New City Church - Nashville: Recent Episodes
New City Church
New City Church is a small, non-denominational church in Nashville, TN, practicing the way of Jesus together for the flourishing of our city. Here you can find our latest messages. For more info on who we are, what we do, and how to support what God is doing here, check out newcitynash.com
What does the Bible say about the Holy Spirit?
In this message, we look at some of what we can learn about the Spirit from the Hebrew Scriptures.
Resources:
Bible Project
Forgotten God by Francis Chan
Are you open to the Holy Spirit?
In this kickoff message to our Holy Spirit, we look at orthopathy - or right feeling when it comes to the Holy Spirit.
Looking at Acts 2:1-13 as our base text, we discuss different reactions to the person of the Spirit.
Many things in today's culture form us to be closed off to the person of the Holy Spirit. What are those? We look at a few based on tradition, reason, and experience. We talk about the Enlightenment, how we think, and lack of experience with the Holy Spirit.
We'd love to hear your thoughts. What resonates with you?
sermon #holyspirit #spirit
What is the mission of God? What is your part in it?
In the third week of our vision series, we look at this question.
We also look at the pressure you feel to make a difference in the world and talk about how to discover what it is that you are made to do, when there seem to be so many options.
Acts 6 :1-7
But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.7 So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
Hope is an interesting word. We hope for a lot of things, but what does it mean to hope?In the second week of our vision series, we look at the famous story where Jesus weeps after his friend Lazarus dies.
Have you ever felt disappointed? Found yourself in the aftermath of something not going like you expected it to go and trying to make sense of it?In this video, we talk about faith, disappointment, doubt, and much more. Let us know what stands out to you.
Has your world ever felt dark? Or like the darkness would not lift?In this message, guest preacher Sherei Lopez Jackson brings a timely message tracing the theme of light in the Bible, looking at what it means for Jesus to be the light of the world and for his followers to be children of light.#sermon #light #bibletheme
Psalm 46 is a powerful Psalm. Martin Luther used it as inspiration for a famous hymn, and millions of people have clung to the promises found in it.In this message, we take a dive into what it means for God to be our refuge, strength, and very present help in time of trouble.We also look at the famous “Be still and know” verse and talk about what that meant and how it likely meant something different to its original audience.Let us know what you think in the comments.
To find more info on who we are, what we do, or to give, head to www.newcitynash.comPSALM 100Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!2 Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!3 Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his;[a] we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 1 describes a righteous person as being like a tree planted by streams of water.In this message, we look at the significance of the tree image in the Bible as well as that of the image of water. We talk about chaff, trees, and what it is that we long for and how only in Christ do we discover our ultimate rootedness.In a world often marked by instability, Christ is constant, and in Him we are able to be planted and connected to the source of life no matter what comes.
Have you ever felt like God has let you down?
Like you've prayed and prayed and prayed and it seems like God doesn't hear you?
Or maybe worse, He has heard you, but it feels like He's neglecting you.
Psalm 13 is a beautiful Psalm of lament, that talks about all this. If you are walking through a painful season or alongside someone who is, this is for you.
PSALM 13
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I take counsel in my soul
and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?
3 Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
4 lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”
lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.
5 But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
What do we do with the outro section of letters like Colossians, where a lot of names are listed, and we know very little about the people listed?
Who was Tychicus? Who was Nympha?
This section can feel like watching the end credits of a movie, but this text offers some beautiful insight into how the gospel played out in the early church, and how it affected all sorts of relationships.
Particularly, in this message we talk about Onesimus and Nympha and the church that met in her house. We discuss what it likely meant for Nympha to have a church in her home and how some have described her as perhaps "the most important early church leader you haven't heard of." We talk about men, women, slaves, free, Jews, and Gentiles in church leadership and the idolatry of fame and notoriety in today's day and age and how to embrace an ordinary life filled with love of God and neighbor.
Colossians 4:7-18 (ESV)7 Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 9 and with him nOnesimus, our faithful and obeloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and Jesus who is called sJustus. tThese are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and athe church in her house. 16 And when bthis letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
Colossians 4:6 talks about speech that is gracious and seasoned with salt and always knowing how to respond to each person.
Our words have power, and the words we hear from others make an impact on our lives. In this message, we talk about the way God speaks to us and the beauty of having a God who hears us.
God invites us into His family, and then He calls us to invite others in.
If you've ever felt weird about evangelism, this message is for you.
There are seasons of life where prayer comes easy. There are times where you sense the Lord's presence so near to you. And there are other times where prayer feels difficult, and God seems distant.How do you learn to cultivate a life of intimacy with God in every season of life?Tune into this message as we talk about this question (and more).Colossians 4:2-4 (ESV)2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Wives submit to your husbands??? How do we make sense of texts in the Bible that say things like that? What did this mean, and what does it mean for us?
How do you interpret the Bible? In this teaching, we look at the household code listed in Colossians and talk about what makes it stand out in Greco-Roman culture.If you've ever been curious about passage about wives/ husbands, parents/ kids, and slaves/masters and wondered why the Bible says what it says and sometimes doesn't say what you might wish it to say, this may be helpful for you.
What does it mean to find your identity in Christ? And how does this affect how we live?
Colossians 3:5-17
5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming.7 In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. 8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Set your mind on things above. How?
In this message, we talk about what it means to find ultimate fulfillment in Jesus and how everything else falls short.
Colossians 3:1-4 ESVIf then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Do you ever feel pressure in your life? To do something? To say something? Do you ever feel like you're not enough? Like you haven't achieved enough?
Then, this message may be for you. We talk about the freedom we have in Christ and the invitation to experience life in Him.
We pray it blesses you and that God speaks to you through it.
Colossians 2:16-2316 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions,[a] puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.
Do you struggle with shame? Feel trapped in the same old patterns? The cross of Jesus demonstrates powerful good news for you.
Colossians 2:6-15 (ESV)6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits[a] of the world, and not according to Christ. 9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. 11 In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities[b] and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.#sermon #easter #cross #jesus
Being faithful to one thing means you have to be unfaithful to others.
In this message we talk about being intentionally unfaithful to the world, the flesh, and the Devil, in essence being unfaithful to anything competing for your full allegiance to Jesus.
We hope it challenges and encourages you with the goodness of Jesus and the gospel.
Colossians 1:24-2:5 ESV24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.#sermon #colossians #newtestament #nashvillechurch
In this message, we look at Colossians 1:21-23, talking about the reconciling power of Christ. We talk about the nature of our problem, the need for adequate self-assessment, and the power of what Jesus has done for us on the cross.
Colossians 1:21-23 (ESV)
21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation[a] under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
In this message, guest Preacher Dr. Jon Roebuck challenges us to think about what God looks like. Through Colossians and several other scriptures, we look at what God's word has to say about who He is and how we ourselves can resemble God.
In this message, we take a look at a beautiful, poetic passage in Colossians 1:15-20, talking about the supremacy of Christ.
We hope it encourages you.
There are very real forces aiming for your attention, affection, and allegiance.These forces have real power.
In this message, we talk about the Kingdom of God and the domain of darkness. We talk about three ancient enemies of your soul, and point you to one who is far more powerful than anything else.
We mainly focus in on Colossians 1:13-14 and look at questions around what is the kingdom of God? What is the domain of darkness (e.g., demons, the devil, etc.)?
*We had issues with our audio, so please pardon any extra noise. :)
Why learn about God? Have you ever thought about that question?
In this message, we look at a few verses in Colossians 1, talking about being filled with the knowledge of God's will. If you're interested in taking steps to know and walk in God's will for your life, this message may be for you.
sermon #godswill #discernment
We don't outgrow needing to hear the gospel message.
In this message, we talk about the context of the word "gospel" and what type of connotations the gospel would have had in the first century world.
sermon
This intro message to our Colossians series is about our perception, looking at what we think about God, ourselves, and others.
The way we think about these things can impact how we interpret reality.
If you struggle with doubt, your view of God, your view of yourself, or your view of others, this is for you.
Colossians 1:1-2 (ESV)
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,2
To the saints and faithful brothers[a] in Christ at Colossae:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
a) or brothers and sisters
In this message, Trey walks through Psalm 16, talking about finding joy in the presence of God. PSALM 16A psalm of David.1 Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.2 I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.”3 The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them!4 Troubles multiply for those who chase after other gods. I will not take part in their sacrifices of blood or even speak the names of their gods.5 Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine.6 The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance!7 I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me.8 I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.9 No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave.11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.#psalms #psalm16 #sermon
Perhaps the most well-known Psalm and one of the most well-known passages in the Bible, Psalm 23 has been a source of comfort to many.In this message, Trey walks through the Psalm line by line, unpacking beautiful truth that applies to us today.Psalm 23 (ESV)The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.He leads me beside still waters.3 He restores my soul.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Did you know the devil quoted Scripture to Jesus?In Luke 4, Jesus is led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit and is tempted by the devil. The devil uses part of Psalm 91 to tempt Jesus. How does Jesus respond?This passage, Psalm 91, is full of hope. In this message, Trey talks about hope in the darkness, and how biblical hope may be different than what we typically think.Trey walks line by line through this Psalm and offers some encouragement about hope.PSALM 91 (ESV) He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.2 I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.4 He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.5 You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day,6 nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.8 You will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.9 Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place— the Most High, who is my refuge—10 no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.12 On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.13 You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.14 “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.15 When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him.16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”#psalm91 #sermon
Have you ever felt like you wanted things that weren’t good for you? Or wished you wanted things that were?
Maybe you’ve felt something like this: a part of you wants to get back at someone for what they said to you and another part wants to forgive and move toward kindness.
We have a war of wants, of desires, of loves.
In this message, we look at a popular passage in Psalm 37 about God giving us the desires of our hearts. What does this mean? And how do we see that happen in our lives?
In this message in our Water We Swim In series, Trey talks about beauty and the beauty of God and learning to see and appreciate beauty.*Sorry for the audio issues. Our audio recording went out, and we tried to salvage the audio. Revelation 1:14-1914 His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow. And his eyes were like flames of fire. 15 His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and his voice thundered like mighty ocean waves. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And his face was like the sun in all its brilliance.17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, “Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave.19 “Write down what you have seen—both the things that are now happening and the things that will happen.
Do you ever feel unseen? Overlooked?
In this week's message, Trey talks about a powerful story of someone who is taken advantage of, hurt, and used, where she describes God as "the God who sees me."
It's a story about a woman named Hagar and her discovering she was pregnant with Ishmael.
She is the only person in the Old Testament to directly name God, and this is what name she ascribes to Him. What a profound statement about the character of God to showcase this aspect of His character when her world screams something so different.
In this world, it's so easy to feel overlooked, like you have to vye for the attention of others, but what if you aren't only looked at? What if you are fully seen?
You are being shaped by the world you live in. Oftentimes, this happens to us without us even realizing it. It 's the water we swim in. Over the course of this series, we're looking at what shapes us and what sort of invitation Jesus offers.In this intro message, we dive into the theme of water in the Scriptures (pun intended), focusing on the themes of chaotic water and the water of life.This week, we look at hurry and how our ever hurried and noisy world makes it hard to develop a deep life with Jesus.#sermon #hurry #spiritualformation
Does God still heal today?
In this message, we look at this question Jesus asks in John 5. He asks, "Do you want to be healed?" or "Do you want to be made well?"
John 5:1-15 (NLT)Afterward Jesus returned to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish holy days. 2 Inside the city, near the Sheep Gate, was the pool of Bethesda, with five covered porches. 3 Crowds of sick people—blind, lame, or paralyzed—lay on the porches. 5 One of the men lying there had been sick for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him and knew he had been ill for a long time, he asked him, “Would you like to get well?”7 “I can’t, sir,” the sick man said, “for I have no one to put me into the pool when the water bubbles up. Someone else always gets there ahead of me.”8 Jesus told him, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!”9 Instantly, the man was healed! He rolled up his sleeping mat and began walking! But this miracle happened on the Sabbath, 10 so the Jewish leaders objected. They said to the man who was cured, “You can’t work on the Sabbath! The law doesn’t allow you to carry that sleeping mat!”11 But he replied, “The man who healed me told me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk.’”12 “Who said such a thing as that?” they demanded.13 The man didn’t know, for Jesus had disappeared into the crowd. 14 But afterward Jesus found him in the Temple and told him, “Now you are well; so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you.” 15 Then the man went and told the Jewish leaders that it was Jesus who had healed him.
This story is often referred to the story of the prodigal son. This story, though is about more than one son.Jesus tells this story about two sons and a father. The two sons take two different paths toward fulfillment.Tim Keller in his book Prodigal God says that the younger son pursued fulfillment through the path of self-discovery and the older son through the path of moral conformity.One aimed to find fulfillment through doing what felt good or seemed pleasing to him. The other aimed to find fulfillment through doing "right things."While both paths miss the mark, it seems Jesus sees the path of the older son as more dangerous. It is possible to be physically close (in church, in small group, etc.) and spiritually very distant from the Father.
Have you ever reached a point of desperation?
In this message, we talk about a beautiful question Jesus asked and a response of bringing everything we have to him, coming in need.
We look at labeling our pain and confessing our sins as prime ways to prepare for an encounter with God.
sermon #sermonclip #nashvillechurch
*Please note. We experienced technical difficulties, and so the audio is not as good quality as normal.
Trey had planned to continue our series on fasting and had a sermon prepared, but in a posture of obedience and openness to the Spirit, we went a different direction. We pray it blesses you.
In our second week of our series on fasting through Practicing the Way, we look at fasting as a way of growing in holiness.
We hope it blesses you. Let us know what stands out to you.
Here's the link to the podcast we reference:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/69XHfXoreqe0kqiHHfGDV1?si=vlPlYjicTU-mWoUQm_66Yg
Should Christians fast?
In this message, we kick-off a four week series on fasting via Practicing the Way.
If fasting from a Christian perspective is a new thing for you, you're not alone. The mere mention of fasting can bring up body image issues, body shame, and more.
While we talk about that some in this message, if that resonates with you, we encourage you to check out Practicing the Way's podcast episode with Dr. Allison Cook on fasting, body shame, eating disorders, and when/ when not to fast.
In this message, we talk about the history of fasting, the theology of the body, and how to start.
Have you ever wondered what your purpose is? Why are you here?
In this message in our values series, Trey Hayman (Lead Pastor) and Karly Butler (Pastor of Worship and Mission) talk about "mission." We talk about the pressure of finding out your purpose, the mission of God, what you are made to do, and how our church aims to join in with what God is doing.
Have you ever thought about who you're becoming? In this message, we talk about how to become who you are made to be and practical steps you can take to do so.JOHN 15:1-17 (NLT)“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. 7 But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.9 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. 10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 12 This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. 13 There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. 16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
Why do so many of us feel lonely? We can be surrounded by people and yet still feel unseen, unknown, and unloved. Why? Do we have to feel this way?
Is there something we're missing? What if your loneliness is actually evidence of what you were created for? What if we actually numb ourselves when we aim to fill our loneliness with things that aren't what is best for us?
In this message in our values series, we talk about connection. We talk about how you were made for connection with God, with yourself, and with others.
JOHN 15 “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.
5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. 7 But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.
9 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. 10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 12 This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. 13 There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. 16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
sermon #nashvillechurch #connection #loneliness #lonely
It is possible for you to become a person who is kinder, more loving, more gentle, and more peaceful.
In this message, we look at a famous passage on the fruit of the Spirit and talk about the invitation from God to become a person of love as a response to His love for us.
GALATIANS 5
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. 26 Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.
Nehemiah was a man of humility and a leader who was willing to admit his own faults alongside his people. As you can see in his documented prayer below, Nehemiah used "us" and "we" language, showing that he considered himself to be on the same level as the people Israel, acknowledging that they had all fallen short of their covenant relationship with their Creator. Check out this message on Nehemiah about what it means to pray to God in the midst of hardship.
Nehemiah 1:5-11 NLT
Then I said, “O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps his covenant of unfailing love with those who love him and obey his commands, listen to my prayer! Look down and see me praying night and day for your people Israel. I confess that we have sinned against you. Yes, even my own family and I have sinned! We have sinned terribly by not obeying the commands, decrees, and regulations that you gave us through your servant Moses. “Please remember what you told your servant Moses: ‘If you are unfaithful to me, I will scatter you among the nations. But if you return to me and obey my commands and live by them, then even if you are exiled to the ends of the earth, I will bring you back to the place I have chosen for my name to be honored.’ “The people you rescued by your great power and strong hand are your servants. O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.”
Have you ever prayed for God to do something and felt like He wouldn't?
What happens when we pray and our circumstances don't change? What happens when we ask God for healing and it doesn't seem to happen?
How do we respond when we deal with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, etc.?
In this message we look at Paul's "thorn in the flesh" and what that teaches us about God, prayer, suffering, and walking in a broken world. We pray it's a healing word for you.
2 Corinthians 12:5-10 (NLT)
That experience is worth boasting about, but I’m not going to do it. I will boast only about my weaknesses. 6 If I wanted to boast, I would be no fool in doing so, because I would be telling the truth. But I won’t do it, because I don’t want anyone to give me credit beyond what they can see in my life or hear in my message, 7 even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
In this message, we dive into 2 Corinthians 4, looking at the tension of walking in pain and trusting God.
We unpack multiple verses, including a famous portion from v. 8-9 that says, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."
We pray it blesses you and helps you in whatever you are walking through today.
If you've been to a wedding before, chances are you have heard this passage.
But is this about weddings? What is the point of this passage?
In this Bible study, we look at 1 Corinthians 13 and talk about what love is and what love isn't.
In our last episode of the season, Karly interviews friend and fellow Worship Pastor Abby Harmon Gregory on what it's like to combat busyness with a spirit of rest. Karly asks Abby a series of topical questions ranging from cultural relevance, practical advice, and personal experience. We hope you glean some wisdom, encouragement, and helpful tips from this episode.
Have you ever felt at the end of your rope? Have you ever felt things will never get better?
Have you ever wondered why do bad things happen? How do we respond when walking through pain or trials?
Maybe in a bout of depression or while processing a loss, you have felt like there is no way things can get better.
Maybe you've heard people say things like "God works all things for good," but if you're honest, sometimes that doesn't seem to help much.
In this message, Trey Hayman talks about a more holistic view of suffering and why the Christian message about suffering is neither dismissive nor pessimistic.
You can experience hope in the midst of pain, and not only when things are better.
See more about New City Church at www.newcitynash.com
In this week's episode, we discuss what it means to stop, rest, delight & worship God using the practice of sabbath. We pull materials from Practicing the Way (a useful tool for implementing historical formational practices into your everyday life), as well as our own experiences.
This week Guest Preacher Israel Munoz teaches us about unity in the church. He unpacks the cultural background and transcendent relevance of the story of Paul, Apollos, & Peter (early church leaders) and warns against forming factions based on leaders (among other differences), reminding us that Christ, and Christ alone, is the head of the Church and that we are all working toward the same goal under His leadership.
In this week's episode, we take a deep dive into some of the cultural motivations and pressures of chronic busyness. We will take a look at several quotes and ideas (see references below) such as: “Americans work longer hours, have shorter vacations, get less in unemployment, disability, and retirement benefits, and retire later, than people in comparably rich societies.” - Jeff Bethke
Reference Materials:
Bethke, Jefferson. To Hell With The Hustle: Reclaiming Your Life in an Overworked, Overspent, Overconnected World. Nelson Books, 2019.
Thompson, Derek. "Workism Is Making Americans Miserable." The Atlantic, 2019, https://doi.org/https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/02/religion-workism-making-americans-miserable/583441/?utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share.
This week Guest Preacher & New City Elder Sarah Collier teaches us about the wisdom of God versus the wisdom of humankind. She walks us through the background of Paul's first letter to Corinth, gives us a detailed description of God's wisdom found through the gospel of Jesus Christ, and challenges us to share this wisdom with those around us.
What is the problem with busyness and what does scripture have to say about it? We live in an increasingly busy society. Often, when we ask someone how they are doing, the response is "Good, just busy". In this episode we will discuss our thoughts on the busyness epidemic, chat about some relevant scripture passages, and set up the rest of the season.
In this episode of our faith and mental health podcast, we have a very special guest.Jesse Lusko is a pastor and church planter in Portland, Oregon. This interview is honest, beautiful, and filled with hope.Jesse has struggled with bipolar depression, and in this candid interview, Jesse shares openly about that journey and what he has discovered about God in the process.We hope that Jesse's story will bring you hope in the midst of your journey.
*Please note, this episode does touch on some sensitive topics pertaining to mental health.
What does it mean to be adopted into God's family?
Romans 8 talks about being given the spirit of adoption. What does that mean?
In this message, we talk about identity and how we relate to God. We talk about the difference it makes when you become part of God's family.
We focus in on whether we define ourselves by our sin or by what God has done for us.
A big question for this message is - If you follow Jesus, do you consider yourself primarily a sinner saved by grace or a saint who still sins?
Romans 8:12-17 (NLT)12 Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. 13 For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.15 So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” 16 For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. 17 And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
This season we are taking a dive into Mental Health, Busyness, and Formational Practices. We will also have a couple interviews later in the season with individuals who have experience following the way of Jesus while dealing with mental health issues. This week we will deep dive into our first formational practice: PRAYER. This is not a "fix-all" suggestion, but merely a helpful practice that invites God into our mental/emotional health journey.
Sources Mentioned:
"Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools" | By: Tyler Staton
Rule of Life Podcast | Season 2: Prayer
Have you ever read Proverbs and wondered what to do with them?
In this message, we talk about wisdom, truth, doubt, and the difference between knowing about something and knowing. We talk about the importance of seeing Proverbs as general rules for wisdom and not mathematical formulas.
If you've ever wanted to become wiser, we end by talking about a practical spiritual discipline to help you grow in wisdom.
It might not be what you think.
Resources:Bible Project Wisdom Series
Text:Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
6 Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
This season we are taking a dive into Mental Health, Busyness, and Formational Practices. We will also have a couple interviews later in the season with individuals who have experience following the way of Jesus while dealing with mental health issues. This third week we will continue our discussion about factors in our culture that surround us that contribute to mental health problems and crises.
This season we are taking a dive into Mental Health, Busyness, and Formational Practices. We will also have a couple interviews later in the season with individuals who have experience following the way of Jesus while dealing with mental health issues. This second week we attempt a cultural autopsy as we think about factors in our culture that surround us that contribute to mental health problems and crises.
This season we are taking a dive into Mental Health, Busyness, and Formational Practices. We will also have a couple interviews later in the season with individuals who have experience following the way of Jesus while dealing with mental health issues. This first week we give a birds eye view of why mental health issues exist and set up the next few episodes.
Your view of God affects how you see the world. It affects how you experience the world and even how you see yourself and others.In this message, we dive into a few questions: Was Jesus Religious?Is it possible to be spiritual but not religious? What is a religion anyways? We talk about the struggle of doing what you don't want to do and not doing what you want to do, breaking bad habits, and dealing with destructive behaviors.We look at sin, the Law, and more.
In this kickoff message for our series, we look at Psalm 139 and talk about how a distorted image of God affects everything else in life.We unpack some popular caricatures of God and offer a new way forward. Looking at Psalm 139, we see the beautiful message that you are both known and loved.
*The inspiration for the title of this series comes from a quote from Flannery O'Connor.
Text:Psalm 139O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.2 You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.3 You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do.4 You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.5 You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!7 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!8 If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave,[a] you are there.9 If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans,10 even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.11 I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night—12 but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you.13 You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.14 Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.15 You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.16 You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book.Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.17 How precious are your thoughts about me,[b] O God. They cannot be numbered!18 I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand!And when I wake up, you are still with me!19 O God, if only you would destroy the wicked! Get out of my life, you murderers!20 They blaspheme you; your enemies misuse your name.21 O Lord, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you? Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you?22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred, for your enemies are my enemies.23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.#nashvillechurch #sermon #psalm139#nashvillechurch #sermon #psalm139
Have you ever felt let down? By yourself, by someone else, or by God?
In this Easter message, we talk about that feeling and why it is so painful.
We talk about how Jesus meets us in our disappointment and doubt and why the resurrection of Jesus is such good news.
This week (end of March 2023) was a heavy week in Nashville. We focus in on Acts 12 and the tension of prayer in the wake of tragedy. How do we respond?We also talk about the tension between prayer and action, and how prayer and action are not meant to be separated.
nashvillechurch #prayer
In the early church, there was an emphasis on the table, around sharing in meals together, eating and drinking with one another.
In this message, we talk about hospitality, the Lord's Supper, and sharing a table together.
nashvillechurch #church #sermon #hospitality
What was the early church like?
What types of things marked their community, and what type of things should Christian community be?
In this message, we talk about the early church and lessons for what church ought to be like today.
We also talk about some social distinctives of the early church that separated them from other cultures of the time.
What was the early church like?
In this series, we dive into a few defining characteristics of the early church.
First up: devotion to the apostles' teaching.
#church #sermon #acts #nashvillechurch
For this last week of our prayer series, we host a panel discussion on prayer.
We talk about some of the challenges of prayer and what prayer looks like in different seasons of life.
prayer #panel #nashvillechurch
What does it mean to "pray without ceasing?"
In our fourth week of our series on prayer through Practicing the Way, we talk about the stage of prayer called, "being with God" or what others have referred to as contemplative prayer.
We talk about a way of prayer that is saturated in the love of God, a posture of being more than doing.
We talk about battles we face in this type of prayer. This type of prayer focusing on the presence of God challenges our conceptions of love and safety as well as our culture of consumerism.
It challenges us to move from pursuing love to recognizing we are loved and receiving that love and moves us into loving others.
It challenges us to move from short term fixes to long term well-being.
It challenges us to move from productivity and performance to presence, from competitiveness to compassion, and from complacency to commission.
We end the message with a practical way to start to embody this type of prayer.
Is it possible to hear God's voice? How do you know it's God and not you?
In this message, we talk about learning to hear God's voice, how some people pull out "the God told me card," and some practical tips.
We talk about 6 ways to hear the voice of God, 3 reasons you might not be hearing from Him, and a path forward to learning to hear and discern His voice.
For more info, check out Practicing the Way's website.
Sometimes it's hard to know what to pray.
In this message, we talk about 4 different types of prayer: confession, gratitude, lament, and petition and intercession.
We look at how to learn to pray whatever is going on in your life and practices to help you become a person of prayer.
RESOURCES:
Prayer Guide from Practicing the Way
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Tyler Staton
Practicing the Way Podcast
nashvillechurch #practicingtheway #pray #teachustopray #prayer #spiritual #spiritualdisciplines
Have you ever been bored while praying? Wondered why we pray?
Have you heard of people who seem to love prayer and wish that could be you?
A lot of us feel guilt when it comes to prayer. We think we should do it more, but we don't, and we feel bad about that. Others of us feel indifferent about it. What's the point anyways? Does prayer actually change anything?
Others of us feel frustration with prayer. We've prayed for God to show up before, it seems like there was no answer. What now? In this message, we kick off our series with Practicing the Way on Prayer.
This week, we talk about the first movement of prayer: Talking to God.
Lord, teach us to pray.
Recommended Resources:
Prayer Guide from Practicing the Way
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Tyler Staton
Practicing the Way Podcast
#nashvilelchurch #practicingtheway #pray #teachustopray #prayer #spiritual #spiritualdisciplines
In this sermon, Karly Butler, our pastor of worship and mission, shares honestly about learning to trust God in the midst of suffering.
Looking at the story of Job, she talks about how to turn to God when it is hard to do so, dealing with grief, and how to walk with friends in the midst of their Job seasons.
In this message, we talk about the famous verse Micah 6:8 that gives the command to: do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.
Particularly, we focus in on the concept of humility.
We talk about pride and how it manifests in our lives.
We talk about how sinister pride is and how it prevents us from really knowing God.
We talk about Jesus and his example of humility as one Christians are called to emulate.
We also talk about what pride is not and what humility is not.
pride #humility #micah68 #nashvillechurch #sermon
What do you do with this story about a guy running away from God's call, getting swallowed up by a fish, then spit out in Nineveh to preach a message, and then ending up outside the city angry and bitter?
Seems like a FISHY story. Right?
In this message, we talk about mercy, resentment, and repentance, and why repentance is actually good for you.
We look at some parallels with this story and Luke 15 with the story of the prodigal son (better referred to as a story about a Father and two sons).
Resources:
Jonah: The Prodigal Prophet by Tim Keller
Jonah: Bible Project Video
Jonah #biblestudy #repentance #nashville #nashvillechurch #antiochtn
In this message, we kick off our series on a whole-bodied faith. We look at Amos 5 and talk about the King and the Kingdom. What is the Kingdom of God? What do we do about justice? We look at this and more in this message.
Amos 5:18-27 (NLT) Woe to you who long for the day of the Lord! Why do you long for the day of the Lord? That day will be darkness, not light. 19 It will be as though a man fled from a lion only to meet a bear, as though he entered his house and rested his hand on the wall only to have a snake bite him. 20 Will not the day of the Lord be darkness, not light— pitch-dark, without a ray of brightness? 21 “I hate, I despise your religious festivals; your assemblies are a stench to me. 22 Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Though you bring choice fellowship offerings, I will have no regard for them. 23 Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. 24 But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! 25 “Did you bring me sacrifices and offerings forty years in the wilderness, people of Israel? 26 You have lifted up the shrine of your king, the pedestal of your idols, the star of your god[b]— which you made for yourselves. 27 Therefore I will send you into exile beyond Damascus,” says the Lord, whose name is God Almighty.
In Matthew 10, Jesus says that he came to bring a sword.
What does a sword have to do with peace?
Matthew 10:34-39 (NLT)
"Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. 35 'I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 Your enemies will be right in your own household!' 37 "If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.
nashvillechurch #Matthew
What is joy? What does it mean to be joyful?
In this message, we do an overview of what the Bible teaches about joy, what it is and how to grow in it.
Have you ever heard someone say something like, "Just have faith" or "just be faithful."
What does this even mean? In this message we talk about faith and how you can technically have right beliefs and not actually be a person of faith.
#faith #faithinjesus #nashvillechurch
This is our last message of our sabbath series, focusing on the last movement of sabbath - worship.
In this message, we talk about hope and worship. We talk about sabbath as a day that can transform the entire way you view time. #sabbath #practicingtheway #Jesus #nashvillechurch
Did you know God actually wants to bring you delight?
This week we talk about how sabbath is a practice meant for your good. #sabbath #delight #happy
In this video, we do a panel discussion on the sabbath and what that looks like for people in different seasons of life (married, single, with kids, etc.). Karly Butler (Pastor of Worship and Mission), Israel Muñoz (church leader), and Trey Hayman (Lead Pastor) sit down to have an honest conversation about the beauty and challenge of sabbath. #sabbath #practicingtheway #spritualgrowth
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week they will share some tips and tricks for navigating the holidays and all the feelings that may come with them.
In this message, we talk about the practice of Sabbath.
This is our focal practice for 2022.
We're kicking off a four week series looking at this ancient practice and how it can be transformative for us today.
Many of us are deeply formed by a culture of constant business and a need to be productive. Sabbath is an invitation to stop and be and remember we are not just what we do.
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week, join them for their season finale as they talk about the wilderness experience of Jesus and what we can learn about our own wilderness experiences.
What does it mean for God to be compassionate?
In this message we talk about the God who suffers with us, who meets us in the midst of pain.
We talk about how to become compassionate people.
Resources:
Compassion by Henri Nouwen, Donald McNeill, & Douglas Morrison
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week Karly will be interviewing Trey about his personal story and journey with faith and mental health.
What does it mean to abide in Christ?
In this message from Trey Hayman we talk about what it means to dwell with Christ and how to develop a close relationship with God that is closer than any relationship you know.
John 15:1-17 (NLT)
15 “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. 5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. 7 But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. 9 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. 10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 12 This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. 13 There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. 16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week they will talk specifically the emotionality of Jesus and what we can learn from his experience with joy.
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week they will talk specifically the emotionality of Jesus and what we can learn from his experience with sadness.
What does Jesus mean when he says he is the way, the truth, and the life?
Any one of these can seem massively offensive to our modern sensibilities.
In this message, we particularly look at the idea of Jesus as the Truth.
We talk about doubt, deconstruction, questioning your faith, and the difference between faith in Jesus and beliefs about Jesus.
If you (like us) have questioned things about your faith, this message is for you.
You're not alone.
Resources:
After Doubt by A.J. Swoboda
John 14
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” 5 “No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. 7 If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!” 8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.” 9 Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. 11 Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Or at least believe because of the work you have seen me do. 12 “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. 13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!
#nashvillechurch #doubt #doubtingjesus #deconstruction
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith?
Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives.
This week they will talk specifically the emotionality of Jesus and what we can learn about how he interacts with the disciples when they seem anxious.
SCRIPTURE:
Matthew 21:12-17 (NLT)
Jesus Clears the Temple
22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone.
24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”
28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”
29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.
So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.
34 After they had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 When the people recognized Jesus, the news of his arrival spread quickly throughout the whole area, and soon people were bringing all their sick to be healed. 36 They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.
In this message, we're looking at the story where Jesus raises his friend Lazarus from the grave.
We're also talking about a verse that is very memorable, "Jesus wept."
Why is this encouraging for us? We'll talk about Jesus weeping and how we can encounter Jesus in the midst of our circumstances.
We'll talk about how Jesus's suffering shows us Christians can cry, be depressed, and walk through hardship.
We'll talk about the already & not yet Kingdom of God.
We'll end by looking at how Jesus's resurrection life has totally altered the course of human history. For more info on that, check out John Ortberg's book, Who is This Man?
Sermon from Trey Hayman on October 2, 2022.
John 11:17-34 (NLT)
17 When Jesus arrived at Bethany, he was told that Lazarus had already been in his grave for four days. 18 Bethany was only a few miles down the road from Jerusalem, 19 and many of the people had come to console Martha and Mary in their loss. 20 When Martha got word that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him. But Mary stayed in the house. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.” 23 Jesus told her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 “Yes,” Martha said, “he will rise when everyone else rises, at the last day.” 25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. 26 Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?” 27 “Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God.” 28 Then she returned to Mary. She called Mary aside from the mourners and told her, “The Teacher is here and wants to see you.” 29 So Mary immediately went to him. 30 Jesus had stayed outside the village, at the place where Martha met him. 31 When the people who were at the house consoling Mary saw her leave so hastily, they assumed she was going to Lazarus’s grave to weep. So they followed her there. 32 When Mary arrived and saw Jesus, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within him, and he was deeply troubled. 34 “Where have you put him?” he asked them.
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives.
This week they will talk specifically the emotionality of Jesus and what we can learn from his experience with anger.
What/ who do you look to to guide you in life?
Are you satisfied with where you are or where you are going?
Is it an internal compass that guides you? Is it a particular philosophy or a person or something else?
In this message, we'll talk about some things it means when Jesus says he is the good shepherd and how he is the one who leads to a rich and satisfying life.
Jesus is not only our Savior, he is the model for how we are to live.
We'll talk about common reasons we stray from following Jesus and what God has for us as well as 10 common fears that hold us back in life and how Jesus offers a different way of being.
Sheep (aka - us) stray for reasons like:
1) if they sense of danger approaching
2) to satisfy curiosity
3) if they are not paying attention while grazing
4)If other sheep are doing it too (strong flocking instinct)
Ten Common Fears that Hold People Back in Life (According to Amy Morin in INC Magazine)
- Change
- Loneliness
- Failure
- Rejection
- Uncertainty
- Something bad happening
- Getting hurt
- Being judged
- Inadequacy
- Loss of freedom
We'll talk about each of these fears and how Jesus offers a different way than being governed by these and how he speaks to each of these fears.
John 10:11-18 (NLT)
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”
RESOURCES:
A Church Called Tov by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives.
This week we will talk about Jesus' righteous anger and about how anger can spur us to justice and action.
In John 10, Jesus refers to himself as the gate for the sheep. Other translations say he is the door for the sheep. What does this mean? Why is it relevant for your life?
In this sermon from Trey Hayman we will talk about the good life and Jesus's statement in John 10:10, where he says his purpose is for them (the sheep) to have a rich and satisfying life (or abundant life).
We'll talk about an incredibly important question for our lives. What leads us to a rich and satisfying life? Our answer to that will guide a lot of our decisions.
Many of us struggle to trust that what God has is best for us. We look to success, happiness, influence, relationships, morality, and other things to lead us into a good life.
Perhaps we trust God, not as the one who leads to abundant life but simply as one who takes care of what happens when we die. How do we learn to trust Jesus as the one who is the way to abundant life not just for the future, but for today? And why do other ways lead to disappointment?
Tune in as we talk about all this and more as we continue our series on the "I AM" statements in the Gospel of John, looking at who Jesus says he is.
JOHN 10:1-10 (NLT)
10 “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”
6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, 7 so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me[a] were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved.[b] They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
Have you ever been curious about how emotions and mental health fit into living a life of faith? Join Lead Pastor Trey Hayman and Worship & Mission Pastor Karly Butler as they discuss how mental health and emotional health intersect with their spiritual lives. This week they will talk specifically the emotionality of Jesus and what we can learn from his experience with sadness.
What does it mean when Jesus says that he is the light of the world?
What is light? What is dark? Is there such a thing as something that is objectively light? Or objectively good?
In this message, we'll talk about all this and more as we unpack how the message that Jesus is the light of the world is incredibly good news.
From September 11, 2022.
Sermon from Trey Hayman.
#lightoftheworld #john #gospelofjohn #nashvillechurch
Who is Jesus?
In this series, we're looking at who Jesus says He is by looking at 7 statements Jesus makes in the Gospel of John.
This week we're looking at his statement, "I AM the Bread of Life" in John 6:26-40.
What does that mean?
In this message, we're going to talk about how Jesus is the one who ultimately satisfies. We'll also look at a number of different things we turn to that ultimately leave us wanting more.
Resources:
Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller
Have you ever wondered who God is?
In this message, we look at the opening to the Gospel of John and talk about how all of creation points to Jesus.
We'll dive into the opening verses of the Gospel of John, which are rich in meaning.
If you've ever wondered who God is, this message is for you.
god #Jesus #nashvillechurch #lookatjesus
You ever feel like your days are monotonous? You wake up, check your phone, go to work, etc., only to wake up and do it all over again.
Sometimes in our walks with God we look for these mountaintop moments. But what if God is in the ordinary and mundane things of life?
In this message, we look at the story of Ruth and how God meets us in the midst of everyday, ordinary life.
ruth #sermon #nashvillechurch #biblestudy #ruthbiblestudy #godintheordinary
Resources:
Liturgy of the Ordinary by Tish Harrison Warren
Have you ever come across a passage of scripture and found it difficult to understand?
Watch our latest sermon as our guest speaker Sarah Collier uses three questions to better understand the book of Judges!
sermon #judges #biblereadingmethod #gospel #nashvillechurch
It's probably fair to say that most people struggle with comparison. What does the Bible have to do with this?
What does comparison do to us?
How do we stop comparing ourselves to others?
How do we embrace who God has made us to be.
Tune in as we wrap up our time in Joshua, talking about comparison.
comparison #biblestudy #sermon #nashvillechurch #JOSHUA
If you've been around church, you've probably heard about the story of the fall of Jericho.
We sing about in kids' songs, and we talk about the power of God to tear down seemingly unmovable walls.
As we're reading through the Bible though, sometimes what happens in these stories doesn't seem so "kid friendly."
How do deal with things like conquest and war in the Bible? In this message, we're going to talk about this and talk about some powerful things we learn about God from this story (even if it seems odd to our modern sensibilities).
sermon #biblestudy #Joshua #violence #violenceinthebible
If you grew up in or around church, you probably have heard these verses.
Depending on your tradition, they may be more like the Great Suggestion or the Great Guilt Trip.
Part of our mission is to make disciple-making disciples of Jesus, but what does that mean? A lot of people profess to be Christian. Is that the same as being a disciple?
Tune into this message from July 17, 2022, as we wrap our series in Matthew and talk about all these things and more.
#sermon #nashville #nashvillechurch #SermonClip #biblestudy
We throw out the phrase "love God" often. Christians are supposed to "love God." Right? What does that mean, and what does it look like to love God with all we are?
Tune into this message as we talk about what it means to love God with all our hearts, all our souls, and all our strength.
Resources:
Bible Project Shema Series
sermon #biblestudy #lovegod #lovegodfirst
When you think about your life, what's at the top of the mountain? What is that thing that you spend your life trying to get? Is it happiness, retirement, financial stability, a relationship?
In this message, we'll talk about common things we spend our lives pursuing and how they fall short. We'll then talk about the theme of the mountain in the Bible, focusing on a story in Matthew 17:1-13, known as the Transfiguration. What we'll see is that Jesus is incredibly beautiful and glorious. A life built on Him is the surest foundation, and anything else will dissapoint.
Resources:
In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership by Henri Nouwen
Church Called Tov by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer
sermon #nashvillechurch #Matthew #biblestudy
When we realize some of the things we used to believe aren't totally true, it can be really unsettling - particularly with issues of faith. A natural tendency is to label things as either entirely good or entirely bad, but oftentimes teaching is more nuanced than that.
The Bible says quite a bit about "teaching" and the danger of bad teaching. In such a polarized time, how do we discern what is good and what is bad? Perhaps, we need more nuanced language to this question.
In Matthew, when Jesus tells his disciples to beware of the yeast (teaching) of the Pharisees and Sadducees, he is not saying he disagrees with everything they believe. In fact, he shares some important beliefs. He is concerned with particular things they are teaching.
In this message, we talk about how the best bad teaching contains elements of truth, the effects of bad teaching, the importance and difficulty of discernment, and building our lives on the foundation of Jesus.
MATTHEW 16:5-12 5 Later, after they crossed to the other side of the lake, the disciples discovered they had forgotten to bring any bread. 6 “Watch out!” Jesus warned them. “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 At this they began to argue with each other because they hadn’t brought any bread. 8 Jesus knew what they were saying, so he said, “You have so little faith! Why are you arguing with each other about having no bread? 9 Don’t you understand even yet? Don’t you remember the 5,000 I fed with five loaves, and the baskets of leftovers you picked up? 10 Or the 4,000 I fed with seven loaves, and the large baskets of leftovers you picked up? 11 Why can’t you understand that I’m not talking about bread? So again I say, ‘Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’” 12 Then at last they understood that he wasn’t speaking about the yeast in bread, but about the deceptive teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
*from a message on June 12, 2022
matthew #sermon #nashvillechurch #churchsermon #god #sermon #yeast #badteaching #falseteaching #falseteachers #goodteaching #christianteachings #christianteaching
You ever found yourself in one of those situations where something within you comes up that disgusts you? Maybe it's a terrible thought you have about a spouse, a friend, or someone who cuts you off in traffic? Have you ever been surprised by what you said or did when you were at the end of your rope?
Tune in for this message as Sarah Collier talks about Jesus and our hearts.
We're wrapping up our series on Leviticus, looking at the Year of Jubilee and talking about the freedom that Christ offers us.
In this message, we'll talk about what jubilee was, what it became, and the freedom Jesus offers and the proclamation of good news that Jesus gives in Luke 4 pointing back to Isaiah and Leviticus.
Reference:
Bible Project: 7th Day Rest Podcast Series (https://bibleproject.com/podcast/series/7th-day-rest-sabbath/)
Did you know that God cares about our calendars? He cares about how we spend our time.
Believe it or not, Leviticus offers us a beautiful invitation for how to reframe the way we see time and our calendar - to structure our lives around what is of utmost importance.
*Audio from May 15, 2022 Message by Trey Hayman at New City Church.
Resources:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Leviticus: Interpretation by Samuel E. Balentine (a commentary)
The Sabbath by Abraham Herschel
Sabbath by Wayne Muller
Habits are incredibly important. Our conscious and unconscious habits shape us into who we're becoming. Some might refer to habits using other words, like practices or even rituals.
In this short kick-off to our Leviticus series, we're talking about habits in Leviticus, through the lens of rituals, why they matter, and what they do to us.
Commentator Samuel Balentine described Leviticus as the most neglected of the neglected biblical books.
Functionally, most people probably would not recognize if we removed Leviticus from our Bibles. Why is it in there? What relevance does it have for our lives?
RESOURCES:
You Are What You Love by James K.A. Smith
Leviticus: Interpretation by Samuel E. Balentine (a commentary)
There's this interesting story in Exodus 34, where Moses comes down from Mount Sinai after being with God and his face is radiant, so much so that it scares the Israelites. What's going on with this? In this message, we'll talk about how being in God's presence changes us.
Unfortunately though, many of us try to manufacture things that seem "of God." We'll talk about the problem of the golden calf, idols we have, and how that can play out in the church, leading not only to the creation of idols but their protection.
There's this interesting story in Exodus 34, where Moses comes down from Mount Sinai after being with God and his face is radiant, so much so that it scares the Israelites. What's going on with this? In this message, we'll talk about how being in God's presence changes us.
Unfortunately though, many of us try to manufacture things that seem "of God." We'll talk about the problem of the golden calf, idols we have, and how that can play out in the church, leading not only to the creation of idols but their protection.
Audio from May 1, 2022, Sermon at New City Church
In this message, we look at the question: What is God like?
We take a look at a passage some people refer to as the John 3:16 of the Old Testament and talk about how God describes Himself. This passage can serve as a filter for you to filter the things you hear or think about God.
Audio from April 24, 2022 Message at New City Church in Nashville, TN.
For more info, check the resources list below.
RESOURCES
Bible Project Character of God Series (6 videos)
Bible Project Bad Word Series (3 videos)
God Has a Name by John Mark Comer
Bible Project Character of God Podcast (14 episodes)
How do we live in the aftermath of Easter? In this message, we trace the theme of the garden in the Bible by looking at 4 gardens in the biblical story. In this message we'll go from the first page to the last page of the Bible (from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22).
For more info on who we are and what we do, check out newcitynash.com.
If someone says they believe in "God," what do they mean? All sorts of people claim to believe in God who may have different understandings of who this "God" is. Tune into this message as we talk about a story where God reveals Himself to Moses as YHWH.
We'll also look at objections Moses gives when YHWH calls Him to work to set the people of Israel free. You'll find that Moses's objections/ insecurities are oddly similar to yours.
To connect with us or plan a visit, head to newcitynash.com
RESOURCES:
Podcasts:
Bible Project: "'God' Is Not a Name" & "Yahweh and the Exodus"
Books:
God Has a Name - John Mark Comer
The Unseen Realm - Michael Heiser
Have you ever felt like God abandoned you? Like everything went wrong? Where is God in all that?
God is in the business of resurrection. In this story, we see God taking what was meant for harm, turning it, and using it for good.
Tune in as we wrap up the book of Genesis with a message about God, God's plan, grieving, and how God doesn't forget us in the pit.
Resources:
Bible Project Podcasts
Joseph the Exile - https://bibleproject.com/podcast/joseph-exile/
Joseph, the Suffering Servant - https://bibleproject.com/podcast/joseph-suffering-servant/
Do you ever wrestle with God? Or struggle with Him? Maybe it's because of something you're walking through, something that happened to you, or something that you just can't seem to understand. Our heritage as Jesus-people is one of people who have wrestled with God.
Tune into this message as we talk about it by looking at a story from Genesis 32 as we continue our two year journey through the Bible.
References:
After Doubt by A.J. Swaboda
Bible Project Podcasts: "Why Can't Jacob and Esau Both Be Blessed" (https://bibleproject.com/podcast/why-cant-jacob-and-esau-both-be-blessed/)
"Great Blessing and Great Responsibility" (https://bibleproject.com/podcast/great-blessing-and-great-responsibility/)
"Wrestling God for a Blessing" (https://bibleproject.com/podcast/wrestling-god-blessing/)
We're continuing our 2 year journey through the Bible. This is week 3.
Have you ever heard the story about Abraham being asked by God to sacrifice his son, Isaac, on an altar? What do we do with that? Why is stuff like this in the Bible?
Join us for this message where we explore this text from Genesis 22:1-18.
References noted:
Bible Project Podcast: Under the Trees with Yahweh
Bible Project Podcast: Trees of Testing and Blessing
You ever found that story in the Bible that talks about the sons of God and these things called the Nephilim and wondered what it was about? That story is actually of great importance for the biblical narrative. Join in with us as we explore this story and the rebellion in Genesis 3.
Audio from March 13, 2022 message at New City Church in Nashville, TN.
For more info on who we are and what we do, check out newcitynash.com
Who am I?
Why am I here?
What does it mean to be human?
Genesis tells a beautiful story of who God is, who we are, what we are made for, and what went wrong in the world. This week, we're talking about the beginning - namely, what God did, who you are, and what you're made for.
SHOW LESSDo you ever feel like you're out of step? Like you can't seem to find a good rhythm for your life? Maybe you've struggled to feel in line with what God has for you. Join us for the last of our rule of life series as we talk about monthly rhythms for us as a community. In this message, we talk about fasting, serving, and other personal/familial rhythms. At the end, we point you to this helpful resource to craft your own rule of life. You can find that here: https://pract.typeform.com/ruleoflife
For more info on who we are and what we do, check out newcitynash.com.
This message is from our second week of our Rule of Life Series, talking about weekly rhythms for us as followers of Jesus. In this message, we'll look at two passages from Scripture and talk about practices we discussed this past fall.
Sabbath
Sunday Worship Gatherings
Confession
Community
Hospitality
Generosity
For more on who we are and what we do, check out newcitynash.com.