City Church OTR Messages: Recent Episodes
City Church OTR
Engage the teaching that is forming our church into people who look more like Jesus. These messages are recorded live at City Church OTR's Sunday morning services. To learn more, visit: CityChurchOTR.com
This week, Chris and Rob took turns discussing four topics they refer to as "Relationship Killers": gossip, conflict, pornography/sexual sin, and unforgiveness. To be healthy people and to be a healthy church, we need healthy relationships. These issues impact all of our relationships, both personal and with others in our lives.
One of the greatest risks to human flourishing is the epidemic of loneliness in our culture. We all long for meaningful and life-giving relationships that will last, but these kinds of relationships don't happen accidentally. So how do we become a good friend? How do we thrive in parent/child relationships? How do we cultivate relationships that reflect the beauty and freedom of God's Kingdom? We're Asking for a Friend (Again).”
This week, we brought together a panel of trusted, wise, and experienced individuals to guide us on raising children in the way they should go. They addressed crucial questions, such as: How can we nurture children to choose to follow God into adulthood? What role can single people play in showing love and support to the kids in our community?
One of the greatest risks to human flourishing is the epidemic of loneliness in our culture. We all long for meaningful and life-giving relationships that will last, but these kinds of relationships don't happen accidentally. So how do we become a good friend? How do we thrive in parent/child relationships? How do we cultivate relationships that reflect the beauty and freedom of God's Kingdom? We're Asking for a Friend (Again).”
Bringing our series on John 3:16, "God so loved," to a close, Chris taught on the last two words of the famous verse: "Everlasting Life." Chris asks the question, based on the scriptures, "Are you dead or alive?" There are two ages: the present age and the age to come. As Jesus' followers, we are called to operate out of the age to come in the present age.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, Chris taught on the section of John 3:16, “Shall Not Perish.” The mystery of what happens after death raises many questions. Is Hell real? If so, is it eternal? These questions spark a wide range of beliefs and opinions, even within the Church.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, Dwight Young taught on the word "Believes" in our theme verse, John 3:16. There is a difference between knowing about God and believing in God. The Holy Spirit guides and convicts us to not only understand who Jesus is but to trust in Him completely.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, Dave Workman visited us at City Church OTR and spoke on the word "Whoever." Does whoever really mean whoever? The message of reconciliation is the key. How can we, as the church, utilize the message of reconciliation to minister to the "whoevers" of the world.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, Brandon McCauley shared with us on the words "His One and Only Son" from John 3:16. The old testament law was only meant to cover our sin, not atone for them. That is why we needed the Messiah, Jesus Christ!
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
As we continue through John 3:16, Chris taught on the phrase "That He Gave" and how God giving to us paved the way for us to receive his grace and mercy, all because He is a just God who holds up His end of every promise.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week Rob focused on the words "The World" from the most famous verse in the Bible. What exactly does "the world" refer to? How can we be in the world without conforming to it? The way we understand "the world" impacts how we live within it, and the way we love reflects God's love to those around us.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week Chris focused on the significance of the words "so loved." Love is an action, feeling, and identity for God. The past tense of this passage doesn't contradict the rest of Scripture about God's love; instead, it provides a deeper context and understanding of His love for us.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, Chris taught on the first two words of the most renowned verse in the Bible. God reveals His name to us through scripture and instructs us on how we are to address Him. While we may gain knowledge of His name through those passages, there is a big difference between studying theology and knowing God.
“The biggest enemy of learning is knowing”John 3:16 is a verse we may all know, but what if there’s way more here for us to learn and obey? Join us for God So Loved, a series through the twenty-four words of John 3:16 to discover the full meaning behind one of the most well-known Bible verses of all time.
This week, City Church OTR celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Chris shared how this redemption story changed the world on a cosmic level. Yet this story, that none of us are the main characters of, also changes us on a personal level. Six verses, one event; it changed everything!
This week, Kristen taught about the role God played in Ruth's story. God often partners with His creation in amazing and unexpected ways. Ruth and Boaz's story leads to the restoration of Israel through the genealogy of Jesus. How could God be wanting to partner with us?
The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from. J
This week, Chris shared the story of Boaz. The relationship between Ruth and Boaz acts as a great reminder of the importance of initiation in leadership and honor in response. There is so much we can learn from his story. It's a beautiful example of how we can operate more like Jesus as humans.
The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.
This week, Chris taught on the namesake of our series, Ruth. Ruth's story is one that teaches us to do the right thing, even when no one is watching!
The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.
The book of Ruth is often known as the Cinderella story of the Bible. It's a love story, but not in the way we've typically read it. Instead of being an unrelatable fairytale, Ruth is a story that we can all connect to and learn from.
This week, Rob Groves taught on Naomi's story. Naomi was a victim of her circumstances. We can be both inspired by her faithfulness and cautioned by her words.
We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.
This week, Rob Groves teaches on the Spirit of Mammon. Is money really the root of all evil? In our culture, we struggle with pride or poverty mindset surrounding money. The Spirit of Mammon could be what's stopping you from stewarding your money the way God calls us to do.
We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.
This Sunday, Michelle Santora teaches that from the beginning of creation, God has always been first. He deserves our first. He cannot be second, and He is unchanging. What would it look like for us to give Him our first?
We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.
This week, Pastor Chris Marlin addresses some common questions about tithing: Who does the first 10% belong to, us or God? Was it ever ours to begin with? And what does Jesus think about the Old Testament laws surrounding tithing? Exploring these questions can deepen our understanding of faith and generosity.
We live in a culture that trains us to "work hard for the money", and then do whatever we want with it because we earned it. God has a different view of what it means to live abundantly, and it starts with living generously...like He does to us. When we shift our view of what's ours versus His, we find the way to more trust, peace, and joy.
This week, Pastor Chris Marlin teaches on the importance posture of our hearts and how obedience can create a generous and grateful heart.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.
In situations where we have been praying and not receiving answers from the Lord, it's easy to give up on the power of prayer. This week Pastor Chris Marlin introduces the idea of praying until something happens. As we faithfully persist in prayer, the Lord can cultivate maturity in our faith.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.
This week, Pastor Paul Taylor of Rivers Crossing Church teaches on the profound impact of obedience and prayer. Through unity in prayer, we have the potential to spark a transformative movement for Christ in our city.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.
This week, Pastor Andy Ziegenfuss from All Church shared with us about how prayer, fellowship, and keeping Jesus at the center is critical to the body of Christ.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Every January, we set ambitious resolutions and lofty goals but only 10% of them have a lasting impact. Join us as we uncover the key to lasting Change in Ourselves, Our City, and Our Church.
This week, Chris Marlin teaches that prayer is formative in our relationship with God and that's spending time in His presence could be the change that we need this year.
Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.
This week, Chris Marlin teaches on the gift of myrrh and poses the question: When did Mary know that her baby's story would be powerful and tragic?
Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.
This week, Chris Marlin teaches on frankincense and the power of intercession.
Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Unusual gifts for a baby born in unusual circumstances. But there's more to these gifts than meets the eye, each one a unique telling of this child's true identity. A baby himself born to be a gift to a world in need.
Join us at City Church OTR in December as we explore The Gift(s).
This week, Rob Groves kicks off the series teaching about the gift of gold, generosity, and giving.
What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think?
This week, during our annual Sermon Slam, Cole Martin, Jason, Bart, Lena, and Kristen share on their personal experience with the presence of God.
What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think?
This week, Chris Marlin teaches that we need to believe that we can go after the presence of God, and that we should be going after it relentlessly.
What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think? This week, Rob Groves speaks on manifest presence: God breaking into our present reality.
What if the point of all we do is to be in the presence of God? The thing that changes everything for us. It brings healing, peace, restoration, and wholeness. What if more than anything else, His presence is all we need? And, what if it’s more accessible than you think? This week, Chris Marlin teaches on fight cynicism, choosing a position of hunger for the presence of God, and the ministry of Peter.
This week, Dwight Young talks about Jeremiah, The Weeping Prophet. Similar to Jesus’ ministry in many ways, Jeremiah’s story teaches us the power of Purpose, Passion, and Hope.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week, Chris Marlin wraps up our Galatians series with a look at the old creation vs. new creation.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week special guest teacher, Dave Workman, unpacks the two kingdoms at war in show in Galatians 5: the flesh vs the spirit.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. Chris Marlin explores the tension of slave versus free in Galatians 4. A special prayer exercise follows the message by Kristin Scott of Activation Ministries.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. Looking at Galatians 3, Rob Groves explores the opposition of grace versus the law.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week, Chris Marlin teaches from Galatians chapter 2 where it's Paul versus Peter.
In a world of both/and, sometimes Jesus confronts us with an either/or. Sometimes we hold the tension of the AND, and sometimes choosing one thing is good. Paul writes the letter of Galatians to a church living in the tension of navigating opposing ideologies. This week Chris Marlin explores THE Gospel versus the American Gospel.
As we celebrate City Church's 3rd birthday and all that God has done here, Chris Marlin reflects on who we are, where we've been, and where we're going.
Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Michelle Santora unpacks how a lifestyle and a heart of serving can be used to introduce the one to Jesus.
Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Rob Groves shares how our unique testimony reflects God's kindness and power and is worth sharing to reach the one.
Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin shows how God has used the supernatural for centuries to bring about the greatest miracle of all - our redemption.
Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin shares why and how we take courage to share the Gospel to reach the one.
Like Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, we are called to run after the “one” in our lives and our spheres of influence. The New Testament Church experienced the power of the Gospel, miracles, testimony, and service to others as ways to introduce people to the love, mercy, and power of Jesus. This week Chris Marlin introduces this new series and shares our "why" for going after the one.
Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Caitlin Snyder shares from James 5 how faith empowers us to persevere through challenges.
Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Dwight Young challenges and encourages us from James 4 to end the wars among us, within us, and above us that ruin the testimony of our faith and our ability to love God and our neighbors.
Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Michelle Santora shares how the way we use our tongue exposes us, forms us, and shows us our need for healing.
Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Megan Baird explores James chapter 2 and what it means for us to live out a life-changing faith where mercy triumphs over judgement.
Through the month of July, we are exploring the book of James to learn how we turn faith into action. True saving faith is a life changing faith - a faith that will transform us. This week, Rob Groves digs into James chapter 1 and how our faith changes the way we view and walk through suffering.
(note: there is background music playing for the first couple minutes but it will end after that. Thanks for your grace for our oops!)
As the Father series comes to close, Chris Marlin shows how the lovingkindness of God the Father, displayed in the sacrificing of his own Son Jesus on our behalf, allows us to exhale and breathe deep.
In the next edition of our "Father" series, exploring the loving kindness of God the Father, Chris Marlin shows us how we can truly exhale and rest because our Father is Jehovah-nissi, our Banner and Protector.
As we begin a new series focused on exploring the loving kindness of God the Father, Chris Marlin introduces us to the deep and incomprehensible love of our Jehovah Jireh.
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris Marlin unpacks the scandal Jesus started when he claimed, "I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life."
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris Marlin shares why Jesus says, "I AM the Bread of Life" and how he satisfies like nothing else can.
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, Chris explores what Jesus meant when he said "I AM the True Vine".
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week Dwight Young introduces us to Jesus as our Good Shepherd and all the ways He provides for His flock.
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand and experience who Jesus really is. This week, special guest Dave Workman shares how Jesus, the Light of the World, calls us to be lights in the world as we follow him.
In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand who Jesus really is. This week Chris shares the wholeness, freedom, and provision that is available to us when Jesus says, "I AM the Gate". John 10:2-9
This Easter Sunday, we remember and celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus from the dead as Chris Marlin begins a new series, Jesus According to Jesus. In this series, we explore the seven "I AM" statements of Jesus found in the book of John--seven ways that Jesus described himself--as we seek to understand who Jesus really is. This week Chris explores what it means when Jesus says, "I AM the Resurrection and the Life".
In this Palm Sunday message, Chris Marlin explores how Jerusalem went from praising Jesus on Sunday to crucifying him 5 days later.
This week, Beth Guckenberger, founder of Back2Back Ministries, encourages us to step into the chaos around us, look for the Spirit moving, listen for God's voice, expect peace to break out, and resist temptation as we seek to love the world around us.
In the AND series, we explore the tension we hold in living committed to both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. In this week's message, Chris Marlin closes the AND series and shares how we engage with the Spirit and with others through the practice of prophecy.
In the AND series, we explore the tension we hold in living committed to both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. In this week's message, Chris Travis shares about the power of engaging with the living and active Word of God - the Bible.
In the AND series, we explore the tension we hold in living committed to both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. In this week's message, Chris Marlin shares how the Bible came to be and why we can trust it as God's Word.
In the AND series, we explore the tension we hold in living committed to both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. In this episode, Caitlin Snyder shares how Peter's life reflects the importance of God's Word in our lives.
In the AND series, we explore the tension we hold in living committed to both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. In this episode, Rob Groves introduces the series and teaches how God speaks through both His written Word, the Bible, and His spoken Word, by the Spirit.
In this series, we explore the four values at the heart of City Church OTR: Family, Mission, Presence, and Formation. In this episode, Chris Marlin teaches about our value of Formation and becoming more like Jesus as we allow our worldview and our lives to be formed and transformed by the Truth.
In this series, we explore the four values at the heart of City Church OTR: Family, Mission, Presence, and Formation. In this episode, Chris Marlin teaches about our value of Presence and living a life that's hungry to experience more and more of the Presence of God.
In this series, we explore the four values at the heart of City Church OTR: Family, Mission, Presence, and Formation. In this episode, Chris Marlin teaches about our value of Mission and living empowered to carry the Kingdom of God in whatever sphere of influence God has called us to.
In this series, we explore the four values at the heart of City Church OTR: Family, Mission, Presence, and Formation. In this episode, Chris Marlin teaches about the value of Family, the kind of family that Jesus introduced into the world.
A Sermon Slam featuring mini-sermons by Blake Allsmith, Aleigha Hummel, Sean Scaffidi, Ann Hucke, and Anna Groves on 11/27/22.
A "Sermon Slam" with from three of our friends, Matt DeLange, Michelle Santora, and Caitlin Snyder.
A message from Tyler Chernesky.
NOTE: We experienced multiple audio malfunctions this weekend. We apologize in advance!