NBCC Podcast: Recent Episodes
NBCC Podcast
Welcome to the weekly podcast from New Beginnings Community Church (NBCC). We are a uniquely diverse church—in age and stage, culture and class. We believe that the diversity of our church reflects the truth that God really does love all people. Visit: NBCCbayarea.com
In this message, Pastor Kaloma Smith challenges us to reflect on how feeling stuck may limit our relationship with God and the blessings we share with others. Often, we find ourselves feeling put together on the outside, but feeling stuck on the inside, sacrificing our well-being, our community, and our ultimate purpose by remaining in situations where we understand what is happening to us, but where our circumstances may not be healthy, or may be limiting our lives.Using an illustration from Second Kings, Pastor Kaloma reminds us that in moments like this, we should ground ourselves in God's word, rather than listening to opinions that are uninformed about our individual circumstances. In addition, we must start taking bold steps that rely on our trust in God. In those moments, God blesses our actions and we are able to receive new blessings and purpose that can then be shared with otyhers.
In this message, Pastor Jesse explores the Belt of Truth and the Breastplate of Righteousness, revealing how God's truth anchors us and His righteousness guards our hearts so we can live with confidence and remain steadfast in Christ.Sometimes the greatest victory isn’t moving forward, it’s refusing to move backwards. When life gets tough, we want to move. Sometimes we need to stand where God has planted us. What does it mean to stand? Standing means trusting God when life does not make sense. We don’t stand strong because of ourselves, we stand strong because of Jesus. Our strength has never been our own, it has always been His.Truth is rooted in the word of God and righteousness is a life consistently surrendered to Christ. We need both truth and righteousness together. Truth without righteousness is knowledge without transformation. Righteousness without truth is religion without relationship.Let us allow God to transform our hearts this week!
This is the opening message in NBCC's new series, Armor Up! Pastor Hurmon challenges us to rethink who our real enemy actually is — reminding us that our greatest battles aren't ultimately against people, but against the spiritual forces working to pull us from God's purpose. Drawing from Ephesians 6, he unpacks how God has equipped believers with His armor so we can stand firm in His truth and walk in victory, whatever we're facing. If you've ever fought a battle that left you exhausted and confused about who — or what — you were really up against, this message will change the way you see every struggle in your life.
In this message, we interrogate who God is forming us to become, especially through seasons of waiting.Through our lives, God is forming us to become like Jesus. God forms us through prayer, scripture and community, expanding our capacity to love deeply and endure faithfully.The process of becoming involves waiting. It is our internal spiritual capacity to endure faithfully when we go through hard times. God does not abandon us when we are waiting, He uses waiting to form us. In seasons of waiting that can stretch years, we should ask ourselves: “What is God teaching me while I wait?”.Waiting is where God forms us into the people we're becoming. Stop trying to control timing and let God work on you in the waiting season!
In this message, Paster George Hinman discusses two stories within Mark 6: the story of Herod's banquet, and Jesus feeding the 5,000. He then illustrates how the two stories inform us about different ways we might approach our encounters with God's sovereignty in our lives.We often find ourselves in the halls of Herod, where everything is comfortable and we appear to have everything we need. However, the halls of Herod can be deceptive. While we are offered a relationship with God, we may find ourselves putting limits on God and operating from a relationship with fear, which interferes with our ability to trust God, and ultimately leads to disappointment. When we are in the halls of Herod, we must fast and deny ourselves, and follow God's will and plan for us.On the other hand, when we follow God, rather than attempting to dictate our relationship, it may at first feel as though we are in what appears to be a deserted land. However, God responds to his followers with compassion, provides community, and provides delight and provision in what at first felt like a crisis. When we find ourselves in the wilderness with Jesus, we must remember to rejoice and remember our true identity, as ransomed and reconciled to Him.
In this message, we are reminded that the Jesus Way is not simply something we practice, it is the way in which we become more like Jesus. Part of that is engaging with people at the level of their story, practising empathy and kindness and demonstrating life-changing generosity.Jesus’ love is agape love, the highest form of love. Agape love is what we DO, not just what we say. Jesus loves us through people. We are also called to love others. Sometimes we have learnt to love from wounded people, so we have to unlearn false presentations of love and learn real love.Let us DO the same this week: demonstrate agape love and do life together the Jesus Way.
In this message, we celebrate fathers and look at how a generous heart is one of the greatest gifts a father can give his children. We look at the life of King David, who refused a free threshing floor and insisted on paying full price for his altar, declaring he would not offer God something that cost him nothing. Life-changing generosity happens when we give at a level that actually changes our hearts.Generosity is the truest expression of agape love — other-centered, self-sacrificing, unconditional, and redemptive. It begins with an open heart that takes responsibility without excuses, and grows into an open hand that prioritizes God first in our finances, our relationships, and our time and talent. Fathers teach their children about love by what they sacrifice. As we practice this kind of generosity, healing and transformation follow — for our families, our community, and our own hearts.
In this message, we celebrate graduates for enduring taking on new challenges to make it to graduation. We look at the life of Joseph to see how to acknowledge God through all transitions, joyous to difficult. Irrespective of the situation, God’s presence goes with us through the difficult times (the pit) and the good times (the palace). We go through ups and downs in life, often unable to see the bigger pictures. Remember that God’s plan is bigger than you. Hardship that Joseph experienced early in life led him on a path enabling him to provide for his family later in life. God is with us in the pit, the prison and the palace, even when we don’t know why we are going through things and what will come out of it.Joseph had a strong foundation of faith and that faith allowed him to acknowledge God in all circumstances. When things are hard, it changes our attitude towards life and people. Acknowledging God helps us to live out The Jesus Way. What are we experiencing that we can say “But God!” about today?
This message reminds us of Jesus' radical forgiveness, and how it restores our relationship with God and others. Using the life of Jesus and real-life examples, we learn how forgiveness is more than just letting go of pain. It also involves reframing memories, hearing the stories of others, restoring the humanity of people who caused us pain, bringing our questions to God with honesty, and remembering that God has been through everything that we experience, and that he has not abandoned us.
In this week's message, Reverend Liz Walker shares a compassionate and encouraging word for all those dealing with feelings of being overwhelmed during these anxious times. Between a global pandemic, political division, and the everyday weight of fear, grief, and shame, many of us are quietly struggling — and most of us aren't talking about it. Drawing from John 20, Reverend Walker reminds us that even the disciples found themselves locked behind closed doors, paralyzed by fear and forgetting who they were. But Jesus walked in anyway, met them right where they were, and breathed peace into the room. That same peace is available to us today — not by pretending everything is fine, but by learning to slow down, breathe, and listen with our hearts. Catching our breath, she teaches, is where healing begins.
In this message, we are encouraged to walk out in courageous integrity. Courageous integrity is critiquing your own tribe and holding them accountable, while actively looking for what is good, admirable, or true in those you disagree with.The reason why all of us struggle with integrity is that we need something that provides us with structure and allows us to feel good about our lives. The structure comes from the load-bearing beam or spec in our eyes. What are the load bearing beams that hold up your identity?Our load makes us fragmented in our lives. We are one way in our family life and a different way in our online life. This lacks integrity: being our whole, best self in every part of our life.The good news is that God can grow our integrity. Practice spending time in God’s presence, persevering on the maintenance of our integrity, and directly praying to God for strength to increase and maintain our integrity.
In this week's message, Pastor Hurmon continues our focus on the practices that help us live in the Jesus Way, breaking the power of labels by teaching us to see ourselves and others through grace, truth, story, and redemption. Inspired by the surprising biblical story of Mary Magdalene, we are asked to reflect on our own experience of the shameful labels that have affected our lives — and to remember that through Jesus' saving grace and love, those labels do not get the final word. The broken become restored, the unlovable become loved, the ashamed become forgiven, the invisible become seen, the rejected become chosen, and the failure becomes redeemed. When we practice seeing others the way Jesus sees them, we open the door for real transformation — in them, and in ourselves.
In this special Mother's Day message, we are encouraged to practice radical empathy. Radical empathy is learning to behold people in the full context of their story. Sometimes we feel that our mothers fall short. It is important to behold your mother in the full view of her struggle to live out her purpose, her unspeakable pain and her unfolding story. We must remember that Jesus did not allow his unimaginable pain to blind him to his mom’s pain. This week, let us pray to see and appreciate our mothers with fresh eyes.
In this message, we discuss the power of kindness in a world where being mean and retributive is becoming normalized and celebrated. In a world that increasingly sees kindness as weak, we see kindness shown through patience and radical forgiveness to others as a way to show strength. Kindness is something that we extend to those who are easy to love, but also to those who are difficult to love. In addition, we are called to show kindness through radical forgiveness and patience. When we engage people at the level of story, we practice the power of kindness and show the love of God. We take the time to know, love and value others, and we search for ways to practice it in our lives, living our own lives after the example Jesus showed of being a counterpoint to the darkness of his day.
In this message, we cover being a Jesus first church doing life together the Jesus Way, practicing agape love across our differences, beginning with the people closest to us.The journey of loving more deeply across our differences begins with listening and sharing our stories. If we can start by listening and sharing stories, we can harness the power that God gave us to redeem and repair broken relationships in our lives. Our lives are a composite of stories. They carry our dreams and nightmares, traumas and wounds and our failures and triumphs. God never loses sight of our stories.Let us practice the Jesus way by loving through listening and sharing our stories!
In a divided world, love is the most powerful force in the universe — and Jesus shows us exactly how to wield it. What if the way we love others started with how well we listen? In this message, Pastor Hurmon shows us how Jesus engaged people with compassion, intention, and truth — and invites us to do the same. As NBCC launches Jesus Way Groups, we discover that the journey of loving across our differences begins not with having the right answers, but with asking the right questions and truly hearing one another's stories. The shift is simple but profound: from arguments to listening, from opinions to understanding, from talking to loving. Whether you sign up to facilitate, join a group, or invite someone to come with you, choosing the Jesus Way starts with choosing to listen first.
work”: it requires the interpersonal practices of the Jesus Way. Who will we choose to love at NBCC?
This message centers on Pilate’s question—“Which Jesus do you want?”—challenging us to examine the versions of Jesus we often create to fit our own desires, whether for power, success, comfort, or control. It reveals how, like the crowd, we can be influenced by self-interest and distorted faith, yet reminds us of the stunning truth: Jesus took our place in a great exchange of love, dying for us while we were still sinners and rising again so we could live transformed. In response, we’re invited to trust the real Jesus, receive His sacrificial love, and follow His way by choosing to love others beyond every divide.
This week’s message highlights the power of memorizing Scripture as a foundational practice for spiritual growth, showing how intentionally internalizing God’s Word—modeled by Jesus—transforms our minds, strengthens our faith, and equips us to navigate every moment with truth and clarity.
In this 4th message of our “Becoming” series, Pastor Hurmon helps us to deepen our understanding of the spiritual practice of fasting. This sermon explores how abstaining from food helps us to offer ourselves more fully to God. When we experience a deep hunger, we sharpen our spiritual discernment, increase our compassion, and create new space for the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Whether you are seeking a deeper connection with Jesus or looking for a way to intensify your prayers with greater impact, this message offers powerful steps to increase your engagement with God and his rewards.
This message focusses on the practice of prayer in our lives. Prayer was a vital path of Jesus’ earthly life, demonstrating how we can navigate the most difficult moments of our lives. Prayer is possible because God is relational. Sometimes, we struggle to pray because we don't believe it will make a difference, we don’t feel worthy, or we don’t slow down long enough. But our prayers are always answered with either a yes, no, or wait. Always, but especially when we are stuck, we should ask God what to pray for. After listening, we can ask for help, give thanks, or open our eyes to the wonder of God so our hearts don’t grow numb.Consider taking 15 minutes to pray each day during this fasting season!
In this week's message, we discuss the importance of solitude as a way to come closer to God and find peace in a chaotic world. Following the example set by Jesus Christ, we learn that solitude is a habitual practice that requires creating a space and a place for God, where we block out the world and listen to His voice. Our solitude requires us to train ourselves to put our relationship with God first, create a special space for that relationship, to quiet our own internal voices and hear the voice of God, which provides guidance to us.
In this message, we are encouraged to practice taking a Sabbath Day and engaging in the delights of our lives on that day. In a world that won't stop, God has a strategy for pressured people, taking a day of rest. A Sabbath Day provides us with liberation to fill our souls with joy. Let us together take a Sabbath Day during this PF40 season!
In this final message in our Faith@Work series, Pastor Hurmon Hamilton invites us to think about how our faith shows up in our jobs and at home, not just at church or in holy places. He asks us important questions: How does your faith appear in your daily life? What does it really mean to let God guide us in the small moments—at work, during family meals, and in all we do? Today’s message illustrates how we can be distinguished by how we love and show our faith flowing through us in our everyday actions. When we remember that we serve a God that loves with grace, we demonstrate that it is not about being flawless; rather, it’s about being faithful. It’s about allowing others to catch glimpses of Jesus through our actions and decisions.
Special guest speaker, Kim Anthony, reminds us that no matter which circumstances we find ourselves in, God sees us and He has a plan for us. God does not make mistakes. We are of great value to the world: God created us on purpose for a purpose.We are also encouraged to forgive those we need to forgive in our lives. Forgiveness is the Christlike thing to do, setting us free from the past. Choose a life of purpose and embrace forgiveness today!
In this fourth message in the Faith@Work series, we use the story of Jesus' encounter with Zaccheus the tax collector to discuss God's radical acceptance for us and how that story models our call to be radically accepting of others. Following Jesus' example, the first step in radical acceptance is to understand that we are called to reach out to those who are flawed, and who may even find themselves unworthy of connection with God and others. In some cases, the first step is to see that, even in our flaws, we recognize our need for a relationship with God, and His calling on our lives. Our second step is to be with those people where they are, and our third step is to model what a better path forward might be.This calling models our own faith journeys: we are sinners, saved by God's grace, and not by our own works. However, our calling does not end with our salvation. We are influenced by that same grace to follow God's plan and to influence others on the same journey.
In this message, we are reminded that God always sees us, even when we struggle to see how He is constantly working in our lives. We all desire to be seen, heard and valued no matter what. We often forget that God sees us before we can even see What we receive from God becomes what we practice with others. Paying Attention to the words, feelings, and experiences of others is an act of LOVE. Let us follow Jesus' example and practice seeing others by noticing the invisible in others, stopping to engage with them and being a blessing to them through presence, encouragement, prayer, and help. Who can you practice seeing this week?
In this message, we are reminded that we are not only human doings, but God made us human beings. Faith in Jesus is about both doing and being. God sees us and has a good purpose for our lives. We work in partnership with God in the formation of becoming, in order to be empowered by God in the act of doing.One of the hardest things to do is to wait on God to fulfil His promise, but we must remember that God can transform us in the middle of our mess. When we spend time with Jesus, our capacity to be kind, generous and compassionate increases. Victory sometimes requires us to work through the pain, and we need to be less afraid of going through it. Faith works in us, between us and through us to be better people to others. Let’s spend time with Jesus this week!
In this message, Elder Jonathan Thomas reminded that trials are a part of our life and walk with the Lord. They are real and come in many shapes and forms, but they are also temporary. When going through trials, we must remember that they are necessary in shaping our faith, deepening our relationship with God. Going through trials reminds us that we have a living hope and that we have community, which means that we don’t have to go through trials ourselves. We should also remember that God has given each of us grace to support members of our community going through trials. Reach out to your community and share your grace that is compatible with their trials during this period.
This isn't just a message about personal comfort—it's a call to justice, compassion, and representing Christ in a world that desperately needs His shalom. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, dealing with difficult relationships, or seeking to understand how Christmas speaks to today's challenges, watch now and discover how to live with God's peace flowing through you to others.
In this first message of the new “The Missing Peace” series, we are reminded of the light, the glory of the Lord that appeared to the shepherds, but also appears to us in our lives. Life, especially during this period can be dark, often because we feel we're invisible, alone or exposed and unsafe. The light however, reveals the truth that God exists, is with us, sees us and loves us. God is always there, but the awareness that comes with the light gives us biblical peace, security that He is always with us. This week, pray “Come, Lord Jesus, come!” When you need to be reminded of the security of the Lord!
—discovering a type of gratitude that sustains you through both joyful and challenging seasons, shaping how you speak, connect with something greater than yourself, and reflect hope to the world. Join us to find encouragement that meets you exactly where you are and invites you into a life marked by enduring gratitude.
In this message, we are reminded to maintain our Crazy Gratitude and ensure it is God-centered gratitude. With God-centred gratitude we live with the awareness that all of life is a gift from God and filled with the grace of God. Maintaining a spirit of gratitude is difficult, but when gratitude disappears from our daily life, entitlement moves in. We should declare that we trust God even when we don't like or understand our circumstances. Let us practice God-centered gratitude by continuing our gratitude journal this week!
gratitude that will not only transform your own life but bring healing and encouragement to everyone around you!
In this message, we are reminded that life is a gift of God's grace, so we should look at life through a lens of gratitude. Gratitude is a mindset, heart posture and worldview. We are encouraged to have crazy gratitude, being thankful for grace so deeply and consistently that it transforms how we see, think, and live. Crazy gratitude allows us to dance when life is painful, remember and celebrate God’s goodness and never stop praying. Let us renew our joy by practicing gratitude! Write down three things you are grateful for each day for the next 30 days.
Through the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Pastor Valerie Webb reminds us about how a relationship with God can allow us to survive hard times. We are all made for worship, and who we worship has an effect on how we experience life. When we worship God, we know that God is able to deliver, and is our shield and safe place, something that we cannot create for ourselves. The God we worship is worthy of our trust, and walks with us in the fire. Through trusting God when we are delivered, and when it feels like we aren't, we are able to find peace in even the hard times.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon urges us to stop waiting to become more before we do more. God does His greatest work through the strength we already have. We all have inadequacies, but our inadequacies give God an opportunity to be acknowledged for the work He does through them. Don't allow the presence of your inadequacies to deny you from your destiny. Sometimes we hide because we feel unworthy, are unable to face our own failures or are afraid to fail, but God comes looking for us not to condemn us, but to call us out of hiding. Go in the strength that I have and trust God to do the rest!
—the source of real, eternal love that heals us from the inside out and transforms us through grace, not perfection. This message offers hope for anyone struggling with feelings of being unloved, questioning what makes Christianity different, or ready to experience the healing power of God's unconditional love.
In this last message of the “Be a Blessing” message series, we are reminded that after blessing us, Jesus wants to make us a blessing by blessing others through us. We can do this by being a friend to others, showing empathy and curiosity to others, and sharing our Jesus story.Whichever circumstance we are in, our purpose is to serve God by being a blessing to others. When we focus on this mindset, God will make us an instrument right where we are. We always have the possibility to be a blessing in our church. Remember that what God has called us to do, we can only accomplish together. Consider being a blessing to the church community by signing up to serve.
In this final message of the "Be a Blessing" series, Pastor Hurmon sums up what we have learned over the past few weeks about receiving and being blessings in the acronym B.L.E.S.S.(B) - Begin with prayer. Pray each day "Lord Make me a Blessing." (L) - Listen with Love. We must listen to God's calling on our lives and listen to other people around us by slowing down, giving others our full attention, reflecting what we hear back and asking clarifying questions.(E) - Encourage with kindness. The act of kindness that comes with encouragement is a real-life superpower. It means doing what we can with what we have, where we are, showing gratitude to those who serve us, acknowleding the work of others with our words and our presence, and seeing and engaging with those who feel unseen.(S) - Serve with generosity. The blessings that come to us are meant to flow through us. Generosity is the ability to see a need and act without conditions. In order to be generous, we look for practical ways to meet others' needs.(S) - Share your story to give hope. Finally, we should share the stories of our blessings to give to others hope. We practice sharing our stories with Christians, and we become comfortable sharing with others who do not know Jesus to give encouragement to them and us.
In this powerful message from our Be A Blessing series, Pastor Ja'Mell Agustin reminds us that God invites us to be a blessing to others through faith in action, just as Paul and Silas demonstrated through their prayers and praise even in their darkest moments. Whether through prayer, acts of service, or words of encouragement, our faithful response to God's call can create ripples of blessing that impact lives for eternity. The time to act on your faith is now - don't wait to seize the opportunities God places before you to care for others and share His love, as even small acts of faithfulness can lead to profound spiritual transformation. This message will inspire you to trust God and step into His promises that offer saving grace to all who believe.
In this message, we are reminded that we are not called just to receive blessings, we are called to be a blessing. Jesus calls us to carry light, not despair. We are told to be light carriers by practising the Jesus Way. This includes critiquing our own tribe, celebrating each other, practising empathy and lamenting together. It’s okay to acknowledge feelings of fear, powerlessness, and grief. After you have acknowledged your feelings, reorient yourself. Remember that no follower of Jesus is hopeless or powerless. Ask God to make you a blessing to others every day this week!
this series, we learn to reframe our mindset so that we are not just living FOR blessings, but to BE blessings. Pastor Hurmon begins by introducing four reasons why we should live as blessings. First, if we live to be a blessing, we never miss out on being blessed ourselves. Second, being a blessing makes us better, healthier, and happier people for ourselves and those around us. Third, living to be a blessing allows us to endure suffering without giving up. Finally, being a blessing allows us to combat powerlessness by showing ourselves to be powerful against darkness in the world. Living to be a blessing does not require us to be wealthy, only to be willing.One of the ways we carry out being a blessing is to tell our stories of faith and how God works in our lives. Others learn about God's redeeming power through our stories. In addition, when we show God's love through our stories and lives, we show the many ways that God's grace is for all people. As a practical matter, we should share our stories, casually and authentically, and be honest about the ways God's plan is still a mystery in our stories. We should also extend prayer to others when they share their own stories with us, model Jesus through service, and invite others into our church communities as part of sharing our stories and being a blessing.
In this final sermon in our "What's in a Name?" series, Pastor Hurmon Hamilton reminds us that God works through our circumstances to bless and reach everyone. Jesus specializes in walking into seemingly hopeless situations and transforming them into places of hope and possibility, as shown through His encounters with those living in "graveyard circumstances" - whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. He sees you as precious and honored in His sight, no matter your current struggles or past, and invites you to run toward Him just as you are. Jesus wants not only to deliver you from what holds you back but also to transform you into a source of hope for others, using your story of redemption to show that his saving grace is available to all, even today.
In this final message of the ‘What’s In A Name?’ series, we learn about El Gibbor: The MIghty One who fights for us and Jehovah Shalom: The Lord is Peace.God’s strength is divine and He steps into our physical, emotional and spiritual battles. We don’t have to fight alone, the mighty God that we have fights for us and with us. God’s peace for us does not depend on our circumstances. That peace comes from us knowing that he is with us. We need to trust His power and walk in courage. Once we do, we’ll have peace in our hearts.Remember to trust in God’s power this week and feel the peace of God in your heart!
In this second message of our new series, "What's in a Name?", Associate Pastor Ezemdi Chikwendu shares how God reveals Himself as El Roi (the God who sees) and El Shaddai (God Almighty) through His faithful care for both the prominent and marginalized figures in Scripture. We hear that He intimately knows and provides for all His children. Through the story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar, we see how God's covenant promises extend across generations, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ and including all who put their faith in Him. Just as Pastor Ezemdi experienced God's sovereign guidance and provision in his own journey, God invites each of us today to trust Him as our Lord, knowing that He sees us, understands our struggles, and stands ready to show Himself mighty on our behalf.
In this message, we kick off the “What’s In a Name” series, looking at Yahweh (I Am) and Jehovah Jireh (God will provide). There is depth, meaning and power in a name and that is no different with God. Throughout scripture, God is revealed through names that reflect His heart, power and care for us.Yahweh delivered His people from slavery and oppression. That is who he was, is and is to come. Yahweh hears your cries and sees your suffering. Call on Yahweh and he will act. God is a provider, and comes through for us in many life situations. God sees you, he hears your cry and has provided a way for us to be with Him. Reach out to God and He will provide!
In this message, special guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Horace W. Sheppard Jr. shared about the various dimensions of a miracle through the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000. We are reminded that God is doing something in our hearts and lives as the miracle is being performed, so the journey is as transformational as the miracle itself. When we wait on God for a miracle, we can limit ourselves to what we see with the human eye, but God can see so much more. God has to challenge our limited vision. When he's going to do a miracle, you need to expand your vision. Are we seeing an obstacle or an opportunity?New struggles can induce short-term memory, forgetting all that God has done for us up to this point. It's important to remember what God has done to believe in a new miracle. Watching and waiting on God can wear thin on our patience, but we should remember that God is the only one that can do something greater than impossible.Keep believing in God’s ability to perform miracles in your life!
In this message, Pastor Hurmon encourages us to live under the influence of the Holy Spirit to demonstrate the transformation that happens in our lives when we receive Him. We should take advantage of every opportunity to be influenced by the power of the Holy Spirit to lead us to make wise decisions in our lives. We can do this by identifying and associating with light and things that honour the Lord, allowing the Holy Spirit to change our lives by getting rid of bitterness and rage, releasing control to the Holy Spirit, and inviting the Holy Spirit into our relationships.Take pride in the transformation you have received by inviting Jesus into your life and invite the Holy Spirit to transform you this week!
In this message, we learn how to become a godly influence, living a life that pokes holes in the darkness. Godly influence begins with the right heart posture, so it is important to live from a Spirit-shaped heart. The Beatitudes provide guidance on the heart posture we should have. We can also become a godly influence by cultivating a fruit-bearing faith, ensuring that our private devotion fuels the light we share with others. In addition, we should have a Kingdom “What” and a Kingdom “Why”, pursuing what matters to God. Cultivating a Jesus foundation produces discernment, endurance, and spiritual fruit that lasts, leading us to be a godly influence to those around us.
In this message, Pastor Dan Monroe discusses what it means to be equally yoked in the different types of relationships we encounter in life, including our marriages, dating relationships, friendships, business relationships, friendships and workplaces. We learn why being equally yoked to others who share our faith is important, how being equally yoked can benefit our walks with God, how being unequally yoked can cause hindrances in our relationship with Christ, and how we navigate the call to be equally yoked to one another while still following our mandate to be Christ's ambassadors to all. Finally, we are reminded that Christ's relationship with us is unequal: he takes on our burdens and sins and calls us to be like Him.
Pastor Ja Mell Augustin kicked off our new series, "Under the Influences," by drawing a powerful parallel between maintaining a clean pond and guarding our spiritual hearts, based on Proverbs 4:23. Using personal experiences and biblical wisdom, she explains how we can become better spiritual gatekeepers, protecting our hearts from harmful influences while making room for God's transformative presence. This relevant message reminds us that we're designed to flow with God's purpose, but we must intentionally maintain the condition of our hearts through searching, cleaning, and guarding - all while keeping Jesus at the center.
In today's gathering, we focused on praying for the miracle of healing from trauma. Pastor Hurmon gave us five specific miracles to pray for. We can often struggle to name exactly what happened to us, so the first prayer is for “Courage to Name My Wound Without Shame”. Trauma doesn’t just hurt us—it shapes us. It can show up in many obvious and covertly destructive ways in our lives. Our second prayer is for “Insight to See the Patterns”. We heal best not alone, but in community. Our third prayer is for “A Heart That Moves Toward Community”. When we feel weighed down by our trauma, we can feel hopeless, but God can turn our wounds into witness. We should pray for “A Testimony in the Making”. Healing from trauma provides peace. We pray for “The Miracle of Peace’.Bring all your requests from God and he will listen to your prayers. Come back on Wednesday for a prayer and worship night!
Restoration doesn’t mean erasing our trauma—it means letting Jesus redeem it, reframing our story with grace and purpose. Just as He met the disciples in their fear and showed them His wounds, Jesus meets us in ours, offering peace, healing, and a renewed calling. Through naming our pain, reclaiming our emotional truth, and reconnecting with others, we partner with God in turning our wounds into holy ground—not just for our healing, but for the healing of others.Let grace reframe your story—and take one courageous step toward restoration.
In the second message of the “Restored” series, we called to name our wounds to begin healing. This is because we are restored not by hiding our wounds, but by naming them. We are reminded in the scripture that we are not the only ones that experience trauma, the disciples experienced trauma when hiding from persecution after Jesus’ death.It is important to acknowledge how our trauma has has shaped us and can shape explosive, fear-based reactions to ourselves and others. Once we acknowledge trauma and let Jesus in for healing, Jesus interrupts what trauma told you would last forever. He stands with us in our trauma and helps us work through it. Through Jesus, we learn that our wounds don’t disappear—but they can be transformed into testimony and power, no longer holding us hostage but becoming tools in God’s redemptive plan.
In this week's message, Reverend Liz Walker shares her testimony regarding how we can experience restoration in our lives through a relationship with God. Reverend Walker begins by sharing how her relationships with others encouraged her call to ministry. She then shares about how seeking and abiding in God and being in relationship with others helped heal trauma that was being experienced within her community. At times, circumstances can strike even Christians so hard that it is tempting to turn away from God. It can be even harder when it feels as though our communities have moved on from trauma that we have not healed.However, God is with us in our trauma. The life of Jesus teaches that we will experience pain, and that even when we know the promises of God, each of us will experience difficulty in life. Where we don't heal the traumas we experience, they affect our inner lives. However, God is with us in our pain. As Christians, we are called to sit with others in their trauma as well. Through our relationships, seeking God, and opening ourselves up to healing, we can experience healing of our trauma by the power of God and our relationships with others.
In this final message of the “Rooted” series, Pastor Hurmon invites us to be rooted in our faith during the turning points in our lives. Life’s defining moments — moments of joy, pain, loss, success, disappointment, or transition can either push us toward God and deeper trust, or away from God and into doubt. It’s not the event itself that grows or erodes our faith, it’s how we interpret it.Our interpretation can be shaped by both our worldview and the people we are doing life with. We should ensure that we engage in providential relationships that God uses to speak to us, support us, and shape us spiritually because we were never meant to face our pivotal moments alone. When we experience turning points rooted in providential relationships we receive perspective, presence and perseverance.
In this compelling sermon from the "Rooted" series, Pastor Hurmon Hamilton emphasizes the transformative power of personal ministry through Jesus's example of foot-washing, highlighting that faith matures through action, not just learning. He uses practical examples to encourage and illustrate how stepping out to serve allows God to grow something in us that cannot be obtained through listening to the messages and teaching alone. The sermon powerfully demonstrates that service is worship in action - challenging viewers to move beyond passive faith to active ministry, making this message essential viewing for anyone seeking deeper spiritual growth through practical service.
In this message, Dr. Rhonda Hamilton highlights the importance of trusting God. Even when we are doing God's work diligently, life can present many stressors through work, family life or health struggles. The overwhelming stressors can feel like a militia coming towards us. In those times, we should remember that God is always with us. The Lord will equip us for everything He calls us to do. We should refrain from being afraid, thanking God for everything we know he has done before and let His peace wash over us.
Today, we celebrate the redeeming love of Jesus withan inspiring Easter message called “Redeemed”. Continuing our series on Forgiveness, Pastor Hurmon surfaces the incredible redemption available to every person through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Neither our sin nor our trauma defines us. God’s redemption does. We are forgiven. Because Jesus lives, you don’t have to keep reliving past trauma and pain. You can write a different ending, learn to accept God’s forgiveness, and let his love flow through you to those around you.
In this message of the “Forgiven” series, Pastor Hurmon reminds us why it is important to forgive. Forgiveness sets boundaries without keeping bitterness and liberates you. Forgiveness hands the burden of revenge over to God—and sets you free in the process. Forgiveness does not reduce or deny the severity of the pain we have experienced, nor is it a sign of weakness. Refusing forgiveness can control us, but forgiveness sets us free. Once we admit we have been hurt, we can forgive. Once we forgive, healing follows. Choose to forgive this Holy Week!
In this third message in the Forgiven series, we discuss what to do when we we sincerely repent for our sins and God grants us his extravagant grace, and works through us, but we still struggle to forgive ourselves.It can be hard to forgive ourselves because: 1. Our brains replay the pain of our actions; 2. We confuse responsibility with condemnation; 3. Trauma whispers "I'm unworthy;" 4. Perfectionism makes failure feel final; 5. We trust God's grace for others, but struggle to believe in it for ourselves.There are 4 keys for unlocking self-forgiveness in our lives:1. We must acknowledge the full severity of our actions, and accept appropriate responsibility. We choose not to deflect responsibility for paid we caused, but we also don't take on responsibility for things that were truly not our fault.2. We accept forgiveness as part of God's plan to grow and restore us. Forgiveness is a gift, and a byproduct of God's grace and mercy on us through his generosity in giving us blessings we did not earn and withholding condemnation that we did earn.3. We understand what happens when I we don't forgive ourselves: it makes it harder to accept God's forgiveness for us, and to forgive others, it distorts our hearts, we live complaining and comparing, and it delays our ability to heal. We address the hidden question: "why," with the understanding that God knows our natures as works in progress, and builds forgiveness into his Plan. We must also accept Jesus's sacrifice and receive what we did not earn and accept what we cannot explain.4. We learn the lessons of the consequences of our actions, and move forward.Spoken Affirmation: Jesus's Sacrifice is good enough for me. I will forgive myself and grow!
In this week's powerful message Pastor Hurmon addresses those who sometimes struggle with feeling truly forgiven - even after asking God for forgiveness. He explores why we often remain trapped in guilt and shame, and reveals how God's grace offers us not just forgiveness, but a whole new way of viewing our mistakes and growth. Just as Jesus met David in his darkest moment, this message will show you how God meets you exactly where you are, offering not condemnation but celebration of your journey forward.
In the first message of the “Forgiven” series, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that we need forgiveness because good people mess up sometimes. Luckily for us, forgiveness is always available and the bigger the sin, the bigger the gift of forgiveness we receive from God. Pastor Hurmon uses the story of Nathan confronting David on the sins he committed to highlight the deception of sin, the necessity of confession and the assurance of forgiveness.Although tempting in current times, closing your eyes to God’s morality and the consequences of sin does not mean they cease to exist. It is good news that God doesn’t leave us alone when we mess up so that we can go back to Him in repentance. Remember that God can take your mess and transform it into a message. Forgiveness restores us into wholeness and sets us free to live brand new lives.
In this powerful message, Pastor Hurmon reveals how we are called to be God's agents of love in a broken and polarized world. Drawing from Jesus' greatest commandments in the books of Mark and John, he shows how true love must be intentional and purpose-driven. Whether you're struggling in relationships, seeking to grow in your faith, or wanting to make a difference in our divided world, this message will give you the tools to love on purpose - God's way. When we practice Agape Love, and develop habits of kindness, generosity, and caring attention, we "help the world to know that we are His disciples by our love for one another".
In this message, Pastor Stan Johnson uses the story of Jesus cleansing ten lepers to remind us of the importance of thanksgiving. He reminds us that grace is at the heart of thanksgiving and obedience, healing, and faith are connected to thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is not to be a seasonal occurrence, but a daily occurrence for the grace that we know in Christ Jesus. He encourages us to use thanksgiving as a way of life.
When we put god first in our lives, we are able to use our relationship with Him and our experience of His love for us to understand what it means to have healthy love in our other relationships. In this week's sermon, we learn about what unconditional love looks like through the lens of repentance. Unconditional love does not mean love without boundaries. When we break a boundary in a relationship, there are consequences, and in order to restore our relationships after a boundary is broken, we must repent. Repentance means to shift our thinking, to change our minds and take full responsibility for our behavior without excuses or complaining, and to turn around and talk and act differently.With commitment to repentance, we hope to experience restoration, or rebuilding trust, healing wounds, and renewing connection after genuine change. When we experience restoration with humans, the change won't be perfect, but it will be genuine after time and commitment, and we hope to feel joy in extending grace when we are wronged and we see someone showing genuine repentance towards us. However, even if we cannot experience restoration between humans when boundaries are broken, we can always be redeemed through God.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon calls us to set boundaries because we can say no as an act of love. One of the ways that God’s love works in our life is that it points us toward honouring boundaries. When boundaries are violated in your life, it creates harm and destruction. The deeper we experience the love of God the easier it is for us to recognise healthy love in our lives. Agape realizes that there are times when you need to let go. Even if we need to let go from others in our lives, we can continue to love and trust God. We can practically love God by showing gratitude daily, engaging in Bible study regularly, worshiping Him regularly and serving the church community.
In this enlightening message, Pastor Hurmon Hamilton tackles one of life's most fundamental yet misunderstood concepts, love. At a time when artificial intelligence can simulate relationships and our culture often reduces love to mere emotions, what makes love such a big deal? Whether you're single, married, or anywhere in between, this message will deepen your understanding of love's true meaning and power.Through Scripture and practical illustrations,Pastor Hamilton reveals how understanding God's agape love - unconditional, sacrificial, and complete - is essential for recognizing and experiencing healthy love in all our relationships. Don't miss this transformative message that will help you: Recognize authentic love; Understand your true worth as someone God loves completely; Build healthier relationships by learning to love as Jesus loves; Experience the unlimited, unending nature of God's love for you.
In this powerful conclusion to our Resolution vs. Solution series, Pastor Tilden uncovers how our pursuit of success, fulfillment, and personal growth ultimately points us to our greatest need: a relationship with God. If you've ever felt the frustration of unmet goals or fleeting motivation, this message offers a fresh perspective—one that shifts the focus from self-reliance to divine dependence.This message challenges us to:1. Find His love—recognizing the eternal value of a relationship with God.2. Let joy lead us—surrendering our whole heart and life to Him.3. Align our goals with Him—seeking purpose in His greater plan.True fulfillment isn’t found in earthly pursuits but in embracing the love of the One who gave everything for us. We are not only seekers of treasure; we are the treasure God has pursued. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, He demonstrated the depth of His love, paying the highest price to claim us as His own (Hebrews 12:2, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
In this first message of the Love on Purpose series , Hon. Shelyna Brown-Hamilton invites us to love ourselves on purpose. This is because we have difficulty seeing and trusting God’s goodness when we don’t love ourselves. Not loving ourselves leaves us with a distorted view of God’s love for us and an inability to love God the way we should (with our hearts, souls and minds). By learning to love ourselves more through forgiving ourselves, setting boundaries and engaging in self-care, we can become a better neighbor. Consider saying something loving to yourself every day this week.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon encourages us to build the habit of prayer. Making small consistent changes can lead to remarkable transformations over time, so why don’t we do that with our prayer life? If Jesus Christ had to practice the habit of prayer, and prayer was the source to Jesus’ earthly power and success, we should also be practising this habit. Prayer is the source of our power. It means we will be connected to His presence and He will give us the power, wisdom, stamina and guidance you need to navigate the broken places in life. Most of the time it is His wisdom that will empower us to become the very solution you were looking for. Pastor Hurmon introduces a template for prayer that we can use to build the habit of prayer in our lives for as little as 5 minutes a day. When we engage with God and do it seriously and consistently, God deposits power in our lives. Consider joining the 30-day prayer challenge!
This week’s timely message reveals how small, consistent habits can lead to extraordinary spiritual transformation. Drawing inspiration from Daniel's unwavering prayer life and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s deep dependence on prayer, Pastor Hamilton shows us how developing the right habits - especially the habit of daily prayer - can anchor our faith and fuel breakthrough in our lives.Whether you're seeking to deepen your prayer life, build better habits, or experience breakthrough in any area, this message offers both inspiration and practical tools to help you partner with God for lasting change. Join us t olearn how you can build the right habits that will shape not just your year, but your entire life's trajectory.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon kicks off the ‘Resolution vs Solution’ series with a word of encouragement to be a blessing in the lives of others, even during our hard times. Every year there are many people that experience breakthroughs because they move from having intentions to effective action. We need to move towards solutions and not just resolutions. This year, we should focus on being a blessing, allowing God to do revolutionary things in our lives.Being a blessing transforms us in many ways in our mind and in our spirit, increasing feelings of joy, reducing stress and enriching our lives with blessings flowing back to us. It’s a reminder that being a blessing during times of hardship, using our talents, time and influence to bless others, can help us during tough situations. Pastor Hurmon is calling us to be a blessing right now when we can even if times are hard. If you are inspired to be a blessing, you can reach out to find a way to be a blessing at NBCC a few times a month.
In this first message of 2025, we learn from Rabbi ILana Goldhaber-Gordon about what blessings are, and how our relationship with blessings teaches us about our relationship with God. Through exploring the stories of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Rabbi Goldhaber-Gordon reminds us that blessings are more than luck; they are gifts from God. Blessings are not deserved, and receiving blessings places an obligation on us to be blessings to others by sharing our blessings. Blessings are not finite or limited things that can be owned or stolen. For that reason, we should celebrate not only our blessings, but the blessings we witness with others, and we should share the testimonies of our blessings as part of our witness of God's love. Finally, when we are cut off from our sense of being blessed, we are cut off from God and become lonely, but when we realize and share our blessings, they allow our relationships with God and others to grow.
This message explores the importance of finding peace through courage and trust in God, even in the midst of life's uncertainties and challenges. Guest speaker, Dennis Logie, unpacks how embracing God's purpose for our lives allows us to move from fear to faith, inspiring us to step into His greater story with confidence.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that in these difficult times, there is still hope for the nations. He asks: Is Jesus the King of our lives? Jesus is the King of all who surrender to His authority. Jesus’ kinship is focussed on love, justice, serving others and giving His life to save ours. Christmas brings us grounded optimism: optimism in the midst of despairing circumstances. The God that we love and serve is a God of love and justice and peace. Grounded optimism rooted in God has the power to comfort us during hard times.
As we continue our exploration of what Christmas is all about in our Hope of Peace series, Pastor Hurmon moves from themes of serenity and courage, to a focus on the wisdom and joy we need to face life's darkest moments. Life isn’t always easy — grief, illness, financial strain, and relationship challenges can leave us feeling stuck in the dark. But the Christmas story reminds us that even in our hardest seasons, God’s light breaks through. Light often comes to us in the form of WISDOM!
In this second message of the ‘Hope of Peace’ series, Pastor Hurmon uses Joseph’s actions in the reading to demonstrate the importance of courage in our walk with God. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the audacity to face fear and act anyway. It allows us to face with fear with faith in God’s ability to meet us in our situation. Peace often requires the courage to step into uncomfortable circumstances, whether that is in our walk with God to repair relationships with others in our lives. Courage requires small steps of obedience, but those small steps taken consistently can change your life. When being courageous feels hard, remember that courage is strengthened by living one day at a time.Pastor Hurmon also reminds us to learn the Serenity Prayer as it is a prayer that God is anxious to answer in our lives and is structured to change how we engage in life through periods of crisis.
In the lead-up to Christmas, we kick off the Hope of Peace Series. In this first message, Pastor Hurmon uses the discussion between Mary and Gabriel to discuss the ways we are able to find and experience peace in a time of turbulence and uncertainty. In order to do this, we must remember that even though we have a story that dominates our life, our most important role is as a part of God's ultimate story.When we focus on God' story, we remember that there is peace, even in what appears to be uncertainty, and we are able to find perspective. While our story may change from good to bad, and is focused on the day to day, God's story lasts forever, always points towards bringing people back into relationship with God. The way we focus on God's story is by remembering that God has a calling and purpose on our lives; saying "yes" to that calling, even when we aren't sure what that entails; and using even our hard times and uncertainty to bring glory to God. In addition, we must focus on and engage with God's will; stop trying to control what's not ours to control; and trust God with the things we cannot change. When we do this, we are able to find serenity in God's ultimate stories, no matter what is happening in our own dominant stories.
Sequoia Church Lead Elder & Future NBCC Elder 2025, Brad Jung, highlights the power of prayer. Pray is meant to bring us into relationship with God, and Jesus has set the example of being in communion of God through prayer. Prayer is more than just asking God, it’s experiencing God. God doesn’t always answer our prayers the way we want him to, but He is always with us. God responds to persistence, giving us what our souls crave. Even if we don’t feel like our prayers our answered, we will always have His ultimate gift – the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Hurmon invites us to choose the Jesus Way. Choosing the Jesus Way will radically transform your life and relationships, particularly where there are contentions. He reminds us that it’s our differences that make us usable by God. When communicating with others, it’s important to be empathic, learning their story, relating to their pain and watching our tone when we talk to them. When times get hard, remember that God is wrapped up in the details of your life no matter what. If you are obedient to God, He will take care of the rest.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon discusses the secret to stewardship of God's blessings to us. Biblical stewardship is management of all that God has given to us (time, talents, resources, and relationships), and recognizing that they are gifts on loan from God. We also must acknowledge that our gifts are not just from God, but are also gifts for God's use. When we encounter blessings and growth, we are to understand that they are gifts to be used to advance God's kingdom, and when we encounter hardship in life, we are to continue to follow God through it, understanding that God will always have the last word. As we become good stewards of what has been given to us, our most important tiles have nothing to do with what have accomplished, and instead become our titles as we God's servant and stewards of his light.
In this message, Pastor Hurmon teaches us about kairos moments: the opportune, divine moments when God acts or presents a special opportunity. This is when eternity and historic time intersect. When you’re dealing with kairos, you can meet the moment, but you cannot make the moment. Pastor Hurmon teaches us how to recongise kairos moments and ensure that we do not miss these moments in our lives. He reminds us that when it looks like God isn’t doing anything, God is moving. Sometimes in the waiting period, it gets worse before it gets better. You have to trust God anyway because God sees what you cannot see. Even when we feel like we’ve missed a kairos moment, God is a redeeming God. He can redeem missed moments and create fresh opportunities. Remember that God speaks to us, grants favour and orchestrates times and seasons.
In this first message of the new “Reaching and Rejoicing” series, Pastor Hurmon dives into the amazing season of growth God has in store for NBCC. Have you ever realized that God’s plans exceed our wildest dreams? As we journey together on the path He’s set for us—both individually and as a church—we're invited to grow, stretch, and aspire for more. No matter who you are, you are safe, loved, and challenged here.
In this last message of the Flawed Follower series, Pastor Hurmon encourages us to start focusing on the object of our faith instead of focusing on how little faith we think we have. Jesus is for everybody. Because of who we know in Jesus, we are not beyond God’s reach, love, grace, or purpose. When friends and family or people around us count us out when we mess up, Jesus counts us in. God doesn’t count how many times you fall, he counts how many times you get up again. Despite how hard it is to believe, Jesus’ grace is unlimited. If Jesus can change the world with Peter, He can change the world with you, so don’t forget to get back up and continue to be transformed by Him.
This message continues the Flawed Follower series, which discusses the life of Peter, and how his relationship with Jesus teaches us about the way we can better our own relationships with Jesus. When we feel like we have failed God, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of guilt, pain, and shame. But God lets us know that he's not finished with us yet. Not only do we have to allow us to accept God's forgiveness, but we also need to forgive ourselves and heal. In order to forgive ourselves, we must (1) make an honest assessment and assume responsibility for our part in what has happened (2) equip our hearts with self-empathy and reframe our thinking (3) ask for forgiveness and make amends where possible, and (4) learn the lesson, and let go of the guilt and shame. When we are able to forgive ourselves and move forward with the lessons we've learned from our failures, we are able to create positive impact for others.
Pastor Hurmon reminds us of God's loving grace, which embraces us despite our struggles to live up to Jesus' example. Even faithful followers like Peter make mistakes, but Jesus doesn't reject us — He chooses us, offering grace, forgiveness, and the potential for growth and transformation. If you're feeling unworthy or disqualified, take heart — Jesus sees your struggle and longs to draw you closer.
Pastor Hurmon reminds us that Jesus uses flawed but faithful followers to build His church. People assume you can’t be a flawed follower of Jesus, but just knowing and following Jesus does not make you an unflawed follower. Flaws come from yesterday’s trauma or a lack of spiritual and emotional maturity. Your flaws do not delegitimise your faith, but your faith does not keep you safe from your flaws. God is interested in doing things through you, so keep building His church and a faithful but flawed follower!
Pastor Hurmon dives deep into what it means to trust Jesus, even when His teachings leave us feeling unsure. It’s in these moments that our faith is both tested and strengthened. We are all called to follow Jesus, despite our flaws, our doubts, and the brokenness in our lives. In this time together, we explore how embracing trust can lead to incredible spiritual growth, even when we don’t have all the answers.
Pastor Hurmon uses the story of Peter walking on water to remind us to follow God through the storms of our lives. Real life is unpredictable, broken and shattered. With or without Jesus, we experience storms of our lives. It is better to go through them with Him. The grace of God is able to sustain you in the midst of the storm and when you come out, you have deeper intimacy with Jesus. We are encouraged to pray that God increases our spiritual capacity to face greater storms in our lives. We should never confuse flawlessness and faithfulness. Jesus’ grace can turn our faithfulness into flawlessness.
Is The Bible Reliable & Can I Know God Personally? by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
In this special Easter message, Pastor Hurmon helps us to joyously celebrate the transformative power of the resurrected Jesus. He shares with us 3 Easter Gifts which are prayers that we can always expect God to answer with a resounding yes. Finally, he shares a personal story of a dramatic encounter with Jesus that illustrates the invitation that God makes to all of us to accept His everlasting grace and forgiveness, which can forever change our destiny.
In this installment in the Encounters message series, Pastor Hurmon talks about one of the most impactful encounters we can have with God, which happens is in the place of unanswered prayers. Looking at Jesus’s prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, we see the Father answering, “no,” while also sending an angel to comfort and strengthen Jesus. Pastor Hurmon identifies issues that can hamper our prayers, such as doubt, wrong motives, and broken relationships. Ultimately our prayers must align with God’s purposes, and if He answers, “no,” we can still believe and in His unchanging character and trust that He is for us and not against us.
In this message, we learn that life-changing encounters with Jesus happen in quiet moments of prayer. Even short and conversational prayer about our lives has power because it draws us away from feelings of self-righteousness, and instead fosters honesty and humility. Prayer also allows us to see and experience God in our lives and in the world.
In this message, we meet a woman who Jesus heals on the Sabbath, as well as a member of our own NBCC community who was delivered from addiction. While both of these women were healed through their encounters with the living God, Pastor Hurmon draws our attention to the synagogue leader, who, unwilling to surrender to God’s plan for his life, misses out on a transformational God encounter.
In this third message in the Encounters series, Pastor Hurmon explores a biblical story that helps illustrate the transformative power of encountering Jesus. We are encouraged to draw near to God, be certain of his love for us, and to be completely honest and transparent about trauma you may have experienced that you need help overcoming. By positively confessing to God, we can regain the joy that God intends for us rather than remaining bent over by unseen power that can otherwise cripple us.
Continuing in the “Encounters" series, Pastor Hurmon addresses the idea of private labels. Sometimes the way we see ourselves can prevent us from moving toward the life-giving transformation that God intends for us. Pastor Hurmon encourages us to be in a receptive position to hear and believe how Jesus sees us.
Encounters with Jesus can radically change our understanding of who we are, and our place in the world. In the first message of this new series, Pastor Hurmon teaches that an encounter with Jesus changes the way that we perceive and deal with fear. Giving into fear can threaten our dreams, stop us from growing, and drive us to act in ways that we normally would not. Encounters with Jesus and his undying, un-diminishing, and unconditional love are the antidote to fear, and allow us to move forward in the will of God, even in the face of our greatest fears.
What Are You Searching For - Life After Death by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
"Hope In An Upside-down World – Don't Be Seduced!" Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
"Hope In An Upside-down World – Where Do I Find Hope?" Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
"Hope In An Upside-down World – How Do I Stay Sober?" Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
"Hope In An Upside-down World – When Life Breaks Your Dreams" Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Three Hidden Dangers to Dialoguing Across Race in the U.S. by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[AUG-18-2019] Peacemakers in the Midst of a Shattered World by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[APR-21-2019] Rise Up - Easter Celebration 2019 by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Real humility is not polite modesty or putting yourself down. It's not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less. This humility Lacks excessive concern about personal status, focuses on how “we” win, not on how “I” win, is slow to point to personal contributions but quick to point out accomplishments of others, asks for help, admits faults, and accepts advice. The first step in fostering this kind of humility is confronting our insecurities by identifying them, saying “no,” talking back and shifting the focus from “me,” to “thee.”
[FEB-10-2019] What Does My Life Say About God by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
The most fundamental way to reset in Scripture is to reset our hearts through repentance. Repentance is the process of realigning with God and is the key to deep, authentic relationship with Him. Repentance, which is expressed through our choices and priorities begins with recognizing that “it’s not all about me” and that choosing the most important thing in our lives is the presence of God. Moses shows us what that looks like: to long for the Presence of God in our lives more than anything else.
In the first message of the new year, we begin the “Reset” series. In this message, we are reminded through the story of Moses that the quality of our relationship with God not only influences the dreams we have, but also how we work to carry them out in our work and day to day lives and circumstances.
Rabbi Nathaniel Ezray shares with us the Hebrew concept of Hineni — Here I am. Hineni entails being fully present to God, to one another and to this moment. When we say Hineni to a fellow human, we come to understand God in a different way. When we come to understand God in a different way, we've come to understand what God wants of us, in a different way. God wants us to be present, to take care of ourselves, to live with love, hope and joy. God wants us to respond to people in ways that they need, rather than what we think they need.
In NBCC’s Christmas Celebration message, Pastor Hurmon connects with the character of the little drummer boy who plays for the Newborn King. Whether we are rich or poor, we have nothing to offer God but our lives. Yet, each of us is a gift to God. He never gives up on us and calls us to not give up on loving others.
New life can occur from all impossibilities. When we are faithful to God's will, our task is to do the best to love, and leave the rest to God. In this week's message, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that Jesus can change the trajectory of anyone's life. That is what the Christmas story offers to us!
This message based on the Christmas Carol “Away in a Manger” focuses on Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary’s response to the angel models what it looks like to work through doubts and gradually grow in faith. Pastor Hurmon paints a picture of the revelation of God entering our lives through small “drips” and “drops” of understanding, and teaches how God often requires that we surrender control and step out in faith in order to see Him work. Take the step—trust God for the results!
Pastor Hurmon kicks off a new series with an analysis of "What Child is This?" In it, we learn that Jesus is fully human and fully God. that He comes to all and is for all and that Jesus is the answer to the question, “Does God care?” To remind us of this, Jesus says: "Don’t be afraid," "Take Courage," and "I am with you."
In this week's message, Pastor Tilden reminds us that God works his redemption through his people, through you and me, as we live like Jesus. When we aren't sure we can trust God or that God will be fair to us, we won't be able to live with uncommon generosity and uncommon service to others. Jesus teaches us another perspective on the question, "Is God fair?
Jesus is the light of the world and he wants his followers to be light as well. Being light involves living as Jesus lived and doing what Jesus taught. Numerous scriptures tell us to stand up for the oppressed and to care for the poor and underserved. No matter your circumstances you can shine right now, wherever you are, by responding to this call to loving service and generosity. Start by deciding to live like you trust God—Do what you can do; trust God for the rest.
What is the role of a Jesus follower in this divisive and polarized season?
Pastor Hurmon reminds us that we are to remember that our ultimate trust is in God and that we are inextricably connected to our neighbors.
It is through this connection with others and our awareness of our own stories that we are to connect and empathize with others. As we lay down our labels for those who are not like us and love them unconditionally and extravagantly, we gain the ability to build bridges between people who were once divided even while we express our own political beliefs and convictions.
What makes some people extravagantly generous? Is it impossible for rich people to enter the kingdom of God?
What is impossible for man is possible for God!
Referencing Luke’s gospel, Pastor Hurmon compares two rich men as they encounter Jesus in their efforts to know God better.
Watch and see which one has the self revelation and response to Jesus which lead to a giving lifestyle.
In this week's message, Pastor Adam Peacocke reminds us that we are called to dream crazy big dreams! And to engage with a God who is crazy-big with love, compassion and mercy. In order to be a source of life and good in our communities, we have to be interruptible. We must make time and be of service to those in need. Every day, there is an opportunity to serve, if we are willing. If we live out the values and love that God has placed on our hearts, our churches will be on-ramps of blessings into the world.
Pastor Hurmon kicks off the Dream Crazy Big series by preaching on the transforming work that transpires when the Creator of the universe—a crazy big God—pursues us with His love. We see in Luke 19:1-9 how God’s unconditional love toward tax collector Zacchaeus radically changes his life. God’s love for us does a work in our hearts and our imaginations, helping us to dream love-inspired, courageous dreams.
In this stand alone message, Pastor Hurmon teaches that even though life can be a dream slayer, God is a dream giver. His dreams inspire us to make difficult choices, major changes, and significant sacrifices.
The Apostle Paul uses the examples of shared meals, worshipping together, and hosting each other to help us understand what it means to follow Jesus. Pastor Hurmon suggested that by finding our place in our own families, by mentoring and friendship, by contributing to a small group—we grow individually and together.
There are seasons when God’s leading and direction is clear. However, every believer should expect seasons when God is silent. In this week's message, Dr. Hurmon shares how God is doing a deeper work in our lives. And that during this time, God's silence often communicates: Let it be, stay the course, trust me and I trust you.
In this powerful sermon, Pastor Hurmon reflects back on God’s leading in his life and answers the important question, “How does one live a Spirit-led life?
Pastor Dan Monroe teaches us that Natural self-control is the natural ability to control oneself, in particular one's desires and emotions or the expression of them in one's behavior. Spiritual self-control is a relationship with God that changes our emotions and desires and the expression of them towards God and others. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, listen to the Spirit, are humble before the Spirit and receive grace from the Spirit, we receive the gift of Spiritual self control.
Marvette Uto-Uko teaches us to embrace the biblical concept of gentleness—not a weakness, but a controlled strength—as modeled by Jesus and praised in Proverbs. This gentleness, often paired with humility, deflects anger and has the power to bring freedom and restoration
In this week's message, Pastor Hurmon teaches us that Faithfulness is the fundamental ingredient for: success, friendship , love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control. Does my expression of faithfulness come from a place of love?
Galatians 5:22 (NLT)
Looking at the fruit of goodness—generous, sacrificial, God-honoring actions and courage, Pastor Hurmon focuses his message on how the Holy Spirit works in our broken moments. A right response to struggle and brokenness in our lives transforms our thinking and makes us vessels of God’s power. Be inspired to see every broken moment as a strategic opportunity to let God do His best work in your life!
Peel: Patience What’s under your skin? Is it love, joy, peace, patience? In this week’s message, Pastor Hurmon shares that patience is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that helps followers of Jesus be impactful in relationships. This week, choose to exercise patience with others.
Pastor Hurmon’s encouraging message reminds us that the invisible, gradual work of the Spirit in our lives inevitably produces lasting fruit. Nothing can stop the Spirit’s work in all who call Jesus their Lord! The knowledge of God’s love, demonstrated by sending His son, produces in us joy and peace—the ability to rest in God’s love, wisdom and salvation—and even enables us to be peacemakers for others!
In this message, Pastor Tilden teaches that God is so committed to His people living with joy that His joy can thrive in even the most difficult of life's circumstance
Pastor Hurmon introduces the “Peel” series with an overview of how the Holy Spirit works in our hearts to produce the fruit of the Spirit. He points out examples throughout scripture and in his own life where God’s Spirit may hover over, fill and empower, or dwell within people of faith.
God’s Spirit is present and at work all around the world!
In this message, Pastor Hurmon teaches us to live a life of adoration and gratitude by exploring a passage in Psalms.
Pastor Hurmon concludes the "Different" Message Series by discussing God's heart towards immigrants and encourages us to engage in difficult conversations with empathy, humility and compassion.
Scripture Matthew 25:31-32 (NIV) Matthew 25:34-35 (NLT) Ephesians 2:19 (NLT) Exodus 23:9 (NIV) Leviticus 19:33-34 (NIV) Deuteronomy 10:17-19 (NIV) Genesis 42:5 (NIV) Exodus 1:8-9 (NIV) Zechariah 7:10 (NLT) Matthew 25:37-40 (NLT)
In this message, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that Everyday Heroes are Legacy Builders with Wise Judgment. They are Self-Controlled, Patient, Humble, Display Love and Compassion, and they Forgive Often.
In this message, Pastor Tilden teaches about the restorative power of a repentant attitude and confession—power to open doors and grow intimacy in relationships with God and others. Do you find it easy to say, “sorry”? Whether you relate to the confident Pharisee or the penitent tax collector, you will take away some helpful advice from this video.
Series Different
Topics Relationships, Relationship with God, Relationship with Others, Gratitude
Scripture Luke 18:9-14 (NIV) 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV)
God of the Open Door! Pastor John Ortberg reminds us that open doors are opportunities and not guarantees, and that everyone is eligible to be a blessing through the open door(s) that God is giving them right now!
Series Different
Topics Blessings, Circumstances, Decisions, Choices
Scripture Revelation 3:7-8 Genesis 12:2-3 Genesis 18:18 Genesis 22:18 Genesis 26:4 Genesis 28:14 Genesis 1:21-22 Genesis 1:28 (MSG)
Faith should make a difference in how we live and in how we interact with the world. We all start our journey with God for different reasons, but God graciously meets us where we are and grows our faith step by step. Do you “aspire to make a difference” in this world? Listen to this message and be inspired toward a mature faith that keeps growing.
A Difference! In this initial message from the new series “Different!”, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that God promises to take your upside down life and turn it right side up. All you have to do is to be able to believe it.
In this Mother’s Day message, Pastor Hurmon concludes the Finding God in Silicon Valley series with hope for healing for all men and women. Jesus notices us, and he sees the unseen powers that can hurt and enslave us. As we step toward him, his compassionate love is able to reverse the wounds of our past and set us free. Praise be to God!
Pastor Hurmon ends this series by discussing how God models for us how to live in the valley. He encourages us to reduce pressure by prioritizing serving others and to slow down to hear God's voice and experience His presence.
Series Finding God in Silicon Valley
Topics Service, Relationship with God, Giving, Trust
Scripture Psalm 23:2-3 (NKJV) Psalms 23:4-5 (NLT) John 10:10 (NIV) Mark 10:43-45 (NIV) Psalm 23:5 (NKJV) 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (NLT) Exodus 25:22 (NLT)
In Part 4 of the Finding God in Silicon Valley Series, Skip Vaccarello discusses ways that God speaks to us by sharing inspiring stories from CEOs and high-tech leaders who have answered the call of God through pain and prayer.
n Part 3 of the Finding God in Silicon Valley Series, Pastor Hurmon shares some life-changing realizations about life in the valley. Although going through the valley is an inevitable part of everyone’s journey, God is there with us, guiding us, and offering blessing amidst the dangers. Greatness is achieved by serving and loving others above our own personal achievement
[Apr-15-2018] The Valley Of The Shadow Of The Doubt by Pastor Tilden Fang by NBCC Podcast
Pastor Hurmon kicks off this series by exploring God's footprints of goodness and mercy in our lives and reminds us that He is with us in the valley.
In this inspired Easter message, Pastor Hurmon preaches on God’s love flowing to us from the cross, bringing forgiveness, and healing the broken. God’s acceptance of us as “works in progress,” allows us to forgive ourselves and accept God’s lavish gift of love and salvation.
In week 5 of the Coming Out Gold series, we learn that God can bend suffering and evil to His holy purposes, and that He is always with us—in the beginning and in the end, and throughout life’s seasons.
Pastor Hurmon continues the “Coming Out Gold” series by discussing why there is evil and suffering in the world but how God is able to bend them to His purposes.
Pastor Hurmon begins the “Coming Out Gold” series by introducing the book of Job. We can find encouragement in Job's story for those trying to understand suffering in a life of faith. Is Job’s righteousness based only on God’s blessing? As his faith is tested, will Job continue to trust in God's character?
Scripture Job 23:10 (NIV) Job 1:1-11 (NLT) James 1:2-3 (NLT) James 1:4 (NIV) Matt 4:1-2 (NLT) Psalm 100:5 (NIV) John 10:10-11 (NLT)
The inclusion of Jephthah in Hebrews 11 raises challenging questions, but ultimately helps us to see more clearly God’s amazing grace in including us in His story.
On Super Bowl Sunday, Pastor Hurmon teaches that grit is the ability to stick! Faith requires grit and grit involves faith.
Pastor Hurmon closes out the Divine Direction series with a charge to “Stay the Course” and persevere to take hold of God's best for our lives.
Hebrews 11:27 (NIV) Exodus 14:12-16 (NIV) Galatians 6:9 (NKJV) Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV)
In this week's message, Pastor Hurmon delves into how we can discover what God wants us to do. For God is sitting at the intersection of our decisions, and beckons us to choose wisely.
Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV) Hebrews 11:25-26(NLT) Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV) Romans 3:23 (NLT) Acts 7:23-25 (NLT) Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (NLT)
In Week 2 of Pastor Hurmon’s Divine Direction series, he teaches against letting anyone or anything define our lives, except for God. God is able to do exeedingly more than we could ask or imagine—let Him into your story!
Update: We apologize for the inconvenience. Due to a technical issue, the sound in this week's video is cutting out from about the 8 minute mark and returning at around th 9 minute mark. We are looking into the issue and hope to get this resolved as soon as possible.If we are are able to secure a corrected version, we will re-post it here. Thank you for your patience!
Pastor Hurmon kicks off the first series of the year by reminding us that divine direction requires a posture of faith and trust that God exists, that He is active in our lives and stories and that divine direction happens at the intersections of small decisions.
Exodus 2:5-6 (NIV) Hebrews 11:23 (NIV) Hebrews 11:1-2 (Message) Hebrews 11:24 (NIV) Romans 8:28 (NIV)
As we ease into this season, Pastor Hurmon challenges us to think about Christmas differently. To engage and be fully present by slowing down and opening up space for family and friends, neighbors and strangers. Often, the “significant” is found within the “insignificant!”
Pastor Hurmon talks about generosity as a lifestyle choice that shows God’s love to others. He explores the benefits of generosity as well as how to overcome the barriers to being generous.
The Honorable Shelyna Brown continues the "Go!" message series by reminding us that Jesus is the perfect example of service, and that everything we do should be done as unto the Lord, and examining the attributes of Godly service.
Pastor Hurmon explores how our dominant picture of God impacts our ability to love God and receive love from God. He then introduces the Psalmist's picture of God from Psalm 103, written from the perspective of age. Finally, he closes with the reminder that Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God.
Mission and Marketplace: The Power of Human Flourishing Since we are born in the image of our Creator, we are at our best when we imagine and pursue the life we were designed to live.
Through sharing lessons from his journey, Ron demonstrated the power of a purpose-driven life aligned with a deep-seated faith. He also explored how adversity provides the single best opportunity for human growth.
Topics
Joy, Kindness, Love
Scripture
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
[OCT-15-2017] Starting Point - The Invitation by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Pastor Hurmon shared that in order for Jesus followers to grow in their spiritual journey, they need a community of faith plus a plan to grow in faith.
[SEPT-24-2017] Starting Point - Unbelieveable by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[SEP-17-2017] Starting Point - A Shocking Discovery by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Everyone's faith has a starting point. Learn how to take the next step in your journey by exploring who Jesus is and how your faith experience can shape your destination.
Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:2-9 (NLT)
Isaiah 53:4-6 (NLT)
John 20:25-28 (NLT)
Acts 1:14 (NLT)
When this earthly “tent” is taken down, that is, we die, what constitutes our greatest legacy will always be our relationships and how well we loved. Life can be amazing when we learn to value the little things in life. 2 Cor. 5:1 (NLT) Luke 16:10 (NLT) 1 Tim 5:8 (NLT) Luke 10:27 (NLT) Proverbs 11:3 (NIV) 2 Cor. 5:2-8 (NLT) Rev 21:1-5 (NLT)
[AUG-20-2017] Jesus, Charlottesville & The Gospel - Is There Hope? by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[AUG-13-2017] Opportunity In Transition - Part 5 by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[AUG-06-2017] Opportunity In Transition Part 4 by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[Jul-30-2017] Opportunity In Transition - Part 3 by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[JUL-23-2017] What's Next - Opportunity In Transition Part 2 by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[Jul-16-2017] WHAT'S NEXT: Opportunity In Transition by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Special guest speaker, Bishop Donald Green, speaks on having the attitude of a servant by looking at the life of Jesus, the ultimate example of a Servant.
John 13:1-17 (NLT)
Cultivate a Contented Soul In this last message of NBCC's "Don't Panic" message series, Pastor Hurmon explores how we can cultivate a contented soul.
Topics
Joy, Forgiveness, Prayer, Peace
Scripture
Philippians 4:11-13 (NLT), Psalm 27:1-4 (NLT), 1 Timothy 6:6
[Jun-18-2017] Choose A Different Approach by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton - SSQ4uYGOb5A by NBCC Podcast
Can you embrace God's plan the same way you embrace your own plan? Can you be as vigorous doing it God's way as you are doing it your way? In this week’s message, Dr. Rhonda Hamilton reminds us of Christ’s promise that all things work out for the good of those who love Him and are called to His purpose.
Acts 1:14 Isaiah 40:28-31
When God initiates the work of transformation in your life, the results can be amazing!
Acts 8:26-39 (NLT)
Unexpected life disruptions can be the jumping off point, from which God radically transforms our lives. In today’s message, Pastor Hurmon shared we can trust that God is for us, and not against us. With this promise, we can step toward the future with assurance.
Dare to dream the impossible dream! Through God’s infinite grace and power, we too can be transformed. For the same power that raised Jesus from the grave, can set us free from all our anxieties and fears.
Our journey of faith, must be a journey of total surrender and trust in God. In today’s message, Pastor Hurmon reminds us that when we have done all that we can do, it is time to let go and let God work his greater purpose in our lives. What is it that you need to surrender to God? Romans 8:28 (NLT)
We can survive and grow through some of life’s horrendous disappointments by learning to forgive others, ourselves and accepting forgiveness from a lavishly generous God. Especially, as it facilitates the gift of forgiveness into our lives. Psalms 103:8-13 (NLT)
Forgiveness does not mean condoning or excusing wrongdoing. Rather, forgiveness is a conduit which allows us to transform our pain. The secret to transforming pain is learning to forgive and letting go. It’s about diminishing the suffering that we are going through. We forgive to HEAL! Luke 23:34 (NLT)
How do I live and grow during times of pain and disappointment? The only way we can experience pain and disappointment with a sense of hope and trust is when we remember other times of God’s faithfulness, in the midst of life not turning up in the ways we had hoped. Romans 8:38-39 (NLT)
Are you thirsty? In this week’s message, Pastor Hurmon provides us with tools to quench our spiritual thirst by reshaping our expectations and focusing on Jesus, who supplies us with rivers of living waters. John 19:28 (NLT)
The pain that we experience, does not just impact our lives, but it often has a wider reach. What does this teach us about perspective while we work through some of our greatest challenges? John 19:26-27 (NLT)
My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?” These powerful words – spoken by Jesus – reveal the cry of our hearts when we are sometimes trapped by pain and disappointment. Where is God during these seasons of life?
Scripture Cited: Mark 15:33–34, 37–38 (NIV); Psalm 34:18 (MSG); Hebrews 4:15 (NIV); Mark 15:14 (NIV); Psalm 6:6 (NLT); Psalm 42:3 (NIV); Luke 19:41 (NIV); John 11:35 (NIV); Hebrews 5:7 (NLT); Psalm 22:1 (NIV); 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV).
Practice prayer this week by praying for 10 minutes daily. Learn from the model of the “Our Father” prayer, and follow along in the Prayer Guide. [1] http://www.nbccbayarea.com/prayer-guide/
Additional Scripture Cited: Psalm 140:1-2 (NIV); Revelation 5:13 (NIV); Matthew 6:13 (NKJV); Ephesians 1:7 (NIV)
Prayer is a conversation with God. Just as with the people in your life, your relationship with God will grow closer through dialogue and quality time spent together. Prayer enables you to seek the heart of God and to know Him better. Scripture cited: Ephesians 1:17 (NIV); Acts 1:3-4 (NIV); Acts 1:14 (NLT); Jeremiah 29:7 (NLT); Acts 2:4, 22-24 (NLT); Acts 2:41-45 (NLT); Psalm 37:23 (NLT); Isaiah 41:17 (NIV).
Pastor Hurmon began a new message series, “The Prayer Factor”. (Ephesians 1:15-17, NIV). Prayer should always be a priority. It allows us to become uniquely close to God – to “know” God is the most important thing in the world.
Additional scriptures cited: Luke 18:1 (NIV); Deuteronomy 6:4 (NKJV); 1 Corinthians 8:6 (NLT); Psalm 119:11 (NLT); Psalm 119:105 (NLT); John 1:1-3 (NIV); Mark 1:35 (NIV); Luke 11:1 (NIV); Hebrews 5:7 (NLT)
Coming off of our “Dream On” series, our guest speaker, Jason Mayden, delivered a special message about living out your God-given dreams. Identify your dream, commit to your dream, and be willing to to serve well in the small things, and God will bless you with greater things. Scriptures Cited (NLT): Romans 5:3-5; Matthew 10:19-20; Romans 8:18.
In this week’s message, The Power of a Dream, Pastor Hurmon taught that the journey requires me to: identify my “big dream”; leave my comfort zone; face my fears; expect much opposition; go/grow through my wasteland; and my “wasteland” is a season of preparation. Genesis 41:52 (NLT).
Additional Scriptures Cited, (NLT) unless otherwise noted: Exodus 16:1; Exodus 16:3; Exodus 17:3; James 1:2-4; Ephesians 3:20 (NIV); Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV).
God gives big dreams to everyone, but there is a journey attached to every big dream. Knowing what that journey looks like—and what you should expect to encounter along the way—can make the difference between experiencing the fulfillment of a God-inspired dream and missing it all together! Scriptures Cited (NLT): Genesis 41:52; Exodus 3:2-4; Exodus 3:11-12; Exodus 4:1, 10, 12; Acts 7:25.
God is a dream giver. He places a God-size dream in everyone and our pursuit of that dream leads to fruitfulness. Our dreams can teach us much about ourselves and God! Scriptures Cited: Genesis 37:5-11; Genesis 41:52; Genesis 37:7, 9; Genesis 40:15; Genesis 40:8; Genesis 41:16 (NLT).
As you start the new year, do you have a dream? Some have discarded the notion of dreaming and settle for the status quo. However, the Bible reminds us that God is a dream-giver! Pastor Hurmon began a 4-part message series, “Dream On” by teaching us that the closer we grow to God, the louder the invitation from Him for us to dream big! Scripture Cited (NLT): Genesis 41:52; Genesis 37:4; Genesis 37:7; Genesis 37:9.
Christmas offers us a remarkable gift, which is the love of Jesus! Enjoy Pastor Hurmon’s message which is the culmination of our special Christmas service, “A Joyful Christmas Celebration.” Scripture cited: Luke 2:11-14 (NIV).
How do you “live a life of joy” in a world of heartbreak and pain? Is joy something you can hold on to? It is if you live in the awareness of God’s grace! Scriptures Cited: Matthew 1:3, 5-6, 16 (NIV); Luke 2:10-11 (NIV); Ephesians 2:8 (NLT); Matthew 13:55 (NIV); John 1:46 (NIV); Psalm 143:8 (NLT).
Pastor Hurmon launched a new message series entitled “Living a Life of Joy,” teaching from Luke 2:8-12 and Luke 2:17-18 (NIV) highlighting the difference between Biblical Christmas and commercial Christmas. Don’t let the din of a commercial Christmas overpower a Christ-centered Christmas. Additional Scriptures Cited: Philippians 4:4 (NIV); John 1:14 (NLT); Isaiah 9:2 (NIV); John 8:12 (NIV); Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV); Psalm 16:11 (NIV).
Pastor Hurmon launched a new message series entitled “Living a Life of Joy,” teaching from Luke 2:8-12 and Luke 2:17-18 (NIV) highlighting the difference between Biblical Christmas and commercial Christmas. Don’t let the din of a commercial Christmas overpower a Christ-centered Christmas. Additional Scriptures Cited: Philippians 4:4 (NIV); John 1:14 (NLT); Isaiah 9:2 (NIV); John 8:12 (NIV); Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV); Psalm 16:11 (NIV).
Coming off of our “Radical Living” series, Pastor Tilden Fang delivered a special Thanksgiving weekend message on the difference it makes to live with radical gratitude, which is gratitude that is present in our lives beyond our difficult circumstances, personal tragedies, and other outcomes we would never choose for ourselves. (Matthew 5:1-14, NIV). The message highlighted through video and personal sharing, the story of Dwight and Maria Powery and their daughter, Christiana.
Pastor Hurmon concluded our “Radical Living” series by sharing that following Jesus is extremely difficult—but it is also extremely rewarding and fulfilling. Matthew 16:24 (NIV). Additional Scriptures Cited: Matthew 16:15-16 (NLT); Matthew 16:23, 25 (NLT); Matthew 16:24 (NKJV); John 3:16 (NLT); Romans 5:8 (NIV); 1 John 1:9 (NLT); Proberbs 21:17 (MSG).
Pastor Hurmon continued with the “Radical Living!” series teaching about Radical Forgiveness. (Matthew 6:12-15, NLT). Jesus calls His followers in this season to move toward His love. We are encouraged to recognize, empathize, forgive, and commit to healing and not hurting. Additional Scriptures Cited: Matthew 5:23-24 (NLT)/(KJV); Matthew 5:46 (NLT); James 1:19 (NLT); Matthew 6:12-13 (NIV); Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV); Matthew 5:43-44 (NLT); Matthew 7:12 (NIV).
Following Jesus involves loving radically! Pastor Hurmon continued our “Radical Living” series and framed this message around Matt 5:43-45 (NLT), Matt 22:37-39 (NLT). Christian love is not just about doing—it’s about becoming more like Christ. Additional Scriptures Cited: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (NLT); 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (NLT); 1 John 3:2 (NIV); John 3:16 (NLT); Matt 16:24 (NLT).
At the end of the message, Pastor Hurmon shared a Facebook video by singer Stephen Curtis Chapman
Following Jesus involves radical sacrifice! Pastor Hurmon continued with part 3 of 6 in the “Radical Living” series. Matt 5:41-42 (NLT), Matt 16:24-25 (NLT). The secret to a life of meaning is that we are shaped to: give, serve, and sacrifice. Jesus followers are not normal. Additional Scriptures Cited: Matt 5:3-6 (NLT); Matt 5:23-24 (NLT); Matt 5:39-42 (NLT); Matt 16:24 (NLT); Matt 16:25 (NLT).
Pastor Hurmon continues his 6-part message series “Radical Giving” framed around Matthew 6:31-33 (NLT). Following Jesus is a radical choice and a radical lifestyle, Matthew 9:9 (NLT). Because our values are reflected in what we value most, Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT), we need to recognize our blindspots, Matthew 6:22-24 (NLT), and move our focus from self to God’s heart through our giving. Additional scriptures cited: Matthew 6:25, 28, 9:9, 25:34-36, (NLT); Ezekiel 36:26 (NLT).
Pastor Hurmon began a 6-part message series, Radical Living. Matthew 5:13-15 (NLT). To believe in Jesus means to follow Him. And to truly follow Jesus is to live a radical life. John 3:16-17 (NIV). Additional Scriptures Cited: Matthew 4:18-20, 21-22, 9:9 (NLT); Mark 2:14, 2:15 (NLT).
How should followers of Jesus engage in this election season? Teaching from the book of Matthew, Pastor Hurmon encouraged us to let faith, not emotion, have the last word; to think deeply about what Christ values; and to build peace and irradicate divisiveness. Scripture Cited: Matthew 1:1 (NLT); Matthew 2:2 (NLT); Matthew 27:37 (NLT); Matthew 28:18 (NIV); Matthew 5:3-16 (NLT); Matthew 5:43-45 (NLT); Matthew 7:12 (NIV).
[Oct-2-2016] Living A Life That Outlives You- Part 5 byPastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
[Sept-25-2016] Living A Life That Outlives You- Part by Pastor Hurmon Hamilton by NBCC Podcast
Pastor Hurmon continued with Part 3 in the Legacy series, “Living A Life That Outlives You”. The overall take-away: what does it mean to make my mark in life? What type of legacy am I leaving behind for my children? Faith must pass on to the next generation. (Joshua 24:15, NLT). Additional cited scripture: Luke 23:42 (NLT); Mark 2:17 (NLT); Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV); Joshua 23:9-11 (NLT); Deuteronomy 6:5 (NIV)
Pastor Hurmon continued part 2 of our series, “Legacy: Living a Life That Outlives You!” Joshua 5:7-9 (NLT). When shame threatens to steal your destiny, recognize that you are born to be part of God’s story and choose God’s grace over shame. Additional cited scripture: John 3:16 (NIV); Genesis 17:10-11 (NIV); Ephesians 1:4 (NLT); Ephesians 1:5-8 (NLT).
This Sunday, Pastor Hurmon began a new message series, “Legacy: Living a Life That Outlives You! Part 1.” Joshua 5:13-15 (NIV). What does it mean to make my mark in life? What will your legacy be? Take a moment to reflect on this quote by Charles Stanley, “God takes full responsibility for a life that is wholly devoted to Him.” Additional cited scripture: Exodus 2:1-2 (NLT); Ephesians 1:4 (NLT); Joshua 1:1-3, 5-7, 9 (NLT); Ephesians 1:5 (NLT); Mark 8:34-36 (NIV); Joshua 24:29 (NLT).
Skip Vaccarello, NBCC partner and elder and author of the book Finding God in Silicon Valley, shared from his faith journey and framed it around 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV), “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Additional Cited Scriptures: Colossians 3:23 (NIV); Matthew 16:26 (NIV); Matthew 19:26 (NIV); Matthew 28:19 (NIV); Mark 16:15 (NIV); 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV).
Pastor Hurmon completed the two-part series, “Unbreak My Heart”, teaching that the soul is our inner being and needs to be restored on a regular basis. God restores our soul and restoration happens when we are connected to Him. Supporting Scriptures: Psalms 23:3-6 (NKJ); Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV); Psalms 42:1-3 (NIV); Psalm 103:1 (NKJ); Matthew 11:28-29 (NLT); 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV); Psalm 23:3 (NIV)
Most of us are familiar with the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. One person’s victory is another’s defeat. Pastor Hurmon reminds us that heartbreak comes in many forms but that—with health and hope—we can learn how to move beyond it. Supporting Scriptures: Genesis 2:7 (NIV); Psalms 42:1-3 (NIV); Psalm 103:1 (NIV); Psalm 103:1 (NKJ); 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV); Psalm 23:2 (NLT).
Pastor Robert Cowan Jr., of River of Life Church in San Francisco shared the final message in our “Champions” message series. Learn what it means to be a champion of hope in your personal life as you seek to grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Supporting Scriptures (NKJV): 2 Corinthians 5:1-12; Galations 5.
Last week we learned four necessary steps for healthy conversations with people across race and ethnicity. In this message, Pastor Hurmon models this type of conversation in a one-on-one conversation with a member of our community. Supporting Scriptures: Revelation 7:9-10 (GNT); John 1:4-5 (NLT); Matthew 5:14 (NIV); John 1:10-12 (NLT); John 1:14 (GNT); 1 John 3:16 (NIV); Philippians 2:3-8 (NIV); 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV); 1 Peter 2:23-24 (GNT).
Pastor Hurmon began a new message series titled, “Champions”; teaching from John 1:4-5 (NLT), he reminded us that the greatest champion of hope is Jesus Christ. With everything going on in our world today, we were challenged to be a champion of hope. Supporting Scriptures: Romans 8:29 (NLT); Eph. 2:14 (NLT); Eph. 2:15 (NLT); John 3:17 (NIV); 1 John 3:16 (NIV); Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV); Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV); John 1:10-12, 14 (NLT)
Pastor Hurmon shared a special message on the recent tragedies of Louisiana, Minnesota, and Dallas, and what we can do. Additionally, we concluded our “God’s Top 10” series with “Don’t Covet”. There is a common denominator here—in the absence of relationship, our perspective is often distorted. When we take the time to share our stories and learn to love one another, there is no room for fear or envy. Cited Scripture: Exodus 20:17 (NLT); James 4:1-3 (NIV); Romans 8:29 (NLT); 1 John 3:16 (NIV); Proverbs 4:23 (NLT); Mark 12:31 (NLT); John 13:35 (NLT); 1 John 4:18 (NLT); Romans 12:9-10 (NLT); Romans 12:14-17 (NLT).
Does skimming a little off the top or taking other shortcuts in life really make a difference? There is a dangerous attitude behind stealing that can engage entitlement and wanting to get something for nothing. Cited Scriptures: Exodus 20:15 (NLT); James 5:4-5 (NLT); Luke 2:24 (NLT); Titus 2:10 (NLT); Eph 4:28 (NLT); Acts 2:38 (NLT).
What makes God so concerned about sex and marriage anyway? Discover how God uses this commandment to affirm the blessing and sacredness of marriage. Cited Scripture (NLT): Deuteronomy 30:15-16; Proverbs 24:16; Isaiah 43:1-3a; Ephesians 5:15-17
What does God, the giver of life, think about matters of life and death? Is there more to the sixth commandment than simply a prohibition against taking life? Pastor Dan Monroe continued our “God’s Top 10” message series and taught from Exodus 20:13 (KJV).
Additional Scripture Cited (NIV): Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 19:4; Matthew 5:21-22; I John 3:15; I John 4:10; John 13:34.
Connection Card Response: “I will love!”
Pastor Hurmon continued our “God’s Top 10” message series and taught from Exodus 20:8-11 (NLT). In our modern, busy world, do we still need to set aside an entire specific day from work to honor the Sabbath? Are there specific rules we need to follow, or is it just about taking things easier? Discover how and why the God who created time calls us to be blessed by being good stewards of this important resource.
Additional Scripture Cited (NLT): Deuteronomy 5:15; Leviticus 19:9-10; Acts 20:7; Romans 14:5; Mark 2:27-28; Genesis 1:31-2:3; Hebrews 4:9-10; Ephesians 5:15-20.
Connection Card Response: “I will begin to keep the Sabbath!”
In the 4th week of the “God’s Top 10” message series Pastor Hurmon preached from Exodus 20:4-6 (NLT). This week’s message, Don’t Make Idols! reiterated the importance of not allowing anything to take the place of God in our lives and become our idol. We make idols for ourselves when we look to something or someone to do what only God can do. God declares that He has made us in His image, and that Jesus is the perfect image; the church is to reflect Jesus.
Matthew 22:37-38 (NLT); Exodus 20:5 (GW); James 1:17 (NLT); 1 Timothy 5:8 (NLT); Genesis 1:27, Genesis 12:2-3 (NLT); Colossians 1:15 (NLT); 1 Peter 2:9 (NLT)
Pastor Tilden taught from Exodus 20:1-3 (NIV) in week 2 of the “God’s Top 10” message series. What does it mean to put something else before God, and why is this commandment so important? Discover the heart behind this first commandment that provides context for all the others.
Pastor Hurmon launched a new message series entitled “God’s Top 10.” In this new 10-week series, we’ll rediscover the 10 commandments, why they still matter and are relevant today. Week 1 was framed around Exodus 20:12 (NLT) and John 19:26-27 (NLT). Why honor your parents? No matter how perfect or imperfect our history with our parents may be, find out why the fifth commandment–to honor our parents–comes with a promise of blessing.
Other Scripture Cited (NLT): Exodus 20:2; Matthew 22:36-38; Mark 3:31; Mark 3:21; John 1:29; John 3:16
Pastor Hurmon concluded our series, “Faith In the Midst of Reasonable Doubt,” with a message based on Mark 9:30-31 (NLT) and Matthew 27:45 (NLT). Following Jesus to the cross reveals that we must contend with suffering and evil, but how does a follower of Jesus manage? We can learn to lean in to our faith and refuse to allow the darkness to put out our light. We must live knowing that suffering is temporary.
Other Scripture Cited: John 9:5 (NLT); Mark 9:35 (NLT); James 1:2-3 (NLT); 1 Peter 1:7 (NLT); Romans 8:23 (NLT)
'FAITH IN THE MIDST OF REASONABLE DOUBT, PART 1' APRIL 3 2016 PASTOR HURMON HAMILTON by NBCC Podcast