West Side Christian Church: Sunday Messages: Recent Episodes
West Side Christian Church
Money loves to lure people in and trap them. The Bible warns about its effects and instructs us to guard our hearts against it. When it comes to people to watch out for, be wary of money-chasers. Before you point fingers in the other direction though, look within first. Has the love of money ensnared you?
We live among peacebreakers who are bent on fighting and defending, but following Jesus means laying down our spears in favor of calm resolution. When you’re under attack, commit to doing the good-hard work of being a peacemaker.
The world is flooded with truth-twisting dishonesty. Watch out for people who distort, omit and exaggerate that which is real by staying grounded in the truth that comes from Jesus and his Word.
When it comes to discerning others’ character, watch out for self-promoters. They can often be found applauding themselves, seeking attention and demanding special treatment. They’re everywhere, but if you happen to see one staring back at you when you look in the mirror, take action: Ask God to help you remove the spotlight from yourself in order to shine it on him.
Joy comes from contentment. Just ask Paul. Whether life is abundant or scarce, he’ll show you that when you trust that God has given you enough for today, joy will follow.
Anxiety and worry are epidemic, but not the answer to the difficult seasons life produces. Through Jesus, JOY can prevail in hard times. Ready to build a resilient spirit that can withstand the storms of life? Look to him.
Obedience often gets a bad rap because it’s seen as restrictive to follow someone or something. The truth of the matter is that true freedom and joy are only found when one commits to a life of obedience and surrender to Jesus.
It’s human to live with a me first mindset. But Christ calls us higher. Just as he humbled himself by leaving the riches of heaven to relocate to our broken planet, we too ought to live lives drenched in humility. That’s where the joy happens.
Consider the Apostle Paul your new joy coach, not because he jumped from one high to the next his whole life, but because he learned that deep and lasting joy can be present even in life’s hardest moments. If it can be true for him, it can be true for you, too
God created sex and designed it to be good. But he also determined the context in which it is good for us. In a world that preaches otherwise, let’s trust and follow God when it comes to our sexual lives – and let’s trust that his grace is sufficient to bring healing and hope when we have strayed outside the boundaries of his plan.
It’s an election year that promises to bring fear, anxiety and outrage for many. Rather than become enmeshed in the chaos, Jesus calls his Church to experience it from a higher place -- through the lens of his lasting kingdom. Let’s rise above the fray in this political season and bring Jesus’ calming peace to the political storm.
When it comes to TRUTH, it’s all about the source. Don’t expect to find it in your feelings, through culture or by way of celebrity musings. Truth has always had a singular, reliable source – Jesus. Discover the Way, the Truth and the Life in him.
It’s time to celebrate! 147 people said goodbye to yesterday and welcomed NEW LIFE in Jesus through baptism today! The old is gone, the new is here! As you praise God for working in the hearts of so many, ask him to move in others who have yet to surrender their lives to Jesus in this most important way!
True, genuine love involves making a conscious choice to do and say what is right, even when it is difficult. Let's let God's Word and Jesus' example challenge us with what it really means to live a life of love.
We live in a “get-even” society where vengeance and retaliation are encouraged and celebrated over forgiveness. The latter is rarely easy, but it’s the only way to move toward resolve and healing. Love keeps no record of wrong, so ask God to help you forgive others as he has forgiven you.
Insisting on my own way, prioritizing my preferences, and seeking my well-being over others’ does not exemplify the life of love God calls us to in 1 Corinthians. Love is, after all, patient and kind. It’s not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. And it certainly does not demand its own way.
Humility is not just a compelling character trait. It’s a life-giving gift we offer to those we love. Watch last Sunday’s message and realize that the greatest pathway to your own joy is to look out for the interests of others.
Do you find yourself feeling jealous of others? Maybe it only comes up every once in a while. But maybe your jealousy happens more often. And just maybe, it's become toxic. Whether you struggle with jealousy often or occasionally, Jake's message will help you grow in your love for others.
Love is not just a word. It must become a way. It’s not just a feeling, rather, it needs to be a habitual behavior. In a world bent on outrage and reactivity, practice love by being patient with others when they fall short. After all, it’s how God loves you.
Earthly treasures make empty promises – don’t fall for them. Place your trust (and finances) in something eternal. When we seek the Kingdom of God first, he throws in more than we ever knew we needed. Let guest speaker Tim Harlow remind you that when you chase after God in all areas of your life, he’ll provide for in ways you can’t even imagine.
What does it look like to TRUST God fully with my money? If you’re ready for him to shape you more into the person he wants you to become, check out this compelling message on learning to trust him in all things.
When it comes to raising the next generation, what matters most? Check out our Mother’s Day teaching featuring Jodi Hickerson and instill this truth in the kids you love: Who you are is more important than where you go or what you do.
Zacchaeus was rich by the standards of his day, but at the soul level, he was dirt poor. Then he met Jesus. If money has yet to give you the happy, fulfilling life you thought it would, check out this message and allow Jesus to redefine what it means to be RICH.
Zacchaeus was rich by the standards of his day, but at the soul level, he was dirt poor. Then he met Jesus. If money has yet to give you the happy, fulfilling life you thought it would, check out this message and allow Jesus to redefine what it means to be RICH.
When the going got tough, Queen Esther didn’t wilt under pressure. She leaned into grit and saved her people. What hard thing is God is calling you to do today? Though the task may feel daunting, do as Esther did: lean into grit and find confidence, knowing that God has called you for such a time as this.
Perhaps in the end, there’s actually only one kind of suffering after all: the kind God uses to teach us. To shape us. To purify us. To make us complete and mature. If you’re in a current season of suffering, check out this message and cling to your Father, who will not only see you through your suffering, but also teach you more about his loving goodness along the way.
We're certain that only one thing can consistently defeat worry: God's word. Things around you can be swirling out of your control, but there's a truth you can deploy to counter it: God is enough. Need to gain some grit like this in your life? Watch Eddie's full message, Gaining Grit.
When the going gets tough in life, you need a gritty faith to get you through. This important quality will help you lean into God and hold on longer than expected. So, don’t give up. Hang on, commit to grit, and take the next step.
They should have known based on all they had been taught, but they nearly missed it. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead caught even his closest followers off guard. Sometimes, God’s plans look different than our own. When they do, reorient your life to follow the One who always knows best.
As we enter into Holy Week, reflect on the events that led to Jesus’ death on the cross. What began as people showering him with honor and praise quickly turned to betrayal, denial, insult, desertion, and rejection. Christ’s murder was intended to stop him once and for all. Praise God there’s far more to the story …
One of the most important postures you can take in life is one of repentance. Just ask King David. Sin separates us from God, but a repentant heart? It’ll bring you back and save you.
Many of us move toward God only to remember our sin and hide from him. Friend, you have been redeemed. There’s no need to hide. If killing a man wasn’t the end of Moses’ story, your mistakes and messes aren’t the end of yours. Trust that God is still writing!
It’s crystal clear: You will never move beyond your anger if you don’t face it. And anger that goes unchecked? It might not lead to murder, but it certainly won’t lead to peace in your life, either. Fortunately, we can learn from others’ mistakes, in which case, Cain has much to teach us.
You can't live a new life if you're stuck in your old ways, so throw off your old self once and for all and surrender fully to Christ. You'll look different from the world, but that's because you are. Thank God for new life and second chances!
God knows the highest and best use of your life, and he is committed to equipping you for it. In fact, he has instilled in you a gift, a God-given capacity that is needed by others and is fulfilling for you. Curious how to figure out what you’ve been made for? Watch Eddie’s message, Custom Made, and learn how you can live out your truest calling.
God cherishes one thing above everything else he created: people. He designed you to look like him – to bear his image--along with the rest of humanity. So, reflect your maker in all you do; after all – you were made for this!
You were made to elevate Jesus over everything and everyone– including yourself. So, what does it look like to live by the words, less of me, more of you? Check out Eddie’s teaching and ask God to use your life to point toward his.
With life comes disappointment. How you handle it makes all the difference. Check out Eddie’s teaching and lean into this truth: No matter how much people hurt and disappoint you in this life, God can redeem it for good.
Marriage is hard. Period. So, what’s the secret to thriving in this relationship even in the most difficult of times? Practicing love as a behavior even when you don’t feel like it. Check out Sunday’s message and learn to unlock love for your spouse that reflects the same love God has for you.
Although God may not be working in the ways you want him to work, remember that he is still working for your good in all the ways he sees fit. God works exactly as I expect … *said no one ever. Check out Sunday's message and begin learning to trust him when you can't see or feel him working.
Forgiving others can be hard, especially for those who have been wronged in a way that cuts deep. That said, God will never command us to do something that isn’t ultimately good for us – and that includes his command to forgive. Need help moving toward forgiveness? Begin with this teaching from Eddie.
When Jesus came to us, he brought his light. If you’re tired of living in the darkness, look to him. Check out Eddie’s Christmas message and remember – the good news of great joy that Jesus offers EVERYONE includes YOU. Merry Christmas!
God chose a poor, unimpressive girl from a small town with nothing to her name to bear his Son. He didn’t choose her because she was special, but she was special because she was chosen by God. Check out Sunday’s message on Mary and see yourself in her story. God has also chosen you, as ordinary as you are, to be a Christ-bearer.
God can work through our messy lives to bring about his purposes. Check out Sunday’s message and be reminded that when you struggle to believe, God will help you. When your life has failed to play out according to plan, God is with you. Your messy life will never scare him. He’s always ready to walk toward you.
Unlike most genealogies of the day, Jesus’ family tree doesn’t shy away from people whose lives were riddled with sin and shame. David’s story is one of those. He was an incredible king and an adulterer, liar and murderer. Check out Michael’s message and give thanks that broken lives and stories always have a place in the family of Jesus.
God has a way of using imperfect people to fulfill His perfect plan. Check out Sunday’s message and be encouraged by the active faith of an unlikely hero named Rahab.
Ready to discover the secret to living in deep peace, regardless of life’s circumstances? Check out Sunday’s message and lean into the person whose peace passes all understanding.
We can’t negotiate our death. We can’t ignore it and hope it will go away. But what we can do is put our hope in someone who has conquered it already – someone who started death down and lives again to tell about it. Because of him, we too can be bold in the face of death. Check out Sunday’s message and replace worry with confidence in Christ when it comes to death.
Some of us can't enjoy good things in life because we are preoccupied with terrible things that might happen. Worry. It'll consume you if you allow it. Check out Sunday's message and be reminded that God has invited us to cast all our cares on him. He's ready to carry your worries and replace them with peace if you'll let him.
Even when we are unfaithful in the worst ways, and even when we make choices that betray the one who loves us most, God wants us back. Check out Sunday’s message and be reconciled to him. After all, being right with God is the only way to live a deeply meaningful and satisfying life.
Since the time sin separated the human race from God, waiting has been one of the consequences. And that’s why God calls and even commands us to come to terms with waiting. Do you struggle with patience? Check out Sunday’s message on waiting.
If you’re going to chase anything in life, don’t let it be money, fame, approval or success. Use your days to pursue wisdom. Check out Sunday’s message and learn how to tap into a type of wisdom that brings with it discernment, peace, confidence, prosperity and more.
The world would like for you to think that Christianity is stifling your freedom. In reality, it's ushering you into the best and truest type of freedom: freedom that comes from binding yourself to God. Check out Sunday's message and let the good things of God run wild in your life by enslaving yourself to him.
In stark contrast to the pompous religious elite of the day, Jesus led from a place of meek humility. As his followers, we should do the same. Check out Sunday’s message and exchange your spiritual pride for a humble attitude that says, “O God, I need you.” If Jesus couldn’t live without humility, neither can we.
You can search for true and lasting joy in a million places, but you’ll only find it in one. Check out Sunday’s message and look to Jesus for a joy that lasts.
The foundation of your life matters. Build it on the unfailing truth of God’s word. Check out Eddie’s message and strengthen your life and your faith by engaging the Bible daily.
Baptism is not a rule – it’s an opportunity. It’s not an initiation – it’s a rebirth. And Jesus has invited you to step into the waters. Check out Sunday’s message and don’t hesitate any longer. New life is waiting!
If you have decided to follow Jesus, you’ve said yes to the most important decision you’ll ever make. What comes after that though? Check out Eddie’s message and follow Jesus more deeply and fully by becoming his obedient servant.
What is truth? Check out Sunday's message and learn to live it out so that this world can come to know THE truth in the person of Jesus.
What we pursue matters. Check out Sunday’s message and above all else, learn to earnestly seek a right relationship with God.
Complex Question: Who am I? Simple answer: I am a child of God. You have been chosen and adopted by God, and he’s delighted you’re in his family. Check out Sunday’s message and lean into a Father who loves you and will never let you down.
What’s the absolute wisest decision you can make with your life? To surrender it fully to God. Check out Sunday’s message and let God take control. Decide now to live a life of surrender always.
If you want to stand forever with God, then it starts with standing firm today. Check out Sunday’s message and resolve to plant your feet where it matters.
Want to be rich? It has far more to do with your mindset than your bank account. Check out Sunday’s message and learn to find contentment in having enough.
It’s radically counter-cultural and will not likely be at the top of the list of things your financial adviser recommends; nonetheless, tithing is the single-best financial decision you’ll ever make. Whether you’re far from making that decision, are ready to begin, or plan to continue, check out Eddie’s message and be challenged to live a life of greater generosity. Ready to say yes to the challenge? Head to wschurch.org/trust.
When we arrive at the truth that we own nothing, but are simply managing what's been given to us, we move in the right direction. Check out Sunday's message and begin to TRU$T God with it all.
Our culture preaches a gospel of loyalty to the self or to the right ideological cause. But there's a far better place for your loyalty. Check out Sunday's message and cling to the One who has redeemed you.
The resources we need most in this life are God’s promises and commands. When we take daily steps toward trusting and following them, we grow our faith, please God and unlock the passcode for living the life we’ve always wanted. Check out Sunday’s message.
There's no shortage of advice in the world, but there is a shortage of wisdom. Check out Sunday's message and learn to discern the wise from the foolish by surrounding yourself with the right people.
The world may tell you to follow your heart, but it would be wiser to guard it. Check out Sunday’s message and unlock the code for keeping a right heart so that you can also keep a right life.
The world says: be true to yourself. God says: be skeptical of yourself and trust me. Big difference! Do you feel this tension in your life? Check out Eddie’s message, Trust God, and learn how to trust God even when it doesn’t make sense.
Did the resurrection of Jesus literally happen? Indeed. Whether you have believed it all along or still have your doubts, check out Eddie’s Easter message and know this: Jesus' resurrection matters for you.
When the future looks bright, and when the future looks bleak, Jesus has promised: NOTHING will stop his church. Check out Eddie's message and commit to furthering God's church by being a Jesus-centered, engaged part of it.
What did Jesus say on the topic of judging others? Check out Sunday’s message and learn to show genuine care and concern over the sins of others by approaching them in fairness, humility and love.
God isn't concerned with you becoming a more religious person. He wants you to become a completely different person by receiving the new life he offers through Jesus. Check out Eddie's message from Sunday and learn why being born again trumps living by religious assumptions and attitudes.
Truth is not dead, it’s not undefined, circumstantial or self-determined, even though culture would like us to think otherwise. It is alive and well and can be found in Jesus, the One who is the Way, the TRUTH, and the Life. Check out Sunday’s message and remember: Because of Jesus, Truth is closer than you think.
Christianity was designed to be relational, and we were never intended to follow Jesus alone. Check out Sunday's message and learn how you can grow closer to Jesus in the company of others.
Christianity was designed to be relational, and we were never intended to follow Jesus alone. Check out Sunday's message and learn how you can grow closer to Jesus in the company of others.
God is closer than you think. He’s not in hiding from you on the other side of the universe. He is here. He can be known and experienced. But will you lift a finger to respond? Check out Sunday’s message and remember that God is with you right now and always. Reach out for him.
God is closer than you think. He’s not in hiding from you on the other side of the universe. He is here. He can be known and experienced. But will you lift a finger to respond? Check out Sunday’s message and remember that God is with you right now and always. Reach out for him.
It’s common ground for all humanity – each of us will someday die. These bodies will someday fail us. As that day inches nearer, focus your heart on the future. When you know Jesus, you have an unbelievable one waiting for you. Check out Sunday’s message.
It’s common ground for all humanity – each of us will someday die. These bodies will someday fail us. As that day inches nearer, focus your heart on the future. When you know Jesus, you have an unbelievable one waiting for you. Check out Sunday’s message.
You may never experience Jesus’ glory with your own eyes on this side of heaven, but when you make him your ride or die in this life, he’ll walk you through suffering into resurrection glory on the other side. Check out Sunday’s message and obey Jesus above all.
You may never experience Jesus’ glory with your own eyes on this side of heaven, but when you make him your ride or die in this life, he’ll walk you through suffering into resurrection glory on the other side. Check out Sunday’s message and obey Jesus above all.
Jesus is the answer to everything, including your anxiety. Check out Eddie’s message and be reminded: When life feels out of control, there is One who is still holding it all together, and he can be trusted.
Jesus is the answer to everything, including your anxiety. Check out Eddie’s message and be reminded: When life feels out of control, there is One who is still holding it all together, and he can be trusted.
Satan is real. He’s cruel and conniving, and he’s motivated to draw you into temptation. Learn to stand up to his attempts by following Jesus’ lead. Check out Sunday’s message to learn more.
Satan is real. He’s cruel and conniving, and he’s motivated to draw you into temptation. Learn to stand up to his attempts by following Jesus’ lead. Check out Sunday’s message to learn more.
God doesn’t reserve his crazy asks just for old testament prophets and new testament evangelists. He’s in the business of making crazy asks from all who call themselves followers of Jesus. What’s he asking of YOU? Check out Sunday’s compelling message and give God your YES today.
God doesn’t reserve his crazy asks just for old testament prophets and new testament evangelists. He’s in the business of making crazy asks from all who call themselves followers of Jesus. What’s he asking of YOU? Check out Sunday’s compelling message and give God your YES today.
If God can change the heart of a murderous, Christian-hating man named Saul, he can do it for you, your loved ones, your coworkers, neighbors and friends. Check out Sunday’s message. No one is too far gone to be rescued by the grace of Jesus. No one.
Today, many people surrendered their entire lives to Jesus through the waters of baptism, declaring, “NOTHING will stand in my way.” Check out Eddie’s message and give thanks for Jesus, who makes whole-life transformation possible.
Every now and then, God makes a crazy ask of us. The question is, when he does, will we obey? Check out Sunday’s message and respond YES, knowing that God will be with you every step of the way.
Pressure’s off. You can stop trying to be the greatest. In God’s kingdom, you don’t have to stand out to be picked. Start by becoming like a child – fully dependent on Him. That’s how you find true and lasting greatness.
God cares about what you look at with your EYES because he cares about the condition of your HEART. Check out Sunday’s message and be encouraged: Doing the hard work of training your eyes to live within the boundaries God has set leads to true freedom and gains you a heart that looks more like His.
It’s nice to be recognized and to receive applause and accolades. It even feels good to get likes and comments on social media. But when our need for the applause of man trumps our desire for God’s approval, well, we’ve got a thing or two to learn. Check out Sunday’s message and think twice about your motives for doing and saying and posting the things you do.
None of us like being judged. What did Jesus have to say about judging others? Watch Sunday's message as we wrestle with a well-known teaching from Jesus about not judging, doing plank surgery on ourselves, and seeing clearly.
The biggest cause of financial stress is failing to create margin between what we make and what we spend. Looking to create breathing room within your finances? Check out Sunday’s message and head to wschurch.org/money for free resources that will help eliminate financial stress.
Whether you're tired of money stress, or you're just wanting to live more wisely with what you’ve been given, check out this message. The sooner we align our finances with God, the sooner we become wise, the sooner we find joy, the sooner we receive blessing.
There are no doubt strong feelings when it comes to our money and how we use it. It can certainly be a helpful tool in life, but it can also quickly become an addictive drug. Check out Eddie’s latest message and challenge yourself to listen with open ears. If you want to get a healthy grasp on money, become a more committed, generous giver.
It’s good to be a peacekeeper, but it’s better to be a peacemaker. Check out Sunday’s message and learn to express God’s character: He made peace for us. Let’s make it for others.
When our hearts are fully aligned with our words and actions, Jesus calls us blessed. When they are not, we’re merely actors. Check out Eddie’s message from Sunday and learn what it means to be pure in heart.
What’s one way to bring Jesus’ kingdom near today? By extending mercy to those around you. It’s an invitation to compassion and forgiveness and an opportunity to love people in the same way you’ve been loved by God. Check out Sunday’s message.
If you’ve ever equated meekness with weakness, check out Sunday’s message and shift your thinking. In Jesus’ kingdom, meekness is anything but weak. Meekness is what gains you the whole world.
Worldly wisdom will never tell you that you’re blessed when you mourn – but Jesus says just that. Check out Sunday’s message and learn to mourn over the sin in your life that separates you from Jesus. Then, let him comfort you. It’s what he does best.
So what does it mean to be poor in spirit? Check out Eddie’s message on the first beatitude and commit this core value not just to memory, but to heart: I need God because on my own, I’ll never be good enough or perfect enough.
Jesus’ death and resurrection brings life to all who believe, but we know that for some, believing is hard. Have doubts? You’re not alone. Check out Eddie’s Easter message and know this: your doubts are always welcome here.
You’ve not seen it with your physical eyes, but the image lives in your mind and your heart anyway: an innocent man hanging on a Roman cross to give up his life for you. Check out Sunday’s message and as we walk into Holy Week, reflect on Jesus’ sacrificial act of love. That act rescued you from the grave.
Communion is meant FOR you, but that doesn’t mean it’s ABOUT you. Check out Eddie’s message and find yourself a seat at the Lord’s Table as you remember that this special meal is always about Jesus first, his church second and then you.
We’ve not been tasked with the job of trying to interpret biblical end-time prophecies. But our job is to simply live ready for Jesus’ return. So, check out Eddie’s current teaching and use your days to draw near to the One who holds the future in his hands.
Jesus is both the Lamb of God and the Lion of Judah. He is both welcoming and demanding, both meek and fierce. He loves us more than we can imagine, but he also expects much from us. Check out Sunday’s message and know this: Jesus comes to give life to those who want it, but can deny it from those who aren’t bearing fruit.
Jesus came in both power and humility, with both authority and compassion – and he wants to be the King of your life. Invite him in today by simply saying, “Jesus, save me.” Check out Sunday’s message and know this – Jesus’ kingdom is waiting for you.
Some of us use it routinely a couple of times a day. Some of us use it when we need something. Some of us use it only in times of desperation. Few of us use it as a tool to grow deeper and more connected to God. Check out Sunday’s message on prayer and be reminded that our just God hears us, loves us and is standing by waiting to respond – so, talk to him today!
The invitation has been extended, but it’s up to you to accept. Check out Sunday’s message on the parable of the wedding banquet and recognize this: nothing in this life is more important than saying yes to Jesus’ invitation to participate in the kingdom of God.
It’s one of Jesus’ most famous teachings and is among the most well-known parables in Scripture. Check out Eddie’s teaching on The Good Samaritan and be reminded that we are called to be a neighbor to EVERYONE, even our enemies -- because if Jesus taught on practicing inclusive love over selective love, we should do it.
Jesus used stories to challenge people with truth and drive them to action. In the parable of the shrewd manager, he reminds us that it is wise to take on a manager’s spirit rather than an owner’s spirit when it comes to our resources. After all, the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it… we are called to simply steward well what has been given to us. Want to be a good manager? Begin by bringing help and hope to a child in Kenya. Check out Sunday’s message to learn more.
What is the condition of your heart? Is it hard? Rocky? Thorny? Fertile? Check out Sunday’s message and listen up – it’s time to cultivate rich, healthy soil in your life so that you might hear and receive God’s word.
If you’re experiencing loneliness today, hear this truth: Even when it feels like it, you are not alone. You are never alone. Check out Sunday’s message and find encouragement and real, tangible ways to discover community right here at West Side, because you’re not only welcome here – you belong here. We’d love to be your people.
If you are struggling or ever have struggled with depression, check out Eddie’s message and know this: you are not alone and you are not forgotten -- by us, or by God. There’s no need to sugarcoat your struggles or feel like you need to wear rose-colored glasses either. You can be brutally honest with God and he’ll love you just as much as he ever did.
When life doesn’t unfold as we expect, strong feelings of disappointment, disillusion, and frustration sometimes follow. But what if there’s a better approach? Check out Sunday’s message and learn to trade expectation for expectancy. Instead of trying to control God for the outcome, try trusting him instead.
Eddie recently had the opportunity to sit down with Mindy Caliguire, CEO of Soul Care, to talk about the health and well-being of our souls. If you’re worn out and weary and hope to discover what true rest and peace look like, check out this interview. It’s time to rebel against distraction. It’s time to trade interruption for stillness. It’s time to pay attention to our souls so that they can find rest in Jesus.
We believe that EVERY human being is loved profoundly by a God of grace, who’s inviting them and welcoming them into fellowship with Himself. It is time for us to live this out and put this into practice by developing the habit of hospitality. Join our Next Steps team as they talk about the power of practicing hospitality in the midst of a divisive culture.
Waiting is hard, no doubt. But, when we choose to trust God while we wait, our waiting turns to anticipation and good things happen. Check out Eddie’s Christmas message and learn to wait well. After all, sometimes God takes a long time to deliver on his promises, but he always does. So – wait for it.
When God chose to send his son to earth, he chose the most unassuming location for him to be born: Bethlehem. It was the opposite of impressive Rome, but the perfect place for God to introduce the kind of kingdom he was bringing to earth. Most people missed it that first Christmas, but it was here to stay. Check out Eddie’s message from our Christmas Turntable teaching series.
Happiness has no staying power, but JOY is different. Joy defies circumstances. It can swim upstream and break in or break out when situations don’t favor it. Joy comes from knowing Jesus, and it’s always available. Check out Sunday’s message and sing it out: “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!”
Whenever someone who is lost comes to know the saving grace of Jesus, there’s a massive party in heaven. We might have a new building, but we haven’t changed. Our mission hasn’t changed. We exist to connect EVERYONE to Jesus and his mission, and we’re in the business of pointing people to Jesus. When one of them comes to know that saving grace? Well, you’d better believe we’ll be throwing a party, too. Thanks for joining us for our grand opening. Now go and spread the word – there’s room for EVERYONE in God’s kingdom.
We never just want to be a crowd. We never just want to be a big church. As we celebrate all that God has done over the last 120 years at West Side, we move forward into a new season more committed than ever to be a genuine, biblical community. Check out Sunday’s message and help us double down on being a church that lives authentic community.
It’s been our mission for years: We exist to connect EVERYONE to Jesus. This week Chip unpacked this statement of conviction for us and challenged us to double down on it. Why? Because we deeply believe that Jesus is the hope of the world and the answer to all life’s problems. Church, as we move forward, let’s connect people to the only One who brings true hope, peace, and rescue.
God wants his church to be excellent at giving, not because he needs our money, but because he wants our hearts. Generosity has the potential to grow us in all the right ways if we let it. Check out Eddie’s message and join us as we double down on personal generosity.
Make no mistake – we are in the Bible business, and we’re doubling down on the conviction that its authority in our lives is more necessary than ever. Simply stated – we trust the Bible in all things even when it’s unpopular.
Deep down, what do you believe about yourself? If you’re stuck believing an ugly, broken narrative, check out Sunday’s message and know this: It’s false. God has covered your shame. You are worthy. You are valuable. You are his.
What has the power to damage your relationships, diminish your joy and hinder your growth? Anger. Check out Sunday’s message. It’s time to wise up to this sin before it takes root in your life.
This life presents plenty of opportunity to fear, but it’s time to wise up. When you’re tempted to fear, lean into the promises of God. He makes good on his word every time. Check out Sunday’s message, and do not be afraid!
It’s easy to get sucked into a seemingly endless cycle of temptation, sin and regret that feels inescapable – but it’s not. God is faithful, and he ALWAYS provides a way out. Check out Sunday’s message and learn how to wise up to temptation by tapping into God’s power that’s living in you.
Jesus continues to build his church on earth through people who love and follow him. So, how do we become a part of strengthening his kingdom? It starts in the water through the obedient act of baptism. Check out Eddie's message. Think it's time for YOU to make this life-changing decision? We'd love to help you get it done!
We don’t let go of things easily. We cling tightly where we shouldn’t. Check out Sunday’s message and learn to loosen your grip as you begin to surrender everything to Jesus.
If your goal is to look more like Jesus every day, check out Sunday’s message and be reminded that small daily, intentional steps in the right direction will have you becoming more like him all the time.
It’s an indisputable fact – Jesus IS building his church. So how can West Side be an active part of helping people find their way to God? We can start by taking a cue from Jesus himself – we can invite people to COME AND SEE, and we can lead them to accept Jesus’ invitation to “FOLLOW ME.” Check out Sunday’s message and allow these phrases to fill your conversations this week.
Want to live a full and satisfying life? Use your days to bring glory to God in all you do, whether extraordinary or mundane. In turn, you’ll experience His great glory in your own life. Check out Sunday’s message!
Do you need more mercy in your life? Maybe you need to let go of something from your past and accept God’s grace. Maybe you need to give up your right to be right. Check out Sunday’s message from the book of Jude and learn how mercy triumphs over judgment.
Sometimes the best way to contend for the faith is to take an honest look at our own pride and the story we’re telling ourselves. Listen to Sunday’s message and know that you’re invited to set aside the stress of trying to justify yourself and relax into God’s goodness.
Have you ever felt as though you're not enough? Don't believe this lie! God reminds us in Romans 8:38 that NOTHING will separate us from his love. To God, you ARE enough. Be reminded of this truth and so much more as you watch Greg Nettle's message.
The Jesus Way is rarely the easy way… especially when it comes to how we relate to our government authorities. How should we respond when we lack trust in our earthly leadership? How do we harmonize our kingdom citizenship and our national citizenship? Check out Sunday's message as we unpack how to follow the Bible's instruction to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
We live in a culture that tricks us into believing that more equals better. It is simply not true. So check out Sunday’s message and refuse to buy into the myth. The ONLY thing that will ever lead to a better, happier life is not more stuff … it’s more Jesus.
Self-indulgence is the main entrance into a cycle of sin, and once you get caught in it, it’s hard to break out. Check out Sunday’s message and find rescue and grace in Jesus.
Israel begged God for a king, and so he relented and gave them what they asked for. But Israel was only concerned with having a king who looked and played the part – they were far less concerned with the condition of his heart. So, what happened when King Saul took the throne as Israel’s very first ruler? Check out Sunday’s message from our first installment of Game of Thrones.
God honors risky giving but abhors risqué giving. Check out Sunday’s message and learn from two individuals how NOT to give, then lean into risky giving. It will be so worth it!
Joseph of Arimathea played an important role in the most important event to ever shape history. He gave. He was generous. He offered his best and most personal gift. Check out Sunday’s message and take a cue from this biblical hero – generosity in the name of Jesus is always so worth it.
God expects our obedience, but at what point does the price of obedience get too high? If you’ve ever struggled to answer this question, check out today’s message and know that your God can be trusted, even when it feels like your obedience might cost you everything.
We can be courageous when we know who’s in control. Check out Sunday’s message and, like Esther, have the courage to do the right thing even when it might cost you.
How would you classify your faith? Is it conditional? Have you warned God that you’re done if he does or doesn’t do something? Or, are you able to say, “God, I trust you and will follow you, EVEN when things don’t go my way.”? Check out Sunday’s message, and like Daniel and his friends, be faithful… no matter what.
A great life is not a challenge-free life. A great life is one that rises up in determination to honor and trust God when the going gets tough. Check out Sunday’s message and be inspired by the tenacity of an everyday hero named Nehemiah.
Of all the great stories in the Bible, few are as riveting as the story of Joseph. Join us as we dig into his story of betrayal, isolation, redemption, and forgiveness – and see how God might want to work through your own story!
We consider kids and students a BIG deal here at West Side, which is why we invite them to take over our services one Sunday each year! Check out Sunday’s message from a team of our student leaders and MAKE A MOMENT by saying YES to whatever it is God is asking of you today!
Afraid your Father will disown you if you try to return to him? Afraid he’ll shamefully remind you of your foolish choices? Your disregard for his authority? Your blatant disobedience?Not even close. That’s just not who our Father is. If you’ve wandered from your faith, it’s never too late to come back. And when you do, God will be ready to welcome you with open, loving arms. He’s ready to see you ALIVE AGAIN in him!
It’s no surprise that as our culture becomes worse at dealing with its pain in healthy ways, it’s becoming better at complaining. Resist the urge to join the complaining crowd and instead SHOW THEM HOW to express sadness and anger in ways that actually bring healing and help.
It’s possible to stay busy and still be lazy at heart. It’s possible to have a full schedule and still live a life of idleness. If you’re hoping to find a balance between work (which we’re called to) and rest (which we’re called to), check out Sunday’s message.
Our world is full of foolish voices and foolish people. And the Bible warns us to beware of both! Proverbs 14:7 says, Stay away from fools, for you won't find knowledge on their lips. Check out Sunday's message and learn to discern foolish words from wise ones.
Our culture errs on the side of image-management. God calls us to soul-management. Check out Sunday’s message and lead a life of sincerity, humility and trust. Others may not see you, but God does.
Divorce was never in the plans when God created the universe, but grace always was. Whether you’ve been divorced, feel like you’re headed in that direction, or know someone who is, check out this message and remember – God’s grace is waiting for you.
The marriage union has been around since the beginning of time, but its purpose hasn’t changed. God still uses marriage today to shape people into those who reflect him. So, how can your marriage grow and reflect him more? Check out Sunday’s message.
Looking for a love that won’t fade or disappoint over time? There’s only one place to find it. Check out Sunday’s message and remember that true and lasting love is only found in the one who created it – God.
Craving a healthy, lasting relationship? Steer clear of social influencers, cultural trends and relationship gurus. Check out Sunday’s message and lean into the wisdom of the One who IS LOVE.
God doesn’t always eliminate our enemies or trials, but he does promise to be present with us in their midst. Furthermore, he plants a table smack-dab in the middle of it all and gives us everything we need to feast on his goodness and love. Check out Sunday’s message and find satisfaction in knowing that you’ve always got a seat at God’s table.
We don't get to bypass the valleys of life. We have to walk through them. Check out Sunday's message and find hope in knowing that even though life brings dark valleys, God is WITH US every step of the way.
The path we take matters. Why? If we take the wrong path, we’ll end up at the wrong destination. Every time. Check out Eddie’s message and allow the Good Shepherd to lead you on the right path.
If you know the 23rd Psalm by heart, but it’s not shaping the condition of your heart, it might be time to ask yourself if you’re actually following the Good Shepherd. Find true rest and restoration for your soul when you quiet the noise in your life and allow yourself to be led by Jesus.