Epikos Church Sermons: Recent Episodes
Epikos Church
"What happens when we try to build our lives without God? Psalm 127 reminds us that our work, our homes, our families, and our plans are ultimately in His hands. We can build, work, strive, and stay busy—but unless the Lord is at the center, our efforts can leave us exhausted and empty. This Psalm invites us to slow down and recognize a simple but challenging truth: God is the One who builds the house.Psalm 127 also gives us a picture of what it looks like to trust God with the things that matter most. Our lives are not sustained by our striving, but by His provision and faithfulness. Whether we’re building a family, pursuing a career, serving others, or simply trying to make it through another day, God invites us to release our need for control and trust Him. What might change if we stopped trying to build everything on our own and let God be the One who builds?"
"Psalm 62 reminds us that true security isn't found in success, relationships, money, or our own strength—it is found in God alone. In a world filled with noise, uncertainty, and constant pressure, this psalm invites us to slow down, trust God's character, and rest in the One who is our rock, salvation, and refuge. This sermon explores what it means to wait quietly before God and how genuine faith produces steady confidence even when life feels unstable.Whether you're walking through hardship, wrestling with anxiety, or simply longing to deepen your trust in Christ, Psalm 62 offers timeless hope. Join us as we discover how God's unchanging faithfulness anchors our lives, why misplaced confidence always disappoints, and how resting in Him transforms the way we face every circumstance. If this message encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that God alone is enough."
"Psalm 13 captures a prayer that many people have quietly carried in their own hearts: ""How long, Lord?"" When God feels distant, suffering seems unending, and hope feels fragile, it can be difficult to know what faith is supposed to look like. In this message, we explore David's honest lament and discover that God welcomes our questions, our grief, and our cries for help. Rather than hiding our struggles, Psalm 13 shows us that bringing them before God is itself an act of trust.As the psalm unfolds, David moves from despair to confidence—not because his circumstances immediately change, but because he remembers God's steadfast love and faithfulness. Join us as we unpack what this ancient prayer teaches about waiting, trusting, and finding hope even in seasons of uncertainty. Whether you're walking through hardship or encouraging someone who is, this sermon offers a biblical reminder that God hears every honest prayer and remains faithful through every season."
"Psalm 20 reminds us that real confidence isn't built on our own strength, resources, or plans—it's found in God. In a world that constantly tells us to trust ourselves, this psalm points us toward a different way of living: bringing our fears, hopes, and battles before the Lord. Whether you're facing uncertainty, praying for someone you love, or searching for peace in the middle of life's challenges, this message explores what it looks like to depend on God's faithfulness instead of our own abilities.In this sermon, we'll unpack the timeless truths of Psalm 20, discovering how prayer prepares us for life's battles, why God's presence is our greatest source of confidence, and how faith reshapes the way we face both victory and hardship. Join us as we learn what it means to trust the One who saves, sustains, and remains faithful through every season. If this message encourages you, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing it with someone who could use the reminder that our hope is ultimately found in the Lord."
"Psalm 122 invites us to see worship as more than a weekly habit—it’s an opportunity to be reshaped by God’s presence alongside His people. In this sermon, we explore what it means to truly rejoice in gathering together, why God designed the church as a place of unity and encouragement, and how worship reorients our hearts toward His kingdom. Whether church has always felt like home or you're still searching for where you belong, this message offers a fresh perspective on the joy and purpose of coming into God's presence.As we walk through Psalm 122, we'll consider how God's people are called to pursue peace, pray for one another, and live as a community marked by hope. Join us as we discover that worship isn't just about what happens inside a building—it's about becoming people whose lives reflect the peace, faithfulness, and goodness of God throughout the week. If this message encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who could use this reminder today."
"Psalm 73 gives voice to one of the hardest questions people ask: Why do the wicked seem to prosper while those who seek God struggle? In this sermon, we explore the honest doubts of Asaph, who wrestled with envy, discouragement, and the apparent unfairness of life. Rather than ignoring these questions, Scripture invites us to bring them before God, where our perspective begins to change.As Asaph enters God's presence, he discovers that lasting hope isn't found in earthly success but in God's faithful presence. This message reminds us that faith doesn't require pretending everything makes sense—it calls us to trust the One who remains our strength and our portion forever. Whether you're wrestling with disappointment, comparing your life to others, or searching for deeper confidence in God, Psalm 73 points us toward the hope that endures beyond every circumstance."
"What if the biggest challenge in life isn’t how much time you have—but how wisely you use it? In Psalm 90, Moses invites us to see our lives through the lens of God’s eternity. Our days are brief, our plans are fragile, and our accomplishments are temporary. Yet instead of leading us to despair, this perspective calls us to a deeper trust in the God who has been our dwelling place through every generation. This message explores what it means to number our days, pursue true wisdom, and find lasting hope in the One who remains faithful when everything else fades.Whether you’re wrestling with the pace of life, facing uncertainty about the future, or simply longing for an eternal perspective, Psalm 90 offers both clarity and comfort. Discover how God’s unchanging character gives purpose to our fleeting lives, why humility is the beginning of wisdom, and how His grace transforms ordinary days into opportunities for eternal significance. If this message encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that life is short—but God’s faithfulness is forever."
"Psalm 30 reminds us that God meets us in both the valley and the victory. In this sermon, we explore David’s journey from despair to praise, discovering how God’s faithfulness sustains us through seasons of suffering, uncertainty, and restoration. While pain may feel overwhelming in the moment, Psalm 30 invites us to see our lives through the larger story of God’s redeeming work—a story where sorrow is never the final word.Through thoughtful biblical reflection and practical application, this message encourages us to trust God’s character when circumstances are difficult and to respond with gratitude when His grace becomes evident. Whether you are walking through hardship, waiting for healing, or celebrating a season of renewal, Psalm 30 points us toward a deeper confidence in the God who lifts us up, restores our hope, and turns mourning into joy."
"What do we do with grief that refuses to go away? In Psalm 137, we meet God’s people in exile—far from home, carrying deep wounds, and struggling to sing songs of worship in a foreign land. This honest and often unsettling psalm gives voice to the pain of loss, injustice, and longing for restoration. In this message, we explore how God welcomes our lament, meets us in our sorrow, and reminds us that faith is not the absence of struggle but the willingness to bring our whole hearts before Him.Psalm 137 points us beyond the brokenness of exile and toward the hope of redemption. As we wrestle with questions of suffering, anger, and justice, we discover that God’s story is bigger than our circumstances. Through Jesus, we find the promise that grief will not have the final word and that God is at work redeeming and renewing lives even in the hardest seasons. Whether you're walking through disappointment, waiting for healing, or searching for hope, this message invites you to trust in the God who hears, remembers, and restores."
"Psalm 88 is one of the most honest prayers in all of Scripture. There is no neat resolution, no quick victory, and no easy answer to the pain. In this message, we explore how God invites us to bring our darkest fears, deepest grief, and hardest questions directly to Him. When life feels overwhelming and God seems silent, Psalm 88 reminds us that faith is not the absence of struggle—it is the willingness to keep turning toward God in the middle of it.Whether you are walking through suffering, wrestling with doubt, or standing alongside someone in a season of darkness, this sermon points us to the God who hears every cry. Together, we’ll see that even when hope feels distant, God’s presence remains near. Join us as we discover how honest lament can deepen our trust in Jesus and shape us into people who hold fast to God’s promises, even in the longest night."
"Psalm 37 reminds us that when the world feels upside down, God is still on the throne. In this message, we explore David’s invitation to trust the Lord instead of being consumed by anxiety, comparison, or frustration. While evil may seem to prosper for a season, God calls His people to remain rooted in His promises, delight in His presence, and faithfully walk in His ways. His timing is perfect, His justice is certain, and His faithfulness never fails.Whether you're waiting on God, wrestling with uncertainty, or seeking peace in a restless world, Psalm 37 points us to a deeper confidence in Christ. The gospel reminds us that our hope is not found in temporary circumstances but in the redeeming and renewing work of Jesus. As we trust in Him, become more like Him, and follow where He leads, we discover the steady foundation that carries us through every season of life."
"What does it mean to be human in a universe so vast? In Psalm 8, David looks at the heavens—the moon, the stars, the work of God’s fingers—and responds with awe, humility, and worship. This sermon explores the breathtaking reality that the Creator of the cosmos not only knows us, but crowns humanity with dignity and purpose. In a culture that often swings between pride and hopelessness, Psalm 8 calls us back to a biblical vision of identity rooted in the glory of God.Join us as we examine how God’s majesty shapes our understanding of worship, humanity, and our place in creation. From the wonder of the night sky to the authority entrusted to mankind, this message points us to the greatness of God revealed through His care for people. Whether you are wrestling with purpose, searching for meaning, or simply longing to see God more clearly, Psalm 8 invites us to stand in awe of the Lord whose name is majestic in all the earth."
"Psalm 51 gives us one of the clearest pictures in Scripture of what real repentance looks like. After his sin is exposed, David does not defend himself, shift blame, or attempt to manage appearances. He comes before God broken, honest, and fully aware that his only hope is mercy. In this sermon, we explore how repentance is not about religious performance or self-improvement, but about turning to God with a humbled heart and trusting in His steadfast love. David’s prayer reminds us that God does not despise those who come to Him honestly, no matter how deep the failure or how heavy the guilt.This message walks through the beauty of God’s grace, the seriousness of sin, and the hope of restoration found in Him alone. Psalm 51 points us toward the God who cleanses, renews, and restores sinners through His mercy. If you’ve ever struggled with shame, regret, hidden sin, or spiritual exhaustion, this sermon is a reminder that forgiveness is real and renewal is possible."
"In Psalm 119:25–32, we see an honest prayer from someone who feels worn down, discouraged, and desperate for God’s help. Yet even in the middle of weakness, the psalmist turns toward the Lord with trust, asking God to renew his strength, teach him His ways, and enlarge his heart to run in obedience. This message reminds us that spiritual growth doesn’t begin with having it all together—it begins with bringing our need before God. When we feel stuck in the dust, God meets us with His truth, His grace, and His sustaining presence.As we walk through this passage together, we’ll discover how God’s Word revives weary souls, strengthens faith in difficult seasons, and leads us into a deeper life with Christ. The gospel does more than save us; it transforms the way we live, endure, and follow Jesus daily. Whether you’re wrestling with discouragement, longing for renewal, or learning to trust God again, this sermon invites you to draw near to the One who gives life, hope, and steadfast love."
"How deeply do you love wisdom—not just in theory, but in the quiet, daily choices that shape your life? In this reflection on Psalm 119:97–104, we explore what it means to delight in God’s instruction, to meditate on it beyond surface familiarity, and to let it form a kind of inner compass. The psalmist doesn’t treat wisdom as abstract philosophy but as something lived—something that sharpens discernment, challenges assumptions, and anchors the soul in truth even when life feels uncertain.Through this message, we invite you to reconsider where your understanding comes from and how it’s being shaped. What if wisdom isn’t about knowing more, but about being transformed by what you know? As we walk through this passage, we’ll uncover how a steady engagement with God’s word cultivates clarity, humility, and a deeper sense of purpose—offering insight that outlasts trends, opinions, and even our own instincts."
"In this message from Psalm 119, we explore what it truly means to delight in the way of the Lord. Rather than a checklist or obligation, God’s Word is revealed as a source of deep joy, life, and transformation. The psalmist doesn’t rush through Scripture—they return to it again and again, reflecting, meditating, and treasuring it. This kind of delight isn’t accidental; it’s intentional. It begins as desire, grows through dependence, and ultimately becomes evident in every season of life. When we store God’s Word in our hearts, we begin to see it not as a burden, but as something more valuable than riches—something we actually want and need.As life brings challenges, uncertainty, and unexpected turns, Psalm 119 reminds us where true stability is found. The same Word we delight in becomes the anchor we depend on. In moments of joy and in seasons of struggle, God’s truth gives comfort, direction, and life. This message invites us to slow down, engage deeply with Scripture, and allow God to shape our hearts through it. When we shift from simply reading the Word to truly delighting in it, we begin to experience the kind of flourishing that comes from walking in step with Him—on the mountaintops, in the valleys, and everywhere in between."
Today's message draws us into the powerful and hope-filled vision of Psalm 2—a world filled with noise, resistance, and unrest set against the unshakable calm of a sovereign God. This sermon explores the tension between human striving and divine authority, reminding us that no matter how unstable things may feel, God’s purposes remain steady and unshaken. With a tone that is both thoughtful and accessible, it invites us to reflect on where we place our trust and how we respond to a King who rules not with oppression, but with justice, mercy, and invitation.Whether you’re wrestling with doubt, feeling overwhelmed by the noise of the world, or simply looking for encouragement, this message offers a meaningful and grounded perspective rooted in timeless truth. Psalm 2 doesn’t just challenge us—it welcomes us into a deeper understanding of God’s authority and care, pointing us toward a peace that doesn’t ignore reality but rises above it. Come as you are, listen with an open heart, and discover the kind of peace that reshapes how we see everything.
Step into the opening of our new series, Psalms: The Language of Faith, as we explore Psalm 1 and discover what it means to truly live a rooted, God-centered life. This message invites us to move beyond seeing the Psalms as just songs or poetry and instead embrace them as a powerful, God-given language—words that help us respond to Him in every season. Through the contrast of the righteous and the wicked, we’re reminded that the “good life” isn’t about circumstances, but about what is shaping and feeding our soul.As we unpack the ideas of delight and meditation, we’re challenged to rethink our relationship with God’s Word—not as a task to complete, but as a source of life to continually return to. Like a tree planted by streams of water, a life rooted in God produces lasting strength, stability, and fruit. No matter where you are in your faith journey, this message offers a practical and hopeful invitation: to grow deeper roots, to discover a richer way to connect with God, and to develop a language of faith that carries you through every moment of life.
In Gospel of Mark chapter 16, we arrive at an ending that feels unexpected—but maybe that’s exactly the point. Instead of a polished resolution, we’re met with an empty tomb, an angelic announcement, and a group of women overwhelmed with fear and awe. It raises the question that sits at the center of Easter: what do we do with the resurrection of Jesus Christ? The angel declares the truth—“He is risen”—but also gives a directive: go and tell. Even in these first moments, we see that the resurrection isn’t just something to believe; it’s something that moves us. And in the mention of Peter, we’re reminded that the heart of the resurrection is restoration. The same disciple who failed, denied, and ran is the one Jesus is already moving toward in grace.But Mark doesn’t tie everything up neatly—he leaves us in the tension of decision. The women flee in fear, standing in the gap between doubt and belief, reason and faith. And maybe that’s where many of us find ourselves too. Easter reminds us that faith isn’t the absence of doubt—it’s courage in the middle of it. The resurrection proves that Jesus made His move: He is who He said He is, and He did what He came to do. Now the question turns to us—what’s our move? Whether it’s taking a first step of faith, returning after wandering, or asking the Holy Spirit to lead what’s next, this moment invites a response. Because the story doesn’t end at the empty tomb—it continues in us as we trust in Jesus, become like Him, and live out the good news together.Resources mentioned in the message: The Gospel of Mark is missing its ending? – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9RsHnb7hukTwo Ways to Live: https://twowaystolive.com/
We don’t naturally move toward discomfort—we avoid it, manage it, and keep it at a distance. But the story at the center of our faith invites us to do the opposite. As we walk through Gospel of Mark, the question rises again and again: who is Jesus Christ? The answer unfolds not in power as we expect it, but through suffering we’d rather ignore. The crown of thorns, the robe, the mocking cries of “hail, king”—what looks like humiliation is actually a kind of coronation. The King is lifted up, not onto a throne, but onto a cross. Join us for our Good Friday service as we slow down and sit in this reality together—honestly, reverently—allowing the weight of what Jesus endured to shape our understanding of who He is and what He has done.As darkness covers the land, we begin to see that this moment is more than physical suffering—it is something deeply spiritual and cosmic. When Jesus cries out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”—echoing Psalm 22—we witness the depth of what He takes on in our place. The One who is light steps into darkness so that we might be brought into life. And in a stunning turn, a Roman centurion declares what so many had missed: this truly is the Son of God. The veil is torn, the way is opened, and the price is paid. Before we rush to Sunday, we pause here—at the cross—where gratitude begins. Join us as we remember, reflect, and respond to the sacrifice that changed everything.
In this message from Mark 15, we step into the tension of a Savior who is both rejected and resolute. As Jesus stands before Pilate, falsely accused and publicly condemned, His silence speaks louder than any defense ever could. While the crowd demands Barabbas and cries out for crucifixion, Jesus chooses the will of the Father over convenience, comfort, and self-preservation. This sermon invites us to wrestle with the same question the crowd unknowingly faced: will we choose what satisfies us now, or will we trust the One who saves us eternally? In a world driven by immediacy and self-interest, the quiet strength of Jesus reveals a deeper truth—trusting God often means choosing Him when it’s hardest.Through powerful storytelling and honest reflection, this message challenges us to examine where we might be choosing “Barabbas” in our own lives—opting for what’s easy, popular, or immediately gratifying instead of what’s eternal and life-giving. Jesus didn’t come to win arguments or meet expectations; He came to fulfill a mission that would cost Him everything so that we could go free. And because He chose the cross, we can choose Him—even when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or costly. This is the invitation of the gospel: to trust deeply, surrender fully, and follow faithfully, knowing that true life is found not in having it our way, but in choosing His.
In this message from Mark 14, we step into the unfolding suffering of Jesus—where loyalty falters, strength fades, and the weight of the cross draws near. From the upper room to the garden of Gethsemane, we see a Savior who knows exactly what lies ahead: betrayal, denial, abandonment. And yet, He does not turn away. Instead, Jesus reveals a deeper truth about suffering—that it does not break the surrendered heart, only the self-reliant one. Even as His closest friends fail Him, Jesus remains anchored in His purpose, choosing obedience over escape, surrender over self-preservation.Through these three scenes, we are invited into a better way to endure suffering: with prayer, with surrender, and within community. Jesus models what it means to bring our anguish honestly before the Father while still trusting His will above our own. He shows us that suffering, when rooted in Him, does not define us—our identity in Him does. Whether we face deserved, innocent, or righteous suffering, the call remains the same: trust the One who endured it all without breaking. This is not just the story of His suffering—it is the path He lays before us, leading to redemption, resilience, and a faith that holds firm.
In Mark 14:1–25, we’re invited into a tension-filled moment where devotion and betrayal sit side by side. A woman breaks open an alabaster jar and pours out costly perfume—an act others call wasteful, but Jesus calls beautiful. At the same time, Judas quietly prepares to trade Jesus for silver. It’s a scene that confronts us with a question: what is Jesus worth to us? Is He someone we measure and manage, or someone we surrender to without reservation? In a world driven by efficiency and image, this passage reminds us that authentic worship is often misunderstood—and always costly.As the story moves to the Last Supper, Jesus reframes everything through bread and cup, pointing to a sacrifice that redefines love and loyalty. Even as betrayal looms, He offers Himself freely. This isn’t just a historical moment—it’s an invitation. To examine our own hearts. To recognize where we’ve held back. And to respond not with calculated gestures, but with wholehearted trust. Because in the kingdom Jesus ushers in, the greatest act isn’t taking—it’s giving everything.
When the future feels uncertain, how should followers of Jesus respond? In this message from Mark 13, Epikos Discipleship Pastor Jacob Machielski walks through one of the most challenging passages in the Gospel of Mark—a chapter filled with unsettling descriptions of wars, persecution, deception, and tribulation. While many focus on timelines, predictions, and end-times charts, Jesus points His followers to something far more important. Instead of fueling fear or speculation, this passage calls believers to remain steady in their faith, trusting the One who holds the future. Even when the world feels unstable and the details remain unclear, our hope in Christ is certain.Through Jesus’ teaching, we discover a powerful reminder: when the future feels uncertain, stay faithful to Christ. That faithfulness takes shape in two practical ways—looking for Jesus and staying on task. Rather than becoming consumed by anxiety about what might happen next, Jesus calls His followers to remain watchful, rooted in Scripture, and committed to the mission of sharing the gospel with the world. As we trust God’s control over history, we’re invited to live faithfully today—serving others, loving our neighbors, and bringing the hope of Jesus into every place we do life.
In this message from Gospel of Mark 12:35–44, we step into the temple during the final week of Jesus’ life and watch Him confront the religious leaders with a question they cannot answer. Quoting Psalms 110 and pointing back to the promise of 2 Samuel 7, Jesus asks how the Messiah can be both David’s Son and David’s Lord. The riddle exposes more than bad theology—it reveals hardened hearts. The scribes know the Scriptures inside and out, yet their love for recognition, status, and control proves they have missed the very One the Scriptures point to. This sermon unpacks that tension and reminds us: knowing who God is isn’t about winning debates or looking spiritual—it’s about lives transformed by the truth.The passage closes with a striking contrast at the temple treasury. As wealthy worshipers give from their abundance, a poor widow quietly offers two small copper coins—everything she had. Jesus declares her gift greater, not because of its size, but because of her surrender. Together, these scenes press one clear takeaway: knowing who God is shows up in how you live. From generosity to humility to daily obedience, our actions reveal what we truly believe. This message invites us to examine our own hearts—are we performing like the scribes, or trusting like the widow? And as we look to Jesus, the greater King who would soon give everything for us, we’re called to respond with wholehearted faith.
In Mark 11:27–12:34, Jesus enters Jerusalem and is immediately confronted by religious leaders demanding to know by what authority He acts. What follows is a series of searching questions and piercing parables that expose hardened hearts, misplaced allegiances, and shallow religion. Yet at the center of it all, Jesus reveals something deeper: true authority rests not in power plays or performance, but in the beloved Son who comes in humility and truth. In this sermon, we explore how Jesus dismantles counterfeit faith and invites us into wholehearted love for God — a love that engages our heart, soul, mind, and strength.As Jesus reframes the greatest commandment, we are reminded that Christianity is not about winning arguments or guarding appearances, but about responding to God’s initiating love with surrendered trust. Whether skeptical, curious, or long-time believer, this passage calls us to consider the authority of Christ and the kind of love that marks those who belong to His kingdom.
In Gospel of Mark chapter 11, we encounter a King who refuses to fit our expectations. As Jesus rides into Jerusalem to shouts of “Hosanna,” the crowd waves palms and projects their hopes of political victory onto Him. But this is no campaign rally—this is a confrontation. From the fig tree with leaves but no fruit, to the temple full of activity but empty of prayer, Jesus exposes a surface-level faith that looks alive from a distance yet withers up close. The message is clear: religion without repentance is nothing but leaves. Trusting Jesus isn’t meant to fit neatly into our routines, playlists, or Sunday schedules—it’s meant to overturn tables in our hearts and transform us from the inside out.In this powerful teaching, we’re reminded that what isn’t rooted in Christ will ultimately wither away. Jesus invites us beyond performative faith into a life marked by real fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Prayer isn’t about bending God to our will; it’s about aligning our hearts with His. Mountains move not because we name and claim, but because we trust and surrender. The question before us is simple but searching: are we asking Jesus to fit our lives, or are we surrendering to let Him change them? May our faith be more than leaves. May it bear fruit that lasts.
What does it mean to truly see Jesus? In Mark 10:32–52, as Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem, we encounter two very different responses to the same Messiah. James and John, confident and ambitious, ask for positions of glory. Bartimaeus, blind and desperate, asks simply to see. Through this contrast, Jesus exposes the danger of spiritual blindness—wanting a Savior without the suffering—and redefines greatness in His kingdom as humble service rather than power or position. At the center of this passage stands Mark 10:45, the heartbeat of the Gospel of Mark: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This message invites us to pray dangerous prayers—“Lord, help me see” and “Where do You want me to follow?”—and to consider whether we are willing to embrace the cross and follow Jesus on the way, even when that road leads through suffering, sacrifice, and surrender.
In this message, Pastor Mark explores what it means to truly follow Jesus through three teachings from the Gospel of Mark: Jesus's words on divorce, His encounter with the rich young ruler, and His blessing of the children. Using the tragic story of Sir John Franklin's lost Arctic expedition, he illustrates the danger of depending on our own expertise rather than the one who knows the way forward.
The central message is clear: following Jesus requires complete dependence on Him. Whether it's navigating the complexities of marriage, surrendering our wealth and control, or approaching God with childlike trust, Jesus calls us to depend on Him rather than ourselves. This dependent faith will cost us something—our pride, our control, our self-sufficiency—but the reward far exceeds anything we could achieve on our own.
To watch the sermon previously preached more in-depth on the topic of divorce, click here.
Jesus’ words in Mark 9:42–50 are intense, sobering, and deeply clarifying. In this teaching, we’re invited to rethink what it really means to follow Jesus and live as His disciples in the world. Using the imagery of salt, fire, and sacrifice, this message explores how discipleship isn’t about comfort, status, or appearances—but about wholehearted devotion to God. Drawing from the Old Testament sacrificial system, we see that to be “salty” is to live a life fully surrendered, one that’s willing to endure refining fire so it can faithfully reflect God’s covenant and character.This sermon presses into two core expressions of a salty life: humility and holiness. Jesus calls His followers to lay aside pride, welcome the “little ones,” and refuse to let unchecked sin dull their witness or harm others along the way. Though the language is strong, the invitation is gracious—an invitation to self-reflection, repentance, and community. When we choose self-sacrifice over self-preservation, and obedience over compromise, our lives become seasoned offerings that bring peace, healing, and the presence of Jesus into a fractured world.
In this message from Mark 9:14–29, we encounter a father caught between belief and doubt, desperation and hope. Coming down from the mountaintop of the Transfiguration, Jesus steps into the chaos of a broken world and meets a man who prays one of the most honest prayers in all of Scripture: “I believe; help my unbelief.” This passage reminds us that faith is not the absence of doubt, but the courageous decision to trust Jesus in the middle of it.As we reflect on what it means to follow Jesus off the mountain and into real life, we’re invited to rethink faith—not as something we muster up, but as dependence on the One who is always enough. When our faith feels fragile, Jesus remains faithful. When our strength runs out, His power remains. Wherever you find yourself today, this story calls us to bring our doubts, our hopes, and our need for help honestly before Christ, trusting that He is more than able.
On the mountain of transfiguration, Jesus is revealed not merely as another prophet, but as the beloved Son of God—radiant with glory and affirmed by the Father’s voice: “Listen to him.” In this message from Mark 9, we’re invited to slow down and truly hear what Jesus is saying about who He is and what it means to follow Him. Surrounded by Moses and Elijah, Jesus stands alone as greater than all who came before, calling His disciples—and us—to trust His words and His way.Listening to Jesus reshapes our expectations. He tells us plainly that suffering will come, not as a failure of faith, but as part of following Him in a broken world. Yet this suffering is not without hope. Jesus leads us through the cross into life, inviting us to surrender what the world promises for something far greater in Him. As we listen, stay near, and walk in obedience, we discover that following Jesus—though costly—is deeply worth it.
"Join us today as we explore the question that Jesus asks His disciples in Mark 8: “Who do you say I am?” What feels like faith quickly reveals our instinct to shape Jesus into something manageable, something aligned with our expectations rather than God’s redemptive plan. Today's scripture confronts us with a defining choice: will we cling to our own version of life, or entrust ourselves fully to the crucified and risen King? "
Whether you’re joining us from home after Christmas or stepping into the new year with us for the first time, we’re so glad you’re here. This special at-home gathering invites our Epikos family into a long-form conversation centered on Advent—not as a season that ends in December, but as a way of living all year long.Together, our leaders reflect on what it means to wait with hope, faith, joy, and peace as we anticipate the second coming of Jesus. From personal stories and church history to Scripture and everyday practices, this conversation reminds us that Christmas doesn’t end—it shapes how we live, trust, and love in the midst of a broken world.We’re also looking ahead: in-person services resume January 4 at all Epikos campuses, and we can’t wait to worship together as we begin the new year.Thank you to everyone who gave so generously this year, supporting people, places, and programs with gospel impact across our city. If you’d like to participate in what God is doing through Epikos, consider giving a year-end gift at epikos.org/give.Grace and peace as you wait, trust, rejoice, and walk forward with us.
"Celebrate Christmas through the lens of Matthew 1 as we step into Joseph’s story and see the quiet strength of faithful obedience in the middle of chaos. This message reminds us that the arrival of Jesus didn’t remove uncertainty—it revealed character, trust, and the steady presence of God at work behind the scenes.At Christmas, we don’t just remember a moment in history; we proclaim a living reality. Jesus is fully God and fully man, the God who saves and the God who is with us. Whatever season you’re walking through, this story invites you to trust that God is near, faithful, and at work—even when life feels like an uncontrollable ride."
Christmas is more than a season of traditions—it’s a holy disruption that reminds us who is in control. In this message, Pastor Mark invites us to name the chaos we live in, from personal anxiety to cultural disorder, and to see how the promise of Christmas meets us right there. Drawing from Isaiah 8–9, we’re reminded that the light of Christ doesn’t ignore the darkness; it enters it, bringing calm, hope, and meaning while we wait.As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we’re invited into a simple but powerful rhythm: acknowledge the chaos, remember God’s faithfulness, and move forward in trust. Jesus didn’t come to remove us from every hardship, but to be with us in it—and that presence changes everything. May this season anchor you in the calm that only Christ can bring.
In Mark 8, Jesus encounters two groups who both misunderstand Him—the Pharisees and the disciples. Though they respond differently, each brings preconceived ideas about who the Messiah should be. The Pharisees demand a sign but refuse to trust what’s already been revealed. The disciples, while confused and distracted, remain with Jesus and are willing to keep learning. At the heart of this passage is a simple but challenging truth: Jesus has already given us everything we need to understand who He is—the real question is whether we trust Him. This message invites us to examine our own heart posture. Are we trying to fit Jesus into a box shaped by our assumptions, or are we allowing Him to define Himself through His Word? As we stay rooted in Scripture and open to being changed, Jesus continues to reveal who He is—and in doing so, shapes who we are becoming.
Join Epikos as we our journey through the Gospel of Mark, exploring the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000. In this message, we learn how Jesus shows deep compassion—for the disciples, for the crowd, and for each of us today. Discover what true, active compassion looks like and how we are called to live it out in our daily lives. Be encouraged, challenged, and reminded of God’s abundant provision and love.
In Mark 6, we see both the beauty and the cost of following Jesus. As Jesus is rejected in His hometown and sends His disciples out with nothing but faith and purpose, we’re reminded that the gospel invites us into a life of trust, mission, and perseverance. Even in the face of rejection, God calls us to share the good news with compassion and clarity. Through the story of John the Baptist and the sending of the Twelve, we’re invited to examine where God has placed us and how we can live out our faith with courage, humility, and hope.
This message invites us into Mark 5, where we see Jesus step into desperate and impossible situations with authority, compassion, and life-giving power. Through the intertwined stories of a hurting father, a woman who has suffered for years, and a young girl restored, we’re reminded that even mustard-seed faith is enough when placed in the hands of a powerful Savior.No matter our background or burdens, Jesus meets us personally—He sees us, knows us, and brings restoration to places we assumed were beyond hope. As we reflect on this passage and celebrate moments of new life across our campuses, we’re reminded that Jesus continues to bring healing, identity, and transformation to His people today."
In this message, we look at Mark 5 and the powerful moment when Jesus meets a man bound by darkness. Through this encounter, we see that the spiritual realm is real—but so is Jesus’ authority and compassion. He brings freedom where there’s bondage, light where there’s despair, and purpose where there was once shame. This story reminds us that when Jesus transforms our lives, He also calls us to share that story so others can experience His mercy too.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores the story of Jesus calming the storm from Mark's Gospel, using it to address how believers can find peace amid life's turbulent circumstances. The message delves into the historical context of the Sea of Galilee and first-century fishing boats to help us understand the disciples' fear during the violent storm. Pastor Mark emphasizes that the disciples misunderstood both Jesus's intentions and authority—moving from fear of the storm to an even greater fear (awe) of Jesus when He calmed the waters with just His words. He defines this "fear of the Lord" as being filled with awe when God's holiness and kindness outweigh everything else in the room. Through vivid descriptions of modern storms—financial anxiety, marital distance, chronic illness, and spiritual weariness—Pastor Mark challenges listeners to recognize that Jesus has already conquered the greatest storm: eternal separation from God. He concludes with three key principles: faith isn't denying the storm but defying its verdict, safety is found in a person (Jesus) not a place, and peace comes from the presence of God's Word rather than the absence of waves.
This message unpacks Jesus's parable of the sower from Mark 4, exploring why some seeds take root while others don't. Pator Tommy explains how Jesus uses this story to show what responses we can expect when sharing the gospel: some have it snatched away, some walk away during hard times, some are seduced by worldly things, and some fall on good soil where faith takes deep root and multiplies. Three additional parables clarify our role: we're meant to be light (not hide under a basket), we can't force growth (only cultivate conditions for it), and small beginnings lead to kingdom-wide impact (the mustard seed).
This message tackles one of the most misunderstood passages in Mark 3—the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit—by using the literary structure of a "Markan sandwich" to reveal the text's true focus. While addressing concerns about the unforgivable sin (explaining it as either denying Christ until death or the scribes' specific accusation that Jesus worked by Satan's power), pastor Mark shows how these verses actually answer a bigger question: Who's in the family of God? Jesus's powerful response—that He has bound the strong man (Satan) and is plundering his house—demonstrates His authority to free people from spiritual oppression. The surprising inclusion of Jesus's own family thinking He was "out of His mind" reminds us that even those closest to Jesus experienced doubt. The central invitation is clear: stop being merely a fan of Jesus and become part of His family through saving faith and obedience.
This message examines Jesus's conflict with the Pharisees in Mark 2, exploring how Jesus confronted religious legalism by eating with tax collectors and redefining fasting practices. Pastor Mark Deering uses the analogy of a trellis to illustrate how spiritual rhythms (like Bible reading, prayer, and worship) should support our relationship with God rather than become rigid religious obligations. Three key principles emerge: we need healthy spiritual rhythms, those rhythms must be flexible for different life seasons, and we shouldn't use our rhythms to judge others. The central challenge is to let Jesus set the rhythm of our faith so we can live out of authentic relationship with Him rather than religious duty.
This message explores the healing of the paralytic in Mark 2:1–12, challenging viewers to consider which miracle truly matters in the story. While four friends dramatically lower their paralyzed companion through a roof to reach Jesus, the focus shifts from physical healing to spiritual forgiveness. Pastor Jacob Michalski explains that Jesus uses the physical healing to demonstrate his divine authority to forgive sins—the deeper healing we all desperately need. The key question posed is: Do we live like we've been forgiven? Even when physical healing doesn't come, we can experience the transformative miracle of forgiveness through faith in Christ.
This message launches a new series exploring who Jesus truly is through the Gospel of Mark. Pastor Mark Deering explains how the apostle Mark wrote with urgency for a persecuted church, wanting them to understand Jesus as the promised Messiah. Through Jesus's baptism, temptation, and calling of the disciples in Mark 1, he shows how Christ invites us to "drop our nets" and follow him completely. The key question posed is: what are you still holding onto that prevents you from fully following Jesus as your Messiah?
In the second week of the "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" series, Pastor Mark Deering shares a personal story about his family's relationship with their neighbor Ray—a struggling man his teenage self couldn't understand why his father would help. Through Ray's story and the parable of the Good Samaritan, this message explores how God places specific neighbors in our lives for us to reach, not as projects to fix, but as people to love regardless of whether they "add value" to our lives. The sermon addresses how recent events test whether our conversations truly model Christ's love for neighbors who disagree with us. Pastor Mark explains that we are equipped by God to move toward our neighbors through the Holy Spirit's gifts, and outlines a three-fold strategy of connect, grow, and serve. The message emphasizes that proximity changes perspectives—we must be willing to get close to people who think differently from us because behind every opposing viewpoint is a person who needs God's grace.
In this message from the "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" series, Pastor Mark explores what it truly means to love our neighbor in today's world. While we cerebrally know that our neighbor is everyone we encounter, do our lives actually reflect this truth? Drawing from Luke 10 and our church's mission to "reach every neighborhood," this sermon challenges common excuses (being too comfortable, busy, afraid, or proud) that prevent us from moving toward others. The message provides practical steps for identifying our neighborhoods (wherever God has placed us) and our neighbors (the people in those places), encouraging us to move beyond building walls around comfortable communities to actively inviting others in. This is a call to be known, present, involved, helpful, and open as we follow Christ's example of moving toward us first.
This sermon concludes the Revelation series by exploring the final vision of God's ultimate victory and eternal kingdom in chapters 21–22. Pastor Anthony Caples describes how the story ends with a "new heaven and new earth" where God dwells directly with His people, eliminating all chaos, fear, and suffering—moving into "the land of no more" where there will be no more death, pain, tears, or separation from God. Using the imagery of a wedding day, he explains how the church as Christ's bride will be united with Him face-to-face in the holy city, New Jerusalem, made of the most precious materials to reflect God's magnificence. The message emphasizes that this isn't just about a future hope but about Jesus repeatedly saying "I am coming soon"—inviting us to prepare our hearts and choose "Team Lamb" to be part of this greatest love story ever told, with the ultimate encouragement that believers' stories don't end but continue eternally in perfect relationship with God.
This sermon examines two faithful churches from Revelation 2–3 (Smyrna and Philadelphia) to show what it looks like to "follow the lamb" rather than compromise with spiritual opposition. Pastor Mark Deering draws three key lessons: first, we can follow Christ without fear because Jesus has conquered death and offers eternal life—He has the "collateral" to back up His promises since He died and rose again; second, we can live with confidence knowing that while we may face trials, we are spiritually secure for eternity; and third, we can live with anticipation rather than speculation about Christ's return, focusing on faithful witness and readiness rather than trying to decode timelines. The message emphasizes that Jesus uses ordinary believers as witnesses to hold open the door to His kingdom, encouraging listeners to live boldly for Christ knowing He's coming back—not in panic or fear, but with the excited anticipation of someone preparing their home for a loved one's return.
This sermon explores Jesus's messages to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, emphasizing that these were real churches on a known route in ancient Turkey who received prophetic warnings about compromise and complacency. Rather than getting lost in the specific details of each church's problems, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on the big picture: Jesus is warning all churches against spiritual compromise and lukewarmness while encouraging them to repent and remain faithful. The key insight is that the entire book of Revelation, including all its visions, was written for the benefit and encouragement of the church—not just to tell us how the story ends, but to equip us to live faithfully as "Team Lamb" while navigating the spiritual battles and temptations of "Team Dragon" until Christ's return, with the challenge to "stop flirting with team dragon and follow the lamb."
This sermon explores the climactic battle between "Team Lamb" (followers of Jesus) and "Team Dragon" (Satan's forces) from Revelation 19-20, focusing on the ultimate victory of Christ as the white rider who defeats evil once and for all. Rather than getting caught up in theological debates about the millennium, multiple battles, or the exact nature of hell, Pastor Tommy Hutchison emphasizes that John's main purpose was to pose one crucial question: which team are you on? The message contrasts two very different "feasts"—Team Lamb celebrating victory with God versus Team Dragon being defeated and judged—ultimately calling listeners to examine whether they're following Jesus or being seduced away by the world's false promises, with the assurance that following Christ through life's difficulties is worth it because of the eternal victory that awaits.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark Deering explains how Satan attempts to imitate God by creating false versions of divine authority, worship, and power, positioning himself as a deceptive alternative to Christ. The message warns against the subtle seduction of "Babylon" in modern life, particularly how Christians in religiously free societies may be lulled into complacency and drawn toward worldly values like power, celebrity, youth, beauty, wealth, success, and self-gratification. Rather than focusing on end-times speculation about the mark of the beast (666), the sermon emphasizes that Satan's deception is already present through any government, system, or structure that opposes Christ, and challenges believers to examine whether they are truly living as part of "Team Lamb" (following Jesus) or have been subtly seduced into living according to "Team Dragon's" values.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark Deering teaches on Revelation chapter 12, using a sports analogy to present it as a "scouting report" on Satan (identified as the dragon in the text). Pastor Mark analyzes the chapter through three sections that depict the woman representing God's people, the war in heaven resulting in Satan's expulsion to earth, and Satan's continued attacks on believers. He makes three key points: Satan is a master deceiver who misleads even faithful Christians through misconceptions about his power and nature, Satan has already decisively lost through Christ's cross victory and heavenly defeat, making believers victorious, and Satan actively targets Jesus' followers on earth. He concludes by urging us to recognize where we've been deceived, maintain a victorious rather than fearful posture, and remain aware of spiritual warfare while standing firm through prayer and community.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on understanding the judgment passages in the book of Revelation, specifically the seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls that represent God's confrontation with evil. Pastor Mark explains that these judgments shouldn't be viewed as chronological events but rather as different perspectives on the same period of time, like watching a football play from multiple camera angles. He emphasizes that God is not doing evil but confronting it, and that these symbolic visions would have been understood by first-century readers facing persecution under the Roman Empire. The sermon concludes with three encouraging truths: Jesus is in control (holding the scroll), Christians shouldn't be surprised when evil things happen since Jesus already warned about them, and Jesus has already won the war and written the end of the story
Pastor Jacob Michalski's sermon on chapters 4 and 5 of Revelation focuses on two main themes: "Behold the Almighty God" and "Behold the Victorious Lamb." John witnesses the throne room of heaven where God Almighty sits in majesty, surrounded by 24 elders and four living creatures who worship Him continuously, establishing that God is the center of all worship. When a sealed scroll appears that no one is worthy to open, causing John to weep in despair, Jesus appears as both the "Lion of Judah" and the "slain Lamb" who is worthy to take the scroll because of His sacrificial death and resurrection. The sermon concludes with the encouragement that Jesus, as the victorious lamb, holds the destiny of the world in His hands, offering hope to believers that He is in control regardless of life's struggles and persecution.
This week's sermon introduces a new series on the book of Revelation with Pastor Jacob Michalski addressing the congregation's mixed feelings about this challenging biblical book. Using the metaphor of hiking guideposts, he presents four principles for studying Revelation: interpretations must be understandable to first-century readers, the book has many valid interpretations requiring humility, it uses symbolic apocalyptic literature to reveal God's plan, and it should be studied as a complete narrative. Pastor Jacob explains that Revelation tells the story of God's ultimate victory over evil, from heavenly visions to earthly chaos to the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The sermon emphasizes that Revelation is meant to provide hope and encouragement to faithful followers of Jesus rather than instill fear.
This sermon concludes an 18-week series on Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, focusing on three illustrations from Matthew 7 that emphasize the importance of choice in following Christ. Pastor Anthony Caples explains that Jesus presents believers with clear choices: the narrow gate versus the wide gate (with Jesus being the narrow gate leading to life), discerning between good and bad spiritual fruit to identify false prophets, and building one's life foundation on the solid rock of Jesus rather than the shifting sand of self-reliance. Pastor Anthony emphasizes that there is no neutral path or third option - indecision itself is a choice that leads away from salvation. He concludes by urging listeners to trust in Jesus as their firm foundation, noting that worldly accomplishments and wealth cannot save us during life's inevitable storms, but a relationship with Christ provides eternal security.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark Deering summarizes Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, identifying its central message as "living the kingdom life now" rather than waiting for eternity. He outlines three key elements of kingdom living: better values (emphasizing humility and vulnerability over worldly power), better relationships (focusing on the heart behind God's commands rather than legalistic rule-following), and better faith (characterized by complete dependence on Jesus). Each element includes a warning: don't be useless, don't miss the heart behind the commands, and don't become a hypocrite by trying to act like Jesus without actually trusting in Him. Pastor Mark emphasizes that Jesus calls believers to live so dependently on God that they have no choice but to trust Him daily, warning that there is no middle ground between living the kingdom life through Christ's power or living by our own desires.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on Jesus's teaching about prayer in the "ask, seek, and knock" passage, emphasizing that God invites believers to come to Him continually with their requests without fear of being annoying. Pastor Mark explains that during difficult seasons when God seems unresponsive to our prayers, we must remember to rest in God's goodness rather than judging Him by our limited understanding of what constitutes good outcomes. He teaches that we are God's children and should approach Him with childlike trust, understanding that if we knew everything God knows, we would only ask for what He has already provided. The message concludes by connecting this prayer relationship with the Golden Rule, showing that right relationship with God naturally leads to right relationships with others.
In this week’s message, Pastor Mark Deering focuses on Jesus's teaching "Judge not, that you be not judged" explaining that while we shouldn't judge others, we should maintain a discerning spirit. Pastor Mark defines judgment as forming fixed opinions about others, assuming their motives, and viewing them through a lens of self-righteousness. Jesus calls believers to help one another grow spiritually by addressing faults with humility and relationship rather than harsh judgment, recognizing that we all have "logs in our own eyes" while trying to remove "specks" from others'. Pastor Mark emphasizes five principles for discerning wisely: being slow to speak without experience, learning others' stories before sharing your own, recognizing that what bothers you about others might reveal your own issues, not giving wisdom to closed ears, and generously offering wisdom to those who are open to receive it.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Tommy Hutchison preaches on Jesus's command, "Do not be anxious about your life" clarifying that Jesus is specifically addressing anxiety that stems from chasing after material possessions rather than all forms of anxiety. He explained that when we serve "mammon" (money and possessions) instead of God, we inevitably experience more worry and anxiety because accumulating stuff brings added responsibilities and concerns. Jesus calls believers to "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness," trusting that God will provide for daily needs through miracles, honest work, and the generosity of fellow believers within the church community.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark Deering explores Jesus's teaching about treasures in heaven versus treasures on earth, explaining that where we place our treasures reveals where our hearts truly are. He unpacks Jesus's metaphor about the "bad eye" as referring to stinginess and lack of generosity, contrasting it with having a "good eye" that generously shares what God has provided. Pastor Mark emphasizes that Christians cannot serve both God and money simultaneously, and must choose which master they will prioritize in their lives. The sermon concludes with practical financial wisdom about prioritizing generosity to God first, then saving, and living off the remainder, rather than prioritizing personal desires and giving God only what's left over.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski explores the spiritual practice of voluntarily abstaining from food as a means of deepening one's relationship with God. Drawing from biblical context, he explains that fasting is not about performance or manipulating God, but rather about creating intentional moments of presence and communion with the divine. He highlights three key reasons for fasting: cultivating God's presence, remembrance of spiritual truths, and personal spiritual formation. Pastor Jacob encourages us to approach fasting as an invitation to a deeper spiritual life, while emphasizing the importance of individual health considerations and practicing fasting humbly and privately. He suggests starting small, such as skipping a single meal, and viewing fasting as a way to intensify spiritual dependence, enhance prayer, and recognize that spiritual needs are more fundamental than physical desires.
This week's message by Pastor Jacob Michalski focuses on prayer through three key questions: should I pray, why am I praying, and how should I pray. Pastor Jacob emphasizes that Jesus expects followers to pray genuinely seeking God's presence rather than human approval, breaking down the Lord's Prayer line by line to show how it connects to other teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. From personal experience, he shares how implementing "fixed hour prayer" three times daily transformed his prayer life by interrupting his day, addressing different needs, and establishing consistency. He closes by inviting the congregation to make the Lord's Prayer a foundational part of their daily lives, suggesting noon as a unified time for the entire church to pray together.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark explains Jesus's teachings about generosity and reward, particularly how Christians should practice righteousness not for public recognition but for God's approval. The message traces generosity throughout scripture, from God's creation to Old Testament tithing practices to Jesus's teachings, emphasizing that generosity should flow from the heart in all areas of life. Using personal stories about extraordinary acts of giving, Pastor Mark challenges the congregation to reframe their understanding of reward beyond financial security and to honestly evaluate whether they're giving according to their true ability, inviting them to upcoming financial stewardship sessions to explore these concepts further.
This Easter Sunday message focuses on the concept of being "born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." Pastor Mark explains that this resurrection power gives believers three key benefits: a radical new identity as children of God that transcends worldly identities; a restored purpose to share Jesus; and a resilient transformation that allows Christians to move forward despite failures and trials. Mark contrasts this with the human desire for a "reset button" in life, emphasizing that resurrection power is superior because it enables forward progress rather than just starting over. The message concludes with an invitation for non-believers to accept Jesus and celebrates those choosing to be baptized as a public declaration of their faith.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark encourages us to explore who our enemies might be—spiritual, relational/social, or political—and challenges listeners to identify those they might consider enemies in their lives. A story shared by a member of Epikos demonstrates the transformative power of following Jesus's command to love enemies. Pastor Mark provides practical guidance on loving enemies: first, write down their names and pray for their blessing (not just their repentance); second, avoid gossip and slander about them; and third, remember that God may be working in their lives in ways we don't understand. He connects this challenging command to Jesus's perfect example of love on the cross, where Christ loved and died for us while we were still his enemies, showing that the gospel is never too small to enable forgiveness and reconciliation.
In this week's message, Pastor Tommy addresses how Christians should respond when wronged by others. He explains that while Old Testament "eye for an eye" laws were meant to limit retaliation, Jesus takes this further by redefining retaliation completely. Instead of responding to wrongs with equal harm, Jesus calls his followers to practice "upside down retaliation" - responding to wrongs by giving what others don't deserve: respect, generosity, and humanity. Through four examples (turning the other cheek, giving your cloak, going the extra mile, and giving to those who ask), Pastor Tommy illustrates how Christians should prioritize peace and reconciliation over vengeance. He concludes by connecting this teaching to Jesus's own example, who didn't retaliate against humanity's sin but instead sacrificed himself to restore our relationship with God, demonstrating the ultimate form of upside-down retaliation.
In this week's message, Pastor Tommy speaks on Jesus's teachings about oaths. He explains that in Jesus's time, people were exploiting loopholes by swearing oaths on things "God-adjacent" rather than directly on God's name to avoid keeping their promises. Jesus responds by instructing his followers to "let your yes be yes and your no be no," advocating for radical trustworthiness instead of oath-taking. Pastor Tommy emphasizes that being trustworthy isn't just about personal reputation but also represents God to others, as believers are meant to reflect God's faithful character. He concludes by noting that when we break trust, we should admit our wrongs, and that Jesus will address how to respond when others wrong us in the following sermon.
In this week’s message, Pastor Mark explores the biblical perspective on marriage and divorce, emphasizing that while God's design for marriage was originally perfect, human brokenness has distorted it. It traces how divorce was addressed in the Old Testament and how interpretations of these laws evolved, sometimes to justify unjust divorces. Jesus confronted this distortion in his teachings, calling out those who manipulated scripture for personal gain. The message highlights that while divorce is not God’s desire, it is a provision due to human brokenness and should not be seen as an unforgivable sin. It also emphasizes Jesus’ unwavering commitment to His people, using marriage as a reflection of His relationship with the church, and encourages believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage while extending grace and support to those who have experienced divorce.
In this week's message, Pastor Mark focuses on Jesus's teachings about adultery, lust, and sexuality in Matthew 5. Pastor Mark uses the metaphor of a basket filled with items we need to keep, throw away, or add to represent our understanding of these topics. He establishes that God created a "kingdom sexual ethic" where sex is designed for marriage as a reflection of our relationship with God, emphasizing dignity, respect, and seeing others as image-bearers rather than objects of gratification. Jesus expands on "do not commit adultery" by addressing the heart, teaching that lustful intent is equivalent to adultery. Pastor Mark critiques the harmful aspects of purity culture while emphasizing two key responses to Jesus's teaching: surrendering our desires to God and being willing to sacrifice anything (metaphorically "cutting off a hand") that leads to sin. He concludes by connecting this to the church's mission of trusting Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing as Jesus did, encouraging listeners to seek support if needed.
In this week's message, Pastor Jacob continues the "Upside Down Kingdom" series, focusing on Jesus's teaching in Matthew 5 about anger. He explains that Jesus expands the commandment "do not murder" beyond physical violence to include anger, insults, and name-calling, treating these as seriously as murder itself. Jesus teaches that the commandment is more than a rule to follow; it's a guiding principle for loving others. While anger itself isn't inherently wrong (Jesus himself expressed anger at injustice), how we express and direct our anger matters greatly. Jesus calls his followers to pursue reconciliation when relationships are damaged, which involves reopening communication, engaging in forgiveness, and rebuilding trust. By managing our anger properly and valuing relationships enough to work toward reconciliation, Christians can be "salt and light" in the world.
Pastor Tommy explores Matthew 5:17-20 in this week's message, explaining Jesus's statement that he came to fulfill, not abolish, the law and prophets. He emphasizes that "the law and prophets" refers to God's rescue plan for humanity through Israel, which Jesus claims to be fulfilling. Pastor Tommy explains that when Jesus says our "righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees," he's not promoting works-based salvation but highlighting that true righteousness comes through relationship with him, not merely following rules. The Pharisees mistakenly prioritized rule-following over participating in God's mission.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark Deering continues the "Upside Down Kingdom" series, exploring Jesus's Sermon on the Mount. He examines Matthew 5:13–16, where Jesus tells his followers they are "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world." Pastor Mark explains three key insights: to be effective salt, believers must be authentic and avoid hypocrisy; to be light in the world, we must work together in community rather than attempting to go it alone; and finally, we must stop hiding our light under a basket, embracing vulnerability in all areas of life. Throughout the message, Pastor Mark emphasizes that the Sermon on the Mount is fundamentally about relationships—with God and with others—and he challenges us to examine where we might be failing to fully embrace our role as salt and light.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski focuses on The Beatitudes and what it means to "live the good life." He explains that the word "blessed" in the Beatitudes equates to "happy" or having "the good life," and then contrasts Jesus's unexpected view of who has the good life with common perspectives. While people typically think of the good life in terms of comfort, security, and material success, Jesus declares that the good life belongs to those who are poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungering for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, peacemaking, and even persecuted. Pastor Jacob emphasizes that this seemingly paradoxical teaching reflects Jesus's eternal perspective rather than a temporal one, and points out that the Beatitudes aren't a checklist but rather an assessment tool to see if one's heart aligns with God's perspective on the world. He concludes by encouraging his congregation to reflect on these teachings and compare their own definition of the good life with Jesus's vision.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark discusses Epikos Church's new mission and vision through the lens of the Great Commission from Matthew 28. He defines discipleship as a process of trusting in Jesus, becoming like Jesus, and doing what Jesus did, emphasizing that the church's role is to equip and encourage people in this journey. Our new mission statement reflects these values, and our vision is to "reach every neighborhood to see the gospel redeem and renew lives," highlighting our commitment to community, diversity, and spiritual growth. Pastor Mark uses our demographic map as evidence of their ability to unite people across different backgrounds, underlining the transformative power of the gospel in bringing people together under Jesus.
This week at Epikos Church, we celebrate 20 years of being a church! During this week’s message, Pastor Mark Deering walks through the past 20 years of the church, sharing stories of connection, growth, and life change from various people who call Epikos home.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Tommy Hutchison discusses a story from Luke 2 about 12-year-old Jesus being accidentally left behind in Jerusalem by Mary and Joseph after Passover. After searching for three days, they find Jesus in the temple discussing scripture with religious teachers who were amazed by His understanding. When questioned by His worried parents, Jesus responded that "I must be in my father's house," demonstrating that even as a pre-teen, He knew His true identity was rooted in God the Father. Pastor Tommy uses this story to explore how Christians should similarly find their identity in God rather than in worldly things, explaining that humans were originally created to be "God's skyscrapers"—designed to display His glory to the world. The sermon concludes with three practical ways to develop this identity: spending time with God in prayer, being obedient to God's commands, and studying scripture.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering examines the story of Jesus's family fleeing to Egypt, contrasting King Herod's notorious pursuit of power and subsequent atrocities with Joseph's humble obedience to God's guidance. Pastor Mark weaves together historical context about Herod's rule, the significance of Nazareth as an obscure town, and the biblical prophecies fulfilled through these events. Throughout the message, he draws parallels between the ancient narrative and modern life, emphasizing how God often works through moments of obscurity and challenging circumstances, which he terms "Nazareth moments." The sermon concludes with a call for listeners to embrace these difficult periods in their lives with faith, understanding that salvation comes through Jesus regardless of their circumstances.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski focuses on the story of the Magi from Matthew Chapter 2, following the events of Jesus's birth. Pastor Jacob explores who the Magi were (explaining they were likely astronomers or advisers rather than kings), their encounter with King Herod, and the significance of their gifts to Jesus (gold, frankincense, and myrrh). He emphasizes two main points: that Jesus's birth fulfills God's promise through prophecy, and that Jesus's birth calls people to make a choice about whether to follow him.
In this special Christmas Eve service, Pastor Mark Deering challenges common misconceptions about Jesus's birth, explaining that rather than being turned away from an inn, Jesus was likely born in a family home in Bethlehem that was overcrowded due to Caesar's census. Pastor Mark emphasizes how Mary and Joseph were surrounded by family, with Jesus being placed in a manger in the home's animal area due to a lack of space in the guest room. He concludes by connecting the humble circumstances of Christ's birth to God's tendency to work in unexpected ways.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering recaps the three main parts of Luke 1: Zechariah's initial disbelief when told by an angel that his elderly wife Elizabeth would bear a son, Mary's faithful response to her own angelic visitation, and finally the birth of John the Baptist where Zechariah regains his speech and offers a prophecy of praise. Pastor Mark emphasizes how Zechariah's story shows a progression from doubt to complete surrender and praise, highlighting how he accepted that his son John would prepare the way for Jesus rather than follow in his priestly legacy.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Tommy Hutchison discusses the biblical story of Zechariah and Elizabeth, an elderly, childless priest and his wife who are promised a son by the angel Gabriel. The narrative highlights themes of faith, divine promise, and joy during the Advent season. Initially, Zechariah doubts the angel's proclamation and is struck mute, but when his son John is born, he demonstrates trust in God by naming the child as instructed rather than following traditional naming customs. The sermon emphasizes that joy is found in trusting God's promises and encourages listeners to rediscover the wonder of the Christmas story, whether experiencing it for the first time or as a long-time believer.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering explores the biblical narrative of Mary's song from Luke Chapter 1, focusing on the themes of God's faithfulness and humility. Using Mary's response to the angel Gabriel and her subsequent visit to Elizabeth, Pastor Mark highlights how a young teenage girl demonstrated profound spiritual insight by magnifying God despite her extraordinary circumstances. Pastor Mark emphasizes that God's faithfulness is not a chapter in our personal stories, but rather the foundational narrative to which our lives contribute. He encourages listeners to saturate themselves in biblical stories, recognize God's faithfulness in both prosperous and challenging times, and approach life with humility and a deep understanding of God's ongoing work.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Anthony Caples discusses the importance of prayer as a fundamental aspect of Christian life, focusing on Paul's teachings in 1 Timothy. He encourages us to view prayer as communication with God, emphasizing that it should be our first option, not a last resort. Pastor Anthony explores different types of prayer, including supplication, intercession, and thanksgiving, highlighting that prayer is about building a relationship with God through honest, detailed conversations and praying for others, including political leaders, with the ultimate goal of living peacefully and demonstrating God's love.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering explores the concept of being a "citizen of the kingdom of God". Drawing from scripture, he emphasizes that Christians should live differently by submitting to human institutions, honoring everyone, loving fellow believers, and fearing God. The key message is about living in the present world while keeping one's heart anchored to a greater, future hope. By imitating Jesus and responding to challenges with grace, respect, and love, we can demonstrate our faith authentically and silently prove critics wrong through our distinctive way of living.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering discusses how Jesus' interactions with Pontius Pilate in the Gospels reveal important truths about the nature of Jesus' kingdom. While Pilate saw Jesus' kingship as a political threat, Jesus made it clear that his kingdom was not of this world, but rather was based on people knowing and following the truth that He embodied. Pastor Mark emphasizes that the cross is central to understanding Jesus' kingdom, as it shows both how we become citizens (through Jesus' atoning sacrifice) and the way we are called to live as citizens (by imitating Jesus' self-sacrificial example).
This week's sermon by Pastor Mark Deering discusses a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus when he is confronted by the Pharisees and Herodians who try to trap him with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus masterfully navigates the political tension, telling them to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Pastor Mark explains that this reveals an important principle about the cost of citizenship—whether in an earthly kingdom or the Kingdom of God. Just as the Israelites had to pay taxes to an oppressive Roman government, those who would be citizens of God's Kingdom must be willing to sacrifice and give everything to Him. The sermon challenges us as listeners to examine where we struggle to fully trust and obey God, just as the Israelites did when paying taxes.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Frank Gil discusses how the books of Ezra and Nehemiah depict the rebuilding of the temple, the people, and the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. However, Pastor Frank notes that despite these physical restorations, something is still missing—true repentance and a relationship with God. He explains that the key ingredient is Jesus, who can transform people's hearts and restore them in a way that the law and religious rituals cannot.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering's message centers around the biblical story of Esther and the theme of faithful action in the face of fear. Using a social psychology experiment about smoke-filled rooms, he explores how people often remain inactive due to social pressure and fear. Pastor Mark then analyzes Esther chapter 4, focusing on the interaction between Mordecai and Esther, highlighting how Mordecai's famous "for such a time as this" statement was about personal sacrifice rather than personal gain.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering introduces the concept of having a "faithful presence" in whatever situation God has placed us, even if it's not where we want to be. He encourages us to be fully engaged with our current circumstances and the people around us—to be accessible, available, and vulnerable. He relates this to Jesus's incarnation and God's faithful presence in believers' lives. The sermon concludes with the importance of being present and seeking the welfare ("shalom") of one's community.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering emphasizes two key aspects of Daniel's character: his resolution to remain faithful to his beliefs and his ability to remain relevant in Babylonian society. Mark encourages us to pursue a "relevant faith" that engages with the changing world while maintaining an unchanging faith, always striving to give glory to God rather than ourselves. We as believers are called to excel in our spheres of influence while remaining resolute in our faith, ultimately pointing others to Jesus.
In this sermon, Pastor Mark Deering discusses the story of the Tower of Babel from Genesis 11. He uses the narrative to illustrate the contrast between building one's own kingdom and participating in God's kingdom. Pastor Mark explains that the Tower of Babel serves as a blueprint for human pride and self-glorification, which ultimately leads to confusion and division. He contrasts this with the events of Pentecost in Acts 2, where God unifies people through the Holy Spirit. He then emphasizes the importance of community, humility, and imitating Jesus rather than seeking personal glory. He encourages us to examine their motivations and to build our lives in a way that points others to God, rather than to ourselves.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski uses the biblical narrative in Genesis 4 to illustrate the human tendency towards anger, revenge, and sin, contrasting it with God's call for forgiveness and mercy. He relates the story of Cain's murder of Abel and the subsequent legacy of violence through Cain's descendant Lamech to modern-day struggles with anger and retaliation. Pastor Jacob then shifts to Jesus' teachings on forgiveness, emphasizing the need to forgive "77 times" as a reversal of Lamech's vow of vengeance.
This sermon introduces a new series called "Citizens" which explores the concept of the Kingdom of God and what it means to be a citizen of that kingdom. Pastor Mark Deering explains that the Kingdom of God is not a physical place, but rather God's rule and reign through His people. He traces this theme from Genesis through to Revelation, emphasizing Jesus' role in establishing the kingdom. Pastor Mark encourages us to understand our identity as citizens of God's Kingdom, imitating Christ in all areas of life. He cautions against isolating from the world or conflating earthly politics with God's Kingdom, instead urging believers to live faithfully as representatives of God's Kingdom here on earth.
This week's sermon by Pastor Mark Deering focuses on the concept of lament in the Bible, particularly examining Lamentations 3:22–24. Pastor Mark explains that lament is a way to express grief, confusion, and protest to God, and is an important part of spiritual formation. He emphasizes that true lament always ends with hope, distinguishing it from mere complaining. He uses the example of Jeremiah lamenting over Jerusalem's destruction to illustrate how one can declare God's faithfulness even in dire circumstances. Pastor Mark encourages us to practice lament as a spiritual discipline, especially in preparation for the upcoming political season, and suggests ways to incorporate lament into personal spiritual practices.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Jacob Machelski explores Psalm 46, focusing on the verse "Be still and know that I am God." He emphasizes understanding this verse within the context of the entire psalm, which portrays God as a refuge amidst worldly chaos. Pastor Jacob argues that truly knowing God involves developing a deep trust in Him, not just intellectual acknowledgment. He addresses the challenge of being "still" in today's hectic world, suggesting that it requires letting go of control and trusting in God's protection. The sermon concludes with practical spiritual practices to cultivate stillness and combat anxiety, including fixed-hour prayer, Sabbath observance, and breath prayers.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering discusses the importance of Psalm 131, one of the "Psalms of Ascent" that the Israelites would sing as they traveled to Jerusalem. He explains that the psalm is about humility, resting in God, and finding hope in the Lord, despite the noise and chaos of life. Pastor Mark encourages us to follow the example of King David and Jesus by laying down our pride, calming our souls, and trusting fully in God. He suggests practical steps to reduce the "noise" in our lives and cultivate a disciplined state of rest with the Heavenly Father.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Tommy Hutchison explains how 3 John connects to John's other writings and emphasizes its key messages. He highlighted the importance of hospitality, generosity, and supporting those who spread the gospel. The sermon stresses the need to imitate good, even when facing opposition, and to remember we're not alone in our faith journey.
In this week's sermon, Pastor Mark Deering discusses the testimony of the "three witnesses" mentioned in 1 John 5:6–12—the water (Jesus' baptism), the blood (Jesus' atoning sacrifice), and the Spirit (the Holy Spirit dwelling in believers)—as proof that Jesus is who He claimed to be. He encourages us to stand firm in our faith, live a life that defends our faith, and humbly learn how to better articulate and defend our beliefs when facing opposition or skepticism, as God has given us all we need to maintain our confidence in Christ.