Arise Church with Brent Simpson: Recent Episodes

Arise Church

ARISE Church exists to help you Experience God. For more information visit: myarisechurch.com

Join Pastor Mark Morrow as he empowers us to be who we are and not anyone else!

Scriptures: Genesis 29:16-34

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us for Legacy Sunday!

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join Pastor Brent as he dives deep into God's blueprint for finding and maintaining red hot love. God wants you to experience nothing less than a love that burns brightly.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church Podcast as Pastor Tina and Tony delve deep into the complex relationship between money and our lives. Tina introduces the pervasive influence of money in our daily existence, emphasizing its impact on our work, stress, and relationships. Tony Parker, a Dave Ramsey Certified Financial Coach, shares his personal journey with money.

Tony recalls a pivotal moment at Lowe's, witnessing a distressed woman unable to afford a new refrigerator. This encounter stirred empathy within him, reflecting his own struggles with financial constraints. Tina expands on the ripple effects of financial stress, highlighting its role in exacerbating other life challenges.

Tony reveals staggering statistics about financial insecurity in America, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues. He recounts feeling powerless when prompted by God to help the woman at Lowe's due to his own financial constraints, sparking a transformative realization.

The conversation delves into the concept of "polluted thinking" about money, exploring beliefs such as ownership and pleasure-seeking. Tony outlines a shift towards understanding money as a tool for God's purposes, leading to practical changes in financial habits.

Through repentance, examination of biblical teachings, and application of principles, Tony shares actionable steps for financial stewardship. The episode concludes with a call to embrace discipline and spiritual growth in pursuit of financial peace and generosity.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church Podcast as Pastor Ken and Pastor Jeremiah share parenting wisdom and empower you to win at home! They emphasize the importance of starting with the end in mind, investing quality time, discovering and developing a child's gifts, and engaging with children through questions.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church podcast as Pastor and Evangelist, Daniel Kolenda draws from the biblical story of Moses and the burning bush, the message emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit to fulfill one's purpose. It encourages individuals to seek a deep, transformative connection with God, turn away from distractions, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide them towards a life of significance and lasting impact.

Find out more about Pastor Daniel here https://danielkolenda.com/about/

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church podcast as Pastor Brent tackles the issue of fake Christianity, drawing parallels to buying knock-off apparel. Is our version of Christianity lacking the power to bring about real change in ourselves and the world? It might look the same on the outside, but is it missing the qualities of integrity and genuineness?

We dive into Acts 3, where Peter and John encounter a man lame from birth at the temple gate. This healing sparks a powerful monologue from Peter, reflecting on the challenges faced by Jesus-followers and the transformative impact of true Christianity.

Revival is explored as a menu of possibilities, revealing what's normal, genuine, and authentic in Christianity. Acts 3:1-10 narrates the healing of the lame man, leading to a massive conversion of 5,000 people. Peter shares the story, emphasizing the persecution that follows those who boldly preach Christ.

As we yearn for revival, the podcast draws inspiration from historical examples, like the prayerful plea of Billy Graham at John Wesley's bedroom. Revival starts with the individual, with the analogy of pregnancy emphasizing the conception in hidden prayer closets.

The second key to becoming ground zero for revival is understanding our authority in Christ. Power in evangelism is discussed, highlighting the effectiveness of combining the proclamation of the Gospel with supernatural demonstrations of power.

Lastly, putting God in day-to-day life is crucial for true revival. Revival is not just an event; it's a lifestyle. The episode concludes with a challenge: are we settling for a fake "Louie Vital" version of Christianity? The American church faces a choice between detonation and domestication. Have we domesticated our faith to the point of losing its wildness and hunger for the power of God?

Join us as we navigate these questions, seeking a genuine and powerful expression of Christianity in today's world.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church podcast as Pastor Brent explores the idea that individuals, like George Washington, set precedents and traditions that can be passed down through generations, influencing behavior and even having a genetic impact through epigenetics. It delves into the concept of trauma being passed down and how this can contribute to the cycle of "hurt people hurt people." The episode suggests the need to erase old patterns to create new ones.

The message then transitions to a biblical example, focusing on Simon Peter's story. It highlights a specific moment in AD 33 when Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah, laying the foundation for the church. The analogy is drawn between building a spiritual house and the need to tear down old structures to create something new.

The podcast emphasizes the influence of cultural expectations and the importance of recognition, repentance, and accountability in breaking old mindsets. It encourages adopting a Kingdom culture over personal or familial culture, urging individuals to be countercultural and not conform to worldly patterns. The message emphasizes the necessity of transformation through renewing the mind.

In conclusion, the episode encourages breaking generational cycles and passing on blessings rather than curses. It challenges individuals to shape the mindset that will end with them, fostering a culture of positive change. The provided inspiration for the summary is a podcast episode that explores the transformative power of facing and learning from failures, reinforcing the idea of growth and improvement through challenges.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in this special episode of the Arise Church podcast as Pastor Brent unveils a stunning annual State of the Church address, filled with miracles, changes, growth, and testimonies. Through resilience & faith, our church community has managed to inspire and impact, leading 1,368 individuals to follow Christ and growing our attendance by 40%.

We have stretched beyond our walls, reaching audiences around the globe with our digital platforms, and making life-changing influences through our actions. Highlighted are the efforts of our ministry, including donations to the less privileged, support to victims of human trafficking, and driving local community initiatives.

Experience an introspective journey into the importance of personal responsibility within the religious community and the integral role each member of the Church's congregation plays in implementing God's vision. We take on the challenge of bringing change by owning what is within us rather than blaming others for societal issues.

Still, the journey doesn't end there. We initiative discussions on the transformative path of Apostle Peter, inspiring others to drop their 'nets' and make room for new beginnings and transformations. This episode serves as a call to action for you to take charge and become a catalyst for change in your sphere of influence.

Finally, we look ahead to an optimistic future filled with an array of church adaptations, initiatives, and technological advancements. Join us as we pave the path to higher spiritual fulfillment and personal development at Arise Church in 2024 and beyond.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

Join us in a power-packed episode of the Arise Church podcast as he unfurls the wisdom and strength hidden in the face of failure. Through personal experiences and an in-depth study of Apostle Peter’s journey, we elucidate how failures can be pivotal in stimulating spiritual and personal growth.

Following an enlightening discussion on Peter's denial of Jesus, this episode brings forth how our actions, dictated by misconstrued roles and intentions, can lead us astray. By embracing these failures, and comprehending the lessons they offer, one can find the path to overcoming subsequent challenges.

We also highlight numerous notable personalities, their initial failures, and their ultimate triumph, fostering the belief that failure is not terminal but merely an opportunity for improvement. Encouraging you to take accountability for your failures and not fear repeated attempts, we instill the idea of failing forward as the outcome of relentless effort.

Having illustrated various anecdotes from the lives of historical and biblical figures, this episode encourages perseverance and resilience, even when faced with overwhelming failures. It underscores the role of failures in stimulating innovation and discovery, much like the story of the Wright brothers' unyielding determination amidst adversity.

This episode ends with an exploration of three principles surrounding the notion of failure and their application in our individual and collective growth. From learning fast from our mistakes to "failing forward" and persistently seeking God in every situation, the narrative puts a spotlight on the transformative power of facing and learning from failures. Concluding with a heartening analogy of a muddy shoe turned brand new, listeners are reminded of God's grace and forgiveness that can cleanse away any stain of failure.

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Thank you for listening! STAY CONNECTED via live stream on our Youtube Channel @myarisechurch or visit us on Instagram: @myarisechurch or our website at www.myarisechurch.com/

We would love to have you join us for a service! SERVICE TIMES Brandon: 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:30am, SouthShore: 10am, India (Saturdays at Brandon): 6:30pm or Online: 9:30am

The power of parables is in the pursuit of understanding. vs11-15
You have an advantageous position in your pursuit. Vs 16-17
The soil of your heart will determine your ability to receive understanding and operate in the Kingdom. Vs 18-23

Remnants can be a symbol of what once was, and can be again.

Romans 11:1-5

Across America, many have accepted a WATERED DOWN version of Christianity.

There is a remnant!

Remnants are (often) forged during difficult times.

-The faith of Daniel was forged, tried, and tested, amidst the extreme conditions of Babylon.

-We are now living in a digital Babylon

Daniel 1:8, Daniel 1:15-20

Remnants form new discipleship patterns.

Romans 12:2, Daniel 6:10

5 remnant patterns

1) Prayer

2) Fasting

3) Biblical Meditation

4) Serving

5) Giving First you form patterns and then your patterns form you.

Wishing for revival is not the same as patterning for revival.
The patterns of Remnants enable them to thrive under difficult circumstances.

Extremophile: An organism that thrives amidst extreme circumstances.

-Daniel thrived amidst the most extreme pressure!

The Church popular is the Church polluted, and the polluted Church is a puny Church. The Church persecuted in the Church pure, and the pure Church is a powerful Church.

All God needs to do His work is in the REMNANT!

DO YOU KNOW HOW LITTLE YOU KNOW?

Familiarity breeds comfort.

We need to learn to live on the edge of our incompetence/ ignorance.

WHAT IF THERE IS MORE THAN WE’RE EXPERIENCING? - Have we gotten so accustomed to ordinary that we stopped hungering for the extra-ordinary?

ARE YOU HUNGRY FOR MORE?

Ephesians 3:8-9

Hunger is a sign of health.

1 Peter 2:2-3

In the natural you get hungry by not eating. In the spiritual you get hungry by eating.

Hunger is a sign of spiritual health.

A healthy Christian will be a hungry Christian!
When we become satisfied with our spiritual walk and aren’t perusing the Lord, we are unhealthy spiritually.

-Hunger motivates people to move beyond their convenience.

-A Hunger for more is what birthed our Pentecostal movement!

Testimonies feed our faith.

We create our own passions.

2 Corinthians 12:1-4

Comparison kills hunger.

The book of Acts should be the model for expected Christian lifestyle.

We live in a time of dry bones.The Tailbone Christian: Who just sits, and lets everybody else do the ministry in the church.
The Fingerbone Christian: Who are always pointing their finger at everybody else, not taking responsibility for their own actions. They blame everybody else for the circumstances they find themselves in.
The Jawbone Christian – Who runs off at the mouth … who puts his mouth into motion before his brain is in gear … who spreads gossip … who intentionally causes trouble by stirring up strife.
The Hipbone Christian – Who sits on his wallet every Sunday when the offering plate is passed.
The No Backbone Christian – Who has no convictions … wants to please everyone but Jesus… blends in with the world. These bones are dry - dead - lifeless.
Dry bones are confusing. There is a pattern of revival, and we may just be in it right now.

The pattern of revival:

1)We are in trouble, crisis, or a Holy discontent. “I’m sick of the way things are” – Holy Discontent.

2) People begin to pray.

3) Prayer leads to presence of God. 4) Presence leads to surrender and repentance. (Renewal) Americans struggle to humble themselves and repent/surrender.

5) Surrender and Repentance leads to New Patterns Greater surrender acts as preparation for greater levels of God’s presence.

6) New Patterns leads to groups of people (Remnants) contending for revival.

7) Remnants lead to Revival

8) Revival leads to Awakening.

Crisis can be the gateway to revival.

Prophecy is speaking what God is saying, not what we are seeing.

Speaking life over death is a powerful prophetic responsibility.

The church is called to speak to dead things and call them alive.

Arise Church is not a name, it’s a prophetic declaration! Arise Church at Brandon! Arise Church at SouthShore!

These are the days of Revival.

What will your role on revival be?

People of The Presence |

ARISE CORE VALUE: WE VALUE GOD'S PRESENCE : GOD'S PRESENCE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING - PERIOD!

Exodus 33:15-16

God's Presence brings life to the church

-When we get away from God's presence, we try to complete in the what was started in the Spirit

Psalm 127:1

Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.

2 Timothy 3:1-5

We don't lack revival because we are ignorant, we lack revival because we are too self-sufficient.- Leonard Ravenhill

-God's presence is the one thing that changes everything in our church.

Psalm 51:10-12

2.God's Presence brings life to the believer

-We were created to live in the environment of of God's Presence

You are a conduit of God's presence to the world

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

How important do you believe God's presence is to the Church? Considering the "fish out of water" illustration, do you spend enough time in God's presence? What steps can you take to spend more time in God's presence this week?

We want every person in this region to experience God!

Great things start small.

What if God sends great awakenings through the conduit of small pockets of renewal, and these small pockets must then be stewarded by us in order to grow into the mature revival we seek? What if the great revival we cry out for has already been sent to us…but we didn’t recognize it because it was in a seed form?

But sometimes we miss what God is doing because it starts small.

Don’t despise the day of small beginnings!

We must be careful not to despise a move of God because it doesn’t come packaged in a fully mature delivery.

Revival is Now! Don’t despise it because it’s not fully mature!

Revival begins with a group recognizing they are in revival, yet craving more. There is a difference between blowing out a flame and fanning a flame.

What if we despised the seeds of revival by saying things like:

a. “You’ll lose your excitement when you hit the real world”

b. “Your eventually grow out of this childlike faith”

c. “This is weird, unusual”

d. “Where do I see that in the Bible?”

This mindset prevents it from growing into miraculous event we desire? It squelches revival rather than fans it.

Thanks for listening!

Stay connected with everything that is happening at ARISE Church: https://linktr.ee/myarisechurch_

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Matthew 7:7-8 2

Kings 4:8-16

Keep the flame of hope alive!

We have to walk in confidence, filled with faith, knowing the truth of Jesus’ words in Mark 9:23 which says, “All things are possible to those who believe!”

While you are waiting, allow God to work in you and through you.

I am convinced that part of the reason we are often invited to wait is to reveal to us what’s in our hearts. To show us if the true object of our affection is God himself or the object of our affection.

What we do in the waiting will reveal the true condition of our heart. How have you been waiting for God to answer your prayer?

Isaiah 40:30-31

I don’t know who or what you are waiting for today, but may I encourage you to do so actively.

Do what you can for Him while He works on what you can’t.

Get connected to God and Godly community
Find an area to use your gifts and talents
Develop your knowledge on the area of your unanswered prayer

Ephesians 3:20-21

3.There is an appointed time for your prayer to be answered.

Habakkuk 1:2

When God gives revelation stay faithful and watchful for the realization of that promise.

Revelation 3:20

-God entered our world so that we could enter his.

-The beauty of Immanuel is not that He rescues us from every hard time, but that He is with us in every hard time.

God’s will for your life is rarely a straight line.

-God’s plan for your life sometimes looks more like a maze than a straight path.

-Trying to find God’s will and doing the right thing can be confusing.

God may be advancing His purpose in your life even when it seems you’re going the wrong way.
With or without God we are still going to experience great tragedy.

-Everything that God wanted to do in the world came with great

-Opposition is NOT evidence of being out of God’s

-You are not out of God's will just because something bad happens to you. You are out of God's will when you are out of relationship with God

God will use your painful seasons to forge your character and unfold his-story. -You will become as strong as life’s challenges forge you to be.

-The beauty of the Christmas story is that it is forged on the canvas of human pain. -Our pain and difficulties is what teaches us what we are and how we will respond to things.

-If Jesus had to take the long and winding road, how much more will you and I end up on the long and winding road

We are in this battle SPIRIT VS FLESH

Galatians 5:17 "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want."

WHAT YOU CULTIVATE IN YOUR LIFE WILL GROW ARE YOU FEEDING THE FLESH IN YOUR LIFE OR THE SPIRIT?

Galatians 5:19- 21 "When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God."

Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."

So how do we cultivate the fruit of the spirit? By abiding and remaining in the Spirit.

Faithfulness on a practical level looks like consistency and loyalty to Jesus.

By abiding in Jesus – We cultivate FAITHFULNESS

Galatians 6:9 "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."

Gentleness is not weakness. Gentleness is strength contained. Gentleness is strength surrendered.

It is easy to be a Christian, but it is hard to die. In our life boundaries in our life making sure we stay inside the perimeters God has set for us.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit The fruit is singular of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

God’s character is good.

Can you be good without God?

The world’s standard of goodness is actually just being better than the person next to you.

God has a different view of goodness.

Mark 10:17-18 Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.

True goodness does not come from yourself - meaning true goodness cannot be had through will power.

Therefore, the way God deals with us is good.

2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Therefore, the way we deal with each other should be good.

Matthew 18:21-35

Tongues without temperament is toxic.

WHO CAN YOU BETTER DEMONSTRATE PATIENCE TO?

Fruition means to be brought to COMPLETION

At Arise, we value Growth: If you’re not growing, you’re dying.

Philippians 1:6 , Galatians 5:16-25, 1 John 4:16, 1 John 4:7-8, 1 Corinthians 13:2-3

The GIFTS of the Spirit are designed to function with the FRUIT of the Spirit.

FRUIT GROWS FROM THE INSIDE OUT -The Fruit of the Spirit IS the character of God in you.

-Fruit is designed to bring about more fruit.

-The foundational seed to build God’s character in us is love.

GOOD FRUIT IS LASTING FRUIT

Three types of fruit: Bad Fruit - Galatians 5:19-21 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Fake Fruit- Fake fruit often looks like religion. Doing the right things for the wrong reasons.

Good fruit- Galatians 3:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self- control. Against such things there is no law.

RUNAWAY FRUIT ROTS

(Mark 5:1-20)

BIG IDEA: Jesus changes EVERYTHING…and uses us!

Jesus SHOWS up

(Mark 5:1-6; 1 John 4:4)

Reject all fear Jesus SPEAKS up

(Mark 5:7-13; Matthew 8:16; 29)

Don’t use RITUALS with rules…use your RELATIONSHIP with the REDEEMER

Jesus STEPS up

(Mark 5:14-17; 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 2:11)

The Holy Spirit gives us WHAT we NEED when we NEED it!

Jesus SETS up

(Mark 5:18-20)

Don’t OUT-SOURCE the things Jesus has given you authority to LIVE-OUT

Reflection Questions: - What areas my life is given over to Jesus and which ones are still being used by the enemy? - If you came face to face with evil would you step up or step away? - Which gift of the Holy Spirit do you need today for what you are facing? (1 Corinthians 12-14)

Matthew 12:43-45

1) Your soul is a house

The property of our soul that once belonged to us for our purposes pursuits and pleasures now belongs to God for His glory and our good.

2) Your House Needs to be guarded

3) Your House Needs an alarm system If we aren't careful, a foothold will turn into a strong hold

Ephesians 6:12

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What are the consequences of not believing in the demonic realm? If you are a Christian, do you exercise your authority over the demonic? (if not, why?) What areas of your life do you need to exercise your spiritual authority?

Matthew 10:1, 5-8, Mark 16:15-18, Luke 10:17-20

Demons exist. - A world that no longer believes in demons will be subject to the reign of the demonic.
We have been given authority over the demonic.
We should be exercising our authority over the demonic. The remedy for the flesh is crucifixion. The remedy for the demonic is expulsion.
When darkness comes to your door, shine a light!

Reflection Questions:

What are the consequences of not believing in the demonic realm?

If you are a Christian, do you exercise your authority over the demonic? (if not, why?)

What areas of your life do you need to exercise your spiritual authority?

3 Steps to help you handle stress and anxiety:

Come To Jesus

-Stop doing the thing that stresses you out.

-Stop feeding your insecurity

-The root of our anxiety is separation from God

Follow Jesus' Lead

-Implement God's plan for your life

-God doesn’t take you out of trouble, but gives you strength to make it through the trouble.

-You cannot be overwhelmed with stress at the same time you are overwhelmed with God!

Trust In Jesus

-Anxiety starts, lives, and flourishes in your mind.

-When you give God your stress, He gives you His peace.

TOPICS COVERED:

-Saying yes to God is saying no to your self identification.

-Sometimes all it takes to fall into temptation is a look and a decision.

Can someone be gay and Christian?

-When people are desperate and already compromised they are ripe for deception.

-Militant Christianity

-Christians are accused of being hateful for holding a position they must hold.

Five stages of change

Pre-Contemplation
Contemplation
Preparation
Action Stage
Maintenance

John 15: 1-11 ' “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete

Jeremiah 17:9 " The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"

1 John 2:15-17 "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever."

John 17:3 "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."

John 1:12 "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God"

COSMOLOGY PROVES THE EXISTENCE OF A HIGHER POWER
BIOLOGY DEMANDS AN INTELLIGENT DESIGNER
BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE POINTS TO A LOVING GOD ALL OF THESE ARE ANSWERED WITHIN A CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW Reflection Questions: What stood out to you most from today’s message? Is there a place in my life where I have been searching for confirmation and not truth? Is there something I have believed simply because it was easy or what others believed not because it was the truth?

John 14:1-7, Luke 5:17-26 1. THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM 2. THE ENIGMA IN LIFE 3. THE EVIDENCE FOR CHRIST 4. THE EXAMPLE FOR US Reflection Questions: What stood out to you most from today’s message? Have you been guilty of trying to fit two conflicting puzzle pieces together? What evidence do you have for Christ? Are you sharing it?

Prayer is the best solution! Philippians 4:6 2 Kings 19:14 Ephesians 5: 18-20 Psalms 34:1

Movement #1: SUBMIT James 4:7; James 1:8; Mark 9:23 There is no such thing as HALF commitment. Anything you SUBMIT to CONTROLS you. 2. Movement #2: STAND James 4:7; Ephesians 6:11 When I RESIST the enemy RUNS Resist the devil by: o REJECTING all lies…John 8:44 o RESOURCING your weakness…1 Corinthians 10:13 o REINFORCING spiritual disciplines…Psalm 119:1-6 o REMINDING yourself of God’s word…Luke 4:7-8 3. Movement #3: SCOOT James 4:8; Ephesians 3:12; 2 Corinthians 7:10 if I am separated from Jesus CLOSE the GAP 4. Movement #4: SCRUB James 4:8-10 Sometimes you need a good CRY. REFLECTION QUESTIONS Is there any area of my life that I haven’t submitted to God entirely? Which areas of weakness lead to sin in my life? How can I get help with these areas of weakness?

Proverbs 15:4; Proverbs 21:23; Proverbs 12:18; Proverbs 18:21; James 3:1

James 1:19-25 Proverbs 17:28; Galatians 5:16 James 2:14-16 Matthew 10:7-8

Dr. Michael Brown sits with Pastor Brent to discuss LGBTQ+ theology. In this conversation he answers questions about: Mathew Vines pro-gay theology. What was the sin of Sodom (Inhospitality. Rape. General wickedness)? Moses, the law, and LGBTQ+, What Jesus said about homosexuality, Natural vs Unnatural, The Greek words Malakos and Arsenokoite, David & Jonathan, Ruth & Naomi, Eunuchs, the centurions servant, and Is there hope for with unwanted same sex attraction? Key texts: Genesis 19:4-9, Ezekiel 16:49-50, 2 Peter 2:6-7, Jude 7, Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, John 21:25, John 20:31, Mark 10:6-9, Matthew 19: 4-6, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 1 Timothy 1:9-11, I Corinthians 6:11

1 Kings 2:1-10, 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

FIVE CHARGES TO MEN ON THIS FATHER’S DAY

Act Like A Man.

1 Corinthians 4:14-16, Proverbs 14:12

Be Watchful.
Stand Firm.
Be Strong.
Do Everything in Love. Vs 12 So Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his rule was firmly established. Reflection Questions:
What do you believe it means to “Act like a man”?
How (or how have they not) have the men in your life demonstrated this?
Since these five are relevant to both men and women, which of the five do you struggle with the most?

We Must Know the Word of God.

2 Timothy 4:3, I Corinthians 6:9-12, Hebrews 4:15, 1 Corinthians 10:13

We Must Seek the Heart of God.

John 3:16, John 8:1-11

We Must Express the Word and Heart of God.

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Grace without truth is meaningless, Truth without grace is mean.
We all have the same sickness (sin), and we’re all treated with the same remedy: THE BLOOD.

Reflection Questions:

What Biblical standard are you tempted to lower to reflect your lifestyle? 2. How well do you manage grace and truth? Do you lean toward one side? 3. Who is someone you need to apologize to for the way you handled truth without grace?

Waiting Room to Upper Room

God doesn’t own a watch, still He is never too late or never too early

Dr. Larry Dossey, a Dallas internist, coined a new term called - “Hurry Sickness,” which he defines as “an increased sensitivity to the passage of time.”

Silence around is the right atmosphere for a personal and intimate encounter with Jesus.

Go… But First, Wait

Acts 1:4 “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.”

LUKE 24:49 “I AM GOING TO SEND YOU WHAT MY FATHER HAS PROMISED; BUT STAY IN THE CITY UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN CLOTHED WITH POWER FROM ON HIGH.”

While we are waiting, God is working

YOU CAN BE STILL BECAUSE HE IS ACTIVE, AND YOU CAN REST BECAUSE HE IS BUSY

WAITING ON GOD REQUIRES US TO PUT ASIDE OUR WAY OF DOING THINGS AND TRUST HIS TIMING AND PLAN.

“There is a promise waiting you, do not quit

“Wait until something happens”

We cannot go; we cannot accomplish anything; we cannot rightly witness – if God doesn’t show up, empower us, and do what only God can do.

Acts 1:12-14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers”

How can we find hope in moments of despair? Why don’t I recognize Jesus all the time?

What happens when what you believe and what you see don’t match?

John 20:1

‼️Not everything you hear is what you heard ‼️ - There are times where things get distorted

DARKNESS IS WHEN SOMETHING IN LIFE TRIES TO CLOUD OUT THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN ANY AREA OF YOUR LIFE

What in your life is clouding out the presence of God??? PROVERBS 22

Jesus is UNRECOGNIZABLE in our disappointments DISAPPOINTMENT HAPPENS WHEN WE BASE OUR EXPECTATIONS ON GOD'S ACTION AND NOT HIS ATTRIBUTES.

How many gardeners has God sent to you If God doesn’t challenge you, you’ll never change YOU MAY NOT 👀 GOD BUT GOD 👀’s YOU WHENEVER YOU CAN’T SEE JESUS, GO FIND HIM

Matthew 16:13-23 1. We need to differentiate between the inner voices speaking to us. A) The voice of the enemy. 2 Timothy 1:7 B) The voice of your flesh. Galatians 5:16-21 C) The voice of your reasoning D) The voice of your conscience 1) A good conscience I Timothy 1:5 2) A weak conscience I Corinthians 8:7 3) A seared conscience I Timothy 4:2 4) An evil conscience Hebrews 10:22 E) The voice of the Father 2. We must tune out the other voices. 3. We must tune in to The Father’s voice. Reflection Questions: Which of the 5 inner voices do you hear the loudest? (Why?) What can you begin doing this week that will make God’s voice louder than the other voices? What can you begin doing this week to become familiar more familiar with The Father’s voice?

While being a mom is a privilege it as comes with many challenges. In this panel, we talk about how it felt to go through a miscarriage, adoption, being a mom of many, and so much more!

I Samuel 3:1-10 Psalm 37:23 Just because you can’t hear a sound doesn’t mean it isn’t there. 1. We must learn to expect God to speak. - You were wired to hear from God. “The ear has a poor psychological response to pure sounds.” Instead, It loves complexity… In order for the ear to respond tangibly, a minimum of three frequencies must be put into simultaneous play.” - Dr. Alfred Tomatis. 2. God’s people are expected to recognize His voice. John 10:3-5, John 10:27, Matthew 4:4 - The distinctive mark of being a follower of Christ is the ability to hear the voice of God. 3. We must tune in to God’s voice. Hebrews 5:12-13 - As Christians, we often operate from a place of mystery, not mastery. - Be Careful of Extremes: Mysticism & Human rationalization Reflection Questions: Do you expect God to speak to you? (why or why not) When is the last time God spoke to you? What is the most powerful thing God has spoken to you? Share this testimony today at lunch with someone.

John 20:11-18 Hebrews 3:15

God speaks. - Christianity is unique among religions.

It alone offers a personal relationship with the Creator God.

Learning to hear God’s voice is the most powerful thing you will do.
God speaks specifically.
God is speaking to you.

Reflection Questions: If God is speaking do you want to hear His voice? (why or why not) Has God ever spoken to you? (When, where, what about) Do you want to learn to hear God’s voice more clearly? (If so, join us for The Voice series in the next few weeks)

Here we stand at the fork in the road. One direction is the things God has asked us to do to be a witness. The other direction is my own way. How can I know which way is the one God wants me to go?

The Principle of Budgeting Budgeting is simply a written cash flow for your money. Baggage Issue #1: Restrictive Regimen Baggage Issue #2: Number Phobia Baggage Issue #3: Beyond the Budget Mindset. Stewardship as expressed in the Bible means that we are giving back to God everything that belongs to Him. 1 Corinthians 10:26, Matthew 25:14-30 God expects us to Him an increase. His resources faithfully and to bring We need to tell our money where to go instead of wondering where it went Budgeting Creates Peace on Paper! Matthew 6:21, Matthew 25:23

Galatians 5:1, 6, 13-14, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, John 8:36, Luke 16:1-14 1. You were called to be free! 2. When freedom is misused, it leads us right back to bondage. 3. When freedom is used correctly it leads to serving others. Reflection Questions: What, in your opinion, is the difference between financial freedom and financial wealth? Do you serve money or does money serve you? How are you using your freedom to serve others?

Proverbs 3:9-10, Proverbs 22:7

If you want God’s blessing you must put Him first. Matthew 6:33
Tithing is the way you put Him first in your finances.

Genesis 14:18-20, 28:22, Exodus 23:19 , Deuteronomy 26:1-2, 13-15, Matthew 23:23, Hebrews 7:1-8 -

Tithing is a principle, not a law.

Tithing is a trust challenge.

Proverbs 23:4, Malachi 3:6-12 4. Tithing is a heart issue.

Money is the number one thing in competition with your heart.

Matthew 6:21, Matthew 6:24

Reflection Questions: Do you struggle to trust God with your finances? Why or why not? Do you want God’s blessing in your finances? What steps can you take this week to put God first in your finances?

Overcoming adversity in marriage

Before stress happens decide that "Nothing's gonna stop us now!"

Stress #1: Marriage

Take this step: Connection

Stress #2: Death

Take this step: Communication

Stress #3: Baby

Take this step: Community

Stress #4: Moving

Take this step: Celebration

Stress #5: New job

Take this step: Coaching

Genesis 2:22-24 James 1:19 John 14:27 Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Psalm 37:23-24

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Which stress point is true of your life right now?

Which "C" step do you need to take?

What is one thing I can fight for the sake of my marriage?

We are built for love songs because we are built to love. Over 40% of marriages are affected by infidelity.

Exodus 20:14

You shall not commit adultery.

Proverbs 6:32

But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.

Hebrews 13:4

Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.

Ten keys to maintaining faithfulness in your marriage 1. Never think it couldn’t happen to me.

Proverbs 16:18

Stay away from anything that turns you on that’s not your spouse.

Song of Solomon 8:4,

Matthew 5:28

Don’t be alone with the opposite sex.
Be careful accepting gifts from the opposite sex.
Be careful accepting compliments from the opposite sex.
If you feel someone is “coming on to you” tell your spouse.
If there is someone you don’t feel comfortable being around your spouse, let them know.
Be intimate spiritually and emotionally.
If you start to feel an emotional or physical attraction to someone else, leave.
Do not deny sex for long periods.

1 Corinthians 7:5

Reflection Questions: What damage have you seen done in marriages due to infidelity?

Which of these 10 keys is your marriage weakest in? What is a step you can take this week to create a stronger marriage?

Marriages don’t stay together because “you fooled around and fell in love”. 1. Talk about “Priority”. 2. “Yeah I would fight for you.” 3. Believe it’s “because you love me” 4. Fight for “The Love of a lifetime” Questions 1. What are your top priorities as people? Do they match? Can they work together? 2. What is one thing I can fight for the sake of my marriage? 3. Where can I be more selfless?

To be anointed means to be set apart and empowered for a specific task.
God still anoints today. This was not just for Biblical times.
The anointing is for everyone.

Acts 2:1-4, 2:38-39, 4:31, 10:44-46, 19:1-7, 1 Cor 1:21-22, 12:12-14

The anointing is for you! You have been set apart and called for a specific ministry.

- God wants to ordain you in your calling and your mission field.

- God anoints “normal people” to do the ministry.

You are a missionary to your sphere of influence.

Reflection Questions:

What is your area of calling, empowerment, and/or influence?

How are you using this influence for God’s service? What does/can your specific workplace/community mission/ministry look like?

1 Peter 2:4-10, 4:10-11 1

Peter 2:4-10 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him—

5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

6 For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”

7 Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”

8 and, “A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for.

9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 4:10-11 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

You Are a Living Temple (A mobile home for God).

1 Peter 1:5, 2 Samuel 7:1-17 , Matthew 12:6, John 2:18-19 , Matthew 24:1-2, 1 Corinthians 6:19 - God preferred living in a mobile home!

You Are a Mobile Priest.

1 Peter 2:9a 3.

You Are a Proclaimer of God’s Praises (a preacher).

1 Peter 2:9b 4.

You Are Gifted to Minister.

1 Peter 4:10-11

Reflection Questions:

Do you struggle to believe that you are a minister? If so, why?

Where is your place of ministry?

How can you minister to someone this week?

From the earliest times humans have worshipped stars. Psalm 139:7-12, Exodus 20:18-19, Psalm 19:1 - Human nature is to create high (mysterious and talented) priests in high (mysterious and lofty) places and self-submit to them. 2. Isolated human stars are destructive to the Church. Matthew 16:13-20, John 3:30 - When the church becomes a show, we look for a star showman. - Christian "stars" are ultimately destructive to the church because Jesus is the only star of the church. - Leaders that focus on natural ability and platform, who desire fame, will replicate followers who seek the same. 3. At Arise, we will create a galaxy, by cultivating stars. Revelation 1:16,20, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 - It's time to reestablish the priesthood of all believers. • Arise will be the soil that allows others to shine - We want people to say "Those people at ARISE are amazing", not "that pastor at ARISE is amazing. Reflection Question: What was your testimony in this "State of the Church Address'? Do you believe the church has a "star" problem? Why or why not? Are you ready to experience the fullness of what God has called you to become?

Sometimes in our faith walk, we can get frustrated instead of having faith. Let's take a look at how to have faith and trust in God in the middle of frustration.

This is the best time to be a church because light works best in darkness. It shines brightest amidst the darkness. This is our opportunity to be the light. Isaiah 59:14-17 Isaiah 60:1-3 Galatians 2:20 Matthew 5:14-16

Do you prefer mountains or beach?

Some people love mountains while others love the beach. Which are you?

The two could not be more different. The mountains are high and crowded with trees and rolling hills. The beach is low, with an open landscape of water and flat horizons. While we may enjoy one more than the other, the beauty of living in Florida is that you are able to visit both of them without too much travel (The North Georgia mountains are beautiful and only a 7-8 hour drive away).

Life will have mountaintops and valleys, This weekend at Arise we will discuss why each is necessary and beautiful in its own season.

We have been excited about this message for weeks, you're not going to want to miss it!

A quarter and a dollar. A mother wanted to teach her daughter a moral lesson. She gave the little girl a quarter and a dollar for church "Put whichever one you want in the collection plate and keep the other for yourself," she told the girl. When they were coming out of the church, the mother asked her daughter which amount she had given. "Well," said the little girl, "I was going to give the dollar, but just before the collection, the man in the pulpit said that we should all be cheerful givers. I knew I'd be a lot more cheerful if I gave the quarter, so I did." Come ready to give cheerfully in our annual Legacy Offering at Arise

Join us as we walk through the story of the Samaritan woman and how she was in need of water, but little did she know she'd encounter the living water of Jesus that never runs dry.

Let's come with Thanksgiving. I once read of a 12-year-old boy named David who was born without an immune system. He underwent a bone marrow transplant in order to correct the deficiency. Up to that point he had spent his entire life in a plastic bubble in order to prevent exposure to common germs, bacteria, and viruses that could kill him. He lived without ever knowing human contact. When asked what he'd like to do if and when released from his protective bubble, he replied, "I want to walk barefoot on grass, and touch my mother's hand." Too often it's the little things we take for granted that we need to be grateful for. Let's come to Arise with gratitude for all the many blessings the Lord has bestowed upon us!

Have you looked at yourself in these mirrors?

Remember going to the fair as a child and looking in the funhouse mirrors? Some made you look tall, or short, or skinny, or fat. They may have given you a long neck, or short legs, etc. It’s all just for fun unless you believe what those distorted mirrors tell you about yourself… in this message, we will expose how some of us have been viewing ourselves through distorted mirrors which have led to the bad habit of negative self-talk.

We've killed some spiders, let's talk about how to replace them with some spiritual habits that can change your life

Making decisions in the dark can lead to some regrettable consequences. Back in the days before electricity, a crotchety old farmer was complaining that his young friend carried an lighted lantern when he went to visit his girlfriend. "Why," he exclaimed, "when I went a-courtin' I never carried one of them things. I always went in the dark!" "Yes," the younger man said sternly, "and look what you got!" In a dark world looking for answers, Christians are meant to be as bright as a city on a hill.

In the book of Esther, the King of Persia, during a national banquet, felt publically disrespected by his wife Vashti, when she would not come into his presence as requested. We don’t know why she chose not to submit to her husband’s request, but her actions created quite the dilemma and led him to seek the wisdom of his advisors. After a bit of contemplation, they recommend that the King issue a decree to address not only Queen Vashti’s behavior but also ensure that all Persian women would respect their husbands moving forward. The only problem is that you cannot decree respect. You can only manipulate through fear.

I remember when I was younger sitting next to this amazing-looking car and immediately being jealous. The lines were clean and the paint sparkled and all of a sudden the car started going and I was no longer jealous. What looked like beauty on the outside hid some pretty big mechanical issues on the inside that you heard when the car tried to perform. Sometimes we are like that car where we look like we have it all together but inside there is something that needs to be fixed.

Once upon a time, there were two friends. Sam came from a family of bakers and Tom from a family of farmers. One day while returning from the market they met a banana salesman who offered them quite the deal on a batch of bananas. Sam wanted to buy the bananas to make banana nut bread. Tom wanted to buy the bananas to resell them. However, Sam had more money and insisted on buying all of the bananas, which made Tom angry. Tom called Sam greedy and selfish. For several weeks afterward, Tom would not talk to Sam. One day, while in the market, Tom saw a sign that said, Tom and Sam’s Banana Stand”. At the stand were fresh bananas and homemade banana bread. It was there that Tom realized his friend's true intention. The moral of the story is that sometimes what appears to be selfish is actually generosity in disguise.

What bug do you most hate seeing in your house A) Spiders. 😎 Roaches. C) Ants.

Have you ever thought, "Why do I keep sinning? Why do I keep making bad decisions and falling into the same patterns over and over again!?” Maybe it's time we stop cleaning the cobwebs in our life, and instead, start Killing the Spiders!

With swinging a bat, touching a football, or skating on ice, people around Champa Bay relished in the glory of being named champions. When it comes to the Kingdom of God we are winners by association.

Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't – you're right.” The Tampa Bay Rays are a true underdog story that optimizes that quote. Having one of the lowest payrolls in baseball, with some of the lowest fan attendance, the Rays could have chosen to believe they were a mediocre team… but instead they dared to believe they could be more. They won the American League pennant in 2020 and currently hold one of the best records in baseball. Why does this matter to you?

It's time to move beyond merely surviving life and start winning at life! Learn how you can Awaken the Champion within

A young salesman was disappointed about losing a big sale, and as he talked with his sales manager he lamented, "I guess it just proves you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink." The manager replied, "Son, take my advice: your job is not to make him drink. Your job is to make him thirsty." This is also true of evangelism. Jesus said Christians should be the "Salt of the earth", and salt makes you thirsty! Our lives should be so filled with Christ that they create a thirst for the Gospel in others.

We live in a cynical world.

Many grew up trusting things that are now considered untrustworthy. Whether it be trusting tap water, colleges to train your children, the government to have your best interest in mind, or trusting a handshake that a deal was done. We now live in a cynical world of distrust.

So what can we still trust? For instance, can we still trust the Bible? Or is it an antiquated book of legend and religious lies that has been changed and edited throughout the years?

Tomorrow at Arise we will rap up the Evidence series by taking a historical and scientific approach to examining whether or not the Bible is still trustworthy in our age of cynicism.

The word “apologetics” derives from the Greek word apologia, which was originally used of a speech of defense or an answer given in reply. In ancient Athens it referred to a defense made in the courtroom as part of the normal judicial procedure. After the accusation, the defendant was allowed to refute the charges with a defense or reply (apologia). The accused would attempt to “speak away” (apo—away, logia—speech) the accusation.

The classic example of such an apologia was Socrates’ defense against the charge of preaching strange gods, a defense retold by his most famous pupil, Plato, in a dialogue called The Apology (in Greek, hē apologia).

I hope you have enjoyed this weekends apologetics conference! Tomorrow we will continue in this theme as we give more evidence for Christianity and the logic of a life devoted to Jesus.

On today's show, we are looking at the start of the 2021 Fall School Semester, Pearl Necklaces? And getting ready for life.

East - West, Ethical - Immoral, Hero - Villain, God - Science??? In recent history, society has taught us that God and Science are opposite, opposed to each other even. But is that true? Does Science dispute the claim that God is real? That He created the heavens and the earth? Is God upset with Science? Today at ARISE we will answer these questions and more as we talk about God and Science.

If you’re a human, you have emotions. Some hide it well. Others wear it on full display. The truth is we all have emotions. And we all handle them differently. How do you handle yours? Is it holding you back from achieving all that God has for you?

Join us as we learn about certain emotions that can keep us from receiving all that God has for us. Matthew 14:21-33

The gang is back! And in this episode, Keren and Ken dive into the idea of identity and some other things :).

Some people take vitamin B shots. Some people take vitamins for increased energy. Some drink healthy concoctions of blended fruit and vegetables for energy, while others drink 5 Hour Energy or Red Bull. And most people drink coffee.

The fact is that we often need little “pick me ups” to get you through your day.

Tomorrow at Arise is a day that will increase your spiritual energy, build up your faith, and “give you wings” to fly above your problems! Comment below with your favorite "pick me up" drink, vitamin, or food.

In the early 1900s George Riddell acquired the sensational London newspaper The News of the World. Meeting British journalist Frederick Greenwood one day, Riddell mentioned that he owned a newspaper, told Greenwood its name, and offered to send him a copy. The next time they met, Riddell asked Greenwood what he thought of The News. "I looked at it and then I put it in the wastepaper basket," said Greenwood, "and then I thought, 'If I leave it there the cook may read it,' so I burned it." Many modern Americans struggle to trust the news. Tomorrow at Arise we will wrap up the Hebrews series with a powerful message examining the one truth we can always trust! Hebrews 13:8-9

A Canadian runner, Jacqueline Gareau, led the women during the 1980 Boston Marathon, only to find Rosie Ruiz wearing the traditional victor's laurels when she crossed the finish line. It was later confirmed that Ruiz hadn’t run the entire race, but cheated by taking a short cut. In life, there are no short cuts to the finish line, just a straight path. If you want to learn how to finish strong and well, come to church tomorrow!

Hebrews 12:1-4

Malcolm Muggeridge once wrote, “Contrary to what might be expected, I look back on experiences that at the time seemed especially desolating and painful with particular satisfaction. Indeed, I can say with complete truthfulness that everything I have learned in my 75 years in this world, everything that has truly enhanced and enlightened my experience, has been through affliction and not through happiness.” Life is not always easy. But through Christ you can overcome every adversity that life throws at you!

In 1893, at the age of 33, English professor Katharine Lee Bates climbed to the top of Pikes Peak in Colorado and gazed at the incredible beauty. She wrote, "All the wonder of America seemed displayed there, with the sea-like expanse." Suddenly, in the midst of this magical moment a poem began to rise in her soul. And it was there amidst God’s incredible creation that these words came to her: “O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain, For purple mountains majesties, Above the fruited plain! America! America! God shed His grace on thee…” America the beautiful was published two years later on July 4th, 1895 and has been a beloved American anthem every since. Tomorrow at Arise we will examine both the Bible and American history to discover what makes America beautiful, and why “God shed his grace on thee.”

I have to come back tomorrow? A boy comes home from his first day of school, and his mother asks, “What did you learn today?” “Not enough,” the boy replies. “They said I have to go back tomorrow.” Life is a nonstop lesson in growth. In fact, one of Arise’s core values is Growth: If you’re not growing you’re dying. Let’s talk about that growth here at Arise!

Highway to the Danger Zone

Deep in the soul of every man is a Maverick spirit. A yearning for a battle to fight, an adventure to live and a beauty to rescue. The writer of Hebrews said men “conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.” (Heb 11:33-34)

Deep you feel the yearning? Adventure is calling. Do you feel it? Tomorrow at Arise we’re taking the “Highway to the Danger Zone” in order to loose the Maverick soul of men during a powerful Top Gun themed message!

I once heard of a boy who was being loud and causing a distraction during church in a little country church in Kentucky. After a few minutes of this, his rather prudish-looking grandmother frustratedly hurried him out under her arm. The people tried not to notice, until the child captured everyone's attention by crying out in a loud but charming Southern accent, "Ya'll please pray for me!"

A child asked her father, "Where did people come from?" So her father said, "God made Adam and Eve then they had babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on." The child then went to her mother, asked her the same question and she told her, "We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now." The child ran back to her father and said, "You lied to me!" Her father replied, "No, your mom was talking about her side of the family." 🙂 Jesus is greater than any religion! Learn why as kick off this new series by learning to hear the voice of God for ourselves!

Two friends were walking through the desert. At some point of the journey, they had an argument, and one friend slapped the other one in the face. The one who got slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, stooped down and wrote in the sand “Today my best friend slapped me in the face”. They kept on walking until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a refreshing bath. The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him. After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone “Today my best friend saved my life”. The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, “After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand, and now, you write on a stone, why?” The other friend replied, “When a friend hurts us we should write it down in the sand where winds of forgiveness can erase it away. But, when a friend does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it.” Let's learn how to find, keep and be a next-level friend, just like Jesus is to us.

Power can be used in at least two ways: it can be unleashed, or it can be harnessed. For instance, the energy in ten gallons of gasoline can be released explosively by dropping a lighted match into the can. Or it can be channeled through the engine of a Ford in a controlled burn and used to transport a person 350 miles. Explosions are spectacular, but controlled burns have a lasting effect, staying power. The Holy Spirit works both ways. At Pentecost, He exploded on the scene; His presence was like "tongues of fire" (Acts 2:3). Thousands were affected by one burst of God's power. But He also works through the church - the institution the Holy Spirit empowers for the long haul - and He works through you - over the course of your lifetime to He leads you, empowers you, protects you, and works miracles through you.

Today is Pentecost Sunday! And we are believing for the fuel of the Holy Spirit to light a fire that both explodes and consistently burns within us! Also, don't forget, a special Pentecost Sunday rally is happening at 6pm at our Brandon campus where miraculous signs and healings will occur, as well as people being baptized in the Holy Spirit!

Andrew Murray once wrote: "God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to Him." This makes me wonder, "how surrendered am I to the Lord?" How much of my life would He not take responsibility for? How many bad relationships did I create, how much of my career was my vision, how many of my decisions were my will for my life? Every area of your life that is surrendered to the Lord is within the Kingdom of God and therefore, the Lord maintains responsibility for its success. Every area that is within my control and not given to the Lord, is my responsibility. Let's talk about this Kingdom truth related to our relationships, as we continue in our series "Next Level Relationships"!

The following is an excerpt of John Killinger's affirmation for mothers. "I believe in the love of all mothers, and its importance in the lives of the children, they bear. It is stronger than steel, softer than down, and more resilient than a green sapling on the hillside. It closes wounds, melts disappointments, and enables the weakest child to stand tall and straight in the fields of adversity. I believe that this love, even at its best, is only a shadow of the love of God, a dark reflection of all that we can expect of him, both in this life and the next. And I believe that one of the most beautiful sights in the world is a mother who lets this greater love flow through her to her child, blessing the world with the tenderness of her touch and the tears of her joy."

Arise churches plight is not unlike that of a group of porcupines that the famous philosopher Schopenhauer once used to illustrate a point. He explained that a group of porcupines were marooned one bitter cold night in the middle of a large frozen field. There was no way to escape the biting wind. They could not borrow into the frozen ground. As they huddled together to keep warm, their sharp quills began to pinch and hurt. The closer they moved together, the more the pain increased. Some of the animals could not bear the pain and drew apart to sleep alone. In the morning those porcupines had frozen to death. Only the ones who withstood the difficulty of becoming close survived.

There is often pain in the process of becoming close with other Christians. Personalities, styles, and character flaws will often rub you the wrong way. But make no mistake, as we come together we find the warmth and strength to survive every storm life throws at us!

A well-known fact about a boomerang is, once thrown, it returns to the thrower. The least remembered fact is that the boomerang is intended to be a weapon and only returns if it misses the target.

Too often in our material world, we throw our lives, effort, time, and money with the idea that it will come back to us with more. But what if we are really only missing the real target of life.

Today, we will uncover the insidious nature of materialism and how it tricks us into thinking we are the target so everything should come back to us, when God designed us to hit a different target in life.

One day a woman bought a very, very expensive dress. When she brought it home and her husband found out how much she spent on it, he said, “Why in the world would you buy that expensive of a dress? You know we can't afford it.”

The woman looked at her husband and said,” But honey, you don't understand, the devil made me do it! I tried it on in and the devil said to me, ‘you look awesome in that dress, girlfriend! That's got you written all over it! You gotta have that dress!’”

“Then why didn't you tell the devil to ‘get thee behind me, Satan?” the husband asked. His wife said, “I did tell the devil to ‘get thee behind me, Satan.’ And he went behind me and told me I looked good there too!” Haha. The enemy knows how to get us to compromise!

Listen to part three of the dramatic presentation “Not Today Satan,” let’s talk about one of his most common schemes to get us compromised!

One day a woman bought a very, very expensive dress. When she brought it home and her husband found out how much she spent on it, he said, “Why in the world would you buy that expensive of a dress? You know we can't afford it.”

The woman looked at her husband and said,” But honey, you don't understand, the devil made me do it! I tried it on in and the devil said to me, ‘you look awesome in that dress, girlfriend! That's got you written all over it! You gotta have that dress!’”

“Then why didn't you tell the devil to ‘get thee behind me, Satan?” the husband asked. His wife said, “I did tell the devil to ‘get thee behind me, Satan.’ And he went behind me and told me I looked good there too!”

Haha. The enemy knows how to get us to compromise! Listen to part three of the dramatic presentation “Not Today Satan,” let’s talk about one of his most common schemes to get us compromised!

Historian Shelby Foote tells of a soldier who was wounded at the battle of Shiloh during the American Civil War and was ordered to go to the rear. The fighting was fierce and within minutes he returned to his commanding officer.

"Captain, give me a gun!" he shouted. "This fight ain't got any rear!" When it comes to fighting your enemy there is no rear! In this message at Arise we continue our dramatic series "Not Today Satan" and learn how to defeat one of hell's greatest temptations.

A woman who lived in a remote valley in Wales went to a great deal of trouble to have electrical power installed in her home.

But once the lines were in, the electric company noticed she didn't use very much electricity at all. In fact, her usage was so minuscule that they sent a meter reader out to check on the matter.

The man came to the door and said, "Ma'am aren't you using the electricity we worked so hard to bring you?" "Oh yes.” She said, “We turn on the light every evening to see how to light our lamps and then we switch it off again."

This sounds a lot like the way Christians treat the power of God. The Apostle Paul said “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.”

In this message at Arise, we not only talk about Resurrection Power… We begin utilizing it!

Arise is more than friendly people.

It’s more than comfortable environments and exciting kids ministry.

We are more than good music. More than Bible teaching.

We are a place where lives are reborn. Relationships are restored. And healing happens.

As people assemble at Arise, old things become new, broken things become whole, and chains lose their hold.

We are a place where dead bones Arise and prophecy about the goodness of God.

Why?

Because God's presence is the most important part of our church... PERIOD.

We clear the stage for Him.

So, listen to this week's message with anticipation. Pray with belief. And watch what The Lord will do as you receive from His Word.

97% of the world has heard of Coke-a-Cola. 94% of the world recognize the Coke-a-Cola logo. Coke-a-Cola has become the 2nd most recognized term in the world, next to Okay. 0% of the world has been saved by Coke-a-Cola. In this message at Arise we will see how we can partner together to make Jesus more famous than Coke around the world!

Theologian and New Testament scholar, F.F. Bruce, tells the story of Sundar Singh, a Tibetan Christian who was likewise freed miraculously from a prison. For preaching of the gospel, he was thrown into a well, and a cover set over it and securely locked.

He would be left in the well until he died, and he could see the bones and rotting corpses of those who had already perished in there. On the third night of his imprisonment, he heard someone unlocking the cover of the well and removing it.

A voice told him to take hold of the rope that was being lowered. Sundar was grateful that the rope had a loop he could put his foot in, because he had injured his arm in the fall down into the well.

He was raised up, the cover was replaced and locked, but when he looked to thank his rescuer he could find no one. When morning came, he went back to the same place he was arrested and started preaching again.

News of the preaching came to the official who had him arrested, and Sundar was brought before him again. When the official said someone must have gotten the key and released him, they searched for the key – and found it on the official’s own belt.

In this message we learn how to “Build Your Tel” by examining a similar miraculous escape from prison and how it reveals the power to escape any ordeal you are trapped in!

It was one year ago that we started hearing about this “Coronavirus.” At first, many of us laughed at it and made jokes about it (remember all the Corona Beer memes?).

A year later, it has turned our lives upside down, and we’re not laughing anymore. What do you do when something out of your control tears down everything you have been building?

In this message at Arise we answer that question as we share the David and Bathsheba account as you have never heard it before! This will be a message you won’t soon forget, with one of the most violent illustrations you will ever see in church…

Listen to this message as our guest speaker walks us trough the story of Moses marrying the Ethiopian woman and how we can learn from this story how to get things right with God and people to move on to a better future.

F. Andresh Czonka, an immigrant from Hungary now a naturalized U.S. citizen living in Illinois said this:

"Americans are afraid. I see the fear in their eyes; I hear it in their voices. They lock their doors. They lie to protect themselves. I feel so bad for the country. But I feel so bad for the individual people; they seem to hurt so much, to be so alone. My country had problems. But we had an inner strength that is missing here. We had a different group of things we wanted to achieve, different things that we considered important and valuable. I wish this for Americans, to have the inner strength that God can give.

When I came to this country, I was excited to be an American and to be with Americans. I looked at your country and felt it was the best in the world. And since my childhood I have believed that your country was blessed because of your faith in God and you’re chasing for the right things in life. But now I think differently.

Americans don’t have much real faith in God. This surprised me. I thought when the tough times come; Americans make it okay by praying to God and being connected with Him. But this is not the case. Not many people pray. People here think they can do it by themselves. This saddens me, because I am a man of faith. I know I cannot do it except by the grace and power of God." (If Things Are So Good, Why Do I Feel So Bad? pg. 27, 31 by George Barna)

Prepare to learn some powerful truths from the experience of immigrants to America in this message from Arise!

Many love forbidden love stories! Like when King Edward VIII fell in love with the American, non-royal, and twice divorced Wallis Simpson! Marrying her was forbidden, but on December 11, 1936, King Edward delivered a BBC broadcast saying he could not do his job as king without the support of "the woman I love."

Making a monumental sacrifice in the name of love, he then abdicated his throne as king of the United Kingdom in order to marry her! This became known as the “abdication crisis” as politicians did not know what to do at this unprecedented affair.

It was a case of forbidden love! Is interracial marriage also forbidden love? What does it mean to be unequally yoked? Let’s talk about it in this message at Arise as we continue our “Blackish: The Black Experience in America” series at Arise.

Tom Brady, the man who is considered to be the greatest quarterback of all time was drafted at the end of the 6th round of the NFL draft… and there’s only 7 rounds.

He and his family had believed that Brady would be drafted in the second or third round; they watched the draft on television, stunned as six other quarterbacks were drafted before the GOAT.

Brady was so embarrassed that he briefly left the family home during the sixth round, and cried when recalling the experience for an interview 11 years later.

Listen to this message as we see how even when you feel undrafted, God can use your pain to create your gain!

Have you ever played the game Jenga? You know the one where you have all the rectangular prism shaped pieces of wood that you stack alternating one way and then another. And then…you try to take out pieces to see how many you can take out without making the tower fall.

You even end up using the pieces you take out to build the tower higher. But if you take out the wrong piece…the whole thing will tumble and fall. Sometimes life feels that way too.

Sometimes the foundational pieces of our lives that belong on the bottom holding things up, end up in another place, and sometimes even shaped completely different.

Listen to this message as we examine how God sees the family, and the fundamental importance of family to our lives. We will discover God’s plan for our family and how we can be a family that is like that foundational Jenga piece that carries the weight of so many other pieces.

Have you ever hit a stopping point or a wall if you will, only to experience a second wind? Did it allow you to go farther than you thought you could? If you have, you are in the company of great athletes, leaders and parents. A second wind is a phenomenon found in distance running and other endurance activities whereby person who is out of energy pushes forward and suddenly finds the strength to press on to new levels of performance.

Listen to this message as we discover how you can take your exploration of God’s Word to a new level. Discover that perseverance can lead to greater rewards and revelations than you ever anticipated.

We have the ability to push off from the dock of 2020 and launch out into deep waters. We still have the ability to experience all that God has for us in 2021 and just in case you’re wondering, that will probably include a few curve balls.

Curve balls like illnesses, financial struggles, and relational challenges, just to name a few. Curveballs are simply a part of the game of life and to be honest, they can take out the average player. But you my dear Riser are not an average player. You are an extreme-o-phile.

So, let’s get practical in this message. How do we navigate the kinetic circumstances that followed us into the new year and how do we navigate the curve balls that have been thrown at us already in 2021?

It's time to mix politics and religion! In this message we start off our Hot Topics series with a bang by talking about our current American politics! Has politics replaced religion in America? Is there a cult of Trump? Should Christians be involved in politics? What is the solution for America? And most importantly, WHAT IS GOD SAYING DURING THIS CHAOS? All these questions and more will be answered in this message from Arise as we begin our Hot Topics series of talks!

2020 has been a year none of us will ever forget. Yet, amidst all the chaos of 2020, God has been incredibly faithful, and this weekend at Arise we will celebrate God’s faithfulness as well as share the vision for 2021 in our annual “State of the Church Address”!

This annual message is the highlight of each year, as we look back over the specific wins from the previous year and learn what our church has in store for 2021.

We know that 2020 has been a year like none other, but we are going to be a church that puts good habits into place in 2021. Habits are small things that make a big difference. Listen to this message as Pastor Brent teaches us to form the habits that form us.

When Pope Julius I authorized December 25th to be celebrated as the birthday of Jesus in A.D. 353, who would have ever thought that it would become what it is today. When Professor Charles Follen lit candles on the first Christmas tree in America in 1832, who would have ever thought that the decorations would become as elaborate as they are today.

It is a long time since 1832, longer still from 353, and even longer still from that dark night brightened by a special star in which Jesus the king was born. Yet, in the midst of all the excitement, festivities, decorations, and gifts, December 25th gives us yet another opportunity to pause, reflect, and to consider again the event of Christmas and the person whose birth we celebrate.

A successful Irish boxer was converted and became a preacher. He happened to be in a town setting up his evangelistic tent when a couple of tough thugs noticed what he was doing. Knowing nothing of his background, they starting making insulting remarks. The Irishman simply turned and looked at them. Pressing his luck, one of the bullies took a swing and struck a glancing blow on one side of the ex-boxer’s face. He said nothing as he shook it off and stuck out his jaw. The fellow took another glancing blow on the other side. At that point the preacher swiftly took off his coat, rolled up his sleeves, and announced, “The Lord gave me no further instructions.” Whop! How do actually overcome evil with good? Find out in this message of the week from Arise!

Earlier this year, Glover Teixeira extended his winning run at a UFC Fight Night show at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida beating Anthony Smith.

During the fight, Teixeira landed 138 strikes, beating up Smith so badly that his teeth fell out. While 15,000 fans screamed for more, in the middle of the fifth round, the Brazilian Teixeira was overheard apologizing to his American challenger.

Over and over, with each punch, Teixeira would say, “sorry, part of the job.” Taking it in stride, Smith, who landed just one strike in the third round and none in the fifth, could be heard responding, “It is what it is.”

If only apologizing were this easy. In this message, we continue our current series, “Throwing Shade” and discuss through the lens of scripture how conflict begins and how to navigate it God’s way. We have a few new tools to add to your Relationship Restoration toolboxes.

This weekend, we all did some devouring. We devoured our Thanksgiving meals. Check out some of these “devouring” Thanksgiving statistics: • Around 46 million turkeys are eaten in the USA on Thanksgiving Day. • Americans consume between 2,500-4,500 calories at the Thanksgiving table. (That's the equivalent of eating between four and eight Big Macs in a single sitting.) • Campbell's makes 40% of its total sales of cream of mushroom soup for the year leading up to Thanksgiving — (and much of it goes into green bean casserole.) • Americans consume 80 million pounds of cranberries during Thanksgiving, including 5,062,500 gallons of jellied cranberry — (enough to fill nearly eight Olympic-sized swimming pools.) • Shoppers purchase nearly 214 million pounds of potatoes and 50 million pounds of sweet potatoes from US supermarkets in the weeks before Thanksgiving. • People purchase nearly 19 million ready-made pies ahead of Thanksgiving. Now, while we love to devour food, especially this time of year, have you ever felt devoured by someone else’s words through criticism and gossip? In this message we discuss how Christ followers shouldn’t devour one another with their words, but that Christ has called His followers to build one another up.

A man working in the produce department was asked by a lady if she could buy half a head of lettuce. He replied, "Half a head? Are you serious? God grows these in whole heads and that's how we sell them!"

"You mean," she persisted, "that after all the years I've shopped here, you won't sell me half-a-head of lettuce?"

"Look," he said, "If you’d like, I'll ask the manager."

She indicated that would be appreciated, so the young man marched to the front of the store. "You won't believe this, but there's a lame-braided idiot of a lady back there who wants to know if she can buy half-a-head of lettuce."

He noticed the manager gesturing, and turned around to see the lady standing behind him, obviously having followed him to the front of the store.

"And this nice lady was wondering if she could buy the other half" he concluded.

This weekend at Arise we will learn how to not only speak the truth, but to speak the truth in love!

Years ago, a large statue of Christ was erected high in the Andes on the border between Argentina and Chile. Called "Christ of the Andes," the statue symbolizes a pledge between the two countries that as long as the statue stands, there will be peace between Chile and Argentina. Shortly after the statue was erected, the Chileans began to protest that they had been slighted -- the statue had its back turned to Chile. Just when tempers were at their highest in Chile, a Chilean newspaperman saved the day. In an editorial that not only satisfied the people but made them laugh, he simply said, "The people of Argentina need more watching over than the Chileans.” In this message we start the series "Throwing Shade" where we will learn to be peacemakers amidst our world at war!

Our family once took a road trip all the way to Canada. We drove over 3,500 miles and saw all types of amazing places along the way. Yet we ended the trip at the same familiar place we started it… our driveway! And even though the trip was amazing, we were so glad to be home!

In this message we wrap up our journey through Revelation by examining the exciting conclusion of the Bible, and we’ll discover that it ends at the same place it began…

Pastor Brent

Children trick or treat all over the United States on October 31st. While they may say “trick or treat,” most of these kids thoroughly expect a treat and have no plans for a trick.

But there is coming a day when a supreme global trick will be played on the world… and yet it will appear as a treat. The antichrist will be masked in charisma, intelligence, and peace.

But when the mask comes off, he will be revealed as a nightmare from which you can’t wake up. He will demand allegiance through a mark, and anyone not accepting the mark will be hunted down and killed.

This isn’t a scary story… this is real life! And it’s coming sooner than you may think… In this message at Arise we unmask the antichrist, the mark of the beast, 666, and what it all means to you!

Louis Pasteur’s coworker in the demonstration of what used to be called the germ theory was Dr. Felix Ruh, a Jewish doctor in Paris. The physician’s granddaughter had died of black diphtheria, and Dr. Ruh, vowing he would find out what had killed his granddaughter, locked himself in his laboratory for days. He emerged with a fierce determination to prove, with his colleague Louis Pasteur, that the germ theory was more than a theory.

The medical association had disapproved of Pasteur and had succeeded in getting him exiled, but he did not go far from Paris. He hid in the forest and erected a laboratory in which to continue his forbidden research.

Twenty beautiful horses were led out into the forest to the improvised laboratory. Scientists, doctors, and nurses came to watch the experiment. Ruh opened a steel vault and took out a large pail filled with black diphtheria germs, which he had cultured carefully for months. There were enough germs in that pail to kill everyone in France. The scientist went to each horse and swabbed its nostrils, tongue, throat, and eyes with the deadly germs. Every horse except one developed a terrific fever and died. Most of the doctors and scientists wearied of the experiment and did not remain for what they thought would be the death of the remaining horse.

For several more days this final horse lingered, lying pathetically on the ground. While Ruh, Pasteur, and several others were sleeping on cots in the stables, the orderly on duty had been instructed to awaken the scientists should there be any change in the animal’s temperature during the night. About two o’clock in the morning the temperature showed a half-degree decrease, and the orderly awakened Dr. Ruh. By morning the thermometer had dropped two more degrees. By night the fever was entirely gone, and the horse was able to stand, eat, and drink.

Then Dr. Ruh took a sledgehammer and struck that beautiful horse a deathblow between the eyes. The scientist drew all the blood from the veins of this animal that had developed the black diphtheria but had overcome it. The scientists drove as fast as they could to the municipal hospital in Paris. They forced their way past the superintendent and the guards and went into the ward where three hundred babies lay, segregated to die from black diphtheria. With the blood of the horse, they forcibly inoculated every one of the babies. All but three lived and recovered completely.

They were saved by the blood of an overcomer. You have also been saved by the blood of an overcomer! Listen to this message as we share how you can also overcome by the blood!

True worship sets our lives on fire in a way that no substitute can compare.

But what is true worship?

William Temple defined it like this: For worship is the submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by His holiness; the nourishment of mind with His truth; the purifying of imagination by His beauty; the opening of the heart to His love; the surrender of will to His purpose -- and all of this gathered up in adoration, the most selfless emotion of which our nature is capable and therefore the chief remedy for that self-centeredness which is our original sin and the source of all actual sin.

Listen to this message discover what worship looks like in heaven!

For most of history, man did not realize that just below their natural eyesight was a hidden atomic world of cells, bacteria, and viruses. Scientists call this sensory limitation. We now know that the naked eye is not a reliable guide to all there is in the world because modern microscopes reveal a marvelous and minuscule world that remained hidden from eyesight throughout antiquity.

In Revelation, John is invited to see into the spiritual realm. He learns that a whole other world exists just past his natural eyesight. And what does he find? What is this world like? Well, that's the subject in this messages from Arise! Listen to this message for an eye opening look into the world just beyond our own!

There’s an old, well known story of a chicken farmer who found an eagle’s egg.

He put it with his chickens and soon the egg hatched. The young eagle grew up with all the other chickens and whatever they did, the eagle did too. He thought he was a chicken, just like them.

Since the chickens could only fly for a short distance, the eagle also learnt to fly a short distance. He thought that was what he was supposed to do. So that was all that he thought he could do. As a consequence, that was all he was able to do.

One day the eagle saw a bird flying high above him. He was very impressed. “Who is that?” he asked the hens around him. “That’s the eagle, the king of the birds,” the hens told him. “He belongs to the sky. We belong to the earth, we are just chickens.”

So the eagle lived and died as a chicken, for that’s what he thought he was. In this message we learn how to break the mold of conformity and live out our greater calling!

The word “essential” has become a buzzword this year. When the pandemic first began, many businesses were temporarily shut down because they were considered non-essential.

We all asked the questions:

Are fast food restaurants essential?

Are clothing stores essential? What makes this business essential, but not this one?

Am I not essential?

While we have things in our culture that we now consider essential and non-essential, God has some things that He believes should be essential in the life of every believer and church.

In this message, we continue our current series by studying the Church of Philadelphia. A church that held onto these essentials. Together, we learn what these essentials are, and how we can be the church that Christ prefers.

While on a South Pole expedition, British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton left a few men on Elephant Island, promising that he would return.

Later, when he tried to go back, huge icebergs blocked the way. But suddenly, as if by a miracle, an avenue opened in the ice and Shackleton was able to get through.

His men, ready and waiting, quickly scrambled aboard. No sooner had the ship cleared the island than the ice crashed together behind them.

Contemplating their narrow escape, the explorer said to his men, "It was fortunate you were all packed and ready to go!" They replied, "We never gave up hope. Whenever the sea was clear of ice, we rolled up our sleeping bags and reminded each other, 'The boss may come today.'"

Make no mistake, Jesus is also returning. Like Shackleton's men, it is our responsibility to be ready and awaiting for our Lord's return. In this message, Pastor Brent discusses the promised hope of the second coming of our Savior.

Have you ever had that pit of the stomach feeling of knowing you messed up? What will people say about you? Will you be rejected by others? Friends? Your job? Family? God? Will they all mock you and not give you another chance because you have finally shown what a "mess up" you really are? What if there was a way to reach past the rejection of that moment? Would you take it? Join us for this message as we talk about the Church of Thyatira and how they had messed up, but God was giving them an opportunity not to face rejection, but acceptance through repentance. Join us as as we discover along with the Church of Thyatira how it is within the humility of the admission of wrong that we can find the foundation of being made right by God.

Great leaders understand that employees need recognition as well as training and development in order to optimally perform.

Great parents know that children need affirmation and direction to become the best version of themselves.

In the same way, the Lord who is the ultimate leader and parent is portrayed in Revelation as a having a doubled edged sword coming out of His mouth. It reminds us that He always knows when to encourage His children and when to rebuke them.

In this message we continue our current series by studying the Church of Pergamum. A church who was deserving of both sides of the sword.

We’ve heard it said that one can either be a great example or a really good warning. Together, we’ll discover who they were and will get to choose who we are going to be.

Ordinary carbon is formed into extraordinary diamonds while under tremendous pressure and heat. If these conditions do not exist, they are simply not created.

Heat and pressure have a way of taking ordinary things and making them extraordinary. Certainly, our world has turned up the heat and the pressure! But will we allow God to use these refining fires to turn us into diamonds?

We’ve heard it said, the only difference between a diamond and a piece of coal is pressure. In this message, Pastor Brent shows how the Church of Smyrna allowed the heat and pressure of their persecution and poverty to turn them into the richest church of Revelation!

Your neighbors probably won't appreciate it if you open their personal mail... In fact, we definitely don't recommend reading someone else's mail... UNLESS...

Unless you're referring to the seven letters to the seven churches of Revelation! Because the letters Jesus wrote to these 7 churches were meant to be read, taught and applied by all of us. In this message we examine the letter to the Church of Ephesus (Rev 2:1-7) and discover that the message to them is still the message to us.

In our image based world of distractions, we must keep the Love of God burning in our hearts as the fuel for our works and mission.

Are we living in the end times? Is Christ’s return imminent? If so, how do we prepare ourselves? How do we respond? While we can debate whether this is the end of the world, it certainly seems to be the end of the world as we know it!

Join us for the first part of this new message series as we take an in depth study on the book of Revelation that is meant to prepare us for trials, persecution, and whatever comes next in America. God is revealing His revelations for those who will earnestly seek them.

In the movie, Jumanji, Dr. Smolder Bravestone makes this profound statement, “It’s a lot easier to be brave when you’ve got lives to spare. It’s a lot harder when you only have one life.”

Wow! Isn’t that the truth? It’s easy to be brave when you’ve got a backup plan, money in the bank and great people supporting you.

But what do you do when all of your security blankets are gone and you’ve been invited to go to the next level? What do you do when you’re invited to trust God with your whole life and you don’t understand what is happening or why?

In this message we continue our study of Joseph and together we explore how to take our faith life to the next level. Welcome to the Jungle!

Choosing the right game piece for a board game is almost as important as playing the game itself. Choosing your character on a video game is also fun!

Right now the world is consumed with creating just the right Avatar on Facebook. Choosing our character is a part of life. It’s also part of the Christian life!

Listen to this message as we continue our Jumanji series. Together we will explore the thought that choosing our character is vital to winning the game!⁣ This message has some special moments for your kids!

In the winter of 2017, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle came to theaters. The movie follows 4 teenagers that are stuck in a game in the jungle known as Jumanji.⁣ Every day they are faced with level after level of attacks from everything from rhinos to hunters that are willing to take them out in search for a valuable jewel. This year, we have been “sucked” into our own game of Jumanji. Over the past several months we have experienced everything from a global pandemic to murder hornets and everything in between. The consequences to these situations have touched all of us in one way or another. Yet, in spite of the cards we have been dealt, we can walk in the confidence that we we can survive our Jumanji!⁣ Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”⁣ Join us for this kid friendly series as we learn how to survive Jumanji. ⁣

Who didn’t love Zorro?!⁣

He wore all black, and rode a beautiful black stallion in an era where good guys wore white hats! He would sword fight against bad guys instead of the typical 6-gun shoot-outs of most westerns!⁣

And he always left his infamous “Z” inscribed somewhere just to let everyone know he was responsible for winning this particular fight for justice!⁣

Zorro was sneaky! He would be here and then gone. Seemingly vanishing into thin air. In this way, Zorro was a sly fox… which is what Zorro means in Spanish, “fox.”⁣

You have an enemy who is a sly fox. He’s sneaky. He’s cunning and crafty. He’s studying you because he wants to leave his mark on you. He wants to devour you!⁣

You know him as Satan, but he doesn’t actually wear red, have horns, or a pitchfork… No, he is much more sneaky than that!⁣

Let’s learn how to take the mask off our mutual enemy, reveal his schemes, and overcome him together!⁣

There is an interesting question as it pertains to the Batman comic book hero: Which one is the impostor? Bruce Wayne or Batman? Which one is the heroes true identity and which one is the impostor?⁣

Is he a billionaire pretending to be a hero? Or a hero pretending to be a billionaire? It certainly seems harder for Batman to play the role of billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne than it is for Bruce Wayne to play the role of Batman...⁣ ⁣

Two identities living in one person… Batman seems uncomfortable with Bruce Wayne. But Bruce Wayne also seems comfortable with Batman.⁣ ⁣

This also makes us wonder, was Jesus a man moonlighting as God? Or God moonlighting as a man? And like batman, was there ever any confusion over which one of the two was the authentic one within Him?⁣ ⁣

Many of us live with an impostor living within us that constantly reminds us that we don’t belong here and we’re not all that people think we are. We may even feel like we’re 2 personalities living in one body.⁣ ⁣

Listen to this message as we reveal and remove the "Impostor Syndrome" the same way Jesus did… Through God’s Word.⁣

Depression is an epidemic in our society. Just look at these depressing depression statistics….⁣ ⁣

17.3 million adults or 7.1% of all adults in America have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year.⁣ ⁣
Every American generation is having higher rates of depression than the one who preceded it.⁣ ⁣
Anti-depressant use has gone up over 300% in the last 20 years.⁣ ⁣
1.9 million children, 3 – 17, have diagnosed depression.⁣ ⁣
And far too often depression leads to suicide. From 2001 through 2017 the suicide rate increased 31%.⁣ ⁣

Right now, our world is a recipe for depression and suicidal thoughts. Listen to this message from Pastor Brent at our SouthShore Campus as he addresses this topic head on, and gives practical advice on how those battling depression can overcome.⁣ ⁣

If you know anyone suffering from depression, or anxiety, or unusually high stress, please take a moment and share this video with them. It could literally save their life!⁣

Pastor Josh (our Kids Pastor) recently joked, “People are concerned about wearing masks to church? They been wearing masks to church for years!”⁣ Wow… No matter which side of the ideological mask war you're on, we need to recognize that we each wear invisible masks throughout our lives. Like actors in a play, we perform for the crowd pretending to be what we’re not. And unfortunately, the church may be the most common stage for this performance.⁣ ⁣ How is it that the place God designed us to go to for acceptance has become a place we can’t find acceptance without being fake?⁣ Listen to this message as we learn to take the masks off and learn to live the good, the bad and the ugly in us all.⁣

In an old Peanuts cartoon Lucy demanded that Linus change TV channels, threatening him with her fist if he didn't. "What makes you think you can walk right in here and take over?" asks Linus.⁣

"These five fingers," says Lucy. "Individually they're nothing but when I curl them together like this into a single unit, they form a weapon that is terrible to behold."⁣

"Which channel do you want?" asks Linus.⁣ Turning away, he looks at his fingers and says, "Why can't you guys get organized like that?"⁣

There is certainly something powerful about coming together physically to worship and seek the Lord! It's not that we cannot do it alone, but we think we have all missed corporate worship. Join us for this message which is the day we finally came back together! Let's move forward in unity and give the enemy a black eye with our unity of worship!⁣

Love is celebrated worldwide. Rich and poor celebrate it. Every language and every color celebrate love. People writes songs, and poetry and books about love.

Love is powerful! It can cause a tough man to write gentle poetry. And a soft woman to fight off wolves with her bare hands. Love can cause someone to give their very life for another. Love is powerful… but it’s also painful. Love opens your heart up and allows the potential for your heart to be broken. No one can hurt you nearly as much as someone you love deeply.

The greater your love, the greater your potential for pain is. This makes love incredibly risky, So why do we do it? Listen to this cinematic message as Pastor Brent explains what we can learn about love from a story of where God told a prophet to marry a prostitute.

Every great man and woman of God go through times where they have to keep running while it’s raining around them… and on them. Jesus said that God sends rain on the just and the unjust. So don’t think that just because you love Jesus and are seeking to serve him that rain won’t come… Rain will come on us all, the question is what will you do with it?

Have you ever seen a cook who has such a taste for something that he can spot the most minor ingredient missing? Or a builder who can walk in and immediately see a problem that we didn’t even know was there?

Experts do that – They have a trained eye. The Apostle Paul was a church planter and in Acts 19 he quickly spots something that was missing from the believers. Paul was accustomed to sensing the power of the Holy Spirit in people's lives.

What can this story teach us about our own walk with Christ? Listen to this cinematic message to find out!

One of Pastor Brent's favorite songs as a teen was “The Dance” by Garth Brooks. It was the final tune on his debut album. At first glance the song seems to be about love lost, but Garth Brooks always saw it more of a song for people who gave their all for a cause and would say the dance was worth the pain.

The video then features images of people who died for their dream. In fact, Tony Arata wrote the song in 1986 and had 3 years of rejection before it was eventually recorded by Garth in 1989.

This message looks at the story of Mary and Martha and discusses how life isn't all about balance... Life is about The Dance…

Have you ever read Psalm 23? No Psalm is more memorized or quoted than Psalm 23, and often this Psalm is only quoted at funerals. It is the most famous of all the Psalms.

For 3000 years this Psalm has brought comfort to people. Augustin called it the Martyrs hymn because so many martyrs went to their deaths quoting it. Abraham Lincoln took comfort in this Psalm as he was weary of the Civil War. George W. Bush quoted it to a nation that was confused after 9-11-2001.

Psalm 23 was a Psalm of David and it’s simple enough that a child can understand it, but deep enough for a theologian to drown. It's short and sweet with only six verses, but is also very powerful. This is the mature David looking back over his life and recognizing how God has led him like he used to lead his sheep.

Check out this message as Pastor Brent discusses how it’s time we move Psalm 23 from tombstones and inscribe it on our own hearts.

We all know mothers are important – We wouldn’t be here without them. And while some mothers were not the best, most of our mothers are worthy to be praised, honored and appreciated.

Biblically speaking, we know of some great mothers. People like Sarah, Naomi, Hanna, and of course Mary the mother of Jesus. Have you ever considered that Jesus’ ministry began at the request of his mother, and some of his last words on the cross were toward caring for his mother? Certainly mothers are important to Jesus and they should be to us as well!

So, what if we told you that 3 of the greatest leaders in Biblical history were born from the same woman? That would be crazy right? And what if we told you that you may not even know her name? That would just be sad! Check out this cinematic message as we dive into the greatest mother in the Bible and what we can learn from her story of what it takes to be a great parent.