but because we love the Lord and want to do what His will is - to be the salt and light of this world.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once again on the subject of Serving. A hero is someone who does something significant in life. By the world's standards, a hero isn't born everyday. But, Christ has given us His blueprints for being a hero by giving and loving in little ways everyday. Any follower can be a hero by impacting a life through simple acts of love and kindness. To be significant for the cause of Christ is being a hero.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once again on the theme of Serving. We are really saved by Christ to do what He would do - serve, love and sacrifice. We will want to serve if we truly love the Lord. We are SAVED to SERVE.
Are we open to God using us when we're not in the mood or haven't the time? Are we too busy to help someone in a small way? Serving God is serving people when we truly love our neighbor as ourself.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the basics of conflict resolution in relationships. For commitment to mean something and last, you've got to know how to appropriately handle conflicts. A great message on ways to strengthen the home front.
Associate Pastor Michael Chambers speaks about the antithesis of fear. If we can be made perfect in His love, then fear no longer grips us. A great message about freeing ourselves from the controlling, hindering and defeating effects of fear. The contrast to fear is love.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the subject of fear. We all have fears or phobias in life. What fears are you able to really overcome? God did not give us the spirit of fear or timidity. We must learn to trust in Him fully to accomplish what He wants for us. Byron recites a story of an American soldier in Afghanistan on the brink of death who has to trust an unknown person to live. A useful message for understanding how to overcome fear and rely on the Lord.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the subject of Baptism. When you look at this act of obedience and faith under the surface, it really models a kind of betrothal ceremony. How much do you really love the Lord? A great message on the act of baptism.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once more on Jonah. Jonah really had a troubled view of the people he was called to minister - the Ninevites. Jealousy and negativity were two strong components to the emotions Jonah displayed regarding the grace of God.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about and underlying theme in the book of Jonah. Jonah used passive-aggressive behavior in his dealings with God. The human element of Jonah is displayed as he really evokes his selfish control over the situation. Lack of motivation, refusal for obedience are some of the dynamics as he really sets forth "intentional ineffectiveness". The story about Jonah is rich with lessons on obedience and selflessness.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues his series on Jonah. We can identify with what Jonah experienced so many years ago. What type of whale has swallowed you up lately? What kind of storm have you been experiencing in life? We find that Jonah prayed an unusual prayer while in the fish - a prayer of thanksgiving. Lots to learn in this valuable message for life.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the series on Jonah. We must be aware that there are many hazards inherent in running from God. There is collateral damage, risk of being too prideful and selfish and, most important, the destruction that disobedience to God causes. We must answer the call to follow Him wherever He leads and live our lives in humility.
Associate Pastor Nathan Coleman speaks on dealing with life's trials and losses along the way. Eventually we will find ourselves in the pit. What's our solution? Where do we turn? The Psalmist David writes about his pit experience and helps us see that God is interested in helping us when we truly need Him. We too can have a "new song" experience as we are raised out of the pit.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the first installment of the series JONAH with Running From God. We can learn so much from Jonah. When God told Jonah to go to Ninevah, Jonah refused Him and became very angry. How many times have we turned from God and refused to do what He expected of us? A sermon about truth and following after God fully.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on sermon five of the series "God's Masterpiece" dealing with our focus. What is your focus in life? Today, there are so many distractions. From media to sports, we hardly allow any time for God to be our focus. How can we flourish in life if we are so overloaded with consuming outlets? He needs our attention to work in, on and through us.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once again on the series "God's Masterpiece". This time we take a look at how the mind is so powerfully influential in our daily lives. If we could 'take captive our thoughts', as Paul states we could control so much of what becomes our actions. How we live out our days is reflective of this inner process and is either in correlation or conflict with how God designed us.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the life-changing series "God's Masterpiece" with a look at our desire in life. Do we serve with the gifts we are given because we want to or have to? There's a huge difference in these motives. If we truly love the Lord and want to glorify His name, we will want to bring Him honor in our serving. We will desire to do His work. A pulse check for us all.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on spiritual growth in the series "God's Masterpiece". In order to be effective for Christ, we must find what fits and go with it. What is natural for you and me is a good indicator of what God has designed us to be. This message encourages us to find our learning pathway and seek to flourish for our Creator.
Associate Pastor Keith Woodruff begins a series God's Masterpiece with the first message all about what it means to really flourish or languish in life. God has designed each of us in a special and unique way to do certain things in certain ways. If we deviate from that plan, we languish. However, if we follow the plan God designed in us, we can flourish. What kind of life do you lead?
Pastor Beck speaks on the first of two in a series called Judgment. So much of this topic has to do with trust. Do we trust God enough to allow him to rule over everything and everyone? Scripture tells us explicitly that judging others for their wrongdoings is not our job, it is God's. We need to pray that God gives us mercy in our dealings with others.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how we can be saboteurs of others in their spiritual walk. We must love people where they are at in life. Many times we are quick to judge someone based on what we perceive, but God wants us to love them no matter what. We can stifle progress for those seeking God on their level.
Pastor Byron Beck delivers the fourth message in the series CLAY. He challenges us all to never allow Satan to make you think you're useless for God. God used Moses to do great things for His people despite the doubts and problems with self-worth he had at the time. One of the greatest obstacles can be ourselves. Self-esteem can be a great barrier keeping us from doing what God wants. Another great sermon on the theme of allowing God to shape our lives. Download all of this series today!
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks again on the series CLAY with an installment about understanding that our moments of failure are grand opportunities to grow spiritually. God can reshape us to be more effective when we learn from failure and continue forward in our journey. We must also never quit because of our failings.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once again in the series CLAY about trying to avoid allowing our failures to define us. God can take any mess we've made and make something beautiful out of it. The message continues along the path of allowing the Lord (the Potter) to sculpt us and mold us into His work of worthiness.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the first installment of the series - Clay. This Easter Sunday sermon audio begins the journey as we look at how God can use our messiness. He has a plan for everyone that is willing to submit to Him. The Clay series deals with content largely based on Mike Yaconelli's Messy Spirituality book.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck concludes the series on Atonement with a message dealing with sacrifice. To really advance the kingdom of Christ one has to sacrifice. Giving is great, but giving when it hurts is kingdom advancing. To truly become one with Christ (Atonement) is to be like Him as we sacrifice all that we can.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about most important element of our lives - grace. If it weren't for grace, we would all be facing our end. Grace is so vital to our walk with the Lord. Listen and learn about grace extended to you and how grace needs to be extended to others. The 2nd installment to the series "Atonement".
Senior Pastor Byron Beck begins a series leading to Easter on atonement. Largely based on part of the story line of the Terminator movies, a parallel is made to Jesus' saving power. He comes to terminate the terminators in our lives. We must seek to become one with him (atonement) to overcome the sin that grips our lives.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck preaches his final message on the series Life's Healing Choices. This particular sermon is all about sharing what God has helped you heal in your life. God can powerfully use those that have gone through trials in life to help others in a similar path. Ministry starts when one is willing to be real and allow God to use them. Includes a testimony from Nate Larkin from the I AM SECOND ministry online.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the need to regularly maintain your relationship with Christ. We are healed by Him and continue to be helped when we pray regularly and read the Word of God. We must commit to grow in our likeness of Christ. Week 7 in the Life's Healing Choices series.
Associate Pastor Michael Chambers continues the series Life's Healing Choices with a look at how to heal relationships through forgiveness. Forgiveness is a powerful and freeing process that we can experience ourselves and extend to others in need of redemption. The ultimate model of forgiveness is Jesus. And, we learn so much about this powerful grace when we fully experience Christ redeeming us.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the life-changing series of Life's Healing Choices as he hits on a pivotal stage in the process - house cleaning. As we truly come clean about our issues, we can begin transformation in Christ. What is it that you need to give over to God today? Have you been honest about yourself? Allow God to deal with your problems that you've been carrying for so long and begin to transform your life.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on dealing with those deep-seated issues of the heart. Coming clean and dealing with the junk buried inside is critical if we want to have a transformed life. So many of us are wearing the mask of "I'm just fine", but the reality deep down is "I'm deeply troubled". Where are you, really? God is big enough to deal with what we carry deep inside. It's up to us to clean the house.
Senior Pastor, Byron Beck speaks on the Life's Healing Choices series regarding the subject of surrendering or committing fully to Jesus. It's one thing to say you need Jesus or even believe Jesus...it's an entirely different thing to truly surrender everything to Him - to really commit. Part of the process of healing and overcoming the hang ups and habits that grip us is giving up and giving over control to Christ.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck digs into the subject of TRUST. When life is tough and things seem grim, who can we trust? Only one can be counted on at all times - Jesus. Part of getting healed of our past or our problems / hang-ups is letting God take control of the process. He is faithful to forgive and then transform our lives.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck begins the series on Life's Healing Choices with a message that gets to the heart of our problem as humans - admission. If we admit our problem and submit it to God for repair and re-direction, He is faithful to help us. The critical pre-cursor for getting on the road to healing is our admission of a problem.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck introduces the need to rely on help when journeying through this life. We must understand that we are not "lone rangers" when it comes to our spiritual life. This message introduces some of the concepts of a new series - Life's Healing Choices. Together we are stronger, together we are able.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the Advent season series by addressing love. Christ calls us to love, but defines the most effective yet challenging act of love - loving your enemies. We must go beyond merely loving the easy to love. We must love the hard to love - our enemies. A call to a higher devotion to Christ and His commands as we are His light in this world.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the series of Advent with week two's message about PEACE. There is really two kinds of peace one can have - the peace of God and peace with God. Really, peace is more than just the absence of chaos of conflict. REAL peace through our God is the ultimate fulfillment.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on HOPE, the first in a series during the Advent season before Christmas. Hope is powerful and can change the state of any situation. Do you have hope?
Senior Pastor Byron Beck delivers a powerful message about making life-changing choices in response to temptations. In response to either great trials or prosperity, we can decide to allow an event to grip our souls in a negative or positive way.
Associate Pastor Keith Woodruff asks a poignant question - why do you come?. What is the purpose in coming to church for you? A basic question that demands an answer that cuts to the quick on our reason for being a Christian and doing the things that we do. We all need to stop and ponder our purpose in doing what we do.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on a simple subject - Baptism. What does it mean? Why do we enact this sacrament? What did Jesus do regarding this? A message about burying the old self and raising up the new fully committed follower of Christ.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck explores the issue of how we can create expectations of others that are doomed to fail. This selfish path of how we expect to be treated and how we want life to turn out is a world of mythology. We need a new way of viewing others, our relationships and Christ. We should be more consumed by the expectations our Savior has on us right now.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the issue of finances - a gripping subject for most of us. We've accumulated debt, squandered our resources and lost our grip on the blessings that God pours out. We must take a look at what is important and organize our resources accordingly. A practical message on finances and planning.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck delivers a sermon about living a life of giving. Are you a giver or a taker? Jesus is explicit about living a life of sacrifice. What are we doing to fulfill this calling to be just like Jesus? Based largely on Acts 20, this message sites a story about Fellowship giving to Living Water International to build a fresh water well for a village in Peru. For, it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck takes a look at John's writings describing Jesus taking his disciples to the other side - a place known for evil, wild lifestyles and even a scary demoniac to the East of where they felt safe and guarded. His lesson for those visiting the other side is true for us today. We must love the unloved and part of our purpose in following after Christ is to shine His light into these dark places. A sermon about being the hands and feet of Jesus and going to those inconvenient places and people to minister in His name.
Sean Warren, International Missions Director for the General Baptists, speaks about being a world-class Christian. What does it mean to be this? Do we really have a heart like Jesus did? We are called to take light into the darkness not hide it. A missions-based message from a modern speaker.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about a snare that many of us fall prey to in our lives. What event in your past has crippled you so? God can free us from our sin. Real freedom means being able to leave behind the baggage that can do so much to damage our lives. The Word of God tells us to leave behind the past and move forward in His light.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks a second week on the challenge to accept and love others. We often look down on those that don't fit our requirements. Yet, God has commanded us to love others for when we do, we are loving Him. This second installment builds off the struggle we have within our minds to judge others and label them and takes us to the required outflow of love we must show them. After all, Christ died for everyone because He loves everyone.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck unveils a hidden sin that many of us tend to allow into our lives - gossip. But, not just gossip - mental gossip. A new concept of internal judgmental thoughts where we think ugly thoughts about someone, dubbing them in a negative light. This can eventually make it's way out of our thoughts and into our treatment of others. As Paul said, "I (we) must take captive certain thoughts", referring to self-control and devotion to the Lord. Showing the love of Christ for others begins within us and is carried out with how we treat others. The mind is a powerful thing!
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the powerful effect of belonging. We all need God because we are built to belong. How wonderful it is that we are a chosen people and can be part of a royal priesthood! There is a Savior that offers us peace, strength, love and redemption - not because we deserve it or can earn it, but because there is grace. We can also help show the world around us the power of this belonging to God.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the theme of "Restoration". This second installment deals with some fresh angles on why we may not obtain restoration - even when we ask God for it. We live our lives in a chaos mode so much that we squelch any possible rest for our souls. Also interesting to this subject, overly compliant people seem to never construct boundaries in their lives. Many of us don't know when to say No or when to say YES. We live out our lives pegged in the red and unable to do the right thing for ourselves. We must build margins into our lives and allow God to restore us completely.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about true restoration in our crazy, fast-paced world. Since the creation of the sabbath, God has been interested in our weekly restoration both physically and spiritually. It is essential for following the Lord in this life. We need desperately a day of rest and remembrance of what Christ has done.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck preaches from Luke 14 on preparing appropriately to be successful. We will not always have 100% assurance that this preparation will always pay off, but we know that preparation is necessary to accomplish great things for Christ. You fail to plan and you might as well plan to fail. This simple saying is so true especially in our commitments to Christ. When walking our journey with Him, we must prepare to be free, to be faithful and to have a meaningful relationship with Him. Put simply, your grasp will not exceed your reach. Listen to this value-packed message today!
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about an often de-emphasized and lost sin component - greed. We seldom sight this as the root of our problem. However, greed is many times the reason for our stumbling away from God. Our lives become consumed with the pursuit of wealth and our decisions often get decided based on these pursuits. Where is God in all of this? A message calling us to be careful how we conduct our lives and what importance we place on God's plan.
The principle of reaping what you sow is so true in life. We don't sow to reap, but we commit ourselves to the Lord because we want to. We should live out our faith because it glorifies God and makes a real difference in our world. REAL faith is out of our "yearning" to do this. REAL faith is lived out in this way.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the well-known parable of the prodigal son. In this message it is pointed out that there is more to look at than just one son's wayward living. There is another son that display's immense self-centeredness when asked to celebrate that his brother is alive and home. Many of us outwardly display the right kind of living, but are very wrong on the inside.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck preaches from the text of Luke regarding the parable of the lost son. Like the son in this parable, we want what God can give us more than we want to know Him. This sermon gets to the heart of self-centered pursuits that we all fall prey to in our lives.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on what defines a person. What defines you? What is your foundational identity? Your American heritage? Your family name? Your work? How about your spiritual convictions - your faith? We learn through the Word of God that these are most important in defining us as people.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck begins a series of messages pertaining to the parables of the lost. This particular sermon deals with the parable of the lost sheep and how remarkably similar we are to sheep. What do you think of when one refers to sheep? Fluffy, innocent, cute? When Jesus refers to people as sheep, He really makes the crude parallel regarding stupidity. We are so unable on our owns to find our way home. The parallel powerfully reminds us of our need for a savior. Taken from the gospel of Luke.
Associate Pastor Nathan Coleman speaks on the second message out of the series The Dangerous Church. This message deals with what being dangerous for Christ really means. At the core of this teaching is the Parable of the Talents. The challenge is for everyone following Christ to unbury the abilities, resources and opportunities Christ has placed in our reach and use them for His kingdom. We cannot be gripped by fear if we want to do great things.
General Baptist National Missions Director Dr. Stephen Gray starts a two week series called Dangerous Church. This particular series has been adapted from Craig Groeschel. Dr. Gray describes in detail what the church has become - safe. We live in a culture of safety. This safety mindset puts up walls that keep us from doing real ministry and reaching souls for Christ. We must remember that Jesus called us to be different than the world and do, for Him, some things that involve risk, pain and loss. We must lose ourselves for Him and His kingdom.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about getting ourselves ready for those Plan B moments in life. Life is hard and can be different than we expect. But with Christ, He can make a way. A message of hope and faith.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck delivers a sermon that deals with how God uses imperfect people in low-profile areas of work. Through Jesus' example, we are shown how it's not about our egos or our feelings, but it's about glorifying the Lord in all we do. If you want to grow and become more like Jesus, you must place yourself in some ministry that God can use you through. Everyone has a place in the ministry of Christ.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about the importance of preparation in our lives. We all understand what this means for us physically. If one is asked to run 15 miles and has never taken the time to prepare, the trek would be impossible. Likewise, in our spiritual lives we need to engage in preparation to achieve the goals at hand. Christ has called us to dedicate ourselves to Him in all that we do. Therefore, it is imperative that we engage in the necessary training to fulfill the goals set forth in a life of faith.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the theme on spiritual development as he speaks about the causes of stalling out on our Christian journey. If we desire to be close to Jesus or be "Christ-centered", we must deal with the sludge that blocks the way. A great message about working on our faith and becoming close to Christ. A deep look at where we find ourselves on the spiritual continuum (explorer to Christ-centered).
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks in detail about the Parable of the Soils in the gospels. The question is: which are you? And, where are you on the spectrum of spiritual condition? Introducing a new church-wide survey - REVEAL, Byron readies the congregation to take part in evaluating their spiritual maturity. The REVEAL survey results will help Fellowship become more effective in growing spiritually sold-out Christians that change the world for Christ. When the seed of the gospel falls on your soil, what type are you going to be?
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about a real life Easter message. In life, you can't have a resurrection without a crucifixion. Centered around the typical church Easter message, pastor Beck uniquely points to the real impact of Easter upon us all. The meaning of the cross and the amazing event that followed the cross show us the powerful hope available for all. One may find it hard to see beyond the trouble of the moment (economic woes, marital strife, loss of a loved one...), but thanks be to the Lord, there's hope for tomorrow.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks once again on the theme 40 Days of Love. This particular message asks a deep question in reference to the gospel of John. Do we really look like Jesus to the world around us? We are commanded by our Lord to love God and to love our neighbor as ourself. Do we really do this to the extent of giving our neighbor a true glimpse of the Jesus in us? What does the world see today? This message poses deep and powerful questions that are at the heart of our purpose for existence as Christians as we fulfill His commands.
Continuing the theme of "40 Days of Love", Senior Pastor Byron Beck focuses on how we control our anger towards others. We find that anger is not bad if it motivates us to do the right thing. However, if it is out of control, anger can damage us and others as it manifests itself in us. Control is the key as we treat others in a loving way and point them to the Christ.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks on the age old moral - do unto others as you would have them do unto you. He goes deeper with this simple life lesson. In the context of loving others the way Jesus would want us to love, this message is to challenge us to take great care and concern when dealing with others. We can exhibit powerful love when we treat others with respect and kindness no matter how we've been treated. Pastor Beck continues on our theme of 40 Days of Love. Check out all the podcasts in this theme.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck continues the 40 Days of Love theme as he speaks about a powerful element in loving others - our words. Even a single word can change someone's life eternally for the good or tear them down and destroy their future. This effective message deals with the true power of our words to one another. If we are to really love others the way God wants us to, we must consider our speech.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about one of the most effective and powerful means by which we can love. Forgiving is what Jesus was all about. It is how we show the world the Christ in us. And as we forgive we can accept others for who they are. This showing of God's love can transform a persons life. But, many times this can come with a cost. Sometimes we should love people the world says not to love and accept.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about what true love exhibits. It is not just a feeling but is manifested through our actions. Today, so many of us are guided by feelings that are rooted in our selfish intents. The Word of God challenges us to love by our actions. In the end, this is how the world will see Christ.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about what love consists of according to 1 Corinthians 13. Among the many results of real love, Byron majors on one specific area - to protect. If we love someone, we will protect them. This podcast features a song "Eleventh Commandment" that sets forth a message of child protection and a promotional talk from a local child advocacy representative. This message is meant to help our church start to understand love on a deeper level as we enter into a new campaign "40 Days of Love".
Associate Pastor Michael Chambers speaks about the big difference between believing something exists and really having faith in what you believe exists. To fully become a citizen of the Kingdom you must have a real passion for God and a real compassion for mankind. The message also encouraged the congregation to prepare for engagement in an upcoming church-wide campaign "40 Days of Love". In addition, this message pointed to our vision for 2009 "Kingdom Pursuit - Bringing Up There Down Here".
Senior Pastor Byron Beck talks about how we should view failure in our lives. We should plan on failing at times, but the most important thing we must do is use the failures to learn from and correct. Also important to the Christian walk is to not allow fear of failure to grip us. We must be willing to step out in faith and conquer our fears of failure.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck installs yet another great message to prepare the congregation for the vision of 2009 - Kingdom Pursuit Bring Up There Down Here. The sermon focuses on our motivation to live for Christ. The truth is exposed that we were bought with a great price, so we must submit to His will in our daily lives. He didn't make the sacrifice for us to live according to our own will.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck talks about becoming a part of the team - the kingdom of God. To whom or what is our loyalty? Many claim to be on the team, but still have loyalties with another team. Being fully integrated into God's kingdom takes time. And, we must be committed to devoting our lives to Him and grow in our spiritual lives to become the loyalists that He calls us to be.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck delivers a message pointing to our church vision for 2009 - bringing up there down here. In order to accomplish what God wants to do with us, we must work on meeting our goals in the future. To meet those future goals, we must change how we are now.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck begins a series based on Fellowship's 2009 vision - Kingdom Pursuit, bringing up there down here. He ignites this theme with a sermon about understanding what it takes to truly abide in Christ and do His will. Largely rooted in the Lord's Prayer which states "thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven," this message challenges listeners to look beyond themselves and create a world that mimics His kingdom by loving, giving and serving those around us.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how we build unity and community through our difficult experiences together. The world needs to see our unity in Christ. We should look upon our life in Christ as a daily adventure to be made more like Him.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck encourages us to conspire a bit this Christmas. Instead of doing the usual that consists of being overwhelmed with consumerism and gifts, do things a little differently - serve. Instead of our love being shown through items, it can be shown with more effectiveness through our service to one another. Largely based around the Advent Conspiracy movement. www.adventconspiracy.org
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how Jesus taught and exemplified how to love people outside our comfort zone. As humans, we naturally gravitate to others that are like us. We, in turn, love and minister to those that we are comfortable with most. Jesus challenges us to go outside of this norm and love those outside the circle.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how we are lured into sinning with what seems to be okay at first. The term Euphemism is used to describe how we sometimes think of some sinful activity in milder or less problematic terms. Satan uses this method to tempt us into sinful patterns when, in reality, the pattern will lead to destruction and death.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about how we respond to our world when we are sinned against. Although it might seem fair to respond with justice, we could show mercy or, better yet, grace and exemplify Christ to those around us. After all, it was grace that was given to all as Jesus died on the cross.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck asks an intriguing question - What Would Jesus Vote? The sermon takes an interesting look at what the Bible indicates our role is regarding support and participation in our government. In conclusion, we are reminded that no matter who takes the throne in Washington, Jesus is still Lord of all.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck presents a probing sermon on what we really pray about. When we approach God in our prayer time, do we only ask for our own wants and needs? Are we praying to change God or ourselves? Are we asking the right questions and yearning for the right help? Praying to our God is all about being unselfish and wanting to take on His will, not our own.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about changing our perception of how prayer should be - re-imaging this powerful tool. Our Father wants to hear from our hearts not a fake attempt to show off by using King James words. Prayer should be simple, personal and honest.
Senior Pastor Byron Beck challenges listeners to get a fire in the belly about Christ. Prayer is at the center of gaining a passion and keeping a passion for the Lord. The question is posed, "when was the last time you shed tears while talking to God?". And, in reference to the church, when there's no fire in the furnace, the house is cold. This is the first in a powerful series on prayer.
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Senior Pastor Byron Beck speaks about the awesome sacrifice made by Jesus. We are given a gift, but this gift is many times refused or thrown back. There is a world full of people whom Jesus died for yet, so many of these same people do not regard the event as relevant or even real. The gospel is put into context so simple that anyone can understand and be radically changed in this sermon of grace, selflessness and salvation.