Central Sermon Podcast: Recent Episodes
Central Baptist Round Rock
Tell the Father about your valley. Tell him why you're afraid. And let his peace that surpasses all understanding wash over you as he walks with you wherever you go. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor Psalm 23:4
If the Lord is your shepherd, trust him. Rest in his care. Run to his Word. He will meet every need. He will restore your soul. He will lead you along the right paths. There is nothing you lack. Psalm 23:1-3 Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Jesus said you would be salt of the earth, light of the world, and through your life, the world sees your good works and will glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:13-16Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. John 15:19Ken Jerome
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Jared Mitzelfelt | Young Adults PastorMatthew 5:10
So what does it mean to be a son of God? It means everything. It's our identity, our purpose, and our hope. That is the promise for the peacemaker.Matthew 5:9Chris Chalman | Executive Pastor
Jesus is the one with clean hands and a pure heart. Jesus is the one who entered into the Holy Place and turned around and opened the door for sinners like you and me. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Those who have received mercy are in a place where they can remember what it was like when they were desperate and lost and in need. They remember mercy. And that mercy changes the way they treat everyone around them. Brett McDonald | Senior PastorMatthew 5:7
True happiness comes through the pursuit of God's righteousness.Brett McDonald | Senior PastorMatthew 5:6
Jesus is not calling us to something he avoided. He suffered unjustly, but he just kept on trusting his Father. How do you become meek? Look to Jesus. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor Matthew 5:5
Grief is temporary for God's people because one day we will finally arrive at our destination. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
God's very best blessings belong to the ones who know they're the least deserving of them.Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Are you a disciple or are you part of the crowd? The crowd stays on the fringes and wonders, "What's in it for me?" The crowd leaves when Jesus says something they don't like. The crowd is there for the spectacle or to be seen by others.But disciples draw near. They listen. They learn. They surrender. Because they know who Jesus is and what he is worth. And they know he deserves all of our allegiance. Brett McDonald | Senior PastorMatthew 4:18-5:2
Let Heaven rule your whole life. Heaven's peace in your heart. Heaven's gratitude in your mouth. God's word dwelling in you. Let all of your life be directed by heavenly priorities. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
The earth is restored. No more disaster. No more injustice. No more sickness. No more death. Relationships perfected. No more misunderstanding. No more jealousy. No more hatred. No more unforgiveness. Face to face with God. In his city. With his people. Perfectly enjoying his presence in our new home forever.Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Heaven is a real place. There's a place for you there. You are wanted there. And Jesus is the way. So don't let your heart be troubled today. Trust Jesus when he says he's gone to prepare a place for you. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
What comes next? Are you ready? Whether you have faced the reality of death or whether your life feels invincible, the same truth remains. Jesus died. Jesus rose. And one day, those who belong to Jesus will too.Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, why? Because he created all things and by his will they exist and were created. He is the source of everything. He stands above it all. He is holy.Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
If the church isn't different than the city, we are doing something wrong. Allen Frans | Youth and Family Pastor
The only way to be sure that he confesses your name on that day is to keep believing and keeping the gospel. Don't give up. Stay vigilant.Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Today can be a day of repentance. Today can be the day that you lay it all down. The day you quit hiding and holding on to sin in your life. Today can be the day you're finally free. Brett McDonald | Senior Pastor
Brett McDonald | Senior PastorWho are you listening to? Who is in your ear? If they're dismantling God's Word and reshaping it to fit the spirit of the age, cut them off.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Mark Westerfield | Senior PastorBrett McDonald | Associate senior PastorCentral's Board Of Elders
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Distractions come to deter our focus; however, God is at work even in the trials of life.
Distractions come to deter our focus; however, God is at work even in the trials of life.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
The Apostle Paul found his strength and courage to against the flow of the culture in his day. This message encourages Believers to find the same motivation Paul had.
When Jesus established His church, He sent these first Century Believers against the current of the culture and He sends us against the current of our day.
When Jesus established His church, He sent these first Century Believers against the current of the culture and He sends us against the current of our day.
We need to look backward and forward when we approach the Lord’s Supper. We need to look backward toward the shadow of the exodus that anticipates the glory of the cross. We also need to look forward to the coming of God’s Kingdom where he will make all things new.
We need to look backward and forward when we approach the Lord’s Supper. We need to look backward toward the shadow of the exodus that anticipates the glory of the cross. We also need to look forward to the coming of God’s Kingdom where he will make all things new.
Whether we are self-righteous Pharisees or stuck in a pattern of sin, Jesus truly knows us and offers us a new identity.
Big, Important things happen at the table. Togetherness, food, conversations and memories happen at the table. Join us as we look at table moments from Luke. Episode 1 is the the end of the road to Emmaus.
A State of our Missions Update, You in the Bible and wrestling with God, Missions Pastor Jim Rowan speaks on three points.
Every individual will have a limited life span. God has purpose for us as long as we have breath, so we should seek to finish the course well.
Moses experienced different seasons of life while God prepared him to deliver His people. God has a way of taking us through seasons to prepare us to be used.
God promises that He will finish what He starts, but we have jobs to do in the process.
Central Round Rock is a family of Christ-followers empowered by God and compelled by His love to 'do life' in a passionate pursuit of becoming like Jesus. This podcast is an audio archive of our Sunday Morning sermons.
In a day of darkness and questions, Isaiah saw the Lord on His throne, and in seeing the Lord he got a proper view of himself and a fresh vision of the needs around him.
Solomon was considered one of the wealthiest and wisest kings of all time; yet he made certain choices that kept him from finishing strong. What can we learn in how to finish strong?
Many folks find themselves paralyzed because of unforgiveness. Jesus has authority to not only forgive but to restore.
Jesus had to leave so He could send the Comforter to be with us always. So what is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
When Jesus ascended to the Father, it signified that His work on earth was done. He had completed the task He was sent for which was to give His lie for mankind.
The resurrection of Jesus on the third day emerges from a pattern of resurrection hope in the Old Testament.
Many Christians today are lacking knowledge of what they truly believe. It is imperative that we be grounded in our faith.
Disciple Now is a special weekend each year. This year Josh Campbell reminds us that we BELONG to Jesus, to the church and in heaven.
For too long people thought their salvation was dependent upon themselves; however, Jesus makes it clear that eternal life is in Him alone.
Often we aim directionless in this world; however, God is at work in our lives personally and corporately.
As we start 2022, it is vital that we are a church committed to praying. Paul's heart was moved for the local church, both in Ephesus then and in Round Rock and the world today. He shares his 4 requests in Ephesians. It would be wise for us to pray the same thing.
God had a plan to save the world; but before the plan, He sent His Presence. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Seek His presence this season.
We will walk through dark valley’s in life, but God is with us and He will shepherd us through it.
Have we become ungrateful to the daily miracles of life that we experience? Let’s open our eyes and return to Christ with a grateful heart.
If the message is good, why doesn’t everyone respond to it? The problem isn’t in the message but in the heart. What kind of soil is your heart? How do you know?
We are commanded to love our neighbors. The message gives some practical tips in how to live it out.
We are called to love our neighbors, yet we often allow barriers to prevent us from loving them. The main barrier is TIME.
God has enabled us by His Spirit to love and care for those around us. This message encourages us to be the true neighbors we are called to be.
During this past 18 months of division in the world, God created His Body to show true unity.
Throughout history God has called individuals to risk it all for the sake of the Gospel. Does He still call people today?
God has set us up to be manager of what He owns and allows us to have. How am I doing as His money manager?
Everyone is given 168 hours a week to invest. God has given us the exact time we need to carry out His purposes
Often we don’t understand the will of God until we look back and see His hand all along life’s journey.
How can someone begin to discern God’s will in some lifelong decisions that need to be made? This message challenges you to ask yourself some specific questions in discerning God’s will.
Often we presume that God’s will for our life is a mystery; however, most of His will for our lives has been revealed in His Word.
Everyone wants to know God’s Will but sometimes we allow it to seem mysterious. This message addresses many myths when it comes to knowing and doing God’s Will.
Disappointment is one thing we all deal with. Jesus came to show us what God is like. He said “if you have seen me, you have seen the Father.” The hope we have in Jesus will never disappointed.
When the world threatens to undo us, draw near to God, hold onto hope, and draw near together. Are you connected? Time to plug into a group at Central.
The Church is God's plan for spreading the gospel. We'll look at how Peter and John were able to boldly share what they had seen and heard from Jesus and discover how we can be bold to share our own stories today.
Paul wraps up his letter to the Church at Philippi by giving some thoughts on what brings ultimate contentment.
Paul’s life focus came down to one thing. He wanted to know Christ and pursue the divine prize that God had set out for him.
There is a difference between knowing about Jesus and truly knowing Him. This message challenges individuals to see where they are in their relationship with Jesus.
Everyone wants to win a championship. God wants us to give our best in all we do. Today’s challenge is to be a Spiritual Champion. We want the ring. God offers the crown. What will you choose?
Paul challenges these Believers to humble themselves and follow the example of Jesus; however, he goes on to instruct the folks that this can be done by God who is at work in us.
This message is an interview with Ashley Christianson. The discussion is around the current anxieties and distractions that face young moms.
Take off pride and clothe yourself in humility. That is dress code for the Kingdom of God.
Paul felt true love and joy from the church in Philippi. Despite his circumstances he could look beyond and experience true contentment.
The Apostle Paul sees himself as a slave to Jesus, and thus his earthly contentment is not based on his circumstances but on Jesus.
At Golgotha, God was accomplishing his divine plan of salvation through judgment. Don’t miss it.
While having a meal at Simon’s house, a lady enters and pours perfume upon the head of Jesus. This demonstration on love is a story that will be told forever.
As the Lord birthed His Church, He made sure that they were connected to Him, to one another, and a seeking world.
As the Holy Spirit birthed the church, the followers of Jesus automatically prayed. It was a part of their daily lives.
The love of God fuels the mission of the Son to save the world. God’s love is unmerited, willing, and to be received.
A RESET is necessary from time to time, and is not always a bad thing. The hope and promise of what is to come is motivation to allow it to happen. Scott DeSanders wraps up our Disciple Now weekend with a wrap up of the story of the Flood.
We prepare our hearts not only to take the Lord's Supper, but to be ready to move out in obedience to the Lord's nudges.
As the Church was birthed they came together regularly to ‘break bread’ and remember the incredible sacrifice that Jesus had made for them. This continues today every time we partake of the Lord’s Supper.
When Peter stood and preached after being filled with the Holy Spirit 3,000 were saved. These new followers took the next steps that were needed to grow in their newfound faith.
It is important that we understand our purpose as a Church during these uncertain times. This message helps us unpack our bags as we enter a new year.
Naaman was a great man, with a great need. The one thing he wanted, he could not get on his own. Our greatest needs are met only through the great news of the gospel. This is Naaman's journey to meet our Great God.
Even when the ground is shaking beneath your feet, the covenant faithfulness of the Lord still stands.
Simeon recognized Jesus as the Messiah, and he spoke of the hope that would come through Him.
In a time of turmoil and disarray, God sent Jesus into the world. Today in our time of turmoil and upheaval, God still gives the joy of Jesus.
The Lord Supper is a time to regather in community, remember Christ and his death, and to redirect our lives. In a season of uncertainty and disappointment, we gather at the table together to remember of God’s love and faithfulness.
Joseph shows us what genuine forgiveness looks like as he is reunited with his brothers after several years.
We are all faced with the opportunity to choose between life and death. And we will all be confronted with our sin.
Week eight in our journey with Joseph brings us to Joseph as Prime Minister of Egypt and the birth of his two sons shows us how Joseph views his past in light of his present and future.
In God’s time He fulfilled things in the life of Joseph that put him in position to change the world.
Joseph is forgotten in jail by the cupbearer, but not by God who is often working in the background to accomplish his purposes in us.
God was about the task of refining Joseph’s character so He could prepare him for a huge task. God does the same in us.
Daniel and David may have more famous acts of courage, but what Joseph did may be the greatest act of courage, outside the cross, in the Bible; and is the most relevant for our current culture.
As his brothers struggle with envy, they are led to sell Joseph into slavery. God continues to develop Joseph into a man He can use.
Jacob showed favoritism to Joseph, but God would use his family dysfunction to prepare Joseph for great things.
Often we use our family of origin as an excuse to not take responsibility for our growth. Joseph gives a great picture of overcoming.
Life is often full of difficulties; however, God can use those difficulties for His purposes.
The theme of Joel is the Day of the Lord. It is not referring to a a 24 hour period. It refers to a process of time by which God disrupts the world with His own agenda in terms of judgment. God’s redemptive intention is to restore us to fellowship with him. God wants to restore to “you the years that the swarming locust has eaten.”
Just because we are doing good things and working for God does not mean we are experiencing closeness to Him. The Father longs for us to be close to Him.
Often we choose to live out of close fellowship with the Father. He has scandalous grace to offer us as we come back.
We live in a day when many divisions exist in our world. Jesus empowers His followers to be different.
There is many self-imposed walls in our day. God’s desire is for us to get a fresh view of Him and see the walls come down.
All of us can get pulled into making excuses for why we are not active in ministry. Looking at Moses in Exodus 3 and 4, we find excuses that are still used today.
When we can observe that God has acted in a certain way in the past, we can come to expect in the same way in our present. God’s goodness is intended for Israel and for the whole world.
At the darkest time, Paul and Silas were singing and praying. In this dark time for our nation, how are we responding?
If we don't see all that is happening in our nation and world as a wake up call, then we are fooling ourselves. The church has an opportunity to rise up and see Gods kingdom come, but it will depend on how we respond.
The thing that speaks the loudest on a tombstone is the dash. The dash symbolizes the life that was lived on earth. How are we living our lives to prepare for the day we will stand before Jesus?
There is power in a Father blessing his children. This message gives practical advice on passing along that blessing.
Jesus taught much on eternal destruction in hell. This message brings out truth and a challenge for Unbelievers and Believers.
As one looks back on their life, they see special times when God was so near and He even altered our course of life. In the midst of this pandemic, perhaps God is wanting to establish new spiritual markers in our life.
Statistics tell us that one out of every one persons will die. What actually happens when we die?
We find our true life as we remain connected to Jesus. He uses the picture of a vine and branches to show our relationship with Him.
There are many who would be your shepherd, but there is only one Good Shepherd. He calls. He leads. He protects.
Light is undefeated against darkness. Jesus said "I am the light of the world.' He also said, "You are the light of the world." I'm confused. Which one is it? The answer is Yes! In this dark time in our nation and world, it is time for the church to RISE UP and BE the Light of the world.
Jesus stated that resurrection life was not an event but a personal relationship with Him.
Isolation can bring fear, hopelessness and despair; however, God is with us even when we don’t seem to see Him.
Sometimes we find ourselves on the edge and God seems to be instructing us to take one more step. If He speaks, He will come through.
Worry and anxiety are leading to destructive lives today. Jesus knew this would be the case so He spoke directly to His followers of dealing with anxiety.
God has blessed us with financial resources; however, there is always the temptation for our resources to manage us.
Speaker: Mark Westerfield, Senior Pastor The most precious commodity that a person seems to own today is his time. God has given each of us 168 hours in a week to invest. How are we using it for His kingdom?
Jesus set an example for His followers in that they should people who make a difference by the way they serve.
In beginning a new decade, it is good to get a fresh view of how God has chosen us to share the Good News of Jesus Christ to our day.
Pastor Nick Maddox from Baptist Temple in McAllen, Texas wraps up our student Disciple Now weekend with a message that shows us the right way to see God, see ourselves and see others.
God created us with a need for community so we could live out the ‘one another’s’ that are in Scripture. This message encourages you to find your herd to do life with.
What happens when you die? Is there life after death? This message sets up an upcoming spiritual emphasis in the Austin Metro Area.
Prayer is the fuel that directs our spiritual lives. The disciples could have asked Jesus to teach them anything; however, they saw the vital need to have a life of prayer and so that is what they asked Jesus to teach them.
This message helps kick off a new decade by stressing the importance of systematically getting into God’s Word.
This message helps the congregation prepare themselves before taking the Lord's Supper.
In order to have victory, you must have something to defeat. Jesus came and showed us what victory looks like, and invites us to be on His team. When we face the storms of life, we must choose how we respond. Jesus showed the way in Mark 4, come check it out.
We can handle Jesus as a baby or Jesus as the healer, and even Jesus on the cross; however, can we truly believe that Jesus is the King of all kings.
We are forgetful people. Learn some tangible ways that we can remember God in our everyday life!
As Thanksgiving approaches, this message challenges us to look on what keeps us from having a heart of gratitude, and to make needed adjustments.
At the end of his letter, Peter gives some last minute instructions on how they could hold out and withstand the hard times that they were facing as followers of Jesus.
Peter appeals to the Elders who were watching over God’s people. He instructs them on being the leaders God has called them to be.
Peter is giving encouragement to these 1st Century followers of Jesus because of the suffering they are facing. This message is an encouragement to all Believers on facing suffering.
If you only had a short time to live, what would you be involved in. Peter encourages his readers to see what God would have them focus on.
We all have 168 hours per week and the average lifespan is about 79 years. It is important that we learn to take inventory of the time we have, and then see how God can use us with the time we have.
Living a life that displays Jesus is often greeted kindly because of the positive influences that it brings; however, living this kind of life can lead to suffering from others. This message gives encouragement and helps in facing hard times as a follower of Jesus.
Peter encourages the church to be one of character and love. How are we in living out His plan?
Marriage was established by God; however, things don’t always go smoothly. Peter addresses his readers on how to honor God with their marriages in all situations.
Every person answers to some authority; whether it is a teacher or employer. As followers of Jesus we can submit to those in authority and see our workplaces become a mission field.
As we are called to live a life on mission while we are here on earth, there are certain steps we need to make so that we are effective in sharing with others.
September 1 is like a second new year. So why wait until January 1, when we typically fail at the new things, to step out and do new things? God is always doing a new thing, the question is whether we will join Him.
These two verses in Philippians 4 are a favorite to many around the world because of their encouragement to overcome our tendency to be overwhelmed by anxiety.
If we are to live a life on mission, there are certain things that we need to ‘clear out’ and then there is something we need to ‘crave’. This message helps Believers to be equipped to live a life ‘on mission’.
The Apostle Peter wrote this letter to encourage Christ-followers who found themselves in trials because of their faith. Peter reminds the people of who they are in Christ and encourages them to live lives of holiness and loving deeply.
In our day we see many followers of Jesus fall away from their faith. What makes me think that I will finish this journey strong for Christ? This message gives closing thoughts from Paul about finishing the race.
The big question regarding missions is usually “Why?” We look at three reasons for missions and how God calls us to “Be a Witness”.
Are you a follower of Christ or are you simply familiar with Him? Let this message spur you on to find your assignment and not let anything hinder or distract you from carrying it out.
The way of the Law is cursed because we can’t do it. The way of faith is blessed because we don’t have to. Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us.
Our primary identity leads us to a mission or purpose that aligns with it. Scripture tells us that our primary identity is "Child of God" with a corresponding life mission of loving God and others through doing good works and sharing good words, as we live life on mission with God.
In this message, Pastor Mark asks us to prepare our hearts as we get ready to take the Lord's Supper.
In this message we look at how God went to great lengths to bring Cornelius into His Kingdom. God has divine appointments for all of us.
This message challenges men especially to see how they face transition times in their lives. God is always at work.
Superheroes have been around a long time. There is much we can learn from them, but we would be foolish to worship them. Today we get to meet three of them in person (Ironman, Batman and Superman) and then recognize the Hero of Heroes, Jesus, the Hero of Heaven!!!
Do you ever take time to prepare to meet the Lord in worship? This Psalm encourages followers to ascend the hill of the Lord and worship the King of Glory.
As Jesus was preparing to ascend back to the Father, He has last instructions to give to His disciples. He has a great mission for Him as they become His witnesses to a lost world.
There is always a temptation to want to stay on the mountaintops that God allows us to experience. This message challenges us to learn from the mountaintops so we can live it out in the valleys.
We have a tendency to make God so small. Often we fail to realize that when He reveals Himself, He unfolds an incredible plan for our good.
How could a man of God stand so strong against incredible odds and then creator and run from a woman’s threats? Often times we battle discouragement and depression. This message hits on dealing with these down times.
What Jesus went through on Mt. Calvary ultimately brought about what took place at a Garden Tomb which changed the world. This message encourages individuals to take a fresh look at what Christ did for all of mankind.
What happens on the mountaintops of life effect what is accomplished in the valleys. Jesus went through suffering and He is walking with us through our earthly sufferings.
Strategically in the Scriptures God met with individuals on mountaintops and revealed Himself. We can learn of the character and calling of God ourselves and find strength to live our faith out in the valleys of life.
In this message, Pastor Mark asks us to prepare our hearts as we get ready to take the Lord's Supper.
We are called to go and share the Gospel. What does it take to see the gospel spread like wildfire and how do we get to be a part of that? Let's dive into Acts chapter four and learn from Peter and John as they spread the Gospel wildfire.
We are to love God and love our neighbors as we follow the command of Jesus to,” Go and make disciples.” We are better together in our prayers, giving and going as Central reaches out here, there and everywhere.
Life is full of moments, both good and bad. And out of those moments come opportunities, both good and bad. Like the invalid in Scripture, we must choose how we respond to the life Jesus offers. What will you choose?
God has set aside as a people for his own possession. And His purpose for us to proclaim his excellencies to the world around us. One of the ways we proclaim Him is by the way we fight sin in our lives with one another.
We are fellow citizens, members of God’s family, and bricks in God’s House. We are better together.
For a child of God to truly hear from God, he must remain close to Him. This chapter gives encouragement to us on remaining close to God.
There are certain things that God has spoken that are for all of His followers and then there are times He speaks specifically to individuals. This message helps bring understanding to how God might want to speak to us.
God uses fire to show His power, presence and provision. All throughout the Bible we see God as a consuming fire. BJ McMichael walks us through Elijah calling on fire in a showdown with the prophets of baal as we wrap up an incredible Disciple Now weekend where we experienced the Fire of God.
The Bible tells us that in these last days that God has spoken to us through His Son. This message helps give some tools to approach God’s Word in such a way to experience the voice of God.
Sometimes the reason we aren’t hearing from God is that we have certain hindrances that we have allowed that muffle our hearing. This message gives some suggestions in putting yourself in position to hear from God.
We live in an On Demand culture, but serve a God who is more concerned with who we are rather than how fast we get there. It's time to take a look and see what road we are on, the short road or the long road.
The message introduces the topic of hearing God speak. The question arises on why God would even desire to speak with us. Give a listen
We celebrate Christmas because God became a person and lived among us. He was of humble origin and came as a suffering servant. A day is coming when Christ will return as the Sovereign King and all will know Him for we will see Him in all of His glory.
Christmas is expensive but when you look beyond your budget and bills, you learn through the eyes of the Magi how costly Christmas really is.
When God moves into the neighborhood, there is no room for pride, and no room for fear.
From the beginning God set in place a grand design that eventually Jesus would be born in the fullness of time to bring salvation to mankind. This message center in on the fact that God Is With Us.
We see in Scripture that God is a promise maker and a promise keeper. The question we want to explore is what is our role in the midst of His promises. We look to the story of Abraham and Sarah for direction
In this message, Pastor Mark compares and contrasts a grateful and ungrateful person. Listen to this message and make the choice to choose gratitude and thanksgiving in all things.
Our goal should be to get so close to God that He can guide us with His glances. This is a challenge for Central as we enter the next 25 years.
Our goal should be to get so close to God that He can guide us with His glances. This is a challenge for Central as we enter the next 25 years.
The altar is a place of worship, offering, and death; however, it is also a place of life and new dreams.
As people embraced the message of Jesus, their lives began to take on a pattern that God still carries out in His church today. In this message, we are challenged to allow this pattern to work itself out in our congregation as we celebrate 25 years of ministry.
If we were created in the image of Christ, and his Spirit lives in us, then why are we getting out tails kicked so often? We must learn to fight like Jesus so let's look at the ultimate heavyweight championship fight when Jesus went toe to toe with Satan.
God is about building and establishing His Kingdom. God has called you where you are to do good work and live well to help build this kingdom.
God’s desire is to bring all foreigners and misfits to Himself. He has provided this through Jesus. This brief message is a time of reflection before taking the Lord’s Supper.
Often we find ourselves stuck in life from some previous event or situation that we have confronted in life. Also, may marriages get stuck and needing to get released. This message shows how Jesus helped Peter to get beyond where he found himself to become an incredible spokesman for Jesus.
Marriage is hard and sometimes it can get messy. The enemy wants to destroy anything that looks like heaven and that is what marriage is supposed to look like. So what happens when it doesn't? What do you do when it gets really messy? This message may give some hope and healing to anyone struggling.
Marriage is meant to be a signpost that points others to Christ. This message will challenge couples to help each other to grow in their love for Christ.
Jesus goes back to creation to paint a fresh picture of what marriage is supposed to look like. In a day of confusion over marriage, it is good to know how Jesus viewed marriage.
When Jesus was tested by the Pharisees concerning divorce, He went back to the very beginning when God created mankind to give the proper context of marriage.
In this message, Pastor Mark encourages us to focus on why we attend church and not just what the church has to offer us. We should seek to connect with God, each other and a world that needs Jesus.
We can celebrate that our church is heavily invested in missions, still, each and every one of us if called to do the good works that God has prepared for us in advance so that we can have life to the fullest.
Anyone can start out well, but what will it take to finish strong? This message encourages steps that can be made to finish the course well that God has set out for you.
As we prepare to take the Lord’s Supper, Pastor Mark encourages us to not only remember what Christ did on the cross but to recommit ourselves completely to Jesus through self-examination, confession and repentance.
In this message, Pastor Mark draws parallels between the cities of refuge set up in Joshua 20 designed to provide mercy, justice and the hope of salvation to someone who shed blood, and the ultimate refuge we find in Jesus Christ.
Are you willing to do the work, to plant the seeds, to grow the tree for shade you may never enjoy? Caleb was and it made all the difference.
Often time we face an enemy who is disguised and we entertain the ruse and we find ourselves in a somewhat spiritually anemic place. How can we be prepared for this scheme of the enemy and how can we walk in victory?
After getting routed at Ai, the people of God had to decide if they were going to quit or bounce back. Just because God has given it to you doesn't mean you don't have to fight for it. Let's follow God's plan and experience the victory He has given us.
When we attempt to do things our way instead of God’s way, we open ourselves up to potential defeat instead of victory. This message challenges us to see that when God is in charge, then He leads to victory.
In an odd battle strategy, the Children of Israel saw the walls of Jericho fall. In our lives we often have walls that we face that keep us from the victorious Christian life. Perhaps God gives us a strategy to see us overcome our walls.
Greatness is not a matter of great talent. Greatness is a matter of great choices. How do you make choices? Who or what have influence in your life? Choices matter. Choose wisely.
God promised to be with Joshua even in the midst of battle. God also promises His presence to us. That truth evokes obedience, excludes fear and anxiety, and elicits hope.
In this message, we are encouraged to find our Gilgal. A place where we can renounce the things of the world, find restoration, be reminded of God’s forgiveness and remember God’s greatness.
The Children of Israel find themselves on the side of a swollen Jordan River realizing that the promise of God is on the other side. Joshua leads this band travelers miraculously across the Jordan. In our faith journey we face times when God leads us across our own Jordan Rivers.
Raising children is an honor, but it does come with challenges; however, God has done an incredible thing in making moms who they are with their incredible nurturing character.
The story of Rahab is about a God who is faithful and unrelenting in his pursuit of good for his people, and a woman who is so compelled by the power of this God that she can’t help but profess her allegiance to Him.
It is important to examine yourself before you take the Lord's Supper, but it is equally important to focus on how much Christ loves you. When our focus is on Christ, the temptations and things of this world grow dim.
This initial message in this series challenges Christ-followers to prepare to move in take the land of the victorious Christian life.
God has given His children the keys to a mansion in heaven; however, as long as we are here, He has a purpose for us to fulfill. This message challenges you to live a life of purpose.
Life does not always go smoothly and work out like we would plan; however, God is still intimately involved with us.
If Jesus did not raise from the dead then those who consider themselves Christ-followers would be considered fools. There would be no promise, no purpose, and no power; however, if Jesus did raise from the dead, all is different.
Prayer is the tool that keeps us close to our Heavenly Father. How we view our Heavenly Father determines the intimacy we have with Him through prayer.
Martin Luther said, "To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." Prayer is powerful and effective. When the church prays earnestly and specifically, amazing things happen. Lets be more than a church that prays, lets be a praying church!!!
Life is War. God has equipped us with all the weapons we need to fight, and prayer is the foundation for the deployment of these weapons. So pray at all times, with all kinds of prayers, on alert, for the Church.
Week 3 of the 40 days of prayer takes us into an uncomfortable place when life gets heavy and hard to take, but what we find there is life changing!
God rewards prayers that are sincere, and there is no need to try to impress other people. God rewards prayers that are simple, and there is no need to try to impress God.
Throughout the scriptures we are reminded that we are constantly walking in a battlefield. It is not a casual stroll through the flowers, but a journey that demands our attention and focus. Psalm 27 shows us what this warrior heart looks like.
Leadership is not about power or position, but influence. Moving people to God's agenda, proving God's process is always best.
We live in a world that can be overwhelming. Stress and schedules and fear and future can seem HUGE. This year, during our Disciple Now weekend, we learned that God is BIGGER THAN anything we will face and we can trust Him in every season.
The love of the Father does not scold or demand reparation from the lost. Instead, the Father receives, restores, and rejoices when the lost are found.
In our fast paced society, we expect instant gratification and free two-day shipping. But as Christ-followers, we find that God may be silent for extended periods of time. In this message, guest speaker Kirk Kriegle, encourages us to walk with God and not take matters into our own hands.
Compassion is much more than feeling sorry for someone. It is accompanied by a call to action. It is personal and often times messy. lListen as we are challenged to fight for others in the heavenly realms.
How can you experience true worship? In this message, we see that true worship extends from knowing Jesus and how He sees us.
At the close of every year, folks take time to look into the upcoming year and set goals or resolutions. How can we set goals where it is obvious that Jesus is Lord of our lives?
Often the Christmas season brings on grief and remembrance of loss. Christmas can become a time of loneliness for many. How can we help others "get through" this time of year?
Often we miss the true meaning of Christmas because of the battle to buy and consume. This message gives encouragement on not giving in to the temptation to overspend.
Many people are overwhelmed and stirred up over the many things they face in life. Is it possible to have calm amidst the storms of life? This message conveys that you cannot have the peace of God until you have peace with God.
Paul gives some farewell words to the leaders in the Church in Ephesus. These words are great and challenging for anyone who finds themselves in any kind of leadership.
The default of life seems to be selfishness; however, God is generous and He desires His people to live generous lives.
Often the church is going to great lengths to market so that she can reach people. Perhaps what is missing is the Fire of God.
In this message, Pastor Ben Schenck of Awaken Church, to lay your past burdens down, step out in faith, and trust God to come through.
After Jesus raised Lazarus back to life, He ordered those present to remove his grave wrappings. Our relationship with God is established through the finished work of Jesus on the cross; however, He uses others to aid us to remove barriers that we sometimes develop that keep us from maturing in our walk with Christ.
Without true community there is a tendency to not move on in our faith. This message challenges to find that true community that will encourage you to grow in your faith.
Being in close proximity to someone does not mean that you truly have community. God did not want us to walk out this life alone; His desire is for us to be in true community with others.
As Jesus got deeper into His public ministry, He took time to pull away to be with the Father; then He called 12 to be His disciples, and then they set out to minister to the masses. If this was the pattern of Jesus, how much more do we need to model this pattern?
Everyone wants their Goliath moment. To be the hero of the story. To win the game and save the day. But there's a reason these are rare. It's because of the things that don't make the highlights. That's where the process is. We must embrace the process to enjoy the payoff of God's promises.
Peter tells us to live like the world is going to end. In this text, he tells us to think clearly, love constantly, and serve passionately and powerfully.
It is giving our selves away, our time, our talents and our treasures, that we become the hands and feet of Christ. Paul encouraged the people of Corinth to be cheerful givers in all things that they might reap a harvest of plenty.
John ends his letter by letting the Christ-followers know what was the blessing of truly being a child of God. This message encourages Believers to walk confidently in their knowledge of Christ.
Many individuals find themselves doubting whether they are truly Christians. In John’s letter he is bringing hope and encouragement to Christ-followers to walk in confidence as they have placed their faith in Christ.
As we demonstrate the love of God to our world, the doors open up for us to share our story of Jesus redemptive work in our lives.
One’s happiness is dependent on what is happening around them; however, joy comes from a deep satisfaction in Christ. We are not to be seekers of happiness, but we are to be displayers of joy.
There is always certain teachings that are put out that lead us away from Christ instead of bringing us closer to Him. God inspires John to lay out certain test that a Believer can use to discern what is really true so that they will not be led astray.
John makes it clear to all who consider themselves a follower of Jesus that the ‘only true’ mark of a follower of Jesus is the love that they display to others.
In this message, the Central Body is reminded of the incredible gift that God gave the church in the Lords Supper. When we know the 'why' behind the Lords Supper it remains fresh and does not become a ritual.
To be overcomers, we need to be willing to share what we have overcome. The most powerful words in ministry are, “Me too!”
God has poured out an incredible love upon His children, and in return, we pour out our lives to live for Him. John continues to help people assess if they really do know Christ.
False teachers were leading these folks astray, and John encourages them to Be Awake, Be Aware, and Be Abiding in these perilous times.
Jesus said, "as my Father has sent me, so I am sending you." To be sent means we must move in response to God. Join us as we look as how three young men moved in conviction, in confidence and in commitment in the face of life threatening circumstances.
John lays out to assessments of a person who is truly walking with Christ. First, they are growing in their faith and second, they are saying ‘no’ to the lure of the world. This message helps believers examine how they are doing in these areas.
There is a struggle today for men in understanding what true manhood is. This message brings a challenge for men to look unto God to be true godly men.
Ranger Allen takes us on a crazy journey through the Central National Forest with games, a scavenger hunt and a deeper understanding of how God supplies all our needs.
In this next message in the series, Pastor Mark uses 1 John 2:3-11 to spur us on to experiential knowledge of God, heartfelt obedience, and genuine love for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
The person who is a genuine follower of Jesus will seek to keep short accounts of the sins that so easily trip us up by confessing and seeking His righteousness.
When confusion and lack of direction seems to set in, the place to go and be reminded is that God’s plan was and is through Jesus.
Enjoy this panel of moms as they discuss the ups and downs of being a mom, and find encouragement in their journey
Enjoy this panel of moms as they discuss the ups and downs of being a mom, and find encouragement in their journey.
God loves His church and His plan is to use the local church to change the world. This message gives appreciation for the local Body of Believers and challenges to become more a reflection of His glory.
This message is delivered to help prepare for the Lord’s Supper. The emphasis is to set your eyes upon Jesus.
Jesus is a man of compassion, power, and authority, and He calls us to follow Him no matter the cost.
What is the resurrection did not occur? Does it make that big of a difference in our lives? This message seeks to answer these questions.
The cross of Jesus Christ is a stumbling block to all individuals and it calls for a response. This message takes a look at the ‘offense of the cross’.
Jesus showed what true submission is as He wrestled through the decision that the cross would be the only way for salvation for mankind.
When Jesus departed earth, He gave His Holy Spirit to His followers; however, He also birthed the greatest impactful family on earth called the Church. Jesus will one day return for His Bride, the Church, are we fulfilling His desire for His Church?
When Jesus was ready to depart this earth, He promised His followers that He would be closer than ever through the Holy Spirit. His Holy Spirit is there for every follower of Jesus.
In this message, Allen demonstrates through the life a Paul how God often brings events in our life full circle. We can take hope knowing He will bring our life to completion.
Have you ever wondered why as a follower of Jesus that you often sense that you do not fit here? Jesus came to establish His Kingdom. This Kingdom has an element that is both ‘now and not yet’. This message helps give encouragement to followers of Jesus that they are a part of something bigger than they know.
Jesus was willing to empty Himself and make Himself nothing for the sake of serving and redeeming mankind. This message helps set this foundation in place.
The supreme creation of God was mankind. When man sees what he was created for and how sin distorted then he will understand why Jesus came to redeem mankind.
The One God who has created everything wants us to be in close relationship with Him, and He has made this possible through Jesus.
In this final session of the Disciple Now Weekend, Danny deals with the crossroad of temptation on the ancient path. We are encouraged to look forward and start with small steps of obedience.