Abundant Life - Alton: Recent Episodes
Abundant Church
Pastor Roy Rhodes is the lead Pastor of Abundant Life Community Church in Alton, IL. You will find the latest Sunday morning and Wednesday evening messages. Each message is Bible based and practical.
Hebrews 13 starts out by telling us to love one another, show hospitality to strangers, show mercy to the oppressed, to stay sexually pure, and to not love money. We are then called to follow and honor our biblical leaders. Thankfully through all of these challenging passages we are reminded that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever so we can confidently worship Him and see the bigger picture of what is to come.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Most people when then think of God in one word don't automatically think of fire. That is how Hebrews 12 describes Him. This is one of the warning passages like those in Exodus where Moses goes up to the burning mountain to stand before God. Ultimately we are called to peace with God, to gain the peace of God, and then offer peace with others.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Shame shows up as a consequence to sin. Spiritual shame is a sense of guilt, dishonor, disgrace, embarrassment, and remorse for what you've done. Jesus took all of our sin and shame upon himself when he was sacrificed on the cross. We can now live in freedom and experience joy.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What are you afraid of, public speaking, spiders, large crowds?
We gain confidence by doing something. Confidence kills anxiety. We don't have to be afraid to approach God anymore. We can draw close with confidence and hold fast as God has promised to be faithful.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We exhaust ourselves trying to make amends, but only the New Covenant with Jesus takes away our sins. Jesus also gives us the gift of a new heart and mind. With a new heart we can find emotional healing and forgiveness. With a new mind we can think differently and understand things with a new perspective.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
In our Western culture we take things for granted every day. Sometimes we even take our relationship with Jesus for granted; forgetting that Jesus is greater than any other priest, tabernacle, sacred place, or previous sacrifice.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Executive Pastor Jarrod Six shares about how the old covenant had very strict rules and rituals about who and how people could come to God. The old covenant was replaced by Jesus' sacrifice. We can't expect that rituals and rules will draw us close to God.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
The book of Hebrews has some mysterious parts. Who is Melchizedek? What does he have to do with Jesus?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
It can be hard to wait for what God has promised.
We can:
LOOK UP and pray
LOOK BACK to see God's faithfulness &
LOOK FORWARD to the future with hope.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Guest speaker, Will Jones talks about how nobody likes to be told what they have to do. It's not in our nature. When Jesus told his followers - "I will make you fishers of men." He wasn't commanding them, he saw their potential and transformed them into powerful witnesses for God's kingdom. God has a better plan for your life too!
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
The book of Hebrews is like a warning flag that God is sending to us. Sometimes the warnings are loud and abrupt to get our attention so that we can prepare ourselves. It's time to examine where we are in our faith and listen to the warnings.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
There is peace of mind that comes from talking with someone who has experienced challenges. We can take comfort in Jesus who suffered intensely and yet never sinned. Jesus can help us navigate our faith and find understanding and confidence through His Word, the Bible.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Jarrod Six talks to us from Hebrews 4 about how our faith in Jesus removes the unbelief that keeps us from entering God’s rest.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What is the most important thing in your life? Is it your family, kids, job, money, control?
In Hebrews chapter 3 we see that Jesus is greater than Moses and all other standards that we might build our lives upon.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
When we face storms, suffering, and temptations- we need to know God. You can find stability and identity in Christ. There is a purpose for the pain that you experience. We learn and grow from it.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe uses the analogy of boats to describe our faith. Boats on the move are either driving or drifting with the currents. Are you passionate and driven in your faith or are you letting habits and pride drift you towards a shipwreck?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe Banks starts this new message series in Hebrews. The book of Hebrews is written to believers who have endured a pounding stormy season and did not fare well because their roots were shallow. How can we get grounded in our faith so that when a crisis hits we don't get knocked down?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Did Jesus really come back from the dead? You're not the only one who has struggled with this question.
Today, Pastor Joe looks at the four E's:
- Execution
- Early Reporting
- Empty tomb
- Eye Witnesses
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What happens when we have the appearance of one thing but don't have the character to back it up? Jesus flipped the tables in the temple when people were being dishonest and greedy.
Today we look inward and see if our Christianity is producing fruit or presenting false advertising without an actual relationship with Jesus.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We want finished products and well cooked food. Why would we hold ourselves to a different standard?
To finish this life well we need to:
1. Know our Divine Purpose - To Know God
2. Live with Holy Spirit Empowerment
3. Serve God with Radical Obedience
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Nothing is beneath us because nothing was beneath Jesus.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What are we holding onto that holds us back from a close relationship with Jesus?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We are not perfect. Only Jesus can bring purification and salvation.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Guest Pastor, Jimmy Banks shares what the Bible says about doubting our faith. Even one of Jesus' disciples doubted the resurrection, so what are we to do when we have questions?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
In this final message on the book of Ephesians we look at how the writer, Paul found peace even though he had suffered beatings and imprisonment.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
When we put on God's armor we are able to fight off the spiritual attacks that come against us.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
All of us stand on equal footing with the same Lord, who cares deeply how we treat each other and will hold us accountable.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
When we compare ourselves to others we lose every time. Jesus told several stories about how we get caught up in wanting something that others have and become discontent with who we are and what we are blessed with.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Today we look at the tension that's created when families are stuck in a cycle of chaos and detachment. The level of rebellion, resentment, restlessness, and apathy becomes clear when we look at the break down of consistent nurturing and discipline from committed adults.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What does mutual submission look like? We shouldn't think of ourselves as better than anyone else. We need to treat everyone with dignity and respect. This affects every relationship that we have, especially a marriage.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
As we continue talking through the book of Ephesians we look at the behaviors that take us down selfish paths that distract and destroy.
Are the things that we say and do reflect the light of Jesus or the darkness of evil?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We live in a culture of hook up, shack up, and break up. We look at Ephesians 5 today and see that even the hint of immorality or greed is considered sin.
God's grace enables us to not merely hide our sin, but to be renewed and alive in Christ.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Do you grieve God by the way you treat others? Do your words and actions lift others up and bless them?
We are all called to extend grace and forgiveness with generosity. This relational and reflective ethic is how others see Christ's love through us.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe continues in the series ATTACHED where we look verse by verse through the book of Ephesians. We can't be conforming to the things of this world. It's imperative that we are renewing our minds with the characteristics and virtues that Jesus set before us.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
The Bible talks about God's glory and human glory. What is your glory?
It's a culmination of your interests, gifting, skills, time, lean, disposition, family, proclivity, schooling, discipline- all of these precious things intersect at this glorious convergence point- the highest flower of your being, that we describe as your glory, weight, or kabod.
Now that we know what our glory is, how are we going to use it?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Jesus didn't just appear in a manger. Jesus has always been from the beginning. We dig into John 1:1 that echos Genesis 1:1.
It's hard to get our head around the fact that Jesus is fully man and fully God. Our light and life is found in Jesus.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We all love gifts! How are you using the gifts that Jesus gave to you?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Jarrod Six shares the message today.
The world seems more divided than ever because people are more selfish than ever. We have an opportunity as Christians to set an example to the world around us by living out our calling to walk in humility and gentleness, patience and love.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
By nature, we tend to think that we are are powerful in and of ourselves. After we have tried (and failed) to do things on our own, with our own resources and intellect and have depleted all options, do we THEN turn to God?
What happens if we bend our knee in worship and humility instead of waiting to fall on our knees in desperation?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What is the purpose of going to church? Is it for entertainment or does is just mitigate your guilt?
A lot of Christians are not even going to services at all. Having a "it's just me and Jesus" attitude is the opposite of what God wants for your life.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What causes divisions among us? How can we overcome these divisions? We need to be together.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Worth and Value are directly tied to your priorities. Only you can decide what you are going to value and worth is determined by what someone is willing to pay. YOUR WORTH is so precious to God that He gave Jesus as the payment for your sin.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Trusting Jesus, the disciples followed Him because they trusted Him without knowing what was coming next. Sacrificing things for God isn't easy, but we sacrifice for the things that we value.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Youth Pastor, Ana Vakauta shares about how we have to let go of our past to reach out for what God has for us.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What are you willing to pay just a little more for: shoes, drinks, a car? We make decisions every day about worth, cost, and value.
Today, Pastor Joe looks at what the apostle Paul was willing to sacrifice in Acts 20.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We take a deep dive into Ephesians chapter 2 that calls out sins in our MIND, SOUL, and FLESH. By God's GRACE we are saved through faith in Jesus.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Just like a device needs to be plugged in right to receive a signal, we have to be connected to God with Faith, Love, and Hope to create positive change in our lives.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We bless God because he chose us as adopted sons and daughters. God redeems us and gives us an inheritance. We just have to surrender to God and lift our hearts and hands in worship to Him.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe Banks' new series takes us verse by verse through the book of Ephesians. We will look at our habits, choices, and addictions that we try to manage. When we attach ourselves to Jesus, His love, joy, and peace can flow through us.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Guest speaker, Justin Smith talks about how we can all have an impact in God's Kingdom. When we have child-like faith we don't try to make excuses, we expect great things.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe wraps up the message series: READY with a searing letter in Revelation to the church in Laodicea. They were rich hypocrites that were lukewarm in their faith.
Jesus is calling us to a deeper relationship not a false Christianity.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
When the pressure increases and things seem uncertain, we struggle. Take hope from God's word that, "What He (God) opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open." Sometimes God shuts doors because of our disobedience, for our protection or because it isn't God's timing. God knows your struggles and Jesus is coming soon. So let's not live in fear, but be ready for His return.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Regardless of your reputation, what really matters is what you are doing right now. God knows your heart and a good reputation will not get you into heaven.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Our goal is to live according to God's word. A biblical Christian applies biblical ethics to words, decisions, and actions.
"Situational Ethics" is when your ethics or principles change according to the situation. You compromise what you believe because of the people you are with, the potential gain, a fear of missing out, or what you think you might lose if you stick to your beliefs. Do you have a sliding scale of right and wrong, based on the situation?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
When things are going tough and you feel all alone, it is easy to believe the lie that God has forgotten you. The Truth is: God knows right where you are. When you feel like you are all alone standing for what is right, it’s easy to resent the fact that no one is helping you, and no one is with you.
Every major failure starts with a compromise. If you refuse to tolerate small compromises, you’ll avoid major failures.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
We tend to avoid things that make us uncomfortable, but we know that pain and suffering are a part of this world. In this message we are looking at the church in Smyrna that was facing difficulty, danger, and persecution. We want to be ready to respond with a radical commitment to and powerful faith in Jesus.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
READY is a new message series based on the book of Revelation. What are the warning signs that we are NOT READY to meet Jesus?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Pastor Joe concludes this 4 part series on the Holy Spirit.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
This is part 3 of this important series on the Spirit of God. Pastor Joe talks about the gifts of the Spirit and why one is not more important than another. Collectively we use these gifts (that can't be earned) to help the whole church body work together.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
What is your attitude toward the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His followers to wait for the Holy Spirit, not just so that we could have a good church service.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
This is the introduction to The Spirit of God message series where we look at who the Holy Spirit is and what role it plays in our lives.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Guest Speaker, Pastor Austin Westlake shares from Acts 16. Paul's assignment from God didn't make sense to him, got him beaten, and landed him in prison. Sometimes God leads us to a place that looks like a loss but later looks like a miracle.
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
Jarrod Six, executive pastor at Abundant Church shares from Jesus' parable of the prodigal son. Pastor Jarrod calls him little brother and we try to see things from his perspective. Then we flip the script and see things from the big brother's perspective. What's God trying to tell us from this story?
Watch the message at: https://www.abundant.church/sermons
In the conclusion to our series studying the 7 I AM statements of Jesus, listen to learn just how Jesus is preparing the way to eternal life for those who choose to follow him.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
The Old Testament talked about the Jewish people as the vine and God as the Vinedresser. They saw their connection to God in their identity, land, and function. Jesus shook the culture by calling himself the True Vine and only path to the Father God.
We can't rely on our identity, someone else's beliefs, or where we come from to get us closer to God. Jesus is still the one True Vine.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Jesus' friend Lazarus got sick and died. What we see in John 11, is that Jesus doesn't see death as we do. Death is not final.
3 Takeaways
1. Jesus gives permission to grieve.
2. Jesus gives hope to see our loved ones again.
3. Jesus gives us resurrection life now.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Today we are talking through John 10 where Jesus compares a hired hand to a good shepherd.
A good shepherd has:
1. Intimacy- know his sheep by name
2. Commitment- when danger comes, he does not abandon the sheep
3. Sacrifice- will lay down his life for his sheep
The desert is a desperate place. Having THE Good Shepherd as a guide helps us discern His voice from all of the noise.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe challenges us about cultural pressures that are contrary to biblical truth. After healing a young man on the Sabbath Jesus and the young man were pressured and persecuted for breaking with cultural norms. Jesus says in the book of John, that He is the Door. The Door that saves us, protects us, and brings us peace.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe Banks looks at the passage in John 8, where Jesus says, "I AM the Light of the world." What did Jesus mean? Light shines into the darkness and everything is seen.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Jesus fed 5,000+ people and they didn't understand that He came to give them a deeper satisfaction than just a full belly for a day. Our own immediate dissatisfaction with our job, our relationships, or our physical bodies become front and center. Jesus is the Bread of Life who satisfies all of our wants if we turn to Him.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe starts this new message series: I AM. Have you ever thought about the importance of knowing God's personal name? Would you even know what His personal name is if you were to asked?
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe Banks shares the Good News that Jesus came to bring forgiveness and hope. Sin separated us from God. Jesus came to us to provide a way back to God.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
People react all different ways when their favorite celebrity comes to town. People were lining up to see Jesus when he came to Jerusalem. They saw victory in a new King. Jesus wept because they didn't recognize that God was right there with them.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe concludes the Recall series on the book of James with a serious look at what happens when we wander away from God.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
When change happens, relationships drift. We look today at our relationship with our holy, heavenly Father God.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We can find hope even in hardship. It can be so hard to be patient when things seem overwhelming.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Rev. Eric Hoffman shares his heart for the lost.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We are coming back to the book of James. It's not easy to hear the truth of the Gospel sometimes. Today, we are talking about money. James doesn't mince words when he is talking to those whose heart is all about their money.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Football players know that they have a contract where there are negotiated terms, a record of performance, and punishment for failure. God does not desire to establish a contract with you, but a covenant. Covenants are based on a personal relationship not a business transaction.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Jarrod Six talks about how we let things get in the way of serving God. In Matthew 19:16-22, Jesus talks to a young man who can't give up his status and possessions and misses out on what God had for his life.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
There are SO MANY great things happening at Abundant Church that Pastor Joe wanted to take few minutes to share some of the incredible things that have happened in the last 6 months and where we are heading. The excitement and momentum moving us forward in 2024 is contagious because there is something for everyone.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
The last two weeks we talked about finding stability in God's Word and Prayer.
Today, we talking about the third and final piece, Redwood Faith. Redwood trees have shallow roots that intertwine with other redwoods to withstand fires, droughts, and storms. Here's the truth: in order for us to grow, thrive, and survive
throughout a lifetime, we cannot do it alone!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
In Part 1 we learned that God's Word brings stability to our lives through God's revelation and truth. This week we talk about how prayer brings stability to our lives through God's presence and power.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We sometimes feel like we are holding it all upright, but everything can shift quickly when we don't have a firm foundation.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
The church was being persecuted in James 4:13-17. The passionate Christians were getting diluted by the worldly culture around them. Is there really a secular/sacred divide?
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
The prophecy in Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus, The Prince of Peace. What is peace? How do we achieve it?
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Looking at James 4, we see that the early Christians had issues with fighting for power and influence. The conflict was making them an enemy of God. Fight FOR community, not with it.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe takes us through James 3.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Just as in a car, our faith can become misaligned. In James 3, we see that our words and heart can get out of line with one another. Words can be powerful and destructive. It is impossible to tame our words on our own.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Randy Copeland shares from James 2:14-19.
There are three types of faith mentioned in this passage:
1. Dead Faith- Substitute words for deeds
2. Demonic Faith- Mind and Emotions
3. Dynamic Faith- A Changed Life
A dynamic, saving faith involves the mind, emotions, and will to act upon that faith.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
As the Holy Spirit reveals certain sins in our lives, we cannot afford to continue to dismiss what He reveals. We tend to think, "Is it really that big of a deal? Is not loving my neighbor as big of a sin as murder?"
Partiality fails to treat all persons as equally made in the image of God.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Some people are just "subscribers" to God's Word, but not putting it into action. Having authentic faith is like putting both feet on the pedals of a bicycle and working to move in the blessings that God has for you.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
If a trial drags on, we can become so worn down to the point where we can easily slip into “survival mode" and lose perspective on the future.
This is precisely the part of our faith journey that James wants to RECALL first…
how we respond in TRIALS. When trials come your way, it’s not a time for survival, distraction, and destruction, but instead a time of production!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe starts the new message series, RECALL based on the Book of James. If not addressed, recalled, and genuinely fixed, a failing part of your faith has the potential to wreck it entirely, or certainly break down in the middle of
an intersection of life.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe wraps up the Because of Jesus message series by looking at Ephesians 2.
Are we really God's masterpiece? We are reconciled with God and united with each other. This makes us family!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
When you release what God has given you, you will receive more than you could ever imagine!
Jesus says in Matthew 6:1-4 to watch out, give, and God will reward. God wants to bless us, but when we hold tightly to the things that we have we miss those blessings.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We as a culture become obsessed with finding the right job.
Favorite Wrong Jobs of Christians:
-
- The Judge
-
- The Boss
-
- The Main Character
God has an identity and job for us to do. We are to be ambassadors for Christ.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
What does the Holy Spirit bring to your life? Was the Holy Spirit just something that the New Testament Church experienced or is the Holy Spirit for today?
Once we embrace the Spirit of God, we will begin living powerfully beyond ourselves onto the greatest most fulfilling adventure this side of heaven.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Youth Pastor, Ana Vakauta shares a message of hope today. Hope isn't about wishful thinking, it's found in JESUS. In Hebrews 13:8, it says that, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." We don't have to stay in depression and hopelessness because of Jesus, we are never alone.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Because of Jesus we are free from the condemnation that is produced from performance oriented, rules based religion. We can be free to experience the JOY of abiding in Christ through following His Holy Spirit.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Illinois District Superintendent for the Assemblies of God, Pastor Phil Schneider talks about how God provided for the Israelites and He will do it for us today. Struggles and battles arise that may try to steal our joy and peace. We have to be ready for what God has in store for us.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We all love the feeling of opening something new, but the excitement wears off. We can't make ourselves new, but Jesus can.
Pastor Joe talks about being born again. We can have a new heart and be reconciled back to God, but not because of anything that we do to earn His favor.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe Banks talks today about how the pain of rejection is as real as any physical pain. It's strange to think that the God of the universe knows the pain that we have experienced, but He does.
God could have abandoned us to hell, but instead He sent Jesus to pay for our sins like the lamb that was sacrificed in the Old Testament. The closest we will ever be to seeing God on this side of eternity, will be through the ways in which we love each other... despite how we've been treated.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Lead Pastor, Joe Banks gives us part 1 of the challenging new series, "Because of Jesus".
When asked the question, "Who is is Jesus?" How do you answer?
Popular culture and other religions say so many things about Jesus, but you have to make the declaration yourself. Is Jesus a Liar, Lunatic, or Lord?
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Lead Pastor, Joe Banks talks through Matthew 16:13-18 where Jesus tells Peter about building the Church. Jesus wasn't talking about a building, He was talking about the gathering of people. Church was never meant to be just a consumer driven place.
Our purpose is NOT to:
1. Be a “spiritual clinic” where people check in and out.
2. Build the best “brand”.
3. Bring attention, fame, or recognition to any one or more persons.
We will gather to:
1. Experience God’s presence together.
2. Be taught and trained according to God’s Word.
3. Be empowered by His Spirit for the Work of the ministry.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Randy Copeland shares from the book of Joshua. God had a plan for Joshua when Moses died. God is faithful time and time again. In times of transition we have to keep moving forward together with expectation.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Pastor Phil Schneider shares from Mark 5 about the miraculous healings that Jesus gave to people. Some needed emotional healing, others needed spiritual or physical healing. It is never too late to come to Jesus for the healing that you need.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Gary Blanchard shares his last Sunday message at Abundant Church as interim pastor. Today he talks about Exodus 14 where the Israelites are heading into the desert and are followed by the Egyptians.
When we are struggling to see the big picture, God still has a plan. He will ask us to move out in faith. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in Lord and He will make our paths straight. Miracles happen at the intersection of faith and obedience.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Joe Banks asks us, "What really is THE BEST?" We sometimes make idols of the things that we want, but really aren't the BEST for us. God had a plan for each of us even before we were born, so we can trust that God's Best is Yet to Come.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor, Gary Blanchard shares from Haggai about the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.
Three Keys to Prayer:
- Let go of the past
- Look up to a big God
- Look ahead for God's best
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor, Gary Blanchard shares from Acts 12:1-11 about how Peter didn't give up. He had a promise, provision, and a problem.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor Gary Blanchard talks about people in the Bible who were desperate for a move of God.
Desperate People:
- Look beyond the circumstances
- Don't tolerate negativity
- Live with an attitude of expectation
- Celebrate God’s Faithfulness
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest speaker, Steven Evans shares a parable from Luke 8. Jesus wasn't talking about dirt and seeds in his message, he was relating a parallel story that concealed and revealed.
There were four types of soil in this parable.
- The Seed got trampled on the foot path.
- The Soil was thin and dry.
- The Seed got choked out by thorns and weeds.
- The Seed and soil were optimal and thrived.
Take away:
- Pain and abuse can knock people down and make them guarded.
- Some people come to faith, but don't get grounded in God's Word so they don't learn and grow.
- Some get so busy that they don't make time for God so they are spiritually weak.
- Even messed up people can thrive and be fruitful in their faith.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest speaker and author, Jonathan Hardy shares a story from 2 Kings.
We can learn 3 things from this passage:
- God wants to partner with you to accomplish His purposes.
- God will give you opportunities to make a difference.
- God will use you to the degree you believe for His help.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor, Gary Blanchard talks about a little friend called Frustration. The early church got frustrated in Acts 8 and we can learn from their experience.
Frustration is a:
1. Gift that leads to either stagnation or transformation
2. Motivator
3. Test of our obedience
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Pastor Debby Inman shares the story about Martha and Mary. We can see how cultural expectations and internal pressures had Martha stressed out. Mary was oblivious to those pressures and challenged the cultural norms of the day to sit and learn with the men. Martha did a lot of things right and learned that spending time with Jesus was more important than the busy things that distracted her.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor Gary Blanchard shares from Acts 5 about how a church that is ON MISSION:
1. Operates in the gifts of the Holy Spirit
2. Confronts sin
3. Equips believers for victory over sin
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor, Gary Blanchard shares 7 characteristics of a life-giving church based on Acts 3:1-10.
A Life-Giving Church:
- Works in Unity
- Prays
- Recognizes Needs
- Creates an Attitude of Expectation
- Calls on the Power that is in the Name of Jesus
- Are Do-ers of the Word
- Never loses its sense of Wonder and Amazement
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Interim Pastor, Gary Blanchard shares from Acts 2. The Holy Spirit brings boldness to our witness, joy to our worship, and power to our prayer lives.
If you want to be filled with the Holy Spirit here are 4 things that you can do:
1. Believe the promise is for you.
2. Have an attitude of expectation.
3. Pray in faith believing.
4. Speak what flows from within you.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Pastor Gary Blanchard starts this new series on the book of Acts called "On Mission". Today we look at the decisions that the early followers of Jesus had to make and how we face the same struggles.
4 Decisions:
1. Wait or Walk Out?
2. Be All Together or Be Alone?
3. FaceTime with God or Facebook with Friends?
4. God's Word or Man's Word?
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest speaker, Rev. Gary Blanchard asks us, "What do you do when your life hits a roadblock?"
Learn from four life changing truths:
- Don’t run from God; run to God.
- Don’t let your imagination create problems that aren’t problems.
- Don’t forget God’s Word.
- Don’t live in your pain…run towards your dream.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Reverend Gary Blanchard talks to us about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.
This message of hope reminds us that:
- Your history doesn't determine your journey.
- The Promises of God Never Grow Old.
- With God’s commands comes God’s enablement.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Rev. Gary Grogan talks from John 1:16 "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another."
- The ministry of Jesus contained GRACE and TRUTH.
- Jesus is the source of all BLESSING.
- We NEED God’s grace.
- God’s grace can become EVER-INCREASING.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest speaker, Rev. Gary Grogan talks to us from the book of John. Jesus can help us let go of the past, find relief from the pressures of today, and have hope in the future. That is REAL FREEDOM.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest speaker, Rev. Gary Grogan talks to us about how much God the Father loves us. The Father in Luke 15 loves his son and he prepares a place at the table. He is a loving God who loves us unconditionally.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Guest Speaker, Pastor Randy Copleand talks to us today about God's Perfect Love moves through us, His Church.
- God's love casts out fear. - 1 John 4:18
- God's judgment fell on Jesus at the cross so that we could be spared. - Isaiah 53:6
- God's perfect love provides supernatural power. - 2 Timothy 1:7
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We look at the revival going on in college campuses and wonder how we can experience revival right now. Pastor Jasen Petersen gives us 3 steps for positioning ourselves for revival:
- Repentance
- Total Abandonment
- Live Out Revival
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Jesus gave us the commandment to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Today, Pastor Chilly talks about FOUR things that help us love God with ALL our HEART:
- HOLY WORD
- HOLY GENEROSITY
- HOLY LIFESTYLE
- HOLY SPIRIT
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
In this new series Pastor Chilly talks about what love really means. God's love is summed up in John 3:16.
Does your heart reflect the love of God? He asks us to love Him with all of our Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength. What does that mean?
Heart (greek: Kardia)= center of our thoughts, emotions and intentions.Soul (greek: Psuche)= our essential self, life or being. “Breath”Mind (greek: Dianoia)= imagination, understanding; deep thought.Strength (greek: Ischus)= physical ability, might and power.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Pastor Chilly concludes this message series: UNSTOPPABLE Strength. Paul's words in 2 Corinthians give us:
- A MESSAGE FROM OUR ENEMY - HARM!
- A MESSAGE FROM PAUL - HELP!
- A MESSAGE FROM GOD - HOPE!
- A MESSAGE TO THE WORLD - HA!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
2 Corinthians says that, "anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" The more you keep CHANGING the more things will CHANGE!
Here are Pastor Chilly's 4 RIDICULOUS UNSTOPPABLE EQUATIONS :
- ORDINARY + GOD = EXTRAORDINARY!
- YOU — EVERYTHING = ANYTHING!
- OBEDIENCE + OTHERS = DISCIPLESHIP
- FEARLESS + FAITHFUL = UNSTOPPABLE
UNSTOPPABLE TRANSFORMATION COMPELS US TO NEVER QUIT LOVING PEOPLE INTO AN AUTHENTIC, LIFE-CHANGING RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST AND OTHERS!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Staying focused on our Mission (To lead people into an authentic, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ and others) keeps us united. We are a group of people from many different backgrounds but, WE AGREE:
- To do ANYTHING short of SIN to reach people without CHRIST.
- To strive to do MORE with LESS!
- To LET GO and LET JESUS LEAD!
- We are NOT called to be a MEGACHURCH… but a MISSION CHURCH with a MEGA VISION
- We WILL make a DIFFERENCE!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Our mission at Abundant Church is: To lead people into an authentic, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ and others.We MUST be a church where:1. Everyone is Wanted.
2. Everyone is Needed.
3. Everyone is Changed.
That is how people are transformed! This is how we become UNSTOPPABLE.
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
It's a new year and Pastor Chilly Chilton challenges us be Most Valuable Players in our every day walk with Jesus.
Here are 4 ways to get you started:
- Most Valuable Player - out of the stands
- Most Valuable Payer - give everything
- Most Valuable Prayer - obeying the coach
- Most Valuable Preyer - tenacious unity
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
The holidays can be so weird and full of disappointments sometimes. We can learn from Jesus in Mark 14. When His friends kept falling asleep and weren't there for Him, Jesus knew that he could trust in God.
Here are 5 Fast Lessons from Jesus:
- Jesus became vulnerable. INVITE THEM.
- Jesus saw their failure as human weakness not indifference. UNDERSTAND THEM.
- Jesus didn't shift the blame to the disciples. LOVE THEM.
- Jesus didn't let the failure of His friends mess up His relationship with the God. FORGIVE THEM.
- Jesus didn't let the failure of His friends mess up His relationship with them. BELIEVE IN THEM!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Immanuel means "God with us." Having God with us makes all things possible. Joseph had to have incredible faith when God's plan didn't seem to line up with his. In this week's episode Pastor Chilly Chilton gives us three ways to be present for anything.
- Live your BEST Life for God!
- Don’t Freak Out when God’s Plans Don’t Make Sense
- Obey Quickly and Completely!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
We are starting a new message series today: Christmas Presence. When was the last time that you put down your phone and were fully present? Jesus was and IS ALL HERE.
Here are a few important lessons that we can learn from Galatians:
- Shift from Me to We.
- Focus on the GOOD above the Doing.
- Trust God’s TIMING not Your Patience.
- Jump at the Chance to Bless!
- God DESIGNED Us for EACH OTHER!
Watch the message at: https://abundant.church/resources/sermons/
Our GOAL each week is that WE, as joyful representatives of every channel of culture, join together here (and in churches around the world) to:
- encounter His presence,
- discover their purpose,
- receive His plan, and,
- begin the process.
We can have different opinions and ideas but still have a love that unites us. As we look at some letters from the apostle Paul we can be encouraged and challenged. Our Calling is rarely easy and often requires multiple steps & persistence. We Have: ONE CALLING, ONE PRAYER, ONE CHURCH,ONE HEART, ONE PURPOSE= We are ONE!
In today's message Pastor Chilly Chilton talks about how God gave us His BEST- Jesus. How can we be stingy with our faith or money? Do you have Wisdom, Generosity, Unselfishness, Humility, Faith? These may not seem like super powers but they are SO like God!
How do we become Kingdom Builder- Super Generous People?
1. Seek it
2. Schedule it
3. Super Size it
This Kingdom Builders series is introducing a new initiative to generosity at Abundant Church. Kingdom Builders is not just a series title, but a focus on investing our lives to: Love God, Love Others, and Make Disciples.
In today's message, Pastor Chilly Chilton talks about the courage that comes in the middle of the storms. We must keep our fight, faith, and focus, because each of us is positioned right where we can develop our faith and build our testimony.
In this week's message Pastor Chilly pokes fun at our collective lack of humility. As a culture we get praised for being powerful and spectacular, but Jesus was the ultimate humble servant. (Thankfully, you don't have to go around washing people's feet.) Making the choice to NOT play the "me first" game may be the most powerful witness to the "selfie culture".
The condition of your heart is revealed in your relationships. Every day we can choose to ask, "How can I help you?"
Pastor Chilly's message this week comes from 2 Kings. When they were starving and saw no way out, God provided. What we call hopeless, God calls opportunity. Their hunger was satisfied, poverty broken, and dignity was restored. When love overcomes hate and forgiveness is given:
- Selfishness shrinks quickly
- Blessings are BEST shared
- Overcome the fear of rejection
Pastor Chilly talks about how we struggle with our own ignorance and prejudices and forget to LOVE PEOPLE. If you respond with love you are able to show compassion. It takes courage to go beyond your religion, habits, and opinions to live, "EVERY DAY JESUS."
Here's how, according to Jesus in Luke 10:26-35:
- Refuse to look away.
- Figure out your feelings.
- Process from your knees.
- Don't let 'germs' get in your way.
- Fight being annoyed by inconvenience.
- Pay ANY price to be like Jesus!
- When love is the motivation, you won't skimp.
In today's message, Pastor Chilly Chilton talks about the night that Jacob wrestled with God. Jacob wouldn't let go until God blessed him and his name was changed from Jacob to Israel. His destiny was influenced by his courage. So keep pursing, fighting, and holding on because when we spend time with God our walk should be significantly different.
Jesus was friends with tax collectors, prostitutes, fishermen, and all kinds of other disreputable sinners. In today's talk, Pastor Chilly reminds us that Jesus came to heal the broken, angry, and lost.
Jesus LOVES the dirty but He also sees who they will become — then, He lovingly and patiently leads them to their destiny. Are you extending grace and loving others where they are?
In today's message, Pastor Chilly Chilton starts the new message series: RIVALS. Looking at the life of Joshua, we see that he had to have tremendous courage to risk everything for God. God is calling us to be courageous too!
Pastor Chilly Chilton talks about erasing Debt, Doubt, and Drama in this week's message.
- Erase debt in order to be generous.
- Erase ignorance and invest in the people around us.
- Erasing greed helps us to realize that we are just managers not owners of anything.
When we create margin, we experience blessings and contentment!
In today's talk, Pastor Chilly Chilton tells us about the time Jesus took a nap in a boat during a storm. He calmed the storm and then took the time to heal a naked man full of demons.
To have margin like Jesus we have to:
- Be Ready to Love Monsters.
- See Beyond Outward Appearances.
- Have Time to Restore Others.
- Help Others Find Their Calling.
In today's message Pastor Chilly Chilton talks about how we stress ourselves out and don't always leave margin for the things that matter. He uses the example of Martha and Mary from the book of Luke to show us that Martha was stressed out about the things that weren't important. Jesus knew that the ONE THING that Mary needed was time with Him.
The CPR of Margin is:
- Control Stress
- Pursue Relationships
- Remain Faithful
In this week's message, Pastor Chilly talks about how every kid needs stories, a tribe, and FUN to thrive. A sense of purpose, belonging, and connections are made when families spend time together. Everything is Just a Phase, so don't miss it. Say YES to showing up for the next generation.
In this week's message, Pastor Chilly talks about how every kid needs time, love, and encouraging words to thrive. Consistently being present week after week and investing in their future helps them develop a sense of worth and direction. How many weeks do you have left to influence your kids?
In today's talk, Pastor Chilly Chilton tells us that "showing up" is the best way to have influence in a child's life. You can't expect your kids to be influenced by power, authority, or success. Influence comes through daily interactions and meeting them where they are. Through this three part series on the family we will look at how we as parents or influencers can maximize that influence at each phase of development.
Where do you go when you face a storm? David talks in Psalm 91 about God being the first place to run to for shelter. God's promises are the armor and protection that allow us to rest from the storms.
David is anointed king as a young man. He trusted God through very difficult circumstances and gave God his EVERYTHING.
A rip tide is not easily seen from the shore but if you get caught, it can take you out to sea. In this week's episode Pastor Chilly Chilton takes the analogy of the ocean's rip tide and likens it to getting stuck in the temptation of sin.
Psalm 1:1-6 shows us two clear paths: Blessed and Liked By God or A Life of Sin. We all make choices every day and it isn't God tempting us into sin.
What does it mean to be salt of the earth people? Daniel Drainer, the worship pastor at Abundant Church shares from Psalm101. Are you being salty or SALTY?
God is calling us to live above the line of Sin, Pettiness, Hate, & Arrogance. We are called to live a humble life and live with love, empathy, compassion, and abundance. Jesus is the ONE who can transform our lives.
Jasen Petersen, the NextGen Pastor at Abundant Church talks to us today about worship. Worship is more than singing a song, it's a life-style. God is worthy of our praise, not just on Sundays and Wednesdays but every day.
David found himself waiting for God and felt abandoned in Psalm 40. He changed his perspective and abandoned himself TO God. God waits for us to come to the end of ourselves.
Does your life feeling like it is being flipped? When we experience a change we need to remember that God is THE SOLID ROCK. We can learn so many lessons from David in the Psalms. This week we learned that God is EVERYTHING I NEED.
It hurts to be excluded. David asked two questions in Psalm 15, "Who gets invited? How do we get on the guest list?" God gave him NINE answers:
1. Walk Straight
2. Act Right
3. Tell the Truth
4. Don't Hurt Your Friends
5. Don't Blame Your Neighbor
6. Despise the Despicable
7. Keep Your Word
8. Make an Honest Living
9. Never take a Bribe
We are starting a new message series this week called "Summer Songs: the Psalms of David."
The wonder that you feel looking at the star filled sky, the Grand Canyon, or the vastness of the oceans is nothing compared to the WONDER that we can experience when we think about the God who created it all. David is so relatable and teaches us many things through the Psalms: 1. Praise God in every way 2. Turn on the lights 3. Explode with Love 4. Forgive Fearlessly 5. Stay Engaged.
In John chapter three Nicodemus came to Jesus with questions and Jesus gave him a life plan that offered transformation!
Jesus spoke about crazy, awesome LOVE. We hear people everyday talking about who they DON'T love.
Jesus said to bless those who are your enemy. We aren't called to "put up with people." He calls us to be generous, compassionate, forgiving, accepting, and ready for adventure!
In the Old Testament people used stones as reminders of God's faithfulness. Today, Jesus is our cornerstone that we build upon. Our testimony (story of what God has done) teaches us and others to never forget or quit.
Sometimes blessings backfire. Moses learned some hard lessons when he didn't trust God and just did things the way that worked in the past. Waiting on God brings things into perspective. It's important that we don't get tripped up on stumbling blocks and start complaining, but look beyond what we've experienced so far.
Pastor Chilly brings the message home on Mother's Day. Do we throw stones at the next generation when we don't like the same things that they do? We sometimes set unrealistic expectations instead of being approachable and encouraging. In today's message we learn five ways to get "bread" into our kids.
1. Ask for God's wisdom and then live it out in front of your family.
2. Seek allies that will help you see the good.
3. Knock and get your foot in the door to talk and listen to your kids.
4. Serve like Jesus and be the example of humility not hypocrisy.
5. Show joy and be deliberate in your daily life.
As we start this new series we look at stepping stones like transitions in life. Today's message comes from the Old Testament story of David and Goliath. David chose to face his giant with faith in God and five smooth stones. What terrifies you? We have a tendency to shrink back in fear when giants come. Just like David, we can't trust in someone else's armor to protect us.
In Acts 1 when the Holy Spirit swept into Jerusalem, people's lives were radically transformed. When we live FULL of the Holy Spirit, it spills out onto others. Let's get going and get so full that we become more generous and fulfilled in all areas of life.
This Resurrection Sunday we see that Jesus had a plan all along and there is no fear too big for Jesus. The disciples were so afraid that they didn't believe the Good News! Jesus never leaves you, even through doubt. In fact, Jesus keeps revealing Himself to doubters, skeptics, and haters. Jesus then told the disciples and He is telling us: GO and boldly tell everyone about Him.
Today we are challenged by Jesus' words in Mark chapter 10. Are we putting our faith in the wrong place? If everything is stripped away and all we have is Jesus, is that enough or are we settling for "just good enough"? We have to ask ourselves, "Who or what is my Lord and Savior?" Because Jesus requires that we place HIM first- above all else.
Peter just didn't get it when Jesus was meeting with the Old Testament superstars on the mountain. Are we acting like Peter; sleeping through moments with Jesus?
Everyone is in one of three stages: going into a storm, in the middle of one, or they've just come out of one. Today we look at Mark 6 where the disciples were struggling in a literal storm. We can learn so much from this passage. If we take time with God in SOLITUDE, embrace the TRIALS, react with OBEDIENCE, gain some REFLECTION, and use what we learn for MINISTRY, then we will come through the STORM stronger and closer to God.
Jesus came to a man who wasn't asking for help. As "the church" we encounter people all the time who don't want religion. Only Jesus saves and delivers. THAT is the hope that we need to extend to others.
In this episode we look at the incredible story in Mark 2 of Jesus healing a man who is lowered down from the roof! Jesus stopped what he was doing and gave worth to the man who was paralyzed. He spoke directly to the thoughts of the doubters and everyone was stunned.
We are starting this new series "Mark Madness" and looking at the stories of Jesus through the eyes of Peter. Peter was excited to tell what happened when Jesus showed up. Jesus changed everything.
So what is love and how do we love people God's way? We say things like, "I love pizza." Loving God and others selflessly is something totally different.
What is marriage supposed to look like? Do you think of your spouse as a treasure? That's how God talks about marriage in the Bible. We prepare for our TREASURE with our genuine relationship with Jesus!
We can learn a lot from a little bouncy ball. When we fall, we need to be ready to bounce back up. Choosing joy and serving others will let people see the light of Jesus shine through you.
We celebrate communion together as community as Jesus intended. Communion is called by many different names and each name focuses on a different aspect of what it means to partake in Christ's sacrifice.
Pastor Chilly Chilton talks to us today from Mark 8. As we finish up the last message in the Every Day Jesus series we talk about leaving a legacy. Are we living for ourselves or for others?
Pastor Chilly Chilton talks to us today from Matthew 8. Even though Jesus is THE BIG LORD, He is also approachable and willing to meet us right where we are. Jesus healed a leper and hears our desperate cries as well.