Three Creeks Church: Recent Episodes
Three Creeks Church
Three Creeks Church is a Christian Church based in Gahanna, Oh with a mission of 'Helping People Find and Follow God'.
s vital to experiencing the grace of God in our lives. Listen to find out more about what the Bible says about honest, transparency, vulnerability and accountability.
We are all naturally discontent, but in Christ, we have the opportunity to experience real contentment and joy.
People tend to avoid talking about hell. For many reasons, it makes us uncomfortable. But Jesus talked about it all the time. What does the Bible say about hell, judgment, the afterlife and fairness? Listen to find out more.
t exactly what to do with Him. Listen to this message to hear a clear presentation of the person of the Holy Spirit, according to the Bible, and how He works in our lives.
A healthy church regularly and boldly invites people to come to know the person of Jesus.
What does it look like to be a church that praises? In Acts 2:47, we explore how a lifestyle of authentic worship and praise honors God and how we should live our lives.
My Village Ministries (MVM) seeks to come alongside families in crisis and provide community and support by partnering with churches to help them get to the other side. We are proud partners and supporters of family preservation through biblical hospitality.
re very quick to forget, and a healthy church intentionally sets up rhythms to remember the goodness of God.
To the onlookers, the most remarkable attribute of the first church was that they were undeniably devoted to being together. It crossed racial, social and economic boundaries. They were wholeheartedly committed to being together.
In Acts 1 and 2, we see the first church taking shape. We read about the first sermon ever delivered, how the poeple responded, and what habits begin forming among the people.
lead disciple, Peter, famously abandoned Jesus on the night Jesus was betrayed and arrested. One might think this is an unforgiveable offense. Instead, the resurrected Jesus meets Peter on the shores of the Sea of Galilee with an important message. Listen to find out more.
t know it. They are downcast and frustrated and confused. Jesus shows us in this story that God is always present and always working for our good.
s on one. Do you know where you are? Listen to find out the truth about Jesus and where true life is found.
Is Judas in heaven or in hell? Theologians have debated this question for centuries. In this message, Pastor Joel shares from the Gospels, answers that question, and highlights four lessons we can learn from the life of Judas.
Jesus entered Jerusalem on the Monday morning of Holy Week and went straight to the temple. He had a few things he had seen the night before that he had to deal with. In this message, we hear about what makes Jesus righteously angry.
The reason a huge crowd welcomed Jesus into Jerusalem on that first Palm Sunday was because of what Jesus did a few weeks prior. Do you know what He did? And do you know what it meant? Listen to find out more.
God invites us out of shallow faith and into a deeper hunger for Him that opens us to the filling of the Holy Spirit. Through the wilderness stories of Israel and Jesus, we see how desire, surrender, and honest dependence shape spiritual depth. As we cultivate hunger and clear distractions, we can experience true spiritual renewal.
After Jacob dies, the older brothers wonder if Joseph will finally turn his back on them and pay them back for what they did to them. When Joseph hears that his brothers are insecure and uncertain at their standing with him, it broke his heart.
Towards the end of Genesis, we read alot about Jacob, his life, and ultimately, his death and burial. Jacob can sense that the end of his life is near, and we can learn a lot from those who know the end of life is approaching soon.
In this sermon, we see that God is behind all the highs and lows of Joseph’s life. This enables him to fulfill his calling, and God uses him to save both his brothers and all of God’s people.
Ups, downs. Highs, lows. Seasons of life to enjoy. Seasons of life to endure. This is life. For every person on this side of eternity. As we make our way through this life, enjoying and enduring it, what does God always want us to remember? Listen to find out more.
When Joseph arrives in Egypt, Genesis 39 tells us he is sold as a slave to a man named Potiphar who is the Chief of the Royal Police. In six short verses, we see four ways that God cares about Joseph. God gives Joseph protection, His presence, prosperity, and a promotion in the house of Potiphar.
In Genesis 37, we see that Joseph experiences the favoritism of his father, the hatred of his brothers, and the providential care of God.
As we start our journey through the life of Joseph, we see early on that he grew in a wildly dysfunctional family. Yet, God was raising him up to help save the lives of millions of people.
s life, he clings to the promises of God. In the end, God comes through on His promises, like He always does. We hope this comes as a great encouragement to you as you turn into the new year.
Jesus spoke many times about light and darkness. In John 8, Jesus claims to be the light of the world. Why is that such a big deal? And what does that mean for Jesus followers today?
Paul concludes his letter by bringing his readers back to the only way to be right with God: believing in what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross.
Our stories are the strongest proof that Jesus is real and his message is true. Listen to Kate share about the freedom she has found in Christ!
In Galatians 6, Paul encourages us to keep in step with the Spirit as a family and provides practical ways in which we may experience a healthy community.
Paul describes the war going on inside of every Christian, what it looks like when either side is winning, and how to make sure the Spirit of God produces fruit in our lives.
In Galatians 5, Paul begins to describe the free life God wants for us. We were set free to be free - and to use that freedom to selflessly serve others.
This week, we explore one of Paul’s biggest questions in Galatians: Why did God give the Law if salvation has always been by faith? Discover how the Law and the Promise fit perfectly together in God’s plan to bring freedom through Christ.
Paul gives the Galatians a history lesson and a theology lesson, urging them to trust in Jesus. He explains the two options and gives them a choice. We have the same predicament today. What will we believe about Jesus?
A person gets their identity in life based on how the most important person in their life sees them. Who is the most important person in your life? What do you think they think about you?
Paul tells the Galatians about a few key meetings he had in Jerusalem, and brings up Titus and circumcision. How come? And what does that mean for us?
s comments towards the Galatians in his letter are surely being met with some skeptical attitudes and crossed arms. Paul defends his credibility by sharing who he is, where he came from, and the difference Jesus made in his life.
Rather than telling the Galatians how much he misses them and prays for them (like he does in most of his letters), Paul rips into the Galatians in the first paragraph of his letter. What causes Paul to feel such anger, such surprise?! Listen to find out more.
What are angels? Are they real? What are demons? Are they real? Can they help us? Can they hurt us? Do we each have our own guardian angel? And why does any of this matter at all?
Why do Christians care so much about lust? This week, we look to the Bible to see where lust originates, how it affects us, and why God cares so much about it. We’ll see that lust can be defeated and that its penalty has already been paid through the cross of Christ.
re depressed? What do we do if someone we love is feeling depressed? Listen to find out more.
Gender and marriage should point us back to the beauty of the Creator, and the goodness of the Gospel.
s clearly very dangerous. How, as Christians, do we handle alcohol? When is it OK to drink? What does the Bible say about this?
Parenting is tough. So is being a kid. What does the Bible say about parenting? It says quite a bit. The Bible is full of timeless truths that help us navigate parenthood. Listen to find out more.
In our busy world, how does Sabbath and rest fit into our schedules? Is Sabbath even possible in our current society? What does the Bible say about rest today? How is God’s heart for His people revealed through Sabbath and rest?
Baptism and communion. Those are the two ordinances of the Christian church. What is an ordinance? How did these ordinances start? How should we practice them today? Listen to find out more.
s natural first inclination is to try and find out what other people think about it. We Google it, read articles about it, and see what other people say about it. We are being formed by the thoughts of others. Is that OK? Is that a good plan? Should we base what we believe simply on what others believe? Or is there a better way?
in church. For people who have been saved, the purpose of life changes. For a saved person, what is that new found purpose? Listen to find out more.
Facing persecution is something Jesus warned his followers about. Many times. Yet, most of Jesus followers today are avoiding it at all costs. Do we believe Jesus when he said that facing persecution is actually a mark of a blessed life?
In a world full of conflict, Jesus calls us to something radically different: to be peacemakers. This week, we unpack what Biblical peacemaking really looks like, how it goes beyond conflict avoidance, and how it reflects the very character of God who made peace with us through His son Jesus Christ.
Jesus tells his listeners that people with pure hearts will be... blessed. Or happy. Which is what most people are looking for. So the question we have to ask is, "How, then, do we get pure hearts?"
God the Father shows Jesus-followers mercy, both now and forever, and it's from a place of having received mercy that Jesus-followers cannot help themselves but show mercy to others.
Jesus teaches us that those who hunger and thirst for right relationships will live the blessed life in his upside-down kingdom. Our desire for rightness in our relationships with God and each other honors him and moves us to take action to bring restoration into many different spaces in our life.
Jesus adds another one to his "string of blessings" we call the Beatitudes, and this one isn't any less confusing than the first two. Jesus, instead of advocating for aggression and a go-getter attitude, he tells his followers that meekness is one of the keys to a blessed life.
If Jesus didn't confuse them with the first Beatitude about being the happiness found in being poor in spirit, he really catches them off guard by telling them happiness is found in mourning! What does Jesus mean here? And what are we supposed to mourn about? Listen to find out more.
Jesus opens up the most famous sermon of all time with a beautiful poem about happiness, which is the number one thing most people in the world are looking for. Have you found happiness? Have you heard where Jesus says it can be found?
Sometimes, the story of Jesus, who He was, what He did, and what it means can be confusing. In this message, the good news of Jesus is plainly shared and an invitation is made to become a follower of Jesus.
Sometimes, the story of Jesus, who He was, what He did, and what it means can be confusing. In this message, the good news of Jesus is plainly shared and an invitation is made to become a follower of Jesus.
Jesus, at the end of his life, demonstrates complete trust in the Father. He puts it all in His hands. How are we to respond to this act of complete trust?
Jesus cried from the cross that God had forsaken him. He did this because something cosmic, something prophetic and something personal was happening on the cross. Listen to find out more.
Of the seven things Jesus said on the cross, this is the least well-known one. Jesus looks down at his mother, his mother's friends, and one of his disciples, and emphasizes the reality and importance of being in a spiritual family.
Jesus' humanity is on full display when he cries out from the cross, "I am thirsty." It proves that this was not an out-of-body experience for Jesus, but that he felt the whole thing. All for us.
Two criminals were crucified on either side of Jesus. They both had the same experience. But they each had completely different interactions with Jesus. What was the difference, and why does it matter? Listen to find out more.
Looking down at the people who literally hung him on the cross, Jesus prays that God the Father will forgive them. This is an incredible act of "enemy love" - which is what Jesus preached. What does this mean for us? What questions do we need to answer in response to this incredible story of forgiveness?
Many lessons on prayer can be learned from the mundane, in ministry, and in misery. These lessons and biblical truths can bring about a rich lifestyle of prayer.
What makes Three Creeks... Three Creeks? What does our church value the most? What kind of church do we want to be? Listen to find out more.
As we wrap up the book of Ruth, we find that the last five verses are a list of names that are hard to pronounce? Why is that in there, and why should we pay attention to it? Listen to find out more.
It might be easy to simply read the book of Ruth and remember it as a sweet story. But the deeper you look into it, the more you're able to see that the story of Ruth foreshadows the story of Jesus in a powerful way! Listen to find out more.
Ruth is single. Boaz is single. They both want a family. So, the obvious next step is... a late night chat on a threshing floor next to a pile of recently winnowed wheat? Interesting. Listen to find out more.
In one of the loveliest short stories ever written, packed with literary art and theological insight, we meet Ruth a few verses into the first chapter of this book. Just after meeting Ruth, we read about one of the most decisive moments in world history. Ruth has a decision to make. Which way will she go? Listen to find out more.
God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him. If your story doesn't seem very good right now, Mary and Joseph can relate. But the story wasn't over for them and it isn't over for you. Take heart. The arrival of Jesus changes everything.
Paul starts and ends his letter to his spiritual son Timothy with the same word. Grace.
Life and ministry will be hard because people and the world are broken by sin. In spite of all the hardness, as Christians, we are never alone. The Lord stands by us. The power of the gospel cannot be thwarted by sinful humans.
2 Timothy 4:1-8 is the crescendo of Paul's last words to his spiritual son Timothy. He stresses that that Timothy (and all of us) that we need to strive to do the work of an evangelist if we want to run the race well.
The Bible is not a book of duties we need to do for God; it is the story of God’s love for us. It shouldn't cause us to think about all the things we need to do for God, but rather, it should make us pause, look up, and say, "Oh my God, look at what you've done for me!"
Rather than seeking new and improved, popular and widely-accepted theological ideas, Paul encourages Timothy to continue in the tried and true beliefs that he was raised up in. Listen to find out more.
In 1 Timothy 3:1-9 Paul warns Timothy to avoid those who claim to be followers of Jesus, but who are content to live in their sin and are unwilling to let His grace change or transform their lives. For the rest of us though, Christians who do want our lives to count for Christ, the reality is that if we run thoughtlessly through life, following the practices and advice of the world around us, however much we may desire to live for Him, our lives will ultimately look no different from those of the people Paul is warning Timothy about.
In all of our houses, there are things we love - and things we wish weren't there. It's the same with our lives. There are things we're proud of - and there are things we wish weren't there. Where do we go from here? Is it possible to be cleansed of these unwanted things? If so, how? Listen to find out more.
Jesus' last words emphasized the importance of disciple-making. Paul's letter to Timothy reiterates the same theme. What is disciple-making and why does it seem to matter so much to Jesus and Paul?
When a person is looking for a church to belong to, they're likely going to want to know what the worship is like, how well-organized the kids program is, and if the church is serving in their local community. Those are all important things, but none of them are quite as important to the health of a church than the church being led by a good pastor. Paul tells Timothy what a good pastor looks like. Listen to find out more.
Paul knew what was important for Timothy to know in order to finish his race well. Because of that, Paul took time out of his last days on earth to urge Timothy about what he should "always remember". What do we need to remember if we want to follow Paul and Timothy's examples?
After telling Timothy to be a good soldier, he brings up two more illustrations for Timothy to embody - that of an athlete and that of a farmer. What in the world is that all about? Listen to find out more.
Paul tells Timothy to be a good soldier. What exactly does that mean for Timothy? Good soldiers endure suffering, are single-minded, and obey quickly. Listen to find out more.
In 2 Timothy 1, Paul tells Timothy about some friends who have deserted him and some friends who have been helpful to him. It shows the incalculable value of a faithful friend. Do you have one of those? Are YOU one of those?
Paul's in jail when he writes this letter, and he gives Timothy the reason for his jailing. But Paul is not ashamed. He has no regrets. And he urges Timothy to live an unashamed life.
In Paul's letter to Timothy, he urges Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God that is in him." What is this gift? Why does it need fanned into flame? Ultimately, why does it matter?
First-century missionary Paul's friend and protege was a young man named Timothy. The book of 2 Timothy is a letter written by Paul to Timothy, and early in the letter, Paul highlights that he may not be the most significant spiritual influence in Timothy's life. Someone else like was. Do you know who it was?
James encourages us that no matter the situation we face, we can go to God. We have a tool in prayer that is powerful and effective. As we respond to God, He responds to us.
Having personal wealth is not a sin in and of itself, but James (and the whole of Scripture) warns us against the effects of money on our hearts and minds.
Our inability to be single-minded toward God leads to external conflicts. How can we prevent the war inside us in order to live more peaceably with those around us?
What does it look like to have Godly wisdom? James 3:13-18 details Godly wisdom for us, showing us that it is active, humble, and peaceful.
What does communication look like for someone who follows God? James 3:1-12 dives into some wisdom of how we use our words as Christians. What your words do reveal what your heart is up to.
This is what genuine faith actually looks like. If someone says they have faith in God, but neglect people who are needy, this person’s faith is dead. Their actions betray what they say they believe. Listen to dive in deeper to these passages in James!
The Bible is pretty clear about the idea that God's way is the best way. But do we really believe that? And if we do, why is it so hard to do what God says?
The Bible is pretty clear about the idea that God's way is the best way. But do we really believe that? And if we do, why is it so hard to do what God says?
Temptation is something everyone faces. Where does it come from? Is it impossible to resist temptation for the rest of our lives? What do we do if we've made a mistake and given into it? Listen to find out more.
If your desire is to be mature and complete, not lacking anything, James gives us the game plan to get there. But it's probably not what you were hoping it'd be. Listen to find out how we can grow into the men and women we want to be.
James is a short, hard-hitting, practical book that tells Christians how to live the Christian life. Here's a question to answer, before you read the book of James: Do you trust God enough to do what the book of James says? No matter what it says, will you do it?
Baptism. There are lots of ways to do. Lots of opinions on it. How many reasons are there for it? Here are seven good ones.
We can be filthy rich financially - and God sees us as being fools. But it's not having money that makes us fools. It's forgetting what we're supposed to do with it.
When we believe we own our stuff, it's really hard to give away. When we believe God owns our stuff, it changes everything.
We all want be able to be generous people, but do Christians have to tithe? Money is the number one competitor for our hearts, and in church, we have to talk about it.
God cares about our mental health. We all want to be mentally healthy. But... what for? Just so we can feel better? Or is there a deeper purpose than that?
Mental health problems are on the rise. What does the Bible say about our mental health? And how do we tap into the hope that God has promised us in an unsound world?
Our minds are under attack. They're a strategic battleground where the enemy wages war. What sorts of things does our enemy want us to think about? And how can we avoid them?
Because we don’t want to over-spiritualize mental health, we’re in danger of under-spiritualizing it. The Bible describes something called a "sound mind". What is it? What does it feel like? And how can I get it? Or do I already have it?
Jesus told stories, and they weren't technically true. But they represented true things. And his listeners would often be able to find themselves in the stories. In the story of the Prodigal Son, where do you find yourself? Listen to find out more.
As we come to the end of 2 Kings, we read about two kings who each interact with God's word. They have drastically different responses, and drastically different outcomes. Which one can you relate to more?
In 1 and 2 Kings, God heals people. Miraculously. Almost unbelievably. And it begs the question: Does God still heal people today?
King Hezekiah led Judah to an unparalleled level of faithfulness to God during the 29 years of his reign, not by use of his power or authority as king, but by setting an example for others to follow. We look to him as an example of just how influential and impactful our own choices to live faithfully for the Lord can be on the world around us.
Most American Christians don't bow down to metallic or wooden trinkets. But that doesn't mean we don't have idols. Listen to hear more about the northern kingdom's demise and why the slide into destruction began in the first place.
2 Kings 3-8 and the story of Jehu is jarring, to say the least. But there's an important lesson in the story, and it applies very directly to our lives today. Listen to find out more.
Elisha was an incredible man who performed more recorded miracles than anyone in the Bible other than Jesus. But how did it all start? And in what ways can we follow Elisha's example of faith?
In 1 Kings 21, we see a tragic story about King Ahab's insatiable desire for more. It reminds us of a few other stories in the Old Testament of men. And in each case, destruction follows their unchecked desire to have more.
Elijah is one of the all-time greats when it comes to Bible heroes. But 700 years after Elijah lived, something was written about him by the half-brother of Jesus that's very interesting and remarkably applicable to our lives today.
In 1 Kings 11-16, we see Israel become increasingly unsettled and eventually divided. We find many examples of failed kings and prophets as they abandon God (and some who don’t). We also discover that God is uncompromising both in his character and pursuit of his people. This section starts a trajectory of generations who mostly live in a “compromised community.” The core issue isn’t necessarily the leader, but rather the idols that are promoted or ignored within that community. We all have to face idols and attachments
Solomon, in the Bible, is a confusing figure. He's the richest man in the world, builds the first temple in Jerusalem, dedicates it to God, and also has 700 wives and 300 concubines. So, is he a good guy or a bad guy? Listen to find out more.
In 1 Kings, God grants Solomon a wish. Solomon chooses to ask for wisdom rather than health or wealth or prosperity, and it delights God to give it to him. If God granted you a wish, what would you ask for? Would it be wisdom? And if you received it, would simply recieving wisdom make a difference in your life?
1 and 2 Kings is a divinely-inspired account of what happens when we reject God. As we jump into these two books of the Bible, it's important to consider what decisions were made early on that end up leading the Israelites towards destruction. Listen to find out more.
What did the angels bring to Jesus on the night he was born? They worshipped him. And then they went back to heaven, and they've been worshipping him ever since. In fact, they always will be. What does God want from us this Christmas? Could it be as simple as... our worship?
During a very busy time of the year, Mary and Joseph forgot Jesus in Jerusalem when he was 12 years old. Right now, we're in a very busy time of the year. It is possible that we, too, have forgotten Jesus?
Has there been a time in your life that you've felt like you were in a wilderness? Do you feel like you're in one now? Why does God allow us to go through those? Does He ever intentionally take us into them?
Who you say Jesus is? A nice man? A good teacher? An important figure? Or God in the flesh? The Savior of the World? This is the most important question a human faces in their life.
Every good thing that we enjoy comes from God. That's what the Bible says. But what's the best thing God's ever given you? And have you thanked Him for it recently?
What is the great enemy of the spiritual life in our day? Could it be busy-ness? Consider what being busy does to your connection with God. What did Jesus do when he was incessantly asked to do more things? Listen to find out more.
What would it be like to take a 90 minute walk with Jesus? What would we learn? What would we think of him? Would it inspire us to want to be like him?
Do you know what an unreached people group is? When Jesus ascended into heaven, almost every group in the world was "unreached". Today, many have been reached, but still, many have not. Listen to find out more.
Jesus, right before he ascended into heaven, had some parting words to share with his disciples. Do you know what he said? They took him literally, and it changed the world. Find out what Jesus said, and consider what role God wants you to play in following his last commands.
After years of conquering and dividing up the land God had promised Israel, Joshua knows his time leading the people has come to an end. His final reminders are important not just for them but also for us today. Let’s do a heart check as we finish this series in Joshua.
After so many years of discomfort, in Joshua 18, they are finally a bit more comfortable. But they have a few more steps to take to do all God is asking them to do. Why risk it, though? Why take those steps? Why not just stay put and be comfortable? Listen to find out.
Jesus didn't come to Joshua or to us to be an advisor or a spectator. He came to be the Lord of our lives. Every area. He came to transform us, from the inside out. Listen to hear why we should let him do it.
The word "remember" is used over 1,200 times in the Bible. Do you find it hard to remember the things God has done in your life or the lives of others? The truth is, we serve a God who is able to do the impossible. There is a lot we can learn from the book of Joshua about remembering what God has done that propels us into a bolder faith in what God can continue to do. Listen as we continue in the book of Joshua.
Rahab. A hero of the Old Testament. But that certainly would have come as a surprise to the people who knew her in Jericho. Listen to find out more.
Community Groups are part of the fabric of Three Creeks Church. From the church in Acts to today, we grow best in groups.
What's one word that's used over and over and over in the Old Testament to describe the character of God? It's the word HESED. Do you know what that means? It could change your life if you do!
Is there any area of your life that you would describe as... out of control? Is it out of control because of a lack of self-control? Can God help us with this? Or are we on our own?
Not many people think to pursue the character trait of gentleness. But when Jesus describes his own heart, which He did only one time in the Bible, do you know how he described his heart? Listen to find out.
What does it mean to be faithful? If we're faithful people, what kind of effect does that have? In a world full of flaky people, listen to the impact we can have by being reliable, trustworthy, faithful people.
What does it mean to be "good"? Can we be "good" on our own? And what's the point of being "good"?
If there is one fruit that God needs to work the hardest to produce in Americans, it's this one. We're a shockingly impatient people. But when we lean into God, he can produce patience in us. Listen to find out more.
Everybody wants to be more joyful. So how do we find it? And how can we keep it if we do?
When Paul writes to the Christians in Galatia about what it looks like to follow Jesus, the first characteristic he lists is "love". Why is that? And what does it look like to truly love someone with a Christ-like love?
Have you ever heard of a man named Tychicus? He's a model of spiritual maturity for anyone who wants to follow God. Listen to find out more.
Even in the letters Paul writes to his friends, he prays. It's almost as if he can't help himself. So when we pray, what should we be praying for?
What is the armor of God? Is it a list of six weapons to use against Satan's attacks? Or does it have a deeper meaning that that? Listen to find out more.
Satans. Demons. Spiritual forces. Are they real? What does the Bible say? And if they are, how much attention do I give them?
We used to be darkness because we were children of disobedience. Now we are light because we are children of light. A change in being leads to a change in doing… not so that we can become children of light but because we already are.
Greed can rule our lives and prevent us from fully following Jesus. Thankfully, there is a cure. Listen to find out more.
Are you an angry person? On the inside? Or do you get easily frustrated? Why do you think that is? Listen to find out more.
When we're growing up, we ask questions like, "Am I allowed to?" or "Can I?" But maturity shows itself when we begin asking better questions. Listen to find out more.
Both in the Bible and in our lives, words carry weight. Paul, in Ephesians, describes to Christians what their words ought to sound like (and what they shouldn't sound like).
Sexual immorality was a problem in Ephesus 2000 years ago. Not much has changed. It's still a major problem in the US today. Paul told the Christians to avoid there being even a hint of sexual immorality among them. How is that even possible? Listen to find out more.
In this passage, Paul writes about the difference between a life without Jesus and a life with him. The evidence of a conversion to Christ is life change.
If the resurrection didn't happen, then we're all wasting our time. But if it did, then it changes everything, for everyone.
The first Palm Sunday was a wild scene. The crowd was going crazy for Jesus. But a few days later, they switch sides and want him dead. What happened? Why was the crowd so easily swayed?
If you have kids, you know that they are the greatest source of joy and can also be the greatest source of frustration. Here are five truths about kids and parenting that can help us parent with no regrets.
Getting married. In your opinion, what's the point? In God's eyes, what's the point? Are those answers the same? Listen to find out more.
There's a misunderstanding in the American church that inhibits spiritual growth, impedes spiritual maturity, and reduces the impactfulness of a church. It's a rampant and crucial misunderstanding. Listen to find out more.
Wonderfully, God made it so that the church is one. United. Unfortunately, the enemy wants to divide it. How do we resist and stay unified? Paul tells the Ephesians, and us. Tune in.
Did you know there's another letter to the Ephesian believers? Any idea where it's at? Listen to find out!
Does God really love me? That's a question that just about every person on the plant asks themselves at some point or another. Paul's prayer for the Ephesians is that God would help them know that He does, and never doubt it again.
In Ephesus, there were questions about who salvation in Jesus was being extended to. So Paul takes the end of Ephesians 2 and starts Ephesians 3 making sure that everyone knows that Jesus came for everyone who believes in Him.
Spiritually, we are either dead, or we are alive. That's what the Bible says. And our eternity depends on whether we choose to believe it or not.
Paul prays a fairly complex theological and powerful prayer over the Ephesians. And it's a prayer we can and should pray today. Listen to find out more about knowing God, feeling hope, and experiencing power.
Only God gets to tell us who we are. But Satan is relentless in trying to distort and destroy our identities. Paul knows the Ephesian church is struggling to know who they are. So he tells them exactly who God says they are.
The book of Ephesians was a letter written to a young church with the intention to help them mature. 2000 years later, being the young church that we are, we, too, can learn a lot from this letter about spiritual maturity.
What's the best gift you've ever received? Has the new-ness worn off yet? Do you know about the gift that God has extended to every person on the planet?
We don't like to submit, let alone physically bow down to... anyone! It's uncomfortable. It's a knock on our pride and our abilities. Yet all throughout the Bible, we see people who are in awe of God... bow to Him. Should we being doing more of that?
In the Bible, we see people, very honestly, pouring out their hearts to God. Because life is really hard sometimes. Listen to this message to hear how important it is to pour out your hearts to God.
Have you ever seen someone raise their hands when they are singing in church? How did that make you feel? Why are they doing that? Have you ever wanted to try it? Listen to find out what it means to lift our hands in worship.
Why did Jesus come? Why did Jesus stay for so long? What difference does it make? Listen to find out.
There's a lot to disagree about right now. Politically, theologically, philosophically... or even about what's being served for Thanksgiving Dinner. How can we disagree... like a Christian?
Jesus asks the woman at the well a piercing question. It almost seems cruel at first glance. But as you listen in on their conversation, you will find that it's the most kind question this woman has ever been asked.
The mission of God compelled Jesus to do things that most people wouldn't do. And in the same way, the mission of God is compelling our church to do things that most people aren't doing. It's time for Three Creeks Church to take our next step and show our city that we're here to stay.
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus tells us to ask God to "lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil". What does it mean to be led by God, and what evil do we need to be delivered from? Listen to find out more.
Perhaps you've heard the old saying, "Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and hoping the other person gets sick." Well, it's true. And in the Lord's Prayer, we see the freedom there is in forgiving those who have wronged us.
Give us this day our daily bread. What does that mean? Literal bread? Or something else? Listen to find out more.
Do you know how to pray? What do you think Jesus' disciples would have said if they were asked that question. Listen to find out more.
Wouldn't it be amazing to switch places with the Israelites in the Old Testament and experience the base of Mount Sinai, watching Moses meet with God? Did you know that those Israelites would switch places with you? Do you know why? Listen to find out.
Where did communion start? The Last Supper, right? Think again. The ordinance of communion really started about 1400 years earlier. Listen to find out more.
Why did God give Moses the 10 Commandments? Why the other 603 laws, too? What was the point?
What is God really like? What did the Israelites in the Old Testament think He was like? Is he personal? Can I know Him? Does He care?
God calls people in different ways to do different things. But when He calls you, what is your initial response? Is it to give an excuse? And what do our excuses communicate to God?
Moses was a hero. But he predicted that God would raise up another prophet after him, and that next prophet ends up being the true hero of world history. Who was Moses talking about? And what did they have in common?To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
Have you ever heard of a person in the Bible named Bezalel? He was a creative savant. And God used him in amazing ways. Are you letting God use you and the unique specific gifts He's given you?
Who is the best friend you've ever had? What were they like? What made them such a great friend? In this story, we read about a hero named David, who you may have heard of. But have you heard about his best friend?
There's a man in Acts 8 that's called the "Ethiopian Eunuch" and in so many ways, we can relate to him. Ultimately, this man shows us that God is always on the move and wants us to take our next steps in our faith. What's yours?
Does it ever seem like the Gospel mission is reserved for a select few? Do you ever feel like something in your life disqualifies you from participating? Phoebe shows us that the good news of Jesus is for all people and involves all people.
Moses is the guy who gets all the credit for the Exodus. He's the "popular hero" in the story. But he had a right hand man who he needed every step of the way. Listen to find out more about Aaron!
You may have heard about Barnabas, but what do you know about him? Without Barnabas, it's fair to wonder if Paul would have quit ministry before he even started. Barnabas is truly an inspirational hero, made great by the God he believed in.
Our Lead Pastor Joel Trainer's father is here with us for Father's Day! In the story of the Good Samaritan, who is the hero? Listen and find out!
Gideon isn't the first person you think of when you're asked about "Bible Heroes". In fact, Gideon isn't the first person Gideon thought of either! He was a timid and oppressed and discouraged person, and God transformed him and used him in a mighty way to save the nation of Israel. To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
When we think of what we have as ours, it's always hard to give. When we believe all we have as God's, it makes it really fun to give it away. All that you have in your possession... who do you think it really belongs to?
Many of the things a church does are important. But is there anything more important than this?
What is the defining mark of a Christian? What did Jesus say it should be? The early church listened to Jesus on this one, and we should too. It could change the world!
One of our favorite things at Three Creeks is planting churches. We're a young church plant, and we helped another be planted in 2022. Our Church Planting Resident, Trey Gilmore, is back to tell us why church planting matters and makes a difference in the world.
Throughout his life on earth, Jesus was filled with and led by the Holy Spirit. Followers of Jesus are promised this very same life-giving Spirit, but we’re often too busy to hear him and let him change our lives.
When we read what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit and what we're experiencing in our churches, there seems to be a pretty big difference between what we should be experiencing and what we are. So - how do we change that? What are we missing out on?
There's a lot going on in the world, and it doesn't seem to be trending the right way. What's the problem? Why so much trouble? In this message, we look at the most relatable passage in the Bible and discover the freedom we can have through Jesus Christ. To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
God wants to give us a full life, one that is full of hope, grace, love and peace. But He has an enemy who is trying to take that away and destroy us. How do we resist this enemy?To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
What is God looking for in the leaders of his church? And if you're not a leader, what's God looking for in you? Listen to this message to hear God's direction for local church leaders and how to pray for them.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
If you were asked to describe your ideal, perfect week, not many people would include hardship, difficulty or suffering. However, Peter says it's coming, and we need it. Why? Should we avoid it? How is a Christian supposed to handle all kinds of suffering?To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
When God made you, he didn't make a mistake. You were created with intentionality, uniquely, with gifts. Do you know what they are? Have you been using them? And what's the point?*Link to the video referenced during the message:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yp5nPGWWMh4To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
In 1 Peter 3:13-17 Peter uses the phrase "do good" multiple times. What does this mean? How does this play out in my personal life? Join us as we navigate through this gift of goodness shared with us through Peter.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
Marriage is hard. But it's also a gift from God. And it works best when we do it God's way. If you'd like your marriage to be strengthened, Peter's words in 1 Peter 3 can help.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
What comes to mind when you hear the word "church"? A service? A building? A religion? Peter tells the scattered Christians who they are and what they're called to, as the Church.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
In his letter to the scattered Christians, Peter talks about a holy life four different times. What is holiness? How can we achieve it? What happens if we don't live holy lives? What happens if we do?To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
In Peter’s first letter to the scattered Christians all over the world, he acknowledges that life can be disappointing and discouraging. It can feel hopeless. But because of one true event that took place about 2000 years ago, there is hope!To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
Care and Counseling Directors Tyler and Julie Gorham invited a few local counselors and friends of Three Creeks to help our church have a conversation about mental health and the gospel.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
Have you ever heard a sermon on suicide? If you have, it's probably been at a funeral for someone who committed suicide. At Three Creeks, we want to have this conversation now so that we might prevent a suicide. God gives life - and Satan tries to take it away.To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
It's really easy to become anxious. Should we just resign to being anxious people and just live with it? Or is there a better way? What does God say we should do when anxiousness begins to creep in? What does He offer instead?To find out more about Three Creeks Church, visit https://threecreekschurch.com/
In this series, we’ll be talking about mental health and the Gospel. There is an inseparable link between our mental health and our spiritual health. We hope God’s Word will speak to you through these messages, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey.
Do you ever just sing all the Christmas songs and do all the Christmas things without even thinking about what you're singing or what you're doing? We all do. So let's stop and remember why we're doing this.
When Jesus left the earth, he told his followers not to be afraid because after he left, the Father would send the Spirit. What is the Holy Spirit? What does the Holy Spirit do? And why should we care?
God the Father is one of the three persons in the Trinity. How should we think about Him? Relate with Him? What is his feeling towards us?
The Bible doesn't say the word "Trinity" anywhere, but that doesn't mean the Trinity wasn't present in it. In fact, the Trinity has existed forever - and when we try to wrap our minds around it and understand it, it leaves us speechless and without words to describe our great God.
Psalm 23:5 tells us of how the Lord has prepared this table for us in the presence of our enemies. Here at this table we are invited to dine with the God of the universe himself and are validated in who he says that we are. But, often the dinner that was reserved only for two turns into a reservation for three! Tune in to see how the enemy seeks to pull up a chair at your table, and how we can resist the enemy from getting a seat at our table.
In the world we live in, we've either been in a dark valley, we're in one now, or there's one coming up. When we're in the dark valleys of life, what do we do? Where can we find comfort? How can we get out?
Are you on the right paths? Are you becoming who you want to become? Are the paths your on taking you where you want to go? But more importantly, are they taking you where God wants you to go? Are you becoming who He wants you to be? And if not, what should we do about it?
If you're tired, worn out, overcommitted, overwhelmed or over it, this is for you. David describes the green pastures and quiet waters God wants to lead us to, but for most of us, our lives cannot be described that way. So - what's the secret? How do we get there? What does David say that helps understand where the green pastures and quiet waters life is found?
As we wrap our series in Esther, we're reminded that God simply cannot be stopped. His hand can't be forced. And even though God's name isn't in this book, his presence... his providence... is all over it.
Haman starts on top and cares only for himself. Mordecai starts on the bottom and cares for the welfare of others. As the story progresses, let's see how that goes for them.
Esther is a hero in the Bible, but she's an unlikely one. While we may have an idea in our minds of the perfect Queen Esther, she was far from it - and yet God used her. Which comes as a great encouragement to anyone else who isn't perfect.
The book of Esther doesn't mention God. But His presence is undeniable. Even in all of the little details. Listen to this podcast to hear about the seemingly minor details that play a vital role in God saving the Jewish nation.
When you experience the deep love of Jesus, you’ll experience a deep sense of gratitude in your heart, and it is from that place of deep gratitude, that we, as Christians, are able to love like Jesus loves us. Listen to this final message in our This is STILL Us Series.
According to the Bible, we don't become Christians by our actions. But, if we are Christians, our actions prove it. Tune in to find out a new way you can serve others through Three Creeks Church.
In a world where truth is on trial, God's Word remains true and stands the test of time. The Bible makes claims about itself - and has proven over and over to be the truth.
Welcome to the Three Creeks Church podcast. Our church started meeting together in 2018 with four core values. Truth, Gather, Serve, and Love. In many ways, it feels like our church has re-started in 2021 due to the pandemic. But our four core values remain the same - Truth, Gather, Serve, Love. In this series, we’re going through each one, one week at a time. To find out more about our church, to join a Community Group, or to give online, visit threecreekschurch.com.
Why should you go to a church service? Why bother? Why wake up? Why endure the small talk? Why go to church... every... single... week? Listen to this message. It answers those questions.
At Three Creeks, the play we run is Community Groups. We grow best in groups. We need each other. Connections Pastor John Scott breaks down why, in this moment in time, this is more crucial than ever.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the pivot point in the history of the world. But today - what does that mean for us? What difference does it make in our lives today?
At the burial of Jesus, we see three different people interacting with Jesus. What can we learn about Jesus through their response to his death on the cross?
At the Last Supper, Jesus ordained the Lord's Supper. The first church was devoted to it, but are we? Should we be? What should communion or taking the Lord's supper mean for us? What should we think about when we do? Should everyone take it? Listen to find out more.
No one knows when Jesus is coming back again - including Jesus. Only God the Father knows. But if you did know, and you knew it was soon, what would you do between now and that moment?
God cares how much money we give to God's work. But he's much less concerned with total amounts, and far more concerned about another number.
In Mark 11, we see Jesus tell his followers if they pray with confidence, their faith can move mountains. Why, then, do many of our prayers seem to go unanswered?
Everyone says that Jesus' gift of salvation is free, but it seems like following Jesus will cost me a lot. What exactly does it mean to be saved? How does that affect my life today?
In this life, there are doubts we may experience, one being: Is Jesus really who he says he is? As we go through this story of the transfiguration, we see who Jesus is - and how our faith can grow and doubts can be cast off because of it.
If you're a follower of Jesus, in what ways would you be living differently if you weren't a follower of Jesus? When Jesus finally told the disciples he was the Messiah, they were excited.. .but Jesus had a few more things to share that would have be shocking to hear.
When Jesus fed 5000 people, he not only fed them a lot of bread, but he wanted to send a message through it. What was that message?
Demons. What do you know about them? Are they real? Can they affect me? Listen to find out more.
Is Jesus your best friend? Your homeboy? A baby? God? How do you feel when you interact with Jesus? Let's look at the disciples and how they feel when Jesus calms the wind and the waves.
First, Jesus is accused of being out of his mind. Then, he's accused of being demon-possessed. How does Jesus respond to that? And what does that mean for us today?
The dinner party in Mark 2 is absolutely crazy. Everyone is surprised at who Jesus is eating dinner with, including the people he's eating dinner with. How should we respond to this jaw-dropping story of the Mark 2 dinner party with Jesus?
When Jesus called his first disciples, they immediately abandoned everything that gave them identity and security to follow Jesus. They dropped their nets. Do you have any proverbial "nets" in your life that you need to drop so you can experience everything Jesus has to offer?
We're looking at the biblical qualifications for leadership within a church, celebrating how God has been faithful to us, and appointing leaders to lead us into the future.
God has called for us all to go, but so often we find ourselves at a stand still or paralyzed. Why? Listen as we navigate through barriers when it comes to sharing our faith and roll out an exciting plan for this summer to help us grow in this area.
We're looking at the biblical qualifications for leadership within a church, celebrating how God has been faithful to us, and appointing leaders to lead us into the future.
While the Prodigal Son gets all the attention in Jesus' story, there are a few things about his older brother... the "good one" who stayed home... that Jesus wanted to make sure we didn't miss.
The story of the Prodigal Son isn't just a cute story about a son and his dad. This story is a picture of God's love for us - and on Easter Sunday, we celebrate the road the son took to get home.
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
Obadiah is the shortest book in the old testament (only 21 verses long) but it packs a punch. In our 4th and final week of Minor Prophets (Season One) we are looking at God’s message to the Edomites, and really… his message to all of us.
God hates religious arrogance… and Israel has been one of the greatest offenders.
In week 3 of Minor Prophets (Season One) we’re diving into Amos, and learning how the church can become a river of justice and righteousness to the world around us.
The book of Joel is a warning, but it’s also an invitation.
In week 2 of our series, Minor Prophets (Season One), we’re dusting off the less-visited books of our bible to understand how they can speak into our lives today.
The first book in the Minor Prophets is – Hosea. It is a scandalous, riveting illustration of what God’s love for people is really like. You’ll think it’s too good to be true. But it isn’t. It’s true.
Tune in to the recording of our live, in-person service for "Minor Prophets - Season 1 - Hosea".
What if our effectiveness as believers is being hindered by our prayerlessness?
Prayer is a powerful tool in the life of a believer, but so often it goes unused. You may not even know HOW to pray… This week we’re going to break it down so that you can exercise this muscle of prayer and grow your spiritual life.
Thanks for joining us for our 4th and final week of “Don’t Skip Leg Day” – a series on not skipping the necessary disciplines of a godly lifestyle.
Sharing the gospel is challenging...
In John chapter 4, Jesus demonstrates 3 characteristics of effective evangelism that we can model in our own lives.
Thanks for joining us for week 3 of “Don’t Skip Leg Day” – a series on not skipping the necessary disciplines of a godly lifestyle.
“For God so loved the world he gave his only son.”
God is the author of generosity, so it only makes sense that as mature Christ-followers we would be too.
Thanks for joining us for week 2 of “Don’t Skip Leg Day” – a series on not skipping the necessary disciplines of a godly lifestyle.
Tune in to the recording of our live, in-person service for "Don't Skip Leg Day".
This is a series about avoiding lopsided Christianity.
Do you make time to get away with God? Do you have a rhythmic and regular solitude in His presence?
In our 4th and final week of the Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, we explore how we can better connect with God and why it’s so important in the life of a believer.
When you hear the word “Sabbath” what comes to mind? Morgan Trainer walks through what the Sabbath meant across both the Old and New Testament, in order that it may become nothing but a gift in our lives.
Be honest… would you describe yourself as interruptible? When you’ve got things to do or places to be, and something unexpected comes your way, how do you respond?
In week two of our message series, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, we look at the life of Jesus, and the amazing things that happen when we slow down enough to be interrupted.
Tune in to the recording of our live, in-person service for "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry".
This series is not about simply slowing down... it's about slowing down enough to enjoy your walk with Jesus.
For those of you who have supported our church this year, thank you – from the bottom of our hearts. If you would like to give a year-end gift to our church to help people find and follow God, we would be honored and we will spend it well.
God wanted to the world to know that Jesus came for everybody. This is the best Christmas gift of all.