Radiant Church: Recent Episodes
@radiantcoast
Radiant Church in Ludington, Michigan, exists to lead people to become radiant disciples of Jesus Christ, who are seeking the Kingdom first, growing in Community, and engaged in Mission. www.radiantcoast.org #beradiant
The Power of Godly Kindness
In the second to last episode of “Building Bridges”, Pastor Jerry and Nate reflect on some of the lessons and ways they have grown since recording the first podcast in May of 2022. Out of the many things, one stands out the most. The power of Godly kindness.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
I Am Yours
Continuing the conversation from episode 8 “The Power of Godly Kindness” Pastor Jerry and Nate wrap up the Building Bridges Podcast with the song “I am Yours” written by Nate. After leaving such a life of opposition toward God, it was easy to get stuck in fear of failing Him. However, God’s response to fear is reminding us that we belong to Him. It’s in living out our identity in Him, living for Him, that we find peace and freedom. In place of fear, God gave Nate the declarative words of truth… “I Am Yours”.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
Different Stories, Same JesusGregory Coles and Nate Meek have stories about growing up with same-sex attractions and Christianity. As they share their experiences, it's hard not to see the beauty of God’s love. Yet while the outcome of their lives looks different, both stand today as Christians who want to honor God with their lives and help others walk toward Christ.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
The Same Heart
Tiana and Nate Meek join Pastor Jerry to share their story as husband and wife. They share not only victories and highlights, but they also shed light on the darker, more difficult moments of marriage. It is a deep honor for them to share what has happened so God can be glorified not only in their life, but so God can be glorified in other lives as well.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
FRIENDSHIP, HOPE & HEALING
James 5:16 says: “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” Julie, Nate’s friend, joins the conversation to talk about how God heals through fellowship.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
HEART OF A FATHER
“An instructor can tell you what to do, but a father will get involved." As Nate’s first mentor Pastor John Prominski, lead pastor at Restore Church in Ionia, MI, joins the conversation to talk from his perspective in supporting and mentoring Nate as he discovered what it truly means to be a child of God.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
IT'S LIKE OSMOSIS
What are the elements that contribute to a life-giving relationship with Christ? Pastor Jerry and Nate talk (and laugh) about fellowship, worship, prayer, biblical teaching and MORE!
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
A MOTHER'S PRAYER
Pastor Lisa Prominski joins the conversation from Restore Church in Ionia, MI to talk about the role Nate’s Mother and prayer played in his journey towards Christ.
"People To Be Loved" Book"Embodied" Book
THE CONVERSATION BEGINS
Pastor Jerry and Nate begin to tell the story of Nate's journey towards Christ. "It's not conversion therapy or counseling... it's God walking this out with me one simple step at a time." Quoting Nate from Episode 1
EFFECTIVE LEADERS are secure in their role, understanding that their the position, influence, favor, and victories come from God and are quick to give him all of the glory. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS stay focused on the goal and purposely discipline themselves, not allowing distractions to divide their attention. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS not only execute plans but also work to do good for those under their authority. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS accomplish their goals and are pro-active in protecting the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of those under their authority. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS identify their people’s passions. They are deliberate in harnessing and keeping those strong desires as the primary focus. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS pray to discern and implement what is within their grasp to change and trust God to take care of the rest. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS are aware when opposition exists and ask God for wisdom and the best timing to minimize conflict. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS must be willing to rely on the authority and goodwill of others to gain their support and be successful. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS know the importance of consistent Godly character to fulfill the plans of both God and man. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS do not get defeated or complain but always show up with a plan. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS take responsibility for others at the prompting of the Holy Spirit. #yearofleading
EFFECTIVE LEADERS daily ask God for guidance in order to be positioned for increased influence. #yearofleading
Life doesn’t always go the way we expect, and we pray to God for help and guidance. But sometimes it seems like even though we pray with faith, God doesn’t do what we've asked. We seek Him, but don’t feel His presence. We go through pain, but our cries for relief seem to go unanswered. Sometimes, our lives just don't make sense.
Life doesn’t always go the way we expect, and we pray to God for help and guidance. But sometimes it seems like even though we pray with faith, God doesn’t do what we've asked. We seek Him, but don’t feel His presence. We go through pain, but our cries for relief seem to go unanswered. Sometimes, our lives just don't make sense.
Life doesn’t always go the way we expect, and we pray to God for help and guidance. But sometimes it seems like even though we pray with faith, God doesn’t do what we've asked. We seek Him, but don’t feel His presence. We go through pain, but our cries for relief seem to go unanswered. Sometimes, our lives just don't make sense.
The Church must recognize that now, more than ever, we are called to stand as an immovable Kingdom force. Our enemy seeks to wear us out but the Lord is the strength and purpose for our lives. Learn to live as those who “hold the line” in the name of Christ!
In response to the knowledge of the saving grace of God, all of us must ask the question; "what shall we do?" Jesus paid too high of a price on the cross for us not to wrestle with the reality of our sin, His love for us and plan for our redemption.
If left unchecked, the gift from God of sexual intimacy can become a plague in our lives.
Just as we need physical guardrails on a road to direct and protect us, we need guardrails in other arenas of our lives as well.
OUR PURPOSE /// We exist to lead people to become radiant disciples of Jesus Christ, who are seeking the Kingdom first, growing in Community and engaged in Mission.
In this final message of our Open Doors series, Pastor Jerry unpacks what it means to be faithful in all things both large and small. If we are going to advance in both the Kingdom and the natural realm, we are required to be faithful with little before we have the opportunity to be faithful with much.
Generosity is more of an attitude than an action. The bible says that “God loves a cheerful giver.” In this message, Pastor Jerry shares the freedom that comes with a giving spirit. When we choose to be generous, we open the door to receive more in our own lives.
Not all prayer is not equal. If this is true, then what is effectual prayer? What kind of prayer would God want us to pray? If we are going to see answers to our prayers, we must be personal, specific and persistent.
What does it take to unlock revival in your life? Where can generosity lead you, if you step beyond yourself? What doors does God have for you this year?
Do you have questions? The Bible has the answers! The Red Hot message series will be addressing the questions you send in…the ones you’ve been wanting to ask! Everything goes from parenting, theology, relationships, politics, sex, money and more.
Do you have questions? The Bible has the answers! The Red Hot message series will be addressing the questions you send in…the ones you’ve been wanting to ask! Everything goes from parenting, theology, relationships, politics, sex, money and more.
Do you have questions? The Bible has the answers! The Red Hot message series will be addressing the questions you send in…the ones you’ve been wanting to ask! Everything goes from parenting, theology, relationships, politics, sex, money and more.
Do you have questions? The Bible has the answers! The Red Hot message series will be addressing the questions you send in…the ones you’ve been wanting to ask! Everything goes from parenting, theology, relationships, politics, sex, money and more.
Don’t be mistaken, we have an enemy in the devil. He’s lurking to kill, steal and destroy our new lives in Christ, and he starts by waging war on our minds. Thankfully, God give us the weapons and strategies to win this battle, so that we can be transformed and victorious.
When we are “born again” we become a new person, or what the Bible calls “a new creation.” However, beginning a new life can be difficult when we have habits and baggage from our old life. Fortunately, there are ways we can leave behind the old man and enjoy the freedoms of our new life in Christ.
No relationship works without communication that goes both ways. We’ve already learned about prayer in which we talk to God, but God also can and does speak to us. Somethings can drown out what God is saying to us, but if we practice and listen, then we will be able to hear His still, small voice.
Jesus Christ was a perfect steward of God’s will. In fact, Jesus said, “I do nothing Myself; but as My Father taught me, I speak these things…” (John 8:28). One of the great honors of being a Christian is the opportunity to know and do what God desires in our relationships, finances, and communities.
Faith is more than a concept it's a lifestyle required to both thrive and exist as a Christian. Faith gives us the ability to see beyond the now or our current situation but must be intentionally developed in us. God is equally as interested in blessing you now but also in producing Godliness on the inside of you. We overcome this world and find true victory through faith in God and His word.
There is power in sharing our testimony of what God has done in and through us. Our Radiant Church missionaries shared what took place on our mission trip to Nicaragua. It was incredibly powerful to share with people young and old, the saving message of Jesus Christ and the encouraging truth that they have a future with God.
Being a Christian is about a personal relationship with God. And prayer is meant to be a foundation in that relationship, just like conversations are foundational to friendships and marriages. Prayer bonds our heat to God, nourishes our souls, and produces results in our daily lives.
Christian friendships are key to growing in faith. They inspire us, encourage us, and sometimes they even frustrate us. God designed our faith to be learned and lived through relationships with other who are on the same journey. Do you have good friendships with Christians?
As a disciple of Jesus we must know His Word, and to do this we must discipline ourselves daily to read it on our own. It can heal us, adjust our hearts to love God more, empower us, and give us hope in the eternal promises of God. What ever time and energy we invest in knowing God’s Word will pay off eternally.
God promised that His followers would experience power and supernatural blessings when they were baptized in the Holy Spirit. The benefits of the Holy Spirit are many, including love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. But that experience is separate from being born again. Have you been baptized in the Holy Spirit?
Getting baptized and participating in communion are important first steps after being saved. They demonstrate our sincerity and desire to be a part of the community of Christians, and will always remind us that we have been born again as new creations in Christ.
We all have a unique story of being born again, and some of us are still watching the story unfold. The Apostle Peter challenges us in 1 Peter to share our story and testify of the ope it bring to our lives.
As two churches come together for the sake of the Kingdom work in this community it's crucial that we understand God's role and ours. He has don't a miraculous work in this union but like any marriage it takes time, commitment and sacrifice. Where God is taking us we have not been before which requires a deep conviction and faith in His powerful presence. We can't be a new church that operates without the love of Christ in our thoughts, words and actions. Are you adding or taking away from the great work that is being done here in our midsts.
An incredible story of forgiveness and redemption from guest speakers Jameel McGee and Andrew Collins. Both men, and their testimonies, have recently been featured on the CBS Evening News and other local TV broadcasts. Celebrate the goodness, favor and mercy of God which can powerfully change any impossible situation.
Too often our actions, good or bad, don't line up with our testimony of Christ's transforming power in our life. All the knowledge in the world doesn't not change a single person if it isn't activated in our lives in the from of loving others. True disciples of Christ can not be silent, invisible or powerless. Overcome evil with Good - Arise, Shine for you light has come!
As Christians it's imperative for us to show the love of Christ the world around us. It's unacceptable to simply gather on Sundays and ignore the pain and real-world needs of those that surround us each day. With that in mind it's also important to never forget the reason for our generosity. Out mission is to make disciples which requires us to proclaim the truth. Community work and social justice in and of itself is not enough. The life-changing message of Christ and Him crucified being preached is the end goal. This is not either-or but both-and.
People are searching far and wide for the truth and many times they don't even realize it. One of the most powerful witnessing tools we have is our testimony. It can't be refuted and has the ability to cut past all the religious fog and directly to the heart of the matter. When we chose to be silent we are partnering with the voice and work of the enemy. Know who you once were and how God changed your life and then don't be ashamed to ask others to join you on this journey called salvation!
As Radiant Church and more importantly as Christians, we have been called to be a beacon of hope, love and truth the world around us. Lighthouses that don't shine bright are nothing more than broken towers and monuments to the past. We need to Arise, Shine and BE RADIANT!
We have already been given the task of making disciples for Christ and we have the Holy Spirit living in us to help accomplish this crucial mission. A church that doesn’t pursue the lost and share this life-changing message will eventually suffocate and die. Healthy disciples make other disciples because they recognize the urgency of the hour and the power of our Savior.
Spiritual growth can not be isolated from developing strong relationships with fellow Christians. The Church operates at it's highest capacity when desciples of Jesus gather together on a regular basis to challenge and encourage each other. Local churches will never be perfect but when submitted to the Word and Spirit of God it can not fail. We were never created to do life alone and removed from society. Many members functioning as one Body to fulfill the Great Commission.
The Kingdom Of God is both here and now and yet to come. As ambassadors of the character and priorities of Heaven we have a high calling. Seeing life with a Biblical perspective causes us to live contrary to this sinful world. It's vitally important that we help usher in the King Of God where ever we go.
Many times throughout life we can be directly in the presence of the Lord and not even recognize it. Jesus seeks us out in our searching, brokenness and desires to stir up a passion on the inside of our hearts for more if Him. All of us are on a journey and although it may seem like it at times we are never alone.
Explore what it means to be Baptized in the Holy Spirit, and the power that it holds within our personal walks with Christ. There’s more to this life than just waiting to go to Heaven. Let’s move forward immersed in the divine grace of God to do His work.
Unpack the ways in which God speaks, which further enables us to be led by the Spirit in our lives. All that we hear, experience and are moved by should be filtered through our deep relationship with God and an understanding of His Word.
This powerful message looks at the Fruit of the Holy Spirit and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. We are designed and purposed to live with MORE of the Holy Spirit moving in and through our lives. God desires that we not only expand the Gospel but that we tap into the very tools provided of us through the Spirit to accomplish this incredible mission.
Explores the workings and grace that is poured out by the Holy Spirit. The message is focused around Luke 11: 10-13, and looks at what the Holy Spirit desires to give to all of us. Ask and it will be given to you; Seek and you will find; Knock, and the door will be opened to you. Our identity, purpose and life is revealed and released in us by the working of the Holy Spirit.
Discover the Fullness of the Spirit Filled Life. Receiving Christ is just the beginning of our new life, it doesn’t end there. There is MORE.
Few spiritual disciplines can "re-calibrate" our lives as fasting does. Denying our flesh and renewing our minds to the ways and teaching of God always produces long-lasting fruit. Fasting is not required but it is both beneficial and expected. Impossible situations can be broken through fasting as you are strengthened by the wisdom and mercy of God.
It's important that we recognize our role in fulfilling the Great Commission. Collectively we are able to spread the truth when we first individually recognize and walk in our calling. Too often Christians will fill their lives up with busy work and don't end up adding real value to the cause of the Kingdom of God. We need a fresh vision for every aspect of our lives. A word from God is far more important then even the best planned new year's resolution.
David recognized the importance of not just apologizing for his sin but to mark his life and heart as an alter for God's presence. It's incredibly easy to look at and put our trust in the natural resources in our lives and not place our full faith in Jesus Christ. A vulnerable person is one that finds their strength, vision and purpose in God. He is our provider and defender not our witty words and best efforts.
David throughout his life proved that he was a faithful leader, friend and worshipper. His daily disciplines of remaining consistent and true to his own word paved the way for him to be King. More then anyone David was an Old Testament example and type of Jesus, the Lion of the Tribe Of Judah. Jesus was faithful to the Kingdom Cause even in the midst of it bringing tremendous anxiety. All of us have the capacity to be faithful regardless of the circumstances that surround us.
One of the great deceptions that we buy into is that we can live a "neutral" and passive life. Spiritually we are always in a battle with Christ as our leader. When we don't intentionally pursue a relationship with God and defend ourselves from the schemes of the enemy we will stumble and fall. Are you a courageous warrior connect to a Kingdom cause or a victim of the enemy barely making it through life? Know God, your calling, weaponry and examine your heart. Fight the good fight!
Far beyond just moments of need David was a man that passionately seeking after God's heart. Too often we experience God only in the context of our church services without ever really dedicating our lives to Him. Worship is an attitude and posture of our hearts. A lifestyle that can't be forged or lied about. Would you be considered by God a person that worships Him in spirit and truth?
As this 5 week message series begins, we get reintroduced to David the overlooked. From the time that Samuel visited the home of Jesse to anoint the next king of Israel, to the years that would follow where David sat on the throne, many people didn’t see David for who he was.
Finding our life and being in Christ is the only existence that is truly freeing. LGBT individuals are loved by God and should be loved by Bible believing Christians. The truth in love sets a precedence that we should both hold to the values released to us in the Word of God while accepting people where they are at. We have been called and so should we call others to a higher and more holier way of living. This is not a civil rights or equality issue but an identity crisis. Many have traded the truth for their lustful desires. Denying our flesh and renew our minds is a daily mandate set for all of us and every sin.
Culture will continue to run out of control at an ever increasing pace. The "norm" has been redefined by our sinful desires but the Bible requires of us that we remain light bearers full of truth and discipline. Sin is fun for a season but in the end we will reap what we sow. If we want freedom in intimacy with our spouse we must intentionally protect our sexuality and thoughts both before and during marriage.
The vast majority of Christians understand and agree that abortion is murder which directly contradicts the very nature of God. What is our responsibility in the midst of a secular society that's embraced this mass genocide as an acceptable practice? We're called to love people while intentionally resisting sin. It's time to overcome evil with good.
Few things are as important and powerful as Christ-followers receiving Holy Communion together. Denominational walls come crumbling down in the presence of a living King remembered. This Christian Sacrament is to be done often and with thankfulness in our hearts towards the God of love that rescued us from the grips of death and the grave. It's our honor and privilege to proclaim the Lord's death until He comes again.
DEADLY DESIRES SPEAKER: JERRY THEIS Too often we find ourselves being tempted and falling to the same sins which will eventually lead to our demise. We have an enemy and we live in a fallen world but if we refuse to recognize our part in temptation and sin we will continue to stumble through life. There is an ownership that must take place in-order for us to turn from our wicked ways into the arms of a loving Father.
Gossiping is something that all of us are tempted by and engage in far too often. For a variety of reasons we find ourselves being snared by the words of our mouth. It's far easier to whisper in secret then auto confront the individual we have an issue with controlling our thoughts and tongues. Breaking the cycle of perpetual drama in our lives starts with ending the gossip.
Everyday we have a choice. Do we decided to remain on the safe path that God desires for us or do we venture off into the unknown territory of sin. The world system is at odds with the truth and wisdom found in the Bible. When applied the Word of God has the power to radically change our lives and move us closer to our life-filled destiny.
It's easy to take our eyes of the ball and quickly wreck our lives. We all have the same amount of time in a day but where we invest our time will directly effects our lives. Assess your life and adjust accordingly in-order to avoid the pitfalls of a slothful and purposeless life.