Westside Gathering - Audio: Recent Episodes
Westside Gathering
Welcome to the teachings from Westside Gathering recorded at our weekend gatherings in Montreal, Quebec. For more information or resources, please go to www.WestsideGathering.com
When Jesus encounters the woman at the well, her life is disrupted and unexpectedly experiences a transformation. We will take a closer look at John 4:4-26 and study closer what Jesus' love causes in us.
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240616_DavidM.pdf
Many people strive for positions of leadership but too frequently reveal their motivations for doing so to be less than noble. Those aspiring to leadership, including many Christians, seem to do so simply for the authority or status to be gained. The adjective “servant” is added by some to indicate a higher, or godlier, characteristic. This message will consider whether Christians should appeal to such a distinction in their understanding of this vital task.
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240609_DavidM.pdf
It has been almost two thousand years since the beginning of the church. How can we stay true to the vision and direction that Jesus and his apostles laid out at the very beginning? What does it mean to BE the church?
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240602_DavidM.pdf
Are you tempted to think God only works in extraordinary moments? Is it possible that God can be part of your ordinary life through the lordship of Jesus and the leadership of the Spirit? (Acts 1:1-11)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240526_DavidM.pdf
Whether following Jesus leads to a difficult path or not, Jesus reminds us not to look over our shoulder to see who's doing better or worse, but to trust that our life - whether peaceful or not - can not only bring God glory but feel like we found a treasure because of Jesus. (John 21:15-23, 1 Peter 1:6-9)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240519_DavidM.pdf
With great love comes great responsibility! A fresh vocation comes out of the resurrection that starts with Peter - but given to all of us; a calling that flows from our love from God and for him. (John 21:15-20)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240512_DavidM.pdf
As Jesus appears again to his disciples he demonstrates his presence and provision will be available and tangible. Are you following Jesus from a distance? (John 21:1-14)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240505_DavidM.pdf
Belief is both sign of the resurrection and a path to resurrection life. But it also brings up the idea of doubt. Where are you on the spectrum of belief and doubt? Thomas (the disciple) helps us understand those who doubt and Jesus views the doubter and believer, including those sitting between both. (John 20:24-31)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240428_DavidM.pdf
Have you ever been stuck struggling to forgive? Or been under the weight of something you've caused hoping to be forgiven? One more sign of life sourced in resurrection is the power of forgiveness - for you and the world. (John 20:19-23)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240421_DavidM.pdf
Resurrection launched a new life available to anyone who would come to trust in Jesus. If this is true, what are some signs of this life? Through some post resurrection scenes in John's gospel, we start a new series exploring these signs of life available to you. We start with signs of PEACE. (John 20:19-23)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240414_DavidM.pdf
Baptism alongside faith in Christ marks our identity, inclusion and immersion into Christ and his Kingdom community. If you trust Jesus have you considered baptism? (Gal 3:26-28)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240407_DavidM.pdf
The world longs with hope for a newness of life, but how is it even possible? What happened in and through Jesus - resurrection - invites us into a new quality of life that promises a future, but available in the present. (Romans 6:4-11)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240331_DavidM.pdf
Sitting with Jesus and his disciples during the last supper helps us understand God's desire and action on and through the cross to be with us and suffer for us - so we can find life in him. (Luke 22:14-21)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240329_DavidM.pdf
Jesus gets pretty serious with anything that detours or damages those trying to, or those already, following him. This final 'hard ask' of Jesus gets graphic! (Mark 9:42-49)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240324_DavidM.pdf
Jesus challenges His disciples that it is not enough to simply be good to enter the kingdom of God. Have your "good" circumstances been your motive to follow Jesus? (Mark 10:17-27) (Kelly Orellana)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240317_KellyO.pdf
While love can often be defined by one's experiences or choices, when we hear the call to love from Christ we are called into a love that fulfills but also demands something of us. (John 14-15, 1 Cor. 13)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240310_JonW.pdf
Jesus uses some real life metaphors when describing what it means to follow him. He talks about families and commitments. How do we listen and live into these invitations that lead to a truer life? (Matthew 10:31-38, 8:18-22)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240303_DavidM.pdf
Jesus seems to define someone who follows him as one who would deny themselves and take up their cross, either a promise that they’ll find true life in the process. (Matt. 16:24-28, Mark 8:31-38)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240225_DavidM.pdf
As we begin Lent, we often want to give something up. But remember that Jesus went ahead of you, giving up way before he asks us to. He initiated his steps to the cross before he invites us to pick ours up and follow. (Mark 8:31-38)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240218_DavidM.pdf
Are you following Jesus from a distance or close-up?
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240211_PatriceN.pdf
In a season of growth, the question of capacity often comes up. Colossians casts a vision of "why" we pay attention to our outer capacity if helping more people encounter Christ but calls us even deeper towards our inner capacity of the life available to us in Christ. (Col. 2:1-15)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240204_DavidM.pdf
One main reason Jesus invites us to trust his words and ways is because He is the only secure foundation that will get us through - regardless of the storm (Matthew 7:24-29, 14:22-33)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240128_DavidM.pdf
Is it possible to use Christian words and Christian practices and yet still be building on sand? Nathan Whatley speaks on Jesus' invitation to make our home in the love of Jesus.
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240121_NathanW.pdf
Jesus' 2-part recipe for building a foundation for your life is more than in his words, but also in his ways. Are you missing out on the foundation Jesus invites you to? (Matthew 7:24-29)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240114_DavidM.pdf
What grounds you as you anticipate decisions, opportunities, surprises or storms? Jesus ends his most famous sermon on the mount with an invitation to build your life on foundation available to everyone... who is listening. (Matthew 7:24-29) Join us for this new series, FOUNDATION.
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20240107_DavidM.pdf
Light in Darkness (Christmas 2023)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231223_DavidM.pdf
If Advent is about waiting for God to finally bring about new creation and the fulfillment of his good news, what do we do while we wait? Isaiah 61:1-9
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231217_DavidM.pdf
God commissions comfort for for you and from you. We're reminded of how God would bring this about in us and for the world. (Isaiah 40:1-11)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231210_DavidM.pdf
What does it feel like to anticipate something we long for? We start ADVENT considering who God is, who we are, what we long for, and how we can practice a kind of waiting that helps us experience and know God deeply this season. (Isaiah 64:1-9)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231203_NathanW.pdf
From the prophets in the Old Testament through the gospels and into the letters of the New Testament, there’s a declaration that God became king in Jesus, the king Israel longed for and the world needs. We pause for this theme before we start advent next week so we can be reminded of who leads and shapes our journey towards Christmas, and ultimately our lives. (Jeremiah 23:1-6, Luke 1:68-69, Colossians 1:13-20)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231126_DavidM.pdf
Our guest, Kenzo, will bring us back to Abraham, a key figure in scripture, and one that reflects a decision and life of faith. (Gen. 11-12)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231119_KenzoM.pdf
Listen to stories about our church's history and future from our members
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231112_DavidM.pdf
Is there practices people would describe in your life as normal, common, frequent? What does it look like for fasting to become more normal? We explore a moment in the early church that points to fasting as periodic, regular, and interconnected to other spiritual practices - with outmodes too! (Acts 13:1-3)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231105_DavidM.pdf
In our hunger for justice, the spiritual practice of fasting helps us stand in solidarity with the suffering of the world, experience a small part of one's suffering, and intercede more specifically alongside those who do. Listen in as we explore a strong but beautiful challenge through Isaiah 58
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231029_JonW.pdf
Fasting has a way of catalyzing transformation in our lives when done in simple surrender to God's work in our lives. We continue learning about this spiritual practice and how it bears fruit in holiness (1 Cor. 6:12-20, 1 These. 5:23, Ps.139:23-24)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231022_DavidM.pdf
Are you hungry for more of God? We explore why fasting is a helpful spiritual fasting to nurture devotion and deeper relationship with God. (Matthew 6:1-2, 16-18; 9:14-15) (part of our annual teaching on spiritual practices)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231015_DavidM.pdf
As amazing as good news can be, unless someone receives it, it makes little impact. Jesus sends YOU as part of God's mission in the world, to alert people around us to his good news. (Romans 10:9-15, John 17:15-18, 20:19-22)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231008_DavidM.pdf
Does you ever feel like a stranger or exile in our secular world? Do we need platforms or power to share good news? An early church leader called them to remember who they were in their own culture so they could then live a life before God, regardless if anyone was watching, and before others, that reflected his kingdom. (1 Peter 2:4-17)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20231001_DavidM.pdf
How do we share the good news of God's kngdom when it sounds strange to people in our secular culture. Paul's visit to Athens taught him how to share the gospel in cultures that were unlike his jewish or roman roots. Join us as we learn what this means for us today. (Acts 17:16-34)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20230924_DavidM.pdf
Is it still possible to share the good news of God's kingdom in our secular world? We start a new series listening to the first time 'good news' is highlighted by the gospels and by Jesus himself - as way to consider how we might share it today. (Mark 1:1-20)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20230917_DavidM.pdf
As we press start on a new season we're considering how the early church embraced God's work in and around them by engaging not only in communal practices but ministry. Consider your next step in engaging in ministry as you listen. (Acts 2, 1 Cor. 12)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20230910_DavidM.pdf
We're all searching for courage but often find it from different sources. This famous Bible story points us to a courage that shows the world a new way to live. (1 Samuel 17)
Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20230827_DavidM.pdf
In the story of Cain and Abel we see a new character introduced, named sin, and discover the devastating implications of its control. Nevertheless, we also see the character of God, ceaselessly pursuing Cain in order protect him and save him from this enemy
While exploring this exciting story of God using Deborah to jump into their crisis, we learn what being faithfully present to God and dependent on his presence. (Judges 4-5)
How does God guide us through fear and doubt? In the OT story of Gideon, we discover a God who delivers despite our doubts and weaknesses
The story of King David’s kindness to Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel 9 contains an important challenge about kindness for Christians today. Without a careful reading of the story, however, the meaning of the kindness David demonstrated to Mephibosheth might be lost. Moreover, we might miss an important lesson about humility drawn from Mephibosheth’s response. This message is an attempt to better understand God’s lovingkindness and the importance of humility to ordinary Christian living.
As we explore King Jehoshaphat, we will explore what reliance in God means. Does it only happen when we are in times of need? Let's fill in the blank "God is glorified when..." As we go through 2 Chronicles 20:1-29.
The story of King Solomon’s judgment reveals important characteristics for anyone wielding authority. This brief study of 1 Kings 3 will link three characteristics together and encourage us to pursue their development in our lives in the same manner as this ancient Israelite king.
How often does the summer season slip by us? What if we shape our summer with purpose. Not just activity or experiences, but meaningful practices that fuel our love for God, others, and even yourself. (Mark 12:28-34)
Guest, Lori Graham shares a significant story of the spiritual and human journey of her Dad’s last months of life alongside the search for peace that she and he found in something beyond themselves. (Phil 4:6-7)
Guest, Cody Matchett, walks us through images through the letter Revelation to help us see the power and importance of imagination so we can read it well and discern its application as we follow Jesus today.
How can we allow the gospel and God's Spirit to influence our every day lives? An early church in an ancient city was on Paul's watch list for evidence of it. Today the church calendar shifts into a vague season called Ordinary Time. Why Ordinary? Or is something more infused into this season between Pentecost and Advent that can actually help us live every moment influenced by Jesus and his Spirit? (1 These. 1:2-7)
Is anyone ever really complete? Are you? What would change if we were able to see that everyone we live with or in relationship are still a work in progress? (Phil 1:6-11)
Have you ever caught yourself relating with people with expectations of perfection or idealism? Imagine they did that with you? Exactly. We explore a second lens to help us relate with others. This one has a dark side, because we call have a dark side. (Romans 12:3-8)
Is it possible that the way we see people shapes the way we relate to them? Friends, spouses, children, parents, co-workers, neighbours? We kick off a new series looking at how the scriptures shape our view of the people we're in relationship with. Maybe it'll also transform our relationships!! (Genesis 1:26-27)
Every journey of faith has unique features but they all include new life in Christ. (Romans 6:3-4, 1 Peter 3:21)
Living Hope isn't only for those who've already experienced it but meant to overflow to everyone around us. (1 Peter 2:4-17)
Life sourced in Christ’s resurrection is always available but not automatic. God gave us a Word - a message and person in Jesus - to receive and respond to to enter into and grow in resurrection life. (1 Peter 1:22-2:3). Listen to explore what this means and the signs you’re experiencing it.
While many long for life, too many of us leave Easter behind as an event. What if the life we long for is sourced in resurrection beyond the event? Have you woken up to that reality yet? (1 Peter 1:3-9)
Jesus told them he would rise again... and did. If he kept this promise, what other promises are we missing? Explore this incredible resurrection story with us and see if there's more to life for you in Jesus.
What happens on the day between Jesus' death and resurrection? Is the burial important or do we skip it? Maybe this day makes the Friday and Sunday even more special because it helps us mourn and let go of all that stands in the way of life. (Luke 23:50-56)
Our Journey to Easter enters crucifixion day. There's paradox, clues, and invitation on this dark and pivotal day in Jesus' life and death. It opens up a NEW WAY and WORLD for everyone. (Mark 15)
We sit with Jesus and his friends during their last meal together and discover an invitation into community, service and sacrifice
As we continue our journey to Easter, we are brought to the night Jesus is betrayed and abandoned by his disciples. As we explore the theme of picking up your cross, how did the disciples respond when the pressure was on.
Holy Week is too big to digest in a week. We start a new series tracking with Jesus on 5 significant days leading up to Easter starting with his walk into Jerusalem which creates a stir - for his followers and his enemies. Everyone is wondering what kind of king this will be?
We wrap up our series on discernment looking at the ultimate purpose of discernment and some proof (clues) to what a discerning person or life will experience, highlighting one of the greatest obstacles to it we all face! (Col. 1:9-12, Eph. 5:15-18)
There's a gift available to help you practice discernment that comes directly from God - his Holy Spirit. Unlike the other gifts for discernment in this series, this one uniquely equips you for discernment. John 14-16
How often do we attempt to discern major decisions in life on our own? Both wisdom, scripture, and church history remind us that practicing discernment is stronger with community.
Have you ever considers the limits in your life as a gift in helping you become a more discerning person? We explore some direct and indirect limits that can help us discern daily and in various seasons. (Matthew 4:1-8)
Have we ever considered time as resource or teacher to help us become people of discernment? Perhaps the better we understand time the better we understand life. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-15)
Guest, Ken Esau, shares about the heart of worship in the life of a Christian. (Matthew 28:16-20)
While most hunger to live a life of purpose, impact and meaning few seek to grow in the one practice that could lead to that, discernment. Join us as we start a new series on various gifts within all of our reach that can be used to develop discernment and being discerning people.
When is Paradise? Where is Paradise? Is there a reality more real than our five senses? // This is a recorded message from Tim Mackie of the Bible Project speaking at an international conference for 24-7 Prayer // Tim shares vulnerably about his own blind spots to missing out on God's personal presence in prayer as a self-proclaimed Bible Nerd. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8y7KKeQr-Y
Revelation ends with the kind of anticipation that blows our socks off. John uses the word "come" so often it's hard to keep track of the invitations and promises laced in this final note in this beautiful yet mysterious first century letter! Listen for yourself (Revelation 22:7-21)
What does God's promised future look like? John's vision of a holy city, a New Jerusalem, gives us some clues. It's future hope helps us live into the present! (Revelation 21:9-22:5)
Is their ultimate hope in a world and life that doesn't reflect brokenness, pain, or injustice? God promises one all through the scriptures. We get to read about its fulfillment in the last 2 pages of the Bible. (Revelation 21:1-8)
Is advent more than just a few weeks getting ready for Christmas? We explore the beauty and purpose of advent with guest speaker, Tim Keener (from Christian Direction). Matthew 24
One key aspect of faith is believing the God will actually restore all things with love and justice, in his way and timing. Revelation 19-20 gives us hope of that. But get ready for some wild images to bring the point home!!
Who wants to be loyal to something that won't last? John's vision exposes Rome's (any city's) temporary security and calls the church to worship what lasts. Don't be shocked by the image he uses to get our attention!! (Revelation 16-18)
Is it possible there's a constant opposition to following Jesus faithfully in our world? John's vision in Revelation 12-14 pulls back the curtain to expose the unholy trinity of power, fear and deception that constantly pull us to collaborate rather than resist systems of injustice and disorder?
Right in the middle of the Revelation we get a retelling of the gospel, the life and way of Jesus, that points to the vocation of the church even in the chaos of our world. (Revelation 11)
At the heart of Revelation is a call to turn to God and his good kingdom. What does God do about the cycle of damage in creation and humanity that never aligns with his future new creation he promises? How will get our attention? (Revelation 8-11)
John's dramatic vision in Revelation 6-20 reveals the tension and chaos in our world and how followers of Jesus are called to live faithfully through it.
Let's get around the table to celebrate and embody the gospel but also to allow it to reveal any divisions among us so we can become the people of God both in the church and our communities. (1 Corinthians 11:17-34)
Making room for renewal will call us to prayer, but what kind of prayer? Paul gives us clues to foundational postures of prayer in Ephesians 3:14-21
Who doesn't want to be strong... to the core? The guts of Paul's prayer for this early church is in God's interior work in them - the very presence and power of Jesus. (Ephesians 3:16-17)
Who doesn't want to enter the day, relationship, or challenge filled rather than empty. There's this incredible promise the early Christians experienced. God wants to fill you with his own fullness. Explore with us what this means and steps to make room for it. (Ephesians 3:18-19)
Paul wrote to a first century church who’s faith and love was commendable. Yet he anticipated God was still up to more in them. (Eph. 3:14-21)
How do you respond when God's promises feel unfulfilled or his vision seems slow coming? When an obstacle or challenge doesn't seem to change. Psalm 108 gives us two spiritual practices to frame our day and our lives.
The prayers recorded in Psalm 42 and 43 provide Christians with a language of godly resilience in the face of uncertainty, opposition, and despair. This message will explore the role these Psalms might play in Christian formation.
What kind of life do you want to live? It's your choice. Wisdom writing in the Scripture not only highlights our ability to choose, but gives us wisdom in our choices.
How do you manage the tension of limited resources with the desires to fuel a life of meaning and purpose inspired by God's kingdom? (Matthew 6:19-34, Eccl. 2:8-11)
Jesus' teaching on money doesn't just call us to live within our means, but to live for mission. (Matthew 6)
Jesus highlights WORRY as a key aspect to the wrong use of money. People usually feel strapped when they use money wrongly or use money they don't have. You can be unstrapped by creating margin (Matthew 6:19-34)
How does being Grounded from Above translate into everyday life? It has something to do with what we say yes to... or how some of us end a prayer, 'amen.' Maybe amen is way more than wrapping up a prayer. (Revelation 5:13-14)
Have you been thrown off by how people give you a picture of what God is like or how he works. Revelation 5 is like a portal into God's identity and ways - including how to better understand the rest of the letter.
Revelation is a book of worship. John’s vision shapes our understanding of the who and why of worship - so that the practice of worship will shape us with a better sense of direction within the tensions of our world. (Revelation 4-5)
John's vision of heaven centres us on who God so we can be grounded in our everyday life. (Revelation 4) // new series in Revelation 4-5
How often do your experiences shape your expectations? Resurrection challenges and expands our expectations (just like it did for Jesus' first followers) so we can Rise in Hope. May your hope rise in fresh ways as you encounter the risen Christ. (Luke 24:1-12)
For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
The gospel moment we know as Palm Sunday was Jesus' open door opportunity to walk into the core location of Israel's life (and our own) to proclaim his kingdom rule and reign. (Luke 19:28-40)
Jesus' toughest yet most loving words. But you've watched that movie before, the one about the person who pursued all the things they thought were valuable but no one told them. What is Jesus inviting us to that's way better? Revelation 3:14-22
Culture exists in the world of ideas. When the early church in Pergamum started to grow in first century Roman Empire it had to learn how to interact with Rome's ideas and especially when those ideas contrasted ideas (truth) of Jesus. We'll explore their struggle and learn some lessons for our own world of ideas! (Revelation 2:12-18)
What kind of promises does God have for those afflicted and under pressure from multiple sources? We learn this from some early Christians who know exactly how that felt. (Rev. 2:8-11)
The church in Ephesus knew what it meant to be part of fast paced, entertaining, economic city! They thrived as church, but also started to crack on the inside. Jesus has a word for them, let's listen. (Revelation 2:1-7)
Revelation is a book written to churches in the first century. Like Flickering Lampstands, they were a budding (light) to the vast world around them. They struggled, like all churches do, to be all God called them to be in their time and place. Listen with us to this ancient word for the early church, as a fresh word for our current church. (this is the first mini-series in a longer multi-series teaching on Revelation)
The true power behind the revolution Jesus started wasn't in the crowds, but in the undercurrent of contemplation, community, and compassion. (Mark 3:13-15) // David Manafo shares some core vision for 2022 in this message.
Coming out of a pamdemic when so many are longing for reconnection (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest Aaron White invites us to reflect on John 4 where we discover an invitation to Jesus' table and the common table of missional community, but it also involves a dis-invitation to other things. (Aaron works with 24-7 Prayer Canada and lives in Vancouver, BC) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It's so easy to get tangled into a web of distraction, discouragement, or even a detour. Jesus teaches his earliest followers that restarts or fresh starts are possible when we allow God to prune us and make way for new growth (John 15:1-11). Are you hungry to reconnect to Jesus this year? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
While it’s exciting to create goals at the beginning of the year, what would be different if we allowed God’s kingdom to not only shape our goals but give us a path towards achieving them? (Matthew 13:33) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
A kind of joy that’s unique to to Christian spirituality yet the kind all humanity longs for. (Rom. 14:17, 1 Thess. 1:5-6) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God's kingdom - vision for humanity - is righteousness (justice). His purpose is to make the world right and empower people for right living. But you can be crushed under the weight of that vision. We're reminded from this unfortunate conflict in the 1st century Roman Church of how one can become righteous and lives righteously. (Romans 14:13-18) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The message of Advent can interrupt our misplaced hopes and point us to the fulness of God's hope for our lives and the world around us. (Rom 14:17) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The how-to for dealing with storms in our lives and the fear they produce. Text from Mark 4:35-41. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
While the practice of worship is part of what the church does together it was never limited to just that. Our whole life is meant to be an act of worship in response to God’s mercy. We learn how it plays out through work, relationships, money and more. (Romans 12:1-2) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Why does the church get together weekly? What about all those elements that happen? Did we just make this stuff up? We learn about our worship together through four actions common in most gatherings: sing, speak, serve, sit. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Just like stories shape our life, God’s story shapes our worship. Then the content of our worship is filled the whole story of God, so the practice of worship reminds us who narrates the worlds. (John 4:1-27) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It’s so easy to look everywhere but up. One key posture of following Jesus is exactly that, looking up - at him - in worship and joyful surrender. We begin a short series on the practice of worship. (Eph 1:20-23, Is. 6:1, 52:13) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God is calling regular people like you and I to be part of the “plentiful harvest (Matthew 9:37) and places people of peace on our path to share freely what He has shared with us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore a significant sign of a life effected by love in Ephesians - Mutual Submission. Counter cultural in the 1st and 21st century but very reflective of relationships in God's kingdom community. (Eph 5:21) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God has designed the church to be a community that nurtures growth in each other - unity, maturity, and character formation reflecting Jesus. Paul highlights two practices that must be tied to love that catalyzes the growth. (Eph 4:15-16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
A life rooted in love overflows into a life of love. We focus on one key tangible aspect of love that effects all relationships as well as the value of unity we have in the church. (Eph. 1:15, 4:3, 5:2) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
If we're rooted and established in God's love, how do we grow in that love? This message explores what it means to put our roots deep into God's love. (Eph. 1:5-6, Matt. 3:17, Luke 15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off this new series to help us understand why our faith and life flourish best when rooted in a love beyond itself. This New Testament idea (Eph. 3:17) draws us into the beautiful, robust vision of the gospel and the very character of God. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We conclude the summer series with a conversation about Romans 8. David dialogues with Nathan Whatley with insight and action steps from Romans 8 and invites others to share. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We wrap up this series with a bang from v. 31-39 as Paul unpacks how God is for us and for our good, even when circumstances around us don't add up neatly or worse, feel like hardship and persecution. Romans 8 ends with good news! (Romans 8: 31-39) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jon Waind continues in our series with a compelling and personal discussion on Romans 8:28. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Left to ourselves we might never get to praying God's will for our lives. We explore the Spirit's work of intercession in us that God uses to close the gap between our heart and his will. In the process we'll grow in our prayer ourselves. (Romans 8: 26-27) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How to find full life and hope in the thick of struggles and suffering. (Romans 8: 18-25) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Being a Christian is more than belief or behaviors, but rooted in relationship and belonging. We explore how the voice of the Spirit constantly reminds of that and how we can respond. (Romans 8: 14-17) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
While the indwelling of the Spirit is instrumental, there's an intentionality required in removing obstacles that get in the way of the new life that grows in Jesus. (Romans 8:12-13) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Nathan continues our series with a focus on Romans 8:9-11, the role of the Spirit in us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest Chris McGregor joins us to continue our series in Romans 8. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off a new series today beginning a summer long immersion into Romans 8. The human struggle to do what is good or what we long for has been met by an extraordinary act of God in human history that Paul describes in the opening sentences of Romans 8. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The pandemic has messed with our finances, either practically or perceptually. We look to scripture and Jesus for a fresh perspective on financial health. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Relationships have taken a hit during the pandemic. This message explores some of the cracks and causes and then encourages a healthy vision reflected in the life of Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What do you do when you are overwhelmed, paralyzed or even indifferent to the social crises in our world - related or unrelated to COVID? Christian tradition and faith helps us address this pressure point with honesty and hope. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Part two of this conversation on mental health with guest speaker Brett Ullman (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Eastertide has helped us immerse ourselves in resurrection life for 50 days! Something fresh happened 50 days after the restriction that gave the church life and courage to live into God’s future. The church calls it Pentecost. What fresh thing might God want to do in us and his church today? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Luke’s report of the ascension of Jesus bridges the story of his gospel acts and the Spirit-empowered recapitulation of them by the first Christians. Two thousand years later it remains as an invitation to better understand and more fully submit to the Lordship of the resurrected Christ. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God made sure the church knew he was up to something. The early church had to follow or get out of the way. What might God be up to in your life or our world today? Are we listening and responding? (Acts 10) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The life of faith is more than a sentiment or decision but a surrender into a new life and community. The resurrection led the early church to not only proclaim Jesus but baptize people into his life and body (The Church). Acts 8:26-40 gives us an exciting picture filled with the complexities of that journey. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The resurrection became so central to the early Christians that a new loyalty to Jesus emerged, beginning to effect not only their lives but the people and powers around them. (Acts 4:1-12) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Early church stories often show us how the resurrection gave the first followers of Jesus opportunity to see his power at work in beginning the restoration that leads to future new creation. It can start now in us! (Acts 3:1-21) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The church emerged from the resurrection to become a community centred on the resurrected Jesus and became a contrast to Roman and Religious groups because of their generosity and hospitality. What might happen if we live in the wake of the resurrection? (Acts 4:32-35). "Eastertide" is the 50 days following Easter where we continue to celebrate the impact of the resurrection. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Put yourself in Mary, Peter and John’s shoes on Resurrection Day (John 20:1-18) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus invites us into a meal to remember what happens on Good Friday; to consume this meal is to participate in his death and life. (John 6:27-58) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It’s Palm Sunday, and with the Cross in our periphery we dig into the story of Abraham and allow it to project into Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem. (Guest speaker: Jonathan Hodges) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus challenges our view of greatness by pointing us to servanthood. Mark 9:30-37, 10:45 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you ever found out that the path you've chosen or the person you've trusted required more from you than you initially thought?! In the same way, a cross-shaped life might require more from us than we initially think! (Mark 8:31-9:1) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is the cross more than the way Jesus won? Is it possible it's also a way of life? We start a series today looking at some key moments in the life of Jesus where he points to the way of the cross in his own life and to decisions in contrast to the way of the world. We start in His baptism and desert temptations. (Matthew 3:13-4:11) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Being the church in a pandemic. (Hebrews 10:19-36) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
People look to many options to fill their hearts and better their future. Today Patrice teaches out of a well-known scripture to help us discover God's promise for life today and tomorrow, regardless of what we're going through. (John 3:16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We wrap up our wilderness series with two things we all long for: identity and vocation. God can speak into them as they guide us through our whole lives (even beyond the wilderness). Today we discover how this can bring both joy and tension. (Exodus 19) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Can God reveal something new to you in a wilderness-like season? Is He or his wisdom hidden or might they show up in surprising ways? In this snapshot Israel gets another family guest during their wilderness journey and has some surprising revelations that grow Israel's ability to be a better community. (Exodus 18) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The desert can be a dangerous place. Wilderness-like seasons can also include attacks. Today we learn from a snapshot in Exodus about an attack the Isrealites face in the desert and the lessons for our own seasons of life. (Exodus 17:8-16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In this snapshot of Israel's wilderness experience we see God testing Israel's trust in following his way. While God provides for their needs, this early lesson teaches us something about contentment and sabbath that applies to our modern life more than we realize. (Exodus 15-16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Wilderness is a theme that runs through the Bible a lot. God uses wilderness surroundings or seasons to get our attention, to get us through something, or to teach us more about ourselves and ultimately about Him. We start this new series at the beginning of Israel’s rescue from slavery in Egypt and how their struggle to trust God can parallel our own lives. (Exodus 13-15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We're often verbally committed to a new year, maybe even a new me, but the way forward is more than just a next step. It often involves examining the steps you've already been taking. Psalm 139 helps us move toward a flourishing life in Jesus by letting God examine the path we're already on. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you ever rejected something you needed for something you wanted instead? Advent confronts us with a question about rejecting or receiving Jesus, the Word. John 1:1-13 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
John proclaims that “the true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world” (John 1:9, NRSV). Through John’s testimony – read against the broader witness of scripture – we learn something about what God is doing in the world, who God reveals himself to be, and what it means to be his children. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We should all read the Bible for ourselves... but how? Building on the foundation of the whole series we end the Practice of Scripture with “The Bible Diet” (a Canadian-like food group guide to bible reading). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Were the scriptures meant to be read alone or in community? Today we look at how the Church and Christians over the centuries have never read the Bible as an island but part of a the large beautiful work of the gospel since inception. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Why are some texts interpreted literally and some generally? At some point when one reads scripture the movement from discovery to discernment must take place. David looks at various levels of context so we can discern different parts of the Bible well. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Was scripture always scripture? When did these words get said or written? To help us to allow scripture to impact us with the its message we take a deep dive in understanding where it came from. (Acts 6:1-7) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We often hear it said that the Bible has divine power or authority. Whose authority? How do you respond to that? We explore a core idea of what the Scripture is and isn’t so we can read it and make room for it to do its work in us (2 Tim. 3:10-17). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Regardless if you’ve read the Bible a lot or just starting to, many people can get stuck wondering if they’re doing it right or missing something along the way. Some of us just want to get the most out of it because we want to grow in following Jesus. Today we kick off a new series helping to see the Bible for what it is and reading it in a way that forms us in the way of Jesus. This intro message helps us frame the Bible like a Story. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you ever experienced the emotion of shame? Do you struggle to share the gospel with people in your life? Derek shares what it looks like to be actively unashamed of the gospel. (Romans 1:8-17). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Christians can mistakenly take a cue from culture that as long as we find a good source of strength, we’ll be strong enough to go it alone. Even Jesus envisioned us leaning on him in community. (Eph. 4:1-16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
… we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
So many look for strength strictly in themselves while there’s a human longing for meaning beyond ourselves. We explore the calling of the gospel to follow Jesus as our core source of strength. (Eph. 4:1-6) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It's too easy to find our strength in the overly pragmatic cultural ideas floating around. This recent season has proven many of those sources lacking. We kick off this new series by exploring some cracks that are revealed when crisis hits. In the process we discover the strength found only in something much greater than ourselves. (Eph. 4:1-17) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We wrap up our series in Psalm 23 with some practical ways to live in God’s sufficiency. Be ready for some next steps. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What happens when God’s goodness and love follow your life? Psalm 23:6 gives us a clue. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Ever get anointed with oil? Probably not! This strange and ancient metaphor about oil points us to an incredible way God gives us purpose and then helps us move through life, even in the middle of obstacles and distractions. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Do not fear evil or be surprised by it; walk with God through it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
I’m not in charge... I need to trust someone else! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What if you could change the script of fear and worry that often governs our lives? Today is an invitation to immerse ourself in Psalm 23, an ancient Psalm with lots of modern application. This kicks off an 8 week journey in Psalm 23 and its implications for following Jesus and for anyone else open to its wisdom. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Isaiah’s call to do right and seek justice propel us to seek tangible steps towards living justly. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Paul encouraged Timothy to welcome the Holy Spirit to nurture a self-discipline and sound mind to equip him for his next season, filled with obstacles and discouragement. How might God grow you during a season of disruption? (2 Tim. 1:1-14, Romans 12:1, Acts 2:42) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God can always do something fresh in the middle of disruption. It happened when God first poured out his Spirit on Jesus’ disciples. It can happen today, even if we don’t have the energy or vision for it. But we can rekindle God’s gift in us and discover God producing power and love and wisdom in us, even during hostile times (2 Timothy 1:6-14) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Yvan Depres shares his personal journey of becoming a follower of Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We all long for God to intervene in our world right now. While we pray for our nation is it possible God also wants to restore us in the process? (2 Chronicles 7:12-15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Interview with Nathalie Fortin (Doctor and Mother) about her current experience in health care and where she has noticed human resilience and God at work; with a short reflection and prayer following. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In a season when we might feel fearful to make any move, Jesus reminds us that connected to him, he still empowers us to be fruitful! (John 15:1-17) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus helps us understand how God functions like a Gardener to make room for growth in life and faith. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We take our cues to NEW LIFE from Jesus' final I AM statement, "I AM THE VINE." We come discover the fresh start when life gets connected to him. (John 15:1-8) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus didn’t just rise from the dead... HE IS RESURRECTION AND LIFE (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
There are clues to Jesus' Way and posture in his entry into Jerusalem. Holy Week lets us in, not only to what Jesus did for humanity, but to the kind of life he lived and invites us to. (John 12:12-16) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus promises a future filled with God’s presence and purpose and he lets us know he’s the way to get there. In the present: stop worrying, don’t stop believing. (John 14:1-13) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus is the leader we’re looking for. Through this I AM statement he gives us another picture of his heart and character and purpose. // stay connected (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
True life is impossible outside of Jesus and his kingdom community. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Why does Jesus declare that he's the light of the world in the middle of an annual festival? This statement not only tells us more about how Jesus reveals who God is, but also addresses the longing in the human heart for direction and freedom. (John 8:12-20) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6: 35) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The short phrase "I AM" packs a punch. God reveals himself to Moses with it, then thousands of years later Jesus uses it to describe himself. We kick off this 8 week journey that will help us discover God's character and purpose in Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Sabbath seems to be the one practice in scriptures, embedded in creation and the history of God's people, that drives all other rhythms of our spiritual and physical life. Learn why and how as we explore it together. (Gen. 2:1-3, Deut. 5:12-15, Is. 30:1-15, Mark 6:31) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore a final portion of The Well - deeper source - available to us for life, decisions, depth of prayer, etc. Perhaps it's one we often overlook because it doesn't sound as spiritual - the saints (aka the church). Hebrews 11-12:1; Acts 2:42 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We don’t have to live life out of a shallow source. We add the role of the Holy Spirit to the practice of silence and scripture and begin to see how the Spirit is both a deep well we can draw from and a designer who brings various pieces together to guide our lives. Take time on your own to reflect on Romans 8:1-17 and Galatians 5:16-25. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Each of us lives out of a source, whether we choose it intentionally or not. Followers of Jesus see his 'words' and the whole of scripture as deep well to live out of. Today we explore how we draw from them daily. (John 15:7) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Does it sometimes feel like we try to pray or discern or live out of a shallow source? What if we had a deeper well to draw from. We start this series with a focus on Elijah's welcome of SILENCE as a source for experiencing God and listening to God for life and direction. (1 Kings 19) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How would you pray differently if you turned the Lord's Prayer into a Christmas Prayer? Where's the overlap in the birth of Jesus and what we're praying for? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Living the life of God’s kingdom principles can lead to trials and testing. This message helps us understand temptation and the reality of the Evil One’s plans to detour us from the life God envisions for us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus invites us to pray for forgiveness but then assumes our experience of it will overflow into life and community. In advent we anticipate the fullness of God's kingdom of forgiveness. (Matthew 6:12, 14-15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus invites us to ask God for what we need but there’s way more in this short prayer than a request. We understand God and ourselves more while dealing with some anxiety that God wants to relieve us from along the way. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What are we asking for when we ask God for His kingdom to come and will to be done? Do we really expect Him to do something here "on earth?" Praying this could lead to a revolution - in you and in pockets of the world around you. Weekly practice: recite/pray the Lord's Prayer daily and reflect deeply on this week's line in the prayer. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We take a deep dive into the Lord’s Prayer. The first phrase opens up an intimacy and reverence with God that can start a revolution not only in our prayers but also our lives. (Matthew 6:5-11) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Something about Jesus' own practice of prayer prompted his disciples to ask him to teach them to pray. Let's take a walk through Jesus' prayer life to help us grow in the practice of prayer.(Luke 11:1, Mark 1:35, various) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus’ disciples ask him how to pray. He answers with clues to a life of prayer for those following his way. Luke 11:1-13 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
When the time had been accomplished, God send his Son... (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Even the church, in the most exciting days of its start, faced obstacles to the irresistible movement of Jesus. Some came from their own reading of scripture and practice of ethnic religion. Thankfully there's a way toward opportunity. (Acts 10-15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Something unique marked the early church, making them an irresistible community that impacted the empire around them. It all started from a new command uttered from Jesus and and then nurtured by his followers. How can we become the kind of community we long for and that people around us can't find anywhere else? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Faith is such a key word to describe a follower of Jesus. Faith in and through Jesus, the message of faith, an act of faith. Today we explore the dynamic Irresistible Faith of the early christians and how they expressed it in such tangible ways. What does it mean for you and me to discover and live out an Irresistible Faith? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you created Jesus in your own image? Is He irresistible or is He just your favourite ice cream? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Do all spiritual gifts accomplish the same thing? In the same context? Paul's teaching to the Corinthian church gives us a lens to discern and decide which gift is most useful when the church gathers or God uses us to minister to each other. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Expand our sense of wonder and awe as we see more clearly our creator God who loves us more than we know! Guest speaker: Barry Whatley (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Some people, maybe even many, do not even get started on a Faith journey because they figure the climb will simply be too steep. They figure that they will not have what it takes. Together, we’ll discover that it is true that ALONE the Christian walk can’t happen. And while we need friends to help us along, they will never suffice. Our need is for someone far greater. Jesus and the Christian tradition invite us to journey with the Holy Spirit. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Explore why spiritual gifts on their own can become ineffective or even sabotage without love. Paul stopped this teaching on spiritual gifts in its tracks before he concluded, to help us understand that the way of love is the environment in which spiritual gifts function best and most effectively. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
When God pours out his Spirit, all ages are impacted and all ages are empowered for ministry. (Acts 2:17-18) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
When you discover and develop your spiritual gifts, you begin to understand the joy and impact that comes through using them. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Just like a body functions with each part contributing, so it is with the body (church) of Jesus. What spiritual gifts might you have so the body can function well? Everyone contributes, everyone benefits. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Spiritual Gifts are God's way of equipping you to serve the common good of God's people and purposes (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest speaker Nathan Whatley wraps up our series on money. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, but didn't say to not plan for it. We'll walk through habits of wisdom for how we use money today and tomorrow! (Luke 16:1-13, Matthew 6:34, Eph. 5:15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Mary plays a key role in the story of Jesus' first miracle. What role can mothers play in the life of their kids to propel them into their true identity and calling? What role can you play even in the most ordinary moment by joining into God's larger plan for you and others? John 2:1-12 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus connects a distorted view of money and the potential for it to master us with worry and anxiety. We explore one key habit to help us flip culture's relationship with money and find greater joy. Matthew 6:19-34 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What are your money habits? What do they say about you? Jesus tells us there’s something important about where our money goes and what it says about our hearts. (Matt 6:19-24) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In a post-resurrection moment while the disciples are still pretty doubtful, Jesus not only shows up, but lets them in on what the Resurrection has fulfilled and what it offers a world longing for something new. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What if the atonement is meant for more than "your" relationship with God but also the creation of a reconciling community for the good of the world. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Atonement is so big and beautiful that Jesus and early church letters have multiple ways to explain it. If you thought it only mean personal salvation and access to eternity, think again. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore what happened on the cross that restores human brokenness and how this is both distinct and inline with God's great story. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Will we never know the gravity of sin until we encounter the depth of God's love. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off a new series to help see the beauty and bigness of what Jesus accomplished on the cross, revealing the heart of God for humanity. Why was the early church so fascinated with the cross? It's bigger than you think! (1 Cor. 1:17-2:5) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Week 2 - How Not to Lose the Plot. (Guest speaker: Jon Waind) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Week 1 - God is the Author of Love. (Guest speaker: Jon Waind) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Health Check. In a season ripe with opportunity our culture often pushes us to pursue growth at any cost while Jesus invites to pursue health first. In his words, abide in me and bear much fruit. (John 15:1-8) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We're all broken in various ways, and all healing in various degrees. So can God still use us? We end our series looking at how God brings broken people together to create something beautiful. Ephesians 1-3 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Under the larger theme of Jesus' overcoming the brokenness in our world, we explore some key steps that can start a way out of your own broken season or areas of your life where you hope for change. (Is. 43:16-19, Ps. 139:23-24, Phil. 4:6-7, 2 Cor. 4:16) (Audio is truncated due to technical difficulties.) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Brokenness is not our ultimate destiny when we let our brokenness meet His. (Jn 16:33, Phil. 1:6) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest speaker Daniel Decary explores forgiveness through the example of Noah and his sons in Genesis 9. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off a series on brokenness by acknowledging there are broken people among us, which likely includes you! Thankfully we don't have to hide it or go it alone. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Ultimate Reconciliation Story (Christmas Celebration 2018) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Mary's story and song are one of the clearest examples of responding to God with faith. She shows the difference between inviting God into our life versus stepping into His. (Luke 1:26-38, 46-55) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Living out your spiritual journey rooted in baptismal waters - life, death and resurrection of Jesus (Rom. 6:4-13) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Among all the words associated with Advent, "waiting" is perhaps the most challenging. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
(Today is a focus on King Jesus in the church year.) As a prequel to Advent we're taking a look at the kingly nature of Jesus and how we might respond. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus' famous story of a lost son finding hope in the love of his father becomes a vision for our new location becoming a meeting point of hope for our community and a picture of God's hope always available for anyone longing for it. (Luke 15) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The early church gives us a counter-intuitive approach to impacting our world with the message of Jesus. Prayer-Partnership-Posture (Colossians 4:2-6) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore our call to mission inside God's heart for mission. Col. 4:17; 1:25-27; Acts 20:24; Eph. 3:7-11. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Dave Carrol (a.k.a Captain Kindness) shares inspiring stories of the work God has been doing in his home town of Brantford, Ontario. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God never intended for us to grow into who we're meant to be in isolation. He designed the church to be the soil of our transformation. Eph. 4:11-16 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Today we celebrate our 15th anniversary and our first gathering in our new location. God is so good! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We hear from Shannon Gallant, Nick Ciabattoni, Daria Nardozza and Enzo Duni about the journey that lead Westside to this landmark celebration. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We can't just love the idea of community. We must live into the identity of it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest speaker, C2C / Multiply's Patrice Nagant inspires us from the book of Acts. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Through the demoniac in Mark 5:1-20, we navigate the waters between the scientific skeptic and the religious hypochondriac. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We conclude our series with six practices to help us grow in Wisdom. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The wisdom you rely on is reflected in whatever you put your trust in (Proverbs 3:5-6) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Wisdom tries to show us a probable future so we can make better decisions in the present. (Proverbs 1-2) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Wisdom for ordinary living starts with a view of God that is bigger and brighter than you. (Proverbs 1) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Out of his fullness we have all received Grace 2.0 in place of Grace 1.0. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Panel discussion with four Westside dads. Happy Father's Day! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is it possible that an almighty God takes on the posture of small and slow in accomplishing his will through us and around us? Matthew 13:31-35 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Sometimes you just need to pause and celebrate what is, like Paul did for the Thessalonians (1 Thess. 1). What a better time than on a day many Westsiders are faithfully sacrificing financially for our future mission and ministry. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Just like God launched the church into existence 2000 years ago, through His Spirit he can breathe into you and me into the life he wants for us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Wisdom we can learn from Moms. Panel discussion from a diverse group of Moms. Happy Mother's Day. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Listen as David calls us to a sacrificial response in making our new location a reality. We also track Nehemiah's story that shows us his and Israel's sacrifice in turning their vision into reality. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We continue our vision series and track with Nehemiah's next step in bringing his vision into reality. Hint: he can't do it alone and neither can we. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Westsiders Andrew and Amy Eason share their story. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Kicking off this new series, we see how Nehemiah started with a spark, called on God and applied a strategy to take the first steps towards a preferred future. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Westsiders Mike and Sue Nardozza share their story. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Wonder can't be packaged and it can't be worked up. It requires some sense of being there and some sense of engagement. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
If you want to see Jesus, learn to sit with Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Easter kicked off God's renovation project for you and the world. What matters is new creation (Gal. 6:15). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
You can celebrate in your suffering now because you will celebrate with no more suffering later. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
So often religion and secular culture can keep us on the treadmill of trying, perfecting, and striving to find freedom, significance and relationship. What's so different about faith in Jesus that speaks into our human needs and longing? (1 Peter 3:18, Rom. 6:5-11) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore what is likely behind Peter's challenge to be prepared to give a reason for the Hope you have in Jesus and how to reflect it outwards. (discussion questions here - http://westsidegathering.com/cahwinter2018/) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
There is such potential for influence on culture when the church is a healthy loving community. What better way do we offer the world? What better response do we show the world? 1 Peter 3:8-16 helps us with the vision and strategy. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Through wives and husbands challenging faith in the 1st century, Peter shows us that the gospel frees from cultural expectations and frees us for life and relationships that impact society. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
1 Peter shifts to help us apply our new life in our real life with some tough examples from 1st century life that inspire and challenge us today! (1 Peter 2:11-3:7) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore the purpose and motives around scripture's call to 'live such good lives' in our world, but figure out quickly there's a tension, or obstacles, to it as well. Why our interior life is so influential to our exterior life. 1 Peter 2:11-12 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What makes a community of Christ followers unique? What is something so different about them? Imagine that God is actually present among them. (Eph. 2:22) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We celebrate the hope that God brought at Christmas for everyone... including you. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Hope is more than inspiration or theory. If we live in God's Hope we can give out of his Hope in tangible ways. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is there the difference between optimistic hope and Christian hope? Listen as we understand that Hope offered by God is anchored. (Heb. 6:13-20) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Do you recognize your hunger for hope? Everyone hungers for it but they don't always know there's food on the table. (Luke 15:11-32, 19:41-44) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We love to start something, but often struggle to flourish in it. Peter helps us understand what starts a relationship with God and what feeds it to flourish. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Ezra is a campus pastor with Northview Church in Abbotsford BC. He was born in Kenya, and has been serving the local church in BC for many years - in young adult ministry, teaching, and now leading this campus of Northview. Northview is part of our national church association (CCMBC). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Peter gives us some vital filters for a life of faith with greater capacity in a culture that doesn't always reflect the same vision. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Peter blurts out the what and how of salvation with excitement and helps us see why Christianity is still unique in our culture today. (1 Peter 1:3-12) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The intro to 1 Peter helps us understand the difference between our cultural and spiritual identity and the first step in how to live in society as God's children. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What we believe about the end of the story shapes how we live now. Speaker: Nathan Whatley (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This series has helped us reflect on the stories we live out of and how to change them when necessary. TODAY we look at the starting of the church in Acts 2:42 as it points us to the kind of story they were living out of. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Every day is an opportunity to live out your new story so your growth doesn't end with initial change, but a changed life. (Luke 5:27-31) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How many people would love to rewrite their story? That might not be possible, but scripture gives us a way to change the story we believe in so we can change our lives. (Romans 12:1-2) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off this series considering how the stories we've believed in have influenced our life the most. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jump into this story in Acts 8 to see an unlikely person in an unlikely place respond to the power of the gospel. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Imagine what the Church could do with all of us playing in time with the heartbeat of Jesus. (John 8:1-11) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus sends out 70 of his disciples to invite people into peace. He promises there's a harvest for peace. A longing for it. How can we join God in doing the same thing today? Luke 10 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We discover the journey of faith through two people who met Jesus after the resurrection. See if you have a similar journey or long for one. Luke 24:13-35 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Listen in as we unpack what it means to love our neighbours and move toward the mess in each other's lives. Follow this link for the video interview included in this message: http://northpoint.org/messages/address-the-mess/move-toward-the-mess/ (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
One of Israel's prophets traveled for days just to hear from God. It was worth it! What might our summer be like if our activity flowed out of our attentiveness? (1 Kings 19) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Until we become intentional listeners we will not become natural listeners. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In partnership with over 500 churches in Montreal praying for our city, today we explore God's love for cities and his invitation for us to work for the city's peace and prosperity through prayer and action. Happy 375th Birthday Montreal. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
One of the most powerful and countercultural beliefs the church affirms in the creed is the 'forgiveness of sins.' How can you join the forgiveness cycle rooted in Jesus? (Luke 7:36-50) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The Church has a mission, but more importantly, God's mission on earth has a church. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore why the creed equally affirms the Holy Spirit alongside God and Jesus, and how we can tune into what He is doing in and around us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest speaker Curtis Matoga illustrates the power of authentic personal testimony. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The resurrection changes how we relate to life because Jesus changes us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Because of Good Friday, we go from a battle we cannot win to a battle we cannot lose. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest Speaker: Glenn Smith. The Trinity is assumed in the Apostles' Creed. We look back into scripture to understand why and what it means for us every day. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore what Jesus' future return has to do with justice and a restored humanity. (John 5:19-30) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The Ascension is an important moment in the post-resurrection life of Jesus. What happened? Where is he? What's he doing? Why isn't everything perfect yet? Some questions we explore around the Ascension. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Questions about resurrection come around often. Some had other theories. Listen in as we explore what happened and why it matters for faith and life. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Pontius Pilate gets a mention in the Apostles' Creed and points us to the proof and purpose of the cross. (Read more in John 18:28-19:27) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The creed points us back to the miraculous birth of Jesus and his very human life, but it also invites us into the spiritual transformation made possible by the very same Holy Spirit! (speaker: Nathan Whatley) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Who is Jesus? The creed not only points us back to scripture for three primary answers, but also challenges us to respond. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover the God you can believe in and belong to as we unpack the first line of the Apostles' Creed, "I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth." (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you ever read or reflected on the Apostles' Creed? This creed has been around in both it's simplest and finalized versions since the Apostle's themselves. We kick off this series answering why we should read it and learn from it even today. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Does your plan for a life well lived include making an eternal impact? We end our series looking at creating a 'Gospel Legacy' inspired by one of Paul's clearest personal purpose statements. (Acts 20:17-24) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Create a life with meaning and purpose by stewarding your life and resources in a culture that works against that finish line. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Though most of us long for a life well lived, there's likely a few areas of your life where you need greater capacity and creativity. Listen in as we learn from Jeremiah's experience at a potter's house (Jeremiah 18). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Imagine your life at the finished line. What do you want your life to have been about? We kick off this new series aiming to balance an eye on the future with our actions in the present. Paul's reflection on his own life is our guide. (2 Tim. 4:5-7) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Ever notice the theme of worship that runs through the original Christmas stories? Wonder why? You'd be surprised how relevant it is to everyday life. This is a brief message from our Christmas Eve-Eve Gathering 2016. It will also help you kick off 2017 in a way that fills and doesn't drain you. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
An original spoken work piece by Deanna Smith and Jason Selman. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We end our series looking at what it means to live fully devoted to God and loving it. (Romans 11:33-12:8) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It's not enough to discern what habits shape what we love. Today we explore how worship is a liturgy that moulds what we love from God's story. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We are all designed to love something as ultimate. Listen in as we understand a few of the rival liturgies committed to shaping what we love. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We launch into this new advent series reflecting on what we love and long for. Psalm 42:1-2 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Interview with Amy van Donkersgoed, Julia Santamaria and Heather Guo with a focus on being a stay-at-home mom. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We close out this series exploring some initial steps at how each of us can look more like God everyday. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This week we focus on the complexity of sexuality and same-sex relationships in our world and how the church can live and love like Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore the beauty, brokenness and boundaries of sexuality including an honest look at same-sex relationships. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Shifting our view of marriage and singleness as vocation - Part 2 (Matt 19:1-12; 1 Cor. 7:1-40) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Shifting our view of marriage and singleness as vocation - Part 1 (Matt 19:1-12) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Elijah was desperate for change in Israel's spiritual trajectory. What can we learn from this risky moment where God's intervention was desperately needed? (1 Kings 18) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It's not enough to know we are created in God's image, but to know why. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
If God is relational and we're made in His likeness, we were created for relationship - with Him and others. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How could it be that there are no ordinary people and that you have never talked to a mere mortal? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Listen as this ancient song helps you face the reality of life (or this season) with both resistance and rest. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Interview with Karell Frenette, Matt Nardozza and John Roberts with a focus on education and teachers. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
From Mark 10, Nathan Whatley shares how Jesus stops, listens and transforms. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest speaker Doug Hiebert of MB Mission ties life stories from his work in Burundi to the suffering of the Apostle Paul from Acts 16:16-34 and what it all means for us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Romans 14-15 highlights characteristics of strength needed to build people up in Christian community and society. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We explore why 'there is life in loving God' with some simple ways to leverage your summer for spiritual renewal. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Sometimes the call to Love God and neighbour can lead us to miss the people in our closest circles. Today we look at how the scriptures give us a vocation to invest in our family, friends, and church. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
As you call your summer into purpose, this message helps you understand God's vision for rest (Sabbath) and how to get true rest into our summer. Listen and answer the questions: What gives me true rest? What replenishes me? (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What if you started planning your summer with a sense of vocation instead of vacation? We kick off with a focus on 'loving your neighbour' and our 100 Days of Summer challenge. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Making a name for yourself can be draining. Discover the freedom of life in Jesus' name. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Pentecost (pouring out of the Holy Spirit) broke down some cultural barriers that expanded the heart and impact of the church to bring healing where the world needed it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus' most expanded prayer in the gospels highlights one of the key ways he prays for the world.... surprisingly it has to do with how much he prays for the church. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Many people try to make a comeback alone, but the scriptures teach us that we don't have to. In fact, Jesus leads us to creating the kind of community that helps us and others make a comeback. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
David Manafo shares 6 ways Westside can reach beyond ourselves in the next 5 years. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Marlene's comeback story after the loss of her teenage son, and a short message on the importance of immersion in the life of faith. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Comebacks of any kind require more than an event or inspiration. Take a look at Peter's life just after Jesus' resurrection for the steps that helped him make a comeback to a life of purpose. (John 21) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The comeback story of Easter leaves Rocky Balboa in its dust! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Hebrews ends with necessary and relevant help for anyone on the journey following Jesus. Listen, reflect, apply, live. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover the kind of faith that gives you perspective, purpose, and perseverance. Hebrews 11. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
From the Shrinkers' Club to the Super Platinum Elite Club, Nathan Whatley explores the truths and misconceptions of membership and access in the Kingdom of God through Hebrews 10. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This message was originally a video for our Winter Church@Home groups on February 21. It's part of our Better series highlighting Hebrews chapter 9. Full video at https://youtu.be/mehnTuqXeRY (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Imagine if much of what you base your life on is actually obsolete, a mere copy of God's full vision. The climactic shift in the book of Hebrews (chap. 7-8) shows us what God was already doing in Jesus to connect us to him and discover his vision for life. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
At one point in any journey, including your spiritual journey, you have to look at what stops you from getting past the basics of faith towards the kind of life and maturity God has in mind for you (Hebrews 5:11-6:12) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
People search for religious or secular priests all the time. We explore why Jesus is in the unique position to connect you and God in your time of personal or eternal need. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Money will try to boss you around until you tell it where to go. Through the teaching of Jesus we explore the relationship, reliance and responsibility with money. (Matt. 6:24-34) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Since relationships are such a vital part of life, why not become a better 'friend' to your friends, neighbors, spouse, and family? Today we explore Resolutionary relationships! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Too often we commit to practices with the wrong posture believing the myth that practice or posture alone brings change. This message highlights two key postures that ignite your practices towards resolutionary faith and life. (Luke 7). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How can we press 'reset' for a new year and a better purpose? We explore what it means to move forward from past decisions that haven't led you to the life you've actually wanted to live (1 Samuel 12:19-25). Happy New Year! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What would the world be like if Jesus wasn't born? Merry Christmas!! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
So many long for peace, but what does it look like in practice? Listen in. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We get to the heart of Jesus' call for peace in a world that would make us believe violence is the only solution. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In this day of global violence the world longs for peace but peace seems so slippery, so elusive. We start this series seeking peace in our relationships (guest speaker, Willy Reimer) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Who doesn't like a good nap? Yet there's something a nap, or even a vacation, just can't accomplish. The message of Hebrews points us to 'better rest,' the kind of rest that body and soul both long for and surprisingly Jesus has the answer for. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Guest: Aaron White from 614 Community in Vancouver shares an inspiring message. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
It's usually easier to start something than to continue the journey! Following Jesus, as amazing as it can be, comes with hard spots along the way. Hebrews 3 helps you understand what to expect while you move forward faithfully. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
100DaysOfSummer: David Manafo interviews David and Angie Cardinale on neighborhood relationships and block parties in Laval. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you ever felt yourself drifting from an important commitment or value? Imagine that happening with your faith. Hebrews 2 confronts the drift by painting a big picture of what Jesus did to accomplish salvation, new life and future hope for humanity. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This series will walk through the book of Hebrews. This intro explores the captivating picture of Jesus in chapter 1. http://www.westsidegathering.com/better-hebrews (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover your part to play in spreading God's goodness and good news. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus shows us how 3 key relationships were the core of his life and mission. If we want to saturate the world with God's goodness and good news, these 3 relationships will be vital for life and community on mission. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We look at Luke 10 to discover Jesus' strategy in equipping his disciples to spread his message and peace beyond themselves. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus invites us to come, follow, and abide before he calls us to go. Listen in as we explore how we get saturated in him before we saturate the world with him. We include a very simple practice to help you saturate your day with Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
100daysofsummer: David Manafo interviews Jon and Beth Weaver on neighborhood relationships and community group fun. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
David Manafo interviews Wendy Gariepy and Oscar Cardozo. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In a culture that saturates much our thinking, we serve a God who longs to saturate the world (and us) with His goodness. Before we consider impacting those around us, ask yourself: What is saturating your life right now? What must? (Listen to the Faith and Work interview that preceded this message) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Followers of Jesus are people of God's New Creation. Too often that's only perceived as being ready for 'that' future day but it's so much about being ready for whatever day you're facing - the opportunities, obstacles, or onslaught that come with each day or season. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Exploring why hope sourced in God is different from any hope our world tries to offer. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Imagine three core elements that make for an extraordinary life. This message focuses on a life of faith. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What if summer included both renewal and impact, faith and friendship? You've got 100 days. How will you steward it? Listen as we use one disciple's conversion story to influence our summer plans (matt. 9:9-13, Rrom. 15:13) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God supplies each of us with gifts and capacity to live the life and fulfill the mission He's called us to. This final message highlights the gifts of the Holy Spirit and how they function in spiritual community. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover how the Holy Spirit works in you, for you, and through you. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This series reflects on the work and gifts of the Holy Spirit. Week 1 kicks off looking at the meaning of Pentecost (Acts 1-2) and how the church started and flourished because of it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We close this series with a look at God's invitation to make room in our lives for ways he wants to work in us and beyond us in the world he loves. (Isaiah 54:1-3) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
If 'mission' means sending than what does God sends us to do? Listen in as we connect the blessing of mission and the brokenness in the world. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
How big is your view of the world and God's mission for it? We start a new series discovering God's bigger story of redeeming the world he loves. Check out www.westsidegathering.com/enlarge for ways you can join Westside's global partnerships. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What would a Christian radical look like if it means getting to the roots of its founder? Today we explore the 'way' of Jesus and how he expected his way of life might be embraced and expanded in our world. Bonus: listen to this Sunday's interview with special guest Hermine Melkonyan from the Ukraine. http://gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20150426_Hermine.mp3 (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The series continues as Bruxy interviews Sadat Anwar about the Muslim faith. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20Acqb92lss (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This week we track with Bruxy Cavey of The Meeting House and his message, "Responding to ISIS" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7W5NWWFFJMg (Here is the Vice News video he refers to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUjHb4C7b94 ) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Jesus walked through the cross as he walked to the Joy set before Him (Heb. 12:2) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Too often our faith is pursued and shared individually. This final message on relationship and responsibility turns plural with an understanding of community - because Jesus has a body called the church. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This series continues with a focus on the identity one receives from the accomplished work if Jesus on the cross. It changes the way you live as you find incredible security from being in Christ. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Do you know who you are? Do you know who loves you? Jesus launched into ministry and life affirmed in identity rooted in his Father's love, but he wasn't immune to resistance. Like Jesus, your identity will be tested, but you can overcome! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Responsibility without relationship can be dangerous. This week we examine the life of Moses and the models of King-Authority-Power and Father-Identity-Obedience. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God doesn't just invite us into relationship, but entrusts us with responsibility. Looking at the life of Joseph, we discover the shift from a self-centered to a God-centered heart, preparing us for the kind of responsibility God wants to entrust us with. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This new series looks at two major themes in scripture called Covenant and Kingdom - Relationship and Responsibility. Like DNA, you'll catch these themes all over the Bible. It'll help you understand the Bible, God, and your place in His story. Today we kick off looking at how God initiated a committed relationship with humanity that gives us a renewed identity and confident access to him. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
While culture describes success in a variety of ways, we explore what a fruitful life looks like when someone is in relationship with Jesus. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is vision for life in Jesus enough for the kind of relationship he invites us into? Jesus gave his disciples some clues in John 15 about some practices that could fuel a growing relationship with him. Listen in as we explore three key practices. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Nathan Whatley on how Jesus redefines friendship and our relationship with Him as we abide. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is there anything stopping you from thriving? Learn how God is invested in your growth and why like a gardener he prunes things in and around you that stop you from thriving. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
You can grow in Jesus as you align yourself more with his way of life and love. Listen in and discover. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Too often our ambitions are ahead of our resources. "If we don't abide, we'll never thrive." Join us as we begin a new series exploring John 15:1-17 to understand what deeper relationship with Christ is like, and the fruit that can come from being connected to him. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
From the world of sex-trafficking to steet life, a true story of courage in the face of hopelessness, of God's power in the fiercest darkness. Also see Candace's spoken work video at http://vimeo.com/78415512. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Christmas Celebration! Discover why the most widely published carol is about way more than Christmas. It's good news for your future and your everyday present. Merry Christmas! (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover how God wants to work in us so we can experience Joy from a deeper source, beyond our efforts to manufacture pleasure. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Why have joy and how to have Joy is an everyday modern struggle. Listen in as we explore the WHY and HOW of experiencing Joy through the 1st century life of Paul writing a letter from a not-so-joyful-place like prison. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover joy in anticipation and formation so you experience it in any season life brings you. (Isaiah 35; Luke 7:18-22) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Be rich in helping others' is more than just a mind set or feel good invitation. It's rooted in God's very nature, modelled for us, inviting us to live in this same way (1 Timothy 6:17-19). Listen in as we understand 'rich' not as status but privilege. (This is also the 'why' behind our Be Rich campaign in November.) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Listen to Barbara share about her faith journey during a difficult season of life - filled with authenticity, community, struggle, reality, and hope. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
You protect what you love! Discover how awareness and accountability help protect a marriage and why no marriage can flourish without a dependence on God. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Why do we practice to get better in certain parts of our lives but often leave a better marriage to chance? Discover 5 key practices for a better marriage in part 4 of this series. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is it possible to discover both good and growth in marriage? By God's design marriage can be a vehicle for both. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Part 2 of this series communicates the foundation of marriage partnership and some fundamental ways that couples partner (based out of Genesis 1-2). A vision for marriage thrives as partnership. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Is there a vision for marriage in a complex world? This new series begins looking at the idea of a 'promise' in an age of possibilities and what that means for a thriving marriage. Every week will build on this vision from the wisdom of scripture. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We want to change the world, but are we ok with allowing others to come in and make our own community different. Listen, as guest, Domenic Ruso, shares from Mark 4:30-32 - Jesus' parable that helps us understand how God's Kingdom grows, but also how that growth challenges our idea of being a welcoming community. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We close this series looking at what Jesus did when he moved into the neighborhood and how the church followed his pattern. Jesus/Church had a global vision with local practices. Listen as we're reminded what it means to be a sent community helping people find a spiritual home. (note: some Hobbit clips found their way into this message) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
God promises a future city that defies all cities. How does one live today if that future is promised? What does it change for you today? Listen in for perspective and encouragement whether you love your city or live in a season or place that feels really difficult. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Does God care about the people and places around me? Is Christianity only for individuals or does it care about cities? Listen in as we uncover what God envisions for a city and how we contribute to it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
A video called "Handful of Rice" was shown during this message. You can view it here - http://vimeo.com/16288195 More info: www.westsidegathering.com
We need more than we realize and God has done more than we could recognize... (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Many begin following Jesus hoping for personal change, believing their change in heart is the only necessity to change in life. Is it possible that we need more than heart change to change?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Many begin following Jesus hoping for personal change, believing their change in heart is the only necessity to change in life. Is it possible that we need more than heart change to change?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Many begin following Jesus hoping for personal change, believing their change in heart is the only necessity to change in life. Is it possible that we need more than heart change to change?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
There’s so much going on in the world that causes people to long for something different. Rampant consumerism, increasing hostility, evident corruption. It’s hard to miss the news items filling the papers and online feeds. Is all this normal? Or is a different kind of world possible?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
There’s so much going on in the world that causes people to long for something different. Rampant consumerism, increasing hostility, evident corruption. It’s hard to miss the news items filling the papers and online feeds. Is all this normal? Or is a different kind of world possible?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
There’s so much going on in the world that causes people to long for something different. Rampant consumerism, increasing hostility, evident corruption. It’s hard to miss the news items filling the papers and online feeds. Is all this normal? Or is a different kind of world possible?(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
a brand new series that will reconnect us to the initial ethos of the church starting from the very first time it was mentioned in the gospels. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Are we done yet? David Manafo concludes our September series, BECOMING A DISCIPLE.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Have you struggled with failure? Who hasn't? So did Peter (one of Jesus' closest disciples) Don't miss this Sunday's continuation with "Becoming a Disciple," dealing with the reality of failure in our journey.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
At the end of Ephesians where Paul expands on the new life made possible in Jesus he ends with a final call to the one spiritual practice that pulls everything together. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Learn the biblical wisdom on rest and rhythm and how it applies to your chaotic life (includes some personal reflection from David Manafo on his upcoming Sabbatical this summer)(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Meet Lydia, one of the early churches highlighted women. Her experience, conversion, and practices are a treasure of wisdom for people today.
This gathering highlights a short message about what baptism means + 2 stories of people before they get baptized
This gathering highlights a short message about what baptism means + 2 stories of people before they get baptized
STAND STRONG. Eph 6:10-17 explores the opposition we can expect living a new life in Christ as well as the gear God gives us to withstand it. Don't ignore this teaching if you really want to live life worthy of the calling you've received in Christ. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Does the life of Christ and his kingdom affect our relationships with employers or employees? Work or working relationships is not an easy place to let Christ's values transcend. Eph. 6:5-9 changes our perspective on this in revolutionary ways - both for the 1st Century and our culture today. (www.westsidegathering.com)
How does a Christian's home life look like? What does it mean to create a home where children grow to honor their parents? Listen in as we look at Eph. 6:1-4 (www.westsidegathering.com)
Pavel Kremenenko shares his story of drug addiction and prison and eventual journey towards following Christ and leading 8 rehab homes. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Did people really believe the resurrection happened? If it did, how relevant is it for today? An important Easter message for believers and skeptics alike. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What are the variables that lead to oneness in marriage? Part 2 of this message focuses on both equality and differences both needed to reach oneness in marriage while highlighting some cultural obstacles that can prevent you along the way. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
In a world that usually sees submission as negative, the transforming power of Jesus brings people into a new kind of life where voluntary submission for the good of others creates beauty and joy. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
What would happen within the church - among the people - if our lives reflected 'being filled with the Spirit?' Find out how it would affect our words and worship. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Discover why careful thought, wisdom and understanding God's will are crucial in actually living out the kind of life God has intended for you in Jesus Christ (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Nathan teaches on Eph. 5:1-14 as Paul confronts us with lifestyle choices that reflect the new life in Christ and the renewal of our minds, with a specific focus on sexuality. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Nathan teaches on Eph. 4:25-32 as Paul confronts us with lifestyle choices that reflect the new life in Christ and the renewal of our minds. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
NEW life is possible, but it'll take more than heart change. Really?!?! Listen as we explore Ephesians' challenge to get our minds into gear if we want to experience NEW life that's promised and possible in Christ. [more info: www.westsidegathering.com]
How does a local church become a mature community? What does that maturity look like? How do each of us contribute to it? Listen in as we unpack Eph. 4:12-16 and discover the importance of doctrine and discernment.[more info: www.westsidegathering.com]
Your contribution determines our destination. Explore how you grow in this new community of Christ, how your contribution is part of your calling in Christ.[more info: www.westsidegathering.com]
What does character and community have to do with your calling and life? LOTS. Make it or break it importance. Join us as we continue to journey through this 1st century NT letter Ephesians.[more info: www.westsidegathering.com]
How will your life be different in 2013? Probably not because of a few resolutions. It's bigger than some goals. Join us as we jump back into Ephesians with one of Paul's strongest challenges, to 'live a life worthy of your calling.' Maybe your direction are more important than your intentions. [more info: www.westsidegathering.com]
Join our Christmas Celebration and discover why Christmas makes you the Ultimate Receiver.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
This practice is one everyone in your life will love you for and benefit from, including you. Don't be foreced into silence because you took too long to pay attention. Discover the reward and obstacles to this as you listen, then pass it on to friends who need to hear it. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com) *closing video can be found on our facebook page
Is generosity something we only hope to do at the end of our other priorities? What if it actually led to a more fulfilling life? Re-looking at Jesus' birth story reveals something about generosity you might have missed. Listen and then consider how you can grow in generosity this month and throughout your life. (info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The mystery of the gospel to 1st century Jewish Christians was that God's plan all along included the rest of the world to be equally part the new community God was creating in Jesus. How does this revelation get spread? What if the heavenly realms have something to learn from this new community? Explore Eph. 3:1-13 and find out, plus you'll discover 2 incredible gifts God has for you.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The world is yearning for the kind of peace that can bring someone out of alienation into new kind of communion with God and others. Ephesians 2:11-22 has part of the answer.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Death to Life, a pretty extreme 'extreme makeover.' Join us as we unpack Ephesians 2:1-10 and the implications it has for bringing newness to your life.(more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The excitement of new life in Christ is so huge that the apostle Paul can't help but explode with a 13 verse run on sentence. How does one come into this life? What does God do for this to happen? What does he intend for us? Join us as we explore Ephesians 1:3-14. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
The excitement of new life in Christ is so huge that the apostle Paul can't help but explode with a 13 verse run on sentence. How does one come into this life? What does God do for this to happen? What does he intend for us? Join us as we explore Ephesians 1:3-14. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
We kick off a new series about the new life and community Jesus makes possible. Encountering his life and teachings radically transforms people and communities. This doesn't happen in isolation. You are in Christ while in a particular place. This message starts a section by section look at Ephesians (new testament letter). (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Planting Jesus #5. We finish this series with a practical look at Jesus' famous parable of the Sower (Matt. 13) to discover how each of us can plant the story and message of Jesus in the hearts and lives of people around us. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Planting Jesus #4 "...in the City" We jump into an exciting story from 1st century Antioch, how the message of the Jesus explodes into this ancient cosmopolitan city. What if we had that kind of impact in our city today? Listen and consider your role... and God's role in making this happen. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Planting Jesus #3: can Jesus influence a home, a family? Explore a great moment in the life of two 1st century families coming to faith and some principles to help you plant Jesus more deeply at home. (Nathan Whatley) (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)
Planting Jesus #2: this series teaches us the power and impact of Jesus planted deeply in our hearts and lives. This message helps understand how Jesus is equally planted in a local community of Christ followers - a church - and how that looks practically. (more info: www.westsidegathering.com)