Echo Church Online Messages: Recent Episodes
Echo Church
Echo Church is a Bible-teaching community in urban Cincinnati focused on resonating the voice of Jesus throughout the city and to the ends of the earth. More information can be found at echochurch.org
This Sunday we head back to the chapters we've missed in John, when Jesus spent a long night in conversation with his disciples, after the last supper and before his arrest in the garden. When we don’t know where we’re going, we need a map or a guide. In John 14, Jesus will assure his followers that he is the way, truth, and life. Plus he will introduce the third member of the Trinity as their new guide—and ours as well.
We’re at the final chapter of John, but not the final week of our Dwell series just yet. There are a few chapters we skipped that we’ll go back and read in May. Today in John 21, we peek in on a conversation between Jesus and Peter, and it’s all about second chances.Our goal is to find encouragement in Peter’s story: knowing that Jesus always sees more in us than our lowest moments. He knows our potential and offers us a second chance at living into our true purpose.
It’s a day to celebrate: resurrection is here! Today we get to the culmination of Jesus’ life on earth: the empty tomb, the defeat of death, the start of something new. We’ll walk through the wonder with the first witnesses of this miracle. And we’ll give ourselves permission to be as baffled as the disciples were—because sometimes taking in the mystery of Jesus takes time. Studying John 20, we’ll look at Jesus’ caring interaction with each person, meeting them in the learning styles that fit them best. We’ll also find reassurance that Jesus still shows up where we are today to help us grow in our own belief.
Today we arrive at the darkest part of Jesus’ life on earth: the cross. Yet as we've read throughout the book of John, we know that this was, indeed, Yahweh's plan all along. Through artists and authors and the pages of history, we'll still find glimmers of light that shine in all the darkness. Today we’ll be reading the end of John 18 through John 19.
We welcome one of our elders, Steve Carr, will bring our Sunday message as we view the journey of two of Jesus’ followers, the decisions they made, and how it impacted the rest of their lives.
We’re jumping ahead to Jesus’ arrest in John 18 this week to stay in step with Jesus’ final week and our own Easter preparation. Don’t worry: we’ll return to a deep dive on Jesus’ formative words in John 14-17 after Easter.
In John 13, Jesus shocks his disciples with the lowly task of washing their feet at the Passover meal, and the meaning goes deeper than we might expect. We’ll also sit in Jesus’ perspective for a bit, as he anticipates the hurt to come by two of his closest friends.
On this fifth Sunday of the month, we welcome Echo Kids in elementary school to stay with us through our full worship service this Sunday.
It was a lot for people to grasp back then—it’s still a lot now. Yet we’ll try to connect some dots for ourselves so that we can see the seeds Yahweh planted long, long ago are still growing in our own lives today.
How do we grieve as people who have hope? We can learn by looking at the example of Jesus, Martha, and Mary in today’s story of death and resurrection.
We’ll be studying John 11, the seventh and final miraculous sign that this gospel reveals from the ministry of Jesus.
This week's study from John 10 is about warm and fuzzy sheep. Yet there are layers of hidden messages within Jesus' words, offering hope to some and reproach to others.
Come sit in the hopeful message of Jesus, our Good Shepherd.
In today’s Scripture study of John 9, we see Jesus heal a man in another wondrous sign, while the surrounding religious leaders are poised to attack everyone involved. The debate leads to a conversation about those who can truly see.
We’ll consider Echo’s value of Commission and how we are being sent as a church to share Jesus’ light. Stay til the end to hear a special challenge to encourage our missions partners.
We’ve been watching the tension grow between Jesus and the religious leaders of the day. Today we’ll see in John 8 what pushes Jesus to give some of his harshest critique—and reflect on our own responses when conflict pushes us to action.
Today we are excited to have Kendra Dunahugh, one of our Echo Church Leadership Team members, bring us our message.
John 7 is all about an annual party in Israel: a week of worship, food, flowing water, and sleeping in tents.
Jesus arrives incognito but later makes a splash. He’ll transform a festival that remembers the past and, instead, he’ll point people toward their future.
Join us to find out why no one can agree on what to think of him. And come away with a challenge to plan your own remembrance and offering of gratitude this season.
If you’re a video game fan, do you mainly focus on the endgame, or do you immerse yourself in side quests?
Today we’ll be reading John 5, considering two conversations Jesus had with folks who played the game of life from two different perspectives. Jesus demonstrated that he cares about us holistically—bodies, minds, and souls—both in the present, as well as eternally.
Have you ever truly loathed a person? In Jesus’ day, some people in his community were known for absolutely loathing other groups. How did Jesus respond? He shocked people by having one-on-one conversations with those who were loathed.
Jesus’ example in John 4 offers us five things we can do to make sure we offer a loving rather than loathing reputation as we represent Yahweh in our own communities.
What questions about faith keep you up at night?
Join us in John 3 today as a prominent religious leader seeks out Jesus with questions. The conversation leads Nicodemus to reevaluate the things he thought he knew about God.
Jesus intentionally dropped clues, spoke in symbolism, and cloaked his words in a bit of mystery that took a while for people to figure out. This challenge drew people in and remains engaging today—helping us to make our faith our own.
Join us in John 2 today, as we head with Jesus into two celebrations and figure out what he intended with his wild words and actions.
Do you choose a word of the year? Today we begin the first Sunday of this new year with a word. Actually, with THE Word:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” —John 1:1
Everyone has an opinion about God. What’s real? God once dwelled on earth as Jesus. So let’s dwell in Jesus’ life story for a while and find out his purpose, his truth, his love. Let’s let him show us who Yahweh truly is.
Join us on our Scripture study of the book of John.
Do you love being invited to holiday parties or new experiences? Or do you prefer to stay home?
After all the darkness humanity had gone through—Yahweh promised to one day send true light.
What qualities we want to see in our leaders? And which ones we strive to live out ourselves?
How far are you willing to follow a person? Will you be benevolent when you’re in charge?
Our delight grows as we share it—so today Echo friends are sharing their season of delights with the church family.
How do we reconcile the reverence & relationship inherent in Yahweh’s holiness? Join us for our penultimate week in Hebrews.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we’ll be in Hebrews 12, famous for its running metaphor. We’ll find the importance of where we focus our minds + who we have cheering us on in this race of life.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In Hebrews 11 we find the interconnectedness of faith and hope. In our study we’ll reflect on the faith of those who came before us and be challenged to create hope for those who will come after us.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we’re going to delve into some dark verses at the end of Hebrews 10.
Yet like the eclipse we experienced last Monday, the darkness is only temporary, and there are things to learn and give us perspective while we’re there.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today is a message that repeats again and again in Hebrews: we’re already whole, and we’re being made holy.
We zero in on Hebrews 10:14: Jesus sacrificed once for all to make us perfect, complete whole. And we’re all invited—anyone and everyone—to continually renew our lives to look more and more like Jesus every day.
We’re already whole, and we’re being made holy.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We believe resurrection happens, and here’s a secret: it didn’t just happen on a Sunday morning in an empty tomb in two thousand years ago. Resurrection happens every time we allow Jesus to show up through us to pull someone out of the darkness and back into life.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today is a tale of two goats. Reading the second half of Hebrews 9 will take us on an exploration of the Day of Atonement and how it connects to Good Friday.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
After centuries of separation, Jesus ushered in a new era of connection between Yahweh and all people. Come join our conversation about Hebrews 9 and step into his holy presence.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What does it mean to be in a committed relationship with the Lord of the universe? We'll look at the idea of Jesus bringing a new covenant from Hebrews 8.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We’ll look at the second half of Hebrews 7 today, having us consider: what is Jesus up to? What is he doing in heaven, right now, every day? The key is found in verse 25: Jesus always lives to intercede.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
From a mysterious king and priest, we glimpse Jesus—and see that part of our worship is taking care of one another.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What can we learn from swords, milk, conditional logic, and native vs. invasive plants? Join us to find out. This Sunday's passages from Hebrews are filled with object lessons.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
It’s good for our hearts to be reminded that caring, empathetic leaders do exist. That’s a message that’s ancient as well as modern. Today we’ll read in Hebrews about Jesus as an empathetic, humble high priest.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today let's talk about something we all crave—rest. We'll be in Hebrews 4, looking at the meaning of Sabbath.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we read Hebrews 3, we receive the same challenge as the first century believers—not to let our hearts harden because of oppression in this world but live in opposition to it, with Jesus’ hope. (Sneak peek: this takes community & consistency.)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In Chapter 2 of Hebrews we consider a conversation about expectations vs. reality when it comes to the way God moved and spoke through Jesus. We’ll be reminded to pay attention in our own lives for the Spirit’s messages in the simple, the ordinary, the everyday.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we begin our study in the New Testament book of Hebrews—our quest into ancient history to unearth the truth about Jesus and establish trust in his unshakeable kingdom.
We dig into the background and the mysteries of this letter and read Chapter 1, where Jesus is elevated above all messengers who came before him. Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Through the life and art of Van Gogh, we take a fresh look at how we see people.
Today our message is brought by Steve Carr, an elder at Echo.
Sermon by: Steve Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We’ll look at our calling to be peacemakers as Jesus’ followers. On this last day of 2023, we’ll pray about what we need to let go of to be ready to bring Yahweh’s peace into 2024.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We'll look at Jesus' origin story through the lens of a stressful betrothal: Mary + Joseph. And we'll consider the relationships that bind us together and some that strain our peace.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Come sit in the sandals of the shepherds for a bit and have a conversation about fears and anxious thoughts—and how Jesus shows up to meet us in our darkness.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we’ll search for some Peace of Mind. On that theme, we’ll stand with the Magi and stare up at the stars, considering the both/and thoughts of wariness and hope, suspicion and trust that we might experience during this season.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We could all use some peace. More of it. Always. As we kick off the Christmas season, we’ll look at the true peace Jesus came to earth to bring.
How are we sharing Jesus’ peace? Let’s take time to be still in the peaceful presence of Jesus’ Holy Spirit, resting assured that our eternal peace is held in his hands—and after that stillness, let’s go out and live intentionally, trusting that Jesus will remain with us, day by day, giving us his strength to live out his peace with others.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Come break bread with us as Gary Benton digs into an ancient festival of thanks, an unexpected move of the Spirit, and what impact it all has on our faith today.
Sermon by: Gary Benton
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We come to the end of the letter of Galatians, and Paul urges each person to look at their impact on the whole church. He invited the church then—and we’re invited as the church now—to share each other’s burdens as we live out the fruit of the Spirit.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Deconstruction: sometimes we need to tear things down to see what pieces are worth holding onto. It’s a modern term but an ancient concept. As we look at an illustration in Galatians 4 today, let’s ask: what are we rebuilding?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today in our study of Galatians, we take a fresh look on a delicious passage: the fruit of the Spirit.
Special note: Echo Kids are joining us for a family service this morning.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Words matter. They are tools to communicate. Yet even though words have serious purposes, that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun and add some style to our communication. Today in Galatians, we find some play on words as Paul communicates to his friends. It has us thinking—do we allow others to speak into our lives?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today in our study of the letter of Galatians, our identity as followers of Jesus is revealed: we’re all the adopted children of God. And that makes us family. We also celebrate as a church family—Echo turns 18 this week.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In week 3 in our study of the letter of Galatians, we will find a challenge to consider: are we working so hard in an effort to earn something in our relationship with God? or are we trusting the work of Jesus and flourishing with him?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week in our study of Galatians, we consider the table—how sharing a meal with someone sends a message and why Paul confronted Peter over his choice of dinner companions.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Everyone has a past: things we did, things we believed, things we survived. But Jesus offers everyone a future. Freed from trying to earn our way forward, Jesus redeems our stories and makes us all one in his name. Through his Spirit in our lives, we find new ways to bear fruit and care for one another. The church in Galatia needed a reminder of this powerful good news. We need it today too.
Week 1: we’ll discover what can happen when one person vulnerably shares a piece of their own story to help others.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we explore the 3 different church locations Echo has met in. As we walk through Scripture and walk through the story of our church, we’ll also consider the story of our neighborhood, Walnut Hills, and the way it has shaped our ministry journey. Find where your own faith journey intersects with ours.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today in our Echo Location series, we talk about Creativity.
As you listen, think of something you’ve created—then email us and share! Are you an artist or builder? Send a photo of it. Have you creatively solved a problem? Tell us that story. Is your creativity through cooking, gardening, planning events, giving advice to friends, or finding fun ways to keep your kid busy on a road trip? Share anything!
We hope today’s service will challenge you to pray about some ways God is ready to use your creativity next.
If you’d like to download our Scripture coloring page distributed during in-person worship, here is a link: Ephesians 2:10 coloring page.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we delve into the topic of Connectivity today, we first begin with a mystery: who removed the trees in front of our church property, and how did it provide unexpected connections with our neighbors?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Come join our conversation about the hopes & dreams we have for our city—why and how we are ministering as Echo Church in Cincinnati. Week 1 is about Commission.
For centuries Jesus has entrusted his perfect mission to imperfect humans. In our context of modern-day Cincinnati, we have the same commission as the disciples of ancient Israel, even though we live it out differently.Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In our final week of our Summerfest series, we welcome Dawid & Justyna Wawrzyniak, plus their kids, who are visiting from Warsaw, Poland. We’ll have a conversation about equipping leaders and mentoring the next generation of leaders with godly principles.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We study from John 4 today, looking at one woman’s interaction with Jesus to determine how we can balance the formal traditions of our faith alongside the very familiar relationship Jesus invites us into.
As part of our Summerfest series, our message is brought by Kendra Dunahugh, a former Echo pastor, who serves with both the Echo Kids and worship teams.
Sermon by: Kendra Dunahugh
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we look at the motivation behind our Summer of Service challenge. (Hint: it’s about Jesus!) We’ll read John 13 to study an astonishing moment when Jesus demonstrated serving others. (Hint: it involves feet!)
Note: Echo Kids joined us for worship and also took part in serving the Echo family this morning.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we discuss Jesus’ call for servant leadership in God’s kingdom. As part of the conversation, Katie & Mikeyy Evans, Echo Church members and some of our missions partners, will share leadership lessons they’ve experienced with Back2Back Ministries.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week for our Summerfest series, we welcome Chris Cox—a former Teaching Pastor at Echo who is currently one of our missions partners with his work at Back2Back Cincinnati.
“Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” we read in John 1. How do we balance the two? Let’s consider how we can truly embrace God’s grace.
Sermon by: Chris Cox
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week for our Summerfest series, we have Easter in July. Gary Benton, an Echo member, teacher in Echo Kids classes, and leader for our youth group, shares with us today.
We step into the perspective that the disciples faced as they grappled with Jesus’ resurrection, filled with confusion and a bit of helplessness. At times we experience those feelings in our faith as well—and that’s OK. Today we’ll find out how the resurrection becomes a foundation we can build upon.
Sermon by: Gary Benton
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In our third week of Echo Summerfest 2023, one of our elders, Steve Carr, finishes his miniseries about church matters. Today we consider the essentials and non-essentials for local churches, including the qualities to look for in church leaders.
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In our second week of Echo Summerfest 2023, one of our elders, Steve Carr, continues to lead us through a conversation about church matters. Today we consider the foundational purpose & mission of the church.
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We present Echo Summerfest 2023. It's a time for our church family to take turns stepping up to the mic. We’ll welcome first timers and fan favorites, from folks in the pews to friends from overseas. Show up and support the voices of Echo ringing in the air.
This week we begin by asking: what is the point of church? What was its original purpose and why do we do the things we do as a church today?
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we'll conclude our current series in Exodus with one of the most famous top 10 lists in history: The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20). Let's take a fresh look at the list as it fits within the entire story of Israel's relationship with Yahweh.
Fun note: the laughter and references to birds in the sermon was because a live pigeon had flown into the sanctuary before service began and was hovering in various places above us the entire time! :)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Sometimes our study through Scripture surprises us. We discover a theme woven within a text that we may not recognize at first glance. Today’s reading in Exodus 19 holds the hidden framework of a wedding, as Yahweh invites the people of Israel into a committed relationship.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we study Exodus 18, where Moses learns a lesson we all need to hear—it’s actually good to ask for help.
We were made to be in community, so if you’ve been joining us here on the podcast, please reach out and say hello! Let us know if there’s help you need.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Noticing others, stepping in to care, can have a lasting impact on their lives. Today we read from Exodus 17 a moment when Moses was struggling, and two others stepped in to offer support. Their care not only helped Moses but the entire Israelite people.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Reading Exodus 16 today, we see Yahweh’s provision through daily bread. Yum! Find out 3 lessons that God taught the Israelites through manna and continues to teach us today as well.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This Sunday we get to the first recorded worship song in Scripture—Exodus 15, as God's people celebrated Yahweh for providing an escape through the Red Sea. Echo Kids joined us in main service as we discovered that when things look impossible, God can make it possible.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
They stood between a sea and an army—certain death and certain death. Yet the Israelites were asked to trust in the LORD. This week we'll read about their Red Sea moment, and we'll discuss our own—stepping into the LORD's deliverance together.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
God’s people, the Israelites are now stepping out of slavery and oppression and into freedom and new life. But where do they begin?
Interestingly, Yahweh’s first conversations with the Israelites as they left Egypt were about helping them instill habits of gratitude in their community.
We’ll consider the rituals of gratitude we have or don’t have in our own lives as well.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Finally, we’ve arrived in our journey: the Israelites get out of Egypt (Exodus 12)—plus Jesus gets out of the tomb (Matthew 28). We’ll talk about how we see Yahweh’s freedom in both places and in our own lives.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we’ll look at an ancient dinner that began as fast food but turned into a memorial meal. From Passover to Good Friday, we see Yahweh’s plan to remember and to redeem.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we approach the tense, final plague upon Egypt in Exodus 11. We won't remain there but will also move forward in time to Jesus' life—and discover that Yahweh takes justice seriously but does not take death lightly.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we continue through more plagues, we discover something: Yahweh is willing to rip a stitch in what he created if it brings healing to what has been broken. Where do we need a reset—from harm done to us or from brokenness we've caused?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
When the things you place your trust in get destroyed, what do you do next? Today we study the first 3 of the 10 plagues—aka, the signs and wonders Yahweh communicated to Egypt. The people’s responses can help us consider our own.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Do we want justice against evil in our world? Yes. Yet do we still hope for grace? Usually… As we begin Exodus 7, we see Pharaoh’s hardening heart yet feel tension. Do we hope for his demise so Israel can be free? Yes. Do we see Yahweh giving another chance to choose good? Also yes.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
COMMUNAL:
During our worship service this Sunday, we will read from the perspective of God's people who cried out because they were oppressed. We're giving ourselves permission to follow their example and honestly express our lament to Yahweh—on behalf of our community and from our own pain.
PERSONAL:
We'll divide our worship into two segments—communal and personal lament. We will include additional songs, Scripture readings, and active reflection time during the service.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Failure is something we've all experienced, and Moses was no exception. We'll look at internal and external failure and how we can come through on the other side.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In part 2 of the conversation at a burning bush, we see Moses resist his calling to participate in Yahweh's plan to liberate. We’ll be challenged to find the courage to step into our own calling from Yahweh—the God who delights in partnering with people.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
After 40 years living in Midian, Moses got a startling encounter with his Creator. Find out what the conversation revealed about God's name, God’s identity, and God’s desire to be in relationship with people. And what it means for us to be invited to call upon that name.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In Exodus 2 we meet Moses. From the beginning of his life, he faced outsider status—born in one family, raised by others; born in one culture, raised in another.
While he begins to recognize oppression, Moses doesn’t deal with it well. In this next step of the journey, we look at the way God provides, even when Moses runs away.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we begin the exodus, a journey for God’s people to GET OUT of Egypt. And we consider the ripple effects our responses to fear can have on others.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Before we step away from the life of Jesus and dive into the great Exodus of God’s people, we ask: who was Egypt?
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This Sunday we're doing a little bit of new and a little bit of things we missed out on when the blizzard interrupted our Christmas Eve service: We will listen to God’s Word from Luke 2 about Simeon meeting baby Jesus at the temple and finish our Hark! series together.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Begin the new year with us. We'll gaze at the stars together (at least in our minds) and consider the wonder that Jesus was to the world—and still is—as we wonder what's in store for our own lives in 2023.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What is your favorite choir song? Some shepherds in Luke 2 got a startling serenade from a wild-looking celestial choir. This has us contemplating how we deal with the gladsome tidings Jesus brings to our lives today.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we’ll look at Luke from a musical perspective: Mary busts out with an I Want song, and there’s an interesting message about something bigger than herself in the lyrics.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Music fills the Christmas story—from prophetic hymns in Isaiah that we read last week to the upcoming solo by Mary and an angel choir. But this week is different. This week we look from Joseph’s perspective. And he gets no song. What does he learn in the silence? What do we?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What connects Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” with the ancient hymn of Isaiah 9? The universal themes of waiting, watching, and wondering. Join us for our first week of a melodic look at Advent.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we will practice using words and actions to express our gratitude to God and to others. If you’d like to download the adult coloring page options we’re using in service, click HERE.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we finish up our study in 1 John with one final encouragement: remain. We'll have an honest conversation about what it means to remain in community, remain in Jesus, even when our faith feels unsure.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week's study reveals the apostle John offering encouraging reminders and steps toward healing after a church has experienced trauma (1 John 3).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What does Tariq, the famous Corn Kid, have in common with the first century church? It’s all about love! Today Echo Kids and Echo adults gather together for our worship service as we study 1 John 4 together.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Do the right thing, and that equals righteousness. It’s simple to say but challenging to live out. Let’s consider how John encouraged the first century church and what it means for us today to imitate Jesus, our role model. (1 John, part 2)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In John’s first letter to a church in crisis, his goal is to remind the followers of Jesus what they believe so that they can live it out. John begins with Jesus and light. (1 John 1 + 2)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Peter ends his letter to the house churches with a reminder to throw all their cares/worries/anxieties upon God because he cares. In this, we find the key to being stewards of God’s grace in Jesus—carrying the weight for one another. (1 Peter 5)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we strive to live for Jesus in this ever-changing culture we live in—and as we truly consider what it means to be Christlike in all the different roles we embody—it comes down to humility. (1 Peter)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
While beautiful structures have been created throughout history for people to worship inside—in 1 Peter we’re reminded that God chooses to dwell in people; we are living stones in his spiritual house, with Jesus as our cornerstone.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
At times we’ve all felt like an outsider. Peter encouraged the early Christians to lean into what made them distinct as followers of Jesus: seek peace, share hope, and make the place where you dwell better.
(Please note: the audio clears up after the first minute and a half!)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we begin our new series looking into two New Testament letters (1 Peter and 1 John) to discover how the apostles stewarded their knowledge, talents, experiences, and faith in Jesus—and commissioned the church to do the same. The first stewardship challenge from 1 Peter is a bit unexpected.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
On this Labor Day weekend we rest between series and take a day to connect the dots between our journey through the life of Jesus and what’s next. Today we consider our role as stewards in God’s Kingdom. (And we find out why the carpool line drives someone in our church leadership over the edge.)
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Teaching Elder at Echo Church
Connect with us: echochurch.org
WE MADE IT! This is the end of our yearlong journey in the life of Jesus.
The first parable from Jesus we've saved for last. We dig in (pun intended) to examine seed, sower, and soil and how this story relates to our own calling as Jesus followers (Luke 8:4-15).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What happens when we revisit a parable we thought we knew, but the details are different? We’ll step into the creative realms of Jesus’ parable and compare it to the stories we find in video games today. (Luke 19:11-27)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
POW! Jesus’ longest and possibly most beloved parable packs a punch. We connect comic book storytelling with Jesus’ engaging characters and plot that paints a picture of grace between father and sons (Luke 15:11-32).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Feel like an outsider? Today’s parables of lost things remind us that Jesus is excited to welcome everyone into God’s family. And when lost people return—parties happen! (Luke 15:1-10).
Today our missions partners Johnny, Zandra, Julia, and Sophia Dye from Venezuela will be with us, sharing celebration stories and a song.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Let's take a new look at a very familiar parable: the Good Samaritan (Luke 10).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week's parable is causing us to pay attention not only to the story itself but to Jesus, the author, as he tells it (Luke 20). We’re reminded that paying attention is a gift we can offer to others.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We continue our summer of stories in Luke 14 this weekend as we dig in to two more parables from Jesus. Plus it’s a dinner party! Yep, Jesus is eating again, and we'll be challenged to consider all the perspectives at the table.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus told two parables in Luke 18: both involved characters being courageously honest and characters with work they needed to do on their hearts. Not everything is resolved, but we do find hope for justice and mercy. Along the way, we’ll also peek into a couple of modern-day short stories.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today’s storytelling comes from Luke 12 & Luke 16, where Jesus reveals things that are out of our control and things that are under our control. We grapple with each, both as citizens in our country and as citizens of God’s kingdom.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Riddle me this: this week we are in Luke 20, where Jesus engages in not one but two riddles from the spiritual & civic leaders of his day. Join us and we will answer a riddle or two of our own.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we look at the end of Luke 17, where Jesus' words often get misinterpreted. We'll consider how people groups navigate collective trauma—participating in both mourning plus renewal.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
This week we look at Luke 17:11-19, where Jesus meets 10 people in need of healing. Through their story, we'll consider the blessings of not just feeling gratitude but expressing it.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Do you have the courage to be unseen? As we listen in on Jesus’ blunt words to his disciples on how they need to live and lead, we consider our own actions and how we shape the lives of those around us. (Luke 17:1-10).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus told a haunting story to haunt the consciences of the religious leaders in power. It’s a wake-up call for us all: Not caring for those around us is hellish—we should love unconditionally. (Luke 16)
Sermon by: Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus gathered the children around him in Luke 18—and we’re gathering Echo Kids with us in main service today as we learn to receive and give like kids. We’ll also read about the rich ruler, who could learn to be more like a kid himself.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We'll connect the dots between Jesus, paradoxes, widows, and improv (Luke 20:41–21:4).
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we meet people who struggled to see and who had to push past the way other people saw them. But their lives changed when they met Jesus, and he saw them for who they truly were. We’re also seen by Jesus—known and loved. Where do you need help seeing him? (Luke 18 +19)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Life doesn’t ever turn out exactly how we expect it to. But if we look beyond our expectations and take in the reality that’s right before our eyes, we will find that Jesus is still present with us. He can redeem what has been broken. (Luke 24:13-35)
**Apologies for the technical issues in today’s podcast. The sound didn’t record at its usual quality.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Just as he did for the disciples, the living Jesus invites us to the table—he’s ready for a dinner party, to eat and talk and increase our faith. Jesus invites us into new life. Let’s go and sit at the table together. (Luke 24)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
At a funeral we consider the deceased's contributions, reflect on our relationship with them, and honor them. We have come to Luke 22-23 this week: Jesus' trial and death on the cross. We'll approach this time in the spirit of a funeral: we sit in sorrow for the pain Jesus went through for us. (While we know it is not yet the end.)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Sometimes the darkness outside of us—and the darkness within us—interrupts celebration with accusation. Jesus & his disciples experienced this several times during his final days before the cross. We can learn from Jesus’ responses. (Luke 19 & 22)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Even good things come with a cost. Jesus shares this hard truth with his disciples: following him will cost something. It’s true for us today as well. We grapple with the question: is following Jesus worth the cost? (Luke 14; Luke 21)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus gives two striking plant metaphors in Luke 13: a dying fig tree and a flourishing mustard tree. Like the people who first heard his words, Jesus wants our lives to be healthy: for our own sake, to provide for others, and to share God’s kingdom. Which tree will we be?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Let’s sit back, read Luke 12 together, and tell a scary story or two. Wait—what? In this chapter Jesus shares some stories with his followers, and the underlying thread throughout is fear: how fear is used by those in power, how fear can get our attention, and where we should focus our energy instead.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Giving or getting critique these days—personally, globally—is quick and easy. But is it always helpful and godly? There is a way to receive and hand out critique with care. Jesus demonstrated for us. (Luke 11:14-54)
As we observe what is going on in our world, the invasion of Ukraine breaks our hearts and affects people we know and care about. We had a special time of prayer during our worship service by one of our missions partners, Dorota Aleksiejuk-Burgess, who is going back to Poland this year. You can also read the transcript of her prayer, shared on her blog: polandministry.com
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We all face rejection—and at some point we may be rejected because we love Jesus. How do we cope? (Luke 10:1-24)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Through life’s seasons of wins and losses, we examine the costs of following Jesus and reassess our commitment to him: am I still all in? (Luke 9:37-62)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Just like Jesus’ disciples, today on our own journey of faith, we must grapple with his question: Who do you say I am? (Luke 9:18-36)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Examining two more meals with Jesus, we find him challenging all his disciples to get out of their comfort zones. Similarly we’re asked to embrace both blessings and burdens as followers of Jesus (Luke 9:7-17; 10:38-42)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus provided two miraculous healings in one walk through a crowd. But he didn’t keep such power to himself. See how God’s Spirit was at work through ordinary humans as well—the same Spirit promised to us. (Luke 8:40-56, 9:1-6)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we see the way Jesus gave dignity and value to others, we are reminded that we can take part in helping restore people to health, to community, and to purpose in God’s kingdom. (Luke 8:1-3, 26-39)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
An awkward meal that Jesus experienced causes us all to look inward and ask: who do we struggle to invite to the table? (Luke 7:36-50)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Interactions with our childhood family may shift over time. But Jesus invites us into his eternal family. As part of that family, he will stay right with us, through every storm of life. (Luke 8:19-25)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today’s story from Jesus’ adolescence is complex—in the way life is complex for all of us. Because growth and expectations, family and faith can have a lot of losts & founds. (Luke 2:41-52)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today as we regard two interactions that people had with the infant Jesus, we are reminded that all of us can be used by God to sharpen one another. (Luke 2:21-40)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we take a realistic view about the nativity scene. While it was a holy night, it was surely not all silent, calm, or bright. Real sacrifices were being made in Bethlehem. (Luke 2:1-21)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Did you ever realize that the people in Scripture sometimes act like they’re in a musical? They burst into song occasionally! Today we’ll consider one of those scenarios. (Luke 1:26-56)
This week we begin the second segment in our Journey of the Redeemed series: Crown of Joy, Song of Praise. We’re flashing back this month to where Jesus’ earthly journey all began.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As we finish off the first chapter in our Journey of the Redeemed, we come back to John the Baptist and consider a question he asks Jesus. (Luke 7:18-35)
To view the video of the ostrich mentioned in the sermon, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kotWv4MCxNI
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Two interactions. One empathetic Savior. A role model for us: look for and listen to the stories of others. (Luke 7:1-17)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
With a twinkle in his eye, Jesus shared 3 amusing metaphors to round out his sermon—but they held deeper points, causing us all to self-evaluate. (Luke 6:39-49)
Opening audio clip from KCAL 9 News in Los Angeles. Find the original video of deck collapse here: https://youtu.be/3TUSVdmITXY
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus set a high standard for us to follow that upends our human concepts of love and mercy. But it gives us pause to consider what life would look like if we actually lived it out. (Luke 6:27-38)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
For some people, costumes are meant to hide; for others, they reveal. In his sermon, Jesus showed people that there’s more going on than meets the eye. (Luke 6:17-26)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus was critiqued for what he did and didn’t do by people who cared more about the HOW than the WHY. Jesus’ responses cause us to consider the WHY of our own worship. (Luke 5:33–6:11)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus reached out and healed those in need with care and through physical contact. We may feel isolated, and we may feel like we have no way to help others, but we can and should simply reach out. (Luke 5:12-26)
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Jesus told stories, shared meals around dinner tables, and called people to something greater. His invitation remains open to all today—and it requires something from us.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
As Jesus’ ministry began, there was a push and pull by people who had different expectations for him. We’ll learn how to navigate the push and pull in our own lives as we follow God’s better plan.
See episode website for photos of statues: https://www.echochurch.org/messages/2021/10/3
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Today we hear about some voices that came to Jesus right before he began his ministry. One was a very good voice and one was a very troubling voice. Just as we do today,
Jesus had to decide which to focus on.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today our journey in the book of Luke takes us to a desert wilderness and by the waters of baptism. What we discover is the call for our own lives to be life-giving.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Through the life of one ordinary couple living faithfully day in and day out, we see God moving exponentially. Our ordinary lives are part of the same great plan, so let’s not give up doing good.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Looking at a list of names at the end of Ruth 4, we discover a legacy with more to the story. It compels us to ask: who are the people of God?
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What’s in a name? The people in Ruth 4 show us that we can redefine our own names and we can choose to live our lives for others’ names as well.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
The Poland missions video referenced during the sermon can be found on our YouTube page, linked on our website: echochurch.org
Not every relationship match is made like a fairy tale, but we can cling to the hope that God is ready to redeem our story—no matter what it entails. Today we take an eyes-wide-open look into Ruth 3.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we dig into gardens and walk through harvest fields as we examine what it means to be on the margins and then become noticed and protected. Through Ruth 2 we find our own purpose in providing connectivity and sharing with the community.
The garden video referenced during the sermon can be found on Cincinnati.com
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
For most of us, life right now isn’t how we planned it. In ways big and small, we’ve faced losses that brought disappointment, discouragement, dismay. Yet even when all seems silent, God has not forgotten us. Let’s consider this ancient biblical story in the book of Ruth, and perhaps we, too, can find hope.
As we begin in Ruth 1, we’ll find it’s OK dwell in the bitter for a bit to remember the truths that will help us grow.
Sermon by: Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We are grateful to have the Dye family from Venezuela join our service today. They will share with us songs, ministry updates, and a challenging message of hope.
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Learn more about the ministry of Johnny and Zandra Dye on their website: https://teamexpansion.org/thedyes/
Steve Carr, one of our elders, brings our message today, considering what it means for us to be a church in the city. We are challenged to look at both our message and our tone as we share the love of Jesus in Cincinnati.
Sermon by Steve Carr, Elder
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Our back-to-back, Back2Back series continues today with @back2backcincy! We’ll hear from the team members of Back2Back Cincinnati about how they use holistic care to facilitate healing from trauma and creating healthy relationships. They will also lead us in a few activities they use for their programs and show us how to care for ourselves and others too.
(Led by Chris Cox and the team from Back2Back Cincinnati)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Learn more about Back2Back: https://back2back.org/
Today’s service was led by members of our church who also happen to be one of our missions partners: Mikeyy and Katie Evans serve with Back2Back Ministries, and today they’re sharing about their work locally and internationally. Back2Back cares for kids from hard places and equips the adults who serve them.
(Led by Mikeyy Evans from Back2Back Ministries)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Learn more about Back2Back: https://back2back.org/
Today’s service was led by our mission partner LoveBoldly. They shared testimonies and information about their organization, which is focused on reconciling relationships with the LGBTQ+ community and the church. Note: our Take a Stand interactive time was not recorded, but please reach out if you would like a copy of those discussion questions.
(Led by Paula Unrau, LoveBoldly board member) Note: our Take a Stand interactive time was not recorded, but please reach out if you would like a copy of those discussion questions.
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Learn more about LoveBoldly: https://www.loveboldly.net/
As we navigate the lyrics of Psalm 136, we find a call + response song—it challenges our own call and what our response will be as we demonstrate to the world God’s love that endures forever. Today there will be rejoicing and reckoning together.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Pray. But don’t just pray. Challenged by Psalm 122, we find an urging to pray for the peace of our city, as David prayed for Jerusalem. Yet we don’t just pray—we actively become part of the answers to those prayers for peace.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Whose sad song will you make better? Diving into Psalm 22, we find not only a song that David wrote but one that Jesus quoted. Within it, we find permission to cry out in our pain and the challenge to step toward those who are suffering.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Reading the petition of David in Psalm 27, we find permission to hold on, to hope, to long for, and to draw near. Let’s consider our one thing and what it means to be proximate to God.
(Sermon by Chris Cox, Director of Back2Back Cincinnati)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
In Psalm 63, we find a song that is quite personal—and we discover how vital it is to pay attention to what other people’s creativity is trying to communicate. Let’s listen and look and learn more about those around us.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We can find catharsis through creativity. In Psalm 34, we find a song that is also poetry. David used his creativity to both process and praise by writing this psalm—working through his fears and anxiety, while also recognizing the Lord's deliverance.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today we’re beginning a new series involving an old school playlist from the Old Testament book of Psalms. While Scripture is God’s Word to people, this beautiful book of the Bible shows people’s words back to God.
To begin, we head to the back of the book: Psalm 150. There we discover we’re all invited to praise God together.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Sometimes our grief contains guilt from words and actions we wish we could take back. But guilt doesn’t have to turn into shame. Jesus helped Peter walk through his guilt and restored him from shame. We can find that restoration too.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Each week we’re considering how Jesus helps us process our grief today, just as He did for His friends after the resurrection. This week is a piece of grief we may not even recognize—anxiety that arises when change comes our way.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Grief is inevitable and universal. With everything going on in our country, we may experience grief from both direct and indirect trauma. As Jesus helped His followers process grief, He can help us process as well.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Grief moves in unexpectedly, takes up residence without permission. But we don’t have to process it alone.
In this series we consider the way Jesus ministered to His friends after His resurrection and helped them each process their grief.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Today on Easter, we remember: Jesus’ resurrection isn’t about ME, it’s about WE. Join us for a communal perspective.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
Humanity was created to live in community. How can we live in authentic community today as the church?
(Sermon by Steve Carr, Elder)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We will take stands and take risks for what is right, and as we do, we trust God to deliver us—one way or another. Because He wants to deliver both the righteous and the sinners—and we’re all both.
A study of Daniel 3.
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
What is our new normal? God’s Word and history speak to our current reality—to the cries against inequality and against harm, the cries that have always been present in America and are now screaming at full volume once again.
How can we join where God is already at work around us?
(Sermon by Kelly Carr, Lead Pastor)
Connect with us: echochurch.org
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
Thank you for joining Echo Church for our Easter service today. We’ve chosen something different—an audio adventure. We’ll have some worship after our narrated journey called The Way.
If you can, take this recording and head out into God’s creation as you listen. Take a walk, alone or with anyone you’re allowed to shelter in place with. Or sit still and look out at God’s nature from your window or even close your eyes to visualize wandering in your favorite place, even if you can’t go there in person right now.
A number of Echo friends joined in creating this journey. Thanks for being together with us, even while we’re apart.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
We met remotely for this service! To participate more fully, you can visit http://www.echochurch.org/onlineservice for video and text.
Kelly takes us through the second half of Acts 4 with some special guests Sam and Brittany Gill, missionaries in Pakistan.
Chris Cox introduces our new series Slow, based around Slow Church and exploring the concept of cultivating community in the patient way of Jesus.
Steve Carr discusses The Bible and how Echo as a church views the scripture and our relation to it.
We continue our Advent series entitled The Waiting, discussing Zechariah's handling of the news he would have a son.
We continue our Advent series entitled The Waiting, discussing Elizabeth's pregnancy and Mary's presence with her.
We continue our Advent series entitled The Waiting, discussing the years of silence between the Old and New Testaments.
Lead minister Seth Millhoan discusses community and introduces our Advent series The Waiting.
During this sermon, Chris shared a video in the middle. To get the full experience and know what he’s talking about, you can watch it here: https://youtu.be/Phl82D57P58
Missionary John Dye shares with us about our call to global impact and their ministry to the people of Caracas, Venezuela.
"By all possible means": David Wheatley, in his farewell address, takes a pause from our Jesus B.C. series to offer an exhortation to share and defend the Gospel of Christ.
Evan Konc looks at the role of blood in our Christian lives and how something unclean could be the very instrument of our salvation.
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."
"Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."
"Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." || For some reason the audio this week cuts off at minute 14. We will look into this and see if possible to retrieve the full audio. Please accept out apologies for the incomplete sermon!
"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light."
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
“I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ"
"This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."
“But now in Jesus, you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
“We are God's workmanship created in Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
I will gather my flock and I will bring them back to the fold, and they will be fruitful.
Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them
"Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind."
"Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food?"
Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Steve returns to introduce us to the disfunction of Israel's kings, starting with David and his sons.
Dillon Hamilton looks at the question of why we sing in church, through the lens of Colossians 3 and Ephesians 5.
Rob Gee looks at the story of Job and how we can apply the lessons there to Godly community.
Jessica Grigg takes a look at intentions and intentionality; how what Pharisees preached lined up with God's intentions and how the same principles can guide or hinder us today.
Dillon Hamilton discusses 1 Thessalonians and how our view of Christ's second coming effects how we live today.
Kelly Carr brings us inspiration from Judges 4 (and Rosie the Riveter) - stories of women stepping up to answer a call and do what's needed. We all have a part to play in God's plan and he can use us no matter where we are now.
Our friend Zane Grigg tackles the parable of the sheep and the goats, asking what it looks like to care for the "least of these."
Larry Budde explores how scripture presents the topic of money and its place in our lives and church communities. What is our "money" that we can spend and share with each other?
We welcome our friend Jim Spicer this week, who looks at the topic of foster care and adoption through the lens of scripture, and our call as Christians to care for those who need it.
We look at Luke's version of the resurrection. Even then, even among His closest followers, the empty tomb was doubted.
We explore leaders and followers and their place in the distribution of justice and grace.