Bell Shoals Church: Recent Episodes
Bell Shoals Church
Bell Shoals is a church and a movement. We believe in a love-first approach. We love God, love others, and seize every opportunity to show the never-ending love of the Creator. Learn more at BellShoals.com.
What if the reason this world feels less like home is because you were made for a better one?
In this message from 1 Peter 1:1–12, we discover that as followers of Jesus, we are called to live as exiles—people who belong to another kingdom while living in a world that often feels broken, confusing, and increasingly unfamiliar. Peter reminds us that our hope isn't rooted in our circumstances or in wishful thinking, but in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has given us a living hope that can never fade.
Through relatable illustrations, biblical truth, and practical application, this sermon explores what it means to live faithfully in a culture that often feels upside down. Whether you're walking through suffering, wrestling with discouragement, or simply wondering how to remain faithful in an ever-changing world, this message will encourage you to set your mind on heaven so your heart can remain anchored in hope.
Drawing from the imagery of exiles, temporary homes, and an eternal inheritance, this sermon reminds us that our identity is not found in what this world offers but in the salvation Christ has secured for us. Because of Him, our suffering has purpose, our future is secure, and our greatest hope is still to come.
In this message you'll discover:
- Why Christians should expect to feel like strangers in this world
- The difference between biblical hope and mere optimism
- How remembering your true home changes the way you live today
- Why your identity should never be built on temporary things
- What it means to have a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus
- How God uses trials to strengthen and refine your faith
- Why your eternal inheritance is secure, no matter what you face on earth
No matter what season you're in, this message is a reminder that this world is not the end of your story. Because Jesus lives, you have a living hope that no trial, disappointment, or hardship can take away.
Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
What if the moments that matter most are the ones no one else ever sees?
In this message from Hebrews 12:1–3, we are reminded that the Christian life is not a sprint—it's a race of endurance. Through powerful personal stories, practical illustrations, and biblical truth, this sermon explores how God shapes us through the quiet, unseen moments of faithfulness that often go unnoticed. Whether you're feeling discouraged, waiting on God, or simply trying to stay faithful in the everyday, this message is an encouragement to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and take the next faithful step.
Drawing from the imagery of running a race, training for an IRONMAN, and the hidden keel of a sailboat, this sermon reveals that true perseverance isn't built in dramatic moments—it's formed through thousands of ordinary decisions made in faith. Most importantly, it points to Jesus, who endured the cross for us and invites us to trust Him as the only sure foundation for life.
In this message you'll discover:
- Why perseverance is built in the quiet, unseen moments
- The difference between the "weights" we carry and the sin that entangles us
- How small daily decisions shape our spiritual lives over time
- Why fixing our eyes on Jesus gives us strength to endure
- What it means to build your life on a foundation that can withstand every storm
- How God's work in you continues even when you can't yet see the results
- Why today is the perfect day to take your next step of faith
No matter where you find yourself in your journey, this message is a reminder that God is at work—even in the ordinary moments—and that faithful endurance always begins with keeping your eyes on Christ.
Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
Is it really true that "God will never give you more than you can handle"?
In this message, Pastor Ben Skaug examines one of the most commonly repeated phrases Christians assume comes from the Bible—and reveals what Scripture actually teaches about suffering, temptation, and God's faithfulness. Looking at 1 Corinthians 10:13 and 2 Corinthians 1:3-11, we discover that while God always provides a way to obey Him in temptation, He often allows burdens that are far beyond our own strength so that we will learn to depend completely on Him.
As Paul contrasts God's faithfulness in temptation with his own experience of overwhelming suffering, this message helps us understand the difference between trusting our own strength and relying on God's power. It also reminds us that God never wastes our pain—He uses every trial to draw us closer to Himself and prepare us to comfort others who are hurting.
In this message you'll discover:
- Whether "God will never give you more than you can handle" is actually in the Bible
- The true meaning of 1 Corinthians 10:13 and how it relates to temptation
- Why God sometimes allows trials that are beyond our ability to bear
- How overwhelming circumstances teach us to depend on God's strength instead of our own
- How God comforts His people in every affliction
- Why God calls us to use our own trials to encourage and comfort others
Whether you're facing temptation, carrying a heavy burden, or walking alongside someone who is suffering, this message offers biblical hope by reminding us that God is always faithful. He provides the strength to obey, the grace to endure, and the comfort we need so that we can become a source of comfort to others.
If you need prayer or would like someone to walk alongside you during a difficult season, we'd love to pray for you. Visit bellshoals.com/prayer to share your prayer request with our team.
Is it really true that "God helps those who help themselves"?
In this message from Luke 15, Pastor Steven tackles one of the most common phrases people assume comes from the Bible—and reveals why it's actually the opposite of the gospel. Through Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, we discover that Christianity isn't about earning God's approval through good works. It's about a gracious Father who runs to rescue helpless sinners by His grace.
As Jesus contrasts the younger son, the older brother, and their father, this message exposes two very different ways people try to earn God's favor—through rebellion or through religion—and shows that neither can save us. Instead, we're invited to stop striving, stop running, and come home to the Father whose love is based on grace, not performance.
In this message you'll discover:
- Why "God helps those who help themselves" isn't found in Scripture
- What the parable of the prodigal son really teaches about God's heart
- The difference between religion and the gospel
- Why neither good works nor bad works determine God's love for you
- How God's extravagant grace welcomes both rebellious sinners and self-righteous rule keepers
- What it means to come home to the Father through grace alone, by faith alone, in Christ alone
Whether you've wandered far from God or spent years trying to earn His approval, this message is a powerful reminder that salvation is never achieved—it is received through the grace of our loving Father.
What does it really mean to be a Christian? Is it enough to grow up in church, believe in God, or pray a prayer? Or did Jesus teach something far more radical?
In this message from John 3:1-16, Pastor Steven challenges one of the most common misconceptions about Christianity by examining Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus. Although Nicodemus was one of the most respected and religious leaders in Israel, Jesus told him something completely unexpected: "You must be born again."
Through this powerful encounter, Pastor Steven explains why religion, good works, family heritage, and moral living can never make us right with God. Instead, Jesus reveals that what every person truly needs isn't self-improvement, but spiritual rebirth through faith in Him. Discover why salvation is God's work from beginning to end, what it means to genuinely believe in Christ, and how the gospel offers new life to all who trust in Him.
In this message you'll discover:
• What Jesus really meant by "You must be born again"
• Why religion and good works cannot save us
• What we can learn from Nicodemus' encounter with Jesus
• Why every person needs a new heart—not just a better life
• What it truly means to believe in Jesus
• How the cross provides the only way to eternal life
• Practical questions to examine whether your faith is truly in Christ
Whether you've been in church your entire life, are exploring Christianity for the first time, or are asking what it really means to follow Jesus, this message points to the hope of the gospel: You don't need a better version of yourself—you need to be born again.
📖 Scripture References:
John 3:1-16
Ephesians 2:1-10
Ezekiel 36:25-27
Numbers 21:4-9
2 Corinthians 5:17
James 2:19
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
What does the Bible really say about money? Is it true that "money is the root of all evil," or have we misunderstood one of Scripture's most quoted verses?
In this message from 1 Timothy 6:6-10, Scott Odom challenges a common misconception by showing that the Bible doesn't condemn money itself—it warns against the love of money. While money is a gift that can be used for good, allowing it to become the focus of our hearts can lead us away from contentment and ultimately away from God.
Through Paul's instructions to Timothy, Pastor Jim explains why spiritual growth is far more valuable than financial success, how the pursuit of wealth often steals our contentment, and why true satisfaction can only be found in Christ. Drawing from Philippians 4, Hebrews 13, and Ecclesiastes 5, he also explores Paul's "secret" to contentment and how believers can experience lasting peace regardless of their circumstances.
In this message you'll discover:
• What 1 Timothy 6 actually teaches about money
• The difference between having money and loving money
• Why contentment is the antidote to greed
• How the pursuit of wealth can quietly shape our priorities
• The biblical secret to lasting contentment
• Why Christ—not possessions—is the only source of true satisfaction
• Practical questions to evaluate where your trust really lies
Whether you're struggling with financial stress, chasing success, or simply wondering what the Bible teaches about wealth, this message offers timeless wisdom that points us away from temporary treasures and toward the lasting joy found in Jesus Christ.
📖 Scripture References:
1 Timothy 6:6-10
Philippians 4:6-13
Hebrews 13:5
Ecclesiastes 5:10
Exodus 20:17
The book of Revelation is often misunderstood, leaving many Christians intimidated or confused. Yet from its opening verses, Revelation declares itself to be a message of hope centered on the glory and supremacy of Jesus Christ.
In this message from Revelation 1, guest speaker Pastor George Wright explores the opening chapter of Revelation by focusing on the One to whom the entire book points: Jesus Christ. He explains why Revelation is ultimately a revelation of Christ's authority, victory, and eternal reign, encouraging believers to stand confidently in a world filled with uncertainty.
Along the way, Pastor George examines John's vision of the risen Christ, revealing what each description tells us about Jesus' divine nature, His relationship to the Church, and His sovereign rule over all creation.
Through this encouraging and Christ-centered message, Pastor George shares:
- Why Revelation is a message of hope for every believer
- The Trinity revealed in the opening chapter of Revelation
- The significance of Jesus as the faithful witness, firstborn from the dead, and ruler of the kings of the earth
- The meaning of the seven lampstands and Christ's presence among His Church
- Why Jesus is Lord over every earthly authority
- What Christ's appearance in Revelation reveals about His character
- The symbolism of His white hair, fiery eyes, bronze feet, and powerful voice
- The significance of the sharp two-edged sword and Christ's authoritative Word
- Why Jesus' face shines like the sun in divine glory
- The comfort found in Christ's declaration: "I am the First and the Last"
Featuring insights from Revelation 1, Matthew 28, and key themes throughout Scripture, Pastor George reminds believers that Jesus is not merely a historical figure or future King—He reigns today. No matter what challenges we face, our hope rests in the risen Christ who walks among His people, rules over every nation, and holds the keys of death and Hades.
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In a culture that often measures success by achievement, status, or financial security, God reminds us that the most important thing a father can build is a strong spiritual foundation for his family.
In this Father's Day message from Matthew 7:24–27 and Zechariah 4:8–10, Pastor Corey teaches that healthy homes are not built on temporary priorities but on the unchanging truth of God's Word. Using Jesus' illustration of the wise and foolish builders, he explains that every family will face storms, challenges, and difficulties, but the foundation beneath the home determines whether it stands firm or collapses.
Drawing from the rebuilding of the temple under Zerubbabel, Pastor Corey encourages fathers not to underestimate the power of daily faithfulness. While the work of leading a family can often feel slow, repetitive, and unnoticed, God uses small acts of obedience to build something lasting and significant over time.
Through this encouraging and practical sermon, Pastor Corey shares:
• Why every family is built on a foundation—whether intentional or not
• The difference between building on God's truth and building on temporary priorities
• Why storms reveal the strength of a family's foundation
• How financial success, achievements, and personal happiness make poor foundations
• The importance of loving God first before leading your family well
• Practical ways parents can pass their faith to the next generation
• Lessons from Zerubbabel and the rebuilding of God's house
• Why fathers should never despise "the day of small things"
• How daily acts of faithfulness create lasting spiritual impact
• The importance of perseverance, consistency, and obedience in parenting
• Why great homes are built one brick at a time
• How a strong foundation in Christ enables families to withstand life's storms
Featuring insights from Matthew, Deuteronomy, Ezra, Haggai, Zechariah, and the teachings of Jesus, Pastor Corey challenges fathers and families to build their homes on the only foundation that will last. Discover how God uses ordinary moments, daily obedience, and steadfast faith to create strong families that can stand firm through every season of life.
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In a world filled with constant distractions, many families are spending more time together than ever—yet feeling less connected than ever before.
In this message from Exodus 20:8–11 and Proverbs 17:22, Pastor Corey teaches that strong families are not built merely by sharing space, but by sharing meaningful experiences. While previous generations struggled with distance, today’s families often struggle with distraction. He challenges parents and families to intentionally cultivate a culture of rest, fun, and togetherness that strengthens relationships and creates lasting memories.
Drawing from biblical principles and practical family wisdom, Pastor Corey explains that God designed families to thrive through connection, celebration, and shared experiences. He reminds us that children often remember moments more than possessions, and that the greatest gift we can give those we love is our presence.
Through this encouraging and practical sermon, Pastor Corey shares:
• Why being together is not the same as being truly present
• How technology and distraction can undermine family relationships
• God’s design for rest, rejuvenation, and enjoyment through the Sabbath principle
• Why play and shared experiences help build secure family bonds
• The difference between laziness and healthy leisure
• How joy and fun provide balance to the demands of parenting and family life
• Why busyness often keeps us from what matters most
• The importance of creating a “museum of memories” that strengthens family relationships
• How giving your children your time can be more valuable than giving them more things
• Why healthy family cultures are built through intentional connection, encouragement, and celebration
Featuring insights from Exodus, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Luke, 1 Timothy, and the teachings of Jesus, Pastor Corey challenges families to slow down, be fully present, and invest in the relationships that matter most. Discover how God’s design for rest, joy, and togetherness can help your family build deeper connections and create memories that last a lifetime.
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
Money is one of the greatest sources of tension in families—but God’s Word offers a better way.
In this message from Philippians 4:11–13 and Proverbs 30:7–9, Pastor Corey teaches that financial peace is not found in having more money, but in having more margin. While culture encourages the pursuit of wealth and possessions, he points to the biblical principle that true contentment comes from disciplining our desires and trusting God with what He has provided.
Drawing from practical wisdom throughout Scripture, Pastor Corey explains that financial peace is less about managing money and more about mastering the desires that drive our spending. He challenges families to pursue a lifestyle marked by contentment, wise stewardship, and generosity.
Through this encouraging and practical sermon, Pastor Corey shares:
• Why financial peace begins with contentment, not a higher income
• How quality of life matters more than standard of living
• The importance of building margin through discipline and intentional planning
• Why a budget is an essential tool for faithful stewardship
• How debt can limit freedom and create unnecessary burdens
• God’s biblical pattern of giving, saving, and living on the rest
• Why generosity reflects trust in God rather than trust in wealth
• How true riches are found in contentment and a growing relationship with Christ
Featuring insights from Philippians, Proverbs, 1 Timothy, Hebrews, Ecclesiastes, and the teachings of Jesus, Pastor Corey challenges believers to rethink their relationship with money and discover the freedom that comes from living according to God’s design.
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
Parents are the most influential force in a child’s life—but what does godly parenting actually look like?
In this message from Ephesians 6:1–4, we explore the two essential pillars of biblical parenting: instruction and discipline. Through the cautionary example of Eli and his sons, as well as practical wisdom from Scripture, we are reminded that raising children requires both consistent teaching and loving training.
Through this encouraging and challenging sermon, we learn:
• Godly parenting requires both instruction and discipline
• Teaching should be continual, intentional, and woven into everyday life
• Discipline is about training and restoration, not punishment
• Children adjust to what is tolerated, not just what is communicated
• A parent’s example often has a greater impact than their advice
Featuring insights from Deuteronomy 6, 1 Samuel 2–3, 2 Timothy 3, and Proverbs, this message calls parents to focus not only on what they do, but on who they are becoming as followers of Christ.
📖 Scripture References:
Ephesians 6:1–4
1 Samuel 2:12–29; 3:11–13
Deuteronomy 6:5–7
2 Timothy 3:14–16
Proverbs 19:18; 14:26
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
GodlyParenting #ChristianParenting #Ephesians6 #BellShoals #FamilyMinistry #BiblicalParenting #FaithAtHome #RaiseThemUp
When life feels confusing, painful, or unfair, it’s natural to ask hard questions. In this message from Habakkuk 1–2, Our guest speaker, George Wright reminds us that God is not afraid of our doubts, our struggles, or even our cries for help. Just as Habakkuk wrestled with what he saw happening around him, we too can bring our biggest questions of faith to God.
Through this powerful sermon, we are reminded:
• God is big enough to handle our hardest questions
• God is sovereign and in control even when hope seems lost
• God’s plan is perfect, and He can always be trusted
Featuring reflections from Psalm 22, Matthew 27:46, and the story of Habakkuk, this message points us back to the faithfulness and sovereignty of God in every season.
📖 Scripture References:
Habakkuk 1:1–13; 2:2–4
Psalm 22:1–2
Matthew 27:46
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
GodIsInControl #Habakkuk #BellShoals #GeorgeWright #Faith #TrustGod #ChristianSermon #HopeInGod
In this message from our Some Assembly Required series, we tackle one of the most confusing and important topics in today’s culture—dating and relationships. Looking at the story of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24, we discover timeless biblical wisdom for building relationships God’s way instead of the world’s way.
Through practical truth, humor, and honest conversation, this sermon explores what it means to pursue relationships with God’s standards, pray before pursuing, and pay attention to patterns of character instead of just potential. We are reminded that real peace in relationships comes not from following culture, but from honoring God’s design.
Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, married, or raising the next generation, this message will encourage and challenge you to build relationships on a strong spiritual foundation instead of emotional or physical attraction alone.
Key Themes:
- God’s way leads to peace, the world’s way leads to confusion
- Pursuing Jesus before pursuing relationships
- Looking for character over chemistry
- Becoming the right person instead of obsessing over finding “the one”
- Building relationships on spiritual foundations
- Trusting God’s wisdom and timing in dating and marriage
- The grace of God for every past mistake and broken place
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this heartfelt message, we look at the powerful spiritual legacy passed down through Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Their genuine faith shaped a young man who would go on to impact the early church—and it reminds us of the incredible influence godly mothers and faithful parents still have today.
Paul challenges Timothy to “fan into flame” the gift God placed within him, teaching us that faith must continually be stirred up and renewed. Parenting is exhausting, lifelong work filled with sacrifice, endurance, and delayed results, but God has not given us a spirit of fear. Instead, He equips us with power, love, and self-discipline.
This encouraging sermon speaks to moms, parents, and anyone investing in the next generation. Through Scripture, humor, and practical truth, we are reminded that the seeds of faith we plant today can produce a harvest for eternity.
Key Themes:
- Stirring up a growing faith
- Faith as the antidote to fear
- The endurance and calling of parenting
- Trusting God with the next generation
- Leaving a spiritual legacy that lasts
“You’re making more of a difference than you think you’re making.”
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this message, Marriage on Mission, we continue the Some Assembly Required series by exploring God’s design for marriage and how His truth can transform even the most broken relationships. While marriage can be one of life’s greatest blessings, it can also be deeply challenging—and often the root issue isn’t just struggle, but believing lies about what marriage truly is.
Drawing from Scripture, we’re reminded that while the enemy spreads deception, Jesus declares in John 8:32 that truth brings freedom. This message uncovers five common lies that can quietly damage marriages and replaces them with God’s life-giving truth.
This message explores:
✔ Why marriage is not a contract, but a covenant rooted in commitment before God
✔ The truth that we can’t change our spouse—but God can transform hearts
✔ Why marriage isn’t 50/50, but a call to give 100% in love and service
✔ How small, hidden sins can grow into major разрушers if left unconfessed
✔ The hope we have in Christ, even when marriage feels broken beyond repair
Through passages like Mark 10:6–9 and Ephesians 5:25, we see that God’s design for marriage reflects His covenant love—faithful, sacrificial, and enduring. When we replace lies with truth, stop striving for control, and surrender to God’s work in us, He begins to restore what feels lost.
No matter how difficult things may seem, this message reminds us that there is always hope with God. Healing begins when we confess, commit, and invite Jesus to the center of our relationships.
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this message, The Cure for Loneliness, we explore how God created us for community and why meaningful friendships are essential to living the life He designed for us. In a world filled with constant connection but increasing isolation, Scripture reminds us that true belonging isn’t found in more followers or screen time—it’s found in godly relationships.
Proverbs 13:20 teaches us that the people we walk with shape the direction of our lives: “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” Our friendships influence our character, our choices, our faith, and even our future.
This message explores:
✔ Why God created us for community and not isolation
✔ How friendships shape our direction and spiritual growth
✔ The importance of choosing wise, godly relationships
✔ Why healthy marriages are built on strong friendship
✔ How honesty, loyalty, and accountability strengthen relationships
✔ Why Jesus is the perfect example of a true friend
When we build our lives on gospel-centered friendships, we find the cure for loneliness and discover the strength, encouragement, and purpose that come from walking through life together.
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more at: https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this week’s message, How a Healthy You Leads to a Healthy Family, we explore how spiritual health in our own lives shapes every relationship around us. In a culture increasingly focused on self-help, wellness, and personal fulfillment, Scripture reminds us that true health begins not with self-focus but with spiritual formation — a life shaped by our relationship with God.
Jesus teaches that the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and the second is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This command assumes something important: the way we view and care for our own lives will directly influence how we love others. When our souls are healthy and rooted in God’s truth, we are able to love our spouse, family, friends, and community in a way that reflects Christ.
Biblical self-care is not selfishness — it is soul-care. It is the process of allowing God to renovate our hearts, transform our thinking, and shape our character so that our lives become a blessing to others. Healthy relationships with others grow out of a healthy relationship with God and a right understanding of who we are in Him.
Scripture reminds us that every person is created in the image of God, uniquely designed with value, purpose, and spiritual gifts meant to serve others. When we forget this truth, we often fall into two unhealthy views of ourselves: seeing ourselves as superior to others or inferior to others. Both ultimately keep our focus on self rather than on God’s purpose for our lives.
Life will also include seasons of discouragement, hardship, and struggle. The Bible never promises a life free from difficulty, but it reminds us that God’s purposes remain steady even in the hard seasons. When we trust Him, He brings meaning, direction, and hope that the world cannot provide.
True fulfillment is never found in chasing self-love or personal pleasure alone. Instead, it comes from surrendering our lives to God’s purpose and allowing Him to transform us from the inside out.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why true self-care is really soul-care rooted in spiritual formation
✔ How loving our neighbor as ourselves reveals the importance of a healthy inner life
✔ The two dangers of seeing ourselves as superior or inferior to others
✔ Why every person’s life has value, purpose, and God-given gifts
✔ How difficult seasons are a normal part of life and growth
✔ Why fulfillment is found in God’s purpose rather than self-focused living
✔ How a spiritually healthy life strengthens our marriage, family, and relationships
✔ What it looks like to trust God to guide the direction of our lives
When our hearts are aligned with God, everything else begins to change. A healthy soul leads to healthier relationships, stronger families, and a greater impact on the world around us. As we allow God to transform our lives, we discover that caring for our souls is not about focusing on ourselves — it is about becoming the kind of people who reflect Christ and bless others.
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
https://bellshoals.com/guide/
Easter centers on the most important message in human history: Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose from the dead. In 1 Corinthians 15, the apostle Paul explains that this message is not simply religious tradition—it is the foundation of the Christian faith and the only true hope humanity has in the face of death.
Jesus lived an ordinary life for most of His years, but during His three-year public ministry He taught with authority and performed miracles that drew thousands of eyewitnesses across the region. Yet despite the power and compassion of His ministry, religious leaders viewed Him as a threat and pressured Roman authorities to crucify Him. When Jesus died, even His closest followers believed the story was over.
But the story didn’t end at the cross.
On the third day, the tomb was empty. Jesus appeared alive to His disciples, to skeptics like Thomas, to His own brother James, and even to more than 500 people at one time. These eyewitnesses didn’t merely claim that Jesus rose from the dead—they built their lives on that conviction and many ultimately gave their lives defending it.
Paul explains that the resurrection changes everything. If Christ did not rise from the dead, then faith is meaningless and death remains undefeated. But because Jesus rose, death no longer has the final word. Through the resurrection, God has defeated sin, broken the power of death, and offered eternal life to all who trust in Christ.
This message also confronts a deep reality of the human experience: death is unavoidable. Every person eventually faces its grief, its loss, and its questions. Yet the resurrection reveals that death is not the end of the story. Because Jesus conquered the grave, those who belong to Him will also be raised and transformed into eternal life.
Without God, we tend to build our lives around temporary pursuits—success, relationships, achievement, or status. But these things cannot ultimately satisfy the deepest questions of life or overcome the reality of death. Only the risen Christ offers the hope that our hearts are searching for.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why the resurrection is the most important message ever proclaimed
✔ The eyewitness evidence that confirms Jesus truly rose from the dead
✔ What the resurrection means for our faith and our future
✔ Why death is humanity’s greatest problem—and how Jesus defeated it
✔ The hope of eternal life for those who trust in Christ
✔ Why the resurrection forces every person to consider who Jesus truly is
Easter invites each of us to wrestle with the same question people have faced for over two thousand years: What will you do with the resurrection of Jesus?
Because if Christ truly rose from the dead, it changes everything.
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference. Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this week’s message from Matthew 21:1–11, we explore the powerful meaning behind Palm Sunday and the moment Jesus entered Jerusalem as the promised King. The crowds welcomed Him with praise and celebration, shouting “Hosanna!” as they recognized Him as the long-awaited Son of David. Yet this moment reveals something deeper about who Jesus truly is and what kind of King He came to be.
Palm Sunday reminds us that every human heart is wired to follow something or someone. Even in a culture that resists the idea of kings, we still elevate people, causes, careers, and achievements to positions of ultimate importance in our lives. Whatever we crown as most important will ultimately control us. The truth is that we were created to live under the authority of a king—but only one King can truly lead us without destroying us.
Matthew’s account of the Triumphal Entry shows that Jesus is not a king caught in crisis, but a King fully in control. Every detail of His entry into Jerusalem fulfills prophecy and reveals His divine mission. Even as He rides toward the cross, Jesus demonstrates complete authority over the events unfolding around Him, moving forward in obedience to the Father and in love for humanity.
But Jesus is also a King of a different kind. Unlike earthly rulers who use power for their own gain, Jesus rules with humility, justice, and sacrificial love. Riding into the city on a donkey—an ancient symbol of royal authority—He shows that His kingdom is not built through oppression but through redemption. He came to bring peace, freedom, and restoration to those who place their trust in Him.
Palm Sunday also points forward to a future promise. The King who came humbly into Jerusalem will one day return in glory as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Though the world may sometimes appear chaotic or uncertain, Scripture reminds us that Jesus is still reigning and His ultimate victory is certain.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why every person ultimately serves something as the “king” of their life
✔ The danger of crowning temporary things like success, influence, or approval
✔ How the Triumphal Entry shows that Jesus is a King fully in control
✔ Why Jesus is a King of a different kind—ruling with humility and love
✔ What it means to receive Jesus not only as Savior, but also as King
✔ The hope we have knowing Christ will return as the conquering King
✔ Why the victory of Jesus is certain even when the world feels chaotic
Palm Sunday calls us to a personal question: Who is the king of your life? When we surrender our lives to the true King—Jesus Christ—we discover the freedom, purpose, and hope that only His kingdom can bring.
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In this week’s message from James 5:13–18, we explore Two Essentials for Every Believer and are reminded that following Jesus isn’t accidental—it requires intentional rhythms that help us stay faithful over time. Just like athletes must master the fundamentals to get good and stay good, believers are called to build spiritual habits that anchor their faith in every season of life.
James highlights two foundational practices: praise and prayer.
Praise is the joyful expression of God’s worth. It goes beyond singing—it’s a lifestyle of gratitude, adoration, and devotion. Whether we’re walking through hardship or experiencing joy, praise keeps our hearts aligned with who God is and what He has done. Instead of trying to repay God for His goodness, we respond by enjoying Him, honoring Him, and continually blessing His name.
Prayer, on the other hand, is the powerful instrument God uses to accomplish His will in the world. James emphasizes that prayer is not passive or symbolic—it is effective and impactful. Through examples like Elijah, we are reminded that God works through ordinary people who pray with persistence and faith. Even when answers don’t come immediately, prayer remains one of the primary ways God moves in our lives and in the lives of others.
This passage also challenges us to live in authentic community—confessing our sins, praying for one another, and trusting God for healing and restoration. In a world that often encourages independence, James calls believers into a deeper, more vulnerable faith that depends on both God and one another.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why praise is more than singing—it’s a lifestyle of honoring God
✔ How gratitude and worship keep our hearts aligned in every season
✔ What makes prayer powerful and effective according to Scripture
✔ Why persistence in prayer matters, even when answers are delayed
✔ How Elijah’s example encourages ordinary believers to pray boldly
✔ The role of confession and community in spiritual healing
✔ Why God works through both praise and prayer to accomplish His will
✔ How building these two habits helps us stay faithful over time
Life will bring both joy and hardship, but God has given us the essentials to navigate it all. When we keep praising and keep praying, we position ourselves to experience His power, His presence, and His faithfulness—no matter the season.
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In this week’s message from James 5:7–11, we explore Patience When Life Is Painful and are reminded that the patience God calls us to is far deeper than simply waiting through minor frustrations. James speaks to those walking through real hardship — broken relationships, financial pressure, persecution, health struggles, and the weariness of life’s burdens. In these moments, God invites us into a kind of patience that is not passive resignation but active endurance rooted in hope.
James points to the example of a farmer who waits for the harvest. The farmer cannot control the rain, but he faithfully continues to plow, plant, and protect the crop while trusting that the harvest will come. In the same way, believers are called to keep trusting God and living faithfully even when the outcome of our struggles is uncertain. Patience is not doing nothing — it is continuing to follow God while waiting on what only He can do.
Central to this endurance is the reminder that Jesus is coming again. The New Testament repeatedly points believers toward the return of Christ, giving us a perspective that transforms how we face present suffering. Our trials are temporary, but our hope is eternal. Every hardship we face has an “until” — a day when Christ returns and makes all things right.
James also warns about the temptation to turn against one another when life becomes difficult. Pain can easily lead to complaining, bitterness, and division, but followers of Christ are called to guard their hearts and refuse to add relational conflict to the weight of life’s struggles.
Finally, James reminds us to look back at the faithfulness of God. The prophets endured suffering with patience, and Job stands as a powerful example of perseverance through unimaginable hardship. Their stories remind us that God’s character never changes — the Lord is compassionate and merciful, even when the path is painful.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why biblical patience is active endurance, not passive waiting
✔ How the farmer’s patience illustrates faithful trust in uncertain seasons
✔ Why remembering Jesus’ return strengthens our ability to endure
✔ How our trials are temporary but our hope is eternal
✔ The danger of complaining and turning on others when life is difficult
✔ What the prophets and Job’s endurance teach us about suffering
✔ How looking back at God’s compassion helps us keep moving forward
✔ Why God often does His greatest work in the middle of hardship
Life’s pain can feel overwhelming, but Scripture reminds us that God is at work even in our struggles. Just as an oyster transforms a grain of sand into a pearl, God often uses the irritations and hardships of life to produce something beautiful in us. Through patient endurance and trust in Christ, we discover that our suffering is not wasted — it is part of the work God is doing to shape us for eternity.
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In this week’s message from James 4:13–5:6, we explore Making the Most of Your Life and are confronted with a sobering truth: our lives are like a mist — here for a moment and then gone. James challenges the common assumption that competence, success, and wealth mean we have life under control. Instead, he reminds us that the future is uncertain and every breath we take is a gift from God.
James addresses those who confidently plan their future as if tomorrow is guaranteed. Planning itself is not the problem; the danger lies in the posture of the heart. When we live as if we control our own destiny, we forget our dependence on God. True wisdom acknowledges God’s sovereignty and approaches life with humility, recognizing that every plan ultimately rests in His hands.
The passage also warns about the temptation to build our lives around temporary things. Wealth, possessions, accomplishments, and status may seem significant now, but James reminds us that the tide of eternity is always coming. One day everything temporary will fade, and what will truly matter is whether our lives were invested in what lasts forever — the Word of God and the souls of people.
This message invites us to step back and examine what we are living for. Many people spend their lives chasing success, security, or recognition, only to discover that these things cannot satisfy or endure. Scripture calls us instead to live with eternity in view, allowing the reality of life’s brevity to shape our priorities and decisions.
James also reminds us that life’s shortness should move us to action. Knowing the right thing to do and failing to do it is sin. Because life is fragile and fleeting, we cannot afford to delay obedience, reconciliation, generosity, or faithfulness to God. The time to follow Christ, serve others, and live faithfully is not someday — it is today.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why James describes our lives as a mist
✔ The difference between planning with pride and planning with humility
✔ How self-reliance can quietly replace dependence on God
✔ The danger of living for temporary wealth and achievements
✔ Why eternity must shape how we view success and purpose
✔ The difference between sins of commission and sins of omission
✔ Why delayed obedience is still disobedience
✔ How to live each day with humility, eternity, and immediacy in view
Though our lives are brief, the hope of the gospel is that Jesus is not a mist. Through His death and resurrection, He offers eternal life to all who trust in Him. Because of that hope, we can live each day with purpose — investing our lives in what truly matters and making the most of the time God has given us.
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In this week’s message from James 3:13–4:12, we explore How to Walk in Wisdom and discover that true wisdom is not displayed through power, status, or self-promotion, but through humility and peace. James contrasts earthly wisdom — fueled by envy and selfish ambition — with the wisdom that comes from above, which is pure, gentle, merciful, and peace-making.
Using the story of Benedict Arnold, we see how unchecked pride and wounded ambition rarely explode all at once; instead, they quietly grow over time. What begins as comparison or disappointment can slowly turn into resentment, division, and spiritual drift. James warns the church that the greatest threats to our relationships and our witness often start internally — in the motives of the heart.
In a culture shaped by comparison and competition, believers are called to live differently. Social media and daily life constantly tempt us to measure ourselves against others, focusing on what we don’t have instead of trusting God’s provision. James reminds us that envy and selfish ambition don’t just damage relationships — they challenge God’s wisdom and lead to disorder.
But God offers a better way. Wisdom from above produces peace, gentleness, mercy, and spiritual stability. Instead of chasing influence or power, followers of Jesus are called to become peacemakers who cultivate environments where righteousness can grow. True spiritual maturity is seen not in winning arguments or getting our way, but in building unity and reflecting the character of Christ.
This message also confronts our motives in prayer and desire. James asks hard questions about the source of conflict among believers, pointing us to the reality that many struggles begin with inward passions that seek self before God. Walking in wisdom means surrendering our ambitions, examining our motives, and aligning our hearts with God’s purposes rather than worldly success.
In this message, we explore:
✔ The difference between earthly wisdom and wisdom from above
✔ How envy and selfish ambition quietly damage relationships
✔ Why comparison fuels discontent and bitterness
✔ The connection between inner desires and outward conflict
✔ God’s call to pursue peace rather than power
✔ How peacemaking cultivates spiritual growth and righteousness
✔ The difference between sinful jealousy and God’s righteous, loving jealousy
✔ Living as a community that reflects God instead of the world
If you’ve ever struggled with comparison, conflict, or the tension between ambition and humility, this message invites you to examine the posture of your heart. God’s wisdom leads not to chaos, but to peace — and when we walk in His wisdom, our lives and communities begin to reflect His character.
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In this week’s message from James 3:1–12, we continue exploring The Power of Words and discover just how influential our speech really is. James reminds us that while words may seem small, they carry disproportionate power — like a bit guiding a horse or a spark setting a fire. Our words can inform, injure, or inspire, and the way we use them reveals the maturity of our hearts.
Because words are so powerful, Scripture calls us not just to avoid harmful speech, but to intentionally use our words to build others up. In a world filled with negativity, criticism, and discouragement, God invites His people to speak life — words that heal, encourage, and strengthen. The Bible describes gracious words as a fountain of life, a tree of healing, and honey to the soul.
This message challenges us to move beyond careless speech and become intentional encouragers — at home, in relationships, at work, and in the church. We look at the example of Barnabas, known as the “Son of Encouragement,” and see how encouragement is not a lesser gift but a deeply needed one that strengthens communities and reflects the heart of Jesus.
But the power of words doesn’t stop with what we say to others. Scripture also teaches us to speak truth to ourselves — reminding our hearts who God is, who we are in Christ, and how to trust Him even when life feels uncertain. When emotions try to dictate our direction, God’s truth steadies our souls.
In this message, we explore:
✔ Why words carry disproportionate power
✔ How speech can inform, injure, or inspire
✔ The biblical call to use words to build others up
✔ Why encouragement is one of the most needed gifts in the church
✔ How to create a foundation of positivity in relationships and parenting
✔ Speaking truth to yourself about God, your identity, and your circumstances
✔ How God’s truth reshapes both our words and our hearts
If you’ve ever been hurt by words — or struggled with how to use your own wisely — this message invites you to see your speech as a tool God can use to bring life. When we surrender our words to Him, they become instruments of grace, encouragement, and hope.
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In this week’s message from James 2:14–26, we wrestle with a question that cuts straight to the heart of the Christian life: What does real faith actually look like? James challenges us to examine whether our faith is alive and active—or merely something we claim with words.
Scripture makes it clear that genuine faith doesn’t stay hidden. While we are saved by grace, a living faith always produces fruit. Saying we believe isn’t the same as being transformed. Just as sickness shows itself through symptoms, faith reveals itself through action—through love, compassion, perseverance, and obedience.
James reminds us that belief alone isn’t enough. Even demons believe the truth about God. What sets real faith apart is a life changed by Jesus—a faith that works itself out in how we care for others and trust God over time.
In this message, we explore:
✔ The difference between simple belief and saving faith
✔ Why faith without action is spiritually dead
✔ How works reveal—not replace—our salvation
✔ What it means to see the needs of others as our own
✔ Why compassion is evidence of a living faith
✔ How perseverance grows as we trust God’s faithfulness
✔ How Abraham’s faith points us to the work of Jesus
If you’ve ever wondered whether your faith is real, growing, or bearing fruit, this message invites you to reflect honestly and respond faithfully. The root of true faith will always produce fruit—and that fruit is meant to be seen.
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In this week’s message from James 2:14–26, we wrestle with a question that cuts straight to the heart of the Christian life: What does real faith actually look like? James challenges us to examine whether our faith is alive and active—or merely something we claim with words.
Scripture makes it clear that genuine faith doesn’t stay hidden. While we are saved by grace, a living faith always produces fruit. Saying we believe isn’t the same as being transformed. Just as sickness shows itself through symptoms, faith reveals itself through action—through love, compassion, perseverance, and obedience.
James reminds us that belief alone isn’t enough. Even demons believe the truth about God. What sets real faith apart is a life changed by Jesus—a faith that works itself out in how we care for others and trust God over time.
In this message, we’ll explore:
✔ The difference between simple belief and saving faith
✔ Why faith without action is spiritually dead
✔ How works reveal—not replace—our salvation
✔ What it means to see the needs of others as our own
✔ Why compassion is evidence of a living faith
✔ How perseverance grows as we trust God’s faithfulness
✔ How Abraham’s faith points us to the work of Jesus
If you’ve ever wondered whether your faith is real, growing, or bearing fruit, this message invites you to reflect honestly and respond faithfully. The root of true faith will always produce fruit—and that fruit is meant to be seen.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
https://bellshoals.com/guide/
In this week’s message from James 2:1–13, we confront a challenge that hits close to home: how we treat people based on first impressions. James makes it clear—faith in Jesus and favoritism don’t mix. Loving others the way God loves us means elevating spiritual values over social status.
We’ll talk about how easy it is to make relationship-defining decisions based on appearance, influence, or what someone can offer us. But Scripture reminds us that God doesn’t see the way we see. While we’re often drawn to outward success, God looks straight at the heart.
James calls the church to be a community marked by justice and mercy, where true worth is never measured by net worth, and where God’s acceptance matters more than human approval. Genuine faith shows up in how we love, serve, and care for those in need—especially the ones who can’t repay us.
In this message, we’ll explore:
✔ Why favoritism is more than a bad habit—it’s a spiritual issue
✔ How faith becomes visible through the way we treat others
✔ The difference between social status and spiritual value
✔ Why mercy is essential to living out the gospel
✔ What it really means to “love your neighbor as yourself”
✔ How the church is meant to reflect unity, justice, and grace
If you’ve ever caught yourself making assumptions, playing favorites, or chasing approval, this message invites you to see people—and yourself—through the lens of God’s mercy. We are somebody, not because of what we bring to the table, but because of who we’re with.
💬 Let’s Connect:
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Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
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Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
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In this week’s message from James 1:19–27, we shift from enduring trials to growing through them. James reminds us that adversity is no excuse for immaturity—and that real spiritual growth happens when we allow God’s Word to do its work in us.
We’ll talk about our natural knee-jerk reactions when we feel provoked or hurt, and how maturity looks different: being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. James teaches that unchecked anger doesn’t produce the righteousness God desires, and that humility is the posture that helps us receive the Word God has planted in our hearts.
But James doesn’t stop at hearing—he calls us to action. We’ll explore what it means to move from being a listener to becoming a doer, because transformation doesn’t come from information alone. Like looking into a mirror, God’s Word reveals what needs to change—and blessing comes when we respond with obedience.
In this message, we’ll explore:
✔ Why listening more and speaking less is a mark of maturity
✔ How anger can hinder spiritual growth
✔ What it means to humbly receive the “implanted Word”
✔ The difference between hearing the Word and living it
✔ Why obedience is how we “work out” what God is working in
✔ How building your life on God’s Word creates stability in every storm
If you’ve felt stuck, reactive, or spiritually stalled, this message will encourage you that growth is possible—because God’s Word has the power to change you from the inside out.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
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In Part 2 of our message from James 1:1–18, we continue exploring what it means to endure when life gets hard. James reminds us that God uses the trials we face to develop the endurance we need—because following Jesus is a marathon, not a sprint.
This sermon focuses on how endurance grows when our hearts are anchored in the right place: not in the absence of suffering, but in the outcome God is producing through it. We’ll look at the difference between trials and temptation, why God is never the author of evil, and how humility helps us respond to hardship with faith instead of blame.
Through the examples of Job, Paul, and Joseph, we’re reminded that we can’t see our circumstances rightly until we see God rightly—and that even what was meant for evil, God can use for good.
In this message, we’ll explore:
✔ Why endurance requires preparation, not just perseverance
✔ How to hold onto certainty in God’s provision
✔ Why temporary trials demand an eternal perspective
✔ How humility protects us from blaming God in suffering
✔ Why God’s unchanging goodness is our anchor in hard seasons
✔ How God works in the gap between today’s problem and tomorrow’s promise
If you’re walking through pain, confusion, loss, or waiting, this message will encourage you to keep going—because God is forming something in you that hardship can’t destroy.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
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YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
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Hard times are unavoidable—but they are never meaningless.
In this message from James 1:1–18, we begin a new teaching series through the book of James by addressing a question every believer eventually faces: How do we endure when life gets hard? Drawing from both Scripture and real-life stories, this sermon reminds us that God uses trials to produce endurance—and endurance to form maturity in us.
James writes to believers who were scattered and suffering under persecution, yet he opens with a surprising command: “Consider it a great joy” when trials come. Not because pain is good—but because God is at work through it. Endurance, or grit, is essential not only for life but for spiritual growth. Following Jesus is a marathon, not a sprint.
In this message, we explore how God develops endurance in us and why perspective and faith are critical when hardship comes. We also see how wisdom from God, eternal hope, and trust in His provision anchor us when circumstances feel overwhelming.
✔ Why trials are inevitable—and purposeful
✔ How endurance shapes spiritual maturity
✔ Where to find wisdom when life feels confusing
✔ Why faith and perspective matter in suffering
✔ How eternal hope sustains us through pain
Whether you’re walking through grief, uncertainty, loss, or opposition, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical hope rooted in God’s promises.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
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📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!
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We’re all familiar with the thrill of the hunt—searching for something valuable, meaningful, or life-changing. Whether it’s a hidden treasure, a priceless discovery, or a long-sought answer, the pursuit reveals what we value most. In this message from Matthew 13:44–46, Jesus tells two short parables that reveal the greatest treasure of all—the Kingdom of Heaven—and why nothing compares to it.
In the parable of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value, we see two different paths to discovery. One man stumbles upon the treasure unexpectedly, while another spends his life searching for it. Though their journeys differ, their response is the same: overwhelming joy and a willingness to give up everything else to gain what they’ve found.
This sermon reminds us that the treasure Jesus offers isn’t merely eternal life someday—it’s His reign, rule, and saving work in our lives right now. When we truly see the value of Christ, it changes how we live, what we pursue, and what we’re willing to release. The issue isn’t what we give up—it’s the greatness of what we gain.
As we begin a new year, this message challenges us to take an honest inventory of our hearts. What do our schedules reveal about our priorities? What do our finances say about what we treasure? And most importantly—have we truly seen the incomparable worth of Jesus Christ?
✔ How people discover Jesus in different ways
✔ Why Christ is worth more than anything else
✔ What a transformed response to the gospel looks like
✔ How joy naturally flows from treasuring Christ
✔ Why 2026 is an opportunity to realign our priorities
Whether you’re seeking, stumbling, or standing at a crossroads, this message invites you to see Jesus for who He truly is—the greatest treasure imaginable.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
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YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
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Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
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📍 Locations:
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In every season of life—especially around Christmas—memories shape us. For some, this season is filled with joy, tradition, and celebration. For others, it carries loss, disappointment, tension, or uncertainty. In moments like these, what we remember—and what we forget—matters more than we realize.
In this message from Joshua 4, we step into a defining moment in Israel’s story as God leads His people across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. After generations of waiting, wandering, failure, and God’s relentless faithfulness, Israel finally arrives. But before moving forward, God commands them to stop and build a memorial—tangible reminders of His power, provision, and presence.
This message shows us why remembering God’s work isn’t optional—it’s essential. What we don’t intentionally remember, we eventually forget. And when we forget, fear, doubt, and discouragement quickly take over. But when we mark what God has done in the past, it becomes our confidence for whatever lies ahead.
From the stones set up at the Jordan, to the cross and the empty tomb, Scripture is filled with reminders that God is faithful, even when His people are not. These memorials become anchor points—breadcrumbs that lead us back when we feel lost, afraid, or unsure of the next step.
This sermon also celebrates how God is still at work today—changing lives, building faith in the next generation, and using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things for His kingdom.
✔ Why intentional remembrance strengthens faith
✔ How God’s work in us is meant to speak to others
✔ Why memorials become confidence for the future
✔ How God’s faithfulness carries us through every season
✔ Why the cross and empty tomb are the ultimate memorial stones
If you find yourself looking back with gratitude—or forward with uncertainty—this message will remind you that God’s past faithfulness is proof you can trust Him with what’s next.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
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📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!
https://bellshoals.com/locations/
Light in the Darkness | Christmas Eve Service
In this Christmas Eve message, Light in the Darkness, we reflect on the timeless contrast between light and darkness—seen from the very beginning of creation to the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals that even the smallest light pierces the deepest darkness.
The Bible uses this image to describe: Nations walking through dark seasons, Personal struggles and, weary hearts. And most importantly, our spiritual reality apart from God.
The core problem of the world isn’t just hardship—it’s the rejection of God and His ways, which leads to brokenness. But because of His great love, God sent His Son to shine light into our spiritual darkness and make a way for salvation.
Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world.” His light cannot be overcome, and when we turn to Him, we move from darkness to light, from death to life, and from despair to lasting hope.
This Christmas Eve message invites you to reflect, respond, and rejoice in the truth that:
The darkness has not won
The Light has come
And our future is brighter because of Jesus If you’re walking through a difficult season or searching for hope this Christmas, this message is for you.
🎄 Key Themes:
✔ Light overcoming darkness
✔ Jesus as the Light of the World
✔ Salvation found by turning to the light
✔ Hope for today and eternity
✔ A future illuminated by God’s glory
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, next steps, missions, and events at:https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations: Multiple campuses across West-Central Florida
Find a location near you → https://bellshoals.com/locations/
In a world marked by uncertainty, fear, and hardship, hope can feel fragile—or even unrealistic. But in this Advent message, Pastor Corey walks through 1 Peter 1 and Isaiah 7 to show that the hope God offers is not wishful thinking or blind optimism—it’s stubborn, resilient, and secure.
From Winston Churchill’s refusal to surrender during World War II to King Ahaz trembling before overwhelming enemies, Scripture reminds us that true hope is not rooted in circumstances, but in confidence. When Judah faced invasion and fear gripped the nation, God gave a sign that pointed far beyond the moment—a promise of Immanuel, God with us.
This message reveals how the birth of Jesus is a hope that holds—not just for Israel then, but for believers now. While hope killers like past pain, uncertainty about the future, health struggles, broken relationships, or financial pressure can leave hearts weary, God offers a living hope grounded in His faithfulness and proven track record throughout history.
Biblical hope isn’t passive—it’s a confident expectation anchored in who God is and what He has already done. Because of the resurrection of Jesus, our hope is alive, secure, and eternal.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or worn down by life, this message will remind you where lasting hope is found—and why it never fails.
✔ Why Christian hope is confident, not circumstantial
✔ How God’s faithfulness in the past fuels hope for the future
✔ Why Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises
✔ How to hold onto hope in seasons of hardship
✔ Why setting your hope on Christ leads to sustained endurance
Share this message with someone who needs to be reminded that no matter how dark things feel, our hope is alive—and it holds.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!
https://bellshoals.com/locations/
In a world filled with noise, interruptions, and uncertainty, peace can feel out of reach. But in this Advent message, Pastor Corey walks through John 14:27, Philippians 4:6–9, and Isaiah 26 to show that the peace Jesus offers is not circumstantial or fragile—it’s supernatural, steady, and unshakable.
From anxious disciples caught in a storm to God’s people facing the threat of Assyria, Scripture reveals that peace isn’t the absence of conflict—it’s the presence of trust. While worry rises when outcomes are uncertain, Jesus gives a peace that persists even when the future feels unclear.
Through powerful biblical truth and moving stories like Horatio Spafford’s hymn “It Is Well with My Soul,” this message reminds us that peace isn’t found in a place or a plan—it’s found in a Person. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, steadies us in the present and secures us for the future.
If your mind feels consumed by worry, anxiety, or chaos, this message will help you see how God’s peace can guard your heart and mind—even when circumstances don’t change.
✔ Why peace is the antidote to chaos
✔ Why the opposite of peace isn’t war—but worry
✔ How Jesus gives peace when outcomes are uncertain
✔ Why peace increases as we know the Peace-Giver
✔ How supernatural peace can exist even in deep sorrow
Share this message with someone who needs to be reminded that no matter what they’re facing, God’s peace is still available—and it is well with their soul.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at
https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!
https://bellshoals.com/locations/
When life feels heavy or uncertain, joy can seem distant. But in this week’s Advent message, Pastor Corey shows from John 16:16–22 and Matthew 2:11 that Jesus offers a joy that isn’t fragile, temporary, or tied to circumstances. It’s a durable delight—rooted in God, generated by the Spirit, and strong enough to rise even in seasons of sorrow.
From the wise men who were overwhelmed with joy at the sight of Jesus, to the disciples who learned that their grief would one day give way to rejoicing, Scripture reveals a God who transforms setbacks into victory. Just like Lasse Viren’s legendary Olympic comeback, what looks like disaster in our lives often becomes the very place where God displays His glory.
If you’re facing discouragement, disappointment, or a season of waiting, this message helps you see how Christian joy doesn’t ignore pain—it outlasts it.
✔ Why joy is inevitable for those who walk with Jesus
✔ How joy becomes unconditional, even when suffering remains
✔ Why Christian joy can co-exist with sorrow
✔ How God uses trials to produce deeper joy in us
✔ Why our future with Christ makes joy eternal and secure
Share this with someone who needs to be reminded that sorrow doesn’t have the final word—joy does.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → /bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → /@bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/
Begin this Advent season by reflecting on the steadfast and transformative love of God. In this message, Pastor Corey walks through 1 John 4:7–10 and explains how God’s love is not simply something we acknowledge, but something we can rely on through every circumstance of life.
Through the arrival of Jesus, God reveals a love that is intentional, sacrificial, and secure. This message helps us see why God’s love is the foundation for confidence, peace, and trust—especially when life feels uncertain or difficult.
If you’ve wrestled with fear, doubt, anxiety, or questions about God’s care, this message offers clarity and encouragement.
✔ Why God is the true source of love
✔ How Jesus’ atoning work demonstrates God’s commitment to us
✔ Why God’s love is based on His character—not our performance
✔ How understanding God’s love helps reduce fear and worry
✔ Why we can trust God’s goodness even when circumstances are challenging
Share this with someone who could use a thoughtful reminder of God’s steady and reliable love.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/bellshoals/
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/BellShoals/
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@BellShoalsChurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/
Discover the powerful and emotional final chapter of King David’s life—his failures, his family’s unraveling, and the hope God still extends in the middle of brokenness. In this message, Pastor Corey Abney walks through the story of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom, and shows how unaddressed sin, wounded relationships, and passive leadership can devastate a family. But more importantly, you’ll learn why God’s design is best, and how His grace can redeem any story—no matter how far it’s gone.
If you’ve ever wrestled with family conflict, past mistakes, bitterness, identity, or the consequences of sin, this message will speak directly to your heart.
✔ Why David’s passivity led to generational pain
✔ How unaddressed sin becomes unleashed sin
✔ Why God’s design for marriage, purity, identity, and family leads to blessing
✔ How to return to God’s will—no matter your past
✔ What the life of David teaches us about leadership, repentance, and hope
Don’t watch this alone—share it with someone who needs encouragement today.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/bellshoals/
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/BellShoals/
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@BellShoalsChurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and change the world!
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations: Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/
Have you ever faced a challenge that felt impossible — a situation so overwhelming that fear seemed louder than your faith? In this message, Pastor Steven Staton walks us through 1 Samuel 17 and reminds us that the story of David and Goliath is not ultimately about our strength, our courage, or “facing our giants.” It’s about God’s glory, God’s power, and God’s Champion.
While Israel trembled before Goliath, God raised up an unlikely deliverer in David — a shepherd boy armed not with skill or size, but with confidence in the Lord. Yet this moment points to something far greater: Jesus, the true and better David, who stepped onto the battlefield of sin and death and won the victory we never could.
This message will challenge and encourage you to shift your focus from the size of your battles to the greatness of your God. You’ll discover why we don’t fight for victory but from victory — because our Champion has already won.
Key Scriptures:
1 Samuel 17
Colossians 2:13–15
1 John 4:4
Watch, reflect, and share:
• Desire God’s glory above everything else.
• Trust God’s power over every challenge.
• Look to Jesus — the ultimate Champion who never leaves you.
💬 Let’s Connect:
Website → https://bellshoals.com
Instagram → @bellshoals
Facebook → /bellshoals
YouTube → @bellshoalschurch
🕊️ Get Involved:
We want you to know God, find community, and change the world!
Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events → https://bellshoals.com/guide/
📍 Locations:
Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!
https://bellshoals.com/locations/
Have you ever felt like God was silent, or that your waiting season had no purpose? In this message, Pastor Steven Staton reminds us that God’s silence never means His absence. Through the story of David’s anointing in 1 Samuel 16, we discover that God is always working — even in the waiting.
Before David ever held a crown, he learned faithfulness in the pasture. While others overlooked him, God was shaping his heart to lead His people. In the same way, God uses our seasons of obscurity, monotony, and preparation to form in us the character needed for what’s next.
This message will challenge and encourage you to stay faithful where you are, to trust God’s timing, and to worship while you wait. The pasture may feel hidden, but it’s where God does His best work.
Key Scriptures:
- 1 Samuel 16:1–13
- Psalm 13
- Romans 5:3–4
Main Takeaway:
Don’t mistake God’s silence for His absence — He is working in your waiting.
Watch, reflect, and share:
- God chooses the unlikely to accomplish His purposes.
- Character is greater than charisma.
- Faithfulness in small things prepares you for greater things.
Learn more about the Real Hope Christmas Party outreach at bellshoals.com/realhopechristmas.
Title: The Greatest Ability is Availability | Matthew 9:35–38
Have you ever wondered what’s really holding us back from reaching the world for Christ? In this message, Pastor Corey reminds us that the greatest hindrance isn’t a lack of opportunity—it’s a lack of availability.
From Jesus’ compassion for the crowds in Matthew 9 to His call for more workers in the harvest, this passage challenges us to trust that God’s plan for our lives is not just good—it’s the best. God continues to call ordinary people to do extraordinary things when they simply make themselves available.
Through powerful stories and practical application, this message will encourage you to pray, to go, and to support the mission of God both locally and globally. The harvest is plentiful. The question is—are we available?
Key Scriptures:
Matthew 9:35–38
Romans 10:13–15
Main Takeaway:
The greatest hindrance to reaching the world is not a lack of opportunity, but a lack of availability.
Watch, reflect, and share:
God’s plan for your life is always best.
The greatest ability is availability.
Pray for God to raise up workers for His harvest.
In this message, Pastor Corey unpacks The Power of the Gospel through Paul’s ministry in Ephesus. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is more than words — it’s a movement that transforms lives, disrupts darkness, and reveals truth in a world full of counterfeits.
From miraculous healings to the unforgettable story of the seven sons of Sceva, Acts 19 shows that when the true Gospel moves, it exposes deception and brings lasting transformation.
Key Points:
The Gospel is Disruptive — It shakes the enemy’s strongholds and turns the world upside down (Acts 19:8–12; Acts 17:5–6).
The Enemy is Deceptive — He counterfeits what is genuine, but truth always exposes the lie (Acts 19:13–16; 2 Tim. 3:13–14).
The Truth is Transforming — Confession, repentance, and renewal always follow the true move of God (Acts 19:17–20).
When people truly encounter Jesus, lives are changed, idols are burned, and His Word prevails.
Scripture: Acts 19:8–20
God delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. In this message, we look at the story of Peter and John in Acts 3–4, where two fishermen become bold witnesses for Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
You’ll discover:
-How God used a simple act of compassion to open the door for the gospel
-Why true power comes from the name of Jesus, not human ability
-How Peter and John displayed courage in the face of opposition
-What it means to live as an ordinary person filled with extraordinary purpose
-How God turns spectators into servants and audiences into armies
Through the healing of a crippled man and the bold testimony that followed, we’re reminded that God still works through those who make themselves available. Our skills, experiences, and everyday moments can become tools in His hands to reach the world for Christ.
Key Scripture: Acts 3–4
Theme: God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways
Takeaway: God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called.
Listening is one of the most important skills in life—and in faith. In this message, we explore Jesus’ Parable of the Soils from Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23 and discover how the condition of our hearts determines how we receive and respond to God’s Word.
You’ll discover:
-Why some hearts resist truth while others receive it
-How emotional or shallow faith can fade under pressure
-What it means to have a crowded heart filled with distractions
-How true faith takes root and produces lasting fruit
-Why listening and obeying are both essential for spiritual growth
Through biblical teaching and practical insight, we’ll see that the root of faith always produces the fruit of faith. God calls us not only to hear His Word but to live it out—bearing fruit that reflects His work in us and sharing His truth with others.
Key Scripture: Matthew 13:1–9; 18–23
Theme: The root of faith always produces the fruit of faith
Takeaway: True hearing leads to doing—and doing leads to growth.
Subscribe for more messages of truth and encouragement.
Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys—and biggest challenges. Whether you’re raising young kids, guiding teens, or encouraging grandchildren, the Bible offers timeless wisdom for every season of family life.
In this message, we look at Paul’s teaching in Colossians 3:20–21 about how godly families reflect the Fatherhood of God.
You’ll discover:
- Why obedience and honor matter in a child’s spiritual growth
- How fathers and parents can encourage rather than exasperate
- The power of words that build up instead of tear down
- Why laughter, fun, and relationship are essential to family health
- How parenting moves from rules to reason to relationship
- How godly parenting is reassuring, relational, and redemptive
Through biblical teaching, practical insight, and real-life stories, we’ll see how God calls us to create homes filled with love, encouragement, and grace—where children know they are deeply believed in and deeply loved.
Key Scripture: Colossians 3:20–21
Theme: Godly parenting reflects the Fatherhood of God
Takeaway: Build up your family with faith, fun, and forgiveness.
Subscribe for more messages of truth and encouragement
Controlling Your Talk and Your Walk | Colossians 4:2–6
Speech matters. The words we use—how we talk to God and how we talk to people—shape the way others see Christ in us. In this message from Colossians 4:2–6, Paul gives final instructions to the church, reminding us that both our prayers and our conversations carry eternal weight.
Together we’ll see:
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Why prayer is the starting point of all our speech
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What it means to pray with devotion, watchfulness, and thanksgiving
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How Paul’s example teaches us to pray for opportunities to share the gospel
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Why our walk (daily conduct) gives credibility to our words
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How gracious, truthful, and “seasoned with salt” speech reflects Christ to the world
Whether you’re a longtime believer or just exploring faith, this passage challenges us to honor Christ not only with what we say but also with how we live. Our lives and our lips together proclaim the good news of Jesus.
Key Scriptures:
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Colossians 4:2–6
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Romans 1:16
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Matthew 5:16
A New Marriage | Colossians 3:17–19
Marriage is one of the greatest blessings—and greatest challenges—of life. In this message, we walk through Paul’s words in Colossians 3:17–19 and see how the gospel transforms the way husbands and wives relate to one another.
From Adam and Eve’s mistakes in the garden to the radical course corrections offered in the New Testament, we’ll explore:
- Why marriage can be so difficult at times
- How sin brings dysfunction into our roles as husbands and wives
- What it truly means for wives to submit and husbands to lead with love
- How Jesus restores dignity, respect, and equality within marriage
Whether you’re married, preparing for marriage, or simply curious about what God says about it, this passage reminds us that marriage is more than a human contract—it’s a picture of God’s love and leadership.
Key Scriptures:
- Colossians 3:17–19
- Genesis 3:8–16
- 1 Peter 3:7, 1 Peter 4:8
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more biblical teaching that applies to everyday life.
Marriage #Colossians #Sermon #ChristianLiving #BibleTeaching
Passage: John 11:1–27
Where is God when life feels like a pressure cooker? When the world is filled with chaos, anger, confusion, and pain—it’s natural to ask, “Lord, where are You?” In John 11, we find that even those closest to Jesus wrestled with His timing. Mary and Martha called for Jesus, but He delayed. Lazarus died. Yet in the waiting, God was working.
This story shows us that God’s delays are not denials. His love isn’t always measured by immediate action, but by the deeper deliverance He is bringing for His glory and our good. Jesus reveals Himself not just as a miracle worker, but as the Resurrection and the Life—the One who offers unshakable hope in the face of death itself.
In this message we’ll see:
-Why God’s delay precedes His deliverance.
-How His love can’t be judged by present circumstances.
-Why saving faith endures when Jesus seems “late.”
-How to trust God in the mystery of unanswered prayers.
-The hope of resurrection life—both now and forever.
Ultimately, our role is obedience; the outcome belongs to Him. And just as Lazarus was raised, everything Jesus did for him, He will one day do for all who believe.
Out with the Old in with the New
Passage: Colossians 3:1–17
Better living starts with better thinking. In Colossians 3, Paul calls us to lift our minds above the noise—off of earthly distractions and onto Christ who is our life. Real change doesn’t come from willpower or man-made rules, but from being united to Jesus, putting the old self to death, and putting on a new way of life.
The gospel gives us a new identity—hidden with Christ now and revealed with Him in glory. From that identity flows a new mindset and a new wardrobe: compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love. As the word of Christ dwells richly in us, His peace rules our hearts—even when circumstances don’t.
In this message we’ll see:
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Why transformation begins in the mind: “set your minds on things above.”
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What it means to put to death the old self and not keep sin as a “pet.”
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How the new self is being renewed—growth as a Spirit-powered process.
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Why the church has no second-class citizens: Christ is “all and in all.”
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How to put on Christlike virtues and let His peace umpire our hearts.
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Why true holiness is a supernaturally changed heart, not mere moral restraint.
Ultimately, the call is to do everything in the name of Jesus—killing sin, putting on Christ, and letting His word and peace shape our homes, our church, and our everyday lives.
How Secondary Things Keep Us from the Primary Thing
Colossians 2:16–23
So often we mistake the picture for the Person and the shadow for the Substance. In Colossians 2, Paul warns the church not to let religious rules, rituals, or man-made standards take the place of Christ Himself.
Legalism makes rules we can keep so we can feel better about ourselves, but Paul reminds us that these things are “of no value” in producing true godliness. Instead, Christ is the center—the substance—and He calls us to liberty, unity, and peace.
In this message we’ll see:
-Why shadows like festivals, diets, and disciplines can never replace Jesus.
-How legalism kills faith and growth.
-Why Christian liberty is about prioritizing peace over personal preference.
-How to live with humility and maturity in areas the Bible leaves in the “grey.”
Ultimately, the call is to glorify God in everything—living not for ourselves but for Christ and the good of others.
Standing Firm | Colossians 2:6-15
In a world filled with false teachings, empty philosophies, and cultural confusion, how can believers stay rooted in the truth? The Apostle Paul challenges the church at Colossae—and us today—to stand firm in Christ.
In this message, we’ll explore:
- Why strange and deceptive ideas have always existed (from ancient heresies to modern cults)
- How Paul reminds us to be rooted and built up in Christ (Colossians 2:6-7)
- The fullness of God revealed in Jesus, our only hope (Colossians 2:9-10)
- How Christ cancels our debt and triumphs over sin and death (Colossians 2:13-15)
- The dangers of being led astray by human traditions, false ideologies, or personal preferences
Bottom Line: You can’t grow up in your faith unless you first stand firm in Christ.
Key Scripture: Colossians 2:6-15
Pastor Steven Staton from Bell Shoals Church dives into the profound truth of Colossians 1:27: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." Pastor Stephen explains that salvation is not the finish line, but the starting gate for a life that is empowered, transformed, purposeful, and secure through the indwelling presence of Jesus Christ.
Key Scripture
Colossians 1:24-2:5
Topics Covered
The Power of "Christ in You"
Purposeful Living
Transformation from the Inside Out
BellShoalsChurch #ChristianLife #Colossians #ChristInYou #HopeOfGlory #TheGospel #Christianity #BibleStudy
This week lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney emphasizes the preeminence and supremacy of Jesus Christ, based on Colossians 1:15-20. The core message is that Jesus is not merely one important figure among many, but the Creator, Sustainer, and Head of the Church, deserving of exclusive worship and the first place in every aspect of a believer's life. A participation-trophy approach to Christianity is inadequate; Jesus must be preeminent.
Key Scripture
Colossians 1:15-20
Topics Covered
The Preeminence of Jesus
Jesus as the Image of God
Jesus as the Firstborn over all Creation
Jesus as the Head of the Church
The Church's Mission
bellshoalschurch #churchservice #jesusfirst
This sermon by Dr. Stephen Rummage, based on Colossians 1, provides five life-changing prayers that believers can pray for anyone, even when specific needs are unknown. These prayers focus on essential aspects of Christian growth and living, enabling individuals to live lives that honor God and bear spiritual fruit through His divine power.
Key Scripture
Colossians 1:9-14
Topics Covered:
The Power of Prayer
God's Desire to Reveal His Will
The Impact of Spiritual Fruit
God's Supernatural Power
This sermon, based on John 6, emphasizes that during trials, believers must choose to draw closer to God, viewing Him as the ultimate solution and not part of the problem. Trusting Jesus in these moments demonstrates the genuineness and durability of our faith, ultimately transforming us to be more like Him.
Key Scripture:
John 6:16-21
Topics Covered:
The Inevitability of Life's Storms
The Disciples' Experience with the Storm
Jesus as the Source of Calm
Purpose of Trials
When You Feel Overwhelmed
John 6:1–15
Are you facing challenges that seem beyond your ability to handle? In this sermon, Our guest speaker, Dr. Tim Beougher, walks through the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and looks at what it reveals about God's character and care for us in times of need.
- The Problem: Human need can exceed human supply (verses 1–7)
- The Provision: Jesus multiplies what is given to Him (verses 8–12)
- The Paradox: When we give to the Lord, we receive far more in return (verse 13)
- The Purpose: To reveal who Jesus really is (verses 14–15)
This message is for anyone feeling stretched thin, running on empty, or unsure where to turn. Be encouraged by how Jesus meets every need, exceeds expectations, and reveals His divine purpose.
John6 #BibleTeaching #ChristianFaith #TrustGod #SermonSeries
Join Pastor Scott Odom from Bell Shoals Church as he unlocks the secrets to a strong and vital spiritual life in this powerful sermon. Drawing wisdom from 2 Timothy 2:1-7, Pastor Odom reveals how our strength comes from God's grace, not our own efforts.
Learn to embody the dedication of a soldier, the discipline of an athlete, and the diligence of a farmer in your faith journey. This message is packed with practical insights on how to please God, stay focused on your divine mission, and cultivate a life of deep devotion. If you're seeking spiritual growth, perseverance in faith, and a purpose-driven life, this sermon is for you!
SpiritualGrowth #ChristianLife #Sermon #BellShoalsChurch #FaithJourney #BibleStudy #2Timothy #ChristianLiving #Discipline #Devotion #GodsGrace
Pastor Luis Ruiz emphasizes that God designed humans for community, and genuine biblical community is essential for spiritual growth and navigating life's challenges. Drawing from the early church in Acts 2, he highlights that true community is characterized by devotion to God's Word, fellowship, shared meals, and prayer, leading to mutual support and evangelism.
Key Scripture
- Acts 2:37-47
Topics Covered
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The Necessity of Biblical Community
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The Early Church as a Model for Community
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Challenges to Community
Great achievements in life, whether in ministry, family, or personal growth, are not sudden but are the culmination of numerous small, often mundane, and consistent faithful decisions and habits over time. We should not "despise the day of small things" because God works through these seemingly insignificant efforts to bring about significant and lasting results, even in seasons of change and disappointment.
Key Scripture
Zechariah 4:1-10
Topics Covered
The Power of Small Beginnings
Historical Context of the Second Temple
The Importance of Healthy Habits
Pastor Abney uses the Japanese art of kintsugi, which repairs broken pottery with gold to make it more beautiful, as a metaphor for God's work in our lives. He explains that God takes our brokenness, from both our own sin and the actions of others, and uses it to create something more beautiful and purposeful than before.
Key Scripture
Genesis 50:14-21
Topics Covered
The Art of Kintsugi: A metaphor for finding beauty in brokenness.
The Dysfunction and Consequences of Sin
God's Sovereignty and Purpose in Suffering
Pastor Corey Abney focuses on Joseph's journey from profound hurt to deep healing, highlighting how God uses the difficult circumstances and brokenness around us to bring about internal healing and mature us.
Key Scripture
- Genesis 42-45
Topics Covered
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Family Dysfunction & Favoritism
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Consequences of Betrayal & Guilt
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God's Sovereignty & Providence
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Forgiveness & Reconciliation
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Spiritual Growth through Adversity
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God Uses Brokenness for Healing
Scripture: Genesis 39
In this message, we explore the life of Joseph and how God remained present even in the darkest seasons of his life. Though sold into slavery and falsely imprisoned, Joseph’s story reminds us that God's silence is not His absence.
Key Points:
Family dysfunction doesn’t disqualify God’s purpose – Joseph’s trials began with generational brokenness, yet God still had a plan.
God's presence changes everything – Genesis 39:2-6 shows that the Lord was with Joseph and caused all he did to succeed, even in slavery.
Favor follows faithfulness – Joseph excelled because of his integrity and diligence, not because of ideal circumstances.
Temptation is relentless, but God provides a way out – Joseph resisted the advances of Potiphar’s wife, modeling obedience even when it cost him.
Sin undersells its consequences – Disobedience in the palace could have cost Joseph everything. Instead, he chose the hard path of righteousness.
Victory begins with vigilance – Proverbs 14:16 and 22:3 remind us that wisdom avoids evil and takes refuge in God's truth.
God is working even in waiting – Psalm 27:14, Psalm 130:5-6, and James 5:7-8 encourage us to trust God's timing.
There are no coincidences in God’s plan – What may look like setbacks were divinely orchestrated setups for Joseph’s future role in saving a nation (Psalm 105:16-17).
Main Truth: God is present in your prison, and His plan is unfolding—even when it feels like you're going backward.
The Story of Joseph – The Importance of the Pit | Genesis 37:3–28 | Sermon
When the pit feels like the end, it might just be God's beginning. In this message, we explore the powerful story of Joseph and how his journey through betrayal, dysfunction, and silence reveals the hidden work of God.
Much like Mount St. Helens appeared stable before its eruption, Joseph’s family looked blessed on the outside—but beneath the surface was resentment, favoritism, and hatred. This sermon shows how:
- Sin leads to dysfunction (Genesis 37:3–11)
- Dysfunction doesn’t cancel God’s purpose (Genesis 37:12–27)
- God works through the pit, not around it (Genesis 37:28, 37:36)
Even when God seems silent, He is never absent. The suffering Joseph experienced was not wasted—it was the very path to salvation for many.
Scriptures Covered:
- Genesis 37:3–28 — Joseph’s dreams, rejection, and betrayal
- Genesis 27:41 — The pattern of family dysfunction
- Psalm 105:16–17 — God’s purpose behind famine and suffering
- Romans 5:1–5 — How affliction produces endurance, character, and hope
- James 1:2–3, 12 — Endurance leads to maturity and the crown of life
Key Points:
- What is hidden in our lives will eventually come out. Deal with sin before it erupts.
- God's silence is not His absence. He is always working behind the scenes.
- The pit is not a place of punishment but a place of preparation.
- Jesus is the greater Joseph—betrayed, sold, stripped, and rejected—who brought ultimate redemption.
Anxiety and worry are universal human struggles, but as followers of Christ, we are called to continually cast all our burdens onto Jesus. Pastor Scott Odom shares with us that instead of being mastered by our anxieties or trying to handle them alone, we are invited to surrender them to the Lord daily because He deeply cares for us.
Key Scripture
1 Peter 5:6–7
Topics Covered
The universal experience of anxiety and its sources
Biblical examples of anxiety, such as Elijah’s collapse after victory
What it means to “cast” burdens on the Lord
👉 Join us this Sunday or visit bellshoals.com to learn more about our campuses and ministries.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more uplifting messages from Bell Shoals Church. Let’s spread the hope of Jesus together!
BellShoalsChurch #Faith #anxiety #worry #surrender
In a world full of differing opinions and personal convictions, Pastor Stephen Staton challenges believers to seek unity over division when it comes to their convictions. From Romans 14, he emphasizes that while Christians may hold different views on gray areas they must not judge one another but instead live out their faith in love and humility.
Key Scripture -
Romans 14:1–23
Topics Covered -
Disputable matters and Christian liberty
Personal convictions vs. biblical commands
Unity in the church amidst differing opinions
Examples of modern gray areas
👉 Join us this Sunday or visit bellshoals.com to learn more about our campuses and ministries.
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Pastor Corey Abney teaches that TRUE salvation cannot be lost because it is entirely the work of God's grace - not something earned by human effort. He emphasizes that salvation is an immediate, radical, and eternal transformation initiated by God alone, and not dependent on our performance or circumstances.
Key Scripture:
Ephesians 2:4-9
John 3
Romans 12:1-2
John 15
1 John 4:19
Topics Covered:
Assurance of salvation
The nature of salvation
God’s role vs. human effort in salvation
The role of the Holy Spirit
Comparison of spiritual death vs. life
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Pastor Corey Abney addresses the commonly asked question of whether Christians should drink alcohol, emphasizing that the issue is not about legalism or license, but about applying Biblical wisdom.
Key Scripture:
1 Corinthians 6:12
Topics Covered:
Christian legalism
Biblical stance on alcohol
Risks and consequences of alcohol abuse
bellshoalschurch #faith #churchservice #alcohol
Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney kicks off our new series asking hard questions. He explains how evil and suffering exist in the world as a result of humanity's rebellion against God, but God, in His sovereignty, uses these trials to fulfill a greater redemptive purpose. Though we may not fully understand God's ways, He is in complete control over all things, including evil and suffering, and ultimately works all things together for good for those who love Him.
Key Scripture:
Genesis 3:7 (The fall of man and the beginning of suffering)
James 4:1-3 (The source of conflict and evil desires)
Psalm 33:10-11 (The sovereignty of God's plans)
Romans 8:28 (God works all things together for good)
Topics Covered:
The origin of evil and suffering: Humanity's rebellion against God.
The consequences of sin: Broken relationships, disease, and death.
The sovereignty of God: God's complete control over evil and suffering.
The redemptive purpose of suffering: How God uses suffering to accomplish His will and bring about good.
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This Easter service, lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney shares how when life doesn’t always go according to plan, Jesus meets us right in the middle of our brokenness. Through the stories of Jairus and the bleeding woman in Luke 8, we see that Jesus responds to those who approach Him with both right belief and desperate faith. He is not afraid to engage with our mess, and He brings hope, healing, and restoration to those who truly seek Him.
Key Scripture:
Luke 8:40–56 — The healing of the bleeding woman and the resurrection of Jairus’ daughter.
Topics:
Jesus’ compassion for people whose lives have not gone as expected
Faith as childlike trust rather than perfection or strength
The power of Jesus to heal, restore, and give life regardless of how broken or desperate our circumstances
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What made the death of Jesus different from the thousands crucified during the Roman Empire? In this powerful Good Friday message, Dr. Corey Abney walks us through Colossians 2 to reveal why the cross wasn’t just an instrument of death, but a declaration of victory.
You’ll discover how Jesus didn’t just suffer physically, he erased our debt and canceled our guilt. Dr. Abney unpacks the reality that Christ’s death wasn’t a tragedy to mourn, but a triumph to proclaim.
What do you get when two theologians walk into a podcast? A lot more fun than you'd expect. Whether you're a lifelong student of Scripture or just curious about the deeper stuff, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug will challenge your thinking, strengthen your faith, and prove once and for all that Theology is Fun.
Special Podcast Preview Episode:
Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ was graphic, intense, and unforgettable, but did it portray the true suffering of Jesus? In this first episode, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug explore what Scripture reveals about Jesus’ greatest suffering—and it wasn’t physical. They dive into the weight of sin, the wrath of God, and what really happened on the cross.
Watch this episode and all future episodes on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/BellShoalsChurch
What do ancient rituals, temporary coverings, and Old Testament sacrifices have to do with Jesus on the cross? In this episode, Pastor Corey Abney explores how Christ fulfills what the Bible calls “shadows” — symbolic systems that pointed toward a greater reality. Through the lens of John 19:28-30 and Hebrews 9–10, he unpacks how Jesus completed the work of redemption and replaced the shadows with something final, full, and forever.
Key Points:
- Shadows vs. Reality: Old Testament sacrifices were temporary “shadows” that pointed forward to Christ. They could never truly remove sin (Hebrews 10:1-4).
- Priestly Intercession: Jesus is our great High Priest who gives us direct access to God. His intercession is permanent and personal (Hebrews 4:14-16).
- Sufficient Sacrifice: Unlike repeated offerings of bulls and goats, Jesus gave one perfect and sufficient sacrifice for all time (Hebrews 7:26-28; 9:11-12).
- Total Forgiveness: We are forgiven not through our efforts, but through Christ’s atonement. Our moral debt is paid by His blood (Hebrews 10:19-22; Ephesians 1:7).
- Heavenly Home: Jesus entered heaven to intercede for us and prepare an eternal dwelling. He is the center of redemptive history (Hebrews 9:24-26; Revelation 7:14, 17).
Lead Pastor Corey Abney teaches that the Day of Atonement in the Old Testament points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, showing that salvation requires death for death and life for life. Our sin is deeper than we realize, but God's grace through substitutionary atonement is greater than we can imagine.
Key Scriptures:
Leviticus 16
Leviticus 17:11
Hebrews 9:22
Psalm 103:12
James 2:10
Topics Covered:
The meaning and necessity of atonement
The role of blood in satisfying God’s holy justice
The Day of Atonement as a national covering for sin in Israel
The severity of sin and our inability to earn salvation
God’s grace in providing a substitute
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Despite human dysfunction and sin, God's faithfulness remains steadfast. The story of Jacob, Joseph, and the Israelites in Egypt reveals a cycle of brokenness, yet God provides a means of salvation. The ultimate symbol of salvation is the blood shed of an innocent sacrifice, foreshadowing Jesus' sacrifice.
Key Scripture:
Exodus 12
Topics Covered:
Israel’s enslavement and Pharaoh’s oppression
The significance of Passover and God's judgment
The necessity of an innocent sacrifice for atonement
The foreshadowing of Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb
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Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney explains how the world, like a garden, has an organizer—God. However, it is now broken because of sin, which separates humanity from God. This brokenness cannot be fixed by education, politics, or morality but requires an external, spiritual solution that God provides.
Key Scripture:
Genesis 3
Topics Covered:
The existence of an intentional Creator
The brokenness of the world and humanity due to sin
The necessity of God's intervention to restore humanity
The consequence of sin—separation from God's presence
The need for atonement and covering for sin
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Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney illustrates how life transitions, whether expected or unexpected, present critical moments to reaffirm faith and commitment to God. Drawing from the final words of both the Apostle Paul and Joshua, Pastor Corey emphasizes the urgency of choosing wholehearted devotion to God, rejecting lukewarm faith, and remaining steadfast in obedience.
Key Scripture:
Joshua 23:6-8
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Revelation 3:15-16
Topics Covered:
The importance of recognizing life’s transitions and using them to affirm faith
The dangers of spiritual complacency and lukewarm faith
The necessity of sincere and passionate worship, not just going through the motions
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Have you ever made an assumption that turned out to be completely wrong? Misunderstandings can destroy relationships, derail missions, and even lead to unnecessary conflict. In Joshua 22, we see how the tribes of Israel nearly went to war because of an assumption—until communication brought clarity.
In this message, we unpack:
Why assumption leads to accusation
The power of communication in resolving conflict
How trust is the antidote to misunderstanding
Lessons from Proverbs on avoiding gossip and hearsay
The importance of humility and unity in families, teams, and faith communities
Key Takeaways:
Don't assume—seek clarity before drawing conclusions
Hearsay isn’t admissible in a court of law, and it shouldn't be in the church either
The best way to handle conflict is direct, honest communication
Saying “I’m sorry” can be the most powerful step toward unity
Trust is the bridge between expectation and experience
Key Scriptures: Joshua 22, Proverbs 18:17, Proverbs 26:20-21, Proverbs 17:14
Don't let a misunderstanding wreck your relationships—listen now and learn how to handle conflict with wisdom and grace.
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Apollo Beach campus Pastor Steven Staton gets into how God’s promises do not expire. The story of Caleb in Joshua 14 serves as a powerful reminder that faith in God’s promises leads to blessings, while unbelief has serious consequences. Caleb’s unwavering trust in God from his youth to old age sets an example of perseverance and confidence in the Lord’s faithfulness.
Key ScriptureJoshua 14
Topics Covered* The leadership of Joshua and the division of the Promised Land among the 12 tribes of Israel. * The history of the 12 tribes, including why Levi did not receive land and how Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were included. * The backstory of Caleb as one of the two faithful spies (Numbers 13) who trusted God’s promise despite the fearful report from the other spies. * The contagious nature of both faith and unbelief, with Israel’s fear leading to 40 years of wandering instead of a short journey into the Promised Land. * The importance of standing firm in God’s promises, as seen in Caleb’s life.
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Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney shares how the true hero of Israel’s story is not Joshua, but God, who fights for His people and provides for them according to His plan. This theme is evident in the conquest narratives of Joshua, particularly in Joshua 10, where God ensures victory for Israel, demonstrating that His provision always accompanies His purposes. Likewise, in our own lives, we are not the heroes—God is, and our confidence should rest in His presence and faithfulness.
Key Scripture:
Joshua 10:1-14
Topics Covered:
God as the true hero of our stories
Divine provision aligning with divine plans
Joshua’s obedience despite past mistakes
The importance of fearing and seeking the Lord for grace and mercy
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Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney shares how impulsive decision-making can lead to serious consequences, especially when we rely on our own understanding instead of seeking God's wisdom. He highlights biblical examples including King Asa and Joshua, to emphasize the importance of seeking the Lord first, even when a decision seems obvious. Faith means putting God's guidance above our instincts and plans.
Key Scripture
2 Chronicles 13-16
Joshua 9
Matthew 6:33
Topics Covered:
The dangers of impulsive decisions
The importance of seeking God first in all decisions
Biblical examples of both wise and rash decision-making
The consequences of failing to rely on God's guidance
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Lead Pastor Corey Abney shares the story of Achan in Joshua 7, and highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences. Hidden sin, no matter how small, ultimately leads to downfall, affecting not just the individual but the entire community. God calls His people to repentance and obedience, warning that unconfessed sin will always be exposed and bring judgment.
Key Scripture:
Joshua 7:10-13
Topics Covered:
The consequences of sin and disobedience
The deceptive nature of hidden sin
Covetousness as the root of sin
God's justice and the need for repentance
The impact of personal sin on the broader community
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Pastor Steven Staton from Bell Shoals Church breaks down how faith often requires obedience, even when God’s instructions don't make sense. The story of Jericho illustrates that God's ways are not like ours—He fights battles differently, requiring trust and surrender rather than human strength.
Key Scripture: Joshua 6
Topics Covered:
Faith and obedience
Trusting God's plan
Spiritual battles vs. natural warfare
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Pastor Bruce Roberts from Bell Shoals Church reflects on the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness in every season of life. Pastor Bruce challenges us to trust God, even when the path is unclear.
He shares relatable stories, like navigating conflict in marriage, and illustrates how God’s Word provides guidance in uncharted territory. Through the symbolism of 12 stones in Joshua and the practice of communion, we’re reminded that God's promises remain steadfast.
Key Scripture: Joshua 3-4
Topics Covered:
- Trusting God in new seasons
- Building a community rooted in faith
- The significance of remembering God’s works
- Communion as a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice
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Pastor Corey Abney continues in our series about heros of our faith who have gone before us.
Pastor Steven Staton kicks off our new series about heros of our faith who have gone before us.
In the powerful conclusion of our Difference Makers series, Dr. Corey Abney explores "A New Work in an Old Place" through the lens of Haggai 1-2 and Ezra 3. Using relatable illustrations like popular home renovation shows House Hunters and Love It or List It, Pastor Corey delves into the challenges and changes we face in life, especially within the church. Change is constant, and as society and culture evolve, churches must navigate this landscape, embracing transformation while honoring tradition.
Pastor Corey brings to life the story of the exiled Israelites rebuilding the Temple. Israel faced a choice to focus on their homes or the House of God. Through powerful imagery of both celebration and mourning, Dr. Abney reminds us that God is always at work—even in old places where new beginnings are needed.
Join us as we reflect on how God's steadfast love endures through every season, challenge, and transformation. There's no need to mourn the past when Jesus has secured our future!
We continue in our Difference Makers series highlighting our local missions partner, Choices.
We continue in our Difference Makers series highlighting our missions partner in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
This week we kick off our Difference Makers series highlighting our missions partners in Argentina.
Lead pastor Dr. Corey Abney highlights how God works through divine appointments, not accidents.
Lead Pastor Dr. Corey Abney dives into the context of "Be still and know that I am God."
Riverview Campus Pastor Dr. Tim Armstrong kicks off our new series talking about the verse that changed his life.
In this episode, Lead Pastor Dr. Corey Abney delivers the final message in our "Upside Down" series, focusing on the Beatitudes and the theme of standing firm in faith amidst persecution. Join Pastor Corey as he explores the challenges and blessings of being a devoted follower of Jesus, drawing parallels between the hardships faced by early Christians and those we encounter today. Discover the deeper meaning of the Beatitudes and how true faith shines brightest during times of adversity. If you missed any of the previous messages in the "Upside Down" series, you can catch up on our YouTube channel at YouTube.com/bellshoalschurch. This episode offers profound insights and encouragement for your spiritual journey. Perfect for anyone seeking an understanding of the Beatitudes in the context of modern faith.
Lead Pastor Corey Abney explores the meaning of "blessed are the peacemakers" from Matthew 5.
Lead Pastor Corey Abney explores the meaning of "blessed are the merciful" from Matthew 5.
Lead Pastor Corey Abney explores the meaning of "blessed are those who hunger and thirst" from Matthew 5.
Lead Pastor Corey Abney explores the meaning of "blessed are the humble" from Matthew 5.
Pastor Bruce Roberts explores the meaning of "blessed are those who mourn" from Matthew 5.
Pastor Scott Odom kicks off our new series "Upside Down" by talking about the meaning of "Blessed are the Poor."
Join us as Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug answer your questions from the Heaven series here at Bell Shoals Church.
Join us as Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug answer your questions from the Heaven series here at Bell Shoals Church.
Join us as Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug answer your questions from the Heaven series here at Bell Shoals Church.
Join us as Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug answer your questions from the Heaven series here at Bell Shoals Church.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about what heaven will be like. This message is part two of a two part message.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about what heaven will be like. This message is part one of a two part message.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about the second coming of Jesus and that our true hope lies in the truth that Jesus will return again one day.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about if Heaven and Hell are actually real and what that means for us as we live our lives here on Earth.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how Jesus is not a means to an end, he is the end.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about the death of Jesus on the cross and explains why it’s so significant.
Lead Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Dr. Corey Abney, describes what Good Friday meant to those who were closest to Jesus in the first of a four-part immersive audio experience.
You can watch the video version of this experience here:
https://youtu.be/iQoGK7E10W8?si=bJY_IcR_98hUhVSV
The followers of Jesus were shocked and devastated by the arrest of Jesus. Their long-awaited messiah was imprisoned, beaten, and sentenced to death. Jesus is crucified alongside two criminals and finds an unlikely follower.
You can watch the video version of this experience here:
https://youtu.be/iQoGK7E10W8?si=bJY_IcR_98hUhVSV
Jesus declared, "It is finished." He took his last breath on the cross and His followers scattered in fear not knowing what would come next.
Good Friday wasn't the end of the story. The story of Jesus' followers as well as our story continues as we look toward a greater hope to come.
You can watch the video version of this experience here:
https://youtu.be/iQoGK7E10W8?si=bJY_IcR_98hUhVSV
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how the Bible outlines the power of giving from our first fruits.
Campus Pastor, Steven Staton talks about how generosity is something that God wants for you so that you can live an abundant life.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about what the Bible says about generosity and how God uses it to bring joy to our lives.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how we can stand firm in the Lord, while living in a world that values earth over heaven.
Dr Corey Abney continues our sermon series, Philippians, with a message about living as a citizen of heaven
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how you can lean into a life that focuses on who our God is in a way that eliminates complaining and cultivates thankfulness.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how living a life of humility brings harmony and glorifies God.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how God says we can live as citizens of heaven.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney talks about how God uses adversity to advance his will for your life.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, gives a Christmas message about how Jesus is the Son of God and the savior of us all. Each one of us has hope and our trouble can become our testimony because of what Christ has done for us.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, dives into the meaning behind Jesus turning water into wine.
Dr. Corey Abney continues our Christmas series, Lord at Thy Birth, with a message on Jouh 1.
Pastor Bruce Roberts talks about how focusing on Jesus enables us to prioritize optimal things over optional things.
God chooses to use people like you and me as the workers to bring in His harvest.
Often that means that we leave behind what is comfortable, leave behind our own desires, and leave behind all that hinders us. When we say yes to the plan that God has for our lives we can be difference makers.
Executive Pastor, Scott Odom, continues our Difference Makers series with a message about God's faithfulness and what it looks like to live a life that is faithful.
You can watch Episode 3 of our Difference Makers Series on our YouTube Page here:
https://youtu.be/bZhdP3Mt8rE
Lead Pastor Dr. Corey Abney continues our Difference Makers series with a message about what it means to "love your neighbor."
Lead Pastor Dr. Corey Abney kicks off our Difference Makers Series with a message about pursuing our purpose as followers of Christ.
Next Generation Pastor Bruce Roberts speaks on how to manage life when it doesn't go according to plan, and why we should rely on God's sovereignty.
Dr. Corey Abney continues our series, Back to Basics, with a message about families and parenting.
Lead Pastor Dr. Corey Abney discusses the basic needs of a husband within the boundaries of a biblical marriage.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, discusses the importance of meeting the needs of your spouse in a biblical way.
Dr. Corey Abney dissects the difference between our current culture's view on womanhood versus Biblical womanhood.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, starts a new sermon series, "Back To Basics," with a message about manhood.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings his final message in “The a Team” series from Acts 8 teaching us that God works through ordinary people, filled with extraordinary power, to bring joy to all places.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney continues our series called, The "a" Team with a message from John chapter 9 about the man born blind who was healed by Jesus and how God used his witness to change lives.
Bell Shoals Church Care and Missions Pastor, Dr. Ben Skaug, brings a message from Luke 5 when Jesus calls Matthew to follow him. This passage teaches us that God's infinate grace is more than sufficient to save you; God's infinite power is more than sufficient to change you; God's infinite love is contrary to our sinful pride.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, begins his series on "The a Team." This series will show how God uses average, ordinary people to change the world. This morning’s message from Luke 5 focuses on Peter, James, and John. It teaches us that to be a disciple is to Follow in Faith, Abide in Awe, and Surrender in Submission.
Scott Odom, Executive Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, completes the final installment of our Interruptions series with a story from Luke 7. He illustrates three different perspectives on faith- the Jewish Elders', the Centurion's, and Jesus'. It teaches us that the type of Faith Jesus notices is a humble faith, it's not a performance faith, it's not an external faith but an internal one, it's not a horizontal faith but a vertical one.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from John reminding us that God’s DELAY often precedes our DELIVERANCE. God’s love is not always obvious in his actions. Saving faith endures when Jesus is late to the party. Our role in difficult situations is OBEDIENCE; God’s role is OUTCOME.
Tim Armstrong, Bell Shoals Church Riverview Campus Pastor and Multi-site Strategist, teaches us, through Paul's divine interruption in Acts 9, that no one is outside of God's interruption, all interruptions have a purpose, and divine interruptions always result in transformation.
Next Generation Pastor Bruce Roberts dives in what it means to have "the faith of a child."
Dr. Ben Skaug, Bell Shoals Care and Missions Pastor, brings a message from Mark 5 about how our Lord rescues us, transforms us, and sends us out as missionaries of his amazing grace.
Steven Staton, campus pastor for Bell Shoals Apollo Beach, brings a word on Zacchaeus from the book of Luke. We learn who Zach is and how he changes after encountering Jesus. When you're transformed by Jesus, there is evidence. The fruit of your salvation is seen in the way you live like Jesus, give like Jesus, talk like Jesus, and treat others like JESUS.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, finishes his Jonah series in Jonah 4. Reminding us that reaching PEOPLE is our greatest PRIVILEGE. True misery is when YOUR WILL is opposed to GOD’S WILL. God will remove your COMFORT, so you can fulfill your CALLING. Your greatest calling is to POSITIVELY impact PEOPLE.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, continues a series about Jonah teaching us that God does his PERFECT work through IMPERFECT people. He’s a God of SECOND CHANCES. It’s the reality of BAD NEWS that drives people to the GOOD NEWS. God REDEEMS the UNREDEEMABLE.
We live for earthly comforts, power, attention, and prominence, but none of these things can save you when you’re drowning in the deep from your disobedience. We must look to the ultimate demonstration of God’s mercy and love: the death and resurrection of Jesus!
Dr. Corey Abney, the lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, begins a new series about Jonah. This week is about A Mission of Mercy. Like Jonah, we have a mission of mercy to spread God's love to all people in all places.
Bell Shoals Church Multi-Site Strategist and Riverview Campus Pastor, Tim Armstrong, brings a message from Luke about how we can have a "Levi Mindset" through conviction and intentionality.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals, presents another Roadblock from Philippians - Complaining. Complaining is the language of unbelief. It distorts our past and present in order to accommodate our perspective. It compromises our character and reputation. It is only eradicated when God is exalted.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals, brings a message from Matthew about Insecurity. God has SAVED you, GIFTED you, and EMPOWERED you to make a difference in this world. The talents you possess aren’t yours, but you have the exclusive rights to them. You have enough talents to make a difference in this world. Your joy is MAXIMIZED when your talents are MULTIPLIED. Don’t be DISCOURAGED by the DELAY in the master’s return.
Bruce Roberts, Next Generation Pastor at Bell Shoals Church, discusses another Roadblock- Shame. Shame is the deep sense that you are unacceptable because of something you did, something done to you, or something associated with you. It is a direct assault on the image of God and challenges our sense of worth. The acceptance of Jesus empowers us to risk the rejection of people. He was despised and rejected in every way so that we can be accepted by God in every way.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, continues his series on Roadblocks. Proverbs 13 highlights an important lesson about Friendship. The people closest to you should bring out the best in you. We also discuss three biblical insights about Friendship: 1) Everybody needs close friendships. 2) Not everybody around you needs to be close to you. 3) Those who are closest to you will shape you.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches about another Roadblock to living our best spiritual life- Anger. Sinful anger is uncontrolled anger. We get angry because God gets angry. Being angry is a reality, but living angry is a choice. The key to controlling anger is slowing it. Work to bring healing in close proximity to the hurt.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, begins a new series about Roadblocks. This week is about Pride, the seedbed in which all other sins grow. Pride leads us to value our way over God’s will. Pride leads us to maximize our good and minimize our bad. Humility is a happiness to give God the glory for who we are, what we have, and where we’re going.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a unique Easter message from the Old (Numbers) and New (John) Testaments. We are all snakebitten and destined to die. The poison in our veins is the poison of pride. Healing comes by faith to all who look to Jesus. Look and live!
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, continues his sermon series in Genesis on Abraham. This week we learn about the sacrifice Abraham and Isaac were willing to make reminding us of these three truths about a persevering faith: it is imperfect, it is tethered to the Giver and not the gifts, it is made possible by a subtitutionary sacrifice.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis about Abraham and Sarah’s disbelief. A big faith requires a big God. Our lack of faith is often a result of problems with God’s promises and leads to a loss of hope, but the goodness and faithfulness of God sustains our faith and restores our hope.
Multi-site and Riverview Campus pastor, Tim Armstrong, continues our study of Abraham in Genesis. This week we learn about Covenants with God. The more we understand God’s covenant with Abraham, the more we understand God’s covenant with each of us.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Abraham in Genesis 12 that A GROWING faith is a TESTED faith. Be encouraged that: FAITHFUL followers have FAITHLESS moments. God’a PROTECTION and PROVISION follow his PROMISES. Our FAITHLESS moments don’t nullify God’s FAITHFULNESS.
Matthew Angell, Associate Pastor of Bell Shoals Apollo Beach Campus, brings a message from Genesis 12 about Abraham that teaches us we too like Abraham are blessed to be a blessing.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings his final message of the Beginnings series from Genesis 11 about the Tower of Babel. Here we find that human nature finds fulfillment in human praise. Therefore, God SCATTERS that he may SAVE.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis 9 about the first covenant with Noah. We learn that a covenant is a chosen relationship in which two parties make binding promises. The old covenant was sealed with the giving of the law; but the new covenant is sealed with the giving of the spirit. The covenant remains in force because of God’s faithfulness in the midst of our failures. You enter the new covenant by dying to self so that you can live in Christ.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis 6-8 about the flood. We learn that our sin problem is worse than we can imagine, God’s love is greater than we can imagine, and the death of Jesus is where our sin and God’s love meet.
Dr. Corey Abney brings a message from Genesis about the first murder in the Bible- Cain and Abel. IDOLATRY is IDENTITY outside of INTIMACY with God. True worship is giving God your BEST and trusting him with the REST. Sin’s purpose is not to AMUSE you but to DESTROY you. The only hope for curing what’s broken INSIDE of you must come from something OUTSIDE of you.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, presents an important message from Genesis on Sin. All that is broken in us and the world is the result of sin. Sin’s consummation is a denial of God’s goodness. Sin’s consequence is a separation from God’s presence. Sin’s covering is a provision of God’s graciousness.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, continues his series on Beginnings in Genesis highlighting that marriage is a convenant union between one man and one woman for life. Marriage, like everything else God gave to mankind, is GOOD. The only place you can have sex without shame is in the context of covenant. The ultimate purpose of marriage is to reflect the coming union between Christ and his church.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings another message from Genesis reminding us that we have a unique DIGNITY, DOMINION, and DESTINY.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings the most important message from Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." He makes the point that it takes a STEP of faith to be a Christian, but it takes a LEAP of faith to be an atheist. He leaves us with two important takeaways: 1) We can trust God’s PLANS and PROMISES because they’re rooted in his creative POWER. 2) We can know for sure that our lives have MEANING and PURPOSE.
Scott Odom, Executive Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from James reminding that the Lord does not tempt us and we need to get in the Word on a regular basis to fight temptation. He also supplies three strategies for fighting temptation: AVOID situations that lead to sin, say NO when temptation happens, TURN to Christ.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Luke in the Impossible series teaching that, bottom line, God's mercy is the solution to your mess.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important Christmas message from Luke reminding us that God does extraordinary things through extraordinary faith. As believers we walk by faith, although some people will NEVER UNDERSTAND. We walk by faith, because God’s Word NEVER FAILS. We walk by faith, because God’s Kingdom NEVER ENDS.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, begins his "Impossible" Christmas sermon series with the story of Zechariah from Luke to remind us that God’s plan for our lives revolves around FAITH; and God will never work in our lives so as to remove our need for faith.
Executive Pastor, Scott Odom, preaches about how trials can either lead us toward the Lord or away from Him depending on how we respond.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, concludes our Difference Makers series by teaching about the motivation for missions. He presents the story of long-time missionaries, Steve & Pam Kern who exemplify what it means to live a life on mission.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message about adoption, both physical and spiritual, from Romans 8. The motivation for adoption is the example of our heavenly Father adopting us into his family.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, reminds us that a A SUCCESSFUL church is a SENDING church. The church is enabled by God’s power (Acts 1:8). The church is advanced by called leaders (Acts 13:2). The church is sustained by sending partners (Acts 13:3). The church is encouraged by Jesus’ promise (Acts 28:30-31).
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from John 4 to kick off the annual Difference Makers series. Remember, life doesn't always go as planned, but Jesus brings hope for the hurting and he can turn your trouble into a testimony.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Psalm 127 about Parenting. There are three ways to approach children: Acknowledge their benefit. Affirm their value. Trust their Father.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis 1 and Proverbs 31 on the Four Biblical Realities about Womanhood: Women are EQUAL IN ESSENCE yet DIFFERENT BY DESIGN. Motherhood is a PRIVILEGE and a BLESSING. Motherhood involves STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT and DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP. True BEAUTY and DIGNITY are tied to INTERNAL FAITH, not EXTERNAL FEATURES.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important message from Genesis about being a Man on the front line.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important reminder from Mark that there is no storm or circumstance greater than the power and providence of Jesus.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, wraps up his Rethinking Rich series with a final message on mastering your money. We have been blessed to be a blessing to others.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from 2 Corinthians. GENEROUS people give GENEROUSLY. Principles for generous giving: 1) Give PROPORTIONATELY 2) Give CHEERFULLY 3) Give EXPECTANTLY.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message about managing money from Luke 14. Wise money management is built on the foundation of stewardship, not ownership; and he lays out the three principles of wise stewardship.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Luke. The way we spend our money reveals what we VALUE; and we need to rethink what it means to be rich.
Lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Dr. Corey Abney, brings a message from 1 Peter about growth. New birth brings new growth.
Student Pastor of Bell Shoals' Brandon campus, Matthew Angell, brings a message on serving from the book of Matthew. We are made to serve. We serve because we are contributors, not consumers.
Lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Corey Abney, brings a message from Acts about connecting. We are made for relationship with GOD and ONE ANOTHER. Along with Four Key Takeaways about THE Christian Fellowship: 1. THE Fellowship extends beyond casual activity. 2. THE Fellowship flows from gospel identity. 3. THE Fellowship develops ongoing Christian maturity. 4. THE Fellowship brings about relational harmony.
Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Luke 10 about Worship. We exist to worship God. We are hard-wired to worship. True worship is about authentic praise, not religious routine. Enduring worship is God-centered and future-focused. There’s a difference between appreciating a God who can do something for me or something through me and being amazed at the God who can do it.
Matthew Angell, Bell Shoals' Student Pastor, brings a message from John 5. Don't allow Circumstances, Blessings, and Religion to stop you from seeing Jesus.
Matthew Angell, Bell Shoals' Student Pastor, brings a message from John exploring the miracles of Jesus teaching us that true belief is trusting Jesus for who he is not for what he does.
Pastor, Bruce Roberts, teaches about the miracle when Jesus feeds the crowd of five thousand.
Pastor, Scott Odom, continues our series about the miracles of Jesus by teaching the story of Jesus healing the paralytic.
Pastor Steven Staton kicks off our new series by preaching on Jesus' miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding at Cana.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Exodus 20 that God's jealousy is rooted in a relationship of covenantal love and faithfulness. There are two requirements of a jealous God. A Jealous God wants PRIORITY. A Jealous God wants INTIMACY.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from 1 John 4 about three realities of God's love. God is the SOURCE of love. God is the INITIATOR of love. Love is a self-sacrificing ACTION, not a self-serving EMOTION.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Romans on Wisdom. Wisdom is knowing the best outcome in any situation and how to achieve it. DIRECTION, not INTENTION, determines DESTINATION.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals, brings a message from Isaiah 6. The bottom line? You cannot encounter God’s glory and remain unchanged.
Matthew Angell, student pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message with three important truths for you to hold onto: 1. We are judged by our faithfulness not our results. 2. What we reap is often Christ-like character. 3. The ultimate harvest is in eternity.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a timely message on Worry from Matthew 6. Worry becomes reality when your CONCERN CONTROLS you. What you worry about reveals what you’re most devoted to. The solution to worry is to DIVERT your DEVOTION. Remember, Jesus CARES for you more than you CARE for your CARES.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, delivers a very important message from Isaiah 43 - if you don't let your past die, it won't let you live. Remember God's faithfulness in your failures and his sovereignty in your successes. Be mindful of the past without being defined by it. Focus less on what's old and more on what's new. Jesus died for your past so that you can live in his future.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a Mother's Day message from 1 Kings teaching us that disappointment in the present can overshadow God's faithfulness in the past, and lead to failure in the future.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a timely message from John 20 and 21 - Contentment ENDS where comparison BEGINS.
Matthew Angell, Student Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Proverbs 4 about Opinion - a belief that rests on grounds insufficient to produce complete certainty. Whose opinion is going to carry the greatest weight in our life?
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an Easter message from Jonah that teaches us three things: 1. When you run from God, you have to pay the fare. 2. You can’t outrun God’s presence and power. 3. Jesus is a better Jonah.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a Palm Sunday message from Leviticus. The atonement that SAVES us requires a SUBSTITUTE for us. Our sin is worse than we realize. God's grace is greater than we imagine. Jesus' blood is sufficient to save.
Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a final message from Ephesians helping Christians realize this is not a playground, this is a battleground, and we fight spiritual battles with spiritual weapons.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important message from Ephesians 6 to parents. Biblical parenting is established on the pillars of formative instruction and corrective discipline. We discipline lovingly and consistently because the consequences of discipline are less hurtful than the consequences of sin.
Steven Staton, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Apollo Beach campus, brings an important message to all children of all ages from Ephesians 6 about obeying and honoring your parents.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important message for wives from Ephesians 5. A wife submits to her husband by respecting his role in the home. Submission is about RELINQUISHING YOUR RIGHTS, not SHRINKING YOUR SIGNIFICANCE. Submission is about the HUSBAND, not ALL men. Submission is about ORDER, not OBEDIENCE.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Ephesians 5. A husband submits to his wife by loving her like Christ loves the church in a few key ways. A husband's love should be UNCONDITIONAL. A husband's love should be SACRIFICIAL. A husband's love should be FAITHFUL.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Ephesians 5. IMITATION is the key to MATURATION. We must focus on imitating God as well as avoiding stumbling blocks that would draw us away from God.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Ephesians 4 on what true Christian living should look like. We must put off deceitfulness and put on truthfulness. We must put off corrupt anger and put on controlled anger. We must put off greed and put on generosity. We must put off discouragement and put on encouragement. We must put off retaliation and put on reconciliation. NEW LIFE LEADS TO NEW LIVING.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message of Unity from Ephesians 2. We have UNITY in our DIVERSITY because of our IDENTITY.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brought a message from Ephesians that freedom is governed by our nature and Jesus brings the dead to life!
Lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Dr. Corey Abney, continues his message from Ephesians teaching us that our true identity is found in Christ and being in Christ should shape our prayer and our perspective.
Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Ephesians that our salvation is grounded in GOD’S GRACE. Our will is involved in our salvation, but only as God ALLOWS, INVITES, and ATONES! His saving grace provides three life-changing realities: we have ASSURANCE, MEEKNESS, and CONFIDENCE.
Scott Odom, Executive Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Luke 12. In God's greatness and grace - He cares for you. We must allow our awe of God to transform our lives and not a fear of man.
Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Luke and a Christmas song favorite, that in our rebellion and exile, God sent his Son to us to live and die so that we can have forgiveness and eternal life.
Steven Staton, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church Apollo Beach Campus, brings a message from Matthew chapters 1 & 2 to teach us the deep meaning within the words of a favorite Christmas song.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, bases his message on the old spiritual, Go Tell It on the Mountain, which teaches us that we GO because Jesus CAME.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message based on the classic Christmas hymn, Joy to the World. The hymn's author, Isaac Watts, points us to Psalm 98, which teaches us that the world has joy because our Savior has come and is coming again.
Bell Shoals Church Student Pastor, Matthew Angell, brings a timely reminder that every season provides a unique opportunity to encounter Jesus.
Executive Pastor, Scott Odom, talks about how we are all called to be difference makers as he concludes our series with another story of a Bell Shoals family who is making an impact.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Acts 8 that teaches us the exciting message- wherever Jesus is working, joy is spreading.
Lead Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Dr. Corey Abney, brings a message from Romans teaching us that the foundation for adoption is NOT the act of adopting a child into our family, but the act of God adopting us into his family.
Pastor Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis with a missions emphasis that we are blessed to be a blessing to the nations.
Pastor Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Exodus and Proverbs teaching us that God’s design for family is that we ENJOY each other not ENDURE each other.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings an important message on money management being a spiritual issue more than a material issue.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches that biblical parenting is established on the pillars of formative instruction and corrective discipline.
Next Generation Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, Bruce Roberts, teaches on the importance of intentional parenting. Parenting is a God-given privilege and the primary means of passing down faith to the next generation. The most important thing you have to pass to your kids is not your physical likeness, but your likeness to Christ.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches how to navigate the dangers of technology.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Matthew and Genesis teaching that marriage is a COVENANT relationship where faithfulness to your spouse should mirror God’s faithfulness to you. God’s design for marriage is for it to be meaningful and fulfilling. The key to a meaningful marriage is developing a fulfilling friendship. A meaningful marriage is less about being in love and more about being faithful to your covenant.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shaols Church, teaches us that everyone lives forever somewhere.
Pastor Corey Abney, Lead Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Genesis about Gender Identity teaching us that any deviation from God’s design always leads to DYSFUNCTION, and that our BIOLOGY reflects God’s GLORY.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Romans 1 about same-sex attraction as he addresses common arguments for these relationships in our culture and outlines our only hope for healing.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches us that as our society separates CONTACT from COMMITMENT, FORMULA from FULFILLMENT, and PLEASURE from PURPOSE, know that sex is God’s design for family and intimacy in the context of covenant marriage alone.
Bruce Roberts, Next Generation Pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches that science confirms life begins at fertilization, but science can't assign value to life. Our value and worth comes from being made in the image of God.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from 2 Timothy 3:16-17, teaching us that the Bible is the true and trustworthy Word of God that was recorded without error in the original manuscripts.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message from Daniel 1 teaching us that if you want to make a difference in our context, you must be different than our culture.
Matthew Angell, Student Pastor at Bell Shoals Church Brandon Campus, brings a practical message on dealing with offense. When you find yourself offended, there are usually four things you need to do: figure out why you're offended, chill out, believe the best, and always extend grace.
Matthew Angell, Student Pastor of Bell Shoals Church Brandon Campus, brings a word from Nehemiah that to live an unoffended live, you need a compelling vision for your life.
Matthew Angell, Student Pastor of Bell Shoals Brandon Campus, brings a message from the Sermon on the Mount out of Matthew 5. We live in a “Culture of Offense.” The offense is outside of your control, but being offended is within your control. As followers of Jesus, we should lead the way as the most unoffendable people.
Bell Shoals Apollo Beach Campus Pastor, Steven Staton, concludes our Parables series with a message on the prodigal son.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, teaches about the importance of persistence in our lives.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message about the Good Samaritan from Luke 10:25-37 showing that we must be compassionate toward everyone, even our enemies becuase Jesus showed compassion to us as Our Samaritan.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, teaches that we are entrusted by God with talents and we're to develop what God has deposited in us to multiply what He has given to us before His return.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, speaks on the parable of the wheat and the tares from Matthew 13, teaching us that evil and righteousness exist together now, but evil is on borrowed time.
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price are two ways of making the same point: The surpassing value of the Kingdom is worth our sacrificial and singular pursuit.
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor at Bell Shoals Church, brings a message about one of Jesus' parables that begs the question- which type of soil are you?
Dr. Corey Abney, lead pastor of Bell Shoals Church, brings a message on how God will use each of us to further His Church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, brings a Mother's Day message about continually rekindling the flame of faithfulness to leave behind a legacy of faith.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, teaches about being content and fulfilled by Christ no matter our life stage.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, teaches about how we shouldn't just forgive and forget. We should understand that forgiveness is not forgetting an offense, but canceling it.
Dr. Corey Abney dispels the common advice of "Get Rich or Die Tryin' ". He teaches how the pursuit of wealth leads to discontentment and how true contentment only comes from Jesus.
Dr. Corey Abney talks about the folly of following one's heart and how we should feed our heart and not follow it.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, teaches about the dryness of sin and how Jesus made a way to restore life to our dry bones.
Dr. Corey Abney teaches on the rebuilding of Solomon's Temple and how it was a time of celebration and a time of mourning for God's people. However, we learn that there is no need for mourning because Jesus has secured the future of His people.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, concludes our series, Bold Moves, by teaching on the need for the church to make bold moves in the midst of a culture that is unreceptive to the message of the gospel.
Dr. Corey Abney launches a new series about making bold moves for the sake of the gospel.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, concludes the final message in our series about the story of Joseph. We learn that God was using Joseph's story ultimatley to point us to the story of Jesus.
Dr. Corey Abney continues our series about the life of Joseph. We begin to see God's plan unfold in this stage of the story. We learn that God was working ON Joseph before God began working THROUGH Joseph.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, continues our series on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He discusses how God is with his people at all times, in all places, and in all circumstances.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, begins a new teaching series about one of the heroes of the Bible. He gives the back-story of one of the Bible's more revered families, and how their dysfunction temporarily masked God's plan but was unable to stop it.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney concludes our series about the power of words by teaching about how a change of words requires a change of heart.
Dr. Corey Abney examines when it is wise and moral for us to use our words to speak up.
Dr. Corey Abney teaches on the trouble that we can get into by using an abundance of words.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, launches a new series about the power of words. He explores what the proverbs have to say about the incredible power that words have to build up or destroy.
Executive Pastor, Scott Odom, brings a message about our relationship with Jesus, our Great High Priest.
Student Pastor, Matthew Angell, encourages all of us to make an intentional plan in the new year for spiritual growth.
Dr. Corey Abney talks about the difficult and surprising circumstances that led to the King of the universe being born in a barn.
Dr. Corey Abney begins a new series about the real and messy truth about the Christmas story, beginning with the scandalous lineage of Jesus.
Matthew Angell brings a message out of 1 Peter 1:3-9. Being a Christian doesn't mean your life will be easier, but it will be better.
Lead Pastor, Dr. Corey Abney, lays out the vision for the next season of ministry for Bell Shoals. Bell Shoals is a movement sparked by a mission given to us by Jesus. https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/jointhemovement (#jointhemovement)
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Kings rule over nations, but God rules over all. All of the Old Testament points to King Jesus and God including the history of Esther.
Pastor Matthew Angell teaches out of the book of Esther and how our need for rest is a daily reminder of our need for God.
Dr. Corey Abney teacher on Pride. Pride is the carbon monoxide of a sinful heart- it is difficult to detect, but is destructive. Pride is absorption and concentration on self. It's always justifying its mistakes and won't hear criticism. It will cause you to be dissatisfied in the midst of blessings. The true glory that we seek can only be fulfilled by King Jesus.
Dr. Corey Abney teaches out of Esther 4. If you don't risk the Palace, you risk Everything. We are all strategically placed for such a time as this. Our devotion must precede our duty. Before Esther acts she seeks the face of God and prays. When we are overwhelmed, we must run to the one who overcomes.
Dr. Corey Abney teaches from Esther 2:1-11; 19-23. Esther is a story about an unlikely queen. Vanity cannot be your identity. Jesus makes the blemished beautiful.