Maplewood Nazarene Podcast: Recent Episodes
Maplewood Nazarene
Whether we realize it or not, the events of our lives are shaping us and forming us. This week, Pastor Joe begins to unpack Titus 2 and what the Bible has to say to followers of Jesus while we wait for Him to return.
Garth Brooks made famous a song about thanking God for unanswered prayers. That hit gets to the heart of this week's message from Maplewood. Community Pastor Ed Klett explores the reality that Jesus often disappointed people because he didn't show up as the God they wanted. Instead, He showed up to be the God we need.
Every seven years, something special happened for the people of Israel. But now, that "something special" is always available to followers of Jesus. This week, Pastor Vicki unpacks the meaning of Jesus' words in Luke 4 and how it relates to the "year of Jubilee."
This week at Maplewood, Pastor Vicki unpacks the impact of the 13th chapter of John's gospel. What does Jesus' washing the feet of his disciple matter to us? The answer, quite simply, is everything.
Trading insider information on the stock market is illegal. But when it comes to understanding Scripture, the Holy Spirit gives followers of Jesus this "insider" ability to understand what the Bible is trying to say. Join us this week as Pastor Ed challenges us to read the Bible "in the Spirit" so we can actually understand what it is saying and so we can apply it to our lives...
Distractions may seem harmless, but they can prevent us from realizing God's best in our lives. Even "good" distractions can hold us back from going deeper with Jesus than we ever have before in our lives. This week, Pastor Vicki explores how we can overcome these distractions and realize Christ's best for us.
This week at Maplewood, PastorEd Klett brings our message focusing on one of the central hope's that followers of Christ have in the midst of suffering. Join as Pastor Ed explores key Scriptures from Genesis all the way to Revelation that reveal that God is in the business of re-creating the broken and making all things new. It's a message of hope and redemption you will find helpful
It's a dark world, but followers of Jesus are called to shine the light of hope and truth, no matter where we find ourselves. Join us this week as Pastor Vicki outlines our Kingdom purpose--to shine like stars.
It's the first Sunday of Advent! This week, we begin preparation for the Christmas holiday at Maplewood by focusing on the reality that God works through the small and the weak to do big things in this world. Join us as we journey toward Christmas Sunday learning how God delivers in big ways through small packages.
It's the week of the 2022 Thanksgiving national holiday. This week, Maplewood focuses on what it means to be "thankful." For followers of Jesus, being thankful isn't just an annual holiday. It's so much more. Click and listen to learn how giving thanks is the secret to finding contentment in life.
Are you feeling beat down, weary and ready to give up? This week at Maplewood, we're taking a close look at the roadmap to the rest offered to each and everyone of us through Jesus. If you'd like to find some of that rest and peace, click and listen to this week's message...
This week at Maplewood, we're taking a close look at the criteria Jesus will use to determine the eternal destiny of every human. Pastor Joe explores the implications of a story Jesus told about separating sheep from goats. The results may be eye opening...
This week, Pastor Ed Klett takes the microphone at Maplewood, focusing on familiar story about Jesus--who took the role of a servant to wash the feet of his disciples. What does that mean for us today? Everything! Click and listen for more...
This week, Maplewood is getting back to the basics. Pastor Joe takes some time to remind us all about the importance of getting into God's Word and offers a few tips for those who need a kick start.
This week, Maplewood welcomes back to our pulpit Rev. Bill Blain. Bill's first pastorate was here at Maplewood and this week we welcome him back to share a fresh message focused on the Doors that God opens for us to be saved.
This week, Maplewood is wrapping up our month-long study on the concept of GRACE. Join us as Pastor Joe explores the implications of Jesus statement "My grace is sufficient for you...." It's not just a one-and-done thing. It's a daily commitment.
Maplewood is continuing our series exploring the meaning and implications of grace in the lives of people who are following Jesus. This week, we're focusing on the extending nature of grace....
Maplewood is continuing a month-long study on the concept of GRACE and how it plays out in our lives. Grace is not only our means of SALVATION at great cost to God, our Father, Grace is also God's means of equipping followers of Jesus to face everyday life. Click and listen to learn more...
Maplewood is continuing a month-long study on the concept of GRACE and how it plays out in our lives. Grace is not only our means of SALVATION at great cost to God, our Father, Grace is also God's means of equipping followers of Jesus to face everyday life. Click and listen to learn more...
This week, Maplewood continues our focus on the concept of grace. In a world where our brains are trained to search for bargains, God's grace is not cheap. Join as we explore this truth and what it means for our daily living.
This week, Maplewood continues our focus on the concept of grace. In a world where our brains are trained to search for bargains, God's grace is not cheap. Join as we explore this truth and what it means for our daily living.
Maplewood is beginning a new sermon series on "grace." It's a concept at the very heart of our Christian faith, but something we often take for granted or misunderstand. Join us as Pastor Joe kicks off this series explaining in simple terms that Grace is....our salvation.
Maplewood is beginning a new sermon series on "grace." It's a concept at the very heart of our Christian faith, but something we often take for granted or misunderstand. Join us as Pastor Joe kicks off this series explaining in simple terms that Grace is....our salvation.
How many times have we heard the phrase "pick up your cross?" What does that even mean? What does it look like? In reality, it is the path to living our best lives. This week, Maplewood explores the practical, daily implications of what it means to pick up our Cross--and how it may lead to the unimaginable in our lives...
God doesn't always break through with a spectacular miracle. This week, Maplewood focuses on the reality that sometimes the unimaginable occurs as the Holy Spirit provides us with insight or discernment that leads to more than we could think or imagine. And to help illustrate, Pastor Joe uncovers the inspiration for a popular video game character right in the middle of the Old Testament.
Faith and fear don't mix. This week, in our 250th episode, Maplewood continues to focus on what it means to allow God to work unimaginable things for His Kingdom through His people. Join us as Pastor Joe helps us confront the fear that may be holding the Spirit back from working in and through us....
If we're honest, none of us likes to wait. But for people called to follow Jesus, developing patience is likely to be central to our formation. This week at Maplewood, we're continuing a series of messages focused on what it means to expect God to do more than we could think or imagine through our obedience....
This week, Maplewood welcomes Kermit Rowe from Habitat for Humanity. Kermit visits with us this week to educate Maplewood about this important ministry in our community. You can get more information about the Dayton-area Habitat (which includes Springfield) at https://daytonhabitat.org/
It's hard to wake up spiritually in this day and age. For so many, we are lulled to sleep regarding spiritual things by the cares and pleasures of this world. But it is time to wake up to the reality that God wants to work in and through. Join Maplewood this week for a wake up call that is badly needed.
Are you afraid of the unknown? Most of us are, if we're honest. But God sometimes calls us out of our complacency and into uncertainty to build His Kingdom. This week, Maplewood begins a new series on the work God wants to do through you...more than you could ask or imagine.
God is with you. He sees you. And that should be comforting. But it's also a call to action. This weekend at Maplewood, Pastor Ed brings a message of hope and inspiration for people striving to following and be like Jesus.
Want to know how to maintain your ability to persevere and maintain a sense of humor when the chips are down? This week, Maplewood covers the answer as we continue to explore the relevancy of living in the Resurrection Power of the Holy Spirit....
This week, Maplewood celebrates Father's Day and continues to focus on what it means to live in the Resurrection Power of Jesus Christ. Join us as Pastor Joe talks about the importance of sticking close to Jesus.
This summer, there are some incredible opportunities for the church to get out into the community and "be Jesus" so many who are in need. This week, Pastor Joe and Pastor Ed take a few minutes to talk about the importance of God's people getting involved with Revive Ohio in Springfield. Click and listen for more information....
In need of a fresh start? This week, Maplewood is celebrating Pentecost, which was the traditional start of the Christian church. The price for being filled by the Holy Spirit is high--but worth it. Join us as Pastor Joe explores the history and meaning Pentecost and why it should matter so much in our lives today.
This week, Maplewood is taking time to honor not only those who have fought for our freedom, but also for those who we've lost in the recent past. For a small church, we're much too familiar with grief. So this week, Pastor Joe explores how Jesus can help those of us who find ourselves walking through the valley of the shadow of death.
Maplewood is continuing to explore what it really means to follow Jesus. This week, we're taking a fresh look at one of most familiar of Bible passages--Psalm 23. And in this familiar Psalm we find fresh insight into what it really means to follow Jesus in our lives.
What does it mean to really follow Jesus? The phrase "follow Jesus" gets a lot of lip service these days, but it means much more than an insurance policy for eternal life. This week, Maplewood begins digging into what it really means to "follow Jesus" and become the people we God intended us to be in the first place.
This week at Maplewood, Pastor Ed unpacks the answer to a question we all find ourselves asking at some point in time in our life "Where is God? And why does it feel like God has abandoned me?" If you are struggling with these questions, click the play button below and listen in to this week's message from your friends at Maplewood...
If you want to find out what type of church Maplewood is, this is the podcast for you. Pastor Joe reflects on the Biblical concept of "first fruits" to outline the path forward for the Maplewood faith family as we start the 2022-2023 church year. Click, listen and check us out if you are looking for a faith family committed to holiness, our community and a culture where even the marginalized feel welcome.
Maplewood continues to celebrate the Easter season and the Empty Tomb. This week, we focus on the events following Jesus' Resurrection and we join the story on the road to Emmaus. A stranger was in the midst of these travelers--and once the realized who He was--it changed everything! Don't miss Jesus like they almost did.
Join us as Maplewood celebrates Easter and the Empty Tomb! This week, Pastor Joe explores the significance of what Jesus accomplished on the Cross more than 2,000 years specifically for you today!
It's Palm Sunday. As we enter into Holy Week, Maplewood is focusing on what it really means to follow Jesus. Join us as Pastor Joe breaks down a hard teaching by Jesus in John 6, where He commands his followers to "feed on me." What does that mean? And what does it teach those of us striving to be Christlike? Click and listen....
We all can probably recall a time when we were told to "eat our vegetables." This week, Maplewood picks up this concept as we continue to prepare for Holy Week and Easter Sunday. Pastor Joe is preaching from John 6 and explore how Jesus knows what we need, even before we realize it for ourselves.
God is in the business of changing hearts of stone--hearts filled with hate and hostility--to hearts of flesh--filled with the love of Jesus Christ. This week at Maplewood, Pastor Ed breaks open the Word of God to breakdown our need for changed hearts, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
This week, Maplewood talks about the necessity of prayer in our lives, not because the church says it is important, but because Jesus say sit is vital to our growth. Now more than ever, the people of God need to be laying down deep roots through prayer. Pastor Joe teaches from Matthew 6 as we continue our study of the Sermon on the Mountain.
It's not uncommon to hear someone say they are giving something up for Lent. But why do people do that? What is the purpose? This week, Maplewood addresses this question as we continue to study the Sermon on the Mount. Join us as we dive into what Jesus has to say about "fasting", or "doing without" as we strive to live a different type of story in our lives...
This week at Maplewood, we kicked off the Lenten season with a focus on the state of the union with Jesus in our hearts. It's all part of our ongoing series as we study the Sermon on the Mount and its implications for people following Jesus. Join us as we study Matthew 6 and what Jesus had to say about our motives for doing good.
This week, Maplewood revisits our recurring series on the basics of what we believe as a church and as Christians. Pastor Vicki focuses on the necessity of a steady diet in the Bible...the Word of God. Why it is essential element to our lives as followers of Jesus is what you'll uncover when you take a listen....
This week, Pastor Ed Klett brings a message of hope for all who feel ignored, left out or neglected. Drawing from Mark 3, join Maplewood this week as we embrace the truth that "God has time for you!"...
We all resemble our parents, grandparents and other relatives. Did you know we also have the potential to resemble someone else? This week, Maplewood continues our study of the Sermon on the Mount and we tackle what it really means to resemble our Heavenly Father.
We all struggle with the notion of vengeance--the desire to get back, to even the score or potentially more. Jesus has some radical things to say about vengeance and this we explore his thought as we continue our study of the Sermon on the Mount. Join us as we dive into what we can do about our craving for revenge...
Who can we trust these days? It's seems like everywhere we turn there are broken people, impacted by broken promises. Jesus address the importance of integrity and trust in His Sermon on the Mount when he talked about divorce and making promises. John us this week as Maplewood explores what it will take for us to become people of integrity--people who can be trusted....
Did Jesus really teach that we should gouge out our eye if it causes us to sin? We get that question a lot. And this week we are tackling the answer. Click, listen and learn what Jesus teaches about unchecked, unhealthy appetites that may be consuming our lives...
Our world seems to be so angry. The pandemic has stretched many to their limit. How can we appropriately respond to anger? Jesus addresses this in his Sermon on the Mount and that's where Maplewood is focussing this week. Join us for a lesson at the foot of Jesus on anger management....
This week, Maplewood is returning to an exploration of the Sermon on the Mount. This week, Pastor Joe kicks off 2022 with a message that will challenge each of us to explore what God wants to do in our lives in the coming year....
Merry Christmas from your friends at Maplewood. On this day after Christmas, we wrap up our holiday focus with attention to the gift of grace that arrived in the manger in Bethlehem. What did you get for Christmas? What was in the box? That's our focus in this weeks message...
We're celebrating the true meaning of Christmas this week at Maplewood. Join us as we explore the secret ingredient that distinguishes the Christian faith from all other religions in the world--love!
We are enjoying the Advent season at Maplewood. This week, along with the message, we are excited to share sample of a few of the Christmas songs that have been part of our celebration of the season. Before we get to the message from Pastor Ed Klett, we share two quick pieces of music from our service this week. First, Pastor Vicki and our friend Rachel B on a piano duet. And second, the Maplewood singers share a rendition of Silent Night. Click, listen and enjoy...
No Jesus. No Peace. Know Jesus. Know Peace. Eight simple words that are at the heart of this week's Advent message from Maplewood. Join us as we explore the Christmas story of Jesus' earthly father, Joseph and the choice he made to help usher in Peace on Earth.
Maplewood is kicking off the Advent season with a focus on the Hope we find in Jesus Christ. Join us this week--and throughout December for a special series of messages that aim to prepare us to accept the gift of Christmas. This week, Pastor Joe focuses on how we can realize the Hope of Christmas in our lives today....
In this week's episode, Maplewood continues its focus on the Sermon on the Mount in the gospel of Matthew. Pastor joe focuses on what it. means to hunger and thirst for righteousness and challenges us to hand over the keys to our hearts so that we can realize our full potential.
This week at Maplewood, we are continuing our study of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7. Today, Pastor Joe explores the common thread that ties together the first three of the Beatitudes that Jesus teaches as He kicks of his mountain-top master class. Join us as we explore the importance of humility as we strive to become the people Jesus wants us to be. (p.s. Pastor Joe may sing during this podcast...)
This week, Maplewood is continuing its study of the Sermon on the Mount found in the Gospel of Matthew. Pastor Joe challenges what we think we know about the Law of Moses and the 10 Commandments by looking as seen through the lens of Ezekiel 36:23-36. Join us for this powerful message that takes a fresh look about what it really means to be salt and light. Are you ready for a spiritual upgrade? Click the play button, listen and share...
This week, Maplewood begins a new series of sermons on the Sermon on the Mount. This teaching of Jesus is unique, challenging, and in many respects, RADICAL. This morning, Pastor Joe hones in on the first two verses of Mathew 5 to ground us and prepare us for the journey into what some say is the magnum opus of Jesus' teachings. Join us...and get ready to unlearn everything you thought you knew....
This week, Maplewood wraps up our multi-week series on what it means to Be the Church. We've been focussed on Acts 2:42 and this week we discover that we are called to worship, not only on Sunday, but all the time. Join us and find our more about what it means to Be a Worshipper 24/7/365...
What does it really mean to be a friend? This week, Maplewood continues to explore what it means to be the church--the body of Jesus Christ here on Earth. As part of our ongoing study of Acts 2:42, Pastor Ed Klett digs into the biblical concept of friendship, which is something badly needed in our world today....
Maplewood has gone through a rough patch recently, with several of our families experience loss of loved one's for a variety of different reasons. This week, you can join us as we are reminded of what we as individuals, and as a church, need to do in times of grief in crisis. Pastor Joe kicks off this message reading from Psalm 46--and we focus on what it means when Scripture says "Be still and know that I am God..."
Essential to becoming all Christ wants us to be is a vibrant prayer life. This week, Maplewood continues to explore what it means to be an Acts 2:42 church, and the importance of prayer as a foundation for us to live up to and into our potential in Christ.
This week, Maplewood continues to explore what it means to be an Acts 2:42 church. Pastor Ed brings this week's message which focuses on what it means to "be a student" when it comes to our faith
At Maplewood, we're kicking off a new series that will carry us into the months of autumn. Over the next several weeks, we will focus on what it means to be the church by zooming in on Acts 2:42. Join us today, as Pastor Joe explains the context around this verse and its implications for anyone who calls themselves a follower of Jesus.
Who is the Holy Spirit? Why does the Holy Spirit matter? This week, Maplewood continues our ongoing series exploring what we believe and why we believe it. In this message, Pastor Joe focuses on the person of the Holy Spirit...and why we need the Holy Spirit in our lives as we learn to love God and learn to love others. Join us...
Who got their hands dirty to support you? You know them. You owe them. This week, Maplewood concludes our series on Brandon Heath's 2008 CCM hit "Give Me Your Eyes." Pastor Joe explores what it means to have "a heart for the one's forgotten" through the lens of the calling of Mathew--the author of the first gospel in the New Testament. Click and listen.
When Jesus says "Go!", how do you respond? Do you hesitate? Do you doubt? Do you make excuses? This week, Maplewood continues to explore theme's from Brandon Heath's CCM hit from 2008 "Give Me Your Eyes." We're in John 9 and we're exploring what it means to have arms for the broken hearted in our circles of influence. Click play below and join in...
How often do we push through life oblivious to the deep spiritual needs that are all around us? This month, Maplewood is focusing on what it takes to be the eyes, ears, hands and feet of Jesus in a world that so badly need redemption. This week, we're focussing on how to develop a deeper love for humanity and how we measure up to the example Jesus sets for us. Click and listen in....
This week, Maplewood is kicking off a new series based on the 2008 Brandon Heath song called Give Me Your Eyes. We'll be spending the next few weeks unpacking the challenging message of this song as we seek to partner with God to build His Kingdom here on Earth...
Understanding what we believe as followers of Jesus is critical for us to grow our faith and fully live in God's will for our lives. This week, Maplewood continues an ongoing series on the basics of Christianity. Join us as Pastor Vicki explores who Jesus is and how Jesus can make a lasting difference in our lives. Who is Jesus? Take a listen....
This week, Maplewood wraps up our summer series on mental health, wellness and the concept of Sabbath. Join us for a powerful message, as Pastor Joe explores God's intent for us to embrace a lifestyle of Sabbath, not just a weekly observance.
BONUS: OK, is it really a bonus if we forgot to post this episode you deserved the week of July 11? Here's a late posting of a sermon Pastor Joe delivered outlining how the need for Sabbath isn't a commandment to be obeyed; it's built into our DNA. Travel back to the beginning with us as we explore how to become Whole and Holy...
Maplewood has been spending the summer exploring the importance of addressing mental health challenges--in the lives of those around us and in our own lives. This week, Pastor Joe explores one of the secrets to finding wholeness and holiness in our lives--the concept of Sabbath. Join us as we explore the words of Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Sabbath, on what it takes to enjoy the benefits of Sabbath rest.
continue to consider what it means to be "shepherds of our flocks" as followers of Jesus. And bonus material this week, a moving testimony from one of our Maplewood family members who has been walking through quite a bit of adversity in recent days. Remember Paul and his son PJ in your prayers....
What's the secret to wholeness and holiness? We have the answer! As we continue to explore the importance of mental health in ministering to our community, this week Pastor Joe double-clicks on Jesus' command for us to go "all in" with him in order to become whole and holy.
We are all called to be shepherds. Did you know that? This week, Maplewood continues our new series, entitled Whole and Holy, with Pastor Joe exploring the implications of 1 Peter 5 for followers of Jesus. Join us for this challenging message as we emerge from the pandemic...
This week, Maplewood begins a new summer-long series that will focus on how we can and must minister to people--mind, body, spirit and soul. We begin our study anchored in 1 Peter 5, and we are focusing on the need for the body of Christ to rebalance our approach to bringing redemption and restoration to the World through the Good News of Jesus.
In a continuing series we occasionally revisit, Pastor Vicki is covering what we believe the Bible teaches at Maplewood. A question we often receive is about a word that never appears in Scripture--but in reality the concept is painted from beginning to end in the Bible. This week, we're talking about the Trinity. So grab a notebook and get ready to head back to class in our latest episode of Christianity 101. You may even learn how to dance....
What does it take to effectively support the mission of the church around the globe? More than money, that is for certain. As Maplewood kicks of a season of Faith Promise over the next several weeks, Rev. Rudy Prescod joins us this week for special message challenging us to understand what it means to Rise and Shine.
The main obstacle to Kingdom growth is conflict in the church. This week is Pentecost Sunday and Pastor Joe explores how conflict within the church can block the movement of the Holy Spirit. He also addresses what we need to do to overcome these broken relationships so we can emerge into the new thing God wants to do in our lives.
We can all identify with the feeling of inadequacy--just simply not having enough resource within ourselves to deal with particular situation or overcome a particular obstacle. This week, Maplewood is continuing to study the early church for lessons we can apply to our lives as we emerge from the pandemic. Pastor Joe turns our focus to Acts 1, as Jesus is preparing his disciples for life after He returns to the Father's throne in Heaven.
This week, Maplewood is focussing on the story about how Jesus reinstates Peter, found in John 21. Pastor Joe explores what it takes to overcome guilt so we can emerge into the new thing that God wants to do in your life.
As we begin to emerge from the pandemic, there is new opportunity in the air--for individuals and for the church. This week, Pastor Joe begins exploring what it will take for us to emerge successfully and move into the next chapter of life, post-pandemic, by focusing first on the story of "Doubting Thomas" in John 20.
This week, Maplewood begins a series we'll revisit from time-to-time regarding what we believe as followers of Jesus. This week, Pastor Vicki explores "Why God?"
This week at Maplewood, Pastor Ed Klett takes the pulpit for a fresh take on the familiar story of David and Goliath. While we tend to focus on David as we study this Old Testament tale, Pastor Ed takes a closer look at the key mistake Goliath makes.
It's Easter 2021. Maplewood is celebrating the reality of the empty tomb. But what does that mean? Why is this such an important day? Why does resurrection from the dead matter? Click and listen to find out...
What do you want to be when you grow up? On Palm Sunday, Maplewood is wrapping up our study in the book of Joshua. This week, we're talking about how who we've become relates to our spiritual walk with Jesus Christ. Pastor Joe focuses on Joshua 9 to explore how a seemingly small choice by the nation of Israel had a tremendous impact. Join us for this week's message...
Part of owning our faith means that we need to maintain it, nurture it and keep it alive and growing. This week, Maplewood continues to explore what it means to own our faith through the lens of the Old Testament book of Joshua. In Joshua 6 and 7 we learn about the true enemy of our hearts ad what is necessary to overcome that enemy.
Part of owning our faith is learning from our past so we can move further into God's will for our lives. This week, Maplewood continues its study of Joshua, focussing on chapter 5. After crossing the Jordan, God has one more tough requirement before allowing the nation of Israel to take full possession of the promised land. And that tough requirement is based in Israel's past. Click, listen and be challenged by this week's message.
This week, Maplewood continues to focus on the story of Joshua as we journey through the Lenten season of 2021. In Joshua 3, amazing things are afoot as the nation of Israel prepares to cross over into the promised land after 4 decades of wandering. If you want to stop wandering if find out how you can "cross over" into God's promise for you, take a listen.
It's one thing to "say" you believe. It's another to put your belief into action. This week, Maplewood explores this important concept as we study the story of Rahab in the Old Testament book of Joshua. Are you ready to put your faith into action?
Welcome to the Lenten Season for 2021. Maplewood is beginning new sermon series this week that we hope will assist followers of Jesus in preparing for the upcoming celebration of Easter. Our focus for the next several weeks will be the book of Joshua. Join us as we prepare our hearts by learning what it means to own your faith. This week, we focus on a familiar passage in the first chapter of Joshua.
This week, Maplewood wraps up its "Bouncing Back" series with another look in Romans 5. In this final installment, Pastor Joe addresses the hard question "how in the world are we able to rejoice in suffering?"
This week, Maplewood continues to explore ways to build resiliency in our lives, especially in the midst of the prolonged challenges caused by the pandemic. Join us as Pastor Joe continues to explore Hebrews 10, focussing this time on how to fight the increasing sense of apathy with which many are struggling.
Now more than ever, we need each other! This week, Maplewood continues to focus on things we can do to build resiliency and be able to better bounce back during extended times of hardship. Today, Pastor Joe focuses on the importance of community and connection to help us combat isolation and insecurity.
Hope is critical to be able to bounce back when life deals us adversity or setbacks. This week, Maplewood continues our "Bouncing Back" series as we explore how we build hope as we learn to "wait the right way". Join us for this week's message and learn how to bounce back in challenging times....
There's one thing that saps the follower of Christ of their confidence, and therefore, their ability to bounce back. Join Maplewood this week to learn what that "one thing" actually is as we continue our "Bouncing Back" series to begin 2021.
As we lean into 2021, Maplewood will be focusing on what we can do to build resiliency-or the ability to bounce back-in our lives. The Bible provides followers of Jesus an inside track on strengthening us to withstand and come through the toughest of times. Join us as we kick off this new series entitled "Bouncing Back."
As we turn the calendar to a new year, it is easy to get caught up in our own conception of time and timing. But God moves to the beat of his own drummer. God is the timekeeper and this week Pastor Ed Klett explores what it practically means to you and me to serve the God of the Instant.
Christmas 2020 is now past and the opportunity to clean up and prepare for a new year is upon us all. Join us as Pastor Joe explores the story of the Magi for some insights into how we can be ready to face the coming new year in Christ.
On this 4th Sunday of Advent, Maplewood continues our sermon series "The King is Coming." This week, Pastor Joe takes an unconventional look at the Christmas story through the wardrobe of the players on that first Christmas. And it should cause us to ask, what should we be found wearing when the King comes back?
In this third week of the 2020 Advent season, Maplewood continues to prepare for the coming of Christmas and the second coming of the King. Join us this week in John 1, as Pastor Joe shares a spoiler alert about the second coming of Christ.
Advent is not only about remembering the arrival of the Christ Child. It's also a reminder for followers of Jesus to be preparing for His second coming. This week, Pastor Joe kicks off our 2020 Advent series with one simple message--the King is Coming!
On this first Sunday of Advent (and the first Sunday of the Church Year), Maplewood is wrapping up our series on how believing in Jesus impacts our personal identity. This week, we are exploring 2 Corinthians 5, and what it means to be an "ambassador" for the Kingdom of Heaven.
This week, Maplewood continues to explore what how believing in Jesus as our personal savior impacts our personal identity and our core purpose. Pastor Joe focuses on 1 Peter 2 as we discover that not only are we royal as children of God, we are a royal priesthood!
Maplewood is kicking off a new series this week. We're exploring how belief in Jesus informs and impacts our personal identity. This week, Pastor Joe digs into what it really means to be a child of God, as described in Romans 8:15-17.
This week, Maplewood wraps up this series on tough questions people are asking in these exceptional times. Today, Pastor Joe focuses on the freedom to choose bestowed on every human being and why that freedom makes the God of the Bible worthy of our belief, trust and devotion. (There are a couple of scratchy moments in the podcast and we apologize for that--but the message is totally worth your time).
It's legitimate to ask the question "where is God?" in the midst of all the confusion, chaos and crisis that seems to define life in 2020. This week, Maplewood continues our series addressing the tough question being asked by many people these days. This week, Pastor Joe address the query regarding where God is actually at right now.
It common to question our faith-even for the most mature believers. How we resolve those questions is critical. This week, join us as Maplewood begins a new series to answer the often-asked question "Why Should I Believe in God?"
In the upside down economy of the Kingdom of Heaven God can use our wounds and scars to heal us and others. This week, Maplewood closes out our series on the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10. Join us as we explore what it means to allow God to heal us so we can help usher in the Kingdom of Heaven here on Earth...
As a society, we are addicted to convenience. This week, Maplewood explores how providing care to those who are wounded doesn't always seem to be convenient. We continue to explore the very familiar parable of The Good Samaritan as it offers some insightful, if unexpected insights about what it means to the hands and feet of Jesus.
Every follower of Christ is "qualified" to provide spiritual first aid to others. But there is one key ingredient that separates the "qualified" from those who are actually engaged in doing the work. Pastor Joe explores this key ingredient as we continue our study of the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10.
Every war has its casualties. And spiritual warfare is not an exception. This week, Maplewood is kicking off a new series about caring for the needs of others and ourselves as we live in an age of spiritual warfare. Pastor Joe sets the context for this series, focusing on the story of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10.
This week, Maplewood is focusing on how God's people should act when it feels like when it feels like life is out of control. Pastor Vicki digs into 1 Peter 4 to help us all figure out how we should act when it feels it is all falling apart.
Being "born again" is a common phrase in the Christian church. But what does that phrase really mean? This week at Maplewood, Pastor Ed Klett explores the words of Jesus Christ to Nicodemus in John 3 and what those words mean in our modern context.
Everyone likes a story with a happy ending. This week, Maplewood wraps up our summer series focusing on the story of Joseph in Genesis 44-50. Pastor Joe explores what it takes to find a happy ending in our own story in this week's message...
Accountability is a BIG word. But what does it mean? And what does it look like in real life? Pastor Joe takes a shot at answering those questions as we check in on the unfolding story of Joseph in Genesis 42.
Maplewood worshipped on the lawn this week and continued its study of the story of Joseph. This week, as we focus on Genesis 41, we explore what it means to be trustworthy and trusted by God.
Most of us approach life with a "what's in it for me?"-attitude. But Christ is calling us to something more. This week Maplewood continues to explore the Old Testament story of Joseph, in Genesis 40, seeking answers on what it takes to become people of character, integrity and holiness.
This week, Maplewood is continuing its "Second Nature" series. We all face tests in life. The question is "will we be ready to pass" those tests. Maplewood gathered online this week and Pastor Joe is focusing our attention on Genesis 39 as we continue to study the life of Joseph for clues on how we can become people of character, integrity and holiness.
Can you be trusted? In the book of Genesis could. He was became the "right hand man" to several leaders. How did that happen? And what are the implications of it for us as we aspire to follow Jesus? Join us for this week's message from Maplewood as we continue our series entitled "Second Nature."
Feel to far gone? Feel un-redeemable? Feel lost? This week's message from Maplewood bring hope to each of us who feel like we aren't good enough or won't ever be good enough in God's eyes. We're focusing on Genesis 38--the story of Judah and Tamar--an important sidebar in the epic story of Joseph.
This week, Maplewood is gathering outdoors on our lawn...and we're leaning into a new series entitled "Second Nature." In this week's installment, we're studying the opening episode in the ancient story of Joseph, found in Genesis 37. Join us as we unpack this old, old story and discover how it can help us become more Christ-like in our journey with Jesus.
In our walk with Jesus, the prescription to help us deal with our sin problem is two-fold. We need a vaccine...but we also need a booster shot. Pastor Joe explains with deeper look at Colossians 1:21-24 in this week's Maplewood Podcast...
We've all received an invitation, but Jesus offers us the ultimate invitation when He bids us to "Come, follow me." Pastor Vicki delves into the implications behind this invitation and the life-changing power made available to those who choose to accept the offer.
We certainly live in uncertain times. This week, Maplewood's Ed Klett explores the truth that God's strength is perfect when our strength is shaken by uncertain times.
It's Pentecost Sunday! This is the day the church celebrates the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the apostles in Jerusalem. Maplewood has been studying the Holy Spirit the past several weeks, and this week, we wrap up our series entitled "Never Alone." Pastor Joe explores Acts 2 to help answer the question "where is the Spirit going?" and what does that mean for us.
Maplewood continues our series focused on learning more about the Holy Spirit. This week, Pastor Joe taps in to Acts 1 to help us understand what the Holy Spirit is doing. It's critical to understand the Spirit needs to do one thing in us first before anything else can be accomplished as we learn to love God and learn to love others.
Where is the Holy Spirit? This week Maplewood continues a news series called "Never Alone" that is focused on helping us learn more about the Holy Spirit and the implications for each of us on our faith walk with Jesus. Pastor Joe pulls through some simple truths from John 16 that we hope you find empowering, encouraging and comforting.
It's Mother's Day! We celebrate our Mom's today and thank them for all they do. And Maplewood is also kicking off a new sermon series this week called "Never Alone." God knows we need help. We need someone on our side in this journey. And God has provided help through the Holy Spirit, who, if you think about it, is a lot like a good mom! Click, listen and be challenged by this week's message.
This week, Pastor Vicki explores what it means to be Chosen by God. By looking at the stories of two of Jesus’ closest followers, people no one else would have chosen, we can see how God wants to work through all of us to bring forth His Kingdom in our corner of the world.
This week, Maplewood is wrapping up our RED LETTERS series. When we began back in March, we were focused on Lent and preparing for Easter. Now, we tie everything together and explore the common link to God's plan for us to partner with Him to establish His Kingdom in Heaven here on earth. That common link? The Holy Spirit. Click to listen and find out what it really means to be SANCTIFIED (easy enough for a child to understand)....
Maplewood is continuing its Red Letter series this week and we're exploring Jesus as the one and only source for perfect peace. Pastor Joe explores how Jesus wants to send us out with His perfect peace in our hearts. Click, listen and share....
It's Easter Sunday 2020! Even though we are scattered in our homes right now, TOGETHER we celebrate the reality of the Empty Tomb! Pastor Joe continues our RED LETTERS sermon series, focusing on Jesus' final words on the Cross. What does this all have to do with professional wrestling? Set aside some quiet time and give this week's message a listen...
It's Palm Sunday! This week, Pastor Joe continues the Lenten Season series focusing on the Red Letter words of Jesus. We're focusing on the contrast between the Jesus the people thought they were greeting on Palm Sunday and the one who came to reset our expectations.
This week, as Maplewood continues to "stay at home," we're continuing our Lenten Series focusing on the RED LETTER words of Jesus Christ. Pastor Joe is focusing on John 4 and this week we are exploring what it means to be a people who worship in SPIRIT and in TRUTH in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic of 2020...
This week, Maplewood continues to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter-even in the midst of the coronavirus crisis. As we continue to observe Lent, Pastor Joe focuses our attention on one of the most overlooked verses in the New Testament. Most everyone learned "For God so love the world..." in Sunday School. But what about what Jesus said next? Join us as we continue our series entitled "Red Letters"...
This week, Maplewood is continuing to observe Lent. Part of preparing for Easter means focusing on the life and words of Jesus, Himself. That's why we are going to be starting a series this week called "RED LETTERS." We'll start our study in John 3:3. Pastor Joe probes deeply into what it really means to be Born Again.
Rev. Don Leonard is our special speaker this week at Maplewood. Don is the Sr. Pastor at the Defiance Church of the Nazarene. In this week's message he explores how the work of Christ is much us rescuing a stray dog. You'll enjoy this message. Click, listen and share....
It's the first week of the 2020 Lenten Season. Join us as we focus on the reality of our need for the saving grace of Jesus Christ as Pastor Joe returns and walks the Maplewood family through Romans 1. The first step to new life is to regain our sense of shame so we can embrace the gift of salvation.
This week, Maplewood concludes our series on the Signs of Life. Pastor Vicki explores the reality of dealing emotions in a healthy way as we learn to love God & learn to love other people .
This week, Maplewood continues our series entitled "Signs of Life." Pastor Vicki explores James 2 as we focus on this week's sign---to go! What does it mean to go? What holds us back? And what does going forward together look like in the Kingdom of God? These questions and more are answered. We hope you will listen and share.....
This week, Maplewood is starting a new series called "Signs of Life." Pastor Vicki preaches from Psalm 100 highlighting the need to yield our wills to Christ in order to live our best lives.
This week, Maplewood is continuing our Jump Start series, focusing on the things we need to do to be spiritually healthy in the new year. Teaching from Titus 3, Pastor Joe explores THE critical ingredient for spiritual health--the power of the Holy Spirit.